Bangor University Accommodation Best in UK

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Bangor University Students’ Union April 2016 English Language Issue No. 254 Newspaper FREE @SerenBangor seren.bangor.ac.uk NEW SPECIES OF LEMUR VARSITY 2016 COACHELLA FASHION

Bangor University Accommodation Best In UK by EMILY RIMMER port, silver for courses and lectures, Professor John G Hughes, the Uni- this year’s Whatuni Student Choice If you would like to get involved and which was up from seventh last year. versity’s Vice-Chancellor, welcomed Awards. Student experience is such an keep Bangor University on it’s win- he 14th of April saw the ‘Wha- e biggest award of the night was the news saying: “ is is the second important aspect of university life, we ning streak visit the Whatuni website tuni Student Choice Awards’ winning gold in the accommodation year in a row that Bangor University are really proud to play a signi cant below: come round for another year. category. has won a national Whatuni Award. role in it for both current and future http://www.whatuni.com/awards T e awards were hosted in London Ken Gri th, Head of Residences, I’m delighted that the University students.” with special guest presenter and co- said: “It has been a tremendous team has again won a category award, and median Jimmy Carr announcing the e ort over the last few years as we have achieved top ve placings in a number results on the night. also opened our new St Mary’s stu- of other categories. is win re ects e awards are special because they dent village, increasing our portfolio our focus on providing an excellent are voted for by students and only stu- to nearly 3000 rooms. What is impor- education and all-round student-cen- dents. is year over 25,000 votes from tant is that our high quality and ser- tred university experience. I’m grate- 125 universities were veri ed, making vice standards have been maintained ful to our students for their support, that 5,000 more votes than last year. throughout and that our students have and very pleased that they appreciate Overall, 39 universities were o cial- acknowledge this with their voting. their time in Bangor. I would also like ly nominated into categories that re- We are well placed to give next year’s to thank all our sta for their fantastic ect the aspects of student experience intake the best student experience in e orts.” including: city life, student support, their halls.” e Whatuni awards follow on from clubs and societies, accommodation, Bangor also placed forth for clubs another successful year for Bangor international, student union, univer- and societies, seventh in the interna- University with the university retain- sity facilities, course and lectures, job tional category and tenth for univer- ing it’s title of ‘best in Wales’ and one prospects and nally university of the sity facilities. of the top ten universities for student year. Bangor was nominated in seven One of the highlights of the awards satisfaction in the National Student out of the ten categories with each cat- has to be reaching the number four Survey. egory consisting of 10 nominees. spot for university of the year. We have Simon Emmett, Managing Director Bangor University swept up winning risen three places from last years re- Whatuni.com, added: a total of three awards on the night. sults when we nished as seventh best “Bangor University has had a strong Review collection for the 2017 Wha- Prof. Carol Tully (Pro Vice-Chancellor -Students) & Jeanette Wilson (Accommodation Manager) Bangor won bronze for student sup- university in the UK. endorsement from their students in tuni awards are already underway! Nos Wener 29 Ebrill, 8pm Nos Sadwrn 7 Mai, 7.30pm Nos Fawrth 10 Mai, 8pm Friday 29 April, 8pm Saturday 7 May, 7.30pm Tuesday 10 May, 8pm Off The Kerb Productions yn cyflwyno Cerddorfa Symffoni Comedy Central Live yn cyflwyno Off The Kerb Productions presents a Chorws Prifysgol Comedy Central Live presents Russell Kane – Bangor Danny McLoughlin Right Man, Wrong Age Bangor University George Lewis Symphony Orchestra Theatr Bryn Terfel & Chorus Nathan Caton Stiwdio/Studio £16 Neuadd Prichard-Jones Canllaw oedran 15+ Prichard-Jones Hall Age guidance 15+ £10/£8 £12/£10/£5 myfyrwyr a gostyngiadau dan 18 oed a myfyrwyr students and concessions under 18s and students Caniateir diodydd yn y stiwdio yn nigwyddiadau Comedy Central Live. Oedran 16+ Drinks are permitted in the studio at Comedy Central Live events. Age 16+

Nos Fercher 11 Mai, 7.30pm Nos Wener 13 Mai, 8pm Nos Wener 20 Mai, 8pm Wednesday 11 May, 7.30pm Friday 13 May, 8pm Friday 20 May, 8pm Pedwarawd Llinynnol Cabaret Pontio yn cyflwyno Off the Kerb Productions yn cyflwyno Allegri Cabaret Pontio presents Off the Kerb Productions presents String Quartet Bella Jeremy Theatr Bryn Terfel Hardy Hardy £14/£10/£5 Theatr Bryn Terfel Theatr Bryn Terfel myfyrwyr a gostyngiadau students and concessions £14/£12 £14/£5 myfyrwyr a gostyngiadau di-waith students and concessions for the unemployed Canllaw oedran 15+ Age guidance 15+

Ponto Seren Ebrill 259x340.indd 1 12/04/16 08:12 April Issue 2016 | Seren 3 CONTENTS 14 9 35

EMILY RIMMER EDITOR-iN-CHIEF [email protected]

is month we saw Bangor University win in a landslide victory, 25-13 against Aberystwyth in Varsity News 4-6 2016. I can honestly say I am so proud to be a part of Bangor on Comment 7 40 such a monumentous day for the university and for the students who Politics 8-9 put in so much e ort throughout Science 10 the day to make it a win for the university. We saw a huge turn out in Environment 12-13 students this year to cheer on all the sport teams. Union 14-15 Seren was there again this year covering all things Varsity, keeping Societies 16-17 you up to date on scores and the latest action from all the games. We Breaktime 19 had a great day running around Feature 20-21 Bangor and experiencing all the di erent sports (as most of us had Lifestyle 22-23 no idea of the rules to some of the sports). We had 18 reporters covering Fashion 24-25 for Seren who were live tweeting and updating the scores as they TV 26-27 happened. Of those reporters we also had a team of photographers who Film 28-29 took a massive 5,600 photos onthe Music 30-31 day. e day was rounded o with sunshine and a cider at the Bangor Gadgets 32-33 University football stadium to rally 22 33 on the men’s football team, who did Travel 34-35 us proud by beating Aberystwyth 2-1. It is fair to say it has been a chaotic Sport 36-40 couple of weeks leading up to this issue as dissertation deadline are looming ever closer. I can o cally rub it in all the other third years faces 24 and say mine to nally out of my hair and I couldn’t be happier. But I wish all of you the best of luck with yours and hope you get the results you want. Seren still has one more issue in May which will be lled with events like the Seren Business Awards, AU dinner , SU dinner and the 30 anticipated Summer Ball. As the academic year is coming to a close we will soon to holding our annual AGM in which we elect our members for next years team. If you want to be apart of Seren next year the AGM will be on the 5th May in PL2 at 6:30pm. We are also holding a recruitmenmt day on the 27th April to get people familiar with Seren and what we do, so if you are thinking of joining Seren please come along and talk to us :) I would like to wish everyone the best of luck on their revision for the exam period approaching!!

THE TEAM CONTRIBUTORS ----- Dan Turner Sian Taylor Editor-in-Chief Emily Rimmer Gadgets Editor Christian James-Watkins e views presented hereina er L.J Turner Jess Ramanouwski Deputy Content Editor Kayla Jones TV Editor Annie Patel do not represent the views of Seren Morgane Viala Rebecca Steele News Editor Marine Dessaux Film Editor Seb Ellis Bangor, Bangor Students’ Union or Emma Debney Charlotte Howe-McCartin Deputy News Editor Morgane Viala Music Editor Finnian Shardlow Bangor University. Tiarna Armstrong Ana Khan Politics Editor Adam Barnes Fashion Editor Hannah Youd ----- Joe Heaford Sash Deacon Comment Editor J.P. Bebbington LIfestyle Editor Emma Jewkes Claire Duncan Kirrie Moore Science Editor Jack Greenhalgh Food & Drink Editor Heddwen Bethan Creaney Archery Committee Lewis Angel Environment Editor Azat Kalybay Travel Editor Bethan May People and PLants Society Connor Teeling Books Editor Jordan Glendenning Sport Editor Joe Caine Gadgets Editor Jamie Tompsett Charlie Wilson #254 4 Seren | April Issue 2016 NEWS “ is Bangor Girl Can”

by MORGANE VIALA which celebrates active women up and such as Olympic athletes Jessica Ennis is Girl Can. England identi ed that it is fear of down the country who are doing their or Victoria Pendleton, might not be Sport England looked into various judgment that prevents many women n Wednesday 27th April at thing no matter how well they do it, the best way to encourage normal pieces of research by universities and from doing exercise. 12.00, to celebrate ‘ is Girl how they look, how red their face gets, women because their tness levels other sports foundations. ey found “Any woman will tell you about the Can’, Canolfan Brailsford will or even how sweaty they get. and physiques are seen as completely that 2 million fewer women are regu- internal dialogue that goes on in her beO o ering a day of free sport for all Catching slogans such as ‘Don’t be unachievable. larly participating in sport or exercise head, particularly when she thinks female Bangor, students and sta . A afraid to be a beginner’ or ‘I swim be- Instead, they took to the ground to than men, despite 75 per cent of wom- about sport, exercise and getting t”, selection of is Girl Can posters fea- cause I love my body. Not because I ‘streetcast’ ordinary women to front en aged 14 to 40 saying they’d like to said Sport England CEO Jennie Price turing Bangor students have been cre- hate it.’ Or even ‘Don’t let anyone tell the campaign. e seven chosen are do more. at the launch of is Girl Can. ated and will be released between now you’re not trying hard enough’. aged between 14 and 51, and will be- A er a lot of research with focus and the day. Sport England realised that typi- come a new type of ambassador for groups and having talked to many is Girl Can is a national campaign cal role models for women in sport, women in sport as well as the faces of ordinary women on the street, Sport Pontio being checked a er safety fears emerge by MARINE DESSAUX by Miller, one week ago. “We do not anticipate problems sim- Council Leader Cllr Andrew Burns ilar to those experienced in Edinburgh angor’s new art center, Pontio said: “Edinburgh Schools Partnership but appropriate checks are being is the subject of checks a er have today been unable to give the undertaken.” Scottish schools construct- Council su cient guarantee that the Local politicians also shared their Bed from the same builder partially schools and other premises are safe to opinion. Arfon MP Hywel Williams collapsed. open on Monday. said : “Were there to be any problems, it Miller Constructions, later acquired Clearly we have every right to expect would be a matter for the construction by Galliford Try, is Pontio’s builder. these schools to have been built to a company to put it right immediately.” It is also responsible for previous wa- good standard and in accordance with Local county councillor for Deiniol, ter damage and the late opening of industry practice. We now know this Gwynfor Edwards, added: “ When the building. And it happens to be isn’t the case.” there were delays, I had major con- the building company that caused 17 However, Galli ord Try explains that cerns about the project. Scottish schools to close for safety Pontio and these schools are complete- “If anything does go wrong then it reasons. Indeed, in January of this ly di erent projects with no connec- will be up to the developer to put it year, a wall collapsed at the Oxgangs tion. A Bangor University spokesman right.” Primary School in Edinburgh. e insisted that every e ort is being made Galli ord Try was already respon- City of Edinburgh Council said there in order to secure the building. He sible for close to £1m extra cost for were “uncovered new issues relating to insisted that Pontio is a high quality Bangor University due to water dam- the school’s construction.” As a conse- standard building and is submitted to ages and a late opening. quence, Edinburgh Council ordered proportionately high levels of inspec- the closure of 17 schools constructed tion. He said : North Wales Police Crime Commissioner Elections choosing not to run for a second term Other Candidates running in the restorative justice approaches to pun- the Police and Crime Commissioner by JOE HEAFORD was elected. On April 19th Bangor election but unable to attend are Matt ishment which prioritise rehabilitating has surrounded the role since its crea- n May 5th you’ll be asked to University’s School of Social Sciences Wright (Conservative) and Simon o enders and giving the victim a say tion in 2011. e law is vague on who vote for the North Wales Police hosted a debate open to all students as Wall (UKIP). in justice. should do what, but candidates at the and Crime Commissioner an opportunity for the candidates to Policing issues covered by the candi- Another important issue brought up debate went along ready with their whoO will represent you by scrutinising speak to students about how they will dates at the debate included creating at the debate is the voter turnout at own ideas about what they hope to the work of North Wales Police and represent the people of North Wales. Safer Communities so that the people the 2011 election where 17% of vot- achieve. making decisions about how the police Not all candidates were able to attend feel safe outside of their home, tackling ers actually cast a vote for a candidate. More information can be found on will be funded over the next four years. but Julian Sandham (Independent), anti-social behaviour so that minor of- Similar gures were seen throughout the candidates at choosemypcc.org.uk is is the second PCC election David Taylor (Labour) and Arfon fending does not spread into a wider England and Wales, bring into ques- where the pledges and manifestos for held in England and Wales the rst Jones (Plaid Cymru) were able to ad- problem, highlighting the widespread tion how much the candidates elected all the candidates standing in police was held in 2011 when current North dress students and sta , taking their issue of child abuse and domestic truly represent the views and wishes of forces across England and Wales are Wales PCC Winston Roddick who is questions on the issues important to violence by ensuring that victims are those they represent. available. them. given the support that they need, and Contention around the purpose of April Issue 2016 | Seren 5 NEWS In Brief Love Bangor’s Food Bank Donation Scheme LOVE Bangor’s latest project is the food bank donation scheme. With the support of NUS we have been able to place donation baskets in 10 locations throughout the University. e food collected from the Univer- sity will go to those currently experiencing food poverty in the local area. All goods are donated to the Bangor Cathedral Food Bank which donate food packs to those who have been assessed and in turn, received food vouchers. If you would like to donate, we have a list of much needed items below. Leave the products in the basket and we’ll do the rest! Have you seen the baskets in your department? If you haven’t and would like one, then please let us know and we’ll see what we can do! For details on what you can include in the baskets and the location of the Bangor Internaional Students set to Double baskets, please refer to our webpage. University forms ‘Bangor International College’ with Oxford International angor University has recently embedded college within the Bangor Vice Chancellor of the university, research rated as either ‘world-leading’ signed a ten year partnership University campus and will teach the John Hughes said: “as a university or ‘internationally excellent’, students deal with Oxford International rst stages of a range of undergradu- with a strong international focus, we can be assurd that studying at Bangor BEducation Group. e partnership ate and postgraduate degrees for look forward to working with Oxford Universiy through this partnership will be known as ‘Bangor International the intrnational students at Bangor International. e partnership to cre- will have access to the best of the UK Walker attacked College’ and based in Oswalds University. ate an International college at Bangor higher education.” Building Bryn Haul on Victoria Drive. e partnership is expected to dou- will bring the University’s excellent de- e partnership represents the third by dog on e Oswalds Building used to hold ble the amount of current internation- grees to wider audienecs of studnets. such collaberation agreement within the Bangor University Students’ Union al studets here at Bangor University e University provides an excel- UK universities. Along with with De Glanrafon Hill before it moved its o ces to the Pontio within the next four to ve years, start- lent standard of teaching and student Mountford University in 2014 and A man has been arrested and bailed building on Deniol Road. e Bangor ing with an intial intake of y intera- care. With research informaing our Canturbary Christ Church University a er a dog walker was assaulted in International College’ will stand as an tional students in September 2016. teaching annd ver three-quatres of our in 2015. Bangor. DC Gwyn Williams at Caernarfon CID said “At about 12.30am during the early hours of Sunday 10th April, Arson res on Bangor Mountain a 29 year old local man was walking his dog in the Glanrafon Hill area of Bangor when he was attacked by a man with whom he had just engaged in conversation. His injuries were serious but not life-threatening. e assailant is described as a white male in his early 40’s with dark hair and wearing grey tracksuit bottoms with a blue stripe down the leg and a white top. Police revealed a man has been arrested and bailed pending further in- quiries. O cers are still keen to track down a group of students who had been playing with the man’s dog moments before the attack. DC Arwel Hughes said: “Our investigation is very much still ongoing, and we are particularly keen to speak to a group of students who were on Glanrafon Hill at the time. ey would have seen or heard something and we urge them to come forward and assist Wales Fire and Rescue service. e “We will not tolerate deliberate grass bring them under control, which in with our investigation. by MARINE DESSAUX cause was found by the police to be de- and mountain res that not only lead turn delays re ghters from attending “We are also appealing to anyone olice appeals were launched af- liberate ignition. Insp Andy McGregor to the destruction of the mountainside life threatening incidents. else who was in the area at the time or ter two res were set on Bangor said: and wildlife, but which can also put Anyone with information relating who knows anything about the assault mountain in the night of March, “A joint investigation has been lives at risk whilst re crews are deal- to these res should contact Bangor to contact Police and help us piece to- 22nd.P About 80sq meters of gorse launched into the cause of the res and ing with needlessly set res.” Police Station on 101, quoting refer- gether exactly what took place.” was torched, creating huge ames we are appealing to members of the Kevin Jones, Arson Reduction ence RC16041246. Alternatively, call that could be seen from Bangor high public who may have information as Manager, added: “Deliberate res Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 street. e res happened between to how the res started or who might place tremendous pressure on resourc- 555111. 6.30 pm and 9.20 pm and required the have witnessed any suspicious activity es, with our crews being committed for intervention of two crews from North relating to the incidents.” a considerable length of time trying to 6 Seren | April Issue 2016 NEWS Chess for Charity

by MARINE DESSAUX doing for 24 hours. is is because it Gilham, the former society’s president. importantly, raise some money for and we raised the most money we ever requires a lot of mental concentration “At the time we thought he was crazy, worthy causes.” had for charity! We had nearly all our he Bangor University Chess which, even a er three hours of play- but it was actually a very fun event and e event was a success for the tired club members attending the event, Society ran a 24-hour chess- ing, was fading considerably. Quite of- a highlight for the society that year, re- but very satis ed chess club members. a few new faces, and even a few peo- marathon event to fundraise ten at times some of us would need to calls Andrew Smith. Indeed, the amount raised by this ple from the local North Wales Chess Tmoney for charity. is meant an op- take extended breaks for an hour just “What I particularly liked about do- year’s event reached £220. An amount Leagues who wanted to show their portunity of playing chess from 12 pm so we could recover mentally. Despite ing the 24 hour event, three years ago, which will be split between two lo- support. I would like to personally on Saturday the 16th to 12 pm Sunday all the challenges of doing a 24 hour was that it was a chance for the current cal organisations: ‘Hospice at Home’, thank everyone who came along and the 17th. Everyone was invited to just event, we knew that the end result members to come together and enjoy the community in Gwynedd and showed their support and I hope we come along and play a few games and would be that we would raise a lot of the game of chess. I have a particu- Anglesey, and the North Wales Junior can raise even more money next year!” to donate. money for charity. With this in mind, larly fond memory of a small hand- Chess Association. For those interested in joining the “ e main reason we did a 24 hour we knew that we had to keep playing!” ful of us playing chess at 4am in the “It was exhausting but worth it”, says chess society, weekly meeting are event is because it is very di cult but Around 30 people followed this in- morning. Despite being sleep deprived Andrew Smith. “I must say at 3am in from 7pm on ursday and 6.30 very rewarding, says Chess Society vitation, and a few even stayed for the and exhausted we were still having the morning moral was pretty low. All pm in G1. Further information on President Andrew Smith. entire event, continuing the tradition a good time playing chess. I wanted of us were simply too tired to function https://www.facebook.com/groups/ “Chess is incredibly hard to keep established three years ago by Robin to relive those experiences but, more properly. However, we pulled through bangoruniversitychessclub/. Syrian Refugees to nd home Bangor University win in Anglesey ‘Employer of the Year’ award

Police, DVLA and Traveline Cymru to by LJ TAYLOR win the award. angor University won the e ‘Womenspire Awards’ are a new ‘Employer of the Year’ (Public initiative which aims to recognise the Sector) award, this week at the contribution made by women across over the next few years. According to Community Council has been ex- by LJ TAYLOR BChwarae Teg ‘Womenspire’ awards. Welsh society and to inspire future Home O ce reports, priority would tremely positive and bodes well as we e award comes a er the university generations of women to achieve and nglesey is likely to become be given to those families with chil- look forward to welcoming these fami- increased e orts to commit to gen- prosper. home to around ten Syrian dren of primary school age and the lies into our communities” said Anwen der equality which has led to more “We are so pleased with the rst refugee families over the next UK government is expected to fund Morgan, assistant chief executive at women in senior positions across the Womenspire awards and it’s been great Athree years. the cost of housing the families. is Anglesey council. institution. to hear from people on the night and Councillors from the island are would include covering any education “We will, of course, continue to work “We’re delighted to win Employer a erwards that everyone really wants set to meet on Monday (25th April) and health costs for the rst year. with our partners to ensure a co-ordi- of the Year, as we’ve worked hard at it to become an annual event. If Wales to discuss taking part in the Syrian Both Menai Bridge and the nated and e ective approach and joint the University to review women’s is really going to make the most of Vulnerable Persons Relocation Scheme Llanfairpwll area have been identi ed commissioning of support services for development across our activities, women’s contribution to the work- (SVPRS) and it is expected that they as the best locations to accommodate these families where necessary” she from the promotion of senior sta place we need to highlight the chal- will give the proposal the green light. the families, due to their proximity to continued. through to providing encouragement lenges women face and celebrate those Should Monday’s talks go favour- the multi-cultural area of Bangor. In September the Prime Minister, to girls to study STEM subjects” said organisations and people who are do- ably, then around 10 refugees would “ e support already shown by lo- David Cameron, announced that the Lyn Meadows, Director of Human ing great work to overcome them” said be expected to arrive on the island in cal county councillors and both Menai UK will commit to welcoming 20,000 Resources at Bangor University. Joy Kent, Chief Executive of Chwarae the next 4-6 weeks, with a further 20 Bridge Town Council and Llanfairpwll refugees by 2020. Bangor University beat South Wales Teg. April Issue 2016 | Seren 7 COMMENT

INSEREN ON OR THE EUROPEAN OUT? QUESTION

s you are doubtless aware, there has been much debate on the European Union and the UK’s place within it of late. Both sides are eager to succeed, utterly convinced that their side is correct and that the other might as well be a death sentence. We at Seren are not here to decide which one is correct, we only hope to show you what Aeach side has to say and let you make that decision for yourselves. You may think it doesn’t concern you, but this is an issue that can a ect every part of your life. Be sure you have a say in what these e ects can be. The only thing we ask of you is that you register to vote (it takes all of ve minutes at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote, so do it now before the deadline on the 8th June) so that your voices can be heard in the referendum on Thursday 23rd June this year. by J.P. BEBBINGTON “Stay” “Leave” the EU budget, containing all the contributions by ANNIE PATEL of ‘Make America Great Again’, the ‘Let’s take by FINNIAN SHARDLOW from member states. In 2014, spending was €142.5 ever did I ever think that in my adult back control’ slogan suggests its EU overlords are he European Union, debunked in 400 billion. However, a small proportion was unac- life (though I’ve not been one for long) prohibiting us from functioning at maximum ef- words. With NO opinion, just facts. counted for. Failing to give the budget a clean bill I would agree with David Cameron and ciency. e truth is these “scary foreign people” e Democratic de cit is the most un- of health, the European Court of Auditors (ECA) Nwant to stay in the European Union. aid to our economy as we do to their country in Tknown and yet directly corrosive element of the found that 4.4% was ‘mis-spent’. It is suggested a As a student studying Spanish, the rst argu- the EU budget. Although our contribution is a EU. e way in which it operates is in direct oppo- portion of this is a result of fraud. ment that comes to mind about Brexit is the mo- big number (£13 billion last year), leaving the EU sition to national democracy. e European Com- On jobs, the remain camp tend to say that a bility of the people. How hard would it be for me would cause a nightmare for trade relations, one mission, the executive body of the EU, implements Brexit would leave 3-million people instantly job- to move around Europe as a citizen of a non-EU that could take years to negotiate. And what do and formulates new legislation for member states. less. Not true. ese jobs are not linked to EU member state? Well rst of all, leaving Europe we do in the meantime? Should British business Not one of its 43,000 commissioners are elected, membership, they’re linked to trade, and leaving would make it more expensive in terms of cur- relying on exports just sit patiently and twiddle they are appointed. Essentially, that’s 43,000 peo- would not immediately decline trade. So concern- rency exchange, ights...etc. Also Spain, being their thumbs whilst losing money? Of course not. ple – who no ordinary citizen voted for – respon- ing unemployment, it’s relatively impossible to the home of one of the biggest British expat com- Why ruin a good thing that we already have with sible for an estimated 50% of UK legislation that propose any concrete number. munities, would su er. An exit would mean that the EU? Why stir the pot? comes from Brussels. And if we don’t like the laws? Trade will NOT end with EU states if we leave. British expats living in EU member states would e attractiveness of the UK economy to for- Tough. Despite British MEP’s opposing more EU (a) Article 50 dictates that, upon withdrawal, con- be thus considered ‘illegal immigrants’ as Domi- eign investors and the Financial sector, which re- legislation than any other nation, our in uence is ditions of the EU can remain the same for up to 2 nic Grieve has previously stated. It would take too lies heavily on the existing legislations in the EU minute. We possess less than 13% of votes with- years. (b) Countries such as Norway and Iceland long to apply for visas, and upon entry of an EU market, would su er greatly as a result of leav- in the EU Parliament. Upon leaving the EU, we – who are not member states – have Free Trade country, one would have to prove the right to live ing the EU. For students, your future depends on would be solely responsible for the laws that gov- Agreements (FTA) with the EU. An FTA would be in said country. staying in the EU, whether you stay in the UK or ern Britain. Resultantly, placing more importance a distinct likelihood considering we are the EU’s One of the bene ts of being a member of the not. Please make sure you vote to stay in the EU on General Elections. Your vote would be worth largest single export market, larger than China, European Union is its mobility of labour. I fear in June’s referendum. double its current value. Russia and the US. is would open up the pos- that the Vote Leave campaign are targeting those Can we all collectively agree though that spend- In 2015, the UK government contributed sibility of arranging trade agreements with emerg- who are uneducated about the EU situation and ing millions of pounds on lea ets for both cam- £13-billion into the EU budget. Our return from ing world economies such as India or UAE. ese bring out the race card, saying that all these [in- paigns is ridiculous? that investment was only £4.5-billion. So, actu- deals would have been previously unattainable as sert European community] are taking all our ally, Britain makes a net loss of £8.5-billion. at’s all 28 member states must agree on its bene t to jobs to impose fear. Essentially the UK version £23-million a day. at £13-billion is included in the Union. 8 Seren | April Issue 2016 POLITICS e Panama Papers 2016

arly April saw the release of the abuses that have been revealed. of Prime Minister for an unspeci ed as having been clients of Mossack Guardian. Whilst investigations have the Panama papers, millions Some of the information revealed by time.” Fonseca. e families of around been taking place within a number of documents that showed the the Panama papers included a $2bn Our own Prime Minister David eight current and former members of of linked countries the Paris meeting wealthE of celebrities, world leaders trail that led to Russian president Cameron has also come under China’s supreme ruling body have also is seen as a way to develop a global and politicians around the globe. An Vladimir Putin. Alongside Putin scrutiny a er he admitted that he been found out as hoarding hidden strategy to crack down on previous estimated 11.5 million les, total- other national leaders included Nawaz had pro ted from his father’s Panama wealth o -shore. Closer to home in and future o enders. Juan Pablo ling 2.6 Terabytes, were leaked with Sharif, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Ayad o -shore trust. e Prime Minister the UK, six members of the House Bohoslavsky, the UN’s independent information from over 80 di erent Alawi, ex-interim Prime Minister of admitted to owning shares in the of Lords, three ex Conservative MPs expert on foreign debt and human countries all from the database of the Iraq, Alaa Mubrak, Egypt’s former tax haven fund with wife Samantha and several dozen British political rights, has stressed the need to end tax world’s fourth biggest o -shore law president’s son, Petro Poroshenko, Cameron from January 1997 but were party donors have been revealed to secrecy in the wake of the leaks he said rm, Mossack Fonseca. e Leak is Ukraine’s President and Sigmundur sold in January 2010, several months be hiding mass amounts of wealth “Tax evasion destroys trust in public the biggest in world history with its Davíð Gunnlaugsson, former Prime before becoming Prime Minister, for o -shore. One key gure released institutions and the rule of law, and 2.6 Terabytes of data dwar ng previ- Minister of Iceland who stepped a pro t of £19,000. When asked why from a partner of Mossack Fonseca shrinks the scal space for investing ous leaks such as WikiLeaks 1.7GB in aside on April 5th due to widespread he sold his shares Cameron claimed claimed; “Ninety- ve per cent of our in public healthcare, education, social 2010, the Luxembourg tax les 4.4GB protests over the revelations revealed he; “because I didn’t want anyone to work coincidentally consists in selling security and other goods and services. in 2014 and the HSBC les 3.3GBs in in the Panama papers. One Finnish say you have other agendas of vested vehicles to avoid taxes.” A claim that is Public funds that are essential to 2015. An anonymous source from the protester, Steingrimur Oli Einarsson, interests”. Our Prime Minster also sure to fuel the res of the campaign guarantee economic, social and German newspaper Süddeutsche Zei- whilst expressing delight over the admitted to not knowing whether or calling for stricter regulations over a cultural right to all are robbed from tung obtained the records before they stepping aside of Gunnlaugsson also not the £300,000 he inherited directly lack of ethics. the people.” When interviewed by the were shared by the International Con- expressed disappointment over the from his father had bene tted from e reaction towards the leaks Guardian. sortium of Investigative Journalists to Finnish parliament not dissolving due the tax haven status. John Mann, has been overwhelmingly negative In response to the leaks Mossack the BBC and the Guardian. Whilst the to the leak; “Of course we’re happy the Labour MP and member of the and as such tax investigators from Fonseca has “denied any wrongdoing” papers haven’t released any unlaw- Prime Minister had stepped down. But Treasury select committee, called for 28 di erent countries met in Paris and claimed that as a company that ful information, as there is nothing we are not satis ed with who is taking the resignation of Mr Cameron stating on Wednesday 21st April in order to have acted “beyond reproach for 40 unlawful about using o -shore com- over from him, and with the fact that he had “Covered up and misled.” launch an international inquiry on the years and that it has had robust due panies, they have raised the question the government itself is still there.” Twenty three individuals who have papers. Involved tax authorities have diligence procedures.” about whether o -shore tax havens A spokesperson for Gunnlaugsson been linked to supporting regimes stated that they will “Work together are ethical and if more restrictions stated that the Prime Minister was not in Russia, Iran, Syria, Zimbabwe and to analyse information revealed by should be placed on them to restrict resigning but “Handing over the o ce North Korea have also been revealed the documents,” as reported by the Osbournes March 2016 Budget highlights Health and Personal Economy Spending, borrowing Housing Transport Education Taxation and de cit and Culture

A sugar tax on the so drinks Capital Gains Tax to be cut from Growth forecasts have been revised A further £3.5bn in cuts by the year A total of £115m is to be spent in an industry will be introduced in two 28% to 20%, basic-rate tax payers will down markedly over the next ve 2020, with spending as a share of GDP attempt to tackle rough sleeping and years, raising an estimated £520m to also see a reduction from 18% to 10%. years. expected to fall to 36.9%. homelessness, with funding expected be spent on funding to promote sport Tax-free personal allowance will rise e growth forecast for 2016 is Debt to be £9bn lower in the 2015-16 to take place in over 2,000 places. in primary schools. from £11,000 to £11,500 by April 2017. expected to be 2%, down from the report, in cash terms. £230m will be set aside to be spent Secondary schools in England will e threshold that people pay 40% 2.4% predicted in the autumn budget. Annual borrowing in 2015-16 is on improvements to roads in the north have an extra £285m to bid for to income tax will increase from the GDP is expected to grow with 2.2% expected to be £1.3bn lower than was of England, including the M62. promote a er school activities. current £42,385 to £45,000 by April and 2.1% forecasted for 2017 and 2018 predicted in November with it being e toll price on the Severn River Plans have been set in motion to turn 2017. respectively. is is however down forecast at £72.2bn. crossings between England and Wales all schools in England into academies Class 2 National Insurance from the 2.4% and 2.5% predicted Public nances are expected to hit a will be halved by 2018. by the year 2022. contributions to be abolished, with back in November. £10.4bn surplus in 2019-20. New rail lines, the HS3 link between £500m will be put forward in a bid government o cials claiming that Despite these setbacks the UK e De cit as a share of GDP is Manchester and Leeds, to be green lit. to ensure “fair funding” formula for this has led to more than three million economy is still predicted to grow expected to fall to 2.9%, 1.9% and Tax relief for museums in an attempt English Schools. self-employed workers receiving a tax faster than any other big western 1% in 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 to boost temporary and touring Compulsory maths lessons up to 18. break. economies. respectively. exhibitions. April Issue 2016 | Seren 9 POLITICS

Johnson attacks on Cameron continue he London mayor has contin- su ciently absorbent for the pur- in Europe are also those who “Claimed remain with the union. Boris Johnson continued a er labelling the Prime ued his attacks on Prime Min- poses to which someone might wish Britain had no choice but to join the was also critical of US President Minister and his ‘colleagues’ of ister David Cameron over his to put it.” Speaking in Newcastle as euro when the single currency was Barack Obama who is expected to “Pretending to be eurosceptics despite Tdecision to spend £9m, of taxpayer’s part of his northern tour, the London introduced and that it would mean back the remain campaign during his loving the idea of a federal Europe and money, on a brochure aimed at help- mayor was critical of those wishing to economic disaster if we failed to do so. visit to the UK; “We are being lectured they do not have a shred of idealism.” ing persuade people vote to remain remain in the EU claiming that their How ludicrous they look now. Why on by the Americans about giving up our Boris also boisterously added that within the European Union as well brochure is just propaganda aiming to earth should we listen to them today?” sovereignty and giving up control the day a er the referendum will be as continued to promote the cam- scare people into staying in the Euro- asked the London mayor. Johnson when the Americans won’t even sign known as “independence day” and paign to leave the Union. e lea et, pean Union. continued by criticising the Union up to the international convention that a vote to leave the EU is a “vote to be sent to every household within Johnson continued his criticisms labelling it as “borderline corrupt” on the law of the seas, let alone the for freedom.” the UK, was criticised by Johnson for of those in the remain campaign and “anti-democratic” as well that international criminal court.” “being full of factual errors,” and “Not claiming that those wishing to remain Britain would be at risk were it to Mr Johnson’s attacks on Cameron

Corbyn’s European Union speech hursday 14th April brought was also keen to urge young voters down on tax evasion, privatising the argue for the kind of socially just EU either in or out”. e overall reception about Jeremy Corbyns attempt to participate in the upcoming refer- railways, and failing to stand up for that I want, and that my party wants, from the Labour party towards their to combat the view that he and endum stating; “You can’t build a bet- the steel industry.” Prime Minister or to walk away.” Before continuing Leaders stance has been positive with This party were not doing all they could ter world unless you engage with the David Cameron responded to with “ at’s the decision that’s been the view being that Corbyn is putting to ght for Britain to remain within world, make sure to register to vote, Corbyn’s claims by saying that both reached, does it mean I recant on his own grievances towards the EU the European Union. Whilst Corbyn’s and vote to keep the UK in Europe in he and the Labour leader disagreed everything I’ve ever said or done? aside in favour of his party’s support speech was not broadcast live it was June.” Before moving onto his main on many things about the European No,” when discussing that Labour had for the European Union. But as is delivered to an audience of Labour point “Leaving the EU would lead to Union but was supportive of Corbyn’s decided, as a party, to remain within the case in politics Corbyn had his supporting students and trade union- ‘bon re of rights.” pro EU stance. the European Union. critics with Ian Davidson claiming; ists in London. In the speech the La- Mr Corbyn moved to criticise the In response to questions asking Former shadow business secretary “Jeremy Corbyn believes every word bour leader talked on various points Conservative party suggesting that about his previous anti-European Chuka Ummuna was very happy with of his speech, but not necessarily in including climate change, workers’ they would dump not only equal pay stance, having voted against Britain’s Corbyn’s speech saying; “I’m delighted that order.” e EU referendum takes rights, and the shortcomings of the but maternity pay rights and annual membership of the European with Jeremy Corbyn’s speech making a place on June 23rd later this year. European Union in its current state leave. Corbyn also received loud Economic Community back in powerful progressive case for the UK’s as well as stressing the importance of cheers by continuing his attack on the 1975, Corbyn simply said; “ is is a membership pf the European Union. tackling corruption. Labours leader Conservatives “For refusing to crack decision about whether to stay in and ere is no middle way – you’re 10 Seren | April Issue 2016 SCIENCE INTERVIEW: DR. PAUL CROSS DR. PAUL CROSS IS A SENIOR LECTURER AT BANGOR UNIVERSITY AND HAS STUDIED A WIDE RANGE OF TOPICS FROM ILLEGAL DRUG USE TO ZOONOTIC DISEASE. A FEW DAYS AGO I MET WITH PAUL TO DISCUSS THE IMPORTANCE OF BRITISH BEES AND HOW BEEKEEPING MIGHT BE BEGINNING TO ALLEVIATE POVERTY IN SUB SAHARAN COUNTRIES.

WHY ARE BRITISH BEES wouldn’t want to export a british bee IMPORTANT? to the italian riviera because they’d “Historically the british bee (apis have the same problem.” mellifera mellifera), was well adapted to conditions particularly in the uk WHY IS IT THAT THEY HYBRIDS (high winds, lots of rainfall, short BECOME AGGRESSIVE? summer, low temperatures etc) and “That i’m not too sure about, and over millennia had adapted to the i’m not too good on genetics, but environmental conditions. However, it certainly seems that the most beekeepers have been importing aggravated form appears two years other races of european bees from after initial breeding. italy, eastern european ect… if you Queens, when they go out to mate, import italian bees they are really mate with about 15 di erent drones, gentle to start with - i don’t want and they store all the collected to stereotype italians, lounging on sperm,which is all mixed up, and the rivera - but they were pretty laid over the course of the following year, back. They have a comparatively or even up to 5 years, the queen lays long season in italy to collect their eggs with this admixture of random honey, so there is no real rush. So genes. That is really hard to control. beekeepers in the uk thought that You can control the queen, and to an was great, ‘let’s have those bees, they extent what she does, but you don’t don’t even sting!’ But when italian have much control as a beekeeper bees mate with the british bees the with whom she mates. That’s the following year you get a bee that is main problem we have. There are relatively lazy, a highly ‘stingy’.” things beekeepers are doing around north wales particularly, whereby “Mainly habitat loss, in part due that raise funds to provide hives and they’re going to have as a yield. SO IT’S THE HYBRIDS THAT ARE you can measure how purebred to urbanisation, but mostly due equipment to the rural poor in sub- They can expand as well. That in THE PROBLEM? your bee is by measuring the veins to agricultural practices. The wild saharan africa. And the reason why essence is why it’s seen as a good “Yes. Some bees actually become on the wing. If you come across a patches and strips within the they think bees and beekeeping is idea. There isn’t a lot of evidence to uncontrollable, they just become colony in your apiary that has a high arable environment are hedgerows, a good item to promote is that you prove it one way or the other that it is absolutely wild, they seem to have proportion of british bee genes, comprising of few tree species need small amounts of land for it bene cial. By measuring the incomes the worst mixture of all the genes. It the best thing for you to do is to (hawthorn and blackthorn), and and it can provide another string to of beekeepers and non-beekeepers, also makes it impossible to arti cially take them to an out-apiary, which is no underlying wild ower growth, the bow of income generation for my two phd students, one in uganda, select for a desired characteristic. So, hidden at the back of a valley where a situation that is replicated across impoverished people. Also the bees and one who’s collecting data at the if you wanted a highly adapted bee there are very few other colonies and britain. So we’ve got all of these are very resilient to any economic moment in tanzania, hope to nd out suitable to these conditions, you’re get them to breed with drones. insects and lots of other species change. It begins with cheapish whether it is nor not. never going to be able to do it if your Is north wales a particularly good trying to eek out an existence on tiny, start-up costs, and comes with the Big charities go out to africa to starting point is a source population place for this? tiny thin and almost redundant strips potential of exporting african honey; promote beekeeping, because for of mongrelised bees. So there’s been South clwyd beekeepers of habitat.” it’s all a bed of roses. The problem is: them it’s quite easy, all they have to a campaign for 50 years or so now, association have been working it hasn’t been rigorously tested as to do is buy a load of beehives, basically but it’s really come to prominence in on this for about 15 years. They SO THERE’S LOTS OF RESOURCE whether or not it produces tangible dump them on a targeted group of the last 10-15 years, about trying to can’t control all the beekeepers OVERLAP BETWEEN INSECT bene ts.” people. And then they can tick all breed back in the british bee, a bee in their area, but they’ve got just SPECIES? their boxes and go away, there’s no that’s locally adapted to its environ- about every beekeeper to sign up “Yeah. Anglesey is terrible, if you IS THIS A NEW IDEA? follow-up and training. I’ve been on ment (ecotype). The beekeepers that to the programme. And then they look at that place, which is forever on “Beekeeping isn’t, but the western a trip around rwanda recently and all have done it have said that those go around and drop new queens facebook producing images of what approach that’s being exported, a you see are these clusters of empty bees are relatively docile, certainly (with strong british characteristics) a great place it is to go on holiday – more formal way of beekeeping, beehives that no one’s using, there compared to anything we’ve expe- into any colonies that are heavily it’s just a bloody insect desert!” is. Traditionally africans collected are no bees in them. rienced with mongrelised versions. mongrelised.” honey from wild nests in the forest, It’s not about patriotism, it’s about HOW IS BEEKEEPING HELPING TO this new approach would allow them ‘racial casts’ if you like, and bees that WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE ALLEVIATE POVERTY? to manage the bees in a controlled are best adapted to the conditions MAJOR PROBLEMS THAT FACE “There are a lot of bee charities way and allow them to predict what they nd themselves in. Similarly I BRITISH BEES? RECRUITMENT DAY

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Bangor University Students’ Union October 2015 English Language Issue No. 250 Newspaper FREE @SerenBangor seren.bangor.ac.uk PARTY CONFERENCES ‘15 FLOWING WATER ON MARS FEMSOC SPEAK OUT EVENT

PONTIO FINALLY OPENS ITS DOORS

After several delays over three years, the Pontio Arts & Innovation Centre looks ready to impress its opening date had been delayed delayed the opening, once more, to C o n w y ”. Bangor University’s Student Union, numerous times. December 2015. Despite the setbacks, Professor Jerry which will move to its new facilities Due to these delays, the projected The delays and rising costs led to Hunter, current Vice-Chancellor of within the building during, or costs associated with the construction criticism from AM Alun Ffred Jones Bangor University, is optimistic about after, January 2016. Student Union of the building have soared above the and members of the local Bangor Pontio’s future in Bangor: “It’s a great president Fflur Elin said of the move: original estimate of £37 million to a community. pleasure to finally share with everyone “Through our new home at Pontio, grand total of £49 million. Jones wrote to the Welsh Assembly the fantastic facilities this building is we look forward to being at the very Bangor University’s then-acting saying that the delays had led to “great going to offer for the general public heart of Bangor University life and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fergus frustration and anger” in Bangor and and students alike. designing a space that works for our by EMILY HOULSTON-JONES Lowe, originally released a statement asked that contractors Galliford Try “It has been a difficult journey, but students and provides them with the in 2010 stating that Pontio would be held to account. now we have created a transformational facilities they need.” he final countdown to the open in the Winter of 2012. Frustration over Pontio has also centre for innovation in science and Pontio will also play host to a range official opening of Pontio has The BBC then reported the reached social media; on the 23rd of the arts in Bangor”. of entertainers, with comedian Russell begun. Tours of the arts and following year that the building would October, BBC Wales reporter Huw Pontio will house several facilities Kane and vocal group Only Men Tinnovation centre are being held until be ready by the end of 2013, but later Thomas tweeted a meme which for both the student and local Aloud being announced as amongst the 17th of November after a three- statements from Bangor University referenced the long-awaited building, communities of Bangor, including those scheduled to perform in the year delay. actually confirmed an opening date of and local writer Rob Mimpriss on lecture theatres, a cinema, a venue. The tours marked the first time the September 2014. Twitter pointed out in August: “It performance space named after Welsh The Pontio website has details of general public have been allowed to It was then further delayed to has taken @BangorUni longer to singer Bryn Terfel, several cafes, and upcoming shows including music, enter the much-maligned structure. October 2015. Finally, a University build #Pontio Arts Centre than it a bar. drama, comedy, and dance and circus. It garnered public criticism after statement on the 23rd of October took Edward II to build the walls of It will also be the new home of Tickets are now available online. WE ARE HOLDING A RECRUIMENT DAY FOR ANYONE THAT WANTS TO GET INVOLVED NEXT YEAR. COME AND GET TO KNOW US AND WHAT WE GET UP TO. THE SESSION WILL BE: WEDNESDAY 27TH APRIL @ 6PM BRIANT COMMON ROOM, FFRIDDOEDD SITE (NEXT TO THE STU- DENT SHOP) SEREN NEEDS YOU!! Seren Members twitter.com/ 2015-16 serenbangor 12 Seren | April Issue 2016 ENVIRONMENT TOP ENVIRONMENT NEWS DIGEST Three new species of lemurs discovered in Madagascar

emurs gained a substantial Despite an upbeat tone of the movie, (IUCN), lemurs are world’s most en- increase in popularity since the reality for lemurs is not too bright. dangered mammals with nearly ninety the rst lm of a well-known About seventeen species of lemurs per cent of all lemurs facing extinction LDreamWorks computer-animated became extinct in the recent past and within the next two decades. franchise – Madagascar was released practically all were larger than remain- Quarter of those hundred species in 2005. e franchise famously fea- ing types, the largest weighing as much of lemur are mouse lemurs. Prior to tured two lemurs: King Julien XIII as 200kg. Today, approximately hun- 1992, we knew of only two species of (ring-tailed lemur) voiced by Sacha dred species of lemurs are described mouse lemurs, but the new genetic Baron Cohen and Maurice (Aye Aye) and according to the International analysis techniques and expeditions to voiced by Cedric the Entertainer. Union for Conservation of Nature more inaccessible parts of the island allowed scientists from the German Primate Center (DPZ), the University of Kentucky, the American Duke Lemur Center and the Université d’Antananarivo in Madagascar to identify three new species of mouse lemurs. is is happening three years a er the same team of scientists described two lemurs of the same species. Mouse lemurs are the smallest pri- mates on the planet. ey are predominantly active during the night, which is probably the reason why it proved so hard to distinguish between dif- ferent mouse lemurs up until genetic tests were applied. us, without the need to develop di erent morphologi- cal features mouse lemurs speciated through evolving various vocal and auditory systems. Madagascar is a hot spot of intriguing research due to its diverse and distinct environment. e new ndings such as these is aimed at bringing us closer to understanding the origins of life on this curious island. World can go fossil free in a decade ransitions are unexpected and started to rapidly in ltrate into our at the University of Sussex says: “ e cost reasons. is time around, there governmental support together with o en happen in a blink of an lives and now we can’t imagine a day mainstream view of energy transi- are additional factors such as resource change in consumer behavior. eye. In two years time, millen- without them. tions as long, protracted a airs, o en depletion and climate change which “Moving to a new, cleaner energy Tnials will be enrolling into universities Presently, there is an unavoidable taking decades or centuries to oc- is combined with advancements in system would require signi cant shi s not only marking the passage of a cen- transition from fossils to renewables. cur, is not always supported by the technology. in technology, political regulations, tury, but also being a generation that e shi seems so challenging and evidence. Among other examples from the tari s and pricing regimes, and the be- grew up on the gadget planet. ings time-consuming to reverse that ex- ere are couple of examples in his- study are Ontario’s swi transition haviour of users and adopters. have changed dramatically since our perts expect it to take decades, per- tory which shows that transitions away from coal between 2003 and “Le to evolve by itself -- as it has childhoods. Not so long ago, Nokia haps a good chunk of this century. But in the source of energy are faster 2014; growth in share of electricity largely been in the past -- this can in- 3310, more famously called a ‘brick’, is it possible they are wrong and the time a er time. For instance, Europe from nuclear energy in France from deed take many decades. A lot of stars was a big deal and a source of jeal- shi is much closer? Authors of a pa- turned to coal from wood in about four per cent in 1970 to 40 per cent have to align all at once. ousy among classmates. Internet was per from the Energy Research & Social ninety-six to hundred and sixty years, by 1982; Indonesia’s switch to LPG “But we have learnt a su cient available in only few places and Wi- Science report that the global energy while electricity was widely adopted stoves from kerosene accomplished amount from previous transitions that Fi was unquestionable witchcra . But sector can go ‘green’ in ten years’ in forty-seven to sixty-nine. In these in just three years involving two- I believe future transformations can then smartphones, laptops, wireless time. Professor Benjamin Sovacool, cases, the shi was stimulated primar- thirds of the population. e common happen much more rapidly.” internet and so many other tech-tools Director of the Sussex Energy Group ily from convenience, e ciency and thread between these cases was active Seren | April Issue 2016 13 ENVIRONMENT Pee-power here are many types of renewa- cathode, which comes from a protein of London and the Bristol Bioenergy it. Anyhow, the very idea seems quite with resource depletion as long as we bles: solar, wind, geothermal, in egg white rather than alternatively Centre made some design altera- amusing and is exactly the case when exist. tidal - but could you ever im- used platinum. tions such as doubling the size of four the world would not be concerned Tagine urinal energy as being one? It is one inch squared fuel cell uti- mm cell electrodes to gain a tenfold turns out pee is a viable source of en- lizes the ‘electric’ bacteria that can increase in power output and then ergy and some researchers have been turn organic matter into electricity stacking multiple cells in a row. As a developing a miniature microbial fuel through its natural biological pro- result, each fuel cell can generate 2 cell that can generate electricity using cesses and as a result can power say Watts per cubic metre. urine. What makes pee a reasonable your mobile phone. e advantages According to researchers, this inno- option is that such fuel cells are in- of the device are e ciency and cost vative technology could be particu- credibly cheap to make – only 1 to 2 combined with almost no waste. larly useful in the remote areas of the quid each. e reason why they are so To achieve such results, researchers world where there is no access to elec- inexpensive is the carbon catalyst at its from Bath, Queen Mary University tricity or where people cannot a ord

Soil science -mucking around in nature conservention it its scienti c term, is the study of a exchanging micronutrients for car- trees grow better. Great for combat- is a hot topic at the moment, although by CLAIRE DUNCAN perhaps largely overlooked habitat. A bohydrate and a place to call home. ing climate change? Well, yes. But many studies highlight how much we handful of soil is supposed to contain Hence the fact trees grow best in es- this is a little bit less impressive when simply don’t know. hat would your thoughts more organisms than people on the tablished woodland soils - the stu ’s you consider that all living organisms Well - there you go - a brief over- be if someone told you that planet, the majority as yet unknown to already there for them. Some tree on Earth are thought to store a mere view of soil science. Good clean fun a few meters away from science - so why do so few people take nurseries are now using this knowl- 600 gigatonnes of carbon, weighed and something for which Bangor youW there’s an ecosystem with billions any interest? edge to improve the health of their against the 2,700 gigatonnes of the University has been a renowned centre of wild and wacky living things in For the 7 (and counting) Kingdoms saplings, inoculating their roots world’s soils. Draining or harvest- of research for decades (some of the it? Some may be found nowhere else of living organisms, soil provides a with the appropriate spores in much ing peat, over ploughing, deserti ca- most accurate soil maps in the coun- in the world, some might only have pretty impressive habitat. It’s thought the same way as commercial tru e tion and erosion all release carbon try are the North Welsh ones - go and evolved since you sat your GCSEs, that over a quarter of known animal production. Plants simply grow bet- locked in soils into the atmosphere, check them out!). Conserving soils some might have been around before species are soil or litter dwellers. Only ter with the organisms that they’ve as soil organism respiration rockets is vital to protect life both on and in the dinosaurs and some might have 1% of soil bacteria have so far been evolved alongside - plants and fungi beyond what gets stored. So what can Earth, from the tiny wibbly unknowns to potential to kill you. It’s one of our named by science, and plants that have been living together like this for be done about this? Answers range to the larger polar bears, sea turtles key defences in the ght against cli- grow without soil are rare indeed. 400 million years. Admittedly, the from breeding crops with larger root and even ourselves. So that’s some- mate change, the source of much of e fungal kingdom, ‘Myccorhizal’, trees are a lot easier to see, but as with systems and re-wetting historic peat thing to brood upon next time you’re our food and water and is a whole new are thought to have been the rea- a lm or movie a lot goes on behind bogs, to burying specially produced out and about. Because soil underlies world of physical and chemical reac- son that plants colonised the land in the scenes to allow the stars of the charcoal (‘biochar’) and even scrap- everything. tions. Would you be interested? Such the rst place. Divided into 7 types, show to shine. ping ploughing in arable farming all is the world of soil. Pedology, to give these fungi live in the roots of plants, So - healthy, biodiverse soil means together. Finding ways of doing this 14 Seren | April Issue 2016 UNION High Sheri Awards

n Friday April 15th the High Current Bangor students are able Sbectrwm is an SVB project provid- credit her responsible for the group’s Amelia have organised several large Sheri Awards were pre- to nominate fellow students for an ing a weekly activity club for children growth over the past 12 months. scale events this year, raising money Osented to Bangor University individual award or a volunteering a ected by Autistic Spectrum Disor- Aimee Boyd received an individual for four charities chosen by the stu- students who had demonstrated project group award and the winners der (ASD) and their siblings. A group award for her dedication to volun- dent body. This year they are on tar- outstanding commitments to vol- are agreed upon by a panel made up of highly dedicated student volunteering with SVB over 5 years. She get to raise over £4000, which will be unteering whilst at university. The of current and previous High Sheri s teers lead and manage the project attends the Hergest Unit at Ysbyty split equally between, the Child Brain prestigious ceremony took place in and senior university sta . This year, which provides the children with a Gwynedd, Bangor once a week to Trust, the Newlife Foundation, Tiny the presence of the Chancellor, Vice three individual awards were pre- safe and well managed environment o er activity sessions for patients, Tickers and the Children’s Air Ambu- Chancellor and University Council sented along with two group awards. in which to grow and thrive. volunteers as a First Aider at Bangor lance. and was delivered by Peter Harlech Street Law, part of Bangor Univer- Keira Hand was awarded an indi- University sports xtures, coaches The afternoon was a fantastic op- Jones, High Sheri for Anglesey and sity Law Society was awarded £750 vidual award in recognition of her the Bangor University Judo Club and portunity to thank all the student Gwynedd. to support their volunteering work. commitment to Street Law as its di- teaches Belly Dancing through the volunteers for their very hard work The award was initiated in 2007 As a student-run project, Street Law rector. Keira has been credited with Bangor University Dance Society. and dedication to their causes. The when the then High Sheri and Uni- provides advice on law and con- the current success that the group Aimee’s was also recognised for her High Sheri Awards will be back next versity Council Member, Dr. Dewi sumer rights. Following recent cuts has been experiencing this year fol- hard work developing the Duke of year with nominations being accept- Roberts and his wife, Dr. Sheila Rob- to the legal aid budget, this valuable lowing di culties which almost led Edinburgh Award at the university. ed in March. erts wished to formally recognise service is much needed in the com- to its closure. Keira’s team members A joint award was made to Ruth the contribution that Bangor Uni- munity and it is their future aim is to nominated her as they believe her to Plant and Amelia Boddison, the cur- versity students make to the local create pop-up legal clinics through- be amazingly organised, enthusias- rent co-ordinators of Bangor Univer- community through voluntary work. out Gwynedd and Anglesey. tic and committed to the group and sity RAG (Raise and Give). Ruth and Canine calming HE Union of the year The Disabled Students Conference room is back! took place between the 22nd and Following the huge success of the reaching the target of £1,500 needed 24th of March in Manchester. Bangor rst Canine Calming Room, we’ve de- to name and sponsor our own guide Students’ Union were recognised in cided to bring you Canine Calming dog puppy. The total for the Canine the awards ceremony for their dedi- Room 2!! Calming Room last time was a stag- cation to accessibility in Pontio and Canine Calming Room will be back gering £889.28! All the money raised, in halls as well as around the cam- on the 18th of May between 13.00 and the money that will be raised pus, the Union and academic rooms and 17.00 and will be held in JP Hall would not be possible without RAG with a HE Union of the year award. (just o College Road). Bangor, who work tirelessly to raise Our Disabled Student Representa- The format of the day will be the money for all kinds of charities! tive, Piers Wilkinson, went along to same. Students interested in the Ca- We would like to thank Guide Dogs the ceremony where he had the op- nine Calming Room can queue and Cymru for their co-operation and portunity to debate social and politi- will be invited in on a one in one out for allowing such a wonderful event cal issues with other Disable Student basis. In exchange for a small dona- to happen once again. We certainly O cers from Universities across the tion, the students can stroke the can’t wait to see student being able UK. Undeb Bangor cannot be any guide dogs and learn more about to relax around the dogs in the prouder of the work carried out by them from their owners. The money month of May which can be a stress- Piers and our VP Education and Wel- raised on the day will go towards ful month for those with exams and fare, Lydia Richardson, and being rec- the previous total with the hope of deadlines. ognised with this admirable award. Seren | April Issue 2016 15 UNION

Students’ Union What do we want? Safe streets! lockers THE students have spoken and we have listened; most students have stated there is nowhere to store items throughout the day, particularly for commuting students who can’t go back home to grab something. We now have 12 bookable lockers for student to use from 09:00 till 17:00, weekdays in the Union space. The lockers are free to use, with the option of donating to RAG for using them. They can be booked for daily use by any Bangor Student from the Student Centre. Depending on demand, we will look at getting more but for now use them to your hearts content!

SU AGM YOUR elected student o cers (the Sabbs) will be reporting on their work and you’ll have an opportunity to question them about things that a ect you and the work that they have done and are planning to make your student experience better. A member of the University’s management team will also be speaking or the rst time in over 5 years, ways the fault of the perpetrator. To police’s slow action and the news- The message that Reclaim the at the meeting and students will ‘Reclaim the Night’ has come demand the right to live without the papers barley reporting the crimes; Night want to shout out loud and have an opportunity to ask questions Fback to Bangor. On Friday the fear or reality of sexual violence. To mainly because they were prostitutes clear is that it’s not the victim’s fault. on the progress of the University. 15th of April, people took to the say that we believe victims of sexual being sexually assaulted and killed. It is always the perpetrators fault. The AGM will take place in MALT AT streets of Bangor and marched violence ad stand with them.” Only when a young student was People are marching to demand the 7.00 p.m. on Tuesday, 26th April. against sexual violence and for gen- The chanting ‘Who’s street? Our sexually attacked and murdered did right to walk the streets without fear der equality. streets!’ could be heard loud and the Police start to take more notice. of rape! Rosie Inman the Women’s o cer for clear across the high street, and Their response was to tell women to VP Education and Welfare, Lydia NUS Wales spoke to the crowd that spectators were coming out into the stay at home and not walk the street Richardson thought “The evening gathered around Bangor’s clock tow- pouring rain to see what the march at night, e ectively giving women a was fabulous and I’m so proud that er on Friday night. Rosie’s speech was was about. curfew! even the rain didn’t dampen the spir- Student powerful and from the heart “We are Reclaim the night started in the UK According to the British Crime Sur- its of the night and everyone’s mes- marching for all those who never re- in the 1970’s around the time the vey (2001) there are an estimated sage got heard loud and clear” volunteers ceived justice from a system that has proli c serial killer, Peter Sutcli e, the 47,000 rapes every year, around Reclaim will be back in Bangor next failed them. We are marching tonight Yorkshire Ripper sexually attacked 40,000 attempted rapes and over year, hopefully the night will grow wanted because we still have to; to say we are and murdered thirteen women. The 300,000 sexual assaults. The convic- year by year, ensuring that the mes- THIS will be great experience for the never to blame for rape and sexual Leeds Revolutionary Feminist Group tion rate for these crimes are at an sage does not fade. students who are interested in event violence and that sexual assault is al- started the night in response to the all-time low at 5.3%! organisation and Behaviour Change as there will be some unique things going on during the Behaviour Change Festival. If any students are interested; the event will be held in Pontio 9th-20th May (not including weekends). The organisers will also be looking for students to help with prep the week before the event. Contact stacey.hunter@bangor. ac.uk if you are interested.

SU Heroes BANGOR Students’ Union will soon be recruiting SU Heroes for Welcome Week 2016. SU Heroes are asked to help out with the running of Stu- dents’ Union events during Welcome Week. These include the steward- ing of Serendipity, assisting with SU events held at the Union, Pontio, Academi, Bar UNO and across the University Campus and generally of- fering practical support during Wel- come Week. If you are interested in becoming an SU Hero please register, you can nd the registration form on the SU website! 16 Seren | April Issue 2016 SOCIETIES

Bangor University Archery angor University Archery Club ment that allows students the freedom to give directions or arrange a meet-up ranges of shooting outdoors o er a to-use for those who do not have any. (BUAC) is looking for archers! to practice at their leisure with the aid to walk potential new members to the unique challenge to archers. Members For those wishing to really get into the Whether you’ve done archery of more experienced archers as well as sports hall. In addition to our regular from clubs as far as Manchester are sport there is an annual bow shop trip Bbefore or not, or if it is something you a wide variety of bows to choose from shoots, we also host occasional fun- coming to Bangor University’s out- to Custom Built Archery. ere you have always wanted to try. You are so regardless of your strength we’ll shoots. ese shoots involve archery door shoots. can get a personalized handcra ed more than welcome to come down have a bow suitable for you. ere is games, novelty targets, balloons, piña- In addition to our sessions we have bow and arrows on the day. and join us free of charge, at any time a selection of di erent types of bow tas and everything needed to celebrate regular socials on Friday evenings at of the year, for as little or as long as you available at the club, free for students annual holidays Archery-style. 8pm in the Harp, our new sponsor, If you believe that Archery is some- would like. We can teach you the ba- to use, allowing them the chance to Competitions such as BUCS and that o er a friendly and inclusive en- thing you would like to try then do sics of how to shoot, or help you hone specialise with longbows, horse bows, Varsity o er our more competitive vironment. As well as Friday evening not hesitate in contacting any of our your already brilliant archery skills. recurve bows or compound bows. members the chance to show their socials, we are planning to host a wid- committee members via our Facebook You are not required to have great Our sessions run every Wednesday skills and the opportunity to win med- er variety of social events including page with any queries you may have. strength as no particular level of t- 7pm-10pm and Sunday 12pm-3pm als and trophies. games nights, days out and other sober We hope to see you soon. ness or strength is required to pick up in the normal site sports hall. You can ere will be 4 outdoor shooting events over the next academic year. archery. contact the committee via the Face- events on Sunday’s from the 24th April e club has plenty to provide for Our club o ers a stress-free environ- book page at any time and we are happy to 15th May. e elements and long all members, with equipment ready-

30th April April Issue 2016 | Seren 17 SOCIETIES

People and Plants Society here do our tuition fees companies’ current reserves of oil, coal University has an Ethical Investment Universities are supposed to be a e People and Planet Society, Ban- go? Can we sit by and let and gas hold ve times more carbon Policy which states it will “screen in- bastion of forward thinking. To invest gor University, have started a new Bangor University invest than the worlds atmosphere can safely vestments on ethical grounds”. So far in fossil fuels goes completely against campaign to divest from fossilfuels. ourW money (and our futures) in fossil handle. Bangor University is therefore the Vice Chancellor and Head of Op- this. We want to be proud of our Uni- Join them in making a di erence. e fuels? pro ting from wrecking the climate. erational Finance at versity, one which doesn’t nance the group will also be holding lm screen- Bangor University currently has over Scarier still is that the University, Bangor University have declined to fossil fuel sector but keeps its money in ings, a grow wild campaign (planting £5 million invested in two separate under a freedom of information re- comment on how the screening pro- clean, less risky investments. We want wild- ower seeds in the city) and oth- fund managers; HSBC and Black- quest, was unable to provide us details cess works when the companies are it to support local enterprises that are er social events during the year. Find Rock. Crucially, we know that HSBC of the individual companies it invests not known. It begs the question- why paving the way to a low-carbon econo- them on Facebook and twitter (@Ban- and BlackRock do not provide fossil in stating that they were “not known” do they bother having an ethical in- my. Our institution can and must help gor_PnP) or email them at peopleand- free investment portfolios. Fossil fuel or “not practicable” to obtain. Bangor vestment policy at all? avert a climate crisis. [email protected]

Fancy yourself as a journalist? Get involved! restaurant) April Issue 2016 | Seren 18 PRESENTS

2016

WHICH LOCAL BUSINESS HAS THE BEST STUDENT DEALS?

WHERE'S THE BEST PLACE FOR A PINT AFTER LECTURES?

WHERE'S THE FRIENDLIEST LOCAL PLACE TO SHOP?

TELL US WHY YOU LOVE YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL BUSINESS!

NOMINATE YOUR FAVOURITE VIA OUR WEBSITE: SEREN.BANGOR.AC.UK/AWARDS2016 AND THEY COULD WIN A TOTALLY COOL AWARD. April Issue 2016 | Seren 19

SUDOKU! EASY CROSSWORD!

HARD 20 Seren | April Issue 2016 SUMMER BALL

by FINNIAN SHARDLOW At 33 years-old – and surrounded the entire genre. Looks like Blonde by an industry obsessed with new are one of those artists. angor’s very own festival sea- music – you could call him some- Before that, it’s SClub featuring This year’s son is rapidly approaching. what of a veteran. Although, I doubt Bradley and Jo. Expect cheese, gu- BWell, when I say festival season, it matters much to him. Gleave is ratively speaking. I mean a condensed surge of music, still in and out of the studio, releas- Essentially, this will be a live ren- movement, merriment and those ing the enigmatic, guitar-drenched dition of a school disco. I seriously ower chain things that someone dance hit ‘Whisky Story’ in July last doubt you’ll be able to place your- acts... decided were ne to put on your year. self in a better position on that very head in around 2011. Correct. The It’d be relatively routine for me to same day… even if you tried (which Summer Ball is back. shrug o the likes of Example. But, you won’t because you’ll be there). Let’s not draw attention away really, my attitude to pop is this – a ‘Reach’, ‘Don’t Stop Moving’, ‘You’re from the superstar stature of the ac- banger is a banger. And the melody My Number One’, ‘Bring It All Back’ tual acts that will be appearing; acts to ‘Kickstarts’ is, well, simply infec- – the list is endless. Maybe they’ll whose only likely ties to North Wales tious. Merely hearing the bassline perform a cover of ‘Cha-Cha Slide’ if include a childhood camping trip to brings about a gale of 2010 renais- we’re lucky? Rhyl. sance and all the debris of teenage Lastly, it’s Rave Of Thrones. A DJ Without a doubt, it’d be the senti- optimism that goes with it. project conceived by the casts very mentally easier option to get your Next in the list is Blonde, a deep own Kristian Nairn, who plays Ho- school uniform back on in eager house production duo who’ve most dor. anticipation for the living, breathing notably teamed up with a recently Formerly a seasoned DJ, Nairn nostalgia-fest that will be Example. resurfaced Craig David for jiving will be well associated with getting Example – otherwise known as El- dance track ‘Nothing Like This’. crowds into gear. The actor will be liot Gleave – will be heading up the Jacob Manson and Adam Engle- warming up the start of this year’s array of acts at this year’s Summer eld have already received acclaim Summer Ball with, hopefully, a se- Ball, armed with a barrage of UK Top from Radio 1 DJ Greg James and will lection of musical references to HBO 10 singles such as ‘Changed The Way most de nitely be the reliable root series. Let’s hope there’s no decapita- You Kissed Me’. of most boogie’s that emerge in the tion. Undoubtedly, most fans will be crowd this year. You just wait until Ticket sales are expected to break looking forward to hearing tracks they play ‘All Cried Out’. 2015’s sell-out time record, and from his second studio album, ‘Won’t What can you say? House music there’s only approximately 500 re- Go Quietly’, an album with produc- is king at the moment. Just when maining. So if you want to go to tion from Chase & Status, Sub Focus critics are raring to start digging its this year’s Summer Ball, I’d hurry up and Calvin Harris. Not to mention a grave, another act spring up and about it. handful of o cial Dance Chart hits. heartily maintain the resurrection of Win a Pair of Ball Tickets! To enter, all you have to do is go to our website: seren.bangor.ac.uk/balltickets16 April Issue 2016 | Seren 21 SUMMER BALL What to expect at the Summer Ball?

FERRIS WHEEL AT DAY...

BUCKING DODGEMS BRONCO SUMO WRESTLING PJ HALL CASINO & NIGHT... TABLES BANDS

OUTDOOR STAGE 22 Seren | April Issue 2016 LIFESTYLE Revision: Alternatively, Net ix is not your friend t’s the dreaded exam period which means that we can all look forward to a month of revision and stress. Thankfully, there is help at hand. It’s well worth checking out Student Services and The Study Skills centre as they run frequent Iworkshops to help with revision and study skills. They also o er an advice service to help students deal with exam stress. The Students’ Union also o ers help at this time of the semester. The recent Canine Calming room at Acadami was a huge success and another one will be happening on the 18th May. Slap bang in the middle of exam season, it’s likely to be extremely popular once again Study Aid is also upcoming so keep an eye out on the SU website for more information.

Vegan? Why Not? by EMMA DEBNEY

concern for animal welfare to gain veganism’s bene ts, and may be the rst thing people the protein most o en gotten from Athink of when they consider meat has to be found in other foods. veganism, but it shouldn’t be the ere’s no vegan cheatsheet - apparent last. Eating meat and everything ‘superfoods’ are just regular foods with that is involved with it has a huge more expensive marketing - and being impact not just on animals but a vegan is di cult for many people, on the environment and on us as even impossible. Many allergies and individuals. Did you know that 15- conditions prevent some people from 20% of all global emissions come staying healthy while vegan. It can from the meat industry? Add that also be a challenge if someone is food to the 40% of global grain and insecure, if they don’t have access to the 70% of freshwater required to appropriate substitutes, or if dishes required by all those animals, and with animal products are involved in pound for pound, calorie for calorie, cultural or religious traditions. Tips For e ective revision animals are a much more costly food source than any alternative. Part of Pros by CHARLIE WILSON rocrastination is my worst issue is the process – like I said, writing tried this, do let me know – I’m - Concern for animals when it comes to exam time. It’s things out helps you remember always out for more techniques. As - e environment Pless an issue of ‘oh I have plenty things and actually spending time for listening to music, make sure that - Reduces the C02 impact of time’ and more of ‘there’s time, but choosing colours and stationery to you either know the music so well - Reduces deforestation even if I had a year I still wouldn’t do make your notes look good makes that you can tune it out, or nd some - Less grain goes to animals, more to it until the night before’. Honestly, it’s the whole process, if not more fun, at music without lyrics. There’s nothing people more of a ‘this is going to be hard and least more bearable. However, there worse than being mid-sentence and - Health so I don’t want to do it’. Maybe you is also a little science to it (or at the having to stop to scream out the - Less fat have the same problem. If you do, least, my GCSE sociology class taught lyrics of your favourite song. - Has to involve a balance diet the after-Easter period is probably me this so it’s de nitely valid… though, just cutting out animals causing you some dread. So here right?). Colour-coding helps visual No matter what technique you product won’t make you automatically are my views on some traditional learners. Associating colours with a use, in the end the best advice is healthy revision techniques. certain subject helps me visualise trademarked: Just do it. - Cardiovascular disease. Eating nuts the pages of my notes when I’m in and whole grains, while eliminating Lists an exam. So yes, it is cliché, but it also dairy products and meat, will improve For some people, lists really work. works (for me). Upcoming Exam your cardiovascular health. A Brit- I thought it was stupid until I tried ish study indicates that a vegan diet (well into my second year of A-Levels, Revision Notes Support Events reduces the risk for heart disease and once I’d discovered that they were I’m a humanities student. For Type 2 diabetes. hard and not revising for exams sciences students, I imagine that Student services are running an wasn’t going to get me to pass). revision notes might be an obvious Essay writing workshop for last Cons There’s something about seeing all option, but they’re surprisingly useful minute revision on Wednesday May - Superfoods are not a thing the things I have to do written down for arts and humanities students too. 4th 2016 14:00-16:00. The venue is - Taking staple grains away because and staring me in the face that makes Writing out quotes, essay plans and Alun A1.06, Alun Building. Contact of fads me actually want to work. However, mind maps actually helps me revise Student Services for more info. - Some people can’t do it, or won’t this seems pretty anxiety-inducing a lot – largely because writing things why many people become vegan - Dietary reasons for some people: instead, you could out is a great way of memorising The Student Union are running is to help counteract those costs to - eir food environment doesn’t try writing a list of daily tasks to focus information. another Canine Calming room on our planet. As far as personal cost provide substitutes on. Wednesday May 18th 2016. It’s goes, a vegan diet can improve - ey’re food insecure due to be held in JP Hall which is cardiovascular health - the risk of - Cultural dishes, leave POC alone Colour-coding Chewing gum and situated in the John Phillips building heart disease, strokes, heart attacks - BEES. Some foods are not more I have this idea in my head about listening to music located just past the Management and Type 2 diabetes reduces. ethical. colour-coding: it’s teenage girls on I haven’t tried the chewing gum Centre. This will be accessible via - If people are going vegan for the booking online which will give you sake of animals, they should make American TV shows with glittery gel- thing. This is mainly because I don’t Of course, just eliminating meat, a 10 minute session. Check the SU sure to be aware of the human cost of pens and hair with inhuman volume. really think that taking a whole dairy and eggs doesn’t make someone As much as I hate to say it, they’re bunch of di erent avours into an website (accessible via MyBangor) their food too. for more details healthy. Maintaining a nutritional diet onto something. For me, part of it exam is a viable option. If you have is key: nuts and grains are integral 22 Seren | April Issue 2016 April Issue 2016 | Seren 23 LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE Revision: Alternatively, Net ix is not your friend Vegan for a Week Get the look this summer t’s the dreaded exam period which means that we can all look forward to a month of revision and stress. Thankfully, there is help at hand. It’s well worth checking out Student Services and The Study Skills centre as they run frequent Iworkshops to help with revision and study skills. They also o er an advice service to help students deal with exam stress. The Students’ Union also o ers help at this time of the semester. The recent Canine Calming room at Acadami was a huge success and another one will be happening on the 18th May. Slap bang in the middle of exam season, it’s likely to be extremely popular once again Study Aid is also upcoming so keep an eye out on the SU website for more information.

nce upon a time, when I who doesn’t like ‘rabbit food’, giving was a chef, the ‘vegan’ was up meat and sh left a big hole to ll Osomeone I despised. I would on my dinner plate. curse them and question why they One of my primary reasons for couldn’t be ‘normal’ and eat meat. going vegan was that I wanted After all, if a cow could eat us then to diversify my eating habits. I it surely would. Somehow, that logic wanted to force myself to eat foods ensured that my meat heavy meals I’d previously not given a chance. remained guilt free. It is perhaps Obviously, I was aware of the health worth noting that for a chef, there bene ts associated with veganism is a kind of danger zone of diner. too and there was also a moral Lactose intolerant and gluten free standpoint. diners inhabit this zone alongside So, how did it go? Well I lasted a vegans. It’s the awkward aspect of it week and you know what, I’m happy that annoys most chefs and nothing with that. I learned that black co ee Vegan? against the actual person. When isn’t actually that bad, that I can you’re trying to send out a wedding live without Ben n’ Jerrys and that breakfast for a hundred and fty I don’t actually need to eat meat. Why Not? people, the last thing you want to That last point is the most important by EMMA DEBNEY hear is that such and such on table one, because now I know that it ve wants separate gravy because is ultimately a choice. I eat meat For the Day For the Night For the Budget they can’t have our. because I want to and you know concern for animal welfare by SIAN TAYLOR by JESS RAMANOUSKI by REBECCA STEELE to gain veganism’s bene ts, and Recently, in a bid to empathise what, I’m okay with that. Although may be the rst thing people the protein most o en gotten from with vegans, I decided to become I’m back eating animal products, I’m think of when they consider A meat has to be found in other foods. one. I needed to know what it was not consuming as much as I was. I’m ooking for that summer glow akeup allows us to be eing a female can be VERY veganism, but it shouldn’t be the ere’s no vegan cheatsheet - apparent actually like to go animal-free. I also looking where my meat and without the fake tan? Looking comfortable and con dent. expensive, especially when it last. Eating meat and everything ‘superfoods’ are just regular foods with knew that the biggest obstacle by dairy comes from, spending an extra to add the colour to your Whether it is for a meal, a comes to the very products that is involved with it has a huge more expensive marketing - and being L M B far would be dairy. I love cheese and few pence to go free-range. I also summer look? Then try Rimmel night out or a meeting, it is important that gives us a boost of con dence, impact not just on animals but a vegan is di cult for many people, ice-cream and eggs; I absolutely have a lot more respect for vegans Londons’ Match perfect foundation to look and feel glamorous. There are and forsome of us that’s worth every on the environment and on us as even impossible. Many allergies and adore eggs. Of course going vegan in general and considering my early collection. It’s my holy grail of my plenty of a ordableproducts that penny. Following the latest brands individuals. Did you know that 15- conditions prevent some people from also meant that meat and sh were opinion of them, that is a huge thing make-up and I wouldn’t be without can be used to look ‘natural’ or to be can easily put you out of pocket so 20% of all global emissions come staying healthy while vegan. It can rmly o the table too. For someone in itself. it. It gives a lovely natural coverage, a contoured goddess. You will need here’s a few products that could help from the meat industry? Add that also be a challenge if someone is food which feels weightless, while products that are full coverage and you stock up and still leave you with to the 40% of global grain and insecure, if they don’t have access to adding colour to your face as well long lasting. Theatre makeup does a bit of cash for a cheeky night out the 70% of freshwater required to appropriate substitutes, or if dishes as added SPF protection. Invisible, all of the above. whilst still looking like (you’ve spent) required by all those animals, and with animal products are involved in Editors Essential mistake-proof foundation for visibly a million dollars. pound for pound, calorie for calorie, cultural or religious traditions. perfected & healthier looking skin. I Tips For e ective revision animals are a much more costly food use it daily and even in the summer Rimmel London Stay source than any alternative. Part of Pros Kryolan TV Paint Stick it stays and covers all day. It is also Matte Foundation by CHARLIE WILSON very cheap, usually between ve and £13.50 screenface.co.uk - Concern for animals rocrastination is my worst issue is the process – like I said, writing tried this, do let me know – I’m seven pounds. £5.99 at Boots - e environment when it comes to exam time. It’s things out helps you remember always out for more techniques. As To add to your summer look I have This can be used for a foundation - Reduces the C02 impact Pless an issue of ‘oh I have plenty things and actually spending time for listening to music, make sure that also recently tried Eyes Uncovered base and for contour. I use the A full coverage foundation where - Reduces deforestation of time’ and more of ‘there’s time, but choosing colours and stationery to you either know the music so well Eye Shadow from Collection colour ‘Ivory’ as a base, it acts as a primer is not needed due to the - Less grain goes to animals, more to even if I had a year I still wouldn’t do make your notes look good makes that you can tune it out, or nd some Cosmetics. My favourite has to be concealer and foundation at the people instant matte nish. it until the night before’. Honestly, it’s the whole process, if not more fun, at music without lyrics. There’s nothing the Nude Bronze palette; I love the same time. I got this idea from the - Health more of a ‘this is going to be hard and least more bearable. However, there worse than being mid-sentence and warmer shimmery shades! I cannot Drag community, if you are looking - Less fat Rimmel Stay Matte so I don’t want to do it’. Maybe you is also a little science to it (or at the having to stop to scream out the fault the shimmer shades at all – the for makeup tips, Drag Queens are the - Has to involve a balance diet have the same problem. If you do, least, my GCSE sociology class taught lyrics of your favourite song. Nude Bronze palette is perfection, as real professionals. Pressed Powder though, just cutting out animals the after-Easter period is probably me this so it’s de nitely valid… the shimmers shades are on point. £3.99 at Boots causing you some dread. So here right?). Colour-coding helps visual No matter what technique you product won’t make you automatically Again this is so cheap, in Superdrug It does what it says on the tin. Set are my views on some traditional learners. Associating colours with a use, in the end the best advice is healthy - Cardiovascular disease. Eating nuts merely a few quid and so worth the Ben Nye Loose Powder your foundation with powder for a revision techniques. certain subject helps me visualise trademarked: Just do it. money. the pages of my notes when I’m in and whole grains, while eliminating £6-£8 screenface.co.uk long lasting nish. Lists an exam. So yes, it is cliché, but it also dairy products and meat, will improve For some people, lists really work. works (for me). your cardiovascular health. A Brit- Any makeup should be set with Upcoming Exam powder, whether it is foundation Makeup Revolution Blush I thought it was stupid until I tried ish study indicates that a vegan diet & Contour palette (well into my second year of A-Levels, Revision Notes Support Events reduces the risk for heart disease and alone, or contour also. This is the once I’d discovered that they were I’m a humanities student. For Type 2 diabetes. perfect loose powder; it allows you All about Bronze hard and not revising for exams sciences students, I imagine that Student services are running an to nish o your makeup knowing £6.00 at Superdrug wasn’t going to get me to pass). revision notes might be an obvious Essay writing workshop for last Cons that it will stay on for a long time. Contour and Blush palette in one? I’ll minute revision on Wednesday May - Superfoods are not a thing There’s something about seeing all option, but they’re surprisingly useful take that. the things I have to do written down for arts and humanities students too. 4th 2016 14:00-16:00. The venue is - Taking staple grains away because and staring me in the face that makes Writing out quotes, essay plans and Alun A1.06, Alun Building. Contact of fads Freedom Makeup me actually want to work. However, mind maps actually helps me revise Student Services for more info. - Some people can’t do it, or won’t Eyebrow Pomade Miss Sporty Studio Lash this seems pretty anxiety-inducing a lot – largely because writing things why many people become vegan - Dietary reasons £5 freedommakeuplondon.co.uk Instant Volume Mascara for some people: instead, you could out is a great way of memorising The Student Union are running is to help counteract those costs to - eir food environment doesn’t £2.99 at Superdrug another Canine Calming room on provide substitutes try writing a list of daily tasks to focus information. our planet. As far as personal cost struggle with hair care but I’ve recently discovered this amazing product, This does the same job as the I’m a huge fan of this cheap mascara on. Wednesday May 18th 2016. It’s goes, a vegan diet can improve - ey’re food insecure expensive products and more than due to be held in JP Hall which is - Cultural dishes, leave POC alone Argan Oil of Morocco: Extra Penetrating Oil for Dry and Coarse Hair. I had and will always stand by them like a cardiovascular health - the risk of heard of Argan Oil products before but this is the rst time I’ve actually a third of the prices of the huge Colour-coding Chewing gum and situated in the John Phillips building heart disease, strokes, heart attacks - BEES. Some foods are not more I brands. true fan should located just past the Management ethical. used one and I don’t think I’ll ever use anything else. You simply apply a I have this idea in my head about listening to music and Type 2 diabetes reduces. small amount to damp (towel dried) hair, making sure to work through to colour-coding: it’s teenage girls on I haven’t tried the chewing gum Centre. This will be accessible via - If people are going vegan for the Sometimes the best makeup is not Pure Colour Mink Lipstick booking online which will give you sake of animals, they should make the ends. It restores a natural health and shine to my hair and I love it! It’s American TV shows with glittery gel- thing. This is mainly because I don’t Of course, just eliminating meat, advertised, do your research and a 10 minute session. Check the SU sure to be aware of the human cost of not the cheapest, at £7.00 for a 100ml bottle but because you only need a £3.99 at New Look pens and hair with inhuman volume. really think that taking a whole dairy and eggs doesn’t make someone do not be afraid to use the cheap website (accessible via MyBangor) their food too. small amount it last for ages. Well worth a purchase. Follow the trend and make a As much as I hate to say it, they’re bunch of di erent avours into an healthy. Maintaining a nutritional diet products. Be creative and try new for more details statement in a nude matte lip. onto something. For me, part of it exam is a viable option. If you have is key: nuts and grains are integral things. 24 Seren | April Issue 2016 FASHION DESIGNER VS HIGH STREET: SKIRTS AND SHORTS Every month we will be nding a ordable high street alternatives to designer trends. Summer is on the way so take a look at these shorts and skirts – perfect for lounging in the sun! LACE FLORAL Reiss, New Look, Oscar de Topshop, £120 £24.99 la Renta, £39 £1399

MONOCHROME LACE TRIME SHORTS Reiss, New Look, Chloe, River £110 £17.99 £625 Island, £25

SWIM SHORTS DENIM SHORTS Vilebrequin, River Island, Saint Laurent, New Look, £195 £20 £550 £17.99

CHINO SHORTS DENIM SHORTS Burberry, Topman, Armani, New Look, £135 £35 £140 £19.99 24 Seren | April Issue 2016 April Issue 2016 | Seren 25 FASHION FASHION DESIGNER VS HIGH STREET: FITNESS IN FASHION COACHELLA: BEST & WORST by EMILY RIMMER SKIRTS AND SHORTS or anyone that hasn’t heard of it before, The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is an annual music and arts festival held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, located in Fthe Inland Empire’s Coachella Valley in the Colorado Desert. It is an annual event every year Every month we will be nding a ordable high street alternatives to designer trends. around April time, where ower crowns are acceptable and you can rub shoulders with a celebrity. The festival is a hub of fashion and music with such acts as Calvin Harris, The 1975, and Churches Summer is on the way so take a look at these shorts and skirts – perfect for lounging in the sun! who graced the Coachella stage this year. But forget the music, Coachela is mostly associated with the fashion from bohoo chic, to glamorous grunge, Coachella is your go-to festival fashion guide. To give you some inspiration for the upcomig festivals season, I will give you the run down of the LACE FLORAL best and worst of Coachella. Reiss, New Look, Oscar de Topshop, £120 £24.99 la Renta, £39 BEST WORST £1399

t’s nearly summer and I’m sure that I’m not ryone to feel comfortable in what they wear. the only person frantically stressing over the Therefore, it is no surprise that you can’t ick MONOCHROME LACE TRIME SHORTS Ifact that I’ve left it too late to get that ‘sum- through most lifestyle magazines such as Elle, mer bod’. Instead of doing ten million sit-ups a Grazia and GQ without being faced with the Reiss, New Look, Chloe, River day, all I seem to do is eat (a lot I must add) dur- latest running clubs, marathons, personal train- £110 £17.99 £625 Island, ing the impending doom of exams. However, it ers, celebrity endorsement or the latest fashion seems that over the past year being ‘ t’ has be- trends to look good in any weather. £25 come a sort of a fashion statement. The tummy The idea of being healthy is being broadcast- rolls have been replaced with phrases such as ed into our lives in a number of ways: through ‘sun’s out guns out’, double vodka and cokes apps, fashion, as well as the cliché insta pic- have been replaced with healthy green juices. tures. It was only yesterday that I realized you It seems that 2016 has morphed into a health could track the amount of steps you do in a day obsessed universe. on your iPhone. All I can say is genius! I knew Scrolling through my Instagram, it’s lled with all that dancing on nights out had paid o in pictures of protein pancakes or women doing some way or another. Drinking green juices yoga positions with the beach in the back- is seen as more acceptable than chilling with ground. Being healthy seems to be the new ‘chic’ your friends with a glass of wine in your hand. trend. Despite only trying yoga on a handful of Therefore, despite being a self-confessed ‘food- occasions, seeing these pictures on ‘insta’ made ie’, it seems rather appealing to jump on the me want to drop out of uni and become a fully bandwagon and see what all the fuss is about. quali ed yoga teacher in Bali - just so I could Gone are the days of the Bridget Jones appeal put post cool pictures onto my account. As em- of the gym, where it almost seemed impossible SWIM SHORTS DENIM SHORTS barrassing as this sounds, it’s the truth. Social to stay healthy or be able to walk the next day River Island, Saint Laurent, New Look, media has captivated people to be healthier, as after one of those gruelling spinning sessions. Vilebrequin, well as celebrities documenting their success. Instead, that has been replaced with fancy new £195 £20 £550 £17.99 For example, Charlotte Crosby and Vicky Pat- leggings that look like they should be part of tinson are my body inspirations, their incred- a WHAM! video. However odd the new athletic ible weight loss makes being healthy look easy. fashion may be the message is important, be- Therefore, it is no surprise that brands such as ing healthy is good. Therefore, put down your Nike, Puma and Adidas have made a conscious Bella Bella, put on the wackiest out t you can e ort to make their sportswear more fashion- nd and embrace your inner yoga guru. Per- able. For instance, Puma have just signed Kylie haps you could even upload your funniest yoga Jenner as their new spokeswoman. Her unique poses on Instagram with #healthyisgood. (De- style and individuality allows her to express spite Bangor not being Bali). her fashion sense in sportswear, allowing eve- COSTA LEAVES CALVIN CHINO SHORTS DENIM SHORTS KLEIN Burberry, Topman, Armani, New Look, rancisco Costa is departing Calvin Klein, decade. They have both contributed immense- the label con rmed today, adding yet ly to making Calvin Klein a global leader in the £135 £35 £140 £19.99 Fmore weight to speculation that Raf Si- fashion industry, and they have done so with mons is set to be appointed. dedication, focus and creativity.” Costa, the women’s creative director of Calvin The move comes as the American company Klein Collection, and Italo Zucchelli, who serves seeks to nd a designer to “unify all Calvin as men’s creative director of Calvin Klein Collec- Klein brands under one creative vision”. The tion, will both leave as part of a “global evolu- announcement makes Simons - with his ex- tion” for the brand. perience in both men’s and womenswear, and “This creative strategy marks the beginning everything from sportswear to couture - even of another signi cant chapter in Calvin Klein’s more of a favourite to have the skill to tackle all brand legacy since Mr Klein’s retirement,” Steve areas of the brand’s o ering. Shi man, CEO of Calvin Klein, Inc. said today. “I Costa took the womenswear helm in 2004 would like to thank Francisco and Italo for their and is the only designer to have led the brand unwavering commitment to the Calvin Klein other than the founder. brand and their accomplishments over the past 26 Seren | April Issue 2016 TV The Walking Dead Season 6

by EMMA JEWKES Negan made his long awaited simple (people try and survive in a his ‘family’ safe. Saviours. For eight episodes we were entrance with just ten minutes of zombie apocalypse), the themes of While the zombies (or walkers teased about them until their leader, he Walking Dead recently the season to spare and boy, did he the series run much deeper than that. as our characters refer to them) Negan, made his presence felt in a wrapped up its sixth season to make his presence felt. Jeffrey Dean Family is a big part of the show. Not are a clear and constant danger, single act that will affect the show a few mixed opinions, despite Morgan is a welcome addition to just those members of your family the main danger is still the living. going forward. Literally forcing main Tthe finale receiving record viewing The Walking Dead universe and next who you are related to but those Those people who see what you have character Rick to his knees, Negan figures. The reason; that humdinger season should be very interesting who you come into contact with and and seek to take it for themselves. was scarily charismatic as he swung of a cliff-hanger. For a show that and ultimately better for that. end up calling your family. With his While earlier seasons have seen our his barbed wire coated baseball bat delights in shocking and messing Although the show has been ‘family’ at the risk of danger this survivors come up against threats (he calls Lucille) in devastating with its loyal fan base, should we running for six years, it certainly season, main character Rick Grimes like the unhinged Governor, the fashion. One thing’s for sure, with really have expected anything less? shows no sign of slowing down has gone to extreme measures to rabid Wolves and even a hungry Morgan on the cast list, the show will Before the cliff-hanger drove the anytime soon. That is in part because ensure their safety. He has even band of cannibal’s, season six has never be the same again. world crazy though, we got a glimpse the show is forever reinventing itself. retracted one of his early rules of ‘we seen the emergence of the highly at the most eagerly awaited villain Although the central premise is very don't kill the living’ in order to keep organised and extremely dangerous since season 3’s The Governor. A Final Farewell: Murdered By My Father Ronnie Corbett

by SASH DEACON half of the duo being Ronnie Barker who sadly passed away in 2005 due to t has been a desperately sad heart failure - Corbett dazzled from beginning to the year. We are only decade to decade providing us with in April and already Britain has shows such as e Two Ronnie’s and lostI some of its most beloved national No, at’s Me Over Here, as well as treasures including Sweeney Todd the comedic lm, No Sex Please, We’re by ANNIE PATEL actor Alan Rickman; Children In Need British. His contributions to the world ollowing the overwhelming uncommon in honour-based violence violence have been reported since legend Sir Terry Wogan and Space of television and comedy meant that success of BAFTA award- dramas that writer Vinay Patel stated 2010. e most high-pro le UK case Oddity singer ‘David Bowie. Alas, the Corbett was honored with a CBE at winning Murdered by My in Vice that: “I wanted the father to be was the 2003 honour killing of Sha lea time has come for the nation to say a the age of 81 years old. BoyfriendF , it was inevitable that almost the so er gure to start with, Ahmed, whose parents killed her a er tearful nal farewell to comedic idol Ronnie Corbett tragically passed another harrowing tale was on the because you know where this show's she rejected their marriage arrange- Ronnie Corbett. away on the 31st of March 2016, aged horizon. Online exclusive feature going.” As the title already states, one ment and thus brought dishonour to Ronald Balfour "Ronnie" Corbett 85 a er being diagnosed with motor length drama Murdered by My Father doesn't have to guess the outcome. e the family. ey were both sentenced was born in Edinburgh Scotland on neuron disease last year. Corbett’s tells the story of Salma (Kiran Sonia guessing comes from when and how to life imprisonment in 2012. the 4th of December 1930. He lived funeral was held on Monday 18th Sawar), a young Muslim girl that it’s going to happen, which is arguably Such a sensitive topic can be hard to with his parents (William and Annie) April 2016. is is not only a tragic has been arranged to marry family- more terrifying. get right but, by God, they managed it. and his younger brother and sister. loss to the nation, but also (and most approved Haroon but doesn’t want e platform that this programme I expect it to follow the same BAFTA Corbett served his compulsory time in importantly) his wife Anne and their to because she has fallen for another. has given to shed more light on such route as its predecessor. the Royal Air Service before beginning two daughters Emma and Sophie. For From the onset it’s evident that Salma’s a serious issue is commendable. e Murdered by My Father is available his glittering show business career in lack of a better saying, we hope you father Shahzad (Adeel Akhtar), is a true number of honour killings in the through BBC iPlayer. the 50’s. Best known for being one rest in peace Ronnie Corbett, thank controlling father but not a monster. UK is unknown but it is estimated half of e Two Ronnie’s - the other A humanising element is rather that 12,000 cases of honour-based you for all that you gave us. April Issue 2016 | Seren 27 TV A Steer Away From the Classi(c)st Bake Off: Crème Thomas the Tank Engine? de la Crème hat do you get when you mix a bunch of mean judges, a confusing scoring systemW and hundreds of salivating desserts? A Great British Bake- O spin-o obviously! Chef Tom Kerridge hosts Bake O : Crème de la Crème in a battle between teams of professional patissiers. Kerridge is obviously not as entertaining as Mel and Sue; his double-entendre game is so weak, it’s almost not worth the watch. However, the entertainment comes from the edible magic that teams create, so make sure that your (Ashima from India, Yong Bao from China and Etienne from France) stomach is full before watching Crème It wasn’t long ago that the Thomas coloured female train from India, de la Crème. by ANNIE PATEL debate was covered by the media, of its Yong Bao from China, Raul (right), e judges are pretty unknown: criticism on the lack of female trains. a Brazilian train and Frieda, a blue Benoit Blin, Claire Clark, Cherish Now I’m not Sheldon from The Big streamlined engine from Germany, Finden are all respected patissier Bang Theory, I don’t know my diesel just to name a few. You know who connoisseurs in their elds, but train from my steam locomotive, but would hate this film, especially are harsh in their marking and not I’m not blind that I can’t see Thomas’ Carlos, the Mexican train (right)? entirely likeable. e scoring system female friends onscreen much. They His likeness to the fat controller if is also something that has confused do exist though but perpetuating you put a top hat on him is uncanny, viewers (and contestants alike). e stereotypes are painful: from Rosie, but it’s only a matter of time before show is split up into 2 rounds: the rst, the fun purple train; to Annie and Donald Trump announces his policy 3 hours to make 3 sets of miniatures; Clarabel, the twin coach carriages, of for the future eradication of Thomas and the nal showstopper. ere’s whom Thomas literally pulls along the Tank Engine from television already been drama in what Twitter all day. Female trains are always the screens to stop the brainwashing of was calling #swangate, involving an ll aboard Thomas and bridesmaid but never the bride! America’s future. intricate swan constructed entirely Friends and welcome to the As it’s 2016, naturally a new debate It’s applaudable that Mattel is out of sugar. I’ll leave it to your 21st century, where it’s not has arisen in Sodor. In an effort to trying to veer away from its classist imagination to guess what happened. justA Thomas and his other white become more relatable for children, and traditionalist history, I’m just Crème de la Crème takes itself male friends chugging along in this August Mattel will release a worried that it might propagate even too seriously and there de nitely their perfect traditionalist world. straight-to-DVD TV movie The more stereotypes, just from an ethnic aren’t enough innuendos to make Never did I think I would be writing Great Race about Thomas and his point of view. it worth the tears from contestants about diversity in terms of a beloved voyage to compete in an Olympic- and delectably pretentious desserts. locomotive from my childhood, but style games against other trains from Nevertheless Bake O : Crème de la alas, the world continues to surprise around the world. Crème airs on Tuesdays at 8pm on me. First we have Ashima, a brightly BBC Two. Broadchurch Back For Best Twitter Exchange in TV Third and Final Series land?

n light of the recent Panama Cards Twitter account unexpectedly Papers leak (see the politics threw arguably the greatest shade section accordingly), the seen in all 10 years of Twitter's’ enginesI of Twitter have been in existence. On the 7th April, when overdrive, with users and celebrities the news broke, the account replied alike calling Cameron every name to Cameron's old tweet with a gif of under the sun, giving their two Frank Underwood looking at the he most unfortunate fictional So what do we know about the new and Andrew Buchan) and vicar Paul cents on the issue. camera and then his phone. Maybe village in TV land is back for series so far? Coates, played by Arthur Darvill, On the 2nd May 2015, David the fictional president could teach more pain and heartache for It is expected to air early next are also expected to return, with the Cameron tweeted: ‘I have a simple our Prime Minister a thing or two itsT third and final series which is year and many characters we know addition of new characters, whose view that if you have done the right about thinking before you publicly due to start filming this May. It was and love are back. The moody duo roles in the new series are currently thing - worked, saved and paid your state something. confirmed via showrunner Chris Hardy and Miller (David Tennant unknown. Chibnall, who is leaving for pastures and Olivia Coleman) return to Broadchurch is set to set to return taxes - you should be rewarded, not Hats off to whoever runs the new. 2017 is set to be an exciting year investigate a sexual assault in on ITV in early 2017. punished.’ House of Cards Twitter account, you for Chibnall as he starts his new job Broadchurch. Danny’s parents Beth To which, the official House of deserve a raise. as showrunner for Doctor Who. and Mark Latimer (Jodie Whittaker 28 Seren | April Issue 2016 FILM

REVIEW Deadpool

by SEB ELLIS The audience is treated straight away The scene is set in the back of a taxi, the face of it, but it is in the comedic being the rst truly adult superhero to an opening credits scene lled Deadpool set on revenge on Ajax value that it really wins the audience lm and hopefully this isn’t the last omedy and Horror are genres with various references to what we and those who changed him. But as over. of them. that every so often come to- have come to expect as a fan of lms the story unfolds we learn how Ajax The acting of Ryan Reynolds makes Deadpool is a breath of fresh air for Cgether with mixed results, and in this era. In an attempt to cut itself and others came to Wilson as a termi- Deadpool. His delivery of some of the comic book fans. It’s precisely what that’s exactly what Deadpool is, a away from the rest of the pack, whilst nally ill cancer patient, o ering him scripts best lines are make the entry we have been waiting for as older comedy with some horri c themes. seemingly being providing the same full health in exchange for becom- fee of the lm worth it alone. From viewers. A funny, bloody comedy But boy does it work well in this in- concoction of a lm plot, we are told ing “a stronger person”, an o er that counting down the number of bul- that doesn’t listen to boundaries set stance. Ryan Reynolds proves to be that we will enjoy the appearance of mercenary Wilson in the end cannot lets he has left to use on his enemies, by its Marvel predecessors. Like all an absolute triumph in this lm as he a “British villain” amongst others, but refuse. Leaving his girlfriend Vanessa to casually tickling his blind friend lms, it does have its problems, as makes up for past mistakes in his pre- this British villain comes in the form (Morena Baccarin) oblivious as to with an embryonic hand he had to it potentially in places becomes too vious iteration of the foul-mouthed of Ajax, the man who created Dead- where he has disappeared up until previously cut o (trust me, it’s exact- much like the lms it attempts to anti hero in X-Men Origins and pro- pool from mercenary Wade Wilson her own kidnapping. The result in the ly as weird as it sounds). From minute spoof. But what we do get from the vides success in abundance in Dead- (Ryan Reynolds) and who Wilson de- end is one of a love story as Wilson one this cannot be taken seriously, rst minute until the last is a constant pool. cides to enact his revenge following makes it his mission to save Vanessa. and Marvel are exactly aware of this. laugh, with Ryan Reynolds at the Deadpool is a comic book spoof. his malformed but superhero enact- This superhero lm is a story that Deadpool is to be looked at from an centre of the project. Here’s hoping ing transformation. isn’t lled with much substance on experimental point of view with it for much more in this regard. Empire Awards 2016 by EMILY RIMMER male newcomer. Both were present to accept he Empire Awards rolled into London on their awards with Daisy expressing in her ac- the 20th March bringing with it a host of ceptance speech what an “amazing time to be Tthe biggest names in lm over the past a women in lm”. Other woman that thrived on year. The Empire awards honour the best lms the night was Alicia Vikander who won best ac- of 2015 and highlight the British talent in the tress for her role in The Danish Girl. lm industry. The ceremony was hosted by The most successful genres of the night had none other than the comedian David Walliams to be sci- and action with such lms as The who brought the house down with his silly at- Revenant, The Martian, Star Wars, Spectre and titude and child-like jokes. Mad max sweeping the oor with the other The night saw two big lms of 2015 scoop nominees. The big awards of the night went up awards, Mad Max and Star Wars. The big in- to went to Alan Rickman who won ‘Empire dividual awards of the night were awarded to Legend’. The late actor was paid tribute to by the up and coming stars of the Star Wars Saga the Empire editor Terri white, in an emotional Daisy Ridley and John Boyega who both won posthumous tribute. Overall, British lm was awards for best female newcomer and best represented in a great light and shown to be one of the best. April Issue 2016 | Seren 29 FILM

Batman VS Superman: Super Good or Super Bad?

Despite a record breaking opening weekend, Batman vs Superman has divided opinion of not just lm critics and superfans but the regular lm-goer too. This issue we debate whether Zac Synder’s blockbuster is really worth the hype or whether DC ought to nally concede defeat to Marvel when it comes to the big screen. Super Super GOOD BAD

By CONNOR TEELING Now the elephant in the room, Batman’s use by LEWIS ANGEL over so blasé will infuriate watchers hoping for of force. We are treated to a future batman a good story and deep plot. I LOVED it… writing this after my second scene where he’s all guns blazing and this I be- LIKE many of you I went into BvS with high Areas that su er from a lack of depth and de- viewing I truly appreciate all that’s gone into lieve is on purpose to trickling in the fact. Bat- expectations due to the hype around 2 of DC’s tail are a common occurring problem with the making this lm and what it set out to achieve. man kills, Batman uses guns, now since super- biggest icons going head to head. Trailer after dream sequences/time travel moments bat- From the o the viewer is treated to the man killed in his previous lm fans have been trailer I found myself more eager to see the n- man experiences. However, Batman in this lm full comic stylings; you have an origin story making excuses as to why he had to. But this ished product. That was until the Doomsday was a true Dark Knight, this batman is one of though seen and known by many it is still re- is DC, known for its darker and slightly more trailer hit my screen, from there my reserva- the best brought to the big screen with ben Af- quired for a reboot of the franchise and here is grounded approach to it’s characters. tions started to creep in. As a long term DC fan eck portraying both batman and Bruce Wayne where I feel the lm doesn’t get enough credit. Watching batman’s ghts he only seems to the reveal of one of superman’s most power- to an excellent standard, again though as this The scene as a young Bruce is lifted out of well use lethal force when necessary and to me ful nemesis cramped into this already overly lm jumps in at a batman in his later years we by bats might seem strange and frankly fasci- only killing half the deadly mercenaries is still stu ed 151 minutes was a lot to take on board, have missed out on a lot of the reasons behind cle by the uninitiated to the paper version of more Batman than most people would in the with other reveals such as Darkseid, Aqua- why he is so tormented, and tortured that he the characters in DC. same situations. This lm is the rst in a series man, Wonder Woman, The Flash and Cyborg all feels the need to brand and kill. This I hope will But it is the slow start of trickle of scenes that and you can tell nothing has been done that throughout the course. be addressed in the standalone lm coming open the viewer to the reality that this isn’t a hasn’t been thought about and will have some This lms entire plot relies on the events of later. normal universe, this is realm of literal gods & impact later on but it’s the little things that Man of Steel, asking deep philosophical ques- Batman Vs Superman is a messy amalgama- monster, crazy Sci- ideas and stark imagery sold me. Lex’s hair at the end, the mention of tions about superman’s morality, powers and tion of several of the greatest comics DC has and are comic not all about bold unsubtle character by the name farris, this is a lm that responsibilities and dealing with the destruc- printed in its lifetime. Truly spectacular action ideas. This lm is indeed long and bloated with knows its source material and was made with tion he leaves in his wake. BvS sets out to por- scenes ripped from The Dark knight returns, stories but I love it for that, barring superman love. I cannot wait to see the next lm with tray superman as a villain from the o with Injustice and Crisis on in nite earths merely every major character is new in this universe theses characters whether it be a solo or team scenes of destruction as he battles Zod over scattered throughout the lms course as it runs to us and the fact that it contains so much is a e ort they have my money already. a terri ed metropolis, one large irritating plot to a questionable conclusion. Batman Vs Su- testament to the script. hole comes from when superman is set up ear- perman: Dawn of Justice is worth a watch for ly on in the lm for murdering mercenaries in anyone who enjoys the DC universe with its ex- Africa even though they were shot with strange cellent action scenes on a large scale, but sadly bullets. Moments like this which are passed cut short by constant plot holes, over used phi- losophy and some poor casting choices. 30 Seren | April Issue 2016 MUSIC INTERVIEW

ANDY HOPKINS FROMTHE ENEMY On the end of The Enemy, the radio industry and the future of bands.

by FINNIAN SHARDLOW the rst record. We put that out producers liked it, but Annie didn’t. I go back and reach for an album as one. Everything is so fast; we don’t when we were 18 or 19 and we think have to respect that. So that’s where of The Enemy years from now? let things settle. How di cult was the process it’s one of the best records to come we fell short. It got a couple of spins Maybe. First record I bought was of everyone knowing The out of that generation. So we want on Radio 2, it got a couple of spins on by Oasis. After that I looked back. On selling tickets, your tour Enemy was going to have to be people to celebrate that. Radio X. But that’s not moving the “Oh, The Jam. Oh, they like The has already sold out. What brought to an end? dial enough for our ambitions as a Stone Roses. Oh, THEY like the Small does that feel like? Di cult, de nitely. Not a nice You’ve talked about your last band. On that note, we came to the Faces. Oh, The Who. The Beatles. Oh, I’m just delighted people give a sh*t conversation, but maybe a sensible record ‘It’s Automatic’, how conclusion that it was time to bow right okay Cream. Oh, Love.” You to be honest. It’s amazing. I’m proud conversation. We don’t want to be right did it feel to end on that out. know, that’s how it works. It’s just a about that. I’m proud we connect one of those bands who keep going one? constant digging thing. We will be with people. I remember hearing the and going. It kind of gets to a point We think it’s a great record. There’s Where do you see radio one of those bands, and I think there rst records I ever bought, getting where you’re back into 300 capacity some great songs on it. Very di erent heading? is an appetite for bands. I went to an excited about bands and putting venues. We’d rather nish it on a to some of the others we’ve done. The problem with radio is that it’s ‘all-dayer’ recently and all the bands posters up on my wall. To think we’re positive, and you know, this tour The second record (Music For The very stat driven. It’s all well and good were rubbish, but there were 800- one of those bands is the biggest sold out in minutes. 2500 capacity People) is the one for us where it took looking at Spotify plays, but the 900 kids there… waiting. I just think buzz of it all. It’s amazing really that in London, 1750 in Leeds, 3000 in the wind out of our sails, it was a very one stat they often seem to forget we need that new Oasis that will we can impact on people’s lives like Coventry. It’s good to bow out at di cult record to make. It was a quick is ticket sales. We’re selling tickets come along and absolutely resurrect that. a good level and leave our legacy turnaround and it didn’t quite work up and down the country as are the lot. Don’t know who it is, but it’s intact, rather than just run into the out for us. But the last record is the The Courteeners. The Courteeners going to happen because there’s an When this Farewell Tour ends, oor. We got ten years out of it and second best record we’ve made out actually are a great example. Radio underbelly of hunger there. At the what achievements will you it’s been an amazing journey. But we of the four. It was a brave decision to 1 didn’t play them for years. But it’s minute, I don’t think the bands are hold most fondly? just feel now is the right time. Liam go where we did with it, sonically. So become such a big thing – the north- good enough. People ask me about Supporting The Rolling Stones. has just had a little girl. And it was I’m really proud of it. south divide – that The Courteeners Cat sh and the Bottlemen and I Being asked to be on the last ever getting to a point where we were think: “Yeah, they’re alright.” Have Oasis tour. Selling out 20,000 tickets going through the motions a little WHAT’S NOT WORKING IF YOU LOOK they got bigger songs than anything in your home town. Doing all the bit. We don’t want to be that band. ROUND THE FESTIVALS IS THAT THERE’S NO o the rst Enemy record? No. And festivals. Seeing the world with Radio was also a bit di cult to get HEADLINERS. that’s not me having a pop. Anyone my mates and being paid for the traction on our last record. So we just can have a pop at our albums. Have a privilege. First record selling double thought: “You know what, maybe it’s pop at album two, three and four. But platinum. It’s just mad! We used to time.” That conversation was always could sell 70,000 tickets on a tour I know I can put album one out there spend six quid hiring out a little room going to come at some point. I think What are the frustrations you and all of a sudden Radio 1 are like: and go: “I know that’s on a level.” And knocking some sounds together. it’s better to do that now rather than have with radio play? “SH*T! We’ve got to start playing this I know I can stand tall and proud Someone said to me, you can times go for another ve years and start Let’s not beat around the bush. band.” about that record. It did business. every record sale by three because falling out of love with what we do. There’s other bands being played on The radio industry has grown by That’s that. I will always have that of people who’ve heard it or robbed the radio. People may look at us and the biggest percentage for twenty card. it for free or whatever. So if we sold How long was the thought of think we’ve had our chance at radio. years, so the business is working. 600,000 that means 1.8 million stopping oating about in the I can’t deny, we have had our chance. What’s not working - if you look band? Maybe we blew it and never really round the festivals - is that there’s no I JUST THINK WE NEED THAT NEW OASIS About three or four months. But recovered from that. But for us to not headliners. That’s because we’re not you know, we’ve done well out of The nd somewhere on radio with the building bands. Everyone wants the THAT WILL COME ALONG AND ABSOLUTELY Enemy. We’ve been lucky and had last record we made – we’re 28/29 newest thing all the time. RESURRECT THE LOT. success. We’ve got good personal years old – and there’s nobody on The bottom line is, 99.9% of people assets. When you keep going and the BBC who can play it; it’s a bitter have jobs, they don’t really think How will that ‘game changing’ people have heard it. That’s one in all of a sudden you start putting pill to swallow. about music like everyone else big band come about? forty people in this country who your own assets at risk it begs the It’s not down to anyone in our does. They drive a van. They buy Nobody can control it. It’s a magic. I have heard our record. That’s pretty question: “what are we doing here?” team. They’re very well thought of two albums a year. So what we need remember when the Arctic Monkeys mental. Without the radio play it was starting in the BBC building. It just turns out to work out as an industry is, how came through. No one knew about to become a problem to get certain we didn’t have enough fans there. bands like us get to those people. that. It just happened. They sold If there’s one song you’d want to gigs and command certain fees. We had some fans in daytime Radio Because since our tour went on sale 2000-3000 tickets on word of mouth. be remembered by, what would it When it gets to that point, you start 1, but the problem with how Radio and we’ve got all this publicity, fans The kids decide. It’s a meeting, be? eating your own personal funds up 1 is set up, is that if Clara (Amfo), have come out the woodwork and it’s a magic in the air that pings ‘This Song Is About You’. I like the and we can’t do that. We can’t risk Greg (James) or Chris (Stark) want to said: “Where’ve you been for ve or everything together. Social media idea of the celebration about the what we’ve built up. So like I say, it’s play the track in the daytime, then six years?” They don’t even know makes things a bit quicker, but the connection with the people who like better to bow out at a great level it needs to have evening play. We’re about our records because they’re problem with how quick it moves this band. ‘This Song Is About You’ is rather than peter out. We have a too big for Phil Taggart. We’re too big not getting to those people. is that the kids move on quicker. So about the people who come to our legacy to protect. We’re proud of all for Huw (Stephens) to play. So we’re we don’t have this moment where gigs. The story of struggle. The story the records we’ve put out, certainly then down to Annie (Mac). Annie’s Do you think that people will everything gels and comes together of the nine til’ ve. The story of life. LISTEN ON 87.7FM or online at stormfm.com THIS IS STORM Seren | April Issue 2016 31 MUSIC

‘Living’ Albums: The Future of Music or a Waste of Time? by TIARNA ARMSTRONG the major modi cations lie on the Only Revolutions back in October replace it. However, Grimes’ fourth Taylor Swift or Zayn Malik to name production side. 2009. Frontman Simon Neil even studio album Art Angels – one of but a few, they would be praised for Naturally, this issue has raised went onto explain how the band the best albums of 2015 according their artistry, would they not? he Life of Pablo, the seventh some questions. Is this right? Does constructed various versions of the to several publications, including Admittedly, West bears a name studio album by Kanye West it have artistic integrity? What’s the piece and that it was originally a NME and Billboard – did include the for being a self-righteous tool – he To cially dropped on 1st April point? prog-rock song. amended demo track ‘Realiti.’ always has. This is nothing new. and skyrocketed to No. 1 on the Firstly, I’ve stumbled across a Likewise, Canadian experimental So, with these two examples in But I do believe that, although an Billboard charts. However, since track called ‘Help Me Be Captain’ synth-pop artist and producer mind – although di ering slightly – is oddity, he is an absorbing character its initial release on 13th February, by Scottish stadium-rock trio Bi y Grimes, admitted that she scrapped it right to criticise artists for changing (especially live.) Because of this, I the piece which West christened “a Clyro. It is not a new track – in fact, an entire album – the follow-up to their minds? have often been called things like living breathing changing creative it was released on the album Lonely Visions, released in 2012 – because If you strip this issue to its bare “the Kanye West sympathiser,” but expression,” has since undergone Revolutions which contains B Sides she thought it sucked. Although, bones, you have an artist who, I can whether anyone likes it or not, Kanye some drastic changes. Some sites from the highly commended fth ‘Realiti,’ a demo track for the ‘lost only presume, isn’t totally happy West is a part of the music scene. I do have gone into immense detail to studio album from the band, Only album,’ was released in March 2015 with the outcome of a certain song believe that this idea of a ‘living’ or highlight the di erences between Revolutions. However, this particular with an accompanying music video. or several songs and, therefore, ‘evolving’ album is intriguing and has the rst and second releases of The track is of interest to me as it is an This track was not meant to feature transforms them into something the potential to be a prominent motif Life of Pablo. Some of the tracks early, raw recording of ‘The Captain’ on the previously scrapped album, or new. If it wasn’t Kanye West, but in music in the coming years. have vocal and lyrical changes, while – the third single to be released from presumably the album which would perhaps the sweethearts of pop Album Reviews: April by FINNIAN SHARDLOW

Parquet Courts - M83 - Junk Morly - Something Billboard Awards preview Human Performance More Holy EP by SASHA DEACON she will be taking a step back and ittered with fuzzy hooks and 83’s Anthony Gonzalez know it’s an album segment. he time has come once again. taking a break from the music scene. irregular guitar work, Human swaps his re ned, sleek – And yes, it would be a slight The time where artists that The ‘Wildest Dreams’ songstress says LPerformance is an absorbing Moften captivating – synth- Imismatch to contrast the weight provide us with some of the that she will be taking some time out homage to askew rock ‘n’ roll. To gaze-y pop soundscape for a of this score against the previous T remain hypnotic, unsettling but scrapheap of piano house tropes, albums. Although, it’s also a tribute world’s favourite songs are to be and focussing on some short term rewarded and recognised for their goals that she has set for herself, such riveting is true testament, and is a eccentric 80s nostalgia, and just to Morly as I feel Something More work at the Billboard Awards. as learning how to make a cocktail. sensation reminiscent of The Velvet sheer cheese. Holy equals the sophistication The awards which will be hosted by Perhaps though, the most heart- Underground. There’s some who would make found in a full length LP. Goodies singer Ciara and Rest of my warming and endearing of all the Essentially, of course, this is guitar the joke that this album ‘does There’s a pool of elements Life singer Ludacris on the 22nd May nominations during the evening, music. But at its core – I’d argue what it says on the tin’. I wouldn’t you could complement in 2016. They o er a sparkling range will be the one that goes to the – are a collective of pop-esque go to that extent. However, Junk Something More Holy. Celestial of pop star hopefuls the prospect of late, great, British sensation, David in uences. It’s just not instantly is unquestionably hit and miss. strings, de nitely. Saintly vocal being rewarded with a prize. The front Bowie with his last album before discernible. Most of these hooks The hits - euphoric. The misses - performances, yes. And, simply, runner in terms of nominations with his untimely death earlier this year, – once endearing – have been catastrophic. just good beats; something often a whopping sixteen nominations is ‘Blackstar’. The ‘Space Oddity’ legend, drowned in bristly guitar work. ‘Moon Crystal’ is a track that neglected. the R&B singer The Weeknd. Coming who tragically lost a battle with Suspended in the twisted lyrics of genuinely insults me as a listener. However, most captivating, is the in a close second place with eleven cancer at the age of 69, will surely be Andrew Savage and Austin Brown A completely vain, super uous minimalistic production method. nominations is Justin Bieber. Taylor remembered fondly on the night of are strenuous vines of paranoia that musical excursion of pure futility For example, ‘By The Polo Pond’ is Swift and England’s very own, Adele, this ceremony. The last ever album intertwine with the instrumentals: “I that begs the question: “What is a track with few layers. Vocals and have eight nominations each this he graced us with, will be given the must have lost/My train of thought/ that even doing on the album?” drums are furnished only by eeting year. recognition it deserves. You look so nice/Chinese fried rice.” On the other hand, you have orchestral stabs and instances of Adele’s album ‘25’ was the fastest Tune in and watch the American 9/10: Experimental, interesting tracks like ‘For The Kids’. A wistful tense silence. selling album of last year and Taylor equivalent to the British charts, and and gripping. Yet, there is an edge breeze of soft synth, smooth sax 7/10: A serene listen. For fans Swift, after nishing her best selling see if you agree with the winners of of accessibility. and all things starry-eyed. of Emmy The Great or Susanne tour ‘1989’, has just announced that the awards on the 22nd of May 2016. 5/10: Inconsistency throughout. Sundfor. 32 Seren | April Issue 2016 GADGETS APPLE V F.B.I. II id anyone really think the FBI encrypted devices as data is encrypted $2500 for each smartphone which whatever the court orders. is applies and they would have to provide the needed Apples help to get into and decrypted as it is accessed on breaches this requirement. to all app stores, works on GitHub, identi cation data of the users as well an iPhone? Our last article set newer android devices. Although this has not been signed messaging apps and more. Again the as the IP address used for registration. outD how the FBI were trying to set a e FBI can no longer peruse Apple into law many commentators have White House have refused to back the Failure to comply quali es as precedent in order to make their lives in the courts on this occasion as the seen this legislation coming for a long legislation. misdemeanor, and is also punishable easier in the future, but with some All Writs Act prevents them from time. is may be Californian law but e problem with this new proposal with a 2 years prison sentence. corner shops apparently o ering to continuing as their goal to unlock manufacturers are unlikely to produce is that not only can law enforcement Given that the Apple case revolved help you get into your phone when you the phone has been met. It has also a speci c phone which may be sold make such an order, but an o cial, around the issue of decryption it have been locked out was it worth all theorised that they knew they had a there, also with the development of such as a mayor is also entitled to is perhaps amusing that Facebook the time and money. weak case and that is why they were the internet it makes it likely to spread. make such an order due to the way this announced that WhatsApp is now e Mail on Sunday set about their taking expert witnesses to court rather is new legislation runs contrary to dra has been written. e Electronic completely encrypted. Previously own investigation by buying an than being able to continue on the the Communications Assistance for Frontier Foundation stated that encryption only covered one-to- iPhone 5C and a device known as an facts of the case alone. e FBI have Law Enforcement Act which prohibits ‘the senators are pushing Congress one conversations, but this new IP Box which they purchased online taken their new found knowledge and the government from making to destroy fundamental aspects of development will also encrypt group for around £120. ey set a random o ered to help other law enforcement manufacturers of telecommunication computer security.’ It does not just chats and voice calls. is new means 4 digit code and le the IP Box try to to access any phones they may have devices develop backdoors into their open up a door for law enforcement to that not even Facebook will be able guess the passcode without tripping which need unlocking, but they have systems. e Guardian reported surveil criminals, it also opens a door to see your messages or hear your the 10 attempts and you’re out feature. not told Apple how they accessed the that the White House is declining for criminals to surveil us. calls, which could potentially cause Some may be sceptical at their claims device. to o er public support for long- e legislation is unlikely to pass, problems for law enforcement as well that it guessed the code 3298 a er six is is not the end of the story as awaited legislation that would give we saw the UK government propose as cyber-criminals and hackers. hours but they claim that with the the California Assembly Bill (AB- federal judges clearer authority to similar legislation with the Dra In a statement WhatsApp said code they were able to access all the 1681) has emerged from Section order technology companies such as Communications Data Bill, or " e idea is simple: when you send data on the device, as well as change 22762 of the Business and Professions Apple to help law enforcement crack snoopers charter which was promptly a message, the only person who can its passcode to one of their choosing. Code which required smartphones encrypted data, according to sources shelved due to substantial resistance. read it is the person or group chat ere is some contention as the phone manufactured on or a er July 1st 2015 familiar with the discussions. It has been suggested that such moves that you send that message to. No which was tested was on iOS7 whereas to include a technological solution is is not the only piece of are being made to make it easier for one can see inside that message. Not the one the FBI had was on iOS9 at the time of the sale which could legislation being proposed in the US, law enforcement as budgets are being cybercriminals. Not hackers. Not [meaning that the one the FBI has is consist of headwear, so ware or both Senators Richard Burr and Dianne cut, if they do not have to spend so oppressive regimes. Not even us." more secure]. that once initiated and successfully Feinstein have released their Bill of much on decrypting people's phones Although Amnesty International have e device the Mail used is not communicated to the smartphone what is known as the e Compliance and hard drives then the government dubbed this move a huge victory for something new, police have had boxes would render it inoperable. is Bill With Court Orders Act 2016, although will be able to cut, or at least defend free speech, FBI attorney James Baker with a multitude of cables for di erent has subsequently been dropped as it it has Act in the title it has not yet their cuts to policing and security. reportedly criticised the move saying devices which they could plug in and could not nd anyone to second it. been approved by congress, let alone e Hungarian Government encryption threatens the work of law extract the phone’s data in the past, We have gotten used to the idea signed into law. Tim Cook said he did also plan to criminalise the use enforcement. but these were fast outdated with that we can remote wipe and disable not want to capitulate to something of applications for encrypted If e Compliance With Court companies like Apple and Google our smartphones for a while, but this he felt was wrong, meaning that communication as part of as part of a Orders Act 2016 is to pass the trying to patch any security aws in new addition will provide a potential he wanted legislation rather than a new antiterrorism legislation package WhatsApp will have to make a u-turn order to stop criminals rather than law invasion of privacy as it requires a judge telling Apple to unlock a phone put forward by the Interior Ministry. or shut down services such as Lavabit enforcement. A source has reported smartphone manufactured on or a er but it is doubtful that he wanted If the package is implemented in its did due to the FBI demanding that that updated versions of these boxes January 1st 2017 and sold in California this. e proposal does not outlaw present form, anyone caught using Ladar Levison hand over all of the have been developed, which when to be capable of being decrypted and encryption, but instead compels encrypted so ware can be punished encryption keys of users in order to plugged in will extract all the phones unlocked by its manufacturer, or its decryption. Anyone who encrypts by 2 years of prison. e providers decrypt emails. data into a single le, it is unclear operation system provider. e Bill any communications must provide a would be obliged to ensure access to whether this device will work on also provides for a civil penalty of means to provide intelligible version of the content of the encrypted messages, W’ N? M F P any of you may have heard the future of connected device, and e issue with the exodus of the was rst introduced to by EMMA JEWKES of Nest home automation whether they may be shut down in an Dropcam team is the way in which MyFitnessPal a year ago good, tness is also essential. but its recent behaviour has insigni cant [by Googles terms] cost it was handled by Tony Fadell, CEO and it’s an app I keep MyFitnessPal takes care of Mbeen throwing up questions about cutting exercise. It would be completely of Nest Labs. What was going to be goingI back to time and time that too and it also takes the the future of Google for many tech unacceptable if Dell announced that a quiet exodus turned into a ame again. At rst glance, the basic calorie loss into account when journalists. In October 2014 they when your warranty expires that your war when he stated that ‘a lot of the function of MyFitnessPal is as adding up your calories for acquired a manufacturer of a £210 computer will automatically power employees were not as good as we a calorie counter. e database the day. ere’s also a cool home automation hub which could down, so why is Google allowed to hoped,’ and that Dropcam was ‘a very has every food and every brand you water counting feature so you can keep control devices such as lights, alarm make such a brash decision? small team and unfortunately it wasn’t can think of. You can either enter it up to date with your uid intake as and doors. e terms of the deal were Many are now concerned over a very experienced team.’ into the search box or, as I prefer, you well as a way for connecting the app to not disclosed, and as Re/code reported buying Internet of ings devices just e problem with this statement can simply scan the barcode using your FitBit. at the time, the deal was an acqui-hire in case the same is to happen to their was that prior to acquisition Dropcam your smartphone camera. While this is MyFitnessPal is the ultimate all-in- — buying a company for its talent hardware. A er all the Revolv hub was was in the middle of a record year of its main selling point, under the hood one app, whether you want to lose rather than its products or users. sold with a ‘lifetime subscription’, and sales, had a 4.5-star bestselling camera it is so much more than just a way to weight or you just want to get back As you can imagine the company’s customers were told that their hub on Amazon, was rolling into large keep track of your calorie intake. into shape. I lost just over a stone in technology was integrated into Nest’s would be provided with updates to brick-and-mortar retailers with huge You can input your current weight four weeks by using the app last year own smart-home platform, Works work seamlessly with other devices ‘for merchandising support, had innovative and target weight and it will give you and as I nd myself attempting to get with Nest, but what many buyers did the lifetime of the product’. e best new products imminently launching, a set amount of calories to consume into shape for the summer, it’s an app not expect was for Revolv to announce which has been o ered by the Nest still had most of its nancing in the each day. It will then track your weight I’ve turned to once again. that they will no longer be supporting team is to work with customers on a bank, and our investors and team loss on a daily, their hub. In fact the announcement case-by-case basis to determine the actively didn’t want to sell. weekly or even was that the Revolv hub and app would best resolution, which could involve Greg Du y, former owner of monthly basis. no longer work. compensation. Dropcam stated ‘ e ~50 Dropcam You can then Arlo Gilbert, an owner of the hub, is is not the only news about Nest employees who resigned did so share to social branded the debacle as ‘the time that as they are also losing two key members because they felt their ability to build media such as Tony Fadell sold me a container of of sta . Shige Honjo, the director of great products being totally crushed. Facebook or Available hummus.’ is unhappy customer hardware design and engineering will All of us have worked at big companies Twitter which on Android, goes on to explain the multitude depart at the end of May, and Scott before, where it is harder to move is great for iOS, and of smart devices he has connected Mullins, a senior engineering manager fast. But this is something di erent, support and Windows together through the smart hub in will be leaving to work on the next as evidenced by the continued lack of keeping you order to create his automated home iteration of Googles Glass wearable. output from the currently 1200-person on track. Phone before bluntly stating that ‘Google is ese are not the rst two sta ers to team and its virtually unlimited A l t h o u g h intentionally bricking hardware that I leave as Nest co-founder Matt Rogers budget. According to LinkedIn, total using a calorie ow n .’ said he was “losing sleep” over an attrition to date at Nest amounts to counter to With Google intentionally ‘bricking’ exodus of Googlers and Dropcam nearly 500 people, which suggests that lose weight is its devices there are concerns over team members. we were not alone in our frustrations.’ all well and April Issue 2016 | Seren 33 GADGETS RANSOMWARE ON THE RISE ave you received an email type of email recently hit several US what could have been demanded from million. network which is why some police which knows your name, how hospitals. e rst to come onto our such critical systems. What is perhaps A new version of ransomware has forces have disabled the USB ports on about your address? ese radar was the Hollywood Presbyterian more worrying is that MedStar Health been discovered called Petya which their systems. spamH emails are o en full of viruses, Medical Center who has been noticing was also a victim, forcing them to encrypts the Master File Table; all les A recent study at the University of and the person who sent them has ‘signi cant IT issues and declared an shut down its email and vast records on the volume, including le names, Illinois dropped 297 USB sticks on the purchased your information from internal emergency’ back on February database. timestamps, stream names, and lists school’s Urbana-Champaign campus, some website or service you have used, 12th. Chaos ensued for several days MedStar o cials said they had of cluster numbers where data streams with 135 people picking them up and o en forgotten or not noticed a as sta were forced to revert to paper found “no evidence that information reside, indexes, security identi ers, and opening les. 68% of people who tick box. Lately some of these scams documents; phone lines, computer has been stolen.” “MedStar acted and le attributes like "read only", opened the les said they were trying have become far more sophisticated systems, faxes and more were unusable quickly with a decision to take down "compressed", "encrypted", etc. to identify the owner, whilst 18% by installing ransomware on the user's during the incident. Eventually all system interfaces to prevent the e master boot record which tells admitted that they opened the les computer. the hospital paid the ransom of 40 virus from spreading throughout the the computer to launch your operating out of curiosity. Members of the BBC Radio 4's You bitcoins, equivalent to around £12,000 organization,” spokeswoman Ann system is also replaced, meaning that is may seem innocent, and at and Yours team were among some Subsequently Kentucky Methodist Nickels said in a statement. “We when you start up the computer you times the right thing to do, but is it of the recipients of the email which Hospital, Chino Valley Medical are working with our IT and cyber- are faced with a scary red and white worth risking your computer or an claimed they owed hundreds of pounds Center and Desert Valley Hospital, security partners to fully assess and skull and crossbones painted in boller entire network? One person who to UK rms, but when these rms have California were also victims of a address the situation. Currently, all of signs with the explanation that your opened les stated that they were not been contacted by worried customers ransomware attack. A message on our clinical facilities remain open and entire system is now hosed. worried as they sacri ced a university they con rmed that they had not sent the Kentucky Methodist Hospitals functioning.” Petya will cause a lot of issues putting computer, but has this contained the emails. Some individuals were silly homepage read: "Methodist Hospital is e reason this organisation is data back together, but thankfully the ransomware it would have slowly enough to click the links in the email currently working in an internal state more worrying than a single hospital author of the hack made a mistake encrypted the university's systems which linked to a ransomware known of emergency due to a computer virus is that it operates 10 hospitals and leaving clues as to the key so that you rendering it inoperable. as Maktub. that has limited our use of electronic more than 250 outpatient facilities do not have to pay the ransom. ere Adobe have also had to rush out an Although a warning message may web-based services.We are currently in the Washington region, serving is now a free tool which will help you emergency Flash update due to a bug appear on the computer screen when working to resolve this issue, until over 30,000 people. is security decrypt your computer without much in their programming. ‘ e bug allows you enter the link it s too late, the then we will have limited access to breach meant that appointments and hassle. an attacker to send booby trapped ransomware has already taken hold web-based services and electronic surgeries were delayed or cancelled. It is not just emails which spread content to Windows 10's browser’s of your computer and encrypted communications." MedStar was also infected with Locky. viruses, they can also be installed on Flash plugin in such a way that the anything of value on your hard drive. e hospital claimed that patient e FBI is investigating all incidents USB sticks which will automatically browser will not only crash, but also e way such a virus works is to o er data had not been a ected, what we do stating that in a nine-month period execute when plugged in. e problem hand over control to the attacker in you to purchase the encryption key so know is that this strain of ransomware in 2014, the FBI investigated 1,838 with this is that many people will try the process.’ that you can decrypt your data, with was called Locky. e Kentucky complaints of such attacks, which to read the documents on a drive in each passing day that you do not pay facility paid around £1100 in order to cost those targeted more than £16.6 order to identify the owner, but as we the release fee increases. regain control of their systems which million. In 2015, agents investigated have seen in the hit show Mr. Robot It is not clear if this is the same is a relatively low amount compared to 2,453 complaints, costing targets £16.9 such actions can bring down an entire F L T id you ever use JustinTV or already available on their desktop site think about starting your own which contains a live map of current vlog series before noticing that broadcasts, and the ability to discover ave you ever thought that attempting some “cyborg comedy” at a youD don’t have the equipment, can’t do videos within your own stream. someone was taking mental Toronto bar’s open-mike night. fancy editing, or don’t think you will is technology is bounds ahead of images of you? Well a Spence is con dent that they will H lmmaker in Toronto may well be be able to lm with the camera for have a big enough audience? Well their main competitor in this eld, Facebook has launched a new feature Twitter’s Periscope. Facebook claims taking a video of you as part of a hours at a time in a few months which that allows users to live stream in their that by making videos simpler to candid video or relaxed interview. will allow him to better interact with timeline. is may not be news to create and discover, whilst they are Unfortunately for this lmmaker, he more emotional subjects “[Like] some users as the company launched still live videos will generate 10x more is limited to three minutes before the asking somebody what . . . they think Facebook Live last year, initially only comments. Another fundamental camera in his eye starts to overheat. about love, but really look in their allowing public gures access, but it aspect of Facebook live is that it We have seen this kind of technology eyes,” When being recorded it can has now been launched to a much addresses some users concerns that in science- ction for a long time, feel awkward to be talking down the wider audience with the hopes that they are only seeing the polished but Rob Spence has made it a reality barrel of a lense, and so the prosthetic other users will be able to go live highlights of their friend’s lives rather a er his eye was taken out due to a may enable a subject to maintain eye within groups and events. than the raw person they really are. shotgun accident at age 9 (he held the contact instead. Whilst there are some gimmicky ere is no doubt that the feature gun incorrectly, against his eye, while Although this is currently a single features, such as lters and the ability to will be used for some of the most shooting a pile of cow dung). use case the technology behind it draw on your live video, it is important important parts of people’s lives such is technology undoubtedly raises could have vast implications for to bear in mind what repercussions as graduation, but there are also ethical questions, much like the future documentary and lm making, this new move will have on the future bound to be a few messy nights out defunct Google Glass. Spence stated especially with the pending release of of broadcasting with Facebook already and days where people just want to ‘I’ve actually started wondering, do Hardcore Henry. paying news publishers to use the live rant at the world. Being able to share we want to have constant video of our feature. these moments with select people or lives? It’s just another data set. And I YouTube is already the world’s groups also allows them to participate don’t know the answer, but I think no, with pre-existing systems, this means number one hub for video streaming, in events they wouldn’t otherwise be we don’t want that. But it’s coming that you will not only be able to shoot although their live video services have a part of, such as a sick relative and a any w ay.’ from your smart phone, but you not been as productive as they may wedding, or a child’s rst steps. Although the camera can only record could set up your own studio in your have hoped. Facebook seem to have Unlike Periscope the videos for up to three minutes it does not store bedroom. spotted this weakness and are moving produced through Facebook live can the video locally, nor is it connected CNN used the service to stream its in with a newfound priority for video be prominently saved rather than to Spence’s optic nerve, instead it is presidential debate in October and the re ected by paying newspapers and disappearing a er 24 hours. is transmitted to a handheld monitor. Guardian has used Facebook Live to digital publishers. being said Periscope hit 200 million With the device also being inside his report from events such as the junior e New York Times, Hu ngton broadcasts last month so Facebook head there is no room for traditional doctors’ strike. It is not only the main Post and BuzzFeed have already been still has a way to go before it catches switches or IR sensors, instead it is stream news which has been a ected identi ed as some of the publishers up although it is starting with a much controlled by a magnetic switch. by this new feature, my eye was caught being paid, with the Guardian larger potential user base. e issue with the video being by a local story in London concerning believing that similar arrangements One possibility for rewarding people transmitted by radio frequency is that a lock in at a library. e ability to live may be in place with Sky. Facebook and corporations with large audiences when the prosthetic eye is in the head, stream from a mobile device allowed has also indicated that it was providing is a revenue share from video ads the skull will cause the frequency to the reporter to hand over the camera nancial incentives to celebrities to viewed a er a Live broadcast. If you change slightly. is means that the to some of the participants in the live stream and had been pursuing fancy trying your hand at becoming monitor must be recon gured each protest to gain an insight into their sports rights, although it did pass up a broadcaster Facebook has kindly time the camera is inserted in order to living conditions and support. broadcasting American football games provided some helpful tips for using nd the correct frequency. Over the coming months you can which was subsequently awarded to their service, just please don’t shoot in So far this device has been used to expect to notice a video tab within the Twitter. portrait… lm other people’s bionic arms and Facebook app which will contain a way Facebook seem to be opening this up legs for a commissioned documentary of discovering videos categorised by to professionals by opening up their about prostheses and cybernetics, topic, this will be in addition to the tab API to developers in order to integrate although Spence has admitted to 34 Seren | April Issue 2016 TRAVEL European Destinations

by CHARLOTTE HOWE MCCARTIN

by CHARLOTTE HOWE MCCARTIN Uncover Greece... n my opinion Greece is a very ec- and animals, you could even cross heritage site, it continues to impress Thessaloniki has an intriguing artsy are just so stunning that you never lectic country, so many di erent the historic stone bridges. If you go whatever the weather, climb the culture, that is compelled by charm want to leave. You can also nd peb- Ilandscapes in a relatively modest to Macedonia you can marvel at the marble steps, gaze out from the Par- and chaos alike. The White Tower is ble beaches, and even rocky faces area. However there is one major unique beauty of the mountains, thenon onto Athens bustling below. probably Thessaloniki’s most iconic with coastal caves. The islands also advantage to this, there are so many including the mythical Mt. Olym- When in Athens, take a wander into monument, rising from the shore have some of the best wildlife, you di erent things to see and do. pus and if you venture in the winter Plaka, it is the oldest part of the city line, and originally constructed can easily see turtles and dolphins Firstly you have the mainland, lled you may even be able to go skiing on the slopes of the Acropolis, it is around 1530 during the Ottoman just by snorkelling, but you can also with tranquil Mediterranean villages or snowboarding… when I went to a maze of cobbled streets that has era, the view from the top is stun- go on organised cave dives. Plus and you cannot escape some of the Greece in February, it was the rst lavish cafes, sweet boutique shops ning, especially at sunset. in the spring/summer the Elafonisi best greek food with family-like hos- time I had seen snow on palm trees. and de nitely an atmosphere to get Finally there are the Greek Islands, I Beach, Crete has pink sand. On the pitality. The mainland has some of Secondly, there is city life. The three lost in. However if you want lively, could easily spend a lifetime explor- islands, you can also visit some of the the most stunning natural beauty largest cities: Athens, Thessaloniki go to the central market, Varvakios ing one after the other, there are over oldest European civilisations like the sites, you can kayak down rivers that and Patras are all lled with history Agora, you can get almost anything 6,000 islands and islets under Greek Minoans, which is a bronze age civi- are crystal clear, or explore deep dark and some of the most ancient ar- you want, but I hope you’re good at sovereignty, only 227 of which are in- lisation, they have some of the most caves, or even nd the Vikos Canyon chitecture, the Byzantine churches, haggling! This market is also one of habited. The beaches are out of this stunning jewellery and carvings…. which is the second deepest in the and ancient temples. Especially the the best ways to experience Greek world, with almost white sand and everywhere you go, there is some- world, surrounded by exotic plants Acropolis of Athens, a world class cuisine. It is a very alluring capital. turquoise water, some of the coves thing to discover in Greece!

by CHARLOTTE HOWE MCCARTIN ...Discover Jersey he one thing I can say about the list could go on and on. However including over 1km of underground Jersey from French invasions for over ous ones too in the Durrell Wildlife Jersey is that even though they BEWARE of tractors! Get stuck behind tunnels, which were dug deep into six hundred years. Situated right on Park. One nal thing, it is impossible Thave upgraded their airport one of them and there is no hope of the hillside by enforced workers and the coast, you can climb to the high- not to talk of the beaches in Jersey. from landing on the beaches, and overtaking ever. prisoners of war. est turret and look out to France or They are surrounded by rugged even if you like ying, the landing is Not only are there cars, but some Now you can wander round these descend into the dungeons for an ex- coasts with rocky pools where you de nitely still hair-raising. It seems very expensive looking yachts in the tunnels which displays tales of the hibit on witchcraft. You can explore can discover sea creatures just wait- like the aircraft is bigger than the is- port of St Hellier, the designer capital resistance, starvation, forbidden ro- the maze of staircases and never ing to be found. Or beautiful sandy land! city. The epitome of luxury, the city is mances and eventual liberation. It know what hidden treasure you will bays that are simply perfect to sneak Despite it being the larger one of lled with haute couture stores and houses many artefacts of German oc- nd next. away with a book, or build sandcas- the Channel Islands, it is possible quaint boutiques, interspersed with cupation as well as the German un- Not far from the port town of Gorey tles. If you prefer a more fast paced to drive from one side to the other their famous seafood restaurants, derground hospital, designed to last we stumbled upon a hidden treasure time there are a few bays where you in under thirty minutes, and that is where they serve what was caught the one thousand years of the Reich of our own, a lavender farm with a can hire jet skis to ride the waves, or not at racing car speeds. Yet any car that morning… it’s a shame I don’t and deal with the wounded from an gift shop and a cafe which sold the you could go sur ng or snorkelling… fanatic would love Jersey, being a like seafood, but I was told it was allied invasion. most amazing Lavender biscuits. Or just remember to breathe out rst! tax haven it would seem like most of gorgeous whilst I ate my gourmet But there are many other things to you could spend an afternoon walk- Jersey really is an island of relaxation the population have very nice cars, burger. Dotted throughout Jersey do too. The imposing Mont Orgueil ing face to face with some of your and fun, perfect for a short summer Aston Martin’s, Ferrari’s, Bentley’s… are structures from Nazi occupation Castle, for example, has defended favourite animals and some poison- break! April Issue 2016 | Seren 35 TRAVEL

Venture To Vietnam

by BETHAN MAY sad past, that is not all it has to of- opt for the busy, not-too-dirty pave- president (Ngo Dinh Diem). were easy to manoeuvre for begin- fer. Recently the tourist industry of ment cafes. Although a few of the Halong Bay on the other hand, a ner bikers. For those too unsure or istorically, Vietnam has suf- Vietnam has begun to grow, with meats tasted very interesting, thank- boat ride from Hanoi, is home to - unsteady on the bike, you could fered a lot from colonialism, British nationals alone contributing fully our stomachs (for the most part) as you would expect- a plenitude of share with a travel partner, or go on war, poverty and communism, H to about 200,000 visits per year, and, agreed with us. Due to the long, thin sandy beaches, islands and coves. the back of the guide’s bike. Luggage e ects of which can still be seen on once you visit, the reason for this be- shape of the country, the main cities There we hired bikes to explore the was transported separately and ar- the faces and bodies of locals today. comes abundantly clear. Hanoi (in the North) and Ho Chi Minh island which is a much quicker way of rived at your (cheap but 5*) hotel or One can dwell on and revisit these Vibrant, bustling, and crowded, (in the South) make natural start and reaching the di erent sights. Along hostel before you. The highlights of at the Cu Chi tunnels near Ho Chi the country o ers a lifestyle so un- end points for any trip around Viet- the main water strip are plenty of Vietnam could ll tens or more pub- Minh, the Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi or like the one we are used to. Life is nam. We started in Ho Chi Minh and restaurants and cafes, some fancier lications, but I urge that instead of the War Remnants museum in Sai- predominantly conducted on the made our way to Hanoi via Dalat, Nha than others. It was here that I had reading about the natural beauties gon. A particularly poignant place streets, with pavement shops full of Trang, Hoi An, Hue and Halong Bay. to stop eating rice and noodles and of Halong Bay and Nha Trang, or the for me was the Agent Orange exhibit the renowned, colourful travel pants, The journey included every aspect of get some English carbs back in my man made delights of intricately de- displayed in the War Remnants mu- (which in my experience rip far too a holiday or backpacking adventure system. The highlight of the trip tailed temples and Pagodas, visit and seum which included walls of photo- easily), bia hois (pavement pubs) you could ask for. Ho Chi Minh and was unquestionably and irrevocably make your own memories instead. graphs detailing the horri c e ects and plenty of steaming pho (noodle Hanoi predominantly provided the the Top Gear motorbike trip from Hoi One word of warning: at rush hour, of the carcinogen. The sheer quantity soup) stands. Although it is recom- culture and history, temples infused An to Hue. Priced at only around 50 especially in the main cities, motor- of wheelchair bound and dis gured mended to research eateries, a cul- with incense acknowledge Gods dollars we were provided with a mo- cyclists see the pavements as roads bodies I had seen on my journey be- mination of four rumbling stomachs such as the Jade Emperor, whilst a torbike and a guide who took us to too in an attempt to try and bypass gan to nally, heartbreakingly make meant that my travel buddies and tour around the 1960’s architecture beaches, oating villages, war time tra c jams. As such, please stay alert. sense to me. I had to follow common sense on of the Reuni cation Palace tells of turrets, the Marble Mountain, back Yet although it is critical to under- most occasions, avoid the back alley the bombing of the previous palace street cafes and so much more. The stand and remember the country’s stands that shouted ‘wild dog’ and in an unsuccessful attempt to kill the views were ridiculous, and the roads Ana in Australia

he realisation has slowly start- House - which was more of a dirty Sydney is de nitely rich in history, ed to sink in that my time over yellow than white, and much smaller scenery and cuisine, and home to There is unfortunately coming than we are shown on TV - I thought some of the most famous beaches, to an end, and that in a couple of it would be silly of me to come so including Manly and Bondi, al- months I will be saying goodbye far and not watch a show. Thus hesi- though these, especially Bondi to not only this beautiful country tantly I talked myself into spending Beach, didn’t really live up to my ex- that I’ve been calling home for the a hefty $150 (which was the cheap- pectation. Yes, there was white sand past year, but also the friends that I est show), to watch an Adele tribute and clear blue waters, but nearly now see as family. It’s true, it is really performance, (I’m pretty sure I could every beach over here is like that. di cult not to admire the relaxed have watched the real Adele with However the beach club that is lo- nature of Australians - you can al- that amount of money). It was easy cated right on the entrance of Bon- ways rely on them to cheer you up to feel out of place surrounded by di- the “Bondi iceberg club”- took regardless of whatever situation people largely above the age of 30 my breath away. An outdoor pool you may be in. I’ve realised that not in their fancy threads sipping on ex- o ering a unique swimming experi- only am I conforming to the linguis- pensive champagne or wine whilst I, ence surrounded by ocean and sky, tic ways I once hated so much, but in my big traveller’s backpack, wore with saltwater pools that perfectly also deeply dreading coming back the same clothes I had been wear- compliment the surf, ideal for lap home. ing for the past 3 days, greasy hair, swimmers, toddlers or those who During my travels up the East and sipping on a bottle of Heineken just want to relax. Costing only $10 Ana Khan, English Language with Creative Writing Coast, one of my favourite memo- that I had managed to sneak in my for a day pass, I would recommend ries would have to be in Sydney. jumper (because there was no way anyone of any age group to go visit Undergrad, returns to talk about her study abroad Although visually I was rather disap- I was paying $15 for a beer). None- this place. Truly worth it. Down Under. pointed with the infamous Opera theless, it was an experience. 36 Seren | April Issue 2016 SPORT Masters in Monte-Carlo he Monte-Carlo Masters got ten ranked Canadian Milos Raonic under way in style on Saturday a breeze as Murray beat him within April 9th, with many of tennis’ 66 minutes in straight sets by a large T nest ghting it out in Roquebrune- margin. Likewise with Murray, Nadal cap-martin in France. e rst day saw beat his opponent, world number four several players within the top 100 bat- Stan Wawrinka, in straight sets, mak- tle for quali cation, though many of ing Wawrinka look like a beginner in the top ranked players automatically the world of tennis. go through quali cation. Round one Murray and Nadal then faced o saw the passage of the top 10 players in the semi- nals where Andy Mur- such as Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Rich- ray looked the most comfortable he ard Gasquet to the second round in has ever been during this tournament straight sets with no problems. Round as he took the rst set 6-2, breaking two saw all the big guns enter, such as Nadal’s serve numerous times. is Andy Murray and Roger Federer, both however was cut short as Nadal fought making it through to the next round. back valiantly. ough the second set e biggest shock of the competition was only just won by Nadal, the third came very early on, where in his rst and nal deciding set was won with match world number one and cur- ease by Nadal and helped to send him Adams rough to Rio rent champion Novak Djokovic faced through to the nal. Underdog Gael Czech Republic’s Jiri Vesely. e world Mon is similarly beat his opponent lympic gold medal winner booked her place in Rio. Adams will number 35 and 22 year old Vesely beat Tsonga with no problems in straight Nicola Adams secured her be looking to retain her golden medal Djokovic comfortably to send him sets and by quite considerable mar- place for the Olympics in Bra- that she won at the London Olympics zilO later this year a er becoming vic- four years ago, and if she does so, she home early. Eight time record winner gins. Rafael Nadal also made it through af- e nal saw both Nadal and Mon is torious during the European quali ers will become the rst British boxer ter beating Britain’s Aljaz Bedene. battle it out for 1st position, in which in Samsun, Turkey. e 33 year old to win a gold medal since 1924 with e third round however saw Djoko- the rst set was won 7-5 by Nadal a er beat France’s Sarah Ourahmoune be- Harry Mallin. vic’s victor Vesely’s glory end a er he a tie break. e second set also went fore meeting with her Norwegian rival Also in boxing, Ireland’s Katie Tay- got knocked out in straight sets by to a tiebreak but was won by Mon is Marielle Hansen in her nal match, lor su ered a damaging defeat in her France’s Gael Mon ls. ere was an 7-5 proving themselves as worthy op- insuring quali cation. e match was qualifying match as she lost to Yana early scare for Britain’s number one ponents. e last set however went the a very tight a air, with Adam’s begin- Alekseevna of Azerbaijan, despite Murray who lost his rst set against way that everyone had expected with ning con dently and assuredly. As Taylor beating Akeseevna in the last Benoit Paire, but Murray quickly Nadal winning all the games to take the game progressed, Adams started match they faced each other two years bounced back and won the nal sets the set 6-0 to claim victory for yet an- to lose some focus and her opponent ago. It was Taylor’s rst loss in ve easily to book his place in the quar- other time, proving himself to be one used this to her advantage as some of years, but all is not lost, as she will be ter nals. Despite the slight struggle of the world's current best and argu- Adams punches weren’t making the given one more chance to qualify for in the previous round Murray found ably of all time. impact that they should. But, as al- the Rio Olympics within the coming his quarter nal match against top ways, Adams came back to win and months. Bangor City FC Lastest Updates and Scores

espite a draw in their last game front, which was followed by a goal he con dently made his way through all hopes of a comeback from Haver- brought down an opposing player and against Aberystwyth, Bangor from Rob Hughes a er another poor the opposition defence and tucked the fordwest when Damien Allen pushed Carmarthen were awarded a penalty. have been on an impressive Bangor clearance to put Rhyl two goals ball away into the bottom corner. is his way through their defence and Liam omas tucked it home to make runD of form with their performances, in front with only 20 minutes le on was soon followed by an outstanding smashed the ball into the back of the the score level and send both teams and this certainly carried over in their the clock. Bangor however, were not and memorable free kick by Declan net. home with only one point. next xture away to Rhyl. nished. Walker. Haverfordwest kept ghting In their next game, Bangor found In their latest game Bangor visited Both sides had a decent amount of With only 10 minutes le Bangor back and from 25 yards out Spencer opponents Carmarthen more of a Port Talbot. e game was a very close equal chances until Steve Lewis slotted snapped back into action. e Rhyl Williams blasted the ball into the top challenge compared to their last few. encounter, re ected in the nal score. the ball home, but only for the goal to goalkeeper failed to catch a corner ball corner, leaving Connor Roberts help- e rst goal came from home side However, Port Talbot certainly looked be ruled out as o side. and so the ball fell to Michael Easltone, less in his goal. Just before half time Bangor when a beautiful through ball the more dominant when they were Rhyl then capitalised on Bangor’s le with an open net to score in, thus Steve Lewis restored Bangor’s two goal was played to Michael Elstone, who the rst to go on the scoreboard with frustration when a clearance was mis- tightening the goal margin to 3-2. Five lead with a terri c chipped goal, argu- shi ed the ball on to his right foot a Jamie Latham goal in the rst ve kicked by the Bangor defence, falling minutes later, Bangor’s Poyra Ahmadi ably as good as or better than the pre- and tucked the ball home to put them minutes. It took a while for Bangor to Rhyl’s John Owen, whose rst shot slotted away the ball to put his side lev- vious goal by Spencer Williams. Soon 1-0 up. Soon a er, a clever cross from to equalise but it nally came in the was saved by Connor Roberts, only el and minutes later put his side 3-4 in a er half time, Declan Carroll smartly Alan Cummins was chested down by last 35 minutes with the foot of Sion for the second to hit the back of the front with a simple tap in from a Steve and skilfully passed Declan Walker Anthony Miley who smashed it into Edwards. To add to a disappointing net. Soon a er hal ime, Bangor were Lewis pass. All looked impossible for and stormed into the penalty area to the roof of the net, putting Bangor in game, Bangor’s Anthony Miley was awarded a penalty when Chay Dysart Bangor but they didn’t give up and hit the ball into Connor Roberts’ net to a two goal lead going into hal ime. At sent o in the nal minutes. brought down Steve Lewis in the box. so they were rewarded with the three tighten the margin on the scoreboard. the hour mark Mark Jones’ shot was ough only drawing their last two Sam Hart comfortably sent the goal- points they deserved. Previous goal scorer Shaun Cavanagh de ected o fellow player Liam om- games, Bangor have remained unde- keeper the wrong way to help put Ban- A week later, Bangor faced Haver- added another goal to his tally when as unknowingly, sparking a comeback feated in last month’s xtures and so gor level. fordwest at home in one thrilling he ran past the opposition goalkeeper which began to rattle the frightened look like they will be nishing in a re- Clever play and a long range e ort encounter. Shaun Cavanagh was the and slotted the ball home calmly into Bangor. Within the dying moments spectable position in the table by the from John Owen put Rhyl back in rst player on the score sheet where an open net. Bangor then nally ended of the game Bangor’s Michael Elstone end of the season. April Issue 2016 | Seren 37 SPORT

Photos by Pippa Beston Dominating Six Try Victory

A er the restart Bangor capitalised game was paused and medics were Although Aberystwyth were trailing on Aberystwyth's injury concerns called back on site and the player was they did not give up and tried to dig and opened up the scoring with a taken o the pitch. e game resumed deep to get some points on the board quick try to make it 5 - 0 to the home 30 minutes later for the second half and without any success. A comeback for side. is was quickly followed up by Aberystwyth seemed very agitated and Aberystwyth was unlikely with 10 min- quick hands and beautiful footwork uncomfortable with what had occurred utes to go to the nal whistle and Ban- to make it another try for Bangor. in the opening half of the game. gor were looking dangerous. Bangor re- 32-0 Aberystwyth appeared to be strug- With a growing crowd from both leased the ball from the scrum quickly gling at this stage in the game and the home side and the opposition, the to nd a spare woman who created an by KIRRIE MOORE visitors headed into the game ready for were unable to maintain possession of Bangor ladies were looking to impress. overload on the le hand side to score. battle. Aberystwyth started promisingly the ball. Bangor utilised their chances Bangor did not disappoint the home In the nal minutes of the game Bangor angor University Women's Rug- as they dominated in attack, however a and scored an unchallenged try under spectators with some quick nice passes did not take their feet o the accelera- by team boosted their con dence strong defence was paying o for Ban- the posts taking the lead to 15 - 0. and beautiful footwork to make their tor nishing the game o with a beauti- with a brilliant 32 - 0 victory over gor. Unfortunately just minutes into the As the clock was approaching half way up the eld which resulted in a ful try, resulting in a 32 - 0 victory over Btravelling opposition Aberystwyth in game Aberystwyth were struck with time, Aberystwyth appeared to be on quick dash for the try line, which paid Aberystwyth. this year's Varsity match. injury- resulting in the game being the attack until a strong tackle from o . is was then followed by the only Following a 25 - 19 defeat last year paused for almost an hour with para- Bangor resulted in another injury for conversion of the game. Bangor took a ,Bangor were looking for revenge as the medics called to the scene. the travelling team. Once again the 22 - 0 lead at this stage. Mixed Results for Bangor Hockey by JOE CAINE start to Varsity as they took on Aber on more goals and also had a h at one lost 1-3 but the Women’s 2nds put up slotted in the back of the net to put the the Synthetic Pitches of Ffridd Site in point but it was unfortunately disal- a tremendous performance as they sides level. Bangor had a chance very his year’s Varsity saw Bangor the rst event of the day. lowed. Bangor hit the post towards the destroyed their rivals with a 9-1 win - later on in the game to go ahead but University’s Hockey Club eld e team put up a very decent and end of the match and had numerous avenging last year’s narrow defeat. the Aber goalie pulled o a terri c save four teams to face rivals Ab- con dent performance against their shots at goal throughout which were e Women’s 1sts game was one of to claw the ball o the line and so the Terystwyth - Men’s 1sts, Women’s 1sts, opponents. ough Bangor took a well saved by the Aber goalkeeper, who the closest of the whole day. Early on game nished 1-1 - with Aberystwyth Men’s 2nds and Women’s 2nds. very early lead the match was fairly had been in good form from the start in the game Aber had a great chance taking the victory in the second round Each team was looking for another close with equal possession of the ball, to the very end, including one attempt when their attacker was one on one of icks. successful Varsity a er last year’s saw but it wasn’t until Bangor’s second goal saved by the goalie with the following with the goalkeeper who produced a them defeating Aber in every match when Aberystwyth found themselves lob stopped on the line by the Aber great rst save but was unable to save except for Women’s 2nds (who lost a victim of worthy opponents with the defence. Bangor, however, remained the follow up shot which was tucked closely fought battle 5-4 on penalties). majority of chances and possession triumphant and won the game 4-0. away in the bottom right corner, put- Men’s Hockey 2nd team had an early falling to Bangor. Unfortunately the Men’s rst team ting Aber in the lead. A er a string of Bangor then went on to score two didn’t get the result they wanted and chances from Bangor a shot was nally 38 Seren | April Issue 2016 SPORT

BUFC Round O a Great Varsity

and Aberystwyth students joined in, the le wing with Liam Walker. slotted the ball into the back of the net then it was foam ngers and thunder Just before the 30 minute mark for 2-0. Once again the home team ran stix providing the soundtrack from Bangor took the lead with a great strike to the crowd to celebrate. then on. from their number 9. He immediately In the closing stages of the second A slow start to the match soon ran over to celebrate with the fans half, Aberystwyth were able to pull a turned into end-to-end play in behind the goal to a chorus of cheers goal back. Hearts were in the mouths 2-1 less than 10 minutes as Aber had around the stadium. of Bangor supporters as a repeat of last the ball in the back of the net. e e home side’s con dence was year’s penalty shootout began to look dream end to Varsity 2016 seemed up in the second half and Aber were likely. However, BUFC managed to by LJ TAYLOR the Bangor University Stadium - home to be in jeopardy, but thankfully the struggling to get hold of the ball hold on and record the 2-1 victory that of Bangor City FC - became a wall of linesman’s ag was up and the goal was for any length of time, constantly they deserved. angor University Men’s Football green as Bangor’s students turned out ruled out for o side. giving away corners and throw-ins. A Club rounded o this year’s in force for the day’s main event. It seemed like the threat from Aber mistake from the Aberystwyth keeper, Varsity with a 2-1 win over Ahead of kick o , the UMCB Choir was enough to kickstart Bangor into who dived onto the ball to make a save BAberystwyth. performed the Welsh national anthem, the next gear as their attacking play but couldn’t keep hold of it, turned out In a repeat of last year, the stands of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau. Both Bangor improved. Most action coming down to be costly. Walker followed up and Athletics Ace Varsity Again! 142-130

by JOE HEAFORD events into that vital point on the When it came to eld events, Varsity scoreboard. Despite the long Bangor and Aber were once again ast year saw a hard fought day ahead of them, spirits were high in quite equally matched with the victory for Bangor University’s the team as they all cheered each other homeside claiming victory in Women’s Athletic club as they managed on whilst simultaneously preparing for Longjump, Highjump and Women’s Lto see o Aberystwyth with an overall their own events. Discus amongst others. Aber, on the score of 138-115. Bangor were on top form in their other hand, took Men’s Discus, Men’s Athletics was one of the rst events track events, winning a number of Highjump and Men’s Javelin. to kick o this year, once again taking di erent events including Men’s and It was a long day for the team but place on and around the Athletics Women’s 400m, Men’s Relay and Men’s their hard work paid o in the end as track on Treborth, and Bangor’s 800m. Bangor were also able to claim they once again defeated their rivals athletes knew they had a hard task Women’s 200m, Women’s Relay and 142-130. ahead of them to turn all of their Women’s 800m to name a few. April Issue 2016 | Seren 39 SPORT

Photos by LJ Taylor Main: BUWFC celebrate remaining undefeated. Inset: Jennifer Irwin scores Bangor’s h goal. Women’s Football Still Undefeated striker, Ellie Alderson, gave the home the box but headed just over. “A lot of hard work put in by the side the lead. In the 21st minute Alderson got her girls - undefeated in the league and Less than four minutes later some well deserved hat trick followed three won Varsity for the second year run- great play down the wing from Anna minutes later by Jennifer Irwin making ning, you can’t ask for much more” Jones led to a cross into the box which it 5-0 a er another great cross from said proud captain, Sally-Anne Wright was volleyed into the back of the net Jones. a er the match. 5-0 for Alderson’s brace. e home team kept up the pressure “It’s my last Varsity, so it had to be From then on it was all Bangor, with for the remainder of the match with done didn’t it? You just have to get the a urry of attacks and despite a good Aber’s forwards only managing to put win for the last one, and I couldn’t ask by LJ TAYLOR end of the rst half, the mood was a rst half from Aberystwyth’s goal- Bangor keeper, Ceri Pritchard, to work anything more of the girls and it's ac- little dejected around the Bangor Uni- keeper, there was little she could do to a small number of times towards the tually amazing. To actually captain and n inspired second half perfor- versity Stadium. Despite some good keep her team in the game. end of the game - all attacks that she get them to two time Varsity champi- mance capped o an unbeaten attacking play, and a large share of the Mari Gibbard’s 30 yard shot dipped calmly put to a stop. ons it's a great feeling” she said, to a season for Bangor University possession, Bangor’s Women hadn’t over the keeper’s head for Bangor’s It was a brilliant win, and end to the chorus of cheers from her team. AWomen’s Football as they destroyed managed to make it count and get third of the match just 17 minutes into season, for the team who topped their Aberystwyth 5-0. themselves on the scoresheet. the second half. Only minutes later, league, Northern 3A, without record- When the whistle was blown for the Ten minutes into the second half and Gibbard was picked out perfectly in ing a single loss. Landslide Victory for Netball 2nds 34-18

by BETHAN MAY dicating that neither team would go gor took the lead to 28-16, and from down without a ght. Both teams there it was a clear victory. oping to follow in last year's had great sideline support, with Aber is follows them placing h in the winning footsteps, women's fans in possession of a loud speaker league, but as Captain Ellen Coulson netball 2nds put their all into and 'noise makers', bringing a lot of says, "Varsity is D-Day for netballers, theH game against Aber, which thank- excitement and energy to the Dome, the place in the league is irrelevant. fully paid o with a winning score al- although strangely they grew louder Considering we beat Aber, I personally most double that of Abers. every time Bangor went to shoot. Un- think that's all that matters." ey had e game began steadily, with scores fortunately for them the spirit wasn't extra training sessions and put 100% well-matched at the rst quarter in- enough, and a mix of great teamwork in, and thankfully it all paid o . Here's and excellent passes meant that Ban- to next year! Bangor University Students’ Union English Language Newspaper @SerenSports SPORT

Bangor Retain the Varsity Cup as they were scoring le , right and was less successful than Aberystwyth o side. Bangor’s rst goal came a er centre. Bangor didn’t give their op- included octopush, rugby union men, a smart low pass was driven into the position a chance. By the time Aber dance, cheerleading, canoeing and ar- box to the feet of the attacker who hit nally scored Bangor were already chery. the ball over the goalie in style, leav- in double gures. Bangor was more American football, like lacrosse, was ing him helpless. Bangor were given dominant in all of the halves of the another impressive performance both a brief scare when Aber hit the post match apart from the nal half in in attack and defence from Bangor but they successfully cleared the ball 25-13 which Aber did manage to claw where they won 20-0. Another striking to safety. Before half time Bangor put back a few goals but it was too late performance came from the women’s themselves 2-0 in front with a calmly as Bangor were well in front by rugby union team who also stopped slotted shot into an open net a er the by JOE CAINE men’s teams won 8-0. e badminton women however lost 3-5 despite put- 21-4. e women’s lacrosse however their opposition from scoring as they previous shot was saved. Near the end ting up a decent ght in a very close weren’t as lucky. ough arguably, it won 32-0. of the match Aber got a goal back from arsity 2016 was certainly a day was a more entertaining and close Football was another sport domi- a header, making the score tighter, we will never forget, as Bangor encounter. Basketball followed, in which the game with Bangor losing 7-8. nated by Bangor, as the women won and straight from kick-o they won battled it out at home against roughout the a ernoon even more by a terri c ve goals to nil, with all of the ball back and nearly equalised but VWelsh rivals Aberystwyth in numer- Bangor men were victorious, as they didn’t give the opponents a chance sports were played for the audience’s the goals coming in quick succession Bangor held their own throughout the ous sport to take home the coveted pleasure. ese included Fencing of one another, providing much excite- rest of the match to win 2-1. Varsity cup. e day was full of all winning with triple gures 113-51. e women also played phenomenally which both the women won by 155- ment for the fans. Overall it was an exciting Varsity, types of sports, both familiar and per- 128 and the men won though only just Varsity ended in the Bangor City which was helped by Bangor winning haps unfamiliar to spectators, so there as they stormed to victory with a 76- 26 win. 135-121. Bangor also won at tennis in FC stadium where many gathered to by a considerable amount of points. was de nitely something for everyone the men’s and women’s, squash, netball watch the men’s football rsts. ere Hopefully next year’s Varsity will be to get involved with and watch. e men’s lacrosse was one of the standout scores of this year’s Var- 2nds, sailing, athletics, triathlon and was an early scare when Aber scored just as exhilarating when we travel Sports played on the day included indoor rowing. a er a de ection but their celebrations to Aber and hope to become the rst badminton, where both of the Bangor sity competition. From the very rst whistle Bangor were in total control Some of the sports in which Bangor were short lived as it was ruled out as away team to win Varsity.

BANGOR VS ABER All photos from Varsity 2016 will be available on our Facebook page. facebook.com/serenbangor