The Courier - 1429

Celebrating Success Awards recognise a year of student achievement

Castor Chan - Sport sub-editor

Rep, Media, and NUMed. Winners from the nights were also automatically shortlisted for the Pride of Newcastle Awards, which will be held on the 8th of June at the Civic Centre. The night will also include the Alumni Achievement Awards ceremony.

It all kicked off on the 6th of May with the Athletic Union awards as part of the AU Ball, which were announced by AU Officer Fergus Mainland at the Lancastrian Suite.

achievements from reps all over the university. I went there to have a good time with my fellow reps with no expectation to win, but the runner-up was such a pleasant surprise!”

Duringthe entire month of May, outstanding student achievements were recognised by the university in NUSU’s annual Celebrating Success Awards, the majority of which were hosted in Venue in the Student’s Union. The awards ceremonies - split into 8 nights for the 8 categories - were packed with the nominees and their friends ready to have a good time and hopefully win an award for their hard work all year. Shortlisted participants and groups were nominated by their fellow students (or themselves if they chose) for their efforts in extra-curricular activities during this past academic year. Award categories that they could be nominated in were: Contribution to Workplace, Community Impact, Societies, Athletic Union, Alumni Achievement, Student

This was a celebration of all sporting achievements this year, among athletes, administrators, and coaches. Notable categories included Team of the Year, Contribution to Inclusivity, Club of the Year, and Individual Contribution to University Sport.

May 9th saw the Student Rep Awards, hosted by Education Officer

Livia Scott and Postgraduate Officer

Eleanor McCarthy, reward the student representatives who amplified the student voice all year to bring positive change for both current and future years. The night celebrated nominees with awards like Staff Facilitator of the Year. Student Secretary of the Year, and Liberation Officer of the Year.

Ashna Mathur, the runner-up for Student Secretary of the Year, commented, “The ceremony was organised so well by the SU, it was really fun! It was lovely to see all the

Just a day later, the Volunteering Team presented the Community Impact Awards to acknowledge those who made a difference both on campus and beyond for the local community. Categories included the Unsung Hero Award, Students for Students Award, and Community Outreach Award. Speaking to Elizabeth Meade, who was shortlisted for Sustainability Champion, she said, “I liked seeing people being honoured for their contributions to volunteering. Most of the nominees I had never heard about, so it was nice to be introduced to a lot of what they did. Like Sci Fair (up for New Volunteer Project of the Year), then being sat next to Owen Lukins, I got to learn more about NEST.”

On the 12th, we were back in Venue for the Societies Awards. Hosted by Haris Nadeem Bashir, the Activities Officer, the night recognised the societies that welcomed students and those who were a positive presence in their society. Awards contained Best Society Campaign, Most Improved Society, Individual Award for Outstanding Contribution to Societies, and Society of the Year.

The NUMed Awards, a collection of achievements across the pond at our Medicine School’s sister campus in Malaysia, was held on the 13th. To celebrate our international counterparts, categories included Society Contribution to the Community, Staff Facilitator of the Year, and Student-Staff Committee of the Year.

May 17th was the ceremony for the Contribution to Workplace Awards, presented to those who went above and beyond while on a placement or internship during their time at the university this year. There were four categories: Placement Student of the Year (two awards split between small-medium businesses and large businesses), Newcastle University Worker of the Year, and Intern of the Year.

Lastly from the awards nights held in Venue, the Media Awards were hosted by Student Media Officer George Boatfield on the 20th May. This was a celebration of participants across all three branches of Student Media, NUTV, Newcastle Student Radio, and The Courier. Awards included Outstanding Contribution to NUTV, NSR Presenter of the Year, The Courier Section of the Year, and the Monica Doughty Award.

In regards to how he felt the night went, George said, “What a treat it was to be on stage to witness the joy of the award recipients and the audience!

Unable to attend a Media Awards inperson since 2019, I was conscious that many students have never been to such an event, and concerned about what impact this might have had on their expectations. However, I needn’t have worried - the atmosphere was fantastic!”

Congratulations to all of those who received awards, and whether nominated or winners, every single person should be proud of their achievements this year. It has been wonderful to see the efforts and impact of our students within our campus and also our local community. Photos from each event will be available on NUSU’s Facebook.

Current Affairs | Campus Comment

Uni hot takes

A first year, a second year, and a third year share their university hot takes, looking at their ups and downs so far | Page 6

Life & Style | Relationships

Hello uni, goodbye old friends

Sub-editor Joesph Caddick explains how moving to uni can sometimes give you fresh perspecive on your friendships | Page 13

Life & Style | Lifestyle

Celebrating the end of the year

Two writers share their views on the best ways to celebrate the end of an academic year... | Page 15

Life & Style | Food & Drink

The best vegan food in Newcastle Food & Drink sub-editor Scarlett Welch takes us through the best places to grab vegan grub in the city | Page 19

Culture | TV

Crashing: Fleabag's older sister

Before Pheobe Waller-Bridge there was nothing, but before Fleabag, there was Crashing | Page 23

Culture | Arts

The phenomenon of Sally Rooney

Looking at Normal People and Conversations with Friends and exploring the novels' hype | Page 29

Sport | Features

Man City takes Premier League title

The team take the title for the second season with a dramatic 3-2 home victory over Aston Villa | Page 34

A note from the Editor

For the final time this semester, welcome back to another newspaper fromThe Courier!

You’ll surely have noticed the trio of QR codes gracing our front cover this week. If you’d like to get involved in helping to run any of the Student Media branches next year, then give them a scan and apply to the teams. Of course, canvassing for new teammates is also a sure sign that this year’s Student Media output is drawing to a close :’( We still have our new end-ofyear magazine launching 13th

June (where I’m sure I’ll give a proper soppy goodbye), so feel free to drop me an email at mediaofficer. union@ncl.ac.uk if you’d like to get involved in producing artwork for that.

In the meantime, I hope you enjoy our final newspaper of the academic year. It’s been incredible to see the team grow in their skill and proficiency over the last year, and to see increasingly inventive ideas and articles come in from our dedicated writers. If you like what you see, I suggest dropping them a message as a sign of appreciation. Until then, keep an eye on our

THE COURIER SECTIONS

Editor George Boatfield

-- mediaofficer.union@newcastle.ac.uk

Current Affairs

Senior editor: Elizabeth Meade -- e.a.meade1@newcastle.ac.uk

News

-- courier.news@ncl.ac.uk

Ruby Story-Dartford

Alexander James Becca Alexander

Renzo Szkwarok Daniel Wales

Campus Comment

-- courier.comment@ncl.ac.uk

Kayleigh Fraser

Tiyanna Mistry

Amana Khan

Comment

-- courier.comment@ncl.ac.uk

Humphrey Jordan Emily Kelso

Science

-- c2.science@ncl.ac.uk

Erika Armanino

Jon Deery

Sport

Senior Editor: Peter Bath

-- p.l.bath@ncl.ac.uk

-- courier.sport@ncl.ac.uk

Lucy Rimmer Mitchell Hall Katie Siddall

Castor Chan Ethan Todd

Instagram @thecourieronline

for additional articles to read, and a sneak peek into how the magazine production is going. As always, thank you for reading!

George, Student Media Officer

Life & Style

Senior editor: Meg Howe --m.j.howe1@ncl.ac.uk

Deputy Editor

Muslim Taseer

-- m.taseer1@newcastle.ac.uk

Culture

Senior editors: Maud Webster

--m.webster4@ncl.ac.uk

Hattie Metcalfe

-- h.metcalfe1@ncl.ac.uk

Relationships & Blind Date

Annabel Hogg

Gabbi de Boer Imogen Mole

Lifestyle

-- c2.lifestyle@ncl.ac.uk

Leanna Thomson Faye Navesey Molly Taylor

Fashion & Beauty

-- c2.fashion@ncl.ac.uk

Imogen Clarke

Lizzie Yockney

Sophia Ayub

Travel

-- courier.travel@ncl.ac.uk

Lenka Minarovicova

Alice Holmes

Food & Drink

Marcel Shamshoum

Scarlett Welch

Social Media

Head of Social Media: Sarah Lahiri

-- s.a.n.lahiri1@newcastle.ac.uk

Music

-- c2.music@ncl.ac.uk

Rowan Christina Driver Oren Brown Lucy Bower

TV

-- c2.TV@ncl.ac.uk

Rachael McCreanor Rebecca Sykes Carly Horne

Film

-- c2.film@ncl.ac.uk

Jess Bradbury Autumn Keil George Bell

Gaming

-- courier.gaming@ncl.ac.uk

Michael Duckworth

Joseph Caddick Haaris Qureshi Peter Lennon Arts

-- c2.arts@ncl.ac.uk

Ruby Taylor Maja Mazur Tom Wrath

Puzzles

Joseph Caddick

Student Council's final meeting: The one with goodbyes...

Kayleigh Fraser - Campus Comment sub-editor

Thecoffee was hot, the pizza was tepid, and the gavel was ready. The stage was set for what would be the final student council of the academic year.

Starting the meeting off as always, Chair of Council Haaris Qureshi opened council for the last time. Task number one was, as always, to approve the minutes of the last meeting. They passed with no objections.

We then moved along to the election of the Faith or Belief Officer. Following speeches by Lizzie Meade, Damalie Kayondo and Suhail Masthan, Muneer Obeidat won the position, and will join fellow liberation officers in the new academic year. On the same score, Mykolaiv Deivarajan was elected as Ethics and Environment representative.

Next, we had to pass reports. For the steering committee report, (that is responsible for steering out motions to go to council), LGBTQ+ Officer George Wood objected that a motion that was put forward to dictate eligibility to become Chair of Council.

At the podium, George defended his objection saying "The primary reason is because the vote was split and was decided by the chair which is Liv", referring to Education Officer Livia Scott.

"There were three Sabbs in the meeting that voted for it and there were three students that voted against it. It doesn't necessarily sit very well with me that the Sabbs unilaterally basically made a decision to disallow student council to hear a motion and the students on Steering Committee weren't really heard in that scenario."

Defending the Steering Report, Education Officer Livia Scott took to the podium and stated "I totally get what you're saying but the decision was made. Eleanor and Abbie (Postgraduate Officer and President) submitted their apologies with comments on every motion."

Scott continued to explain that she was not responsible for Wood's absence at the meeting and was not able to gauge what his thoughts were as he was not there. "It wasn't an attack on anybody, simply a logical decision and thats the

only reason it was done."

Because of this, Council was invited to vote on wether they wanted to hear the motion at the meeting. The vote was not successful, with Council closing not to hear the motion with 57% to 43%.

The second objection to the steering report was by Lizzie Meade who made a motion to change the name of the Environment and Ethics Rep to the Chair of the Student Environment and Sustainability Committee. At the podium, Meade stated "The reason they said they steered it out was because they thought that people might get confused and think that I was trying to make it a chair like chair of council."

Despite this challenge, the vote to hear the motion failed with a vote of 62% of Council against to 38% for.

Next order of business was to listen to President Abbie's State of the Union report. Opening, Abbie said "It's been a high pressure semester as it has been all year, and we have been working really hard to support each other to make sure we fulfil our goals that we set out in our manifestos."

"What have I been up to this semester? I've been focusing on running the 'mental health is not extra curricular campaign'. So far, it's reached over 8,500 people on social media, and we've ran two feel good events. One where we gave out a hundred bunches of flowers and fruit to students and another where

we gave out 500 stress balls."

Outlining her other work, Hutchinson mentioned Officers forum, securing funding for the wellbeing centre, working consent and bystander intervention raining and the community fridge to combat food waste.

Reflecting on her year as President, Abbie said "We just want to say a huge thankyou for giving us the opportunity to represent you this year. It's been the most incredible experience seeing all the amazing things students get up to and representing your voice has been such an honour."

Finally, it was time for the meat of council which is, of course, the motions. Motion 401 was titled 'Support student sex workers'. Presented by Abbie on behalf of Welfare and Equality Officer Briana Gordhan, the motion detailed mandating the union to support any students that work in the sex industry. Wether that is through webcam services or platforms like only fans, Hutchinson's motion wanted to take away the stigma of sex work and offer students real support from their university. She stated that "The main barrier to students is stigma... they should be able to receive support and guidance." The motion passed with a large majority of 83% to 17%.

Motion 402 asked council to approve changed to the university's Transgender policy. Put forward by Marginalised

Genders Officer Nathan Hartley, the motion detailed changes in terminology in how we refer to transgender people. The motion was not contested, and passed with 90% to 10%.

Motion 301 was put forward by Postgraduate Officer Eleanor McCarthy. As a consequence of the NUS referendum, the motion was made to put policy into place to detail what happens when nobody puts themselves forward. "It's not actually written anywhere in our official documents what happens if no student puts themselves forward for either side. This is just getting it down in writing that if a student in a referendum doesn't happen to put themselves forward for either side, then NUSU doesn't have to go any further than just putting factual information in support of that side on the website." The motion passed with 95% to 5%.

In the same area, the next motion was 302, detailing 'fair referendum campaigning'. This motion stated that third parties should not be allowed to interfere and get involved with referendums like the NUS one that was put forward to students in March. The motion passed 95% to 5%.

Motion 303 was next, updating rules relating to objections to committee reports. Eleanor McCarthy presented the motion, stating "It's making all the reports be treated in the same way."

Again, that motion passed with 88% to 12%.

Next up it was a Haaris special. First was motion 304 about clarification on missing reports. The motion stated that if a report is not submitted, an apology can be passed as long as the full report is available a week later. The motion passed with 77% to 23%.

Motion 305 was next, asking council to approve changes in the way the chairperson can address council. This would involve changes in the way of a chairperson can ask a question, make a point of order or clarify pieces of information. Speaking against the motion, Lewis Telford raised concerns that the motion would ruin the chairpersons need to stay neutral.

When it came to the vote, it was a 5050 split. But, because of the fact council requires a majority, the motion failed.

Then Haaris was back at the podium for motion 306 detailing NUSU honorary life members discretionary attendance at council. This would mean that life members of the union would be able to attend council to offer advice and points of information to the rest of council.

Many members asked questions to Haaris, asking wether the move is necessary or needed in council. Unfortunately, the motion failed with 41% voting for and 59% voting against.

And at long last, we made it to the final motion. The last motion was to make liberation societies into liberation groups. On this, Haaris touched on the impact Mind the Gap has had on his university experience. He stated "I feel like a lot of what these groups do fit more comfortably under the liberation umbrella."

There were concerns from some including Abbie of the time and resources needed to keep the groups afloat. The motion failed with 42% voting for and 59% against.

After that final hammer, student council was complete. Over the year we've had trees, buildings, gonks, objections and arguments and some memorable motions that truly will make change.

Haaris closed council for the final time, and we were finally finished. The chairs were put away and the leftover pizza abandoned. Student Council will return this October...

Newcastle Uni to deduct 100% of pay forstaff participating in marking boycott

and postgraduates. This also includes a refusal to set exams.

OnMonday the 23rd, members of Newcastle’s University and College Union (UCU) branch began to take further industrial action against their employer, this time by the means of a marking and assessment boycott. Though the pension dispute has been ongoing since 2018 – with strike action happening as recent as this year – this week marks the first marking and assessment boycott. According to the UCU, the boycott covers “all marking and assessment processes that contribute to summative assessment decisions for students” – both undergraduates

Though in last month’s ballots 41 branches supported the marking boycott, the UCU announced on Friday 20th that, acting on the feedback of branches, they would revert from a national approach to one that allows individual campuses to decide their own position on the boycott. As a result, 20 universities have decided to take such action. On this same Friday, over

200 Newcastle members attended an emergency branch meeting where 94% voted in favour of marking boycotts, confirming the university would be one of the 20.

This decision comes despite threats from Newcastle University management to deduct 100% of pay from staff who act in the boycott, a move the branch is calling a “lockout” (a term referring to the withholding of employment until certain terms are agreed). UCU

members at the University of Leeds, Sheffield University and University of Dundee have also been threatened with a full pay dock. Matt Perry, Newcastle UCU Branch Secretary, has urged management to move away from threats of deductions that “tarnish the university’s reputation” and instead, to prevent student anguish, “compromise with staff”.

Durham University UCU, however, have reached a local agreement with

their employer and will not be taking part in the boycott or any further industrial action under the current UCU mandate.

Newcastle University have introduced a ‘no detriment’ policy that will use a “calculation of your weighted average for the year” to issue a temporary mark where necessary. When all late marks become available, these will be added to the temporary average on a ‘no-detriment basis’ – meaning temporary grades can only be increased, not lowered. These means all students will graduate, or progress to the next stage, in accordance with their current performance.

Though the marking boycott begins 23rd of May, there is, as it stands, no current end date. The boycott is set to continue until the dispute is settled and objectives met.

Rebecca Alexander - News sub-editor

Image: George Boatfield

Image: Twitter (@NewcastleUniUCU)

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“Brutal and inhumane”: deportation flight to Jamaica leaves with only seven on board

Renzo Szkwarok - News sub-editor

About 30 detainees blocked access to the exercise yard of Colnbrook Immigration Removal Centre, where the deportees were being held.

Colnbrook has been the site of numerous protests in the past, and is operated by Mitie, the private company that also operates Derwentside IRC in County Durham.

As a practice, deportation flights that has faced heavy criticism from human rights campaigners and is one of the most controversial ‘hostile environment’ policies.

Many of those that were set to be deported had been convicted of criminal offences, served time in prison and were then scheduled to be flown to Jamaica. Most of the people have never been to Jamaica or had not visited since they were children. Minister for justice and tackling illegal migration, Tom Pursglove, said the people had committed “extremely serious offences”, and that “public safety is nonnegotiable”.

Campaigners have argued that this is not always the case, claiming that the government often fail to recognise cases of trafficking and modern-day slavery. Furthermore, government adviser and lawyer Martin Forde QC

said deportation flights were “seriously undermining” the Home Office’s Windrush Compensation Scheme saying that victims of the scandal “don’t trust” the department. Many on the original list had links to the Windrush Scandal.

Movement for Justice investigated 20 people detained in immigration facilities and found 13 had come to the UK as children. The Home Office and Jamaica’s high commissioner reached an agreement in 2020 for the UK to not deport anyone who arrived as children. It is unclear whether a similar agreement was reached this time around. The Windrush Lessons Learnt report found the Home Office is plagued with poor decision making and an “irrational approach to individuals”.

Karen Doyle, Movement for Justice’s lead campaigner, said: “We know the lives behind the ‘red meat’ headlines.

The disabled wife of 21 years now without her husband and carer; the mum with a newborn and five-year-old crying in the early hours about losing her partner, her family; the children who have to find out they may never see their father in person again”.

Mark Nelson is one person who was eventually taken off the list, he has 5 children and has lived in the UK for 22 years. In 2017 he was convicted of growing cannabis, and it is on these grounds that he is being deported after serving 2 years of his sentence. Nelson said: “My children can’t really comprehend why the system is doing this to me. They keep saying there must be a way to get me home.”

Doyle went on to say: “These flights are brutal and inhumane. Mass deportation charter flights are a cynical racist ploy by a failing government. Red meat and racism over human rights and compassion.”

In the last four deportation flights to Jamaica, only 17, 13, 7 and 4 people have flown, and a recent Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report revealed the Home Office released 6 for every 10 people it wished to deport.

A spokesperson from the Home Office said “foreign national offenders… should be in no doubt that we will do whatever is necessary to remove them”. Adding that these flights are what the “public rightly expects”.

However, recent reports show that Britons no longer see immigration as one of the most important issues facing the UK. Moreover, recent plans to send asylum seekers to Rwanda were not received well, and many people in the general public have sympathy for migrants crossing the channel, supporting a fairer asylum system.

Alexander James - News sub-editor

The total number of complaints was 2,763, a third of those being directly related to the pandemic

Thiswas 6% higher than 2020, although the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) claimed the higher figures are due to industrial action, staffing shortages and delays in submitting complaints from 2020.

The OIA said the majority of complaints where about how the courses

where delivered, and their failure to meet the expectations of students.

The cumulative effects of being unable to access university facilities and the deficiencies of remote learning led to a poorer learning environment, claimed some students. This included some students having technical failures that affected their learning. The report stated that "Some students struggled

with digital literacy, especially in online timed exams…For others their limited typing skills affected their performance." Despite money being made available by the government for those experiencing financial difficulties and without proper access to online learning, most do not have access to these funds. Many students reached a breaking point over the 2020/21 year, with reports of students using buy-nowpay-later loans not uncommon.

Office of the Independent Adjudicator also said it had awarded ‘significantly more’ financial compensation this year than any previous year.

University’s UK, the representative and lobbyist for over 140 higher education institutions in the UK stated that the complaints represented only "a small fraction of the total student population". In a statement on its website, it defended higher education’s response to the disruption caused by the pandemic. However, the number of official complaints filed for the purpose of receiving compensation are not reflective of the total dissatisfaction with education over this period. In the Students experiences insights survey (ONS) 2021, 48% of higher education students felt the pandemic had a major or signfiance impact on their quality of education and academic performance.

Others complained about being unable to take work placements or study abroad, two key draws of the university experience. Other complaints where related to staffing issues such as poorly prepared substitute teachers, the incessant use of PHD students for teaching seminars and the departure of experts leaving their departments during the pandemic. Some complaints filed to the OIA also addressed the mental health issues brought about by remote learning, social isolation and a lack of support from universities. The

Due to protests and legal challenges, the flight left on May 18 with 7 people, down from 112

"These flights are brutal and inhumane"

Support for fairer asylum policy is on the rise in response to the hostile environment

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Complaints about University courses from students in England and Wales reached a record high in 2021

The OIA said the majority of complaints where about course delivery

Campus Comment

University hot takes from a first, second and third year

Mary Chude

Lucy Bower - Music sub-editor

From learning how many trebs I can handle, to realising that it is in fact possible to write 2000 words in one night, my first year as a Newcastle fresher has been full of ups and downs.

When I arrived at Newcastle University on the 17th of September, my emotions were conflicted. I was excited to be in a brand-new city, but also nervous to begin a new journey so far from home. But my nerves were quickly settled as my flatmates introduced themselves and suggested a drinking game to start the night off.

Now, eight months on, I will be returning home with new life lessons, memories, and friends. Whilst the most important thing I’ve learnt hasn’t been anything to do with my actual degree, there are many things that I have learnt as a fresher. For example, the fact that Dog and Parrot is quite possibly one of the best places in the world. Or how working for the newspaper is an enjoyable way to procrastinate your degree.

Whatever it is, this first year has

certainly felt like a whirlwind.

I’ve laughed more than ever, and also cried more than ever.

Bring on the next two years at Newcastle.

Asmy second year at university is almost coming to end, I thought I would look back and reflect on how it was.

There is no doubt that my second year has been a lot more interesting and fun than my first year, which was surrounded by Covid-19 lockdowns and online learning, but second year beat by expectations and has become a very much memorable year for me, despite the increased workload.

My second year began with a rerun of freshers, where me any my friends were able to enjoy the clubbing scene and not be confined to having to sit down. The ability to meet more people and experience university to its fullest really has made my second year of uni, along with ability to actively participate in societies, through socials and balls, has really allowed me to appreciate my liver, though I think my hangxiety has gotten a lot worse.

The only downside to university has been the strikes, which has limited some of my education, but this has not made me hate uni as being able to do all things that I missed out on in first year has allowed me to thoroughly enjoy this year and make me genuinely excited for my final year.

Ifyou watch higher education content on social media, you will be well aware of the divide between university and uni. Yes, as far as slang is concerned: university refers to students’ academic commitments, with uni referring to the social side of things.

I mean, if you frowned at the thought of university, you probably share my sentiment – uni is more important, formative and memorable for students, when all is said and done.

Take it from me, a third-year student: even in this intensive stage of study I just know I won’t hold fond memories of any of my study sessions. Not to say that these don’t matter, they just pale in comparison to what really makes a memory: events, nights out, parties, sports matches, coffee dates, shopping trips.

So yes, please take your studies seriously but don’t let that come at the cost of immersing yourself in the social.

Are UK Universities supporting Ukraine enough?

Amana Khan - Campus Comment sub-editor

Thewar in Ukraine has, unsurprisingly, been headline news, however just because everyone is aware of what is happening does this mean that enough support is being given to Ukraine in terms of university support.

Newcastle University has responded to this war by sharing its solidarity with Ukraine through ensuring direct contact with its staff and students who are from Ukraine, Russia and the nations in the neighbouring region. Furthermore, Newcastle has decided to work with Universities UK and the Russell Group to address issues of urgency, as well as proving to be a University of Sanctuary and introducing a NU Sanctuary Scholarship Scheme to help refugees and asylum seekers through reducing fees for those eligible for this scheme.

only university to do this, with 44 British universities signing up to 'twin' Ukrainian universities, ensuring zoom

not given out scholarships to Ukrainian refugees, and the vice-chancellor has stated that this is to stop Ukraine losing

universities to help Ukraine and its education system, with the University of York looking into summer schools for students from Ukraine and the University of Glasgow looking into abandoning its fees for some Ukrainian students. Therefore, this is a lot being done by UK universities to ensure stand with Ukraine and help its education

So, it seems that Newcastle is doing a lot to help those involved in this war. Newcastle University is not the

What really makes a memory: events, nights out, parties, sports matches, coffee dates, shopping trips

practical help". Thus, there is a clear sense of solidarity with Ukraine and wanting to help it and its universities

There is a clear sense of solidarity with Ukraine and wanring to help it and its universities

Amana Khan - Campus Comment sub-editor

A first, second and third year give their university hot takes

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Image: Pixabay

Campus Comment

Cambridge University: Foundations for the future?

Sam Norman

offers a multitude of students who would never dream of Cambridge status, the opportunity of that success.

The one-year course will begin in October 2022, offered to 52 students.

Regardless of any viewpoint, this is a monumental change.

this really necessary, should the prestige of Cambridge be maintained?

Theannouncement recently came of Cambridge University introducing foundation degrees for students coming from a disadvantaged background. The program is free and fully funded with the intention to widen opportunities in the institution for those who may have under usual circumstances struggled to get entry to a Cambridge program

One of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the United Kingdom, Cambridge University has a long history of producing renowned alumni, from Stephen Hawking to Sir Isaac Newton. However, balanced with this, is a long history of classism, exclusionism and favouring those from privileged backgrounds.

A degree from Cambridge can propel any students’ chances of succeeding in their chosen career path, therefore the introduction of foundation degrees

This program specifically is catered for those with low levels of household income, experience in the care system and estrangement from parents. Due to Cambridge’s level of prestige, there has been some sceptics into whether this is necessary. With numerous polytechnic

In reality, a new one-year course requiring a BBB does not devalue the institution in anyway. The course limits to 52 people, therefore, will still be a competitive avenue for students to take, much like many other Cambridge courses. In addition, the University itself has described their process for these 52 successful applicants as rigorous, so it would be difficult for critiques to

propose the idea students were just handed opportunities because of their disadvantages.

It is time to move away from the narrative that to achieve inclusion, there must be severe consequences like devaluing a place to let those ‘not

in recent years it has become clear Cambridge is making changes to their program to be more well-balanced, there are certainly more ways they can improve. This doesn’t have to be at a result of damaging their prestige, as no student suddenly expects Cambridge’s main programs to drop their entry requirements to CCC.

Nor does anyone expect the competitive nature of their process to change; it is what makes Cambridge so well sought after. However, reflection is needed. It is estimated private schools educate just 7% of children with the proportion for sixth formers believed to be 12%. For Cambridge in recent years to have been undertaking less than 70% state school applicants is shocking and shows a rather linear transition of private school to Oxbridge. Recently, this number has increased, with 2021 reporting 72%, therefore with the new inclusion of foundation years, there is hope for a reformed, less elitist, Cambridge.

White males? Disadvantaged? Cry me a river...

Hannah Ross

TheTimes recently published an article highlighting the views of a certain Cambridge academic who suggested that white, privately educated males are the new disadvantaged group because of the reduction in their Oxbridge admissions... No, I am not joking. This man did display such audacity and ignorance. Of course, I am sure that he has shown the same interest in the infinite ways that other genders, ethnicities, classes (the list goes on) have been not only disadvantaged, but actively discriminated against in the education system and beyond.

Professor David Abulafia claims that candidates who performed well in thinking skills assessments (TSAs) were rejected in favour of lower-scored state school applicants because of the 'culture wars' making 'white', 'male' and 'privileged' terms of disapproval. It is important to point out that a Cambridge University spokesperson has stated that they do not discriminate and no longer use TSAs – the admissions assessments form one element of a 'holistic admissions process'.

This opinion blatantly ignores the fact that students who have had the benefit of private school education not

only get the benefit of better resources and a teaching quality that deliberately prepares them for prestigious university applications, but also usually come from a background that is able to support their academic aspirations without providing other worries to deal with at a young age. It is not a negative thing to have come from this kind of background. What is negative is not acknowledging the advantage that this gives you over other people.

'outstanding private schools' were going to Durham or St Andrews instead if they were rejected. He further claimed that some were going off to Ivy League universities such as Harvard and Princeton. It does not appear that these young people are suffering horrendously at the hands of this implied prejudice then. I imagine many other your people in the UK have the intelligence and work-ethic to go to Harvard but lack the funds to do so.

It is also rather presumptuous that these state schools and particularly minorities would wish to attend

Oxbridge when it is evidently still dominated by those with opinions like this. Professor Abulafia claims that the 'snobbery' associated with these universities is a thing of the past, but I suspect it is only less blatantly obvious and that subtle comments that people would find incredibly degrading would not even be noticed by him as he probably considers them the 'normal' opinion.

These comments barely scratch the surface of everything that is wrong with these statements. I acknowledge that I, myself, am in a privileged

position and will surely miss some of the nuances surrounding the issue. Cambridge and Oxford are prestigious universities in beautiful cities, but they are incredibly sheltered from a range of lived experiences. Whilst an effort is being made to combat this it is clearly not nearly enough when individuals like this gentleman still hold these sure opinions. The moment that educational opportunities become even marginally equitable, it is seen as discrimination against the privileged because they have begun to lose some of the benefits afforded to them.

Abulafia suggests that the names of schools are removed from applications to prevent bias against private schools. However, would remove the knowledge that these students have had access to all the benefits of private schools who have the funds to provide markedly improved academic opportunities and study environments. Oxbridge also require that certain qualification tests are passed which students are prepped for in private schools but often miss out on in state-schools, if they are informed of them at all. A day may come when school names can be removed from applications, but not until children have access to the same teaching standards and resources as others.

Reinforcing this ignorance, was his statement that white boys from

Cambridge's new foundation degrees could change higher education forever

Image: Flickr

Are private school boys the new disadvantaged? One of our writers weighs in

There are certainly more ways they can improve

It does not appear that these young people are suffering horrendously

Comment

Eurovision: quashing notions of mainland resentment

Alpitour stadium in Turin, Italy, where the competition was held.

The Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra won with their song ‘Stefania’, an homage to group’s main performer Oleg Psyuk’s mother, still living in the Ukrainian city of Kalush.

This year, against all odds, the UK finished the competition ranking 2nd; something rare for the UK, whose singing competitors haven’t had the best results in the last years.

As with every year, Eurovision is the moment for every European country (with the addition of Australia and Israel) to reunite through the most flamboyant singing contest the world has ever seen. Last year’s competition was hampered by Covid-19 restrictions, having to proceed with limited audience. This year’s Eurovision was significant considering the Russian war is still going on in Ukraine. Such a fact was not ignored, considering there were many blue and yellow flags waved all around the Pala

Although engaging with politics through music is not allowed in the competition, there have been some political messages here and there across past Eurovision events. We all remember of course when the Icelandic band Hatari, flew the Palestinian flag during the night of the 2019 contest, set in Tel Aviv, Israël, in response to the IsraelPalestinian conflict.

Ross Bennett

Well, this year has definitely shown how politicised the show can be. Ukraine winning sends a clear message of support and hope to the suffering country. The UK’s position this year meanwhile has surprised a lot of people, and might be the sign that the country’s popularity on the continent is reaching new levels again.

Since the beginning of the 2000s, the British have rarely managed to score well, ranking between the 24th and 26th place between in the last few years. With the Brexit battle between Brussels and Downing Street between 2016 and 2020, many people could and did believe that Britain's popularity in Europe was affected.

As a French native, I remember myself watching on French news

the result of the Brexit referendum.

I have a clear memory of the news presenter painting the UK as the only country in the EU that had always been one foot in, and the other foot out; questioning its ‘Europeanity’ if we can say so. And that was only France, who knows what was said on other channels in other European countries.

But with the UK’s humanitarian action in Ukraine and France’s and Germany’s perceived failure to regulate Russian ruler Putin in past years, it seems as if the tables are slowly turning again. It seems that people in Europe are starting to see the UK in a new light.

When looking at the number of television viewers Germany and the UK are at the top with more than 7M viewers in both countries, followed by 5M viewers in France and the Netherlands. Viewers that would probably make the most part of final votes.

potential. And it seems that his universe is charming more than one; as 'Spaceman' is currently the Number One trending song in the UK.

Theinsular totalitarian dictatorship of North Korea has recently experienced it’s first acknowledged outbreak of coronavirus with an alleged 2.5 million people sickened by the “fever” and a national lockdown initiated. But should western nations offer our aid to a nation that has frequently turned its back on us?

President Joe Biden has announced that there has been no response from Pyongyang (the North Korean capital) after the United States offered an aid package of vaccines to the country which is currently being overwhelmed by the fresh outbreak. The nation is thought to be especially vulnerable to the virus as it seemingly has little to no testing or vaccine supply in place.

However, what degree of aid should we offer to the North Koreans considering past diplomatic squabbles and human rights violations? After all, until the Trump Presidency, the USNorth Korean relationship was nothing short of tense and hostile. The United States does not even have an embassy in the Korean dictatorship and neither does the DPRK (Democratic People’s

There have been numerous and frequent allegations of human rights violations taking place in the DPRK –with forced disappearances, government killings and the accusation of torture. In 2009, two American journalists were

forcibly detained by the North Korean government under the charges of illegal entry, they were only freed with the help of former-president Bill Clinton on a publicly unannounced visit.

Why is a nation that has been historically hostile to the west and the perpetrator of numerous human right

Politics aside, Sam Ryder’s 'Spaceman' is genuinely good. Although it might not be everyone’s taste, the singer came up with a well produced song, with great

their own people? Even if they’ve been our natural enemies for years?

violations deserving of our aid now in this time of crisis?

Well, there is one side of the argument that few have taken into consideration; the so-called of brotherhood of man. Should we be doing our hardest to help those in need, even if they themselves have committed oppressive acts against

But don’t we tout ourselves as morally superior than their authoritarian dictatorship? What is morally superior about leaving those to die in anguish? When we could have prevented the catastrophic effects of their pandemic? Nonetheless, let’s say hypothetically that the US and Great Britain manage to send aid packages full of vaccines over to the DPRK. Does anyone really believe that this would somehow course correct the totalitarian regime of Kim Jong Un? That it would endear ourselves to the North Korean government? Or would we be the proverbial frog with the Kim Jong Un-sized scorpion on our backs? That we would be wasting needed supplies on a nation that would likely continue on it’s path of authoritarianism?

The issue is of course a complicated one. With the North Korean regime’s past, it is obvious why we should be sceptical to give them aid in this time of crisis…but they are in crisis and do need help.

In the wake of Britain's success in the Eurovision Song Contest, Britain's favour amongst Europe is considered

Killian Duvivier

It seems that people in Europe are starting to see the UK in a new light

Politics aside, Sam Ryder's 'Spaceman' is genuinely good

Images: Pixabay and Emily Kelso

Republic of Korea) possess one in Washington.

consistency or prudent

Both sides are considered in this measured discussion of aiding North Korea

Should we help those in need, even if they have actively oppressed their own people?

Images:

Isolated outbreak: How much aid should we offer for North Korea's recent Covid-19 outbreak?

David Attenborough: an unsuitable "Champion of the Earth"?

Kate Benson

in the Global South, who put themselves at risk every day to fight for our planet.

DavidAttenborough was awarded the Earth champion Lifetime Achievement award by UNEP. They said “If we stand a chance of averting climate and biodiversity breakdowns and cleaning up polluted ecosystems, it’s because millions of us fell in love with the planet that he showed us on television". Does he deserve this award? I don't think so.

To start, I disagree with the statement above from UNEP's chief Inger Andersen. If we stand a chance of averting climate and biodiversity breakdowns, it is because of the frontline activists around the world, particularly

Attenborough's 'A Life on our Planet' documentary set me off into a spiral of zero waste buying and vegan eating, which while good, is not how we are going to get the change we need to fight the climate crisis. It was only after learning from climate activists online, I realised we needed collective action as part of activism to make change. While he confronts many of the terrifying facts of the climate crisis, he also plays into eco fascism; blaming population growth. As stated by

The sea sponge: another bleached ocean tragedy

Seasponges off the coast of New Zealand have been found to be bleached white. The sponges are most definitely dying, and the main cause for the bleaching is climate change, and increase in global temperatures.

Sea sponges make up the seabed of oceans. They store and release Carbon for other sea life to live off. They provide habitats for other species and contribute to the overall ocean ecosystem. They tend to adapt better to rises and falls in sea temperatures than corals. Normally the sponges off the coast of New Zealand are a brown colour. So scientists were shocked to find that they had been bleached white.

Scientists on a research trip in April, from Victoria University of Wellington, found that the sponges had been bleached at more than a dozen sites. The marine biologist professor, James Bell, said that

bleached. Bell outlines how the devastation caused encapsulates the extremity of the climate crisis, especially as sponges are more tolerant of oceanic temperature changes.

Climate change has meant that last year was the highest on record of sea temperatures ever. This can result in oceans acidifying, which leads to coral reefs being destroyed and ecosystems being under threat of extinction. New Zealand had its hottest year since records began, which only makes the prospects for this year more terrifying. If we continue on this trajectory towards climate devastation, lots more wildlife will decay and die off. Last year alone, New Zealand's sea temperature rose by 2.6 degrees. In Fiordland, temperatures were reported higher than that.

Bell has stated that more research was needed in order to have concrete proof that sea temperatures rising was the result of the bleaching. However, it has a strong correlation already. There could be hope of the sponges re-forming and coming back to life, but reports suggested that most were not healthy. This suggests that the effects of climate change are already being felt, which is damaging ecosystems and sea life. Not only is this worrying, but unless radical change happens soon, this can be expected for all ocean life. This will most definitely impact human life too, if it hasn't already.

problems with the documentaries over the years, which have potentially contributed to climate delay. David Attenborough has made comments about not wanting to be alarmist, worrying about viewers getting ‘put off’ by climate warnings. People who prioritise our earth shouldn’t be trying to maximise views and increase their own fame.

Again, even 'Life on our Planet' which was a shift in the right direction from his previous documentaries, had many problems. As well as eco fascism, he emphasises that decoupling of GDP from resource use is possible, which it is not.

So no, he doesn’t deserve this title. The people who deserve it are those on the frontlines, the Indigenous people who are constantly fighting, and have been raising the alarm for so long.

A "supermassive" breakthrough

Casting your eyes to the sky at night gives you plenty to look at; from the beautiful moon to the scattering of stars, there is plenty to see at night. However, there are some, pretty local, objects that can't be seen no matter how hard you squint your eyes. But after over three years of study and measurements, the team around the Event Horizon Telescope has created an image of the beast at the center of the galaxy - our very own supermassive black hole.

Despite sounding like a hard rock band, a supermassive black hole is a real astronomical object. These are the largest types of black holes - an

object that forms after a very large star dies, and collapses in on itself. For a black hole to form at the end of the star's life, the star must be as large as 10 times the mass of our sun - this is already a really large object. For a supermassive black hole to occur, the original star must be over a million times more massive - than a big star. The running theory is that these stars were some of the earliest in the universe, with their supernova leading to the formation of the galaxies we see. All of this makes supermassive black holes one of the most interesting and mind-boggling areas of astrophysics - with their mere existence leading to many questions about the nature of reality. But how do you take a photo of something that cannot be seen? While it's completely dark, glowing gas around it reveals a signature of the black hole. This leads to an image of a bright ringlike structure. The new image captures light bent by the powerful gravity of the black hole. While supermassive, the black hole only takes up a tiny amount of the sky due to being 27,000 lightyears away - it appears to us as about the same size in the sky as a donut if it had been left on the moon.

Astronomy has always been an area of science that creates the best picture, but what do all these beautiful colours mean? Space images have always had a value in themselves, as a way of displaying complex parts of our universe in simple visualised forums. This second image - the first being taken in 2019 of the black hole at the centre of the Messier 87 galaxy - does not allow for comparison. Comparing these two images, they have a longrange of similarities. They look remarkably similar, despite the original blackhole being much larger than our own. The galaxies around these black holes are remarkably different, but also look nearly the same.

The Event Horizon team is looking into other local and large supermassive black holes to capture. The hope is that with these images and the large amount of data used to create them, we will be one step closer to understanding the early universe and the formation of our own galaxies.

Is the nation's favourite nature documentarian actually as good for the planet as we think?

The dark secret at the centre of our universe has finally been photographed...

Josh Watson - NSR Deputy Station Manager

CC Lee

Images: Youtube, Quanta

While confronting the climate crisis, Sir David Attenborough also plays into eco fascism

Image: Flickr

Image: Youtube, Quanta Magazine

Relationships

The ultimate guide to heartbreak

Annabel Hogg - Relationships sub-editor

Getting over heartbreak is different for everyone but if you find yourself trying to get over someone, this guide might be a good place to start.

Say goodbye

This is probably the most controversial part of this article and I know some readers will disagree with me, but the most crucial step to moving on is making sure they’re no longer a recurring character in your life. There’s nothing wrong with coming back in a couple of months and being friends, but they cannot help to heal your heart if they’re the one who (intentionally or not) broke it. It’s time to say goodbye, if only for a while.

Wallow

Many of us have rushed into steps 3,4, and 5 before actually having chance to process our heartbreak, and though it can feel good to bury these feelings for a while, they only come back to bite us later. You need to sit and cry until you can’t no more, eat all the junk food and probably lay in your bed for 3-5 working days. This is the most painful part of healing and sometimes it feels like it will never end, but once it’s done it’s done and you’ll feel all the better for it.

Step out of your comfort zone

It’s a cliché to dye your hair a crazy colour after a breakup, but I promise it’s one that works. I used to have hair so long that I could sit on and chopping over 2/3 off was one of the best things I did for my breakup. It makes you feel like a different person to the one who was with your ex, and it might be a placebo effect but knowing they never knew or hurt this version of you is really comforting.

Get angry: but don't stay that way

Luckily, Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour makes this a lot easier nowadays. A key part of grieving is getting angry, and whether the other person was to blame or not – you’ll go through a period of hating them for hurting you. It’s best to buy into this and scream a lot of Paramore in your bedroom and even shit talk them with your friends. Chances are they’ll never find out and it will do you a lot of good.

Surround yourself with peoplewho love you

Whether it’s watching sad movies and eating a lot of pizza or being feral club rats, being close to your friends and family is a non-negotiable part of healing your heart. It reminds you that though you might have lost the love of one person, you are still treasured by so many and that you are by no means unlovable.

supress your heartbreak, not get rid of it. Getting under someone to get over them might not be for you, so you shouldn’t do anything you’re not ready

So most of this advice is really easy to follow, but what then? You’ve eaten the pizza, screamed the songs and watched the sad movies and you still probably feel like shit. Unfortunately, no amount of generic steps are going to get you over a heartbreak. As cliché as it sounds, the only thing that will help is time. I remember feeling like things would never ever get better, and that I’d never love anyone else, but if you take every day as it comes, the pain will ease. Healing is a waiting game unfortunately. But eventually, you’ll be going to sleep after a long day and realise you haven't thought about them at all.

Planning the perfect date

Mitchell Hall - Sports sub-editor

Thedream first date is something constantly sought and rarely found, but I feel as though putting this idea on a pedestal is often an obstacle to the whole point of a first date. Preconceptions and hopes for the future can distract from the now.

I, like everyone else, do still have an answer to the question of the perfect first date. An activity of some kind (cinema, bowling, pool etc) and then food or drinks and good chat. It’s not exactly a revolutionary formula but it is often the easiest way to have a nice time and keep things relaxed and fun, which is probably the most important thing.

But that is just the skeleton of a first date, which the chemistry of the people builds off. It is not what makes a date ‘perfect,’ so in my opinion, don’t stress yourself out over it! It is very easy to overengineer a first date and not leave any space to talk to each other, which kind of defeats the purpose of the whole thing.

We all have different ideas of fun, so what actually is the perfect date?

A step by step guide to getting over a broken heart

Image: Pixabay (D1Creations) Unsplash (Tamara Bellis)

Being true to your idea of a nice time is a good way to find someone who enjoys the same things that you do

Image: Unsplash (DonPapas)

Relationships

Hello Uni, goodbye bad friends

Joseph Caddick - Puzzles and Gaming sub-editor

than an anxious wreck. They made sure to tell me I was ugly, I had a repellent personality and that the people I cared for did not feel the same way about me. I actually feel pretty stupid for entertaining any

enabled me to become the person that I wanted to be. Although some mental scars were still there, in time I was able to overcome these to some extent and stop caring as much about what other people thought of me. This would not have happened if I had clung onto that toxic friendship.

people along the way.

One thing that I've been able to take from this toxic friendship is that it has exposed me to many warning signs. Any toxic behaviour that my former friend showed me is crystal clear now, and I do my damnedest to not fall for it I

Friendships

are wonderful things. Whether you need support during a difficult time, just want to go out and have fun, or need a proofreader on that essay you're sick of looking at, there's nothing like having people you can trust and rely on. When friendships are toxic, however, they can have a massive negative impact on your mental health.

Unfortunately, I've experienced the pain of a toxic friendship first-hand. One of my oldest friends from primary school turned out to be manipulative and cruel. It turned out that instead of supporting me, this person truly despised me. I only found this out after they let it slip to a close friend of mine when I was in Year 12. Perhaps worse than this, they told my friend that they'd be mean to me until I considered ending the friendship, then be nice to me just long enough for me to change my mind and keep them around. They toyed with my emotions and took pride in doing so.

For every time I had been there for this person, they had taken every chance to knock my confidence down until I was little more

of what they said, but I was a naïve kid.

Needless to say, once I'd heard this, the friendship was over. In good time too, because I realised they were doing much, much worse things to other people. This one person had hurt so many people, and that was not the type of person that I wanted in my life. Ending this friendship was the right thing to do, and I did my best to avoid them for the remainder of sixth form.

After a turbulent couple of years, university proved to be a big stepping stone for me. Moving to another city was a chance at a fresh start, but it also meant I had to make new friends. I was incredibly nervous about this at first, worrying that people would hate me the same way that my former friend did. I was so fortunate to meet some fantastic people in my first year of study, most of whom I'm still close with to this day. They built my confidence back up and were there for me during the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Having a much more supportive network

Finding contentment in being single

Imogen Mole - Relationship sub-editor

Cutting to now I’ve been single for a year - I’m over my break-up and although I do feel like I’ve gotten to know myself so much more, at times I feel the ache of boredom, and the urge to get a boyfriend again. The key word here is boredom. I crave a relationship not because of wanting a boyfriend, and someone to share my life with, but because I don’t know what else to do and a lot of the time that seems to be what the two rom-coms a week I watch, are telling me to do.

over the past year at university I’ve been climbing up this mountain, knowing I can’t allow myself to get into a relationship with anyone because I’m in the process of getting over someone, but now I’m finally at the top I’m bored and stuck in the grey area between not wanting be with anyone vs not wanting to not be with anyone.

and I’m finally just happy with my solitude. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from this year of being single is that this awkward gap where you’re not intermingled with anyone, no ‘it’s complicated’ situations, no big crushes, no one you need to text good morning to every day ( apart from my mum) just silence, is actually really rare and something to be embraced. There is a lot of hype about hook-up culture at university, but getting to know yourself and being content with solitude is pretty cool too.

Itcan be so easy to become ‘bored’ of being single, and to immediately want to run out and grab a new partner, but sometimes boredom can be contentment in disguise.

I started first year after being with my boyfriend for two and half years, cut to this time last year I was freshly out of a break-up knowing I was then committing myself to being alone for a long time in order to heal and really get to know myself.

The problem with this is that I’m actually just confusing boredom with being content. It feels like

It only hit me recently that actually, if I really sit in this ‘boredom’ it’s secretly contentment,

It’s the opposite of boredom, it’s the place of most excitement when you’re not tied down, you can take yourself on dates, you use that time you’d spend on the phone every night to read and do some writing, and most importantly, you can take yourself home after a night out and all you need to share a bed with is your cheesy chips. So if you’re single and you’re feeling bored, just take a minute to be grateful for this one, possibly fleeting, moment when you’re not involved with anyoneyou never know when it might pass.

It's easy to confuse being bored with being single with being content with your own solitude

Take a minute to be grateful for this one, possibly fleeting, moment when you’re not involved with anyone

It's the opposite of boredom, it's the place of most excitement when you're not tied down

Sometimes, moving to uni for a fresh start gives new perspectives on unhealthy friendships from your past

Although some mental scars were still there, in time I was able to overcome these

Image: Unsplash (100Gray)

Lifestyle

The perfect parents visit!

Alex Walker

Youknow, its really great when your parents come up to visit. It’s amazing to share the city you live in with the people who helped you get here. But it is frustrating when they come up, and you take a walk along the quayside before getting a drink in town for the sixth time in three years. If you want to shake them out of this rut, here are a few places you might want to take them to if you want to shake it up.

Jesmond Dene

The Dene is an amazing park, full of things to do. If you head up from town towards South Jesmond and onto Armstrong Bridge, you’ll catch great views of the Dene and the city. From there, you can head up the Red Walk, and turn

Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay

It’s so easy to get out to the coast in Newcastle thanks to the Metro, and once you’re there, it’s a great walk along the coast. If you’ve got the legs for it, head out to Tynemouth Metro Station, and just head up the coast. Even if its too cold for swimming in the North Sea (which it always is), there are loads of places to stop for coffee and ice-cream, and the views are unbelievable. For most of the year, I forget how close we are to the sea here, and it’s really nice to remember sometimes.

The library or home?

Abigail Roch

Ouseburn

Okay. You’ve accepted that you’ll never drag them away from the Quayside, but at least you can make it more interesting. Walk east along the river away from town until you reach Ouseburn, and then explore this cool corner of Newcastle with them. The old industrial buildings are filled with independent businesses and organisations, there is even a city farm, and the Cluny is the best venue for live music in Newcastle. From there, it's an easy walk along Stepney Bank into town.

The Bridge Hotel

This is one for your dad. The Bridge Hotel is tied with The Carriage and the Crown Posada for the title of best pub in Newcastle, and your old man would enjoy all three, but the Bridge has a special something. It has a wood-panelled interior, leather sofas and a great vibe. Across the road however, there is a pile of stones in front of the Castle. If your dad is anything like mine, he’ll love it when you tell him that the stones mark the border of the Roman Empire, that once stretched from modern Newcastle to Sudan. That little bit of history will definitely butter him up for whatever you need.

There you go then, four whole things for you to show your parents, and four new things for them to reject, because they'll probably just want a little walk along the Quayside. Oh well. At least they visit.

It’s

the middle of exams – I’ve got to catch up on some lectures and start my assignments. Can I be bothered to walk to and from my much-loved Philip Robinson library, knowing I might not be able to find a free seat?

Deadlines are just around the corner, so I need to be in the right headspace to optimise my productivity. In that respect the silent study area is my go-to option. In a peaceful setting with nothing but the sound of other students typing away on their keyboards, I can power through.

Libraries can also be a nice breather from a lively environment at home – I think it’s important to have two separate places when it comes to studying and relaxing. Plus, knowing I’m off to the Philip Robinson gets me out of bed and in the right mindset for the day.

However, because everyone there is constantly walking around to fill up their water bottles or just to have a break, it’s very easy to get distractedto the point where you're looking at those around you more than your laptop.

On the other hand, working from the comfort of my own home does have its drawbacks as well. Although I don't need to worry about my outfit or my unkempt hair, being surrounded by chatty, vibrant flatmates can effect my concentration –

Which places makes you more productive?

I think it’s important to have two separate places when it comes to studying and relaxing.

Image: cookiethepom Unsplash Image: cookiethepom Unsplash

left, to show them St Mary’s Chapel (a medieval pilgrimage site on the edge of West Jesmond). From there, its only a short walk to Osborne Road for a well-deserved pint, or West Jesmond Metro Station, to get you back into town.

Image: Marcoangelo Unsplash

Image: @abbsatkinson Instagram

Image: Daniel Loftus Unsplash

Image: @bridgehotelnewcastle Instagram

Sick of going on THAT Quayside walk when your parents come to visit? Look no further...

How best to celebrate the end of the year

Course balls and big end of year parties are often what mark the end of the year, but are there better ways to celebrate?

more tailored to you and your friend's interests. I met up with my brother to go ice skating to celebrate completing my dissertation. I would not have wanted to celebrate any other way, or with anybody else for that matter.

Me, myself and I Tightly knit

Emily Kelso - Comment sub-editor

Reaching

the end of the academic year is always a cause for celebration. June signals marking surviving another year, or for some, the end of an era. But how best to celebrate?

Big events like balls are nice, especially when you're not the one organising them. Such events have a lot of stipulations, like expensive dresses and makeup, and pressure to look your best. Honestly, such events are sometimes not worth the effort. Even trying to get smaller groups of people to meet up is hard. Anyone who has ever tried to organise anything with students will know it is easier to herd cats than it is students. It is no exaggeration when I say I have tried to plan a meetup with my flatmates from first year for months with little success thus far. Everyone has hectic schedules and different times they're headed home. That being said, small gatherings are still possible, and they can be fun. But not always. The honest downside is that sometimes not everyone can make it, and there's somebody left out. Sometimes, that person is you. You're the person left out from the parties, the dinners and the group

Mitchell Hall - Sport sub-editor

Lifestyle

To everyone who's been told "you love yourself too much"

Leanna Thomson - Lifestyle sub-editor

WhenI was in school, there were quite a few people who had something to say about me. There were those who disapproved of me coming in with a full face of makeup every day, I even got accused of strutting while I walked once. But there was one comment that cropped up more frequently than the rest, and it was that I loved myself too much.

receiving end of the words.

Fast forward a few years and a lot of growing up, I am proud to say that, although I still struggle, I have a much better relationship with myself, and this has allowed me to understand the secondary school attitudes I was haunted by. It is now clear to me that we, as a country, simply confuse self love with selfishness, and confidence with arrogance. We are so obsessed with being humble that we forget about the importance of self-celebration, and trade pride for embarrassment. We are trying so hard to better ourselves that all that is already amazing is forgotten about.

Imay

be in the minority when it comes to celebrating the end of the year. As much as I can understand the draw of the big party at the end of the year with everybody dressing up for the occasion, I just can’t get myself to like the idea.

I know to some that’s blasphemy, but considering a ticket typically costs in the £30-40 region, I argue you can have a better time elsewhere. I’ve always been a little smaller in scale when it comes to spending time with friends, preferring a pub trip or hanging out at someone’s flat than anything grander. This means I always lean more towards the alternatives to a ball straight away. £30 can go a long way in regards of drinks, music and food, and for me this makes the draw of the ball’s spectacle less enticing.

Even more than that, at smaller parties, you can have people there from across different courses that you really like and can have a laugh with. Most of my friends didn’t come through my course, so it feels like I’d be spending all that money to hang out largely with people I don’t really know. I like socialising with new people, but to pay for the privilege of doing so when I can spend less over 2 or 3 parties with all of my friends, it doesn’t feel

This was always something that baffled me, for two reasons. Firstly, I had been suffering with body image issues and low self esteem since a young age, meaning I didn’t know what it was like to love myself. Perhaps it was a misconception of the confidence I feigned to get myself through the day. Secondly, due to my mental state, self love was something I had always dreamed of, and yet never was lucky enough to have.

So why was it that people viewed the one thing that would solve most of my mental health problems as something so negative?

It seemed that my entire generation was brainwashed with this toxic aversion to self love. My friends would use it as an insult for people they couldn’t stand, and so in turn, I admittedly grew up doing the same. I imagine many other people my age either did the same or found themselves on the

This may seem quite a trivial observation to some people, you might even believe that the qualities I just singled out are positive. However, these attitudes are dangerous because they’ve played a part in causing the mental health epidemic that’s been attacking our nation in recent years. If our children are growing up being scared to love themselves, no wonder CAMHS services are at breaking point.

We cannot change this until we start with the self. Try to say at least one kind thing about yourself every day; from experience, the more you do it, the easier it gets. Then, it won't seem so strange to us when the people around us are kind to themselves, and we can replace our judgement with admiration. Strutting is so much more fun than walking, anyways.

So... this is the end

CC Lee

what a year. Not only as this been a rollercoaster of a year academically, no doubt the social aspects have been a barrel of fun too! But what can we take from this year? What can we leave behind? And what can we look forward to next year?

Imean,

Not only have you completed another year of learning, full of essay deadlines, revision sessions and, well, stress. We are actually coming up to the end of assignments. But what is more important perhaps, is that this year saw the return of the in-person lectures, and societies blooming after two years affected by Covid. We got to watch some epics in Film Soc, perform on stage with NUTS and NUGSS, as well as having frequent nights out with Med and Ski Soc. What has been lovely, is sharing this year with people and not screens. Actually being able to meet up for a coffee date and not be exhausted by break-out rooms and online lectures. Mmh, lovely.

Personally, I'd love to leave behind the disruption to studies. After four weeks of strike action, I can only hope that the University realises that the demands from lecturers and teaching staff are valid and get acknowledged. Moreover, I think we should all leave behind late-night cramming before exams, and early morning trips to McDonalds. (No one? Don't blame you). Maybe we can leave behind our legacies, for those that are graduating - panic masters anyone? Yes, yes please.

Looking towards the Summer then, what can we anticipate? If you haven't already, there are countless balls and awards ceremonies to get you excited. Perhaps you're just looking

forward to no more Canvas Submissions, hoping for a summer filled with late night parties and early morning trips to Burger King, may as well switch it up a bit - it is summer after all.

Looking ahead to next September, I personally can't wait for more thrilling performances from NUTS and NUGSS. More Winter Balls to wave away the first semester. Don't get me started on January assignments, though. Maybe a cheeky night out with the gang on the toon, as we share summer stories about work and being back home with the fam. Oh, and a chance to

Image: Cottonbro,

Image: Geralt, Pixabay

Image: Tookapic, Pixabay, Vlada Karpovich, Pexels

Fashion & Beauty

'You either know fashion or you don't': Delving into the life of Anna Wintour

Carly Horne - TV sub-editor

On the back of the biography released earlier this month, what will the current editor-in-chief of US Vogue, Anna Wintour’s, legacy be?

Releasedearlier this month was Anna: The Biography, Amy Odell's depiction of the life and career of the most powerful woman in fashion - Anna Wintour. Known for perceived coldness and no end of controversial remarks, what will her legacy be in the fashion world?

On the surface, Anna Wintour is everything the fashion world should aim to promote less of. Privately educated and privileged, aggressive in her pro-fur stance and complicit in promoting the unrealistic standards of models in fashion, it's hard to believe her impact on the industry has been largely positive.

For it was in 2005 that André Leon Talley (former Vogue editor-at-large) told Oprah Winfrey "Most of the Vogue girls are so thin, tremendously thin [...] because Miss Anna don't like fat people."

But Anna Wintour is also unapologetic in her sense of self, and in this regard, she is everything a woman in the public eye should strive to be.

Perhaps it is this sense of self-assurance which has allowed Wintour to make the steep climb to the top of the fashion industry, though her one-of-a -kind ability to spot emerging

trends surely helps.

With this knowledge of the world around her, Wintour has an uncanny ability to adapt to changing times (and trends, though she says the word is "dirty"). She is listened to in the fashion industry, and her opinion is sought. Even as a long time Democrat, she managed to persuade Donald J. Trump to allow Marc Jacobs to use a ballroom at the Plaza before the designer's career took off.

items which Mirabella had relied on.

But at this time, Wintour saw the importance of utilising lesser-known models, too. Though this is no longer as true.

Currently, Vogue relies on celebrities for many of their cover shoots, as well as failing to depict normal working women in the publication. And that will be part of Anna Wintour's legacy.

Anna Wintour's interest in fashion is longstanding, however, as a job at Biba at the age of 15 kickstarted what would become an incredible foray into the world of high fashion. After a stint at Harrods, it was in 1970 that Wintour joined the Harper's and Queen team as a junior editorial assistant. Reported as telling her colleagues she was going to edit Vogue one day, it seems Wintour's determination has truly paid off.

Under her editorship, Vogue US saw drastic changes from Grace Mirabella's creative direction.

Anna Wintour's most iconic cover was, indeed, her first in the role. Depicting Michaela Bercu in a candid shot, sporting $50 faded jeans and a $10,000 Christian Lacroix jacket, her decision to make this the cover shot not only altered the future direction of Vogue, but allowed readers to consider pairing inexpensive pieces with the more luxury

Anna Wintour is so respected for a reason: she has found the balance between the aesthetic of luxury and what a regular reader aspires to be. Though hardly a contributor to the democratization of fashion, it is thanks to Anna Wintour that the normal working person (whom she is reluctant to depict) is able to flip through the glossy pages and fantasise about life in high society.

Fast fashion dumped from Love Island

Imogen Clarke - Fashion & Beauty sub-editor

So, 'a relationship... is on the rocks' has turned to 'fast fashion... is on the rocks.' With over 3 million viewers last season, Love Island certainly influences the predominantly young people who watch. Just look at Molly-Mae, last years runner up who is now the largest Instagram influencer in the UK. So, the show making any move towards sustainable fashion is surely a good thing.

Ina surprising turn of events, Love Island has replaced the likes of I Saw it Firs and Missguided with Ebay as its sponsor. Surely this can mean only one thing: wearing pre-worn clothes, and wearing them again and again, is now on trend. In fact, Islanders will now 'peacock about the villa' is an assortment of preloved garments sources from Ebay. Perhaps in the future, Love Island might spread their feathers to resale apps Depop, Vinted, or even charity shops. Then

In previous years, viewers have seen contestants wear multiple outfits and skimpy swimwear sets per day, only for them never to be seen again. One ex-islander revealed that contestants were sent 'duffel bags' of clothes every three to four days, as well as being given £500 to spend at the sponsor before entering the villa. Yes, Islanders do return any clothes borrowed to the sponsor after the show, but like most fast fashion returns, they are likely thrown away.

appease viewers? The show has faced increasing criticism for promoting throwaway fashion habits. And such criticism has foundation, fast fashion is becoming a more common addiction every year. On social media, and on their websites, brands tell us we need a parcel every day to be happy. However, this happiness is often limited one wear. Reality shows like Love Island show viewers contestants who appear to thrive off of fast fashion looks. We see them and think we need to buy their outfits to thrive like they are. Last year,

Love Island even had an accompanying app that would link viewers directly to the outfit seen on screen, encouraging hasty purchases. The show is 'symbiotic' with fast fashion, with related searches of islander's outfits dramatically increasing as soon as they are screened.

This summer of love though, things seem to be changing, as the show moves towards 'more eco-friendly production', according to executive produce Mike Spencer.

This year though, I imagine contestants will have to rewear garments, due to the lack of volume when it comes to used, rather than quickly produced clothing. However, a large resale company like Ebay may find ways to get around this fast fashion ban. Perhaps buying up, then re-selling, fast fashion as 'used' to Love Island. As we know, new clothing still creeps onto Depop, for example. Will the change be more than just greenwashing to

Reality TV show staple Love Island to dress Islanders in 'preloved' clothing rather than throwaway garments

'A relationship... is on the rocks' becomes 'fast fashion... is on the rocks'

Will the change be more than just greenwashing to appease viewers?

She is unapologetic in her sense of self, and in this regard, she is everything a woman in the public eye should strive to be

Image: Instagram @dame_annawintour

Image: Instagram @jessmillerx

Fashion & Beauty

Preview: NUFS Fashion Show is back!

Daisy Harrison

With the NUFS Fashion Show 'Mythology' taking place on June 4th, the designers and models who are putting the show together tell us about what is happening behind the scenes

Setto take place on the 4th of June in Newcastle’s iconic Discovery Museum at 1pm, NUFS are holding their first inperson event in three years! The NUFS Fashion Show looks to be a masterfully majestic display of mythology, with a twist!

The University’s Fashion Society are putting on a show like no other, with the chosen theme this year of mythology. The show will see 32 models take the runway, 5 of whom will be modelling their own designs. NUFS have also been working closely with local designers and small business owners, to sustainably produce pieces for the show, through loans and collaboration.

When asked the inspiration behind the theme of mythology, Fashion Director of the society, Neelam Majumder, explained that the designers each picked a mythological creature to work with, including fairies, witches, mermaids & dragons. All of which represent a different issue faced within the fashion industry, as well as everyday life. These problems constitute of the fetishization of young women (fairies); the demonisation of knowledge (witches); gender-based violence (mermaids); corruption and greed (dragons). As a result, the society are addressing these issues by dressing to reclaim power and feeling beautiful in whatever you wear.

NUFS have also been working closely with local designers and small business owners

A part of the money raised from the show will go towards Smart Works, a charity in partnership with NUFS, who “believe in the power of clothes to transform a woman’s confidence”. The charity has helped over 20,000 women in 8 centres across the UK by providing them with business clothing to

wear to job interviews.

Each week, fashion director of NUFS, Neelam Majumder runs sewing lessons for the designers who are making pieces for the fashion show. I went along to one of the sessions to find out more about the designers and models involved in the upcoming show.

Designers: Neelam Majumder and Enzo Mariani

What is your experience in design?

N: I was artsy as a child and learnt to sew when I was around 8/9 years old. I started by making dresses for my teddies and carried on sewing into high school, where I would make clothes for me and my friends. I developed my skills through YouTube tutorials and textiles classes.

E: I first joined NUFS in 1st year because I loved to watch Ru Paul’s Drag Race and saw that sewing was a fundamental part of becoming a successful drag queen.

Where do you get your inspiration for show designs?

N: I largely take inspiration from my culture. For example, I saw Sharara, a pair of loose-fitting trousers worn by people in parts of India and Pakistan, which I have incorporated into my designs. I also love to upcycle clothes that I find in charity shops.

(Neelam also gave me exclusive insider information: Byker high-street is amazing for charity shops, and the clothes there are often a lot cheaper than in the city-centre.)

E: I find that rummaging through the remnants bin is great for finding scrap bits of material, which I take inspiration from, and rework into something new. One of my designs for the fashion show is inspired by industrialisation and features a metallic, mythical roadkill bunny.

(I can’t wait to see Enzo’s bunny piece on the runway!)

What skills are needed to be a good designer?

N: I like the quote ‘good artists copy, great artists steal’ because it reminds me that having a base is not a bad thing, and then you can morph your piece to make it your own.

M: I think it will be cool to finally wear my clothes after weeks of designing them. It will also be nice for my friends to see my pieces because they haven’t seen any of my designs for the show yet.

What is your favourite piece you’ve ever made?

E: The piece that I reminisce about the most is a pink leotard. It was an extremely basic design, but it holds a lot of memory and was an extremely empowering item for me.

Modelling Director: Manako Maddison

What does your role of Modelling Director entail?

M: I train all the models on how to approach the runway and editorial side of fashion. The society brings opportunities for the models through events such as collaboration with photography society, which allows both our models and the photographers to build their portfolios.

How did you get involved with NUFS?

M: I went to one of the modelling workshops that the society run. I wasn’t expecting much and went with one of my friends. The workshop turned out to be amazing, and it really helped my selfesteem, as the feedback given to me was so kind. I applied to be Modelling Director so that I could bring these same experiences into workshops and runways and help other people’s confidence too.

Have you got any tips for how to improve your confidence?

M: By looking confident, you will feel confident. For example, when you walk, keep your eyes and chin up, and roll your shoulders back – but keep them relaxed. If you get into the zone of looking and feeling great, you will naturally be more empowered!

Models & Designers: Kay Hui and Maisie Moss. Both will be modelling their own designs on the runway.

What element of the show are you most looking forward to?

K: I’m excited to model but I’m also looking forward to being backstage – even it is a bit hectic!

Tickets for the NUFS Fashion Show can be purhcsed from the NUFS page on NUSU website, under the 'Shop' tab: https://www.nusu.co.uk/ getinvolved/societies/society/fashionsociety/ The tickets include a guaranteed seat, drink on arrival, canapes and entry to the after party! The Courier will also be attending to review the show. You will be able to find the this review in our upcoming magazine that you can find around campus from June 13th.

The designers each picked a mythological creature to work with, with each representing a different problem within the fashion industry

Neelam also gave me insider information: Byker high-street is amazing for charity shops

Image: NUFS; Photographer: Renée Bennett; Makeup: Neelam Majumder; Models: Justina Mitkut é, Ankitha Kumble, Neelam Mwjumder, Féjiro Ovah, Angel Hagacer & Alma Shia mtani

Image: NUFS; Photographer: Katie York; Makeup: Neelam Majumder; Models: Neelam Mwjumder, Angel Hagacer & Alma Shiamtani

Image: NUFS; Photographer: Maddie Rob erts; Makeup: Neelam Majumder; Models: Kacper Brach & Féjiro Ovah

A summer working in Istanbul

Elžbieta Voverytė

The ultimate guide to a budget friendly vacation

ask me how my parents allowed it and how I was not scared in the slightest (the naiveness of being 16, I guess) but I spent the summer of 2018, living and working in Istanbul.

Don’t

The biggest city in Europe (by population) and there was me, flying alone for the first time and making friends on the plane as we were flying to the furthest part of Europe. The excitement and fearlessness disappeared the same minute I stepped in my apartment that was going to be my home for the next 10 weeks. Bit embarrassing to admit that I spent the next 4 days crying my eyes out and counting days since I was supposed to go back but I will let myself off – I was sixteen-year-old who was too proud to admit to anyone that I was not having the best start there. Fortunately, that did not last long – a week into my summer escapade I was having the time of my life, partying in this huge city with my new flatmates that were from all around the world (and also way older than me). In the next upcoming weeks, I travelled around Turkey in my spare time, got to know Istanbul like my hometown, made friends I keep in touch till this day, and broke two margarita glasses in a bar on my 17th birthday. That was necessary to include, yes. Barely got home too. As corny as it sounds, it was indeed one of the best experiences of my life that made moving away from home for uni so much easier.

Although I could go on and on about that summer and the specialness I hold for that city, I am here to recommend few ways to get yourself an experience abroad.

Firstly, unless you are European and can get yourself into Erasmus programme, I would not recommend opting for volunteering since, chances are, you will have to pay for it. It’s shocking but nowadays you can rarely find opportunities in Central America or Asia that will not come with a fee.

Therefore, my best suggestion would be websites like WorkAway, HelpX and WorldPackers. The concept of these websites is to find a host in a country/ region/city of your choice and travel there to help them while also having loads of free time and accommodation. If you plan far in advance, you can even find yourself a job in a hostel or a surfing camp for the summer and get paid for it. The only catch is that you have to pay to register but it is a small investment to your amazing summer abroad that thousands of people swear by.

Lastly, look through websites of hotels in summer destinations like Greece, Cyprus, Spain or Portugal. Most likely they

Lenka Minarovičová - Travel sub-editor

Withthe exam season coming to its end and the summer finally approaching, we’re all thinking of our holiday plans. This can be quite demotivating for those who haven’t planned anything yet and see the plane ticket prices skyrocketing even on the website of cheap airlines. But fear not, nothing’s lost yet! Here are some tips and tricks to help you out to experience the best summer possible.

Accommodation

Everybody’s heard of Airbnb and hostels, but to save even more, have you thought of trying camping or CouchSurfing? It may be an interesting alternative, but, please, be safe.

Food

If eating out is for you or your budget but you still want to experience the local cuisine, try going to a local supermarket and see if there are any products you don’t know. Even in familiar store chains, such as Tesco, you’ll be surprised to see how much certain products differ. And it’s not only about sweets and snacks, but also some dairy products and much more.

Another tip is to look out for meal deals. Some countries have special deals around lunch time where you get lots of food for much cheaper. Or try using Too good to go app if it is available in your destination.

And if everything else fails, nature is a safe bet. Going to the beach or for a hike can’t do you any wrong.

Destinations

The general rules says: the more East in Europe you go, the cheaper the place. Bear in mind though that cheap does not mean unenjoyablee or bad. Here are some countries you might want to consider.

Slovakia

When people go to central Europe, they tend to opt for Prague, Vienna or Budapest. Not many realise that just an hour from Vienna, there is a hidden gem of Slovak capital – Bratislava. Slovakia in general is much cheaper than its neighbours with lots to offer. Just in Bratislava you can find two castles, a beautiful old town, many churches (such as the Blue Church) and amazing food. Another pro is that compared to the UK, the public transport is inexpensive so do explore if you can. One of the places I would recommend is the Bojnice castle, which does get touristy in the summer but it’s worth it. Bojnice is a spa town with a lovely castle in the centre, lots of culture and nature, so there something for everyone.

Romania

If you prefer to go to the seaside, one of the cheapest options is Romania. While most of European coasts do get quite touristy and the prices of accommodation tend to increase, in Romania you’ll save on things like food. Moreover, if you get tired of sunbathing on the beach, you may take a trip to see some of the castles, including the Dracula’s castle in Transylvania.

Lithuania

Another one among the cheapest countries in the Europe, Lithuania has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to culture, as Kaunas in holding the title of European Capital of Culture for 2022. But wait, there’s more - the lovely capital and the coasts! Vilnius has an amazing atmosphere where you can try the local cuisine. The national meal is called cepelinai, whichis pork stuffed dumplings with sour cream and bacon sauce. But you can also try different desserts, including grybukai (mushroom-shaped cookies) or fried curd cakes. You can also visit the coast but bear in mind that the temperatures in Lithuania are not the highest, so it’s probably better just enjoy the view.

Hungary

While Hungary is not one of the cheapest destinations, it is still quite affordable with lots to see and do. One of the best beachy destinations inland is the Balaton lake. You will get teleported to a nice sunny seaside without leaving the country. However, as a price grow is expected, it is best to go there before the June 30. Another interesting place to visit is the Baradla cave where you can do a 7-hour adventure tour.

Poland

Whether you choose Warsaw or Krakow, or any other place in Poland really, you will not be disappointed. Both of the mentioned cities have amazing history which everyone can learn from. You should visit some of the many museums in Warsaw, such as the Warsaw Rising Museum, the Chopin Museum (my personal favourite) or the National Museum, or in Krakow the castle or Auschwitz Birkenau concentration camp. Another very unusual attraction is the salt mine Wieliczka, which got transformed into a hotel. And some good news, food in Poland is very affordable and delicious and you don’t want

If your budget is not as tight and you want to go to a more traditional destination, but still saving some quid, you may want to try the south of Italy which is said to be much cheaper than the north, yet with

Image: Pedro Szekely on Flickr

Image: Lenka Minarovicova

The more East in Europe you go, the cheaper the place. But cheap does not mean unenjoyable or bad

Bojnice Castle in Slovakia

Food & Drink 19

Controversial food opinions

Jam and Chocolate Pasta

Taco Belter

Mary Chude

Cheese and chocolate

Leo David Parjogo

Thesalty, slight chewiness of cheese with sweet chocolate melting in your mouth.

Emmental and Dairy Milk. Mozzarella and Nutella. Cheddar and chocolate sprinkles. Delicious alone, they are unstoppable together.

This may be a controversial food opinion in many parts of the world, but in my home country of Indonesia, cheese and chocolate is (rightfully) one of the most popular food pairings in the country.

Cheese and chocolate on crepes. Cheese and chocolate on fried plantain. Cheese and chocolate on toast. Melted to form a creamy gooey delicacy, or cold for that little bit of crunch.

Cheese and chocolate.

Trust me, it’s delicious.

Lenka Minarovicova - Travel sub-editor

What's in season?

Iwould

love to say that I discovered this combination in my dream while sleeping or by accident when my pasta fell into a randomly open pot of jam, but the truth is that I was quite surprised that this is a controversial thing in the UK.

In Slovakia, we often eat sweet main dishes and pasta with a sweet toping (such as poppy seeds, grated nuts or cream cheese with sugar) is one of them. And everyone’s favourite dish in the school canteen is jam and chocolate pasta, since you can’t really mess it up. Just boil some pasta as usual, mix cocoa powder with sugar and mix it all together with jam.

I dare you to try it out and you can thank me later.

Comingto Newcastle has presented me with many opportunities, the best of which being the chance to affirm the following: Taco Bell’s fries are better than McDonald’s fries.

How so? Well, Taco Bell serve up their fries seasoned. This orange dusting, which I think should be standard, are a treasured junk food experience. This is simply where the flavour lies, it can’t really be done away with. McDonald’s fall short here, there fries are plainly decorated, unabashedly naked, if anything.

These fries actually come with a dip but I’m disregarding the dip because these fries are so good the dip can do one.

I hate to make this claim after only having visited once, but they were just that good. I am finishing this article in tears at the sad fact that I don’t live near a Taco Bell at home. Newcastle, thank you for affording me this privilege.

The best vegan food in Newcastle

Scarlett Welch - Food & Drink sub-editor

Withvegan and vegetarian food becoming more and more popular, in almost every restaurant you go to you’ll be able to find vegan options. But often restaurants lack variation, and in

the can seem a little bland. Luckily, Newcastle is bursting with restaurants which take vegan food seriously - so here is a guide to where you can find them.

Supernatural

By far my favourite vegan restaurant in Newcastle, Supernatural is located close to Central station and boasts a range of options for both light lunches and main meals.

What I love about this restaurant is that they offer meat and dairy free alternatives which are full of flavour, and go beyond burgers and fake chicken. Their alternatives to classics such as a BLT or a cheese toastie are

I’ve seen elsewhere. Whilst they might not taste exactly like the “real thing”, they’re great for vegans and meat eaters alike.

Little Green

Situated in Sandyford, Little Green is ideal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s perhaps most popular for its brunches, offering a vegan full English and other cooked breakfasts, alongside seasonal French toast options. But it’s not just great for breakfast food, from curries to pizzas, Little Green has great choices for later in the day as well. Their drinks are also outstanding, with bright and colourful smoothies as well as a wide range of hot drinks.

The Ship Inn

Found in Ouseburn, the Ship Inn has a fully vegan kitchen. They offer great meat-free alternatives to pub classics such as fish and chips and chicken wings. All their beer is vegan too, as an added bonus!

Karma Kitchen Cafe

If you’re looking for something quicker, why not head to Bigg market to try Karma Kitchen Cafe. This family run restaurant offers an entirely vegan Indian menu, with a variety of spice levels. They also deliver, so you don’t even need to leave your house to get great vegan food.

Whilst the next two choices are not fully vegan restaurants, I’m including them as they have a great range of plant-based meals.

Pizza Punks

With their “build your own pizza” option, Pizza Punks on Grey Street allows you to make any pizza vegan by using their vegan mozzarella. Whilst many pizza restaurants provide one vegan choice, this is a cut above as you can choose any toppings you like.

The Tanners Arms

This popular pub can be found on the outskirts of Ouseburn, providing a modern twist on pub classics. They have a huge variety of burgers, alongside loaded wings, nachos and much more. What’s great about this pub is they offer a plantbased version of almost all of their meals.

There are far too many restaurants with great vegan options for me to mention in this article. However, with this guide, you should be able to find a vegan meal to satisfy any craving.

Withthe weather finally starting to get warmer (even in Newcastle!) and summer officially starting in mid-June, the seasonal foods are starting to change. Here’s a guide to what’s in season during June.

Why should we eat seasonally?

Eating seasonally simply means eating foods that are grown at the same time as you eat them. This has lots of benefits, including:

It’s better for the environment - the less your food has to travel, the better. Out of season food is shipped across the world, which means it has a high carbon footprint.

It’s more nutrient dense – due to less time spent travelling, the nutrients inside the food have less time to degrade.

It has less chemicals - food grown outside its natural season needs a lot more help from pesticides, chemicals, and preservatives.

It often tastes better and is cheaper –seasonal food is harvested when it tastes best.

Fruits:

Raspberries, Strawberries, Blueberries, and Cherries – if the plural ends in ‘ies’, it’s likely to be in season during June! Berries make great snacks and breakfast toppings. They are also perfect for smoothies, or even using in baking.

Apricots – often paired with chicken, or in a tart, why not try a savoury apricot recipe this June?

Kiwi – whether you eat the skin or not, there’s no debating the benefits of kiwis, from being extremely nutritious, to helping your skin and digestive system.

Vegetables:

Lettuce – when thinking of June, surely BBQs, burgers, and picky bits come to mind. Lettuce is a staple ingredient to any British summer, even if it’s only there to ‘add a bit of colour’ to your plate.

Onions and Peppers – while these make the perfect base for just about every dish, there’s one stand-out, family favourite meal I think of when seeing onions and peppers … fajitas!

Carrots – an excellent snack, addition to stir fry, base for a soup, or ingredient in cake, carrots are a versatile veg. And they’ll make you see in the dark…

Broad Beans – typically paired with peas, broad beans are rich in B vitamins, which maintain the body’s cells. They are also used in risottos, pasta dishes, and salads.

New Potatoes – these would be great in a traybake, curry, salad, or just as a side dish.

Courgette - you could make veg chilli, soups, casseroles, and much more!

Eating seasonally reduces your carbon footprint, supports your local agricultural economy, and allows you to discover new foods.

Daisy Harrison

A guide to finding the best range of plant-based meals in the city

Our writers bravely share their unpopular food takes, will you be trying any of them?

Dance Fever

+ The Machine

Rowan Christina Driver - Music Sub-editor

WhenFlorence Welch encountered the medieval concept of ‘choreomania’, she felt an instant resonance with the desire to release all tension and dance. Using this, Welch indulged in inspiration for her new project.

The product, Dance Fever, is one as unique as Welch’s formidable vocal, steeped in iconic theatricality and laced with antitheses: the ecstatic and the sombre, the angelic and the satanic, the mundane and the extraordinary.

Eerie choral euphoria underpins a plethora of mythological metaphors in Florence + The Machine’s aptly named latest album – it embodies an unnerving combination of both liberating physicality and the chokehold of a fever dream.

Opening with “King” and “Free”, the record instantly displays thematic remnants of the pandemic during which it was conceived. “I am free”, declares Welch, an assertion all the more striking in the emancipation of a post-lockdown world. From the almost belligerent ritualistic chanting in the delivery of “Heaven Is Here”, to the melodic and folky “The Bomb”, Dance Fever is a fairy-tale in musical form. The legendary mysticality of the piece further serves to elevate contemporary themes of feminine liberative expression in “Girls Against God”, while recurrent reference to spirituality reinforces the medieval folkloric stimuli of the material.

Instrumentally there is an overarching modesty of the piece in comparison with the iconic anthems of albums past. While the production is superbly layered, polished with input from Jack Antonoff (Taylor Swift, Lorde) and Glass Animals’ Dave Bayley – alt-rock foundations are enhanced with infusions of synth-based electronic pop and folk – “My Love” is perhaps the track most reminiscent of the Florence we know and, for fans, Dance Fever has the potential to fall short of expectations at first glance. It is above all, however, the vulnerable lyricism from which this body of material finds its intrepid heart. Welch’s lyrical gravity surpasses sufficient compensation for the

Why Kendrick’s 'Auntie Diaries' is so empowering

of this anyway? Can f*ggot be said, can people be deadnamed within the context of art?

Content Warning: Homophobia, Transphobia, Slurs

Diaries, a song in Kendrick Lamar’s new album, Mr Morale & The Big Steppers, has been criticised by many as being bad allyship, offensive, or unacceptable. In the song, he says F*ggot ten times, misgenders, and deadnames his trans aunt and cousin. Hearing that, the song does sound horribly transphobic, so why was it so powerful for me?

Auntie

Lamar is very critical about his own use of language. The story of the song is him growing from using language carelessly as a child and loving his Uncle, seeing the effects of the word f*ggot and of bigotry on his cousin Mary-Anne, and finally Mary-Anne confronting him directly by comparing the oppression she faces specifically as a trans woman to the oppression he faces as a black man. She points to a time he stopped a white fan from singing the n-word. Mary-Anne says this:

‘Faggot, Faggot, Faggot,’ we can say it together

But only if you let a white girl say ‘Nigga’

I don't think that this song is a well-meaning, but ignorant attempt at allyship. He used his words within a very specific narrative framework and with artistic distance. Lamar understood that many would not approve. Lamar knew the power of the words he uses. For a line-by-line breakdown of why Lamar’s narrative framing is not malicious and further deconstruction of his use of language, see Conure’s exhaustive thread.

Personally, I love this song because Lamar is genuine. As a young boy, he is messy, offensive, and says the wrong things. But he is always genuine. His love for his uncle and cousin is powerful, sincere love. He doesn’t love them out of fear of the label “transphobe”, nor does he love them out of obligation. He paints pictures of real, three-dimensional people through raw moments of human connection: their fashion, their

“Wokeness” and “anti-wokeness” are both reactionary. They are not meaningful interaction with someone's humanity, but a knee-jerk to a political positioning. They cannot help but view a person as a set of categories, they cannot help but view language as a set of rules that must be upheld, words that can and cannot be said. But that isn’t reality. People are people. Language is a tool we use to make genuine connections.

I said, "Mr. Preacherman, should we love thy neighbor?

The laws of the land or the heart, what's greater? There is nothing revolutionary about dogmatically policing the language of the sincerely compassionate. Requests for strict adherence to a list of rules is academic and mechanical, I cannot see that it has any place in art, which to me is where we explore the peripheries of the human experience.

For me, transness is about the abolishment of an inherited social order that was arbitrarily applied to me. It’s not about finding my neat little place in the cis-het structure, right there next to man and woman, it’s about rejecting offers of faux-validity from a binary that can never know me. How can we ever hope to find beauty if we reproduce the police-cage of cisness in our policing of language?

Wasit going to be the new Fine Line? Or were we going to get something completely new and cultivating from Harry’s House. In all honesty, over the hype it received prior to its release from fans, I was let down by this album.

When you first play the album, you are met with the opening song Music for a Sushi Restaurant a title as odd as the lyrics. The song has a lot of food analogies, but in all honesty, I was all for it. This song for me, felt like the album was going to be different from the last and was really a strong start into seeing what Harry was experimenting with this time around. It took a very 80s synthesiser and techno turn and felt like it was in very close relation to a late 80s Prince song, a concept I was hoping would continue through the album (but then again, I am an avid listener of Prince).

It didn’t exactly.

I will never tell anyone how they should feel about Lamar’s words. Anger, frustration, hurt, these are all valid emotions, and I understand why so many feel them. These words have harmed so many, caused so much hurt, have killed. They Lamar’s execution of his artistic vision can be extremely triggering, and that is something else that must be reckoned with.

In my opinion, however, Lamar does not use them violently.

For me, Auntie Diaries is a triumphant song of trans acceptance capped with brutal self-reflection.

With this album I was mostly concerned with the song arrangement. We started off with a strong start, Music for a Sushi Restaurant, Late Night Talking and, Grapejuice but after that it felt disjointed. From As it Was to Matilda (tracks 4-7) it felt like to me, we were back into his comfort sound, songs with the same tempo, layered voices and harmonies and minimal instruments. However, Matilda was a turning point in the album and any subsequent song after felt new and as if Harry experimented with different sounds, captivating this 70s disco inspiration and the classic use of the wah wah pedal. Although I am all for a turning point, it felt as if Harry changed his mind suddenly for what he wanted for the album and returned to this new experimented sound.

If you were looking for something that is quintessentially Harry Styles and Fine Line I wouldn’t falter this album, however for me, I found that this album wasn’t overly

Harry's House Harry Styles

Sarah Tunstall

Charlie Pugh

Is 'Auntie Diaries' as controversial as we might think?

For me, transness is about the abolishment of an inherited social order

Very close relation to a late 80s Prince song

Poeticising the examination of one's own psyche with an unapologetic authenticity

How I Met Your Father - the perfectshow to play in the background

It's a good distraction from work, but it's not for diehard fans of the original

Soundfamiliar? A quick look at this 10-part spin-off to one of the 2000’s classic US sitcoms. But does it live up to the original?

Whether you like it or not, TV studios love to churn out a reboot – despite not having the best reviews. So, to find out they were doing a How I Met Your Mother (HIMYM 2005-2014) spin-off, I will admit, I was very dubious. But did that stop me from watching it all in one weekend, during the buildup to exam season? Of course not.

Expect chaos, awkward laugh tracks and an all round comfort watch

Much like its original, we see an older woman talking to her son about, you guessed it, how she met his father. Hilary Duff (Lizzie McGuire, Younger) plays the younger version of Sophie, a photographer living in New York with her best friend Valentina (Francia Raisa). Having bad luck on the dating scene, she uses Tinder to make her

way through all the single men in New York. But it's only when she gets in an Uber that she meets Jesse (Chris Lowell) and Sid (Suraj Sharma), where she creates lifelong friends that help her out along the way.

For comfort's sake, it also follows pretty much the exact same basis as its predecessor: Jesse and Sid live in Ted, Lilly and Marshall's old apartment; the main character who is desperately struggling to find love; a couple who belong together and are getting married (Sid and Hannah); a bar that the group hang out in all the time; the main character and their new friend who secretly like each other; constant strange jokes about how awful New York living can be; and a really well dressed one in the group, who just loves to suit up!

After 10 half hour episodes, Sophie hits big decision time, casually bumping into Robyn Scherbatsky (Cobie Smulders) from Now a hugely famous news reporter, Robyn has a drink with Sophie to give her some advice on love and friendships, all from experiences we witnessed in the mid 2000’s. Very much cheesy reboot behaviour!

As a sitcom, expect chaos, awkward laugh tracks and just all-round comfort watching. Not shying away from themes of love, online dating and

just straight up sex, this is yet another relevant sitcom that someone is bound to relate to. So, with very little to have to digest (it's one of those you can stick on in the background while doing uni work), it's one to watch, but not in

Crashing: Fleabag's underrated older sister

Carly Horne - TV sub-editor

The news of the renewal for a 24th season is poorly timed with profound backlash from fans and survivors alike, following the redemption arc of a serial predator

Content warning: grooming

Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) has been a focal character of Law and Order: Special Victims Unit since its premiere in 1999.

Over the last 23 years, fans have had the privilege of watching her overcome extreme trauma and loss, coming out the other side as a fierce advocate for survivors and a highly respected member of the police force.

And Mariska Hargitay, too, has dedicated a large amount of her time to the cause - training as a rape crisis counsellor and founding an organisation to support the victims of a variety of kinds of assault and abuse, The Joyful Heart Foundation. A fierce supporter of 'Roe V Wade' and a campaigner to clear the rape kit backlog in the USA - it has always been clear that Hargitay understood the importance of advocating for victims.

In spite of all of this great work, Hargitay is among members of the creative team under fire following the poor handling of a recent storyline.

During the 500th episode, Olivia Benson came to realise that her first love, Burton Lowe (Aiden Quinn), was in fact her groomer following a string of credible allegations against the popular writer. When she confronts him about the reality of their past relationship, he attempts to

assault her.

In the penultimate episode of the season, Quinn's character returns with a desire to 'make amends' - step number 9 in his recovery from alcoholism. Then showrunner, Warren Leight, hoped to explore the role forgiveness plays in the ways we process our trauma.

This did not translate onto our screens.

Instead, a valid theme for exploration became triggering for loyal fans of the long-running drama - and the creative team aren't sorry.

Instead, a deleted tweet from the show's media team described the grooming dynamic between Olivia and Burton as a "relationship", leading to an angry response from the fans.

@ChriskaAnon on Twitter spoke of extensive coverage of the NBCUniversal Upfront

lawandordertv + @WolfEnt profiting off the stories of survivors while not listening to them [...] It's definitely off-key, particularly since the post you made about Burton Lowe & Olivia being in a 'relationship.' Deleting it doesn't erase the hurt caused."

Warren Leight is famously known for his aggressive and at the same time, dismissive approach to fans on Twitter. Though he himself was rather quiet on the platform, his retweets and likes suggested he didn't quite understand the point of view of fans affected by the storyline.

Additionally, for someone so integral Benson's character development, both he and Julie Martin made the decision to have Olivia give Burton a head's up when another of Burton's victims come forward. Such a move goes beyond the emotional response to seeing her groomer and is directly in conflict with over two decades of what we know about her character.

Once more, NBC and the Law and Order media team were quiet - though it seems they had enough time to promote the shows in the Law and Order: SVU out of touch with

Well, no. Because for over twenty years, Dick Wolf's most successful show has been giving a voice to survivors from all walks of lives. And the show has always tried to move with the times and to tackle difficult subjects - no one expects them to get it right all of the time.

What fans do expect, going forward, is to be acknowledged. They expect for Mariska Hargitay to be their voice in the creative process and for the show's next showrunner to listen to feedback.

Because it would be a real shame for a show which means so much to so many people, to end up cancelled after all of these years.

Crashing remains one of the most underrated British comedies of recent years.

The series was released on Channel 4 in 2016 and was Pheobe Waller-Bridge's very first foray into writing for the little screen, not that you can tell.

The series follows an eclectic cast of characters ‘crashing’ in an abandoned hospital, keeping the building safe in return for cheap rent as part of a property guardianship scheme. As the series progresses, their lives intertwine, and chaos ensues.

Despite the relatively understated production, the cast includes a number of future stars – most prominently, Bridgerton's Jonathon Bailey as the sex-obsessed Sam. Waller-Bridge herself stars as Lulu, the childhood friend of one-half of a married couple. Her arrival signals the beginning of the tension which runs throughout the otherwise hilarious series.

The series is the perfect blend of heartwarming and hilarious, just weird enough to keep your interest but not scare you off. It’s one of my ultimate comfort shows and you can guarantee I'll watch the whole thing at least three times this exam season.

Despite the series being a relatively early project for the screenwriting giant, it stands the test of time just as well as Fleabag itself. Characteristically sharp and witty, I would whole-heartedly recommend this series to anyone still mourning the lack of Pheobe Waller-Bridge in their life.

Crashing is available to stream on Netflix and Channel 4!

Imogen Smillie

How I Met Your Father doesn't have the same ring to it

Image: IMDb

Image: IMDb

Rachael McCreanor - TV sub-editor

Before Pheobe WallerBridge there was nothing, but before Fleabag, there was Crashing

The series was WallerBridge's first forray into television

A perfect blend of heartwarming and hilarious

Image: IMDb

Order: SVU - show accused of being out of touch with survivors

Gasper Noé's Vortex - Windows to the Soul

Garvit Hora

Followingan elderly marriage, Vortex depicts struggles with dementia as well as declining physical and mental health.

Lui (Dario Argento) and Elle (Françoise Lebrun) are taken care of by their son Stéphane (Alex Lutz). The cast works wonderfully as an ensemble, displaying effortless chemistry, especially in very delicate scenes spread generously across the film’s runtime. Standing at a bold two hours twentytwo minutes, the film’s pacing is impeccable, soft, but relentless.

’s near one-take. These two angles are often, not just visually disconnected, but semantically, too. The edit allows us to follow two different stories simultaneously, while also broadening the information we may receive about characters if placed within the same setting. Already, Noé sets this film up to be one to rewatch. Not only does this display a commendable effort to still be experimental within feature-length film, but the two disjointed frames feel like a commentary on perspective, and how much it controls our memories and experiences. A note to try to be warier of our actions, words and behaviours’

The script, performances and direction meld into a picture with immense heart, fleshing out explorations into parenting and our subconscious influences, and drug dependency, be they pharmaceutical or otherwise. Lui’s obsession with films and dreams made for a smooth connection with the recurring theme of memory. A brutal and honest depiction of elderly life with an incredibly subtle screenplay, perfectly capturing the entropy so widespread across the

Strong musical segments merely bookend the film, and though a sparse musicality throughout served the film’s sobering tone, I feel it could have been given more focus, especially since in the scenes it is present, it is so rich. The opening song Mon amie la rose performed by Françoise Hardy, reveals just about enough of the film’s themes to get viewers invested and engaged for

Gaspar Noé strikes, yet again, with a film so taxingly difficult to digest. Filled with great wonder, yet deep darkness, Noé’s scarce screenplay is remarkable to see unfold within the disjointed frames. Having proven himself to be radical and intentional with his directorial vision, I fondly anticipate my rewatch of Vortex and Noé’s works to come.

The Film team says farewell: A selection of

Jess Bradbury - Film sub-editor

The Worst Person in the World Autumn Keil - Film sub-Editor

really loved getting back into cinemas this year, and my favourite film I've seen on the big screen is definitely The Worst Person in the World I went home from uni to watch this film with my mum. We have a little tradition of going to see films about womanhood. In the past this has included Lady Bird (2017) and Little Women (2019). After The Worst Person in the World, we both left the cinema in awe.

I've

The film follows Julie (Renate Reinsve), a woman at the cusp of her thirties. Her age is about half way between me and my mum now. It is a testament to the film that we both felt touched by Julie's story. Joacham Trier has created a film that feels both fresh and timeless. He subtly introduces contemporary themes of the climate crisis, MeToo, and even the COVID-19 pandemic. It's hard to summarise the plot succinctly, because what Trier excels at is bringing art and magic to

There are sequences of real cinematic beauty that are on a level with the film's powerful dialogue and plot. My personal favourites are the scenes between Julie and her lover Eivind (Herbert Nordrum). From sharing a cigarette, to running through a city frozen in time, to feeling distant in a tiny apartment, Trier charts their love story through various cinematic ingenuity. In a world of cinema saturated by CGI, watching the almost theatrical stunt of a street full of people stood still felt refreshing. While the film is funny, political and sexy, it packs its most effective punches in its portrayals of grief. The film is split into twelve chapters, and the final quarter of the film is stunningly emotional. It doesn't mean much, because my mum and I cry at everything, but we both sobbed through the last half hour.

The phrase "life affirming" is thrown around a lot in film discussion. However, I left the cinema after The World Person in feeling affirmed. Trier's film is a comforting real portrayal of a world where everything feels out of control and heading for crisis. Go and see it whenever it's ready to stream!

Picking a favourite film from the Courier year is undoubtedly one of the trickier decisions as a sub-editor.

From

Massive Talent

Batman there has been a vast range of excellent and entertaining cinema screenings. But an absolute standout for me this year has to be Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic, Dune Sci-fi as a genre has a history of producing some absolutely incredible films, whilst also boasting some of the more… interesting stories shall we say. But there’s no doubt that falls into the first category, running at 2 hours 30 the film is sensible in its decision to tackle just one part of the huge story to avoid creating a baffling pace. What is most impressive about the film, however, is Villeneuve’s attention to the visuals of the film, combined with Greig Fraser’s immaculate cinematography and a Hans Zimmer score. There are moments of explosive action coupled with quite intimate scenes a few moments later - the feeling that we are

every day life. Trier lifts universal experiences of love and loss onto the screen and makes you want

For the final newspaper of the year, the Film Sub-editors say goodbye with their favourite films of the past year

Notorious for his hard-towatch films, does Gaspar Noé's latest work follow the same trend?

The script, performances and direction meld into a picture with immense heart

A film taxingly difficult to digest, Vortex is filled with great wonder, yet deep darkness

My mother and I both felt touched by Julie's story, a testiment given the difference in our ages

The film is funny, political and sexy, but still packs emotional punches of grief

Credit: IMDb

Film

Netflix's Our Father: fertility crime and horrors

Scarlett Welch - Food & Drink sub-editor

Ascaptivating as it is horrifying, Netflix’s new documentary Our Father is well worth the watch.

Our Father tells the story of a fertility doctor, Donald Cline, who secretly used his own sperm to impregnate his patients over a span of 30 years. Some of these women believed they were receiving anonymous donations, whilst

devastatingly were under the impression that they were using their husband's sperm, which Cline swapped for his own.

The story begins with Jacoba Ballard, one of Cline’s children. Having found out at age 10 that her parents used a sperm donor to conceive her, as an adult she began to look into her DNA. Using 23andMe, she discovered that she had 7 halfsiblings - all of whom had mothers who had been patients of Dr Cline.

From this point on, the horror slowly unfurls as the number of siblings increases - all of whom

had reached 94, and it's likely that there are more yet to be found.

Our Father is a combination of real-life testimonies from Cline’s children and their mothers, alongside dramatisations of Dr Cline and his patients which truly capture the sinister nature of these events. The documentary focuses heavily on the children’s points of view, including interviews with several of them. Whilst many of their mothers also detailed their experiences, it would have perhaps been more compelling to hear more about how Cline’s atrocious actions have affected the women he assaulted.

much insight into this from the filmmakers.

Despite the couple of elements that Our Father is lacking, it’s still a gripping tale of a twisted Doctor and the ramifications of his actions. We see how his poor health has given so many of his children autoimmune disorders and how he has badly damaged the gene pool of his local area, with the siblings and their families left wondering whether anyone they run into could be related to them.

The documentary also explores the legal consequences faced by Cline: spoiler - there weren’t many. This opens up so many more questions about American lawmaking and how it does not protect women who are victims of such crimes. Our Father demonstrates how this case has helped to bring about changes in State Law, yet there is still much to be done.

Another area that the documentary does not

Our Father is a morbidly fascinating tale which will leave you thinking about it for days, horrifying

witnessing something monumental is ever-present throughout the film. Despite its long run-time, the world created by Villeneuve is so in-depth that there’s always something new to notice when reentering the world of Arrakis.

Of course, the cast of this film is almost as epic as the story itself. Timothée Chalamet’s Paul is empathetic as he tries to balance the weight of being ‘The One’, whilst Zendaya is as ever commanding of the screen. For me, a standout relationship in the film was that between Chalamet’s character and his father Duke Leto Atreides, played by Oscar Isaac. The two actors portray their father-son dynamic with tenderness and pride, which only makes the death of Isaac’s character that more emotional later. But it is Rebecca Fergurson who steals the show as Lady Jessica, her desire to keep her son safe whilst protecting the legacy of the Bene Gesserit sisterhood masterfully shown to be in conflict. With a second part already greenlit, and even more outstanding additions to the cast, there is no doubt that the legacy of Villeneuve’s Dune will be felt for years to come in the film industry.

While being a film sub-editor this year I have had the chance to see all manner of films, and thankfully not all of them have been Morbius.

From the sci-fi epics, Everything Everywhere All At Once and Dune the superb character studies in My Car, Flee and Sonic The Hedgehog 2 the cinema has been a haven of great movies. But my favourite is one that sadly never graced the big screen when it really should have, Turning Red.

an experience that I won’t soon forget and some much-needed insight into the intricate hierarchies

comfortable, but realistic, environment to discuss some important topics that aren’t talked

Many cowered in disgust at the mere mention of periods, boy bands and the style of animation, but I couldn’t help but adore every little bit of this film. The complex relationship between Meilin and her mother is the heart and soul of Turning Red, creating

All of the characters are fun, goofy and lovable, with a heartwarming emphasis being given to supporting and looking after each other. Never before have I seen such a diverse set of costumes and styles blended together to create a friendship group I could only wish I was cool enough to join. This is thanks in part to the superb animation work done by Pixar. Rarely have I seen Pixar let loose quite this much and it is clear just how much fun they had with this. Facial expressions, movements and effects create such a unique and charming experience that me not liking this film was never a real possibility.

Disney should have released Turning Red on the big screen, and not doing that was a huge mistake that I hope they rectify in the future with a sequel (please?).

George Bell - Film sub-editor

This chilling Netflix Documentary isn't for the faint of heart but may interest the true crime fans amongst you

You rarely see Pixar let loose quite this much, creating an extremely charming experience

Perfectly highlights the cultural differences between Canada and China

The horror slowly unfurls as the number of siblings increases

There is a clear sense of anger

Credit: IMDb

our favourite films from the past year

Credit:

Red

Gaming

Switching things up: Nintendo's success and current trends

Emily Kelso - Comment sub-editor

Despite a four year release gap, it has been announced that the Nintendo Switch console has sold more units than Sony's PS4 in the US

The main difference is that the Switch is a hybrid handheld console, which travels easily whereas the PS4 is more stationary. Price-wise, it makes sense the PS4 is cheaper given it is nearly 10 years old. A PS4 sells for around £250 nowadays (which is significantly cheaper than when it first debuted at £349). The Switch debuted at £238, and if anything the Switch is more expensive, currently advertised

The lack of price drop is similarly paralleled in the games available on the Switch platform. Switch games are infamous for their steadfast price, particularly with launch release titles such . This is not a regular trend, mind you. Games normally dip in price after a year or two (which is the best time to buy them in my opinion). Not Switch games. Perhaps this can be attributed to the fact that Switch games are household names. Everyone knows who Mario and Yoshi are after all, but Shay ? Sadly not. Not only do the games stay consistent in price, there are fewer games available than for the PS4. Even though the PS4 has been replaced by the PS5, game producers are still releasing games for the PS4 and PS5 (such as the highly anticipated ) - so there is still a regular influx

Why is the Switch more popular, and what does

It seems people, more than ever, are in need of more light-hearted escapism, which the Nintendo Switch offers more than the PS4. Yes the PS4 does have more child-friendly games like LEGO

Kirby and the Forgotten Land drives a new

Joseph Caddick - Puzzles and Gaming sub-editor

bonus content. Kirby can work a shift at a café, go fishing, or do a motion control minigame that resembles Kirby Tilt 'n' Tumble. Brief spoiler, but the postgame also unlocks a harder version of the previous worlds, including amped up versions of the bosses. Unlike other series in which this would be a brazen example of padding (looking at you, Crash 4), it works exceptionally well here, with a narrative reason for this.

Forthe 30th anniversary of the Kirby series, the pink puffball and his friends finally made the jump to a full 3D adventure. Right off the bat, it lets you know that this game is going to be just different enough from the previous entries of the series.

The story, like any Kirby game, is relatively simple. Whilst enjoying a day in the sun, Kirby is suddenly sucked up by a wormhole into an alternate dimension. Here, the Beast Pack have taken over, and the cities have fallen into ruin. They're kidnapping Waddle Dees and it's up to

Brief story spoilers, but let me just say, this game gets weirdly dark. This is par for the course of a Kirby game, but I found myself genuinely unsettled from the start of the last level until the final boss fight. It's hard to think such a cutesy game can create an atmosphere as unnerving as this.

Simultaneously, the game is also hilarious. Mouthful Mode - where Kirby's skin covers the entirety of an object - is brilliant. We've all fallen in love with the majesty of Karby (Kirby inhaling a car), but he can also inhale a traffic cone, a vending machine, and even stairs. They all still get a chuckle out of me. Kirby can also now canonically use a gun: we should all be scared.

Kirby to stop them.

Speaking of Waddle Dees, saving them is the main objective in this game, like collecting Power Stars in Super Mario Galaxy. Each level has a few of them at the end, as well as some secret ones that are more like Green Stars in Super Mario 3D World. The gameplay of Kirby and the Forgotten Land is reminiscent of 3D World, with a world map connecting dozens of levels, each of which are packed with their own secrets. Each world also ends with an impeccably designed boss, offering some of the best challenges in the series.

If the surprisingly small level total isn't enough for you, the game makes sure to pack in lots of

One of my main flaws with the game is that it lacks depth in some respects. Upgrading copy abilities is fantastic, but this comes at the cost of there being only 12 base abilities. Series staples like Parasol, Beam, Spark and Throw are gone. The new Drill ability could have just been the cooler Animal from Kirby: Mouse Attack. Other cool abilities like UFO, Ghost, Cupid, Ninja and Artist would have been nice additions too. Some were removed for being redundant, which is understandable, but lots of

After 30 years of the critically acclaimed series, Kirby gets its first fully 3D platformer. But is it any good?

a sequel that expands on all of the good aspects of Kirby and the Forgotten Land could possibly be one of my favourite games of all time

We've all fallen in love with the majesty of Karby (Kirby inhaling a car)

For a jump to 3D, Kirby absolutely sticks the landing

It seems people, more than ever, are in need of more light-hearted escapism

Image: Nintendo

trends in gaming

(insert franchise here), but Nintendo made their name with child-appropriate consoles. Who buys a PS4 to play Crash Bandicoot? They buy a PS4 to play Uncharted or Assassin's Creed. The nostalgia card is of equal importance: many of us no doubt remember the endless hours of fun training virtual pets on the DS, or trying to beat Matt the Mii (my greatest enemy) at every sport on Wii Sports Resort

In these scary times, it cannot be denied we need something comforting. War is an unfortunate reality, it makes sense people gravitate towards rescuing Princess Peach for what feels like the millionth time.

I like to jokingly say I own a grown-up console, and I believe this remark encapsulates the matter at hand

What's my view on this matter? Well. Of my school friends and I, they all own Switches but I own a PS4. I like to jokingly say I own a grownup console, and I believe this remark encapsulates the matter at hand: people don't want realism in their escapism, they want light-hearted Animal Crossing games or yet another Mario Kart game. If people wanted violence, all they need to do is turn on the news.

Nintendo clearly understands their market well.

Gaming

The

Gaming

Space epic RPG Starfield delayed once again, surprising nobody

Josh Watson - NSR Deputy Manager

Itwas a shock to the system in recent weeks when Bethesda, the developers of such bugless masterpieces as Skyrim and Fallout 76 next big step in gaming:

Originally scheduled to release later this year, the announcement pushes the window back to the first half of 2023.

At moments like this, the famous Miyamoto quote “A delayed game is eventually good, a bad game is bad forever” comes to mind. While we can skip over if he is the originator of this quote to start with, it's fair to say there is a lot of truth to it. Looking at this policy of taking time with masterpieces like the long-delayed Breath of the Wild, it is very possible to turn a game into something much more than it was. Game delays are a more and more common part of gaming culture, so Bethesda is likely to see this as an easy win to make a better game at the end.

On the other hand, not every delayed game ends up being great - or even polished.

2077 is the poster boy of these issues. After decades of development, the game still came out in a buggy mess.

One of the reasons for this response was the hype train built around it. Cyberpunk was believed to

after its years of development. Bethesda needs to make sure this doesn't happen to Starfield, a game already with a lot on its shoulders as a brand new IP for the company famous for its

It's likely this delay is in line with Bethesda being sold to Microsoft, which is on track to become a monster of gaming IPs going forward. It's possible a change in workplace culture and attitudes in the boardroom have led to more time being taken on their games as opposed to the rushed feel of many of

Whatever the reason, many will see this as a positive move, with many seeing the slide in-game quality from Skyrim to Fallout 4 as a sign the company thinks they can get away with a buggier game. But given we are still yet to see any gameplay from , maybe this delay is just to get any sort of game out at all!

era forward for the Nintendo franchise

Images: Nintendo

Image: Bethesda

not every delayed game ends up being great - or even polished

Roman House, Newcastle

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Review: A Whale of a Time

Rebecca Sykes - TV Sub-Editor

friendship and masculinity, the newest play at Alphabetti Theatre stars Steve Byron as Albert, call him Al, who has spent 25 years alone in the inside of a whale until Robbie (Luke Maddison) washes in.

PExploring

On Wednesday, I went to Alphabetti for the first time with a few friends and I had the full intention of writing down notes for this review. Apart from writing 'lovely' and 'must go again', I didn't have time for any more notes as I was swept into the energy of the place and was amazed by the performance. The environment is so lovely, warm, and welcoming that it was absolutely the perfect theatre for the world premiere of A Whale of a Time.

It begins with Robbie, a man in his twenties, getting washed into a whale and Albert seeing another human for the first time in 25 years. They discuss all the trivial things Albert has missed- what is a vegan sausage roll?- then, it becomes North East based- who's Raoul Moat?and, then, it moves onto the personal. Robbie tells Al about his own daughter, who he knows as the owner of the bakery near his workplace and reveals he has a grandchild.

by Elizabeth Meade

With sticky toes they climb the trees

And, moisture hanging in the air, Devour flies with greatest ease

The frogs, the frogs! they linger there

In verdant swamps they float and bob

While distant wafts the smell of smoke

Pond-swimming is their only job

The frogs, the frogs! they peep, they croak

The sun, it sears the desert ground

Despite the e’er present heat

They feast on bugs and hop around The frogs, the frogs! to pools retreat

They grace our shining light-up screens

From sterile tank to rich biome

The stars of shots and pics and memes

The frogs, the frogs! they share our home

In life’s big circle, grand and round These blobs to all existence linked

We see no tree, but hear the sound

When frogs, the frogs! they go extinct

But there is time to make amends

Adjust what long has gone askance

Unto our green and slimy friends

The frogs, the frogs! they’ve got a chance

The play shifts with ease from comedy, to nostalgia, to a serious and thoughtful commentary on what it means to be a man in different generations. It touches sensitively and briefly on outdated views of homophobia and being 'macho' as Al learns from Robbie. Robbie talks about helping his mate see if his testicular area is healthy and Al is amazed he would do that, to which Robbie offers something like 'well, I would do the same for you, too, if you needed it!'. Soon, after Al realises it is fine to dance with a man and be actual friends, there's a perfect musical scene with dancing and bonding that sparks joy.

Another notable moment is the discussion about fathers. Al, a man who missed out on being a great father, scorns Robbie's inadequate father. Robbie's father, among other things, blamed him for his mother dying during giving birth to him. Robbie's such a sweet soul, he deserved better! One of the things that Robbie struggled with was tying shoelaces as he'd never been taught, and there's such a lovely moment with Al teaching him how to tie

them.

The ending came as a shock- there was a twist for somebody like me who was so entranced by the performances and not ready for reality to set in.

If you want to have a whale of a time, I recommend watching A Whale of a Time!

Edinburgh Fringe Festival As

cliché as I am about to sound, the one and only arts and culture event I get excited for every summer is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. With the pandemic, Fringe Festival 2022 is supposed to be the one that lives fully to its past expectation, and I cannot wait to see what comes out of it.

In all honesty, I’ll admit I have never actually had the chance to go to the festival, always missing it by at least a day when I visit the city, but I’m hoping this year, 2022 becomes my first. I’m looking forward to some new plays and performances that will debut this year as well as the 158th Edinburgh International Exhibition of Photography. I’d say, when it comes down to the art and performances, I’m mostly just excited to see the community and tourism back in its full and see life return, hopefully for good, after the pandemic.

The phenomenon of Sally Rooney

Olivia Finlayson

Here we follow Marianne and Connell. Very opposing ends of the school social system. Connell is popular, so much so that his relationship with Marianne is not worthy enough for public knowledge. However, we see Connell protect unpopular and socially unconventional Marianne as she deals with family issues, identity struggles and the transition from school to college. Rooney pulls on our heartstrings as we wish for this relationship to break free from secrecy and for Marianne and Connell to rediscover each other through their journeys through the education system.

Conversations with Friends:

Publishedin 2017, "Conversations with Friends" follows the lives of two couples who become interlinked through their connections between friendship, poetry, drama and through navigating the creative Irish social scene, leaving who they are destined to be with very ambiguous.

Rooney has published several short stories and 3 successful novels: "Normal People"," Conversations with Friends" and "Beautiful World, Where Are You"; all of which follow the lives of ‘normal’ (pun intended) people. From Marianne to Frances, Rooney relates to all whether it be feeling like an outsider, loving someone you shouldn’t, family struggles or the challenge of finding individual identity. From Connell to Nick, Rooney presents relatable experiences of the downside of popularity, the struggles within marriage, the intensity of attraction and aspiring futures.

Rooney’s newest adaptation of her novel, "Conversations with Friends" follows two couples: Frances and Bobbi and Melissa and Nick. With Frances and Bobbi just students and poets and Melissa and Nick as older successful artists within a literary and drama-filled world, the two girls become mixed up in their lifestyle and marriage. Rooney constantly teases us with the possibility of Frances and Nick becoming something more than a meaningless affair and a bit of fun.

Beautiful World, Where Are You: In likeness to "Conversations with Friends", "Beautiful World, Where Are You" follows four individuals who desire each other, getting together and breaking apart. Rooney again presents a depiction of real life. She does not depict an idyllic world; she depicts the world we live in and how we navigate through it and all its obstacles.

Rooney’s books are notable through their often colourful covers and her unique writing style, often causing controversy: the lack of speech marks. However, this doesn’t stop the fiery and heartfelt conversations between characters still drag a knife through the reader’s heart.

Normal People:

In all novels, Rooney tempts the reader with references and depictions of a realistic sex life, celebrating everything from the awkward to the desirable. Here, we see Rooney’s sense of wit and humour transform from the pages into the minds of the readers.

Image: Instagram @sallyrooneyofficial

Conversations with Friends landed on streaming platforms on May 15th 2022, launching Sally Rooney into another worldwide hype surrounding her greatness

She does not depict an idyllic world - she shows the world we live in and how we navigate through it and all its obstacles

Sarah Tunstall

I cannot wait to see what comes out of it

Image:Wikipedia Commons

Puzzles30

Across

1. Musical note also called a half-note. (5)

4. Butch ___, American outlaw. (7)

8. Flower also called grenadine or clove pink. (9)

9. Guns N’ Roses guitarist. (5)

11. ___ Blyton, Famous Five author. (4)

12. Largest of the three weapons used in fencing. (4)

13. Fluid that flows like blood in the veins of Greek gods. (5)

15. Brown sauce produced by Heinz. (1,1)

17. Mario’s green dinosaur friend. (5)

20. Fashion magazine. (5)

23. Light used in certain weathers to improve road visibility. (3,4)

25. Transfer someone to a different position or location of work. (8)

28. Flightless bird from New Zealand. (4)

29. Barack ___, America’s 44th President. (5)

30. Venom’s archenemy. (7)

Down

1. The Scottish play. (7)

2. A fantasy world seen in C. S. Lewis’ books. (6)

3. 2010 Taylor Swift song. (4)

4. Sound associated with birds. (5)

5. Martial arts teacher. (6)

6. Measure of intelligence. (1,1)

7. Food produced by bacterial fermentation of milk. (7)

10. Powder left after burning a substance. (3)

12. Opposite of west. (4)

14. Chemical symbol for chlorine. (1,1)

16. Expert. (3)

17. Second person pronoun. (3)

Ovum. (3)

19. Capital of the Philippines. (6)

20. Maiden star sign. (5)

21. Exotic fruit native to the Americas and the Caribbean. (5)

22. Shortening of ‘episodes’. (3)

23. ___ Newton, American dessert. (3)

24. Amazon’s subscription service. (5)

Nine in Roman numerals. (1,1)

American gun rights group. (1,1,1)

Crossword

Nonogram

Puzzles

Instructions

are separated by

of

Notes

more squares.

Sport

Prince William booed by crowd at Wembley

CC Lee

Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, was booed by football fans at the FA Cup Final. This has sparked twitter debates and MP's to voice their 'concerns' with the crowds that booed at the Prince.

Dissent started when Prince William arrived on the pre-match BBC television coverage. It continued as the Duke made his way onto the pitch to shake hands with the Liverpool and Chelsea players. Many made jeers during the National Anthem, and whilst a rendition of the Christian hymn "Abide With Me" played.

Perhaps one of the reasons the controversies arose surrounding the booing is because William is the President of the Football Association. Nevertheless, the occurrences sparked

twitter debates, where many Royalists called for a ban of those who had booed the Prince, going on to say how they should be barred from further matches.

Others called out that this was a sign that the general public was finally ready to abolish the monarchy. This could be a possible conclusion to draw from those booing, considering how long the jeers lasted for. However, the most interesting and perhaps controversial comments came directly from MP's.

most wonderful monarchy and those fans who booed do not represent their clubs or our country." Perhaps these comments aren't that shocking seeing as both were knighted by the Queen, so their take on the situation may be biased towards the Royals.

Commons speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle condemned those who booed the Prince, stating that it wasn't fair for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee to be ruined in such a manner. Additionally, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Sir Ed Davey, outlined how "We have the

Despite opinion on whether they should have booed or not, or if the fans should be banned or not, no one can deny how out of touch the Royal Family is. Booing was supported by MP's such as Priti Patel when players were taking the knee last year in support of the Black Lives Matter Movement. So, I don't think it's the booing that is the problem.

Black Cats promoted back to Championship

Ethan Todd -Sports sub-editor

An outline of how Sunderland secured promotion in the League One play off final.

Afterback to back relegations and suffering four years in League One, agonising defeat in the play-off final to Charlton in May 2019, Sunderland AFC have managed to begin their journey back to the Premier League, defeating Wycombe Wanderers 2-0 at Wembley Stadium last Saturday.

Alex Neil’s side comfortably overcame Gareth Ainsworth’s Chairboys with goals from Elliot Embleton and Ross Stewart securing their promotion back

atmosphere was tangible as the Sunderland faithful mirrored the impassioned performance of Sunderland.

Within the opening exchanges there was evident early pressure from Sunderland as Alex Pritchard strook a beautiful free-kick which went teasingly close, taunting some of the Sunderland fans into thinking he had mirrored the McGeady free-kick against Portsmouth.

Sunderland dominated from the onset and Embleton, brought in for Jack Clarke, broke through with a powerful run through the midfield with the tentative Wycombe defence inviting a strike and his seemingly hopeful effort from outside the area saw the Black Cats take an early lead, aided admittedly with some suspect goalkeeping from the experienced David Stockdale.

The Black Cats saw the second half out comfortably one to the good as Wycombe failed to register a shot on target within the opening 45 minutes.

As the second half ensued, Sunderland could have doubled their lead just shy of 52 minutes, as a teasing cross from man of the match Alex Pritchard, was met by the head of Ross Stewart at the far post yet glanced just inches wide.

Throughout the fixture, Wycombe failed to create any sufficient chances, aside from almost being gifted an avenue back into the game as a hopeful cross from Anthony Stewart bizarrely evaded Bailey Wright and allowed Sam Vokes in on goal, but the Wycombe man failed to garner a proper attempt as he was smothered by an unshakable

Wycombe would live to regret squandering such an opportunity as Ross Stewart cemented the promotion

of Sunderland granting the Black Cats a calming lead, picking up the ball from the almost unplayable Pritchard, slotting the ball deftly past Stockdale on the edge of the box, taking his tally for the season to 26 and thus sent the 46,000 Mackem’s into utter euphoria.

The overall quality, attitude and tactical nuance evident within the Sunderland side lead them to an eventually comfortable victory, as the new hero on Wearside, Alex Neil concurred:

"I thought we deserved to win… the lads deserve it. I’m buzzing for them, and the fans. This club shouldn’t be where it is, and this is the first step towards getting us back where we want to be."

It seemed written in the stars for Sunderland to finally break the Wembley duck, given their immense record under Neil and the 93rd minute winner against Sheffield Wednesday in the semi-final.

A weekend of triumph, tears and Trafalgar Square takeovers saw Sunderland literally painting the town red. There were many emotional supporters as the shroud of League One football lifted, and some players were notably entangled with the emotion of the day.

With the pedigree of Alex Neil, a squad littered with marked talent akin to the likes of Stewart, Wright and Pritchard surrounded by academy of light products such as Lynden Gooch, Anthony Patterson and the goal-scorer and winner, Elliot Embleton; signified the end of a turbulent, sorrowful and

under the guise of Alex Neil, it bodes vast promise for the future of Sunderland as they look to solidify themselves in the Championship whilst battling the demands symptomatic of this extremely gruelling league. After having literally painted the town red, the Red and White Army journeyed back to Sunderland, they not only brought the league one play-off winner’s trophy; they also yield the next chapter in the history of Sunderland, one of hope, togetherness and faith as it truly feels like the love and prosperity for the future of this wonderful club has been finally rediscovered once more by

The most interesting and controversial comments came from MPs

It was hardly a welcome fit for a king at the FA cup final

Image: Twitter (@prince_scarf)

Image: Twitter (@DaveAtherton20)

Trafalgar Square saw Sunderland literally painting the town red

Sport

Jamie Chadwick looks for promotion amid storming start to W Series season

Arthur Ferridge

wins from three.

Two-time

W Series champion Jamie Chadwick is running riot in the 2022 season after having won every round of the season so far.

The Bath native, driving for Jenner Racing, has won more than half of the races ever held in W Series, and is well on her way to her third championship in as many seasons.

The 2022 season kicked off with a double header at the brand-new Miami International Autodrome supporting the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Chadwick missed out on pole to Nerea Marti by 0.075 seconds. In the race, however, Marti stalled on the line at lights out, gifting Chadwick the lead. Emma Kimilainen took the lead with seven minutes remaining but, following a late safety car, the Finn flubbed the restart and handed the win back to the Briton.

Chadwick started from pole for the second race of the weekend, going largely unchallenged as she romped to victory with a near 3 second gap to second place.

Barcelona told a similar story. Chadwick took pole by three tenths of a second and drove assuredly under pressure from Abbi Pulling to take three

Chadwick’s continued dominance over her three seasons in W Series have sparked debate in the motorsport community as to whether she should be allowed to continue to compete in the series. In most feeder series such as Formula 2 and Formula 3, the champion is not allowed to compete in the following season, forcing them to move on to a new series and to allow new talent to have their chance in the spotlight.

Many wonder why this rule doesn’t apply to W Series. Chadwick’s talent behind the wheel is undeniable, however, one must ask whether her continued success is stealing the spotlight from other young drivers such as Pulling, Marta Garcia, and Juju Noda.

funding and sponsors, but teams in these series should be ready to acknowledge her talent and make concessions to allow her the opportunity to prove her worth against the best young drivers in the world.

and F3 drivers and should have no issue finding Chadwick the drive she so clearly deserves. Should Chadwick clinch her third title, I would not be at all surprised to see her move into a new series. If she cannot find a drive outside of W Series, it may be time for a reassessment of the effectiveness of the FIA’s pushes for diversity. Can they really produce fulfilling careers for

The idea behind W Series was to help female drivers make their way into the spotlight and, in turn, other FIA feeder series, and by staying in W Series Chadwick seems to be defeating the core goal of the series.

Her failure to move into Formula 2 or 3 has been in part due to circumstances outside of her control, namely lack of

Rangers fans devastated following Europa League final defeat in Seville

Carly Horne -TV sub-editor

The Scottish team lost in a tight contest against Germans Eintracht Frankfurt

TheGlasgow-based club took on their first European final in 14 years, and it was after 120 minutes that the title-deciding match was deferred to penalties. For Eintracht Frankfurt, this led to victory. For Rangers, one missed penalty put an end to a 14 year dream.

Up and down the country, fans gathered in pubs and living rooms alike to watch the Scottish team attempt to make history. It was in 2008 that the club last made an appearance in a European final, suffering defeat at the hands of Zenit St Petersburg in Manchester.

In spite of this, hopes were high. Local police made provisions for upwards of 100,000 Rangers fans to make the journey to Seville, along with 50,000 fans of the German team coming to show their support. Ally McCoist and Graeme Souness were among football icons requesting fans be respectful when

visiting the Spanish City.

And in spite of pre-match hostility, by both Rangers and Frankfurt fans, supporters were unified by the anticipation of the final ahead. After an

uneventful first half, a long second half led to Frankfurt's victory on penalties. Pauline McKay is a Rangers fan from Glasgow, who tuned into the event on Wednesday. Of the players she said "it

was heart-breaking that they lost, but [they] could have played much better."

And while there is always room for improvement, many fans expressed their pride over the club's performance

in Seville.

Andy Weir, also from Glasgow, concedes "it was always going to be a tight game and so it proved" though as a life-long fan of the club, his pride is unwavering. "[I'm] still proud of the boys and the incredible journey [they took us on]" he adds, high praise ahead of the team's performance at the Scottish Cup Final this weekend.

For many fans, though, the experience of visiting Seville to support their club is one which will stay with them - regardless of the final result. Mark Denovan is one such fan who, having made the journey to Seville, remarked on the game. "Seville is beautiful, a great place with lovely people", going on to say "witnessing [the game] with my pals is a memory I'll never forget".

Craig Holding, a Fife-based fan, described the experience of watching Rangers in Seville as "the stuff of dreams" and describing "cuddling strangers, tears of joy and pure emotion" when the team scored the opener."[It was] a superb occasion and achievement for Rangers and for Scottish football. Here's hoping it's not the last European final we see!"

Rangers will face Hearts in the Scottish Cup Final this Saturday in Hampden Park.

Rounding off the all-British podium were Abbi Pulling and Alice Powell

Can they really produce fulfilling careers for women in motorsport?

Image: Twitter (@FemalesinMSport + @JamieChadwick)

In most feeder series, champions are not allowed in the following season, to allow new talent in

Manchester City take Premier League title for second season

ManchesterCity confirmed their sixth Premier League title on Sunday with a dramatic 3-2 home victory over Aston Villa.

Despite holding a strong points advantage at the halfway point of the season, a handful of shaky results let Liverpool back into the title race, bringing the lead down to only one point going into the final weekend. Both teams needed a win, but Liverpool had to hope for an uncharacteristic stumble from the reigning champions in order to poach the top spot. Unfortunately for the Reds, this slip would never come.

Guardiola's side have been dominant all season long

That said, City did not make things easy for themselves, conceding to Matty Cash and Phillipe Coutinho on either side of the halftime break. At the same time thirty miles west of the Etihad, Liverpool found themselves 2-1 up over Wolverhampton Wanderers and had one hand firmly on the Cup.

However, Liverpool’s domestic treble celebrations would have to wait another year. Ilkay Gündoğan’s late brace in combination with a cool finish from Rodri saw City drag themselves back into the driver’s seat right at the death, reclaiming the table’s top spot with only ten minutes remaining in the season.

Despite bagging maximum points against Wolverhampton, Liverpool fell short, and Manchester City became champions of England for the sixth time, becoming the second most successful club in the history of the Premier League, second only to their next door neighbors and arch rivals Manchester United.

Guardiola’s side have been dominant all season long, leading the league in both goals scored (99) and clean sheets (21). Unsurprisingly, they can also boast the most wins (29) and the second fewest losses (3). Guardiola’s attacking, possession-based style also shines through in the statistics, recording 26,132 passes, over 2,000 more than second place, and an average possession of 69.55%.

As the title was decided in the dying

minutes of the season, a less glamorous yet equally dramatic battle raged at the opposite end of the table. Leeds United and Burnley kicked off their final matches tied on points and in danger of relegation.

Just like at the top of the table, Leeds left it late to secure the points that would guarantee their stay in the Premier League. Jack Harrison blasted a deflected corner past David Raya in the 94th minute to raucous celebration from the Leeds faithful. Jesse March fell to the ground, seemingly overcome by the magnitude of his achievement and, frankly, luck.

Turf Moor sat firmly at the opposite end of the atmospheric spectrum

The visiting Magpies took the lead after only twenty minutes and doubled their advantage shortly after the break as Callum Wilson bagged a brace. The away fan’s jubilant celebrations seemed

to serve as an acknowledgement of Newcastle’s escape from the depths of the table where they spent so much of the season. The scenes in the away end left Burnley fans wondering what could have been following the late sacking of Sean Dyche. Why weren’t they so lucky?

2022’s final week of matches

was among the most dramatic in recent memory, as last minute winners decided battles at either end of the table. As we say goodbye to the 2021/22 season, it is time to mark your calendars and start counting down the days until August, when the curtain will raise on a new season and we’ll do it all again.

Arsenal lose against Newcastle: Will they ever catch a break?

Arsenal scupper their chances at top four after a deserved 2-0 loss away at Newcastle

Lastweek, the Gunners were served a golden ticket of Champions League football.

The North London Derby, however, pushed the bounds of this pressure, this already feisty fixture ending in a 3-0 loss, revoking that stability. Thus, the setting of St James’ Park last week provided a platform for Arsenal to merely vie for a fourth spot, now beyond them.

Needless to say, it was a poor performance

To now turn the attention to the match in question, I would say Arsenal fans were better off getting up to what I decided on: not watching the game. Needless to say, it was a poor performance. Frankly, a better review of things would come from a focus on Newcastle, who were truly magnificent. Since Eddie Howe’s employment in

November, Newcastle have dazzled, showing up yet again against Arsenal. Newcastle, while dominant in the first half, had to settle for no score, the game staying at nil-nil for now.

The second half favoured the fervent side of the first, Newcastle going ahead in the 55’ minute after Arsenal’s Ben White turned Joelinton’s low cross into his own net – a horrible gesture to

mark his return from injury, no doubt. The Toon had to wait a while for their second, which came at the 85’ minute.

The North’s most notable Brazilian, Bruno Guimarães, delivered the goods again; this his 5th goal of the season.

I’ve only gone into details on the goals here, for if I were to cover all the times Newcastle came close, it would actually rouse some upset for the Toon fans –

their side really should have scored more. Regardless, for Newcastle, the question of how has been smothered by the exclamation of 'wow' – things finally looking up for the Tyneside team, Howe solidifying a good foundation which could see the Toon tied to tango with the better part of the top half next season.

Golden Salah and share the

I will have to end this article by returning to Arsenal, it’s a must considering their end of season antics. Once again it appears an awful time to be an Arsenal fan. Though recent times has shown this is nothing out of the ordinary, Arsenal have certainly made a good go of establishing themselves this season. It is these last few games, however, where they have fallen short.

The Gunners still held a slim opportunity at Champions League football going into final day, but were scuppered by Tottenham's 5-0 thrashing of Norwich.

Thisyear will see the golden boot be presented to two Premier League players, the winning pair producing 23 goals apiece. The winning forwards, Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Son HeungMin of Tottenham Hotspur, had to settle on sharing this year’s award after their tallies were tied following the final fixture.

Both players

Ahead of the final fixture, it

Arthur Ferridge

Manchester City grasp the Premier League title before final whitle of season

Mary Chude

Mary Chude

The Golden Boot has been shared by the Liverpool and Tottenham men

(@Arsenal)

clinched a hattrick

The Gunners still hold a slim opportunity at Champions League football

Image: Twitter (@ManCity)

Image: Wikimedia Commons

Boots: and Son the spoils

the 58th minute, hoping to be the hero. And a hero he was, his heroics coming six minutes from his first touch - having tipped the ball in the net, sorting a set piece scramble.

An exciting end to the Golden Boot contest, this saw Salah claim, not only his third Golden Boot award, but his second time splitting it with other scorers, having to do so in the 2018/19 season also, where it drew a three-way tie.

Son, on the other hand, who, in receiving the award for the first time, becomes the first Asian player to win this accolade.

Further, for no penalties contributed to his placement on top, Son’s accomplishment deserves all the more praise.

Taking a closer look at how they came out on top, Salah’s best scoring form was set between August and October, where he scored in seven consecutive league games.

Son’s most scintillating form stood at the tail end of the season, scoring in nine of his last 10 games, resulting in his soaring up the scoring charts.

Both players were able to clinch a hattrick: Salah’s coming at Manchester United on 23rd October, Son finding three at Aston Villa on 9th April, respectively.

In conclusion of this contest, the Premier League has yet again delivered a sensational end to the season.

Let’s hope next season it can prove to us all once again why its competitive spirit is simply unmatched.

2022 Premier League Manager of the Season: Jurgen Klopp

Katie Siddall - Sports sub-editor Peter Bath - Head of Sport

title win as they came back from being 0-2 down, to win 3-2 and claim the Premier League title. Though the fight was on the pitch between Manchester City and Liverpool, there was also a competition in the dug out between managers Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp.

relegation threatened Crystal Palace and Brentford to safe mid-table finishes. Frank's midseason signing of fellow Dane Christian Eriksen and his transformation of the Bees was one of the stories of the season. Vieira, taking over from stalwart Roy Hodgson, got the best out of the Eagles' squad in his first season at the South London club.

Meanwhile, going back to the fight! Guardiola and Klopp were close contenders as both their clubs were competing for the top of the table. Unfortunately, for Guardiola, Klopp took the Managers' trophy!

Klopp's award recognised his efforts with Liverpool in the Premier League this season, but he will be hoping that more silverware will come his way on Saturday. The Reds face Real Madrid in Paris in the Champions League final. By the time this goes to print, Liverpool may be crowned Champions of Europe once more.

TheLiverpool manager was awarded the Premier League's Manager of the Season award for the past season last Tuesday evening. The German also recieved the LMA Manager of the Year prize.

The Premier League prize will come as scant consolation after his side were pipped to the title by Manchester City, but recognises his outstanding achievements this year.

The League Managers Association award was voted for by managers across all four of England's top leagues. This is the second time Klopp has won recognition for both awards, after the 2019-20 campaign.

The 2021/2022 Premier League season ended on one of the most exiting weekend's football has seen in a while!

Going into the final weekend, no one had been declared the champions and the fight was on between Manchester City and Liverpool FC.

Manchester City ended up taking the

Guardiola and Klopp were shortlisted for Manager of the Year alongside: Thomas Frank (Brentford), Eddie Howe (Newcastle United) and Patrick Vieira (Crystal Palace).

Many fans believed Eddie Howe, who signed to manage Newcastle in November, would take this title due to his amazing work bringing NUFC out of the relegation zone; however, fans were disappointed to find that this was not the case.

Howe came to Newcastle during their worst stint to date! He came when they were winless for 11 games. Since Howe, Newcastle have had a 48% success rate - which is an incredible improvement. Eddie Howe deserves some recognition for this amazing turn around.

Thomas Frank and Patrick Vieira were also among those shortlisted to miss out after guiding once-

Guardiola may have lost out due to his early signings - Jack Grealish coming to Manchester City, costing £100mil, and not playing his best or not playing at all was definitely a failure of Guardiola's behalf. It could be said that the former Aston Villa player did not contribute to the teams winning effort.

Klopp, on the other hand, has kept his team together with morale high. His team were contenders for the quadruple, until they missed that top spot in the Premier League. He has also successfully deepened the Liverpool squad, with January signing Luis Diaz particularly impressive at settling into a star-studded midfield.

Stockport County crownedNational League champions

Tom Barlow

The final day of the National League season was to be a nail-biter, with Wrexham and Stockport County both chasing that elusive top spot, with only the champions securing automatic promotion into the Football League.

Stockport began Sunday the 15th May on 91 points, having beaten Torquay United midweek to reclaim first position off Wrexham on 88 points.

Stockport were up against Halifax Town, who were themselves vying to pin down third place with Solihull Moors favourites to snatch it away from the Shaymen.

Wrexham would have to travel down to Dagenham & Redbridge, with all prayers aimed at a Stockport loss.

A healthy Wrexham win and a subsequently healthy Stockport loss would see Wrexham crowned champions on goal difference.

The title was however firmly in County’s hands, but that didn’t stop almost 1500 Reds from making the journey down to London for a possible

promotion party.

This final game was far beyond a dead rubber for Dagenham, as a win for them and a Chesterfield loss would see the Daggers leapfrog the Spireites into the final promotion spot.

County would be clamouring for an early goal to calm nerves at Edgeley Park, as a stuttering start and a Wrexham goal from across the country would send shivers down the spine of Stockport.

However, Paddy Madden, a man for the big occasions, calmed all nerves at Edgeley Park and slotted a perfectly placed 20-yard effort to calm all nerves, as the stadium erupted with ecstasies.

On the topic of stuttering, Wrexham were living up to the word. A lackluster start at Victoria Road was matched by an underwhelming goalless first half.

This type of form continued into the second half as Wrexham conceded first to Junior Morias in the 55th minute, whilst almost simultaneously Will Collar doubled County’s lead.

Paul McCallum would end any hope of a Wrexham comeback in the 80th minute, before Matt Robinson compounded miseries with a 90th minute volley to give the Daggers a 3-0 victory.

Wrexham failed to offer any substantial pressure in that game, but did it matter? Could an early goal for the Reds have sent waves of nerves across Edgeley

Park affecting the players? One will never know.

Stockport’s 2-0 victory over Halifax landed them as champions of the National League and would see them

return to the Football League after an eleven-year absence.

For Wrexham, they now had to seek promotion through the turbulent playoff system, for which Chesterfield narrowly shaved their way into.

It begs the question, is the National League deserving of an extra promotion spot to the Football League? Is Wrexham amalgamating 88 points and comfortably finishing second fair with no automatic promotion spot fair?

Wrexham have to seek promotion through the play-offs

An exciting end to the Golden Boot contest

Though Liverpool missed out on the title, Jurgen Klopp walked away with Manager of the Year

Since Howe, Newcastle have had an incredible improvement, and he deserves recognition

Klopp, on the other hand, has kept his team together with morale high

Image: @LFC via Twitter

Image: @StockportCounty via Twitter

Stockport County and Wrexham chased the elusive top spot

Athletic Union Officer: ‘‘Finally, it’s thank you from me’’

People make sport. As I sit and write this in a somewhat hungover state after a night in Cosy Joe’s, what is clearer than my recollection of last night is that one’s experience in sport is determined by those closest to the in the sporting community.

With the right network around you, sport will give you memories to last a lifetime and mates you can to the pub with in 40 years and say, “how brilliant was that.”

For me, this year has been all about rebuilding sport. Getting our teams match fit and reintroducing over 4500 students to a proper calendar year of Athletic Union fixtures, training and events. A I said in my speech at the AU Ball, Team Newcastle hit the ground running in spectacular fashion and the results we have racked up have been incredible. We should have known it was going to be a bumper year after Netball 5s beat Teeside 148 - 0.

As a coach, there’s nothing better than watching the group of athletes you work with develop and grow (technically, physically and personally). Being able to see someone achieve their sporting goals and become the best version of themselves is a very inspiring thing to do and I’ve been fortunate enough to do it for the past two seasons with the Women’s Squad in the Boat Club. They’re a classy group whom I could sing praises about for paragraphs and paragraphs. Much like any team, we’ve been on a turbulent rollercoaster throughout the pandemic. The squad we’ve ended up with is a young squad, one with a huge amount of potential and one that is evolving as the season goes on. It’s a squad of proper grafters who’ll get stuck into every session throughout the week. While success hasn’t been what many would have hoped for, the

lessons learned and racing experiences that have played their part in the season are invaluable to the development next season.

More importantly though has been the personal development of the freshers in the squad. The challenge that this year’s intake has faced transitioning from isolation and a lack of club interaction to suddenly being thrust into university life has been immense and I applaud each one of them and all of our students who joined us for the first time in September. I’ll never forget these two years of coaching and the part they played during my five years here at Newcastle. I owe a huge amount to the Boat Club and I feel very privileged

to be able to give back and to lay the foundations of what’s to come.

Rowing is quite unique in the sense it only has a couple of large BUCS events as opposed to weekly fixtures in leagues up and down the country. Going and watching these matches and learning about a side of BUCS that I have never experienced before has been the best part of this job. I’ve written a previous piece about how much I was enjoying following our Men’s and Women’s Football teams and that has stayed true all season long. Huge credit to their respective Presidents Dan and Amélia for taking their respective clubs to new heights this year as well as the fantastic coaching team that supports them and

allows the athletes to go from success to success. Narratives and journeys like Football’s this season have been brilliant to follow. Volleyball is another club who have played with passion, have a cracking fan base and were a joy to watch- without this job I’d still be oblivious as to how awesome the sport is. It’s moments like home knockout wins that will stick with me for years to come and some of the memories I’ll look back on fondly.

I suppose one final event to touch on is Varsity. 27th April was the date that over 30 fixtures took place and the rivalry was reignited with Northumbria. It was a huge celebration of sport and, in case you didn’t know, we beat

Northumbria and the trophy is looking rather splendid on my desk… Aside from winning, the best part about that day was just how many people were engaging, not just taking part but spectating. Cochrane Park had it’s largest ever crowd for that Tuesday night fixture which saw Men’s Rugby pump Northumbria. Sport Central’s seating gallery was packed for all of Northumbria’s indoor fixtures and the rest of the matches had cracking numbers. It made me immensely proud to see these matches attended, to know that people care about our teams and they want to see them be the best versions of themselves that they can be.

When I ran in last year’s election one of the things I said was that I hoped students would have the same University sporting experience that I envisioned I would have when I applied back in 2016 (my rowing career was cut short due to glandular fever). However, glange has been something of a silver lining as it’s opened so many alternative branches of sport such as coaching and this job. I’ve loved almost every part of uni life but I have regrets when it comes to sport and I really hope that every student who participates in sport at Newcastle University can say the same thing. I hope their experience has been everything and more. So finally, it’s thank you from me. To every single student that has played their role in returning sport to our facilities and to university life. The staff in the Activities Team who help run the Athletic Union are brilliant and it’s great to work with people who care so much about student experience. The same thing can be said for all of the coaches and Sport Services staff I’ve met pitch side and throughout the season. Sport is a pillar of our university community and has the power to shape a student’s time at Newcastle. Take everything you can from it and ensure the foundations are laid so that the next group of students can come in and enjoy everything you did and more.