Students Targeted in £3M Phone Fraud

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Mind Matters Features Science The Gryphon covers Sam Pepper and The threat of Ebola - a variety of issues the perils of are we in danger? for Mental Health vlogging Awareness Day

Students targeted in £3m phone fraud

Charlotte Mason News Editor risk of identity fraud. have been made from the scheme. Students are said to have pitched the Speaking to this newspaper, the Uni- A student is believed to have been scheme to friends by sending a Facebook versity’s Police Liaison Officer PC Matt arrested for alleged involvement in a message which asked for bank details, de- Guy described the case as ‘shocking’. He suspected smartphone fraud scheme which scribing ‘a rare opportunity to make quite a explained, ‘Many students do not know has scammed students out of thousands lot of money for very little work’. they have been subject to a fraud until the of pounds. The student, who has not been A number of students at Leeds have bills come through their post box and debt named for legal reasons, is said to have been victims of the scheme, with those agencies contact them, often for amounts been implicated in a pyramid scheme affected urged to contact the Student Ad- in excess of £1,000’. which targeted university students across vice Centre. In a statement, the Union said, The National Mobile Phone Crime Unit the country. ‘Leeds University Union is supporting West has written to a number of UK universities, The news follows the launch of Oper- Yorkshire Police in their investigation but including Leeds, urging them to highlight ation Rosewood by the National Mobile after already supporting many students the issue of identity fraud among students. Phone Crime Unit to investigate hundreds who have been affected, stresses that the Operation leader, Detective Inspector of cases of suspected fraud. welfare of Leeds students is paramount’. Louise Shea, said, ‘We understand this Under the scheme, students were ap- Police are speaking to one student who is matter will be of considerable concern to proached and offered cash incentives to now struggling with debts of over £10,000. the students and family members affect- register for a smartphone contract. They Around twenty people have now been ed as they will be accruing significant would then be asked to send on the phone arrested in connection with the scheme, debts. We are committed to ensuring that to an unnamed private company in ex- though no charges have been made. The those engaged in fraudulent activity do change for a £50 reward and the promise Gryphon understands around two-thirds of not escape justice. We urge any students of a monthly income. However, students reported cases have yet to be investigated, that have been affected to come forward involved were left responsible for phone with a suspected £3 million of students’ to assist the investigation and prevent this bills and are now reported to be incurring money involved. happening to anyone else’. ‘significant’ debts. Police also believe stu- The National Mobile Phone Crime Unit dents who divulged bank details may be at has confirmed that thousands of pounds The investigation continues. 2 Contents Editor’s Letter 3-7 News ‘LAD culture’ is a term that is rejoiced by some, and rebuked by others. The marmite of University vocabulary, it can be used to both term a carefree 8-10 Features attitude, as well as an insult towards those who embrace in stereotypes. This week, it typified the actions of LSE’s Male Rugby club. Circulating a Freshers’ 11-13 Comment booklet that condemned ‘poly scum’, ‘beast-like women’ and ‘homosexual debauchery’, the leaflet sent the world of academia into a standstill as we 14 Debate wondered just exactly how they thought that they were that untouchable. 15 Letters To some, the actions might have even been interpreted as a joke too far, but it seems that the society have a history of crossing the line. Nazi uniforms 16-17 Science and Guantanamo Bay parodies have been made by the club, who have seen themselves as an untouchable alternative to the Bullingdon Club. This is not a 19-24 Sport matter of fun policing, but ensuring that every person that enters the university has a right to experience an environment that doesn’t tolerate such a cavalier attitude towards discrimination. In a way, it doesn’t even seem that Editor-In-Chief Jasmine Andersson the people involved are using the terms they have with vitriol; it is a response Associate Editors Phil Mann, Ste Topping of automatons who fail to see the gravitas of their long-sedimented prejudice. News Abla Klaa, Charlotte Mason, Jake Hookem and Sean Hayes The LSESU should be commended for the swift nature of their actions, but Features Ruby Lott-Lavigna, Brigitte Phillips and Vickie it also needs to be noted that there needs to be a change in consciousness in Hesketh order for the rugby team’s students, and the student population as a whole, to Comment and Debate Phillipa Williams, Ella Grittiths and Ella Healing progress from this situation. As those students received validation from their Science Alice Hargreaves-Jones and Michael Owen peers in the comfort of their microcosms, their prejudices entered an echo Sport Adam Le Roux, Peter White, Alex Bowmer and chamber, leading to an awry sense of narcissism and desensitisation. After all, Euan Cunningham the simplicity of thinking before speaking can get lost in the cavernous tropes Head of Photography Sam Broadley of banter. It is comforting to know in the wake of such action, both sides of Photographers Lucie England-Duce and Sam Lewis the ‘LAD culture’ party have teamed together to say that enough is enough. Designers Frazer Sparham, Ben Sandin and Sophia Kossoski

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THEGRYPHON.CO.UK News 3 Eduroam? Edu-won’t Matthew’s mara- Abla Klaa News Editor thon of marathons Campus experienced an internet the technical slip-up on Twitter, call- blackout on Tuesday, with Wi-Fi service ing it an ‘outrage’. A third-year Music Eduroam offline and access to the VLE studentsaid:‘It’sannoyingbecause I haven’t disrupted. memorised my timetable yet. I wish I’d The problem affected access to printed it because I don’t know where I’m student timetables via the UniLeeds app meant to be going!’ as well as card payment machines in the Engineers were called to investigate Union. the issue around midday and reported Students expressed their anger at that the problem had been fixed by 4pm. Alarm causes ‘weekend of hell’

Charlotte Mason News Editor

Matthew Haythornthwaite © Students who live on a Hyde Park asleep to music to drown out the noise’. street have suffered a ‘weekend of hell’ as The students also contacted the alarm Hugh Baillie-Laine The total distance that Matthew will their neighbour’s burglar alarm sounded company, who refused to act as the house cover over the course of his challenge for 48 hours non-stop. was no longer on their records. is 262 miles, the equivalent of running Leeds RAG member and Residents on Ebberston Terrace Council officials eventually contacted from Leeds to Portsmouth. Civil Engineering Postgraduate, Matthew Matthew is determined to complete reported the disturbance to the Council the residents of the offending house, who Haythornthwaite, is to run marathons on Saturday, but were left to endure the were away in London at the time. the challenge, but is in no doubt about between October 2014 and October 2015. the difficulties he will face. He has ‘incessant ringing’ until assistance ar- A spokesperson for Leeds City Matthew, who will continue to study rived two days later at 4pm on Monday Council said, ‘Although this is not a also said he will be organising further whilst completing the challenge, aims to fundraising events throughout the year to afternoon. property managed by us, members of raise £10,000 for St Gemma’s Hospice ensure his target is reached. Third-year English student Ruby our noise nuisance team contacted the and Brain Tumour Research and Support. You can keep up to date with Lott-Lavigna and her three housemates agents who are responsible for managing He has taken on the challenge in memory Matthew’s progress on his Twitter feed claim they were unable to study or sleep the property at the earliest opportunity to of his father, who died of a brain tumour ‘@10marathonschal’ and on his Facebook properly, describing the situation as make sure they were aware’. in October 2005. page ‘10 Marathons Challenge’. ‘ridiculous’. However, Ms Lott-Lavigna said, ‘They Each marathon will represent a year Matthew also aims to collect the since his dad’s passing with the final one Ms Lott-Lavigna told The Gryph- couldn’t be bothered to contact anyone equivelant of a mile of pennies, which is marking the ten year anniversary. He on, ‘It was very frustrating calling the until Monday’. 80,000 in total. Donation boxes will be said, set up around University and in the RAG council numerous times for them to just She added, ‘When the alarm started I ‘In order to mark the 10 years since say they couldn’t do anything or that couldn’t have possibly believed it would office. my dad passed away of a brain tumour, To donate, visit ‘justgiving. they were giving it to their appropriate have continued non-stop, day and night, I’ve set up a marathon challenge which com/10marathonschallenge’ or text: departments. for two days’. is going to test both my physical and I couldn’t work at all and I had to fall mental stamina’ ‘TTMC66 £(amount)’ to 70070.

Campus Watch News from campuses around the country

LSE Rugby Team disbanded Huddersfield Uni Guilty of Tax Loughborough Security Staff use Leeds Beckett and York St. John’s Avoidance Carry Breathalysers Vice Chancellor’s Set to Retire

London School of Economics has The University of Huddersfield has Security staff may soon carry breath- The Vice-Chancellors of two York- disbanded its men’s rugby club after a been found guilty of ‘abusive tax avoid- alysers as standard in Loughborough. shire based universities have both set a leaflet it distributed ‘brought shame’ on ance’. 5 nightclubs in the city are part of a retirement date of next September. the University. A tax tribunal ruled that they un- pilot scheme under which security staff Susan Price, who was appointed The Freshers’ week leaflet referred lawfully claimed back £612,000 in VAT, can breathalyse potential customers and at the newly named Leeds Beckett in to women who play sport as ‘beast-like’ masked by a complex leasing scheme. refuse entry those they believe have con- 2010, said it has been ‘an honour and a and banned ‘homosexual debauchery’. The claim dates back to the construction sumed too much alcohol. privilege to lead the university through The team has been withdrawn from of the University’s School of Computing Loughborough University’s Students’ such an exciting chapter.’ all competitions this academic year, as and Engineering in 1996. Union is included in this scheme, which Meanwhile, York St John’s David their Students’ Union feels their actions The University does have the option may result in a clamp down on pre-drink- Fleming admitted his decision was didn’t suit their philisophy of tolerance. of appealing against the ruling, and is ing before nights out. made due to recent ill health. currently considering its options.

Jake Hookem Greg Whitaker Danny Anderson Greg Whitaker

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 4 News Halo may ‘intimidate’ students, warns Uni Charlotte Mason they are able to do this’. News Editor The University’s Police Liaison Officer PC Matt Guy told The Gryphon, Popular nightclub Halo has been criti- ‘People need to have higher personal cised for plans to expand the venue, with standards of behaviour when on a night- officials warning that students using the out and venues like Halo need to work 24-hour library next door would be ‘in- much harder to stop the behaviour of timidated’ by clubbers. their customers impacting others’. A planning application to extend The University’s Vice Chancellor has opening hours from 3.30am to 6am, as previously addressed concerns about the well as adding two outdoor bars to the decision to open the Laidlaw Library next club, has been opposed by the University, to Halo. Speaking to this paper, he ex- Police and environmental health workers. plained, In an objection notice, the University’s ‘I’m told that the university sold the solicitors explained, lease of that church and subsequently ‘We are concerned that students it became a nightclub. I’ve been asking wishing to use the new library during the estates people whether we can buy that night may feel unsafe or intimidated by Sam Broadley © back because I think it is a facility that users of the club’. could be used for other purposes’. The £27. 5m Laidlaw Library, which Leeds City Council reported 52 thefts, ‘The premises need to be able to con- The club’s planning application is is due to open in spring 2015, is situated 14 assaults, seven drunk and disorderly trol their venue and customers within to be reviewed by the Council later this next to Halo. arrests and three sexual assaults at the their current hours of operating before month. The University’s statement also club in the past year. applying for additional hours’. Halo were contacted by this newspa- touched on the ‘large number of crimes West Yorkshire Police’s licensing of- She added, per for comment, but did not respond by taking place in Halo’. ficer, Cat Sanderson said, ‘Currently, I have no confidence that the time of printing.

Student suffers panic attack in ‘overcrowded’ Stylus Uni pledges £100m Jake Hookem concern’ over this situation. In a state- to attract top profs News Editor ment he said, ‘This represents an unacceptable re- A student has complained of ‘a com- sponse to mental health difficulties: a plete disregard for safety and welfare’ af- lack of compassion exacerbated by ig- ter they suffered an anxiety attack at an norance has meant an already difficult allegedly overcrowded union event. situation was made worse.’ The incident occurred at the ‘Road to ‘It is also inconsistent with the val- Leeds Arrival Party’ in Leeds University ues of inclusivity and compassion which Wikimedia Commons © Union’s Stylus venue on 20th September. makes LUU one of the best Unions in the Valeria Popa staff who will be given the opportunity to The student, who wishes to remain country.’ build strong, independent research portfolios anonymous, told The Gryphon that their All staff at Leeds University Union The University has pledged to invest and deliver innovative research-led teach- anxiety disorder triggered a panic attack, have training in dealing with people £100 million in its biggest ever recruitment ing. This will have a positive impact on the brought on by the large amount of peo- who suffer from mental health issues, drive. profile of research and student education at ple in the venue. but sometimes external staff are brought The scheme will fund 250 fellowships Leeds’. When the student attempted to leave in for larger events. These staff are not for researchers to start a career in academics Candidates must be an international- via a rear exit, accompanied by a friend, guaranteed to have such training. at Leeds. ly-published researcher and hold a PhD in security blocked their path, with securi- Since the incident, Mind Matters have Successful applicants will pursue a five- the relevant field. ty reportedly asking them ‘why had they put forward a Better Union idea to en- year training programme leading to a posi- Second-year Classics PhD candidate, even gone to a club if they had anxiety sure all security personnel are trained and tion as associate professor, pursuing research Leonardo Costantini told The Gryphon: issues’. aware of their duty of care to students and contributing to the development of stu- ‘£100m is undoubtedly a significant invest- An LUU source told this newspaper with mental health difficulties. When dents’ modules. ment, but I think recruiting new academics that the event may have been an ‘issue asked for a comment, a Leeds University It is hoped the investment will allow re- is vital for a university in order to keep up with the event being over-crowded’, and Union spokesperson said, search into ‘major global challenges’, includ- with international research standards.’ that ‘monitoring of numbers coming in ‘Student welfare is an absolute prior- ing health, energy and sustainability. The application deadline is 16th Novem- and out was not adequate’. ity for the Union, we take all complaints The University’s Vice-Chancellor, Sir ber, with the first hundred ‘great minds’ due Lawrence Thompson, President of very seriously and we are currently inves- Alan Langlands said: ‘Leeds is making an to begin training at the start of the next ac- Mind Matters society, has expressed ‘deep tigating this incident.’ unparalleled investment in new academic ademic year.

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK News 5 Taxi firms called out for ‘made up’ fares

Jake Hookem to get from the city centre to Headingley.’ News Editor Amber are one of the most popular taxi firms amongst Leeds University stu- Students have complained about poor dents, and benefit from a good relationship service from various taxi operators last with the university’s union. This has led to weekend, with some alleging the meter an agreement by which students can leave was ignored and prices made up on the their student card with a car as a deposit spot. for payment if they have no cash on them. Services across Leeds were affected by Explaining the situation, a spokesper- drivers taking time off work to observe son from Amber cars said, Eid al-Adha. The three-day celebration is ‘We had one of our busiest weekends one of the most important in the Muslim ever over the Eid period. Approximately calendar, and forms one of two Eid feast 60% of the drivers were celebrating at this festivals. time. The reduced number of drivers saw ‘We received over 38,000 calls across delays of several hours for many students Saturday and Sunday, so it was impossible trying to get taxis, and a number of those to answer everything coming in to the call people could not even get through to the centre. call centre. ‘We are not aware of meters not being When students did manage get in a used and this is not company policy at all. taxi, it is alleged some drivers were setting All drivers must have their meters visible their own prices and ignoring the meter. at all times and the meter must be on, A third-year English student told The with the fare on display so the customer Gryphon, can see it. It is imperative that complaints ‘My Amber Cars driver told me that stu- of this nature are forwarded direct to the dents were being overcharged for taxi fares company’. Wikimedia Commons © on Saturday, with some being charged £40

‘No girls allowed!’: students face sexism at Varsity

Abla Klaa News Editor

Two female University of Leeds students were victims of sexist abuse at the Varsity grand final according to a complaint put forward to the Uni- versity. The incident is said to have occurred during the Varsity showpiece event match last Wednesday evening Speaking to The Gryphon, the victims’ friend who witnessed the assault identified the abusers to be ‘rugby players’ which were ‘recognisable by Will Stanley Film and Photography © their blue shirts and chinos’. According to the witness, who wishes to remain anonymous, the fore they could join us in our block.’ Diversity Officer, Gemma Turner objectives to roll out our zero tolerance women were looking for their seats The victims informed the Univer- which aims to tackle discriminatory to sexual harassment policy across in the stand when they passed the sity’s Vice Chancellor, Sir Alan Lang- behaviour. the city as it’s vital that students feel ‘crowded stand of second year play- lands, of the incident who was quick In a statement made to the news- comfortable to report harassment and ers’. It is alleged that the players had to respond, ‘this is simply unaccept- paper, Gemma said: are confident that it will be taken se- abused the victims by throwing beer able and in direct contradiction of the ‘I’m really sorry to hear about this riously by staff in any venue. If any cups at them, shouting ‘‘No Girls Al- University’s values, in particular our incident. At the Union, we do not tol- student has experienced any form lowed!’. commitment to equality and inclu- erate any kind of sexual harassment of sexual harassment I urge them to The witness said, ‘my two friends sion’. whether it’s verbal or physical, and get in touch with the Union’s Student were hurt and covered in beer. It took The incident coincides with the that policy extends to our events. Advice Centre or contact me directly.” them half an hour to clean them be- project introduced by Equality and I’ve made it one of my personal

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 6 News Tributes paid Lecturers to consider strike action to History grad Suhail Dhanji STV © Students have been urged to support lecturers in a vote which could lead to strike action over ‘radical’ changes to pensions. The Universities and Colleges Union is asking members in 67 UK universities, including Leeds, to vote on the proposed Sean Hayes walk-out in a ballot this month. A recent History graduate passed away The news follows a campaign by the on Universities and Colleges Union to re- Sunday. Matthew Cragg was 21 and sist proposed cuts which the union claims originally from Surrey. would see thousands of pounds wiped from A School representative said, ‘Matthew lecturers’ pensions. was a keen rugby player and appeared a A report by UCU warns that some staff UCU Secretary General, Sally Hunt ex- no end if all students in pre-1992 higher ed- very fit young man. I found him a very personable young man and he was always would lose over £200,000 of savings, with plained, ‘Staff see their pensions as deferred ucation institutions were to send a message pleasant’. A tutor described Matthew’s staff who have worked in the sector longest pay and are understandably angry at the to their Vice Chancellors in support of the ‘friendliness, kindness and generosity’. and moved up the pay grades to bew hard- impact these proposals would have’. lecturers’. Leeds University Rugby Union also paid est hit by changes. In the event of a ‘yes’ She added, ‘We are making it very clear He told students, ‘Support your lectur- tribute via their official Twitter page, ‘To vote, members could undertake industrial in this ballot that if members back industri- ers as they defend their deferred pay, their mark the tragic passing of a true Gryphon action, including a marking boycott and a al action, and there is no negotiated solution, pension’. and an unbelievable friend, teams will be refusal to set exams. we will be looking to quickly move to an Other universities where UCU members wearing a black armband in remembrance Critics argue the decision would cause assessment and exam boycott’. have been asked to vote include Sheffield, of Matt Cragg’. further disruption to students following The University’s UCU representative for Oxford and University College London. The Tributes continue to pour in on social strike action over pay earlier this year. pensions, Dr Nigel Bubb såaid, ‘It would help ballot closes on Monday 20th October. media since Matthew’s tragic passing. FULL TRIBUTE at THEGRYPHON.CO.UK `ΩBreaking down the stories that matter. The Digest.

Carolyn Kaster, AP © BBC © Reuters © Getty ©

White House Security breach Funeral service for David Miller Service Held for Murdered UK Hostage ICC refuse delay to Kenya Pres. trial

The director of the US Secret Service, The memorial service of Leeds engineering Last Sunday a “service of reflection” was President Uhuru Kenyatta’s appeal to Julia Pierson, was forced to resign last graduate David Miller, 24, took place last held in Salford for Alan Henning, who was postpone his hearing later this month week following a serious security breach Friday at the Holy Trinity Church in Jersey. killed by Islamic State last week. has been rejected by the International at the White House. It was reported that Mr Miller was found dead on the Thai island On Friday, the militant group posted an Criminal Court (ICC). Omar Gonzalez, 42, had scaled the fence of Koh Tao alongside Hannah Witheridge, online video, which appeared to show the Mr Kenyatta’s lawyers requested his to enter the building and was tackled a 23-year-old from Great Yarmouth on the beheading of the Salford-based taxi driver. hearing be either postponed or ran via by security officers inside the East room 15th September. Mr. Henning, 47, became the second British video link. The ICC however pressed which is used for presidential functions. Many of those in attendance of the ser- aid worker in less than a month to be ex- that the matters to be discussed are at President Obama had left the building vice wore colourful clothing, respecting the ecuted by IS, after David Haines’ execution a critical stage and directly involve the 10 minutes before. The incident occurred wishes of the Miller family. last month. interests of the accused and the victims. just three days after an armed contractor David’s brother Michael, described him as a On Sunday, Mr. Henning’s family spoke Mr Kenyatta has been accused of or- with convictions of assault had shared ‘trusted friend and unshakable ally’. publicly for the first time after his death, ganizing ethnic massacres following al- a lift with the President. Obama has re- Reports from Thai police suggest that the saying: “He will be remembered for this and legations of fraud after the 2007 elec- sponded in defence of the Service. pair were murdered in the early hours of the we as a family are extremely proud of him tions. morning. A full inquest will begin on the and what he achieved and the people he 6th January. helped.”

Hugh Baillie-Lane Danny Anderson Greg Whitaker Ellie Pugh

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK News 7 ‘The overall picture is pretty gloomy for UK universities and it makes the next election pretty dramatic’ The Gryphon spoke to Times Higher Education editor, Phil Baty, on spending cuts, tuition fees and why British academia is facing an uncertain future

Charlotte Mason News Editor

What’s going on in higher education at the moment? A big issue at the moment is the rise of Asia, given the fairly dramatic spending increase on higher education in countries like China and South Korea. I think that’s in stark contrast to what’s happening in the UK. Fundamentally, it comes down to governments which are absolutely committed to their universities as drivers of economic growth, putting universities at the heart of their economic policies and funding universities very generously. There’s quite a clear sense that governments willing to invest in their universities are seeing real success and UNESCO © governments that aren’t are seeing problems. fees. Ministers say the fees will give universities – more and more of it is going to a smaller group. “I think there is a serious risk to more money, but all they’ve really done is keep The London-Oxford-Cambridge ‘golden triangle’ them running. Students pay three times more, but will probably be relatively safe. I think there is a places like Leeds, where really universities certainly don’t suddenly see a major problem with a serious risk to places like Leeds injection in funding. The fees have helped us to and some of the great northern institutions, where good universities are really cling on but by no means have they let English really good universities are really suffering. There’s universities stay competitive. It’s tough on the stu- an economic imbalance where London is the place suffering” dents and it’s tough on the universities, but £9,000 where all the investment’s going, which is a big tuition fees allow universities to weather the worst risk for the strength of the country as a whole. How can British universities be more com- of austerity cuts and to survive the worst of the The top five universities in the UK are all in this petitive? public spending cuts that other publicly-fund- Oxford-Cambridge-London triangle. British universities are fantastic, resilient and in- ed bodies suffered. The overall picture is pretty novative, so I’m sure they’re not all doomed. We’re gloomy for the UK and it really makes the next attractive to top academics from around the world election pretty dramatic. There’s a fairly serious in terms of salaries and employment. However, issue now of how you put British universities on - The UK has lost three universities it wouldn’t take long for these advantages to be a sustainable footing when our competitors are from the world top 200 list this year eroded by lack of funding and investment. We putting a lot more money in. need to make sure funding is distributed in a way - Leeds University’s world rank has that allows for strong, regional universities to stay “It’s tough on the students and fallen from 139th to 146th strong, so we’re not just allowing only a tiny elite to thrive. I also think rhetoric around immigration it’s tough on the universities, - Leeds ranks 21st for UK universities, is a real issue. We need to make sure universities having failed to make the top 30 last still get to bring in global talent. International stu- but £9,000 tuition fees allow year dents pay a lot of money and help our universities to stay competitive in terms of funding. They also universities to survive” - London has the greatest concentra- bring masses of skills and talent which we need to tion of first-class universities in the world nurture. What does the future hold for UK universities? - The UK is second only to the US in Do you think the introduction of £9,000 I think for an elite few, things should be OK. The world university rankings tuition fees has affected UK university marketisation of the sector and increasing con- rankings? centration of research funding on a smaller group Full rankings at www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/ We’ve yet to see the full effect of the new tuition means the overall funding for researchers is tight world-university-rankings

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 8 Features Exploitation in the online age: Sam Pepper, social media and the vlogosphere

Yo uTube star Sam Pepper has recently been condemned by the vlogging community for making sexually coercive videos, as well as the persistent exploitation of his fans. The Gryphon talks to one fan, who herself experienced coercive e-mails from the former Big Brother contestant.

Brigitte Phillips A Girlfriend Easy, in which Sam handcuffs himself to that he has sent inappropriate messages to women.

Features Editor unsuspecting women and tells them that they are ‘[his] The Gryphon speaks to Emily about her experience girlfriend now’ (even forcing one woman to kiss him with Sam Pepper. There’s something wicked in the state of YouTube. in order for him to remove the handcuffs), and How to ‘I was a fan of Sam at the time, it was 2012 and

Those of you who have spent any time on the website Pick Up Girls With a Lasso which pretty much does he’d just started a business selling his own hats. He put over the past year or so will know the problem. Starting what it says on the tin. a status on his facebook asking for girls to send pic- with Ed Blann (Eddplant) in Summer 2013, at least five Despite the women involved in these videos look- tures to his email address to be considered to model the prominent members of the British YouTube community ing clearly distressed, little was done about it in the hats on the website. The website already had photos of “ have been outed as sexual and emotional abusers, with YouTube community until one of Sam’s more recent a girl wearing underwear and some of his hats. He put “ many using their position to pressurise fans and under- videos Fake Hand Ass Pinch Prank was uploaded. age girls into performing sexual acts. With this many This ‘prank’ features Pepper wearing a fake arm to fool incidents of sexual abuse being revealed in the past 14 women he gropes with his real hand into thinking the It made me feel pressured months, it is clear to see that it’s a serious problem in sexual harassment is being perpetrated by innocent the online video community. passersby. Many of the women confront him with one to send him dirty pictures, One of the most recent outings has been Sam woman telling him, ‘I don’t like that,’ but Sam laughs in Pepper. His apparent disrespect for women has hardly response and continues to grope her. otherwise he wouldn’t like me. been kept a secret. His past videos include How To Get Understandably, the YouTube and wider internet community was in uproar when Being a fan of his, I didn’t ‘Fake Hand Ass Pinch Prank’ was published, resulting in an open want that. letter from prominent sex educa- “ tion YouTuber Laci Green. This open letter has now been cosigned a status on his facebook asking for girls to send pic- by numerous heavyweights in the tures to his email address to be considered to model the online video community, such as hats on the website. The website already had photos of the vlogbrothers, Tyler Oakley, and a girl wearing underwear and some of his hats. Grace Helbig. ‘I thought I’d email some photos, thinking noth- Following the open letter, Sam ing would come of it and, that there’d be dozens of went on to upload a ‘second part’ professional models emailing him photos. He emailed of his video series, in which women back straight away, asking me to take photos in my grope men, and a final video ex- underwear “like the girl on the website”. I assumed that plaining that the previous two had that would be the brief the model would be given, and merely been ‘social experiments’ that he was talking on a professional level. I was in two that had been staged and script- minds about it, half-thinking that it could be profes- ed to highlight domestic violence. sional, but part of me didn’t trust him. I told him that However, several women featured I didn’t trust him with underwear photos, and told him in the first video have since come that I thought that he might post them to his facebook forward on twitter and revealed and slut-shame me or something. He said “I won’t” and that prior consent wasn’t obtained then asked for my skype. The part of me that was a before filming. fan of him was quite keen on talking to him on skype, While Sam Pepper’s vide- but it just seemed dodgy. I told him I didn’t trust him os grabbed media attention, his with photos and he said “I won’t trust me. I want them response to Laci Green’s open letter DIRTY.” was kept under wraps. ‘He then proceeded to keep asking me for dirty Sam has since claimed that photos. I said “I’m not gonna do it, obviously” and he Laci Green’s tweets expose the intimidating emails from Sam Pepper his emails had been hacked, but it said “Fair enough. This could have been fun.” Partly appears that this isn’t the first time due to his fame, and partly due to the fact I was still

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Features 9

YouTube ©

If something makes you uncomfortable, you should voice your opinion, because there will be other people who think the same way as you that have also been too scared to say anything.

his fan, I didn’t want the conversation to end there. So I situation. Imagine feeling a rope around you completely himself again. He knows he’s done something wrong. asked him if he was doing any fan meet ups soon and unexpected? You’d feel like you were being kidnapped. But he’s chose the wrong path and tried to get out if I could have a hug at one. He said “no hugs for you, I thought it was inappropriate, but since it was labeled of it by lying and acting like nothing has happened, you’ve not been nice.” as a prank and most people seemed to find it funny, I pretending that he was in the right all along. I feel ‘It made me feel pressured to send him dirty pic- thought I was just being sensitive and kept my feelings sorry for him, because he’s got himself into a difficult tures, otherwise he wouldn’t like me. Being a fan of his, to myself. situation, and saying sorry is so incredibly hard, but “I didn’t want that. I think famous people have power ‘I think that that is part of the problem of the power it was the right thing to do, and I don’t think he was over their fans, they idolise them. I think he was using famous people have. You feel as if you can’t say bad strong enough to come out with it. I don’t think he that power to his own advantage and not thinking things about them. You follow them completely blindly. quite knows what it’s like to get hurt and used. I feel about anybody else’s feelings, he got caught up in fame I’ve read what some of his supporters are saying on like I’d have so much more respect for him if he’d just and his power. twitter. Like “oh Sam, I’d let you assault me” and I think said “Sorry.” And I hope that he gets the st”rength to do ‘I posted the screenshots to Facebook because that they’re so blinded by it all that they can’t think that, rethink his life choices, and move on. I found the whole situation a bit unbelievable and straight. Celebrities shouldn’t use their fame in this ‘I think that it’s important for people to not keep laughable. Then I had three of my friends saying that way, they shouldn’t use it to get people to do whatever quiet about any opinion they have, I think if something he’d done the same thing to them, one where he’d they say, they should use it to change the world. People makes you uncomfortable, you should voice your opin- asked for photos, one where he’d told her she was cute listen to their every word, they could make such a ion, because there will be other people who think the (she was underage), and one where the girl messaged difference. But instead, he seems to use it to make girls same way as you that have also been too scared to say me to warn me off him, because she’d had personal do what he wants. I think that he’s lost sight of himself. anything. And you can make a difference to the way experience of physical relations with him, and she said He needs to look in the mirror and bring himself back things are if you’re strong enough to say what you feel. he “uses girls” and that he only spoke to her when he to humanity, and think about other people’s feelings. It’s a domino effect and I think that’s exactly what has wanted sex. I think that goes for any celebrity, they have followers happened with Sam. One person has had the strength ‘As of then, I’ve seen him in a different light to and should inspire them in a positive way, not use them to say he was being inappropriate, and other people how I did before, I’ve been wary of him ever since. I and then throw them away once they’re done with have followed. And that’s why everybody is coming watched his videos to observe his behaviour, not as them. out with stories about him now. Power in numbers. Not entertainment. As soon as I saw the lasso videos, I felt ‘In my opinion, the way he’s trying to cover up it all because they all want fame or are attention-seeking. uncomfortable and extremely sorry for the girls in the is him panicking, hoping he can make things right for Because they were too scared to do so beforehand.’

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 10 Features The changing view of mental health Freya Govus, Leeds University Union’s Welfare Officer, looks into the problems surrounding the way people understand and talk about mental health.

Freya Govus mental health problem. People generally diagnose and clearly define can lead to those who actually struggle with those do not seem to understand what it is to it being ‘othered’, and seen as something problems. When faced with difficult emotional have ‘mental health’ at all. Mental health dissimilar to physical health. And while it Natalie, Wellbeing Manager for the struggle at university, it’s often hard to is not something that only affects those has its differences, it makes it no less se- Student Advice Centre, extrapolates on know where to turn. It can be a chal- who suffer from problems, but in fact rious or ‘real’ than physical health issues. some of the issues that students at the lenge for people suffering from mental something we all have. Some of us are The subject of language plays into University of Leeds have to deal with, health issues to know whether they need lucky, and never experience issues such the way society interacts with mental and bring to the student advice office. to seek help or not, let alone where to get as Depression or Anxiety, but some of us health quite strongly. While many people She notes how the conventional prob- it from. Even at a University like Leeds, do experience mental ill health. However, may not be conscious of it, using words lems and conceptions of mental health which has such a well regarded range of mental health is not a binary. Mental such as ‘crazy’ can contribute, albeit issue are changing and expanding, ‘[The services across the campus, Union Advice Centre] have traditionally and city, it can sometimes be a collated data about these core areas struggle for students to access those of our work (money, academic, hous- services. ing) but we are increasingly seeing It’s not hard to see why the students whose difficulties have until nation may be struggling to deal now been recorded as “Other Mat- with its mental health problem. A ters”. This includes a range including national investigation has found that mental health difficulties, personal in April this year, there were 3,460 & relationship problems and issues fewer nurses working in mental relating to disabilities.’ health than there were two years Mental health issues are just as previously. A study this year carried serious as physical issues, and can in out by the charity Mind found that fact lead to serious physical health out of 2,000 people surveyed, more issues. One of the most problematic than half had waited over three consequences of mental health issues months for an assessment, and half is the inability to see that you might of respondents said that they did have a problem. Often, there are ave- not have enough sessions to help nues you can pursue in order to gain them recover. It is clear to see that a better insight into your own mental the mental health services offered health: seek an appointment with by our NHS are struggling, with your GP, self-refer for the university’s headline after headline warning of Counselling service, or even call the the inevitable crisis facing our health Leeds Nightline. If you are worried service. about a friend, then remember that As if it wasn’t difficult enough the Advice Centre in LUU can help for people to access these services, you out. it can be even harder for students. Mental health is still perceived as University, while being an amazing a vague and intangible concept that opportunity for so many students, we find hard to pin down because can be an intense and sometimes of the inability to tie the illness to a triggering experience. Often, if a part of the body. Allowing flexibility student arrives at University and in our understanding of what ‘mental registers to see someone about their health’ is gives room for change and mental health, by the time they get improvement in a national health to the top of the waiting list, it is Feminspire © system. It’s clear that conceptions already Christmas - meaning they’re of mental health, both from those at home (if they are not originally from health is much like a spectrum - some unconsciously, to the demonisation of who struggle with issues and from those Leeds). By the time they are the top of people may suffer from rather severe dis- those with mental health issues. This has who deal with them, are becoming more the list again it is Easter, and so it goes. orders, whereas the symptoms of other the potential to entirely marginalise those flexible and inclusive. The idea that our But why is it so hard to access mental sufferers are seen as more mild. Anyone with mental health issues. But it isn’t society may be ready to accommodate health services in particular? Why is can fall ill, and in fact one in four people only words like ‘crazy’ that can create that redefinition and free itself from the mental health treated so differently to experience a mental health issue in any a misconception around mental health. stigma, at this point in time, might not physical health? given year. Mental health difficulties are People often flippantly refer to them- seem like such an impossible one. It’s arguably down to stigma. People not easy to spot, and they are not easy selves as being depressed or as being an do not understand what it is to have a to diagnose. The fact that it is harder to insomniac, which can often deligitimise

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Comment 11 Comment Mind Matters. Human Rights Hong Kong Lawrence Thompson, President of Emi Herbert discusses stigma sur- Rachel Megan Barker on why human Tim Van Gardingen looks at events in Mind Matters, talks about poor men- rounding mental health, and how rights are more important than ever Hong Kong, and just why it is so important tal health treatment in the UK. help is always at hand A repeat of the past in Hong Kong? Tim van Gardingen German & Chinese [email protected]

The events in Hong Kong are set to become a historic moment, as the people of the region do something which has proven deadly in the past – protest against the moves of the Chinese government. Some sources are already comparing recent events to the build-up of the tragic 1989 Tiananmen Square dis- aster- there is a lingering fear from some observers that the same may happen again in Hong Kong. Pro-democracy protests are nothing new in Hong Kong. Ever since the former British colony was handed over to the mainland in 1997, there have been www.abc.net.au protests. Hong Kong has some political autonomy, but after Article 23, which The problem of accurate representa- everyone in Hong Kong. Tiananmen Square... essentially gives mainland China power tion for the Hong Kong people leads to As for the growing concerns that The facts to veto any laws considered subversive, another interesting point. It would be the protests may descend into a horror the protests have become larger and wrong to claim that Hong Kong is more like Tiananmen, Hong Kong luckily has larger. The yearly protest held in July British in its mentality than Chinese, but some defence. The region still has some boasted a record 500,000 participants a poll from South China Morning Post of the older British rules which in short The Tiananmen Square pro- (police reports claim 100,000) for 2014. says more or less says exactly that. 90% should reduce the usage of some of the test of 1989 was a student led, The current protests however are of those asked responded that, given the brutal tactics the government has used pro-democracy movement, de- fuelled by anger at Beijing’s control choice, they would prefer to return to in the past (and still uses in regions such manding transparency in the Communist Chinese govern- of the upcoming 2017 Hong Kong as Tibet and Xinjiang). The fear rises ment. It culminated in a bloody Chief-executive elections. The people of “90% of those asked re- mainly from the use of tear gas on pro- massacre by the Chinese mili- the region want, quite rightly, an open sponded that, given the testers armed only with umbrellas. tary in a desperate attempt to vote. Beijing has limited the election to choice, they would prefer to The global support for the protest- quash the sit-in protest, leaving only three people, all chosen by a Bei- ers, such as on campus this week, will return to being a British colo- an unknown death toll that jing approved board. also hopefully pressure China’s leader Xi ny rather than being part of ranges from a few hundred, This will result in only the views Jinping to avoid more excessively ag- China” to thousands. The movement of the mainland being represented – gressive control methods. The trouble galvanised support around the views which don’t fit particularly well being a British colony rather than being is that that pressure doesn’t appear to country, with around 400 cities with Hong Kong, with its strong Brit- part of China. Although we must bear have stopped the use of tear gas in the in a state of unrest at one time, ish influences. Such a small breadth of in mind that this newspaper is printed first place. causing a declaration of mar- representation is simply bad democrat- in English, meaning readers are perhaps Hong Kong’s protesters are com- tial law, and ultimately, military ic politics, and although the mainland more British inclined than those who pletely justified in their stand. Although action. may not embrace democracy yet, they read in Cantonese or Mandarin Chinese, there is without a doubt a terrifying risk should respect Hong Kong’s autonomy it does tell us that to only have Bei- with their campaign, if they succeed, and allow them the unbiased vote they jing-sympathetic policies represented in this historical moment may change Chi- deserve. the election si“”mply does not represent nese politics as a whole. THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 12 Comment Your Mind does Matter You’re not alone Lawrence Thompson Emi Herbert President of Mind Matters Psychology [email protected] [email protected]

magine a type of illness affecting 1 in 4 people every year, where s I pulled in to the car park of my halls in first year, I was people in crisis were being made to travel up to 300 miles to get filled with an all-consuming, sickening dread. How could treatment. Imagine this health problem was the biggest killer I begin the new challenge of uni life when I was still ex- Iof men aged 18-40. Imagine there being a 2.3% cut in that par- Ahausted from the battles I’d faced since my GCSEs? Was I allowed ticular NHS budget, despite increasing need and a history of be- a fresh start in my new environment? And ultimately, how long ing underfunded. Imagine too, that this particular health problem often resulted in discrimination in the criminal justice system, in could I keep up the charade of being ‘normal’? employment, and in housing. Imagine people were receiving sec- Much to my surprise, I did manage to create a new persona in tioning orders to free beds in overcrowded wards. those tentative first few weeks. I made close friends, starting eat- This is the story of mental health in the UK. It is often described ing normally again and felt the weight of depression begin to be as the Cinderella service of the NHS, as it is consistently ignored lifted by genuine contentment. However, this didn’t last forever and neglected by NHS leadership. In 2011, public health leaders and when second year arrived, the pressure of academic expecta- argued that something had to change with mental health funding, tions coupled with new health challenges meant my mental health and, granted, something did change; the funding was cut further. problems came back with a vengeance. My weight plummeted, Where is the criticism about our society’s approach to mental my anxiety grew and most terrifyingly, I began to have panic health coming from? It comes from the corners of society that are attacks so severe I felt unable to leave the house. I focused what exhausted by their outrage, growing cynical about the pos- enerenergy remained on academia, resulting in good grades sibility of change. It comes from charities overstretched but a non-existent social life. and under-supported. It will be one day admitted in shame that, as a country, we condemned the Fortunately, I was not left to fight through this on most severely mentally ill to overcrowded wards, my own. With support from my department, overcrowded prisons or, with recent welfare disability services and mental health profes- changes, humiliating impoverishment. sionals I was able to persevere and take back On International Mental Health Day, it is the power that my fear had taken from me. worth reflecting as to where the “move- In many ways, my past has even been of ment” is heading. Think tanks such as Re- benefit to me, providing a personal rele- form are looking at how to evaluate pol- vance to the science I study and enabling icy impact in terms of well-being rather me to support friends through their own than simply in financial terms. Teachers difficult times. are looking to incorporate mental health Statistics show that I am not alone in on the curriculum, and politicians such as Norman Lamb, Paul Burstow and Luciana my experience at university. In a study Berger are working to improve the system conducted by the NUS, 20 per cent of from the inside. Change is coming; just at students considered themselves to have far too slow a pace. experienced mental illness and over 1 in Young people are also becoming more or- 10 students felt suicidal at some point dur- ganised: Young Minds and Student Minds are ing their studies. Most shockingly, 90 per cent national organisations that have only recently of these students did not utilise university support formed. Last year my society, Mind Matters, lobbied services despite their feelings of distress. This needs to thethe University and the Union to improve services for change. As well as the potential for great personal growth students, improve attitudes and seek to support the mental and enjoyment, university life comes with a whole host of pres- health of their staff; the review process is drawing to a close and sures - from finance to academic work - which may be detrimen- will soon report its findings. Without prejudging its recommendations, it’s clear we have a fine tal to one’s wellbeing. Coupled with lack of sleep, poor diet and opportunity to become the golden standard for mental health excessive alcohol consumption, it’s little wonder that students are support in UK Universities. Other campuses should look to Leeds feeling the strain. where Nightline run a confidential listening service, where Mind So what can we do about it? My advice to you is simple. If you Matters runs a peer-Support Group for mental health problems can relate in any way to my story, don’t be afraid to ask for help and a drop-in session for signposting and advice, where Student from your GP or personal tutor. Whether this involves cognitive Minds run a peer-Support Group for eating disorders, where LGBT+ behavioural therapy to modify unhelpful thinking patterns or a run a drop-in coffee hour where you can receive signposting or change in exam venue to reduce stress, the support is available just have a chat. Many of these support avenues have only been if you ask for it. And if you are a friend of someone who’s strug- available for the last two years, so of course, massive progress has gling, just being there to listen over a cup of tea will mean more been made. to them then you realise. In the end, rather than asking why it is that on days like these we are having conversations about mental health, the discussion Mental health problems are nothing to be ashamed of, and I hope really should be about why you’re not speaking up to. you’ll join me in helping to break down stigma, one conversation at a time.

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Comment 13 Human rights? Yes please! Rachel Megan Barker Politics and Parliamentary Studies their rulings. Nonetheless, Cameron document which in recent history has meant to protect human rights across [email protected] has said that he wishes to remain a proven incredibly effective and useful. Europe, and if our Government wants signatory of the European Convention For example, it has been used by the to start picking and choosing which uman rights aren’t some- on Human Rights, effectively making victims of the rapist John Warboys to human rights it wants to uphold, oth- thing most people get exit a case of being involved in when it hold the police to account for failing to er countries are going to start taking cited about, or even think is convenient, but being exempt of the investigate their case, as well as by the that as license to do the same; I’m sure aboHut on a day to day basis. When Human Rights Act so when it is not. Vladimir Putin will be delighted about human rights are guaranteed and pro- Unsurprisingly, the international body “If our Government starts the Tories’ plans. tected it’s easy to forget about them; that oversees the convention has said picking and choosing which Domenic Grieve, the former Attor- when you live without the daily fear that pulling out of the Human Rights human rights it wants to up- ney General (who Cameron replaced of torture, when the government does Act is inconsistent with remaining a hold, other countries are go- with Chris Grayling, who has far less not prevent you from associating with signatory. ing to start doing the same” principled views on the issue of human who you want or expressing yourself What David Cameron’s plans will rights) has criticised the move as a ter- the way you want, when you’re guar- do is deny citizens and residents of the rible way for us to act on the interna- anteed a fair trial if accused of a crime, UK the right to redress when the Gov- patients of Mid-Staffordshire NHS trust tional stage. Bad for us nationally and it’s easy to forget that these rights have ernment breaches fundamental free- to force the authorities to give them re- bad for many others internationally, not always been assured, that they still doms. The Human Rights Act is not a dress for their treatment. these plans threaten our human rights aren’t in much of the world, and that ‘just in case’ document to be used in a Not only would this be domestically which we might sometimes take for they can be taken away. dystopian future where a corrupt gov- detrimental, there would also be inter- granted, but we should never want to David Cameron’s plans to scrap the ernment oversteps its boundaries; it is a national implications; the Convention is see taken away. Human Rights Act and leave the Eu- ropean Court of Human Rights are incredibly dangerous, while his plans to bring in a ‘British Bill of Human Rights’ are unclear and unworkable. Under the proposals, UK citizens would not have the full protection of the convention in domestic courts, but instead would rely on a document written by the Gov- ernment, which will make distinctions between ‘serious’ and ‘trivial’ cases (are any human rights abuse cases ‘trivial’?) and also differentiating between those who are ‘responsible’ and those who are ‘not responsible’ for human rights violations. Wandering into such murky waters with human rights – which should be seen as absolute and commons.wikimedia.org infallible – is an alarming prospect. If you have the time and money (which, in itself, is a really big ‘if’), you may still be able to take cases to Strasbourg- however, the UK Govern- ment will have the power to ignore Fast Facts 1 in 5 1,700 8 people are considering bed closures in mental human rights cases, out of emigrating from health since 2011 1,700, were upheld in the Hong Kong UK last year

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Debate 14 Does social mediaruin relationships?

Social mediahas transformed dramatically over thepast decade.Thistechnologyhas thepotential to reunite friends andallow family to keep in touchoverlongdistances, buthas come undercriticism forruining communicationand stifling oursocialskills. TheGryphon Debate asks whethersocialme- diareallyharms ourrelationships as much as we think? photo: wikimedia commons

No RachaelDillon &NinaHarris Marcus Rowe Yes Love it or loathe it,socialmediais While the‘Selfie Generation’is Earlier this year Iwas at theairport, tiredoftheir distinctivelyunimag- here to stay.Despite thebarrage constantly accusedofnarcissism when Isaw amiddle-aged woman inativeresponses to my dull posts of criticism heaped at siteslike andshallowness,who doesn’t appear at theArrivals gate and andIran outofnewsfor them so I Facebook, thefact remainsthat enjoysnoopingthrough holiday rush towardsher waitingmother. decidedtotakedrastic action: Iput themajorityofyoung peopleuse snapsofyourprimary school best What surprisedmewas thatthe pentopaper andfor thefirst time social networking to buildand friend? firstthing shedid wasnot greether in my lifeIwrote letterstosome maintain friendships. Even grandparents arejumping mother,but insteadtookaselfie of my friends, postedthemand While everyone hatesthe friend on thesocialmediabandwagon, of thetwo of them.Onlyafter she didn’t expect areply forawhile. whositschecking Instagram and usingFacebookasameans to hadsatisfied herlustfor onlineat- It’s almostunthinkable in this age Twitterevery five seconds, even furtherembarrass their“precious tentiondid sheengageinanactual, of instantmessaging andinstant more annoyingisthe oneperson darlings”. physical conversation. friendship:aresponseinaweek whoisconstantlyout of theloop. With peoplelivingincreasingly Call me oldfashioned,but I’mmore rather thanaminute. Freshers:how many newfriends jet-settinglifestyles, social net- inclined to say‘hi’whenImeet Thereplies Ireceivedweregenuine have youaddedinthe past few workingoffersapermanence somebodywho Ihaven’t seen in a andheartfelt andIurgeyou to give weeks? Certainlyinthe run-upto to relationshipswhich otherwise while. it ago: writealettertosomeone uni,contactingnew flatmatesand wouldhavebeenlost. Andthough I’msurprised thatmanypeople youhaven’t seen in awhile,tell peopleonyourcoursetooksome face-to-face conversation maybe them what you’re doing, howyou of thestressawayfromwhatyou underthreat, surely some form of “I’m surprisedthatmany feel andwhatyourplans are. You were constantly remindedwould contact is better thannone? people seem to thinkthat will almostcertainly surprise them. be the‘biggestchangeofyourlife.’ Although young peoplecan theironlineaudienceismore From lookingatpossible societies sometimesbezoned into a‘virtual importantthan thepeople Sendingaletterisastatementand world,’whenusedinmoderation they areactuallywith...” acommitment. It canconveyfar 31,456,000 more detail andemotion thanany UsersonFacebook 1in3socialmedia users seem to thinkthattheir online comment, status or tweetand it reported feelingmorelone- audience is more importantthan showsthatyou have made time 26% ly andisolatedafter using thepeopletheyare actuallywith. in your busy schedule forsome- of whom arebetween the25- Facebook,according to This manifestsitselfinall sortsof body else.But,likeme, once you’ve 34 agebracket researchersatthe German ways:fromplacing your phone writtenyourletteryou’llprobably universities Humboldtand on thetable in frontofyou when need to askyourfriendwhattheir to joiningthe subject‘induction’ Darmstadt Technical. you’re outfor acoffeewitha address is.And forthatyourfirst Facebookpages, if youweren’t friend to relentlessly photograph- up to date with these groupsyou social mediaisasophisticated ingeverything youdoratherthan 55-64Years... wouldarrive at uni alreadyonthe platform thatmakes friendships enjoying themoment. It seems back foot easier.For this reason,ithas be- strangetomethatsomanypeople Thefastest growing age As afresher,you really areasmall come the most prominentnet- want to becometheir ownpersonal bracketofFacebookusers. fish in abig pond,sokeeping in workingtoolinour society today. paparazzo. touchisvital aftermeeting some- Theoverarching fact of thematter LastyearIwas living in Vienna,a port of call will almost certainlybe oneinaseminar or on anight out. is thatthe majority of thosewho thousand milesfromhomeonthe some kind of social media. Forpeoplewho find socialising criticise this medium still have othersideofEuropeand Ifound I’mnot saying thateverybody difficult,socialmediacan bridge anduse it.Sowhile therelentless thatFacebookwas themostef- should suddenlystopusing any friendshipswhich otherwisemay Farmvillerequestsmay at times fectiveway of keeping everybody kind of social media; it hasits nothaveprogressed. Theawk- temptyou to delete your account, up to date with what Iwas doing. placeand it hasits uses.However, wardness of asking forsomeone’s hang on in therebecause overall It worked pretty well anditmeant lettingitbecomeour only form of number is solved with thewords itsworth it. thatIdidn’thavetoput toomuch communication is all tooeasyand ‘FriendRequest’. effort into stayingintouch with all canleave ourrelationships feeling my friendsand family.But soon I emptyand unfulfilling. THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 15

TheriseofUKfilm festivals in thepastfew yearshas been meteoric andLIFFisnoexception.ThisYorkshireinstitution,now in its28th year,isrenownedfor championingnew releases, cult classics, undergroundbreakthroughs andspectacular documentaries. This year,the festival takesplace from the5th to the20thofNovemberwithovertwo hundredand fiftyscreeningsacross thecity. In previous years, eventual Academy Awardwinningfilmslike Gravity, Argo and TheArtist,havebeenscreenedatthe festival.Withthat in mind,don’t hesitate to take achance on afilm youmight notusuallysee.You neverknow, maybeyou’llsee thenext bigthing before it’s cool andwithtickets costing just £6 forstudentsthere’s no excuse to notget involved.Besuretocheck outleedsfilm.comfor thecomplete programmeand information on ticketsand venues.

OurPicks of thePackThe Best of theRest

TestamentofYouth /The Taking (Opening Gala) TheImitationGame Adouble bill of Yorkshire’slatest cinematicofferingsopenthe Festival this year,starting WWIIspy dramastarring Sherlock favourite with theadaptation of Vera Brittain’s classic WorldWar Onememoir, TestamentofYouth. Benedict Cumberbatch. Starring rising talent AliciaVikander, Game of Thrones resident moodyblokeKit Harington and TheWire alumni DominicWest, it’s settobeanemotionalaffair.Showing straight Tusk afterisTheTaking,ataughtthriller directedbyDominic Brunt,known to most as Paddyon Emmerdale.This is hissecondfilm,filmed completelyonlocationinthe Dales, andwiththe Body horror from Dogma directorKevin Smith. cast andcrewinattendance,it’ssuretobeagreat waytokickoff proceedings. TheDrop Concerning Violence Thriller starring LIFF favouriteTom Hardy and ASwedishdocumentary film aboutthe strugglesofAfricaagainstcolonialruleinthe thelate greatJames Gandolfini. 1960sand 70s, Concerning Violence is an unflinching portrait of acountry driven to the edgethatisguaranteed to make youthink. It wasalsothe recipientofanaward at the Once in aLifetime highlyprestigious Berlin Film Festival earlierthis year. Aday of concertfilmsincludingThe Beastie Showpieces with Alan Moore Boys’ Awesome....IShotThat!,The Who’s The Kids areAlright andabrand newprint of The Oneofthe most celebratedcomic bookartists of all time makesararepublicappearance TalkingHeads’ Stop MakingSense. to present his newwork, Showpieces.Acollection of shortfilms, these arethe firstworks Moorehas writtenfor thescreen, andhavingthe manhimselfinattendance will make the Winter Sleep eveningall themorespecial. Winner of this year’s PalmeD’oratCannes. TheKingdom of Dreamsand Madness What We Do in theShadows This completelyuniquedocumentary offers an unprecedentedpeakintothe iconic world of Studio Ghibli andlegendary director HayaoMiyazaki,responsible forcapturing thehearts Vampirecomedyfromthe Flight of the andimaginationsofcountless children andadultsalike throughfilmssuchasSpirited Away Conchordsteam. and Ponyo. Birdman(ClosingGala) Oneofthe most hotlyanticipatedfilmsofthe year,Birdman is receiving itsUKpremiere at LIFF.Directedbythe manbehind Babel and Biutiful,this dark comedy is asuperhero film with adifferent,and starsMichael Keaton, Edward Norton andEmmaStone.Ifthe insanetrailer is anythingtogoby, it’s going to be unmissable.

In TheMiddle Arts 16 Science The African Ebola plight - a Transatlantic cause for concern?

Flickr ©

Despite the protective clothing worn by medical staff, over 120 have died after contracting the Ebola virus

Sam McMaster Ebola’s proper name is Ebola Virus to people. sufferers also experience vomiting, Disease (EVD), Ebola Haemorrhagic Ebola was origanally discovered in diarrhoea and loss of appetite. Less Ebola has reached America. This Fever (EHF) or more often than not, just 1976, when the first identified case hit common symptoms include hiccups, does sound extremely disconcerting but Ebola. It is a viral disease that affects the small rural village of Yambuku in a sore throat, chest pain, shortness it’s important to look at the bigger issues humans and other primates and can the northern Democratic Republic of of breath and trouble swallowing. In surrounding the incident and get to the be caused by four viruses, all classified Congo. The victim was village school about 50% of cases a skin rash is also facts. under the genus (part of the naming master Mabalo Lokela, who had toured present. These early symptoms can Although the case in the USA has classification of organisms) Ebolavirus. the area for ten days before being di- often appear to be like other tropical been in the news recently it is important The virus can be transmitted via agnosed with the new disease on 26th fevers such as malaria and dengue not to overlook the real issue, the out- blood or bodily fluids, therefore the dis- August 1976. He died almost 2 weeks fever, but the worst is yet to come. break in West Africa. It has been cov- posal of dead bodies and the quarantine later. Since then there have been mul- About a week after the appearance ered in the news extensively yet it seems of the infected must be carried out with tiple outbreaks in the other countries of the initial symptoms, the victim that the response has been totally inade- utmost care to ensure no further infec- of Sub-Saharan Africa including will begin to experience bleeding quate from the UN, and is almost being tion. Unfortunately, the lesser developed Sudan, Gabon, Uganda and further and a reduced blood clotting ability; overshadowed by the case in America. health systems of some African coun- outbreaks in the Congo. this includes reddened eyes, along- This would be best addressed by first tries struggle to contain the spread of The signs and symptoms of Ebola side internal and mucous membrane looking at what Ebola is, what causes infection. Also, consuming bush meat can first appear flu-like, with fatigue, bleeding, such as bleeding in the nose, it and the horrific effects it can have on such as bats, gorillas and chimpanzees headaches, joint, muscle and abdom- gums, and genitalia. If that wasn’t bad those unlucky enough to contract it. increases the likelihood of transmission inal pain. In addition to that some enough, some sufferers vomit blood

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Science 17

Ebola Outbreak Map He began experiencing symptoms on Liberia, but supplies have run dry and 24th September and travelled to Texas manufacturers have admitted it will Health Presbyterian Hospital later the take months to replenish the supply. A next day. He was reported to have a fe- Norwegian woman infected with Ebola ver, headache, abdominal pain and was in Sierra Leone is to be given the last urinating infrequently. When asked by remaining dose of ZMapp in the world. a nurse, he confirmed he had travelled It all seems too little, too late. Hos- from Liberia but had not been around pitals in the UK are on the lookout for anyone who was sick. The hospital possible cases, whilst airports and Eu- issued multiple statements detailing rostar terminals have introduced Ebola whether Duncan’s condition was relayed screening to restrict the spread of the to the doctor, however this held no bear- virus, but undoubtedly more needs to be ing once Duncan had begun treatment. done. Some healthcare professionals are Due to the lack of information, hopeful that the spread of Ebola to the he was diagnosed with a ‘low-grade US will kickstart a strong effort to isolate viral disease’ and was sent home with the virus, but we can only hope. And antibiotics. On 28th September he began sterilise. vomiting and was returned to hospital by ambulance; the Ebola diagnosis was confirmed by the Centre for Disease The progression of current Ebola outbreak: Control and prevention (CDC) on 30th Ebola Factfile • 6th September 2014 - First case of Ebola, 2 year old boy who died inBBCthe © September. The hospital is monitoring village of Meliandou, Guinea between 80 and 100 people who had • The current outbreak is caused • 19th March - Guinean Health Ministry announces an unknown viral haemor- contact with Duncan. Thomas Eric Dun- by the EBOV formerly called rhagic fever has infected 35 people and killed 23 can sadly passed away on Wednesday the Zaire Ebola Virus, originally • 25th March - World Health Organisation reports an outbreak of Ebola in the morning (8th October). responsible for the outbreak in Southeast of the country, Liberia and Sierra Leone are also being investigated. As of 3rd October, there have been 1976. This virus is also the most 86 cases and 59 deaths so far around 8000 reported cases and dangerous of all the known • 31th March - America send a 5 person team to assist in Guinea. The vi- roughly 3500 deaths due to Ebola in Ebola disease-causing viruses rus has reached Liberia. By 30th April there are 221 suspected cases and 146 West Africa, and these numbers are only • No cure or vaccine to date deaths, 25 of these are health workers and 16 of them have died rising. Over 120 of those deaths were • Fruit bats are thought to be • June - Liberia’s capital Monrovia has reported cases and the outbreak has medical staff, making it difficult for the original reservoir for the spread to Sierra Leone the World Health Organisation to send virus • 17th July - Number of suspected cases has risen to 442 and the first case is sufficient numbers to the worst-affected • The virus can be inactive reported in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital areas. Over 1200 additional treatment anywhere from 2 to 21 days • 25th July - First death in Nigeria and 353 people are being monitored in beds are needed and experimental treat- after infection Lagos, 451 in Port Harcourt ments are undergoing trials soon. • Semen may carry the virus up • 29th August - first cases of Ebola reaches Senegal A new experimental drug exists for to 7 weeks after infection • 30th September - Ebola reaches USA the treatment of Ebola, named ZMapp. • Traditional burials contribute • 7th October - Nurse in Spain is first case of Ebola contracted outside Africa The serum is one of up to 10 medica- to the spread of the virus tions and three vaccines in development for Ebola but no cure or treatment has and also have blood in their stool. The lost fluids. yet been confirmed. ZMapp was previ- heaviest bleeding is generally confined Reassuringly, we shouldn’t be worried ously used on survivors in the US and to the intestines and often indicates that about an epidemic developing in Ameri- death is on the doorstep. If there is no ca. The sole sufferer of Ebola in America improvement within 7 to 16 days, the was Thomas Eric Duncan, a Liberian sufferer will most likely die from multi- national who travelled from Monrovia, ple organ failure. Liberia on 19th September to Dallas, Ebola, along with other viruses like Texas. Prior to travelling to the USA, Mr. the flu are spread virally, making them Duncan helped to transport his friend’s notoriously difficult to prevent and cure. daughter, Marthalene Williams, to hos- Methods of prevention of spreading pital as she was suffering from Ebola. can be washing and sterilising surfaces, Unfortunately they were turned away as regular hand washing and avoiding con- the hospital was full, indicitave of how tact with the infected. Any researchers resources in Africa are being stretched to or doctors working with the virus must the limit. Tragically, along with almost wear sealed pressure suits to avoid in- 3500 other sufferers, Marthalene Wil- fection. Quarantines are usually enforced liams died shortly afterwards. around areas where infection is high. Departing Liberia, Duncan covered Any treatment administered is purely up his exposure to Ebola. He arrived in supportive, this includes management Dallas on the 20th of September and of pain and anxiety, and replacement of stayed with his partner and five children. Flickr ©

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 18 Sport

ADVERTISEMENT HOW WE MAKE DECISIONS Rivals collide for final

So you have an idea for making the Union, University and city of Leeds better for students?

Rhys Stevens 30-12. ACer your idea is submitted, Reps gather student feedback. The idea is then debated at one of three forums Rugby League Having ended their six-year wait for silverware with the League Leader’s After a scintillating 2014 Super Shield last month, the Saints will be League season, this year’s Grand Final hungry to add another trophy to their between League Leader’s Shield win- illustrious collection as they head into

HYDE PARK ners St Helens and reigning champions their first Grand Final for three years.

Y ARK CIT M ET S D E

E L Wigan Warriors is set to be a thrilling Jordan Turner and Adam Swift could encounter at Old Trafford. make the difference for St Helens on The prospect of a fantastically com- Saturday after both were instrumental Better Better Better petitive finale this year is heightened by in the win over the Dragons last week, Union University Leeds the intense rivalry that the Lancastrian whilst James Roby and Paul Wellens Forum Forum Forum neighbours maintain; there is far more at have the pedigree to inspire a young St stake on Saturday than the opportunity Helens side to success. to lift honours. With St Helens Head Coach Nathan The favourites for the clash between Brown announcing he is leaving the the top two sides in this year’s Super club to head back to his native Australia League will be the current holders regardless of the result at Old Traf- Ideas are discussed and voted on by the panel of 16 random students Wigan, who many pundits and fans ford, he and his charges will even more alike are backing to make it back-to- determined to finish his tenure on the back title victories. ultimate high. However, Saints will have Wigan overcame a well-drilled to achieve their objectives without in- Warrington Wolves side by a score of strumental trio Jon Wilkin, Jonny Lomax 16-12 in last Friday’s semi-final to book a and Luke Walsh. Brown told the club place at the Theatre of Dreams. 19-year- website his side are already winners and old winger Joe Burgess displayed a wise believes his charges have no pressure to head on his young shoulders amongst win on Saturday: Above 75% Yes Below 75% Yes/No Above 75% No high drama at the DW as he scored a ‘From a pressure point of view there Idea becomes Every student is asked to Idea fails Union policy vote on the idea try with two minutes left on the clock to isn’t any on us as no-one is expecting set-up the final against their arch-rivals. us to win. A few weeks ago Wigan Burgess has caught the eye of would’ve rubbed their hands to play the England set-up with his stunning us in the Grand Final…. Winning the performances this season. The teenager League Leader’s Shield and reaching the has notched up 17 tries in 20 outings Grand Final, I think my boys are already this season and he could be a key player winners.’ Majority Yes Majority No for the Warriors at the final, amongst Aside from the bookies and pundit’s Idea becomes Idea fails custodians Josh Charnley, Matty Smith predictions, one can be sure that Brown Union policy and the long-serving captain Sean and the Saints will be competitive and O’Loughlin. try as hard as they can for the thou- St Helens cannot be written off sands of fans that will make the short though. The team may have stumbled trip east to Old Trafford. The Student to success in the regular season, with in- Wigan and St Helens showdowns Exec start juries throughout the campaign halting always produce exciting and passionate working on their progress, but they have hit top gear contests, including their last Grand Final the new idea in the play offs. The Saints strolled to meeting in 2010. The stage is set for an- success in their semi-final, defeating a other epic contest to end a great Super strong and plucky Catalan Dragons side League season.

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Sport 19 Fantasy England eye big win in Estonia Nancy Gillen in the squad to replace those injured. The squad for Monday only includes football Football Southampton right-back Nathaniel three forwards as, once again, injuries Clyne has been called up for the first have ruled out established first So far for England, the road to Euro time and will expect playing time team players such as Daniel future? 2016 has been smooth. The Three Lions with Glen Johnson, Kyle Sturridge. However, are currently sitting at the top of Group Walker and John Stones with Danny Welbeck in Peter White E after victories over Switzerland and all out injured. Arsenal’s exemplary form for club Football San Marino, and success against inter- left-back Kieran Gibbs and and country, Wayne Rooney national minnows Estonia on Sunday Swansea’s midfielder Jonjo Shelvey looking to add to his 41 interna- New for the 2014/15 season, Real would cement this position further. have been recalled to the squad tional goals and Rickie Lambert Fantasy Football provides a fresh Thursday’s victory against the and will also hope for some time perhaps hoping to force his way twist on choosing your favourite Pre- joint-lowest ranked international side, on the pitch in an attempt to into the starting 11, there is no mier League squad and battling your San Marino, was expected. Similarly push their way into the squad reason for the available strikers to friends to become the best Manager Estonia, ranked 81st according to Fifa, permanently. underperform. in town. have no noteworthy players to speak Indeed, England man- England should succeed on Sun- The brainchild of a group of of and so are not considered much of a ager Roy Hodgson said in a day. Despite the injuries and changes friends including ex-University of threat, despite their recent 1-0 win over press conference that despite the made, the players still outclass Estonia Leeds student Gareth Curt, RealFF Slovenia. fact he would not be making ‘whole- in every position on the pitch. Any- offers a fantasy football game with a England may therefore use this sale changes’, he would use the game thing less than a win in Tallinn will be more intense season-long rivalry and match to test out some fresh faces, against Estonia ‘as a chance to see seen as a major disappointment. a more realistic opportunity to func- especially with several young players somebody else play’. tion as a real Premier League Boss. Contrary to the traditional game, competitors have completely unique teams which are assembled using the Brilliant Bath set the bar high snake-draft system similar to that used in the NFL. Budgetary con- Chris Chadburn contrasting with Leicester losing three 80miles from their current home, Adams straints are completely disregarded Rugby Union straight matches for the first time in five park). and through 15 pulsating rounds, your seasons and Bath finishing week five by As many people predicted, London 15-man squad is put together based The Aviva Premiership is now five beating Saracens to reach second spot in Welsh have so far struggled. They have on which players you prioritise and rounds in and the early matches have the table. been especially weak defensively, having which players are still available. certainly thrown up plenty of exciting Saracens have been their typical leaked almost 250 points so far. New- Once your side is ready, you will rugby and many shocks. The pre-sea- consistent selves with four wins from castle have only fared slightly better, face weekly head-to-head battles son favourites have looked predictably five; their most resounding coming in securing just one win. with your league counterparts. This strong, whilst the relegation cadidates the form of a battering of Harlequins Stuart Lancaster will be concerned means that the pressure on team have put in some weak performances, on their own patch in week two. Also with the form of scrum-halves Danny selection is rife as you battle to gain but these have been overshadowed by showing good form are Northampton Care and Ben Youngs, as well as the the all-important bragging rights and the suprising results of the early pace- Saints, who have won four and currently injuries to some key players including finish top of the tree. You can make setters. top the league. Manu Tuilagi and Alex Corbisiero. On mid-week changes to your squad Undoubtedly the stars of the sea- Among the mid-table pack, the other hand, Lancaster will be de- and even propose transfers with your son so far have been Bath. Having had Gloucester and Harlequins lighted with the form of all five English rivals, so mind games and tactical huge investment in the club over the last have produced performanc- fly-halves. George Ford will probably awareness are both integral parts of few years it looks like they have finally es that have been both lead the challenge on Owen Farrell’s this exhilarating game. Also, because realised their potential. After leaving sublime and ridiculous, number 10 shirt in the Autumn interna- points are only scored in the head- Welford Road in 2013 some of George Sale began with tionals, but the form of Stephen Myler, to-head games, you can start playing Ford’s performances so far will have two defeats Freddie Burns and Danny Cipriani has RealFF at any point in the Premier broken the hearts of Leicester Tigers before two also caught the eye of the international League season. fans, especially when he orchestrat- wins from rugby world. Despite being a relatively new ed a 45-0 humiliation over his old three, Within the next few weeks we will project, Real Fantasy Football has team at the Rec, the Tigers’ heaviest while London Wasps see the emergence of European rugby already drawn a huge amount of ever defeat. and London Irish have once more and there will be tests for all attention. The company already has Fortunes and performanc- had decent starts with of the English teams as they attempt to over 5,500 followers on twitter and es by the two sides since wins over big boys North- overcome the French and Irish domina- interest is continually growing. To that game could not ampton and Leicester tion of the event in the last few years. find out more information or get be more respectively. After that, all eyes will turn to the inter- involved with this exciting Wasps were the big news- national stage as the Home Nations chal- new venture, visit www. makers this week, announcing lenge the Southern Hemisphere giants for realff.co.uk, the Real Fantasy a controversial move to the Ricoh the last time before the 2015 World Cup. Football page on facebook, or follow Arena in December (a ground over @rffuk on twitter.

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 20 Sport Debate: Should Alan Pardew be sacked? YesNo

Greg Whitaker Freddie DeMelo

A lot can happen in four years, just league’s most likable manager to say the If you think Alan Pardew should be intoning into the perplexed face of Jack ask Alan Pardew. To go from winning least. sacked, then you don’t like football. Yes, Colback warms my heart. Premier League Manager of the Year in It is well documented that sacking his recent record at Newcastle has been An article on Pardew’s merits wouldn’t 2011/12 to having your very own website Pardew could cost the club up to £5 mil- somewhat sketchy, but who really cares be complete without a consideration of called www.sackpardew.com is a fairly lion as he is currently only two years into about results? Football isn’t about win- his misdemeanours. His ‘Controversies’ spectacular fall from grace. So, is Alan an eight year contract, and of course, a ning. Football isn’t even about football. section on Wikipedia is 1/3 of the whole Pardew’s tenure finally coming to an change would not necessarily guarantee Football is about personalities, page. Does any self-respecting football end? Toon fans certainly hope so, but is an upturn in fortune. However, consider questionable decisions, scandals, theatre, fan look back on his headbutt on David this reaction justified? Crystal Palace last season – they were and a healthy dash of hubris to sweeten Meyler with anything but fondness? Well, let’s have a look at the stats. bottom of the league with three points the taste. Pardew is the embodiment of Newcastle United is approaching utter Newcastle currently find themselves in when Ian Holloway stepped down in pure football. He is the tragic hero of the entropy, and to Pardew’s eternal credit he 18th place in the Premier League, with October, yet finished Premier League, maligned by those blind has led by example: pushing referees and just four points from seven games. This the season strongly to the truth. The humbled Edgar to Mike abusing OAPs. poor form has been carried over from in 11th place under Ashley’s Machiavellian Edmund. Has there been a more evocative last season, with Newcastle only hav- Tony Pulis. What I especially love about Pardew sight this season than Pardew at Stoke, ing won one league game in the past Newcastle is how seriously he appears to take his stoically staring, soaking in the lashing 15. Messrs Allardyce and Houghton, United need to job. Whereas, say, Mourinho goes about rain? That is what football is about. That both of whom were sacked as Newcas- bite the bul- his business with a wink and a nudge, is why it is Newcastle United’s duty to tle boss, could boast better records. let and make a Pardew is (hilariously) without humour. In retain his services. For the people’s enter- However, as Newcastle fans will tell change. The sooner a league containing the aforementioned tainment. you, Pardew’s record isn’t the only reason they realise this, Mourinho, Pardew is still the manager What I am trying to say about the club should get rid. His character has the better. suffering the greatest delusion of gran- Pardew has already been said by Win- also been heavily criticised. deur. ston Churchill of Herbert Asquith (al- From verbally abusing He strikes me as a manager who, though I quote without irony): “[Pardew] Manuel Pellegrini, to without irony, recites Kipling’s ‘If’ before a remains sodden, supine, supreme.” And headbutting Hull’s Capital One Cup fourth round tie against long may his reign continue! David MMeeyylleerr,, PaParrddeeww isn’t tthhee Shrewsbury Town. The image of him Rosberg looking for revenge in Russia

Daniel Nixon unpredictability of a new circuit. and with a total of 125 still available as he goes into these final stages of the Formula 1 The spectacular brand new track, there are going to be some serious twists season will be the most he’s experienced built within this year’s Winter Olympic and turns along the way. The middle of during his career to date and it will be Lewis Hamilton’s win in Japan last site, is the cause of much excitement. the pack battle will be as competitive very interesting to see whether he thrives weekend, where he pipped teammate Hermann Tilke, the German track as ever, however Alonso’s recent hints of or falls. Rosberg will be hot on his tail ei- Nico Rosberg to glory, was overshad- designer, has said the circuit is to have leaving Ferrari will have all but ended ther way, meaning the inaugural Russian owed by a serious head injury to Jules a mixture of high speed sections as the teams hope for third position in the Grand Prix will certainly be a memorable Bianchi. The terrible incident came after well as many slower technical areas, all constructors table. one. Bianchi collided with a recovery vehicle of which will test the drivers to their We can all agree that Hamilton cer- In the meantime, The Gryphon in very difficult conditions which forced maximum. tainly has the form going into Sunday’s wishes Jules Bianchi a full and hasty the race to be red flagged. Shortly after Heading into the final four races of race, with three wins in three. recovery. the event Bianchi was lifted to hospi- the 2014 season, the championship still The pressure on the Brit’s tal where he received emergency brain seems to be very much up for shoulders surgery. grabs for either Hamilton In light of the incident, a lot of focus or Rosberg. has been taken away from the forth- Only 10 coming Russian Grand Prix. As teams points and fans arrive in Sochi there will be a separate much more subdued atmosphere than the two would be normally expected with the drivers

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Sport 21 The day The Gryphon gave it a go...

Adam LeRoux skills I soon found out I wasn’t entirely why participation has risen so greatly are a really friendly bunch too, welcom- Handball blessed with. in recent years; the action is end to ing people of all abilities to all sessions. Next came the shooting practice: end and everyone gets a chance to at- If you get the time on a Friday night, After reporting on the first ever Var- something that seems to come natu- tack and defend. sity handball match earlier in the week rally to the first teamers. With a bit of It’s a physical to whet the appetite, it was my time practice I was getting the hang of it; the sport too, mak- to shine on court as I rubbed shoulders goalkeeper actually had to move when I ing defending with those who pushed Beckett so close threw it by the end. Not wanting to miss all the more fun before. out, I even had a stint in goal. I’d played if you ask me. As I walked into the Edge on Friday as hockey goalkeeper before so how hard I may not have evening, whilst most people are prepar- could it be with a ball three times the scored during ing themselves for a wild one at Fruity, I size? The answer – incredibly hard - the the match, but it was expecting a similarly crazy evening ball was but a blur when Captain Ben was definitely a on court. I was not disappointed. The Jackson stepped up to have a go, so great experience opening drills were manic - focusing on back outfield I went. all the same.

Eveie Robinson repetitions. I realised that my extra boost types that pole dancing brings to mind, I I wasn’t suspended upside-down on Vertical Fitness was all thanks to ‘feeling the burn’ three had no idea how strenuous it would be. my first attempt, the small selection days previous, when I’d been suspended We began with a 30-minute strength of moves that I did complete left me As I entered The Edge for a post-li- halfway up a pole. and conditioning session on yoga mats feeling pretty accomplished - if not brary workout on Friday evening, I On Tuesday night I attended a Ver- before we took to the poles. Having slightly worn out. expected nothing more than the usual: tical Fitness Give It A Go session. The watched the Vertical Fitness team glide So I’d like to say thanks to Ver- a vain attempt to burn 300 calories and club is one of LUU’s newest societies, gracefully around them, I was spellbound tical Fitness for giving me a refresh- the sad realisation that my fourth year bringing the art of pole dancing to Mine under the impression that I’d pick up the ing insight into something new. If self can’t handle a week of partying as on Tuesdays and Thursdays every week. moves somewhat effortlessly. anyone wants to get fit and meet comfortably as I did in 2011. The session saw 50 students gather But the irony behind Vertical Fitness new people in a relaxed environ- But this time, my gym session went in the union’s famous Fruity venue to is that it requires sheer strength, power, ment, I’d recommend trying Vertical a little differently. I used heavier weights, give pole-dancing their best shot. While and not to mention practice, to create Fitness as the latest feel-good alter- increased my treadmill speed and I was well aware that Vertical Fitness is something that looks so beautiful, ele- native to slogging it out in the gym. doubled my usual number of press-up about more than just the sultry stereo- gant and controlled on the outside. While

Peter White winners. While those individuals who alongside the raw speed that the karts had been a great day – the session had Karting fancied themselves as the next Lewis possess. The track itself is impressive, given me a brilliant chance to experi- Hamilton started to set their eyes on the with several challenging corners and ence motorsport here at the University of With the promise of the longest trophy and a drive at the BUKC test day, a bridge that got my heart pumping Leeds, while I also met some great peo- indoor circuit in Yorkshire, karts that I started to focus on how not to let my everytime I drove under it. ple in the process. Keep your eyes peeled reach speeds in excess of 45mph and committee-filled team down. Thankfully, I made it through my 30 on the F1 in the next couple of years; a a half hour session to enjoy it all, it is Society President Tom Moore and the minutes without any hiccups, although few more drives and you never know. fair to say I was eagerly anticipating rest of the board worked hard all after- truth be told I wish I could have stayed If anyone of any ability would like to my afternoon with the ever-expanding noon, introducing themselves and mak- on the track. The final stint wrapped up get involved with the Motorsport Society, LUU Motorsport Society at Pole Position ing sure everyone knew what they were the session before the Society head- like the group on facebook (LUU Motor- Indoor Karting. doing. They gave everyone a chance ed off to Bierkeller for a stein or four. sport Society) or e-mail leedsunimotor- The session proved to be extremely to experience Motorsport hands-on; we Everyone who attended agreed that it [email protected]. popular; I was one of approximately 60 were given responsibility for instructing excited students who assembled outside drivers when to pit and what tactics to the Parkinson Building before I enjoyed adopt. meeting some equally keen people dur- Having enjoyed watching some of ing the short taxi journey to the circuit. the immense battles on the track, it was After a quick safety briefing, we finally time for my stint. After a rapid were split up into teams of four and Le Mans style driver change, I was soon were informed that the team with the tearing up the track and getting to quickest time overall would be the grips with the various twists and turns Lucie England-Duce ©

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK 22 Sport Time for sportswomen to be taken seriously Eveie Robinson British Olympic medal-winning gymnast Beth sporting idols making ground-breaking achievements Comment Tweddle became the victim of online abuse in January in women’s sports, like England winning the Women’s when she participated in a twitter Q&A session as part Rugby World Cup or the fact that women won three Having played competitive netball for most of my of a scheme promoting women’s sports, only to be met quarters of the UK medals at the Sochi Winter Olym- adolescent life, I’ve never doubted my freedom to enjoy with derogatory insults such as ‘Are all sportswomen pics, old-fashioned views that competition and physical team sports, regardless of whether they’re perceived lesbians?’ strength belong in a male arena continue to rear their to be ‘masculine’ or ‘feminine’. But as Emma Watson Why is it that women are repeatedly reminded that ugly head. reminded us in her opening #heforshe speech to the their sporting endeavours are inseparable from their Playing sport means different things to different UN recently, some women often feel as though they appearance and their femininity? people. Some relish the opportunity to make friends shouldn’t play particular sports as they fear it will make Despite the fact that there are a multitude of female and invest in a team goal. Others take the opportunity them muscly. to set themselves personal targets and see how far they It’s disheartening yet unsurprising that such archaic can push their mental grit and physical strength. Most views exist when people in positions of responsibility enjoy the powerful endorphin rush that’s released during continue to perpetuate them in the media. strenuous exercise, which brings them back to the net- Sports Minister Helen Grant suggested that the way ball court, football pitch or athletics track - even after to get more women into sports is through feminine ac- the most bitter of defeats. tivities like cheerleading and ballet, which make women To the detractors of women’s sport: stop robbing look ‘absolutely radiant’. women of these worthwhile enjoyments and replac- John Inverdale wrenched the spotlight away from ing them with your ideas about what it means to be Marion Bartoli in July 2013 when she won the Wimble- a woman. The chances are, when sportswomen are at don Singles Final, commenting on BBC Radio that the the peak of their game, sweating buckets, in the zone, inspirational tennis player, who had just reached the determined to win - that’s the moment they’ll be feeling pinnacle of her career, was ‘never going to be a looker’. Chester Chronicle © ‘absolutely radiant’.

Women’s football expecting strong season The 2014/15 BUCS season gets underway next week, and The Gryphon’s Adam LeRoux spoke to Club Captain of the women’s football team Eve Griffiths about the season ahead, and her thoughts on women’s participation in sport.

With BUCS promoting women’s LUU offers so much for sports fans Eve is quick to point out that anyone With enough newcomers to start ten involvement in football this week, Eve on campus, even if competitive sport can join women’s football. ‘All abilities women’s football teams this year, the talked about how the Uni side has is not for you. ‘The University offers are welcome. With three competing new season looks promising. ‘The Fresh- helped try to boost participation num- Intramural and Social Sport sessions BUCS teams and a BUCS futsal team, ers are working well with the older girls bers. ‘This year we have created a to introduce women to new sports and we have plenty to offer. Come along and our level of play is continuing to partnership with Social Sport to promote provide them with confidence to pursue to our autumn Give It a Go session on improve session by session. Their quality futsal. Members of the club run the it further’. Griffiths added: ‘At LUUWAFC Thursday 30th October from 17.00-18.30 and commitment is great to see’. The 1s open sessions and referee intramural we recognise that not everyone wants to at Weetwood Playing Fields. It is a great season kicks off on 15th October against futsal matches. In exchange, Social Sport play competitively week after week, so if session with a big turnout, ranging from Liverpool John Moores University, where and the Sports Development team have people want to join our club recreation- total beginners to those who want to hopefully they can start the season with helped establish the first ever BUCS ally, that’s not a problem. Come along to pick up football again.’ a win. futsal team.’ our sessions and see if you enjoy it.’ Griffiths was also eager to point One issue Eve faced was not having out the huge levels of participation by a local team to play for before Universi- women at the University of Leeds, with ty – an issue that seems to be common over 120 girls signing up for football throughout the UK - so was very keen already this year. ‘That is an incredible to get the chance to start playing again. amount for the club. Female students are ‘Being part of a sports club has been one definitely taking advantage of the vast of the defining highlights of my Uni- array of sports on offer here at Leeds. versity experience and I would definitely There were so many Freshers signing up encourage anyone to give joining a to new sports at the Freshers’ Fair and sports club a go! Not only do you get to the intake of women to sports societies do what you enjoy, you meet people with this year looks very promising.’ similar interests, which is great.’ Sam Broadley ©

THEGRYPHON.CO.UK Sport 23

This week marks BUCS Women’s Football Week; a scheme which aims to increase female participation in football by 3000 at Universities across the UK by February 2015. To mark the occasion, The Gryphon spoke to female athletes who had their say on women in sport.

The Gryphon’s Adam LeRoux caught up with Emily Scarratt and Tamara Taylor of England women’s Rugby World Cup-winning side during Varsity last week to speak about women’s sport.

Emily and Tamara showed off their silverware coverage in the future.’ Both Taylor and Scarratt come across as very during half-time at Headingley, and when asked about Both women were also keen to stress how participa- modest women, with their feet planted firmly on the their victory in Paris back in August, Taylor recounts tion has improved greatly in recent times, with Taylor ground. They understand the issues with the wom- the feeling of finally getting her hands on the trophy. stating, ‘Numbers can always be increased, but even so en’s game, and recognise it is not something that will ‘We hadn’t won the trophy in 20 years, and with it it is a lot better than it was before. London 2012 was be fixed overnight. Scarratt deals with the issue of being my third World Cup there was a feeling of relief, the starting point in the UK for getting women in the investment into the women’s game supremely well, as well as elation. Losing by just three points the time media and therefore people were starting to see that ‘Ultimately, investment and sponsorships will help, once before was terrible, so actually winning this time you can be a female athlete and be successful. Women it is in the media sponsors will invest, and it is difficult around was a huge relief.’ In fact, in the last three have started to realise you can do a whole myriad of to break into the circle initially. It is a long process that World Cups before this year the English side have different sports, it doesn’t matter what it is.’ also needs people like us to promote the success wom- finished runners up each time, so a win was long Scarratt then added, ‘Hopefully our World Cup has en have in sport so people can recognise our success as overdue. done something similar, not on the same scale as the well.’ The issue that blights sport in the modern day is Olympics, but hopefully more people have learnt about One major breakthrough in recent times is the 20 that stars from the men’s game like Owen Farrell and the sport and realise there is another opportunity for women’s rugby players who have turned professional Chris Ashton are household names despite neither hav- them out there.’ in the 7s game. Taylor added that the Olympics have ing tasted international success whereas someone like Things seem promising for women’s sport then, played a big part in the upturn in fortunes, as the Rochelle Clark, who has nearly 100 England caps and although the statistics don’t seem to be backing that funding through the Olympic scheme helps a great a World Cup winners medal to her name, has not been up. The House of Commons’ recently released numbers deal. ‘The 15s is a lot more difficult because of the lack given nearly as much exposure. Scarratt continued: state that twice the number of 18 year old women are of funding; right now we need to focus on building ‘Naturally we don’t get as much coverage as the men’s not taking part in sport at least once a month com- the domestic game for the 15s. That’s the basis for game, but it is shifting and we are starting to get more pared to men. The same report showed 18-25 year everything.’ coverage in the newspapers and on TV. Things like the old women among one of the only groups to show no So victory on the field is just the start for these World Cup, which was shown on Sky, and the success increase in sport participation since 2005, an issue that World Cup winners.The road may be long, but the England have had recently, will encourage more media is trying to be addressed. future is definitely looking bright.

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The Gryphon Who has what interviews How did The Can England it takes to take the successful Gryphon cope at overcome Grand Final England the Motorsport Estonia in glory at Old women's rugby Give it a go? European Trafford? team qualifiers?

Tyron Louw © BUCS is back with a bang • First round of fixtures this Wednesday, including big football derby •Waterpolo teams looking strong after Varsity

Teams to look out for Alex Bowmer BUCS Preview the country. Loughborough have enjoyed November. unmatched success at the event. Since Both the men’s 1st and 2nd football Women’s lacrosse – Achieved the BUCS Overall Championship began teams also came up trumps against Beck- promotion to the BUCS Premier in 2002, they have taken the crown all ett at Varsity and will face each other when League last year, and secured an After the fever pitch atmosphere twelve times. Inter-city rivals Leeds Beckett the season begins on Wednesday. easy win at Varsity at Varsity, it is easy to forget that the new have also fared well, notching up a host Volleyball will also look to the new sea- BUCS (British Universities and Colleg- of top-ten finishes. Uni's conistency has son with optimism. Varsity saw both the Netball 1s – They will face off es Sport) season kicks off in earnest next placed them in the top 20 every year, with men’s and women’s volleyball teams record against Leeds Beckett in the BUCS week. Leeds came a commendable 15th in their golden season being 2002/2003, 3-1 wins against their local rivals last week. Northern Premiership the overall standings last year, with nota- when they finished 11th. Waterpolo are likely to enter the new ble successes in a number of sports. Af- Following their cruel defeat in the Var- campaign with renewed vigour too, after Table tennis – The team includes ter many encouraging displays during last sity showpiece, the rugby union team will both teams posted comfortable victories. Kim Daybell, who was part of Great week’s sporting feast, there are bound to look to make amends when they host The women won 25-18, and despite being Britain’s Paralympic squad for the be lots of teams making their mark in the Loughborough at Weetwood. one of the underdogs in the Premier North London Olympics 2014/2015 season. The women’s badminton 1s will hope division, the result provides a much-needed BUCS is the biggest event of its kind that this result will provide the springboard confidence boost. However, this result was Hockey – Both the men’s 1s and in Europe. In its inaugural year in 1919, for further success and face an away trip to upstaged by the performance of the men’s women’s 1s are BUCS Northern only nine universities came to compete. Loughborough in their opener. The men’s team, who put Beckett to the sword with Premier teams this season. This Since then, the competition has gone from cricket 1s recorded possibly the most em- a superb display. If they can replicate that is the first time this feat has been strength to strength, and now comprises phatic triumph of all last week, and will form this year, silverware could follow. achieved 162 universities and colleges from across go up against Leeds Beckett on Sunday 23