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May Issue 2019 Issue No. 277

seren.bangor.ac.uk @SerenBangor Y Bangor University Students’ Union English Language Newspaper Chemistry To Close

Bangor University cuts the only Welsh taught Chemistry course in the UK REACTION by PAIGE BROOK while those currently on the course Graham Upton said the cuts are Chemistry, may be impacted as a result nish their degrees. “necessary”. of sta cuts. INSIDE angor University has con rmed Existing students have been assured He said: “We will do everything we President of the Welsh Union at that its chemistry department they will be able to graduate. However, can to support the sta and students Bangor University, Gethin Morgan, will be discontinued. from the 2019/20 academic year, the a ected. said: “UMCB will continue to work PAGE 4-5 BProposed plans to completely course will be accepting no further “We will also be working with with the university to ensure that our phase-out teaching of Single Honours enrolments. external funders, project partners current students get the best experience Chemistry within three years have been Bangor University was the only and companies to complete research possible. Our focus is minimizing the approved a er a consultation period. institution to facilitate the study of projects and studentships.” disruption to our current students.”  e cuts will result in an estimated chemistry through the medium of Current students are concerned that Go to Page 4-5 for a full rundown of loss of 15 academic and 3 technical sta Welsh. the accreditation of Bangor’s chemistry reaction to the announcement. Interim vice-chancellor Professor course, awarded by the Royal Society of IT’S SIMPLE! Live in one of our NO WORRIES award winning student LOW YOU KNOW IT MAKES SENSE! villages next year PRE-PAYMENT Book online now! SHOW FLATS COME HOME WWW.BANGOR.AC.UK/MYROOM AVAILABLE THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

ENJOY OUR RECORD BREAKING 80 PAGE ISSUE SEREN | May Issue 2019 3 CONTENTS News Feature 4-5 News 6-11 14 76 THANK YOU Politics 12-13 Politician Opinion 14 Science 16-18 FINNIAN FOR YOUR SUPPORT Environment 20-21 SHARDLOW Union 22 EDITOR Sabb Space 23 [email protected] Campus Life 24 Photographic Society 25 Well, here we are then. The last issue of the year. For me, the Soc & Vol Awards 26-27 culmination of 4 years’ worth of hard graft, writing na and big laughs in AU Dinner 28-29 Seren. Seren Business Awards 30-31 It’s bittersweet, as our front page is a tribute to the chemistry Travel 32-33 department, which will be facing the axe after months of hard-fought Food & Drink 34-35 opposition from the student body. Lifestyle 36-37 Our thoughts are with all the 68 students and sta at the school. Fashion 38-39 Also inside the paper, a photo reel of all the society events we’ve Arts & Culture 40-42 covered this year, an interview with Feature Interview 43 the new AU President, and the return of Seren’s Business Awards International 44-45 – over 200 of you voted for your favourite businesses, go to page Social 47 30 to  nd out who were crowned champions. Seren Interview 48-49 Notably, we’re ending the year on Film 50-53 a record-breaking 80 page issue. Once again, all the credit goes to our TV 54-55 43 wonderful sub-Editors, contributors, photographers and proof-readers. Music 56-57 There’s no doubt about it. This team Summer Fest 58 have secured themselves in Seren 42 30 history. It wouldn’t have happened Books 60-61 without them. And so, I’d like to take this Games 62-63 opportunity to thank the 2018/19 Creative Corner 64-66 Editorial Team. For your unwavering commitment, for your resolute Societies 68-69 determination, and for your consistent success. Above all, Volunteering 70-71 I’d like to thank you for being cracking people. You haven’t simply Seren Stats 72-73 been colleagues, you’ve been Sport 74-80 companions. We’ve shared laughter; tears; memories. I’ll remember you all. Finally, I have to thank you – the student population. Without you, we don’t have a job. This year, you’ve engaged with your student newspaper more than ever before. I can’t explain how much that means. TEAM It’s given us purpose, passion and Editor - Finnian Shardlow Ben Exton Jordan McEvoy John Farnworth people to serve. Hopefully, we’ve Deputy Editor - Jack Hollinshead Owen J Hurcum Zach Reading Josie McInnes served you well. News - Darby Higgins Undeb Bangor Josh Cain Henry Williams Seren has been around for 36 Politics - Oliver Hewson Grace Worsley Stephen Owen Tanya Riley years. It will be around for another Comment - Simran Prasad 36 years. I’m just proud I played my Write For Any Ryan Miles Susan King Dan ‘Hero’ Turner part. Science - Charlotte Bilsby Carmen Ria Smith Ryan Stephen ENJOY OUR Environment - Anna Ray Section! Mark Barrow Wright It’s been special. Travel - Sophie James Muhammad Fir- Holly Peckitt Be A Food & Drink - Paige Brook Head to our Ta x Lifestyle - Courtney McHugh daus Laura Labno Contributor! Fashion - Isabella Timpany website for sub- Fergus Elliott Lloyd Gri th RECORD BREAKING Arts & Culture - Laura Pätäri Editor contact Francesco Rota Anna Monnereau ----- Contact: International - Libby Shaw details Sam Price Jade Taylor Social - Abi Rose Robinson Rory Formstone Joe Graham The views presented hereinafter Film - Jordan King do not represent the views of Seren Roberts Carys Hyett Bangor, Bangor Students’ Union or TV - Ciaran Gri ths editor@seren. www.seren. Sian Billington Jolyene Leow Bangor University. Music - Vicky Wilkes bangor.ac.uk bangor.ac.uk Caitlin Riley Ka Nam Siu Books - Beth Smith Tom Qwen Alisya Boyraz ----- Games - Sinclair Davis Emily Brown Matthew Foster Creative Corner - Alec Tudor Dylan Hannigan Chloe Glover Seren is printed by Mortons. EDITORS 80 PAGE ISSUE Sport - Corie Shorrock CONTRIBUTORS 4 SEREN | May Issue 2019 NEWS FEATURE Statements Regarding The Con rmed Closure Of The Chemistry Department

before our exams is disappointing to the University has laid out plans with say the least. a lack of substance and actual details:  e vendetta management seems they’ve refused to draw up costings to to have against Chemistry has cover the modules run or part-run by been relentless.  e response to the department for other subject areas, their proposed business case was the cost of emptying the building, the overwhelmingly opposed to it. loss in students that they are already at Everyone and their dog was telling a de cit of and absolutely no idea what them that this was a bad decision: they are going to do with the building from the sta and students to locals; when we have vacated it. from schools to businesses, from Since December 2018 we have had industry professionals to respected this threat looming over us, yet we individuals. have struggled through our exams, A counter-proposal was submitted, a whole semester and are preparing proposing a shi towards a more to grit our teeth through another set, environmental and sustainable whilst we are being used as pawns in OWEN J HURCUM approach bringing us closer to the a bigger game to satisfy their vendetta BEN other parts of SNS and allowing against us. STUDENT PROTEST ORGANISER numerous cost saving measures to One of these ongoing concerns is EXTON be made and would give us a USP of our courses accreditation by the RSC would like to start this statement of the University and the only Welsh Sustainable Chemistry – something (Royal Society of Chemistry).  e by reiterating what we have Language Chemistry degree available that will only become more prevalent University has been insistent that it always said – our anger over is a massive mistake. However, we HEAD as society acts more to prevent the will remain but the RSC have said this theseI cuts is not because we do not do not accept that just because the impending environmental catastrophe cannot be guaranteed. like our University, rather because University have not put themselves CHEMISTRY we’re heading towards. It is disappointing to be continually we love it.  e cuts now con rmed rmly on that path that we cannot COURSE REP Alas, next-to-nothing in the business ignored and no other alternatives were by the University will do nothing but convince them to see the error that case was changed but they still felt considered in CoESE. Bangor Needs to shoot itself in the foot. How do this will be. We must save Chemistry comfortable in concluding “the Chemistry, it’s not just us saying it yet they expect to be able to recruit more and we will continue to ght to t is fair to say that moral is very consultation was meaningful” – how it is still being ignored. students in future when the reward ensure this degree is protected and all low in the ChemTower and not that conclusion can be reached is for the hardworking sta that make a ected sta (and indeed all a ected because of the impending exams. ba ing. our University outstanding is to give sta from all departments) have the ToI be noti ed of the closure of  e nancial saving by closing the them the sack? job security they deserve secured. Chemistry during our Easter holidays department has been shown to be  e closure of the Chemistry and only fully briefed about it just minimal.  roughout this process course, one of the founding degrees

UNDEB BANGOR Goodbye to a founding subject of Bangor University - taught for over 135 years at our great institution. ndeb Bangor continued to release the following on their facebook page: “We are sad Uto see that the University have had to make the di cult decision to dis- continue Single Honours Chemistry. Following this decision, we under- stand that this may leave students with a number of concerns. We have received assurances from the Univer- sity that existing students will be able to complete their studies and gradu- ate with the degree they are currently enrolled on. Our priority now is to work with the University to ensure minimal Chemistry never dies, disruption to the student experience throughout this process. Addition- ally, to further aid in safeguarding the experience of all those a ected, we will continue to work closely with course reps and students. Chemistry doesn't die, it just stops We would like to remind students it just stops reacting. that support is available from us here at your Students’ Union as well reacting as through Student Services and the School of Natural Sciences.” 4 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 5 NEWS FEATURE NEWS FEATURE Statements Regarding The Con rmed Redundancy, Retirement, Cuts & Chaos: Closure Of The Chemistry Department A Timeline Of Bangor University’s before our exams is disappointing to the University has laid out plans with say the least. a lack of substance and actual details: Controversial 2018/19  e vendetta management seems they’ve refused to draw up costings to to have against Chemistry has cover the modules run or part-run by It’s been a di cult year for our insitution. However, it’s important that the student body knows what been relentless.  e response to the department for other subject areas, their proposed business case was the cost of emptying the building, the took place this academic year, so that they are adequately informed going into the years ahead. overwhelmingly opposed to it. loss in students that they are already at Everyone and their dog was telling a de cit of and absolutely no idea what them that this was a bad decision: they are going to do with the building from the sta and students to locals; when we have vacated it. 30th November 2018: Vice- 18th December 2018: Full from schools to businesses, from Since December 2018 we have had Chancellor Announces Breakdown Of Cuts Revealed To industry professionals to respected this threat looming over us, yet we Retirement For August 2019 A ected Students individuals. have struggled through our exams, A counter-proposal was submitted, a whole semester and are preparing  e Vice-Chancellor of Bangor Uni- Students were emailed a breakdown of proposing a shi towards a more to grit our teeth through another set, versity, John G. Hughes, announced his proposed cuts relating to their schools. environmental and sustainable whilst we are being used as pawns in OWEN J HURCUM retirement for August 2019.  is information was secured a er approach bringing us closer to the a bigger game to satisfy their vendetta Hughes – Bangor’s 7th ever Vice- Bangor University’s Students’ Union, BEN other parts of SNS and allowing against us. STUDENT PROTEST ORGANISER Chancellor – was set to step down at the Undeb Bangor, met with University numerous cost saving measures to One of these ongoing concerns is end of current academic year. representatives to echo the uncertainty be made and would give us a USP of our courses accreditation by the RSC Bangor University’s Chair of Council, 11th December 2018: Vice- of the student population. EXTON would like to start this statement of the University and the only Welsh Marian Wyn Jones, paid tribute to the Chancellor Apologises For Business cases were sent to students Sustainable Chemistry – something (Royal Society of Chemistry).  e by reiterating what we have Language Chemistry degree available that will only become more prevalent University has been insistent that it 25th October 2018: University outgoing Vice-Chancellor. Emails Allegedly Detailing His from a ected schools, and provide an 16th February 2019: Seren always said – our anger over is a massive mistake. However, we Warn Sta Of ‘Financial “I am extremely grateful to Professor Private Life & Announces Early overview of the proposed changes – Interview Interim Vice- HEAD as society acts more to prevent the will remain but the RSC have said this theseI cuts is not because we do not do not accept that just because the impending environmental catastrophe cannot be guaranteed. Pressures’ – £5m Cuts Hughes for his remarkable contribu- Retirement from school restructuring all the way Chancellor Prof. Graham Upton like our University, rather because University have not put themselves Announced CHEMISTRY we’re heading towards. It is disappointing to be continually tion,” Jones said. up to redundancies. we love it.  e cuts now con rmed rmly on that path that we cannot A er a tumultuous period for Bangor Alas, next-to-nothing in the business ignored and no other alternatives were She added: “He has overseen tremen- Emails purporting to detail the Vice- Here, plans to close the Chemistry by the University will do nothing but convince them to see the error that Vice-Chancellor, John G. Hughes, University, Seren felt it was right to go COURSE REP case was changed but they still felt considered in CoESE. Bangor Needs dous change at the University, and has Chancellor’s private life were distrib- programme in its entirety were detailed. to shoot itself in the foot. How do this will be. We must save Chemistry wrote a letter to Bangor University sta back to the Vice-Chancellor’s o ce to comfortable in concluding “the Chemistry, it’s not just us saying it yet always ensured that students remain at uted to a selection of sta . Other a ected schools include: Law, they expect to be able to recruit more and we will continue to ght to warning of the need to address nancial get further clari cation surrounding t is fair to say that moral is very consultation was meaningful” – how it is still being ignored. the heart of everything we do.” Vice-Chancellor John G. Hughes re- Music & Media, Business, Languages students in future when the reward ensure this degree is protected and all challenges. our institution’s nancial situation. low in the ChemTower and not that conclusion can be reached is sponded, saying the emails had been Literature & Linguistics, History Phi- for the hardworking sta that make a ected sta (and indeed all a ected £5m in cuts were announced – com- Upton con rmed that the proposed because of the impending exams. ba ing. doctored and apologised for any dis- losophy & Social Sciences, Education & our University outstanding is to give sta from all departments) have the pulsory redundancy was not ruled out. cuts are unavoidable, and that process ToI be noti ed of the closure of  e nancial saving by closing the tress caused. Human Development, Medical Scienc- them the sack? job security they deserve secured. Falling student recruitment and rising of cutting costs won’t be stopped. Chemistry during our Easter holidays department has been shown to be Hughes is believed to have emailed es, Sport Health & Exercise Sciences,  e closure of the Chemistry pension provisions were cited as key In this period, the consultation period and only fully briefed about it just minimal.  roughout this process sta in response: Health Sciences. course, one of the founding degrees reasons for the savings. “ is morning, some of you received Seren published a breakdown of pro- was extended twice. In the letter, Hughes said: “ e short- an email purporting to relate to my pri- posed cuts to all a ected schools here. When Upton was asked about whether fall arising from Tuition fees and relat- vate life. However, from the business cases, Chemistry would be cut, he said: “ e UNDEB BANGOR ed Halls income means that a reduction “ e messages attached to this email Seren deduce that up to 45 sta mem- consultation isn’t a sham. We are listen- of the order of £5m in our cost base for dating from 2016 have been doctored bers in student facing areas could face ing and looking at the comments that this year will be required.” and, whilst I do not want to go into possible redundancy. are coming through.  ere are some He added: “Taking actions now will details regarding what is clearly a very cases where the original plan might go Goodbye to a founding subject of mean that Bangor University will be personal matter, I wanted to assure you ahead, in others we may change plans better able to deliver on our core mis- that the messages are not what they based on the feedback.” sion within this new nancial land- seem.” s c ap e .” Vice-Chancellor, Professor John G. Bangor University - taught for over Hughes, who was due to retire at the end of the academic year, announced 10th December 2018: ‘At Risk’ that he’d be retiring at the end of De- Sta Receive Redundancy cember 2018. Warnings – Academic Sta In the meantime, Professor Graham 135 years at our great institution. Upton will be appointed as Interim Included Vice-Chancellor from 1st January 2019. ndeb Bangor continued to A collection of Bangor University sta release the following on their spanning multiple departments were 10th April 2019: Schools To Face facebook page: “We are sad informed that their jobs were ‘at risk’. Cuts Revealed – Chemistry Axed Uto see that the University have had Entirely Academics and lecturers were ru- to make the di cult decision to dis- 15th January 2019: Student moured to be among the 50-60 sta continue Single Honours Chemistry. Protest Staged Against Bangor Decisions made on the business cases who could potentially face redundancy. Following this decision, we under- University’s Proposed Cuts which were proposed in December Students were told to send their com- stand that this may leave students 2018. plaints to the Students’ Union, who will with a number of concerns. We have 19th November 2018: Seren  e protest took place in the Quad at Plans to discontinue Chemistry at present them to the University. received assurances from the Univer- Interview Vice-Chancellor On Main Arts with around 150 students in Bangor University were approved.  e nal decision on these proposed sity that existing students will be able Debt Crisis – 50 Jobs At Risk attendance. Decisions have also been made on redundancies will be made on January to complete their studies and gradu- 14th December 2018: Campaign Guest speakers included Plaid Cymru the business cases for Finance & RIIO, 18th 2019. ate with the degree they are currently A er listening to multiple concerns Launched As Chemistry politicans: Hywel Williams MP and Corporate Services, and the Schools of enrolled on. from students and sta , Seren organised Department Faces Axe Rhun ap Iorwerth AM. Labour MP Education and Human Development, Our priority now is to work with a full interview with Bangor University Albert Owen. Head chemistry course Medical Sciences, Health Sciences, and the University to ensure minimal Vice-Chancellor – John G. Hughes. Bangor University students started rep Ben Exton. Undeb Bangor sabbati- Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences. Chemistry never dies, Hughes explained the rationale for a campaign against proposed plans to cal o cers Mark Barrow and Gethin disruption to the student experience  ere will be some impact on the sta - throughout this process. Addition- proposed cuts in further detail and an- close the Chemistry department in its Morgan. As well as speeches from or- ing of these areas, and details are being ally, to further aid in safeguarding swered questions surrounding account- entirety o ver the next three years. ganisers Owen J Hurcum and Kayleigh shared with the a ected sta . the experience of all those a ected, ability, transparency, and low morale.  e campaign, Bangor Needs Chem- Lavornia. Bangor University’s Interim Vice- we will continue to work closely with In the interview, it was announced istry, amassed hundreds of likes on its Gethin Morgan, of Undeb Myfyrwyr Chancellor, Professor Graham Upton course reps and students. Chemistry doesn't die, it just stops that 50 jobs could possibly be put at Facebook page within a few hours of it Cymraeg Bangor (UMCB), said: "We said: “ ese have all been very di cult We would like to remind students it just stops reacting. risk. going live. need to look why haven't there been decisions for the University to take, but that support is available from us “ ere’s 2100 members of sta in this  is would end all undergraduate and cuts at the top. We have to look at their the actions taken now to meet these - here at your Students’ Union as well reacting university, we’re talking about downsiz- postgraduate programmes (English and salaries and their expenses. nancial challenges are necessary to en- as through Student Services and the ing by 50, so it’ll only be a tiny propor- Welsh), resulting in the direct loss of 15 "We need to look at why there aren't sure that the University will have a suc- School of Natural Sciences.” tion of the sta ,” Hughes said. academic and 3 technical sta . cuts in other areas." cessful and sustainable future.” 6 SEREN | May Issue 2019 NEWS IN BRIEF Bangor Figures Royal Academy Grant For  e In University Impact Table ‘Photo-Electric Light Orchestra’ by DARBY HIGGINS Cymraeg Cenedlaethol Lecturer in  e Royal Academy of Engineering’s being able to go out into the commu- Electronic Engineering at the School, Ingenious project has funded over 200 nity and deliver STEM workshops and n innovative outreach project the project will be delivered to pupils projects to date, providing opportuni- encourage young people to continue in delivered by Bangor University’s from 8 mainstream and special schools ties for close to 6,000 engineers to take the eld of STEM, is very rewarding. School of Computer Science in the region and will consist in the rst part in public engagement activities, to Yes, it’s a cliché, but there weren’t any Aand Electronic Engineering in partner- stage of teaching coding skills in order gain skills in communication and to opportunities like this when I was in ship with the University’s Widening to design and 3D-print innovative mu- help bring engineering to the very cen- school, so to be able to be a part of de- Access Centre has secured a £30,000 sical instruments.  en, by using the tre of society. livering these kinds of activities makes grant from the Royal Academy of power of light by means of lasers or Reacting to the news of the grant it all incredibly worthwhile.” Engineering as part of its Ingenious LEDs, musical notes will be produced award, Dr Roberts said:  is was echoed by Delyth Murphy, scheme – a programme that seeks to that will ultimately be added to the “ is is an amazing opportunity to Head of the University’s Widening engage the public with engineering. composition of the ‘orchestra’ and its work collaboratively with the Widening Access Centre, who said:  e ‘Photo-Electric Light Orchestra’ unique score. Access Centre to not only work with “An important part of the Widening project will inspire children aged be-  e project will be launched on children from the local area, and en- Access Centre’s role is to facilitate out- tween 9-13 in the region to design their the University’s stall at the National gage with STEM activities, but also with reach work alongside the University’s own musical instruments by imple- Eisteddfod in August, before com- engineers, some of whom are just start- academic sta .  is project pro- menting coding skills and by utilising mencing in earnest at the start of the ing out in their careers, who will gain vides a new opportunity to introduce photonics, the study of light in technol- new school year in September, with invaluable experience by working with postgraduate students in Electronic ogy, to create a music score that will be those taking part being invited to children from local communities and Engineering and Music to such out- performed at Pontio, the University’s the School of Computer Science and engaging more young people in STEM- reach activities in 8 schools, including Arts and Innovation Centre at the nal Electronic Engineering for a day’s cod- related subjects. My day job is lectur- two Special Educational Needs schools, stage of the project in 2020. ing and photonics workshops. ing and laboratory demonstrating, so in the Gwynedd area.” Led by Dr Daniel Roberts, a Coleg

by DARBY HIGGINS new league table just published gauges how universities are making a real impact on society Aoutside their research and teaching.  e global ranking, compiled by the Times Higher Education magazine, measures how universities are work- ing towards 11 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include academic free- dom policies, e orts towards gender equality and taking action against cli- mate change.  e University Impact Rankings re- New Season Brings Exciting Performers sults reveal a brand new line-up of in- stitutions, and place Bangor University among the world’s 200 top performing institutions. 23 other UK universities To Pontio Over The Summer join with Bangor University among the top 200, with Bangor being the only University from Wales represented.  is comes as no surprise to the in- by DARBY HIGGINS  ere will also be a very special shar-  e centre’s popular monthly comedy and Turkish with English language stitution which was again recently cited ing of ‘Street Voices’, a project between nights continue, and the 200-seater cin- accessibility. the eighth greenest University world- ith a strong commitment to Friars School pupils and the service us- ema will be showing all kinds of lms Elen ap Robert, artistic director at wide in the UI Green Metric but it also bring high quality perfor- ers at St Mary’s homelessness hostel run 7 days a week as well as NT Live, Royal Pontio said, underlines how important it is for us to mances to the area, Pontio through Pontio’s youth participation Opera House Live and Glyndebourne “It’s very important to me that Pontio willW be welcoming Shakespeare’s Globe, ensure that we can demonstrate clearly programme BLAS which will be a pow- satellite screenings over the summer. brings the best to Bangor, and contin- how our activities contribute towards the actress Carys Eleri and her award- erful verbatim play based on the true ues to be at the heart of the local com- the SDGs and also Wales’ well-being winning show Lovecra and supremely life stories of individuals. As a centre that’s part of Bangor munity as a place to perform and attend goals. talented musicians including Lleuwen, A Film, Cake and Song a ernoon University, Pontio is delighted once events whilst also of course o ering Welcoming the news, Professor Jo Georgia Ruth, Gareth Bonello and Rhys with WNO’s Come and Sing team again to stage Bangor Dance socie- a platform for students at Bangor. It’s Rycro Malone, Pro Vice-Chancellor Meirion, Ballet Cymru, Welsh National will combine a classic lm with re- ties’ annual Summer Showcase, and hard to believe that it’s been a year since Research at Bangor University said: Opera,  eatr Genedlaethol Cymru, laxed singing in the bar, and the ‘Sing present two End of Year events fea- the Globe visited us, but we’re thrilled “We know that universities have an the comedian Seann Walsh and the for Sanctuary’ concert by Bangor turing Bangor University Symphony that they’ve decided to return over the e ect way beyond their immediate en- circus company from Ethiopia Circus Community Choir and North Wales Orchestra and Chorus amongst others summer. We’re also glad to be bring- vironment and activities of educating Abyssinia to Bangor as part of the sum- Rugby Choir will support two charities at Prichard-Jones Hall. Two Synthesis ing our Circus Feast, which happens students. We have set ourselves an am- mer’s programme. working with refugees. projects, designed to bring the arts and every other year for 10 days, back for bitious challenge to become a sustain-  e centre will also prove its ongo- As part of Pontio’s ambition to make science together in new and accessible 2019 and this time our theme will be able university for Wales and the region ing commitment to the local commu- the arts a part of everyone’s life, there ways, will be showcased on Saturday 22 ‘the world at our feet’.  e jaw dropping and to be an exemplar of the sustainable nity by giving a platform to a range of will be plenty of fun for the children June. show ‘Ethiopian Dreams’ by Circus university. concerts by local dance schools, Friars too, with Arad Goch bringing their Rala  ere will be room in the programme Abyssinia is going to be a great way to  is means a consideration of sus- School and their musical ‘Legally Rwdins show to the theatre, a sensory for more innovative work too, such as start the summer holidays and a feast tainability, in all its aspects, in all that Blonde’, the  h birthday of the Sistema experience through ‘In-visible Light’ Witness, a cast of brilliant musicians for all the senses. We look forward to we do. We are pleased with these results Cymru- Codi’r To project, and a con- and a Family Fun Day jam packed with performing new work and Y Brain/ welcoming you to Pontio very soon.” and will continue to strive for further cert by Gwynedd and Anglesey Music interactive activities to celebrate World Kargalar, a new play by Be Aware which improvement.” in Schools. Oceans Day on June 8. is a bilingual production in Welsh 6 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 7 NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF Royal Academy Grant For  e Eight Bangor University Students IN BRIEF Bangor Figures Work In University Selected For Welsh Universities Squads ‘Photo-Electric Light Orchestra’ Begins On Impact Table Three of the chosen students by DARBY HIGGINS Cymraeg Cenedlaethol Lecturer in  e Royal Academy of Engineering’s being able to go out into the commu- Electronic Engineering at the School, Ingenious project has funded over 200 nity and deliver STEM workshops and n innovative outreach project the project will be delivered to pupils projects to date, providing opportuni- encourage young people to continue in New 3G All- delivered by Bangor University’s from 8 mainstream and special schools ties for close to 6,000 engineers to take the eld of STEM, is very rewarding. School of Computer Science in the region and will consist in the rst part in public engagement activities, to Yes, it’s a cliché, but there weren’t any Aand Electronic Engineering in partner- stage of teaching coding skills in order gain skills in communication and to opportunities like this when I was in Weather ship with the University’s Widening to design and 3D-print innovative mu- help bring engineering to the very cen- school, so to be able to be a part of de- Access Centre has secured a £30,000 sical instruments.  en, by using the tre of society. livering these kinds of activities makes grant from the Royal Academy of power of light by means of lasers or Reacting to the news of the grant it all incredibly worthwhile.” Pitch Engineering as part of its Ingenious LEDs, musical notes will be produced award, Dr Roberts said:  is was echoed by Delyth Murphy, scheme – a programme that seeks to that will ultimately be added to the “ is is an amazing opportunity to Head of the University’s Widening engage the public with engineering. composition of the ‘orchestra’ and its work collaboratively with the Widening Access Centre, who said:  e ‘Photo-Electric Light Orchestra’ unique score. Access Centre to not only work with “An important part of the Widening project will inspire children aged be-  e project will be launched on children from the local area, and en- Access Centre’s role is to facilitate out- tween 9-13 in the region to design their the University’s stall at the National gage with STEM activities, but also with reach work alongside the University’s own musical instruments by imple- Eisteddfod in August, before com- engineers, some of whom are just start- academic sta .  is project pro- menting coding skills and by utilising mencing in earnest at the start of the ing out in their careers, who will gain vides a new opportunity to introduce photonics, the study of light in technol- new school year in September, with invaluable experience by working with postgraduate students in Electronic ogy, to create a music score that will be those taking part being invited to children from local communities and Engineering and Music to such out- Mark Hawkins performed at Pontio, the University’s the School of Computer Science and engaging more young people in STEM- reach activities in 8 schools, including Arts and Innovation Centre at the nal Electronic Engineering for a day’s cod- related subjects. My day job is lectur- two Special Educational Needs schools, by DARBY HIGGINS year, Chemistry Masters) and Joanna the nal Bangor University game for and a privilege to coach the girls up stage of the project in 2020. ing and photonics workshops. ing and laboratory demonstrating, so in the Gwynedd area.” Bramwell (4th year, Sport and Exercise the three girls selected for the Welsh in Scotland.  e standard of talent in Led by Dr Daniel Roberts, a Coleg ight Bangor University students Psychology Masters) who are both play- Universities team. sport within the Welsh Universities have been selected for Welsh ing in their second tournament a er In the corresponding xture, Bangor sector is growing every year and the Universities squads that will representing Wales in Edinburgh two University Men’s Football trounced Home Nations competition is a fan- partakeE in the biannual Home Nations years ago. Also included in the squad their mid-Wales rivals 6 – 0 in front tastic opportunity for that talent to be tournament taking place between 16 – is Morgan Difalco, a 3rd year Marine of a crowd of around 1,800 spectators, showcased. I’d like to congratulate the 18 April in both Cardi and Glasgow. Zoology student. with Aidan Clark scoring 4 and provid- 8 students for making their respective Men’s and Women’s Football teams Featuring in the Men’s Football squad ing an assist. Harry Galeotti assisted 4 squads. It’s a fantastic achievement and are Aidan Clark (3rd year, Sport and goals and keeper Mark Hawkins kept a a brilliant opportunity for them that representing Welsh Universities will by DARBY HIGGINS take on their English and Scottish Exercise Psychology), Mark Hawkins clean sheet. they all worked hard for and thorough- counterparts in Cardi , with Men’s (2nd year, Sport Science) and Harry  e Women’s Hockey team also ly deserved.” Galeotti (1st year, Sports Science). recorded a symbolic win by beating  is was echoed by Bangor University ork has begun on a new 3G and Women’s Hockey matches taking all-weather pitch at Bangor place in Glasgow and Cardi respec- Hockey player Katharine Oliver (2nd Aberystwyth 3 – 0, with Katharine Director of Sport and Commercial by DARBY HIGGINS year, Environmental Science) features Oliver getting on the score sheet and Services and Welsh Student Sport University’s Treborth site. tively. Netball matches between the na- W e pitch will provide year-round tions will be hosted by the University of in the Women’s team and and Arran de helping to turn the tide on a series of Chair, Richard Bennett, who added: new league table just published Sousa-Butterworth (2nd year, Sports defeats su ered at the hands of the Aber “It is great to see Bangor University rugby and football facilities for student gauges how universities are Hertfordshire. teams as well as being available for hire  e teams then compete in a round Science) in the corresponding Men’s ladies. so well-represented again for the Welsh making a real impact on society squad. Will Baxter, Bangor University Universities squads.  e Home Nations by the local community. Aoutside their research and teaching. robin tournament, with each game Richard Bennett, Bangor University’s counting towards the overall Home  is caps a brilliant few weeks for Football Coach and Head Coach of the allows for the students to compete  e global ranking, compiled by the Bangor University students and their Welsh Universities Women’s Football and play alongside the best that the Director of Commercial Services, said: Times Higher Education magazine, Nation championship. “We have already had a large num- Bangor University’s contingent in the respective teams, following a 5-0 vic- squad, said: University Sports sector has to o er measures how universities are work- tory over Aberystwyth for the Women’s “It was an honour to be appointed and we wish them all the best in the ber of enquiries regarding the facility, ing towards 11 of the United Nations’ Welsh Universities Women’s Football and have taken a signi cant number squad include Mari Gibbard (4th Football team, with captain Joanna head coach of the Welsh Universities competition.” Sustainable Development Goals Bramwell netting twice in what was Women’s football team back in 2017, of bookings for next season from both (SDGs), which include academic free- local football and rugby clubs. When dom policies, e orts towards gender we also take into account the number equality and taking action against cli- of student clubs that will be training mate change. there, it’s already looking busy every  e University Impact Rankings re- New Season Brings Exciting Performers Best Clubs & Societies Award weeknight.” sults reveal a brand new line-up of in- Already signed up to use the facility stitutions, and place Bangor University are Bangor Rugby Club and Caernarfon among the world’s 200 top performing For Bangor University Town Football club. institutions. 23 other UK universities To Pontio Over The Summer Joe Simpson, Welsh Rugby Union join with Bangor University among the by DARBY HIGGINS “I’m delighted that the University has Mair Rowlands Bangor Students’ Hub O cer based at Bangor Rugby top 200, with Bangor being the only received this Award and I’m extremely Union Director said: Club and coach of Bangor University University from Wales represented. angor University has been cho- proud of the partnership between the “We’re extremely pleased to have said:  is comes as no surprise to the in- by DARBY HIGGINS  ere will also be a very special shar-  e centre’s popular monthly comedy and Turkish with English language sen as the best in the UK for University and the Students’ Union. won Best Clubs and Societies and that “ is area has been in great need of stitution which was again recently cited ing of ‘Street Voices’, a project between nights continue, and the 200-seater cin- accessibility. its Students’ Union Clubs & Bangor University prides itself on pro- the trophy is coming back to Bangor an all-weather pitch for a long time. It’s ith a strong commitment to BSocieties in this year’s WhatUni.com viding not only an excellent education University for the third consecutive the eighth greenest University world- Friars School pupils and the service us- ema will be showing all kinds of lms Elen ap Robert, artistic director at going to be fantastic facility for the stu- wide in the UI Green Metric but it also bring high quality perfor- ers at St Mary’s homelessness hostel run 7 days a week as well as NT Live, Royal Pontio said, Student Choice Awards.  e University but also an all-round student-centred year. We have over 200 di erent Clubs dent rugby teams and provide a great underlines how important it is for us to mances to the area, Pontio through Pontio’s youth participation Opera House Live and Glyndebourne “It’s very important to me that Pontio was also placed third in the UK in the university experience. I would like to and Societies for students at Undeb experience to those people who might willW be welcoming Shakespeare’s Globe, Accommodation category and third in ensure that we can demonstrate clearly programme BLAS which will be a pow- satellite screenings over the summer. brings the best to Bangor, and contin- thank all the students for their support Bangor so there’s something for every- be trying rugby for the rst time at how our activities contribute towards the actress Carys Eleri and her award- erful verbatim play based on the true ues to be at the heart of the local com- the UK for the International award. and positive feedback. Our students ap- one and they’re free to join. We achieve University.” the SDGs and also Wales’ well-being winning show Lovecra and supremely life stories of individuals. As a centre that’s part of Bangor munity as a place to perform and attend  e latest accolade is a further en- preciate their time in Bangor University these awards by listening to our stu- Ruth Plant, President of the Students’ goals. talented musicians including Lleuwen, A Film, Cake and Song a ernoon University, Pontio is delighted once events whilst also of course o ering dorsement of students’ place at the and it is brilliant to see that so many dents, and working in partnership with Union said: Welcoming the news, Professor Jo Georgia Ruth, Gareth Bonello and Rhys with WNO’s Come and Sing team again to stage Bangor Dance socie- a platform for students at Bangor. It’s heart of the University’s extracurricular choose to take such an active part in the them to ensure that the students of “ is will be a fantastic addition to Rycro Malone, Pro Vice-Chancellor Meirion, Ballet Cymru, Welsh National will combine a classic lm with re- ties’ annual Summer Showcase, and hard to believe that it’s been a year since experiences. Taking part in activities life of the University.” Bangor have the best possible student the sports facilities at the University. It Research at Bangor University said: Opera,  eatr Genedlaethol Cymru, laxed singing in the bar, and the ‘Sing present two End of Year events fea- the Globe visited us, but we’re thrilled improves students’ employability, giv- Professor Carol Tully, Pro Vice- opportunities.” will provide year round opportunities “We know that universities have an the comedian Seann Walsh and the for Sanctuary’ concert by Bangor turing Bangor University Symphony that they’ve decided to return over the ing them opportunities to develop a Chancellor (Students) said: Simon Emmett, CEO of IDP Connect for our students to excel in their activi- e ect way beyond their immediate en- circus company from Ethiopia Circus Community Choir and North Wales Orchestra and Chorus amongst others summer. We’re also glad to be bring- The Bangor team. range of skills. It also creates communi- “It is absolutely amazing to see our which owns Whatuni, said: ties with so many students being able to vironment and activities of educating Abyssinia to Bangor as part of the sum- Rugby Choir will support two charities at Prichard-Jones Hall. Two Synthesis ing our Circus Feast, which happens representing all eight ties and networking opportunities. Clubs and Societies win this award “ is year’s strong results are a clear bene t from it. We also think it’s great students. We have set ourselves an am- mer’s programme. working with refugees. projects, designed to bring the arts and every other year for 10 days, back for  e Award follows another successful for the third year in a row. It is a huge indicator that students recognise and that teams and groups from the local bitious challenge to become a sustain-  e centre will also prove its ongo- As part of Pontio’s ambition to make science together in new and accessible 2019 and this time our theme will be areas nominated for year which has also seen the University achievement and testament to the hard value the opportunities, support and area will also be able to use it.” able university for Wales and the region ing commitment to the local commu- the arts a part of everyone’s life, there ways, will be showcased on Saturday 22 ‘the world at our feet’.  e jaw dropping Awards, celebrate in the top 10 in the UK in the National work and enthusiasm of our students teaching that they receive.” Funding for the pitch was granted and to be an exemplar of the sustainable nity by giving a platform to a range of will be plenty of fun for the children June. show ‘Ethiopian Dreams’ by Circus their success with the Student Survey for student satisfac- and of the great sta in the Students Bangor University was nominated for based on a 10 year repayment model university. concerts by local dance schools, Friars too, with Arad Goch bringing their Rala  ere will be room in the programme Abyssinia is going to be a great way to tion and maintaining its Gold stand- Union. Our Clubs and Societies are one Awards in the following eight categories: taking into account a competitive pric-  is means a consideration of sus- School and their musical ‘Legally Rwdins show to the theatre, a sensory for more innovative work too, such as start the summer holidays and a feast Award night’s celeb- ard in the UK Government’s Teaching of the many things which make Bangor University of the Year,Accommodation, ing structure based on the pricing of tainability, in all its aspects, in all that Blonde’, the  h birthday of the Sistema experience through ‘In-visible Light’ Witness, a cast of brilliant musicians for all the senses. We look forward to rity host, comedian, Excellence Framework (TEF). so special. Congratulations to everyone Clubs & Societies, International, Giving other nearby facilities as well as a con- we do. We are pleased with these results Cymru- Codi’r To project, and a con- and a Family Fun Day jam packed with performing new work and Y Brain/ welcoming you to Pontio very soon.” Professor Graham Upton, the who works so hard to make the student Back, Job Prospects, Student Support tribution from the Welsh Rugby Union and will continue to strive for further cert by Gwynedd and Anglesey Music interactive activities to celebrate World Kargalar, a new play by Be Aware which Omid Djalili University’s Interim Vice-Chancellor, experience at Bangor University so and Postgraduate. towards LED  oodlighting. improvement.” in Schools. Oceans Day on June 8. is a bilingual production in Welsh welcomed the news saying: wonderful.” 8 SEREN | May Issue 2019 NEWS Bangor Pier  e Arts Can Enhance Relationships Between Restoration Faces £600,000 Dementia Care Sta & Care Home Residents he arts have been shown to af- care workforce. learning through the arts strengthened they care for.” rm dementia care sta skills Developed by John Killick, who has their understanding of their residents, Luke Pickering-Jones, who collaborat- Shortfall and con dence, enabling mean- written extensively on the subject including the importance of non-verbal ed on the project on behalf of Flintshire Tingful exchanges with residents that can of communication and creativity in communication. It gave them the con - County Council Social Services said be creative, ‘in the moment’, spontane- dementia,Creative Conversations de- dence to try more creative approaches “ is project gave Flintshire Social ous and improvised. veloped the skills of dementia care to care.  ey also valued the opportu- Services and their care homes the A partnership between Bangor sta using a range of creative activities nity to re ect on their own practice and chance to develop its workforce in a University’s DSDC Wales Research (poetry, lm, music, art making) to in- to learn from sta from other homes. unique and untraditional way. We have Centre (the research group from Ageing crease awareness of possibilities within Dr Katherine Algar-Skaife, who led seen care homes’ enthusiasm, abili- & Dementia @ Bangor in School of dementia care. It aimed to equip sta the research, said “ e arts are increas- ties and compassion throughout the Health Sciences), Dementia Positive, with practical communication skills to ingly recognised as important and project, giving Flintshire an enhanced TenFiveTen Consultancy and Flintshire enhance caring relationships between bene cial activities for people living pride in our care homes. Building on by DARBY HIGGINS County Council Social Services re- sta and residents in their day-to-day with dementia. In this project we have this success, we are now also o ering sulted in an 18-month research project practice. shown that learning through the arts the sessions to family caregivers”. angor City Council are faced with which developed and tested Creative Care sta from 14 care homes in can also enhance the skills of dementia a shortfall of nearly £600,000 for Conversations, an art-based sta devel- Flintshire, North Wales took part in care sta and enable them to develop a essential restoration work on opment programme for the dementia this study.  ey found the approach of deeper understanding of the residents BGarth Pier.  e restoration work commenced in August 2017 and the council have spent £1.3million on the work, money which they already had in reserve for the project. BANGOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AWARDED Detailed incremental surveys un- dertaken last year revealed more chal- lenging problems and the extent of the PRESTIGIOUS DRAPERS’ COMPANY MEDALS metal decay.  e survey showed that trusses supporting the end of the pier were so weak and corroded there was a real risk of the pier collapsing, this resulted in the pierhead closing to the public in June 2018 due to health and safety reasons. New steel trusses and supports have now replaced the decayed and weak areas, with 69 out of 75 trusses being replaced, which has proved expensive both in terms of labour, time and metal. Sca olding is still up on the end of the pier and is likely to remain it place as it would be very costly to take it down and rebuild it at a later stage, a cost the council is keen to avoid.  e unforeseen work on the pier means the extra cash is now needed in order to nish the restoration and the council are now considering ‘all op- tions’ in order to raise the cash. An application for funding to the Heritage Lottery Fund was rejected in 2014/15 and a new application – which Prof Graham Upton, Eduardo Bellomo, Prof Philip would cost thousands in expert help to Ernest Ogden, Aoife Fitzpatrick and Prof Carol Tully put together – would not give any guar- antee of success. Other ideas include applying for nancial help from histori- by DARBY HIGGINS delighted that they keenly follow devel- in all aspects of his Doctoral Studies. the course of my time here is incredibly cal monuments body Cadw or support opments at the University and are in- As a member of the Institute for the encouraging.  e School of Psychology from the Welsh Government. angor University students were spired by our admirable students.” Psychology of Elite Performance, he has has provided a highly enriching en- Bangor Mayor John Wyn Jones said: presented with the Drapers’ Eduardo Bellomo, 30, from Verona, conducted highly innovative and inter- vironment throughout my academic “ ere’s nothing that’s not in our Medals recently.  e Drapers’ Italy was awarded a silver Drapers’ disciplinary research investigating acti- training. I have been a orded world- BCompany is one of the historic Livery Company medal and is currently ap- vation and connectivity patterns in the class research training under the tute- minds… We’re even thinking about crowdfunding.” Although Mr Jones Companies of the City of London, and proaching the end of his PhD in brain during the acquisition and per- lage of leaders in multiple elds, along- added that “ratepayers had footed their now a philanthropic organisation.  e Performance Psychology at the School formance of motor skills. His research side access to specialised equipment for share of the bill over the years, so the Drapers’ Company kindly donates two of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences. has revealed several important break- cognitive neuroscience.” council did not want to impose any medals each year to be awarded to out- Eduardo completed an undergraduate throughs concerning the functional Aoife was nominated for the medal charges on people in the city.” standing postgraduate students. degree at the University of Padua, Italy interpretation of the neural activation by Dr Ken Valyear, he said,  e Pierhead will remain closed to For over a hundred years, the and came to Bangor to study his MSc in patterns that underpin human move- “It is great to see Aoife be recognized. the public until it is deemed not to be Company has been linked to the Sport Psychology. ment, and these have been published in She is highly driven and devoted to her a construction site and the pavilion will University, initially through substan- Eduardo said: some of the leading scienti c journals work, and shows tremendous promise be rebuilt, with access anticipated be- tial grants towards the construction of “I am honoured to receive this award, in the eld. Eduardo has always been a as a young scholar. She is well deserv- ing available to the public in June/July some of the University’s main buildings it’s delightful to be acknowledged for pleasure to work with - he is a real asset ing of this prestigious award. I’m also 2019. including the library, science labora- the work I have done throughout my to Bangor University - I wish him all the very grateful to the Draper’s Company Garth councillor Huw Wyn Jones tories and the electrical engineering PhD. Not that I expected to win an ac- best in his future career.” for supporting this programme. I think said: “It’s a fantastic pier and fantastic department. tual medal for it, in fact the nomination Aoife M Fitzpatrick, 24, from the it’s important that our best students get location. It’s probably the best Victorian Professor Carol Tully, Pro Vice- caught me a bit o guard!  is would Republic of Ireland, was awarded a a chance to be recognised for their hard pier le in Wales. Chancellor (students) led the event and have not been possible without the bronze Drapers’ medal. Aoife is in the work and dedication.” “You only need to look at Colwyn Bay Professor Philip Ernest Ogden, Master help of my supervisors, my fellow PhD nal stages of nishing her PhD in Master Draper, Professor Philip pier just up the coast, 25 miles away, Draper, presented the students with the colleagues, and the services o ered by Cognitive Neuroscience at the School Ernest Ogden said: where maintenance wasn’t done and it medals.  ese prestigious awards takes the university. Bangor University has of Psychology. “It is a privilege to be here to see fell into the sea. into account the quality of a student’s been a place of academic and personal Aoife said, the long running support we provide “Unfortunately that’s what happens research, teaching, and service to the growth for me and I am glad to have “I am delighted to be honoured as in partnership with Bangor University. with piers if you don’t maintain them University and community. studied my PhD here.” the recipient of the Bronze Award, my It is wonderful to hear about the wide – for me, that makes it even more im- Professor Tully said, Eduardo was nominated for a medal thanks to the Senate Prizes and Awards range of inspirational activities that we portant that we look a er this one and “We are extremely grateful to the by Dr Andy Cooke, he said: committee for their consideration.  e are able to support, both postgraduate make sure it’s here for generations to Drapers for their continued support for “Eduardo’s award is very well de- recognition as having made a meaning- and sta activities here in the UK and enjoy in the future.” the University and our students. We’re served. He has performed exceptionally ful contribution to the University over overseas.” 8 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 9 NEWS NEWS Bangor Pier  e Arts Can Enhance Relationships Between Bangor University Professors Shortlisted In Identifying Restoration  e Grass Faces £600,000 Dementia Care Sta & Care Home Residents Inaugural Welsh Women’s Awards he arts have been shown to af- care workforce. learning through the arts strengthened they care for.” by DARBY HIGGINS the National Institute for Health Health women across Wales for services to Pollen  at rm dementia care sta skills Developed by John Killick, who has their understanding of their residents, Luke Pickering-Jones, who collaborat- Debbie Roberts Technology Assessment Programme, education.” Shortfall and con dence, enabling mean- written extensively on the subject including the importance of non-verbal ed on the project on behalf of Flintshire wo Professors at Bangor and has won over £13M in peer re-  e Welsh Women’s Awards 2019 ac- Tingful exchanges with residents that can of communication and creativity in communication. It gave them the con - County Council Social Services said University have been shortlisted viewed research grant capture, and knowledge and celebrate the success of Gets Up be creative, ‘in the moment’, spontane- dementia,Creative Conversations de- dence to try more creative approaches “ is project gave Flintshire Social in the inaugural Welsh Women’s £6M research infrastructure, and has women entrepreneurs, business wom- ous and improvised. veloped the skills of dementia care to care.  ey also valued the opportu- Services and their care homes the TAwards 2019. Both Clare Wilkinson contributed to over 150 peer reviewed en, professionals, civil servants, women A partnership between Bangor sta using a range of creative activities nity to re ect on their own practice and chance to develop its workforce in a and Debbie Roberts of the School of research publications. in uniform, charity workers and many University’s DSDC Wales Research (poetry, lm, music, art making) to in- to learn from sta from other homes. unique and untraditional way. We have Your Nose Health Sciences have been shortlisted She said: more that contribute in making Wales cientists could be a step closer to Centre (the research group from Ageing crease awareness of possibilities within Dr Katherine Algar-Skaife, who led seen care homes’ enthusiasm, abili- for the Services to Education Award. “I am honoured to be nominated a greater place to live in.  ey embody providing more precise pollen & Dementia @ Bangor in School of dementia care. It aimed to equip sta the research, said “ e arts are increas- ties and compassion throughout the A Professor of General Practice at amongst such outstanding women in the continuing strength, grit and deter- forecasts to the 25% of the UK Health Sciences), Dementia Positive, with practical communication skills to ingly recognised as important and project, giving Flintshire an enhanced Bangor University, Clare leads the Wales, it is a delight to see all the cat- mination of women, honouring those populationS who live with either asthma TenFiveTen Consultancy and Flintshire enhance caring relationships between bene cial activities for people living pride in our care homes. Building on North Wales Centre for Primary Care egories and the women who populate who continue to thrive, excelling them or hay fever.  is follows the rst results by DARBY HIGGINS County Council Social Services re- sta and residents in their day-to-day with dementia. In this project we have this success, we are now also o ering Research and conducts research into them.” at the forefront of their industries. of a major three-year project to analyse sulted in an 18-month research project practice. shown that learning through the arts the sessions to family caregivers”. angor City Council are faced with improving primary care and early can- Professor Debbie Roberts is able to A Spokesperson for the Welsh airborne grass pollen. which developed and tested Creative Care sta from 14 care homes in can also enhance the skills of dementia a shortfall of nearly £600,000 for cer diagnosis for people in Wales. work with Bangor University’s students Women’s Awards 2019 said:  e rst year’s ndings, published Conversations, an art-based sta devel- Flintshire, North Wales took part in care sta and enable them to develop a essential restoration work on Professor Debbie Roberts joined and with quali ed nurses and other “ ese awards aim to celebrate the in Nature Ecology & Evolution, have opment programme for the dementia this study.  ey found the approach of deeper understanding of the residents BGarth Pier. Bangor University in 2016 taking up the health professionals at Betsi Cadwaladr power and breadth of talent that every shown that it is not just the overall ‘load’  e restoration work commenced post of Foundation of Nursing Studies University Health Board. Her focus is woman hides in herself and the hard of grass pollen in the air that could in August 2017 and the council have Chair in Practice Learning. Her unique to enhance and develop learning en- work of female heroes that o en re- cause those particularly bad days for spent £1.3million on the work, money role, supported by the Foundation, vironments for the student nurses at mains unrecognised. asthma and hay fever su erers. Days which they already had in reserve for straddles both clinical practice and Bangor University and to support con- “We are very happy to see the huge which see increased asthma attacks or the project. BANGOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AWARDED learning. tinuing professional development with- engagement of the public who went intense hay fever could be related to the Detailed incremental surveys un-  e black-tie event will be held at in the NHS across North Wales. During behind our nomination process to release of pollen from particular grass dertaken last year revealed more chal- the Exchange Hotel in Cardi , on her nineteen year career in academia vote for their favourite personalities species. lenging problems and the extent of the PRESTIGIOUS DRAPERS’ COMPANY MEDALS Wednesday April 3, when meritorious Debbie has published widely in the that have followed their dreams and Current pollen ‘counts’ and forecasts metal decay.  e survey showed that female role models will gather together eld of nurse education writing papers achieved their goals. assess the whole load of pollen in the trusses supporting the end of the pier to celebrate their achievements. and nurse education textbooks, one of “We hope that these nalists will in- air, and, while scientists can distinguish were so weak and corroded there was Professor Clare Wilkinson played a which is used as a core text in Japan. spire other women to follow their steps between the pollen created by individ- a real risk of the pier collapsing, this vital leadership role in bringing in the On being nominated for the inau- and we can’t wait to welcome merito- ual tree and weed species, it has proven resulted in the pierhead closing to the original funding for the North Wales gural Welsh Women’s Awards 2019, rious individuals in a memorable cer- virtually impossible for the current public in June 2018 due to health and Clinical School to train more Doctors Debbie said: emony and celebrate the winners with forecast methods to visually identify safety reasons. in North Wales. She is a recent past “I am extremely humbled to have them in an enjoyable event. We wish all di erent grass pollens. New steel trusses and supports have Clare Wilkinson Chair of the Primary Care Panel for been nominated amongst such eminent the nalists the best of luck.” Step forward metabarcoding, a tech- now replaced the decayed and weak nique which enables scientists to au- areas, with 69 out of 75 trusses being tomatically identify any fragments of replaced, which has proved expensive material caught in a sample of air, water both in terms of labour, time and metal. or soil, by recognising and matching its Sca olding is still up on the end of the unique DNA ‘barcode’. pier and is likely to remain it place as Local Students Awarded For  eir For the rst time, grass pollens collect- it would be very costly to take it down ed over the course of one allergy season and rebuild it at a later stage, a cost the have been analysed using this high-tech council is keen to avoid. method.  is has enabled the team to  e unforeseen work on the pier Contribution To University Life start investigating links between certain means the extra cash is now needed in pollen types and those days on which order to nish the restoration and the by DARBY HIGGINS as introducing me to one of my key who has made the greatest impact, plant allergy su erers and people with council are now considering ‘all op- lecturers. perhaps by organising events at School asthma are most a ected. tions’ in order to raise the cash. wo local students have won But it went beyond that rst meeting, level, and who shows commitment and Prof Simon Creer, of Bangor An application for funding to the Peer Guide Awards at Bangor because she remained a point of contact reliability. University, who is leading the research Heritage Lottery Fund was rejected in University this year. and o ered support. She even kept me Jessica, who is 20 and studying Sport explains: TBangor University’s innovative Peer 2014/15 and a new application – which updated on the arrangements made by Science, chose to be a Peer Guide as “I’m a hay fever su erer myself, and I Prof Graham Upton, Eduardo Bellomo, Prof Philip Guiding scheme enables second and would cost thousands in expert help to Ernest Ogden, Aoife Fitzpatrick and Prof Carol Tully other new students on my course on so- she felt there was room to increase the know that on some days, despite a high put together – would not give any guar- third year students to support new stu- cial media. I did not have an account support for local students travelling pollen forecast, I can be less a ected antee of success. Other ideas include dents. It has been running for over 20 but she ensured I was not le out and in to study at Bangor University. She than on other days when the fore- applying for nancial help from histori- by DARBY HIGGINS delighted that they keenly follow devel- in all aspects of his Doctoral Studies. the course of my time here is incredibly years and is one of the ways in which was still included. has managed to turn things around by cast appears to be lower.  is led me cal monuments body Cadw or support opments at the University and are in- As a member of the Institute for the encouraging.  e School of Psychology the University ensures a supportive en- I was extremely grateful when she organising events and opportunities and others to wonder whether it’s the from the Welsh Government. angor University students were spired by our admirable students.” Psychology of Elite Performance, he has has provided a highly enriching en- vironment for its students. agreed to meet me on the morning of for commuting students to settle in to high load of pollen alone that causes Bangor Mayor John Wyn Jones said: presented with the Drapers’ Eduardo Bellomo, 30, from Verona, conducted highly innovative and inter- vironment throughout my academic Dinah Jennings from Llandudno re- Welcome Week as it put my mind at University life. the problem, or whether the di erent “ ere’s nothing that’s not in our Medals recently.  e Drapers’ Italy was awarded a silver Drapers’ disciplinary research investigating acti- training. I have been a orded world- ceived the annual Peer Guide of the ease. She was present throughout and Jessica chose to study to Bangor on re- grass pollens cause di erent levels of BCompany is one of the historic Livery Company medal and is currently ap- vation and connectivity patterns in the class research training under the tute- Year Award.  is was given in recogni- guided me from one location to the alizing that there was an excellent Sport minds… We’re even thinking about reaction.” crowdfunding.” Although Mr Jones Companies of the City of London, and proaching the end of his PhD in brain during the acquisition and per- lage of leaders in multiple elds, along- tion of her outstanding work with new next, introducing me to my lectur- Science course on her doorstep. A er Dr Georgina Brennan, from Bangor added that “ratepayers had footed their now a philanthropic organisation.  e Performance Psychology at the School formance of motor skills. His research side access to specialised equipment for students. ers as well as other new student. Any graduating she is planning to study a University who analysed the aerial share of the bill over the years, so the Drapers’ Company kindly donates two of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences. has revealed several important break- cognitive neuroscience.” A single mother from Llandudno, apprehensions I had were smoothed Masters degree in Sport Science and pollen “environmental DNA” with Dr council did not want to impose any medals each year to be awarded to out- Eduardo completed an undergraduate throughs concerning the functional Aoife was nominated for the medal Dinah manages not only to study and away by her kindness, consideration Psychology and wants to work to pro- Dinah Jennings Caitlin Potter from the University of charges on people in the city.” standing postgraduate students. degree at the University of Padua, Italy interpretation of the neural activation by Dr Ken Valyear, he said, look a er her young son who has spe- and genuine concern for my well being. mote children’s rugby. Aberystwyth and the National Botanic  e Pierhead will remain closed to For over a hundred years, the and came to Bangor to study his MSc in patterns that underpin human move- “It is great to see Aoife be recognized. cial educational needs, but also to con- She made me feel at home in a culture A former pupil of Ysgol Friars, Bangor Garden Wales, added: Company has been linked to the Sport Psychology. ment, and these have been published in She is highly driven and devoted to her tribute to the life of the University by which was all new to me.  is just goes and Ysgol Glan y Môr, Pwllheli, Jessica Jessica Lee the public until it is deemed not to be Hughes “Bringing a range of specialists to- a construction site and the pavilion will University, initially through substan- Eduardo said: some of the leading scienti c journals work, and shows tremendous promise acting as a Peer Guide and a Course to show that the Peer Guiding Scheme was delighted and surprised when her gether has enabled us to nd initial be rebuilt, with access anticipated be- tial grants towards the construction of “I am honoured to receive this award, in the eld. Eduardo has always been a as a young scholar. She is well deserv- Representative. is absolutely the very best thing that name was announced. She says that answers. Our task is now to develop ing available to the public in June/July some of the University’s main buildings it’s delightful to be acknowledged for pleasure to work with - he is a real asset ing of this prestigious award. I’m also First year student Donna Dixon, from could happen to a new student.” being a Peer Guide has enabled her to a clearer picture of where the pollen 2019. including the library, science labora- the work I have done throughout my to Bangor University - I wish him all the very grateful to the Draper’s Company Groeslon and studying Childhood In addition to the Shield, Dinah re- gain a great deal of con dence and ex- comes from, how it moves through the Garth councillor Huw Wyn Jones tories and the electrical engineering PhD. Not that I expected to win an ac- best in his future career.” for supporting this programme. I think Studies was one of the students who ceived £100 in High Street vouchers. perience in event organising. air and how di erent types of pollen said: “It’s a fantastic pier and fantastic department. tual medal for it, in fact the nomination Aoife M Fitzpatrick, 24, from the it’s important that our best students get nominated Dinah and she was invited Dinah chose to study at Bangor in or- All the student Peer Guides were can be linked to allergies.” location. It’s probably the best Victorian Professor Carol Tully, Pro Vice- caught me a bit o guard!  is would Republic of Ireland, was awarded a a chance to be recognised for their hard to say a few words at the Awards night. der to better understand the dynamics thanked for their contribution and pre-  is research was led by an inter- pier le in Wales. Chancellor (students) led the event and have not been possible without the bronze Drapers’ medal. Aoife is in the work and dedication.” She said: “Deciding to become a full of how her young son functions, works, sented with certi cates. disciplinary team of scientists from “You only need to look at Colwyn Bay Professor Philip Ernest Ogden, Master help of my supervisors, my fellow PhD nal stages of nishing her PhD in Master Draper, Professor Philip time student was an exciting prospect thinks and operates- and she says that Prof Carol Tully, Pro Vice-Chancellor Bangor University,  e National pier just up the coast, 25 miles away, Draper, presented the students with the colleagues, and the services o ered by Cognitive Neuroscience at the School Ernest Ogden said: for me. However as Welcome Week ap- for her to nd out the latest knowledge, (Students) added: Botanic Garden of Wales, Aberystwyth where maintenance wasn’t done and it medals.  ese prestigious awards takes the university. Bangor University has of Psychology. “It is a privilege to be here to see proached, I began to feel nervous and she had to come to university. On com- “Bangor University has one of the University, University of Exeter, fell into the sea. into account the quality of a student’s been a place of academic and personal Aoife said, the long running support we provide anxious.  e fear began to eclipse my pleting her degree, she hopes to study a largest Peer Guide schemes of any UK University of New South Wales, “Unfortunately that’s what happens research, teaching, and service to the growth for me and I am glad to have “I am delighted to be honoured as in partnership with Bangor University. excitement.  at was until I met my Masters degree in Education. University and their work in help- Sydney;  e University of Queensland, with piers if you don’t maintain them University and community. studied my PhD here.” the recipient of the Bronze Award, my It is wonderful to hear about the wide Peer Guide on the familiarisation day  is year’s Most E ective Peer Guide ing new students settle in to life at University of Worcester, in collabora- – for me, that makes it even more im- Professor Tully said, Eduardo was nominated for a medal thanks to the Senate Prizes and Awards range of inspirational activities that we for local students. She was welcoming, Award was presented to Jessica Lee University has now become part of tion with the UK Met O ce, collective- portant that we look a er this one and “We are extremely grateful to the by Dr Andy Cooke, he said: committee for their consideration.  e are able to support, both postgraduate friendly and eased my anxiety. She an- Hughes from Pwllheli. the character of our university. We are ly known as PollerGEN (http://poller- make sure it’s here for generations to Drapers for their continued support for “Eduardo’s award is very well de- recognition as having made a meaning- and sta activities here in the UK and swered my questions and o ered me  is Award is nominated by academic grateful to all the students for their val- gen.bangor.ac.uk/), and supported by a enjoy in the future.” the University and our students. We’re served. He has performed exceptionally ful contribution to the University over overseas.” practical advice and guidance as well sta and is presented to the student uable contribution.” £1.2 million NERC Standard Grant. 10 SEREN | May Issue 2019 NEWS HRH Prince Of Wales Notes Shining Example Of Best Practice In Sustainable Management On Expansion Of  e Cayman Islands Marine Protected Areas

angor University working in col- non-governmental organisations, other lands Government to dra new regula- laboration with  e Nature Con- local stakeholders – including sher- tions, signage, and  yers to inform the servancy have assisted the De- men – and the general public.” public. Bpartment of the Environment to expand Cayman’s marine parks were origi- Professor John Turner of the School the Marine Parks system in the Cayman nally established in 1986, but an in- of Ocean Sciences, who lead the DE- Islands, a British Overseas Territory in creasing population, tourism, and FRA Darwin Initiative research project the Caribbean, through projects funded coastal development, and awareness of that provided the scienti c evidence for by the DEFRA Darwin Initiative. wider Caribbean issues such as shing the enhanced marine parks design was  e expansion of Cayman’s exist- pressure, nutrient run-o from land delighted to see that the collaborative ing marine parks was approved by the and climate change has stimulated the research e ort has had such signi cant Cabinet and announced during the visit need for action and their enhancement. impact at last. of His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales,  e expansion increased the area of “Field research included Masters on 28th March. ‘no-take’ strict areas of protection from students from the MSc programmes in  e Environment Minister indicated a national average of 14% of coastal wa- Marine Environmental Protection and that “ is expansion will serve to pro- ters to 48%, and the shelf area managed Marine Biology on placements with the tect our local marine stocks, as well as up to 54.6%. Department of the Environment who the crucially important coral reef net- Croy McCoy, DoE Marine Research worked with Croy and the Cayman work surrounding our Islands for gen- O cer, coordinated the eld surveys Research O cers to undertake the sur- erations to come.” and recently submitted his PhD to Ban- veys to build the underlying data about  e Prince of Wales highlighted that gor University on the e ectiveness of reefs systems and their use.  e Darwin “ e Cayman Islands could become a the marine protected areas. Initiative team were engaged in a series shining example of best practice in inte- He said: of consultations and events to ensure grated and genuinely sustainable man- “Should these proposals for en- that the need for the enhanced Marine agement of its land-based and ocean hanced marine reserves not have been Parks System was supported by local resources. Such an integrated approach implemented, we ran the risk of further communities under the banner, ‘Save is not only essential to protect our eco- coral reef degradation and, eventually, our Tomorrow - Today’.” systems, but also particularly in the ecosystem collapse.’’ He went on to say: Cayman Islands case to protect the long  e zoned system of marine protect- “Cayman has continued to be a term viability of economic sectors.” ed areas reduces con ict and damage by world leader in protecting the marine Department of the Environment regulating boat anchoring, diving, sh- environment, and has in local waters (DoE) Director, Gina Ebanks Petrie ex- ing, shing at Grouper spawning aggre- at least, exceeded the call made by the plained gation sites, taking of marine life, and UK at the UN General Assembly 2018 “ ese enhanced marine parks areas tourism wildlife interactions. As well as for governments to designate 30% came about as the result of years-long providing boat mooring buoys around of oceans as Marine Protected Areas research by the Department of Environ- each of the islands, a phone app called by 2030. What’s more, this work has ment and Darwin Initiative partners, SIREN (System for Incident Reporting practically met the advanced target of Bangor University, followed by discus- and Enforcement) provides maps of achieving 50% protection by 2050 likely sions between successive governments, zones, an immediate regulation refer- to be proposed at the Convention on the Department of Environment, the ence, and access to data. Biological Diversity in China 2020.” National Conservation Council (NCC),  e next step is for the Cayman Is- Bangor University Student Models The Proposed Reintroduction Of The Eurasian Lynx To Scotland xperts have used an innova- proposals and providing the evi- acteristics of the lynx elsewhere is indeed ecologically suitable for this tool will not only provide tive approach to model the dence required to inform deci- in Europe, provided the model the reintroduction of Eurasian evidence to guide the current Eproposed reintroduction of sion-making at an early stage. with the necessary parameters. lynx –but this suitability is highly debate about reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to Scotland. “Recent advances in both eco- The team used this information dependent on where reintroduc- lynx to Great Britain, but can be Researchers used state-of-the- logical theory and modelling to investigate the suitability of tion takes place and more model- used more widely in discussions art tools to help identify the most approaches have made the in- three proposed release sites: the ling work is required,” Mr Oven- around large carnivore reintro- suitable location for lynx reintro- corporation of individual spe- Scottish component of Kielder den said. “Our research informs ductions globally.” duction in Scotland – and how cies’ complex behaviours in Forest, in the Borders; Aberdeen- one aspect of a complex decision- Jo Pike, Director of Public Af- this choice might a ect the size novel environments more realis- shire; and the Kintyre Peninsula. making process that must involve fairs at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, of a population and its expansion tic. We applied this approach to They used the model to assess a wide range of stakeholders said: “Returning the lynx to our over subsequent decades. Signi - the potential reintroduction of how the lynx would establish a and, as a result, it does not rec- landscape as a top predator could cantly, they believe their model Eurasian lynx in Scotland – and population,spread and colonise ommend whether we should, or help restore the health of Scot- will inform and enhance decision- demonstrated the power of this new habitat from each potential should not, reintroduce Eurasian land’s natural ecosystems. Any making around large carnivore new, sophisticated model. Our reintroduction site over a period lynx to Scotland. future reintroduction would have reintroductions worldwide. research demonstrates the po- of 100 years. Notably, Mr Ovenden wrote his to be carefully planned, widely The work was led by Tom Oven- tential of this approach to be ap- The results showed that entire dissertation using solar consulted on, and rigorously as- den as his Masters in Environmen- plied elsewhere to help improve Scotland possesses su cient, power, while running the Handa sessed against national and inter- tal Forestry research project at reintroduction success in large connected habitat to o er a Island nature reserve, in the Inner national guidelines. This research Bangor University, with support carnivores, from the safety of a realistic chance of population es- Hebrides, for the Scottish Wildlife is a useful contribution to the evi- from the University of Aberdeen. modelling environment.” tablishment and that some sites Trust. He worked under the su- dence base that needs to be de- Mr Ovenden said: “Reintroduc- The lynx is thought to have be- are more suitable than others. pervision of Professor John Hea- veloped over the coming years.” ing large carnivores is often com- come extinct in the UK during the Of the three sites considered, ley, of Bangor University, and col- Mr Ovenden is now a PhD re- plicated and expensive, meaning medieval period, around 1,300 the study indicated that the Kin- laborated with Dr Steve Palmer searcher at the University of Stir- that getting things right  rst time years ago. In recent years, its po- tyre Peninsula was the most suit- and Professor Justin Travis, of the ling.. is extremely important. There- tential reintroduction has been able, with the population spread- University of Aberdeen. The study, Improving reintro- fore, advances in modelling ap- widely debated. ing across the Highlands in the Professor Healey added “We duction success in large carni- proaches, as utilised during our Using current land cover data, 100 years following release. Sig- have established a solid founda- vores through individual-based study, are extremely valuable. Mr Ovenden conducted an initial ni cantly, the Central Belt would tion for future modelling, how- modelling: how to reintroduce “Our research considered sever- desk-based study to establish the act as a barrier to colonisation be- ever further research is required Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) to Scot- al proposed reintroduction sites, current location and extent of tween the Highlands and South- to assess other important issues, land, is published in the journal showing how these models can suitable forest habitat for lynx in ern Uplands providing evidence such as socio-economic factors Biological Conservation. be used as a safe and relatively Scotland, updating historic work. for two distinct habitat networks. and public attitudes, to enable inexpensive way of assessing Further research to identify the “This initial research is encour- informed, comprehensive deci- the suitability of reintroduction demographic and dispersal char- aging and suggests that Scotland sion-making. It is our hope that 10 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 11 NEWS NEWS HRH Prince Of Wales Notes Shining Example Of Best Practice In Sustainable Cardi -Bangor Management On Expansion Of  e Cayman Islands Marine Protected Areas Collaboration Brings Medical angor University working in col- non-governmental organisations, other lands Government to dra new regula- laboration with  e Nature Con- local stakeholders – including sher- tions, signage, and  yers to inform the servancy have assisted the De- men – and the general public.” public. Bpartment of the Environment to expand Cayman’s marine parks were origi- Professor John Turner of the School Training To North Wales the Marine Parks system in the Cayman nally established in 1986, but an in- of Ocean Sciences, who lead the DE- Islands, a British Overseas Territory in creasing population, tourism, and FRA Darwin Initiative research project edical students will be able to “We recognise our obligations to sity said: “We are delighted to o er local population health needs. based settings to re ect our commit- the Caribbean, through projects funded coastal development, and awareness of that provided the scienti c evidence for complete all of their medical Wales and our role in improving levels Cardi University medical students the  e C21 programme already recog- ment to ensuring care is delivered as by the DEFRA Darwin Initiative. wider Caribbean issues such as shing the enhanced marine parks design was training in North Wales for of health and well-being.  e oppor- opportunity to undertake their entire nises the importance of implementing close to patients’ homes as possible.”  e expansion of Cayman’s exist- pressure, nutrient run-o from land delighted to see that the collaborative Mthe rst time as part of a new initiative tunity to train additional medical stu- medical degree in North Wales.  is Welsh Governments ‘A Healthier Wales’ Professor Dean Williams, Head of ing marine parks was approved by the and climate change has stimulated the research e ort has had such signi cant between Cardi University and Bangor dents in North Wales in collaboration new stream of the highly successful C21 and the new programme will speci cal-  e School of Medical Sciences at Ban- Cabinet and announced during the visit need for action and their enhancement. impact at last. University. with Bangor University will certainly programme will signi cantly enhance ly prepare students to recognise the im- gor University, said: “Bangor has es- of His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales,  e expansion increased the area of “Field research included Masters  e collaboration will enable Cardi bene t patients and the public in the our e orts to deliver innovative and portance of Primary Care in providing tablished itself as a provider of quality on 28th March. ‘no-take’ strict areas of protection from students from the MSc programmes in University’s highly successful MBBCh region.” distributed medical education in Wales excellent patient centred care. It will teaching and research in life sciences.  e Environment Minister indicated a national average of 14% of coastal wa- Marine Environmental Protection and Medicine programme (C21) to be de- Professor Graham Upton, Interim and present a totally unique learning also capitalise on existing strengths in  e new students will bene t from the that “ is expansion will serve to pro- ters to 48%, and the shelf area managed Marine Biology on placements with the livered through the School of Medical Vice-Chancellor of Bangor University experience within the beautiful sur- Cardi and Bangor Universities, which teaching and learning our award win- tect our local marine stocks, as well as up to 54.6%. Department of the Environment who Sciences at Bangor University. said: “ is is excellent news and rep- roundings of North Wales. include medical education, health prac- ning sta provide.  e combination of the crucially important coral reef net- Croy McCoy, DoE Marine Research worked with Croy and the Cayman Cardi University medical students resents a landmark development in “We always aim to train the very best titioner education, community engage- quality scienti c teaching at Bangor work surrounding our Islands for gen- O cer, coordinated the eld surveys Research O cers to undertake the sur- have long bene tted from placements the history of the University. I o er my doctors for Wales, and more widely ment, and Welsh medium provision. University and established excellent erations to come.” and recently submitted his PhD to Ban- veys to build the underlying data about in north and west Wales, and this ini- congratulations to everyone who has in the UK, by providing high quality Vaughan Gething, Cabinet Secretary clinical placements across North Wales  e Prince of Wales highlighted that gor University on the e ectiveness of reefs systems and their use.  e Darwin tiative now enables them to opt to com- been involved in bringing this to frui- teaching, and an inspiring learning ex- for Health and Social Services said: “I will give students an exciting and re- “ e Cayman Islands could become a the marine protected areas. Initiative team were engaged in a series plete their medical training programme tion.” perience based around increased clini- am very pleased that students will now warding learning experience.” shining example of best practice in inte- He said: of consultations and events to ensure entirely in North Wales.  e new partnership is in response to cal contact. We are excited to mirror the be able to start their journey of becom- Ultimately this new programme will grated and genuinely sustainable man- “Should these proposals for en- that the need for the enhanced Marine Professor Colin Riordan, Vice-Chan- the challenges faced by the health and well-established C21 programme with ing doctors by studying medicine in produce excellent doctors that are pre- agement of its land-based and ocean hanced marine reserves not have been Parks System was supported by local cellor of Cardi University said: “ e social care professions in Wales and the our colleagues at the School of Medical North Wales, thanks to this collabora- pared for the changing needs of our resources. Such an integrated approach implemented, we ran the risk of further communities under the banner, ‘Save launch of this new programme is a need to educate more health profes- Sciences at Bangor University. tion.  e Welsh Government is provid- communities, lead to improved recruit- is not only essential to protect our eco- coral reef degradation and, eventually, our Tomorrow - Today’.” signi cant step forward in the delivery sionals both from Wales and in Wales. “ is collaboration between two ing £7m to fund 40 new medical places ment and retention of doctors in North systems, but also particularly in the ecosystem collapse.’’ He went on to say: of medical education in Wales. As an It will establish an innovative full-time proud and prestigious universities will this year, 20 in each of Cardi and Wales, enrich the health and medical Cayman Islands case to protect the long  e zoned system of marine protect- “Cayman has continued to be a institution we are in the privileged po- medicine programme in North Wales, go some way towards addressing the Swansea medical schools, along with learning environment in North Wales term viability of economic sectors.” ed areas reduces con ict and damage by world leader in protecting the marine sition of being able to train the health- producing excellent doctors prepared challenges we face in sustaining our the infrastructure to support them. and improve community health and Department of the Environment regulating boat anchoring, diving, sh- environment, and has in local waters care professionals of the future. It is a for the changing needs of Welsh com- medical workforce in Wales.” Swansea University will also collabo- wellbeing. (DoE) Director, Gina Ebanks Petrie ex- ing, shing at Grouper spawning aggre- at least, exceeded the call made by the responsibility to ensure that our stu- munities with a deep understanding of It is hoped that the programme will rate with Aberystwyth University to in- plained gation sites, taking of marine life, and UK at the UN General Assembly 2018 dents are prepared and ready to make North Wales in particular. also allow additional routes into medi- crease opportunities in west Wales. “ ese enhanced marine parks areas tourism wildlife interactions. As well as for governments to designate 30% a real di erence wherever they choose Professor Stephen Riley, Dean of cine and increase diversity within the Students will undertake as much of came about as the result of years-long providing boat mooring buoys around of oceans as Marine Protected Areas to work within our healthcare system. Medical Education at Cardi Univer- medical profession whilst addressing their studies as possible in community research by the Department of Environ- each of the islands, a phone app called by 2030. What’s more, this work has ment and Darwin Initiative partners, SIREN (System for Incident Reporting practically met the advanced target of Bangor University, followed by discus- and Enforcement) provides maps of achieving 50% protection by 2050 likely sions between successive governments, zones, an immediate regulation refer- to be proposed at the Convention on the Department of Environment, the ence, and access to data. Biological Diversity in China 2020.”  e Future Of VR Technology National Conservation Council (NCC),  e next step is for the Cayman Is- Fire Incident Bangor University Student Models The Proposed At Pontio Reintroduction Of The Eurasian Lynx To Scotland xperts have used an innova- proposals and providing the evi- acteristics of the lynx elsewhere is indeed ecologically suitable for this tool will not only provide tive approach to model the dence required to inform deci- in Europe, provided the model the reintroduction of Eurasian evidence to guide the current Eproposed reintroduction of sion-making at an early stage. with the necessary parameters. lynx –but this suitability is highly debate about reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx to Scotland. “Recent advances in both eco- The team used this information dependent on where reintroduc- lynx to Great Britain, but can be Researchers used state-of-the- logical theory and modelling to investigate the suitability of tion takes place and more model- used more widely in discussions art tools to help identify the most approaches have made the in- three proposed release sites: the ling work is required,” Mr Oven- around large carnivore reintro- suitable location for lynx reintro- corporation of individual spe- Scottish component of Kielder den said. “Our research informs ductions globally.” duction in Scotland – and how cies’ complex behaviours in Forest, in the Borders; Aberdeen- one aspect of a complex decision- Jo Pike, Director of Public Af- this choice might a ect the size novel environments more realis- shire; and the Kintyre Peninsula. making process that must involve fairs at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, of a population and its expansion tic. We applied this approach to They used the model to assess a wide range of stakeholders said: “Returning the lynx to our over subsequent decades. Signi - the potential reintroduction of how the lynx would establish a and, as a result, it does not rec- landscape as a top predator could cantly, they believe their model Eurasian lynx in Scotland – and population,spread and colonise ommend whether we should, or help restore the health of Scot- angor University Lecturer Dr neering explains, Llŷr developed the programme in his will inform and enhance decision- demonstrated the power of this new habitat from each potential should not, reintroduce Eurasian land’s natural ecosystems. Any Llŷr ap Cenydd has been Talking “ e Oculus Quest does a number of spare time, in conjunction with Sam- making around large carnivore new, sophisticated model. Our reintroduction site over a period lynx to Scotland. future reintroduction would have About the Future of VR Technol- things that have been done before in sung and Oculus. Published by Picseli- reintroductions worldwide. research demonstrates the po- of 100 years. Notably, Mr Ovenden wrote his to be carefully planned, widely Bogy as Oculus, owned by Facebook is VR but not together. Firstly, it’s mobile ca Ltd, it has been used as a launch title The work was led by Tom Oven- tential of this approach to be ap- The results showed that entire dissertation using solar consulted on, and rigorously as- set to launch their new Oculus Quest - it’s called standalone virtual reality for many high-pro le VR headsets. den as his Masters in Environmen- plied elsewhere to help improve Scotland possesses su cient, power, while running the Handa sessed against national and inter- headset. headset - so everything is built into it. Llŷr added, tal Forestry research project at reintroduction success in large connected habitat to o er a Island nature reserve, in the Inner national guidelines. This research Oculus Quest, a new product which is It’s pretty much plug and play.  ere’s “We've got a lot of modules in this Bangor University, with support carnivores, from the safety of a realistic chance of population es- Hebrides, for the Scottish Wildlife is a useful contribution to the evi- re occurred at Pontio Arts con rming some insulation had caught set to launch this month, is one of the also positional tracking so it can track department like Arti cial Intelligence from the University of Aberdeen. modelling environment.” tablishment and that some sites Trust. He worked under the su- dence base that needs to be de- and Innovation Centre on April alight from tar being heated. rst all-in-one gaming system built for where it is in 3D space without any (AI) for games, programming and Mr Ovenden said: “Reintroduc- The lynx is thought to have be- are more suitable than others. pervision of Professor John Hea- veloped over the coming years.” 29th. e re alarm was set o Students remained camped outside virtual reality.  e device does not need external cameras, which makes it very computer graphics. All these elements ing large carnivores is often com- come extinct in the UK during the Of the three sites considered, ley, of Bangor University, and col- Mr Ovenden is now a PhD re- Aat around 11:45AM this morning and the building as the  ames subsided, to be connected to a phone, console or easy to use. Finally, you can track your are related to virtual reality. In the third plicated and expensive, meaning medieval period, around 1,300 the study indicated that the Kin- laborated with Dr Steve Palmer searcher at the University of Stir- emergency services were called to the with it being shut for the remainder PC. hands so that's one of the key features year, students have their dissertation that getting things right  rst time years ago. In recent years, its po- tyre Peninsula was the most suit- and Professor Justin Travis, of the ling.. scene. e blaze occurred amid ongoing of the day, but re-opened on the 30th As an expert in VR, Dr Llŷr ap Ce- to make VR very immersive. When you project, where they can choose to spend is extremely important. There- tential reintroduction has been able, with the population spread- University of Aberdeen. The study, Improving reintro- maintenance work being carried out on April, with most business resuming as nydd is the brains behind “Ocean Ri ”, put all those things together; mobile, the whole year working on their own fore, advances in modelling ap- widely debated. ing across the Highlands in the Professor Healey added “We duction success in large carni- the building. normal one of the world’s most popular virtual positional tracking and hand tracking, virtual reality project. proaches, as utilised during our Using current land cover data, 100 years following release. Sig- have established a solid founda- vores through individual-based Reports suggests that the re was cen-  e work to address the roof issues in reality programmes. Ocean Ri , a vir- you have a very attractive device, both  ey team up with a lecturer like my- study, are extremely valuable. Mr Ovenden conducted an initial ni cantly, the Central Belt would tion for future modelling, how- modelling: how to reintroduce tred around the construction work that the ‘Room of Requirement’ was due to tual underwater safari, was one of the from a consumer and developer point self and we spend a year developing “Our research considered sever- desk-based study to establish the act as a barrier to colonisation be- ever further research is required Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) to Scot- was conducting repairs to the roof of the be completed soon so the timing of the rst programmes to be released along- of view.” their prototype and that can really be al proposed reintroduction sites, current location and extent of tween the Highlands and South- to assess other important issues, land, is published in the journal ‘Room of Requirement’ located in the re is very unfortunate. Although the side the Samsung Gear VR headset, and At Bangor University, students at the the main thing on their CV when they showing how these models can suitable forest habitat for lynx in ern Uplands providing evidence such as socio-economic factors Biological Conservation. Students’ Union (Undeb Bangor).  is extent is unknown at this stage, there has become one of the most popular School of Computer Science and Elec- graduate, therefore it's a very important be used as a safe and relatively Scotland, updating historic work. for two distinct habitat networks. and public attitudes, to enable room has been plagued with problems will undoubtably be damage in that with an estimated 2.5 million down- tronic Engineering have the opportuni- part of their nal year.” inexpensive way of assessing Further research to identify the “This initial research is encour- informed, comprehensive deci- since the building was opened with the area which is likely to set repairs back loads since 2013. ty to explore a broad range of technolo- Oculus Quest headset will be available the suitability of reintroduction demographic and dispersal char- aging and suggests that Scotland sion-making. It is our hope that main issue being leaks to the roof, with even further. Dr Llŷr ap Cenydd from the School of gies and collaborate with world leading to buy from the 21st of May. a spokesperson from Bangor University Computer Science and Electronic Engi- researchers. 12 SEREN | May Issue 2019 POLITICS

Overview: The Problem Solvers

What The Undeb Bangor Council Has Acheived For Us This Year by OLIVER HEWSON Every meeting these ideas are subject- make use of microwaves that are be- IT Improvements what changes are being made.” ed to heavy debate and then voted on. ginning to be placed in the common  e IT department are attempting to UBC has its  aws, and many criti- ndeb Bangor Council (UBC) So far, the changes that have been rooms around the university – there are address the di culties caused by visual cisms have been made about the use- exists to serve the student body. passed have only a ected a few stu- already a few in Pontio. impairments and forms of dyslexia by fulness of the motions passed – that  e council is comprised of a dents: providing a colour overlay programme they don’t really have a major e ect on Unumber students all voted into their position by their peers. Elections are A Prayer Room for Pontio “We will be working, over the summer, to ensure your student council (UBC) becomes small scale and take place just a er Previously, students wishing to pray as relevant and productive as possible. We will be looking at how we can ensure freshers week.  is, rather unfortu- between lectures either had to head all students know that they can feed into it, by submitting their ideas, besides actively nately, means that freshers o en miss the way down to Rathbone, or over the out on the opportunity to become a other side of Bangor to the Mosque. getting involved to see what changes are being made.” member of the council. UBC’s purpose is to address student’s Extra Student Parking is being im- Also, recently passed and soon to be for university computers. many people. What this opinion fails problems, debate them, and attempt to plemented near Dean Street (by Cube) implemented: to see is that this failure to make truly nd a mutually bene cial solution.  ere was frustration (and presum-  ose motions that have been passed widespread and meaningful changes is  a t Revoke Article 50 Petition that ably a lot of walking) as a result of the Changes to Exam Room Indenti ca- have made a great deal of di erence to not the fault of the UBC, but of those everyone was signing last month – fact that a lot of the sta parking was tion those who proposed them, but one the students who, having identi ed an area UBC functions very much like that: being le largely empty. All exam rooms will now be detailed main problems with the UBC, it seems, of issue, do nothing to bring it before If you wish to submit a topic to the with their original room numbers in- is the lack of publicity – few people ac- the Council. UBC for debate then you only need Smoking regulations are being stead of the previously perplexing ex- tually know that the council even exists. Many of us do not realise quite how go to: tightened on campus and more smok- am-speci c numbering system.  e current minds behind the UBC, lucky we are, being students at Ban- ing areas are being created however, are in the process of spit ball- gor. Perhaps not so much in terms of www.undebbangor.com/yourideas/  ere had been an increase in com- Every assignment across all schools ing a major overhaul of the whole sys- nationwide academic prestige, but as plaints about the amount of fag ends will be able to be resubmitted inde - tem. Our SU President to be, Mark Bar- individuals and as a collective body. and ll out the requisite forms. littering communal areas outside build- nitely until the deadline row, told us: Our Student Union is unique in that it Your idea will then be placed on a list ings and there was an attempt to rem- Where previously some school’s re- “We will be working, over the summer, is functionally equipped to swi ly trou- with all the other proposed motions edy that whilst still allowing smokers a submissions needed permission from to ensure your student council (UBC) bleshoot any arising issues and also fa- and get voted on, up or down through- dry and comfortable area to congregate. the assessing lecturer, now any student becomes as relevant and productive as cilitate student suggestions. out the year. If it reaches the top 5 in the is able to re-submit their work as many possible. We will be looking at how we list then it is selected to be debated by Microwaves in communal areas times as necessary before the agreed can ensure students know that they can the council at their next meeting, which Students who prefer to cook their own deadline. feed into it, by submitting their ideas, take place once a month. food prepared at home are now able to besides actively getting involved to see A Year Of Mild Drama - A Political Recap Of  e 2018/19 Semesters by GRACE WORSLEY landscape of the University in the long December 2018. In the interim period Chemistry at Bangor University was year has seen Bangor University re- run, reassured students that their expe- before the allocation of a permanent reached in April, leading to a 3 year shape itself in many ways; the unfortu- hat better way to celebrate rience at Bangor would not be a ected successor, Professor Graham Upton phasing out period which is currently nate closure of the Chemistry depart- the academic year drawing as a result of the cuts in an interview was appointed as Interim Vice-Chan- underway. ment arguably causing the biggest blow to a close than a political with Seren in November. cellor; his role coming into force on the Amidst all of the administrative to the morale of the University. What recapW of Bangor University in 2018/19?  e announcement of Hughes’ retire- 1st January 2019. goings-on in Bangor, the 2019/20 Sab- can be determined from the events of An eventful year as ever, there have ment from his role of Vice-Chancellor  e beginning of the year saw the batical Elections took place in order to the past few months, is that Bangor been signi cant changes to the struc- came in late November, swi ly fol- organisation of the student protest as a determine the Undeb Bangor team for students love their University. ture of the University, impacting the lowed by controversy surrounding the result of the proposed budget cuts and the upcoming academic year. With a  rough protesting in order to academic careers of current students, release of personal emails purporting closure of the Chemistry department. voting turnout of 2206, the results were strengthen the opportunities avail- sta and prospective students alike. to relate to his private life to a selection On the 18th January, many students announced on 8th March 2019; mak- able to future students, and rallying Towards the end of 2018, then Vice- of sta members.  en Vice-Chan- came together to place pressure on the ing Henry Williams your VP Sport, campaigns in order to determine a Chancellor John G. Hughes announced cellor John G. Hughes apologised for University to protect the Chemistry Muhammad Firdaus your VP Societies solid student union foundation for the a £5m budget cut as a result of low lev- this incident, relaying that the emails department and its funding; an act of and Volunteering, Harry Riley your upcoming year, it has arguably been els of student recruitment, among other in question had been doctored.  e solidarity which displayed the passion VP Education, Lleucu Myrddin your a positive year for us here at Bangor reasons. Hughes, in stating that the pro- announcement of his early retire- among Bangor University students as UMCB President and Mark Barrow despite what obstacles have come our posed cuts would improve the nancial ment followed soon a er, on the 11th to their education. Unfortunately, the your Undeb President. way. decision to eradicate the teaching of  e political turbulence this academic 12 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 13 POLITICS POLITICS

Overview: The Problem Solvers Tiggers &  e Brexit Party Easter Is A Time Of Rebirth For British Politics

by OLIVER HEWSON e Brexit Party (whose political in- tentions should be fairly obvious) was ack in February, a er an illu- formed of former members of UKIP, minating few months of British and with the full support of Nigel Far- Politics, a bunch of people le age, who has now become the Party Bthe Labour Party’s increasingly le eld Leader. His predecessor only lasted 2 wing and bounced o to create a party months – hacing to step down down What The Undeb Bangor Council Has Acheived For Us This Year for themselves that would better repre- a er allegations of Islamophobia.  eir policies are very similar to those Every meeting these ideas are subject- make use of microwaves that are be- IT Improvements what changes are being made.” sent their shared ideals (also, all that an- by OLIVER HEWSON ti-Semitism got to them).  ey formed proposed by UKIP, but they hope to ed to heavy debate and then voted on. ginning to be placed in the common  e IT department are attempting to UBC has its  aws, and many criti- be less associated with the opinions of So far, the changes that have been rooms around the university – there are address the di culties caused by visual cisms have been made about the use- Change UK - e Independent Group ndeb Bangor Council (UBC) (TIG, thus Tiggers) and these guys are those considered to be the far right. exists to serve the student body. passed have only a ected a few stu- already a few in Pontio. impairments and forms of dyslexia by fulness of the motions passed – that  eir main focus, though, is in deliver- dents: providing a colour overlay programme they don’t really have a major e ect on majorly pro Europe (anti-Brexit). Tig-  e council is comprised of a gers support a second referendum. ing Brexit, and hope that all previous Unumber students all voted into their Leave supporters are able to put aside A Prayer Room for Pontio “We will be working, over the summer, to ensure your student council (UBC) becomes Wikipedia considers their policies position by their peers. Elections are centrist. their di erences in support of the party small scale and take place just a er Previously, students wishing to pray as relevant and productive as possible. We will be looking at how we can ensure for a Brexit Britain. freshers week.  is, rather unfortu- between lectures either had to head all students know that they can feed into it, by submitting their ideas, besides actively nately, means that freshers o en miss the way down to Rathbone, or over the  e Slippery Slope To Our out on the opportunity to become a other side of Bangor to the Mosque. getting involved to see what changes are being made.” member of the council. UBC’s purpose is to address student’s Extra Student Parking is being im- Also, recently passed and soon to be for university computers. many people. What this opinion fails problems, debate them, and attempt to plemented near Dean Street (by Cube) implemented: to see is that this failure to make truly Dystopian Present nd a mutually bene cial solution.  ere was frustration (and presum-  ose motions that have been passed widespread and meaningful changes is  a t Revoke Article 50 Petition that ably a lot of walking) as a result of the Changes to Exam Room Indenti ca- have made a great deal of di erence to not the fault of the UBC, but of those everyone was signing last month – fact that a lot of the sta parking was tion those who proposed them, but one the students who, having identi ed an area What Orwell and Huxley Had To Say About Our Political System UBC functions very much like that: being le largely empty. All exam rooms will now be detailed main problems with the UBC, it seems, of issue, do nothing to bring it before If you wish to submit a topic to the with their original room numbers in- is the lack of publicity – few people ac- the Council. UBC for debate then you only need Smoking regulations are being stead of the previously perplexing ex- tually know that the council even exists. Many of us do not realise quite how by RYAN MILES our current society to one story or the see t; massive increase in security in go to: tightened on campus and more smok- am-speci c numbering system.  e current minds behind the UBC, lucky we are, being students at Ban- other, it is instead becoming more clear airports; deployment of heavily armed ing areas are being created however, are in the process of spit ball- gor. Perhaps not so much in terms of et’s compare our governmental that we have become an amalgamation o cers to the streets; and of course in- www.undebbangor.com/yourideas/  ere had been an increase in com- Every assignment across all schools ing a major overhaul of the whole sys- nationwide academic prestige, but as systems with 1984 and Brave New of the two. vasion of our basic privacy by spying on plaints about the amount of fag ends will be able to be resubmitted inde - tem. Our SU President to be, Mark Bar- individuals and as a collective body. World. For 1984, you need look no further everything we do. LIt’s really like comparing the taste of than our own government, spying on its And as for Brave New World. Well. and ll out the requisite forms. littering communal areas outside build- nitely until the deadline row, told us: Our Student Union is unique in that it Your idea will then be placed on a list ings and there was an attempt to rem- Where previously some school’s re- “We will be working, over the summer, is functionally equipped to swi ly trou- something to chicken; or someone you own citizens via GCHQ, or the CIA in We live in an era with more entertain- with all the other proposed motions edy that whilst still allowing smokers a submissions needed permission from to ensure your student council (UBC) bleshoot any arising issues and also fa- don't like to Hitler. It’s been done. A lot. the United States.  e most extreme ex- ment and distractions than ever before. and get voted on, up or down through- dry and comfortable area to congregate. the assessing lecturer, now any student becomes as relevant and productive as cilitate student suggestions. Unfortunately, I believe the reason it amples come from further east, in Chi- Be it Net ix, video games, celebrity out the year. If it reaches the top 5 in the is able to re-submit their work as many possible. We will be looking at how we has been done so o en is because it is, na, who use face tracking technology to gossip, reality television, alcohol, drugs, list then it is selected to be debated by Microwaves in communal areas times as necessary before the agreed can ensure students know that they can for the most part, very true. For those follow their citizens wherever they go. antidepressants, student newspapers, Stranger  an Fiction the council at their next meeting, which Students who prefer to cook their own deadline. feed into it, by submitting their ideas, of you who haven’t read 1984 (George Take a look at how our government sex, or a million other things, we are take place once a month. food prepared at home are now able to besides actively getting involved to see Orwell) or Brave New World (Aldous use propaganda to justify their actions, never allowed to be bored. And that's a Edwardian Author Predicts Britain’s Future Huxley), both revolve around ctional changing the narrative to suit their problem. With all these distractions who has worlds entirely governed by oligarchies needs: simply by careful choice of the by OLIVER HEWSON  e premise is rather disconcerting: (a system where a few hold all the pow- right words, a group of civilians killed time to pay attention to what's actually It is present day (so 1972) and due to by a NATO airstrike in Syria become happening to us? And that's not even er). ell, strictly speaking, her rst a (recognisable) scepticism in Europe’s A Year Of Mild Drama - A Political Recap Of  e 2018/19 Semesters Both di er, though (and rather fun- "Twelve members of ISIS killed". mentioning purposeful distractions. strength as an economic power, Brit- For instance, the US considers all men Ever wonder why Donald Trump novel was 1931 but “Post- landscape of the University in the long December 2018. In the interim period Chemistry at Bangor University was year has seen Bangor University re- damentally) in their depictions of how ain decides it should withdraw from by GRACE WORSLEY over the age of 14 enemy combatants if will tweet something stupid, or some Great-War-Era-Writer” run, reassured students that their expe- before the allocation of a permanent reached in April, leading to a 3 year shape itself in many ways; the unfortu- these few maintain their power. doesn’tW t on the by-line so well. the Common Market and immediately In 1984 those in power maintain con- they are killed by a drone or airstrike, massive scandal will be revealed, right hat better way to celebrate rience at Bangor would not be a ected successor, Professor Graham Upton phasing out period which is currently nate closure of the Chemistry depart- Either way, during her long, long ca- goes bankrupt. trol with spy networks, censorship, and regardless of whether they are or not around the same time as an unpopular the academic year drawing as a result of the cuts in an interview was appointed as Interim Vice-Chan- underway. ment arguably causing the biggest blow reer she wrote her fair few of famous To combat the issues fast approach- extensive propaganda singing the prais- (and they’re usually not). law is being pushed through? Because to a close than a political with Seren in November. cellor; his role coming into force on the Amidst all of the administrative to the morale of the University. What novels about kidnapping, drug induced ing, the Prime Minister announces, live es of the government.  ey keep con- Another key part of 1984 is the use it distracts you.  e news will report recapW of Bangor University in 2018/19?  e announcement of Hughes’ retire- 1st January 2019. goings-on in Bangor, the 2019/20 Sab- can be determined from the events of time travel and haunting ex-wives; even on Television, that America (currently stant watch over their citizens, change of a distant threat as a way to rile peo- the scandal because that's what people An eventful year as ever, there have ment from his role of Vice-Chancellor  e beginning of the year saw the batical Elections took place in order to the past few months, is that Bangor this one about a creepy dwarf that stalks presided over by a despotic tycoon) and history in favour of the system and re- ple up, allowing those in power to take want to see whilst some actually impor- been signi cant changes to the struc- came in late November, swi ly fol- organisation of the student protest as a determine the Undeb Bangor team for students love their University. a woman on her holidays that’s actually Great Britain (currently screwed) will port the news as they see t. even more freedoms away. In the case tant thing slips by unnoticed, far too ture of the University, impacting the lowed by controversy surrounding the result of the proposed budget cuts and the upcoming academic year. With a  rough protesting in order to a metaphor for post-natal depression. join forces to become a single nation In Brave New World power is main- of Orwell’s dystopia it was Eurasia and boringly evil to ever attract attention. academic careers of current students, release of personal emails purporting closure of the Chemistry department. voting turnout of 2206, the results were strengthen the opportunities avail- All good stu . and the world’s most formidable super- tained for the few by providing their then Eastasia, and in real life it was To really do 1984 and a Brave New sta and prospective students alike. to relate to his private life to a selection On the 18th January, many students announced on 8th March 2019; mak- able to future students, and rallying It so happens that she, that author, power, called USUK (say it out loud). citizens with endless forms of joy, sub- Russia, then Iraq, then Afghanistan, World any kind of justice they have to Towards the end of 2018, then Vice- of sta members.  en Vice-Chan- came together to place pressure on the ing Henry Williams your VP Sport, campaigns in order to determine a whose name is Daphne Du Maurier, US Soldiers turn up, USUK declares a duing them all with copious entertain- then Iraq again, then Russia again, then be read, and I urge everyone to read Chancellor John G. Hughes announced cellor John G. Hughes apologised for University to protect the Chemistry Muhammad Firdaus your VP Societies solid student union foundation for the wrote a novel in 1972 called Rule Bri- state of national emergency, roadblocks ment and a happiness inducing pill Syria, and now basically the entire Mid- them both, as they will provide a sur- a £5m budget cut as a result of low lev- this incident, relaying that the emails department and its funding; an act of and Volunteering, Harry Riley your upcoming year, it has arguably been tannia that she hoped would be a jovial are established, telephone and postal called Soma. dle East. prising amount of insight into our cur- els of student recruitment, among other in question had been doctored.  e solidarity which displayed the passion VP Education, Lleucu Myrddin your a positive year for us here at Bangor mock-up of what the country might services are cut.  e whole thing goes announcement of his early retire- among Bangor University students as UMCB President and Mark Barrow despite what obstacles have come our However, where most people compare  ese "threats" can be used as an ex- rent political climate. Plus, they're both ape, a dog is killed, no-one has any fun. reasons. Hughes, in stating that the pro- cuse to take away our freedoms as they really good. end up becoming. Well, Daphne, you posed cuts would improve the nancial ment followed soon a er, on the 11th to their education. Unfortunately, the your Undeb President. way. did good. decision to eradicate the teaching of  e political turbulence this academic 14 SEREN | May Issue 2019 POLITICIAN OPINION OPINION: Vote Plaid Cymru In The EU Election To Reclaim Our Future

CARMEN RIA SMITH Carmen Ria Smith stands for Plaid Cymru as an EU Election Candidate; the youngest standing in Wales.

Carmen is a Bangor University Graduate, now residing in Cardi .

Smith previously held the role of the NUS (National Union of Students) Wales Deputy President, and has since been active with the People’s Vote Campaign.

We’ve been writing to our MPs, we’ve been taking part in debates, and we’ve been making it known that this Brexit mess is not what we want for our future.

by CARMEN RIA SMITH real prospect of our futures being irre- Erasmus+, the EU's student mobility sage at the ballot box.  e evidence is clear - Brexit would be versibly changed.  is is Westminster's and overseas study programme. Our If we come together, we really do deeply damaging to Wales’ commu- ales is waking up to the way doing, not ours. access to that is in serious danger if we have the power to send the Westmin- nities.  at is why Plaid Cymru has Westminster isn’t work- In years gone by, people of my gen- leave the EU. ster establishment a message they can't campaigned from the outset for a Final ing. But my generation feels eration might have been accused of not And schemes like Erasmus+ bene t ignore: we deserve better. We demand Say referendum. Our Final Say refer- especiallyW let down by a deeply out of caring enough about what's going on in the whole of society too, bringing in better. endum will give the people of Wales touch Westminster establishment. the world around them. But no more. millions of EU funding to Welsh col- We can tell  eresa May and her frac- an opportunity to choose between any We didn't vote to leave the EU. In fact, Far from dividing us, the European leges and universities, helping to boost tured Tory party that we utterly reject deal and remaining in the EU. we know that around three quarters of question has translated into a force to our communities. the bleak future they're dragging us to- So my message to students and young all students in the UK voted Remain in be reckoned with.  at would be gone if we leave the EU. wards. people ahead of this election is this: the 2016 referendum. Young people like me have been at  at's why young people and students And we can tell Jeremy Corbyn that vote to reclaim your future on 23 May. All across the nation young people the forefront of the Remain movement are motivated like never before to make we're fed up of his ambivalence on the And here in Wales, the best way to and students have been taking to the since 2016. We've created networks and our voices heard and to claim what is de ning issue of our generation, which achieve that is by voting Plaid Cymru. streets in rallies and marches like never movements, and we've been campaign- rightfully ours: our future. is tantamount to facilitating a Tory It is easy to get lost in the deep, dark before. ing hard for what we believe in.  at's also why I am proud to be Brexit. disorder of Brexit. But together, we We've been writing to our MPs, we've I've been working with organisa- standing as a candidate for Plaid Cymru For three years, my generation has have the power to swing the end result. been taking part in debates, and we've tions like For Our Future's Sake (FFS) in the upcoming European Parliament. seen Westminster politicians going  e European election on 23 May is been making it known that this Brexit precisely because I know that students As one of the youngest candidates in round and round in circles, squabbling our opportunity to bin Brexit once and mess is not what we want for our future. bene t so much from us being a mem- the UK, I believe that my generation amongst themselves about which ver- for all. Let us ght for what we truly Never during the past three years has ber of the EU. deserves so much more than this. sion of Brexit is better. believe in because it is within our grasp our European future been so alive. As former NUS Wales Deputy Presi-  e challenge for young people and But young people and students all if we reach hard enough - I’m sure of it. And yet we still nd ourselves in this dent, I understand that it's our genera- students now is to turn the frustration over Wales know that there is no such terrifying Brexit limbo, facing the very tion that bene ts most from things like we feel at this Brexit mess into a mes- thing as a good version of Brexit. 14 SEREN | May Issue 2019 POLITICIAN OPINION OPINION: Vote Plaid Cymru In The EU Election To Reclaim Our Future

CARMEN RIA SMITH Carmen Ria Smith stands for Plaid Cymru as an EU Election Candidate; the youngest standing in Wales.

Carmen is a Bangor University Graduate, now residing in Cardi .

Smith previously held the role of the NUS (National Union of Students) Wales Deputy President, and has since been active with the People’s Vote Campaign.

We’ve been writing to our MPs, we’ve been taking part in debates, and we’ve been making it known that this Brexit mess is not what we want for our future. by CARMEN RIA SMITH real prospect of our futures being irre- Erasmus+, the EU's student mobility sage at the ballot box.  e evidence is clear - Brexit would be versibly changed.  is is Westminster's and overseas study programme. Our If we come together, we really do deeply damaging to Wales’ commu- ales is waking up to the way doing, not ours. access to that is in serious danger if we have the power to send the Westmin- nities.  at is why Plaid Cymru has Westminster isn’t work- In years gone by, people of my gen- leave the EU. ster establishment a message they can't campaigned from the outset for a Final ing. But my generation feels eration might have been accused of not And schemes like Erasmus+ bene t ignore: we deserve better. We demand Say referendum. Our Final Say refer- especiallyW let down by a deeply out of caring enough about what's going on in the whole of society too, bringing in better. endum will give the people of Wales touch Westminster establishment. the world around them. But no more. millions of EU funding to Welsh col- We can tell  eresa May and her frac- an opportunity to choose between any We didn't vote to leave the EU. In fact, Far from dividing us, the European leges and universities, helping to boost tured Tory party that we utterly reject deal and remaining in the EU. we know that around three quarters of question has translated into a force to our communities. the bleak future they're dragging us to- So my message to students and young all students in the UK voted Remain in be reckoned with.  at would be gone if we leave the EU. wards. people ahead of this election is this: the 2016 referendum. Young people like me have been at  at's why young people and students And we can tell Jeremy Corbyn that vote to reclaim your future on 23 May. All across the nation young people the forefront of the Remain movement are motivated like never before to make we're fed up of his ambivalence on the And here in Wales, the best way to and students have been taking to the since 2016. We've created networks and our voices heard and to claim what is de ning issue of our generation, which achieve that is by voting Plaid Cymru. streets in rallies and marches like never movements, and we've been campaign- rightfully ours: our future. is tantamount to facilitating a Tory It is easy to get lost in the deep, dark before. ing hard for what we believe in.  at's also why I am proud to be Brexit. disorder of Brexit. But together, we We've been writing to our MPs, we've I've been working with organisa- standing as a candidate for Plaid Cymru For three years, my generation has have the power to swing the end result. been taking part in debates, and we've tions like For Our Future's Sake (FFS) in the upcoming European Parliament. seen Westminster politicians going  e European election on 23 May is been making it known that this Brexit precisely because I know that students As one of the youngest candidates in round and round in circles, squabbling our opportunity to bin Brexit once and mess is not what we want for our future. bene t so much from us being a mem- the UK, I believe that my generation amongst themselves about which ver- for all. Let us ght for what we truly Never during the past three years has ber of the EU. deserves so much more than this. sion of Brexit is better. believe in because it is within our grasp our European future been so alive. As former NUS Wales Deputy Presi-  e challenge for young people and But young people and students all if we reach hard enough - I’m sure of it. And yet we still nd ourselves in this dent, I understand that it's our genera- students now is to turn the frustration over Wales know that there is no such terrifying Brexit limbo, facing the very tion that bene ts most from things like we feel at this Brexit mess into a mes- thing as a good version of Brexit. 16 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SCIENCE IN BRIEF PSA: Stop Kissing Can You Get A Sexy Salmon? Hedgehogs

by CHARLOTTE BILSBY ew research reveals that farmed “Farmed Atlantic salmon do s p aw n .” evolutionary change can take place, arlier this year the Centre for salmon have smaller ‘jaw sometimes escape from the nets and William holds a four year old mature that can a ect future reproduction and Disease Control and Prevention hooks’ or ‘kype’- a secondary can interbreed with wild salmon, male Atlantic salmon during the nal survival, a er just 12 generations. Such Nsexual trait, likened to the antlers of creating hybrids. round of sampling at the Institute of changes are of special concern when (CDC) cautioned the general publicE from kissing hedgehogs. Yes, a stag, making them less attractive to “Initially, the fact that any escaped Marine Research’s sh rearing facility at hundreds of thousands of farmed sh these spikey critters are adorable and females than their wild salmon cousins. salmon are less ‘attractive’ because of Matre, Norway. can escape into the wild, and potentially I’m sure if one was curled up in my  is new nding published in the their smaller ‘kype’ may seem like good “Identifying that this secondary interbreed, with wild relatives. . hands I would nd it hard to resist from peer–reviewed science journal Royal news, as they’re less likely to breed. sexual trait is less pronounced in Williams’s PhD is funded by the giving it a little peck on the cheek, but Society Open Science, implies that  at’s not the whole story however. farmed salmon is another sign that NERC ENVISION Doctoral training seriously stop. Between last October farm-bred salmon are less sexually Because farmed sh do not have to as a diverging species, farmed sh are programme which is preparing the next and December last year 11 people attractive than their wild brethren, compete for mates, there is no element less well adapted, and are less able to generation of environmental scientists. in eight states across America were and that despite only being bred in of sexual selection happening, making compete than wild salmon. A pattern He is working with the Institute of infected with Salmonella typhimurium, captivity since the 1970’s, within some the farmed and hybrid sh poorly that may be repeating in many other Marine Research in Bergen Norway. 10 of which admitted to close 12 generations, that they are already adapted to breeding in the wild. So, aquaculture species” William gained a rst degree and a a ectionate contact with a hedgehog. diverging from wild salmon. when you do see high levels of farmed Prof Gary Carvalho, William’s PhD Masters degree from Bristol University So, everyone chill out and stop kissing  e ndings form part of a wider escapees, and inevitable interbreeding supervisor at Bangor University’s and was attracted to Bangor University hedgehogs. research project into the di erences within a wild salmon population, this School of Natural Sciences commented: by the opportunity to work with leading between wild, farmed and hybrid could reduce the long term health of “ is is the rst study to look sheries geneticist Prof Gary Carvalho. salmon. that population. at the e ect of domestication and Will, who is 24, works closely with Kangaroo Rat VS William Perry, a PhD student at Farmed or hybrid salmon are not only hybridisation on sexually selected traits the Norwegian Institute of Marine Bangor University's School of Natural less likely to breed successfully in the in salmon. Our ndings demonstrate Research making regular trips to Rattlesnake Sciences and the paper’s lead author wild, they are also less likely to return that when animals are kept in unnatural Bergen, Hordaland which is twinned explains: from the ocean to freshwater rivers to conditions, such as in a sh farm, rapid with his home city of Cardi Ecological Apocalypse, Bangor Student Research Extinction Rebels, Climate Reaches Global Headlines Emergencies: What Is Going On With 2019?

by CHARLOTTE BILSBY As we seemingly sleep-walk deeper into this ecological apocalypse with he media is full of scary and more and more climate emergencies shocking descriptions as of late, occurring and the colour being lost by CHARLOTTE BILSBY and as I’m sure many of you are, from our landscapes various protest TI am panicked. Here I have digested movements across the UK have ’m sure you’ve sat there and some of the biggest topics of 2019 into risen.  e one that has really taken pondered who would win in a ght more approachable and understandable to the headlines is the Extinction between a desert kangaroo rat and a concepts so everyone can get a true Rebellion.  e Extinction Rebellion rattlesnake.I Well you’re in luck, recently grasp on what’s happening in the world is an international protest group that it was caught on lm that a small desert of science. Last year various naturalists uses non-violent civil disobedience rodent, the kangaroo rat, battled and conservationist warned of an to campaign on environmental esearch conducted by students particles in the samples for the report, against a sidewinder rattlesnake. ecological apocalypse, but what does issues. Demonstrations have included at Bangor University, working they also demonstrated that using  e video shows the tiny kangaroo this really mean?  e term encompasses blocking bridges to tra c in London with Friends of the Earth, has  uorescence during microscope rat hunched within the dark among everything that is going wrong in Rattracted global media attention. analysis is an e cient way to visually and a semi-naked protest inside the desert  ora where the rattlesnake current world. Global populations of House of Commons.  e group says As mentioned in the last issue of Seren, identify microplastics. slithers in looking for its next meal. wildlife are declining at an extremely climate breakdown threatens all life Bangor University was commissioned  e results of the research were Researchers have predicted that the rapid rate, biodiversity and abundance on Earth, and so it is rebelling against by the environmental organization, astonishing with microplastics being rattlesnake only landed a bite 50% of of  ora and fauna is decreasing at an politicians who 'have failed us', to to measure the amount of plastics present in various samples taken across the time and this is purely due to the accelerating rate and climate change provoke radical change that will stave and microplastics in British lakes and the UK.  is study has caused outcry kangaroo’s agility. When a kangaroo rat is in icting a cascade of harms on o a climate emergency. rivers- and what they found was widely across the UK to reduce plastic use and is nabbed, it uses its hind legs to kick humans and other species, from heat  is is a very scary and exciting time reported in print and broadcast media the work by the Bangor Students being the snake o , sometimes propelling the waves and droughts to more intense for environmentalists but the grouping across Britain and beyond. posted across various media platforms. attacker a meter away. So, there you go and frequent storms and  ooding. As together of like-minded people makes Luke Frears, 22 and Jedd Owens, 23 It’s fantastic to see work done at our surprisingly a tiny rodent will beat a big well as this pollution is in icting harm change more likely. analysed all the water samples, ltering university gain such global recognition. boy snake in a ght on more people every year. them and counting the microplastic 16 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 17 SCIENCE SCIENCE IN BRIEF PSA: Stop Kissing Can You Get A Sexy Salmon? Hedgehogs Is Bangor Really Ready To Say Goodbye To Chemistry?

by CHARLOTTE BILSBY Eaborn for a fruitful career in science. out. Students from the Chemistry Needs Chemistry the University One further Alumni notable in the department established the group requires an annual excess of £10M to he 2018-2019 academic year for chemistry community is Professor ‘Bangor Needs Chemistry’ in order to fully serve their debts and the annual Bangor University has been hard Edward (Ted) Hughes who landed pool together those against the cuts. savings by the Chemistry Closure will CHARLOTTE on many, and due to nancial the University the global recognition  e group hit over 1,000 followers on only provide £74,333. Tpressures, blamed on competition and by receiving the National Chemical various social media platforms and As well as the impact to the University lowered student admissions, cuts have Landmark award by the Royal became the hub for nding out about community, the wider impact to BILSBY by CHARLOTTE BILSBY ew research reveals that farmed “Farmed Atlantic salmon do s p aw n .” evolutionary change can take place, been made. One of the departments Society of Chemistry. Professor Ted the cuts. Upon speaking to the group’s the North Wales education system salmon have smaller ‘jaw sometimes escape from the nets and William holds a four year old mature that can a ect future reproduction and most a ected by the cuts is the Hughes worked on the kinetics and representatives on the cuts they have is also of concern.  e Chemistry arlier this year the Centre for Chemistry department.  e University mechanisms within organic chemistry said that “Sta and students are very department has been deeply involved Disease Control and Prevention hooks’ or ‘kype’- a secondary can interbreed with wild salmon, male Atlantic salmon during the nal survival, a er just 12 generations. Such SCIENCE Nsexual trait, likened to the antlers of creating hybrids. round of sampling at the Institute of changes are of special concern when o cially decided on April 10, that the during the period of 1943-48.  e disappointed that the outcome has gone with providing secondary and college (CDC) cautioned the general proposed phase-out plan and closure award was received by the university against us.” students with access to interactive open publicE from kissing hedgehogs. Yes, a stag, making them less attractive to “Initially, the fact that any escaped Marine Research’s sh rearing facility at hundreds of thousands of farmed sh SUB -EDITOR of the chemistry department will go on the 125th birthday of the Chemistry  ey further added “It hurts even days sparking the interest in younger these spikey critters are adorable and females than their wild salmon cousins. salmon are less ‘attractive’ because of Matre, Norway. can escape into the wild, and potentially  is new nding published in the their smaller ‘kype’ may seem like good “Identifying that this secondary interbreed, with wild relatives. . ahead. Self-renowned as a ‘historic department. Hughes is remembered more because the outcome is exactly generations and therefore increasing I’m sure if one was curled up in my institution dedicated to academic for developing a method for isolating the one proposed before “consultation” the likeliness of students to take STEM hands I would nd it hard to resist from peer–reviewed science journal Royal news, as they’re less likely to breed. sexual trait is less pronounced in Williams’s PhD is funded by the Society Open Science, implies that  at’s not the whole story however. farmed salmon is another sign that NERC ENVISION Doctoral training excellence’, it is most certainly a shame isotopically-enriched water from with no edits and it seems as though the career paths. Coleg Menai A-level science giving it a little peck on the cheek, but to see one of the oldest department of natural water by continuous fractional feedback wasn’t listened to. It never felt lecturers on chemistry have said that seriously stop. Between last October farm-bred salmon are less sexually Because farmed sh do not have to as a diverging species, farmed sh are programme which is preparing the next @seren.bangor.ac.uk attractive than their wild brethren, compete for mates, there is no element less well adapted, and are less able to generation of environmental scientists. the University being cut so abruptly. distillation. He used the 18O-enriched like a consultation and this has been the closure will be a real loss and that and December last year 11 people  e chemistry department has water to trace the fate of particular raised throughout the process.” now di culties may be faced when in eight states across America were and that despite only being bred in of sexual selection happening, making compete than wild salmon. A pattern He is working with the Institute of captivity since the 1970’s, within some the farmed and hybrid sh poorly that may be repeating in many other Marine Research in Bergen Norway. been responsible for many signi cant O atoms in a substrate molecule Even more concerning is the e ect it is trying to inspire younger generations to infected with Salmonella typhimurium, scienti c breakthroughs and notable undergoing a reaction, thus elucidating having on the current students. Due to choose STEM oriented professions. 10 of which admitted to close 12 generations, that they are already adapted to breeding in the wild. So, aquaculture species” William gained a rst degree and a diverging from wild salmon. when you do see high levels of farmed Prof Gary Carvalho, William’s PhD Masters degree from Bristol University alumni. Just a few of the more notable the mechanism of the reaction. the timing of such decisions coinciding Bangor Needs Chemistry further a ectionate contact with a hedgehog. with Easter and landing unfortunately added “We have a whole host of A Note  e ndings form part of a wider escapees, and inevitable interbreeding supervisor at Bangor University’s and was attracted to Bangor University alumni and scienti c achievements When diving deep into the So, everyone chill out and stop kissing include Professor Colin Eaborn FRS. Seren archives, some of the most close to exams, the students have every concerns and feel really let down by hedgehogs. research project into the di erences within a wild salmon population, this School of Natural Sciences commented: by the opportunity to work with leading between wild, farmed and hybrid could reduce the long term health of “ is is the rst study to look sheries geneticist Prof Gary Carvalho. He graduated from Bangor University distinguished achievements of the right to fear for their access to resources the university management. We stand salmon. that population. at the e ect of domestication and Will, who is 24, works closely with in 1945 with a First-Class Honours university were o en attributed to and maintenance required to facilitate with the sta who are losing their jobs From Kangaroo Rat VS William Perry, a PhD student at Farmed or hybrid salmon are not only hybridisation on sexually selected traits the Norwegian Institute of Marine degree in Chemistry. Eaborn became the chemistry department.  is is their ongoing research. Furthermore, it and hope that the next 3 years can go as Bangor University's School of Natural less likely to breed successfully in the in salmon. Our ndings demonstrate Research making regular trips to the rst non-American to receive the illustrated by countless articles praising has been expressed that there is growing smoothly as possible.” Rattlesnake Sciences and the paper’s lead author wild, they are also less likely to return that when animals are kept in unnatural Bergen, Hordaland which is twinned Frederick Stanley Kipping Award of their research and contribution to concern that their current degrees will It is hard to say how the university the American Chemical Society, as well UK scienti c output.  is arguably no longer be accredited and that the will be upon the completion of the The explains: from the ocean to freshwater rivers to conditions, such as in a sh farm, rapid with his home city of Cardi as serving as a regional editor of the places the chemistry department as an standard of teaching will decline with phase-out, but it can de nitely be said Journal of Organometallic Chemistry academically important department sta redundancies and, understandably, that a part of Bangor’s proud history and receiving various chemistry related contributing a large proportion of the lower sta morale. and association with the Chemistry Science Ecological Apocalypse, Bangor Student Research awards throughout his lifetime. He also universities scienti c output. At present When further analysing the business department will be tainted with the published over 500 papers throughout the chemistry department is working case, provided by the University, the sadness of the present circumstances. Extinction Rebels, Climate his career and in 1961, Eaborn was on various signi cant projects, that savings that Bangor is in desperate need Personally, I do not think Bangor is truly Reaches Global Headlines appointed one of the rst science carry weight within in the chemistry of will not be achieved by exclusive ready to say goodbye to Chemistry, as Sub- professors at Sussex University. None world. closure of the chemistry department I am sure many will agree, but there is Emergencies: What Is Going of these achievements would have been Since the announcement of the and it in fact the savings of closing little more that can be done to prevent possible without Bangor Universities’ closure students have come together in the department are relatively low. the closure. On With 2019? chemistry department setting up order to oppose and hinder the phase- According to research done by Bangor Editor just wanted to express my grati- tude and love for this society,. I Putting myself out there and tak- Getting Your Summer Science Fix ing a leap into Seren was honestly the best thing I did with my third and 1. No Such  ing as A 2. Death on Earth by Jules 3. Net ix Original: 4. New Scientist  nal year at Bangor University. Work- Fish Howard Explained ing with such a diverse bunch of by CHARLOTTE BILSBY As we seemingly sleep-walk deeper people that created such a welcom- into this ecological apocalypse with ing environment, was exactly what I he media is full of scary and more and more climate emergencies needed to get me through this year shocking descriptions as of late, occurring and the colour being lost and I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to by CHARLOTTE BILSBY and as I’m sure many of you are, from our landscapes various protest express how grateful I am. TI am panicked. Here I have digested Seren is more than a society, its like movements across the UK have ’m sure you’ve sat there and some of the biggest topics of 2019 into risen.  e one that has really taken a big old disfunctional family. It has pondered who would win in a ght more approachable and understandable to the headlines is the Extinction been an absolute honour working between a desert kangaroo rat and a concepts so everyone can get a true Rebellion.  e Extinction Rebellion with everyone, but none of it would rattlesnake.I Well you’re in luck, recently grasp on what’s happening in the world have been possible without our ex- is an international protest group that it was caught on lm that a small desert of science. Last year various naturalists uses non-violent civil disobedience ceptional Editor Finnian Shardlow rodent, the kangaroo rat, battled and conservationist warned of an to campaign on environmental esearch conducted by students particles in the samples for the report, and Deputy Editor Jack Hollinshead, weekly podcast from the writers BC documentary presenter Jules Net ix original created by the hough it’s not particularly cheap against a sidewinder rattlesnake. ecological apocalypse, but what does issues. Demonstrations have included at Bangor University, working they also demonstrated that using thank you guys for literally smashing of QI, where they discuss fun Howard adventures deep into Vox puts topical issues, that are I never regret picking up a copy  e video shows the tiny kangaroo this really mean?  e term encompasses blocking bridges to tra c in London with Friends of the Earth, has  uorescence during microscope it this year. rat hunched within the dark among everything that is going wrong in Rattracted global media attention. analysis is an e cient way to visually and obscure facts from the evolution and mortality.  is relevant to everyone lives, in the of the New Scientist, full to the I am so heart broken that my Seren and a semi-naked protest inside the Aweek. Some of the best facts include Bbook is by far my favourite science Aspotlight and explains some of human- Tbrim with current global science it is desert  ora where the rattlesnake current world. Global populations of House of Commons.  e group says As mentioned in the last issue of Seren, identify microplastics. journey is at the end, but full to the “the man with the world’s longest-ever book, in fact my favourite book of all ity’s biggest questions from the female worth every penny.  e New Scientist slithers in looking for its next meal. wildlife are declining at an extremely climate breakdown threatens all life Bangor University was commissioned  e results of the research were brim with happy memories. If you beard broke his neck and died a er time. I could not recommend any other orgasm to marijuana use and Designer has been my science x for years now Researchers have predicted that the rapid rate, biodiversity and abundance on Earth, and so it is rebelling against by the environmental organization, astonishing with microplastics being want to carry on the science editor tripping over it” and the “ e Dalai book higher than this one, it was what DNA.  ough, explained isn’t purely and keeps me up to date on current rattlesnake only landed a bite 50% of of  ora and fauna is decreasing at an politicians who 'have failed us', to to measure the amount of plastics present in various samples taken across  ame and AGM will be held at the Lama is frightened of caterpillars”. initially inspired me to write about a science show it covers such a variety global science a airs as well as inspires the time and this is purely due to the accelerating rate and climate change provoke radical change that will stave and microplastics in British lakes and the UK.  is study has caused outcry start of the next academic year (GO With over 200 podcasts are available science and I haven’t looked back.  e of topics at a great level and keeping it many a stupid science idea. Next time kangaroo’s agility. When a kangaroo rat is in icting a cascade of harms on o a climate emergency. rivers- and what they found was widely across the UK to reduce plastic use and DO IT). on Spotify and it is a de nite must book covers the topic of death from very interesting, it’s a really great show you’re feeling like treating yourself pick is nabbed, it uses its hind legs to kick humans and other species, from heat  is is a very scary and exciting time reported in print and broadcast media the work by the Bangor Students being listen whilst you soak up the summer various angles whilst keeping it very to watch if you’re feeling particularly up a copy of the New Scientist, I can the snake o , sometimes propelling the waves and droughts to more intense for environmentalists but the grouping across Britain and beyond. posted across various media platforms. freedom. As well as that it’s extremely scienti c, I used to have a crippling fear inquisitive or a perfect before bed show. guarantee you will not regret it. attacker a meter away. So, there you go and frequent storms and  ooding. As together of like-minded people makes Luke Frears, 22 and Jedd Owens, 23 It’s fantastic to see work done at our funny and gives you great useless facts of death but since reading this book I Get Net ix and chilling with science surprisingly a tiny rodent will beat a big well as this pollution is in icting harm change more likely. analysed all the water samples, ltering university gain such global recognition. boy snake in a ght on more people every year. them and counting the microplastic to wow your next tinder date with. have an entirely di erent perspective. kids. 18 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SCIENCE IN BRIEF Bangor Ocean Scientist Aims To Solve How Quickly Can A Black Fly Larvae One Of The Great Mysteries Eat An Entire Pizza? Surrounding The Moon

by CHARLOTTE BILSBY

6-hours in short. An individual black  y larva doesn’t approach its food with steadiness, they feed in 1intervals for about 5 minutes at a time with a 5-minute break. However, as a group they’re like living fountain of hell. When presented with food they create almost two pyramids either side of the food, where at the centre, where r Mattias Green of Bangor showed that the moon was 4.5 billion moon is moving away from the Earth been able to identify a 500 million year the food lies, they create a moving University, in collaboration years old, and so must have formed don’t add up! “super tidal cycle”. What’s more, over fountain. As the incoming larvae with researchers from Royal only 200 million years or so a er Earth Bangor University’s Mattias Green this cycle the level of tidal friction also Holloway,D University of London, have formed. thinks he has the answer: changes, implying that the rate at which towards the bottom push those closer in, that have paused in eating, upward netted a research grant worth £520K  e astronauts also le mirrors on “ e reason the moon is moving away the moon is being pushed away from and out of the way.  e motion spins from the UK Natural Environment the surface of the moon so that lasers from the Earth is due to the friction the Earth has varied and been smaller the food (curling arrow at top) as the Research Council (NERC) to tackle a could very accurately measure the associated with the  ow of the tides. In for long period of Earth’s history.” larvae jostle one another. As larvae major question in the understanding of Earth-moon separation.  ese laser e ect the tides are dissipating energy, “In the new project we will combine take a break from binging, the hungry the history of the moon. measurements estimated that the moon the impact of which is to gradually new supercomputer simulations of crowds pressing from behind forced 50 years ago, on the July 20 1969, is moving away from the Earth at a rate increase the length of the day (by tides, over the past 600 million years them upward.  ose who reach the top the Apollo 11 space mission landed of 3.8 cm/year. However, at this rate the slowing the Earth’s rotation rate) and to of Earth History, with data from bore will then fall down back to the bottom. on the surface of the moon, with Neil moon could only be 1.5 billion years push the moon away from the Earth.” holes, made by the oil industry, to  is strategy is seemingly e cient as Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin becoming old, otherwise it would have been torn “Using simulations on state-of-the- develop a new history for the rate at well as mutually bene cial. the rst people to set foot on the moon. apart by the Earth’s gravitational eld. art supercomputers we have shown which the moon is moving away from In what was one of the greatest  ese two observations lead to an that as the continents move around, in the Earth, and so solve the moon-age achievements of human civilization, obvious paradox: the geological age response to continental dri , the global paradox generated 50 years ago when Microbe Of they brought back rock samples which of the moon and the rate at which the tides change. Consequently, we have we rst landed on the moon.”  e Month: Chest-Burster Hay-Fever Season Is Here But Bangor Scientists Have Your Back

by CHARLOTTE BILSBY

hotorhabdus luminescen, a microbe uno cially known as rofessor Simon Creer, a Professor Creer and colleges at PollerGEN, have markers are unique to each species of stand plants at a deeper level, other the chest-burster for its amazing in Molecular Ecology Georgina been working on methods to improve Pollen. Such methods are known as me- research undertaken by the team sug- abilities.P Imagine the scene from Alien Brennan, Postdoctoral Research the accuracy of pollen counts and fore- tabarcoding and can be used to analyse gest that over-the-counter medications where the alien bursts out of that OP cer, at the School on Natural Sci- casts.  e team aims to nd out what DNA derived from mixed communities are not uniform throughout the grass person’s chest well that’s exactly what ences release work using DNA analysis species of pollen are present across of organisms. In this circumstance, it  owering season.  is means that cer- this microbe is capable of. P. luminescen that may help allergy su erers. With Britain throughout the grass  owering has allowed the team to analyse pollen tain types of grass pollen may be con- has a symbiotic relationship with a climate change hitting us hard our win- season.  e development of new wave DNA collected by aerial samplers at 14 tributing more to allergenic disease species of nematode which worms its ters are becoming warmer, the plants approaches including molecular genet- roo op locations across Britain. than others.  is also means that when way into the insect's bloodstream, then are blooming earlier, it is expected that ics are being used to identify di erent By referring to the UK plant DNA symptoms are particularly bad, a spe- spits up the bacteria. P. luminescens up to 400m people worldwide will de- airborne grass pollens, which is noto- barcode library they were able to ci c species of grass pollen may be in spews toxins that kill the insect, velop allergic reactions to airborne riously hard when incorporating older identify di erent species of grass pol- the cause. Understanding this may lead enzymes that liquefy it, and antibiotics pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. established methods. One method de- len from air samples.  is has allowed to the development of more e ective that prevent any other microbes from Symptoms will range from itchy eyes, veloped by PollerGEN to identify the them to understand the distribution of medications to reduce the symptoms of getting in on the feast.  e worm and congestion and sneezing, to the aggra- pollen relies on using DNA sequencing grass pollen throughout the UK.  e such allergies. bacteria reproduce inside the carcass vation of asthma and an associated cost to examine millions of short sections of research undertaken by PollerGEN is until nally new nematodes burst forth. to society that runs into the billions. DNA, known as barcode markers. Such more than just an attempt to under- 18 SEREN | May Issue 2019 TUESDAY 7TH SATURDAY 18TH Free Chip Butty Yoga SCIENCE Bar Uno | 7pm Acapela | 10-11am WEDNESDAY 8TH SATURDAY 18TH IN BRIEF Bangor Ocean Scientist Aims To Solve Wednesday Cooler EUROVISION How Quickly Can Ice Lolly Giveaway! PARTY A Black Fly Larvae One Of The Great Mysteries Ffridd and St Mary's Halls Office | 12pm Bar Uno and Acapela | From 7:30pm TH TH Eat An Entire THURSDAY 9 SUNDAY 19 Surrounding The Moon How to “Adult” Beach Trip! Pizza? Tips for Interviews Depart outside Reichel Hall at 12.00pm Alun 2.01 | 1-2pm # Book your place at FRIDAY 10TH LOVEHALLS [email protected] Free Fruit Friday! WEDNESDAY 22ND Ffridd and St Mary's Halls Office Wednesday Cooler SATURDAY 11TH Ice Lolly Giveaway! SEMESTER 2 Yoga Ffridd and St Mary's Halls Office | 12pm 20 Acapela | 10-11am THURSDAY 23RD SATURDAY 11TH by CHARLOTTE BILSBY Big Win Bingo

19 SUMMER Trip! Barlows | 7pm 6-hours in short. An individual black  y larva doesn’t approach its Caernarfon TH food with steadiness, they feed in FRIDAY 24 1intervals for about 5 minutes at a time Food Festival with a 5-minute break. However, as a Email to find out info GARDEN group they’re like living fountain of WHAT TO LOOK APRIL [email protected] GAMES hell. When presented with food they TH Ffridd Village | 2-4pm TUESDAY 30 TH create almost two pyramids either side OUT FOR! SUNDAY 12 of the food, where at the centre, where r Mattias Green of Bangor showed that the moon was 4.5 billion moon is moving away from the Earth been able to identify a 500 million year Learn to Cook SATURDAY 25TH the food lies, they create a moving University, in collaboration years old, and so must have formed don’t add up! “super tidal cycle”. What’s more, over Just take a look at our Sunday Roast fountain. As the incoming larvae with researchers from Royal only 200 million years or so a er Earth Bangor University’s Mattias Green this cycle the level of tidal friction also Student Grub Bar Uno | 6pm Yoga Holloway,D University of London, have formed. thinks he has the answer: changes, implying that the rate at which helpful guide below... towards the bottom push those closer Barlows Kitchens | 7pm Book your place at Acapela | 10-11am in, that have paused in eating, upward netted a research grant worth £520K  e astronauts also le mirrors on “ e reason the moon is moving away the moon is being pushed away from [email protected] and out of the way.  e motion spins from the UK Natural Environment the surface of the moon so that lasers from the Earth is due to the friction the Earth has varied and been smaller TH Research Council (NERC) to tackle a could very accurately measure the associated with the  ow of the tides. In for long period of Earth’s history.” SUNDAY 26 the food (curling arrow at top) as the TH larvae jostle one another. As larvae major question in the understanding of Earth-moon separation.  ese laser e ect the tides are dissipating energy, “In the new project we will combine MONDAY 13 the history of the moon. measurements estimated that the moon the impact of which is to gradually new supercomputer simulations of FOOD EVENTS S U M M E R F E S T 2 0 1 9 take a break from binging, the hungry British Heart Get your tickets from the crowds pressing from behind forced 50 years ago, on the July 20 1969, is moving away from the Earth at a rate increase the length of the day (by tides, over the past 600 million years There’s food involved! MAY Undeb Bangor Reception them upward.  ose who reach the top the Apollo 11 space mission landed of 3.8 cm/year. However, at this rate the slowing the Earth’s rotation rate) and to of Earth History, with data from bore From Sunday roasts ST Foundation on the surface of the moon, with Neil moon could only be 1.5 billion years push the moon away from the Earth.” holes, made by the oil industry, to to pizza nights. WEDNESDAY 1 will then fall down back to the bottom. Pack for Good TH  is strategy is seemingly e cient as Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin becoming old, otherwise it would have been torn “Using simulations on state-of-the- develop a new history for the rate at Big Win Bingo TUESDAY 28 well as mutually bene cial. the rst people to set foot on the moon. apart by the Earth’s gravitational eld. art supercomputers we have shown which the moon is moving away from ACTIVITY Bar Uno | 7pm Campaign Starts Calm Colouring In what was one of the greatest  ese two observations lead to an that as the continents move around, in the Earth, and so solve the moon-age Enjoy a variety of fun achievements of human civilization, obvious paradox: the geological age response to continental dri , the global paradox generated 50 years ago when TH Braint Lounge & Barlows | 7pm activities around campus. ND MONDAY 13 Microbe Of they brought back rock samples which of the moon and the rate at which the tides change. Consequently, we have we rst landed on the moon.” THURSDAY 2 LEARN TO COOK Film Night Uno in Uno THURSDAY 30TH  e Month: Time to test your cooking Bar Uno | 8pm skills or learn some new Musicals Film Night Chest-Burster Hay-Fever Season Is Here But Bangor ones with our Campus Crew! Acapela | 8pm TUESDAY 14TH Disney # Acapela | 8pm SPECIAL EVENT FRIDAY 3RD LOVEHALLS Learn to Cook Scientists Have Your Back Special events not Vegan to be missed! Free Fruit Friday! WEAR Barlows Kitchen | 7pm YOUR WRISTBAND! Ffridd and St Mary's Halls Office TH QUIZ & BINGO SATURDAY 4TH WEDNESDAY 15 DOWNLOAD Love quizzes and bingo? British Heart Then get your mind ready! Yoga Acapela | 10-11am Foundation CPR OUR FREE BIG SCREEN TH Training CAMPUS LIFE MOVIE TIME SATURDAY 4 Acapela | 11am-12pm Choose your favourite APP TO KEEP from our online poll and Film Night Book your place at

grab your free popcorn! Special [email protected] UP TO DATE by CHARLOTTE BILSBY TH OFF CAMPUS Star Wars WEDNESDAY 15 WITH EVERYTHING hotorhabdus luminescen, a Amazing off campus trips. Acapela | 8pm Calm Colouring microbe uno cially known as rofessor Simon Creer, a Professor Creer and colleges at PollerGEN, have markers are unique to each species of stand plants at a deeper level, other Pre-booking essential. See TH Braint Lounge & Barlows | 7pm GOING ON! the chest-burster for its amazing in Molecular Ecology Georgina been working on methods to improve Pollen. Such methods are known as me- research undertaken by the team sug- Facebook page for more info. SUNDAY 5 abilities.P Imagine the scene from Alien Brennan, Postdoctoral Research the accuracy of pollen counts and fore- tabarcoding and can be used to analyse gest that over-the-counter medications TH where the alien bursts out of that OP cer, at the School on Natural Sci- casts.  e team aims to nd out what DNA derived from mixed communities are not uniform throughout the grass GET TOGETHER Trip! THURSDAY 16 person’s chest well that’s exactly what ences release work using DNA analysis species of pollen are present across of organisms. In this circumstance, it  owering season.  is means that cer- Get together and meet Llandudno Film Night this microbe is capable of. P. luminescen that may help allergy su erers. With Britain throughout the grass  owering has allowed the team to analyse pollen tain types of grass pollen may be con- up with your buddies. has a symbiotic relationship with a climate change hitting us hard our win- season.  e development of new wave DNA collected by aerial samplers at 14 tributing more to allergenic disease Victorian Fair Throwback species of nematode which worms its ters are becoming warmer, the plants approaches including molecular genet- roo op locations across Britain. than others.  is also means that when CHILLED OUT EVENTS Depart outside way into the insect's bloodstream, then are blooming earlier, it is expected that ics are being used to identify di erent By referring to the UK plant DNA symptoms are particularly bad, a spe- Reichel Halls at 10.30am Thursday up to 400m people worldwide will de- airborne grass pollens, which is noto- barcode library they were able to ci c species of grass pollen may be in Time to chat, chill and spits up the bacteria. P. luminescens Book your place at Acapela | 8pm spews toxins that kill the insect, velop allergic reactions to airborne riously hard when incorporating older identify di erent species of grass pol- the cause. Understanding this may lead just take it easy. enzymes that liquefy it, and antibiotics pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. established methods. One method de- len from air samples.  is has allowed to the development of more e ective [email protected] TH #LOVE BOOKABLE EVENT FRIDAY 17 HALLS that prevent any other microbes from Symptoms will range from itchy eyes, veloped by PollerGEN to identify the them to understand the distribution of medications to reduce the symptoms of TH getting in on the feast.  e worm and congestion and sneezing, to the aggra- pollen relies on using DNA sequencing grass pollen throughout the UK.  e such allergies. Book your place by emailing TUESDAY 7 Free Fruit Friday! HALLS [email protected] LOVE bacteria reproduce inside the carcass vation of asthma and an associated cost to examine millions of short sections of research undertaken by PollerGEN is Ffridd and St Mary's Halls Office # until nally new nematodes burst forth. to society that runs into the billions. DNA, known as barcode markers. Such more than just an attempt to under- EXAMS START! CHECK OUT THE BANGOR CAMPUS LIFE WEBSITE, APP OR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR ALL OUR LATEST NEWS CAMPUSLIFEBANGOR WWW.CAMPUSLIFEBANGOR.CO.UK 20 SEREN | May Issue 2019 ENVIRONMENT "The earth is what we all have Microplastics Pollute Welsh Rivers in common.” - Wendell Berry

“With over a billion raised in 3 days – It’s time to switch to ca- thedral mode on climate Change” - Greta Thun- burg “You cannot protect the environment unless you esearch led by Dr Christian enable bioaccumulation throughout per litre of water in the Afon Cegin and (Research Masters in Wetland Science). Dunn from the Bangor Univer- trophic levels. Scienti c investigations 43.2 in the LLyn Cefni. For a compari- Dan Aberg, 22 (MRes) and Oliver Arm- empower sity Wetlands group has found are still ongoing as to the consequences son, the River Tame in greater Man- strong (PhD) were also involved in the Rmicroplastic pollution in both the Afon of these plastics while the the severity of chester exhibited over 1000 pieces per investigation. Dunnings hailed the stu- people, you Cegin and the Llyn Cefni Reservoir. their impact on human health is yet to litre. It is not just the quantity of plastic dents as being instrumental in design- inform them, Microplastics are de ned as frag- be con rmed. pollution which was the problem, but ing and carrying out the work, showing ments or bres of plastic that are less Plastic pollution has gained ever in- the fact that is was found in some of the them to have an enormous contribu- and you than 5mm.  e most prominent source creasing media attention but only re- most remote and iconic places in Wales: tion to this cutting edge research. of the pollutant are car tyres; clothing; cently has research been conducted in a troubling prospect for out scientists – Studies have shown microplastic pol- help them plastic pellets (use to make general plas-  uvial systems so close to home. Mi- and should also be for the wider com- lution to be widespread, from the pris- tic goods); paints and road markings. croplastic pollution in both the Afon munity. tine Pyrenees mountains to the deepest understand that Previous investigations have shown Cegin and the Llyn Cefni Reservoir. A plethora of university students oceans and now, throughout the fresh- these resources the detrimental impact that ingestion  e collaboration between Friends of were involved in the research including water systems of the UK. Bangor Uni- of microplastics may have on aquatic the Earth and Dr. Christian Dunning Luke Frears, 22 (Research Masters in versity is at the forefront. are their own, life and their persistent qualities that has discovered 76.9 pieces of plastic Biological Sciences) and Jedd Godfrey that they must protect them.” - Wangari Welsh Energy Plan Maathai Forget Brexit! “The single biggest threat Says Greta to our planet is the destruction of habitat and along the way loss of precious wildlife. We Wales could meet 100% of its energy needs need to reach a from renewable sources by 2035, under an balance where "ambitious" new plan set out by policy experts reta  unburg, the symbol “ e extinction rate is up to 10,000 nvironmental Policy in Wales to realise success. For farmers, these people, habitat, for today’s youth movement times faster than what is considered has long been at the forefront measure include methane reductions and wildlife can against Climate Change, has normal, with up to 200 species becom- of the Climate movement with from livestock and improving on-farm Gadvised the EU leaders to forget about ing extinct every single day. Erosion of heE y targets for emission reductions e ciencies. Emissions from farming co-exist – if we Brexit and focus on more important fertile topsoil, deforestation of the rain- and waste management strategies. Now, account for 12% of the total though half topics.  ree emergency summits have forest, toxic air pollution, loss of insects one aspect of the new policy has em- is from livestock. don’t everyone been hosted regarding Brexit and yet, and wildlife, acidi cation of our oceans phasised the need for reforestation of  e more recent ‘achieving a low- urgent action on the most recent IPCC – these are all disastrous trends.” Wales and with targets to high – Welsh carbon pathway to 2030’ consultation loses … one report has not been taken.  e 16 – year old Swedish climate farmers have raised concerned of that has targeted for an additional 66,000 “If our house was falling apart, you activist received a standing ovation for this drastic land-use change will have ha of trees. To achieve these targets, it d ay.” wouldn’t hold three emergency Brexit this most recent speech. She stands to- the their industry. has been said that around 1400 farms summits and no emergency summit day as an inspiration for many youth With Wales targeted to an 80% re- would need to be reforested and al- - Steve Irwin regarding the breakdown of the climate movements and is a part of the new duction in Carbon emissions by 2050, though this may be achievable – is it and the environment.” trend for a greener world. extensive measures must be in place really what farmers want? 20 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 21 ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT "The earth is “Caring for the Microplastics Pollute Welsh Rivers Climate Apocalypse Norway Investing Earth is not a hip- what we all have pie thing, it’s a in common.” In London survival thing.” - Wendell Berry Smart - Unknown “A nation that de- “With over a stroys its soils de- billion raised in stroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our 3 days – It’s time land, purifying the to switch to ca- air and giving fresh thedral mode on strength to our peo- ple.” climate Change” - Franklin D. - Greta Thun- Roosevelt burg “I know a lot of you are really upset about the Notre “You cannot Dame re in Paris protect the and I’m really sad, environment too. To see some- unless you esearch led by Dr Christian enable bioaccumulation throughout per litre of water in the Afon Cegin and (Research Masters in Wetland Science). thing so beautiful Dunn from the Bangor Univer- trophic levels. Scienti c investigations 43.2 in the LLyn Cefni. For a compari- Dan Aberg, 22 (MRes) and Oliver Arm- xtinction Rebellion were a group So, apparently our protests have o - orway has made trillions oil companies as well as cutting invest- and so carefully empower sity Wetlands group has found are still ongoing as to the consequences son, the River Tame in greater Man- strong (PhD) were also involved in the at the forefront of the climate cially worked now... But we’re not stop- through oil exploitation, sales ments in numerous coal and gas initia- Rmicroplastic pollution in both the Afon of these plastics while the the severity of chester exhibited over 1000 pieces per investigation. Dunnings hailed the stu- change protests in London.  ey ping here. One phase of rebellion may and investments but has now tive.  e wealth fund still plans to keep constructed be dam- people, you Cegin and the Llyn Cefni Reservoir. their impact on human health is yet to litre. It is not just the quantity of plastic dents as being instrumental in design- causeE enough ruckus to the streets to end, but the international rebellion will Ngiven the go ahead to invest green, po- investments in large companies with re- aged by forces out of inform them, Microplastics are de ned as frag- be con rmed. pollution which was the problem, but ing and carrying out the work, showing warrant a response from MPs said to continue until our demands have been tentially changing out world forever. newable energy divisions, such as Shell. ments or bres of plastic that are less Plastic pollution has gained ever in- the fact that is was found in some of the them to have an enormous contribu- tighten their targets on emissions.  is met. Forwards! #InternationalRebel-  is pledge is a truly historic break-  e renewable energy sector has seen your control is very and you than 5mm.  e most prominent source creasing media attention but only re- most remote and iconic places in Wales: tion to this cutting edge research. will not stop the group there though, lion through, with Norway’s sovereign rapid growth over the past few years painful. As a scientist of the pollutant are car tyres; clothing; cently has research been conducted in a troubling prospect for out scientists – Studies have shown microplastic pol- and plans to carry on to an internation- wealth fund (the largest wealth fund and with initiatives such as this – the who studies species help them plastic pellets (use to make general plas-  uvial systems so close to home. Mi- and should also be for the wider com- lution to be widespread, from the pris- al scale are set to continue. in the world) divesting from over 134 future may just be a little greener. understand that tic goods); paints and road markings. croplastic pollution in both the Afon munity. tine Pyrenees mountains to the deepest that are going extinct Previous investigations have shown Cegin and the Llyn Cefni Reservoir. A plethora of university students oceans and now, throughout the fresh- right now, this is the these resources the detrimental impact that ingestion  e collaboration between Friends of were involved in the research including water systems of the UK. Bangor Uni- of microplastics may have on aquatic the Earth and Dr. Christian Dunning Luke Frears, 22 (Research Masters in versity is at the forefront. feeling I grapple with are their own, life and their persistent qualities that has discovered 76.9 pieces of plastic Biological Sciences) and Jedd Godfrey more often than I’d that they must Plastic Free For Lent: What like. The irreplace- protect them.” able work of art that - Wangari Welsh Energy Plan I worship is nature Forget Brexit! I’ve Learned So Far… and to watch it sense- Maathai lessly crumble to the ground every “The single day hurts my heart. biggest threat Says Greta I highly respect your feelings about what to our planet is happened today and the destruction I hope the parallelI described can help of habitat and you better under- along the way stand how many loss of precious of the people who ent for many people is a time of despairing at all of the items I could Join Facebook groups be prepared to carry around a few extra have devoted their wildlife. We Wales could meet 100% of its energy needs giving up a favourite food or a no longer buy. Gone were the days of  ere are loads of tips and tricks out items with you in your bag, and you’re lives to conservation bad habit, and for years I’ve given smoothies for breakfast (try nding there, just go looking for them! I joined sorted. I bought a pack of cutlery that I need to reach a from renewable sources by 2035, under an Lup things I love – I stopped drinking berries that aren’t packaged in plastic!), a few groups, and I’ve learned so much keep in my bag, along with a collapsible feel quite often. We balance where "ambitious" new plan set out by policy experts zzy drinks, I gave up Bourbon biscuits and I said so-long to any type of orange from other people. It’s also really mo- co ee cup, so I can always get 10p o know you get tired (the horror!), and last year I went Vegan juice or yoghurt. tivating knowing that there are like- in Teras! of us shouting about reta  unburg, the symbol “ e extinction rate is up to 10,000 nvironmental Policy in Wales to realise success. For farmers, these for lent.  is year, however, I decided to minded people out there, trying to cut people, habitat, for today’s youth movement times faster than what is considered has long been at the forefront measure include methane reductions go a step further than I’d considered be- It’s inevitable; you’re going to down their plastic-usage too. It’s a struggle, but it’s worth it species going extinct and wildlife can against Climate Change, has normal, with up to 200 species becom- of the Climate movement with from livestock and improving on-farm fore – giving up plastic; something that fail Our planet is not-so-slowly dying and we’re sorry for Gadvised the EU leaders to forget about ing extinct every single day. Erosion of heE y targets for emission reductions e ciencies. Emissions from farming is found all around us, and is ever-last- Even if your intentions are good, Single-use plastic is unnecessary from what we’re doing to it. Our daily co-exist – if we Brexit and focus on more important fertile topsoil, deforestation of the rain- and waste management strategies. Now, account for 12% of the total though half ing. With the hope of reducing my use there’s no way of completely avoiding (but we knew that anyway) actions can really help – yes, it might the broken record topics.  ree emergency summits have forest, toxic air pollution, loss of insects one aspect of the new policy has em- is from livestock. of plastic, I embarked on this journey, plastic. I succumbed a few times to  ere are tons of items you can stop not feel like much, but if every single but we’re surrounded don’t everyone been hosted regarding Brexit and yet, and wildlife, acidi cation of our oceans phasised the need for reforestation of  e more recent ‘achieving a low- aiming to challenge myself and see how buying crisps and biscuits – they’re just buying, like water bottles (invest in person bought and used a reusable urgent action on the most recent IPCC – these are all disastrous trends.” Wales and with targets to high – Welsh carbon pathway to 2030’ consultation possible it really is. So, here’s what I’ve too tempting! One great thing though, a stainless steel one, and it’ll last you co ee cup, we’d be saving millions and by burning cathe- loses … one report has not been taken.  e 16 – year old Swedish climate farmers have raised concerned of that has targeted for an additional 66,000 learned so far… is that the North Wales Wildlife Trust forever!), straws (get some metal ones millions of plastic co ee cups from be- drals built across “If our house was falling apart, you activist received a standing ovation for this drastic land-use change will have ha of trees. To achieve these targets, it Plastic is everywhere is taking crisp and biscuit packets and if you really need to) and tissues (go ing created. All it takes is a few small millennia and no one d ay.” wouldn’t hold three emergency Brexit this most recent speech. She stands to- the their industry. has been said that around 1400 farms  e rst shop that I did a er decid- sending them to TerraCycle, who re- old-school and buy some hankies – you actions from a lot of people, and the fu- summits and no emergency summit day as an inspiration for many youth With Wales targeted to an 80% re- would need to be reforested and al- ing to give up plastic was one of realisa- cycle a lot of things not accepted in can get some really cute ones online). ture for our world could be looking up. seems to care.” - Steve Irwin regarding the breakdown of the climate movements and is a part of the new duction in Carbon emissions by 2050, though this may be achievable – is it tion – plastic is everywhere. As I walked kerbside recycling. So yay, more treats Cutting down on single-use plastic is Baby steps! - Jonathan Kolby and the environment.” trend for a greener world. extensive measures must be in place really what farmers want? down the aisles of Asda, I found myself for us! de nitely easier than you think – just 22 SEREN | May Issue 2019 UNION Plans For More Environmentally Friendly Catering Options

by MARK BARROW team using their resources e ciently, tives will be launched on the 29th reusable metal spoons, which the Ca- available for sale in each outlet. and therefore contributing to a circu- April 2019. They will focus on reduc- tering team will wash. Whilst having Reusable co ee mugs will also be ver the past few months, the lar economy. The waste hierarchy will ing the number of straws used across co ee on the go is a part of modern sold and promoted. Customers will University’s Catering team, be applied to all decision-making, and campus, removing all single-use drink life, most people do not make their receive their  rst hot drink for free if OSustainability Lab and Stu- waste prevention will be the preferred stirrers from catering outlets, and pro- co ee when on the go, and so it is they purchase a Bangor University dents’ Union have been working in option where possible. moting the water re ll scheme, which believed that stirrers are an unneces- mug. They also receive 10p o every collaboration to ensure the Univer- The  rst set of initiatives will focus will reduce the need for single-use sary waste product regardless of the drink when bringing their own cup/ sity’s catering options become more on prevention and reuse, and the sec- bottles, besides promoting the use material they are made of. We ask, mug. environmentally sustainable. ond set on prevention and recycling. of reusable mugs in order to reduce however, that people do not take the Over the summer months, the Uni- There will be several catering initia- However, the messages delivered single-use co ee cups. spoons with them, as this would make versity will be continuing with their tives taking place during 2019, which during these initiatives will not be re- Straws will be removed from all the initiative unsustainable due to it improvement by replacing condiment aim to ensure that the University’s stricted to the campaign period, but counters and will only be available on becoming too costly. sachets with bottles and jars, review- Catering team operate as sustainably continually promoted and communi- request. This should substantially re- We are promoting Bangor University ing possible use of crockery in some as possible, bearing in mind that ‘sus- cated to ensure that the information is duce the amount of straws used and as a re ll University, where you can outlets, besides reviewing alterna- tainability’ considers environmental, available to any new student, sta or thrown away in the University.  ll up your reusable water bottles for tive milk selection, as this generates social,  nancial and cultural impacts. visitor, to promote wider understand- The University will also be removing free in any of our outlets (except Copa a great deal of waste. They will also This will be achieved by the Catering ing and participation. all single-use drink stirrers regardless – that has no running water). Bangor be looking at recycling more catering The prevention and reuse initia- of material and replacing them with University branded water bottles are materials. 22 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 23 UNION SABB SPACE Plans For More Environmentally Friendly Catering Options VP SOCIETIES & VOLUNTEERING UPDATE

The Quest For Authenticity

by MUHAMMAD FIRDAUS Comedians (1966), a story set in Papa substance. If I died, I would die, Michael Brody-Waite titled 'Great But in all things, I ask that you be Doc Duvalier's Haiti. The blurb on the like Jones, by accident. But for the Leaders Do What Drug Addicts Do'. If authentic, and that you commit to n 2015, I began a personal journey back changed my life: committed, life has purpose. For the you have a chance, go watch it too. what you believe! of searching for myself. Growing up "...The Comedians is a story about committed of this world, everything In it, he laid out three points that As this is my last piece for Seren for Ias an ethnic and religious minor- the committed and the uncommitted. - good or bad - is authentic, and recovering drug addicts committed the year, I would just like to thank a ity in Singapore, I had spent the past The Negro, Doctor Magiot, is meaningful. And when they die, they to for the sake of their own survival: few people for the great year it's been two decades of my life toning down committed. His last letter to Brown, die, like Dr Magiot, for a reason. That 'Practice Rigorous Authenticity, for Societies & Volunteering: my cultural and religious identity in who tells the story, is a statement and was when I decided from then on, Surrender The Outcome, Do I would like to thank my Societies order to ' t in' better with my friends, an appeal by the committed - by a that everything I did, I would commit Uncomfortable Work'. Only by living and Volunteering Executive and in the workplace. Then the Charlie man who has by his nature to share to. Since then, I have been seeking these three points can you succeed - committees for taking everything life Hebdo massacre happened. the terrible events of his time. But authenticity in everything I did and and by living these points, (and I) threw at them and coming The amount of mindless hatred I the Comedians have opted out. They experienced. It has not made me It reminded me of what I had out on top; I would like to thank the saw expressed toward me and the play their parts - respectable or shady much of a reality TV star, but it has forgotten. And by remembering sta in Undeb Bangor for helping and community I was part of, for something - in the foreground; they experience given my life an incredible depth I did authenticity, many other questions I supporting me in everything; I would neither I nor my community had any love-a airs rather than love; they not previously have. had been asking since my re-election like to thank UMCB and its President part in, made me realise that there have enthusiasms - like Mr Smith for But when I started my term as a were answered - my successes for always being happy to educate would be no escape - no matter how his vegetarian centre - but not a faith; Sabbatical O cer, the pressures of have always been because I never me on Welsh language and culture; I much I ran from my identity, I would and if they die, they die, like Jones, by all the things expected of a Sabb, compromised my identity. This year is would like to thank the Seren team for always be seen as 'the other'; always accident." and being surrounded by what all but over, but I enter the next year their dedication to journalism, and for treated di erently, and I realised I had Reading that book made me realise: are essentially student politicians, prepared - and committed. If you are rising to the challenge I gave them at to do something about it. I was a comedian. I had not gathered distracted me from the authenticity graduating, thank you for being part the start of the year to turn Seren into by MARK BARROW team using their resources e ciently, tives will be launched on the 29th reusable metal spoons, which the Ca- available for sale in each outlet. That was when I chanced upon the courage to commit to anything I loved so much. It was only during of everything we've done together. a household name; Finally, I would like and therefore contributing to a circu- April 2019. They will focus on reduc- tering team will wash. Whilst having Reusable co ee mugs will also be a copy of Graham Greene's The in my life - or to reject anything - the Easter break, when I listened to If you are returning next year, I invite to thank you, the reader, for reading. ver the past few months, the lar economy. The waste hierarchy will ing the number of straws used across co ee on the go is a part of modern sold and promoted. Customers will and because of that, my life lacked a TEDxNashville talk on YouTube by you to join me. Until next year! University’s Catering team, be applied to all decision-making, and campus, removing all single-use drink life, most people do not make their receive their  rst hot drink for free if OSustainability Lab and Stu- waste prevention will be the preferred stirrers from catering outlets, and pro- co ee when on the go, and so it is they purchase a Bangor University dents’ Union have been working in option where possible. moting the water re ll scheme, which believed that stirrers are an unneces- mug. They also receive 10p o every collaboration to ensure the Univer- The  rst set of initiatives will focus will reduce the need for single-use sary waste product regardless of the drink when bringing their own cup/ sity’s catering options become more on prevention and reuse, and the sec- bottles, besides promoting the use material they are made of. We ask, mug. environmentally sustainable. ond set on prevention and recycling. of reusable mugs in order to reduce however, that people do not take the Over the summer months, the Uni- COME Undeb Bangor There will be several catering initia- However, the messages delivered single-use co ee cups. spoons with them, as this would make versity will be continuing with their tives taking place during 2019, which during these initiatives will not be re- Straws will be removed from all the initiative unsustainable due to it improvement by replacing condiment aim to ensure that the University’s stricted to the campaign period, but counters and will only be available on becoming too costly. sachets with bottles and jars, review- 4th Floor Catering team operate as sustainably continually promoted and communi- request. This should substantially re- We are promoting Bangor University ing possible use of crockery in some AND as possible, bearing in mind that ‘sus- cated to ensure that the information is duce the amount of straws used and as a re ll University, where you can outlets, besides reviewing alterna- tainability’ considers environmental, available to any new student, sta or thrown away in the University.  ll up your reusable water bottles for tive milk selection, as this generates Pontio social,  nancial and cultural impacts. visitor, to promote wider understand- The University will also be removing free in any of our outlets (except Copa a great deal of waste. They will also This will be achieved by the Catering ing and participation. all single-use drink stirrers regardless – that has no running water). Bangor be looking at recycling more catering The prevention and reuse initia- of material and replacing them with University branded water bottles are materials. SEE US 24 SEREN | May Issue 2019 CAMPUS LIFE Campus Life: May Bulletin

ow, the  nal issue of Seren for this year is here already! WMarch and April have been great months here at Campus Life HQ full of trips, new skills and a show- Introducing This Month’s case of amazing talent! We kicked o March at Chester Zoo, where we saw hundreds of animals, learned about their habitats and how we can help protect them. It was a great trip and Featured Campus Life Crew you can check out all our photos on our Facebook Page. We also held our annual Bangor’s Got Talent event and we can tell you, Bangor HAS talent! Congratulations Members: Kyra & David once again to Jeanneil Modar who was the winner on the night, with her amazing poi performance. We’ve served up another great Sunday Roast, took you to the beautiful “vil- lage” of Portmeirion and the Easter bunny was out and about just before the break! Thank you to everyone who got involved and made this year fan- tastic! We still have a few more events before the year is over, so check out the events below and the new Cam- pus Life calendar in your kitchen.

British Heart Foundation – CPR Training: Wednesday 15th May We’ve teamed up with the British Heart Foundation once again to give you another chance to become a life- saver. Sign up at campuslife@bangor. ac.uk for free CPR training.

Free Fruit Friday: Friday 17th May Head to your nearest Halls’ O ce and pick up a free fruity treat! ey guys! My name is Kyra weekend. What's not to love about ello everyone! My name's dependent student. This month Eurovision Party: Saturday and I’m from West Wales, a FREE yoga class with a great in- David and I am a second- for Pancake Day, we taught you 18th May near Aberystwyth. I’m cur- structor? year student of Linguistics how to  ip pancakes skilfully and It’s the biggest night of the year in H H rently in my second year at Bangor and German. On the weekend, taught you two easy and reliable the pop calendar! Join the Campus studying English Literature. Easter Egg Hunt you can see me rambling around recipes. Whether or not you have Life Crew for a fun  lled celebration of I grew up in Wales, went to a The Easter egg hunt was a great the beautiful mountains of Snow- any experience in the kitchen, join musical diversity and dance. Welsh school and have lived in the laugh and it was amazing to see so donia and on weekdays, you can us for our next Learn to Cook; it's country all of my life, so if you have many students take part! Campus  nd me reading in the library. Most really fun and you get a free por- Garden Games: Friday 24th any questions about the Welsh cul- Life Mariya and I enjoyed hiding evenings I spend with friends or or- tion of food. May ture, I will do my best to answer the eggs around Ffriddoedd Cam- ganising cool Campus Life events. Start your summer break in true them! pus and making it fun for everyone Speaking of which, here are my top Film Night Campus Life style – We have a limbo, Campus Life was a great way for that took part. Congratulations to highlights from the Campus Life The classic Campus Life chilled sack races, giant Twister and Kerplunk me to settle in during my  rst year our winners and to all that took calendar in March: out event, with free popcorn and games - to name just a few! at Bangor, helping me to make part, we're looking forward to next Table Tennis drinks. You select the movies and more friends and feel more com- year’s hunt! What better way to blow o some we bring out the beanbags. What fortable at my University home. steam than competing against fel- follows is a night of relaxed enjoy- My top three highlights for April Learn To Cook Student Grub low students in a table tennis com- ment to distract us from the bur- were: The “Learn to Cook” events are petition! People of all skill levels dens of academic life. DOWNLOAD Yoga great fun and are an amazing way enjoy themselves for hours in Aca- I absolutely love going to yoga to improve your cooking skills. pela or Braint Common Room. Hope you've all enjoyed the East- OUR FREE on Saturday mornings in Aca- Learning to cook student meals er break and see you at one of our pela! I have learnt so many new gave me new ideas for exciting Learn to Cook events in May! CAMPUS LIFE things and it's a lovely way to relax easy dishes. The best part was all It goes without saying that cook- APP TO KEEP and make you feel good over the our recipes are on a budget! ing is an essential skill for the in- UP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING Seren would like to say a huge thank you to Campus GOING ON! Life for their support over the past year! Their sponsorship and content has been very much appreciated and we have enjoyed working with them to promote student activites. 24 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 25 CAMPUS LIFE PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY Campus Life: May Bulletin Photographic Society: May Picks ow, the  nal issue of Seren for this year is here already! WMarch and April have been great months here at Campus Life HQ full of trips, new skills and a show- Introducing This Month’s case of amazing talent! We kicked o March at Chester Zoo, where we saw hundreds of animals, learned about their habitats and how we can help protect them. It was a great trip and Featured Campus Life Crew you can check out all our photos on our Facebook Page. We also held our annual Bangor’s Got Talent event and we can tell you, Bangor HAS talent! Congratulations Members: Kyra & David once again to Jeanneil Modar who was the winner on the night, with her amazing poi performance. We’ve served up another great Sunday Roast, took you to the beautiful “vil- lage” of Portmeirion and the Easter bunny was out and about just before the break! Thank you to everyone who got involved and made this year fan- tastic! We still have a few more events before the year is over, so check out the events below and the new Cam- Francesco Rota pus Life calendar in your kitchen.

British Heart Foundation – CPR Training: Wednesday 15th May We’ve teamed up with the British Heart Foundation once again to give you another chance to become a life- saver. Sign up at campuslife@bangor. ac.uk for free CPR training.

Free Fruit Friday: Friday 17th May Head to your nearest Halls’ O ce Fergus Elliott and pick up a free fruity treat! ey guys! My name is Kyra weekend. What's not to love about ello everyone! My name's dependent student. This month Eurovision Party: Saturday and I’m from West Wales, a FREE yoga class with a great in- David and I am a second- for Pancake Day, we taught you 18th May near Aberystwyth. I’m cur- structor? year student of Linguistics how to  ip pancakes skilfully and It’s the biggest night of the year in H H rently in my second year at Bangor and German. On the weekend, taught you two easy and reliable the pop calendar! Join the Campus studying English Literature. Easter Egg Hunt you can see me rambling around recipes. Whether or not you have Life Crew for a fun  lled celebration of I grew up in Wales, went to a The Easter egg hunt was a great the beautiful mountains of Snow- any experience in the kitchen, join musical diversity and dance. Welsh school and have lived in the laugh and it was amazing to see so donia and on weekdays, you can us for our next Learn to Cook; it's country all of my life, so if you have many students take part! Campus  nd me reading in the library. Most really fun and you get a free por- Garden Games: Friday 24th any questions about the Welsh cul- Life Mariya and I enjoyed hiding evenings I spend with friends or or- tion of food. May ture, I will do my best to answer the eggs around Ffriddoedd Cam- ganising cool Campus Life events. Start your summer break in true them! pus and making it fun for everyone Speaking of which, here are my top Film Night Campus Life style – We have a limbo, Campus Life was a great way for that took part. Congratulations to highlights from the Campus Life The classic Campus Life chilled sack races, giant Twister and Kerplunk me to settle in during my  rst year our winners and to all that took calendar in March: out event, with free popcorn and Fergus Elliott games - to name just a few! at Bangor, helping me to make part, we're looking forward to next Table Tennis drinks. You select the movies and more friends and feel more com- year’s hunt! What better way to blow o some we bring out the beanbags. What fortable at my University home. steam than competing against fel- follows is a night of relaxed enjoy- My top three highlights for April Learn To Cook Student Grub low students in a table tennis com- ment to distract us from the bur- were: The “Learn to Cook” events are petition! People of all skill levels dens of academic life. DOWNLOAD Yoga great fun and are an amazing way enjoy themselves for hours in Aca- I absolutely love going to yoga to improve your cooking skills. pela or Braint Common Room. Hope you've all enjoyed the East- OUR FREE on Saturday mornings in Aca- Learning to cook student meals er break and see you at one of our pela! I have learnt so many new gave me new ideas for exciting Learn to Cook events in May! CAMPUS LIFE things and it's a lovely way to relax easy dishes. The best part was all It goes without saying that cook- APP TO KEEP and make you feel good over the our recipes are on a budget! ing is an essential skill for the in- UP TO DATE WITH EVERYTHING Seren would like to say a huge thank you to Campus GOING ON! Life for their support over the past year! Their sponsorship and content has been very much appreciated and we have enjoyed working with them to promote student activites. Francesco Rota Fergus Elliott 26 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SOC & VOL AWARDS

AWARDS

VOLUNTEER SOCIETY OF THE MEMBER OF YEAR THE YEAR Gabriele Lucy Best Radzeviciute

PONTIO ARTS SUSTAINABILITY HIGH SHERIFF’S AWARD AWARD AWARD SODA & Film Society Bangor Forestry Student Association Headway Gwynedd & Môn 26 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 27 SOC & VOL AWARDS SOC & VOL AWARDS

BEST NEW EVENT OF UMCB SOCIETY OPPORTUNITY THE YEAR OF THE YEAR Poker Society Bangor Pride Aelwyd JMJ

AWARDS SOCIETIES VP AWARD VOLUNTEERING VP AWARD VOLUNTEER SOCIETY OF THE MEMBER OF Seren RAG YEAR THE YEAR Gabriele Lucy Best Radzeviciute

VOLUNTEERING SOCIETY OF PONTIO ARTS SUSTAINABILITY HIGH SHERIFF’S PROJECT OF THE YEAR THE YEAR AWARD AWARD AWARD SODA & Film Society Bangor Forestry Student Association Headway Gwynedd & Môn Sbectrwm SODA 28 SEREN | May Issue 2019 AU DINNER

AWARDS

SPORTSMAN SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR

Theo Sonja Schoebel Samokovlija

MALE FEMALE FRESHER OF FRESHER OF THE YEAR THE YEAR Chris Arcadia Wilden Seldon 28 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 29 AU DINNER AU DINNER AU SUPERTEAMS PRESIDENT AWARD AWARD Thomas Weller Lacrosse

VARSITY TEAM OPEN SPIRIT OF THE OF THE YEAR AWARD AU AWARD AWARDS Men’s Football Seren Women’s Hockey

SPORTSMAN SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR

Theo Sonja Schoebel Samokovlija

MALE FEMALE FRESHER OF FRESHER OF TEAM OF CLUB OF THE YEAR THE YEAR Chris Arcadia THE YEAR THE YEAR Wilden Seldon Women’s Basketball Surf Club 30 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN BUSINESS AWARDS

Just under 250 people answered our survey to crown Bangor’s favourite businesses for the 2018/19 academic year! Here’s what they decided: BEST PUB Cove Pop Up Co ee & Rum Shack BEST CAFE Blue Sky Cafe

BEST RESTAURANT Dylan’s Menai Bridge

BEST TAKEAWAY Bella Bella 30 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 31 SEREN BUSINESS AWARDS SEREN BUSINESS AWARDS BEST HAIR SALON Clayton’s Hair Design

Just under 250 people answered our survey to crown Bangor’s favourite businesses for the 2018/19 academic year! Here’s what they decided: BEST BARBERS BEST PUB Kai’s Barber Shop Cove Pop Up Co ee & Rum Shack BEST BEAUTY SALON Studio Nails & Beauty BEST CAFE Blue Sky Cafe BEST INDEPENDENT RETAILER BEST RESTAURANT Lookachu - The Dylan’s Menai Bridge Vintage Shop

BEST TAKEAWAY BEST SUPERMARKET Bella Bella Morrisons 32 SEREN | May Issue 2019 TRAVEL Thinking Of Going Summer Interrailing? Here’s What Not To Do... School In

nterrailing; the perfect way to see a lot of Europe in a short amount of Itime. But when you’ve got 9 other people tagging along with you, it can feel more like a school trip. South So, here’s my advice: don’t go with 9 people. I know, I know, I should’ve known that before we started planning our trip – but it didn’t cross my mind. Not until it was too late anyway. The only way I could’ve Korea escaped it was breaking apart by SAM PRICE lations or water sports. I chose to do the friendship group (which, in- water sports, this consisted of learn- cidentally, happened anyway). So ukyong Nation university sum- ing about sailing yachts, sur ng and instead I soldiered on, traipsing mer school in Busan is a 3 week most of our time was spent paddle through museums, sweltering Pprogram which is truly a once boarding. In the afternoons everyone in the summer heat, and hardly in a lifetime opportunity. South Korea took part in culture classes. These in- drinking a drop of alcohol. Yep, is a country which was not in my im- cluded a di erent activity every day, that sums up my interrailing ex- minent plans, I only really knew about from cooking traditional meals, tra- perience – achy feet, a heavy bag, K-pop! Once there I found Busan a ditional crafts, visiting religious and and a perfectly sober group of beautiful city, rich in tradition and his- historical sights and K-pop dancing. eighteen-year-olds. tory. People from all over the world par- Sounds like fun, right? Surpris- Historical temples are close by and ticipated in this program and I have ingly, I’d recommend it. Although, it is a 20 minute walk from a stunning honestly made friends for life. I highly maybe invest in some comfy beach. In the universities program you recommend this to anyone consider- shoes (2-year-old converse will had a choice which module to take in ing a summer program, the interna- not be your best friend, trust me), the mornings from Korean language, tional o ce is very helpful in aiding and de nitely go out and experi- extra culture classes, international re- you make the right decision and help- ence the night-life of the places ing you through the process. you’re visiting. Another thing - if you are think- ing about going interrailing, de nitely plan WHO you’re go- ing with carefully. If you know that someone annoys you, maybe don’t go with them. Similarly, if you have a friend who is going to want to go to every single mu- seum and art exhibition and you don’t feel that way inclined… maybe don’t go with them either. If, like me, you just want to expe- rience di erent European cities, exploring and getting lost,  nd- ing cute little cafés and stumbling across monuments;  nd someone with similar interests and go with them! There’s nothing worse than travelling for three weeks with people you’re slowly realising that you don’t really like… Packing’s A Pickle

by SOPHIE ELERI JAMES couraged rules of packing is to only Travel in your heavy items Plan! take what you really need. Lay out If you know you de nitely want to acking tends to be the hardest Where are you going? How long are everything that you think you want take your big coat and boots – wear part of a holiday for many peo- you going for? What time of year are to take, and halve it. Yes, that means them on the journey! You can always Pple. The struggle of what to take, you going? What’s the weather like that you won’t be taking your favour- take them o once you’ve sat down, how much to take, whether to take in that country at that time of year? ite leather jacket, but did you really and this will mean your bag will be Want to edit the that jacket just in case, and then how If you do your research before go- need it anyway? Depending on where a bit lighter, so if you’re travelling by you’re going to  t it into your luggage. ing, you’ll know roughly what to take, you’re going, it makes sense not to plane, the baggage costs won’t be as travel section? Another problem is  guring out what and what to leave behind. Maybe you take the ‘just in case’ items, as it’s high- high. Some people go the full extreme kind of luggage to take – do you both- won’t need hiking boots if you’re go- ly unlikely you’ll actually need them. and wear everything they’re taking, er with a suitcase, or do you go for the ing on a beach holiday, and if it’s gen- Halving everything you think you avoiding baggage costs complete- Email travel@ 65-litre backpack you bought for DofE erally pretty sunny, you can leave the need to take might seem hard, but ly…so if you think you could wear it  ve years ago? How much will it cost if umbrella and emergency raincoat be- just wait until it comes to halving it all, then go ahead! It would certainly seren.bangor. you’re going by plane? You don’t want hind. Of course, make sure you check again! If you’re travelling around a lot make it an unforgettable journey! to be caught out by sneaky additional the weather forecast the day before on your holiday, it makes sense not to ac.uk for more prices thrown in (I’m looking at you, you go! take dirty clothes with you from loca- Lots of people  nd travelling to Ryanair). All in all, packing is stressful. tion to location, so make use of avail- be a bigger pain than it needs to be, information! So. How do you avoid the stress, and Halve, halve, and halve again able washing machines. It’ll save you but it really doesn’t have to be. Just make your holiday preparation has- Some of you might be completely a lot of luggage room, and you might make some tough decisions, chuck sle-free? Well, there are a few simple repulsed by this idea – only taking not have to pay such extortionate your stu in your bag (or don it all!) things you can do… two pairs of shoes!? Leaving behind baggage costs. and head o – go have a fab, well- those 5 tops!? One of the most en- deserved break! 32 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 33 TRAVEL TRAVEL Thinking Of Going Summer Travelling Plastic-Free Interrailing? by SOPHIE ELERI JAMES cuppa with me. This could mean buy- means that you’re guaranteed some- Something else that’s great to al- great! I love them because you don’t Here’s What ing it on the train, which means that I thing you like. As a veggie I  nd it dif- ways have on you is a set of reusable have to worry about needing a tissue, lastic is everywhere – EVERY- make use of my reusable cup. I bought  cult sometimes to get food that I like cutlery. I bought mine from Go Out- and if needs be you can use them to WHERE – so for Lent I gave up a funky foldable one from Amazon for the sound of, so preparing something doors for £3 – they’re camping ones mop up any mess you’ve made – just Not To Do... School In about £8, which is great because I can simple at home and putting it in re- and came in a little case, meaning I make sure you don’t use it again on Pplastic (you can read about it in the Environment section). Because keep it in my bag at all times and not usable Tupperware is a great option. can just chuck them at the bottom your face! They’re so eco-friendly, and nterrailing; the perfect way to see a I tend to travel fairly regularly, I’ve have to worry about space. The Inde- I don’t know why, and I couldn’t tell of my bag. They’re great because it you can just chuck them in with your lot of Europe in a short amount of found that plastic tends to seep its pendent reported that in the UK we you where this appreciation came means that if needs be I can pick up a washing. There are plenty of things time. But when you’ve got 9 other way into my journeys, so I’ve made use 7 million disposable co ee cups from, but I bloody love Tupperware meal and not have to get a single-use you can get that are re-usable just like I each year, meaning that the hot drink and anything related. A few months plastic fork. You can get bamboo ones this, like make-up pads and menstrual people tagging along with you, it can a conscious e ort to signi cantly re- feel more like a school trip. South duce how much I use. Making a few you consumed within 5 minutes has ago I bought a 1.2 litre metal water too, that come in really beautiful little pads. Don’t worry – everything comes So, here’s my advice: don’t go simple swaps here and there can be a much longer lasting e ect on the bottle, and honestly you cannot sepa- pouches with chop sticks and a straw, out in the wash. with 9 people. really easy and cheaper than buying planet. If I’m really prepared, I leave rate us. It’s an overt love a air and I’m but I opted for something cheaper There are so many other swaps you I know, I know, I should’ve known products packaged in plastic. Some- the house with my  ask nicely full of not ashamed. Gone are the days of just out of necessity. can make, most of them really sim- that before we started planning times the environmentally-friendly 2-3 cups worth of tea – perfect for a plastic water bottles, bought in haste I might seem a little old-fashioned ple, and you’ll never look back. It’s a our trip – but it didn’t cross my options are a little more costly, but it’s long train journey! due to a desperate thirst. I can’t cheat with this next one, but hear me out. I really great, easy way to cut back on mind. Not until it was too late a small price to pay for ensuring the Similarly, making sure that you’ve on my one true love (sorry Eddie). always make sure I’ve got a handker- your plastic usage, as these one-time anyway. The only way I could’ve Korea wellbeing of our planet. got food to eat on the journey is a Finding the perfect water bottle is chief. I keep one in each jacket that purchases will last you so long, and escaped it was breaking apart by SAM PRICE lations or water sports. I chose to do Travelling by train can be tedious, good idea too. It saves you having to like  nding your soulmate, and rather I own, so that I don’t have to worry prove much more economical as well the friendship group (which, in- water sports, this consisted of learn- which is why I always like having a buy something that it packaged, and luckily I’ve found both. about forgetting one, and they’re as ecological. cidentally, happened anyway). So ukyong Nation university sum- ing about sailing yachts, sur ng and instead I soldiered on, traipsing mer school in Busan is a 3 week most of our time was spent paddle through museums, sweltering Pprogram which is truly a once boarding. In the afternoons everyone in the summer heat, and hardly in a lifetime opportunity. South Korea took part in culture classes. These in- drinking a drop of alcohol. Yep, is a country which was not in my im- cluded a di erent activity every day, Bank that sums up my interrailing ex- minent plans, I only really knew about from cooking traditional meals, tra- perience – achy feet, a heavy bag, K-pop! Once there I found Busan a ditional crafts, visiting religious and and a perfectly sober group of beautiful city, rich in tradition and his- historical sights and K-pop dancing. eighteen-year-olds. tory. People from all over the world par- Travel Essentials Holidays Sounds like fun, right? Surpris- Historical temples are close by and ticipated in this program and I have ingly, I’d recommend it. Although, it is a 20 minute walk from a stunning honestly made friends for life. I highly maybe invest in some comfy beach. In the universities program you recommend this to anyone consider- shoes (2-year-old converse will had a choice which module to take in ing a summer program, the interna- not be your best friend, trust me), the mornings from Korean language, tional o ce is very helpful in aiding and de nitely go out and experi- extra culture classes, international re- you make the right decision and help- ence the night-life of the places ing you through the process. you’re visiting. Another thing - if you are think- ing about going interrailing, de nitely plan WHO you’re go- ing with carefully. If you know that someone annoys you, maybe don’t go with them. Similarly, if you have a friend who is going to want to go to every single mu- seum and art exhibition and you don’t feel that way inclined… maybe don’t go with them either. If, like me, you just want to expe- rience di erent European cities, exploring and getting lost,  nd- ank holidays are great for ing cute little cafés and stumbling getting outdoors. There is across monuments;  nd someone Bso much to see and do in with similar interests and go with this part of the world, and we're them! There’s nothing worse than so lucky to have organisations travelling for three weeks with like the National Trust and Cadw, people you’re slowly realising meaning that heritage sites and that you don’t really like… open areas are maintained for us Packing’s A Pickle and great for chucking in your bag on done! I make a habit of collecting hydrated is so important, and having by SOPHIE ELERI JAMES to go and visit. days out. ticket stubs and postcards and stick- to buy a bottle of water seems unnec- However, this past bank holiday s I’ve mentioned, packing is ing them in as I go along, so that I’ve essary to me – just bring your own! proved that gorgeous weather by SOPHIE ELERI JAMES couraged rules of packing is to only Travel in your heavy items hard. It can take a long time Sunglasses got a little keep-sake from the holiday. can be dangerous. Cars were Plan! take what you really need. Lay out If you know you de nitely want to Ato make sure that you’ve got If you’re o somewhere sunny, don’t Clothes parked extremely recklessly acking tends to be the hardest Where are you going? How long are everything that you think you want take your big coat and boots – wear everything you need, as well as every- forget them! You can always buy some Headphones Choosing what to take can be dif- along roads in the Brecon Bea- part of a holiday for many peo- you going for? What time of year are to take, and halve it. Yes, that means them on the journey! You can always thing you don’t really need! Here’s my cheapies, but if you’re like me and I can’t travel without my head-  cult (see my article on packing), but cons and all throughout Snow- Pple. The struggle of what to take, you going? What’s the weather like that you won’t be taking your favour- take them o once you’ve sat down, top 10 items that I think are essential need prescription sunglasses (I can’t phones – they’re a great way of block- making sure that you have clothes to donia (along the A5!), making it how much to take, whether to take in that country at that time of year? ite leather jacket, but did you really and this will mean your bag will be when travelling. be doing with contact lenses!), then ing out annoying passengers! Make wear…that’s what I’d call essential! necessary for people to drive cau- Want to edit the that jacket just in case, and then how If you do your research before go- need it anyway? Depending on where a bit lighter, so if you’re travelling by you really need to make sure you’ve sure you prep a good playlist too. Will there be a pool? Take some bath- tiously on these very busy roads. you’re going to  t it into your luggage. ing, you’ll know roughly what to take, you’re going, it makes sense not to plane, the baggage costs won’t be as Documents packed them, else you’ll be squinting ers! Might it be chilly? Make sure to On gorgeous days like the ones travel section? Another problem is  guring out what and what to leave behind. Maybe you take the ‘just in case’ items, as it’s high- high. Some people go the full extreme A bit of a no-brainer; make sure the whole holiday! Snacks – Healthy Ones! take a light jacket. Don’t forget plenty we've had recently, it's important kind of luggage to take – do you both- won’t need hiking boots if you’re go- ly unlikely you’ll actually need them. and wear everything they’re taking, you’re got all the documents you It might sound ridiculous, but pig- of underwear too! to remember to be considerate Email travel@ er with a suitcase, or do you go for the ing on a beach holiday, and if it’s gen- Halving everything you think you avoiding baggage costs complete- need! That includes passport, EHIC Medication ging out on your favourite chocolate of other drivers/travellers. While 65-litre backpack you bought for DofE erally pretty sunny, you can leave the need to take might seem hard, but ly…so if you think you could wear it card (but then again, who knows if Don’t forget about prescription and crisps might not be the best for Money you might be enjoying a walk in  ve years ago? How much will it cost if umbrella and emergency raincoat be- just wait until it comes to halving it all, then go ahead! It would certainly these will still be valid by the time medication, as well as things like par- you while you’re travelling. If you fuel Finally, don’t forget to change your the hills, there could be a massive seren.bangor. you’re going by plane? You don’t want hind. Of course, make sure you check again! If you’re travelling around a lot make it an unforgettable journey! your holiday comes around…), driv- acetamol and mosquito-repellent too, your body with the right stu , you’ll money before you go – you don’t queue of tra c due to your poor to be caught out by sneaky additional the weather forecast the day before on your holiday, it makes sense not to er’s licence (can be handy!), etc. just in case! Oh, and never forget your feel so much better once you arrive want to be ripped o abroad. Another parking choice. ac.uk for more prices thrown in (I’m looking at you, you go! take dirty clothes with you from loca- Lots of people  nd travelling to suncream! at your destination, and you’ll have great tool is a travel card; load it up Another issue with bank holi- Ryanair). All in all, packing is stressful. tion to location, so make use of avail- be a bigger pain than it needs to be, Chargers more energy to go and explore. with money and convert on an app – days and getting out and about is information! So. How do you avoid the stress, and Halve, halve, and halve again able washing machines. It’ll save you but it really doesn’t have to be. Just As well as your normal leads and Notebook & Pens it makes it much easier! I use FairFx for the amount of litter being spread make your holiday preparation has- Some of you might be completely a lot of luggage room, and you might make some tough decisions, chuck plugs (as well as travel adaptors), Great for tackling boredom on jour- Water Bottle euros, which is great because there’s across the beautiful landscapes sle-free? Well, there are a few simple repulsed by this idea – only taking not have to pay such extortionate your stu in your bag (or don it all!) don’t forget your portable charger. neys, noting down places to visit, or If you read my article on plastic-free no hassle and you can top up at any by people who just don't care things you can do… two pairs of shoes!? Leaving behind baggage costs. and head o – go have a fab, well- Such a life-saver on long journeys, journaling your experiences – you travel, you’ll understand why I’d say to time. about the environment. those 5 tops!? One of the most en- deserved break! don’t want to forget what you’ve bring a reusable water bottle. Keeping 34 SEREN | May Issue 2019 FOOD & DRINK The Sweet Side Fresh Of Filial Cuts For Cannibalism Freshers

by PAIGE BROOK ampus Life caters for a wide range of activities, Cbut if your fridge is ever running low these are a few key by PAIGE BROOK dates you should keep in mind. aving Easter just passed, we Run by the Campus Life Men- can reminisce on the resur- Anglesey's Best Kept Secret tors, these events aim to make Hrection of Christ and of course integrating into a new environ- tucking into those lovely chocolate By PAIGE BROOK green and black olives bathed session and quite rightly so as it ment more fun and more relax- eggs or Lindt bunnies. While we may in oils and herbs are a refreshing was tailored to my liking! Order- ing too. Making new friends  nd this tradition a nice light hearted enllech is home to the palate cleanser. The other start- ing the dish is a maze in itself: and learning new recipes could bit of fun, the reality is rabbits eat pearl of North Wales: The er of garlic bread was a full-size Essentially, it is a hanging skew- never be easier! their own young, and hens their own BBeachcomber Bar and pizza, freshly baked with the op- er with an option of 3 meats: Be sure to check them out eggs. In fact, within the animal king- Grill. tion of adding cheese and chilli, Chicken, Lamb, Rib Eye Steak, around the University and ask dom eating o spring is more com- This hidden gem is rated 4 and makes for a delicious and lling served alongside either home- any questions! Remember to mon than you may have thought. The a half stars on TripAdvisor, and starter. Portion size of just the made  atbread with salad or on book in advance if necessary, reasons behind it: hunger and quality my god it really is worth it! Locat- olives and garlic bread was prac- the skewer salad, home-made but you can  nd all details and control. ed on Bangor Road, Tyn-Y-Gongl, tically enough for myself and coleslaw, and yet another choice more events on a Campus Life Research by the University of Ten- LL74 8TF, the Beachcomber com- my parents, then came out the of either alioli or mint yoghurt. A poster or online at: - bangor. nessee and University of Oxford have bines Spanish style tapas along- mains. seriously personalised dish. ac.uk/campus-life/index.php.en. suggested that  lial cannibalism can side local produce. Its grill sec- I opted on their ‘Espetada’. My choice? The lamb hanging be considered parental care. Bizarre tion is mouth-watering and the Watching this dish arrive to the skewer accompanied by salad, as it is, Frontier in Ecology and Evolu- pizza to die for! Portions are t table was a sight for sore eyes. home-made coleslaw, and mint BARLOWS KITCHEN tion re ects the philosophy of Thanos for a family of four per dish so Handcrafted with elegance, per- yoghurt. My god. Now every in In nity War, by stating that there you won’t be leaving hungry. fectly balanced on texture and night I dream of having this glo- Tuesday 14th May – I opted on the garlic bread colour. I was in love and I hadn’t rious dish again. I cannot rec- Learn to Cook Vegan 7pm is a mathematical model that shows when overcrowding threatens o - and olives for starters and I was even taken a bite! This ‘Espetada’ ommend Beachcomber Bar and not disappointed. A mixture of BAR UNO spring survival sacri cing a few for the had already become my new ob- Grill more! welfare of the rest is deemed as tough Tuesday 7th May – love. Yet, in the case of the rabbits and Free Chip Butty 7pm hens, they opted on cannibalism as opposed to collecting the 6 In nity Sunday 12th May - Sun- Stones. day roast ( to book contact The role of o spring density was [email protected]) positively associated with  lial can- FFRIDD nibalism. When focussed on species who lay eggs, they found that com- Wednesday 8th May - munal egg laying is common. This Wednesday Cooler Ice makes it easier to protect, clean, in- Lolly Giveaway 12pm cubate and feed the eggs, but the competition for oxygen and food in- Friday 10th May creases. As o spring density a ects - Free Fruit Friday egg survival, it really is a ‘live fast, die Friday 17th May young’ mentality to some species. - Free Fruit Friday Wednesday 22nd May Another Arrival - Wednesday Cooler Ice Bangor Fair-Price Cafe Lolly Giveaway 12pm ST MARYS Wednesday 8th May - Wednesday Cooler Ice Lolly Giveaway 12pm Friday 10th May - Free Fruit Friday by PAIGE BROOK Friday 17th May - Free Fruit Friday he latest of Bangor’s food scene has  nally opened after a few Wednesday 22nd May months of preparation. Slowly - Wednesday Cooler Ice T Lolly Giveaway 12pm but surely, we have watched this void in the Deiniol shopping centre turned into the wonder that is Bangor Fair- Price Café. This café is inspired by the local surroundings sourcing its décor and ingredients locally. Placed over 2  oors, it o ers a warm and welcom- ing embrace. Enjoy a co ee and cosy on up admiring the local photogra- pher’s work on the walls. Their selec- tion is freshly made cakes, pastries and a variety of hot and cold drinks. O ering a new space for everyone to relax and take a breather. They pride themselves on their low prices and we congratulate them and look forward to see how they progress! 34 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 35 FOOD & DRINK FOOD & DRINK The Sweet Side Fresh Of Filial Cuts For Cannibalism Can’t Find Freshers by PAIGE BROOK ampus Life caters for a Endgame Spoiler? wide range of activities, Cbut if your fridge is ever running low these are a few key by PAIGE BROOK by PAIGE BROOK be tempted by a £17 packet of mini Worst Cinema Snacks dates you should keep in mind. aving Easter just passed, we cheddars. Pork Scratchings Run by the Campus Life Men- can reminisce on the resur- Blame Michael Shields for this Anglesey's Best Kept Secret oud eaters, smelly food and the tors, these events aim to make rection of Christ and of course Popcorn, obviously abomination. H slurps of the person next to you integrating into a new environ- tucking into those lovely chocolate green and black olives bathed session and quite rightly so as it Cinema sweet, never salted. Just By PAIGE BROOK is the worst spoiler for any  lm. ment more fun and more relax- eggs or Lindt bunnies. While we may in oils and herbs are a refreshing was tailored to my liking! Order- L don’t eat the leftover corn parts – Fruit and Veg After attending the double bill of Mar- ing too. Making new friends  nd this tradition a nice light hearted enllech is home to the palate cleanser. The other start- ing the dish is a maze in itself: worst thing trying not to choke in the No o ense but why? vel’s Avengers: In nity War and End and learning new recipes could bit of fun, the reality is rabbits eat pearl of North Wales: The er of garlic bread was a full-size Essentially, it is a hanging skew- middle of a packed cinema. Game, I realised I committed one of never be easier! their own young, and hens their own BBeachcomber Bar and pizza, freshly baked with the op- er with an option of 3 meats: Anything loud the deadly sins by whipping out my Be sure to check them out eggs. In fact, within the animal king- Grill. tion of adding cheese and chilli, Chicken, Lamb, Rib Eye Steak, Nachos Morrisons Fajitas Meal Deal – forgive Morrisons fajita. No, not bringing your around the University and ask dom eating o spring is more com- This hidden gem is rated 4 and makes for a delicious and lling served alongside either home- Always me father for I have sinned. own food in the cinema, that’s actu- any questions! Remember to mon than you may have thought. The a half stars on TripAdvisor, and starter. Portion size of just the made  atbread with salad or on I tried the new olive and goats’ by PAIGE BROOK ally allowed as they really don’t care! book in advance if necessary, reasons behind it: hunger and quality my god it really is worth it! Locat- olives and garlic bread was prac- the skewer salad, home-made cheese, while you can get big Squashies Smokey bacon crisps But as soon as that packet opened, but you can  nd all details and control. ed on Bangor Road, Tyn-Y-Gongl, tically enough for myself and coleslaw, and yet another choice  avours unfortunately portion size For me sour apple and cherry  a- They stink. Make that any crisps re- ontio had a reshu e over the smell of my mini Mexican  esta more events on a Campus Life Research by the University of Ten- LL74 8TF, the Beachcomber com- my parents, then came out the of either alioli or mint yoghurt. A is not. vour. All other  avours are inferior. ally, loud and occasionally smelly. Un- the Easter holidays, I was paraded across the rows around me. poster or online at: - bangor. nessee and University of Oxford have bines Spanish style tapas along- mains. seriously personalised dish. shocked to  nd Cegin empty They’ve reworked the space on less you’re going to let it soak in your side local produce. Its grill sec- P Sorry row F. Here’s a list of the best ac.uk/campus-life/index.php.en. suggested that  lial cannibalism can I opted on their ‘Espetada’. My choice? The lamb hanging the second  oor to create a more Rainbow Drops mouth til it’s soggy to chew don’t and went on a wild goose chase for and worst cinema snacks (in my own be considered parental care. Bizarre tion is mouth-watering and the Watching this dish arrive to the skewer accompanied by salad, friendly student atmosphere while Goldie but oldie. bother. a sandwich. opinion): as it is, Frontier in Ecology and Evolu- pizza to die for! Portions are t table was a sight for sore eyes. home-made coleslaw, and mint This third- oor wonder has been still attempting to entice the gen- BARLOWS KITCHEN tion re ects the philosophy of Thanos for a family of four per dish so Handcrafted with elegance, per- yoghurt. My god. Now every eral public. Haribo’s relocated joining the second  oor. Best Cinema Snacks Leaving half way through In nity in In nity War, by stating that there you won’t be leaving hungry. fectly balanced on texture and night I dream of having this glo- So next time you’re looking for a Speci cally Tangfastic or Sour Cher- War to go get a KFC and then bring One less set of stairs to climb is a Eat before you come Tuesday 14th May – is a mathematical model that shows I opted on the garlic bread colour. I was in love and I hadn’t rious dish again. I cannot rec- New York Bagel, don’t fret just one ries. What a kick of energy they are to it back into the cinema Learn to Cook Vegan 7pm god sent, and with the latest addi- No joke. Maccies is always just when overcrowding threatens o - and olives for starters and I was even taken a bite! This ‘Espetada’ ommend Beachcomber Bar and less step. sit in a dark room for 3 odd hours. We all saw you, you sat in the centre, tion of their pizzas. around the corner stock up before spring survival sacri cing a few for the not disappointed. A mixture of had already become my new ob- Grill more! you’re not slick. BAR UNO on a medium meal and you won’t welfare of the rest is deemed as tough Tuesday 7th May – love. Yet, in the case of the rabbits and Free Chip Butty 7pm hens, they opted on cannibalism as opposed to collecting the 6 In nity Co ee Cake With Coconut Sorbet Vegan Baked Oreo Cheesecake Sunday 12th May - Sun- Stones. day roast ( to book contact The role of o spring density was Ingredients Coconut Sorbet Ingredients Cake [email protected]) positively associated with  lial can- Co ee Cake Combine all of the ingredients in a pan and Crust Blend the ground almonds, cream cheese, FFRIDD nibalism. When focussed on species 187g plain  our bring to a simmer. 3 packets of Oreo (154g per packet) biscuits coconut milk, sugar,  our, corn our, lemon who lay eggs, they found that com- 16g cocoa powder Remove from the heat and transfer to a con- 3 tbsp vegan margarine juice and vanilla paste until smooth. Wednesday 8th May - munal egg laying is common. This 4.6g baking soda tainer – leave to infuse for 1 hour. 1 tbsp coconut oil Melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil us- Wednesday Cooler Ice makes it easier to protect, clean, in- 200g caster sugar Pass through a  ne chinois (or nut milk bag, Filling ing a double boiler (a glass or ceramic bowl Lolly Giveaway 12pm cubate and feed the eggs, but the 3g  ne salt muslin or pair of tights!) and leave to cool to 100g/1 cup ground almonds that  ts on a saucepan of simmering water competition for oxygen and food in- 5g white wine vinegar room temperature. 500g/4¼ cups vegan cream cheese (eg Bute but doesn’t touch the bottom) and then Friday 10th May creases. As o spring density a ects 4.5g vanilla paste Churn in an ice cream machine (or freeze, Island, Tofutti, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Violife) pour immediately into the cake mix and - Free Fruit Friday egg survival, it really is a ‘live fast, die 67g vegetable oil then chop into pieces and blend then freeze 1 x 400ml tin/1½ cups plus 1 tbsp of coconut blend. 180g brewed co ee – at room temperature again). milk Take the base out of the fridge and pour the Friday 17th May young’ mentality to some species. - Free Fruit Friday 60g Kahlúa 200g caster sugar cake mix straight onto the base. Give it a bit Coconut Crumb 6 tbsp plain  our, sieved of a shake to make sure the mixture is evenly Wednesday 22nd May Another Arrival Coconut Sorbet Toast the desiccated coconut in the oven 4 tbsp corn  our distributed. - Wednesday Cooler Ice Bangor Fair-Price Cafe 800g coconut milk at 160°C/310ºF/just under Gas Mark 3 until 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted If you would like to add raspberries to the Lolly Giveaway 12pm 100g caster sugar golden brown. 170g/1 cup plus 2 tbsp vegan dark chocolate cake mix, push them evenly into the mixture 50g glucose Meanwhile in the food processor with the ½ tsp cocoa powder, dissolved in a tiny until they are fully submerged. ST MARYS 150g desiccated coconut paddle attachment, cream the butter and amount of boiling water Fill a deep baking tray with water (around 1 25g Malibu sugar until light and  u y, then add the co- Pinch of salt inch). If you are using a cake tin with a loose Wednesday 8th May - conut oil and paddle to incorporate. 2 tsp vanilla paste or extract bottom, make sure it is really securely cov- Wednesday Cooler Ice Lolly Giveaway 12pm Coconut Crumb Sift in the  our in two batches and beat on 1-2 tsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled) ered with foil before placing it into the wa- 100g desiccated coconut low speed to incorporate. Topping ter. Friday 10th May 70g vegan margarine Spread the mixture out on a tray and bake 250ml/1 cup vegan chocolate sauce (eg Put the tray with the cake into the pre-heat- - Free Fruit Friday 230g caster sugar in the oven at 160°C/310ºF/just under Gas Askeys Crackin Chocolate Chunk) ed oven and bake for 1 hour 30 minutes. by PAIGE BROOK 130g coconut oil Mark 3 until golden brown, then remove Vegan squirty cream (eg Soyatoo or Food When the cake is ready, take it out of the Friday 17th May 300g plain  our from the oven and leave to cool to room Heaven) oven and leave it to cool for an hour before - Free Fruit Friday he latest of Bangor’s food scene temperature. 1 packet of Oreo putting it into the fridge to set overnight. has  nally opened after a few Espresso Fluid Gel Combine with the toasted desiccated coco- Once set, remove from the cake tin using a Wednesday 22nd May months of preparation. Slowly 350g brewed co ee nut and keep to one side until needed. Method hot knife. - Wednesday Cooler Ice T Lolly Giveaway 12pm but surely, we have watched this void 50g caster sugar Base in the Deiniol shopping centre turned 5g agar-agar Espresso Fluid Gel Pre-heat the oven to 150˚C/300˚F/Gas Mark Topping into the wonder that is Bangor Fair- Bring all of the ingredients to a rolling boil 2. Pour vegan chocolate spread all over the top Price Café. Method while whisking. Grease a loose bottom cake tin (20cm diam- of the cake (and down the sides if you fancy This café is inspired by the local Co ee Cake Remove from the heat and pass through a eter and 7cm deep) with vegan spread. it). surroundings sourcing its décor and Sift the  our, cocoa powder and baking soda  ne chinois (or nut milk bag, muslin or pair Blend the Oreo until ne or place in a clean Decorate with squirty cream and Oreo bis- ingredients locally. Placed over 2 together into a high powered food proces- of tights) into a tray. tea towel and bash with a rolling pin. cuits.  oors, it o ers a warm and welcom- sor and add the sugar and salt. Leave to cool to room temperature before Gently melt the margarine and coconut oil Keep refrigerated. ing embrace. Enjoy a co ee and cosy Combine the wet ingredients in a container. chilling to set the gel. in a small saucepan on a low heat until fully on up admiring the local photogra- Add the wet ingredients to the dry and com- Cut the gel into rough pieces and blend dissolved. Combine thoroughly with the pher’s work on the walls. Their selec- bine thoroughly with the paddle function in the blender until smooth. Transfer to a blended digestives in a large mixing bowl. tion is freshly made cakes, pastries on the food processor. squeeze tube (or use an old ketchup or mus- Empty the mixture into the greased cake and a variety of hot and cold drinks. Transfer to a silicone tin mould (or thor- tard bottle). tin and evenly distribute along the bot- O ering a new space for everyone to oughly greased oven proof container) and Arrangement tom and up the sides of the tin. Place in the relax and take a breather. They pride bake in the oven at 180°C/350ºF/Gas Mark 4 Arrange the crumbs on a plate, squeeze fridge until you need it. themselves on their low prices and we for 35 minutes. spots of co ee randomly on the plate. Break congratulate them and look forward the sponge into pieces and arrange. Finally to see how they progress! add a scoop of the sorbet and serve. 36 SEREN | May Issue 2019 LIFESTYLE COURTNEY MCHUGH OPINION: ‘Humanity LIFESTYLE SUB-EDITOR Is At A Crossroads’: [email protected] Extinction Rebellion A Special Thanks To... eing a sub-editor of Seren who have collected every single ticle for the lifestyle section. has made my third year. From one of the Seren Newspapers since Thanks to Finn, our editor, and Bmeeting all of my fellow sub- I started to write and edit for the Jack, our deputy editor, for look- editors and creating a fun, close- paper. ing over my pages and (probably) knit community to writing at least This hasn’t been easy, writing changing all my mistakes for me! four articles per month, I would not AND editing, so I want to thank Like I’ve said, I have LOVED being change it for the world. my contributors. Thank you to a sub-editor for Seren and I wish Not only has it improved my con- Rory Formstone-Roberts, who has I had got involved earlier. If you  dence in my own writing, it has wrote an article for me for all but want to get involved, we will hold given me something that I will re- one issue, I really don’t know what I an AGM at the beginning of the member when I think back to my would have done without you! next academic year. time at University. I would like to Thank you also, to Sabrina You won’t regret it! say thank you to my mom and dad, Ahmed, who has also wrote an ar- Pre Exam Stress Tips by COURTNEY MCHUGH written and why I wasn’t as on my Set yourself realistic goals to help game as she was. It took me a while boost productivity. Even the sim- t’s o cially exam season. Take a to realise that we study completely plest things, such as drinking wa- deep breath! You’ve got this. di erent courses, at completely ter and getting the correct amount I The dreaded time of the year di erent universities and our situa- of sleep (approx. 8 hours) will help where you spend endless nights tions and journeys are completely you relax. slaving over a laptop at home or di erent. Never look for your fail- in the library and revision notes ures in someone else’s successes! Support seem to follow you wherever you Also, schedule your rest time. Make Make sure you have a solid sup- go. Everyone revises di erently; sure you get your own time, to do port system. Whether this is your Climate Emergency (insert), along with the Ex- you have the crammers who learn what relaxes you. Without this, you family, who proofread your essays, the whole module the night before will go crazy. Even with this sched- or simply just leave you to have tinction Rebellion stickers (back), are emblazoned the exams and those who have ule, do not worry if you go o track alone time when you visit them on lamposts and electrical green cabinets all been revising since the academic one day as you can make up lost so that you can revise, or your over Bangor. The aim of the Welsh Climate Cam- year started (you know… just to be time on other days. To reduce your course mates who all stress about paign is to have Zero Carbon Emissions by 2030. safe). So I won’t sit here and lecture stress, always put yourself  rst. the exam/essay with you and most you, mainly because that’s not my likely REVISE with you. by COURTNEY MCHUGH will help to clean the world’s oceans; job and I unfortunately wouldn’t I am all for that and do not mind, and Make sure you have good Again, just don’t compare your- xtinction Rebellion has taken get paid for it. Instead, I will give habits self to them! If you are struggling, will even opt for a paper straw if I can. you some tips that have helped the world by storm. The socio- Metal straws troop the likes of paper As I have already mentioned, please talk to someone. Whether political movement has recently me during my three, wisdom- lled take rests/breaks. Psychologists you speak to the admin team for E and plastic straws and I could not rec- hit the headlines for their nonvio- years at Bangor University. have determined that we can only your school, your personal tutor, ommend them enough. From multi- lent protests against climate change, packs to straws that unfold so you can concentrate properly for 30-45 housemates, friends or family, they biodiversity loss, and the risk of hu- Keep it in perspective minutes. So take that well-earned will o er you advice, which will al- take it out with you, they are a step in I am a sucker for this; I will al- man extinction and ecological col- the right direction. break; whether you stick on Net ix, leviate the pressure you are feeling lapse. Across the globe, activists have ways look at how others are do- make yourself a snack or drink, or in exam season. Most of all, believe If you look at the chaos that has un- ing. When one of my friends, at a staged protests in shopping centres, folded as a result of the substitution go on a walk, you will feel refreshed in yourself – you should always be transport hubs and museums (namely di erent university, submitted her and ready to jump straight back in, your own #1 fan. of plastic straws for paper straws at dissertation in January; my stom- the die-in protest at the Kelvingrove McDonalds (such as the eBay auction as opposed to revising for 5 hours Happy Exam Period: May the art gallery and museum in Glasgow, ach dropped. I began to worry straight and having an hour break. Scaling be Ever in Your Favour. for McDonalds straws that are near- about my measly 1,000 words I had where three hundred activists lay ing the £1000 bid), you can’t help but down beneath Dippy, the diplodocus worry about humanities reaction to Here’s a joke to get you through this di cult time. It made me laugh so skeleton, for 20 minutes). our own future. However, their protests receive bad In terms of Extinction Rebellion, hopefully, it makes you laugh too: publicity; at one gathering, over 1,000 their die-in protests have been scru- I always give 100%. Which is why I lost my job as an exam marker. activists were arrested. But, what for? tinised by the Mayor of London and The climate change activists want to the Commissioner of the Metropoli- Bangor University also o er Access Centre Counselling Service warn others of the risk of human ex- tan Police Service for its disruption. It many reosurces to help alleviate The Access Centre is for those Bangor has a Student Counsel- tinction if we do not do something is di cult to see how the world isn’t your stress. On Bangor University’s students who are eligible for the ling Service. situated in Neuadd about climate change. The mass worried about this emergency; we website, they state that you can DSA (Disabled Students’ Allow- Rathbone, which o ers personal movement is also committed to stop- need to do something about it. use any of their resources which ance). This centre is the  rst Needs meetings and workshops through- ping, or at least hindering, the col- include: Assessmenr Centre in Wales and out the year to support students lapse of the ecosystem. Update is accessible for both students of during their time at University. Currently, there has been a populari- The UK parliament have now de- A Drop-In Advisory Service Bangor and non-students. They They have self-help links, events sation of paper/metal/silicone straws clared an environment and climate The Advisory Service o ers strat- o er meetings with an accredited and support sessions designed to in substitution of plastic straws, in emergency. This makes the UK the egies to help develop your revision assessor and look into your course, help us. order to reduce plastic waste. Many  rst country in the world to do so. The and exam skills. All you have to do strategies and disability-related If you are struggling, please reach corporations have tried to put in their UK government aim to reduce carbon is contact the Study Skills Centre, barriers to learning. They o er out. bit to help reduce plastic waste, such emissions by 80 percent by 2050. This which is situated in Room 222, support options and recommen- The national organisation, Mind, as McDonalds. Unless you have been news comes after the weeks of exten- Rathbone Hall, College Road, Ban- dations if you do recieve the allow- publish books and lea ets on men- living under a rock, you have proba- sive protests by the Extinction Rebel- gor, LL57 2DG. Either email them ance. tal health di culties including bly seen the controversy surrounding lion activist group who demanded at: [email protected] or stress, anxiety and panic attacks. McDonald’s paper straws. The public more climate action. Hopefully, more call 01248 382689 to book in for Infoline: 0300 123 3393 has scrutinized the straws as they be- nations will follow in the UK’s foot- the service. come soggy. To me, this is laughable. steps. McDonalds’ banning of plastic straws 36 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 37 LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE COURTNEY MCHUGH OPINION: ‘Humanity Horror Of The Vampire LIFESTYLE SUB-EDITOR Is At A Crossroads’: Facial: What A Bloody [email protected] Extinction Rebellion Nightmare Kim Kardashian The Best SPF Products: /Instagram A Special Thanks To... Summer Must Haves eing a sub-editor of Seren who have collected every single ticle for the lifestyle section. has made my third year. From one of the Seren Newspapers since Thanks to Finn, our editor, and by COURTNEY MCHUGH your make-up products just give you Grape Seed Oil, Pomegranate Oil, and meeting all of my fellow sub- I started to write and edit for the Jack, our deputy editor, for look- that extra protection. Goji Berry infused in the formula, the B ow lucky have we been with editors and creating a fun, close- paper. ing over my pages and (probably) My favourite face products that have product is designed to nourish and the weather recently? Easter knit community to writing at least This hasn’t been easy, writing changing all my mistakes for me! the added bene t of sun protection protect the skin. At only £9.00, the Weekend was the hottest East- four articles per month, I would not AND editing, so I want to thank Like I’ve said, I have LOVED being H are: product cannot be faulted. er on record. It has dulled down a bit change it for the world. my contributors. Thank you to a sub-editor for Seren and I wish The Ordinary’s Coverage more recently; I was welcomed back Not only has it improved my con- Rory Formstone-Roberts, who has I had got involved earlier. If you Foundation SPF 15 30ml - £5.90 IT Cosmetics Your Skin But to Bangor with torrential rain. Thanks  dence in my own writing, it has wrote an article for me for all but want to get involved, we will hold (Beauty Bay) Better™ CC+ Cream™ SPF 50+ - Storm Hannah. Ah well, you know the given me something that I will re- one issue, I really don’t know what I an AGM at the beginning of the If you have read Seren’s lifestyle sec- £31.00 (Boots) saying … April showers bring May member when I think back to my would have done without you! next academic year. tion before, you will know how much The most lightweight product I have Flowers! So let’s hope for lots of warm time at University. I would like to Thank you also, to Sabrina You won’t regret it! I love this product and how I like to chosen coincidentally has the high- by COURTNEY MCHUGH disposed. weather after my dissertation hand- say thank you to my mom and dad, Ahmed, who has also wrote an ar- rant and rave about it. This natural, est sun protection factor too! If you’re It is scary to see how easily the in! I have very sensitive skin, and the n recent reports, it has been semi-matte foundation has SPF 15. I like me and your face burns easily, blood-borne infections can be passed slightest simmer of sun and my face claimed that two people have been would recommend wearing a higher this product will be perfect for you. round; this is not the  rst time that becomes a dot-to-dot and goes SO diagnosed with Human Immuno- sun protection factor on your face as Although it is expensive (marketing at I people have unknowingly been con- red! I will admit it, over Easter I did not de ciency Viruses (HIV) after receiv- a base (SPF 30 or 50) and this founda- £31.00 on Boots), it is one of the only taminated by the disease. put sun lotion on, because 23 degrees ing the Kardashian tried-and-tested tion as a supplement. As it is a prod- makeup products that has SPF 50+ Also, there are many ways to acheive in England just doesn’t scare the crap ‘Vampire Facial’. uct that is designed to have buildable UVA/UVB broad-spectrum sunscreen the clean skin that the Vampire Facial out of me like hot summers in warmer Pre Exam Stress Tips It is known as a Vampire Facial (also coverage, it would be perfect as a in it. It was developed with the help treatment arguably does. The very ex- countries do. Oh boy, do I lather! Luck- written and why I wasn’t as on my Set yourself realistic goals to help known more professionally as PRP- holiday foundation when you want to of plastic surgeons and is said to give by COURTNEY MCHUGH pensive treatment is surely not going ily, for me, my foundation was my sav- game as she was. It took me a while boost productivity. Even the sim- Platelet-rich plasma) which involves let your skin breathe as well as having you ‘instant complexion perfection’. to be a popular treatment after this iour. Did you know that many brands’ t’s o cially exam season. Take a to realise that we study completely plest things, such as drinking wa- re-injecting the patient’s blood from protection against the sun. This prod- On top of the sun protection, this CC HIV scare. foundations have SPF in them? deep breath! You’ve got this. di erent courses, at completely ter and getting the correct amount their body to their face. It is designed uct is cheap, easily accessible with an cream helps to conceal dark spots, It has since came to light that the Skin Cancer Foundation have The dreaded time of the year di erent universities and our situa- of sleep (approx. 8 hours) will help to ‘aid the re-absorption process’ and added bonus of sun protection, so reduce the appearance of pores and I procedure can be o ered without a claimed that “In vitro tests have where you spend endless nights £5.90 is a good bargain! hydrate the skin. Although it is expen- tions and journeys are completely you relax. reduce the appearance of wrinkles. quali ed medical professional pre- slaving over a laptop at home or shown that SPF 15 sunscreens  lter sive, this product bene ts your skin di erent. Never look for your fail- Popularised by Kim Kardashian, who sent. As a result of this, the person in the library and revision notes out 93 percent of UVB rays, while SPF E.l.f’s Beautifully Bare Founda- in every way possible. It really is ‘Your ures in someone else’s successes! Support was recorded on the spin-o show of who carries out the procedure is un- seem to follow you wherever you 30 protects against 97 percent and tion Serum SPF 25 - £9.00 (e.l.f) Skin But Better’. Also, schedule your rest time. Make Make sure you have a solid sup- Keeping Up with the Kardashians : Kim likely to know the correct way to han- go. Everyone revises di erently; SPF 50 98 percent. But remember, it (Cruelty Free AND Vegan) Like I have already said, this summer, sure you get your own time, to do port system. Whether this is your and Kourtney Take Miami having the dle blood. you have the crammers who learn Climate Emergency (insert), along with the Ex- is important for the sunscreen to in- A happy medium comes in the form do your skin a favour and apply sun what relaxes you. Without this, you family, who proofread your essays, bloody procedure, had Americans lin- The cosmetic procedure has been the whole module the night before tinction Rebellion stickers (back), are emblazoned clude broad-spectrum protection that of e.l.f’s Foundation Serum with Goji protection! Always apply sun lotion will go crazy. Even with this sched- or simply just leave you to have ing up to have their faced pierced by endorsed by many celebrities, all fol- the exams and those who have also shields adequately against UVA”. Berry. The serum gives a luminous, and SPF based products should only ule, do not worry if you go o track alone time when you visit them on lamposts and electrical green cabinets all tiny needles. lowing in the footsteps of Kim Kar- been revising since the academic Please use SPF in foundations, tinted dewy  nish that helps to minimise the be used as a supplement. The majori- one day as you can make up lost so that you can revise, or your over Bangor. The aim of the Welsh Climate Cam- Unfortunately, two patients from the dashian; those who have undergone year started (you know… just to be moisturisers and BB/CC creams as a appearance of pores. The Broad Spec- ty of drugstore brands have SPF based time on other days. To reduce your course mates who all stress about paign is to have Zero Carbon Emissions by 2030. same cosmetic surgery in Alberquer- the procedure will hopeful alert their safe). So I won’t sit here and lecture supplement. You should always be trum UVA/UVB SPF 25 formula creates formula and this is always labelled on stress, always put yourself  rst. the exam/essay with you and most que have been found to have con- following to the issues regarding re- you, mainly because that’s not my will help to clean the world’s oceans; applying a good-base of sunscreen – a radiant glow. With Vitamin A,C and E, the front of the packaging. likely REVISE with you. by COURTNEY MCHUGH tracted the deadly virus. People who injection of blood from the body into job and I unfortunately wouldn’t I am all for that and do not mind, and have undergone the same procedure Make sure you have good Again, just don’t compare your- xtinction Rebellion has taken the face when done improperly. get paid for it. Instead, I will give will even opt for a paper straw if I can. are being urged to go to the doctors habits self to them! If you are struggling, the world by storm. The socio- With all of the bad publicity, I would you some tips that have helped Metal straws troop the likes of paper to get tested for HIV and Hepatitis. As I have already mentioned, please talk to someone. Whether political movement has recently not have this operation done as the me during my three, wisdom- lled take rests/breaks. Psychologists you speak to the admin team for E and plastic straws and I could not rec- The Vampire Facial is not at fault but bene ts are not crystal clear, and years at Bangor University. hit the headlines for their nonvio- ommend them enough. From multi- have determined that we can only your school, your personal tutor, rather the spa where the procedure seem to be nothing that a good skin- The Humanities Notebook: lent protests against climate change, packs to straws that unfold so you can concentrate properly for 30-45 housemates, friends or family, they took place. It has since been closed care routine cannot  x. biodiversity loss, and the risk of hu- take it out with you, they are a step in Keep it in perspective minutes. So take that well-earned will o er you advice, which will al- down after a problem was recognised It is sad to see that a beauty fad has I am a sucker for this; I will al- man extinction and ecological col- the right direction. break; whether you stick on Net ix, leviate the pressure you are feeling by the New Mexico Department of resulted in two people contracting a ways look at how others are do- lapse. Across the globe, activists have If you look at the chaos that has un- make yourself a snack or drink, or in exam season. Most of all, believe Health (NMDOH) regarding the way in potentially deadly virus, all because The End Of Chapters staged protests in shopping centres, ing. When one of my friends, at a folded as a result of the substitution which the needles were handled and go on a walk, you will feel refreshed in yourself – you should always be transport hubs and museums (namely society pressures us to be ‘perfect’. di erent university, submitted her and ready to jump straight back in, your own #1 fan. of plastic straws for paper straws at by RORY FORMSTONEROBERTS together in the enchanted forest, but gusto we have stored. The winds can dissertation in January; my stom- the die-in protest at the Kelvingrove McDonalds (such as the eBay auction no one ever really discusses the emo- change, and the path can be blurred as opposed to revising for 5 hours Happy Exam Period: May the art gallery and museum in Glasgow, s the sun christens the new day, ach dropped. I began to worry straight and having an hour break. Scaling be Ever in Your Favour. for McDonalds straws that are near- tion of loss in reference to the end. by obstacles and illusions of grandeur, about my measly 1,000 words I had where three hundred activists lay ing the £1000 bid), you can’t help but etching the outlines of the old When you lose someone dear to you and this act of nature might drive you down beneath Dippy, the diplodocus worry about humanities reaction to Editor’s Picks Aworld with new beauty, just your body grieves and goes through to the better tomorrow or it can steer Here’s a joke to get you through this di cult time. It made me laugh so skeleton, for 20 minutes). our own future. stop, do not let something or some- di erent phases of  xing itself. This you into the wardrobe. Do not let However, their protests receive bad In terms of Extinction Rebellion, by COURTNEY MCHUGH colours are as eccentric as their one else write your destiny. can correlate to the end of things and something inhibit what you can truly hopefully, it makes you laugh too: publicity; at one gathering, over 1,000 their die-in protests have been scru- names. Smile and write your own story. how we move. But do not feel down be; a person of power, of strength, of y pick for this month is I always give 100%. Which is why I lost my job as an exam marker. activists were arrested. But, what for? tinised by the Mayor of London and There are a range of blue col- It may be the end but truly it is the and empty, like the world is de at- beauty and that is only the face of the The climate change activists want to the Commissioner of the Metropoli- a product I haven’t or- ours, a periwinkle satin, a ma- beginning. You may be on your last ing beneath you. That feeling inside product. You are not de ned by the Bangor University also o er Access Centre Counselling Service warn others of the risk of human ex- tan Police Service for its disruption. It Mdered yet, but I can’t wait genta matte and a mint shimmer. mad dash to the  nish line of your you will dissipate and re-emerge like path you lead but seen as the person many reosurces to help alleviate The Access Centre is for those Bangor has a Student Counsel- tinction if we do not do something is di cult to see how the world isn’t to order it on payday! There is also an eye-catching me- degree but do not worry, time will tell. a phoenix from the ashes and bring that takes those steps within their your stress. On Bangor University’s students who are eligible for the ling Service. situated in Neuadd about climate change. The mass worried about this emergency; we It’s OPV Beauty’s Rainbow tallic shade: Flame, which is de- You may be  ustered at the prospect light back to your core. Smile and stride towards the destination of your website, they state that you can DSA (Disabled Students’ Allow- Rathbone, which o ers personal movement is also committed to stop- need to do something about it. Splash Eyeshadow Palette from scribed as an intense rust foil. of this next step but do not worry your write your own story. choosing. Smile and write your own use any of their resources which ance). This centre is the  rst Needs meetings and workshops through- ping, or at least hindering, the col- BeautyBay. The bright palette Reviewers have consistently heart will know. You may be ecstatic Some of you may be leaving this story. include: Assessmenr Centre in Wales and out the year to support students lapse of the ecosystem. Update consisting of 20 di erent eye- praised the palette for its super- about  nishing and getting out of this year, whereas the majority will be Do not cry because it is over and is accessible for both students of during their time at University. Currently, there has been a populari- The UK parliament have now de- shadow colours is a summer pigmented shades and blendabil- place. Well, the world will help guide continuing your degrees and all the shed a tear for the missed, be happy A Drop-In Advisory Service Bangor and non-students. They They have self-help links, events sation of paper/metal/silicone straws clared an environment and climate must-have! A mixture of mattes ity. It has also been described as you along your chosen path. I know hard work, developing your minds because you lived and have the mem- The Advisory Service o ers strat- o er meetings with an accredited and support sessions designed to in substitution of plastic straws, in emergency. This makes the UK the and shimmers, this eyeshadow long lasting. from personal experience that people and putting more miles on your soul ories held dear. Take that step into the egies to help develop your revision assessor and look into your course, help us. order to reduce plastic waste. Many  rst country in the world to do so. The palette would be perfect for the This palette is perfect to add view the end as a jump point, a shock, and that is amazing. Some people will world, maybe known or not and run. and exam skills. All you have to do strategies and disability-related If you are struggling, please reach corporations have tried to put in their UK government aim to reduce carbon summer, girls (or boys!) holidays a bit of colour into your look. a loss or even an adventure. You read- make you doubt yourself and make Run like there is nothing in your way, is contact the Study Skills Centre, barriers to learning. They o er out. bit to help reduce plastic waste, such emissions by 80 percent by 2050. This and festivals. Speaking of which, Whether its a pop of yellow, a cor- ing this might view it di erently as you stumble over worries that do not run like the stars are aligned, run like which is situated in Room 222, support options and recommen- The national organisation, Mind, as McDonalds. Unless you have been news comes after the weeks of exten- have you got your SummerFest al or a green shade - this palette well and that is okay. We were given exist; just stop, stand and live your life the world is a fresh canvas to draw Rathbone Hall, College Road, Ban- dations if you do recieve the allow- publish books and lea ets on men- living under a rock, you have proba- sive protests by the Extinction Rebel- ticket yet? has it sorted. the ability to be unique so why shunt the way you want to. Smile and write on and run like tomorrow is in your gor, LL57 2DG. Either email them ance. tal health di culties including bly seen the controversy surrounding lion activist group who demanded Retailing at £29.00, each eye- Packaged in a lovely, bright yel- that away? Express how you feel. your own story. hands. Tomorrow is what you make at: [email protected] or stress, anxiety and panic attacks. McDonald’s paper straws. The public more climate action. Hopefully, more shadow colour costs £1.45. With low case, you won’t forget it’s in Smile and write your own story. A lot of us will be entering the real of it, and tomorrow is when a chapter call 01248 382689 to book in for Infoline: 0300 123 3393 has scrutinized the straws as they be- nations will follow in the UK’s foot- names such as Eclipse, Chimera, your makeup collection. Authors write about the end be- world now with high hopes and op- ends but the book continues. Smile the service. come soggy. To me, this is laughable. steps. Dream and Fantasy, the palette’s I am so excited to try this out! ing the happy ever after of the story timism ready to tackle it with the and write your own story. McDonalds’ banning of plastic straws where the Princess and Prince live 38 SEREN | May Issue 2019 FASHION From Formal To Festival

by ISABELLA TIMPANY starts at 2pm and doesn’t  nish til both festival and formal and do both! featured in Gucci’s Men Tailored cam-  l all your dream hair fantasies and 5am the next morning! Don’t panic paign, posing with various farm ani- experiment with the boldest, bright- ith headline acts such as, though – we want you guys to make Glitter Up mals in his wonderfully vibrant two- est wigs. Wigs are the perfect way to Sigma and Lethal Bizzle, Ed the most of the continuous event but Arguably the simplest way to trans- piece suits. Women’s patterned suits make a statement, throw a bright pink WSheeran (kind of) and (al- if you need to pop home then you form any out t and make it  t for a fes- are also a huge trend this year, with wig on with a black ball gown or black most) Adele, the night is set to be a can do! You can come in and out of tival. And it is true what they say, there stores stocking tailored coordinates in two piece suit and you’re good to go! wild one, with the event starting at the event right up until 10pm – after is no such thing as too much glitter! every colour under the rainbow. This 2pm and ending at 5am. The festival 10pm you won’t be let back in if you However, remember to be mindful of trend is the perfect way to achieve will be in full swing for the entire time, leave. where you buy your glitter from. More festival and formal and still look super Neon Is The New Black Tie which sparked the idea for a festival This year is a festival! So get out that than 60 festivals are planning on ban- suave. Pastels have timelessly been the go- themed evening, meaning guests ning glitter from their sites as of 2021, to colours for May, however runways glitter, throw some tassels on and Have a Boho Ball don’t have to return home to get come in full force festival mode! HOW- due to it being made primarily from this season have featured the bright- changed. microplastics. However, it is easy to If you’re a fan of the maxi dress - this est sherbet colours. Neon is the new EVER – if you do want to go home for one's for you! Flowing  oral dresses With the recent rebranding of the a quick change then you’re more than source environmentally friendly al- black tie. Highlighter pinks, oranges, summer ball, there has been much ternatives. Check out ‘In Your Dreams’ are a great way to look elegant but yellows and greens are a fun way to welcome to, but we do encourage with a Woodstock era vibe. This style speculation about the dress-code and the festival vibe to keep going strong or ‘The Gypsy Shrine’ who sell planet- stand out from a crowd. With the col- whether to stay traditional or embrace friendly biodegradable versions. is easy to achieve on a budget, as vin- ours so on trend this season, there are through the night! We also know tage dresses work great! Choose natu- the festival theme. Academi released how much you guys LOVE to get all a limitless amount of vivid dresses a statement on Facebook, addressing ral tones and fabrics, mix  tted with online and on the high street and a dressed up, so if you want to get your Wacky Suits  owing and experiment with fun pat- the dress code debate. black ties out then feel free to do so! plethora of neon accessories available “There’s been a lot of speculation on Harry Styles has been crowned by terns and fabrics: lace, crochet, suede at Sparx - including tights, bow ties It’s YOUR Summer Fest, so what you the style-gods as master of  amboy- and leather all welcome! the dress code and times for this year wear is YOUR choice!” and ‘rave paint’. so don’t panic! Let us clear that up for ant suits. He’s appeared on stage in BUT, instead of choosing an option, glittery suits,  oral suits, even purple Get Ahead, Get A Hair Piece you guys! I’m going to show you can combine Get ahead and get a hair piece! Ful- Here are some of our editor’s This year’s event is none stop! It silk suits with dragons on! He’s even nest festival moments... 38 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN | May Issue 2019 39 FASHION FASHION From Formal To Festival Ugly, But Make It Fashion

by ISABELLA TIMPANY Malone is a beloved creator and rep- from the brand. Legendary fashion resents what it means to be comfort- critic Cathy Horyn wrote “Grunge is rom dad trainers to pool slides, able in your own shoes, so collaborat- anathema to fashion” in her review. the recent ‘ugly fashion’ trend ing on product design is special”. “Rarely has slovenliness looked so Fhasn’t gone unnoticed, spark- The popularity of Crocs with the self-conscious, or commanded so ing controversy worldwide. But, love young generation has skyrocketed. high a price.” it or loathe it, it’s everywhere and it Once deemed as ‘lame’, the shoe, ac- 18 years ago, Britney Spears and Jus- looks like it’s here to stay. Balenciaga’s cording to Piper Ja ray’s biannual tin Timberlake graced the red carpet triple S’s have become a staple in the survey of teen preferences, Crocs now in one of the most memorable denim wardrobe of fashion-lovers since they rank 13th out of all footwear brands in looks of all time. Their matching den- were released in the September of terms of teen popularity, whereas in im ensembles are unforgettable and 2017 and following the acceptance of 2017 they ranked in at 38th. the famous double-denim trend has these albeit, ‘unconventional’ trainers, The point is, in this era of ugly fash- been recurring ever since. the industry have embraced all things ion, the industry is always striving We  nd that with the new ‘ugly’ ugly. to turn heads. You don’t have to like trend, ugly often means practical and, As well as the Triple S platform it and you don’t have to wear it, but more importantly, comfortable. UGG trainers, Balenciaga also unveiled an everyone reacts to it and provoking boots, arguably the most comfortable o cial footwear collaboration with a reaction keeps fashion relevant. By shoe in history were a huge trend in Crocs at Paris fashion week. The risky embracing ugliness and celebrat- the 00’s. In 2000, Oprah Winfrey an- ‘platform clogs’, which come in pink, ing individuality, we create a sense nounced UGG boots were her favour- black, yellow and ‘toast’ (a beige/nude of liberation and empowerment. By ite things on her prime time talk show. colour), retailed at $850 and, surpris- breaking down the boundaries of UGG gifted 350 pairs of the teddy-like ingly, were a roaring success and sold what is regarded ‘attractive’, we are Australian surf shoe, kick starting the out before they were even released. showing authentic women and men noughties boom. In 2018, style icons, Balenciaga’s Barbie-pink Croc stiletto that you can look and feel your best Rihanna, Gigi Hadid and Sienna Mill- also went viral which were equally as when you’re expressing your true, in- er were all spotted digging out the unique and equally as insane. Crocs, nermost self. Dries van Noten once noughties cult favourite. once the butt of all jokes in the fash- mentioned that he bases many of his There are many perks to ugly trend, ion industry, instantly became a de- collections on a colour he doesn’t like, it could be positive step forward in signer must-have – making us won- “nothing is as boring as something eco-fashion. The fashion industry had der, is there anything Demna Gvasalia, beautiful”. come under worldwide criticism as Chief Creative Director of Balenciaga, Geraldine Wharry comments on the it is one of the most unsustainable, by ISABELLA TIMPANY starts at 2pm and doesn’t  nish til both festival and formal and do both! featured in Gucci’s Men Tailored cam-  l all your dream hair fantasies and can’t make cool? Balenciaga’s eccen- 5am the next morning! Don’t panic paign, posing with various farm ani- experiment with the boldest, bright- trend “I think inclusivity and diversity polluting industries. According to ith headline acts such as, Glitter Up tric trends haven’t been favoured by plays a role [in why] the ugly beautiful Zuzanna Skalaska, a seasoned trend though – we want you guys to make mals in his wonderfully vibrant two- est wigs. Wigs are the perfect way to all however, criticised for ‘trying too Sigma and Lethal Bizzle, Ed the most of the continuous event but Arguably the simplest way to trans- piece suits. Women’s patterned suits make a statement, throw a bright pink trend is strong. Notions of what’s at- forecaster, the ugly trend is sustaina- Sheeran (kind of) and (al- form any out t and make it  t for a fes- hard’ and lacking in taste. tractive, feminine [and] seductive are ble. “Ugly should be a new black if we W if you need to pop home then you are also a huge trend this year, with wig on with a black ball gown or black Post Malone has also been a huge most) Adele, the night is set to be a can do! You can come in and out of tival. And it is true what they say, there stores stocking tailored coordinates in two piece suit and you’re good to go! being rede ned along with gender want to save our planet. We have too wild one, with the event starting at is no such thing as too much glitter! advocate for the Crocs trend. In 2018 perceptions. [It] makes for a very ex- many things, too many perfect-made the event right up until 10pm – after every colour under the rainbow. This he collaborated with the rubber shoe 2pm and ending at 5am. The festival 10pm you won’t be let back in if you However, remember to be mindful of trend is the perfect way to achieve perimental time in fashion in terms of things. Instead [we should focus on] will be in full swing for the entire time, where you buy your glitter from. More Neon Is The New Black Tie brand, releasing The Post Malone x pushing boundaries in colour, shapes, ‘less is more’ – less beauty, more func- leave. festival and formal and still look super Crocs Dimitri Clog and the Barbed which sparked the idea for a festival This year is a festival! So get out that than 60 festivals are planning on ban- suave. Pastels have timelessly been the go- unisex fashion or gender-bending tion and more reused material should themed evening, meaning guests ning glitter from their sites as of 2021, to colours for May, however runways Wire Clog both with 6 personalised fashion, leading [designers] to thrive be a production standard.” We should glitter, throw some tassels on and Have a Boho Ball Jibbitz charms. The crocs were a huge don’t have to return home to get come in full force festival mode! HOW- due to it being made primarily from this season have featured the bright- within the notion of ugly beautiful. all make more e ort to recycle forgot- changed. microplastics. However, it is easy to If you’re a fan of the maxi dress - this est sherbet colours. Neon is the new hit, with his  rst collection selling Their models are no the conventional ten about staple classics, not of-the- EVER – if you do want to go home for one's for you! Flowing  oral dresses out in just 10 minutes. The collabora- With the recent rebranding of the a quick change then you’re more than source environmentally friendly al- black tie. Highlighter pinks, oranges, idea of beauty and their concepts on moment pieces: vintage boiler suits summer ball, there has been much ternatives. Check out ‘In Your Dreams’ are a great way to look elegant but yellows and greens are a fun way to tion came after Post Malone tweeted catwalks are both odd, repulsive and and dad trainers are a great way to welcome to, but we do encourage with a Woodstock era vibe. This style “U can tell a lot about a man by the speculation about the dress-code and the festival vibe to keep going strong or ‘The Gypsy Shrine’ who sell planet- stand out from a crowd. With the col- fascinating.” look on-trend and be more sustain- whether to stay traditional or embrace friendly biodegradable versions. is easy to achieve on a budget, as vin- ours so on trend this season, there are Jibbitz in his Crocs”. Post religiously The ugly trend isn’t new and it able. The ugly aesthetic is better than through the night! We also know tage dresses work great! Choose natu- wears Crocs, reporting he wears the festival theme. Academi released how much you guys LOVE to get all a limitless amount of vivid dresses wasn’t always as accepted. Marc Ja- pretty when it comes to re-usability. a statement on Facebook, addressing ral tones and fabrics, mix  tted with online and on the high street and a them everywhere from the bar to the cob’s Spring/Summer 1992 show at Overall, the ugly trend may not be dressed up, so if you want to get your Wacky Suits  owing and experiment with fun pat- stage. The Dimitri clog is a white shoe, the dress code debate. black ties out then feel free to do so! plethora of neon accessories available New York Fashion Week, for example, loved by all, but it’s making big steps “There’s been a lot of speculation on Harry Styles has been crowned by terns and fabrics: lace, crochet, suede at Sparx - including tights, bow ties stamped with the Devil Posty Co. logo presented a Perry Ellis grunge tribute, in creating a more dynamic, inclusive It’s YOUR Summer Fest, so what you the style-gods as master of  amboy- and leather all welcome! and including Jibbitz that recreated the dress code and times for this year wear is YOUR choice!” and ‘rave paint’. where Jacobs put Kate Moss in a pink and sustainable world, and we could so don’t panic! Let us clear that up for ant suits. He’s appeared on stage in his famous ‘Stay Away’ face tattoo and pair of Birkenstocks and paired chif- all make e orts to embrace it for these BUT, instead of choosing an option, glittery suits,  oral suits, even purple Get Ahead, Get A Hair Piece  oating eyeball. Crocs Chief Market- you guys! I’m going to show you can combine Get ahead and get a hair piece! Ful- Here are some of our editor’s fon dresses with Dr Martens. It was a reasons. This year’s event is none stop! It silk suits with dragons on! He’s even nest festival moments... ing O cer Terence Reilly said “Post controversial show that got him  red 40 SEREN | May Issue 2019 ARTS & CULTURE Discovering The Paget Papers After Record-Breaking Sale, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Painting Confuses the World: Where Is It? by LAURA PATARI to be put on display at the Louvre Abu disclose information, which is the rea- history of conservationist overpaint- by LAURA PATARI Dhabi. It was deemed to be the new son why the painting has gained new ing which hid the original, intended n 2017, Christie’s auction house Mona Lisa, to attract a tidal wave of fame within the last few months. artwork for decades and continuously he Archives and Special Collec- international crowds. However, the The Louvre (Paris) is preparing for its fooled many professional appraisers tions are celebrating the Year of sold a record-breaking bid for the Louvre Abu Dhabi abruptly resched- large Leonardo Da Vinci exhibition in of its origins and worth. Discovery during 2019. Their aim ILeonardo Da Vinci painting titled T Salvator Mundi. With the value of $450 uled the reveal without explanation. late 2019. They have requested Sal- Extensive restoration of the painting is to present “inventive individuals, million it was the highest-selling bid The painting has thus not been seen vator Mundi for a loan but reportedly was undertaken in 2010 by the New adventurous Welsh men and women in public since its sale in 2017. the query has not received an answer York University restorer Dianne Dw- and new exciting resources for re- at the British art dealer and auction house, with an astonishingly high In early 2019, we still don’t know from the Louvre Abu Dhabi. yer Modestini. The painting has previ- searches in the Archives”. what happened to that exhibition. Salvator Mundi is one of only 20 ously been on display at the National As introduced in the previous is- price in ation since its sale in 2005 of only $1,175. Presumed to be bought Speculations have since circulated on works known by Leonardo Da Vinci Gallery in London in 2011. sue of Seren, the Archives are in the the painting being lost or misplaced, and has long been shrouded in uncer- The future of the painting is cur- process of acquiring a new collec- for the Saudi prince Mohammad bin Salman, the painting changed owners but the museum has not con rmed tainty; whether it be its many various rently unknown, including future ex- tion titled “The Paget Papers” and are any of the possibilities - perhaps for versions circulating about (speculat- hibitions. helped by myself, an Archives intern, towards Saudi-Arabia. In late 2018, Salvator Mundi was set the best. However, the question re- ed to be painted by some Leonardo’s to process the new accession. As three mains of the museum’s reasons to not students and followers) or its long months have passed so far, and in the theme of discovery, I want to talk about a few ‘discoveries’ that the Pa- get Papers have revealed to me. Film Festivals: Before that it is necessary to high- light the pivotal role of the Archives Are They Worth The E ort? to historical record-keeping and pres- ervation of many local collections. Bangor University holds many large collections of the local Estates, includ- ing Penhryn Castle, Mostyn Estate and the Plas Newydd Estate to which the Paget Papers belong. Archiving these collections preserves both local his- tory and the very people behind it. One of the most central discoveries I have made from the Paget Papers is the value of personal items to local history and setting. Documents rang- BAFTA Nominated ing from invoices to diaries, personal and private correspondence and news cuttings to photographs reveal the Pagets and their everyday lives Writer & Actor being tightly tied to the local area and businesses. Whether one is looking into London’s Harrods or Bangor’s lo- cal grocer in the 1800s, the collection Coming To has a capacity to reveal historical re- by SIAN BILLINGTON an award, via becoming award-win- cords that span far wider than the im- hen you’re an ambitious  lm- ning, or even just via exposure. Being mediate family history. Colwyn Bay maker, but you’re busy with nominated form  lms caries a level of It’s surprising how personal docu- Wyour degree and your stu- authenticity and gravitas that people ments, seemingly mundane such as a dent life, a question hangs over your recently Jones has been seen in the respect and listen to, and it could po-  yer or a meeting agenda, can weave by LAURA PATARI head- is it worth the e ort to submit  lm Submerge alongside James McA- tentially open many doors. and reveal a rich history of both the my work to  lm festivals? If industry BAFTA nominated writer and voy and Alicia VIkander, as well as Recommendations for submissions person and the world around them. experience and a wide-ranging port- actor Celyn Jones will visit Col- ITV’s Manhunt as the serial killer Levi are generally that  lms running for Another discovery that I have made folio is what people are looking for, wyn Bay next month to intro- Bell eld. student awards should run no longer from the Paget Papers is that these A are awards- or the chance of an award- duce his new  lm The Vanishing. The He is no stranger to Bangor Univer- than  ve minutes, due to  lm festivals seemingly mundane items can some- worth the e ort of submission? thriller, starring Gerard Butler and Pe- sity either - the  lmmaker visited the wanting to give exposure to as many times into surprising treasures. Re- But it turns out it’s not that di cult ter Mullan, will be at Theatr Colwyn, University in 2017 for a talk about Set students as possible. This is not to dis- cently I was going through a box of after all. A service called  lmfreeway. Colwyn Bay on the 20th of May. Fire to the Stars, discussing his experi- regard or discourage student-made miscellaneous correspondence, and com, a festival-access portal, allows The Vanishing (based on real life ences of the  lm industry, writing for  lms that are longer than recom- stumbled upon an empty, large enve- you to submit  lms for awards locally, events) tells the story of three light- the screen and building a creative ca- mended- just be wary that festivals lope. Looking bleak and yellowed in nationally and even internationally. house keepers on a remote Scottish reer. often have speci c guidelines due to time, the front of the envelope did not There are awards available year-round isle. Upon arrival, they discover some- In Venue Cymru’s press release, want to showcase as much work as reveal what lay behind on the other via the site speci cally for student thing fateful: a rowboat, wrecked, and Jones tells of his a ection for North possible. side: a handwritten family tree, in neat  lms, but there are no bars against a chest full of gold. Wales: “Theatr Colwyn is a real treas- Finally, the grati cation that can cursive, going all the way back to the student work being judged against As a mysterious boat is seen head- ure and an amazing cinema. It’s also in come from an awarding body recog- 17th century. This mundane item be- industry professionals. The awards are ing towards the island, the men must my beloved North Wales which is an nising your hard work is incredible, came a treasure as I placed it within also not limited just to the overall  lm- make a choice - and survive in their extra bonus.” and there could be no better reward a plastic pouch. It now rests next to there are opportunities to credit writ- fate, tangled in a web of greed, para- “I’m really looking forward to screen- for anyone involved in the  lm than other treasures such as handwritten ers, actors, composers and anyone noia and murder. ing The Vanishing, sharing the process someone totally independent from letters from Queen Elizabeth (then else involved in the making of the  lm The evening consists of an introduc- of  lmmaking and answering audi- you or your  lm saying, “this was Princess). by nominating them for an award. tion of the  lm and a chance for audi- ence questions. Let’s  ll the place and worth seeing.” Joys of working within the Archives Film festivals are also a great oppor- ence questions after the screening. jump & scream together!” All in all, despite the trepidation are these kind of discoveries. It’s very Celyn Jones has received national tunity for everyone involved in the your might feel about sending your exciting how history is transferred  lm. A nominated  lm is going to be and international acclaim in both  lm Tickets for the event are £6 and are  lm away to be judged, the bene ts of through these personal items. Out of far more widespread and be seen by and TV. His writing and portrayal of available from https://theatrcolwyn. submissions vastly outweigh the risks, the dusty boxes they are transformed; far more people than a unsubmitted Dylan Thomas in Set Fire to the Stars co.uk/shows/the-vanishing or via the and there is nothing gained from we can now discover their worth.  lm, and it bene ts everyone to have alongside Elijah Wood was BAFTA- Colwyn Bay box o ce. keeping the good work you produce nominated for Best Screenplay. More been involved in a  lm nominated for in the dark. SEREN | May Issue 2019 41 ARTS & CULTURE SEREN REVIEWS:

by CAITLIN RILEY and Lisa Allen, and they all did an troduced with many 3D e ects such and comedic again. I do believe they were met and, in exceedingly good job as entertain- as bits of broken boats and  reworks The costuming for this show was some areas, exceeded. However, it f you’ve ever seen the award-win- ers. The three cast members played appearing to narrowly miss our faces. accurate for the time, yet also very was to my disappointment that just ning children’s TV show Horrible so many historical  gures in the show This was incredibly popular with the hilariously outrageous, as one would before the curtains closed, instead of IHistories, you will know all about that I struggled to keep count. children and adults alike in the audi- expect. One example of this was some  nal funny anecdotes, the cast the blood, guts and gore that come The interactive show keeps every- ence, all of them ‘oohing’ and ‘ahhing’ in the ‘Tudor punishments’ section shamelessly plugged their other show alongside it. Although, many of the one interested while also teaching and even a few delightfully screaming when they started to cut o Izaak’s currently on tour. They even went as famous sketches don’t appear in the us key facts about the period. I espe- as debris came  ying towards them. big, stuck-on ears. Simon Nock was far to say that their other show was stage show, there are numerous other cially found the Henry VIII wives song However, one 3D e ect was quite sporting a bald cap in this scene at- better than the one that we had just ways that the audience are enter- competition very e ective, as it pitted the contrary, as it upset quite a few- tempting to convey an elderly judge. spent our evening watching. It was tained and educated. This fun, family to audience against each other and young audience members. This was However, a few scenes along, Lisa a shame that they felt the need to show is not one to be missed! forced us to sing as loud as we pos- when a picture of a fallen queen Allen recited part of the Queen Eliza- downplay their performance to ad- The show surrounds the age of the sibly could. turned into a skeleton, the music be- beth I’s ‘heart of a lion, stomach of a vertise another, although, I still thor- Tudors and mentions many histori- Another way that the show was came eerie and the skeleton moved king’ speech wearing a very convinc- oughly enjoyed the show and it did cal events such as Henry VIII’s wives, able to keep everyone on their toes closer to our faces. After this, I heard ing Elizabeth I costume and wig. As intrigue me about what their other Bloody Mary and the Spanish Ar- was the 3D element in the second a few cries in the room, and looking soon as she walked out onto the stage performance would be like. mada. The show initially begins by act. During the interval, all the audi- around a substantial number of chil- everyone already knew who she was Overall, Horrible Histories: Terrible introducing the three people taking ence members were given ‘Booglevi- dren opted for a seat on their parent’s without having to say a word. I highly Tudors was a comedic family show, us through this exciting journey and sion’ glasses and told to wear then lap for the rest of the show. That being praise the costuming in this scene. so if you’re looking for an entertain- what we will learn throughout. There throughout the second act. Doing as said, this was the only e ect that I be- I have to say that I walked into the ing evening and to learn something were only three actors in this perfor- we were instructed; the second half lieve wasn’t well received, and quickly theatre with very high expectations new about something old, this is most mance - Simon Nock, Izaack Cainer commenced, and we were quickly in- after the show got back to being lively due to my love for the TV series and de nitely the show for you! NT LIVE: ALL ABOUT EVE by LAURA PATARI sense. Her acting is mature, yet im- space is an enjoyable blend of  ction pulsive as she successfully follows and reality: giant posters of Margo illian Anderson and Lily the complex and troubled Margo’s Channing, as well as sofas and a bar, James appear side by side in character. However, and perhaps with furniture for further set-pieces Gthe new National Theatre pro- this is an artistic choice by the play to appear in the show waiting aside. duction of All About Eve (directed by itself, Anderson’s portrayal of Margo Fictional - or real? - stagehands rush Ivo Van Hove). de-intensi es as the play progresses about. Overall the space that is cre- Maybe best known for her role as past the second half. ated is successful and highly creative FBI Agent Dana Scully from the se- For a character who grows increas- while still grounded in the reality of ries X Files, Gillian Anderson, who ingly paranoid of the young actress theatre. plays Margo Channing, s neverthe- overtaking her, Margo’s character An interesting aspect of the play is less no stranger to live theatre - hav- development unexpectedly mel- its frequent use of live and recorded ing appeared in numerous shows lows, as if she suddenly grows up. video. A large projection appears of- and tours, most recently at the In many ways Margo’s (Anderson) ten to provide us with aspects that Young Vic’s production of Streetcar impulsiveness is transferred to Eve we might be missing - most promi- Named Desire in 2014. Lily James (James) without much else left in. nently, these are instances when a stars alongside Anderson as Eve Har- James portrays Eve Harrington character exits to a kitchen area, a rington. James is well-known for her with equal, if not over owing en- bathroom, which are separate areas role as Lady Rose in the series Down- ergy to Margo. The young, nervous of the set nearly invisible to a live ton Abbey, and has appeared in live and wholesome character is like a audience. Not only does the use of theatre as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet peer into a classic young Hollywood technology create an aesthetic, but in the Garrick Theatre at the West heroine stereotype. James’s use of it allows the play to both show inac- End. voice is breathy with smooth up and cessible areas, as well as dive into a From an adoring fan to a showbiz down intonation recalling old Hol-  lm storytelling - a dynamic nod to threat, Eve (James) steps within the lywood actresses like Greta Garbo its  lm and Hollywood origins. life of Margo Channing (Anderson), or Katherine Hepburn. James is an The use of video also elevates a whose glory days in the theatre are e ective choice for the role, and rather suitable aspect of the play’s shadowed by age, temper and pres- brings much energy to the stage. themes of fame, scrutiny and the sures of the industry. When Chan- The play carries impulsive energy presence of the public eye which ning meets her young and beaming throughout, and from the beginning eats away at the characters’ privacy fan and invites her to be a personal the audience is introduced to this and self-image. Neither Margo nor assistant, Eve gains a chance to be energy via the hustle of backstage Eve can escape these cameras - not the likeable Eve - the lovely Eve who life in a theatre. Clever solutions are even when they are faced with their Based on the Academy award-winning Hollywood everyone talks about. used to convey this aspect of thea- back towards the audience to look lm by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the new adaptation Anderson’s portrayal of Margo is tre: the set extends from the stage in the mirror. This aspect of the show is set against some grand expectations. like looking at a veteran of the thea- itself to opened three ”backstage” is very touching yet also mildly dis- tre - in both  ctional and realistic spaces surrounding it. Within this turbing at times. 42 SEREN | May Issue 2019 ARTS & CULTURE REVIEW: Joseph And The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat

by LAURA PATARI is active and humorous especially in moves suitable for all actors who go interaction with the chorus - and Jo- through many choreographed num- very spring for three years, the seph, of course. bers with stamina. Bangor Musical Theatre Society Speaking of, another surprising en- The staging of the show has re- Ehas arrived in Pontio to bring in trance strategy is revealed as Joseph mained bare - which is well-suited their main show of the year. Looking (Olivia Young) joins us, walking and to the large cast production. Fun- back to Fame (2017) and High School singing ‘Any Dream Will Do’ through nily enough, the colourful cast  ll the Musical (2018), the previous Pontio the auditorium. Young portrays the stage to its brim with only a few back shows have paved the way to family- title role with ease and strength espe- wall sets behind them. The staging friendly feel-good musicals. The audi- cially in the friendly interactions with and choreography includes all areas torium full, we have grown to expect the Narrator. Her vocals, despite hav- of the stage and keeps the show feel-  ashy group songs, sentimental solos, ing to adapt to the classically tenor ing new and exciting. Techwise, the lovably humorous chorus characters role, are compelling and bring soft- show includes some excellent atmos- and at least two confetti cannons in ness to the well-known songs. phere via the light design. The colours the  nale. Supporting the leading duo is SO- and lights adapt to the scenes well. However, moving from the Ameri- DA’s large cast, who successfully form For example, the projected spots sym- can high schools to Ancient Near the foundation of the performance. bolise the bars of a prison cell in ‘Close East is no easy feat. Joseph is the Joseph’s 11 brothers lead spotlight Every Door’ which elevate the scene brainchild of Tim Rice’s penmanship to many plot points of the show, and even further. and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical provide us with plenty of comic mo- The music of the performance is mind, and goes as far back as 1968. ments, some captivating hats and brought by an impressive in-house Originally based on the ‘Coat of many stunning solo vocals - the many fresh student pit band (Musical Directors: colours’ from the Book of Genesis, the faces will surely be coming back as fu- Daniel Greaney and Tim Hawkes) In- show was the  rst joint production ture leads. stant transitions to timed musical by the veteran duo of musicals. After Other gems of the chorus group numbers are seamless, which shows versions of the scripts were produced include Mr. and Mrs Potiphar (David a  ne level of interaction with actors mainly in high schools and theatre Keeble and Caitlin Riley), who en- and the stage. While an o -tune violin festivals, the modern version of the trance us with comic scenarios early might have sneaked into the overture, extended script was taken to the West on in the show, as well as the Phar- the pit band still o ers a highly profes- End in 1974, and later to Broadway in aoh (Terrence Wang). As some of the sional and enjoyable musical show. 1982 - the latter sparking the era of re- most memorable comic moments of As for the  nal reception, one can vivals, tours and the 1999  lm starring the show, the Pharaoh’s impressively safely say the audience loved the Donny Osmond. Elvis-like vocals as well as his excited show. Friends of the cast were in In this sense, SODA’s 2019 produc- and dynamic dancing steal the show standing ovation, and everyone tion of Joseph (directed by Sara Wil- - receiving thunderous applause af- else closely behind - all thoroughly son) is 51 years in the making. The ter his solo ‘Song of the King’. Finally, immersed by the end of the show. choice of show seems to nevertheless a special mention must be granted to SODA’s repertoire has seen a shift to- be spot-on, given its accessibility to the Sheep, strutting to the stage only wards larger musical productions ever students and adaptability to all kinds to be killed by Joseph’s brothers - and since Pontio was opened to societies’ of venues. having to strut o stage in her comical use - and with Joseph, it is easy to see Upon the show’s opening, we meet afterlife. why this move has paid o . Year after the Narrator (Daniel Fay), whose cen- Overall, the chorus delivers their re- year, fans of musicals  nd their way tral place in the story is by no means sponsibilities of choir as well as danc- to join the society, and each new cast shadowed by the mystical entrance ers with con dence and positivity. grows. Stakes are up next year for - popping up from the theatre  oor, Group numbers, such as ‘One More SODA to  nd new, exciting musicals he rises and hovers in the air only to Angel in Heaven’ and ‘Go, Go, Go Jo- for their members, as well as the eager nonchalantly transition upstage and seph’ are active, joyful and make the audience in Bangor. deliver the introductory song to the audience wish they could join in. The And what about the confetti can- audience. The Narrator’s songs are choreography (by Farah Spiers) is en- nons in the  nale? delivered with comfortable and ex- joyable, impressive and well-suited Four! It seems the stakes have upped pressive vocals; Fay’s stage presence to the production, with a variety of here too. SEREN | May Issue 2019 43 FEATURE INTERVIEW INTERVIEW: Ram Skank Radio

by TOM QWEN link North Wales to their musical crea- the call early on that I’d focus my aca- make this possible. Similarly, we’re their music. While this may seem a tors. North wales is a big beautiful demic attention on  lm. While Storm also in talks with venues, promot- stretch for now, the priority will al- Introduce us to Ram Skank Ra- backdrop, rich in both community would give me the experience in radio ers and sound engineers to start live ways be to provide a networking plat- dio? and spirit. The people support all lo- that I wanted, part of me really regrets streaming events as there happening. form for local artists and audiences. cal events trekking from Ty Coch to not being able to continue with the Of course, this is an entirely di erent The future for Ram Skank Radio will The simplest way to describe Ram Ruthin and onto Anglesey. It’s really radio modules in later years - his class- kettle of  sh, but we’re more than always be dictated by the community, Skank Radio is an underground radio humbling to be a part of something es were by far some of my favourite con dent that it is achievable with we’re here to serve. station; attempting to provide a plat- so engraved into the identity and cul- I’ve taken at university! the right people! If there’s one thing form for all the uniquely talented in- ture of North Wales. North Wales’ isn’t lacking, it’s talented To what degree do you think dividuals along the North Wales Coast What is your future vision for individuals. North Wales needs something line and the surrounding areas. Our How did the idea come about? Ram Skank? Aside from the radio content - we’re like Ram Skank? broadcasting is currently audio only I’d like to say it came out of a neces- In the short term, I think we would currently working on the next ver- Judging from the feedback already through our website, alternatively, sity to provide this type of platform. A like to begin by expanding the vari- sion of our website, ideally, we’d like collected, North Wales has been we do have some live sets streaming thought progressed into more along- ety of genres on the station. When we to establish the site as a tool for the screaming out for it. Music’s a huge through Facebook. side well researched process, but like  rst launched with just DJ’s we had community in itself. Somewhere peo- part of the community and aside from The ideology behind it is to sup- all good things, the truth is it came a great response, yet, last month we ple can  nd and interact with artists the main stream stations or very niche port everyone in the music scene: from having a few mates over for introduced our  rst MC on, Phorecite, and event organisers in the region. If stations, there’s very little out there. from established party starters to the drinks. to promote his recent album launch. all goes well we’ll be opening sign- This will be the  rst attempt of its kind bedroom producers looking to get Boy did it go down well! Plans are be- ups for beta testers in June, users will to provide a platform for the entire of their music out there, there’s room for How much has your course and ing made to get him back on as well be able to create their own pro les, the North Wales underground music. everyone! The top priority for us is to experience with societies/extra- as more MC’s and rappers from the discover music from the area and of Everyone we’ve had in the station engage the community and have the curricular activities equipped North Wales region. course post content themselves. has been just as thankful for us, as we public to be able to access these new you with the skills to start Ram Moving on from that we’d like to get In the long term, we’re hopeful to have for having them. The support so found talents at Ram Skank Radio. Skank? bands on over summer, understand- obtain funding for dedicated studio far has been unreal. On a broader perspective, we see Geraint really inspired me in the  rst ably this would be more complex in space so we can entertain live acts at Ram Skank Radio being used as a year with his clear love and passion terms of logistics and equipment. all hours and a possibility even pro- networking platform in an e ort to for radio, unfortunately I had to make But we’re plugging away each day to vide a space for creators to record 44 SEREN | May Issue 2019 INTERNATIONAL Do Welsh Students Feel Displaced By The English? It is no myth that the relationship between Wales and England is one full of turbulence and oppression. Throughout the 18th, 19th and even beginning LIBBY of the 20th century, the education system was used as means to manipulate the Welsh popula- SHAW tion through controlling the use of their mother tongue, or perhaps in more precise terms, through INTERNATIONAL the eradication of it. by LIBBY SHAW and discussions, whether formal or they still feel marginalised? Especially were from cities, some from small SUB -EDITOR informal, had to be in English. The re- considering the high volume of Eng- towns and some from the country, all n 1847, the infamous Reports of sulting punishment for nonconform- lish students that attend Bangor Uni- with di erent attitudes and motiva- the commissioners of enquiry into ity was ‘The Welsh Not’. This came in versity and have no level of Welsh. To tions towards certain topics. However international Ithe state of education in Wales (car- the form of a piece of wood, a stick or what extent, might a Welsh student that being said I’m grateful for it all, @seren.bangor.ac.uk ried out by three English commission- a ruler. Students were given the ruler actually feel like a minority in Bangor? as they say, ‘variety is the spice of life’ ers), better known historically as The (usually inscribed with ‘WN’) if they I spoke to a Bangor law graduate, Twm and being around so many di erent Treachery of the Blue Books, was pub- were caught talking in Welsh. Any Jones, to give a Welsh perspective on views broadens your own, as well as lished. Its purpose was comparable student who was in possession of the the matter: vice versa.” A Note From to that of Ofsted, but what it instead ruler at the end of the day would be “Being a student in Bangor, I can Naturally this is only the viewpoint turned out to be was a less than fa- subject to being whipped. This time say I have nothing but happy days to of one Welsh student, however I be- vourable view of the Welsh people, of intolerance to the Welsh language reminisce over. I thoroughly enjoyed lieve that the same could be said for The their language, ‘nonconformity’ and and people has left a lasting impres- being a student. In terms of being a many young Welsh students. That their general ‘immorality’. The result of sion on the Welsh communities of to- Welsh student among so many mixed which I have heard, uno cially, from this was an obvious uproar from the day. The Welsh Language Use Survey others, I must say at times I felt a little Welsh friends and acquaintances International Welsh. It was simply snu ed by the from 2014 estimated that only 11% alien. Beginning to start a conversa- begs the viewpoint that yes, there English authorities, who commenced of all people aged 3 or over living in tion in Welsh only to daftly remem- are discrepancies, but that this is only with total eradication of the Welsh Wales could speak Welsh  uently. ber that no one you live with speaks natural when two cultures meet. It ul- Sub- language from the schooling system. One interesting aspect of this part it was a funny thing I had to adapt to. timately serves to produce the type of Only English text books were allowed of history to consider, is how this has Another instance is the slightly di er- open-minded students which Bangor Editor a ected Wales’ students of today. Do ent things we had to relate to; some are so proud to represent.

hen I started writing for Seren, I was unaware of Wthe massive team of peo- ple behind it’s creation. All of them work so hard and are immensely dedicated to creating a quality piece of newspaper-age. I feel in- credibly proud to have been a part of all they have to o er, as it not only pushed me to test my own creative limits, but also to meet a diverse range of people, with which I may never have otherwise interacted. This is my  nal year at Bangor University. Whilst I am sad to call this my  rst and last year with Seren, I’m grateful to have even had the opportunty to work with International Tidbit: New Zealand this talented group. It goes with- out saying that working for the newspaper has provided me with by LIBBY SHAW a small percentage left who represent plements to create shapes within the lates literally to mean—"drawn skin." fantastic journalistic experiences. this true indigenous heritage, the fea- skin, giving moko it’s de ning quality As opposed to Moko which requires A highlight for me (and of my e ning identity requires a mul- tures central to Māori identity have of being rough to the touch. a process of consents, genealogy entire University experience) was tifaceted approach; it is seldom been passed down through genera- In recent years, such big names and historical information, Kirituhi is covering Varsity. It was a very long Dcategorised as simply personal tions and are at the forefront of what as Robbie Williams and Jean-Paul merely a design with a Maori  avour and tiring day, but ultimately, the characteristics and beliefs, rather an it means to be ‘kiwi’, regardless of Gaultier have adopted Māori moko that can be applied anywhere, for any camaraderie that I felt between amalgamation of national, cultural whether citizens are Māori or not. designs. Appropriation of these de- reason and on anyone”. Seren members was amazing. and historical identities. For many Ital- One de ning characteristic of this signs is deemed o ensive, especially The Māori connection with tā moko Who wouldn’t love snooping ians, identity means a strong familial culture is called ‘Tā moko’ which when there is little to no considera- goes far deeper than simply symbolic around Aber campus, swanning bond and a relationship with cuisine means ‘tattoo art’. It is an aspect of tion of its historical signi cance and tattoos – hence why appropriation into events as the important re- that goes beyond what tastes good. Māori culture that de nes individuals, what it means to proudly display tā is seen as so disrespectful. The links porter team, mini-bus sing alongs For the Japanese, identity means re- through skin markings, based on their moko. Hence a new term has been moko holds with an individual but and ending the day watching the spect for the hierarchical systems in ancestry, achievements, status and coined by the generation trying to also collective identity are one of a footie, pint in hand. place and favouring the majority over tribal a liations. The process of creat- revive tā moko; kirituhi. According to kind; especially given its visual nature It’s been stressful at times, but individual desires. ing moko was seen as sacred when it the organisation ‘Te Uhi a Mataora’, as an overt expression of belong- always worth it. I’ll miss you, Seren! Indigenous to New Zealand, Māori was at its height of use. Unlike mod- artists who are devoted to developing ing and identity and the carving and make up 14% of the country’s popu- ern tattooing practices, tools made and preserving tā moko as a living art permanent scarring of the skin that lation today. Despite there only being of teeth and bones were used as im- form, they state that: “Kirituhi trans- results in tā moko. SEREN | May Issue 2019 45 INTERNATIONAL The Unseen Population of Iceland

Greta Thunberg: Adolescent Activist she announced: “The climate crisis has LIBBY SHAW already been solved. We already have by locations. going missing, machinery broke, and all the facts and  gures. All we need by LIBBY SHAW Throughout history, there have as the news of this hill spread and hat had you accomplished to do is wake up and change.”. Just been many times when this devotion garnered media attention, the me- at 16 years old? Perhaps the 3 months before, Thunberg hosted celand is a country whose cultural to their folk belief has manifested it- dia companies were  nding that at- most daring thing I had ever a school strike outside the Swedish history was founded on folk belief. W One of these, which has come to be self into real world issues. The mov- tempts to get near it resulted in faulty done at that age was to have faked parliament. Commenting on those I ing of large boulders considered to camera gear. In a quote from the swine  u to get out of school or one ‘adults’ who had told her she should a stereotype surrounding Icelandic be sacred and the home of elves has Icelandic Road and Coastal Commis- occasion when a teacher of mine fool- be in school, learning how to become identity, is the belief in elves. Contrary happened on several occasions, so sion, the company declined to answer ishly left out a ‘Christmas Hits’ album a climate scientist to aid the  eld of to popular culture and cinema, these as not to disturb their natural habi- whether their employees believed in for my thieving little hands to swipe study, she commented: “why should elves are not the kind of that are small tat. One of the best known cases is elves or not, however, construction (only to be found out a week later). To I be studying for a future that soon and dwell in trees, but look similar to Álfhóll (meaning ‘Elf hill’). This hill lay work had been delayed so that, the call either of these events ‘monumen- will be no more when no one is do- humans, wear 17th century clothing between the capital city and another elves could, at some point, move on. tal contributions to society’ would be ing anything whatsoever to save that and attend church etc. Even though city called Reykjavik. In the 1930s, the For many of us the notion of elves is quite an untruth. Greta Thunberg, on future? And what is the point of learn- a 2007 study carried out by the Uni- government began plans to create a cute and mythical. And in almost eve- the other hand, has captured the at- ing facts in the school system when versity of Iceland con rmed that only road between the two, and upon their ry culture, if you go back far enough, tention and hearts of the nation and the most important facts given by 8% of the population de nitively be- competition, the then construction there is some kind of creature that indeed, the world. At the tender age the  nest science of that same school lieved in elves, a further 54% would company set out to destroy it. But it could be synonymous with ‘mother of 15, the climate change activist gave system clearly means nothing to our not deny their existence! This faith in proved to be a monster of a task, and nature’. Not every Icelander believes her  rst (and I doubt her last) TEDx politicians and our society.”. Perhaps an elvish presence is so embedded with the passing of time and no fur- in elves, but even the most cynical of talk concerning the rapid e ects of hearing this black and white perspec- within the culture, that it is tradition ther action, the plan was abandoned. them would rather be safe than sorry climate change and the not-so-rapid tive from the mind of a teenager is the on New Year’s Eve to leave candles In a second and third attempt in the when it comes to disturbing their un- response from us and our govern- catalyst needed to push society into a outside of the house to help elves 1940s and then 80s, it seemed that seen population. ments to deal with its consequences. revaluation of our climate-damaging  nd their way in the night, as it is be- Álfhóll was immovable. Tools kept With an unwavering and valiant voice, ways. lieved that this is when they change The Lost Children Of Argentina

by LIBBY SHAW by the then military dictatorship The bodies of many mothers people had been violated. The children were reunited with the that ruled. Argentina was in the and “the disappeared” them- events of this period had caused biological mothers in 2018. Sadly full throws of state terrorism, dur- selves (which included both a stir worldwide and demands for the Mothers and Grandmoth- The year is 1977 in Buenos Ar- ing which time the government children and adults) were often were made to the United Nations ers, not all of the children wanted ies, Argentina. A small group of were kidnapping babies and per- found, with clear indication of to investigate the abuse su ered to know this history and refused a dozen like-minded and deter- forming illegal adoptions to mili- torture markings and whose bod- by the people of Argentina. For- to be involved. An outcome that mined mothers march into the tary families or citizens devoted ies had been discarded in rural tunately, help was at hand and I think most people would agree Plaza de Mayo square in the city to the regime in order to bring areas, in unmarked graves or in from around 2005 onwards, functioned as a lasting represen- centre. They are immovable, reso- up a generation of subservient other known cases, kept alive and teams specialising in DNA iden- tation of the damage done by the lute, but above all, angry. The sole youths. The Mothers of the Plaza drugged only then to be thrown ti cation were beginning to ana- dictatorship. purpose of their knowing one an- de Mayo would demonstrate from a plane into the sea. With lyse and identify (rather grimly) Despite investigations going on other is the shared disappearance weekly outside of the presiden- increasing acknowledgement the remains of bodies that were until as late as last year, in Janu- of their children. However they tial palace hoping to gain infor- of the Mother’s demonstrations found or washed up on shores, ary 2006 the Plaza de Mayo As- claim there to be another 30,000 mation of the location of their came more and more participants providing closure to the families sociations both announced that desaparecidos (“the disap- children, ripping apart the blan-  ghting for the same cause. Fear- of those disappeared. they would carry out their  nal peared”) who between 1970-80 ket of silence that had smothered ing the growing prominence of Many of the missing children march of resistance. In a  tting have seemingly dropped o the Argentina for so long. Their dis- the movement, the government were in fact still alive, and work-  nal statement, they announced face of the earth. Public records tinguishing feature was a white labelled them las locas – the mad- ing with the ‘Grandmothers of that: “The enemy is not in the of each of these individuals had headscarf, used to symbolise the women. the Plaza de Mayo’, the Mothers Government House anymore.”. conveniently ceased to exist and nappies of their lost children, In 1983, at the end of what worked to identify an astonishing Weekly demonstrations still con- yet, it was simply not discussed. which they would wear whilst was known as the Dirty War, ex- 256 of the missing children who tinue however their e orts are Introducing the ‘Mothers of the demonstrating against the hu- military o cers began to step were illegally put up for adop- focused on other social causes Plaza de Mayo’. A band of mothers man rights violations carried out forward and reveal the extent to tion. Not all of their mothers were and on ensuring that their own who came together to bring an by the tyrannical government. which the humans rights of the still alive, however 137 of those history is never repeated. end to the abduction of children

SEREN | May Issue 2019 47 SOCIAL

Name: Georgia Morris Name: Andy Thornton Age: 19 Age: 20 Degree: Sociology Degree: Business Year of Study: 2 Year of Study: 1 ABI ROBINSON

SOCIAL SUB -EDITOR

socialpage@seren. bangor.ac.uk

he end of the academic year is upon us and I can’t be the only Tone who thinks this year has gone faster than a speeding ticket! With the end of University approach- ing that can only mean deadlines are imminent, the sun is more social (and so are we because of it) and an- other year of Seren has come to an end. When I was assigned the new role of Social Editor, I was given the Emily Brown Dylan Hannigan  exibility to do what I willed with the page. Agony Aunt and Secret Admirer columns were trialled and thoroughly enjoyed, but the thrill of Where did you go for your date? What where your rst impressions of each other? a blind date column was too hard to We went to Belle Vue at around 7pm on a Friday. My  rst impressions were that she dressed well and she looked very ignore! After a (kind of) successful inviting. three months of playing Cupid, it is time to hang up my bow and arrow What were your rst impressions of each other? First impressions were good! He dressed well and looked friendly. Was there any awkwardness to begin with? and allow the next hopeful Social It wasn’t really that awkward as I already had a few shots beforehand editor to take their stand. to get rid of the nerves. The only awkward part was when I had to go for a tactical chunder and then pretend I hadn’t afterwards. Now onto May’s blind daters: Emily Was there any awkwardness to begin with? and Dylan. Dylan is third year Busi- It was just the normal  rst date awkwardness but it wasn’t too awk- ness and Marketing Student origi- ward! We soon started to feel comfortable around each other. Dylan seemed very con dent so he did most of the talking. What did you talk about? nally from London but resides in We spoke about University life, our plans for after Uni, although I Spain. Emily is a second year English must admit I don’t really remember what we spoke about if I’m being Literature and Creative Writing Stu- What did you talk about? honest. By the time the conversation was in full swing, so was the dent from Lancashire. Let’s see how We talked about our degrees and societies we are part of- Dylan is alcohol, so who knows what I was saying… the two of them got on… the captain of the tennis team. He is also from Spain which I thought was pretty cool because I can speak a little bit of Spanish. We talked about Bangor night life too and what are plans are for after Uni. So, did you have a lot of things in common then? I’d say the main thing we had in common was that we both like a drink. If you are single and would So, did you have a lot of things in common then? like to participate in a blind We both enjoy going out. I think this is the main thing we had in Were there any clear di erences between the two of you then? common. I wouldn’t say we disagreed on much, most of the conversations went date for the Social page’s pretty well, I would say there were only minor disagreements like upcoming September issue whether Nicki Minaj is better than Beyoncé. Were there any clear di erences between the two of you then? please drop me an email at: He thinks Nicki Minaj is better than Beyoncé but I disagreed on that. Is there anything you would like to add about your blind date experience? I had a good time. It isn’t often I do things like this so it was nice to socialpage@seren. Is there anything you would like to add about your blind date get myself out of my comfort zone. I did ask her for her number after experience? it and messaged her too. She replied so I think she’d be interested bangor.ac.uk We had a lot of mutual friends so that was a good ice breaker. It was in a second date. I’d recommend the experience to anyone really. If funny how as the night went on we got progessively more drunk. We nothing comes from it I can say I’ve met a nice friend and that’s still a exchanged details and he has sent me a message the day after. I’ll positive gain from the situation. just have to watch this space and see how things go. Would you like to see Dylan again? Would you like to see Emily again? I would like to see Dylan again he was a nice guy. I would like to see Emily again, yes.

I would like to thank all previous participants of this year’s Seren’s Singles: Georgia, Andy, Rachel, Daniel and this month’s new blind dater’s: Emily Brown and Dylan Hannigan. 48 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN INTERVIEW FEATURE

SIGNING OFF: Editor Finn & Deputy Editor Jack Talk Seren

by JACK HOLLINSHEAD mostly closed for. Then, we realised capped o a fantastic day for the us markable. about a month prior to the night that as a team, but capped o a fantastic Finn: There’s a phrase my Dad al- But what is perhaps the nicest thing or many of our large committee, our event would fall on a reading three years of Varsity in the best way ways says to me - the sum of all parts. of all, is seeing how much our readers this is the  nal few weeks of not week. To top it o , we couldn’t  nd a possible. It’s been our best coverage That’s what Seren is. There’s 25 people have enjoyed the year along with us. Fonly their time at Bangor Univer- DJ, so I ended up on the decks in my of Varsity by far with a reporter and on this Editorial Team. If we’re not all Whether it be by picking up an issue sity, but the of their time with Seren. Elmo costume. photographer at every event, plus up for it, then it’s not happening. Be- from one of our stands, or interact- Whether it has been one year or I was in the booth, looking out to the the livestreams and commentary in cause everyone is integral to the pro- ing with us on social media, it goes to more, the attachment we have all dance oor. It’s about 11:30PM. At that between. cess. From day one, we’ve had nothing show that the content we have cre- made with the newspaper is special. point, we probably had about 50 peo- but hard graft from them. This team ated has been interesting and insight- The skills we have learnt, memories ple come through the door. I thought: Finn: For me, Varsity solidi ed has secured itself in Seren history, and ful; and that means a lot. we have made and friendships that “Oh sh*t, we might not have this, you the way in which we’ve gone about they owe it all to themselves. have been forged, which will un- know.” I’d almost resigned myself to things this year. The whole ethos has Finn: I’ll miss it. Seren has been at doubtedly last long into the future. the fact that circumstance was against changed. In the past, I think we’ve ap- Jack: They really do. With all the the heart of my university experience, As Editor and Deputy Content Editor, us, and the event was going to be a proached things with a “let’s get this commitments that university life be- my main source of pride, and, truth- Finn and I have spent a vast amount of write o . The next 30 minutes was di- bl**dy over with” kind of attitude. stows, they all turn up with their con- fully, a key reason why I stayed on for a our time over four and three years re- vine intervention. I don’t know how or This year, we’ve actively set the goals. tent from either themselves, or from Masters. The banter in the o ce; see- spectively in di erent roles, sat in the why, but 200 people just rocked up. We’ve wanted to be the best we can one of the many, many contributors ing freshers play Twister when we de- o ce, writing articles, editing pages By the end of the night, we got just be. We’ve wanted to smash our own we’ve had this year, and done their liver the paper to Halls; giving my liver and producing the paper with great under 400 people in the building. records. I can remember, before we pages to an outstanding level of qual- a good kicking at our socials; covering pride and admiration. When we took Credit goes to Paige Brook and Char- even started our Sabbatical Election ity, all whilst going the extra mile all the student events from the start of on our roles at the start of the 2018 lotte Thomson, who put a ridiculous coverage, there were conversations covering society shows, sporting  x- the year to the  nish. academic year, the plan was set as to amount of hours into  lming all the about trying to push towards break- tures on a Wednesday, taking photos Most of all, I’ll miss the team. We’ve what we wanted to achieve, and ulti- promo videos and willingly embar- ing the voting record. It’s no coinci- and more. Without them, the society been a real unit. The nature of Seren mately, as we conclude the year and rassing ourselves in front of the stu- dence that it happened. Of course, I wouldn’t be where it is at the end of means that we can’t fall out really. our  nal issues, it has been all worth it. dent body. So yeah, that’s my biggest think we were helped by the amount a recording breaking year on so many We’ve all got to work towards that So with that being said, we thought highlight of the year. What about you? of candidates that ran. However, the levels. single goal of getting a paper out. it would be a fun idea to sit down, and 13,000+ video views on Seren’s Sab- But, this year, there’s been a genuine ask each other what we have thought Jack: I think as well, the reason for batical Election content certainly had Finn: It’s been special. Three 64 page comradery. We build each other up. about our time with Seren. that many people is down to collabo- a major role to play. issues in a row - never done before. We carry each other over the line. It’s rating with so many societies this year. Finishing on a 80 page issue - never been a pleasure to work alongside Jack: So Finn, the end is unfortu- They wanted to come and support us, Jack: It really did, because with- done before. National Societies Award everyone. nately nigh as we put together the just like we have to them throughout out that coverage, the student body nomination - never done before. Win- May issue. What has been your high- the year, which is nice to see, espe- wouldn’t have seen what those can- ning an AU Award - never done be- Jack: Couldn’t agree more mate. To light of this year? cially with all the hard work you, Paige didates had to say before turning up fore. look back from semester 1 of 2016, to and Charl put into promoting the to vote. But what it has all been down No doubt about it, it’s going to be  nishing an 80 page issue as Deputy Finn: So hard to pick, mainly be- event. to is what you’ve mentioned; setting hard to beat. I think that, if 10 years Editor has been a dream of epic pro- cause we’ve done too much for me For me though, it has to be cover- the goals and the ethos. We spoke from now, a future Seren Editorial portions. Seren has been an unfor- to remember it all. But, as you’re ask- ing Varsity. From the 5:30am start, all over the summer, and then again Team is looking back at our year, say- gettable journey, one that has been ing for a general highlight, I’ll choose through the bus journey, the laughs with some of the committee after the ing: “Bl**dy hell, how did they do it?” at the centre of my university life too, a moment which was a nice mixture with the team, the livestreams and freshers issue and set the stall about We can say that, in some strange way, and I wouldn’t change it for the world, of achievement and enjoyment: the seeing everyone so excited and will- what we wanted to do outside of the we have won. especially this year. You’re right, it has ‘Super 80’s Party’ in Academi. It felt so ing to contribute through score up- actual, physical copy of the paper, re- been a genuine delight to work with sweet, mainly because the odds were dates and photos was special. ally for the  rst time in a few years, Jack: Without question. Looking everyone, and it’s extremely sad that completely stacked against us. And then for us both to be stood in and that has been the di erence. The back on the year, we’ve achieved so it’s all coming to a close. But none of We swapped the established ‘90’s the gantry, doing what we love, talk- team have bought into that mental- much in a relatively short space of it could have been possible without Night’ brand - which previous Edi- ing nonsense about football for 90 ity, so naturally, we have been able to time, having lost 9 weeks of the year you, my friend. The laughs we shared, tors had kept going for 5+ years - for minutes and watching the display cover more events and reach our au- with the Christmas and Easter breaks, the blood, sweat and tears that have a brand new theme. We were given a Bangor put on was a sight to behold; a dience on all platforms for everyone has been tremendous. To see what all gone into it; what a pleasure it has Friday, a day which Academi is now true highlight of university. It not only to enjoy. of us have accomplished is truly re- been. So thank you. SEREN | May Issue 2019 49 SEREN INTERVIEW FEATURE Review 2018-19: What Did We Think?

by JACK HOLLINSHEAD fort the team has put in this year has have made during my time here in than that, ensuring everything is What are you most looking payed o , and that our peers across Bangor. coordinated and communicated e - forward to in your new role as ts has been a wonderful year for the the university recognise what we have ciently is massively important, mostly deputy editor? English language student news- achieved in a record-breaking year. What would you say has been it was me desperately messaging the Sinclair (Games): Working closely Ipaper. We’ve covered countless Upon re ection, while putting to- the best part of Seren this year? editors. Other than that, it has mostly with a lot more people. I really en- events, taken endless photographs, gether, for what is most of, the last is- Charlotte (Social Media O cer): been straightforward. Thanks to all joyed coordinating with writers and hosted our very own 80s night at sue we’ll make as part of Seren, I asked The best part of Seren this year was those who helped proofread through- societies and Sereners this year- al- Academi, brought you all things Var- the team a question as to what they probably going to Varsity. It was our out the year. ways feels like being a cog in a big ma- sity, live coverage of the Sabbatical have thought about their time with  nal big event and we just had a boss chine that’s going to make something Elections, kept you up-to-date with the newspaper, along with those who day and night. Going to Unibrass was What skills has Seren given proper. Everyone has something to the situation regarding the Vice- are remaining with the society next really fun as well you to move forward with after contribute, and I  nd it so satisfying Chancellor, the  nancial budget, and year. university? to see those contributions unite into a the Student Union campaigns regard- What has been your favourite Laura (Arts & Culture): Seren has Seren issue Voltron. So yes, with cliche ing sexual violence. What have you enjoyed most article you’ve both wrote and been an incredible stepping stone for acknowledged-teamwork, and more The hardwork and dedication of the about joining Seren this year? enjoyed reading? me to connect with a buzzing arts and of it for me. team this year has been phenomenal. Corrie (Sport): Reporting on sports Jordan (Film): My favourite article culture sector in North Wales. I’ve met Not only from our sub-editors and that are usually not familiar to other to write was de nitely my ‘Sit down new people working in the industry Even though it is coming to a close, members, who have worked tirelessly students, so I’ve enjoyed giving them for cinema, stand up for  lm’ piece! and partaken in opportunities that I personally couldn’t think of a greater to collect articles, design their pages the exposure they deserve for all their My favourite to read was the 10 years have built my con dence. Seren has curtain call than an 80 page issue; our and deliver the paper across Bangor, hard work. looking back on the MCU piece from given me some vital experience to put biggest ever. A testment to the team, but from the host of people we have yourself last year. It was a great read on my CV too: from IT skills to profes- who during a busy assignment and collaborated with, including Photo- What has been your favourite as a fan, with a lot of passion and per- sional and journalistic writing experi- exam period, have wanted to end the soc, BEDS, The Athletics Union and moment from Seren? ceptive journalism all wrapped up in a ence of course! year with a bang. Volunteering Projects; without them Paige (Food & Drink): Seeing how celebration of the cinematic event of Don’t worry, we haven’t forgot to say all, producing 7 issues, alongside con- much the society has grown over the the year! As editor next year, what do thank you to you, the readers. As you’ll tent for our website and social media, past three years has been a joy. To see you think will be your biggest see from our stats pages (72-73), we could not have been possible, owing the recognition we are getting as a re- Doing such a vital role as Head challenge? have had a lot of interaction with you you a great deal of gratitude for your sult is very nice to see after all the ef- of Proo ng, what has been the Alec (Creative Corner): My biggest this year, and that makes it all worth e orts. fort we have put in. Also, coming in to most challenging thing this challenge will be guiding the new while, knowing that you enjoy the This has been aptly rewarded with the o ce and doing my pages along year? team into a seemingly tumultuous content we are putting out and are individual Gold & Silver awards and with everyone is always fun. Arron (Head of Proo ng): The most year; upcoming events both nation- supporting the society. the VP Award for Societies at the Vol- di cult thing has been time man- ally and here in Bangor will need good Best of luck to Alec, Sinclair and the unteering and Society Awards, the What will you miss the most agement and coordination. Trying coverage, and I’ve got to be con dent team next year, we know you’ll do Open Award at the AU Dinner for about Seren? to make sure everything is proofed in my myself and my team that the great! dedication to covering sports, and our Beth (Books): The team. I’ve had come the deadline is di cult, espe- student community can count on its And to those leaving with myself,  rst ever nomination at the National such a laugh over the past 3 years, cially if doing it alone, it takes a lot newspaper. thank you for making Seren the best Society Awards for Best Media Soci- making the paper and socially at of time. So having other proofread- part of my university experience. Truly ety. This goes to show that all the ef- events, so I will miss that bonds we ers was always a massive help. Other unforgettable. 50 SEREN | May Issue 2019 FILM

Cream Of The Streams by JORDAN KING necessary requirements for getting animation Big Fish & Begonia tells a ecuted with a genuine sense of care. and legacy in late 70s Berlin. Dakota her dream unicorn, her faith in her traditional tale of sacri cial love and The directors’ commitment to mining Johnson is mesmeric as young Ameri- Unicorn Store – Net ix passions and herself are tested by the caring in a refreshing and fantastical their culture’s rich folkloric tradition can ballet dancer Susie Bannion, who Brie Larson and Sam L. Jackson team hurdles thrown up by the everyday. A way. With a sumptuous palette of vital results in a piece that is powerful and  nds herself immersed in a world up for the second time this year, sans rousing tale of aspiration and inspira- reds and soul-enriching greens, tem- stirring and ceaselessly enchanting. If of witchcraft and bloodshed at the spandex and eye-patches, for Netf- tion, what Unicorn Store lacks in slick pestuously stirred in aqueous blue you like The Little Mermaid and Po- prestigious Helena Markos Institute, a lix Original Unicorn Store. Following execution and clarity, it makes up for hues, the  lm is an aesthetic marvel nyo, you’ll almost certainly adore this. dance academy run by the serpentine the travails of failed artist turned of- in intention and spirit, reminding us that has the tender composition of a Madame Blanc (an unearthly Tilda  ce temp Kit (Larson), Unicorn Store in the process of how so very often it great Chinese tapestry. Though frayed Suspiria – Amazon Prime Swinton). As the bodies pile up and is a quirky comedy-come-fantasy in is art that imitates life just as much as at the ends and imperfect, occasion- As hypnotic and beautiful as it is the spells of sanity are broken, Thom which, unsurprisingly, our leading vice-versa. ally overzealous in its endeavours to sickening and intoxicating, Luca Gua- Yorke’s insidious score ensures we lady  nds herself in the surreal posi- dazzle and wax profundity, the emo- dagnino’s Suspiria reimagines Dario all surrender ourselves to the dance, tion of being o ered a unicorn from a Big sh & Begonia – NOW TV tional heft of the story and the sur- Argento’s giallo masterpiece of the oc- leading us wilfully towards a climax store, run by the ever-magnetic Sam L. With a deft combination of 3D and prising, incredibly welcome embrace cult as a nose-breaking body-cracking that sent Suspiria straight to the num- Jackson – here masquerading as ‘The hand-drawn animation and an ocean- of sel ess love and the power of an reckoning with post-holocaust guilt ber one spot in terms of 21st century Salesman’. As Kit sets out to ful l the load of mythological magic, Chinese unrequited romantic longing is ex- and the consequences of tradition horror  lms. A true masterpiece. In Memoriam: Peter Mayhew 1944-2019

by JORDAN KING Diagnosed with gigantism - rap- tory. but, thanks to Mayhew, Chewie ously given to us, and the reels of id-growth inducing condition - at Be it his janky, wardrobe-like has come to stand as a represen-  lm that crystallise their essence hortly before my  nal issue a young age, the staggering 7”2 walk, his knee-knocking run, his tation of the truest and most de- and the peak of their powers, the here with Seren was due to actor found his way into cinema puppy-like nodding and head- cent of humanity’s capabilities, words of the great Jedi Master Sgo to print, news broke that by chance rather than design, cocking, or the iconic roar that a  gure whose unbecoming size Luke Skywalker himself ring true. Star Wars icon and universally spotted in a photograph by the Mayhew himself didn’t create but and strange appearance in no No one’s ever really gone. And as loved gentle giant Peter May- producers of the legendary Ray has nonetheless become legend way stops him from being a hero we journey further out and into hew had passed away at his fam- Harryhausen’s Sinbad and the Eye in pop culture, Chewbacca has for his and all peoples. And whilst and beyond that beautiful galaxy ily home in north Texas, aged 74. of the Tiger at a time where he captivated rapt audiences young the character’s look and story far, far away on screen, I’d like to Across three generations of Star had been working as an orderly and old for four decades now. came from the mind of George think that out there somewhere Wars fans, Mayhew was known at King’s College, London. Having The way in which he looks after Lucas, it was in Mayhew’s fearless a few new stars have found their best to us as Chewbacca, the played the formidable Minoton Leia, grounds Han, helps Luke, and bold portrayal that Chewie place in the night sky, watching crossbow wielding Wookiee with in Harryhausen’s  lm, it was only and co-pilots the Falcon, drawing truly came to life. over and guiding us as the heroes a huge heart and the  nest hair a matter of time before the pe- on both brute strength and em- Having lost in recent times the of our lifetimes have been from in all of the Galaxy. From his  rst culiarly physiqued but magnetic phatically sensitive characterisa- inimitable Carrie Fisher and the the very start. appearance in 1977’s Star Wars, Mayhew attracted yet more at- tion to do his bit in the name of cantankerous Kenny Baker, our Rest in peace Peter, and thank to his last at the start of the saga’s tention, and when a young direc- the Rebellion and the extremely Leia and Artoo respectively, it is you for giving your all to give us Disney birthed revival three dec- tor by the name of George Lucas humble and honourable Wook- easy to  nd ourselves in mourn- more than we could have ever ades later, Mayhew poured his found himself looking for some- iee race, has solidi ed his place ing for childhood heroes lost possibly asked for. RWGWG- heart and soul into embodying a one to play a gentle giant co-pilot in the annals of cinematic history. and in morbid expectation of WARAHHHHWWRGGWRWRW character that has become synon- in a space-opera called Star Wars, Not only has he been a manifesta- heroes yet to be lost. But in their ymous with the series and a hero a match made in heaven occurred tion of the most wild of fantasies lives richly lived, and their art so to millions. and the rest, as they say, is his- and a source of pure wonderment painstakingly crafted and gener- SEREN | May Issue 2019 51 FILM Pontio Presents: Wild Rose

by JORDAN KING try music, before being thrust back Buckley that, though the Oscars will mances and screenplay is a truly slanging matches on the street and into the realities of having two young no doubt let Wild Rose slip under their barnstorming soundtrack - I’m talk- the struggle to survive is something hilst it is Avengers: Endgame mouths to feed, an overworked and radar, could easily see the young Irish ing A Star Is Born levels of consistently that, for those who have known it, that is stealing all of the overbearing mother (a stoic and for- powerhouse nominated for a second beautiful work. ‘Glasgow’ and ‘Peace you are always running from and in- Wheadlines this month at the midable Julie Walters), and a tag that time at the BAFTAs. There is a moment in this House’ in particular show o evitably running back to. It is who you cinema (see our spoilerri c review stops her from leaving the house in in the  lm’s second act where Rose- both Buckley’s phenomenal voice as are, and you should never try to deny on the next page), the month of April the evenings to sing at her local coun- Lynn - realising how much of a stran- well as the lyrical beauty of the  lm - it because above the grey stones the also just so happened to close out try music hall. ger she has become to her own chil- when Buckley belts out ‘Ain’t no yel- sun still shines in a way it never could with possibly the most beautiful Brit- When Rose-Lynn takes a job working dren - sits in the twilight reading all low brick road running through Glas- elsewhere. ish  lm in recent memory, Tom Harp- as a cleaner for middle-class mansion of their schoolbooks and certi cates, gow / But I found one that’s stronger Wild Rose tells a universal story of er’s Wild Rose. owner Susannah (Sophie Okonedo), and in its simplicity and raw emotion than stone’ / Ain’t no place like home’, hopes and dreams in the most per- Starring Jessie Buckley, who rose who though rich in  nance feels she it speaks volumes for the plight of the the goosebumps are real. sonal way, and armed with three in- to cinematic prominence with an in- has lost the  ery spirit of her youth, a young women who are left to fall by And that, ultimately, is what this credible leading ladies and a beautiful toxicating performance in last year’s friendship forms that gives Rose-Lynn the wayside in the working class.  lm is all about - home. It’s about soundtrack, it truly does deserve the twisted rural drama Beast, Wild Rose a chance to ful l her life-long dream. It isn’t just Buckley however who the necessary journeys we all must highest praise. Rose-Lynn has a tattoo follows the story of Rose-Lynn Harlan, Armed with a sensational voice, shines, as both Okonedo and Walters take to realise what we have had all that sums up country music - ‘Three a young working-class mother fresh a foul mouth, and a wicked sense a ect their roles with just as much along, the absconsions and mistakes chords and the truth’. Wild Rose is out of prison and desperate to make of humour underpinned by a pro- honesty and integrity, creating a tri- and leaps of faith that make us who three acts and the truth, and it is in- a name for herself as a country singer. found sense of poverty, Rose-Lynn is fecta of strong female leads who are we are and show us who we could be credible. The  lm opens with her pinning up a a  awed protagonist who is so well- each glorious in their own inglories. before reminding us where we came map of Nashville, the Vatican of coun- written and honestly embodied by Backing up the sterling perfor- from. The drunks in the pub and the

Stop! Trailer Time by JORDAN KING of cerebral philosophic questioning Phoenix was a real buzz builder. ter study looks set to turn on its head decided to con rm our worst collec- alongside several almighty cans of Hauntingly set to the sound of ‘Smile’, all previous conceptions of the Clown tive fears and provide trailer proof Gemini Man whoop-ass, and if nothing else, the the trailer sees Phoenix’s Joker pre- Prince of Crime in cinema, and we in that Sonic The Hedgehog The Movie Will Smith takes on Will Smith in the sight of a spookily authentic de-aged makeup and maniacal laugh as a the Seren o ce cannot wait for Octo- is actually happening. Whilst the ba- straight out of left  eld  rst look at Smith promises to garner a lot of at- down and out comedian named Ar- ber to arrive. by-stealing gag and the grim sight of Gemini Man, the latest  lm from vi- tention for this sci- thriller. thur Fleck. As his mental stability de- a hairy, realistic Sonic do nothing to sionary Brokeback Mountain and Life generates and his grip on life loosens, Sonic The Hedgehog quell viewers’ groans, Jim Carrey at of Pi director Ang Lee. Joker we hear the early machinations of the Gangsta’s Paradise. Humanoid least looks set to catch the eye once 20 long years in the making, Gemini Taking cues from Alan Moore’s semi- Joker’s nihilistic philosophy in the nar- hedgehog. Jim Carrey as the iconic Dr more as Sonic goes on the run from Man follows Henry Brogen, an elite nal 1988 DC graphic novel The Killing ration – ‘I used to think my life was a Robotnik. Just as we began to come the US Government. I am very thank- assassin on the brink of retirement Joke as well as both King of Comedy tragedy, now I see it is a comedy.’ to terms with a live-action Pokemon ful I won’t be the one tasked with re- tasked with taking down a younger, and Taxi Driver, our  rst true look at Teasing a young Bruce Wayne as  lm featuring a Ryan Reynolds voiced viewing this progeny however, it must cloned version of himself. Todd Phillips’ Joker starring Joaquin well as his father, this 80s set charac- Pikachu, Paramount this past week be said. The trailer promises a healthy dose 52 SEREN | May Issue 2019 FILM REVIEW:

WARNING! CONTAINS SPOILERS

by JACK HOLLINSHEAD portrayed physically, expressionally cli made your heart race; a clever, sacri ced or missed out on.  lm most likely being an origin nar- and creatively has made him perhaps well worked ploy by the writers. The  nale of the  lm played out rative. The source material does allow vengers: Endgame, along with the best comic book ‘villain’ of all time. Most importantly though, it all perfectly, with not a dry eye in the for Steve to return in his older state, its many Disney cohorts such First o , turning Clint’s family to dust made a logical step to the third act, house at the midnight release. After which will be interesting to see if they Aas Star Wars: The Rise Of Sky- is as cold an opening as you’ll ever see and there was no break in story or ex- a wonderfully choreographed battle, take that route. Given that Thor has walker, The Lion King and Toy Story anywhere. Not only does this set up planation, which is key with so many Tony Stark cemented his already con- teamed up the Guardians, it will be 4, is one of the most anticipated  lms the Ronin arc of Bartons journey, but plot elements. So when Hulk snap’s to crete legacy by wielding the In nity interesting to see whether Vol.3 is pre of the year. The conclusion to over a gives you that gritty reminder as to bring everyone back, and it doesn’t Stones to reduced Thanos to dust was or post Endgame, especially with the decade long saga for the MCU (Mar- what people can lose and have lost as happen immediately, you are unsure the ultimate, heroic sacri ce. His arc alternate reality version of Gamora vel Cinematic Universe) was bound to a result of Thanos’ actions. Then with as to whether it’ll happen. But when across 10  lms from arrogant genius, roaming the galaxy. As for Hulk, who have countless anticipation set upon the  ve year time gap, it highlights you hear the infamous “on your left” billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, knows, but there is always options by those who love it so dearly; no one how seismic the shift has been. The from the Falcon Sam Wilson, and por- to putting everyone safety before with Marvel. more than myself, with the 21 prior comedic segments changes the pace tals begin to open courtesy of Doctor  lms , treasured characters, brilliant nicely, but still has the undertow of se- Strange, releasing all the fallen he- For me, the pièce de résistance, is Tony and Steve’s directors, tireless, hardworking cast riousness, blending the two nicely, as roes, alongside along with a vast army relationship dynamic. It is magical in its execution. and crew, Kevin Feige and the late Ant-Man, Thor and the newly blended of Wakandan warriors, Asgardian’s, Stan Lee, all closing chapter of ‘The Professor Hulk provide the outlet. sorcerers and ravagers to combat Tha- his own self interest has been a sight What the original Avengers have In nity Saga’, it was always going to Survivors guilt is very real, and see- nos and his troops, it makes for a won- to behold, giving up Pepper and his done, is etched these beloved char- be something special, and by Odin’s ing how they all handle it di erently der conclusion. daughter Morgan, is heartbreaking. acters into the history books. Their beard, wasn’t it just. shows that even the mighty can fall, Without a doubt, my favourite part While Steve Rogers handles the task performances as these beloved, ma- For me, what I adored about this  lm but still get up. Seeing Thor larger of the  lm, and maybe the MCU, is of putting back the In nity Stones tured characters steal the show. The is that it is purely for the fans. The Rus- seemed odd at  rst and purely down Captain America wielding Mjolnir. from their alternate realities, his de- emotion they portray is staggering, so Brothers - Anthony and Joe, having to get a laugh in the early stages, but A moment that’s been in the works cision to stay there and live out a life especially with the circumstances be- directed Captain America: The Winter when we get to the  nal act, and he’s since Age of Ultron, and I’m happy with Peggy Carter is magical. The clos- stowed on all of them; perhaps the Soldier & Civil War, as well as Aveng- ready to face Thanos once more, the they waited for the perfect opportu- ing images of them reunited to the best they have ever been; a testament ers: In nity War, knew exactly what attire returns whilst holding both nity to use it. Thor saying “I knew it” sympathy of Harry James’ ‘It’s Been A to them as actors, wanting to still give the task at hand entailed, executing a Stormbreaker and Mjolnir, his hair and made it all the sweeter, because we Long Long Time’ is the most poetic everything to these characters that perfect game plan. Having an already beard becoming platted; a nod to the always knew he was. way to end this journey. When he re- have really been a part of not only our established ensemble of characters, King Thor character, and he looked In the closing stages of the battle, turns to the present as an old man, he lives, but theirs. the ability to just purely  nish a story the part. the women of the MCU united to help passes the mantle of Captain America Any criticisms? Even though it’s was done brilliantly. Writers Christo- To say the  nal act was predictable move the In nity Gauntlet away from to the Falcon, Sam Wilson (Anthony three hours long, I wouldn’t of mind- pher Markus and Stephen McFeely, would be unfair and unjust, but what Thanos, and it was a sight to behold. Mackie). The debate was between ed if it was longer, especially with the collaboratively with the Russo’s and is fair to say is that the predictability Seeing all of these inspirational char- whether he or Bucky Barnes, the Win- heroes returning, I would of like to Feige created an ending which is be- comes from the feeling they were go- acters that mean so much to so many ter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), would have seen a bit more of the dynamics  tting, resonant and appreciative, ing to bring back the fallen heroes, women will hopefully see a shift in the get hold of the shield, and giving it to from those who are reunited. I felt as if much to fans and critics the world it was just how they would avenge tide with regards to future  lms, with Sam is a step in the right direction for Cap and Bucky’s were rushed slightly, over, who were elated with not only them. And didn’t they do just that. more hopefully taking on a title role both story and diverse roles in  lms, given the signi cance between the the arc of the  lm, but the bits in be- Time travelling to alternate realities to continue their in uence. as it will be fantastic to see another pair. tween that the MCU conducted so not only made sense with its expla- One of the main roots of the plot, black superhero on the big screen But all of this begs the question, beautifully. nation, but was a fun to watch. Going and for me, the pièce de résistance, is in a title role, following on from the what will Phase Four hold? Spider- The pacing of the  lm is superb. back to beloved sections of the MCU, Tony and Steve’s relationship dynam- inspiring Black Panther and Spider- Man: Far From Home has already been With a run time of 3 hours, it could be throwing back to scenes like the el- ic. It is magical in its execution. Having Man: Into The Spider-Verse. What will con rmed to wrap up Phase 3, being easy to get lost. But it  ies by in the evator scene from Winter Soldier, us- yet to see one another since Civil War, also be interesting to see, is the way released on July 2nd. Casting has re- best possible way. You are pulled from ing past knowledge to get the In nity fans were eager to see how their  rst the commissioned Falcon and Winter portedly been done on an Eternals pillar to post as you watch on, your Stones and look at America’s ass. encounter would unfold. It was  erce Soldier series that will feature of Dis-  lm, and with sources stating that ney’s new streaming service Disney+ there are some untitled, yet commis- The visual e ects are stunning. The swift movement of the camera throughout in the future will develop from a story sioned  lms, could we see another puts you right at the centre of the experience. perspective, rather than feature  lms. Black Panther, Captain Marvel or Doc- Alas, for, as the cast themselves put tor Strange  lm? emotions not knowing where they When Natasha and Clint travel to and powerful with how Tony blames it, the ‘OG Six’ of Robert Downey Jr. as The most interesting feat will be; are at. The visual e ects are stunning. Vormir, we all know the price, so you Steve for not being there; the gravitas Iron, Chris Evans as Captain America, what will become of the Avengers ti- The swift movement of the camera have a 50-50 guess as to who you of the scene leaves you stunned. How- Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, tle? Will the group move forward with throughout puts you right at the cen- think it is that makes the ultimate sac- ever, when the stakes are high, they’re Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Mark Ru a- new members, or is that it? Story wise, tre of the experience. The balance of ri ce. For me, it is the right call. Nata- back at their best. The reuniting of lo as Bruce Banner/The Hulk, and Jere- of course there is countless possi- colour is superb, making it very easy sha’s end is perfect, because not only Cap’s shielding is moving, and makes my Renner as Hawkeye, and introduc- bilities given the source material, but on the eye, which helps given the has she always known what is at stake, you feel like Steve Rogers is complete. ing his darker alias, Ronin, their time nothing is ever 100% in the MCU un- runtime. When you combine these and been willing to do so in the past, When they in ltrate S.H.I.E.L.D for the together on the big screen has come til Kevin Feige says so. Until then, I’m features with the mesmerizing score she knows about what Clint would right reasons, the heartbreaking mo- to an end. With Tony and Natasha de- just going to keep enjoying Endgame, by Alan Silvestri, it encapsulates you. do to have his family back, and as al- ments begin to ensue. Seeing Tony ceased, and Clint most likely returning and the  lms that have come before The acting is superb by all, with Josh though Barton wanted to do it, she speak to his dad and Steve look on to his family life, we won’t be seeing it, because the legacy created will be Brolin’s Thanos performance being as knew he couldn’t let him. The cat and helplessly at Peggy, you can’t help them in a post-Endgame storyline, everlasting, however expansive it be- scarily, menacingly epic as the previ- mouse like chase they played over the but be reminded of what they’ve both with the rumour Black Widow solo comes. I loved this  lm 3000. ous, and how that character has been SEREN | March Issue 2019 53 GAMES Pulsar: Lost Colony

by SINCLAIR DAVIS …is pretty fun. I  gured I’d start the to one of four factions (intended to teamwork and coordination. I usually ing my best to give her all she’s got. location, so naturally the quests article by getting to the point. I sup- eventually be  ve). One player takes  nd myself in the role of engineer- like Even if that means switching o the placed near these are hit more often. pose I’ll elaborate a bit, tempting as on the role of Captain, who is meant the rest of the crew, I can beam on to oxygen and  nding out how long it It is exciting though, to journey with it is to chuckle, hit save, and put this to coordinate and bu the rest of the space stations to trade or  nd quests, takes the Captain to notice. a group of friends to the edge of the in a side column. Pulsar is a develop- crew, but ultimately spends most of down to alien planets to explore, or Under development by Leafy known galaxy, to visit a station based ing game which throws  ve players their time on a power trip because board an enemy ship to bring it down Games, Pulsar is fairly far along in her on nothing but curiosity. onto a spaceship in an open galaxy they are the ONLY one allowed in from the inside. But in combat, I am development, including 90% of the Overall, I would recommend the and tells them to swim. It normally the Captain’s chair. The other play- almost always in a dark corner of the  nal game’s intended features, and game as a teamwork-centric space- follows this up by swiftly drowning ers serve as pilot, weapons specialist ship, alone and without any windows 80% of intended content, according ship  ying (and often exploding) them- and then you learn that it uses (gunner), scientist, and engineer. to see what is happening- just levers, to the developer’s online roadmap. game, that ful ls my fantasies of pre- permadeath. One of the most enjoyable parts of and switches, and coolant… and I However, Leafy Games estimates at tending I’m a janitor on the Enterprise. The permadeath is a pretty regular the game, for me at least, is the exclu- love that. The game also supports VR, least another year before they are It is disadvantaged by a somewhat customer at the beginning. The main sivity of these skills- the ships systems for another layer of immersion, but prepared to fully release their crea- hefty price tag considering its current disadvantage of the game is that you can be reasonably complicated to all I know about that aspect is that tion, with the addition of the end- state, at just shy of £20, especially be- really do need a full team of friends to manage perfectly, and it is nigh im- it has functionally worked for those game goal- the lost colony itself. It is cause it requires at least three friends  y this spaceship with you, because possible for one player to manage two that have tried it. The graphics may nevertheless fully playable in its cur- to tag along for it to be most enjoya- the game is truly unforgiving. The e ectively in combat. This means that be fairly rough and ready, the quests rent state. The content can occasion- ble. But if you’ve got a group that miss players select from several entertain- players actually do feel specialised sometimes repetitive, but it feels like ally feel a little bit repetitive because games which set you loose to  nd ingly unique vessels, each belonging in their role, and surviving requires I’m Scotty in engineering, literally do- there are a limited number of spawn adventures together, this is the ticket. The Flagship Mods of Hearts of Iron 4 by SINCLAIR DAVIS

earts of Iron 4 is a WW2-centric grand strategy game from Paradox Interactive. It is probably the Hmost accessible of the grand strategy titles- that is to say, it’s less impossible to learn in a day, and it has a functional tutorial. What that is not to say, is that it’s any cheaper, as Paradox tempts us with DLC after DLC. And they can be quite tempting, because base game HoI4 (Hearts of Iron 4) leaves large swathes of the world without  avour or focus trees (nation-speci c decision trees). But Paradox does have some competition, in the form of a vast,  eshed out, occasionally buggy, and ut- terly fantastic modding community. That said, here are the  agship mods of HoI4, for your perusal.

Road to 56: be very ahistorical and somewhat occasionally guilty of railroading the ing the world. It is not realistic or As you might have detected, I con- If you already play HoI4, you’re chaotic- personally I like chaos, but player a bit- once you take one step balanced (anyone can unify the EU sider a wealth of focus trees very im- almost certainly familiar with this it isn’t for everyone. on a path, occasionally not even re- by asking nicely) but it certainly is portant to my enjoying a mod- but if one. Road to 56 is a collection of Kaiserreich: alising you’re taking the step, you’re very di erent to other mods. It is let you feel di erently, perhaps this is a mods from various independent What if Germany won World War on that path for life. There is also a down by a lack of focus trees- there mod you would really enjoy. mod-makers, welded together to One? Kaiserreich is a very well-made mod called ‘Fuherreich: Legacy of are sub-mods which alleviate this Formable Nations take vanilla HoI4 o the rails. With alt-history mod set during World the Great War’ which is based on somewhat, but then you start run- …is technically outdated. I have so many people focusing on their War Two, but with a radically dif- Kaiserreich- it is an alternate history ning the risk of mod con ictions or to say that  rst as a little disclaimer- exclusive mods, this amalgamation ferent world order. From imperial mod where Germany lost WW1, but bugs. It is cathartic to burn the world I’ve never known it to cause a bug, adds a massive amount of  avour Germany to syndicalist Britain, the by the predictions of the Germans in though… but it is worth saying. What this mod to the game even for the smallest next American civil war to the exiled ‘Kaiserreich.’ The lore never stops. The Great War does is very simple: it adds over 60 nation, and can make almost every British and French governments in Millennium Dawn This mod lets you destroy the nations which can be formed if the nation an interesting play-through. Canada and North Africa- the lore A modern day mod beginning future by making the Kaiserreich player controlling the correct nation This mod has made me intolerant of and thought put into Kaiserreich is in the year 2000, and with a much scenario possible. The Great War is controls the correct land. It is a very generic focus trees. It also extends vast. Almost every nation starts with more familiar map. The world will be another full overhaul mod which simple change which adds interest- tech trees and the game timeline to an explanation of their new in-game shaken by events we are more famil- simply moves the setting from ing goals all across the map- this 1956, not that I’ve ever met some- history and position, and there are iar with: 911, 2008, the rise (and fall) World War Two to World War One, mod makes me willing to play ge- one who has tested that. It can be plenty of focus trees and events of ISIS and my birthday. Ok, that last fully equipped with the new bor- neric focus trees again. It will bug occasionally plagued by bugs or even for smaller nations. The only one isn’t technically true- I manu- ders, events, and tech trees to suit. hard if you try to run it alongside any crashes, using as many mods as it di culties with this mod are that ally added that in. This is de nitely This is the only mod here which I do mods which change the map, but it does, but the mod team work fast.  rst of all, there are ten ideologies not a simulator for world politics, not have personal experience in, as is otherwise a simple fantastic mod. It is also worth noting, that with so instead of three, which can make but instead a way for you to relieve it is even more severely a ected by a many crazy focus trees, it tends to the world politics a little more dif- some of the stress you’re feeling lack of focus trees, involving only the  cult to navigate, and the mod is about modern politics by conquer- major players and a couple outliers. 54 SEREN | May Issue 2019 TV

News From The Small Screen by CIARAN GRIFFITHS programmes available to audiences that they are about to launch their that WandaVision would potentially news this year, Tina Fey revealed on for longer and provide a range of own streaming service. This would be set in the ‘50s, stating “There’s quite David Tennant’s podcast that former BBC announces major Iplayer series and box sets for everyone to a signi cant blow to both Net ix and a few other comic books that we’re British Prime Minister David Cameron shake-up enjoy. This will bring the BBC iPlayer in TV fans, with consumers having to pulling from and it’s going to be asked to meet with her in New York In exciting news for TV streamers, line with what other services already pay for yet another streaming service Wanda and the Vision… they showed to discuss a plan to revolutionise the BBC has submitted plans to Ofcom o er and give audiences even greater to access their favourite shows. This a photo of us in the ’50s.” This will be the British TV industry. His for a major shake-up of its streaming value for their licence fee.” While seems like a return to traditional ‘cable an interesting setting for both Scarlet groundbreaking plan was to have Tina platform. The proposed plans will these changes are not set in stone, TV’, hopefully Net ix will be able to Witch and Vision, and could hopefully Fey, the Oscar winning actor, writer provide much more content to the with Ofcom still needing to give the cling to their golden child, but only lead to both characters receiving and director come to Britain and tell platform allowing streamers more go ahead, consumers should see the time will tell. more screen time. This is not the only the TV industry to make series longer access to their favourite shows, with updates later this year. TV show from Marvel and Disney, with than 6 episodes. This doesn’t seem certain titles being available as box WandaVision Disney TV show the studios producing a limited series like the best use of time for either Fey sets. The plans also suggested that Net ix potentially losing the U.S starts lming this autumn focusing on Loki and a separate series or Cameron. Perhaps the former Prime shows would remain on the website O  c e With the  nal Avengers  lm making focusing on everybody’s favourite Minister was a huge Sherlock fan and for up to a year rather than 30 days, as The U.S o ce started in 2005 and huge waves in box o ces this month, Captain America sidekicks, Falcon and wasn’t happy with the short number is the current arrangement. Charlotte ended in 2013, yet it is still hugely Marvel and Disney are beginning to The Winter Soldier. All three shows of episodes per season? The meeting Moore, the BBC’s Director of Content, popular, being the most watched show look towards a post-Endgame future. will premiere on Disney’s recently never happened, which is probably a had this to say about the proposed in Net ix history. It was acquired by Interestingly, their future plans involve announced streaming service, good thing considering the current plans. “Audience expectations have the streaming service in 2016 during a signi cant amount of TV shows, with Disney+. state of British politics; I’m not sure we changed dramatically, viewers are the platform’s monopoly, before one of these being WandaVision. This needed our politicians to be anymore now used to being able to watch multiple other platforms emerged. Yet new show will star both Elizabeth Tina Fey reveals former U.K PM distracted than they already are. what they want when they want, and Net ix’s contract expires in 2021, and Olsen as Wanda Maximo A.K.A asked her to x the British TV they expect much more from BBC the Wall Street Journal is reporting Scarlet Witch, alongside Paul Bettany industry. iPlayer. We want to make the best UK that NBC Universal is eager to snap as her love interest, the android Vision. Those are words I never thought up its former property, with rumours In a Variety interview, Olsen revealed I’d write, but in perhaps the weirdest Student Picks

by CIARAN GRIFFITHS mixed with some real emotional Schitt’s Creek. The Roses are forced make this a quick and easy watch, Fire y, the greatest Sci-Fi show heart combines to make a to uproot their lives and relocate one that will help fend o the of the past 20 years, but there’s he unseasonably warm compelling watch, standing out to the rural community, with their gloom of exam season. something about him that’s weather has left Bangor, re- in a crowd of grey, dreary Walking high society ideals clashing with undeniably charismatic. This Tplaced by cold rain and howl- Dead clones. It’s the perfect show the townspeople’s ‘simple’ way of How I Met Your Mother - Net ix hasn’t changed in his latest show, ing wind, a wind that carries upon if you’re searching for an easy living. I’m not doing it justice in this The American classic sitcom may The Rookie. Fillion’s character is a it the worst words a student can watch with an undeniably gripping write-up, but its short 20 minute be a bit dated these days, and middle aged man starting a career hear. Words that herald the end narrative. episodes are perfect for revision some of the jokes may land on in the LAPD amongst a group of of the semester, and leave many breaks, especially if you’re looking the wrong side of the fence, but younger trainee cops, following with a profound sense of dread. Schitt’s Creek - Net ix for a quick laugh. How I Met Your Mother is a great a traumatic event in his life. The Ladies and Gentlemen, exam I’m going to be honest, when show to fall back on if nothing show’s premise is an interesting season is upon us. But never fear someone  rst described Schitt’s Derry Girls - 4OD, Sky Go else catches your eye. Its ensemble one that isn’t afraid to explore the Seren Readers, I have the cure! 5 TV Creek to me, I was sceptical as If you haven’t been watching cast have great chemistry, with no prejudices within American police, shows to distract during your revi- to whether I would enjoy the Derry Girls you need to catch up. combination of characters falling not shying away from topics such sion breaks. program. But after watching the Channel Four’s hit sitcom explores  at. While the ending does leave as race, gender and age. Typically  rst few episodes I was hooked the life of a group of young Irish a little to be desired, the previous cop shows focus on detectives, so Santa Clarita Diet - Net ix by its dramatic, over the top girls, and one English ‘fella’ living 8 seasons are a great example of this is a good chance to observe Net ix’s cherry o ering on the characters. The premise of the in Derry in the mid 90s. It’s rip mid 2000’s comedy, with some the day to day life of a ‘beat cop’, Zombie Apocalypse is a refreshing show is de nitely a unique one, roaringly funny, perfectly 90s, genuinely brilliant jokes. and is perhaps one of the show’s take on the genre, something featuring the Roses, a rich socialite all while making some subtle main strengths. It’s a solid watch if helped by its two excellent lead family who lose their fortune after comments on ‘the troubles’ and The Rookie - Sky Go you’re looking for something a bit actors, Drew Barrymore and their business manager steals it Irish society in general. The short I’ve got a bit of a soft spot for more dramatic for those nights you Timothy Olyphant, who portray a all. The only asset they keep is runtime, low number of episodes Nathan Fillion, perhaps it’s the need a breather, and more Nathan realistic married couple with real their deed to a small rural town; and general light-heartedness cheeky grin or the fact he was in Fillion is never a bad thing. chemistry. The oddball comedy, SEREN | May Issue 2019 55 TV REVIEW:

SEASON 8

by CIARAN GRIFFITHS also some interesting introductions also maintaining a façade of deference I can’t end this review without we love these characters, giving us as the Daenerys’ army and the towards his new monarch. Another addressing the big moment of both some truly emotional moments in t’s here. After two years of long Northerners met for the  rst time, great interaction was the  reside episodes. After several seasons worth preparation for half the cast to be waiting, and countless trailers, which led to a tense clash of cultures. chat between Jaime, Tyrion, Brienne, of teasing, Jon Snow has  nally brutally massacred by the army of Iinterviews and promo shots, season These interactions were well written, Davos, Podrick and Tormund. A group learned of his true parentage. Episode the dead. Speaking of the army of 8 of HBO’s hit fantasy show has  nally with almost every character getting a of characters who work excellently one saw Sam tell Jon about his the dead. The dead lord Umber was arrived. Before we get stuck into this signi cant interaction at some point together despite being the  rst time Targaryen heritage, something that terrifying and I might have let out a review, quick spoiler warning. I will be in either episode. most of them have ever met. It’s a he took surprisingly well. In the last very manly scream. My predictions discussing some relatively big story One of the stand out moments shame many of these characters will few minutes of episode two, Jon told for the next episode, which will have moments from the  rst two episodes include Daenerys’  rst interaction likely die in the upcoming episode. Dany about his true parentage In front aired by the time you read this, are so if you haven’t watched them yet, with Sam, whose family she had burnt Seeing Brienne  nally earn her of the grave of his true mother, after that Bran will turn himself into a quasi best to stop reading this article and in the previous season for refusing knighthood was a great moment, well avoiding Dany the entire episode, Night King, hence the Weirwood check out the one below instead. to bend the knee to her. A special executed by Gwendoline Christie and This revealed an interesting trait in location he helpfully chose to position At the time of writing, only two mention has to go to John Bradley Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. The friendship the new Queen that may hint towards himself in. He will then be locked in episodes have aired, with the for some excellent acting during between Brienne and Jaime has been the pair’s future. Rather than being a struggle with the original Night third being the climactic Battle of this scene as his new Queen slowly one of the show’s best relationships, shocked and horri ed learning that King for control of the White Walker Winterfell. These two episodes have came to the realisation that she had with both characters learning from her new boyfriend was actually her army, something that will happen been all about gathering the various killed both his father and brother. the other. This moment was made nephew, the formerly last Targaryen throughout the rest of the season characters into Winterfell, leading Something made even more dramatic all the more emotional by Pod’s was more concerned with Jon having until both are destroyed, leaving to some heart-warming reunions by the fact that Sam was unaware song which followed, a song which a higher claim to the Iron Throne the remaining living characters and tense confrontations. From Arya he was meeting the women who received a cover by Florence and the then her. Could Daenerys attempt to squabble over the remains of and Jon, who haven’t seen each had condemned his family to death Machine, which honestly has been my to murder Jon, whose real name is Westeros. Of course, this prediction other since the  rst season, to Jaime by dragon  re. Bradley managed to favourite song this week. If Academi Aegon, to protect her claim? could be completely wrong and and Bran, who haven’t seen each expertly express his shock and grieve do a Game of Thrones night I will be This was a solid pair of episodes, you’ll be reading this laughing at how other since Jaime pushed Bran out a at learning of his family’s fate, while there, requesting this song on repeat. reminding the audience just why wrong I am! window, paralysing him. There were WGA VS Hollywood Agents REVIEW:

by CIARAN GRIFFITHS on multiple clients to a project and earning a percentage of the budget or the  rst time in 43 years, the and pro ts of the production. This is Writers Guild of America (WGA) problematic in two ways. First it cuts Fis seeking a better deal for its into the budget of a show, meaning members with their agents. If you productions have much less money to follow any Hollywood star on social actually create the TV show. Secondly media, you may have noticed them it means agents may no longer have publishing open letters to their agents, their client’s best interests at heart, e ectively  ring them until they reach having no reason to ensure they get a deal with the WGA. The WGA, which paid as much as possible. If anything, represents screenwriters, released a agents now have an incentive to Midge’s brother (Will Brill) also comes her previous life, and the possibility statement earlier this month stating, by CIARAN GRIFFITHS ensure their clients get paid as low as into the spotlight, as the secretive of marrying Dr Benjamin Ettenberg. ‘Talent agencies have represented possible so the agents themselves can eason 1 of Amazon’s quick nature of his work is revealed to the This is a concurrent theme of women Hollywood actors, writers, and take a bigger cut of the productions talking comedy was a huge hit, family. pursuing their own lives is something directors for almost a century. But pro ts. This issue is made even more gaining a lot of attention for But  rst and foremost this is a show explored throughout the season what began as a service to artists in S problematic as in many cases, writers its 50s New York setting and rapier- about Midge’s comedy career, and she from Midge’s mother running to Paris their negotiations with  lm studios are not informed of these package sharp wit. Season 2 is more of the makes some signi cant strides this and refusing to come back, to Susie has become a cartel dominated by a deals. same as Midge (Rachel Brosnan) and season, going on a small American taking on a high pro le client as her few powerful agencies that use their The WGA argues that while the Susie (Alex Borestein) journey deeper tour following her Catskill Mountain management company grows. control of talent primarily to enrich industries pro ts have doubled, into the New York comedy scene, summer vacation. One particular gig This season ends on a bittersweet themselves’. earning $53 billion a year, writers have encountering misogynistic comics, that stands out is the moment her note, setting up season 3 for Midge to The main issue at the heart of the seen an average decline in salaries a dreamy doctor (Zachary Levi) and father discovers her comedic career, go on a European tour as she opens for con ict is the increasing number of by 16%. This situation is obviously even more of the brilliant Lenny Bruce sitting front of house when Midge singing super star Shy Baldwin (Leroy agencies partaking in the practice of unacceptable, and something has (Luke Kirby). talks about both her sex life and that McClain). But it also ends on Midge packaging. Traditionally agents would to change. The people making the The  rst season was bright,  ashy of her parents, which is a nightmare watching as a depressed and down- take a 10% cut of their clients pay, TV shows we love are being paid and quick, but now the audience has scenario to both her and her father. on-his-luck Lenny Bruce performs a ensuring they were motivated to get the least, while the middlemen who been introduced to the characters, One of the things this season does routine about his loneliness stemming their client the best wage possible,  nd them the work get rich through season 2 can spend some more best is balancing serious issues while from his comedy career, something enriching themselves in the process. dodgy deals. The WGA’s report makes time exploring the relationships and still maintaining the razor sharp that Midge realises may be her future. This system makes sense, the more for an interesting read and dissects attitudes that make this show. Midge’s comedy it’s known for. As Midge The show has been renewed for a money the writer earns, the more the issue far better than I can in this parents, Abe and Rose (Tony Shalhoub becomes more and more popular third season, with  lming starting commission the agent receives. short article, so if you’re interested in and Marin Hinkle) receive a lot more on the comedy circuit, she begins to later this year, so there’s plenty more Yet recently, agencies have begun understanding this issue I recommend attention this season as they establish realise she really will have to abandon to look forward to. to deal directly with studios, bringing you give it a read. a new dynamic in their relationship. 56 SEREN | May Issue 2019 MUSIC INTERVIEW: Winter Hotel

by JORDAN MCEVOY him, less me, and other songs it’ll be Martin: It was a pleasant surprise Winter Hotel to be anything more of the local scene as opposed to like, more me, less him. I’ve written lyrics for when it popped up. than a jam band that we’d just go to the Battle of the Bands where it’s a ver the past year, Bangor’s a band from Texas called Diminished, Did you expect it so soon? practice or do the occasional gig. The competition. Music, overall, I don’t underground metal scene I’ve written lyrics for a band originally Martin: Well, I suppose I expected fact we’re as well received as we are… think it’s about the competition. It’s Ohas  ourished into a multi- from Florida but now in Colorado some stu because we were talking I never expected it. about expression, having fun. So headed beast, with a number of called Extremely Rotten, I’ve written about trying to get Manchester Martin: Yeah, it was a nice feeling. if you get all of the local bands all growing bands emerging and taking lyrics for a band out of Los Angeles shows, and it just came on its own. It’s Warren: It really caught me o together,that would make a really the alternative crowd by storm. called Stages of Decomposition. I’m good. guard. I grew up in a small farm diverse catalogue of music. The One of these bands, Winter Hotel, currently working with a few bands Liam: We certainly thought we’d town in Michigan back in America, Headaches, who are punk, Celtic, are beginning to expand into new here in the UK, and another band in have to  ght a lot harder for a so I tried to do some research to see and metal in a way; Krank, who are territories to deliver their unique Germany writing lyrics for them. They Manchester show. We never thought what metal bands were from around their own entity in a way I think; us, blend of death metal. We sat down just tell me what they’re looking for, one day we’d check our DMs and here, and I found a few death metal with our alternative extreme metal with Warren, Liam, and Martin from and I try my best to articulate what I there’d be an o er to play a show! bands but they were all from Cardi , dealio. I think just the local North the out t to talk all things metal, local think they want. Studying poetry at Martin: I suppose it’s to do with how Swansea, southern Wales areas. So I Wales bands in general could form music, and musical in uences. the University, they just walk hand in nonspeci c what we play is. thought, “Aw, man, there’s not going something really unique if we did a hand, so I try to write the lyrics the Liam: Yeah, that’s one thing I like to to be much girth up there!” [laughs] North Wales festival. For someone who hasn’t heard of same way I write poetry; just have to think is that we’ve got of versatility. So, But, I don’t know, when I came here you guys before, or isn’t particularly be a bit more melodic and combine it we could be o ered a slam show but I went to Serendipity and saw the Going back onto your material, in the scene around here, how with the music. equally we could be o ered to play a BRAMAS booth, they invited me to you’re on the cusp of releasing your would you best introduce and metalcore show, or a post-hardcore seeKrank and The Headaches play EP…? describe yourselves? With Winter Hotel itself, could you show. It’s got that range. one of the  rst shows of the academic Liam: Sort of, yeah. With our original Liam: I’d say it’s a fusion between give a little backstory on how it year. Then when we started, it kind release, Eclipsing Us, we kind of found the lightest and darkest side of metal. came to be? De nitely part of your appeal and of all came together. My appetite for that we left a lot of things to be mixed The range of our in uence is anything Liam: How it started... I went along why you’ve escalated so quickly. It’s slam had been ful lled by the stu we and mastered that couldn’t really be from post-hardcore to the kind of to one of the BRAMAS (Bangor Rock not one true cut style, and people were making, people like it so we’ll  xed. Last year, we were on a really stu Warren listens to - slamming and Metal Appreciation Society) like that especially today when keep on chugging I guess. tight budget and we ended up just brutal death metal, and stu like that. meetings as part of the Uni around music is becoming more and more Liam: Yeah, it’s quite a uniquely recording it ourselves in Alwyn’s attic. September time 2017, and I just kind diverse. You see styles coming enthusiastic music scene around You know, we made a lot of choices There are a lot of di erent styles of found Warren sat on his own in together to make something Bangor I’d say. I’ve never really been on that recording we couldn’t go back which are incorporated into Winter the corner. We got chatting, and then completely new, especially in anywhere like it before, it’s such a small on. For example, instead of tracking Hotel. Could you all talk about your started talking about music and he Manchester. With this, how do place but people really do care about the guitars and then adding e ects, individual in uences? said he was a drummer, so initially you approach writing your songs, the local scene. I’ve done gigs around we just popped a mic in front of the Martin: I suppose, as a drummer, we set up something with me on instrumentally rst? a lot of the north of England and stu amp, and then when we sent it o there’s lots of di erent styles. For me, guitar and him on drums, but while Martin: I guess we trial certain before, and I’ve never been anywhere to be mixed and mastered, that’s lots of jazzy styles, jazzy beats, but we were at the studio he did a few beats, just play through stu and like Bangor. The appreciation for it is something that can’t be changed the standard metal aspect as well. gutturals and I thought “No, you’re work through ideas. Liam will come really cool. so we couldn’t get a good tone out Heaviness and noise. wasted behind the kit, let’s get you up with stu and bring it to the of it and things like that. We will be Warren: Well, I fell in love with on vocals!”. So, we put up an ad and table, sometimes I’ll have a few ideas The size really helps, along with releasing that, but I think what we’ll Cannibal Corpse at a pretty young met Martin through that, and started but usually it’s guitar  rst. Yeah, and the venues we have around here. be doing instead is releasing that for age, and hearing Chris Barnes and jamming with him and it kind of fell obviously with Aiden and with Alwyn, Rascals and Skerries are arguably free, and we’re not really too sure Corpsegrinder’s vocals so young into place pretty quickly. they just bounce o the ideas that the most important ones for when that’s going to be out. We’ve helped me develop what I wanted to Martin: I got in touch with them, were originally created by Liam. underground music, and you’ve got Exit Strategy out at the moment, sound like. Not long after that, I found and we set everything up. Liam: Yeah, I mean, we always go played a lot in Skerries over the we’re expecting our songs 19 and bands like Vulvectomy, Cephalotripsy, Liam: I think we started gigging as lyrics  rst. I think we write music to  t past year. How do you feel about Embracing Exile to kind of drift in and just got really heavily involved in a three piece for a few months, and the lyrics, rather than lyrics to  t the the change in management, are at some point ,but we are kind of the slam realms. After hearing those then we met Alwyn who, at the time, music. you concerned about how it could planning something else that’s going bands and seeing bands like that was part of a band called Lyberty. He a ect the scene? to be done a lot more professionally live, it really made me want to get o ered to play bass for us, but I heard Could you talk through the themes Warren: A bit, yeah. Since all of us and pretty big. that guttural tone and experiment him play lead guitar and I thought “No, of your single, Exit Strategy? have been here for a short amount of with how far you can push the voice we’ll get you on that”. Just recently, we Warren: Yeah. Exit Strategy is time, we’ve still gained the idea and What’s next for Winter Hotel and to sound as inhuman as you can. The met our bassist, Aiden, at another of a mixture of Liam and I’s past know that it’s a venue for all people. what would you like to achieve in gore aspect of it captivates me too. the shows for a band called Dystopian experiences with people in general, Like, everyone can go there for a good say, the next year? Liam: For me, I just used to listen Sun, and we were really impressed relationships between... whether it be time, whether it be for the music or Warren: I’d say still doing what we’re to bands like Hawthorne Heights, with what he did. partners or friends or family members atmosphere in general. So, with the doing now, just on a larger scale. went to a few shows, and went I was who have just kind of crumbled. Just new management, perhaps they see Continuing to play the music that about 14 I picked up a guitar, learnt How does it feel to go from Bangor, kind of how it feels and what it’s like that too and will keep that intact. we want to hear, want to play, and a few basic power chords and started which has a strong but relatively to go through something like that. It’s Martin: They might see it in a want people to hear. Record new jamming along to what they did. That small scene, to a gig in Manchester something everybody goes through, di erent way. stu , have new merch available, more was pretty much it. supporting huge slam bands? something relatable, but still painful Warren: Yeah, exactly. And I think shows in North Wales and outside as Warren: Me, being a slam nerd, I regardless of how many times you feel the people who dig music will still go well, and see how far we can take this It’s cool how that’s quite an eclectic am superexcited. I saw Coprophilic it or how many people go through it, and  nd the music, whether it be at daddy boy! mix, and you’ve all come together Mutation , they’re the band who it’s still unique every single time. Skerries or elsewhere. to create something progressive, asked us to join them, I saw them Lastly, is there anything you’d like slamming but also with elements when they played Fall In The Brawl And what was your initial reaction With the growth of the scene, to say to anyone reading this? of deathcore, metalcore etc. in it. this year which blew me away, they to how well you were received in especially with you guys, Dystopian Warren: I’d say just have an open Regarding lyrics and the actual just have that really low-end, deep Bangor? It’s quite an eclectic scene Sun etc. all coming up, what do you mind when it comes to music, check songwriting, how do you go about underground slam sound that I fell with a number of di erent bands, think Bangor could bene t from to out what we have to o er. If you like that? in love with. Being able to now be but as soon as you started there keep growing? it, radical. Check out the rest of the Warren: Liam and I are 50/50 with o ered shows to play with them in was an immediate demand. Warren: I think a festival would be scene, listen to the other local bands the lyrics. Most of the songs are half Manchester with other bands from Liam: Absolutely blew us away, really nice. I mean, there are festivals, and support the little guys, because me, half him. Sometimes it’ll be more the Slamchester scene *laughs*. didn’t it? Like, I never really expected but other festivals that include more we’re not up there yet! SEREN | May Issue 2019 57 MUSIC

Celebrating Dilys REVIEW: Elwyn-Edwards East Meets West at Pontio by ZACH READING and her ability to enhance the meaning of the texts through this. riginally scheduled for the 1st The music is full of British pastoral by ZACH READING for the Save the Whales campaign, in which the harpist performed with a March, Pontio’s celebration sensitivities but is also free from references Meville’s Moby-Dick. The pre-recording, giving the sense of the of the music of composer ut together by Bangor playing of Richard Craig and Mared maddening familiarity of the mythical O the shadow of her teacher Herbert University’s Head of and former Bangor University tutor Emlyn in the latter was transparent maze. Howells and the likes of Ralph Performance Richard Craig, Dilys Elwyn-Edwards took place on Vaughan-Williams. This was directly P and sympathetic to the post-tonal The concert also showcased two the East meet West concert held Saturday 27th April. Spearheaded shown in the cameo performance of sound-world of the work. Emlyn and works by Bangor University PhD by Pontio’s Artistic Director Elen Ap in Pontio’s Studio contained a Craig also showcased their ensemble student Katherine Betteridge and Bangor University Chamber Choir (of programme of contemporary works Robert, who was a close friend of which the writer performed with), chemistry in Salvatore Sciarrino’s alumni Sioned Eleri Roberts. Roberts’s Elwyn-Edwards, the concert featured bridging the gap between Eastern Fauno chef ischia a un merlo which Dŵr y Mynydd for Harp, Bass Flute and conducted by Dr Guto Puw, who and Western classical tradition. a number of songs cycles, one of performed three of Elwyn-Edwards depicts the mythical  gure of the Bass Clarinet brilliantly evoked the the composer’s favourite forms, The concert began with two works Faune imitating and conversing with natural motion and sound of water works preceded by the for Guzheng performed by Yiwen alongside works for choir as well as carol Here is the Little Door by a blackbird. through the textural and timbral recitations and anecdotes from the Guo. Autumn Night Thoughts and Birdsong, and nature in general, colours of the three instruments. Howells. The chain of in uence was Fishing Boat in the Sunset,by Yuguo poets who inspired her work. Soprano clear, but Elwyn-Edwards works were formed a secondary theme to the Stjörnublik for clarinet and harp, Elin Manahan Thomas, who amongst Zhou and Shuhua Lou respectively, programme of this concert and was by Katherine Betteridge, is a sonic at once recognisably individual. showed the fantastic colour and a plethora of career highlights can The performance continued after further shown in Andrew Lewis’s representation of twinkling starlight. boast singing at the wedding of expressive ability of the guzheng. Earthline. Lewis, a Professor of The true quality of the writing was the interval with the charming Six This was furthered in Landscape by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Songs for Children with words by I composition at Bangor University, in the ability to play at an absolutely 2018, was accompanied by Jocelyn Guanren Gu , a similarly expressive combines the distinctive timbres of minimal dynamic, something that D Hooson, magical Songs of Nature work that was well controlled by Guo Freeman and they were both joined and beautifully evocative Songs of the alto and bass  ute with slowed was brilliant achieved by Roberts onstage by the National Poet of Wales whose enthusiasm and personality recordings of a blackbird’s song. The and Emlyn. In the acoustic space of the Three Birds featuring the popular lit up the performance. Japanese and Crowned Bard Ifor Ap Glyn. sonnet setting Mae Hiraeth yn y result was a series of alien but evocative Studio the music came to life with The concert began with the song composer Toru Takemitsu’s Air for solo conversations that showcased Lewis’s the dim imagery of far o stars. East Môr by R Williams Parry. The concert  ute and Toward the Sea III for alto cycle Songs of Gwynedd with concluded with a premier written in expert ability to blend electronic and meet West was a wonderfully devised words by T Gwynn Jones and Hen  ute and harp showcased his unique acoustic elements. R. Murray Schafer’s showcase of contemporary music not memory of Dilys Elwyn-Edwards, who blend of 20th century modernist Benillion. Elwyn-Edwards, who was passed away in 2012, by Geraint Lewis The Crown of Ariadne also pushed the just in the aforementioned regions, born in Dolgellau, wrote this set to techniques and Eastern tradition boundaries of a solo instrumentalist by but here in North Wales. with words by Ifor Ap Glyn. The piece with works of complex harmonic commemorate the uni cation of certainly conjured the memory and having harpist Mared Emlyn, a Bangor Gwynedd and Cader Idris and chose sound-worlds with a rooting in University graduate, employ a battery spirit of the music heard earlier in the natural imagery. Air is inspired by A huge thank you to all texts inspired by the Menai Strait concert and was a  tting way to end of percussion to depict scenes from of the contributors to the and Caernarfon’s walls. What became the natural element involved in the the tale of Ariadne and the Minotaur. an evening of pleasant re ection for act of  ute playing while Towards the music section ths year. obvious through these works is the one of North Wales’  nest artists. The most immediately evocative composer’s keen sense for harmony Sea III, commissioned by Greenpeace movement was the Labyrinth Dance REVIEW: Featured Albums

by JOSH CAIN by VICKY WILKES by STEPHEN OWEN

Doko Mien - Ibibio Sound Machine

The third album of London-based languages and genres, with the verses When We Fall Asleep, In The End - Love and Fear - electro and funk group Ibibio Sound sung in Ibibio and the chorus in Eng- Where Do We Go - Machine is an energetic release that lish under a mixture of afro-beat’s re- Billie Eilish The Cranberries MARINA  ows cohesively through its 41-min- lentless rhythm section and the synth ute length. When listening to the textures of electro. Many of the tracks Released on 26 April, ‘In The End’ the ‘Love + Fear’ is an album of two Starting with a bang, Billie Eillish has band, it is immediately easy to see follow this broad blueprint, with some Irish alternative rock band’s eighth halves and its stripped back pop released her debut album featuring there is a wealth of in uences that living up to the standard set in the studio album. The album is the band’s serves only to highlight MARINA’s raw her uniquely melancholic tone. This the band is drawing from. Whether opener such as Wanna Come Down or  rst release since the death of Singer vocals. The title ‘Love + Fear’ is exactly follows on from previous singles such that be the vocalist Eno Williams’ lyr- Tell Mewhilst tracks like Kuka atter to Dolores O’ Riordan who passed in what MARINA gives us: bittersweet as ‘Ocean Eyes’ but contains more of a ics often drawing from folk tales in deceive. The consistency of the album January. O’ Riordan’s vocals do feature married with melancholic. The album sinister and chilling sound – evident her families’ native tongue of Ibibio is to its strength however, keeping up posthumously, and it is evident that tracks the artists journey which is in the album’s  rst single ‘You Should or the dense percussion recalling art- the breakneck pace the album begins her presence casts over the album seen in the upbeat lyrics: ‘We’ve come See Me in a Crown’. The album con- ists such as Afro-beat pioneers Fela on. That being said, the mould is bro- with tracks such as ‘All Over Now’ and so far’ in ‘Superstar’ and ’Flowers in my tains relaxed sounds like ‘Listen Be- Kuti or renowned world music band ken a couple of times throughout the ‘Lost’. The track ‘Wake Me When It’s hair / I belong by the sea / Where we fore I Go’ alongside upbeat songs like Osibisa (who guitarist Alfred Banner- album, with the more solemn slow- Over’ is reminiscent over the 1993 hit used to be sitting be / Sitting by the or- ‘Bad Guy’ and ‘Bury a Friend’. At only man has been a part of) the band has burners I Know That You’re Thinking ‘Zombie’ with the lyrics: “ ghting’s not ange tree’ in ‘Orange Tree’, ‘Too Afraid’ 17 years of age, Billie Eillish had made a distinct and unique niche. Doko About Meand I Guess We Found a the cure / It’s eating you like cancer”. however, presents a more vulnerable an impact in the alt-pop scene, and Mienkicks o with the opener I Need Way being good changes of pace. An Overall, the album is a chillingly beau- side to artist. This record moves away hopefully this will continue. You to Be Sweet Like Sugar,one of the innovative and vibrant release, Doko tiful tribute to O’ Riordan’s timeless from the artist’s former pop persona strongest songs on the album with Mienis an excellent gateway into Afri- voice and The Cranberries’ success. as ‘Marina and the Diamonds’ and it is its sequenced synth melody, sudden can music, fusing a number of di er- evident that in losing her diamonds, stabs of guitar and triumphant brass. ent styles whilst still being grounded MARINA  nds herself (BBC). It showcases the band’s ability to fuse in a strong identity. 58 SEREN | March Issue 2019 VOLUNTEERING

Hergest Project

by ELLEN MANGAN satisfaction of gardening. This group watering the  owers/vegetables. more one-on-one time to socialise ever possible we base these activity and ELIZABETH STANSFIELD allows patients of all ages to get Walking is a fantastic and therapeutic and often get to know some of the themes on the most recent holidays involved and become more active in way to get some exercise and fresh patients on a more personal level. This and events, such as recreating the ergest is a wonderful mental their community. Gardening o ers air, which is why we are so passionate strengthens trust and allows for both traditional da odil  ower using hand health volunteering project individuals the chance to make about our weekly Thursday afternoon parties to develop a lasting rapport prints, for St David’s day. Hrun by a small group of Bangor something; start fresh and build a walks. In addition to improving with each other. Each activity and group that we university students. The project has foundation, plant the seed, take care cardiovascular function and helping Our Friday morning breakfast club partake in o ers the best support to been going for many years but has of it and watch it grow – a fabulous relieve stress, our walking group allows volunteers to join Hergest everyone involved. The di erence recently been expanded and now metaphor of how to take care of gives both Hergest patients and members for a chat and a brew whilst we see week in week out is fabulous o ers three di erent activity groups everything we do and tackle in life! student volunteers the opportunity patients enjoy their Friday fry up. In and nothing can compare to the throughout the week – something the We believe that giving people this to experience and appreciate the the art therapy room next door, we relationships and friendships built volunteers, patients and sta are all opportunity, it helps individuals beautiful north Welsh scenery. Whilst host a creative activity for members through this project. We are a family very proud of having and achieving! (including our volunteers) focus, getting in some daily steps, this to enjoy as their breakfast digests, and aim to take care and help those Tuesday is the  rst outdoor activity but also express emotions, whether activity also allows volunteers to which can include a variety of themes around us. group and it is then patients and that be anger through digging/de- further develop their relationships including origami, card making, volunteers can enjoy all the simple weeding or care through planting and with Hergest members by o ering painting just to name a few. Where SEREN | March Issue 2019 59 VOLUNTEERING Student Volunteer Of The Month: Thomas Jones

y name is Thomas. I am many inspiring people. After this I bene cial was the opportunity to Society, and Headway I would not Volunteering with both Undeb currently a Psychology decided to run for the Tea Party Project develop my con dence in speaking have know what to expect when Bangor, and outside the students Mmasters student in the leader and volunteer at Hergest. After to new people, doing new things, working with clinical populations union has been a life changing school of Psychology. I have been getting both I was set, and could not and presenting to big groups. Prior and how rewarding it can be. It can experience through the formation volunteering for a number of years stop volunteering. to volunteering I was very shy and be quite di cult to explain that buzz of close friendships, development both, with and outside the students Overtime volunteering has given me quiet, but overtime I have become from hearing that a service user has of invaluable skills, dramatically union; I have been involved in a the opportunity to develop some real- more con dent to speak to others really enjoyed and appreciates the increased my con dence, and number of projects but primarily with life skills; I have had to opportunity to and engage in debate, albeit too work we do! resulted in a number of ful lling the Hergest, Beach Clean, Tea Party, lead a number of volunteering groups, intensely on times. Moreover, without In addition, I am fortunate enough opportunities. It is quite unusual to Big Give, and RAG Projects. I am now the opportunity to plan, organise, and volunteering I would not be able to do to have won several volunteering look back and to think that if I did not volunteering with Headway and the complete a number of small scale to most of the things I am doing today. awards both locally, regionally and attend the Tea Party I may not have Alzheimer’s Society. large events such as Runderpants Furthermore, volunteering has given nationally which has led to a number been in this situation, just go to shows My  rst taste of volunteering came 2018, and other basic skills such as me insight into what I want to pursue of opportunities, some which may that throwing yourself into and taking at a Tea Party for the elderly in my  rst communication and teamwork. as a career path. By volunteering on have not been achievable without every little opportunity can open year, the event was great and I met However, what was the most project such as Hergest, Alzheimers this recognition. even bigger doors! Bangor’s Tea Party: Walk And Talk n Walk and Talk we visit the most speci c country, or maybe just curious Combating Loneliness scenic parts of Bangor while what the language sounds like, you’ll Iproviding a unique and di erent get the opportunity to interact  rst environment to talk and socialise. hand with a person that knows all Walking to roman camp, to the pier, to about it while walking to the prettiest One Cuppa At A Time the port or the stone circle, we enjoy locations in all of Bangor. So if you’re relaxing conversations on whatever interested in exploring Bangor, comes up; student life adventures, knowing all the best places so you by KATIE LLOYD Christmas and Easter. These times are 2018 party, said “The tea party was hobbies, yesterday's football game, can show your friends later, interested likely when elderly people would feel just a fabulous day, from setting up, anything interesting. We do two walks in learning intriguing and exciting angor’s Tea Party is the longest the sting of loneliness all the more, to having the Elvis impersonator and a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays, facts about a speci c nation and running voluntary project in given the orientation around family having a laugh with everyone who always starting from the same place their culture, leaving your room for a Bthe university, perhaps because at these times.The Tea Party aims to came along! I spent the day with my at the same hour, Pontio bottom breath of fresh air, making new friends of its ease in only being held twice a take away some of that loneliness by best friends and had such a ball! entrance at 4pm, with the walks in a di erent setting or just to have year, but most probably because of o ering a cup of tea, some food, and a “I think everyone who came lasting around an hour so that it is a friendly chat with some amiable the immense di erence it makes to chat. Simple things like this can make alone left with a massive smile and accessible to anyone but still always people, you’ll  nd out that Walk and elderly people in the area! all the di erence. wonderful stories [and] memories engaging and interesting. There’s no Talk is the best opportunity to ful l In Wales, over 75% of women and two Volunteers of the project tend to  nd which is the best feeling ever after need to sign up anywhere, you just all of this and more! So why not come thirds of men over 65 live alone (1), so it the nicest project to work on. Carys, such an event”. show up on the day and walk with along with us on our next Walk and the project aims to make a small but a volunteer for the project, said that It is safe to say the Tea Party is a us! Friday walks are usually slightly Talk and join in the fun, just  nd us e ective di erence to these people “it’s really fun and super interesting to small, often overlooked, but integral di erent, with a speaker coming along on our Facebook page https://www. in Bangor and the local area. Each talk to all the service users, and [hear] part of the University and its voluntary from a di erent country or culture. facebook.com/walkandtalkbangor/ year, the project leaders work with their stories”. services. During the walk, he introduces his and you’ll know the next exciting the SU to invite and bring a number Another volunteer for the project, traditions and language so if you’re thing happening! of elderly people to the University at Ellen, when asked about the Christmas interested in learning more about a 60 SEREN | May Issue 2019 BOOKS

Women’s Prize For Fiction 2019 Shortlist Announced

by BETH SMITH les refuses to  ght in protest, and the would mean sacri cing the other... three children, but the death of Dami- she does possess power—the power Greeks begin to lose ground to their an’s father has thrown him into crisis of witchcraft, which can transform n the 29th of April the UK’s Trojan opponents. Keenly observant ‘Milkman’ by Anna Burns – or is it something, or someone, else? rivals into monsters and menace the most prestigious annual books and coolly un inching about the daily In this unnamed city, to be interest- Are they all just in the wrong place? gods themselves. Oaward which celebrates the horrors of war, Briseis  nds herself ing is dangerous. Middle sister, our Are any of them prepared to take the Threatened, Zeus banishes her to a works of  ction by women announced in an unprecedented position, able protagonist, is busy attempting to leap? deserted island, where she hones her its shortlist. The list consists of: to observe the two men driving the keep her mother from discovering her occult craft, tames wild beasts and Greek army in what will become their maybe-boyfriend and to keep every- ‘ An American Marriage’ by crosses paths with many of the most ‘The Silence of the Girls’ by Pat  nal confrontation, deciding the fate one in the dark about her encounter Tayari Jones famous  gures in all of mythology, Barker not only of Briseis’s people but also of with Milkman. But when  rst brother- Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are including the Minotaur, Daedalus and The ancient city of Troy has with- the ancient world at large. in-law sni s out her struggle, and ru- the embodiment of both the Ameri- his doomed son Icarus, the murderous stood a decade under siege of the mours start to swell, middle sister be- can Dream and the New South. He is Medea, and, of course, wily Odysseus. powerful Greek army, which contin- ‘My Sister, the Serial Killer’ by comes ‘interesting’. The last thing she a young executive, and she is an artist But there is danger, too, for a woman ues to wage bloody war over a stolen Oyinkan Braithwaite ever wanted to be. To be interesting on the brink of an exciting career. But who stands alone, and Circe unwit- woman—Helen. In the Greek camp, When Korede’s dinner is interrupted is to be noticed and to be noticed is as they settle into the routine of their tingly draws the wrath of both men another woman—Briseis—watches one night by a distress call from her dangerous. life together, they are ripped apart and gods, ultimately  nding herself and waits for the war’s outcome. She sister, Ayoola, she knows what’s ex- by circumstances neither could have pitted against one of the most ter- was queen of one of Troy’s neighbor- pected of her: bleach, rubber gloves, ‘Ordinary People’ by Diana Ev- imagined. In this deft exploration of rifying and vengeful of the Olympi- ing kingdoms, until Achilles, Greece’s nerves of steel and a strong stomach. ans love, loyalty, race, justice, and both ans. To protect what she loves most, greatest warrior, sacked her city and This’ll be the third boyfriend Ayoola’s South London, 2008. Two couples Black masculinity and Black woman- Circe must summon all her strength murdered her husband and brothers. dispatched in, quote, self-defence  nd themselves at a moment of reck- hood in 21st century America, Jones and choose, once and for all, whether Briseis becomes Achilles’s concubine, and the third mess that her lethal little oning, on the brink of acceptance or achieves that most-elusive of all liter- she belongs with the gods she is born a prize of battle, and must adjust sibling has left Korede to clear away. revolution. Melissa has a new baby ary goals: the Great American Novel. from, or the mortals she has come to quickly in order to survive a radically She should probably go to the police and dowesn’t want to let it change love. di erent life, as one of the many con- for the good of the menfolk of Nigeria, her but, in the crooked walls of a nar- ‘Circe’ by Madeline Miller quered women who serve the Greek but she loves her sister and, as they row Victorian terrace, she begins to In the house of Helios, god of the With its 24th year the judges are army. When Agamemnon, the brutal say, family always comes  rst. Until, disappear. Michael, growing daily sun and mightiest of the Titans, a University of Reading alum, Profes- political leader of the Greek forces, that is, Ayoola starts dating the doctor more accustomed to his commute, daughter is born. But Circe is a strange sor Kate Williams, best-selling author demands Briseis for himself, she  nds where Korede works as a nurse. Ko- still loves Melissa but can’t quite get child—not powerful, like her father, Dolly Alderton, journalist Arifa Akbar, herself caught between the two rede’s long been in love with him, and close enough to her to stay faithful. nor viciously alluring like her mother. psychotherapist Leyla Hussein and most powerful of the Greeks. Achil- isn’t prepared to see him wind up with Meanwhile out in the suburbs, Steph- Turning to the world of mortals for entrepreneur Sarah Wood. a knife in his back: but to save one anie is happy with Damian and their companionship, she discovers that SEREN | May Issue 2019 61 BOOKS

Happy Birthday: Adrienne Rich

Women have been driven mad, “gaslighted,” for centuries by the refutation of our experience and our instincts in a culture which validates only male experience. The truth of our bodies and our minds has been mysti ed to us. We therefore have a primary obligation to each other: not to undermine each others’ sense of reality for the sake of expediency; not to gaslight each other. Women have often felt insane when cleaving to the truth of our experience. Our future depends on the sanity of each of us, and we have a profound stake, beyond the personal, in the project of describing our reality as candidly and fully as we can to each other.

by BETH SMITH of poetry. The Diamond Cutters collection Lea ets: Poems 1965–1968 di erent voices. Collected Poems: 1950–2012 contains and Other Poems was followed by includes a number of translations of Later collections like Midnight her entire oeuvre. drienne Rich was born on the Snapshots of a Daughter-in-Law: poetry from other languages as well Salvage: Poems 1995–1998, Fox: She also wrote several books of 16th of May 1929 in Baltimore, Poems 1954–1962, published long as a series of poems echoing the Poems 1998–2000, and The School criticism. Her  rst one Of Woman AMaryland, U.S. and died March after her earlier volumes. This third Middle Eastern ghazal genre. Such Among the Ruins: Poems 2000–2004, Born: Motherhood as Experience 27, 2012 in Santa Cruz, California. collection exhibited a change in style, collections as Diving into the Wreck: cover more social problems like cell and Institution combines scholarly She was an American poet, scholar, a movement away from the restrained Poems 1971–1972 and The Dream phone usage and the Iraq War with research with personal re ections on teacher, and critic whose many and formal to a looser, more personal of a Common Language: Poems more elliptical and fragmented forms being a mother. In all of her criticisms volumes of poetry trace a stylistic form. In the mid-1950s Rich began 1974–1977 express anger at the than those present in her earlier work. she addressed many problems that transformation from formal, well- to date her poems to give them a societal conception of womanhood The poems in Telephone Ringing in plague humanity as well as the role of crafted but imitative poetry to a more historical context. Her fourth volume, and further articulate Rich’s lesbian the Labyrinth and in Tonight No Poetry her art form in addressing them. personal and powerful style. Necessities of Life: Poems 1962–1965, identity. Her later volumes A Wild Will Serve continue to experiment Rich turned down the National She attending Radcli e College was written almost entirely in free Patience Has Taken Me This Far: Poems with form and include more Medal of the Arts in 1997, publicly and during her time there her verse 1978–1981, An Atlas of the Di cult re ective passages on Rich’s sharp claiming that the politics of the Bill poetry was chosen by W.H. Auden In the 1960s and 1970s Rich World: Poems 1988–199 and Dark observations on the cultural climate Clinton administration con icted for publication in the Yale Younger increased her commitment to the Fields of the Republic: Poems 1991– of the day. Later Poems: Selected and with her ideas about art.. Rich taught Poets series. This poetry collection, A women’s movement as well as to 1995 pay tribute to early feminists and New, 1971–2012 is a posthumous at numerous universities across the Change of World, re ected how she a feminist and lesbian aesthetic warn the reader to recall the lessons sampling of her oeuvre that includes United States, including Stanford and had mastered the formal elements politicised by a lot of her poetry. Her of history, often through the use of 10 previously unpublished poems. Cornell. Guardian Bame Short Story Prize Open

by BETH SMITH author and broadcaster Emma Dabiri Although there is only one winner, he hunt is now on for the fourth and associate editor for culture Claire the six shortlisted stories will be winner of the £1,000 prize, Armistead. published on 4th Estate’s prize website, Twhich is open to black and looking for fresh and compelling providing an eye-catching showcase minority writers aged over 18 and stories of no more than 6,000 words, for talent scouts. As the previous lists based in the UK or Ireland. Among this which must be submitted by 7 June show there is no shortage of talent year’s judges is Niki Chang, a literary through the prize website. The out there: shortlistees have included agent based at the Good Agency, set winning author – to be announced at a Guy Gunaratne, whose debut novel up to seek out writers of colour at a ceremony in London on 10 September went on to make the longlist of the time when the publishing industry – will receive £1,000 and a one-day Man Booker prize and the shortlist of is struggling to increase its diversity. workshop with 4th Estate’s editorial, four other awards. She will be joined by 4th Estate publicity and marketing teams, and publishing director Helen Garnons- their story will be published on the LINK: http://www.4thestate.co.uk/ Williams, novelist Michael Donkor, Guardian website. prize-2/ 62 SEREN | May Issue 2019 GAMES REVIEW: Imperator: Rome

by SINCLAIR DAVIS permanent stacks, and fabricating a cities (the traditional ‘province’ as far size of the UI in the settings, so you conquest. claim on a conquerable neighbour is as moving armies etc). Within each can actually see the art. Another improved system is tech- mperator: Rome, the newest grand relatively easy. Countries are di eren- city is a micro-manageable Victoria- The main thing Imperator: Rome nology. Technology gain is based o strategy from Paradox Interactive, tiated by taking ideas (unique bonus- reminiscent population system, does though, is make combat much of the country’s proportion of citizen Iwas released on the 25th of April. es, in this case in culture-wide groups consisting of slaves, tribesmen, free- more interesting, and wars less pre- population, alongside some modi- At the time of writing, it is the 26th of instead of country by country), gov- men, and citizens, each with di erent dictable. The standard Paradox vision  ers. Each tech unlocks new inven- April, and I have logged 12 hours in ernment types, and a short selection bene ts. I enjoy the state system, as of army size, terrain, and generals is tions, modi ers which can be gained the game. So, without further ado, a of decisions. The ruling religion and it prevents expansion from stagnat- expanded to great e ect. There is a permanently by spending their own review. culture of a country can also be dif- ing against larger foes- although the much larger array of unit types, each separate pool of monarch points. This ferent, but these only a ect unrest in game is reasonably adept at punish- with di erent strengths and weak- means technology can be custom- What is familiar? provinces which do not conform and ing large, careless empires. nesses to other unit types, as well ised to  t the country you are playing, As always, loading up a Paradox lacks unique mechanics. Unfortunately, Imperator: Rome is as several which require speci c re- which is much more enjoyable for the grand strategy for the  rst time re- The player is not entirely detached also accompanied by the occasional sources to acquire (the trading sys- player, and can have unpredictable sults in overwhelming confusion-but however: a country’s government crash or desync in multiplayer, an tem of manually exchanging goods is variations. this is a universal experience in these is populated by members of lead- ever-present di culty for Paradox more like Civilization than a Paradox, games- if you are new to the genre, I ing families, and each character has games. and is also fun). The skill of a general In conclusion recommend watching some game- their own statistics (determined by a has a massive impact on battle, and The technology and the combat play before jumping in, unless you are Crusader Kings-esque pool of traits). What is new? can turn the tide in even a hopeless are the two most major changes; in a bastion of patience. The player must balance appeasing The setting, both graphically and situation, and I already mentioned the conjunction with a fantastic setting, On the other hand, for someone the leading families with appointing era-wise, is beautiful. Starting in 304 loyalty system for generals. As for ter- they make for a very enjoyable game. who has played other Paradox titles skilled governors, researchers, and BCE, it is an exciting map for anyone rain, attrition is a real killer and even However, the game mostly improves you will quickly start  nding recognis- generals. This mechanic is not very in with an interest in the historical side a powerful empire can be brought to mechanics and mixes mechanics from able mechanics. The game does share depth and mostly consists of pressing of things. There is a vast selection of its knees by a long stay in an inhos- earlier games at the moment as op- a lot with the Europa Universalis se- a bribe button when loyalty is looking nations- however, many of them lack pitable desert. All of this contributes posed to creating new ones. At the ries, which is less of a surprise when peaky. Yet, it adds a layer of  avour to their own character, and in fact the to wars which feel uncertain, and moment it feels like a cohesive, enjoy- learning that it is a spiritual successor country management. Generals are lack of historical events is slightly dis- could swing unexpectedly, and bat- able, expanded version of Europa Uni- to 2008’s Europa Universalis: Rome. the most interesting part of this dy- appointing. This will almost certainly tles in which even a smaller country versalis 4. If you’re looking for a totally You play as a country (instead of a namic as their loyalty can vary, as can be recti ed by DLC, as most Paradox could bloody the nose of an invader. new game, perhaps look elsewhere. dynasty, although you can be game- the loyalties of their army. games do, but this review isn’t based In my opinion, this is the single best But if you’re just looking to scratch a over-ed by civil war), armies sit in In the game, provinces are large on potential aspects. The best advice aspect of the game, and rightfully so, Paradox grand strategy itch, this will chunks of land, split into individual I can give graphically is to reduce the in a game where most players aim for do it well. Pit People: A Brief Word by SINCLAIR DAVIS interesting in the game than on pa- ously. I found the fast-paced trailer per- it becomes a matter of placing for this game a little misleading, as eleased in March 2018 by your team in such a way that their the turn-based combat and cheer- The Behemoth (that’s their only option is to do what you want ful style makes for a minimum Rname), Pit People is not a new them to. The game is not di cult of stress. The music is more fast- game. Nor is it particularly taxing (in normal mode- higher di culty paced, but is upbeat enough that it or advanced. But what it is, is very is an option) but it requires just the never causes pressure. The cooper- fun. It is a tongue-in-cheek strat- right amount of thought to stay in- ative multiplayer is also very enjoy- egy game in which players simply teresting without generating the able- players teams are imported control the positions of their team stress of a larger strategy game. from their single player world and on a hex-based board. Players choose their team before- the game plays exactly the same, Positioning is the only control a hand, can capture new members just with the quests scaled up a lit- player has on their turn- their char- during combats and can go home tle, and a friend to hang out with. acters will randomly select enemies to assign their characters ridicu- It’s a fun little game, especially in their range to attack. This is a lous hats looted on their journeys. with a friend. That’s all it is trying to very simple mechanic, but is more The game has a good sense of hu- be, and it does that fabulously. mour- it does not take itself seri- SEREN | May Issue 2019 63 GAMES INTERVIEW: Gaz Thomas - The Bangor Graduate That Conquered Free Gaming

by SINCLAIR DAVIS grounds and I’d add a little button in signer, or is he a mouth designer?’ And and error thing- releasing little game tle bit di erent because I don’t have the corner of them ‘add to your sites.’ I then I met somebody else who just ideas, putting them on the internet any training. az Thomas, 36, is a local from did it full time for about 8 years or so, made trees. So I thought it was quite and seeing which ones people liked. Another thing I’ve always done, is Llandudno Junction who start- and then a year and a half ago, I was interesting, because I always thought But I was doing it for a really di er- I’ve not sat down, and learned things Ged making games as a hobby feeling a bit cooped up at home. And I wanted to go bigger and be in a ent audience then. I was mostly do- just for the sake of learning. My very in 2008, while studying at Bangor. so I now currently do a part-time job bigger company, but then I realised, ing it for teenage males which was  rst game, I was using code examples His website, freegames.org, is now as an enterprise o cer. But it’s picked actually, I like doing the small stu what these game portals were really and tutorials to make my own game, the  rst-ranked free games site in the up so much now I think I’m going to because I can just do everything. Full popular with. So they wanted fresh, so I’ve never made anything that was United States, and his most popular have to do it full time again.” creative control, the variety of work- interesting, new ideas. But these days, just a practice. creations can be found embedded in ing on all the di erent areas of it. freegames.org- most of the visitors I try making things that experiment, over 14,000 others. Sitting at a little How did you nd the experi- I can a ord to be more creative than are over the age of 65 and most of rather than the whole thing of sitting table in a lunch-rushed Bangor café, ence of being self-employed? some of the bigger companies, which them are female. They like to play real down and setting a game brief. If I’d he told Seren how he got to this point. “When I  rst started, it was very dif- have so much money invested in this life games but put onto the computer- done a game development degree,  cult. I’d get up in the morning and game, it’s got to meet these criteria, so things like mahjong and solitaire. they’d have told me you need to make How did you get into game de- be like ‘Oh, I need a bit inspiration,’ so don’t want to be too adventurous. But 80% of my visitors are over the age a game brief, everything needs to be sign? I’d start my PlayStation, I’d play on it a I can just do whatever I want. That’s of 55, in total, so that’s what I’m cater- de ned before you start the project. “I spent 7 years in Bangor University bit, and then I’d hear my wife coming my favourite kind of game to make as ing to mainly, at the top of the page. I don’t do that, I just start making. I’ll as a student. I was doing electronic home from work, the key in the door well- weird ones. Stu where it’s just a But I’ve got self-indulgence projects just be messing about, seeing what engineering, and then I started doing and I’ve been playing it all day. So bit... strange.” too where it’s little games I want to works. I’ve got folders with more a biochemistry PhD, and I was strug- that’s where I started. But then you’ve work on, which is not so well suited to un nished games than games I’ve gling with that. just got to become disciplined, you’ve Do you feel there was a major them, but I’m just putting them else- published, because I’ll stop halfway If I start from the beginning, I started got to say ‘I’m going to work on this turning point in your career? where on the page so that the people through and think ‘eh, no.’” making websites  rst. So I was trying between now and then’ and just get “The game I made that’s been the that like those kind of games can  nd to make some money in my spare on with it. most popular was Super Stacker 2. I them there too, and I get to make the Is there a piece of advice that time. I’d read an article about internet It was years before I even met an- was through a period where I was re- stu I want to make.” you would give to your younger millionaires and I was like ‘Well, I want other game developer. And that was ally struggling for money at the time self, or to someone looking to to try that’, so then I started googling at a conference and I was really sur- and I come up with this idea of instead Do you think you would have follow a similar path? how to make a website. I made a few prised. Because I just make the whole of trying to make a fully formed game found a degree in game design “To be honest, all I really needed websites- I think I made about a doz- thing- I come up with the idea, I draw and I’d release that, I started mak- useful? to was keep going. There was lots of en and then one of them was called everything, I make all the levels I do all ing just little snippets of games and “There’s times when I’ve been stuck times when the business didn’t seem the GameHomepage.com, where I’d the coding. So then I went to a games I was releasing them in rapid succes- on things and it’s like ‘huh, I really like it was going to work out or when collected my favourite  ash games developers conference in London sion. And then one of them was this wish I did some training in this stu , it it wasn’t making much money but from around the internets. And I go, about 3 years in, and I thought ‘Ah, idea called Super Stacker where you would be really helpful now.’ Another I kept going anyway. Perseverance. I’ve got a cool site here but I need to it’d be cool meeting all these other stack shapes on the screen, without way I look at it though is that because But then, not just forward persever- promote it- I don’t have any money to game developers.’ But then when I’d anything falling o and people loved I don’t have any training in it, that ance all the time because you’ve got promote it, so that’s when I learned talk to them I’d be like ‘Oh, so what it, so then I spent the next six weeks, maybe I’ve approached things a little to change direction lots of times. So how to make games. I googled ‘how do you do?’ And it’s like ‘Oh I worked just every second, spare time I had, I bit di erently, which has made me always be looking out for new op- do you make a  ash game’ and then on the new Halo game’ and I’m like was just working on Super Stacker 2. stand out a little bit, a bit di erent. I al- tions and new routes and new ideas. made Tangerine Panic, that was it! I ‘That’s amazing! What part of it, like I released it and I’ve tracked over 235 ways think of Kurt Cobain- he learned So persevere, but also don’t be afraid was hooked. what did you do? Did you make levels million plays on it.” how to play guitar just by trying it and to pivot your idea and change things Back then I used to publish them or something?’ and it’s like ‘Oh no, my he plays a right-handed guitar left- a little bit.” on about three di erent websites: job was making the teeth and mouth How do you choose ideas to handed, or he did. You know, he did it my website, Congregate, and New- movements more realistic.’ And I was develop? di erent and his sound was di erent, thinking ‘Huh, is he really a game de- “Previously it was that whole trial so in a way maybe my games feel a lit- 64 SEREN | May Issue 2019 CREATIVE CORNER Puppet Shaped Box SEREN REVIEWS: by RYAN STEPHEN WRIGHT I kept my heart in a box, Because to me, romanticism isn’t lost, But what I didn’t know and didn’t count on, Was that not everyone felt the same, And what they would  nd were ways to pull the strings, So that each time I felt alive again I was dancing to a tune, I’m not quite sure I liked even once, I put up with it for months until, Eventually, I scream, I won’t being a marionette, And I’m back to blind love and hand me down compliments,

I’m in the generation that can get love at the touch of a button, But instead of pushing mine I want someone, Who can build a coat and keep us both warm in winter, It doesn’t have to be my style,

I don’t need to see the world the same way as before, So show it to me through glass- es built from memories of yours, Tell me things that are true to my face, Instead of Instagramming the perfect set of bullshit,

Instead of Basic how we about a conversation, That takes us basically from strangers to lovers, Without puppet shows for friends of yours, Photos by Jade Taylor I never want to see again, I have no need and they have so many, by SIAN BILLINGTON sible to a modern audience than the comings and goings, and incoming re ective. She gives an absolutely original. Instead of begrudging Krog- President Alma Nordstrand gave a stunning performance and she will I don’t take the advice that hen Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s stad for using his given name at work, delightfully warm and sentimen- hopefully be an equal delight in the comes for free from Facebook, House  rst premiered in Nor- the update instead implies that Helm- tal performance as Anne, the aging future. I don’t care if weeks or months Wway in 1879, it played to a er is uncomfortable with Krogstad due nursemaid to the family. Megan Haf Jamie King’s performance as Dr Rank have come before the last, sold-out audience throughout its en- to them previously being on “intimate was wonderful as the desperately is equally stellar. In a surprisingly  am- The time that it took too long tire  rst run. BEDS’s  rst show of the terms”, only reinforcing Torvald’s deep cunning Krogstad, and Calee Sears boyant and comic take on a typically to leave the guy that broke your second semester, directed by Alec Tu- discomfort around the women in his gave her best performance to date in gloomy character, King brings the heart, dor, certainly upholds that stunning life whom he cannot control. Despite BEDS as the childhood friend to Nora, perfect modern take to the man who With wayward words and com- legacy. misgivings, the update was not un- Christine. Sears plays excellently o cannot wait to die- a postmodern look pliments that never seemed to A Doll’s House is a di cult play by all welcome, and very interesting to see. the con icted nature and  ightiness on the same, depressing outcome. come, accounts- hefty expositional dialogue When asked for comment, Tudor said; of Nora (Chloe Watson), bringing a Notable is the scene where the good Cigarettes and disappointment at a crawling pace, with the domestic- “Despite many challenges and dif- cynicism and bitterness to the part doctor staggers into the Helmer’s  nally gone, ity of the Victorian middle-class dra-  culties encountered throughout, I’m with a deep sense of regret- though  at with a rainbow feather boa and You’re ready to be free and so ma that can feel alienating to modern pleased to see this production come not without a comic touch. Sears has a bottle of Old Mout- and transitions am I, audiences. Despite the play’s pitfalls, to a good end. Despite many objec- always had a talent for the silent re- seamlessly into contentedly announc- Tudor has managed to escape the po- tions from people regarding adapting action, and it was on full display here ing his upcoming appointment with I take myself to conversations, tential for this classic play to become this play, I am still by the belief that if as she observes the dysfunctional death, in a coded but sad conversa- Try to  nd the smile behind dif- a long drag of petty squabbles. One of it were to stay in the 19th Century, it Helmer family dynamic. In one scene, tion with Nora, declaring, “Next cos- ferent coloured eyes, the more interesting directions taken would mean that the societal prob- they way she radiates silent judge- tume party, I shall be…invisible.” But Who sing Harmoniously ‘There was to update the time period of the lems that it communicates would stay ment against Nora’s obliviousness to nowhere is King as great as when then is plenty of  sh in the sea’, I hope play- which was not without contro- in the past. It would be lie to claim the feelings of family friend, Dr Rank say, “not to be able to leave even the versy. In 1879, it was unheard of for misogyny is not as turbulent as it was (Jamie King) is palpable, and her re- most wretched token of gratitude be- a middle-class wife to leave her hus- in the past, as every day in the world alism opposite the earnestness and hind; hardly even a passing sense of Spring Cleaning band to “ nd herself”, and it is thought there is a Nora in tears and Nora in exuberance of the rest of the cast is a loss; only an empty space, to be  lled that this is what cements the play in open revolt against such hate.” breath of fresh air. by the next corner.” The tired pathos of by HOLLY PECKITT the dramatic canon. In the modern Whilst one very much must praise Special mention must be made to this statement brought genuine invol- day however, 42% of marriages end the direction of Tudor, along with the Chloe Watson and Jamie King as Nora untary tears to one’s eyes. It is said of Dust peels away from my lungs, in divorce, and it was thought that an e orts of assistant director and stage Helmer and Dr Rank. Watson espe- art that it anything that invokes a re- update of the setting would cheapen manager Jade Taylor, the stellar cast cially is remarkable, being almost action- and even though that reaction like charcoal, building in the bitter- the ending of this classic work. Whilst of both BEDS regulars and newcom- never o stage throughout the whole may have been a personal one- there many of the changes in dialogue were ers must also be acknowledged. It is ninety-minute play. She brings life to was no denying that King’s perfor- ness of winter; purely super cial, Ibsen’s dramatic a testament to Barnaby Omar’s act- an exceptionally complicated char- mance was anything but art. core of a woman struggling to  t with- ing ability that one leaves the theatre acter who is equal parts childish and All in all, this has been one of, if not the black gathering of dark nights in the constraints of her role as a wife genuinely wanting to punch Torvald mature, desperate and resolute. Wat- the, best BEDS show of the year. The and mother still shone through. For in the face, as he gives an infuriating son portrays the complexity of the tech by Ayesha Hesketh was deftly now swept away with a instance, an update to the relation- performance as a sleazy, controlling character as if she was her, and her handled despite rigging di culties, husband who does not acknowledge mounting frustration and pain as the the text was interpreted in a perhaps ship between Torvald Helmer (Barn- clean hand, breathing in the newly- aby Omar) and Niels- now Nicole- his wife’s personhood. Newcomers Al- play enters the third act is exception- not new, but important way, and the Krogstad (Megan Haf) was extremely ice Williams and Gwen Dien brought ally tense. Watson takes the character cast delivered that text with marvel- stitched colours of spring. welcome, and far more comprehen- a sense of wider scale to the world from  ighty, to desperate, to terri ed, lous performances guided by dedi- of A Doll’s House via their constant to judgemental, to apathetic and self- cated directing. SEREN | May Issue 2019 65 CREATIVE CORNER Artwork By ArtSoc

by Ailish Harker by Jenny Bray by Anna Monnereau

by Laura Labno

Photos by Lloyd Gri th 66 SEREN | May Issue 2019 CREATIVE CORNER

Zoe Faiers ronically, this is the most di - who have contributed? Jimena Alcala cult issue I’ve done since joining Here’s to all of them, and here’s to Emily Davie Seren. It’s not that I don’t know you for reading this! ALEC I Daphné Genatio where to get my content; I have Hannah Eccles the bene t of receiving emails and Creative Corner Contributors Masuma Payamon constantly getting contacted by Poets Elisabetta Engel students about what they create. TUDOR Ryan Stephen Wright Lois Parry I’ve gotten some experience, Charlie Whiteside Niamh Fretwell know the ins and outs of typing R.D. Wilson Sonja Reinke up things on a page and make Muhammad Fadzil them look good; that’s not it. I’m Tessa Ast Prose been thinking how to end this year CREATIVE CORNER Emma Richards Phoebe Castle for the Creative Corner; a section Erin A. Louis which has brought to light much of Holly Peckitt Photos this student community’s creativ- Lloyd Gri th SUB-EDITOR ity, and has allowed many writers, Artwork Jade Taylor artists and creators to have their Anna Monnereau work published and received by Laura Labno Interviews & Reviews peers. So what better way to end Ailish Harker Sian Billington [email protected] this than shine light on all those Oli Taylor INTERVIEW: Susan King - Animation

by ALEC TUDOR team, animating for them. lymation; her Youtube channel’s quite graphics, and I told him that I got a Build up a portfolio with your sort of successful and she’s an animator who job in it and he was really pleased animations and stick a bunch of them usan King is just  nishing her How was the experience? uses the same software as me, and I’m about that, so I’m submitting some on Youtube. I’ve chosen Youtube for third year undergraduate de- It’ was good! I really enjoy animat- quite inspired by her. animated work to him so he can put portfolios because it’s big. It’s really a Sgree in Creative Studies with ing. It really helped doing that module it in some sort of creative corner for good place to start. the School of Music & Media. Earlier last semester because of all the skills I Do you want to go forward Bangor University. You might start to get yourself no- in March, Susan did an animation for learned from that that I’ve applied to into animating for such chan- ticed. Always keep your eye out online the Youtube channel Psych2Go video this job. It’s a bit hard at the moment, nels as Psych2Go? Any new animations with Psy- as well. I saw where they were recruit- called “5 Reasons Introverts Like Being because I’ve got my dissertation and Yes, I really do! I really like what ch2Go? ing animators on Facebook, so always Alone”. other modules, and I’m currently they’re all about; it’s really something I’m working on a video on relation- keep your eye out for animation jobs working on a bigger project for Psy- I support, and I feel lucky to have been ship mistakes at the moment. There’s and just go for it. When did you start animat- ch2Go. Once I get my university work chosen to animate for them. I do think quite a lot to do for that; that’s just ing? out the way, it’ll be a lot less stressful. it’s really good what they do. sort of relationship advice, what not Any other advice? I did a module called Animation & to do, how to make your relationship Always keep your eyes peeled for Motion Graphics last semester. It was What are your favourite things Do you want to try other forms work. work opportunities. You’ll  nd if you the  rst time I’ve ever done any ani- about animation? of animation? I’ve already been given the script do animate for a channel, they will mating. I did quite well; I got a lot of I like drawing it all up; I always liked I don’t know yet, it’s a bit too early to and the audio  le, and it’s going to give you credit, and you will get no- A’s. So, at the beginning of this year I drawing and things like that, and think about it. I don’t even have that be called Ten common relationship ticed; I got noticed by another You- saw an advertisement on Facebook bringing things to life with animation much experience animating, I’d just mistakes. It says all the things, like you tube channel after I animated for where they were looking for anima- is just really really cool. like to see how it goes, really! shouldn’t take your partner for grant- Psych2Go. I do think it’s quite tough tors to join their team and animate for ed, and it will be completed soon! to get that  rst notice; you’ve just got this Youtube channel, Psych2Go. I ap- What are your favourite ani- Do you keep in touch with your to keep trying, keep building up your plied for that, and I had to give them mations? lecturers? What advice would you give to portfolio, and hopefully it will get no- a snip of animation, and when they I like quite a lot of di erent anima- I talked to my lecturer the other day; students who might be interest- ticed and you’ll  nd something. liked that, I completed my  rst project tions. I quite like a Youtuber called il- he taught me animation and motion ed in going animation? for them and then I was part of the Beth welwch chi nesaf? What will you see next? Cyngerdd Lleuwen Seann Gala Diwedd a’r Band Blwyddyn Romeo + Cywion Cranogwen Walsh Neuadd Prichard-Jones, After This One, Prifysgol Bangor a Juliet I’m Going Home 30 Mai, 7.30pm £5 myfyrwyr End of Year Gala Concert Prichard-Jones Hall, Bangor University 30 May, 7.30pm £5 students

Theatr Bryn Terfel Theatr Bryn Terfel 10 Mai 10 May Theatr Bryn Terfel 4 Mehefin 4 June 7.30pm 7.30pm 15 Mai, 8pm 15 May, 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm £11 myfyrwyr £11 students £11 myfyrwyr £11 students £15 myfyrwyr £15 students

Shakespeare’s Circus SINEMA Abyssinia Gareth Bonello CINEMA Globe Ethiopian Dreams PONTIO BANGOR Georgia Ruth ar Daith on Tour Toby Hay

Avengers:

Theatr Bryn Terfel Theatr Bryn Terfel Theatr Bryn Terfel Endgame 3 – 19 Mai May 7 Mehefin 7 June 5-7 Gorff 5-7 July 19 – 23 Gorff 19 – 23 July 8pm 8pm £7.50 - £18.50 £10 myfyrwyr £10 students £6 myfyrwyr students £10 myfyrwyr £10 students

Cofiwch y gostyngiadau arbennig i fyfyrwyr! Check out the student discounts on special events!

Ponto Seren Mai 2019 340x265mm.indd 1 02/05/2019 10:48 68 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SOCIETIES Best Of Societies Coverage We’ve had a great time covering your society events this year, here’s some of our best shots! Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - SODA

Bangor Pride - LGBT+ Society

Undeb Bangor Variety Show FilmSoc Showcase SEREN | May Issue 2019 69 SOCIETIES Holi Colour Party - Rosencrantz And Indian Society Guildenstern Are Dead - BEDS

UniBrass 2019 - BUBB

The Importance Of Being BU Jazz Band @ Menai Earnest - ROSTRA 70 SEREN | May Issue 2019 VOLUNTEERING Headway Volunteering Project YHA Residential Volunteering At Bryn Gwynant e have been successful in securing funding for a to- Wtal of £5,000.00 that is to be split between the two projects, Head- way Healing Gardens and Headway Friends from The Drapers' Charitable Fund. We are extremely grateful for the support and this means we can open us the befriending service to more members who live in Gwynedd and Mon. We will be able to fund the disa- bility accessible path in the allotment in St Mary's, Bangor, where we have an allotment with HOGSOC (horticul- tural society). The Drapers’ Company has evolved over the years to achieve a new rele- vance through its philanthropic work. We regularly review our approach to grant making to ensure our activities remain suitable for the modern world and make a real di erence to the lives of people in the 21st century. Cemlyn Project by KA NAM SIU

he Cemlyn project is a mental health volunteering project run- Tning in collaboration with Stu- dent Volunteering Bangor and Cefni Hospital in Llangefni, Anglesey. This project is relatively new compare to other volunteering projects run by SVB, but it is de nitely just as reward- ing! Cefni Hospital is a centre dedicated for older people with memory impair- ments, mainly dementia and provides support for them such as assessments services, treatments and inpatient service on site. This project is quite  exible. There is no speci c date and time to visit the ward, so it can be dependent on your own schedules, as long as you let the sta know beforehand. Our sessions mainly involve spending time at the ward with dementia patients, running activities, or just simply having a chat with them. As the patients there are mainly elderly, you will  nd it fun talking to them and listening to their stories. I still recall a patient who was in the police force before and he shared with me the whole afternoon talking about how he solved a case. He also shared how he feels about being in the ward, su ering from de- mentia and how we, as volunteers are by, JOLYENE LEOW ing two days’ worth of work on an area We had a good mixture of interests noon, but our evening meals were a able to make his day when we come behind the main house, where we re- among the group, that would always delight with Baz and Luke as our des- visit. He has moved to another ward n 8th April, seventeen Bangor moved an insane (INSANE!) amount lead to interesting conversations (and ignated chefs! After evening meals, now (we both cried on his last day University students met out- of brambles and giant branches, lay secrets; looking at you Lynn). most of us would chill in the dining before moving out) but I will always Oside Pontio, ready for our week down a gravel footpath, remove moss Aside from the ‘working’, we had free area together, and either play card remember him as a friend of mine! ahead volunteering at one of the YHA from surfaces (where we met some time in the evenings where some of games or chat. All in all, it was a won- These people remind me of why I sites in Snowdonia. We left in two Un- new crawly friends), scrubbed clean us would go down to the lake (a few derful week, where the people there started to do Psychology, and how I deb mini vans, where we headed to the ‘story circle’ and existing slate for a quick dip) or just enjoy being de nitely bump up the rating of this developed my passion to help peo- Tescos to get groceries (and lots of pathways, created bug hotels, toad among nature. experience, for me at least. ple. This is literally the reason why I snacks) for the week. It was only a 45 abode and  ower beds. There was no cell service, and WiFi Finally, thank you to all our volun- love this volunteering project; it is minute drive along the lush greenery The place looked completely dif- was only available at the main build- teers; Bazil Shahriman, Luke Earn- so rewarding not only to us but also until we reached YHA Bryn Gwynant. ferent at the end of our time there, ing, so it was a great opportunity shaw, Lynn Tan, Elliot Grundy, Bran- the patients there, and you de nitely Being truthful, the site looked a little and it was a good feeling to know we to unplug. On one of the nights, we don Craven, Sreya Chattopadhyay, learn a lot from it! di erent from the pictures, nonethe- had a part in beautifying it. Through made a bon re, where we gathered to Kimberley Stanford, Kathryn Admans- In addition, we also work along less the advertised view of Llyn Gw- all this ‘adversity’, everyone immedi- make s’mores and enjoyed the clear White, Nicole Cawthorne, Grace Leon- with ABA (Applied Behavioral Analy- ynant was accurately beautiful. Over ately bonded, and it felt like we were night sky full of stars. We even had an ard, Catarina Barreirinho, Holly Portz, sis) Master students, so you will get the next few days, we did a variety of friends for months. unorthodox way of putting out the Amber Khan, Zoe Hall, Lucy Hudson, a chance to learn more about ABA as work from painting radiators to plant- I mean, we all did look especially at-  re (thank you Elliot for your contribu- Kayleigh Hunt and not forgetting well as dementia. It is a great opportu- ing potted plants to getting rid of old tractive and cool in our hi-vis vests, tion; and good e ort Baz), which had Ruth Plant for probably already mem- nity to learn more about the how it’s furniture and basic ground clearance. orange gloves and holding various us pissing ourselves laughing. orising the route to and from the site. like to be in a ward environment and The highlight was probably spend- garden hand tools. How can we not For food, we made our own respec- the daily life of dementia patients. want to be friends with each other? tive meals in the morning and after- SEREN | May Issue 2019 71 VOLUNTEERING What A Year Ty Llwelyn by CARYS HYETT AND ALISYA ciate our visits and the time we can BOYRAZ dedicate to them, even if they don't join in the activity of the day, they y Llwelyn is a volunteering pro- always come and say hello and ask It Has Been ject which provides service users about our weeks. As there is a slight Tat a medium security psychiatric negative reputation of the ward in ward, with regular rest-bite and activi- the local area, it's important that we ties. Our volunteers visit the ward on change this and show what a support- a weekly basis to carry out activities ive environment it is for the service such as arts and crafts, games, basic users and how this will bene t the lo- cooking and seasonal exercises. We cal community. provide friendly conversation for the It's a really great project to volunteer guys at the ward and a nice change of for and can help to prepare volunteers face to their usual daily routine. for a number of caring roles in the fu- It is really rewarding to volunteer ture. If you would like any more infor- here as the service users really appre- mation please contact the SU or the project leaders.

My Journey In Sbectrwm Project

by JOLYENE LEOW met there, Maisie, Amelia, Conor and Andy were de nitely people I looked hen I was in year 1, I was up to and aspired to be. looking for an opportunity to Fast forward, I have had the oppor- Wkeep myself busy through- tunity to serve as a Project Leader for out the year by volunteering. In my 2 years now, and the experience I’ve mind, I thought, well the safest thing gain here can’t be described in words. is to volunteer with children right? The children that I’ve come to meet They’re innocent, adorable, fun, prob- and love in this project, seeing their ably wouldn’t remember or take to developmental and social growth has heart if you accidentally did some- been so heart-warming. A little girl by JOE GRAHAM raising money to help fund the pro- pen and the support of the incredible thing wrong. who used to hide and cling on to her gram. Whilst these events have been Undeb Bangor Team. The other thing I found myself applying for the mother every time she walks in now rom Canine Calming to Runder- running behind the scenes RAG has that makes it happen is the generos- Sbectrwm Project, not really knowing runs ahead of her mother bursting pants, First Dates to the Kiliman- been working with Bangor's amaz- ity and kindness of Bangor Univer- what to expect. I was really intrigued through the doors to greet us, a non- Fjaro Trek, the RAG team have had ing Sports, Societies and Volunteering sity Students, without which RAG as coming for a rather conserva- verbal boy who is able to use his com- a busy year and it looks like they're projects to aid them in any way they wouldn't be a success at all. tive culture, I have to admit that I’ve munication book to tell me ‘Thank only just getting started. needed to do incredible work fund- The VP award for Volunteering 2019 never really spent time before with you’ or ‘I love you’ after I give him a Bangor RAG, the fundraising and raising for charity. was given to RAG at the Societies and children with special needs. The label biscuit, a mother who tells me that her charity section on Undeb Bangor, Once the new year came around Volunteering awards dinner in early Autism is something I hear and read 5 year old boy had never asked to go has taken every opportunity to raise RAG carried on strong with Bangor's April to recognise the great year they about, or even seen videos about, but anywhere before now looks forward money for some great causes over the First Dates matching up students over had and they're looking to do it all I don’t personally have any  rst-hand to our project session every week. past academic year and has worked Valentine's Day helping people  nd over again next year. The goals they experience. I had my interview, and These experiences have been one of to bring the importance of these love (if not then certainly friendship) set themselves were smashed at every it dawned on me how this was not a the greatest thing this project has giv- causes to student attention. Head- and all for the great causes that stu- opportunity all from the dedication of casual kind of ‘work’ as I heard about en me; which is the realisation that I way Gwynedd & Mon, Hope House, dents voted for! The Three Peaks team their volunteers, each of which, as stu- the mandatory DBS check, the Safe- want to do this for a career. No doubt, St John Ambulance Cymru and Alz- got to work following the great exam- dents, may not have been in the po- guarding training, and the Autism there’s been challenging moments, heimer’s Society were the charities ple the Kilimanjaro Team set this time sition to give their money but recog- Awareness training. I left the inter- but that just provides an opportunity students chose for this year, each a fundraising for Meningitis Research nised that giving their time through view, thinking I did not make much for personal growth in managing and worthwhile cause in their own right Foundation, working hard to reach volunteering was as valuable if not of an impression and probably would solving it. but together, giving RAG something their goals in half the time challenges more so. not get the place as I seemed a little Being awarded ‘Project of the Year’ truly great to work for. usually have! As we look to what they will be do- too inexperienced. To my surprise, I again this year gives all the passionate Taking on The Poppy Appeal for Not long after that the pier was ing next year with a fresh commit- was o ered a volunteering role which volunteers in this project the recogni- Bangor at the start of the year started crowded with people in their brightly tee, the excitement they show to get I accepted gratefully. tion of their hard work and commit- them o with a bang raising almost coloured funky underwear for Run- stuck in  lls those leaving with hope I remember how nervous I was in ment. I am ever grateful to be work- £6,000 over the 2 weeks, and the pace derpants round 2. With an even bigger that RAG will not only develop on in my  rst session. The project does a 1 ing with such a good bunch this year, didn't seem to slow down. Once the turn out this year for Nerve Tumours the way it has been but speed up and child to 1 volunteer ratio, and in my whom I have learnt so much from and Kilimanjaro Trek Team was set they UK, the mile fun run, followed by a trip grow to be a RAG recognised for its mind I was freaking out about being will de nitely miss when I leave. So, got to work fundraising over £100,000 to Tap and Spile and Academi, was a innovation and hard work not just in placed alone with a child. But turns thank you to my other Leaders; Lou, for MIND with bucket collections, great way to show what RAG can do Wales, but throughout the UK. All stu- out I was to shadow for the  rst cou- Caitlin, Ali and the volunteers; Amor, bake sales and everything else they and round o the events for the year. dents are encouraged to get involved ple of weeks, which I breathed a sigh Kyra, Ellie, Pippa, Silvia, Kate, Jasmin could think up, never stopped their RAG has had amazing successes with volunteering as it's one of the of relief. I soon realised how di erent and April who have made my last year amazing work. throught the year raising over £11,000 many ways Bangor is an exemplary the children were, despite holding the in Sbectrwm so great! Canine Calming came back to Ban- for their charities, only made possible University, and RAG seems to work to same label of ‘Autism’. It de nitely took Lastly, a shout out goes to all the gor once again helping students to by the great position it was left in from bring laughter, great experiences and time, but I soon eased into the role. other volunteers from other SVB pro- take a break from their university the year before, dedicated volunteers amazing charity work under the roof The people in the project de nitely jects who have hearts of gold, making work and relax with some of the cut- working tirelessly to make it all hap- of Undeb Bangor. contributing making this experience a di erence in the Bangor community. est guide dogs in North Wales whilst more than just ‘work’. The seniors I 72 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SEREN STATS STATISTICS

NumberUndeb Cultural Fair 2018 Bangor Remembrance 2018 BUOf Dance Winter Showcase Issues: 7 Pictures of Undeb Bangor’s cultural celebration FREE 100 Years On - Bangor Remembers The Fallen FREE Photo compilation of the night’s performance FREE Page Halls scoop Page AU Match Page Statistics 52 award 9 Reports Inside 60 spread inside Page 5 Bangor Win Accommadation Award Page 4 AU Focus Fixture: Ultimate Frisbee Page 53 Seren Sexual Violence Survey Results

October Issue 2018 November Issue 2018 December Issue 2018 Issue No. 272 Issue No. 273 Issue No. 274

seren.bangor.ac.uk seren.bangor.ac.uk seren.bangor.ac.uk @SerenBangor Y Bangor University Students’ Union English Language Newspaper @SerenBangor Y Bangor University Students’ Union English Language Newspaper @SerenBangor Y Bangor University Students’ Union English Language Newspaper Bangor University Tackling Sexual Violence Bangor University To Cut £5m Bangor March To Reclaim e Night

VICE-CHANCELLOR by FINNIAN SHARDLOW No Grey Area will also focus on In November 2017, Bangor University “ e clear guidelines published o ences including, but not limited highlighting the de nition of sexual appointed a Student Equality and by UUK encouraged Universities to to, sexual assault, sexual harassment, “Don’t give up. Keep ghting. We are de ant,” says Mark Barrow, Vice-President for Education ndeb Bangor are launching violence according to the University’s Diversity O cer, Helen Munro, based develop a range of reporting options. stalking, rape and domestic violence. It EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW a campaign to tackle sexual policy. within the Student Support Team at Bangor students can report the matter doesn’t have to be physically violent and FULL violence at Bangor University. A No Grey Area campaign video will Student Services. e focus of Helen’s formally or just access support. Our indeed lower level sexual harassment by FINNIAN SHARDLOW sexual violence to students. old females are the most likely to be raising awareness about sexual violence U e campaign, No Grey Area, will be released. It will feature numerous role is to provide a specialised central response is always led by the student.” such as cat-calling in the street or being “Protect the student experience at all costs,” says Vice-Chancellor John G. Hughes Mark Barrow, Undeb Bangor’s Vice- e ected.” a er the current campaign has  nished. launch on November 26th. ere will students and members of sta who, support contact for sexual violence, Students can choose to formally report touched by someone, inappropriately, FULL ver one hundred students at- President for Education, was a leading Although self-de ning women led the “ ere is no grey area. e university also be a march to accompany the besides from giving advice to people harassment and hate crime. She is incidents of sexual violence to the police also constitutes sexual violence. tended Reclaim e Night – a  gure behind the planning of the march, the event was open to everyone, has a zero tolerance policy on sexual FEATURE campaign called Reclaim e Night, who may have experienced sexual trained to receive disclosures of sexual and/or to the University so that, where A report by e Student Room found by FINNIAN SHARDLOW also mentioned as a reason for these However, Hughes says further cuts unions. Plaid Cymru’s Sian Gwenllian peaceful march in protest of march. and was fully inclusive. violence so it’s important that people designed to reinforce the message that violence, will make it explicitly clear violence and provide support to those appropriate, action may be taken under that, nationally, 62% of all students have cuts. will need to be made to secure Bangor’s AM expressed “huge concern,” INTERVIEW sexualO violence which took place on A er the march, he said: “You’re never Reclaim the Night began in Leeds, know there’s help out there,” said Mark women, in particular, can walk the when to report it. a ected. She can also advise students their Disciplinary Procedures. Reports experienced sexual violence. angor University are aiming to 50 jobs are at risk as compulsory long-term future. maintaining that the university must November 29th. really sure, especially with the weather, in 1977, as a response to women in Barrow, VP Education. INSIDE streets completely safely at night. In October 2016, the UUK Taskforce on the various reporting options and can also be submitted anonymously, if e report found that only 6% of make savings of £5m. redundancies are not ruled out. “What we’re doing is taking prudent avoid compulsory redundancies. e march, organised by Bangor how many people would come along. West Yorkshire being advised to stay “Don’t give up. Keep  ghting. We Vice President of Education, Mark (Universities UK) published a report support them through those processes. that is the students’ wish. students who experienced sexual Sta received a letter from Vice- In the letter, seen by Newyddion steps to make sure we don’t get into a In an exclusive interview with Seren, INSIDE University Students’ Union (Undeb But I’m really happy with the turnout, indoors, due to murders carried out by are making a stand to work towards Barrow, has said: “ e campaign is noting that universities didn’t always Helen told us that “work carried out Helen Munro added: “Not all violence report it to their University or BChancellor, John G. Hughes, warning 9, Prof. Hughes said: “Voluntary serious situation.” Hughes said that students should Bangor), started at Bangor Clock so thank you to everybody that came.” the ‘Yorkshire Ripper’. making sure that people aren’t a ected PAGE 4-5 just the start. e Student Union will take a coherent and systematic in this area since 2016 has meant that Universities have a full-time member the police. of impending “ nancial challenges” redundancy terms will be considered Hughes added: “ ere was a headline not feel the e ects of cuts, and that PAGE 4-5 Tower and continued through the high He added: “It’s been a long time e march exists to demand justice by sexual violence going forward.” consistently confront sexual violence. approach to sexual violence across their the University can build on the very of sta dedicated to the prevention and Students who may be a ected by facing the institution. in speci c areas, but unfortunately, in  e Times about three English instructions have been given to “protect street before ending at Pontio Arts and coming. So it’s been great to see so many for victims of rape and sexual assault. Students who may be a ected by “I’ve realised that it is a massive whole institution. excellent pastoral support already support for sexual violence, harassment any of the issues raised in this article  e letter cites the demographic the need for compulsory redundancies universities being close to bankruptcy. the student experience at all costs,” Innovation Centre. people tonight. Hopefully it’s made a It will state that women should be able any of the issues raised in this article problem at Universities generally, and UUK recommended that universities available to students by ensuring that and hate crime and the work we’re can contact Student Services for decline in 18-20 year-olds which has cannot be ruled out at this stage.” An important point is that Bangor is especially in “student facing areas.” It was Bangor’s  rst Reclaim e big impact and got people talking about to walk the streets at night, without fear can contact Student Services for Seren also spoke to John G. Hughes have seen many things in the media to had visible reporting mechanisms in approaches are co-ordinated and sta doing here at Bangor University is con dential advice and guidance. impacted tuition fee revenues as a  is letter comes 18 months a er nowhere near that. We have a relatively Night event since April 2016 and is the issue. or reality of violence. Such marches con dential advice and guidance. about the school restructuring, corroborate this. I therefore wanted to place for students, and sta who were are trained and supported to respond progressive.” Tel: 01248 38 2024 major factor. Bangor University announced cuts small problem, but it could become a a part of Undeb Bangor’s campaign “I want people to take away that it’s an thereby give women a chance to reclaim Tel: 01248 38 2024 administration and nancial try and raise awareness and help in any appropriately trained and su ciently e ectively to all reports of sexual e umbrella term, Sexual Violence, Email: [email protected] Increased pension provisions as a of £8.5m without making any sta big problem if we don’t deal with it.” against sexual violence, which aims to ongoing battle and that it can happen to the streets of their towns and cities. Email: [email protected] transparency. See more: Page 4-5. way I can.” aware of the support available. violence. refers to various di erent sexual result of the previous year’s strikes is redundant.  e university will be consulting trade clearly communicate the de nition of anybody. But, particularly, 16-19 year Undeb Bangor vows to continue

LIVED IT, LOVED IT LIVE IN ONE OF OUR AWARD WINNING Live in one of our Book online now! COME BACK TO IT STUDENT VILLAGES NEXT YEAR IT’S SIMPLE! BOOK ONLINE NOW! NO WORRIES award winning student WWW.BANGOR.AC.UK/MYROOM HALLS villages next year Halls, notj ust NO PRE-PAYMENT YOU KNOW IT MAKES SENSE! for year FROZEN FEES FROZEN FEES* your UNTIL JANUARY 2019! LOVE NO PRE-PAYMENT* *UNTIL END OF JANUARY First # COME HOME Number Of Pages Per Issue FRESHERS OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER FEBRUARY MARCH MAY ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: 40 56 56 64 64 64 80 Number Of Articles Per Issue FRESHERS OCTOBER NOVEMBER DECEMBER FEBRUARY MARCH MAY ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: ISSUE: 65 134 123 137 122 115 113 Seren’s Team 2018/19 809 Articles Written, 987 Working Hours, 424 Pages, 158 Contributors, 25 Members Of The Editoral Team. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS BEEN PART OF SEREN THIS YEAR! SEREN | May Issue 2019 73 SEREN STATS STATISTICS 4,269 Pages 4065 Likes 1943 Video Likes (Up Across Views From 3,637 105 Posts September 2018) Up To 800 All Social Media Average Monthly Followers Accounts: Reach: 10,389 (Up From 300 People September 2018) @serenbangor 51,454 Website Hits Since September 2018 Varsity 2019 Redundancy Fire At 2825 hits Article Pontio 1839 hits 1666 hits Vice Chancellor Cuts To Chemistry To Retire Your School Cuts 1631 hits 1426 hits 1409 hits

Events Covered: 58 Individual & Team Honours Photos Taken: 3,301

VP Award For AU Open Award Societies National Societies Award Nominees ‘Best Media Society’ Gold Award: Silver Award: Finnian Shardlow Corie Shorrock 397 Alec Tudor Arron Williams Attendees Paige Brook 74 SEREN | May Issue 2019 VARSITY ROUNDUP ABER 15 - 28 BANGOR Archery American Football ABER 12 - 7 BANGOR Athletics ABER 0 - 18 BANGOR BANGOR WIN Badminton (M) 2nd Badminton (M) 1st ABER 3 - 5 BANGOR Badminton (W) ABER 1 - 7 BANGOR ABER 4 -4 BANGOR Basketball (W) Basketball (M) ABER 34 - 38 BANGOR Cheerleading ABER 67 - 52 BANGOR ABER WIN Cricket (M) Climbing BANGOR WIN Cricket (W) BANGOR WIN BANGOR WIN Dodgeball Dance ABER 2 - 0 BANGOR Equestrian ABER 1039 - 994.5 BANGOR ABER WIN Fencing (W) Fencing (M) ABER 129 - 95 BANGOR Football (M) ABER 114 - 105 BANGOR ABER 0 - 6 BANGOR Futsal Football (W) ABER 3 - 11 BANGOR Hockey (M) ABER 0 - 5 BANGOR ABER 3 - 2 BANGOR Karate Hockey (W) ABER 4 - 20 BANGOR Lacrosse (M) ABER 0 - 3 BANGOR ABER 3 - 13 BANGOR Mountain Bike Lacrosse (W) ABER WIN Netball 1st ABER 16 - 0 BANGOR ABER 39 - 52 BANGOR Octopush Netball 2nd ABER 7 - 1 BANGOR Rowing ABER 35 - 59 BANGOR ABER 1 - 4 ROWING Rugby Union (M) Rugby League ABER 27 - 0 BANGOR Rugby Union (W) ABER 26 - 28 BANGOR ABER 30 - 22 BANGOR Snow Sports Sailing ABER 4 - 3 BANGOR Squash ABER 47 - 33 BANGOR ABER 2 - 3 BANGOR Swimming Surf ABER 10 - 15 BANGOR Tennis (M) BANGOR WIN ABER 5 - 7 BANGOR Ultimate Frisbee Tennis (W) ABER 5 - 15 BANGOR Volleyball (M) ABER 3 - 5 BANGOR ABER 1 - 2 BANGOR Volleyball (W) ABER 1 - 2 BANGOR BANGOR WIN VARSITY FOR THE 5TH YEAR IN A ROW SEREN | May Issue 2019 75 VARSITY ROUNDUP Varsity Photo Highlights

Photography: John Farnworth Photography: Matthew Foster & Alec Tudor

Photography: Chloe Glover Photography: Chloe Glover

Photography: Alec Tudor

Photography: Matthew Foster & Josie McInnes 76 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SPORT INTERVIEW: Henry Williams VP For Sport 2019/2020

I am grateful to be where I am, and fully committed to making sport here even more special.

by FINNIAN SHARDLOW AU Dinner been di erent for you? frustrating at times since the elections leaderships styles, I would say Louise a er the election and you’ve What kind of insight has it given to remember I have a degree to nish! and I are extremely driven and focussed got a better idea of what you’re How has watching Louise in the you about all the clubs in the AU I’m really keen to get going with the job, on our goals. getting into – how proud are closing few months of her tenure as a whole? however I have had to be reeled back you to be the AU President? preparing you for life as VP Sport? I love how Louise has been sharing slightly at times to nish my studies. What kind changes are you Personally for me, being successful I’ve been very fortunate not only to a lot of those o cial appearances I’ve been counting down the days to looking to make? in the student elections to become be very close to Louise as a person, with me, such as li ing the trophy my last exam on the 20th May, where I want to continue the great year the next AU president was one of but also to have worked closely with alongside her at Varsity and AU I can nally put all of my focus into we have had and take that positivity the biggest achievements of my life, her throughout the whole year.  e dinner. Public speaking can be a little preparing for September and making straight into the start of next year. I especially when up against three other handover has been straightforward so daunting at times, but thankfully I have sport in Bangor as best it can be! will follow through on my manifesto fantastic candidates. I am immensely far, and I know Louise is always happy grown pretty accustomed to it since points, and importantly always be proud to be an elected representative of to answer any questions ahead of me campaigning! It makes me very proud How do you think you and around for any support students may Bangor University sport, and becoming o cially starting the job on my own. to be a representative of the great sport Louise will di er? need. My overall objective is to leave the AU president was something I I think Louise has been an exceptional here in Bangor. I believe the fact we Aside from not being able to shout the AU in a better position than I found aspired to do since I fell in love with advert for Bangor University sport, and have over 60 sports clubs and have won quite as loud as Louise, I think I will have it, and I believe this can be achieved by the AU back in rst year. Sport has the sense of unity throughout the AU is the whatuni award for best clubs and a stronger focus on commercialisation increasing engagement in sport across been the highlight of my university life, credit to her e orts. I know how much societies for 3 years in a row speaks for and furthering the nancial stability of the university, putting emphasis on and I know that has been the case for pride she takes in her role, and is fully itself regarding how amazing our AU as the AU. I also aim to work closer with student welfare, further supporting our many other students past and present. I committed to making the transition a whole is. societies and volunteering to increase competitive sides, and increasing access am grateful to be where I am, and fully between her and myself seamless. engagement with sport, aside from to sport. committed to making sport here even How eager are you to get going? performance. Despite having di erent more special, and the highlight of more How has appearing in a more Extremely so. It’s been a little personalities and perhaps di erent Now it’s been a few months student’s university experience. o cial capacity at Varsity and the SEREN | May Issue 2019 77 SPORT Rugby Union 2nd’s Force Wrexham To Quit At Half Time A er Scoring 52 Points Past Local Rivals

t was another beautiful day in God’s nally managed to get the ball out out on the half way line Callum Queen lines, attempted a cheeky dive over the score 52-5 at half time. country as Bangor 2nds hosted to their curly haired speed demon, was able to break through on the wing line – his feet didn’t get the message and At this point, Wrexham conceded Wrexham.  e boys knew that this Michael Berry, who glided through the and score for his rst try for the club our curly haired friend ended up with the game and gave Bangor 2nds what wasI the chance to get what we had all Wrexham defence and placed the ball making the score 26-5. From the kick, his face in the dirt, making the score we had been dreaming: the win.  e been dreaming of precious win. over the line for his rst try for Bangor, Bangor attacked in numbers again 33-5. second-half was played with a mashup With a few cheeky o oads from the again followed by another kick from Mr and as a result of a number of great A relentless Bangor attacked in of both teams and was taken more backs and a lot of  air from George Redwood making the score 21-0. carries from Cameron Railton and numbers again and again leading to seriously by some than. Our very own Redwood, this dream became more However, Wrexham fought back and Jack Cornish, Bangor was able to make tries for Alex Narbonne and another for Club Captain Henry Williams managed of a reality. 2 early tries from an in a er a prolonged period of defensive ground on the weary Wrexham defence. Callum Queen making the score 47-5. to bag himself a try, despite his injuries. form George Redwood followed by a play from Bangor, Wrexham managed Following on from this, Michael Berry Towards the end of the half, Harry King Further tries from George Redwood couple of easy kicks put Bangor in a to sneak the ball across the line for was again able to break through the decided to get involved as he turned up and Lewis Pierce saw the second-half comfortable 14-0 lead at only the 10 their rst and only try of the game Wrexham defence leaving an easy run the  air factor and ran past a number come to an end with a score of 10-5. minute mark. However, this was not making the score 21-5. Bangor quickly under the posts, and, a er receiving of defenders. With a dummy o oad, he a one man show as Bangor 2nds had retaliated, as they attacked from a line some encouragement from the side- ran the ball across the line making the Men’s Cricket Hit O Their Season In High Spirts

UCC arrived at Colwyn Bay our allotted 40 overs. This was Metcalfe made a patient 35 and our Zimbabwean overseas Jack tik nished the game o in style nice and early for their 2nd mainly due to a classy 84 not out Joe Harding contributed nicely Karenga led the way (3-10 o 7). with a Hollywood direct hit. BBUCS preseason game of from Sean’s 17 year old Brother with 18. Sharaiz Kazi bowled well for no 2019. The Bay kindly let us bat Owen, who had played as a non- In a tight a air, we bowled Col- reward, before the skipper Reilly rst on a typically good Colwyn student member as we were wyn Bay out for 145, with 3 overs took 3-34 o 8 overs. Jon, Kartik, Bay deck and we put on 155-5 in short of top order batters. Jack to spare. Some gas up front from Nishanth all took 1 before Kar- 78 SEREN | May Issue 2019 SPORT Dominic Knight Taking Frisbee to New Levels With Great Britian U24 ood luck to Dominic Knight who recently made the Great Britain ultimate frisbee squad. GHe will be heading to the U24 ultimate world championships in Heidelberg, Germany to compete in July 13th-20th. He had his trials back in December with a team of 24 players being picked, 12 men and 12 women. Fortunately he played well enough to get picked! It’s still very early days so far, they have only trained 2 times so he is still has no idea where they’ll stand against the rest until they get into some tournaments and start playing Dominic will attend 2 tournaments scheduled before the world championships, Mixed Tour in Durham, England at the end of April, playing against various UK teams. With his 2nd warmup tournament is Talam- paya in Geneva, Switzerland, where he’ll get a chance to compete against other U24 teams from across Europe. With his goal always to win the tour- nament, but it will be hard to dethrone the likes of the USA and Canada, so the dream is to medal in Heidelberg. Bangor Basketball Player Earns MVP In Regionals Bangor Cheerleader ell done to Bangor Basket- tunately they lost 38-62 to Wrexham ball Badgers player Abra- Warriors, but Abraham still managed ham Makanjuola for being to show he class in this game and being Selected For Wales theW MVP, in the NWBA Senior League awarded MVP. game for Caernarfon Kings. Unfor-

his is Sophie Armitage She’s the Paracheer who placed second at the selected for this particular team, and rst Dragon to compete for a ICU Cheerleading World’s today. one of around 65 who get chosen to World’s Team while still cheer- Being on Team Wales really demon- make up Team Wales - long story short Ting with us, and the only Dragon in our strates her strength and talent as she’s she’s the top of the top! We’re so proud clubs history to have represented her been traveling all over Wales once or of her and she did a phenomenal job. country at worlds! twice a month since September to train, She was a side base for Team Wales and is one of around 35 people that get SEREN | May Issue 2019 79 SPORT

Octopush – Hockey, Just Di erent

nderwater hockey, aka Oc- squid, and the goals, two trenches on curling,  icking and spinning, to keep and diverse for everyone who wants can’t be motivated to exercise with con- topush, rst started in 1954 either side of the pool, were nicknamed the puck with one’s own team. to give it a shot. We being a multicul- tinuously draining weekly routines, we in the UK, originating from cuttles. Apart from the name Octo- Amiable training and casual games tural lot, exploring the UK is always on are de nitely your club! Or are you just UPortsmouth. It was invented by the lo- push, all original names have however are o en on the agenda in our univer- the agenda when planning for tourna- interested and want to meet new people cal Sub-Aqua club to keep their divers been lost over time. Apart from that, sity club, although once in tournament ments. Each year we mix up the loca- and try out something new?  en that t during winter, and soon caught re the game gets played with mask, snor- spirit we do tend to get a few occasional tions and have explored from Aberdeen is certainly us! worldwide, spreading to South Africa, kel and ns, as well as mouth guards, fatalities, especially when other teams up north to Plymouth in the south, as At Octopush, fun is guaranteed; and Canada, Australia and the Philippines hats and gloves used as safety measure- show their best shot and pucks acceler- well as numerous other sites such as that tint of crazy uniqueness. We are af- amongst many others.  e name Oc- ments. Both teams, nowadays teams of ate up in the water column. Oxford, Coventry, Liverpool and New ter all, the only sport in which the coach topush came as it was originally an 6, start at either edge of the pool with At Bangor, the competitiveness usu- Port – sightseeing naturally not only shouts at you for breathing. 8-player sport, with the short stick used the forward sprinting to the puck when ally ever only peaks when racing to being restricted to the poolside. for handling the puck being called a the signal gets given. A er that, the aim the shower - with training, matches If you are keen in water sports, but pusher.  e heavy puck starting in the is to sink the puck into the opponents’ and various games thrown together to nd swimming too monotonous, we’re centre of the pool was referred to as a trench using various techniques such as loosen up the weeks and make it fun your club! If you want to keep t, but Powerli ing: 15 Atheletes Taking Nationals By Surprise

he Hard work put into train- captain, Hannah Graham, wasn’t sup- ing, and making weight has - posed to be compete due to injury, but nally payed o , with all 15 of our ended up making the last minute de- Tstrong li ers giving it their all and abso- cision to compete on the day without lutely smashing it the British university training for months. With full support powerli ing championships. from the rest of the squad she accom- Even despite some injuries and missed plished an outstanding total of 302.5kg, li s, PBs have been made and records landing her 4th and just 5kg away from have been broken. taking a spot on the podium, despite Luke Cummings broke the under having to sacri ce her squat to pre- 93kg university bench-press record vent any increased injury. Despite this with an incredible 172.5kg. Edrick Ve- she still has the highest wilks score in licaria managed two unexpected PBs her weight category under 84kg. Even granting him 3rd place on the podium though she didn’t win on paper, she in the under 59kg weight class. Club won in our hearts. Bangor University’s Students’ Union English Language Newspaper

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Bangor Karate Union Martial Artist Quali es For European Championships Theo Shoebel will compete in European competition after Bronze Medal at BUCS Nationals

by TANYA RILEY meant that he had quali ed for the screaming and hugging by everyone that we all cherish. of a summer ball ticket. Keep your eyes European Championships that will and of course the tears of joy.  e Moving forward the club has already peeled for the event on the AU page he Bangor Karate Union (BKU) be held in Zagreb, Croatia during the success was made even more emotional held one fundraiser which raised £200, and come down for a fun night and the started the year o the back of a summer.  is was an achievement that by it been attained on the clubs 3rd year as well as setting up a go fund me chance to win some awesome prizes. few successes from the previous had always appeared impossible for the anniversary. page.  ese are to help raise the funds  e backing from the rest of the AU Tyear. However, the team had lost many club.  e competition at BUCS is of I’ve been asked by many, since then, if needed to cover the costs of attending and university throughout the BKU’s of its members through graduation but an extremely high standard and for a I ever thought, when I started the club, the Europeans for  eo and coach, as development, from a club with barely were determined to make this year the club with comparatively inexperienced would we be where we are now. I can well as the purchasing of specialised 10 members that no one had heard of, best yet. coaches - compared to universities say that never in my wildest dreams did kit needed at higher competitions. to what we have become this year, is  e new committee made the who had coaches with titles, 30yrs+ I imagine that when I opened the club, Additional funds will be put towards one that means a lot to everyone who ambitious decision to attend mores experience and are severely higher more for my own bene t, that it would the cost of attending additional is a part of the BKU.  e support from competitions and the new BKU squad graded - appeared almost impossible to grow into what it is now. I can also say competitions in preparation. everyone, throughout the club’s new did not disappoint, gaining a total of 26 medal in. that if you had told me 3 years ago that As a nal push before the year nishes endeavours has been immense and we medals (7 gold, 8 silver and 11 bronze)  e feelings and emotions that lled I would be taking one of my members and a little exam distress, the club is are thankful to all of those who have from 3 competitions. However, no one the club a er the timer rung and  eo to Croatia for the European University holding a pub quiz night, with ra e and supported us thus far, both within the in the club expected what happened had won are indescribable. It is a Championships I would have certainly tombola at Belle Vue on Monday 13th club itself and those not a part of it. next. At the BUCS Karate Nationals, moment that I feel everyone who was called you mad.  e club is more than May starting at 6.30pm, with the quiz  eo achieved a bronze medal.  is there will remember for a very long what it started out as and more than beginning at 7pm. Last year this event time. I can still remember the cheers, just a Uni club… it is a family and one was a huge success and had a rst prize

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