gair rhydd Monday May 5th 2014 | freeword | est.1972 | Issue 1028 Full Varsity coverage Pages 24-36 >>

Solus redevelopment underway page 5

Students’ Union wins Green Impact award page 6

No Chance-llor! Swansea Griff Rhys Jones pulls out of becoming suspend their President page 6 former professor at the University, had During the Court meeting, Professor Katie Evans the members of University Court given Ron Eccles implied that the University News Writer it their approval. Instead, in a confronta- had mislead members of Council by not Cardiff gets £34 million University Court blocked the appoint- tional and highly critical meeting, those stating Sir Martin’s eligibility and will- investment for cancer research ment of Griff Rhys Jones as the next present refused to authorise the appoint- ingness to serve a second term, as had page 16 Cardiff Chancellor, branding the process ment, in part due to the way University been done for the position of Pro-Chan- of selecting him a “disgrace.” Council were not given the option of of- cellor and its incumbent, Sir Donald Wal- Following the controversy resulting fering Sir Martin Evans a second term. ters. from the Court meeting, the Cardiff-born Professor James Whitely, a member When the Vice-Chancellor sought ap- comedian has written to the Vice-Chan- of the University’s two highest deci- proval from Court for the appointment, cellor, to withdraw himself from further sion making bodies, the Council and the Professor Eccles repeated that the way in consideration for the role. Court, told the members present that which Sir Martin Evans had been treated Griff Rhys Jones was put forward as he was not made aware of Sir Martin’s was “a disgrace.” The Vice-Chancellor re- the candidate for the Chancellorship by eligibility for another term. He there- plied by saying, “I’m not disputing that,” University Council but needed final ap- fore supported the motion to return the but that he wanted to move forward. proval to be granted by University Court. matter to Council, citing his belief that He would have replaced Sir Martin Ev- other Council members were most likely ans; a Nobel prize-winning scientist and unaware as well. Continued on page 4 >> 2 VARSITY IN PICTURES Photographs by Taliesin Coombes Monday May 5th 2014 | @mediacsu A note from the editor 3

nd like that, the Eas- someone’s bibliography, where this paper has ever produced. ever mentioned it. EDITOR ter holiday is over. It they’d referenced a story I wrote There are several people that are There is also a week of Union Tom Eden went quickly, didn’t in gair rhydd. There was a fleeting hugely deserving of praise for mak- awards; with the ESLAs, Society it? And for most of moment of pride which was quickly ing this possible. Most obviously is Ball, AU Ball and the Media Awards CO-ORDINATOR you, I can’t imag- replaced with panic; I hope I don’t the team of sport editors. Dave Hoo- - the latter being the most presti- A Elaine Morgan ine it was much of cause whoever it was to fail... son put in a vast number of hours, gious, obviously. a break, with deadlines and exams Although the Easter break has as have Ross and Arthur, despite a Rather unusually, for both my- looming. flown by, so much has happened daunting final year workload. self and gair rhydd, there are some SUB EDITOR I have no doubt that, despite the since we last went to print. It’s at Another massive thank you must things already planned for the fol- Jacob Dirnhuber ever-nearing deadlines, you’ve man- times like this where I realise how go to Taliesin Coombes, who took lowing issue. aged to find hundreds of things fortunate we are to be one of the over 10,000 photos during the day, Excitingly, we have an interview NEWS more worthy of your time than the only weekly student publications so many of which have gone into this with Labour leader Ed Miliband, Ashley Bebbington small matter of essays. that we can report on all that we do. issue. which will be great, especially in Max Eshraghi I remember back to my first For example, the front page I’m sure you’ll agree that the re- the build up to the European elec- Georgia Hamer year, where the Easter period was story about the farcical attempt at sults are spectacular and that the tions. If you can’t wait until then Rowan Whittington a solid stretch of beautiful weather. appointing a new Chancellor hap- 11 pages of coverage pays a worthy for a political fix, then read Gareth I realise that it’s currently hard pened right at the start of the break. tribute to all those involved in the Evans’ column on page 13. It is one to imagine what that feels like; It was picked up by the national year’s sporting showcase. of the best pieces I have ever read in OPINION the dodgy pavements of Cathays media - it is a huge story - but we Another showcase that happened gair rhydd; I highly recommend it! Olivier van den Bent-Kelly splashing water up the back of my have been able to reveal a great deal since we last made a paper was Thank you for reading. I hope Gareth Evans legs every morning a constant re- more, exclusive details. the National Student Television you have a great week. Beth Lyons minder that it’s still not summer. It’s a hugely embarrassing saga Awards. A large group of us at- What that spell of glorious for the University, and I can’t help tended the event at Loughborough COLUMNIST weather meant, was that we had but agree with one member of Uni- University and - excluding the fact Gareth Evans barbecues day after day and that I versity Court who branded the man- I had that awful “L-S, L-S, L-S-U” then had to churn out three essays ner in which it has been handled as song stuck in my head, it was a POLITICS in a day. a disgrace. great weekend. I can’t say I regret it - I think that It certainly isn’t Griff Rhys CUTV’s incredible achieve- Matt Harding was the last time the sun came out Jones’ fault, nor is the incumbent, ments this year were recognised in Wales - but I hope you’re not in a Sir Martin Evans to blame. The as they won the highly commended SCIENCE similar position. University has, quite rightly apolo- Tim Marshall Special Recognition Scott Davies Remember, the box sets and se- gised, and I hope it comes to a suit- award, so congratulations to them. David Mason ries you’ve always wanted to watch able resolution when University Looking ahead to the near future, can wait until summer, as tempting Council come to select another can- a group of gair rhydd & Quench SPORT as it is to choose Malcom Tucker/ didate. If no one else is keen, I sup- editors are also heading to a confer- David Hooson Walter White/Doctor Who ahead of pose I could do it. ence and awards. Both publications Ross Martinovic your dissertation. This issue is the first since Var- are in contention for awards, so if TOM EDEN Arthur Russell On the topic of dissertations, I sity and is therefore crammed with we are successful, you will hear all was recently shown a picture of the most comprehensive coverage about it. If we’re not, then forget I EDITOR VARSITY PHOTOGRAPHER Taliesin Coombes

CONTRIBUTORS Rory Benson Katie Evans get involved Sarah Lee James Griffiths here's still time to write James Smith for gair rhydd before the Monday 5th May Babatunde Valentine end of the year. We have Onabajo 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) Elouise Hobbs three contributor meetings Matthew Hale Tleft, where any student Rebecca Smith can turn up and volunteer Harry Thompson to write stories and articles or pitch Monday 12th May Joe Paley their own ideas. Jon Chapman Shanna Hamilton The meetings, for the rest of the 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) Robert Barraclough year, will be held in the Aneurin Bevan Lisa Childs Tim Fulford Union from 5pm. Tom Bamford If you're fed up with revision and Monday 19th May James Thompson fancy a break, or are free from work, Prashanth Veeranki 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) Stew Hume Write: then come along! Dave Riley e are currently University students. Alex Miarli recruiting for some It's one of the best student papers Dom Booth Eliza Nicholas editor positions for in the country, and that's down to the Steffan Thomas next year. If you incredible effort of all our volunteers. James Ayles are interested in Being involved is undoubtedly one Joe Atkinson W Lauren Davies helping to choose of the best experiences you can have what we publish, editing stories and during your time at uni. Emma Carragher designing the paper, then we would We welcome everyone to be love for you to apply. involved, whatever your course, age For over 40 years and well over or experience. 1000 issues, gair rhydd has been For more information, please head the eyes, ears and voice of Cardiff to CardiffStudentMedia.co.uk/apply Edit:

" WOULD LIKE TO WRITE THIS PUBLIC APOLOGY TO DANIEL PALMER’S PARENTS FOR SQUANDERING THEIR SON’S PRECIOUS TIME DURING AN 8-0 A PROUD PART OF DRUBBING IN A GAME OF TABLE FOOTBALL. HE SHOWED ME HOW THE BEAUTIFUL GAME SHOULD BE PLAYED AND FOR THAT I AM VERY GRATEFUL. CARDIFF STUDENT MEDIA # 4 NEWS University Court veto Griff Rhys Jones’ controversial appointment as chancellor

Chair of Council, John Jeans, ex- concerned.’ no longer seemed appropriate. He then goes on to praise how pressed concerns that not appoint- Having withdrawn his bid for He added that whoever was re- Mr Jones has ‘conducted himself ing Griff Rhys Jones would be the Chancellorship, Mr Jones add- sponsible in predetermining the throughout with exceptional dig- an embarrassing outcome for all ed that ‘I feel that any further as- matter is ‘unfit to remain in office.’ nity, understanding and grace in involved. However, when put to a sociation would only be the subject A University spokesperson apol- the face of extremely tiring cir- vote, it became apparent that this of dispute and that would not be ogised for the handling of the is- cumstances.’ opinion was in the minority, de- good for the Council or the Court sue, adding that it was ‘very sorry The question that remains is spite both Mr Jeans and the Vice- or the University.’ for creating the circumstances that who will next don the Chancel- Chancellor voting for it. With most On April 10th, a mere hour be- led Griff Rhys Jones to step aside. lor’s cap and gown? A University members abstaining, the motion to fore the official ceremony to ap- These events were based solely spokesperson confirmed that, de- send the matter back to Council for point him as Chancellor was due on internal rules and procedures: spite the debacle, Sir Martin Evans reconsideration was easily passed. to take place, Mr Jones was no- our ongoing friendship with Griff has indicated his interest in being When it was clear that the Court tified that the University Court Rhys Jones was never in question.’ re-considered for another term. would not approve the appoint- had refused to issue its approval, In his monthly email to staff, Council will next convene to ment of Mr Jones as Chancellor, blocking his appointment in pro- the Vice-Chancellor has since ac- consider the Chancellor appoint- the Vice-Chancellor threw his fist test over the poor handling of the knowledged that ‘April has been a ment on May 19th, with a Court into his lap. situation. difficult month for the University’, meeting scheduled to follow in due During the discussion Sir Mar- Two days earlier, and despite adding that the Chancellorship is- course to consider the Council’s tin left the room so that his pres- ‘‘ not having been ratified by Court, sue ‘is not yet fully resolved.’ Chancellor nomination. ence would not impair the debate. the University prematurely re- Upon his return to his seat next leased images of Mr Jones dressed to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor in the Chancellor’s cap and gown Griff Rhys Jones’ letter to the Vice-Chancellor: Riordan markedly turned his body to the press. away from Sir Martin and made no Professor Ford has since hinted Dear Vice Chancellor, offering my resignation. I haven’t yet eye contact. at the insensitivity of the Univer- been appointed. But I do not want to One member of Court told gair sity in publicising Mr Jones as Sir Following the recent decision be further considered for this post. I rhydd that the hostility between Martin’s intended replacement be- of the Court of Cardiff University was honoured to be chosen. the two men at this moment was fore the end of his tenure as Chan- to refer the appointment of a new As I said, I felt it would be a “very clear and very awkward.” cellor this summer. Chancellor back to the Council, I can Professor Brian J Ford went on In a letter addressed to the see that going to need a period of my predecessors. But at the moment to make a closing remark that Uni- Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ford reconsideration and re-evaluation. I feel that any further association versity Court has historically been expressed his anger over the de- It may well be that the Council seen as a rubber-stamping body bacle, accusing the University of wants to re-offer the post to the and that would not be good for the but that, after this meeting, every- unduly replacing Sir Martin Ev- incumbent, Sir Martin Evans. Sir Council or the Court or the University. one will remember that the “Court University Court has ans and describing the lack of for- Martin may decide to take it or I hope, thatn in the future, I can does have teeth.” historically been seen as a mal proceedings as ‘inadmissible step aside. I feel, however, that my continue to help Cardiff University Following the controversy sur- rubber-stamping body but conduct.’ presence only makes this a more and if I can be of further service do rounding his near-appointment, He then goes on to describe the complicated process for everyone not hesitate to get in touch. that, after this meeting, concerned. Mr Jones wrote to the Vice-Chan- everyone will remember handling of the new appointment cellor to assure him that whilst he as ‘grossly embarrassing’, argu- I have no wish to cause any further With all best wishes, was ‘honoured to be chosen’ for the that the “Court does have ing that if the appointment of Mr complication. I believe it better that role, he also acknowledges that his teeth.” Jones had been dealt with correct- I should withdraw. I can’t say I am Griff presence ‘only makes this a more ly, the Court may have voted in his complicated process for everyone Professor Brian J Ford favour, but that his appointment This letter, reproduced word-for-word in full, was forwarded to each member of University Court. STRIKE UPDATE: Marking Boycott Postponed After Universities Offer Staff 2% Pay Rise

UCU has decided to ballot mem- that have not been included in the A lecturer at Cardiff Univer- stated: ‘we are grateful for the of- Sarah Lee bers on their views. It is only right overall sum of the Living Wage sity (also a member of the UCU) fer and the recognition our strik- News Writer that they make the ultimate deci- calculations. who wishes to remain anonymous, ing has received. But, we must sion about what happens next.” consider carefully the real value The University and College Union According to the Universities of the offer being made. (UCU) have agreed to postpone the and Colleges Employers Asso- ‘Indeed, it is everybody’s wish planned marking boycott follow- ciation, which negotiates pay on to conclude this year’s negotia- ing an offer to increase next year’s behalf of higher education insti- tions successfully and to draw a salary by two per cent. tutions, its “full and final pay of- line under last year’s dispute once As part of an ongoing dispute fer” is “substantial” and exceeds and for all.’ over a pay offer of one per cent the current rate of inflation as In reality, however, the two per for the current academic year, the measured by the consumer price cent increase may not be enough boycott – due to start on the 28th of index. to satisfy unions, who claim a se- April - has been postponed to the The prime aim of the increasd ries of below-inflation offers have 6th of May to allow for a ballot of is to ‘bring the vast majority of resulted in a 13 per cent pay cut in members. staff in the sector on the lowest real terms since 2009. With a series of strikes held points of the pay scale to rates Employers state that the offer is since October, UCU members be- equivalent to or above the Living ‘at the limits of affordability’, yet lieve that the recent offer for the Wage.’ This being £7.65 (or £8.80 in the ‘valued and hardworking staff 2014-2015 academic year is a tactic London.) deserve to be rewarded.’ to resolve the ongoing dispute fol- However, it has been added that It has been concluded that only lowing last year’s pay offer of one many universities have, in fact, al- five per cent of staff took part in per cent. ready paid in excess of the Living the strike action in October which UCU general secretary Sally Wage – providing generous sick- has led to subsequent actions from Hunt states: “Following this offer, ness, holiday and pension benefits employers. Monday May 5th 2014 NEWS 5

all construction staff on site will nightclub is looking a bit dated.” the nightclub and creating a balco- ning redevelopment of the South Jacob Dirnhuber move to an evening shift to mini- “The idea is to create a space ny space overlooking Senghenydd Wales Miners Museum in Afan For- News Writer mise disruption to students. similar to the third floor lounge Road.” est Park. Some students are actually ex- in terms of ethos and aesthetics The task of demolishing and The builders have faced one un- The controversial redevelopment pected to benefit from the £3m proj- for students to use in the daytime, renovating the existing space is forseen complication in the form of the Students’ Union’s second ect; a group of architecture under- which can be quickly converted being undertaken by CJ Construc- of water damage following the re- floor is well underway, according graduates were commissioned to into a nightclub.” tion, a Port Talbot-based building moval of a section of roof, but the to CUSU’s Director of Operations, provide their input, and as a result, “We’re also increasing the num- company that, despite having not damage is relatively minor and is Ben Eagle. parts of the design “have changed ber of bars, starting a major over- worked with the Students’ Union not expected to significantly delay Speaking to gair rhydd, Mr completely”, according to Paul Ed- haul of the ventilation systems in before, partook in the award-win- construction. Eagle reassured students that the wards, the SU operations manager. redeveloped nightclub will be up “The students have had an im- and running in time for freshers’ pact, yes”, Mr Edwards told gair week. “Everything is on track for rhydd. “The original ideas for the a freshers opening. Currently the new circle bar and the kitchen have demolition has taken place, the ex- changed completely following their isting roof has been removed and suggestions”. the new balcony level is starting to What hasn’t changed is the cen- be built.” terpiece of the design, a vast sky- “We hope to have the shell of light that spans the dancefloor and the venue complete by mid June, is expected to flood the room with at which point a specialist night- natural light during the daytime. club contractor will arrive to fit the “The University are funding this venue out.” project, so anything that makes is In order to minimise the rede- more attractive to students is a pri- velopment’s impact on exams, con- ority for them” said Edwards. struction will stop while exams are “The existing space isn’t fully taking place in the Great Hall, and utilised during the day, and the NUS National Conference: Full coverage

tant than ever before in the year of at its conference. ternative, mainstream political a demo, but the proposers of this Max Eshraghi a general election. “This will alienate many stu- views. We as a movement do not amendment don’t care what this News Editor She shared her vision for “a dents who are involved in UKIP believe NUS should not be margin- demo is for. It’s a demo for demo’s student movement that’s more but also people who hold a differ- alising thousands of students and sake.” The motion failed by 285 Hundreds of delegates from uni- representative than we’ve ever ent view to the handful of students societies across their campuses. votes to 341. versities across the country gath- been. A student movement that at NUS Conference. This is bizarre, pathetic posturing In the wake of University and ered at the NUS National Confer- listens, that campaigns from the “This shows their disregard once again demonstrates how the College Union strikes over pay dis- ence to vote on official NUS policy classroom to the boardroom – on for democracy and disdain for al- NUS lacks focus on the issue that parities among staff, the confer- for the coming year and to elect the streets and in your communi- students really care about: educa- ence passed a motion supporting new senior union officials. ties.” tion.” a 5:1 pay ratio for all university The conference took place from Also elected to full time of- Motions in favour of setting up staff, whereby the highest-paid April 8th to 11th in Liverpool and ficer roles at the conference a legal fund to support arrested employees could not be given a sal- saw the re-election of incumbant were Megan Dunn, Joe Vinson student protesters and for con- ary more than five times higher NUS president Toni Pearce. and Raechel Mattey to the roles trols on police on campuses were than that of the lowest-paid em- Pearce was re-elected in what is of Vice Presidents for Higher also passed. ployees. being described as a landslide vic- Education, Further Education The latter motion sparked de- Hundreds of students and del- tory with 62% of the votes. Pearce and Union Development respec- bate over the #copsoffcampus egates travelled from across the had already served one term in tively. Colum McGuire was also campaign, which advocates a sys- country for the event and many role and was notably the first NUS elected as VP Welfare while Piers tem similar to that in other coun- say they enjoyed the lively atmo- president not to have been to uni- Telemacque was voted VP Society tries, whereby police require the sphere and discussion. versity. A standing ovation met the and Citizenship. permission of both student unions Alex Turner, a student at the announcement of her re-election The first day of the conference and university management be- University of Nottingham, said: and she took to the podium to de- saw motions opposing all fees as- fore they can enter a university “It’s day two and I’m shattered. clare her intentions for the coming sociated with exam resits and the campus. Daniel Cooper, Vice Pres- It’s been fun but I’ve barely slept. year. privatisation of student loans. ident of the University of London Everyone has been so friendly Leading the organisation in the A motion to oppose the politi- Union, said, “In many countries and it’s good to meet so many like- lead up to the 2015 general elec- cal party UKIP attracted the most it’s taken for granted that police minded people.” tion, Pearce also pledged to cam- controversy. Daniel Cooper, speak- ‘We should‘ be do not walk onto campus whenev- Mina Ell, a student at Petra Col- paign for a “new deal for the next ing in favour of the motion, said, alarmed by the rise er they like. NUS should campaign lege, has been in fancy dress for generation”, putting pressure on “We should be alarmed by the of UKIP, a party for laws that police cannot come the conference, dressing as Harry politicians to improve opportuni- rise of UKIP, a party that repre- that represents the onto campus without permission. Potter and as Robin Hood to raise ties for students. She said: “We’re sents the worst of UK society; worst of UK society; In the last year in the majority of money for the charity Mind. She going to focus on the run-up to the racism, xenophobia and a narrow cases police have not acted in stu- said: “It’s my first time here and election and think about how we minded approach that could cut racism, xenophobia dents’ interest, they have made it’s been really fun because I’m in register students to vote. us off from Europe. UKIP voters and a narrow minded students’ life more difficult.” costume and people keep coming “I want to create more jobs and are looking for answers, but UKIP approach that could But some conference attendees up to me to give me a hug and to tackle unpaid internships, as well have no answers. Immigration cut us off from questioned the motion, arguing donate.” as build communities. I also want is not the cause of job losses and Europe. that “police shouldn’t have to go In the final session of the Con- to do more to encourage women in lower wages. Business and poli- UKIP voters are through the student union ev- ference, delegates passed an emer- leadership.” ticians are. Let us tell UKIP that ery time they want to go on cam- gency motion which resolved to She went on to say: “Never let their politics are not welcome in looking for answers, pus”, going on to point out that support the return of teenager anyone tell you that we’re not al- our movement.” but UKIP have victims of harassment in need of Yashika Bageerathi to the UK to ready a fighting, campaigning, However, members of the party no answers... Let police support may not want to go finish her education. The student winning movement.” went on to criticise the decision. us tell UKIP that through their Students’ Union. was at the centre of a highly publi- She went on to remind delegates Jack Duffin, chairman of UKIP’s their politics are There was further controversy cised campaign to prevent her de- of campaign wins ranging from youth wing, Youth Independence, not welcome in our over a proposal for a national portation before her studies were scrapped tuition fees for appren- and one of the four NUS presiden- demonstration, with critics point- finished in the UK and the NUS tices, to saving £350 million of the tial candidates, said, “I am very movement. ing out the lack of clarity over resolved to support her school in student opportunity fund, Pearce disappointed that NUS has voted the aims of such a protest. A del- fundraising for her return and argued that change is more impor- to oppose UKIP on a national level Daniel Cooper egate from Liverpool said, “I love completion of her studies. 6 NEWS

Swansea Students’ Union University of Wales - Trinity President suspended St David workers successfully decades. Max Eshraghi Raja had been the subject of News Editor a story in Aberystwyth Student sue over sex discrimination Swansea University have suspend- Media in March that claimed the ed their Students’ Union President Swansea Students’ Union Presi- Max Eshraghi Zahid Raja. dent was caught in an expenses News Editor A statement released on April 10th scandal and that he was ‘under from the University says that: ‘The investigation.’ It claimed that Raja Maintenance staff at the University trustee board has taken a decision had falsely claimed expenses on a of Wales Trinity St David have suc- to suspend the president pending trip to London. cessfully claimed around £500,000 in the outcome of an investigation. Raja defended himself from crit- compensation from their employers ‘The suspension in this case is icism by saying: “Much like in any after suing for sex discrimination. not a disciplinary act – it is a neu- other Students’ Union of our size, The 23 male staff members tral act designed to protect him, the President doesn’t seek permis- claimed they were paid less than and any complainant until the in- sion to go to conferences [or] take their female co-workers in equiva- vestigation has been completed.’ students where if their interest is lent positions for seven years, with It goes on to add that they have furthered, it benefits the student each employee being underpaid, on advised the President not to com- body. If this were the case, more average, by £4000 a year since 1st municate with students unless au- than half of my time at work would August 2007. As a result they were thorised to do so. The suspension be spent in red tape. I would ques- seeking more than £30,000 each in comes in the wake of a student pe- tion what political motivations lie back payments, as well as future tition which called for a vote of no beneath ‘the Union’ now quizzing wage increases that would keep confidence in Mr Raja. this single trip ahead of a FTO elec- their pay equal to female colleagues After serving a year as Educa- tion where the candidate in ques- in the same job. tion Officer, Mr Raja was elected tion is not an incumbent. It smacks During a hearing, which was held in March 2013 after a landslide of double standards.” in Cardiff on Tuesday April 29th, win with 77% of the vote. This It is not clear whether the offical the University’s legal team said that made him Swansea University’s investigation is related to this inci- they would no longer be contesting While it is disappointing that they A University spokesman said: first black president in over two dent and is ongoing. the claim and agreed to pay out to were required to take it all the way ‘We came to the view that the origi- the claimants and five more men on to tribunal to get such an admis- nal claim presented by staff to the the same pay grade. sion, the acknowledgment that they former Swansea Metropolitan Uni- The University had initially ar- were right all along will be just as versity had due merit and, as a re- gued that the pay difference was enjoyable as the compensation that sult, an appropriate remedy should due to changes to the men’s con- they will receive.” be agreed and actioned. tracts not because of gender. The £500,000 payout is less than ‘The employment tribunal re- However, Peter Wallington QC, the £736,000 the men were initially lated to events that occurred more representing the University, said: expecting. However, Rob Cooze, 50, than seven years ago at the now “In light of the evidence that was a tradesman from Swansea, said dissolved higher education corpo- agreed this morning, I have taken he and his colleagues were elated. ration Swansea Metropolitan Uni- some further instructions from “With all due respect to our new versity and several years before the respondents who concede the employers, Trinity St David, this its merger with the University of [claims of] equal pay was well is completely new to them and is a Wales Trinity Saint David, which founded.” historical issue. I just hope it hasn’t took place in 2013. Paul Doran, the men’s solicitor, soured any relations between us,” ‘The University of Wales Trin- said he expected his clients to share he said. ity Saint David had no involvement a £500,000 payout, “as there are a The group of co-workers are in the decisions that were made by few matters such as interest and the believed to be the biggest group in Swansea Metropolitan University right to an award for ‘injury to feel- Britain claiming sex discrimina- in 2007. This was a complex case ings’ that have been revised in the tion. All were originally employed and we are very disappointed the last couple of days.” by Swansea Metropolitan Univer- new University now has to deal He welcomed the University’s sity, which merged with the Univer- with, in an appropriate manner and decision to drop the case. “I’m ab- sity of Wales Trinity St David in with due care, the consequences of solutely delighted for my clients … August last year. historical decisions.’ Students’ Union wins Green Impact award nised for not only following basic mented within the University. The Rowan Whittington News Editor energy saving tips, but for using best idea will also be awarded £100 initiative and going beyond what and the winner will be announced Cardiff University Students’ is expected. The University par- this month. Union has continued its commit- ticipates in regular initiatives to Helen Dent, VP Welfare has said ment to a sustainable future and reduce energy waste such as the that she would like to “give a huge environmental issues, and has annual ‘Switch Off ’ campaign in thank you to all our staff and stu- been recognised as a Gold standard residences, a ‘Snap It Off ’ project dents who have been involved with Union by the NUS Green Impact encouraging students to report sustainability and community Award. unnecessary lighting, which they projects” and that it is “great to be By completing specific tasks in won this year, and annual Union recognised for our efforts”. a workbook provided by the NUS led sustainability week in No- Following a full environmental Green Impact programme, Cardiff vember. This year’s sustainability audit, Cardiff was rewarded the have shown a strong commitment week saw free bike maintenance Gold Award and Dom Anderson to student-led action. The work- workshops and a debate chaired by NUS Vice President (Society and book offers a framework for staff Griff Rhys Jones. The University Citizenship) has commented that and students to improve the ethi- is also an accredited member of “This has been the biggest year cal and environmental credentials the International Environmental yet and I’ve been so inspired to of their union and is a good start- Management Standard. see the continued dedication to ing point for all University Student Cardiff University’s own Green driving student-led environmen- Unions. Impact Awards encouraged staff tal action this year, and so proud As a Gold Standard Students’ and students to submit energy- of what unions like Cardiff have Ben Eagle, Director of Operations, models the Green Impact award Union, Cardiff have been recog- saving ideas which may be imple- achieved.” Monday May 5th 2014 NEWS 7 Women only gym hours introduced Glass bottles thrown at Heath Park into Cardiff nursery Rowan Whittington ficer 2014-2015) at the AMM which pose a very serious risk to the chil- actions of students, and that any News Editor called for a more Muslim-friendly James Griffiths dren who play there during the day. member of the public could be re- union and more accessible facili- News Writer Recently a broken vodka bottle sponsible. However as the nursery A women’s only gym hour has ties the centre at the Heath have (pictured) was found in their side is based in an area populated heav- been approved for the Cardiff now agreed to run these sessions. Nazareth House Nursery has been garden after having been thrown ily by students, Nazareth House Medical Centre Sports and Social The first sessions will take finding glass bottles in their nurs- over the wall. This resulted in part have said that they would be grate- Club on the Heath Park campus. place this week. Wheeler has ery gardens, the likes of which of the garden being closed off until ful if those who pass by on a night The session is open to all female said of the result that it is “such it was deemed safe to re-open. out do not throw bottles over the students and not just those study- a good example of how we, at the The nursery is situated on the wall onto their property. ing at the Heath Park. Students’ Union, can represent corner of Colum Road and North This decision increases pres- the people we were mandated to, Road, with some children who at- sure on the University gyms to and who present us with problems tend being less than two years old. follow suit, as there has been clear which can later result in positive Misty Ardouin, the nursery support for this move for some change!”. manager, has said in an email time, but Cardiff University Sport She has also stated that she that: ‘We have had many problems have so far made no progress to- hopes that the sessions will be rep- in the past with alcohol bottles be- wards implementing a similar licated in the Cardiff University ing found in the Nursery garden scheme. Sports facilities in order to make and it is usually around this time A petition at the beginning of the Students’ Union more Muslim of year it starts to become more the 2013 academic year called for friendly in line with the new pol- We have had many frequent.’ women’s only slots which led the icy approved at this year’s AMM. problems in the past She went on to highlight how VP Heath Park, Gemma Wheeler, VP Sport & AU President, Edore with alcohol bottles the issue has impacted the daily to lobby both the CMC Sports and Evuarherhe, talking about why being found in the routine of the nursery. ‘Each Social Club and the University the University has been slow to ad- Nursery garden and it is morning we have to do a sweep of Sports facilities teams who both dress the desire for Women’s only usually around this time our outside grounds to check for rejected the idea. gym times, said, “They are send- of year when it becomes things like this. There were also After further call from a con- ing round a survey to gague stu- ‘more frequent. bits of glass found in the same dents’ interest as well as conduct- ‘ sultation in the IV lounge at the area [as the bottle] which, as I’m Heath and mention of women’s ing equality impact assessments. Misty Ardouin sure you can imagine, are very only gym sessions within a motion I’d hope for positive results from Nazareth House hard to find in grass.’ brought forward by Taslima Alam these and that we get women’s Nursery Manager Ardouin did acknowledge that (Black and Ethnic Minorities Of- only sessions in our gyms.” the problem may not be due to the get involved

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Is the UK still a Christian country?

a Christian country. To deny that has advanced over the past century. Babatunde Valentine there is some truth in the Prime James Smith Also Christianity does not af- Onabajo Minister’s comments is to stick Opinion Writer fect modern British politics and Opinion Editor one’s fingers in their ears. Cameron is wrong when he views It is impossible to penetrate into Recently David Cameron claimed the Bible as essential to British It’s a question with as seemingly an the beauty and depth of British that the UK is a Christian coun- life. To see this we only need look obvious answer as whether a trian- history without understanding the try “and we should not be afraid at the debate over same-sex mar- gle has three sides or if all bachelors history and theology of Christian- To deny to say so”. However, the last time I riage. Had the Church of England are male, but that has not prevented ity. Britain is teeming with arte- went to a church service Night at and the Catholic Church got their controversy from brewing over the facts and symbols of Christianity. that there is the Museum had just come out in way the UK would have continued Prime Minister’s assertion that Monuments, statues and medieval some truth the cinema, A Moment Like This by to consent to the discriminatory Britain is a “Christian country.” So parishes all reflect the Christian in the Prime Leona Lewis was number one in the view that gay people do not have does the claim itself have any merit? foundation upon which Britain was Minister’s charts and the word ‘iPhone’ did the same rights as straight people. Consider this: Britain is the only built. Take a walk around Cardiff not exist. My life certainly does not Thankfully the British public took country in the world to reserve a and what do you see? Besides Bute comments is reflect someone living in a Chris- that opportunity to choose equality space for bishops in its legislature. Park are the remains of Blackfriars ‘to‘ stick one’s tian country and what’s more, I am over out-dated tradition, with polls This is reflected in the second and Priory. Tiger Tiger is located on a really glad that’s the case. frequently showing they supported upper house of the UK Parliament street named Greyfriars Road.’This their ears Firstly, I am not the only one the law change. Thus it’s clear that known as the ‘House of Lords,’ with street is so named because the Fran- to be a tad annoyed by Cameron’s political decisions are better when the first and lower being the House ciscan Order of Preachers had a site views on ordinary British people’s they are based on the present situa- of Commons. The House of Lords there and were distinguished by lives. A group of 55 leading public tion and not on views that are over reviews and amends bills (‘draft their grey cloaks. figures, including authors Terry a millennium old. laws’) that are passed on from the Yet we should not accept the Pratchett and Phillip Pullman However, I am not saying Chris- House of Commons. The House of Prime Minister’s comments all publicly spoke out against the tianity is not part of the UK. Par- Lords is made up of 834 seats, 26 of brusquely: There has been a great Prime Minister’s view on everyday ticularly during the holidays Chris- which are reserved for bishops from loss of faith in Christianity. That British life. I believe that like me tian views are evidently within our the Church of England in what is this question is even being asked they were offended by the Prime society. Recently during my family known as the ‘Lords Spiritual.’ at all is indicative of that. Britain’s Minister speaking on their behalf, ‘get together’ for Easter Sunday my Consider something else: That Christian past should not prompt particularly on an area as sensitive Granddad announced that he had the sitting of each Parliament be- us into the complacency. There are as their beliefs. been to church in the morning. gins with a prayer. In the House of many people in Britain today who The UK has changed; we are a Thus despite the decline in Chris- Commons, the Speaker’s Chaplain do not know the Lord’s Prayer. Now diverse group of individuals whose tianity’s role in the UK, it is obvi- (the incumbent being Reverend more than ever an enormous re- own religious views should not be ous that it still has a role in his life, Rose Hudson-Wilkin) invokes the sponsibility has been placed on the overwritten by a politician, acting especially around holidays (though name of God, petitioning that all most devout of Christians to help like a pushy parent who keeps sign- not in my Granny’s since she was sitting members pursue the com- impart the faith and to win back ing us up for tennis lessons. furious that he ruined her lie in). mon good of the nation and not lead what was once known as the ‘Dowry Moreover, to claim the UK is a Therefore it is still a factor that the nation wrongly through ‘love of of Mary.’ Christian country is disrespectful makes up British life, much like power, desire to please or unworthy The year 2014 will be an impor- to all the other beliefs that British Boxing Day football, driving on the ideals.’ A similar gesture occurs in tant juncture in our nation’s history. people have. Over 2 million of us left or a new episode of Sherlock. the House of Lords. This practice On the one hand it has been are Muslim, whilst 800,000 are Hin- However, it is neither our most de- entered into common practice just called the “Year of the Bible” be- dus and in the 2001 census 0.7% of fining factor nor a factor for every- under 450 years ago and has persist- cause of the number of movies be- the respondents declared they were one. ed ever since. ing released with allusions to bibli- Jedi. I personally am a member of David Cameron’s view on British Consider one final thing: That cal epics such as Noah. The last time the ‘Church of Whiskeyanity’ and society is clearly a misunderstand- the Queen is a religious figure. On the other hand there is the I went to a usually pray for the return of the ing on his part. As part of our Plu- She is the Supreme Governor of New Atheist movement with an in- Lash. ral society it is right that he can be the Church of England, and her satiable thirst for the soul of this Church ser- Additionally 16% of the popula- a practicing Christian. However, it Coronation Oath required that she country to its alien paradigm. I hope tion claim they belong to no reli- is wrong for him to claim that we all promises to preserve the ‘worship, that this article shows why Britain the Museum’ gion at all. Without question the UK share similar views since the UK is discipline and government’ of the is fundamentally a Christian coun- had just is a pluralistic nation with many such a diverse place with many dif- established church. try and why a revival of faith is ‘come out in different faiths and views forming ferent faiths. Also, his silence on These are just the facts. They all needed to stay true to our religious ‘ its makeup. This is something to be the Solus renovation issue has re- invariably point to Britain being and cultural heritage. the cinema proud of as it shows how far the UK ally put me off him. 10 OPINION Social media has weakened the power of newspapers After a cynical Daily Mail article about food banks inspired an internet campaign that raised over £100,000, Opinion writer Elouise Hobbs asks, has social media become the true gauge of public opinion?

he Mail on Sunday’s stories. Furthermore, the article tions. Leading up to election day log on daily. Realistically, numbers as Facebook and Google because attempted expose on the condemned the volunteers as 1992, the newspaper ran a cam- do not lie; social media is able to they recognise the potential and Trussell Trust (a food incompetent, rather than caring paign against Labour leader Neil reach a lot more people and enables power of social media. Traditional TBank Charity) showed and compassionate. Kinnock. The notorious headline them to express their personal forms of media are struggling to how apparent After a backlash on social ‘It’s The Sun Wot Won It’, appeared views. keep up with the personal form of scroungers were flouting the media, most prominently Twitter, after the newspaper surprisingly Furthermore, it has had a great communication on Twitter and Trust’s ‘9 visits’ rule to stock up on the Trussell’s Just Giving page backed the Conservatives in who effect on conversations about poli- blog feeds. Social media has had a food. Undercover reporters visited now stands at over £107,000. A mas- consequently claimed a narrow tics, most notably voter turnout massive impact on how we per- the banks and were given food par- sive and unprecedented surge in victory. Of course, the newspapers’ and participation. It has affected ceive and receive news as it has cels without proper ID checks. donations over just one week mir- affect on voters’ final choice is young people’s political awareness, made it more interactive. We no However, this article did not rors the public’s reaction to the unclear and can never be mea- as shown in the 2012 American longer just read the news; we receive the intended response of article. Social media made people sured exactly, but the change in election, where more university become the news and the journal- outrage. Readers were left feeling more aware and made discussion opinion polls and the final result aged people voted than in any ists that report it. The difference shocked by the seemingly inhu- of it easier online. This demon- of the election cannot be ignored. other election and the massive between print newspapers and mane attitude of both the govern- strates how social media is more However, that was over twenty twitter campaign ‘use it or lose it’ social media is that one can only ment and The Mail on Sunday’s effective at reaching the general years ago and before the concep- encouraging people to vote cannot report on news after the event report which seemed apathetic, public and more reactionary to tion of social media sites. In the be ignored either. whereas the other is an instant condemning everyone who used breaking and constantly changing 1990s The Sun circulation was con- There are also many other prob- report on the news, that becomes a the food bank as fraudsters. The news. This is not only a question sistently over 4.5 million but now lems with newspapers. For conversation as the true story story lacked promoting how the of investigative journalism in our only manages to tip 2 million. The instance what happens when the emerges. food bank had actually helped country but also the seemingly readership of its physical paper publishers of the newspapers are In some ways, social media local communities and as the larg- diminishing power of newspapers has decreased by over half. The the people who you are fighting seems to isolate us from the real est food bank charity in the coun- in comparison to social media. top five newspapers in the UK com- against? The recent uprising in the world as we walk around with our try, there are countless In the past, The Sun has claimed bined have a print and online read- Arab Springs was mainly played eyes fixed on our technology, but in success to be a major factor in contributing ership of 46 million. On the other out and organised through social some cases, such as this one, it to who won the general elec- hand, Facebook, which has only media allowing it to become the actually brings us closer together been around for a decade, has over voice of the people and enemy of and makes us aware of other peo- 1.2 billion members and 750 the state. Furthermore, countries ple’s troubles and the issues with- million users such as China, Syria and Iran have in our own society. It seems social a partial or full block on social media, still in its infancy, is emerg- media sites such ing as the new way to voice opin- ions, read news and understand the world that we live in. Monday May 5th 2014 | @gairrhyddop OPINION 11

dents in line is to hit their nearly You could even include the capa- day administrative and operation- go to charity that helps underprivi- Matthew Hale empty pockets. Furthermore, I bility to renew in the app itself, al cost of running the university. leged children learn to read. Some Opinion Writer haven’t even mentioned yet that making the whole process far more Given the millions ploughed of the money could even help the only person responsible for straightforward. Alternatively, stu- into redevelopment and building develop a real life ‘Rememberall’, Since 2010, Cardiff University has ensuring punctual return of books dents regularly receive texts noti- works across the campus it is clear which would be invaluable for stu- charged a staggering £1,472,692 in is the student. fying them when a lecture has been that the University is not short of a dents and also tremendous for a library fines. Whilst the amount Having said this, I think the cancelled, this service could sim- bob or two. If Information Services game of catch. actually collected stands closer to amount the Library charges is too ply be expanded to cover looming were to no longer receive this You obviously can’t have a £800,000, this remains an obscene much. Worse than this is how fines due dates. However call me cynical money, I doubt it would be affected library without fines. There would amount of money that seems to hit can accumulate at rapid pace, par- but I can’t see the University rush- in the slightest. I have a strong sus- be anarchy! Barricades reminiscent students far more than it benefits ticularly when you have many ing to implement any system like picion that this money is just sur- of the French Revolution would be the University. Speaking as a dis- books out at any one time. One day this. plus cash that the University is erected inside the ASSL with stu- gruntled second year, I have helped loans for example set you back a It’s not just the severity of the throwing at boring procedures dents desperately clinging to their more than most to swell the library pound for everyday they are over- fines that I object to, but also what because they don’t really know overdue books. Librarians would coffers with my hard loaned cash. due. Having a few of these out actually happens to our sorely what to do with it. look on in horror, helpless, with no Nevertheless, this piece will be the simultaneously plus ordinary missed money. At present, the I for one would be less inclined sanctions available to facilitate the epitome of journalistic objectivity. books can mean a hefty penalty money serves no real purpose and to wake up in a cold sweat if I knew return of the books. Yet, fines are (For the most part). should you take your eye off the is swallowed up in the excitably that the fines I had paid were going hitting students far more than is Librarians are nice people, ball for a few days. It must be said titled ‘Information Services bud- to something more meaningful. necessary and the money collected always happy to help whatever the that keeping track of library book get’. Ostensibly this means that Perhaps a naïve suggestion but doesn’t even serve a significant pur- issue, be it assisting the distressed deadlines isn’t that high on the our fines contribute to the every- even just part of the money could pose. A balance needs to be struck. disoriented fresher attempting to average student’s list of priorities. scale the electronic gate or sym- Circumstances arise that make you pathising with a third year who forget all about due dates - for has just deleted their dissertation. example, I myself have been known They obviously don’t set out to to be out of action for up to two cause students harm. The reason days following a football social. why the fines haven’t been collect- Fines should be in place, but the ed in their entirety is because of severity should be considerably librarians taking pity on students reduced and taking into account extenuat- I also think the University ing circumstances or hysterical should be attempting to implement tantrums. a more effective reminding system. Library fines are undoubtedly a At present, an email is sent to a necessity for ensuring the smooth student’s university account, but running of any library and enforc- only after they have exceeded the ing considerate library etiquette. due date. In these days of techno- On numerous occasions I have logical wonderment it is hardly wished Game of Thrones style tor- beyond feasible to develop an app ture on people who have kept books that sends you ‘push notifications’ that I have reserved days past the the day before a book is due. A stu- deadline. Shame on them! dent is far more likely to check Punishments are needed and by far their phone regularly than their the most effective way to keep stu- university email account. What would you rather be doing than essays & revision? vox pop

As the old saying goes, give a billion monkeys a billion type- qualified, lost and depressed? Wandering the streets waving which you go to Woodville Fish Bar and simply eat there. writers and they won’t type a word until deadline night. For a laminated piece of card that millions of more-qualified And finally, number ten is: ‘Worm Collector’ which involves anyone wanting to see such a sight visit the ASSL – it really people also possess, asking yourself when on earth reality cleaning George Osborne’s soul every morning with a pneu- is quite inspiring. It’s like an internment camp for the dis- decided to wake you and why you didn’t set an alarm. matic drill. organised. Never fear, there are weird jobs that don’t require a de- On second thoughts, I better crack on. It is in these adrenalin and caffeine fuelled deadline gree- I just looked them up. Number one is: ‘Vomit Collector’. So we asked the students of Cardiff what they’d rather be drives that many of us ask ourselves, why are we here? At Presumably you’re responsible for cleaning up the House of doing instead of their essays and revision. As always, the an- the end of it all aren’t we just going to be overweight, under- Commons after PMQ’s. Number nine is: ‘Pet Food Tester’ in swers were both ‘unique’ and ‘interesting’…

“Sending more of UKIP’s racist flyers back to them via FreePost” – Jess “In a hot tub with beer and a lot of meat” – Cari Davies “I would rather be making gair rhydd. Oh no wait, I am.” – Dave Hooson, Sport Editor (Fair play, you’ve made a great choice - Ed.) “I would rather swallow barbed wire, pull it out my other end and floss myself to death that con- tinue writing this poxxy dissertation” –Barney Willis “Flyering for UKIP” – Jon Chapman “Getting naked, covering myself in Vaseline, and living out the rest of my days as a slug” – Sam Lloyd “Earning coin” - Matt Harding, Politics Editor. (He means ‘money’, for those of you unfamiliar with the gair rhydd dialect - Ed.) “Sitting in the media office, gathering vox pops and earning 20k for the privilege.” - Jimbly Shappington. “Watching videos of cute cats on YouTube” - Jacob Dirnhuber DELIVERING 5AM UNTIL

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ou have a Rich Tea biscuit - a but they’re only a tiny majority. Their con- very rich one at that. You stant reiteration that they’re not racist is the break it into three pieces and equivalent of me repeatedly telling passers- align them on the middle of by that I absolutely one hundred percent do the table. To the left is not have an erection. It doesn’t matter how YLabour, to the right is the many times you say it, people are still going Conservatives, and the Lib to back away and brand you moderately Dems are the piece you’ve dropped on the insane. Quite frankly I couldn’t live with floor. On the table is a crumb from last week’s myself if I voted for this women-hating fruit cake – that’s UKIP. And you see that pea (they’ve pledged to scrap maternity pay), big- at the back of the cupboard? That’s the oted (Farage aims to defend the “white work- Green Party. Welcome to British politics. ing-class”) triple-distilled version of the You see, nobody really likes Rich Teas. Conservative Party. They’re bland and only eaten when there’s Then again Nigel Farage did describe their no better alternative. If I wanted to take my last manifesto as ‘drivel’ – showing that he analogy further, and I absolutely do, I’d say hasn’t quite grasped the idea of party politics the dog’s just licked the Tory piece. Now yet. The manifesto in question featured such there’s only one bloody option. To be honest policies as reinstating the cane and forcing I’d rather go hungry, but I should really eat all taxi drivers to wear a uniform. the tasteless Labour bit as wars have been I get the impression that if Nigel Farage fought and lives have been lost for my right was the next Doctor Who, he’d simply take to do this. Eurgh! the tardis back to 1935 and stay there. As for So that’s how Ed Miliband – a man who his desire to repeal the smoking ban, that’s looks like a Play-Dough incarnation of his totally understandable. It seems that you’re brother – will become Prime Minister next banned from exhaling toxic, carcinogenic, year. Somehow he’s the best we’ve got to offer fumes in so many places these days - which which is a tragic state of affairs indeed. Let’s means that he shouldn’t even be allowed to be clear, it’s not like his party have been speak. faced with a difficult task since 2010. Labour be like replacing the builder who destroyed ism is ‘preposterous’ – Gove! – that’s like You may have noted that I’ve skipped the has had the enviable job of opposing the your house with the one who knocked your Rebekah Brooks complaining about you Lib Dems; and with good reason. There’s lit- most incompetent government since, well, garage down the week before. The Labour looking at her text messages. tle point even mentioning a party that lost a the last one. This coalition have handed them Party is still firmly pro-austerity, still gov- I know what you’re thinking, who would recent by-election to the ‘Bus-Pass Elvis opportunity after opportunity – the bedroom erned by out-of-touch millionaires and still vote for these numb-arsed twonks anyway? Party’. So apologies for that, or in the words tax, tuition fees, the ‘Beer and Bingo’ farce– responsible for much of the economic crash. Well modern Tory voters are either anything of Clegg, I’m so sorry, sorry, sorry. Sorry. On and they have failed to take any of them suf- Taking the sledgehammer out of Cameron’s but modern themselves or, what I like to call, the subject of the Lib Dems, it’s difficult not ficiently, if at all. hands and giving it to Miliband may seem hereditary Tories. That is to say they’ve to notice a chasm in the political language In fact I imagine if the Labour Party were ideal – however just remember that there’s inherited this disease from Mummy or Daddy. that surrounds us. That is, where is the to visit a sushi restaurant they would simply more than one way to knock down a building, Interestingly, it’s a disease that the NHS appeal to young people? sit and stare as plate after delicious plate or in this case, a counrty. doesn’t bother treating as 100% of sufferers travelled by. Their supporters urging them to That said they couldn’t do much worse. receive private healthcare. The only known “Stick the knife in!” as they vacantly exam- Today’s Conservative party is little more cure is a 100mg dose of reality – however It’s not the youth that don’t ine the napkins – possibly switching seats than a self-serving gentlemen’s club propped most cases ultimately prove terminal. (Tory care about politics; it’s and branding it an important reshuffle in the up by profit-obsessed, corporate, money- Research UK would humbly welcome dona- meantime. I mean, if they can fail so badly at men, selfish bigots and those who are yet to tions by the way). Quite simply, there is no politicians that don’t care opposing this calamitous coalition, how on feel the warming touch of love. reason to vote Tory if any of the following about us earth can we expect them to lead? I mean, they haven’t even bothered veiling apply to you: You’re under-65, you earn less their relentless and depraved campaign than £150,000 a year, you live outside of the Contrary to popular opinion it’s not the Choosing who to vote for against our most vulnerable. Since 2010 South-East, you’re a woman, you’re disabled, youth that don’t care about politics; it’s the youth unemployment has tripled. Food bank or you have any semblance of a conscience. I politicians that don’t care about us. The tui- next year is like choosing reliance has tripled. Malnutrition cases in think you get my point. tion-fee farce would be reason enough to kill your method of execution. England have doubled. The disparity in As a side note, during their time in govern- my generation’s trust in politicians. Combine Just show me the least wealth has become a gulf and the scapegoat- ment the Tories main catchphrase has this with the scrapping of the EMA, with ing of immigrants, the unemployed and disa- become ‘after we inherited the mess that the housing-benefit cuts for under-25’s and with a painful option and I’ll tick bled people has gone from chimney puff to a last government left us’. This grates on me. relentless attack on welfare support and it’s it reluctantly. full on X-Factor style smokescreen. The general public are fully aware that mis- not difficult to see why we’re angry. It is a With this in mind, what does Boris takes have been made on both sides and as a damning indictment of political parties that Furthermore, Labour have drifted from Johnson say the centrepiece of their next result this catchphrase received a universal they focus their efforts in places, such as the their initial aims to such an extent that they manifesto is going to be? That’s right, tax groan on Question Time recently. elderly, that will yield the greatest number of can now do little more than stare back at the cuts for those earning more than £150,000 a You see, people are sick of watching the votes. I begrudgingly accept that achieving tremendous legacies of Benn and Bevan and year. It’s just all too predictable. Then again aloof and alike squabble over who is/was/ power is now more import than applying ponder: what on earth went wrong? (Answer: what can you expect from a cabinet whose will be the worst. We are all too aware that principals to our political class – just don’t Blair). The differences between the major combined wealth is £70 million? economically things are grim. So rather than brand us apathetic as a result. parties have now become so minute that Furthermore, despite the fact that only seven arguing over why this is, rather than playing So, in many ways, choosing who to vote for Professor Brian Cox should be appointed to per cent of British children are privately perpetual pass-the-parcel with responsibility, is like choosing your method of execution. try and identify the infamous ‘Separator educated, the majority of the Cabinet (and offer policies and solutions to the electorate Just show me the least painful option and I’ll Particle’. It seems that for most of us, watch- Shadow Cabinet) went to fee-paying schools. who you expect to vote for you. This partisan tick it reluctantly. After the lies and the bro- ing the main political parties squabble is no Only four out of twenty are female and only prodding simply heightens disillusionment ken promises of this government, after the different than the eternal battle between the one belongs to a minority group. and achieves nothing at all. errors and the blunders of the last, it’s diffi- kebab restaurants on City Road. There are It’s nice to see that we’re represented by a I suppose this is the moment where certain cult to feel anything but disillusionment and endless leaflets, trivial differences and an broad cross section of our peers and not a people will direct my attention outside of the cynicism for a political class that seems ultimate feeling that you’d rather avoid them select group of privileged twonks with major parties. The primary example being increasingly unrepresentative of the society all. numb arses and vertigo from sitting on soci- UKIP: the party which are most certainly not that they supposedly serve. As a result, my However, many will chose to vote Labour ety’s highest rung for too long. Even Michael racist. Did you catch that? Not racist. NOT view is less Green Party and more Green Day solely as a result of Tory failures. This would Gove has said that the current level of elit- racists. I mean, yes, there are some racists – – just wake me up when it bloody ends. 14 POLITICS European elections: UKIP blunders not affecting polls

dealing with. A UKIP candidate Matt Harding for local elections, William Hen- Politics Editor wood was embroiled in conver- Over the Easter period, sation on Twitter when the co- UKIP have suffered what would median Lenny Henry came up. usually be election damming Henwood spoke of Henry only blunders, however the various to say “He should emigrate to a events which have caused much black country.” Not great work Rebecca Smith public outrage, do not appear for the party whose leader con- PMQ Columnist to have affected the party’s na- stantly defends it as a non-rac- Tempers were high and patience tional polling. Sources are sug- ist party. was low in the house today as the gesting that the party standing Following this various com- Speaker and even the members for independence from Europe mentators have noticed a dis- themselves began calling for are flying high at the top of the tinct similarity between the order as questions were unable polls, with numbers coming out posters, the jargon and the to properly heard or answered. of the South West as high as speeches, used by both UKIP The chancellor’s recent 44%. This has led many critics and the BNP. Lord Oakeshott, pledge to create full employment to question how these numbers a Liberal Democrat peer went has been ongoing for the past ricans should kill themselves, gained attention as the Prime can be so high, when UKIP have further and called UKIP “BNP weeks continuously. Farage has and a party official said ‘cash- Minister declared that we are spent much of the last month in blazers.” This is again dam- accused the leaders of the other strapped Moslems should have currently enjoying one of the inadvertently ruining their po- ming, and when combined with parties of running a smear cam- multiple wives.’ Where David highest employment rates in our litical credibility. Could it be accusations by the leader of the paign against him after being Challice, a UKIP official and history. He continued by saying that middle class Britain has BNP, that many of the posters accused of misusing his expens- activist in the West Country, this highlights the importance just had enough of the 3 parties were “Shameless rip-offs” of es. He is accused of using £17,000 mocked Islamic law and at- of sticking to a plan which and fancies shaking things up a their own, it does begin to cast running his 620 square foot con- tacked ‘the lunacy of multi- works as no Labour Government little bit, or is it that Nigel ‘Man a shadow over the party’s cred- stituency office in West Sussex culturalism’ in a local Exeter has ever left office with lower of the People’ has just got that ibility. despite an arrangement that al- newspaper, and finally the point unemployment than when he winning charm which every pol- The really major issue that lowed him to use the premises made by Andre Lampitt’s, which entered. itician dreams of. has appeared for Farage over rent-free. The reason for the claimed that Ed Miliband is ‘not Mr. Miliband attacked the The Easter began for UKIP the Easter period are the ongo- high expense (according to Far- a real Brit’ and was “only born Prime Minister on the “fiasco” with the type of scandal they ing allegations regarding MEP age) is that £3000 was spent on here,” although in fairness this of the Royal Mail sell-off at 330 are becoming accustomed to expenses. This is an area which electricity. In addition to this, point did earn him a suspension pence per share when it was it has come to light that UKIP from the party. currently on the market at 563 have spent more than £70,000 With all these points consid- pence, using the neat cultural on office costs since July 2009. ered, it is incredibly difficult to reference of, “Not so much the When pushed further about imagine how UKIP can succeed wolf of Wall Street, more the other claims Farage has made in this month’s European Elec- dunce of Downing Street”. Mr he responded by saying, “As a tion. However, whether it be be- Cameron fought back by saying party we’ve been expecting this; cause people are willing to ac- that taxpayers are now two UKIP is doing well in the polls cept this kind of behaviour from billion pounds better off since and posing a threat to the es- a party which promises them the sale and that he refuses to take tablishment status quo.” Again, ‘salvation’ from the evil Euro- any economic advice from the this should be an event which is pean Union, or whether people “two muppets” of Ed Miliband politically damming for Farage, genuinely think this kind of be- and Balls, to great shouts from when considering the mass exo- haviour is acceptable, I think the Conservative benches. The dus from the commons when the the point made by an anony- uproar caused the Speaker to expenses scandal hit in 2009. mous 10 Downing Street source dramatically call for order and These examples are just a sums up the mindset needed the “sooner the juveniles can selection of the behaviour of to cross UKIP’s box later this grow up, the better.” UKIP members around the UK. month: Voting UKIP in the Euro Once again the record of the When further considered, we elections on May 22 is like “bad NHS in Wales came under attack Nigel Farage has become the focal point of the EU elections coverage find examples where the star behaviour on your stag night, with Mr. Cameron describing of a UKIP TV ad was suspended before you settle down and be- it as “a scandal entirely the for saying Islam is evil and Af- have responsibly.” responsibility of the Labour Government” as they have failed to meet an A & E target since 2009 after they cut spending by 8%. He Execution proceedure un- Thailand to hold re-election then called for Mr. Miliband to der review in Oklahoma Politics Thailand has announced that it will hold a fresh election, af- get a hold of the First Minister ter the Constitutional Court invalidated its 2 February poll last in Wales and tell him to start month. investing. Clayton Lockett’s execution The new polls will be conducted on 20 July, in an agreement Just as questions were coming was stopped after 20 minutes reached between the Election Commission (EC) and the prime to a close, one honourable on Tuesday evening minister, officials said. member began to question the Officials say one of his veins PM Yingluck Shinawatra called the snap election in February Prime Minister on any plans to ruptured, pre- amid major anti-government protests in Bangkok. reform higher education fees venting the in order to make the system Iraq goes to the polls despite unrest drugs from work for students, universities taking The country votes in its first parliamentary elec- and the country as a whole. Mr. full effect. tions since US troops withdrew three years Cameron then attempted to He died a ago. defend his position by saying the while later Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is hoping to fees have not put people from low after suf- win a third term in office amid a growing income backgrounds off going World fering a insurgency in the west of the country. to university and that in June heart at- Iraq is experiencing its worst unrest 2010 the opposition considered tack since 2008, with 160 people killed in the bringing in a Graduate tax in past week alone. order to replace upfront fees. Monday May 5th 2014| @GairRhydd_Pol POLITICS 15 Ukraine: turmoil continues With the situation declining over the past month Politics writer Jon Chapman looks back at the events of the Easter period and discusses their implications

wenty-one prominent ous civil liberties that are slowly be- growing military presence around moment. But this conflict does not Russian officials sanc- ing eroded. No, what is happening is the fringes of Eastern Europe by seem to have a natural end, like tioned, four major com- almost a denial by the Western pow- the major global powers. Cold War Russia’s invasion of South Ossetia Tpanies, and a partridge ers that this situation could turn paradigms were unthinkable when in 2008. There is too much at stake. in a pear tree? Ok, maybe into a war. The mayor of Kharkiv Yanukovych fled the country in And whilst political relationships just the former. was shot last week. Ukrainian se- February; nobody wanted to cause are being tried and tested and ana- In the last month we have seen curity forces killed three ‘terror- a sensation after all. Now, with po- lysed to death in vain attempts to Harry Thompson events in Ukraine, in particular ists’ in Slovyansk the week before lemical ultimatums from both Rus- figure out where this conflict is go- FMQ Columnist the east of the country, descend (more if you’re an acolyte of Rus- sia and the EU/US being bandied ing, the east of Ukraine is engulfed First Minister’s Questions was into turmoil. This appropriation is sia Today). Every day either armed about in a hope that one party will by what appears to be anarchy. this week kicked off by Tory not merely limited to Western at- pro-Russian protestors take control back down, and military shows of Whether it is the prevention of such leader Andrew RT Davies, he tempts to frame the situation. Both of key buildings, declare republics, strength teetering on becoming re- anarchy that governments are keen pointed out that at the recent the Russian political establishment are ousted by Ukrainian army or ality, we have to ask the question; on, or the instillation of democracy Welsh Labour conference, the and their media have been quick to mourn their dead. Meanwhile, the how badly does each side want to is unclear. What is painfully overt First Minister Carwyn Jones condemn the violence in places like US and EU decries Putin for reneg- prove that it’s in the right? Words though is the insistence by all in- said that more could have been Donetsk. However, what was true ing on the Geneva agreement made like legitimacy, invasion and con- volved that their particular brand done on NHS waiting times. at the start of the “conflict” is true in the last few weeks that Russia sequences are rife in mediated dis- of democracy remains triumphant, He also claimed that Jones had now-these characterisations don’t would do all it could to dissuade course regarding Ukraine at the whatever the cost. similar things to say about seem to be borne out of any genuine the protestors in eastern Ukraine. the education system. He then concern for the people, the civilians Sergei Lavrov, the Russian Foreign questioned whether Jones caught up in both armed incursions Minister, repeats Putin’s words knew that he and the Labour by Russian Special Forces (or men that they will not violate Ukraine’s party had been in government masquerading as Russian soldiers sovereignty, whilst simultaneously for 15 years. The First Minister who are pretending not to be Rus- saying that if Ukraine kills its own responded by saying that it was sian soldiers-yep, me neither) and people, then there will be serious important to be open about the a wider scale propaganda war be- consequences. NATO troops land challenges public services face. ing waged by both sides. Of course, in Poland for exercises, and Russia He also brought back his line the incessant political superficial- continues amassing troops on its from Labour conference about ity needs to be sorted out by Putin, border with Ukraine. And to top it the Tory ‘War on Wales’. The Obama, Merkel etc. But with both all off, those terrifying sanctions Welsh Government tradition- the US and EU and Russia all claim- that the US and EU wave like live ally has little interest from the ing that the violence and unrest is grenades are being revised weekly. London media, but recently the being perpetrated by pro-Russians, You can’t doubt their effect. Russian Conservatives nationally have or specially-trained civilian sol- share prices have taken a battering pushed it onto the agenda, at- diers, or solely the Ukrainian army, in the last few weeks, and with more tempting to paint Wales as a yet all sticking to their guns with and more companies being added nightmarish dystopia that the catcalls that the Ukrainian people to the blacklist, it seems as though whole of the UK would become are at the heart of their stubborn- economic pressure has the capacity if Labour wins the 2015 elec- ness, the actual ‘war’ being fought to strangle Russia into submission. tion. Jones has claimed this is being swept under the rug. I would be inclined to believe this, goes further than scrutiny of Not literally, of course. The if it weren’t for the fact that these the government, as papers have world’s media are making sure negotiations, that we have been told Fighting in Kiev continues as EU sanctions are placed against Russia attacked Wales as a whole, even we’re informed daily about the vari- are ‘ongoing’, are paralleled by a claiming the Welsh language may be to blame for supposedly poor public services. Davies ac- cused him of trying to detract Evans cleared for Commons from legitimate scrutiny of a failing government and public services. Joe Paley Westminster which are set to be anonymity involved with sexual who are accused – it’s not just Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Politics Writer a thing of the past, Evans took offences in court: if you’re a celebrity, it could be Wood took the same line as the opportunity to question the Evans said: “The people who anybody – they are not, their names the Conservatives, attacking Conservative MP Nigel Evans judicial system by calling for an bring allegations have anonymity are out there immediately.” the Welsh NHS. She claimed a returned to parliamentary duties investigation into the levels of for the rest of their lives, yet those One of the primary reasons for Labour AM had been banned last week after being cleared of Evans’s dissatisfaction is the fact from giving evidence against sexual offences in court. that he will have to pay a £130,000 the Welsh NHS. Jones did not Evans, 56, who represents the legal bill despite being fully dispute this, but claimed it Ribble Valley constituency in acquitted of all crimes. Although was a matter for the indepen- Lancashire, was found not guilty of it is likely that Evans will have to dent health committee rather two indecent assaults, five sexual pay the full amount himself, he has than himself. Wood then as- assaults and one rape in a trial that called on the Crown Prosecution serted that Welsh hospitals had lasted over a month. Service to pay the fee claiming higher mortality rates. Jones With fellow Conservative that his life savings will have to be claimed the English figures Eleanor Laing having taken the used to pay for a case he was found were fiddled – referring to an deputy speaker position after his innocent of. article in The Telegraph. Wood resignation, Evans returns to In the meantime Evans will not called for an investigation into parliament as the Conservative seek the title of deputy speaker the Welsh NHS, and the First whip and made his feelings known: back from Laing, preferring to fulfil Minister again deflected by “I am delighted to have the his role as party whip without any linking Plaid to the Tories War Conservative whip again. This added responsibility. Going into the on Wales – implying they were represents a full stop after the next election, it is likely that Labour indirectly supporting it for po- events of the past 11 months”, and the Liberal Democrats will litical gain. Evans said. exploit the incompetence associated The leader of the Liberal And although Evans’s defence with Westminster’s “drinking Democrats then asked a few team admitted that the former culture” to discredit politicians questions, the content of which deputy speaker had been an “old such as Evans further and make I suspect nobody cares about. fool” with his drinking habits in gains in parliament. 16 SCIENCE Blood from world’s oldest woman set to spill the secrets of long life

blood cells, Holstege and col- Shanna Hamilton leagues also found that the telo- Science Writer meres - important DNA regions of Blood donated from the world’s chromosomes that protect the cells prior oldest and healthiest woman from deterioration – were very has given an exciting insight into short. Telomeres shorten during the process of ageing, raising the cell division, and the telomeres of possibility of defying death in the Andel-Schippers’ cells were found future. to be very small, seventeen times Data published in Genome Re- shorter than brain cells, which search has suggested that life is don’t divide like blood. limited by the exhaustion of stem These findings raise exciting cells that replenish our body tis- possibilities that an injection of sues. At birth, 20,000 stem cells stem cells saved from earlier life work to regenerate new cells, but could rejuvenate the body and in the blood of the oldest woman, slow the aging process. Holstege only two were found to remain. said, ‘If I took a sample now and The late Hendrikje van Andel- gave it back to myself when I’m Schipper, born in 1890, reached older, I would have long telomeres a remarkable age of 115 before again.’ passing away in 2005. She was in Beating the ageing process, astonishingly good health and however, is only a concept and a didn’t seem to suffer any form of dream; research has a far way to dementia, with a perfectly clear give clues into how and why we of its kind in an older, healthy per- this finding suggests their ability go before becoming a reality. So, cognition. Donating her body to age and die. son. to divide limits our lifespan. for now, we can only take note of research, she asked that any out- By looking closely at the white The team found that only two The absence of harmful somatic Andel-Schippers’ wisdom in living comes of experiments would be blood cells and studying the pat- stem cells had produced two- mutations that cause disease has a happy and extended life. Before made public. tern of mutation, they could calcu- thirds of Andel-Schipper’s white Holstege and her team particular- her death she said eating herring Henne Holstege, of the VU Uni- late how many stem cells divided blood cells, suggesting that most ly excited, suggesting that the late and drinking orange juice every versity Medical Center in Amster- and produced them. This study and nearly all of the blood stem centenarian had an exceptional re- day was the secret to her longev- dam, led a team of scientists to of somatic mutations, mutations cells had perished and died. The pair system that could give clues ity, advising also: ‘Don’t smoke or study the blood of this remarkable that occur after birth that are not death of stem cells means the body into treating disease. drink too much. And you must re- woman in the hopes that it might genetically passed on, is the first cannot replenish the tissues, and Looking deeper at the white main active.’ £34m investment into anti-cancer medicines at Cardiff University

far, the drug will be developed Professor McGuigan expressed medicines,” he added. “We are David Mason specifically for pancreatic, lung, his satisfaction with the excited to be working with the Science Editor biliary and ovarian cancers. developments, stating: “It is very company’s experienced leadership Development and clinical trial exciting to watch a new medicine team in the development A recent announcement of these drugs, as well as further emerge, from a theoretical idea, programme. from Cardiff University products, is already underway, and through chemical synthesis in our “This investment is a real vote has detailed a new £34m it is expected that a second wave laboratory here in Cardiff and now of confidence in our research and investment by Edinburgh-based of ProTide-based drugs will be as a treatment for patients with its application,” he continued. biopharmaceutical company, scheduled for 2015 under this new cancer.” “Together this brings real NuCana, into the development of investment partnership. “NuCana’s ProTide platform has potential for developing new anti-cancer drugs at the University. Hugh Griffeth, Co-Founder and the potential to deliver patients and powerful medicines to treat NuCana intends to develop its CEO of NuCana, said: “We are novel, first-in-class anti-cancer cancer.” range of anti-cancer medicines on delighted to be working with Chris the ProTide platform, developed McGuigan and the team in Cardiff. by Professor Chris McGuigan and Over the years we have had a his research team, at the Cardiff very constructive and productive University School of Pharmacy collaboration with Cardiff and Pharmaceutical Sciences. ‘‘ University that is now bringing Unlike typical anti-cancer drugs This investment real benefits to patients.” that can be limited in their effect by is a real vote of The investment itself represents cell resistance-pathways, ProTides the 14th largest private biotech are able to bypass this resistance. investment worldwide, as well as The technology represents a the largest ever in the UK. It grants remarkable leap forward in the application NuCana exclusive worldwide rights potential for cancer-treatment to the usage of, and development drugs, and is an important one to on, the ProTide platform for anti- pursue further. Professor Chris cancer drugs. While any further Further plans are in place to investment in this vital area of extend the clinical programme research is excellent news, that of Acelarin, NuCana’s leading Cardiff University is helping in product, via the ProTide platform. this leap forward is of particular Having shown great success thus importance. Monday May 5th 2014 SCIENCE 17 Rampant sexism in mice may have tainted years of research

Robert Barraclough unnoticed effect of this is often to Science Writer increase the severity of an injury. Furthermore, rodents were A recent paper, published in Na- shown to have increased body tem- ture Methods casts doubt over the peratures and levels of stress hor- validity of decades of published mones as a response to male scents. and peer-reviewed research by sug- It is suggested that this may be due gesting that mice fear men, but not to the territorial, competitive na- women. The paper has also raised ture of mice, rather than any kind the suggestion that there are fur- of predatory nature. “If you put a ther effects caused by the presence male-worn T-shirt and a female- of male researchers that do not oc- worn T-shirt in the same room, cur with females. The lead author, the female T-shirt counteracts the Jeffrey Mogil, is a pain researcher effect of a male T-shirt,” Mogil at McGill University, Quebec. notes, suggesting that only a lone The researchers claim to have male is problematic. Furthermore, found that, when studying rats the stress of a male, even alone, and mice, “male-related stimuli in- becomes less severe over time, sug- duced a robust physiological stress ‘‘ gesting that there may be ways to response that results in stress-in- I expect to hear counter this problem in future. duced analgesia”. Using a scale to “Fire all the men – or have them measure pain responses in rodents, chaperoned by a woman,” Mogil consisting of observable factors jokingly suggested. He does note, such as paw and tail withdrawal, me that this however, that requiring a scientist it was found that mice confronted sort of explains to sit in a room for almost an hour with a male smell, human or other- before collecting data, giving the wise, experienced less pain. stress effect chance to completely stress”. that researcher roles will often be In the presence of a female smell, experimenters dissipate from the mice involved, Mogil suggests that “we will rotated or switched throughout, no such effect was noted. If the pain would be “too boring”. have to wait and see” whether re- obviously without consideration of threshold of an animal is lowered each other The paper makes important rec- searchers intend to return to prior gender. then, during times of stress, it will ommendations, strongly suggest- studies to check whether results “I expect to hear stories, to hear continue as normal until the pain ing: “standard laboratory practice were tainted. With studies growing people telling me that this sort of is overwhelming – an evolution- !" should account for experimenter larger, it is important to note that explains mysteries about experi- ary trait intended to aid escape by # sex when investigating any phe- researchers who begin the work menters not replicating each oth- ignoring minor pain. However, the $ nomenon possibly affected by may not be there at the end, and er,” Mogil added. New gene therapy could rescue damaged hearing in deaf patients

Shanna Hamilton amplify sounds, and implants that ics. Staecker and colleagues, back Science Writer transform sound waves into elec- in 2003, studied whether certain tricity miss some of the frequen- genes could transform the struc- A pioneering gene therapy trial, cies that we naturally hear. tures that support these hair cells. set to begin soon, could potentially There is, however, huge promise Taking one gene, Atoh1, and in- restore natural hearing to deaf peo- for a more permanent fix in this serting it into the harmless ad- ple by injecting a harmless virus novel gene therapy trial, the first enovirus, they injected it into the into the ear. of its kind to treat deafness. By in- cochlea of mice with damaged hair The research group at the Uni- jecting a harmless virus into the cells and found that the gene stim- versity of Kansas Medical Centre, ear which carries a gene important ulates the supporting structures led by Hinrich Staecker and sup- for hearing, regrowth of the ear’s to divide and form new hair cells. ported by drug giant Novartis, have sensory receptors is triggered and Two months later, hearing in the studied the complicated structures natural hearing function can be mice had markedly improved. of the inner ear and believe they restored. Now the group is looking for have found a way to restore dam- Sound reaches our brain volunteers in a human trial after aged hearing. through some of the most compli- being given the go-ahead by the “The holy grail is to give people cated machinery in our body. The Federal Drug Administration. By natural hearing back,” said Staeck- ‘‘ eardrum vibrates, transferring ‘%‘ peeling back a person’s eardrum er. “That’s what we hope to do – we to the cochlea in the inner ear via trial is extremely and passing a needle through a tiny are essentially repairing the ear three tiny bones. A part of the co- hole made by a laser, they hope in- rather than artificially imitating % chlea is lined with the all-impor- jection of the gene will improve what it does.” tant sensory receptors, hair cells. offers hope to the hearing within weeks. Current treatments for hearing Sound waves vibrate these hair Ralph Holme, of UK charity Ac- loss include hearing and cochlear back cells, which is turn triggers elec- tion on Hearing Loss, expressed implants, but these technologies trical activity that is passed to the support, stating: “This is why the have limitations and are ‘sticking brain. planned trial is extremely encour- plasters’, not a cure. Distinguish- !&' Hair cells of the ear are delicate (& aging and offers hope to the mil- ing music and voices is often dif- University of Kansas and can be damaged by loud noise, )& lions affected by hearing loss that ficult, as aids do little more than disease and even certain antibiot- Loss a cure is possible.” Performances from A CAPPELLA TAKEOVER BELLY DANCING SLASH HIP HOP BASS12 MTV R3WIRE FAIRGROUND AREA and Varski MTV area with giveaways

Battle of the Bands Winner STARLING RADICALS Monday May 5th 2014 SOCIETIES 19

Act One to end the year with Absent Friends on the surface; with accusations, evident on the night! Lisa Childs arguments and enough awkward The director, Harry Spencer, Societies Writer silences to guarantee a night of adds that: “Every single cast mem- laughter and enjoyment. ber has brought a part of them- Cardiff University’s drama soci- The production recently enjoyed selves to their role and blown my ety closes the 2013-14 season with a successful run on the West End, initial ideas right out of the wa- the production of Absent Friends, and Act One are hoping to capital- ter, taking the production from written by Alan Ayckbourn. This ise on its revival – as well as intro- strength to strength. I don’t think one night production will run on duce the Cardiff student audience anyone is looking forward to see- Tuesday 6th May at the YMCA the- to Ayckbourn’s writing. Absent ing them on the night more than I!” atre in Roath. Friends uses laughter and comedy This ‘exquisite comedy’ is set to camouflage an acute social ob- purely in a 1970’s Living room, servation, which makes for an in- Absent Friends will be performed in where the group of ‘absent’ friends teresting and enjoyable watch. the YMCA theatre, The Walk, Roath have planned a tea party in an at- Absent Friends was cast just on the 6th May at 6:30pm. tempt to cheer up their old friend over a month ago; consisting of Colin after his fiancee’s death. six undergraduate students, who Tickets can be purchased on the However, Colin’s surprising happi- have rehearsed intensively over door by cash or card, or online at ness only sheds light on his friend’s the Easter break. Regardless of the www.cardiffstudents.co.uk/actone. complicated and unhappy lives. upcoming exams and deadlines, This witty production shows every individual has put 100% into Keep up to date with the production that not everything is as it seems rehearsals, which will no doubt be by following @absentactone.

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Dal i Fynd gan Sioned Americanah gan Chi- Other People’s Coun- * gan Jerry Dan y Wenallt gan T William mamanda Nogozi Adichie tries - A Journey into Hunter James Jones Memory gan Patrick Petaech awydd sialens, Rydym i gyd yn gyfar- Mewn un nofel cewch Dyma nofel sy’n dweud McGuinness dyma’r nofel! Mae’r wydd a’r ddrama radio fusnesa yn nyddiaduron stori dda ond sydd hefyd Os yw cyfrolau o fard- nofel wedi ei lleoli yn ‘Under Milk Wood’ ond Delyth, y ferch fusnes yn siwr o newid y ffordd doniaeth a hunangofi- y dyfodol, a does neb ydych wedi ystyried ei llewyrchus,1 sydd a’i phryd ar yr2 ydych yn edrych ar y byd. Ceir annau3 at eich dant, dyma’r llyfr bron4 yn y gymdeithas yn gallu darllen5 yn Gymraeg? Tu mewn i gael dyrchafiad, ond sydd eto yn ynddi stori garu Ifemelu a Obinze yn perffaith. Mewn cyfrol o ysgrifau ysgrifennu. Yn hynod bwrpasol glawr hardd ‘Dan y Wenallt’ mae ansicr ynddi hi ei hun. Anwen y ystod eu cyfnod yn yr ysgol yn Nige- byrion sy’n darllen bron fel bard- felly, mae hunangofiant y prif gy- T. James Jones wir wedi llwyddo wraig ty a’i hymdrech i fagu tri o ria, cyn i Ifemelu symud i America doniaeth, llwydda Patrick McGuin- meriad wedi ei ysgrifennu mewn i gyfleu naws barddonol ‘Under '*+<==>+S<^`>+<{}+>~^>€< a Obineze i Loegr. Ochr yn ochr â’r ness i rannu ei atgofion plentyndod orgraff gwbl wahanol i’r hyn yr Milk Wood’, ac mae arddull yr ys- cwyno byth a beunydd. Yn olaf stori garu ceir hefyd effiath troedio tra’n tyfu fyny yn Bouillon, pentref ydym yn gyfrawydd ag ef. O gan- grifennu am hanes y cymeriadau Nia, gwraig cefnogol y ficer, sydd tiroedd America a Lloegr ar y cyme- bychan yng ngwlad Belg a fu’n lyniad i’r ograff, llwydda’r awdur yn y dref ddychmygol mor hardd wedi cael digon ar gwyno a gor- riadau, a thrwy hyny mae’r awdures ddylanwad mawr arno. Dyma lyfr i roi cip olwg i’r darllenydd ar y a’r clawr. Cyfrol i’w thrysori ar y frwdfrydedd Eirwen. Gallaf eich yn llwyddo i drafod ein agweddau ar gwych ’w gael ar y silff lyfrau ac prosesau sydd ynghlwm â dechrau silff lyfrau. sicrhau, byddwch yn morio chw- aml-ddiwylliannau ar draws tri chy- yn sicr ni fydd yn hel llwch. Wrth llythrennedd. Dyma nofel wych erthin tra’n darllen am helyntion fandir. Os ydych yn hoff o nofelau ddychwelyd ato dro ar ôl tro, gallaf sy’n disgrifio chwalfa ecolegol a y dair yma. cymdeithasol sy’n trafod perthynas eich sicrhau mai eich dyhead fydd chymdeithasol y dyfodol pell. pobl, dyma’r nofel i chi. edrych am yr awyren cyntaf i wlad Belg ac ymweld â phentref hynod Bouillon.

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We'll be finished on time for Freshers' 2014, so keep your eyes peeled on our website and social media to keep up with the development. #RedevelopCSU 24 VARSITY IN PICTURES Photographs by Taliesin Coombes Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 25

Honours even in Varsity volleyball

put the game to bed after an intense Rory Benson second set in which both sides dis- Sport Editor played some good play, with the away side clinching the set 25-19 and with it the match. Cardiff Ladies ..…….....……….....0 Swansea ran out winners after Swansea Ladies ...... ……...2 two sets, leaving the third unplayed and insignificant despite Cardiff ’s Cardiff ladies’ volleyball team gritty determination throughout were unable to overcome a power- the match. ful Swansea side on Varsity day, with the visitors winning by two CARDIFF: P Charalambos, K sets to nil. Nickless, G Mannin, J Werner, The ladies started slowly with A Basakidi, D Leventis, F Bond, Swansea able to ease into a 6-14 M Davies lead in the first set, which Cardiff could not match. Swansea went on Cardiff Men ....…….....…….….....2 to hammer home their dominance Swansea Men ..…...... ……...1 in the second half of the first set, allowing Cardiff to only score 11 In the men’s match, Cardiff came points compared to their 25. from behind to defeat Swansea by With Swansea taking the first two sets to one. set by such a convincing score, the impetus was on Cardiff to pull the CARDIFF: M Badirwang, R match level in the second and force Buiser, C Patrick, D Saev, M Al a tie-break final set. Korbi, W H Chong, P Bertholet, Cardiff came out firing, taking a T Tomita, R Zagorscak, N Economides, R Kench, E Ness, A 9-6 lead, but Swansea came roaring Dela Grange back into the set. Swansea finally get involved

here's still time to write for gair rhydd before the Monday 5th May end of the year. We have 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) three contributor meetings Tleft, where any student can turn up and volunteer to write stories and articles or pitch Monday 12th May their own ideas. The meetings, for the rest of the 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) year, will be held in the Aneurin Bevan Union from 5pm. If you're fed up with revision and Monday 19th May fancy a break, or are free from work, then come along! 5pm Anuerin Bevan (Room 4J) Write:

e are currently University students. recruiting for some It's one of the best student papers editor positions for in the country, and that's down to the next year. If you incredible effort of all our volunteers. Ware interested in Being involved is undoubtedly one helping to choose of the best experiences you can have what we publish, editing stories and during your time at uni. designing the paper, then we would We welcome everyone to be love for you to apply. involved, whatever your course, age For over 40 years and well over or experience. 1000 issues, gair rhydd has been For more information, please head the eyes, ears and voice of Cardiff to the link below. Edit: CardiffStudentMedia.co.uk/apply 26 SPORT

Cardiff secure honours Brilliant men’s at cycling exhibition squash team en’s team and there was therefore the first three events, it was still outclass Swansea Tim Fulford an exhibition race between two all to play for in the scratch race, Sport Writer Cardiff women’s teams. which had the most points on offer. tigued Griffiths to desperately dive Next up was the elimination Cardiff were on the attack from James Thompson all over the court with little reward. Cardiff …...... …….....………...61 race. The format of this race is that the gun, sending out breakaway Sport Writer With the aid of some Cardiff heck- Swansea …………...... …….29 the last rider across the line at ev- riders to test Swansea’s resolve, lers who began to instantly abuse ery two-lap interval is eliminated, most notably Henry Matthews, Cardiff …...... …….....……….....5 Griffiths upon arrival, a seemingly On April 2nd, a week before Varsity culminating in a three-rider sprint who held off the main field single- Swansea …………...... ……...0 fresh and composed Herrod put the day, Maindy velodrome provided for victory. With an extremely tight handedly for over five minutes. day’s longest game to bed, winning the perfect location for the first finish, Cardiff came out on top, Leif Geoghegan tried his luck Cardiff ’s men’s squash club went the fourth and fifth games 11-6, 11-4 ever Welsh Varsity cycling event. with Will Arnold taking the win with three laps to go but the race into the Welsh Varsity match-up respectively. Months of winter training by both on the line from Swansea’s Jordan ended in a spectacular photo fin- fairly confident of sealing a win for Up next was Cardiff ’s Adam teams culminated in some incred- Wade and Cardiff ’s Joe Lockett. ish. Swansea’s Jordan Wade was their University, despite the daunt- Doran, who had displayed his fi- ibly fast and competitive racing. The third event was the indi- awarded the victory, with Cardiff ’s ing prospect of playing in front of a ery character at last year’s Var- The event was a combination of vidual kilo, which consisted of two Joe Lockett and Ben Orrell taking predominantly green crowd. sity when he clashed with the four separate races that would test laps of the track against the clock. second and third respectively. Mani Saundh opened up for Car- referee over several controversial speed, strength and endurance – This was the scene for the most im- Winning the scratch race did not diff against Swansea’s Sam Rooks decisions. Russ Moralee was his the four-rider team pursuit, elimi- pressive performance of the day. prove to be enough for Swansea, as in the first of five matches, each opponent in what was probably the nation race, individual kilo and Cardiff ’s Dan Coleman blew the Cardiff were the runaway victors consisting of a ‘best-of-five’ game most physical match of this year’s scratch race. competition away with a remark- in the inaugural cycling Varsity, format. The first game would re- series. The first game looked like The first race was the team pur- able time of 1:14.61. Cardiff ’s Geoff winning by a score of 61 points to main the day’s highest scoring as it was going Swansea’s way, until suit. Four teams, two from each Smart took second with a time of Swansea’s 29. Saundh managed to edge Rooks a late surge from Doran put him university, competed over eight 1:19.66 and Swansea’s Peter Barlow 12-10 in a fast-paced start to the back on top. CARDIFF: M DiGuisto, H laps of the 460-metre track. In some third in 1:20.08. Mathews, B Orrell, B Babcock, competition. Despite seeming like From then on, the match was blustery conditions, teamwork The final event of the day was T Ferguson, Z Smallbone, T an equal match-up at first, Rooks firmly in Doran’s hands and he would prove essential. Fast times a 25-minute scratch race, with all Williams, J Lockett, L Lovell, failed to mirror Saundh’s energy finished off the last point of the were posted by all four teams, but of the riders from the first three G Fenn, L Henry, J Wilkinson- and lost the following games 11-8 second game with a spectacular first blood went to Cardiff, with events competing. In total, 35 riders Filmer, W Arnold, J Fletcher, W and 11-5, handing Cardiff their backwards between-the-legs shot. Jenkins, J Harper, G Smart, D Cardiff A recording the fastest took to the track for what proved to Colman, L Geoghegan, A Biggs, first win of the day. Yet Moralee wasn’t going down time, 4 minutes 56.84 seconds, fol- be the most intense and exciting E Blackwell, L Frazer Cox, R Following in his teammate’s without a fight, and in a thrilling lowed by Swansea A in 5:06.37. event of the day. Despite Cardiff Underhill, J Payne, K Middleton, footsteps, Cardiff ’s Devin Welsh third game the pair produced the Swansea failed to provide a wom- leading the overall standings after A Stanford, S Cowley, P Heveron managed to take his first game longest rally of the day, which in- fairly confidently against a shaky cluded some remarkable shots off Owen Walters. However, it was the back wall. Despite an encour- during the second game in which aging effort from Moralee, Doran Skilful bowling brushes Swansea aside Welsh completely embarrassed his held his nerve, winning the match rival. Welsh managed to prevent 11-9, 11-3, and 11-8. Tom Bamford strong base that would be exploited played no small part in applying his opponent from scoring a single Owing to the continuous Car- Sport Writer by Zac Turley later in the innings the pressure that resulted in Car- point, prompting Walters to leave diff victories, the previously an- with some late pyrotechnics. diff ’s victory. It also prompted a the court in frustration as the final ticipated final game featuring the Cardiff.…...... …….....…….177-4 A brief rain-delay after the 17th marvellous take down the leg side rally was still in play. The match team captains of either side had Swansea.…………...... 169-6 over wasn’t enough to halt Car- that induced an ill-advised streaker ended 11-6, 11-0, 11-3, and Cardiff become merely a formality. None- diff ’s gathering momentum, as the and resultantly a Heineken shower established a firm control over the theless, Cardiff ’s Elliott Brookes- Cardiff University Cricket Club combination of Turley and Hamil- from the Swansea faithful. contest. Parry delivered a squash master once again proved their dominance ton proved far too strong for Swan- Swansea’s score of 169 seems However, the early celebrations class, preventing his counterpart, over their South Wales rivals Swan- sea’s bowlers. The 18th over was somewhat unrepresentative of the were cut short as the hosts conced- Jamie Johnson, from gaining any sea, winning a hard fought Twen- dismissed for 26 runs. Turley fin- closeness of the fixture. Unfortu- ed their first game of the day, when consolation for his despondent ty20 match at Usk Cricket Club on ished with a gargantuan six over nately Stefan Franklin (4-1-43), hav- a vengeful Johnathan Griffiths teammates. Saturday April 5th. Swansea won the pavilion, as his mother looked ing bowled wonderfully up to his won 11-8 against Cardiff ’s Rees Johnson showed some resistance the toss and inserted Cardiff on a on from the stands, with Cardiff penultimate over, lost control of a Herrod, who had perhaps allowed in the opening game which was verdant pitch that promised early finally amassing 177 for 4 wickets. damp ball and was tucked into by a degree of complacency to creep eventually won by Brookes-Parry seam movement. Unfortunately for Swansea began their innings in Swansea’s Herring, who finished into his game following the previ- 11-7, but then the Cardiff captain the Swans, the only movement was a flurry of boundaries. However, with a muscular 66. ous two results. Despite making put the final nail in the coffin, com- the ball sailing over the boundary – the skilful bowling of Nabel Shaikh Despite making the game inter- a slow start to the match, Herrod pletely shutting out Johnson in the in some cases over the road. and the pace of Rob Wigley quickly esting, Cardiff finished strongly as managed to claim the second game next two games, both finishing 11-3. Wayward bowling set the tone arrested their progress. Roared on Nick Kent steamed in to send the 11-6. However, a succession of mis- The result topped off a day for Swansea, as Joe Collings-Wells by a raucous and wholly partisan home fans into delirium as they takes allowed Griffiths to retake which saw a squad of exception- began the innings with a mauling crowd of Cardiff supporters, the completed their second victory in a the lead in the third game, which ally confident Cardiff players com- of Peake and Smith, scoring 23 off powerful combination of pace from row over the Swans. finished 11-5. pletely outplay a tired and dejected of 8 deliveries. The platform set, Nick Kent (4 -0-16) and Wigley (4- CARDIFF: J Allen, T Hamilton, Just as it looked like Swansea Swansea team. impressive knocks from an unfazed 1-25) was strongly augmented by J Godrich, N kent, R Wigley, were about to finally stake their Joshua Allen (38), coupled with a nimble seam control from James N Shaikh, J Collings-Wells, L claim in the tournament, Herrod O’Doherty, Z Turley, S Franklin, CARDIFF: M Saundh, D Welsh, R dexterous master class from Tom Aston (4-2-36) and Shaikh (4-2-23). finally found his form, completely Herrod, A Doran, E Brookes-Parry Hamilton (73 not out) provided a James Godrich’s wicket keeping J Aston dictating the play and forcing a fa- Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 27

Cardiff Fencing put Swansea to the sword

Swansea clawed back the deficit, Arthur Russell taking the sabre 45-31. Sport Editor With outcome of the men’s com- petition now resting solely on the Cardiff Ladies ..……………….125 épée, it was a vigorous test of both Swansea Ladies ……..………..119 sides’ temperament. However, it was again Cardiff who held their Cardiff Men ………………...... 121 composure to take the épée 45-40 in Swansea Men …………………..114 dramatic fashion. Cardiff ’s ladies continued where Cardiff University took the hon- the men had left off, narrowly edg- ours in the Welsh Varsity fencing, ing out Swansea by 125 to 119. De- winning both the men’s and ladies’ spite losing both the sabre (45-37) competition in two closely contest- and the épée (45-43), Cardiff ’s dom- ed set of matches. inant performance in the foil (45- After achieving the double over 29) meant that the hosts came out Swansea in the BUCS Western Con- on top once the overall scores had ference 1A division earlier in the been tallied up. year, Cardiff ’s men continued their The victory means that the la- impressive form against their arch dies finish a mixed campaign on a rivals as they ran out eventual win- high, after a tough season compet- ners by 121-114. ing against elite opposition such The first event of the day – the as Oxford University, Cambridge foil, went Cardiff ’s way, with the University and University College Both the men’s and ladies’ fencing were very close-run affairs men taking a 16-point lead going London in BUCS Premier League into the sabre. However, a valiant South. Hard day in court for Swansea badminton Cardiff squash Swansea In the women’s badminton, Car- 21-3 win over Chectham followed who eventually claimed the second Rory Benson diff started well, with Hannah Lit- by a resounding 21-0 21-4 win over Arthur Russell match in a gruelling five sets, 11-12 Sport Editor tlecott producing comprehensive Swansea’s Johnson. Sport Editor 11-4 11-8 10-12 11-8. wins against Swansea’s Jemima Gilmour’s second win guaran- The impressive Anna Johnson Cardiff …...... …….....……….....6 Chectham and Alex Johnson short- teed a victory for Cardiff, despite Cardiff Ladies ...... 3 made light work of Swansea’s Lily Swansea …………...... ……...2 ly after, but the elation was short- losing the final two doubles matches Swansea Ladies ...... 1 Lai as she cruised to a comfortable lived as Swansea clawed themselves to two strong Swansea pairs, which straight sets victory, 11-4 11-7 11-4. Cardiff University Badminton Club back into the tie with Ttophi and made the final score Cardiff 5-3 Cardiff Ladies produced an im- Cardiff ’s Natalie Machin put the retained the bragging rights over Miles overcoming Cardiff ’s doubles Swansea. pressive performance to win this tie to bed in the final match, easily their South Wales rivals in style pairing of Chuang and Mahy 10-21 Although Cardiff ’s men won in year’s Welsh Varsity squash, win- defeating Swansea’s top seed. The after demolishing Swansea in both 11-21. an even more convincing fashion ning three out of four matches in win was, once again, in straight the men’s and women’s Varsity Caitlin Gilmour put Cardiff back than the women, the matches were the process. sets, 11-3 11-1 11-0. events. on track with an impressive 21-6 not devoid of drama. Swansea established an early After celebrating another Var- Cardiff started out well in the lead, winning the first match 18-16 sity victory, the ladies will now men’s event, with Nick Ward beat- 11-4 11-5. look ahead to next season and hope ing Swansea’s Chris McMullah However, a resilient Cardiff to improve on this year’s midtable 21-1 21-12 and Oliver Digby beating bounced back, with Gill Steele finish in the BUCS Western Con- David Richardson in a three-game leading the way for the home side, ference 1A. thriller 20-22 21-8 21-14. Wu and Klanczowsk were able to emulate their teammates success when they beat Evans and Yin 21-16 18-21 21-19, but when Bowen and Wai Lim lost to Swansea’s Victor and Ho, Car- diff stumbled. Swansea’s momentum was quickly upset, however, as a change in venue had to take place in order to allow the netball to continue on schedule due to previous events overrunning. This allowed Cardiff to catch their breath and steady the ship,

Cardiff’s men took advantage of disruption to overcome Swansea and the men ran out worthy win- ners as they lost only one more match in the process. 28 SPORT

Men’s basketball Netball cruise to impressive edge tense encounter victory in dominant display lead and the first half ended with initially, paid dividends. The Swans they opened up a 15-goal advantage Prashanth Veeranki Cardiff ahead on 29 points to Swan- Ross Martinovic enjoyed a decent spell early in the at one stage, but a flurry of goals Sport Writer sea’s 23. Sport Editor second period, clawing an early from Swansea, who upped the The third quarter was a heated goal back. Cardiff, meanwhile, tempo in a desperate attempt to sal- Cardiff …...... …….....………...61 battle, with neither team backing Cardiff …...... …….....………...37 looked slightly nervous at the vage a result, kept them just about Swansea …………...... …….52 down. At this point, Cardiff looked Swansea …………...... …….25 other end and several chances went in touch. to be the ones with the advantage, begging. The final quarter was much Cardiff men’s basketball team but Swansea were still threatening. Cardiff ’s netballers dominated It proved a mere blip, though, as more evenly contested, but Swan- put up a brilliant display of skill The third quarter ended with Car- Swansea as they were victorious in Steph May’s Cardiff side quickly sea never saw enough of the ball to and teamwork to achieve a win diff still ahead by 45 points to 37. the Welsh Varsity once again. regained their momentum and truly threaten Cardiff ’s advantage over arch rivals Swansea, with a The final quarter began with The home side, who will ply reached the halfway stage 19-10 as another nine goals from Powell, convincing 61-52 score line at the an impressive performance from their trade two divisions above ahead. in addition to one from Cottrell, Welsh Institute of Sport. Swansea, while Cardiff had some Swansea next season after The hosts continued their domi- ensured that the hosts claimed the Although Cardiff have won this foul trouble, leading Swansea to securing promotion to BUCS nance into the third quarter and spoils. clash in recent years, Swansea score points that the hosts could Premier League South, were strong their new goal-shooter Alix Powell went into the game in high spirits not afford to lose. favourites heading into the match bagged a couple of quick goals to CARDIFF: A Powell, E Harding, and with a huge travelling crowd With only a few minutes to go, given their higher standing. extend her team’s lead even fur- J Cottrell, H Jones, E Baldock, that even silenced Cardiff ’s home it was neck and neck. However, an And Cardiff justified that tag ther. S May, K O’Bear, C Bowen, J support. outstanding clutch performance as a slick performance from start Cardiff looked set to run riot as McKeon, B Sant, E Crowley Cardiff won the tip, but they from Samuel Bentley and his con- to finish kept their plucky, but were unable to score and struggled secutive three-pointers inspired ultimately outclassed, opponents to find the net. Swansea capitalised the rest of the team to push for- at arm’s length. on this by taking their scoring op- ward and hold on to their advan- The hosts stormed out of the portunities and took the lead after tage until the end. blocks and moved the ball around the first quarter, with the score 16- The game ended with Cardiff the court at a tremendous pace, 13. winning the men’s basketball with wing-attack Hannah Jones The second quarter showed a Welsh Varsity again, with a final particularly impressive in her link much better display from Cardiff, score of 61-52. play in the middle of the hall. with a more organised side while Swansea looked dangerous at Jess Cottrell and Elin Harding defending. Bringing on James times, but Cardiff shut them out were both in fine form in the goal Lewis allowed them to create a full with some excellent individual circle as they shared nine goals court press on Swansea’s point performances and an outstanding between them in the first quarter. guard, which led to turnovers and overall team effort. Swansea struggled to maintain allowed Cardiff to regain a valu- possession and establish able lead. CARDIFF: A De Armas attacking platforms, but they Towards the end of the second Elvira, O Sandys, M O’Keefe, showed a clinical edge when their quarter, Swansea were able to re- K Esperanzoux, J Foulkes, C opportunities arose to only trail 9-5 gain composure and deal with the Billington, W Nash, S Bently, M at the end of the first quarter. Hannah Jones played a starring role in a superb Cardiff performance full court press. However, by this Halton-Davies, S Oldershaw, J The visitors adopted a less direct Lewis, R Smekal time Cardiff had already taken the approach after the break, which, Cardiff Swimming Club emerge victorious on Welsh Varsity debut

Stew Hume medley relays, and never looked “Congratulations to the whole back after that. Both the ‘A’ and team and thank you to everyone Sport Writer ‘B’ teams managed to maintain a that came to support,” he said. “We commanding lead over the visitors look forward to defending our title Cardiff …...... …….....……….127 throughout the individual events. next year.” Swansea …………...... …….93 In several races, Cardiff were able to claim both first and second This year’s Welsh Varsity saw the positions, with both the ‘A’ and ‘B’ CARDIFF: E Attrill, S Williams, S Elphick, R Oscroft, O Harris, introduction of the swimming squads outswimming Swansea’s ‘A’ C Campbell, L Herbert, A to the events. Last year, a trial team. Mackay, C Price, N Westlake, H competition was held, which The afternoon finished up with Cutherbert, L James, L Roe, C Swansea won narrowly. However, the cannon relay, which, despite McNicholas, J Thomas, C Bayliss, this year, Cardiff took revenge and some apprehension, Cardiff were M Kane-Roberts, R Hill, C Wen- Ooi, K Lowe, S Bolt, E Wilmer, J eventually emerged victorious. also able to dominate as a result of Taylor, B Cooke, K Thompson, The final score after a long and their superior strength in depth. A Chapman, A MacPherson, thoroughly entertaining afternoon Men’s captain Jack Thomas J Waters, A Brown, B Harris, of swimming ended with the score was thrilled with the performance J Lau, T Riley, E Strang, S 127-93 in favour of Cardiff. and appeared optimistic about Harrison-Baker, J Hatton, I After a shaky start, Cardiff managed to gain the upper hand Cardiff got off to a great start Cardiff ’s chances, already looking Bowen, J Allen, F Smith, T Hannigan, N Carreras with the first events of the day, the ahead to next year’s event. Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 29

Taekwondo battle to big win Bragging rights for

David Hooson Cardiff in IMG football Sport Editor see more of the ball. Ross Martinovic Dan Walsh missed their first Cardiff …...... ………....23 Sport Editor clear chance when he headed Alex Swansea ……………...... 5 Davies’ superb left-wing cross over Cardiff ...... 2 from close-range, but the break- Taekwondo was one of the first Swansea ...... 0 through was not far away. events of the day, getting underway From a corner, imposing left- at 11am in the Welsh Institute of Second-half goals from Josh Walk- back Tom Day nodded the ball back Sport Dojo. Having won numerous er and Dave Vincent ensured that into the danger area and found titles already this year, including Cardiff retained the IMG Football Walker completely unmarked at being crowned British Universities bragging rights after a scrappy vic- the far post to tap in from six yards. champions, Cardiff went into the tory over Swansea. The home side, buoyed by the encounter as strong favourites. On a testing playing surface, the goal, poured forward in search of The competition format consist- football was fragmented and lacked a second and Swansea goalkeeper ed of 13 patterns match-ups, which cohesion as both sides struggled to Guy Drabble had to be alert to deny involved one player from each team assert authority in possession, es- Josh Asquith. performing a set routine of moves, pecially in a dour first half. While they couldn’t find anoth- followed by 15 sparring match-ups. Cardiff were superior in both the patterns and the sparring elements Cardiff emerged much im- er way through, the visitors were The winner of each match won a proved after the break and were surprisingly timid as a Rohbani- point for their team. With 28 points clinical when their chances came Eivazi shot into the side-netting on offer, 15 were required for the sparring match, which Swansea our best performance. as they won the Welsh Varsity con- represented their only chance of overall victory. were forced to forfeit due to a blood “We came up against a good test for the second successive year. any note. In the patterns competition, injury. Swansea team but, in the end, we The first chance fell to Swan- Cardiff ’s lead, although slender, the Cardiff team had the oppor- However, after their dominance showed that we had better experi- sea’s Karim Craig Rohbani-Eivazi was more than comfortable as the tunity to show off their superior in the patterns, Cardiff had al- ence and we were the better team.” as he raced clear only to curl the game entered its closing stages, but technique, winning 12 of the 13 ready sealed the overall victory Beer was hard pushed to name a ball straight at James Kelly in the Vincent’s last-minute strike made matches. This gave them a strong with Carlos Anziani’s win in the standout performer in the Cardiff Cardiff goal. the result certain. foundation of points heading into fifth fight. team, commenting that “everyone The game was temporarily over- Asquith gathered the ball on the the sparring, where they required The Cardiff procession contin- performed to their very best.” shadowed when police moved in to right-hand side and cut in on to his only three more wins. ued after this, with seven more However, after an extended dis- deal with a brawl on the touchline, left before driving into the penalty To Swansea’s credit, they im- wins and two draws extending the cussion, the team came to the com- although it hardly detracted from a area. mediately raised their game in the margin of victory even further. Ed- munal decision that Ryan Davies’ turgid affair. An outstretched Swansea leg sparring, taking the first match ward Mugabe more than made up performance, with his “kick of the Back on the field, the visitors felled the midfielder, with the ref- and forcing a few draws. for his loss in the patterns as he tournament”, deserved to be high- were edging the possession and ter- eree duly awarding a penalty that There was plenty of intensity won the 28th and final match of the lighted ahead of some other great ritory statistics, but they seldom Vincent coolly slid past Drabble’s and aggression on show through- day, sealing a final score of 23-5 to individual displays. offered a meaningful threat. Strik- flailing left hand. out the sparring, with a player the home side. er Lewys Thomas clipped a shot from each team eventually being Team captain Jonathan Beer over the bar before Kelly thwarted CARDIFF: J Beer, B Mac, R CARDIFF: J Kelly, J Walker, awarded a foul. was suitably pleased with his Davies, R Morgan, E Mugabe, N his tame effort as the match merci- D Lowndes, T Day, D Vincent, I The potential dangers of tae- team’s performance. Williams, D Parry, S Nethercott, D fully drifted into half time. Scourfield, S Gourley, A Davies, kwondo were also plain to see, as He told gair rhydd: “We are yet Kilford, G Schade, B Tanudjojo, A Cardiff switched to one up front K Craine, B Nottingham, L there were several injury delays. to lose in Varsity and we have done Alaraydh, M Allen, C Anziani, A just before the break, and it proved Allen, S Pritchard, D Lockwood, The worst of these came in the 11th well all year, but this was probably Sow, D McKay, O Mather a smart decision as they began to J Asquith, D Walsh, N Vallis Tennis Club serve up double Varsity triumph

pairing of Sophie Brazell and neighbouring courts. Like the la- out and kept the second set ex- he did with consummate ease in a Dave Riley Becky Squire quickly ran out 6-2 dies, Cardiff were 2-0 up after the tremely close, before eventually 6-0 6-0 victory over Thomas. Sport Writer 6-3 winners over Chloe Alpine and opening doubles rubbers – a lead falling 6-2 7-5 and allowing Swan- The Varsity victory tops off Becky Hudson. that would ultimately prove deci- sea to halve the deficit. a fantastic season for the Car- Cardiff Ladies ...... 6 The second pairing of Eloise sive. Rob Knight and Jamie McK- In the second singles rubber, diff men after their triumph in Swansea Ladies ...... 0 Lloyd and Steph Steyn followed innon saw off Julian Page and Oli Greg Leigh-Jones looked comfort- the Western Conference Cup two that up with an equally comfort- Jackson 6-2 7-6 (7-5), while Danny able throughout to run out a 6-3 weeks ago. The ladies, meanwhie Cardiff Men ...... 4 able 6-0 6-2 victory over Georgie Hawker and Gary Hawke survived 6-4 winner over Davies and ensure can take solace in an excellent per- Swansea Men ...... 2 Collins and Rachel Beary. a disastrous second set against that Cardiff had at least guaran- formance following a disappoint- Elspeth Griffiths overcame a Swansea’s Mike Thomas and Ja- teed themselves a draw. ing exit at the Last 16 stage of the The Cardiff ladies’ tennis team frustrated Alpine in the first sin- mie Davies to clinch the second Looking to clinch the match for BUCS Trophy. outclassed their Welsh Varsity op- gles rubber, before Brazell, Squire rubber on a final set tie-breaker 6-4 the home team, Gary Hawke came ponents from beginning to end as and Lloyd wrapped up their singles 1-6 7-6 (7-5). up short 6-3 6-4 in one of the more CARDIFF: S Brazell, B Squire, they stormed to a crushing victory matches in quick fashion for a well The first singles rubber between entertaining matches of the day E Lloyd, S Steyn, E Griffiths, R at the Cardiff Lawn Tennis Club. deserved 6-0 whitewash. McKinnon and Page was the most against Jackson in the singles. Knight, J Mckinnon, D Hawker, Cardiff did not drop a set all af- The men’s team were engaged hotly contested of the afternoon. This left it up to Danny Hawker to G Hawke, G Leigh-Jones, D ternoon as the number-one seeded in a more competitive tie on the McKinnon fought bravely through- seal the victory for Cardiff, which Weaving 30 SPORT

Ladies’ lacrosse edge Ultimate Frisbee brush past Swans

feat that Cardiff were managing some massive hucks to open up to narrow victory Dom Booth on a regular basis. Swansea bare- the Swansea defence. Meanwhile, Sport Writer ly kept up as Cardiff established Aiden Ching and Dan Rowland back for the visitors from a well Cardiff...... 15 leads of 9-5 and latterly 12-7. were proving difficult for the be- Alex Miarli executed crease roll to make it 2-1 Swansea...... 7 Cardiff ’s team was led by vet- leaguered visitors to get past at the Sport Writer heading into the break. eran Mike Walters, who produced other end, with some incredible Cardiff ...... 5 With increased intensity in the Ultimate Frisbee is a sport that layout-Ds to block their opponents’ Swansea ...... 4 second half, Swansea continued little is known about, especially passes that were leading to scoring to hit back with a controversial the technicalities and regulations catches. The ladies’ lacrosse game got goal that was contested by Cardiff of the game, yet hundreds lined Cardiff kept up the scoring, with off to an electric start as Cardiff but eventually stood and Swansea the pitch at Pontcanna Fields on most of the points coming from launched a string of early attacks. drew level at 2-2. the morning of Varsity day to see scorers Cam Davidson, James Hall A show of resilience from the With the home crowd rallying Cardiff try and defend their Welsh and Derek Neupauer. The game Swansea ladies, however, helped to behind their team, Cardiff ’s ladies Varsity title. The crowd were loud became a procession as Cardiff break down a number of these ear- responded quickly with another and energetic from the start, as romped home to a comfortable 15-7 ly attacks and created a game that goal from Barker. The visitors Cardiff soared to an early lead. win and once again retained their was end-to-end. This was quickly were clearly stunned by Cardiff ’s The players describe the game Varsity crown. shut out by Cardiff ’s Anjuli Sea- response and the home side scored as “like Quidditch” in that there borne, who outskilled Swansea’s another to make it 4-2. is no set time limit, with the first CARDIFF: K Matsumoto, M defence to put the home side ahead Just when Cardiff thought they team to score 15 points declared Walters, B Leung, D Neupauer, J before the five-minute mark, a goal were home and dry, Swansea’s Ka- the winner. A point is scored when Hall, C Davidson, D Rowland, O !"# that established the level of skill of vita Purohit and Cassie Bell had a team achieves a successful pass Crowther, A Ching, J Gilliland, J Tighe the game. slotted in two goals in the space to a teammate in the final zone – a As expected of the visitors, of three minutes to level the game Swansea did their utmost to hit again at 4-4. As the ladies battled back, firing countless shots to- on, it was evident that both sides Men’s lacrosse end brilliant wards goalkeeper Cat Williams. had started to waver in the dying Cardiff were tested in defence as stages of the game. they struggled against the likes of But by getting caught on the Swansea’s defensive winger Kate counter yet again, Swansea were season with big Varsity win Mills, who ran all over Cardiff and brutally punished through another got across the pitch to set up a num- goal in the dying minutes by open- Eliza Nicholas ber of chances. ing scorer Seaborne, who aptly Sport Writer By not being able to convert rounded off the scoring to give Car- these chances, however, Swansea diff a 5-4 win at the end of a hard- Cardiff ...... 11 were punished again on the coun- fought, high-octane game of Welsh Swansea ...... 3 ter-attack by Amy Rochford, who Varsity lacrosse. set up Flo Barker to extend their This year’s Varsity match against lead to 2-0. CARDIFF: F Baker, A Rochford, Swansea was a perfect finale to a As half time approached, Swan- N Stageman, E Hearn, A very successful season for the Car- sea’s efforts did not go unrewarded, Broughton, E Evans, G Shields, diff men’s lacrosse team. Follow- as Caitlin Brown caught Cardiff ’s L Gilbert, S Snell, E Burgin, F ing a win from the ladies match, defence off-guard and pulled one Parker, G Glennon, C Williams the team warmed up in front of a swarming crowd of rowdy support- ers at Pontcanna Fields to begin what would be the last ever match for many of the players. In the spirit of the day, the game was extremely competitive from the initial face-off, won by Car- time score. Captain Jack Ward stated that it diff ’s James Tilley. The first goal of Cardiff became more comfort- was a fantastic game, in which the the match was scored by a strong able as a win looked increasingly team showed strength and heart, Swansea attacking player, with likely, giving the attacking players particularly in bringing the game Cardiff ’s Joakim Schuwer netting a chance to demonstrate some neat back from the initial 3-1 Swansea shortly after. set plays, resulting in yet more effi- advantage. Swansea then proceeded to score cient goals. Bradley Cooper scored He added that the Varsity win two more goals, making the score for Cardiff, with Schuwer adding was very important to them in 3-1 at quarter time, surprising the two more. completing their successful sea- confident Cardiff team, who had Swansea refused to lose hope, son, noting that it was the biggest won 7-1 against the same team only showing strong attempts at scor- Varsity win in the club’s history. a month previously. ing throughout. However, Cardiff ’s The second quarter saw Cardiff renowned defensive players proved return with a vengeance. Schuwer resolute, ensuring that Swansea’s CARDIFF: J Ward, J Schuwer, J Gibson, O Teluch, D Bray, W scored twice more, followed by a initial goals were their last. Morris, B Cooper, R Bowen, superb goal by Will Morris, causing The fourth quarter saw more C Quarry, H King-Oakley, S spirits to rise and Cardiff to fur- goals for Cardiff from Robert Fuller, J Tilley, M Cork, M Lane, ther increase their fervour. James Bowen, Ondre Teluch and Charlie J Bodnar-Horvath, W Jones- Gibson finished the first half with Quarry, making the final score 11-3 Warner, P Chapman, C Blood, J Howe a skilful goal, resulting in a 5-3 half to Cardiff. Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 31

Ladies’ rugby annihilate Swansea Men’s hockey lose out

Steffan Thomas From the very first whistle, the Despite a period of Swansea Rugby Club Correspondent home side looked to be in the as- pressure, the visitors could not in tough encounter cendency, winning front-foot, and cope with Cardiff ’s intensity. This Cardiff ...... 50 quick ball, which stretched the was no more evident than when would-be equaliser was disallowed Swansea ...... 7 visitors. After a sustained period centre Alice Seaton scored a try to David Hooson and Robert Williams received a of Cardiff pressure, outside half put Cardiff 34-0 ahead. Sport Editor green card. The score remained In what proved to be a hugely en- Elinor Snowsil slotted over a penal- There was more suffering to at 1-0 as the half-time whistle blew. tertaining encounter, Cardiff la- ty from in front of the posts to give come for the away side, as Cardiff Cardiff...... 0 Both teams raised their inten- dies’ rugby team ran in eight tries the home side a 3-0 lead. worked a try from inside their own Swansea...... 2 sity as the second half began, with in an impressive showcase of run- Despite some very good Swansea half that was eventually scored by Cardiff – and particularly Rupert ning rugby, resulting in an utterly defending, the impressive Snowsil left winger Laura Waddilove. Jes- The men’s hockey was expected to Shipperley – showing great stick dominant victory. was the beneficiary of an overlap sica Ferguson’s conversion made produce one of the highlights of skill up front. Both teams cre- and dotted the ball down in the it 43-0 and Ferguson’s subsequent this year’s Varsity, featuring two ated numerous chances, but were corner, and her subsequent conver- try and conversion brought up the high-quality teams who knew each denied by tight defensive organ- sion put Cardiff 10-0 ahead. After a half-century. other very well having competed in isation at either end of the pitch. sustained period of attack, Snowsil To their credit, Swansea never the same BUCS division this season. Another error allowed Swansea produced a delightful dummy on gave up, and they finally got the The game was held late in to double their advantage after 48 the 22 to run in unopposed, before try that their efforts deserved after the afternoon as other matches minutes of play. Following this, adding another conversion to give a series of pick-and-goes, with the were drawing to a close, meaning Cardiff continued to push forwards Cardiff a 17-0 lead. subsequent conversion meaning that the large crowds remaining and create chances, with most of Before the first half was over, that the game finished 50-7 to Car- from the ladies’ game continued the last 15 minutes of the game the home side showed their clinical diff Ladies. to grow throughout the match. being played in the Swansea half. edge when winger Emily Houghton The match itself was competi- Cardiff produced their best crossed in the corner after a lovely tive from the outset, as had been chance of the match in this move that included both forwards CARDIFF: T Doyle, A White, B expected, with neither team man- period, with a goal denied Stafford, A Prysor, L Cooper, S and backs. Bird, H Cox, J Benton, R Kidnor, aging to gain the upper hand in only by a magnificent save The second half began in the E Snowsil, L Waddilove, H the early stages. The breakthrough from the Swansea goalkeeper. same dominant manner, with Car- Hearle, A Stean, E Houghton, B came from Swansea halfway The final score line, although diff lock Lauren Cooper touching Taylor, N Harrison, J Ferguson, through the first half when a de- tight, did not fully reflect the com- $R down at the end of a driving lin- J Davies, C Francis, R Wilkins, B fensive error from Cardiff allowed petitiveness of the match. Car- Boot, A Jack, K Davies eout for yet another try. their opponents to take the lead. diff will have been disappointed Neither team managed to capi- not to have capitalised upon any talise upon their numerous short of their chances and to have been corners, but the biggest missed let down only by two small errors. Cardiff dominate ladies’ hockey opportunity of the day came when a Swansea player went CARDIFF: A Hughes, D Lawson, David Hooson one-on-one with the Cardiff goal- J Carr, W Teagle, R Williams, D Sport Editor keeper only to butcher the finish. Cooke, A Roberts, S Sheehan, The final minutes of the first J Croft, A Spencer, R Flutter, R Cardiff ...... 9 half were characterised by um- Shipperley, M Harries, D Kyria- kides, J Hancock Swansea ...... 0 pire involvement when Cardiff ’s

Hockey attracted one of the largest crowds of Welsh Varsity day, with each set of supporters out in force. This made for a competitive but ex- hilarating atmosphere at the Welsh Institute of Sport’s Hockey Astro. The ladies’ teams got things un- derway at 2pm and Cardiff domi- nated proceedings from the outset. Little time was spent in Cardiff ’s half and the inevitable break- through came after 12 minutes, the second half, managing a few came just three minutes later as courtesy of Eliza Brett. consistent periods of possession the home side ran riot. The hosts continued to maintain and denying several more Cardiff With Cardiff already assured of dominance in both possession and chances. victory, Swansea enjoyed their best territory after Brett’s goal, with the However, after only eight min- period of play in the dying minutes second goal finally emerging from utes, Cardiff extended their lead of the game, but they were still un- a goal-line scrap after another 10 again to make it 5-0. After this, able to affect the score line, which minutes had elapsed. Swansea seemed resigned to de- stood at 9-0 to Cardiff when the fi- With their 2-0 advantage, Car- feat, as they let in another two Car- nal whistle blew. diff ’s play became even more confi- diff goals in quick succession. dent and they managed to sneak in In the closing stages of the CARDIFF: R Evans, J Tilbury, R another two goals before the end of game, Cardiff took the opportunity Allen, A Hayes, J Greaves, R Dun- the first half. to showcase their superior stick ning, L Linley-Adams, L Abott, Facing a 4-0 deficit as the second skills. A Rachel Dunning goal hit C Macaulay, E Brett, N James, J ## half began, Swansea managed to the backboard in the 54th minute, Buhagiar, E Jones, S Davies, R Harper recover some composure early in while the final goal of the game 32 SPORT

Cobras outclassed Swansea edged out in sailing wins would be the overall cham- Another red flag for Cardiff Jacob Dirnhuber pion. gave Swansea hope as their boats by Swansea Titans Sport Writer After a brief pause in order to finished first, second and fifth in Cardiff ...... 5 fix the broken tiller of Swansea’s race seven, but Cardiff were not Brinkworth endured a tough after- Swansea ...... 3 boat three, the teams set sail. De- to be denied, and sealed the win Greg Landon noon, rarely throwing and being spite being shown a red flag, Car- in race eight with a set of second, Sport Writer consistently pressured when he The Welsh Varsity sailing took diff won the first race with nine third and fourth place finishes. did. His second-quarter intercep- place at Cardiff Yacht Club, where points, which came from their With no possibility of either Cardiff .……...... 0 tion was the only pick of the day both teams were met with favour- boats finishing first, second and a Cardiff clean sweep or a Swan- Swansea ………...... 27 from either side and it was com- able sailing conditions down at sixth. They doubled their advan- sea comeback, and having already pletely at odds with his counter- Cardiff Bay. tage soon after with a final score of been told to move by a Cardiff Bay The Swansea Titans shut out the part, who extended Swansea’s lead The race was originally sched- eight to Swansea’s 13. patrol boat, the teams decided not Cardiff Cobras to comfortably win to 15-0 before halftime with a clever uled to start at 10:00am, but a series Swansea clawed back some to race for a ninth time. the American football leg of the slant route on fourth and four from of technical faults and late arriv- ground in the second race with sec- “Credit to Swansea, it was the Welsh Varsity by a score of 27-0. the 10-yard line. als meant that many of the boats ond, third and fifth place finishes closest Varsity race I’ve ever been The visitors were certainly the After the break, things only got didn’t even get into position until respectively, and drew level with a involved in,” confessed Cardiff pre-game favourites, having easily worse for the hosts, whose defence midday. score of ten, which came through captain Henry McLaughlin. won last year’s Varsity matchup 36- simply could not get off the field. The race line-up was made up first, fourth and fifth place finishes. “It really could have gone either 14, and also having not lost a BUCS On a fourth and eight in the third of six boats sailing simultaneously, Despite the setback, Cardiff won way at the end and I’m just glad we league fixture since December 1st. quarter, George tossed a beautiful and the winner was decided by add- the next two races with nine and managed to do edge out the overall It quickly became clear that Swan- throw to the back of the end zone, ing together the finishing places of ten point finishes, which brought victory.” sea had every intention of continu- bringing yet another touchdown a team’s three boats – whichever the overall score to 4-2 and meant ing this good form. and missed extra point. team scored ten or below would that Swansea had no room for er- CARDIFF: A Smith, B Diamond, On the first drive of the game, The fourth quarter saw Car- win the race, and with only nine ror – another win would give Car- H Armstrong, H McLaughlin, R the Titans moved the chains pri- diff ’s best offensive series with races, the first team to reach five diff an unassailable lead. Jones, H Black marily through fresher running strong carrying from back Ayo back Jacob Ahmadi, but were also Akintunde, but a dropped catch aided by Cardiff ’s defence stray- on fourth down summed up their Cardiff impress in canoe polo ing offside on a crucial third down. afternoon. On the very next play, Quarterback Simon George then Swansea’s Jacob Ahmadi broke threw a simple hitch route in the off a 52-yard touchdown run, only James Ayles Sport Writer Cardiff redzone, which was turned to be called back for holding by his into a touchdown thanks to poor linemen. Cardiff ...... 2 tackling from the hosts. Thank- The visitors would score later Swansea ...... 1 fully for Cardiff, this resulted in on the drive, however, to round off the first of four failed two-point a 27-0 victory. The heavy defeat has As old rivals reacquainted them- conversion attempts. left the Cobras with much to pon- selves in the key battlegrounds at If the Titans’ first drive was a der ahead of next season. the Welsh Institute of Sport, one of sign of things to come, so was the the day’s most engrossing conflicts Cobras’. They ran the ball on two took place several miles away in CARDIFF: S Cook, C Brinkworth, consecutive plays – a tactic that A Akintunde, R Romo, T Cardiff Bay – the canoe polo. they would continuously employ Osbourne, S Jolliffe, J Whiteman, Canoe polo is a rapidly expand- despite being behind – before the R Patterson, J Saffer, D Reeves, ing sport in the UK, with Britain visiting defence forced and re- R Jones, M Mackean, I Reynolds, the current world champions. covered a fumble on another run. S Pollitt, D Stewart, C Birch, W Played out between teams of five Harris, A Dunkley, A Rogers, B Swansea’s offence stalled on the players in two 10-minute halves, Crimp, B Mason, A Roberts, J Cardiff came out on top in canoe polo’s Varsity debut resulting possession, but good field Baysting, S Gill, E Evuarherhe, S the sport is noted for its ferocity position from the fumble allowed Cook, W Harris, T Lock, J Roberts, and skill level. them to kick a field goal, extending P Brockway, W Walker, R Ford, First up in the three-match se- throughout and was instrumental incisive early play, Cardiff were their lead to 9-0. E Woolcott, A Clifford, S Rees, A ries to decide the Welsh Varsity as Cardiff sailed into an early 2-0 too fast across the water for Swan- Cardiff ’s quarterback Chris Patterson, A Fitzpatrick winners were the men’s ‘B’ teams, lead. Cardiff ’s superior canoe han- sea and duly opened up a 2-0 lead who produced an error-strewn but dling was obvious and they soon by half time. engaging opening contest. Despite found a third goal. Following the interval, Swansea a flood of early chances for Cardiff A flowing Swansea move led to never came close to matching the that led to them opening the scor- their first goal of the match, but intensity and accuracy of their ing, Swansea gradually turned the Cardiff continued to stretch their opponents. Cardiff bagged three tide and established a 2-1 lead by lead to 6-1. This could have been more goals as the match mean- the end of the first half. increased further but for some dered towards an inevitable 5-0 vic- Continuous Swansea pressure haphazard shooting. In the throes tory for the hosts. throughout the second half led to of the match, as Swansea searched This result saw Cardiff clinch a decisive third goal and, despite in vain for another goal, Cardiff the inaugural Welsh Varsity 2-1. carving out a few chances in the stole the ball and streamed upfield closing moments, Cardiff eventu- for Corkill to tuck away a deserved ally lost 3-1. seventh to seal the final score at CARDIFF: W Bevan, S Sheath, S Clark, H Beckett, H Corkill, Following on from that early set- 7-1. M Davies, R Colyer, S Chrystie, back, Cardiff men’s ‘A’ team wasted And so, with the series tied pre- R Tapp, K Reed, F Benoist, Cardiff Cobras faced a tough challenge against the Titans no time in attacking their rivals cariously at 1-1, it was down to the H Goode, C Laird, B May, F with startling ferocity. Club cap- ladies. Determined to outshine Nethercoats, B Tapley, J Cable, R tain Chris Corkill led by example their male counterparts with some Phillips, A Vaughan Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 33

Brown “ over th e moon” wi th V arsi ty f ootb all vi ctory

Arthur Russell fully driven header from Frances Sport Editor Dalton, which deflected into the back of the net. Cardiff ...... 2 With the home side creating Swansea ...... 0 more and more clear-cut chances, it looked as though the match would The ladies’ football 1st XI came only go one way. It was not long through a tough Swansea test, before a neat through-ball from in the end comfortably winning midfielder Jess Ham was latched by two goals to nil to reclaim the onto by the impressive Smyth, who Welsh Varsity bragging rights after calmly slotted home to double Car- their defeat in 2013. diff ’s lead. Both sides struggled to find any Following the goal, a controlling rhythm early on, with the first half Cardiff looked to close the game a stop-start affair. However, it was out, with substitutes Izzy Barlow a more physical Swansea side who and club captain Ellie Davies pro- eventually settled first in posses- viding not only fresh legs, but also sion and looked the more threaten- an immediate impact. ing, particularly from set-pieces. As the play began to break up With half time approaching and more freely in the latter stages, a against the run of play, Cardiff ’s spirited Swansea kept on search- Abi Smyth had the first clear-cut ing for a way back into the match. Cardiff managed to stay on top of their rivals in the ladies’ football match chance, firing straight at the goal- It may well have been a differ- keeper from close range. From ent last ten minutes for Cardiff here on, the pendulum continued if Swansea had not squandered a a decent Swansea team – we’re all cent.” waite’s side concluded a frustrat- to swing in favour of the home side. chance from a controversial late over the moon.” In this season’s BUCS Western ing campaign on a positive note. Spurred on by a motivational penalty. Captain Brathwaite echoed Conference 2B Division, Cardiff half-time team talk from coach Cardiff eventually ran out wor- Brown’s delight: “We have been could only muster a third-placed CARDIFF: F Taylor, F Dalton, S Mark Brown, it was an increasing- thy winners. A proud Brown con- working on a lot of new stuff over finish, 10 points behind promoted Glover, L Braithwaite, E Davies, ly confident Cardiff who opened fessed: “It was a bit disappointing the course the season and I feel like UWE and only three points above J Ham, L Burgess, B Ashlee, A the scoring. A brilliant outswing- not to get promotion, but I will take today it all came together for us. their arch rivals Swansea, who fin- Symth, H Gillet, V Francis, U ing cross from captain Laura a Varsity win over promotion. To “It was a well deserved result, ished fifth out of six teams. McGee, E Collins, I Barlow, L Brathwaite was met by a power- win and keep a clean sheet against with everyone putting in 110 per The result means that Brath- McDonald, C Couzens Agonising defeat for Cardiff in men’s football

Joe Atkinson Swansea goalkeeper Luke Martin. and caught Feely when going to save to deny Feely once again, but Sport Writer The second half saw Cardiff claim a long ball. Martin was in- the Cardiff captain managed to struggle to break the Swansea de- jured in the process, causing a claim the rebound and equalise. Cardiff ...... 1 fence. However, another penalty long delay in proceedings. Substi- Cardiff ’s tails were up and the Swansea ...... 2 was awarded to Cardiff in the 80th tute goalkeeper Ryan Roberts was home crowd sensed a swing in mo- minute, as Martin missed the ball called upon and made a fantastic mentum, but deep into added time, Cardiff ’s men suffered an injury- Smith managed to turn the ball time defeat to their Swansea rivals, home in a crowded penalty area who secured their first Welsh Var- from Guillem Bauzà’s cross. Bauzà sity victory since 2010. formerly played for Swansea City Swansea’s Jordan Smith bun- and Spain Under-19s profession- dled the ball into the back of the ally and now studies medicine at Cardiff net in the seventh minute Swansea University, while also of second-half stoppage time to playing part-time for Port Talbot break Cardiff hearts. Town. For the most part, the game was On the balance of play, Swansea evenly fought, with little between arguably just about deserved the the teams. Swansea broke the dead- victory, but Cardiff put in a good lock in the 25th minute, captain effort and on another day could George Parsons rising highest to easily have claimed the victory. get on the end of a corner and float They hit the bar twice in the open- a header in off the underside of the ing 20 minutes, one a shot from out- crossbar. side the area and the other a tower- Five minutes later, Cardiff were ing Feely header. awarded a penalty when a Swansea defender was adjudged to have han- CARDIFF: N Lewis, R Wilkinson, dled the ball. Captain Nick Feely, J Wotton, W Neild, D Compton, scorer of two goals in last year’s J Lane, J Dorwood, J McEvoy, S Varsity triumph, stepped up but &R'()*) Chester, C Hugh, F Drummond, Cardiff’s goal came from a penalty W Lygo, N Feely saw his effort brilliantly saved by 34 SPORT

Swansea spoil Fowler’s swansong

Both sides seemed to take the Steffan Thomas field with a mentality of minimis- Rugby Club Correspondent ing mistakes rather than going all-out to win. It was always going Cardiff...... 15 to be the team that held its nerve Swansea...... 19 in key moments of the game that would emerge victorious. The main event of a jam-packed Despite Swansea fielding the day represented the biggest day stronger squad on paper, it was in the calendar for both Cardiff Cardiff that started the brighter and Swansea. On the 18th occa- with their superb captain James sion this match has been played, a Thomas winning a penalty at the crowd of 13,835 turned up to cheer breakdown in the first minute. their respective universities on. From the subsequent lineout, Since its inception in 1997, the Thomas made a scything break Welsh Varsity has come to repre- into Swansea’s 22 and Cardiff were sent far more than rugby or even awarded a penalty that Jack Nev- sport in general. The Universities’ ille slotted for the first points. flagship sporting event unites stu- Former hooker Arthur Ellis, dents of all academic courses to- whom Cardiff director of rugby gether, regardless of whether they Martyn Fowler selected in the cen- are rugby fans or not, in support of tre to neutralise the threat of his their university. fellow Ospreys starlet Matthew Man of the match Nicky Thom- Jenkins, was a constant thorn in as, who represented Wales Under- Swansea’s side. 20s in the final of last season’s Ellis more often than not com- Junior World Championship, fortably beat his first defender and summed the occasion up when he his classy offloading game ensured said: “This is the highlight of my that Swansea were put under pres- calendar if I am perfectly honest. sure early on. “It’s something that you remem- Unfortunately for Cardiff, the ber and you just love the atmo- first scrum of the match set the sphere,” said the promising tight- tone for the rest of the encounter, head prop. with Nicky Thomas dismantling Going into the second quarter gan Bozanko replaced winger at last. Ultimately, it was the 120kg Os- his opposite number Tom Boot to of the match, Cardiff still led by James Brock to ensure that the From the top of the lineout, El- preys powerhouse who was the ma- earn his side’s first penalty. three points to nil, but Swansea floundering Cardiff pack retained lis steamrollered Will Thomas and jor difference in what was, on the Wales Sevens man Will Thomas started to wear the home side their full complement of players, unleashed a delightful offload out whole, a forward-dominated affair. failed with the attempt at goal, but down with a series of scrums close but it made little difference as ref- of the back door. Thomas was the most influen- the precedent had been set. to the hosts’ try line. eree Neil Hennessy swiftly award- The ball found its way into the tial player on the paddock as he The visitors began to win the The pendulum swung emphati- ed a penalty try. Outside half Will arms of Neville, who followed it up went about annihilating Cardiff’s collisions in the first quarter of cally towards Swansea on 26 min- Thomas added the extra two points with an outstanding floated pass scrum almost single-handedly. the match, but some outstanding utes when Cardiff tighthead prop to give the visitors a 7-3 lead on the to put Tom O’Flaherty in for a try This clash may have been built Cardiff defence, epitomised by a Aled Rees was given ten minutes half-hour mark. in the corner. up to be an epic, but, in truth, it terrific performance from James in the sin bin for illegally collaps- The adversity seemed to spark Neville missed the touchline was an extremely nervy and error- Thomas at the breakdown, kept ing one such scrum. the home side into life as they conversion, but Cardiff were back strewn affair. Swansea at bay. Replacement front-rower Mor- found some decent field position in the lead at 8-7. Freshers well beaten ahead of main event With points on the board, Swan- Swansea field position to attack in Three minutes later, Swansea ing well throughout the game and Lauren Davies sea were quick to haul themselves Cardiff ’s half. forced Cardiff into their own half providing his team with a deter- Sport Writer back inside Cardiff ’s 22 and the On 31 minutes, Swansea chipped once more, and Phillips crossed the mined, strong ball carrier as he hosts soon gave away another pen- the ball ahead and the tension rose line to score a try. With Guttridge consistently broke the gain line Cardiff ...... 7 alty for failing to release the ball. once more. They regained the kick finally missing a kick, the score re- and set a platform for Cardiff to Swansea ...... 24 This allowed centre Guttridge to but the ball ran dead as Cardiff ’s mained at 18-7. build their attacks. score again and double Swansea’s Nathan Blakey put a big hit into At the start of the second half, Swansea showed their desire early advantage to 6-0. the Swansea number 15, James both teams showed determination CARDIFF: N Hildebrand, H on in the freshers’ rugby Welsh As the visitors kicked off, Car- Phillips. to put points on the board. How- Freeman, B Holiday, M Baker, Varsity game at Pontcanna by diff quickly charged the kick, After a scuffle, Swansea turned ever, Cardiff infringed twice more, J Kenny, A McDonald, S Kettle, starting very strongly. which led to a try for Cardiff hook- the ball over in the scrum. Their allowing Swansea to extend their D Jones, E McCrorie, L Molloy, After only nine minutes had er Harry Freeman. Captain Lewis domination allowed them to drive lead to 24-7. H Thorpe, B White, G Heath, N been played, the pressure paid off Molloy successfully converted for Cardiff back into their own half, Swansea continued to dominate, Blakey, C Drummond as Swansea were awarded a penal- another two points, giving Cardiff and fly half Ben Brackenridge particularly in the scrum, as Car- REPS: J Bonessera-White, ty due to Cardiff using their hands the lead with the score at 7-6. scored Swansea’s first try to give diff were nowhere to be seen in the D Fellows, C Maclaurin, E in the ruck. Sam Guttridge’s first However, Cardiff ’s lead did not them the lead. A successful conver- second half. Boothnight, C Wyman, A effort of the game was then suc- last long as they gave away a suc- sion by Guttridge followed, taking Number eight Dave Jones was Knights, C Rees, E Williams, H cessful to make the early score 3-0. cession of penalties, providing the score to 13-7. Cardiff ’s standout player, perform- Salisbury, B Haplin Monday May 5th 2014 | @GairRhyddSport SPORT 35

the away side crucial field posi- opted to go for goal from the half- tion, and it was from here that the way line and Bryn Phillips’ effort Swans grabbed the crucial score. was well off-target. From a Cardiff point of view, it Still Cardiff came back at Swan- was far too easy for them. Swansea sea as Ellis yet again broke the threw to Jenkins storming up at line and put in a neat pass to Iwan the back of the lineout. O’Flaherty Phillips, but the fullback couldn’t missed a straightforward tackle get past his man and was ushered on the imposing centre, allowing into touch as Hennessy called time the 20-year-old to run in unop- on a full-blooded contest. posed for a seven-pointer. It was a valiant effort from an Despite staring into the abyss at unfancied Cardiff outfit, whose 19 points to eight down, Fowler’s never-say-die attitude very nearly men refused to submit. brought them a famous victory. On the hour, Cardiff scrum half Unfortunately, the visitors had John Preddy took a quick penalty, too much firepower up front as which was passed through Cardiff their dominant set piece proving hands before deflecting into the the difference. path of O’Flaherty, who dived over Fowler, coaching the Univer- under the posts. sity for the final time, was quick Referee Hennessy consulted to praise the commitment of his the television match official, and players. awarded the try that, along with “On paper, the general percep- the simple conversion, brought tion was that Swansea were 40 Cardiff right back into contention points stronger than us, given at 15-19. their Under-20 internationals and Cardiff would have hoped to experience,” he said. gain more territory after this try, “Only six players from our side but it wasn’t to be. The visitors had ever played in a Varsity match had learned their lesson and kept before. the ball tucked up their jumpers to “They couldn’t have done any- nullify Cardiff’s backs. more and the difference was ulti- As the clock ticked down, Swan- mately one individual error for the sea turned the screw and camped try. on the home side’s try line “Everything we worked on with a series of five-metre worked, particularly in terms of Swansea celebrate their narrow victory at the Millennium Stadium scrums. our defensive systems. A second penalty try “I could not have been looked inevitable, but prouder of that group of Hennessy remarkably young men even if they The sight of Rees returning to for holding on to the ball on the had regained the lead with a score awarded Cardiff a pen- had won.” the field boosted James Thomas’ floor. line of 12-8 on 45 minutes. alty from the scrum, troops further and put immense Will Thomas then duly drilled Twelve minutes later, Ellis which gave Cardiff a CARDIFF: T Boot, J pressure on what seemed to be a the ball down into Cardiff’s 22 smashed over the gain line once lifeline in this encounter. Franchi, Aled Rees, O shell-shocked Swansea side. with a monster kick to touch. again, before Neville threaded The home team battled Green, B Egan, J Sawyer, G Lee, J Thomas (c) I Phillips, In the dying moments of the From the ensuing lineout a neat ball through the onrush- desperately to salvage a re- T O’Flaherty, J Watters, A half, Thomas broke through three there was only one tactic Swan- ing defence. Unfortunately, sult and earned a penalty Ellis, J Brock, J Neville, J tackles and got a tricky offload sea were going to employ, with O’Flaherty couldn’t capitalise and with five minutes to go. The Preddy away to Iwan Phillips, who was openside flanker Jack Perkins the knocked on with the try line at his sensible option seemed to be bundled into touch in the last act beneficiary of a powerful catch- mercy. to launch the ball deep into REPS: M Bozanko, A before the break. and-drive to earn his team their Predictably, the visitors won a Swansea’s 22 to give them- Rees, D Mock, B Unwin, D Wayman, B Phillips, D The second half began with Car- second try of the evening. The con- penalty from the scrum that fol- selves a chance at winning the Brownlee, B Madgwick, diff penalised in a useful position version was missed, but Swansea lowed, with Will Thomas gaining game, but Cardiff strangely A Evans

ello, hello! Wel- most events Cardiff has ever won. taking place in future years as well. the day run as smoothly as it did, come back to the That could only happen with the Similarly, the boxing Varsity from those in the WIS reception to final term of the immense time and effort our clubs was also a major success, taking those out on Pontcanna Fields. year. put into training for Varsity. For place in Oceana Swansea. Unfor- The most important thanks H I know all of you many clubs, there is a four or five- tunately, this didn’t result in a Car- of all must go to all the students will have exams to week gap between their last fixture diff victory, but I’m assured that in who watched the events! Without get ready for, as well as disserta- of the season and Varsity, so it is a future years to come we’ll have the the student supporters, Varsity tions and theses to hand in. I do great compliment to them that they edge against Swansea and achieve wouldn’t be what it is now, so thank not envy any of you spending your can keep up the intensity for those revenge. you all. days and nights revising for what weeks and still be able to play at Overall, the Welsh Varsity was a Finally, a funny fact to leave you Ed’s seems like an endless few weeks, such a high standard at Varsity. massive success, not only with us all with – on Varsity day, over 15,000 but keep going and persevere! It Special mention must be made winning as many events as we did, plastic cups were distributed to Note will all be worth it when you finish to our newest Varsity sports – but also the massive number of spectators for all of the drinks that and you know you’ve got the marks swimming and canoe polo – as well people taking part, whom I would were bought, so fair play to all of you deserved. as the boxing event. like to thank for their efforts. the people who turned up and got In the meantime, to keep your These new events saw Cardiff Representing your University at into the spirit of things to contrib- spirits high, let’s have a look back absolutely smash Swansea and Varsity is one of the biggest hon- ute to that number! at what was the biggest Welsh Var- they were held in good spirits. It’s ours a student can receive, so all sity event we’ve ever had. fantastic to see that these events of you should be immensely proud. EDORE EVUARHERHE This year’s Varsity saw us win a have added great value to the Welsh Secondly, I’d like to thank all the Athletic Union President staggering 24 out of 31 events – the Varsity and I look forward to them members of staff who helped make @AUPresidentCSU cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk /gairrhydd SportMonday May 5th 2014 | Issue 1028 Rugby agony for Cardiff amid Varsity success

CURFC were defeated by Swansea for the second year in succession, as Cardiff won 23 of the 31 sports at the Welsh Varsity << full report inside

Full Varsity coverage Pages 24-36