Students in a Flutter

Bangor University Students’ Union May 2014 English Language Issue No. 239 Newspaper FREE @SerenBangor Seren.Bangor.ac.uk - SOCIETY OF THE YEAR 2013 - BUSINESS AWARDS RESULTS WIN A SUMMER BALL TICKET COMIC CON WALES

4 Students in a flutter Pigeons interrupt exams causing resit concerns by LJ TAYLOR he School of Law was last week forced to apologise to and re- schedule the exams of hun- Tdreds of students. This comes after two law exams had to be abandoned forty minutes in, due to the noise being created by two pigeons. “They were on top of the organs in the back of the room and would not just shut up. I guess a few people complained and then they ended the exam” said Kyle Gauvin, an Exchange Student from the University of Maine, who was there for the International Law of Human Rights exam. It is believed that the pigeons got into PJ Hall through two missing window panes. “Knowing that I am leaving tomorrow morning and am not sure or even if I will be able to sit the exam makes it worse. It would make sense to try and stay for the exam, but not at the cost of making completely new arrangements for flights and trains for tomorrow. Hopefully there will be some way that I can take it when I get back state side, there have been some rumours that “Knowing the fact that the univer- Varun stated. to being in different locations, such as but as long as there is no extra cost to the papers will be marked more sity is in the examination season, they For those unable to attend the re- the sick bay students and those with me” worried Kyle at the time. ‘harshly,’ but we can confirm that this should take precautions in case such sit on 30th May, the School of Law is special circumstances. The University was quite quick to re- is not the case. In addition, the School events occur. They have still not de- prepared to make alternative arrange- “In order to ensure fairness, those spond, releasing a statement to Seren: of Law Examination Board will fully cided when the exams are going to be ments; students have also been offered the “First year and third year students take all the relevant circumstances rescheduled, which is a paramount “Students have been informed that opportunity to retake the examination following modules in Public Law and into account in its deliberations fol- factor for many internationals like us, if they cannot sit the rescheduled ex- should they so wish. Where students International Law were those mainly lowing the end of the examination who have booked their flights to go amination, they should contact the do choose to retake the examination, affected. Bangor University have apol- period” said Dr Osian Rees, Examina- back home” he said. School of Law as soon as possible so both papers will be marked, and the ogised to the students concerned and tions Officer for the School of Law. The Law School and the university that alternative arrangements can be best mark will be used” explained Dr in addition to rescheduling the exams, 224 students were affected by the have since proposed solutions to these made. The School will endeavour to Rees. have assured students that they will cancellation, including some from the issues. be as flexible as possible in this re- Whilst a serious issue for those in- not be disadvantaged as a result of this School of Modern Languages, who “I am very happy with the univer- spect, and options include sitting the volved, some have seen a funny side disruption” it said. were able to be moved to MALT to sity’s response to this problem. The paper on a different date, or making to it, with a Bangor Pigeon Twitter Bangor Students’ Union worked continue their exam. Some of those fact that the university considered the arrangements for students to sit the account appearing after the news first closely with the university to ensure affected include international stu- problems of international students as paper at an alternative venue, for ex- broke. In the last week not only has the that minimum disruption was caused dents who expressed worries resitting a main priority, and have come up ample at an institution in their home pigeon story been picked up by news and played a part in confirming ar- the exam due to prescheduled flights with various alternatives for the con- country” said Dr Rees. publications such as The Independent rangements. A rescheduled exam will home. venience of students. The university The School of Law have also con- and The Huffington Post, but now the take place on 30th May and will use a One student, Varun Hariharun, and law school has taken all possi- firmed arrangements for those who story has gone international, appear- ‘seen’ paper format. emailed Seren expressing his concern. ble steps for the benefit of students” weren’t able to complete the exam due ing on French news site 20 Minutes. “The School of Law is aware that

May Issue 2014 | Seren 3 CONTENTS

BECKI WATSON EDITOR [email protected] It feels incredibly surreal to be writing this Editorial; rstly, because I can’t believe how fast this year has 16 own by, but also because I can’t quite come to terms with the fact 11 that this is my nal issue of Seren as Editor. We’ve had a great last few weeks, from our fantastic coverage of Varsity, to the election of our new committee, and winning a Wild Card award at the Society Awards! It’s hard to believe it’s all coming to an end, but I think we’ve gone out with a bang; even though at times during the making of this issue we de nitely wanted to be enjoying this gorgeous weather with a pint rather than stuck in the SU till 3am, I’m still really proud of how this edition’s turned out. We’ve got some great features for 18 22 you to check out this issue; like our review of the Wales Comic Con on News 4-7 page 26, as well as our breakdown Politics 8-9 of the Summer Ball with a chance for you to win a free ticket! We also end- Science 10-11 ed up going slightly World Cup crazy Environment 12-13 and decided to make a sweepstake kit for you guys, as well as taking our Comment 14-15 very own team photo (which de - Union 16-17 nitely didn’t end up with us kicking a football round the Media Room, or Societies 18-19 us forming our own team called the Business Awards 20-21 Seren Pigeons…) As well as all that, Film has a review TV 22-23 of Godzilla on page 25, Food has an Film 24-25 interview with the owners of Ban- gor’s newest cafe, and News has a Comic Con 26 special tribute to Bangor’s favourite feline, Security Cat (RIP). Music 28-29 Finally, all that’s left to say is thank Books 30-31 you; thanks to Becci, LJ, Nicola, Dan Fashion 32 29 and all the team who’ve made Seren fantastic this year, thanks to every- Summer Ball 33 2525 one at the SU who’ve supported us, and thanks to everyone who’s read Health & Beauty 34-35 Seren this year. Good luck to every- Arts & Culture 36-37 one in their nal assignments and to the students leaving this summer, Games 38-39 and good luck to Amy and her new Food & Drink 40-41 Seren team for next year! The views presented hereinafter Travel 42-43 do not represent the views of Seren Breaktime 44 Bangor, Bangor Students’ Union or World Cup 45 31 Bangor University. Sport 46-48 38 Seren is printed by NWN Media.

Editor Becki Watson Food Harriet Weller 43 Deputy: Content Nicola Hoban TV Ida Vaisanen Deputy: Design Becci Jameson Film Jack Nicol Medwyn Roberts Tom Ricketts Franco Biondo Kayleigh Reid Secretary Ali Keshtmand Music Tom Bickerdike Charlotte Wright Antony Butcher Martyn Curzey Joe Keep News Charlotte Parker Books Amy Blackwell Wyatt Warner Rhys Taylor Callum Lewis Yan Trinh Environment Will Johnson Fashion James Holman Callum Hulme Nicola Pye Heather Boyles Lisa Irwin Science Edwin Pynegar Travel Steph Yeabsley Chris Glass Ash Kierans Jez Harvey Eddy Reynolds Comment Sinnead Towey Sport Kevin Gri n Gemma Simmons Max Dalley Kirsty Warren-Jones Jitsu Committee Arts and Culture Megan Townsend Design LJ Taylor Richard Dallison Sian Anderson Portia Helena Dodds Fiona Hailstone Health & Beauty Sara Williams Dan Turner Al Hulley Molly Czachur Lewis Jenkins Adam Gri ths Politics Emily Houlston- Nathan Bullen Jake Taylor Adam Williams Scott Willey Jones CONTRIBUTORS 4 Seren | May Issue 2014 NEWS In Brief Bangor in top 20 for student satisfaction BANGOR University has been placed in the top 20 in the UK for student satisfaction. is comes a er the Times Higher Education’s Student Experience Sur- vey. Vice-chancellor John G. Hughes said: “ e great experience the students have, along with the care they receive at Bangor have been key attractions to the University for generations, and it’s clear that our current students appreciate the whole, rounded experience of studying here”. e survey shows that Bangor students highly rate the “helpful and interested” sta , the high quality of courses and community atmosphere, as well as the high standard of societies and extracur- ricular activities. University invests in future of football Pet Shop Boys at Bangor University and Bangor City FC team up to construct 3G pitch Portmeirion gor City’s Chairman. 000 from the University that has al- players coming to the universities and Having access to the facility will lowed the club to receive a further maybe we can look at getting some of mean that the university teams will £350 000 from FA Wales to begin work them over to us. Give them the chance THE Pet Shop Boys have been an- have another option besides Treborth on the pitch which is just a part of the to come and play for us. We do have nounced to perform at this summer’s where the weather o en leaves the improvements in the pipeline for Ban- a couple of names who are at the uni- Festival No.6 in Portmeirion. pitches di cult to play on or even gor City. versity and we’d like to be able to give ey will be joined by recording by LJ TAYLOR means matches or training has to be Other plans include extending the them the chance to play” he said. artist and DJ Laurent Garnier and [email protected] cancelled. ground’s main stand, building a sup- How far the links between the uni- Norwegian disco king Todd Terje. “ e 3G pitch will be a great op- porter’s terrace and creating an educa- versity and Bangor City will go within Previously announced headliners n all weather, third-generation portunity to train and play football tion suite within the clubhouse which the next few years are not yet certain, included London Grammar and arti cial pitch will be avail- at a high standard on a weekly basis. will allow the club to work closely with but current women’s captain, Dee Gil- Beck. able for the university football As both the men’s and women’s team the university’s School of Sport and bert, is certain that the new facility is Ateams by the start of the 2014/15 sea- advance to a higher league next year, Health Science. a huge step forward for the university Festival director Bradley ompson said: “We are hugely excited to have son. there is no doubt that the pitch will be Being able to form links with the teams. such a truly iconic act as the Pet e 3G pitch, which is currently of great signi cance and will have a university is also something that Ban- “I’ve said that football within Bangor Shop Boys playing No.6 this year. under construction at Bangor City’s striking impact on football in Bangor” gor City manager, Nev Powell, is very has improved drastically over the past “ ey’re one of Britain’s biggest Nantporth ground, is the start of a said Jemma Par tt, the women’s team keen on. few years, with success for both the ever bands, but remain a brilliant, partnership between the club and the captain for next year. “ e 3G pitch is setting up links with women’s and men’s team, and these fa- groundbreaking live act, and their university’s teams. It will also bene t a e team committees are currently the university and we’re hoping to cilities will help the success to develop headline slot is going to be incred- number of other local clubs. working closely with Will Baxter at maybe get some scholarships going” as well as improve the standards of i b l e .” “With all parties working together Maes Glas to make decisions on just he told Seren, whilst discussing Ban- professionalism within the team” she BAFTA-winning actor Rhys Ifans we can now expand our junior and how much access they will have to the gor City’s future and the prospects of said. will also perform at Festival No.6. women’s football schemes as well as pitch and whether it will be used for their young players. providing a training facility for a range both training and matches. “From my point of view as a man- of local clubs” said Dilwyn Jones, Ban- It is a signi cant investment of £150 ager there’s a lot of talented young

Bangor welcomes new mayor Bangor Mooting Champions

CLLR Jean Forsyth has been in- Bangor Law School are victorious at the Welsh Mooting Competition stalled as the new mayor of Bangor, at Bangor City Council’s Annual to represent Wales in the Telders In- the complainant had been deceived as tion. General Meeting. is is the second by MEDWYN ROBERTS [email protected] ternational Law Moot Court Com- to the ‘nature or purpose’ of the act Aaron, from Oldham, had this to say time she has had the chance to serve petition, but also the rst Welsh law pursuant to section 76(2)(a) of the about the team’s victory: as mayor; the rst regime was in angor have been crowned school to be invited to moot before the Sexual O ences Act 2003, and the “Winning the competition was 2009/10. champions for the rst time Supreme Court in London. cross appeal examined whether or utterly surreal, to sit there in front She said: “I promise to do my ut- in the prestigious history of Mooting is the closest experience not pretending to be a famous sports of all the other competitors and hear most to promote Bangor as a worth- theB Welsh National Mooting Compe- students get to presenting a case in star could constitute someone ‘known the judge say “the winners are Ban- while city to live, work and invest in.” tition. court. It tests not only an individual’s personally’ to the complainant gor” was a moment I’m sure I’ll never She joined the city council back A team of students from Bangor Law knowledge on legal matters but also pursuant to section 76(2)(b) of the forget. in 2004 and also represents Hirael School defeated the likes of Swansea the behaviour and etiquette required Sexual O ences Act 2003. It’s the rst ever win for the law ward on Gwynedd Council. and Cardi University, taking on Ab- in the courtroom for embarking on a Aaron Clegg and Adam Gulliver, school and hopefully it will help to e outgoing mayor cllr Madge erystwyth in the nal, hosted by 2013 career in law. both 21, who won the Welsh Na- put Bangor on the map. e legal thanked his wife Doreen for her champions the Open University at e nal case under contention at tional Mooting Competition’s dragon advocacy society will continue into support as well as paying tribute to Chester’s University of Law. this year’s Welsh National Mooting trophy, sponsored by LexisNexis, the next academic year and hopefully the Trinity Foundation for its work is nail biting win from Competition was a rape case which were delighted to win and remain ex- this win will serve as the foundations with Japanese students and the is the latest in a line of mooting suc- included both an appeal and a cross tremely thankful to Bangor University for other students to keep the winning Military Preparation College. cess, as Bangor Law School students appeal. in preparing them for their rst ever tradition up!” became not only the rst team ever e appeal concerned whether or not external mooting competi- May Issue 2014 | Seren 5 NEWS In Brief Care home abuse inquiry continues

RICHARD Dafydd Vevar, 62, from Wrexham, is accused of assaulting a teenage boy, according to the Nation- al Crime Agency. ese o ences are part of a series of investigations, Operation Pallial, into historical child abuse in North Wales care system from between 1953 and 1995. Mr Vevar will appear before Dolgel- lau Magistrates Court on June 2nd. He is the second man to be charged in the operation. Ever since it began in November 2012, twenty people have been arrested. In addition, John Allen, 72, has been charged with a series of child sex of- fences. He awaits trial later this year. Students Mourn Security Cat their own, and a calming in uence on the halls o ce, containing money He died gently at a very old age af- Butcher Bikes for stressed students, he could o en be that was to be used for future vet vis- ter a short illness, and the news was seen lying in the box for maintenance its. e responsibility for buying his announced by the o cial Bangor MS Society request forms, or, on sunny days, on food was shared among some of the University Facebook page, on which the pavement outside. guards, cleaners, and halls o ce work- hundreds commented with their own BANGOR University’s Students’ He was found as a kitten seventeen ers (many of whom in later years had stories of how Security Cat helped Union president Antony Butcher by WYATT WARNER years ago by a night security guard in known him for their entire time work- them with homesickness or exam is planning a 1,000 mile cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise [email protected] the bushes just outside the security ing for Halls). According to the guards, stress. One former student, Jo, wrote: lodge. e security guards adopted he used to follow them on their visits “the positive e ect he had on so many money for the MS society. he icon of the security o ce A er having already raised £5,000 and uno cial mascot of Ffrid- him and he stayed there ever since. to halls buildings and would wait out- homesick students - me included at Soon a er his adoption, he fell ill, side for their return. ey buried him times - is beyond quanti able meas- for the society, which supports those doedd halls site, known by who have multiple sclerosis, he is Tmany names to many students but and students raised money for a vet- under a cross memorial marker beside ure. I will remember Security Cat very erinary visit. e amount raised ex- the security lodge and inside they still fondly!” Shortly a erward, a memori- planning on raising another £5,000 universally as Security Cat, has died. by July, in time to meet his target of A surrogate pet for those missing ceeded what was necessary and since keep a photo of him donated by a stu- al Facebook page, titled “RIP Security then Security Cat had an account with dent. Cat,” received almost 1350 likes. raising a total of £10,000 by his 25th birthday. Antony explained his motivation for completing the challenge: “About ten years ago my mum was diagnosed with MS. . . As humans we all want Paralysed Pensioner Dies to make things better - and I know I can’t do that. Raising money to go to- Hospital Assitants fail to check patients notes wards research and support is the best I can do.” paralysed pensioner has died assist Mrs. Ridgeway. ey said they I got to the ward I found the curtains Director of Nursing at Betsi Cad- is is Antony’s second and last year a er healthcare assistants were unaware of her disability when were drawn. waladr Health Board, Angela Hopkins as SU president. made her stand at Ysbyty they li ed her onto her legs. “A nurse said she had had a fall. I said: For those wishing to donate to the AGwynedd, Bangor. Ms Jones describes how Mrs Ridge- went to see her and found her in pain. “I would like to o er my sincere MS Society, Antony has set up a Just- Elsie Ridgeway su ered a fractured way fell, insisting that her fall was not She said she had told them (sta ) she apologies to Mrs Ridgeway’s family for Giving page at: http://www.justgiv- femur when two hospital workers severe. had not used her legs for ve years. any distress caused. ing.com/antonybutcher and for those li ed her on to her legs. She died two “ ere was no thud and she was let ‘ ey dropped me’ she told me. It was “An investigation was undertaken that want to nd out more about the days later of cardiac failure. down gently onto the oor,” she said. awful, just awful.” at the time by the Primary, Commu- project and Antony’s story, they are e health care assistants were una- During the hearing, the coroner Mrs Ridgway died two days later. nity and Specialist Medicine Clini- welcome to go to his blog at: http:// ware that the woman was paralysed asked Mrs. Marshall if Mrs. Ridgeway “I was concerned to see her in such cal Programme Group. is included antonyjcbutcher.wordpress.com and unable to stand, an inquest heard. had passed comment on not being a state and tried to speak to a nurse a review of sta training and of the e 82-year-old from Felinheli had able to stand, Mrs. Marshall answered about it but she was very abrupt. I manual handling assessment docu- been living in a Nursing Home before that “she couldn’t remember”. wanted answers but I wasn’t getting mentation for patients used at that being taken into hospital in August Mrs. Ridgeway’s family had said they any,” said Mrs Lindley. t i m e .” Mum threatens 2011. wanted to take the matter further a er Although North Wales Coroner the previous hearing. woman with Dewi Pritchard Jones concluded Mrs. Jackie Porter, a daughter of Mrs. Ridgeway’s death was accidental, the Ridgeway insisted that she had le a hammer fall was said to have contributed to her note with the hospital explaining that NIA Wynne from Llandudno passing. her Mother was ‘completely depend- Junction faced trial in Llandudno for During this hearing, the coroner ent on others’. threatening another mother on the added his concerns as to why the pre- Mrs. Ridgeway was le paralysed af- school playground, with a hammer. vious one had been adjourned due to ter su ering a stroke in 2006. Wynne claims she was merely insu cient evidence. Another daughter, Erica Lindley, de- holding the hammer a er picking it “It proved very di cult to get in- scribed how her mother was initially up o the ground and did not intend formation from the hospital. I said I admitted to hospital with a chest in- to use it against the other woman. would serve penal notices – essentially fection. She did however admit saying, ‘tell me what you know or I will e night before the fall, Mrs. Ridge- threatening behaviour and ne you’. Fortunately I did not have to way had been told she would be dis- was ned £80 for assault- serve them as the threat of them led to charged the next day. Ms. Lindley ing a police o cer. When the information required being provided.” knew of her mother’s excitement to police arrived the two women had Dwynwen Jones and Sylvia Marshall return home. been tussling over payment for a were the health workers who went to “I took clothes for mum and when tumble drier. 6 Seren | May Issue 2014 NEWS In Brief Primary school child accused of rape

A 10 year old school boy has been accused of raping a classmate at a Primary School in Colwyn Bay, . He is facing two charges, a charge of rape and a second charge of inciting his classmate to engage in sexual activity. A er class the defendant is alleged to have grabbed the boy, pushed him over the sink in the toilets and raped him. A er the victim pleaded for him to stop the attacker did so a er ten seconds and said ‘Oh come on, the party’s just starting.’ It is alleged that both pupils had been watching pornography and the prosecution believed that was the reason behind the attack. is has further raised people’s concerns about under 18’s viewing pornography. e second charge relates to another incident, in which the defendant and another boy were allegedly kiss- ing and exposing themselves before Boxed O Widow told her ower boxes are breaking health and safety regulations telling the victim to perform a sex act on the one he preferred. He said er that the plants she keeps outside her has window boxes and planters in an before. he was then grabbed by the other at would pose a hazard if there was a alcove in the corridor but the tenants e housing association said: “We boy but broke free and ran o . e re in the block. were told in April that they had to understand Mrs Stoner’s disappoint- other boy was not in court. Mrs. Stoner has lived in her rst- clear everything from communal ment at having to remove the plants. ere was also another alleged in- oor at in Bangor for several years. are a s .” “But, as a responsible landlord, cident in which the defendant tried She is deeply upset by the order from He added: “My mum has had plants we are obliged to make tenants’ and to engage in sexual activity with the by CHARLOTTE PARKER Cartre Cymunedol Gwynedd Hous- here since she moved in. residents’ safety our priority.” victim. [email protected] ing Association. It’s heartless, cruel and unnecessary. It’s new policy, approved by the local e defendant denied that any- Her son, Joe, said: “When my mum ey’re not rubbish - these are the re service, includes keeping com- thing sexual had ever happened be- 98-year-old widow has been rst moved into Craig Menai, she was possessions of residents. munal areas clear of any obstruction tween them. ordered to remove her win- on the ground oor and had a garden. “ ey’re not in the way and don’t in case of re. dow boxes outside her retire- “She lived there for several years but stick out into common areas.” “We can’t make any exceptions to Ament at because they are a health and then she moved to ats across the Mrs. Stoner has always enjoyed this,” they said. safety risk. road and her garden was grassed over. the owers and has never received Student Housing bosses have told Jean Ston- “She now lives on the rst oor and problems or complaints about them Volunteering takes to the land Repeat O ender Gets 8 Years DURING the Easter break 22 year old attacks 14 and 12 year old girls Bangor students spent a week working at Felin Uchaf centre near Forced to register as a sex o ender Aberdaron on the Llŷn Peninsula. Felin Uchaf is a local social land based by CALLUM HULME She had registered with a false date mother that the two had had inter- happened. e victim later told of how enterprise which works to promote [email protected] of birth – claiming to be in her thirties course, she immediately rang the po- Roberts had rushed her into it and that living in creative partnership and – but upon meeting her it would have lice. it had ‘hurt.’ harmony with the environment. 22 year old man from Old Col- become obvious that she was a young While he was awaiting trial, Roberts e police were called in but, as was e students assisted with the wyn has been jailed for eight teenage girl. then contacted the twelve-year-old girl the case with the fourteen-year-old, development of a new timber and a half years a er being When Roberts rst met the girl’s – unable to consent due to her age. Roberts refused to answer any ques- structure which is soon to be a new Afound guilty of sexual o ences against mother, she introduced him as a sev- Roberts had put her under pressure tions. visitors’ centre. e students also two underage girls. enteen-year-old, which, judging by his to meet up, to which she eventually e defendant already had a poor took part in other tasks such as Wesley David Roberts was given the looks, she found believable. agreed. She fabricated a story about criminal record, with 57 previous non- planting, traditional cooking and sentence at Mold Crown Court a er As the relationship developed going out to play with some friends sexual convictions. dry stone walling. raping a twelve-year-old girl while between Roberts and the girl, so too and met the defendant in a nearby When the Judge said the sentence is is Bangor’s second residen- awaiting trial for a similar o ence with did their sexual activity. Roberts used park. would not reach double gures, the tial volunteering excursion, the rst a fourteen-year-old. protection on none of the ve or six He joked around with her, got her to defending barrister, Simon Mintz, de- happening at the same time last year. Judge Niclas Parry has ordered Rob- times that intercourse took place, but sit on his knee, and then took o her clined to mitigate. Volunteering o cer Sion Rowland erts to register with the Police as a sex the girl had been using the contracep- trousers and had intercourse with her. Roberts pleaded guilty to sexual ac- said “ ere were students from dif- o ender for life a er pleading guilty to tive pill. ey were disturbed by people leaving tivity with a child and received two ferent schools, di erent countries both o ences. Oliver King, the barrister for the the nearby community centre, allow- and a half years, before pleading guilty and di erent stages in their univer- Judge Parry later told Roberts he was prosecution, said that the fourteen- ing the girl the opportunity to pull her to rape and assault by penetration on sity education all coming together to ‘a high risk of harm to children in the year-old had consented to the sexual trousers up. the twelve-year-old girl, which added work towards a very worthy cause. I form of sexual o ences and rape.’ activity but was uncomfortable with Her mother came looking for her a further six years. can’t wait to go back again!” In the summer of 2012, Roberts, then the pace at which the events had taken and it wasn’t until some time later that aged 20, contacted and befriended the place. the girl, traumatised, wrote her mother fourteen-year-old over facebook. When the girl eventually told her a letter explaining everything that had May Issue 2014 | Seren 7 NEWS In Brief e Urdd Eisteddfod BANGOR University have announced that they are one of the main sponsors of the Meirionnydd Urdd Eisteddfod. e event will take place in Bala between 26th and 30th of May and the University will be making all sorts of activities to available to the public. ese activities includes all sorts of Science based fun, like chemistry activities and psychology tests, a sea life exhibition and building a ‘Joule thief’- a simple electrical circuit which extracts su cient energy from ‘dead’ batteries to light an LED and even a Welsh Language exercise bike! Local Set for LA e School of education will be putting on cra activities, songs and Bangor University student heads to America to further her career stories, face painting and puzzles for interpretation of a Kinks song. Cara, Her call to fame came in 2010, when get to hear them.” the children. who has been studying Creative Stud- she uploaded some of her music to Along with her singing, Cara wanted Visitors can try their hand at ar- ies for three years, has recorded many Soundcloud. She was then approached more experience working behind the chaeology and excavate some Welsh songs including collaborations with by other musicians who wanted to col- scenes and on lm sets. treasure, and learn more about the artists and producers from all around laborate with her. She said: “I have enjoyed my time at Celts, the Romans and the Welsh the world. Cara said: “I have worked with peo- Bangor, especially the Screenwriting, princes with the School of History, by CHARLOTTE PARKER Cara, a former pupil of Ysgol Ardud- ple from the US, France, Australia, Af- Journalism and Short Film Production Welsh History & Archaeology. And, [email protected] wy, said: “I’ve been performing since rica, Poland, Germany and many other modules. I am grateful to the lecturers a classical and folk music workshop the age of four, and started taking part countries. for all the help and support, and have will be held on the ursday as well local singer songwriter is to in Eisteddfodau at a young age. “I hope to be meeting some of the met great friends during my time at as a Harp masterclass by Elinor Ben- travel to Los Angeles this sum- “From the age of nine, I was singing US-based artists during my time in LA Bangor. net. mer to further her music career. solos in local venues around the Lln and I will soon be releasing my single “Im going to LA on the 31st of May Sioned Hughes, Schools Liaison ACara Braia, from Criccieth will also Peninsula with an operatic group called with dancehall artist Stonebwoy from to meet some people that i have previ- O cer at Bangor University said: be graduating from Bangor University Re exions.” Ghana. ously worked with and meet some new “We look forward to the Urdd Ei- this summer, a er spending her last At the age of 16, Cara began to take “My music is played on Heart FM contacts that will hopefully be bene - steddfod every year, and are pleased three years juggling her career with her her song writing more seriously. She and Radio Cymru. It’s great to be able tial to my performance future. I have to meet the students of the future studies. saw it as a way to express her feelings, to hear my music played in my home no idea what to expect as i will be going on our stand! It’s great to have the e 21-year-old won an international and to talk about her experiences of be- country, as my tracks with other artists out there totally alone but I’m excited opportunity to present science and online competition by singing her own ing bullied. are played around the world but I don’t for the experience.” other subjects in a fun way and outside the con nes of the classroom Pair Charged in Racist Attack on Student and school.” by CHARLOTTE WRIGHT Riley, who was about how the at- at night, in a heavily populated student [email protected] embarrassed tack had knocked area of Bangor where the potential for Man dead a er and apologetic his con dence public disorder is obvious.” wo intoxicated local men were was given 25 and is now debat- e attackers were part of a drunken Caenarfon air sentenced to up to two years months for the ing on continu- gang. Riley engaged contact with the crash in prison a er a racial attack attack. ing his education victim and began to throw racist abuse Ton a 22-year-old student from Kuwait e victim in Bangor due to at him. Jones then joined in and began which took place in January. was found dis- fears of more at- to punch him in the face and Riley e unprovoked attack le the stu- tressed and tacks. then began punching and kicking his THE man who died in the dent with a fractured nose a er the confused, re- Judge Niclas upper body and face. Caernarfon air crash reported by attack on Glanrafon Hill. e two at- peatedly ex- Parry of Mold Riley has seven previous known con- Seren earlier this month has been tackers, Nathan Edward Riley and pressing that he had done nothing Crown Court was quoted in the Daily victions for his violent crimes with two named. Craig Lee Jones of Maesgeirchen are to these men and could not compre- Post newspaper saying that “the ag- o ences of wounding. Judge Parry was e man who was 61 years old from known for their previous attacks. hend why they had attacked him. gravating features of “this disgraceful quoted saying that Jones was coming Rhyl, named Ashley Hazelwood, Jones, who breached his incident were obvious” and how “this very close to being handled as a dan- passed away a er the incident on 15th ASBO, was jailed for two years whereas e international student also spoke was a vicious, unprovoked attack, late gerous o ender. May. He was rushed to hospital a er the crash but despite the swi action of emergency services unfortunately he didn’t make it. e Air Accident Cup Final Causes Fights Investigation Branch has a team in- specting the crash wreckage and will Pitch invasions cause chaos at Challenge Cup Final prepare a report in due course. by CHARLOTTE PARKER A yellow are was thrown onto the “He was struggling with the police to enter the ground with a are. He has A North Wales Police spokesman [email protected] pitch during the rst minute of play, and it took several of them to get him been bailed pending further enquiries. said: “An investigation is underway causing the game to be stopped as under control.” “A 23-year-old man, also from Caer- by the Air Accident Investigation itch invaders caused problems smoke poured out. is was soon re- Despite these disruptions, witness- narfon, was arrested for disorder fol- Bureau from Hampshire supported for Bangor City in their Chal- moved. es said the general behaviour of the lowing a pitch invasion at the end of by North Wales Police, to establish the lenge Cup tie. An eyewitness said: “A are was crowd “made for a really good atmos- the game. He remains in custody. circumstances which resulted in a PFlares were thrown during the game thrown on the pitch right at the begin- p h e r e”. “A minority of travelling supporters 61-year-old man from the Rhyl area, and many fans of both teams invaded ning of the game, and another was set A er a 2-2 draw, Caernarfon Town from Caernarfon were involved in mi- sustaining fatal injuries.” the pitch, a er Bangor lost the game o behind the crowd. beat Bangor City 5-4 on penalties. nor disorder during what was primar- e incident follows a similar case on penalties at their home ground, “A er the nal whistle, about 50 Two men were arrested at the game, ily a trouble-free match. at Caernarfon airport only a year ago. Nantporth. Caernarfon fans came onto the pitch, both believed to have travelled from “We will be liaising with both foot- Iain Nuttall, 37, from Blackburn, was Bangor City welcomed Caernarfon but they soon went o . Caernarfon. ball clubs to seek their support in ban- killed when a plane piloted by his Town for the North Wales Challenge “One man went over to the Bangor A spokeswoman for North Wales Po- ning individuals involved in disorder father crashed on 19 May, 2013. Cup Final on May 13th. fans and was goading them but secu- lice spoke of the arrests. from their respective grounds.” Police stepped in to deal with the rity and the police were very quick to “A 17-year-old youth from Caer- Neither club was available for com- pitch invaders. deal with him. narfon was arrested a er attempting ment. 8 Seren | May Issue 2014 POLITICS In Brief ‘Gay Marriage causes ooding,’ says Christian Leader THE leader of the Christian’s Peo- ple’s Alliance, Sid Cordle, caused controversy when he stated that it was “pretty likely” that gay marriage was the cause of recent ooding in England. e statement was made on May 16 during a broadcast of BBC’s Pol- itics Today, and provoked laughter among the programme’s other guests. Cordle made the comments after being asked whether he agreed with controversial UKIP councillor David Silvester, who stated that gay marriage caused oods and made it rain. However, Cordle also stated that UKIP was not a “natural home” for Christians, due to the party’s racist reputation. Reality TV Young people and politics resentation in government, both local eration. We live in the age of social rovision. Star Beats Nick by EMILY HOULSTON and national, was the subject of a few media, where every political ga e is We’re paving our own way political- JONES signs. Other signs, while less overtly endlessly analyzed and discussed. No ly, working out what politics means to Clegg as PM political, still proved that students wonder trust in politicians is low. We us. Our politics will be di erent from t’s hard to stand up and admit care about politics and social issues, make websites revolving around Da- our parent’s politics, just as our par- Candidate you’ve made a mistake, but it’s and that we take note of how they af- vid Cameron’s stupid campaign post- ent’s politics were di erent from our time for me to do so. fect our day-to-day lives. ers (mydavidcameron.com) and Ed grandparent’s politics. A SURVEY by women’s magazine I6 months ago, I wrote an article stat- Another political issue which a lot of Miliband’s awkward ways (awkward- People believe that young people are Cosmopolitan has found that wom- ing that students don’t care about poli- young people feel strongly about is the edmilibandmoments.tumblr.com). disinterested in politics because we en aged 18-30 have more con dence tics. I said that our current generation presence of UKIP in UK party poli- Heck, at this point, Boris Johnson is don’t t into older generation’s pre- in Joey Essex’s abilities as a Prime is “apathetic.” I lectured readers like I tics. e rise of UKIP is a hot topic, basically a walking posh guy carica- conceived notions of “politically ac- Minister than they do in Deputy was a maiden aunt, all the while con- and peppered amongst all the jokes ture. And people wonder why young tive.” We don’t care about unions. Par- Prime Minister Nick Clegg’s. Joey vinced that students don’t care about about some of UKIPs more ridiculous people can’t take party politics seri- ty politics don’t feel relevant to us, and Essex, a popular reality tv show politics. policies are genuine concerns about ously? nor do local politics, a lot of the time. personality, won 3% of the survey’s Boy, was I wrong. the UK’s political future. But though our generation has But we’re slowly discovering our hypothetical votes, while Nick Clegg If the past few months have taught People are paying attention to the strayed away from traditional party political identity, both as individuals won just 1%. me anything, it’s that students care upcoming European elections (which politics, we still care. Given the plat- and as a generation. A few examples: e tongue-in-cheek survey has about politics. Yes, we may not be in- will have been held by the time this is- form, young people have the potential we are far more likely to support gay raised issues about the lack of trust terested in the ins-and-outs of parlia- sue goes to print.) For many current to do great things. marriage than previous generations. that British Millennials have to- ments. We may not care a bit about students, this is the rst major election It’s been proven time and time again We are less likely to watch political wards politicians. Louise Court, quangos and whips and parliamentary that we are legally allowed to vote in. that UK politicians don’t particularly programmes on television, but more editor-in-chief of the magazine, said debates. We may not even be entirely e rise of UKIP has spurred some care about young people. When the likely to follow a politician on Twitter. that “British politicians have a huge sure what those terms mean. But we people to examine their political af- government raised tuition fees and We are less likely to support the death disconnect with young women and do care about politics. liations carefully, and to truly think when they proposed cutting housing penalty, and more likely to be educat- have a big ght on their hands if Last December, Bangor students about who they want running the bene ts to under-25s, they proved ed to a degree level. they want to win the battle for the came together to celebrate feminism, country. I’ve even heard a few people that the concerns of young people are We are di erent to previous genera- millennial vote.” in an event titled “I Need Feminism say that they plan to vote to prevent not important to them. It seems like tions, and so are our politics. Because…” organized by the Ban- UKIP from coming to power, even a safe decision, considering that 42% In short, to say that young people gor Feminist Society (then called the though they originally had no inten- of 16-24s have “little to no interest in don’t care about politics is stupidly Ed Miliband Bangor Women’s Society.) e cam- tion to vote. In a way, UKIP is the politics.” redundant, as well as condescending. paign consisted of a diverse range of villain that Britain needs right now. But such a statistic doesn’t account We’re still growing into our political Vows to Raise students holding up signs stating why eir ridiculous policies are teach- for what I experience every day, when shoes, so to speak, but we still have they felt feminism was still needed in ing the young people the dangers of I see people discussing politics on beliefs and opinions and issues that Minimum Wage our present society. apathy. We need to get out and use our social media, or campaigning for the we truly care about. ED MILIBAND has outlined his e campaign was an inherently vote. Sabbatical elections, or booing every plans to raise the minimum wage political one. e lack of female rep- Politics has changed for our gen- time Russia wins points during Eu- should Labour be elected into power in 2015. Both the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have also pledged to increase the national minimum wage, though a Downing Street spokesman has said that ultimately it should be le to the Low Pay Commission to dictate how much 61% 44% the actual increase should be. 42% 32% Labour believes that the Low Pay Percentage of 16-24 Percentage of 16- Percentage of 16-24 Percentage of 18- Commission, a committee made up year-old Britons who 24 year-old Britons year-old Britons who 24 year-old Britons of representatives from academia, industry, and unions, have been too have no interest in who identify with a have a “great deal of who voted in the last conservative in their plans to raise politics political party interest in politics” General Election minimum wage. (2011) (2013) (2013) (2010) May Issue 2014 | Seren 9 POLITICS e rise and fall of UKIP In Brief More recently, in May, Kevin by CALLUM HULME O’Doherty, one of the UKIP party members standing for election in Troll Allegedly he United Kingdom Independ- East Sussex was photographed naked, ence Party, or UKIP for short, ready to snort a white substance o of Sent Abusive were racing ahead not so long a woman’s lower back. e same pho- Tago in the opinion polls, as their prom- tograph showed him with Nazi sym- Tweets to MP ises of a referendum on the United bology tattooed down his le arm. Kingdom’s stance within the European John Sullivan, another party mem- PETER Nunn, 33, has appeared in Union gathered quite a lot of positive ber, posted this on Facebook in Feb- court charged with sending abusive chatter and attention. ruary: “I rather wonder if we shot one twitter messages to MP Stella Creasy ey were saying all the right things ‘poo er’ whether the next 99 would and feminist Caroline Criado-Perez. in the build-up to the European elec- decide on balance, that they weren’t e messages were allegedly sent af- tions, and the public were enthusiasti- a er-all? We might then conclude that ter Creasy and Criado-Perez publicly cally picking up on it. at was, until it’s not a matter of genetics, but rather supported the campaign to feature recently, when several high-pro le more a matter of education.” Jane Austen on the new £10 note. party members came out with erratic, Another candidate, Gordon Fergu- e alleged messages referred to racist and downright o ensive claims. son, wrote an open letter for prospec- the MP as a “witch,” with one talking Firstly, Nigel Farage’s recent radio tive voters stating that politicians from about “the best way to rape a witch.” UKIP brick campaign interview with LBC has been de- Britain’s three main political parties Nunn denies the charge, though he by CHARLOTTE FAYE maternity leave, raising income tax, scribed as nothing less than a politi- should be hanged a er committing has confessed to retweeting messages WRIGHT and cutting education spending, sent cal car-crash. e UKIP leader made Britain to “slavery inside the EU dic- of a violent nature to “further debate.” boxes of ‘junk’ in order to rack up such a mockery of his own party in tatorship.” eir voters, he went on to e case has been adjourned until ne thing I feel UKIP have huge bills. Sadly it is rumoured that an attempt to promote it that his most say, should be tried for treason. September 2, with Nunn being re- done right this year is paying a er receiving such he y objects the senior aide rushed into the studio and A er such a spectacular rise into the leased on conditional bail. for their own post, meaning party had to change their free postage forced the show to a halt. limelight of British politics, it’s only anyoneO wanting to send something to address to an address which only ac- Farage claimed that people “know’” right that their party be subjected to the party will have their postage paid cepts its mail with stamps. e party, which foreigners make good neigh- an increased level of scrutiny, and it for by the party. Many opponents of who are well-known for their homo- bours and which don’t, suggesting that was this close assessment of the party’s the party took to twitter to campaign phobic and racist comments, are also the crime rate amongst Romanian im- racist, homophobic and archaic views that fellow opponents send in bricks linked to child abuse claims and have migrants was “eye-watering.” that saw the party’s support consider- and other heavy objects in order to been branded by the UK’s very own Asked what the di erence between a ably falter. Health Cuts rack up large bills which the party prime minister as “fruitcakes, loonies German family and a Romanian one e story of UKIP’s dramatic rise would be forced to pay for. Oppo- and closet racists.” ey are expected moving next door would be, Farage and fall is undoubtedly one of the most Links to nents of the UK Independent Party, to receive 16 percent of votes, accord- simply answered: “You know what the interesting political stories to come out whose plans involve scrapping paid ing to e Mirror. di erence is.” of 2014 so far. Child Mental Disorders A year in politics LOCAL council budget cuts and health service restructuring have been linked to a rise in mental health Seren writers take a look back on a year in politics, from Edward disorders among children, according Snowden to Nigel Farage. to Children’s Commissioner for Eng- land Maggie Atkinson. e statement was made as part of written evidence presented to an inquiry into the Children’s and Adoles- cent Mental Health Service, conducted by the Health Select Committee. According to the statement, 1 child in every 10 has a mental health disorder, and three-quarters of children with mental health disorders do not currently receive any kind of treatment or support. Councils and health authorities have also submitted evidence to the inquiry, outlining the pressure caused by cuts.

Cameron Says Coalition Snowdenia Will ‘Last e show o would say anti-government try I come from. Like many people, I’d songs make it seem, it’s just people. by WYATT WARNER messages on the internet. It was as if to lost trust in my government. It’s true that some of those people are Course’ prove that if the FBI didn’t comment But then on one of my rst days back scheming, sleazy, or just a puppet of a t’s been almost a year since Ed- on Josh from Issaquah’s Facebook post for the summer I visited my mom’s corporation, but it’s not like there’s a DAVID Cameron has publicly ward Snowden’s insider info about about how George Bush is gay, then work, the US Army Corps of Engi- drone on hold somewhere, just wait- stated that the current coalition gov- the United States National Secu- the government had no power. at neers. Here were a group of engineers ing for me to tweet about how much I ernment will continue until the 2015 rityI Agency (NSA) came to light, via kind of thing had rami cations too and biologists, all government work- love the NHS or anything. election. Glen Greenwald at the Guardian. Spe- though. A friend of mine was visited ers and all nerdy as they come. A few at said, whether the NSA is gath- His comments come in the wake of ci cally, that the NSA was illegally col- and questioned by government agents of them recognized me from when my ering data about Americans for se- feuding between the two parties over lecting massive amounts of data about because a guy she didn’t know hacked mom would take me in when I was curity reasons like they claim, or to free school meals and knife crime. American citizens. Just like that, we her World of Warcra account and a kid, and they’d chat with me about create an Orwellian dystopia like this Cameron, speaking on Sky News’s knew for a fact what many had sus- typed into chat that he had a plan to college and about Wales. ese gov- one guy on my Facebook feed claims, e Murnaghan Programme, ac- pected for years: that the government kill Obama (I guess with his epic-rari- ernment workers were collecting my it’s not okay. I want a government I knowledged the “tensions and pres- was spying on us. ty rogue dagger). information the old fashioned way. can brag to my friends about. Edward sures” within the coalition, but said It wasn’t a huge surprise to most. No, I wasn’t surprised, but I was frus- at’s helped me calm down about Snowden is a hero. that it will “last the course.” People made jokes about government trated. I’d just spent a year telling my the whole thing. e government isn’t surveillance and those who wanted to new British friends what a great coun- the faceless evil creature that punk 10 MAY ISSUE 2014 | SEREN SCIENCE In Brief GRAVITATIONAL WAVES DISCOVERED RIPPLES in space-time from the ear- liest moments of the universe have been discovered by astrophysicists, in a nding hailed by the scienti c community as a future Nobel Prize winner. Einstein predicted the existence of “gravitational waves” nearly 100 years ago in his general theory of relativ- ity, but until now any trace of them – caused by strong gravitational forces – had remained elusive. Until recently, when researchers from Harvard working at a laboratory on the Antarctic ice cap detected their tell-tale signature on the faint light le over from the Big Bang. e grav- ‘Skywalker’ prosthetic limb itational waves cause rays of light to become twisted or “polarised”, which can then be detected by telescopes such as the one in Antarctica. approved for sale e nding not only proves Einstein right (again), but also will allow phys- BY EMILY HOULSTON and selling the device. they were better able to perform tasks loss which occurs at elbow or wrist icists to better understand what the JONES e prosthesis is controlled by the which involved a degree of manual joints. Universe was like in the rst fractions electrical signals of the user’s body, dexterity. Compared to standard e prosthesis was also evaluated of a second a er the Big Bang, when it new prosthetic arm has been and works in one of two ways: either prosthesis, a majority of participants on factors such as its ability to with- was still as small as a tennis ball. cleared for sale in the United by using electromyogram electrodes found that they were better able to stand damage, the so ware used, and Dr Andrew Pontzen, a cosmologist States of America by the US to detect electrical signals created perform tasks such as turning keys mitigations to prevent unwanted arm from University College London, said AFood and Drug Administration. by muscle contractions, or by using in locks, using zippers, brushing and movements. It performed well in all that the discovery meant “a whole e Deka Arm System was devel- a wireless controller, operated using combing hair, feeding themselves and these areas. new era in cosmology and physics.” oped as part of a project named ‘Luke,’ the user’s foot movements. e device gripping and moving delicate objects Christy Foreman, director of the Of- paying homage to Star Wars character learns, over the course of a few weeks, – with eggs being used for the study. ce of Device Evaluation at the FDA’s MALE RESEARCHERS Luke Skywalker, who receives a pros- to convert these electrical signals into e Deka Arm System is not at- Centre for Devices and Radiological STRESS OUT RATS thetic hand during the course of the movement. tached using surgery; rather it is tted Health, voiced her approval for the lm ‘ e Empire Strikes Back.’ Trials have shown that the arms are to the user with a customized plastic device, saying that the prosthesis “may LAB rats are stressed out by men Tom Doyon, project manager at usually fully trained within weeks, or carbon- bre socket. e device can allow some people to perform more much more than by women – a nd- Deka Research and Development Cor- with certain tasks being learnt in a currently only be con gured for us- complex tasks than they can with cur- ing that may spell trouble for thou- poration, the device’s creators, has said matter of hours. ers with a limb loss occurring at the rent prostheses in a way that more sands of experimental conclusions. that the prosthesis is “a real milestone” e product was approved follow- shoulder joint, mid-upper arm, or closely resembles the natural motion It’s long been rumoured that rats and has also stated that Deka is now ing a study of 36 amputees, during mid-lower arm. ere are currently no of the arm.” She also described the react di erently to male and female focusing on successfully marketing which 90% of participants stated that plans to create a similar device to limb product as “innovative.” experimenters. Dr Je rey Mogil, from McGill University in Canada, recently investigated the phenomenon sys- tematically. His study found that rats exposed to men exhibited higher levels of the stress hormone corticosterone and were much less responsive to painful stimuli than those exposed to women. Further tests involving smelly T- shirts showed that stress was caused by the smell of male pheromones. Having a woman (or a woman’s T- shirt) present counteracted the e ect entirely. Mogil says that the nding is concerning but not fatal for experiments on rats. He suggests that future research papers should state the sex of the experimenter. Or, he suggests, “ re all the men - or have them chap- eroned by a woman.” Earth’s ‘twin’ planet discovered ANTARCTIC COLLAPSE BY NICOLA HOBAN Institute and NASA’s Ames Research referred to as ‘super Earths’ due to Stephen Kane, an astronomer at San “UNSTOPPABLE” Center in Mountain View, California, their sheer masses, which meant that Francisco State University and anoth- said at the conference: “Kepler 186f is their gravities may have been strong er member of the research team, said: THE West Antarctic Ice Sheet is cientists announced at a news the rst validated, Earth-size planet enough to pull in helium and hydro- “You could far more easily imagine doomed to melt, according to two conference on 15th May the in the habitable zone of another star. gen gases, making them more similar someone being able to go there and new studies – meaning global sea lev- discovery of a planet which is a similarS match to Earth. It has the right size and is at the right to mini-Neptunes than large Earths. walk around on the surface.” els will rise by 3 metres. distance to have properties similar to e size of Kepler 186f, however, However, scientists state that the Geophysicists concluded that the While the planet, which is being our home planet.” makes it more likely that the planet planet is not a perfect replica; Kepler waites Glacier, a body of ice hold- referred to as Kepler 186f a er the Kepler 186f is the most recent planet has a rocky surface similar to Earth, 186f is closer to its star – a red dwarf ing the rest of the Ice Sheet back, will NASA Kepler planet- nding mission to be found in the mammoth amount which ful ls another step in scientists’ that is smaller, cooler and fainter than inevitably collapse, and once this hap- which discovered it, is 10% wider than of data collected from the Kepler mis- quests for a ‘Earth 2.0.’ our own sun – the time it takes for it to pens there will be nothing to stop the Earth with a diameter of 8,700 miles, it sion, which kept watch over 150,000 Another member of the discovery complete one orbit is 130 days, unlike rest of the Ice Sheet from slowly slid- is the closest match to our planet that stars by monitoring for minor drops team, omas S. Barclay of the Bay Earth’s 365 days, and it is towards the ing into the sea. has been discovered to date. Orbiting in brightness when a planet passed in Area Environmental Research Insti- outer edge of the habitable zone mean- e process will take 200 years to within the “Goldilocks zone” of its star front. tute, said of the discovery: “It’s a pro- ing that it is colder, and that it is prob- play out, even under a worst-case sce- 500 light-years away, the temperatures e announcement of Earth’s ‘Twin’ gression. is planet really reminds us able more of the surface will be frozen. nario, say the scientists involved with of Kepler 186f allow for liquid water planet follows last year’s announce- of Earth.” Dr Barclay concluded: “Perhaps it’s the study - but there’s nothing that to ow at the surface, meaning that it ment of another star, Kepler 62, which A similarity the two planets possess more of an Earth cousin than an Earth can be done to reverse the process has the potential for life to be able to has two planets residing in its habit- besides its appearance and substance twin.” even with drastic emissions cuts. inhabit the planet. Dr. Elisa V. Quintana, of the SETI able zone – but these planets were are the levels of gravity. MAY ISSUE 2014 | SEREN 11 SCIENCE Science@ Bangor CHINESE GARDEN FOR TREBORTH A CHINESE medicinal garden is to be planted at the University’s Treborth Botanic Garden. e Two Dragons Garden has been established as part of the partnership between Treborth and Xishuang- banna Tropical Botanical Garden in Yunnan Province, China. Funded by the British Council, the Confucius Institute, Bangor University and the Friends of Treborth, it’ll likely be two or three years before the project is completed. Plants – from tea to cherry trees – Wüster on Regent’s Park will be chosen for the garden for their scienti c, historical, cultural and so- cio-economic value. As a showcase for the species used snakes: Don’t believe the hype! in traditional Chinese medicine, the garden will be a valuable teaching re- BY EDWIN PYNEGAR pendent, Daily Mail, Mirror and Daily resources to be devoted to an almost bers, populations can increase very source for both students and the pub- Star warning of 8 long baby-eating certainly non-problematic introduced rapidly. lic, and will increase awareness about ne of Bangor’s best-known serpents on the loose around London species with little prospects of spread, Dr Wüster also expressed bemuse- Chinese culture and history. It’s also lecturers has been in the na- amid calls for a cull. as opposed to the many far more dam- ment at the fact that the story sud- hoped that the garden will be used for tional news recently – because Dr Wüster urged the public not to aging species already out there.” denly had hit the national news, saying research projects studying everything ofO a colony of snakes living in Regent’s believe the hype and called the media e population at Colwyn Bay has that the London population had also from soil chemistry to the trade in Park. reporting “atrocious” and “sensation- been living there peacefully for dec- been living there without being much rare orchids. Dr Wolfgang Wüster, of the School alist”. e species is actually normally ades, a er a gravid female managed to noticed for many years, possibly the e biggest di culty, said Dr Sophie of Biological Sciences, is one of the 3-4 long, growing to a maximum of escape from the Welsh Mountain Zoo o spring of individuals which escaped Williams, lecturer in Conservation in country’s leading experts on the Aes- around 5 , and totally harmless to around 50 years ago. e population from London Zoo or from an educa- SENRGY and the brains behind the culapian snake (Zamenis longissi- anything larger than a small bird or isn’t outcompeting any native species tion facility near Regent’s Park. project, is that it’ll take many years mus), a species native to Southern and rodent. It has little chance of expand- and is unlikely to be doing any major “Actually they are probably the nicest to for the plants to mature. Nobody Eastern Europe. ing its range further in the UK because damage to the native Welsh fauna, be- species of snake we have in this coun- should be expecting a beautiful gar- However the snake has also estab- the climate here suits it poorly. cause the wildlife it encounters here is try”, he added. “Adders are venomous den straight away! lished two breeding populations in the He slammed a cull as a waste of time very similar to that in its natural range and grass snakes smell awful, so if you Despite this, the plan is for all the UK, one in woods just outside Colwyn and e ort, despite the species being in continental Europe. Invasive spe- want a “show-me” snake, the Aescula- plants in the garden to be medicinal. Bay and another along the Regent’s listed as an alien invasive by the Wild- cies that “take over” tend to be those pian would be a pretty good choice!” e garden will also follow traditional Canal in central London. life and Countryside Act 1981. “Any from distant parts of the world; when principles of Chinese garden design, It was the latter population that hit attempt to eradicate the Aesculapian introduced here, with naïve prey and with entrance via a “moon gate” and the papers, with articles in the Inde- snake would require justi cation of no native predators to control num- di erent “views” from the three different “rooms” making up the garden. Professor Chen Jin, Director of Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanic Garden and Chair of the Chinese Union of Botanic Gardens said, “ e new link between Treborth and XTBG is a great step forward to making stronger ties for China and Wales. e new Chinese garden at Treborth is very exciting and I am happy to be involved with this project.” OPEN DAY AT UNIVERSITY FARM THE University’s Henfaes Research Station at Abergwyngregyn will be opening its doors to the public on June 12th. As part of Universities Week from June 9th-15th, when universities Chimp split mirrors our own around the UK raise awareness of the impact of their research on all our a war. Researchers from Duke University in compared it to a sociology study of a BY WYATT WARNER lives, Henfaes will be showing how its It’s not completely clear what caused North Carolina have entered the de- university karate club’s similar split in work has been bene ting Welsh agri- amous primatologist Jane the split, but a senior male (dubbed tailed social data from Goodall’s notes 1970, where researchers could simi- culture and science. Goodall’s eld notes from a “Leakey”) died in late 1970. Research- (such as which chimps arrived at the larly predict individuals’ chosen fac- Sta there will be explaining eve- “chimpanzee war” in the early ers say that Leakey may have been a station together and how much time tion based on their social interactions. 1970sF have been re-examined in order rything from techniques for growing bridge between the two factions, be- they spent together) into a so ware at means that chimpanzee societies tomatoes outdoors to how da odils to compare the chimpanzee society’s cause the split began soon a er his program that describes the chimpan- might help us understand how hu- are being used in treating Alzheimer’s fracture to human ones. e notes death. A er Leakey, another male, zees’ social network. ey found that man-like societies evolve. disease to why bees don’t always sting. revolve around the chimpanzee feed- Humphrey, became alpha, but he they could pinpoint the time at which e Gombe war is the only known Dr Morag McDonald, Head of SEN- ing station that Goodall established faced pressure from his two stronger the social divide started—1971, when chimpanzee society split, as fractures RGY, said: “I think people would be in Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National brothers. e other chimps began to the group split into a northern and are very rare—groups can last for cen- surprised at the wide variety of re- Park. follow either Humphrey or his broth- southern faction that spent less time turies, according to genetic research of search undertaken at the Henfaes A group of chimpanzees in the park ers, which caused the divide. socializing with other. ey could also group members. More hints might be Research Station - both because of its split into two in the early 1970s, and e war lasted for four years, in predict which side individual chim- gleaned from New World spider mon- breadth and because it really has been groups of males from one faction were which time Humphrey’s group de- panzees would a liate themselves keys, which are the only other primate making an impact on Welsh agricul- observed to enter the other’s terri- stroyed that of the brothers. e with, based on their preferred social to behave similarly, says University of ture over the decades.” tory and violently beat a single chimp. ghting consisted of groups of males contacts. Texas at Austin researcher Anthony Di e Open Day starts at 2pm on Over four years this faction destroyed entering rival territory and violently e Duke University researchers Fiore. ursday 12th June and light refresh- the other. e violence was so intense beating single chimpanzees they en- say that the social fragmentation re- ments will be provided. and sustained that Goodall dubbed it countered. Seven rebel males died. sembles that in human societies. ey 12 Seren | May Issue 2014 ENVIRONMENT In Brief Energy Crisis Looms A REPORT by the Global Sustain- ability Institute (GSI) has issued a warning that within the next 5 years, Britain will have run out of oil, coal, and gas. is shocking revelation has led to a call for a “Europe-wide drive” towards renewable energy production, from the likes of wind, tidal, solar and hydroelectric power by GSI Professor, Victor Anderson. e report goes on to suggest that shortages would increase the UK’s dependency on Norway, Qatar and Russia. How- ever, it could be worse, France for example, is estimated to have less than a year of its own fuel sources le . is lack of resources has led to fears that the UK will soon be ‘held Lightning Phenomenon Linked hostage’ by high energy import prices from countries such as Russia. How- ever, the government believes that to Cosmic Rays shale gas, extracted by controversial fracking, is the answer, at least by CHRIS GLASS lar winds within the atmosphere cause Northern Europe, found that a er energy as lightning bolts. to bridge the gap until renewable spectacular displays of aurora around the arrival of a high speed solar winds By understanding the mechanisms technology increases. Furthermore, olar winds are cosmic rays from the poles, however new research shows lightning strikes increased from 321 to behind the process, advances in storm incentives for further oil research in space which are ejected from the that solar winds can also in uence the 422 over a 40 day period. An obser- forecasting can be made, this is be- the North Sea are being o ered, in sun, the rotation of the sun hurls Earth’s weather. vation was also made that the higher cause solar wind streams are highly outS charged particles which travel A letter recently published in the the intensity and speed of solar winds, predictable, as the sun rotates every addition the government is trying to persuade the USA to export more gas at a rate of 400 – 800km per second. Journal of Environmental Research the higher the rate of lightning strikes. 27 days, so the arrival of solar winds to the UK. A Department of Energy High concentrations of solar winds Letters stated that solar activity is ese observations were unexpected is periodic to these rotations. With & Climate Change (DECC) spokes- occur when faster streams of particles causing an increase in the number of as solar streams are meant to enhance the advancements in forecasting the person said that the UK is one of the catches up with a slower stream. e lightning strikes. e lead researcher the magnetic eld, this in turn should question could be asked whether hu- most energy secure countries in the Earth is protected from high energy from the University of Reading, Dr reduce the amount of solar particles man lightning strikes could be greatly World. While the UK’s energy future rays from outside the solar system by Chris Scott said, ‘around 24,000 peo- entering the atmosphere and cause reduced in the future by better predict- is perhaps uncertain, it is certain that its magnetic eld, however e ects of ple are struck by lightning each year a decrease in lightning strikes. is ing and warning of storm events. real change must be enacted soon to the solar wind can be seen within the and lightning represents a signi cant phenomenon occurs because the solar stop a crisis in the future. Earth’s atmosphere. e arrival of so- hazard’. wind particles penetrate storm clouds, e new research, using data from making it easier to discharge electrical El Nino reat to Crops RECENT research surrounding the climatic phenomenon known as El Nino has shown that certain yields of major food crops could be signi - cantly reduced because of the climatic event. An El Nino event is a de ned episodic change in climate which is caused by changes in the sea surface temperature in the eastern tropical Paci c Ocean. ese El Nino events cause a shi in the position of the jet stream, which alters rainfall pat- terns and temperatures; and can result is extreme weather events, such as droughts or ooding, these events have the major impacts on crop yields. e research centred on 4 main major food crops, maize, rice, wheat and soybean. e general trend which can be seen is an overall decrease in yield of between 4.3% and 0.8% Granny Whale Still Going Strong with maize, rice and wheat. However, by GEMMA SIMMONS continuously studied since the early around the year 1911, the year before tween 40 and 80 years in the wild and when looking at soybean crops, an in- 1970s. the sinking of the titanic! many have been known to be over 90 teresting di erence is observed, that his month, one of the most fa- Scientists say that the pod, which Spotting Granny at the ripe old age however SeaWorld and marine parks being an increase in yield of between mous killer whales known to includes around 80 members, has of 103 has reignited the cetacean cap- alike claim that they rarely live over 2.1% -5.4%. mankind was spotted o Van- been struggling recently with a lack of tivity debate; the debate heated up 40. e oldest known orca in captivity e four crops account for almost Tcouver Island. e famous whale, t- available prey however, they say that last September a er the release of the is thought to be around 45 years old, 60% of the world’s food calories pro- tingly named ‘Granny’ is estimated to Granny was ‘looking very healthy’ ground-breaking orca captivity docu- however in captivity many whales have duced on croplands. For this reason it be 103 years old. She was spotted on along with the rest of the pod. Another mentary ‘Black sh’. e documentary rarely passed their early 20s. is bene cial that forecasts can be pre- her annual migration from California 85 year old member of the pod was was centred around killer whales in e debate into cetacean captivity dicted for future episodes of El Nino to the Strait of Georgia, o Vancouver thought to be one of the oldest killer captivity and the huge negative e ects and animal rights is still ongoing but and La Nina, this will allow prediction Island, Canada with the rest of her pod whales in the past however Granny captivity has upon these animals. Ma- Granny has undoubtedly added new of when bad yield years will be ahead to which she is the matriarch. e pod, has far surpassed this age and is now rine parks such as SeaWorld strongly evidence to the argument about killer of harvest. An improved response to known as J pod of the Sothern resi- considered the oldest orca in the refuted the claims made throughout whale captivity. the impacts on crop yield can help to dent community, resides in the Paci c world. Scientist’s use a relatively accu- the documentary including that orcas reduce the risk of malnutrition whilst Ocean o the west coast of America rate method of age estimation in their live much longer in the wild than in also improving the adaption capabil- and is one of the most intensely stud- studies based on reproductive history captivity. Although no-one knows for ity against climate change. ied orca population in the world being and have pin pointed Granny’s birth to sure, scientist’s claim orcas can live be- May Issue 2014 | Seren 13 ENVIRONMENT In Brief Antarctic Shrinking THE European Space Agency’s Cryosat spacecra has been speci - cally designed in order to monitor changes regarding loss of mass of the Antarctic ice sheet. A recent article published in the journal of Geophysi- cal Research Letters claims that the Cryosat spacecra has revealed that the ice sheet is now losing about 160 billion tonnes of ice per year to the ocean, this is twice as much that was recorded from measurements made when the continent was last surveyed. Solar Subsidies Slashed e loss of 160 billion tonnes causes a by RICHARD DALLISON just 46 large-scale projects operating, ligation system. is move to smaller was keen to point out that large-scale sea level rise of 0.43mm per year. this rose dramatically to 184 by the and medium sized schemes was con- solar power is “signi cantly cheaper” e ice sheet can be split into 3 sec- he government has announced end of February this year and is set to rmed by a government source who than o shore wind already, and will be tors, the West Antarctic, the East Ant- plans to cut the amount of sub- climb higher still with 194 further pro- stated, “We really want to see more at a competitive price to onshore wind arctic and the Antarctic Peninsula. sidies paid to large scale solar jects having planning permission and on roofs, commercial and industrial by 2017, however with these subsidy e West Antarctic sector is the sec- Tfarms from April 2015, 2 years earlier awaiting construction currently. buildings, such as supermarkets”. cuts investment con dence is likely to tor which is contributing the greatest than this current scheme was due to e Department for Energy and Cli- It has been suggested by some ana- be knocked and industry development loss of 134 billion tonnes. e sector close. e plans will see owners of so- mate Change (DECC) stated the rea- lysts, however, that this move has been damaged at a crucial time. is particularly vulnerable because the lar installations that produce an excess soning behind the proposed cut is to taken in an e ort to keep rural voters While the lessening in government six huge glaciers which dominate the of 5 megawatts competing for subsi- “move the emphasis for growth away on side in the run up to the upcom- spending on large schemes is con- area (known as the Amundsen Sea dies with other forms of renewable from larger solar farms”, this has been ing General Election, as some rural cerning, the ray of hope can be seen Embayment) are undergoing rapid energy production. e proposed cut coupled with a move to decrease the dwellers are becoming concerned with in the way they are investing more in retreat due to the in ux of warm has been widely condemned by many rate at which subsidies for smaller the amount of green-land that is being small scale projects, these community ocean water, this is caused by strong in the energy industry, saying that the schemes are cut. ese proposals are given over to large solar developments. schemes, whether they be solar, micro- winds which are in uenced by the move is undermining the renewable a clear move by the government to e announcement by the DECC has hydroelectric or community wind changing global climate. If the six gla- industry in the United Kingdom. e encourage small scale and commu- caused anger in the solar energy sec- turbines could hold the key to future ciers within the vulnerable area were curb in subsidies comes a er a boom nity projects, in the long run, these tor and with green campaigners, with energy security. to completely melt, there would be in the solar industry in the past few schemes cost the government less in many believing the cut undermines the a predicted rise in sea level of 1.2m. years, in march of 2012 there were pay-outs under the Renewables Ob- industry. Seb Berry from Solarcentury However this predicted rise is nothing when compared with the predicted sea level rise of 58m if the whole Antarctic ice sheet were to disappear.

Fracking Support Down A NEW poll released this week reports that fracking support in the United Kingdom has fallen to below 50% for the rst time. e research, conducted by the University of Not- tingham, found that just 49.8% of the 3,657 people surveyed were in favour of the controversial extraction technique. Meanwhile, opposition to fracking has risen to its highest level, 31.4%, while 18.4% of those that replied were undecided. e research puts the fall in support, and rise in opposition, down to anti-fracking protests in Balcombe, West Sussex, in 2013, citing this as a Environmental Protection for turning point in public opinion. is fall in support will come as a blow to the Government, who are aiming to encourage shale gas extrac- UK Overseas Teritories tion as an alternative to imported gas by AL HULLEY document illustrates that 85% of the more evident especially in places such nomically driven minds such as Rufus from Russia. Furthermore, plans are endangered species in question are as the Island of Grand Turk. Here there Ewing stated: " ere are some things afoot for further protests and an anti- n recent times, there has been an from these territories. Bearing this are proposals to build a dolphinarium that sometimes we may have to sacri- fracking camp, this summer, which ever growing concern about eco- in mind the RSPB are now looking alongside a freight shipping port, ma- ce. It is an area we can use to boost could damage public opinion even logical resilience and the ability of for increased spending to meet the rina and cruise ship terminal on East our economy, to boost our develop- more. speciesI to adapt to a rapidly changing Prime Ministers hopes. is followed Caicos. is location is one of the larg- ment. "Other impacts upon this envi- Interestingly, the research also climate. In particular there are grow- his comments stating that overseas est uninhabited islands in the Carib- ronment include forest res from ille- found that Conservative aligned re- ing concerns about the status of spe- territories provide, "an important op- bean, containing some of the region's gal immigrants from the Haiti disaster spondents were more likely to be in cies inhabiting UK overseas territories. portunity to set world standards in our best preserved coral reefs and turtle of 2010. e current argument for the favour of fracking than those aligned For example the RSPB have noted that stewardship of the extraordinary natu- nesting beaches. Environmentalists conservation of UK species within our to Labour the Liberal Democrats. Ad- 94% of unique British birds live out- ral environments we have inherited". including the head of the islands' De- territories is should it be up to the UK ditionally, older people were found to side Britain. One problem in particular outside partment of Environment and Mari- government or conversely the territo- be more accepting than younger peo- e RSPB report sent to Prime Min- UK borders is that there is no legal- time A airs, Kathleen Wood, has con- rial government to protect their spe- ple, something that surprised the re- ister David Cameron indicates 14 key ised protection for species such as the cerns that "this kind of project cannot cies, as stated by Mark Simmonds. port’s author, Professor Sarah O’Hara. areas upon which they are concerned Barking Gecko, the Turks and Caicos be done sensitively. You would have to Finally, the report concluded that the - stretching from the South Paci c to Rock Iguana and the Pygmy Boa (Cu- dredge through an incredible amount public knowledge about the technol- the Mediterranean. Furthermore this ban species). of reef". Unfortunately when it comes ogy and processes of fracking has in- Tourism pressure becomes ever to areas such as Turks and Caicos, eco- creased. 14 Seren | May Issue 2014 COMMENT

by BECKI WATSON AND to speak was Pippa Beston who was that a boycott would undo all the hard AMY BLACKWELL for the campaign. She commented on work that Coppafeel had put into the the campaign being a small step in the partnership with the newspaper. Other t’s been one of the most controver- right direction to abolishing sexism issues were raised such as the national sial SU policy ideas in a long time, and that though a boycott of the Sun image of the campaign and whether sparking heated discussions across in Bangor might not change the world the cause would be understood on a socialI media, and engaging more stu- it’s a start. Next to speak was Rebecca national level, the representation of dents in Senate debate than any other Earnshaw who was for the against; women and the “ideal body” in oth- topic this year, and all it took was the she expressed her concern about body er forms of media and whether they possibility of ‘banning boobs’. con dence in young women and how were more damaging than page 3 and Earlier this month, SU President she fears that young women will ques- whether the boycott of page 3 could Antony Butcher and VP Education tion why it is not okay for them to be lead to more fair representation in the and Welfare Rhys Taylor announced a naked and that this would cause a lot long run. A lot of the debate revolved policy idea to stop the sale of e Sun of anxiety about the body. en was around education as the only way to the most students to attend a senate should be doing as a Students’ Union in University buildings, and for the SU the turn of Martyn Curzey who spoke really solve issues such as sexism and debate in their entire term, which is to tackle this problem, and whether to actively support the No More Page for the campaign and against unfair unhealthy body images among others. really positive and hopefully can hap- No More Page 3 should be part of the 3 Campaign, a petition against the in- representation in the Sun e debate was an even one with pen for more issues to be discussed solution. Now that this has been sent famous ‘Page 3’ that regularly features at senate in the future. At the end of to referendum every student in Ban- topless women in the paper. e idea IT WAS MADE CLEAR FROM BOTH SIDES the debate Antony Butcher noted that gor will have a chance to consider the was to get the debate going before it THAT THIS CAMPAIGN IS NOT THE END OF a meeting should be held before the arguments, challenge their own views, end of his term to discuss how we can and have their say online. We’re also went to Senate so that the senators THE ROAD... would have a better idea of what the progress on this debate and a student going to have another get together to student body thought of the idea, and union, whatever the result. look at other actions we can take as it certainly did that. In addition to the e senate discussion immediately a Students’ Union to address the in- blogs and posts written by volunteer for women, people of colour and for both sides having strong ar- gu- followed the 90 minute long debate, equalities that exist in society- all the students for the SU, people engaged those of all sexualities, disabilities and ments. It was made clear from both where, a er another short discussion, details will be on Bangor Students Un- in lengthy discussions on the merits genders. e nal speech was made sides that this campaign is not the the vote ultimately didn’t reach a ma- ion facebook page by the end of this of the campaign, ranging from ‘boo- by Amy Blackwell who spoke against end of the road, and that more can be jority, meaning the idea now goes to w e e k .” bs aren’t news’, to questions over free the campaign for fears of the freedom done on all sides. To abolish sexism, referendum. e referendum needs at So now the chance to have your say press. e debate got so intense that of a woman’s body being jeopardised promote body con dence, to educate least 300 students to vote, and the re- is here, which way will you vote? No the SU organised an extra discussion by the nature of the cause but was people about gender, sexuality, race sult will be decided by straight major- matter what your opinion, this has session before Senate just to discuss against the values the Sun promotes. and disability as well as to make peo- ity, with all registered Bangor students been one of the most controversial the ‘No More Page 3’ idea, and invited A er the speeches were made the ple aware that boobs are just boobs being eligible to vote. Antony Butcher topics the SU has engaged with in anyone with questions or comments oor was opened up for comments. and the naked body is nothing to be commented, “It was fantastic to see so recent times, so it’s worth your time to come along. Sarah Jones, the leader of the Cop- ashamed of. many students at Senate, and to have to read around the debate and nd out what it’s all about. Who knows, e pre-senate debate kicked o pafeel Bangor Uni Boob Team, raised e debate ended with an indica- such a productive debate about the is- you may end up joining in the debate with four speeches from four stu- her concerns over their breast cancer tive vote which remained as equal sues around page 3, and the way that yourself. dents, two for the “No More Page 3” awareness campaign with the Sun as the debate itself. Seasoned senate society views women. ere were a campaign and two against. e rst “Check ‘em Tuesday” and worried members commented that this was wide range of viewpoints on what we

Bangor Unchained by NATHAN BULLEN there is a good variety of restaurants But despite this, he still wants a Nan- thinks that the restaurants currently live if there were more places to go for to choose from a Nando’s must be dos to be built, insisting that it makes here are not enough and really wants a meal. tudents are wishing for popu- constructed. My life is not complete sense for one to open, saying it will new restaurants in Bangor. “Most students enjoy a good meal at lar food chains such as Nandos without it. If Nandos was to open here help Bangor as a whole. “I don’t think there is enough good a nice restaurant and there are barely to open in Bangor and believe I would go out for meals far more “ ere are more students here than quality places to eat at the moment. any in Bangor which means a journey itS will improve life in the area. ese frequently rather than consuming local residents during the academic ere are only a few places I like and to Llandudno if you want a decent days most small towns have successful the sustenance that the other eating year which is three quarters of the I don’t think the rest are great. Pizza choice of restaurants.” food chains in abundance, yet Bangor establishments provide on a sporadic year. If you provide them with the Hut seems like a compulsory restau- e £44 million Pontio building cur- is still missing some of the most pop- basis.” food that they like but currently don't rant for anywhere to have and there is rently under construction will include ular in the UK. is means that stu- However, he does not think there is have access to, they would spend more not one here in Bangor which is very restaurants, although it is not yet dents at Bangor have a lot less choice anything wrong with the current res- money which will boost the economy disappointing.” known what they will be. It is hoped than students at other Universities. taurants available: “ e ones I have of the area.” She added that she thinks Bangor that work will be completed by this Adam Penney, 18, said “Although been to are quite nice.” However, Danielle Nunnerley, 19, would be a more enjoyable place to autumn. May Issue 2014 | Seren 15 COMMENT

Ida is an international student working in liaison with the international o ce . Every issue she’ll write about her experiences in Bangor. Feeling Domestic by IDA VÄISÄNEN hile in Bangor, I have adapted a new identity. I’m an international stu- dentW from an EU country, enjoying pretty much the same rights as Brit- English A-level Reform ish students do. Still when I go home Curriculum. Other pop cultural topics in the curriculum, provides students respectable enough to learn from. I this identity is turned upside down, by TOM RICKETTS included in the course such as Caitlin with a chance to study the di erences nd this idea insulting. ere are a I’m a Finn studying abroad, and that’s Moran’s twitter feed, would be studied between speech and writing. plethora of modern writers out there when things get complicated. alongside more traditional texts. e ose who criticize the changes have equally as credible. I would love to see For example, transportation. When levels are an important part of education department has boldly re- claimed the course should focus on teachers set more class assignments I started studying in Bangor, I was a young person’s life, and as jected these topics as credible sources classic texts by the likes of Shakespeare on authors such as Stephen King, J. K. entitled to student discount when such they spark some heated for students to learn from. A spokes- or George Orwell, this is what I take Rowling, Joe Nesbo or Ruth Rendell, travelling, as long as I presented the Adebates regarding the curriculum, the person for the department expressed issue with the most. We spend over ten just to name a few. In my eyes, failing appropriate documents from the best way to sculpt the minds of our deep distaste for the new topics and years teaching children the proper way to properly acknowledge these writ- university. However, a recent reform countries aspiring academics. Recent- stated they “expect other exam boards to read, write and speak the English ers gives students the impression that in the system made this impossible. ly a debate began when the OCR exam to do better”. Barbara Bleiman a co di- language, yet when they reach a cer- all the good writers are dead, which is I was basically told that in the eyes board announcing that Russell Brand’s rector of ‘the English media centre’ has tain age we go, “Here’s Shakespeare! Or simply not true. of the Finnish government I’m not parliamentary debate on drug use defended the reform saying that, by Dickens, or Poe, Analyse this”, because a student, as I study abroad. No rea- would feature in a new A Level English including social media such as Twitter it’s the only form of literature deemed son for this conduct was given. “Any feedback can be sent to our website”, the lady behind the counter told me icily. And feedback did I send, presenting the logical contradiction in this methodology. In a land of free domestic education me, someone paying for their education, should be more than entitled for my transportation discount as my expenses of receiving education are bound to be higher when compared to domestic students. Another incident of this kind took place when I applied for a student credit card. It turned out only domestic students could apply for it. Again no explanation for this conduct was given. Might sound a bit dramatic, but I felt betrayed. Britain has welcomed me as one of their own in so many matters, so I was disappointed that my own country has been unable to do the same. Domestic or not, I’m a student just like anybody else, with student income. at’s why I’m telling all of you international students going home for Slacktivism the summer to look a er your rights in your country of origin. Get your by EMILY HOULSTON that we want to nd a cure for cancer, being coined by the media. Being a Facebook page. It’s a lot harder to ac- voice heard, ll those feedback forms. JONES we want to free killer whales into the slacktivist is easy, as the name implies. tually donate your time or money. e No system should put di erent value wild, and we support gay marriage. A quick click, share, retweet, or reblog, two aren’t mutually exclusive, but peo- for their nationals, regardless where he internet is a game-changer. But is this necessarily a good thing? I and we get that warm fuzzy charitable ple act like they are. they study. Nothing may come out It is hard to think of a single don’t think it is. feeling, with none of the actual hard ere’s this sense of accomplishment of my discount rant, but you never aspect of British society which First, let’s look at the cold hard facts. work required. We don’t even have to that comes with signing an online pe- know unless you try. Thasn’t been a ected by the internet. Academics Kirk Kristo erson, Kather- leave our beds! tition, or posting a #nomakeupsel e. If you feel like catching some stun- How we shop, how we study, how ine White, and John Peloza published is isn’t to denounce all social me- It makes it a lot easier to ignore the ning scenery of North Wales before we communicate…the internet has a paper showing that “if people are dia campaigns. e current #bring- homeless man on the streets, or pass heading home, how about a trip to changed everything, mostly for the able to declare support for a charity backourgirls campaign (coordinated right by the charity shop sign asking South Stack Bird Reserve and An- better. publicly in social media it can actually to facilitate the return of over 200 for volunteers. glesey? ere is a chance to see some e internet has also a ected how make them less likely to donate to the kidnapped Nigerian schoolgirls) has But at the end of the day, likes never adorable baby pu ns! is half day charities and activists work. Every cause later on.” caught the attention of some serious fed a hungry child, or clothed a home- trip takes place on 31st of May, de- charity has a social media presence, Basically, there’s not an awful lot of movers and shakers, such as Michelle less man. Amazingly preachy, I know, parting at 1PM. Tickets are 10£/7£ and petitions abound online. Now, meaningful contribution from those Obama, and the media reporting is but it’s an uncomfortable truth we all (adults/children), and they can be more than ever, it is easier for us to who publicly announce their support de nitely helping the cause. need to admit to ourselves. bought either from Bangor online show our support for charities. One for charities on social media. But people are confusing a click with shop or from the International Stu- click and we can declare to the world is has led to the terms ‘slacktivism’ meaningful actions. It’s easy to like a dent Support o ce (cash only). 16 Seren | May Issue 2014 UNION Sabbs’ Year in Review As the academic year draws to a close, our SU Sabbatical O cers take a look back at what the Union have acheived this year, and look forward to what’s ahead... Photo by Lisa Irwin

Antony Butcher - As students, we are in many ways for best Students’ Union of the Year, of your hard work and dedication, and the Students Union, in a better place SU President exceptionally lucky – to have been Course Rep of the Year, and Green all of your support from start to nish than it was when I joined. oodness gracious me. ese to University, to have a roof over our Impact (Sustainability) Awards, and – deer in the headlights is an apt de- So I’ll nish with this. Love it, Live last 2 years have whizzed by, heads, even to have clean water on ngers crossed there’s more to come scription of how I started o 11 months it, Enjoy it try something new, some- and I can barely believe that in tap. However, our society is not aw- next year. ago, so thank you for welcoming us thing di erent, something exciting, or aG few short weeks this amazing chapter less, and the growing inequality we All these awards are proof that Ban- in and all your support in delivering. you’ll live to regret it. of my life will be over. I feel honoured are witnessing – both in the UK and gor students and our Students’ Union Diolch! Mark, you’ll do everyone proud, and to have been your President, and it has internationally – might be the greatest are committed to ensuring that your show everyone why they elected you. been truly wonderful getting to know challenge to our way of living we have time at Bangor is as good as it can pos- Ash Kierans - You have yourself a good one! so many inspirational students. ever seen. People o en tell me that sibly be. Our Course Reps, for exam- VP Societies and Community Together, we’ve worked with the the students of today are the future – ple. At our Course Rep Awards I said t’s been a long two years! Good Nicola Pye - University to get some massive wins but we are more than this, we are the that our Course Reps are the back- days, and not so good days, but VP Sport and Healthy Living – continuing investment into our stu- present. It is up to us to stand up for bone of our Students’ Union, dedicat- I wouldn’t change a single one of i everyone! I can’t believe how dent led activities, growth in our vol- what we believe to be right, and not ing hundreds of hours, with little pros- them.I Every day I’ve worked here, I’ve quick this year has gone, and unteering projects, the introduction of to observe passively. Together, we can pect of reward, to improve the lives of witnessed the passion, creativity, and now it is the nal issue of Heroes, oh – and 24 hour library any- change the world. those around them – but whether it’s energy that students have brought to SerenH for 2013-14! I have really en- body? ese (on top of loads more) P.S . – in case you haven’t heard I’m volunteering, making sport and activi- their societies and volunteering pro- joyed my rst year as your VP Sport would not have been possible without about to cycle 1000 miles for charity. ties more accessible, or campaigning jects. and healthy living o cer; it has been students, without the amazing sta at You can read why at to raise awareness of mental health or We’ve seen the number around 50 non-stop with hardly any free week- Bangor Students’ Union, and without www.antonyjcbutcher.wordpress. sexual health, students at Bangor win new societies start up in my two years ends. Our clubs have been constantly the sta at Bangor University, so many com/10000challenge/ and sponsor me hands down every time. here in Bangor, which is a testament to active with a wide range of activity, of whom care deeply about us. Cheers at www.justgiving.com/ I’m sure Mark and Lydia are going how accepting, and welcoming a com- and I’m looking forward to working all! antonybutcher to do a brilliant job in developing our munity we are. with our 2 new additional clubs, golf is summer I will be joining thou- societies and community activities, I’ve met some wonderful people, stu- and water polo next year. Our activity sands of other students leaving Bangor Rhys Taylor - our Course Reps, and our Welfare dents with so much passion that they will continue over the summer, with a with fond memories, and friendships VP Education and Welfare Campaign next year, and I’m sure that literally want to do everything, peo- range of activities including try scuba which will last me a lifetime. If you are irst o congratulations to those Guto will provide a new direction for ple that have started and joined more diving, Rounders, cooking, sailing leaving – congratulations on all you of you who have submitted your UMCB and the wider Welsh commu- societies than you can count on one and cricket. So if any of you are still have achieved, and best of luck for the nal pieces of work or sat your nity at Bangor. Nicola has really been hand, to inspirational people that have around, please do get involved! Ad- Flast exam, especially if you’re gradu- inspirational in pushing to break bar- ditionally, Canolfan Brailsford centre future. If you’re staying – keep getting won the highest awards we o er in involved, and keep Having fun! As we ating this year, and best of luck to eve- riers to participation, supporting our Clubs, Societies AND Volunteering. (Maes Glas) is scheduled to be re- leave, however, new students will ar- ryone who still have work to complete individual clubs’ needs, and I’m sure You should all remember that stu- launched on July 5th! e wait will rive, and the circle shall continue. and exams to sit – you’re nearly there! we’ll win Varsity next year on home dents that are engaged, students that nally be over! e Union is in great hands next is has been an incredible year. In- turf! I think we have a brilliant team are active, and student that take part As for Ash Kierans and Mr Butcher, year – Rhys has been an inspirational credible isn’t a word that most of us moving forward into Pontio which in all we have to o er, are the sabbati- I wish you all the best in the future! VP Education and Welfare, and Nicola use to describe something (especially will undoubtedly be a new ‘era’ for cal o cers of future years Your impact over these past 2 years has been doing top work with the AU. a job), but this year as your VP Edu- Bangor Students’ Union – and I can’t I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time will most de nitely not gone unno- Alongside Lydia, Mark and Guto they cation and Welfare has been challeng- wait to be your President next year. here, and hope that you’d agree I’ve ticed. To Mark and Lydia, let’s have an will make a great team, and I’m so ex- ing, exciting, tiring, and just all round Finally, best of luck in the future and done what I set out to do, in leaving amazing year, can’t wait for you to get cited to see what can be achieved. fun! As a Union we’ve won Awards thank you to Antony and Ash for all started! SU Heroes angor Students’ Union is Lots of other stu that we can think make new students feel at home as looking for energetic and of nearer the time… soon as they turn up. In order to do enthusiastic volunteers to help In exchange for your hard work, this potential Heroes should be: Bus out during Welcome Week with a you’ll get a lovely t-shirt, lunches · enthusiastic variety of tasks including: on days you’re helping and lots of · friendly and approachable Helping new students unpack appreciation from your Sabbs. We’ll · prepared to work hard Organising events also give you free entry to Academi · dependable Helping at Serendipity, handing out during Welcome Week! is is a great · conscientious maps etc chance to get to meet new people and · resourceful, and have initiative Promoting NUS & Love Bangor help students settle in Bangor. As well If you’re interested, please email student discount cards as this, you’ll gain a whole range of [email protected], SU promotion and making sure skills, helping make you even more brie y explaining why you think you’d people know about Senate and the employable when you leave Bangor. make a good hero – we’ll select Heroes General Meeting You’ll also get BEA points. based on the information contained Minibus driving (you must have a We’re looking for Heroes from all within your application. We’ll be in MiDAS certi cate for this – if you backgrounds, to re ect the makeup of contact to let you know if you’ve been don’t have one and are over 21 with 3 our diverse student body. We’re look- successful, and what the next stages years driving experience we can train ing for students who can be fantastic are. you) ambassadors for the SU, and who can May Issue 2014 | Seren 17 UNION

Student Led Teaching Awards he Student Led Teaching Rhys Taylor, Vice President Educa- sta on the night. Rhys Taylor congrat- Awards is now an annual event tion & Welfare said, “I can’t wait to ulated all sta who received nomina- Award Winners 2014 in the University and Students’ see what we can do with all the in- tions this year – the quality was much The Award for Outstanding Pasto- New Teacher of the Year: Farhaan TUnion’s calendar, where we bring peo- formation that we now hold on what higher than ever before. He said; “It is ral Support: Sian Pierce, SENRGy Wali, Philosophy ple from across the University together students class as good teaching and a great to see so many di erent names to celebrate all the good things about good learning experience – it’s another coming up year a er year and how The Award for the Promotion of Open Award: Gavan Cooke, Biologi- Bangor University. cog in how the SU represents students passionate students are about their Welsh Medium Education: Peredur cal Sciences e Awards started as one big re- on education, and it’s something that teaching and learning experiences. Webb-Davies, Linguistics search project, o ering reward in re- we can bring students and sta to- Postgraduate Teacher of the Year: turn for nominations about quality gether to further improve teaching at Congratulations to all winners and Dissertation/Thesis Supervisor of Sarah Cooper, Linguistics teaching and exciting learning, and all Bangor. a massive thank you to the SLTA’s stu- the Year: Martina Feilzer, Social the things that make someone’s time at is year’s Awards saw over 200 dent panel, without whom we could Sciences Student Service Department University better. At Bangor we’re now members of sta , students and course not have done these Awards.” ank Award: Counselling Service into our third year of the SLTAs, and reps come together to celebrate the you to all involved in the event, in- Fantastic Feedback: Gwyn Ellis, we’re looking forward to seeing what 2014 Student-Led Teaching Awards cluding our Student Steering Panel Education Support Sta Member/Team of the we can do with three years’ worth of and Course Rep Awards. e awards and congratulations to all course reps Year: Sian Lewis, Psychology nominations from students who excit- ceremony took place in PJ Hall and and sta nominated, shortlisted and Innovation Award: Lynda Yorke, ingly told the SU about engaging and was enjoyed by all. who won an award. ank you for SENRGy International Award: Monalisa exciting teaching, outstanding pastoral Rhys Taylor, Vice President Educa- everything that you do day in day out Odibo, Warden Team support, commitment to Welsh medi- tion & Welfare was joined on stage to make the lives of those around you Sustainable Thinking: Helen Gittins, um education, and even amazing post- by some of the Student-Led Teaching better. James Walmsley & Nicola Owen, Teacher of the Year: Mari Wiliam, graduates who contribute so much at Awards student panel to present the SENRGy History Bangor University. Awards to the shortlisted and winning

Winner - Support Sta Member of the Year - Winner - Postgraduate Teacher of the Year - Winner - Teacher of the Year - Sian Lewis (School of Psychology) Sarah Cooper (Linguistics & English Language) Mari Wiliam (School of History, Welsh History and Archaeology) On the Straight and Narrow - LGBTQ+ Action he National Union of Students’ February and March 2014. It also com- recommendations were; reporting mechanisms clear for stu- will also form a part of our Annual (NUS) LGBT campaign has re- prises case studies from the universi- 1. Academic sta to ensure that dents. Student Statement which details stu- cently published a report called ties of Bangor, Nottingham, Manches- module curriculum uses non-heter- 4. ‘Equality Contacts’ should be dents’ opinion of academic life at Ban- T‘On the Straight and Narrow’, a report ter Metropolitan, University College onormative examples and uses gender made available to students in schools, gor, considering factors such as library looking at LGBTQ+ students’ experi- London, the University of London and neutral terminology. similar to Disability Contacts, to en- provisions, Welsh medium education, ences of Higher Education - the big- from an online focus group with trans 2. Institutions and Students’ Unions able students to openly discuss any is- to employability. gest piece of research ever completed students. should ensure that persons providing sues that they are facing. is member We are extremely proud of this work by the LGBT campaign. is is a big step for Bangor Students’ academic and non-academic support of sta should also be able to support and we’re extremely pleased that the is research explores the experi- Union. Bangor Students’ Union has are su ciently trained in LGBTQ+ is- students with any issues a ecting their University has committed itself to im- ence of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and been core in developing recommenda- sues, including personal tutors, senior studies. plementing our recommendations to Trans (LGBT) students in higher edu- tions and research into students’ expe- tutors, Course Reps, and Peer Guides. e Students’ Union’s Academic improve the lives of students at Ban- cation, focusing on everyday campus riences of Higher Education – recom- Students should be made aware of this Representation Unit led this research gor, and how we can ensure that the life, access to services and varying mendations that have not only made training. alongside Unity Bangor (our LGBTQ+ barriers that face LGBTQ+ students factors that can impact their studies. their way into a national report, but 3. Schools/Academic Faculties to society), holding workshops and fo- in succeeding in higher education are is report draws on a national sur- recommendations that Bangor Uni- ensure that students are aware of Zero cus groups discussing various aspects avoided before they occur. vey of more than 4,000 respondents versity have committed to implement- Tolerance or any other policy that proof LGBTQ+ students’ experiences at from 80 higher education institutions ing. tects sta and students from harass- Bangor from societies to education, in the UK that was conducted between e Bangor University speci c ment. Institutions should also make and an online survey. is research 18 Seren | May Issue 2014 SOCIETIES

Photos by Eddy Reynolds SU Society Awards his year saw the return of the tige of the event, with the number of successor Mark Stanley, as well as an 13 di erent group awards. is year, that put societies back in the limelight, Bangor Students’ Union Society tickets sold rising from 96 tickets last emotional farewell to Ash at his last the triumphant society to walk away the evening was a success, everything Awards, an evening to celebrate year to 150 this year. Between 45 to 50 Society Awards a er his two years as with the coveted Society of the Year came together it was a wonderful Tthe achievements of all the SU socie- societies in total were represented at Sabb. As well as this, there was music Award was the Bangor University chance to showcase some of the in- ties over the past year, with a raise in the event, and many of the attendees and staging provided by the always ex- Gaming League (BUGL) a er build- credible work our students have done the pro le of the event, as the venue commented on how impressed they cellent Stage Crew. ing their society back up a er nearly this year, I felt proud of them all, eve- was changed from Bar Uno to PJ Hall, were with the improvements from In total, there were nearly 70 indi- shutting down at the end of last year. rything they have achieved this year aiming to make the Society Awards last year. e evening consisted of a vidual awards, both gold and silver, All in all, it was a fantastic night that and look forward to looking back in more in line with the presitigous AU three course dinner, the awards pres- given out to people who were nomi- everyone thoroughly enjoyed, with next year to see how they’ve continued Dinner. Society members clearly ap- entation, speeches from VP Societies nated for their excellent contributions Ash commenting: “ e 2013-14 Soci- to grow!” preciated the new formality and pres- and Community Ash Kierans and his to societies this year, followed by the ety Awards ceremony, was an evening Bangor Linguistics Society Beaumaris by SIAN ANDERSON a fantastic £50.22 for the MS Society he Bangor Linguistics Society, through the BLS bake sale. e soci- an academic society which has ety, which was shortlisted for the Best Medieval Day close links with the School of Academic Society Award at the recent TLinguistics and English Language, Society Awards, aims to provide stu- by MAX DALLEY man Sir Guy of Gisborne. e day will music of the period. have recently opened their new lin- dents interested in linguistics oppor- he year is 1214, the 16th year include combat displays from Medi- e medieval days that the university guistics library! A er the School’s tunity to socialise outside of class time of King John's reign. Both lords eval Re-enactment and the History has participated in, in the past have move from Main Arts to the Bilin- through social events and the library and common people groan un- and Archaeology Society, while the always been viewed as a great success, gualism Centre at 39 College Road, space. e highlights of the society's Tder the weight of his demands, as his merry men’s renown for archery will but this year we hope to be bigger and the BLS were able to snatch up a calendar are always their Summer and puppet, the Sherri of Nottingham be shown by the Archery Club. better, with more societies, more ex- brand new library space that o ers a Christmas meals, which happen at the once again raises taxes to fund yet e Story of Robin Hood is one travagance, and a story themed day. separate library and o ce space and end of each of the two semesters. another of the King’s expensive wars that is known all over the world, but So feel free to come along and support plenty of room for more books! e e society works really hard to across the Channel. this new take on the story as written your fellow students and experience library’s grand opening was held on cater for everyone’s interests and put On the 7th of June, several societies by Books & Quills and BEDS aims to life in Beaumaris during the medieval 2nd May and welcomed sta and stu- their all into making the society the will be taking Beaumaris Castle back bring Robin Hood – ‘ e Myth and period. dents alike. Amongst the guests of the success it is. You can also spot them to the 13th century. Robin Hood and the Legend’ to the people of North event was Student Union President around Bangor – they’re the ones who his Merry Men will once again be pes- Wales, with the sights and smells of Antony Butcher who managed to raise wear the hoodies with the weird-look- tering the Sherri and his right-hand the Medieval Period, whilst Folk Soci- ing words on the back! ety will be setting the scene with the May Issue 2014 | Seren 19 SOCIETIES

A Year in the Life of the Endeavour Society by MOLLY CZACHUR, the society. Here’s just a few examples elds of ocean sciences from fun, laid- course not! Despite the weather the have limited time in their lectures and, JAKE TAYLOR, AND of the many talks we held to give you a back activities to more educational day was a huge amount of fun, meet- because of our sometimes unpredict- FRANCO BIONDO taste of what Endeavour is all about… (and still fun!) outings. ese included ing (and learning from) other people able timetable, we can’t always attend Dr Carol Cotterill shared her experi- a crabbing competition, a trip to Bull with similar interests, and of course the events that the University organise. he Endeavour Society is the ence of being the scienti c bridge be- Bay and the Parys Mountain Copper lling my pockets with a veritable e talks are an excellent opportunity student run Ocean Sciences tween scientists and an international Mines, as well as the Holyhead Coast- treasure trove straight from the sea; for us to see what is new in Marine Sci- Society. We run weekly talks on drilling programme when she talked guard Station and the Moelfre RNLI crab claws as long as my ngers, an ence, from the study of phytoplankton Tall aspects of the ocean sciences from about her work as an Expedition Pro- Lifeboat Station to nd out about ma- Icelandic clam (these can live for over population dynamics to behavioural biology and geology through to engi- ject Manager for e International rine emergency services. 500 years), empty shark eggs, the layer response in cetaceans, and, naturally, neering, chemistry and conservation. Ocean Discovery Program (IOPD). If you’re still around in Bangor we of a shell called the nacre which is pa- from the physical aspect of oceanogra- ese talks are a great way to spark ere were also talks on the log- still have events coming up this se- per thin but gleaming with a pearles- phy to the biological aspect of marine an interest or broaden your existing gerhead turtle conservation e orts mester- a beach clean with a large cent sheen. ecology. We will do our best in trying knowledge on any of these areas of the in Greece by Bangor’s own Goncalo group from the Snowdonia Society, Being able to meet some of the lec- to comprise all sides, so that students ocean sciences, and gives you extra Lourenco, an animal behaviour talk by and a trip to the Blue Planet Aquar- turers and older students was also a from di erent courses can engage in insight into subjects outside of your a behavioural ecologist Dr Jack om- ium in the last week of May. Our brilliant opportunity for a rst year our weekly meetings. University lectures. It also provides a son. Anglesey Geology Walk will also be student such as myself. Despite the Apart from joining us in our weekly great opportunity in terms of meeting Dr Mattias Green from the School of coming up in June to end a success- fact that we misjudged the tides and talks and meetings at the pub, you and talking to people who do research Ocean Sciences here at Bangor Uni- ful year of Endeavour trips and talks. didn’t get to see much of the sea grass can also come to our trips, which are in di erent elds; a fantastic way to versity discussed why the European meadows we had originally intended described above. It’s extremely inter- create contacts and network for the Shelf break is so biologically produc- to visit, this day was one of the best esting to get to know the diversity of future. tive. AN ACCOUNT FROM A 1st since starting university, and doing landscapes and organisms that Wales Everyone is welcome and no pre- Come along to one of our talks YEAR STUDENT- things like this with the Endeavour so- holds, and it truly provides a commu- vious ocean science knowledge is starting in September and then every e Sea Grass Meadows Trip ciety has made my time here so much nity feel when the working sta from needed- check out our Facebook page ursday at 7pm in the Dennis Crisp more enjoyable! the places we visit talk to us. or contact the Endeavour Society at Lecture eatre in Menai Bridge, A FULL day at the beach looking for Coming from Brazil and having been [email protected] for more in- with free minibuses going between everything from shells, to crabs, to in the UK for only four months, one formation. Here’s a little glimpse at Bangor and Menai Bridge. We have sh, to anemones (this list goes on). WHAT’S HAPPENING NEXT of the lessons I’ve already learned is what our members got up to this year! the talks there then head over the the With learned people on hand who SEMESTER? that we should be able to discuss about Aukland for free pizza and a social. could tell me just why the small shell our country and region with others – It’s a great way to meet new faces and I was holding was such an amazing THE Endeavour Society is keen to not only the bad things, but also the ACADEMIC SEMINARS get chatting with people doing up to animal? Going to the pub? As a marine continue its work from previous years remarkable features our land holds. date research on the subject you love. biologist, how could I say no to such and its interest in inviting researchers Trust us when we say that at least THROUGHOUT the academic year an opportunity? from across the UK to give talks about some of our trips might provide you we have a range of talks from academ- By the time we arrived at the beach di erent elds in Marine Science. We with that feeling and the basic knowl- ics and professionals who have worked TRIPS WITH ENDEAVOUR in question (Morfa Nefyn), the fore- understand the multidisciplinary as- edge to see that North Wales is indeed all over the world in ocean sciences. cast blue skies and sunshine had given pect of this area and aim to truly ex- a beautiful place. is year we are grateful for the amaz- THERE are ongoing activities way to grey clouds and howling winds. plore it in our activities for next semes- ing contribution our speakers made to throughout the year, in many di erent But did that curb our enthusiasm? Of ter. We all know that our professors Countdown to North Wales Pride by MARTYN CURZEY Alys Williams, from Caernarfon who are now available online at the north performed on e Voice last year, and wales pride website. angor is preparing for the re- DJs like Ed Mackie and DJ Mouse, Prices are £10 for the whole weekend turn of North Wales Pride and up-and-coming artists like the (Friday night through to Saturday for the third time a er the Kameelion, who has already been Night) B overwhelming success of the rst and featured on a Lily Allen track! Camping will also be available at the second over the past 2 years. But that’s just in the evenings - in the event for £7 per person for two nights North Wales PRIDE is organised by a daytime there are stalls and activities (Friday & Saturday). Entry for under small voluntary group called Cymru throughout 18’s is free with a full paying adult as PRIDE Wales and Hendre Hall, all family friendly. our commitment to support families. the event returns on the 4th, 5th and e aim of the event is to celebrate Remember to keep up-to-date with 6th of July at Hendre Hall, Bangor. diversity and break down the barriers Pride this year by checking out the is year Marcus Collins is headlin- to discrimination and reach out to event on facebook and following them ing. Contestant in the 2011 X-Factor, as many areas of the community as on twitter @NorthWalesPride " Collins is back with his Top 10 cover possible. of Seven Nation Army. e event Tickets for North Wales PRIDE 2013 will also be host to local acts such as 20 Seren | May Issue 2014

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS, NOMINATED AND VOTED FOR BY YOU: 4

“WE REALLY APPRECIATE BEING GIVEN THIS AWARD, WE’VE ALWAYS TRIED TO MAKE IT WELCOMING FOR STUDENTS IN HERE WITH OUR FOOD OFFERS AND REAL ALES. AND IT GOES TO SHOW THAT STUDENTS APPRECIATE WHAT WE DO” DEAN - OWNER

BANGOR’S FAVOURITE BUSINESS

“WE’RE REALLY PLEASED TO HAVE WON THIS AWARD AGAIN, THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO VOTED US BEST RESTAURANT TWO YEARS IN A ROW” MARY PHILLIPS - OWNER BEST RESTAURANT

“I’M DELIGHTED ASDA HAVE WON THIS AWARD FOR THE SECOND YEAR RUNNING. IT’S WONDERFUL TO KNOW THAT STUDENTS HAVE PICKED US OUT OF ALL THE LOCAL BUSINESSES, AND SHOWS THAT WE’RE AT THE CENTRE OF THE STUDENT HUB” JANETTE WILLIAMS - PEOPLE MANAGER BEST SUPERMARKET May Issue 2014 | Seren 21 SOME COMMENTS FROM OUR VOTERS: “ TAP AND SPILE BEST CASK ALES IN BANGOR!” “ALWAYS HAD A FRIENDLY WELCOME AT NOODLE ONE” “NOODLE ONE THE BEST ALL ROUND COULDN’T ASK FOR A BETTER ESTABLISHMENT IN BANGOR HOPE THEY WIN”

“THE ROGUES GALLERY IS BEST IN TOWN FOR BOTH TATTOOS AND PIERCINGS WITH AMAZING STAFF TO ASSIST WITH ALL ENQUIRIES!” BEST TATTOO SHOP

BEST TAKEOUT

VOTERS’ CHOICE AWARD: G.WILLIAMS & SON BUTCHERS

BEST HAIR SALON

BEST LOCAL MOST STUDENT INDEPENDENT FRIENDLY 22 Seren | May Issue 2014 TV In Brief Two and a Half Men ends THE producers have con rmed that the hit comedy will end a er its 12th season. e question whether Charlie Sheen's character will be brought back for the ending series is still open. US television network CBS has con rmed that the last episode of the controversial sitcom will air in 2015. Walter could return BRYAN Cranston has revealed that he may appear in a Breaking Bad spin-o , Better Call Saul. e upcoming prequel is created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. Cranston commented that he could HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER return alongside Aaron Paul's character Jesse Pinkman in the series, if he is asked to do so. Cranston is also seeking to direct one of the of plot and character development ions regarding the eponymous Moth- character progression, they’ve episodes. by EMILY HOULSTONJONES into ten minutes. A er the languid er, it’s because the nale itself seemed remained in stasis. and sometimes frustratingly slow pace to gloss over her existence entirely. If one views How I Met Your Mother Play School’s er an impressive nine-year of the rest of the season, this episode A er a 9-series build-up, the mother as a self-contained love story, then it run, the television series How went too far in the other direction. I appeared and disappeared so fast that fails abysmally. Ted and Robin’s story Humpty to be I Met Your Mother ended on was le wishing that the writers had I barely had time to remember her is circular, leaving me as a viewer A31st March this year. focused a little less on the build-up to name (it’s Tracy McConnell, just in unsatis ed. To invest several years auctioned But the series nale was not Barney and Robin’s wedding (which case you were wondering). in a story then to end up back where without controversy. Fans took to the stretched out for 22 episodes, and a For me, this was the biggest failure you started is disappointing, to say the internet in droves to complain portion of the nale) and more on of the series nale. As Ted’s children least. THE cuddly toy is expected to be about the two-part nale. ey were the evolving relationship of the gang, point out in the nal minutes of the How I Met Your Mother has always sold in a price range between 800- joined by television critics, who also post-wedding. episode: this wasn’t the mother’s story deceived its viewers, creating red 1200£. Humpty appeared in almost expressed their displeasure at the show’s e decision to spend so much at all. is was Robin’s story. herring a er red herring in an attempt every episode of the pre-school ending. One critic, Tod VanDerWer time focusing on the relationship But in a way, it wasn’t. Robin to keep viewers hooked. Discovering series, which ran for more than 24 of e AV Club, went so far as to at- between Barney and Robin was odd, and Ted, ostensibly the romantic that the entire premise of the show years, from 1964-1988. Humpty tack the show’s creators, describing considering the fact that they divorced centre of the entire series, end up back was a red herring was a disappoint- was so popular that he reportedly them as “shi**y long-term planners.” in the rst 15 minutes of the episode. at square one. In terms of character ment, to say the least. received fan mail. e Play School- is was just the rst example of development, nothing has changed. And the less said about Barney’s th It isn’t hard to see why the series series celebrates its 50 anniversary nale created such vitriol. At its worst the show skimming over major plot Yes, Ted may have a couple of strange evolution from party animal this year. moments the episode felt rushed and developments. wingman kids and Robin has a to a sensible father, the better. inauthentic, cramming several years If this review seems light on opin- new haircut, but in terms of actual Barbara Walters retires

AFTER a 52-year career, US broad- caster Walters retired with her last appearance on her daytime show, e View. Walters, 84, began her career in 1962 and was known for her high-pro le interviews of world leaders and pop culture icons. Walters has been seen as a pioneer of female broadcast journalists. Walters will remain active despite her retirement, serving as an execu- PARKS AND RECREATION tive producer of e View. Broadchurch Dying with dignity hoarded BAFTAs by WYATT WARNER on a downward spiral, both fates that ters' arcs had completed. In fact, main the length of a usual season. However, Parks and Recreation will avoid. character Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) a short, several minute epilogue end- It was starting to show the signs of ended season six a er making a major ed the last episode of season six. e THE success of ITV’s crime drama y favorite TV show is end- senility though. When original char- turn in her life, wrapping up the per- epilogue showed the slice of the char- Broadchurch was proven as it ing, and I'm thrilled. Even acter Ann Perkins (Rashida Jones) sonal arc that she had been experienc- acters' lives three years in the future. won three awards at TV BAFTAs: though Parks and Rec- Mreation has had a history of terrible and fan favorite Chris Traeger (Rob ing for two seasons. Tom Haverford It remains to be seen whether that's Leading Actress, Supporting Actor, Lowe) le the show last season, it (Aziz Ansari) accomplished the same. where the seventh season will pick up and the Drama Series. Another viewership numbers (despite positive marked the beginning of the end. e While the new chapter of their lives from or if it will take place beforehand. victorious show was Channel 4’s IT reviews) it's held on for six fantastic actors sensed, revealed and contrib- would no doubt be interesting, such While I would have been happy with Crowd, which won the best Female seasons. Now the showrunners have uted to the waning relevance of the a departure from the usual dilemmas the ending had the series not been and Male Performances in a com- announced that the next season will show. at said, their exit was fantas- and goals of the characters would have renewed one more time, I trust the edy programme. Questions have be its last, and it's just in time. tic. It was funny while remaining emo- been a major shi in the direction the writers to give it a good end given the arisen from the several nomina- is is especially great news a er tional and emotional while remaining show was going. knowledge that it will be the last sea- tions received by the less successful How I Met Your Mother's nearly uni- subtle—Exactly why I love Parks and e subject of the upcoming season. ere will be a hole in television shows such as BBC One’s e Vil- versally hated nale, and Commu- Rec. at's proof enough for me of the son is most likely to be an epilogue when Parks and Recreation is gone, lage and Channel 4’s Southcli e. nity's abrupt cancellation. How I Met Your Mother was written into a corner show's ability to end storylines grace- of sorts, establishing the characters in but at least there won't be a hole in and Community went out with a zzle fully. their new roles, especially as it's only Parks. Furthermore, many of the charac- going to be twelve episodes long, half 22 Seren | May Issue 2014 May Issue 2014 | Seren 23 TV TV In Brief Two and a Half Men ends THE producers have con rmed that the hit comedy will end a er its 12th season. e question whether Charlie Sheen's character will be brought back for the ending series is still open. US television network CBS has con rmed that the last episode of the controversial sitcom will air in 2015. Walter could return BRYAN Cranston has revealed FARGO that he may appear in a Breaking Bad spin-o , Better Call Saul. e upcoming prequel is created by A lot can happen in the middle of nowhere Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. Cranston commented that he could return alongside Aaron Paul's char- HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER by THOMAS er notable cast members include Colin Hanks by Allison Tolman. e main di erence is that yet e ective at the same time. It adds to the dark acter Jesse Pinkman in the series, BICKERDIKE (son of Tom Hanks) as O cer Gus Grimly and Solverson is not pregnant. Martin Freeman is dramatic and also comedic scenes. e scenery if he is asked to do so. Cranston Bob Odenkirk (Saul Goodman from Breaking clearly paying homage to William H. Macy’s is pretty much the same as the lm’s snow- lled is also seeking to direct one of the n 1996, Joel and Ethan Coen made a name Bad) as Deputy Bill Oswalt. Jerry Lindgaard – the hapless individuals caught landscapes with a sense of desolation. of plot and character development ions regarding the eponymous Moth- character progression, they’ve episodes. by EMILY for themselves with their hugely successful e lm made it clear at the beginning that it up in everything. Episode 4 establishes that they Available to watch on Channel 4, there are into ten minutes. A er the languid er, it’s because the nale itself seemed remained in stasis. HOULSTONJONES black-comedy crime-drama Fargo. Now, was based on true events (not really!). e TV are both set in the same universe. those who believe that this is the best new crime and sometimes frustratingly slow pace to gloss over her existence entirely. If one views How I Met Your Mother NoahI Hawley has written and directed a sequel, series: “ e events depicted took place in Min- One thorny and much debated issue is Mar- drama since True Detective and Breaking Bad. of the rest of the season, this episode A er a 9-series build-up, the mother as a self-contained love story, then it er an impressive nine-year with the Coen Brothers as executive producers. nesota in 2006. At the request of the survivors, tin Freeman’s accent. It does sound somewhat at is a bold statement to make. Hawley could Play School’s went too far in the other direction. I appeared and disappeared so fast that fails abysmally. Ted and Robin’s story run, the television series How Set in Bemidji, Minnesota, Lester Nygaard the names have been changed. Out of respect for corny, but is there a particular way to do Upper have made a mess of this, ruining the charm the was le wishing that the writers had I barely had time to remember her is circular, leaving me as a viewer Humpty to be I Met Your Mother ended on (Martin Freeman) is a disgruntled insurance the dead, the rest has been told exactly as it oc- Midwest/Minnesota accent? Some people have lm had going for it. Instead, it reminds view- A31st March this year. focused a little less on the build-up to name (it’s Tracy McConnell, just in unsatis ed. To invest several years salesman, su ering from problems at home. He c u r re d .” praised it though. Billy Bob ornton gives the ers of how much of a classic the Coen Brothers Barney and Robin’s wedding (which case you were wondering). in a story then to end up back where auctioned But the series nale was not has a chance encounter with Lorne Malvo (Billy Of course, there are comparisons to be made best performance though. His lack of words is created. If you have not seen it, it may be worth stretched out for 22 episodes, and a For me, this was the biggest failure you started is disappointing, to say the without controversy. Fans took to the Bob ornton), a mysterious out-of-town hit with the lm. e lm featured an Oscar-win- enough to give a scene a chilling atmosphere watching that beforehand. portion of the nale) and more on of the series nale. As Ted’s children least. internet in droves to complain man who soon shows his manipulative side. is ning performance from Frances McDormand and when he does speak it is usually in simple “Your problem is you spent your whole life THE cuddly toy is expected to be the evolving relationship of the gang, point out in the nal minutes of the How I Met Your Mother has always about the two-part nale. ey were includes a kidnapping and a series of murders as Police Chief Marge Gunderson; in this the phrases, yet it speaks volumes. thinking there are rules. ere aren’t.” sold in a price range between 800- post-wedding. episode: this wasn’t the mother’s story deceived its viewers, creating red joined by television critics, who also for which Lester is connected in some way. Oth- slightly toned-down Molly Solverson played e cinematography is simplistically created, 1200£. Humpty appeared in almost expressed their displeasure at the show’s e decision to spend so much at all. is was Robin’s story. herring a er red herring in an attempt every episode of the pre-school ending. One critic, Tod VanDerWer time focusing on the relationship But in a way, it wasn’t. Robin to keep viewers hooked. Discovering series, which ran for more than 24 of e AV Club, went so far as to at- between Barney and Robin was odd, and Ted, ostensibly the romantic that the entire premise of the show years, from 1964-1988. Humpty tack the show’s creators, describing considering the fact that they divorced centre of the entire series, end up back was a red herring was a disappoint- was so popular that he reportedly them as “shi**y long-term planners.” in the rst 15 minutes of the episode. at square one. In terms of character ment, to say the least. received fan mail. e Play School- is was just the rst example of development, nothing has changed. And the less said about Barney’s th It isn’t hard to see why the series series celebrates its 50 anniversary nale created such vitriol. At its worst the show skimming over major plot Yes, Ted may have a couple of strange evolution from party animal this year. moments the episode felt rushed and developments. wingman kids and Robin has a to a sensible father, the better. inauthentic, cramming several years If this review seems light on opin- new haircut, but in terms of actual Barbara Walters retires

Harry Potter spin o

THE forthcoming lm of Fantas- tic Beasts and Where to Find em will be released November 18th 2016, two days before the 15th anniversary by ALI KESHTMAND ese range from the gracious Palme be the principle executors of award- ture a cast of Matt Smith, Eva Mendes, of Harry Potter and the Philosophers d’Or, the highest prize awarded, to the giving. While you and I will not know and Christina Hendricks. But if you’re Stone. e cast and crew are yet to he 14th of May to the 25th more speci c little ones that people many of the lms, part of the impor- into lm, there is much other great art be con rmed. e story will follow a of May has marked the 67th pretend are anywhere near as good tance of the festival is bringing great to look out for from some more es- ‘Magizoologist’ and will be an exten- Cannes lm festival, one of the as it (Prix du Scenario, I’m looking at attention to both large-scale produc- tablished directors, such as ‘Goodbye sion of the Potter universe. Tworld’s most prestigious lm festivals. you). Pulp Fiction, e Pianist, Taxi tions and smaller, independent lms. To Language’ by the insu erable yet If you don’t know what the Cannes Driver have all been recipients of the Of the various lms presented at the hilarious Jean Luc-Godard (seriously, lm festival is, it’s an invite-only gath- Palme d’Or, as well as Amour, Blue festival, the one that I unbiasedly sug- watch his television interviews), and ering of lm-people and other high is the Warmest Colour, and e Tree gest you should be most looking for- ‘Jimmy’s Hall’ by Ken Loach; famous New Batman class civilians over the period of about of Life; all those lms you say you’ve ward to is ‘Lost River’, the directorial for lms such as ‘Looking for Eric’, two weeks, watching a boatload of new watched. debut of Ryan Gosling, star of such and others that nobody has heard of. lms of lots of di erent genres, with a e jury, of whom the only relevant lms as e Notebook, Drive, Crazy still released speci c jury giving hella awards out. ones are: So a Coppola, Willem Da- Stupid Love, and generally being quite foe, and Nicolas Winding Refn, will an attractive man. Lost River will fea- A STILL of the bat suit and bat- mobile for the upcoming Batman vs. Superman has been released online. e director Zack Snyder posted the photo to Twitter. e dark black and white photo appears to reveal that the lm will take inspiration from Mill- er’s e Dark Knight Returns, as Ben A eck has lled out considerably and the suit has stumpy ears. e lm could be released on May 16th 2016.

Hayao Myazaki retires INFLUENTIAL animated director Hayao Myazaki has retired at the age of 73. It is widely considered that the newly released, e Wind Rises, will be the Studio Ghibli co-founders last, in a career that has spanned six decades. Act in Star Wars! Obituary: H.R. Giger by CALLUM LEWIS all, he was a really nice man. He will ries of how we perceive ourselves to provoke an immediate, visceral re- J.J. ABRAMS, director of Star Wars be missed”. e pair worked closely made him legendary in the mind of action is notorious, yet celebrated. Episode VII, announced that fans of ans Rudolf Giger, renowned on the classic sci- horror Alien, re- any horror fan, but like many great To many he was ahead of his time, the series would have the chance to Swiss surrealist artist and leased in 1979 and critically acclaimed artists he led a troubled life beset by a Lovecra of the cyborg-laced future. appear in the lm. is is a part of a Oscar winner for Visual Ef- thanks in no small part due to Giger's paranoia and the fear of his own mind. Giger's style has inspired countless new pledge named Star Wars: Force fects,H has died aged 74, a er su er- truly otherworldly design. e titular He o en spoke of his nightmares, and fans, from tattoo parlours and alter- For Change, with Disney pledg- ing a fall at his home in Zurich. e alien (or Xenomorph, to give it its true the worry that his dark imagination native bars to modern musicians and ing $1m to begin. Each participant visionary mind behind the design of name) remains iconic for its impos- might take over his life. Yet to those the lasting imprint he le on lm hor- would donate $10, and be entered Ridley Scott's Alien was famous for sible appearance, while still re ecting who knew him well, he was regarded ror. All thanks to the legacy of a man into a draw to visit the set and play his uniquely dark style and fascination the darkest natures of humanity. Much as a kind and generous individual who who stared into the abyss, and dared a role in the lm. e pledge hopes with biomechanical design. of Giger's art shares this same abil- preferred to stay out of the limelight. to make it his own. to raise money for UNICEF’s innova- In a statement to Time, Scott de- ity, transforming our ideas of purity, Today his art is o en praised for its tion labs to help communities around scribed him as “a real artist and great death and sex into an occult futuristic bravery in portraying unnerving, even the globe. eccentric, a true original, but above nightmare. uncomfortable depictions of the blend Giger's desire to push the bounda- between machine and esh. Its ability 24 Seren | May Issue 2014 May Issue 2014 | Seren 25 FILM FILM In Brief Guardians of the Galaxy

A NEW trailer was released for the next Avengers movie on Monday. A teaser ad was released in earlier days, serving as a 25 second build up to the full trailer. It carries on the colourful nature of the poster. Guardians of the by AMY BLACKWELL Galaxy will be released on August 1st doesn’t last long in the lm. You’ll see lm’s humans constant insistence of 2014. have to admit I have never really what I mean. using nuclear force to stamp out their followed the Godzilla franchise e rest of the lm follows his son little bug problem. In terms of sto- in the past. Huge monsters have Ford Brody, a bomb expert in the ryline the lm follows the modern- neverI really been my thing. I don’t US Army, played by Aaron Taylor- apocalyptic-human-stupidity-route, like King Kong and I’ve never seen Johnson. ough he has the tough resulting in the message “don’t let Harry Potter Jurassic Park (I know, how have army guy act down to a tee I probably Americans handle heavy explosives”. I survived this long, right?). wouldn’t put him up there with Hol- e audience aren’t sure whether to spin o However, I actually enjoyed lywoods best. is family backstory root for the giant monster God or the this version of Godzilla. gives the lm an extra layer and an human army and the poor people of is summer blockbuster element of humanity which it would San Francisco are simply collateral THE forthcoming lm of Fantas- has given the franchise tic Beasts and Where to Find em otherwise lack. damage. a breath of fresh air in e bit everyone really wants to Rotten Tomatoes has rated the lm will be released November 18th 2016, the wake of the 1998 lm ese range from the gracious Palme be the principle executors of award- ture a cast of Matt Smith, Eva Mendes, hear about is the monsters! e CGI 73%, saying that it has just enough hu- two days before the 15th anniversary by ALI KESHTMAND disaster. d’Or, the highest prize awarded, to the giving. While you and I will not know and Christina Hendricks. But if you’re in the lm is on point, the monsters man interest to anchor the “monster of Harry Potter and the Philosophers e rst part of the lm fol- more speci c little ones that people many of the lms, part of the impor- into lm, there is much other great art have come a long way since the cheesy go smash” plot line. Peter Bradshaw, Stone. e cast and crew are yet to he 14th of May to the 25th lows Joe Brody, played by Bryan pretend are anywhere near as good tance of the festival is bringing great to look out for from some more es- man-in-a-suit days. e MUTO are writing for the Guardian, has accused be con rmed. e story will follow a of May has marked the 67th Cranston (or as we know him, Walter as it (Prix du Scenario, I’m looking at attention to both large-scale produc- tablished directors, such as ‘Goodbye long skinny, almost robotic looking the lm of being slow and sleepy. ‘Magizoologist’ and will be an exten- Cannes lm festival, one of the White) who works in a nuclear power sion of the Potter universe. Tworld’s most prestigious lm festivals. you). Pulp Fiction, e Pianist, Taxi tions and smaller, independent lms. To Language’ by the insu erable yet huge insects and Godzilla himself is Bangor student Liam Shier said “it is plant in Japan. Driver have all been recipients of the Of the various lms presented at the hilarious Jean Luc-Godard (seriously, extremely realistic without straying a good Americanised representation If you don’t know what the Cannes Cranston’s acting is probably the Palme d’Or, as well as Amour, Blue festival, the one that I unbiasedly sug- watch his television interviews), and too far from his classic appearance. of the lm. ey successfully stuck to lm festival is, it’s an invite-only gath- pièce de résistance of the lm, com- is the Warmest Colour, and e Tree gest you should be most looking for- ‘Jimmy’s Hall’ by Ken Loach; famous e lm is an excellent representa- Godzilla being a "God" and a true rep- ering of lm-people and other high ing a long way since his Malcolm in of Life; all those lms you say you’ve ward to is ‘Lost River’, the directorial for lms such as ‘Looking for Eric’, tion of the japanese classic, the use resentation of Kaiju. It has been a suc- class civilians over the period of about the Middle days, though a er Break- New Batman watched. debut of Ryan Gosling, star of such and others that nobody has heard of. of old nuclear test footage is, as the cessful rekindling of the franchise!” two weeks, watching a boatload of new ing Bad I don’t think anyone is sur- e jury, of whom the only relevant lms as e Notebook, Drive, Crazy Guardian have described it, “ingen- For me the lm made for great en- lms of lots of di erent genres, with a prised at how talented this actor still released ones are: So a Coppola, Willem Da- Stupid Love, and generally being quite ious” in letting the audience take a tertainment but the lack of useful fe- speci c jury giving hella awards out. actually is. It’s just a shame it foe, and Nicolas Winding Refn, will an attractive man. Lost River will fea- glance at Godzilla’s past in the lm’s male characters is o -putting. I mean, canon and how it ts into actual hello guys, women can be in the army A STILL of the bat suit and bat- human history. too! e lm wouldn’t have su ered mobile for the upcoming Batman vs. For the non-scienti cally with a female lead. Superman has been released online. minded some of the nuclear All in all the lm was enjoyable. I e director Zack Snyder posted the backstory can get passed would de nitely recommend giving it photo to Twitter. e dark black and over and I feel the original a watch. white photo appears to reveal that the story’s human-anxiety lm will take inspiration from Mill- of a nuclear world is er’s e Dark Knight Returns, as Ben missed slightly by the A eck has lled out considerably and the suit has stumpy ears. e lm could be released on May 16th 2016.

Hayao Myazaki retires INFLUENTIAL animated director Hayao Myazaki has retired at the age by BECCI JAMESON couple, both as tempted by the hard e supporting cast are on top form. of 73. It is widely considered that the partying lifestyle of Teddy and gang as Providing the opposite of Rogen and newly released, e Wind Rises, will ad Neighbours pits family man they are dismissive of it. It’s interest- Byrne are divorced couple Jimmy (Ike be the Studio Ghibli co-founders last, Seth Rogen against frat ring ing to see Zac Efron not singing and Barinholtz) and Paula (Carla Gallo) in a career that has spanned six dec- leader ken doll Zac Efron. Col- dancing and to say he’s grown up is an who are desperately immature and Blege fraternity Delta Psi Beta headed understatement. Although there is a over the top with Jimmy providing a ades. by Teddy Sanders (Efron) move into little nod to his musical theatre with diversion by jumping o the upstairs quiet residential area and become a a little dance o between Rogen and landing and breaking his leg. Dave constant disruption for their neigh- Efron. Franco is great, jumping in with his Act in bours Mac Radner (Rogen) and Kelly As usual with these kinds of lms, brothers mates and providing a spot (a sparkling Rose Byrne) who are try- the funniest parts are shown in the on Robert De Niro impression. His Star Wars! ing to raise their lovely daughter Stella trailer. e airbag sequence is par- character development is rather odd, Obituary: H.R. Giger ticularly enjoyable, the exercise ball vs he suddenly turns into an ambitious while still clinging to the party life- all, he was a really nice man. He will ries of how we perceive ourselves to provoke an immediate, visceral re- style they le behind. e lm follows Seth’s head is a little over the top and postgrad who tries to talk Teddy out J.J. ABRAMS, director of Star Wars by CALLUM LEWIS be missed”. e pair worked closely made him legendary in the mind of action is notorious, yet celebrated. their struggle with noise complaints as for a baby chewing on a condom, of his increasingly crazy plans. An Episode VII, announced that fans of ans Rudolf Giger, renowned on the classic sci- horror Alien, re- any horror fan, but like many great To many he was ahead of his time, and increasingly elaborate pranks that there are no words. interesting supporting role from Lisa the series would have the chance to Swiss surrealist artist and leased in 1979 and critically acclaimed artists he led a troubled life beset by a Lovecra of the cyborg-laced future. stemmed from a police call. In a delightful twist, the worldwide Kudrow that added nothing to the appear in the lm. is is a part of a Oscar winner for Visual Ef- thanks in no small part due to Giger's paranoia and the fear of his own mind. Giger's style has inspired countless Rogen and Byrne have great chemis- version had to be called Bad Neigh- lm but made everyone in the cinema new pledge named Star Wars: Force fects,H has died aged 74, a er su er- truly otherworldly design. e titular He o en spoke of his nightmares, and fans, from tattoo parlours and alter- try as the thirtysomethings anxious to bours rather than the American go, ‘Oh, its her.’ For Change, with Disney pledg- ing a fall at his home in Zurich. e alien (or Xenomorph, to give it its true the worry that his dark imagination native bars to modern musicians and do right by their daughter, look cool Neighbors because they thought view- ere are some laugh out loud mo- ing $1m to begin. Each participant visionary mind behind the design of name) remains iconic for its impos- might take over his life. Yet to those the lasting imprint he le on lm hor- in front of the kids next door and still ers might get mixed up with that much ments and some cringey ‘you took would donate $10, and be entered Ridley Scott's Alien was famous for sible appearance, while still re ecting who knew him well, he was regarded ror. All thanks to the legacy of a man get invited to parties like they used loved Aussie soap. Its little things like it too far’ moments but all in all Bad into a draw to visit the set and play his uniquely dark style and fascination the darkest natures of humanity. Much as a kind and generous individual who who stared into the abyss, and dared to. Byrne’s role is meatier than is ex- this that show how well the lm mak- Neighbours is a big ball of fun, bounc- a role in the lm. e pledge hopes with biomechanical design. of Giger's art shares this same abil- preferred to stay out of the limelight. to make it his own. pected in lms like this. Kelly is just as ers wanted the lm to do around the ing e ortlessly from frat house to baby to raise money for UNICEF’s innova- In a statement to Time, Scott de- ity, transforming our ideas of purity, Today his art is o en praised for its scheming as Mac, equally keen to get world and I don’t think they will be stroller. tion labs to help communities around scribed him as “a real artist and great death and sex into an occult futuristic bravery in portraying unnerving, even one over the uni kids by doing some- disappointed with the $49 million the globe. eccentric, a true original, but above nightmare. uncomfortable depictions of the blend thing stupid. ey’re a very likable they made in the opening weekend. Giger's desire to push the bounda- between machine and esh. Its ability 26 Seren | May Issue 2014

Words: HEATHER BOYLES friend a signed photo. ous and has perfect comic timing. Highlights Wright (Bran Stark) when he was younger. At Next was Jack Donnelly who plays the lead were at one point the girls were asked: the beginning of the series someone’s head Photos: LJ TAYLOR character Jason. It was still early and there was “What is it like to be part of this huge suc- had been chopped o , and the whole crew only one person in front who was nishing cessful HBO show, with all these established told him it was real. He believed them and ales Comic Con takes place at the up so I hopped in the queue. He extended his actors and amazing locations?” went white as a sheet. end of April, every year, at Glyndŵr hand with a big smile and introduced himself. “It’s crap.” Aimee answered straight away Mark Addy also said that with Atlantis when WUniversity in Wrexham and this year I found it odd that the 4 main characters (Ari- causing the audience to burst out laughing. they’d gone to Morocco there was something at Seren we thought we’d check it out! We adne the princess was also there) hadn’t been She then went on to say “Thing is I’m an idiot in about the rock layout of the location they were had bought tickets in advance but still had to given a Q&A session. I expressed that I was dis- school! I couldn’t be more unsuited to this life! using that reminded him of Game of Thrones, queue for about 40 minutes, though the line appointed and Jack admitted it was actually And now I get recognised and have like “fans” and then they found someone had actually was so long we had expected to wait longer! because the producers had said no to a panel, it’s weird but great.” written with stones “Game of Thrones.” Those who were yet to get their tickets had an because they didn’t want the cast to reveal too Ellie Kendrick who plays Meera gave a Later I went to get Ellie Kendrick’s autograph even longer queue! much about series 2, and they thought that’s thoughtful answer basically saying how they’d (Meera) and asked her what it was like on set Once in through the door, we came into a what people would ask about. all been welcomed in. She also told the story of with Thomas Sangster and Isaac Hempstead- corridor where we were given wristbands fol- As he wrote my name I asked him if it was his her and Natalia Tena (Osha) being taught how Wright and did being a similar age help them lowed by an entrance hall where you could rst convention. He replied excitedly; “Yeah! to properly skin rabbits really fast. In the scene all get along. She said it did and generally it queue for panels taking place in two lecture It’s crazy! It’s great. There’s so many people I’m it’s real rabbits, so although it made her a bit was a nice welcoming atmosphere. theatres. We followed the crowds down a very just overwhelmed! And there’s so many peo- squeamish she can now skin a rabbit. She called Isaac and his mum “legends” long corridor past a café, one room with a stall ple dressed up it’s insane - have you been to Kerry Ingram (Shireen) was quite nervous an- which I could understand as he does come of video games, and Kenny Baker (R2D2) sign- these before?” I replied that I had and agreed swering but also gave good answers echoing across as quite entertaining in interviews. I ing at a table to one side. about the craziness of cons. I then had a photo how welcoming everyone had been. asked what they talked about on set and her Finally it opened out onto a car park which with him and he waved “nice to meet you”. He Later on in regards to fellow actors Aimee handler joked “Nothing that can be repeated.” had chips and burger vans and sports and Ellie smiled though then said “Where we’re police cars that must have appeared in lms. SEAN BEAN’S POCKETS HAD BEEN SEWN UP... gonna go for tea to be honest. Isaac’s mum is To the left was a very small building which “ brilliant and knows where all the best places we discovered housed comics and Jonathon WHEN HE KNELT DOWN, HIS POCKETS SPLIT are, so we just discuss whether we’re gonna Ross - there was a ridiculous queue! get a burrito or burger for dinner.” Across the car park we nally made it to the OPEN AND ALL THE KIT KATS AND CHOCOLATE Other Guests main hall with all the guests and yet another FELL OUT OF HIS COSTUME... “Cosplay guests” had been invited. We en- queue. Though we did have a chuckle over- countered the Jack Sparrow lookalike when hearing a 6 or 7 year old girl moan “Mum I was lovely and obviously just so excited and Richardson enthused: we arrived. He was standing outside the main want to watch it!” and the mother replied “No! pleased to be there. I couldn’t help but think “I was 12 when I started and when I was “ hall in the morning. We asked him where the You are not watching Game of Thrones!” that if he thought that was a lot of people, just younger I was obsessed with Elf the lm, like toilets were before we got into the queue, The hall itself was the University’s sports wait until he gets to London Comic Con. honestly you don’t even know! And of course where he replied in full character “I can’t tell hall, not particularly big - perhaps a little big- Later I saw him talking to a family hanging Peter Dinklage is in Elf. So when he rst intro- you where the loos are but I can direct you to ger than Bangor’s Powis. Guests were sitting around after they’d had their Photo Op with duced himself I was just like-” At this point she a good hedge” and pointed drunkenly to the at tables along the walls all around the room, him. They told him they had watched Merlin put her hands on the table with wide eyes and one behind me. with a few tables of merchandise in the mid- and watched Atlantis because it was the same did a very high, long, squeal. Then she was Matt Elliot who dresses as the 11th Doctor dle. We decided to have a walk around the hall people. He said “Yeah well because we knew in fan girl mode and said excitedly “And then was also there along with a really good Cap- and take a few pictures before seeing any of there’d be that tea time hole to ll, we hoped Lena Headley was in St. Trinian’s 2! And Oh my tain Picard lookalike. the guests. There were cast members of Red people who watched Merlin would watch God you don’t even know!” The venue is the smallest I’ve ever been Dwarf, Allison Mack from Smallville, dwarves us.” Then they asked when the second series Other highlights were the older cast mem- to for a convention, which would lead me and hobbits, a number of minor Game of would be and he said that they’ve already bers talking about Sean Bean. Mark Addy told on to say that it’s only really worth going if Thrones cast members, Percy Weasley, a cou- done 6 weeks of shooting in Morocco and that how one time all the good chocolate bars had there are guests you really want to meet, and ple of wrestlers and Warwick Davis among it is due out in October. gone from the catering tables. Sean Bean’s the journey isn’t too long because it isn’t a others. A rather strange collection. Game of Thrones pockets had been sewn up in one scene, and merchandise heavy convention. Also even Atlantis At the panel were the actors of King Rob, he had to kneel in front of Mark Addy. When though there were a few people dressed up, Eventually we got back around to the At- Jorah Mormont, Shireen (Stannis’ daughter) he knelt down, his pockets split open and all there wasn’t a cosplay masquerade. However, lantis cast, where there was a large queue Myrcella, Meera and Sir Barristan Selmy. the Kit Kats and chocolate fell out of his cos- if there are guests that take your interest, the for Mark Addy (also from Game of Thrones). I This was a good panel. There were lots of in- tume, and the rest of the cast wheeled on him panels were good, and the size of the venue managed to squeeze through it to see there teresting questions asked but it has to be said accusingly. meant queues weren’t that long. Overall it was were about two people queuing for Robert Aimee Richardson who plays Myrcella Barath- Another anecdote was that the whole crew a great day out. Emms (Pythagoras) and queued to get my eon/Lannister stole the show. That girl is hilari- had played a prank on Isaac Hempstead-

28 May Issue 2014 | Seren MUSIC In Brief

Had eld’s Bowie cover removed CANADIAN astronaut Chris Had- eld’s famous video of a cover of David Bowie’s ‘Space Oddity’ has been taken down. On May 13th, he tweeted: “Bowie’s last day – we had permission for a year, so our Space Oddity video comes down today”. The song, recorded on the Inter- national Space Station at the end of Had eld’s ve-month mission, received over 22.4 million views on YouTube. He said: “We are working on renewing the licence for it, but as there are no guarantees when it comes to videos shot in space, we thought you might want to have one last look before we take it down.” Coldplay: Ghost Stories by WYATT WARNER ones and generally make progress they fell short of interesting. the entire album. It was produced in Metallica to headline as songwriters and musicians. While Thankfully, the album is not without collaboration with Swedish DJ Avicii Glastonbury oldplay are not the type of Ghost Stories isn't bad by any means, a few good songs. ‘Ink’'s energetic in- and manages to mix both their styles band that whips fans into fren- it's a departure from that progress. struments are a great counterpoint without being obnoxious. It sounds METALLICA are to become the rst zy over an album release. They Over half the songs are forgettable, to its passionate yet introspective vo- like Coldplay, it sounds like Avicii, ever heavy metal to headline Glas- C don't play fun pop earworms or even low-mid tempo tracks with few to cals. It's a song that's di erent from and it sounds incredible. If you hear tonbury. They will make their debut divisive music that rides its contro- no interesting qualities. It's not even anything the band has done before, anybody humming a song in the appearance at the event performing versy to stardom. That's never been a that they're understated (like many yet still sounds like Coldplay. next few weeks, pay attention—it on the Pyramid Stage on Saturday problem though--understatement is previous non-single tracks), they're ‘Magic’, the album's rst single, is will probably be this song. 28th June; the other two headline the backbone of their music. Besides, just slow enough to qualify them for an example of how low-mid tempo Three songs do not make an album acts are Kasabian and Arcade Fire. they've never been lacking for fans the supermarket playlist but not fast songs should be done. Its backing in- though, and even ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ In an interview with BBC 6 Music, who'd rather listen to their music in enough to be interesting. struments include new elements for can't pull Ghost Stories out of medi- founder Michael Eavis said: “they’re the car on their way to work than in a ‘Midnight’, with its distorted vocals Coldplay, like acoustic guitars and a ocrity. Some might call it a return to one of the most amazing rock sold-out arena. and dreamy electronic background synthetic beat, which build from un- Coldplay's roots, but that just means bands in the world, everywhere I go So there is no reason to get excited noise, might have been cool in the derstated and subtle to passionate they've forgotten much of what people say ‘When are Metallica go- over their latest album, ‘Ghost Sto- right context, but unfortunately the and anthemic, while staying inter- they've learned over their careers. ing to play?’ I said, ‘They will be here ries’. But even without hype or con- context it's in is halfway through a esting throughout. It's a demonstra- Let's hope they can learn from this one day’ and this is their time now”. troversy, even without any context Coldplay album that's desperately in tion of Coldplay's signature ability to mistake and make their next album Drummer Lars Ulrich told Radio 1’s on which to predict its quality, it still need of an up-tempo song. Instead make soft rock interesting. the fantastic musical experience that Zane Lowe: “No one is better suited disappoints. ‘Viva la Vida’ and ‘Mylo of ethereal, the song feels sluggish. Finally, ‘A Sky Full of Stars’ is the we all know they can produce. for a mud party than Metallica”. Xyloto’ saw the band expand as art- To the band's credit, they at least song that will single-handedly pre- ists, try new things, improve on old tried something di erent, even if vent many listeners from writing o Morrissey biopic in pipeline

THE makers of the Oscar-nominated short lm ‘The Voorman Problem’ are set to create a biopic about the early life of former Smiths frontman Morrissey, provisionally entitled “Steven.” Director Mark Gill said it is “as much a lm for non-Morrissey fans as it is for die-hard devotees.” How- ever, he would not deny that it is “a love letter to Steven Patrick Mor- rissey and the dark satanic mills of Manchester.” Shooting is expected to begin at the end of the year, yet it is unclear whether Morrissey has given the lm his blessing. The Black Keys : Turn Blue by THOMAS BICKERDIKE link to numerous cryptic videos fea- to Kalamazoo, just to get away from their longest ever song, which is al- Flaming Lips to cover turing a hypnotist. There is rationale you.” This track is the most classic most reminiscent of the Eagles’ ‘Hotel Sgt. Pepper’s hen you think of past works to this: the band had licensed the use rock-esque on the album California,’ yet there is also a bit of a US rock band The Flaming Lips are by Dan Auerbach and Pat- of a song in a documentary Tyson ‘Fever’ is not as rough-edged as Pink Floyd in uence thrown in. to release a track-for-track tribute Wrick Carney, you think of the was making and he, in turn, o ered previous works, featuring a synth or- The Black Keys are certainly more of ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club success of ‘Brothers’ and ‘El Camino.’ a favour. The name is inspired by a gan throughout. You probably heard diligent than some musicians: this Band’ by The Beatles in October. The They had the unquestionable ap- phrase used by the ctional char- it when they recently played on Lat- is their eighth album in the last 12 album will feature collaborations pearance of rock albums. In contrast, acter Ghoulardi, a horror host from er… with Jools Holland, proof that years. Turn Blue is not a bad addition- with Moby and Miley Cyrus. The Lips their eighth studio album ‘Turn Blue’ their home-state Ohio in the 1960s. they are experimenting with more al to their discography; it is certainly and Cyrus recently performed ‘Lucy looks more psychedelic. Honestly, It is once again co-produced by than just guitars and drums, caus- a change in style compared to their In The Sky with Diamonds’ during look at the cover! their long-time collaborator Danger ing some debate amongst listeners. usual blues rock, yet I predict it will her Bangerz tour and a download is ‘Tighten Up’ has long been consid- Mouse. Traditionalist fans vie against those not be as successful as El Camino or available with pre-orders. ered their most popular single, along This album comes after Dan Auer- who embrace the exploration of the Brothers. That is not to say I won’t be The Lips’ Wayne Coyne told Rolling with as the Grammy-winning ‘Lonely bach’s divorce and the consequential new. The ending is somewhat mis- listening to it again. They themselves Stone: “It’s really just a lot of great Boy.’ Personally, my own personal dark nature seems to be a theme sur- leading, because you expect a solo have admitted “you get your money friends of mine who are all contrib- favourite track is ‘Little Black Subma- rounding the whole album. Howev- and instead it abruptly calms down. back after the tenth listen”. uting…People are like, ‘Why do you rines’ – an underrated masterpiece. er, they seem to have looked on the Although only just over four minutes, do Beatles songs?’ and I’m like, ‘Be- Believe it or not, Turn Blue was bright side. For example, in the nal it feels long, certainly longer than cause people love them.’ I think it’ll announced back in March via Twit- track ‘Gotta Get Away’ Auerbach al- some of their previous hits. Actually, generate a lot of interest.” ter by Mike Tyson (yeah, the retired most revels: “I went from San Berdoo the opening track ‘Weight of Love’ is boxer!). This included the title and a May Issue 2014 | Seren 29 MUSIC Iggy Azalea: The New Classic

Eurovision 2014 by SARA LLOYD WILLIAMS Austria’s Conchita Wurst gave a pow- competing this year are living in the From the o set those in charge of erful performance. Her James Bond- midst of a horrendous situation, one by AMY BLACKWELL Eurovision PR in the UK geared us esque song teamed up with the that not even a camp pop show can h Eurovision Song Contest, y most recent obsession up for an exciting year. Molly Smit- inspirational image of what beauty overshadow. you were here again. Every (and the the only reason I ten-Downes was plucked from near should look like, guaranteeing her a Beyond the music, the rest of the Ayear the thought of this camp have survived my exams spectacle lls the people of Europe obscurity to represent Britain in this place in hearts across Europe. But the event went by without many issues. M this year) is angry female rappers. year’s competition. Having su ered biggest surprise of the night for me The Danish presenters, while not with extreme euphoria, extreme Especially Iggy Azalea. Born Am- Engelbert Humperdinck and Bonnie was the Netherlands. ‘Calm After the slick, did their jobs e ectively with dread or extreme nonchalance. ethyst Amelia Kelly, the 23-year-old Tyler in recent years, Molly felt like a Storm’ by The Common Linnets was big smiles throughout, though the There are those who love it beyond rapper originally from Sydney, Aus- breath of fresh air as our representa- about as far away from a stereotypi- attempts to ll the gaps during the belief; those who at the mere men- tralia, rst arrived on the American tive. Her song ‘Children of the Uni- cal Eurovision song as you can get, phone vote was at time horrendous. tion of the word Eurovision are hit rap scene in 2011 and made a name verse’ while sung well with powerful yet still managed second place. The moment when they announced with bursts of extreme anger, mum- for herself with her controversial lyrics, felt a bit bland performed live. But despite all the positives that they’d own in the French band’s fa- bling something about political vot- viral videos for songs ‘Pu$$y’ and Having been polled to close the com- make up Eurovision, there was no vourite chef from a local restaurant ing and then there are those who will ‘Two Times’. She was the rst fe- petition it wasn’t a performance that denying a tension in the air this year. was just bizarre! happily sit through the spectacle on male and non-american rapper to stuck in my mind in comparison with Eurovision is often said to hold a po- So despite the UK’s disappointment a Saturday night, murmuring opin- appear in XXL magazine's annual some other acts, and clearly the rest litical undertone, seen mainly in the I still enjoyed Eurovision 2014. It was ions at the TV or their Twitter feed “Top Ten Freshmen” issue. ‘The New of Europe agreed placing her in 17th way various countries vote. But with at times extremely inspirational TV without much more feeling than Classic’ is her debut studio album. they’d give an episode of Britain’s Got place. each ‘boo’ that came when Russia and I can’t wait to see what we give As for other performances, the was given top points came the re- the continent in 2015 to contest with! Talent. I personally t in that camp. The rapper’s mission is to “make eventual winner of the competition minder that many of the countries people question and rede ne old ideals" and through this album she certainly does. The three songs World Cup songs - The best and worst released prior to the album were ‘Bounce’, ‘Change Your Life’ and ‘Fan- It is a World Cup year and musicians will want to cash in on the opportunity by releasing a song to show their sup- cy’. All of these are great songs, easy port. So, here are some of the best and worst (blimey, there were a fair few to choose from) World Cup songs. to listen too and enjoyable too. My particular favourite is ‘Work’ a story of personal struggle, that really puts into perspective the struggle of low- THE BEST... THE WORST... er class women. The song is gritty and real whilst still being quite funny and catchy. This is skill Iggy Azal- ea seems to possess across all songs in this album. You can really tell she means what she says and isn’t just in it for the downloads, compared to artists such as Nicki Minaj.

The album as a whole ows quite nicely together all song possessing the same heavy beat and smooth rapping style. The artist hopefully New Order – Baddiel & Skinner & England Squad – Del Amitri – paves the way for a wave of new hip-hop artists that lead the genre World in Motion (1990) The Lightning Seeds – We’ve Got The Whole World Don’t Come Home away from the gangsta rap culture. Three Lions (1998) at Our Feet (1986) Too Soon (1998) If you’re looking for badass women who know who they are and what ‘World in Motion’ was recorded for Euro 96 gripped the nation and a Written by Tony Hiller, Stan James Let’s have a laugh at the expense they want then Iggy Azalea is a Italia 90, written by New Order and large part of the driving force for that and Bobby James, this was a twist on of Scotland. Del Amitri’s ‘Don’t Come must! And, if you like her I recom- Keith Allen. This was very much of was ‘Three Lions’, by Lightning Seeds the traditional spiritual tune ‘He’s Got Home Too Soon’ was their o cial mend Angel Haze, a similar artist its time, but a stark contrast to New and the duo of Frank Skinner and The Whole World in His Hands’ for song for France 98. If this was not a with a similar message. Iggy Azalea Order’s work from a decade before David Baddiel. As a result, the lasting Mexico 86. football song, it would pass. is a great female inspiration. as Joy Division. This lifted the mood sound bite of the tournament was It was not really with the times to Justin Currie said it was written for of the nation prior to the tourna- the phrase “Football’s coming home”. be honest; like many previous at- completely honourable reasons, but ment with its piano ri , cheery lyrics Two years later for France 98, it tempts, it featured a marching band. was used as the o cial song for com- and classic commentary in the back- was re-recorded with updated lyrics It has the atmosphere of the kind of mercial reasons. Did he stop this? Of ground. and reached number 1 in the charts, song you’d hear at the end of a 1960s course not. What’s worse, the squad Six members of the England team even though it was the “uno cial” prison lm. It is in no way inspira- had to get involved. They must have took part in the recording, including anthem. tional (well, it could inspire people to been thinking, “Do we have to?” John Barnes who gave a master class Plus, the video features the iconic think they could do no worse). Depressing realism in action. How in how to rap. scene of Skinner dipping his arm, It reached number 66 in the charts. to best sum up the hopes and ambi- It remains New Order’s only num- whilst holding a melon, into a bucket What’s particularly concerning, the tions of and motivate a nation? Sim- ber 1 hit, even reaching number 5 of custard, so it would resemble the writers also wrote Scotland’s o cial ple: “Don’t be too rubbish…” on the Billboard Modern Rock chart World Cup. song ‘Big Trip to Mexico’, which was in the US. in nitely better. 30 May Issue 2014 | Seren BOOKS BOOK NEWS Seren Reviews Princess Diaries A SELECTION OF OUR FAVOURITE BOOKS THIS ON 1st May Meg Cabot, author of the teen ctions series ‘ e Princess MONTH Diaries’ announced that she would be visiting Mia ermopolis two more times. Tales She will be writing two novels, one Red for young adult readers and the other A Delicate for adults, undoubtedly aimed at the Dodger from original fans of the series. e adult Dragon book will focus on Mia who will be Truth engaged and planning her wedding. Nowhere e young adult novel will focus on a new character Olivia Grace who discovers she is Mia’s long lost half sister. Miles Franklin Award THE shortlist for the Miles Frank- lin book prize has been dominated by women writers this year, covering a range of topics from Indigenous culture and heritage, Japanese in- ternment in the second world war and Australia’s ageing population. e shortlist was announced ursday 15th May in New South Wales and is a great advertisement for Australia’s growing literary culture, though in this eld there is de - nitely room for improvement. Authors include Fiona McFarlane, by BECCI JAMESON by WYATT WARNER by JEZ HARVEY by NICOLA HOBAN Cory Taylor, Alexis Wright and Evie Wyld. SINCE I’ve become a fan of the TERRY Pratchett’s Dodger is a nov- JOHN le Carré has been writing THIS book is for anyone who TV show Hannibal, I thought it was el set quite literally in Dickensian spy novels for more than 50 years. has the ambition to travel. An only right to read the book that in- London: Charles Dick- You might have thought that a er anthology put together by the Lonely Poetry spired it. Comparing the show to the ens himself appears as an 50 years, a writer might have used Planet, this book is a collection of 30 novel was a lot of fun, because you important character in the novel. up their originality or that their real-life tales from can see the pieces that have been Other historical gures of style might have got le behind as travellers around the globe who against li ed, altered and paid homage to “Charlie’s” time also make appearances. younger, more contemporary writers have travelled to places that felt like by Bryan Fuller and his minions. In fact, only one major character is fully come along and muscle in. Not Le Carré. Nowhere, like a walking trail in Pollution It is very much like fan ction, prob- invented by Pratchett, which gives fans Known best for the “George Smiley” Tuscany, or a desert beyond Tim- ably one of the best examples I can of Victorian England’s history and series that the lm Tinker, Tailor, buktu, or Shanghai International COPIES of Simon Armitage’s poem name of something that has the “in- literature something to look for on Soldier, Spy was based on, his Airport. “In Praise of Air” has been copied spired by/adapted from/based on” la- every page. ese nods to the reader latest work, A Delicate Truth ese authors tell stories about onto pollution absorbing material bel. Whereas the show focuses heavily and subtle yet clever references are the follows a young civil servant who gets the places that they thought would and displayed outside the University on Will Graham and Hannibal Lecter, biggest appeal of the book. drawn into the murky world between be just another Nowhere, but then of She eld. e poem both tugs at their intricate personalities and evolv- e story is basic and the politicians and businessmen who seek something happened - an the heart strings and puri es the air! ing (or devolving) relationship, the characters are predictable, but the to pro t from war. unexpected encounter or expe- Professor Tony Ryan called it “a fun book’s emphasis is on the serial killer, depth, as it o en does with Pratchett, Le Carré’s style certainly hasn’t rience that changed a normal collaboration between science and especially in the latter half. Lecter comes in the form of genius turns of changed, but whilst he’s managed to journey into an extraordinary the arts to highlight a very serious is- only has a couple scenes, and Graham phrase and new ways of interpreting retain the depth of characters and adventure. sue of poor air quality in our towns wasn’t nearly as interesting as how genre tropes. He manages to do this tension in his writing, you could My friend lent me this book and cities.” A er all to quote Armit- Hugh Dancy portrays him. Instead of very accessibly and without being never confuse this with his earlier because she knew that I would love age “My rst word, everyone’s rst being tortured and tormented by his patronizing, which makes the book a work. For someone to write for 50 it. She wasn’t wrong. As somebody word, was air.” awful gi of empathy Will came o relatively easy, but never boring read. years and yet have their work remain so who wants to travel (desperately), I as a little irritating, though he was an It has all the depth and cleverness contemporary and to be so much ‘of thoroughly enjoyed this book and engaging enough protagonist. Even of an intelligent author, without the their’ time, is impressive. For him to when I could get away from my though I was prepared for his general pretentiousness that sometimes be over 80 and still write a gripping revision I would go to absence, I still really missed Dr Lecter accompanies them. and edge-of-your-seat read, is even back to reading about himself. While his usual prose style is sim- more impressive. I devoured the book adventures that I can only hope to Little Rebel e last half really galloped along pli ed to better match that of Charles in a 3 and a half hour train ride from experience for myself one day. once Harris turned the plot’s focus on Dickens, fans of Pratchett’s Discworld London to Bangor and had to stand is anthology is for any person GILLIAN Cross has been awarded to Francis Dolarhyde as a person in- series will recognize his unmistakable on the platform to nish the last two who has daydreamed of far o places the Little Rebels children’s book stead of the killer in the background. I imprint on every word of Dodger. In pages as I couldn’t wait until I got and backpacking to unique areas. It is award for her book ‘A er Tomorrow’ got the sense that Harris felt he was the fact, it’s easy to forget that the book home. a collection that not only draws you “a frighteningly believable story, a most interesting character and poured isn’t a Discworld novel. Pratchett’s Fans of spy thrillers will enjoy this as in and makes you feel like you are real page-turner with a strong sense the story’s emotion into creating him. habit of looking at things in new ways a change of pace from the American, experiencing the ride with these of danger always present, and many I certainly felt like he was the deepest gives anything his unique feel. New brash, guns and glory, macho dross writers, but it also gives you some big issues of a possible future just be- character out of them all. I think what fans and old will appreciate the astute that gets pumped out, and fans of char- superb ideas for places to visit when low the surface.” Red Dragon has inspired is generally yet sarcastic lens of Pratchett’s writing acters and storylines will nd much to you want to have some adventures of Cross believes that it is important better than the book itself as a whole, shi from his usual fantasy setting to enjoy as well. A fantastic read by an your own. to understand the world even as chil- but it’s still a very worthwhile read. good ol’ England. author still at the top of his game. dren. May Issue 2014 | Seren 31 BOOKS The Outdoor Co-ed Topless Pulp Fiction Appreciation Society IN MEMORY OF... STIRRING UP THE NORM IN NYC SUE TOWNSEND

by IDA VÄISÄNEN Image courtesy of coedtoplesspulp ction.wordpress.com UTHOR Sue Townsend has book, which will now sadly remain by BECCI JAMESON A s fact that no women ever did. It clearly Andrews says that everyone has died at the age of 68. Townsend unpublished. i t ’ s wasn’t because no woman would ever been incredibly supportive and that was best known for her series Townsend’s books have been able to Aof humorous diaries of Adrian Mole, reach readers over the decades with sunny in New York at this time of year, want to – when it’s 90 degrees outside, the response from the public was members of the four year old who wouldn’t rather be bare-chested overwhelming. Some people were a depicting the youth and adulthood of their ageless themes, such as di cul- Outdoor Co-ed Topless Pulp than su ering under a shirt and bra? little shocked but as she says ‘this is an in nitely aspiring author. ties of youth (zits, the elderly man you Fiction Appreciation Society have been But most women didn’t know they New York. Most people go out of their Townsend enjoyed great success in are supposed to care for refuses to die) stripping o everywhere way not to be fazed by the unexpected the 1980’s when her series sold more and adulthood (your literary genius they can; the group want to sight.’ e women involved seem to be copies than any other work of ction not discovered yet), treated with irre- celebrate good books and WOMEN ARE FREE TO GO having the best time. ‘We don’t get as during its decade. Townsend’s pub- sistible humor. sunny days and enjoy both TOPLESS ANYWHERE A MAN CAN much reading done when we’re at one lishing house has con rmed that she as long as the law lets them. of our events as we would by ourselves was working on another Adrian Mole It’s not clear what connects in a silent, locked room, but then we reading and being topless but these had this right, and those who did were don’t mean to – our gatherings are women are evidently having a lot of o en afraid to take advantage of it. So more social, and we spend more time fun proving there is one. we decided to create a group to com- chatting and discussing books than Founder A. Andrews said that, ‘four bat that ignorance and fear. We made actually nose-down in the pages, summers ago, my best friend and I it a book club because we loved books reading them.’ is would be truly were talking about the law in New York and loved hanging out with other peo- liberating but for some reason I can’t that says women are free to go topless ple who loved books. And it’s been go- see it ‘taking o ’ in Bangor. MARY STEWART anywhere a man can, and about the ing strong ever since.’ BOOK OF THE MONTH by AMY BLACKWELL

e Maze Runner by James Dash- world of the Gladers will be ipped on ner is fantastic for fans of e Hunger its head forever. Games. Don’t be put o by its “Young e book is a thrilling read and ts Adult” status it is a great read for right in with the modern trend of dys- adults as well as teenagers. topian ction. It can easily compete It is set in a dystopia called “ e with its contemporary rivals e Hun- Glade.” Its residents, the Gladers, are ger Games and Divergent. all teenaged boys, all of whom have I really enjoyed this book, it was a had their memory wiped and all they welcome break from the heavy Victo- by WYATT WARNER can remember about themselves is rian texts I have been reading for my ESTSELLING English novel- for seamlessly incorporating fantasy their rst name. is is true for pro- degree and I am excited to read the ist Mary Stewart died 9th May elements into the real world setting of tagonist omas. e Glade, which rest of the series. e lm of the novel 2014 at the age of 97. Stewart her romance novels without drawing resides in the middle of a gigantic is currently in post-production and Bwas an author of both romantic novels much attention to that fact, a trend maze, appears to be their only means will arrive in cinemas in early Autumn and the Merlin series which blended which has become popular in recent of escape and is guarded by half-roof this year. historical ction and fantasy. e se- years. She was truly ahead of her time. bot-half-creature beings. I for one am excited to see this fan- ries, based on Arthurian legend, re- She also wrote a suspense novel titled e book, the rst in a trilogy, fol- tastic novel on the big screen. ough, volved around the wizard Merlin, and e Moon-Spinners, which was later lows omas as he gets to grips with as Seren’s resident bookworm I must even used his original Welsh name adapted into a Disney lm. his new surroundings, only he has a insist you read the book rst. Just in Myrddin Emrys. She was also known feeling he’s been here before. With case. the arrival of a girl named Teresa the 32 Seren | May Issue 2014 FASHION What to wear to the Summer Ball Men Women By JAMES HOLMAN By CHARLOTTE FAYE WRIGHT

ith the summer ball getting closer and closer I think I Wspeak for most females when I say, “What the hell do I wear!?” and “Are people wearing long or short dresses?” Well, fear not because there is in fact plenty to choose from. It’s clear that Bangor does have a Naomi Dress lack of clothes shops but with online £50.00 shopping your dress is just a click away. Topshop, New Look, River Island anya London is a fresh new and Debenhams are really the only exciting women’s fashion label BURTONS £6.00 choices available in Bangor. Dresses Pfounded by two sisters, Natalie can also be ordered to the store in- Panayi aged 31 (who features in stead of a home delivery, giving series 9 of the BBC’S ‘THE APPREN- many options. TICE’) and her younger sister Lexi River Island’s dresses start from Panayi aged 22 (who has a degree around £25, and they have a varia- RIVER ISLAND in Fashion). tion of dresses in store and online. Pink Burnout Print The clothing line is brand new Dresses can also be bought online Cut Out Prom Dress which guarantees that no one will BURTONS 2 Piece and refunded in store if they don’t £65.00 be wearing the same out t as you suit the buyer’s needs. at the ball. Light f you’re lucky enough to be able Blue Whilst expensive for a high street This is their 1st collection and store, Topshop have a wonderful to push the boat out a little and features 12 ‘weekend’ going out Sharkskin ash a little more cash House Tailored range of Spring/Summer dresses I dresses. These are a mix of di erent of Frazer now have the categories Fit Suit BURTONS that can be used not only at this ball, styles from body con, skater, minis, but at many formal events to come. “Prom Night” and “Summer Ball” midi, maxis, backless and non back- £119.00 £8.00 which contains the perfect dresses less with the aim that they will suit for the ball. House of Frazer also has KATE MOSS FOR TOPSHOP all body types. an amazing clearance sale on full of entlemen, if you are attend- not be a little more bold and get a One Shoulder Chi on Dress Panya London understands the beautiful dresses! ing the summer ball this year patterned suit? Next and Burton are £85.00 power of the perfect dress and use Gand haven’t managed to get good places to pick these up. The luxury fabrics from Italy, Spain and your hands on a suit yet then you’d next problem you face is what colour France. better get a move on or else all of shirt to wear. A good idea to ensure The brand has already found a the good ones will be gone! It isn’t that your shirt matches your suit is devoted fashion following. Dresses very often as students that we get to take your suit along with you and have been seen on celebrities such to dress up in something besides ask the sales assistant whether the as Lucy Meck from The Only Way is whatever theme Academi has got combination works. That’s their job Essex. going but the end of the nal term after all. A bright shirt will make you Panya London is a truly British is a time for suits left, right and cen- stand out for all of the right reasons brand. The key to their success is the tre. This can become expensive but at the ball and will give your suit a belief that “fashion shouldn’t just it shouldn’t have to be. You can at- lift. However, if you want to go for a look great, it should feel great.” tend every outing in the same suit if more formal look then a dark shirt you change little things about your would be more suitable. Finally, out t. This can be from choosing an- you have chosen your shirt and suit, other tie to changing your shirt and what about the tie/ bow tie? Why adding a waistcoat. It’s that simple! not get a tie that contrasts with your For the summer ball, a lighter suit suit? Floral and patterned designs would be better. It is summer after are huge this season for men and all and, with any luck, the weather will add a lot more character to your will be nice on the 31st so you won’t out t. Choose a colour that doesn’t have to su er in the sun in a dark overshadow your suit but contrasts suit. Grey and blue are preferable it in a complimentary way. Looking to black at this time of year. Why forward to seeing you all there!

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Katy B Charli XCX

This Peckham girl has music running Charli XCX has gained millions of listens through her veins. Her father represented for her tracks, including ‘SuperLove’, ‘You Germany at Eurovision in 1976. Katy has (Ha Ha Ha)’, and her most recent hit with previously sung on multiple breakstep, dub- Iggy Azalea, ‘Fancy’. Charli has been writ- step, and UK Garage tracks before quickly ing music since she was 14, and from a gaining popularity from 2010 up to now with young age has pushed forward towards the release of her new album, Little Red. With her passion of music. From the start she over 700 000 Facebook likes and millions of made use of her promoter father and views on YouTube, Katy B represents a fun, MySpace to organise gigs, now Charli has big experience as she tours nationwide. nally reaped the rewards of her strong DIY ethics. OTHER ACTS INCLUDE... SCOTT MILLS TAKE THAT 2 VIVA LA COLDPLAY UK FOO FIGHTERS BREAKDOWN OF YOUR TICKET COSTS Artists’ Requirements: Sta : 8%/£3.60 4%/£1.80 Funfair: Acts: 9%/£4.05 45%/£20.25 Licensing/Uni Fees: 9%/£4.05 Tech and Equipment: 25%/£11.25 WIN A TICKET TO THE BALL! We have one ticket to give away to a lucky winner; with all of this year’s tickets sold out, this is an unmissable opportunity! For your chance to be entered into a random draw to win a ticket to the Summer Ball, send in your name and email address to this link: SEREN.BANGOR.AC.UK/BALL2014 The competition closes at midday on 29/05/2014 and winners will be noti ed via email and our Facebook Page. 34 Seren | May Issue 2014 HEALTH AND BEAUTY THE TRUE PRICE OF BEAUTY? Don’t let your beauty a ect the Earth’s By SARA WILLIAMS in each dollop of product (more beads are proven to give better results) icrobeads are tiny plastic means that with each time a product is particles found in most ushed away with water tens of beads exfoliating products, from are added into our waters. When you Mcheap shop brand ones to the more consider how common the practice of expensive designer type. Have a look using these products is in an area as in your bathroom right now and I small as Bangor it becomes easier to can almost guarantee you will nd understand the scale of the problems one product containing these beads. facing our waters. But over the last few weeks there have So what’s the problem with having been increasing calls to get rid of these these microbeads in or water? e small beads from all beauty and clean- beads are made from plastics such as ing products. Why is this? What harm nylon, polyethylene (PE), polypropyl- can they do? And what can you use in- ene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate stead? (PET), and polymethyl methacrylate e main product that microbe- (PMMA). While these names might ads are found in and associated with not mean much to the average Bangor in student homes is facial cleansers. student they cause two problems to e purpose of microbeads in beauty the environment they end up in. e products is to exfoliate the dead skin rst is that they are non-biodegrada- cell layer from the surface of your skin ble materials, meaning that once they to allow more oxygen and moisture to enter the water system they will not reach the new skin layer underneath. simply dissolve, but remain in their But despite the frequency of the beads bead forms for decades. being found in these products they is leads to the second problem, nut rind to create the friction needed our personal care products by the ‘We’ve discontinued the 3 products can also be discovered in everything and the one that has environmental- in exfoliation products. But low cost end of 2017. We have stopped devel- that have the micro beads in and we from shower gel to toothpaste (and ists petitioning to have the beads re- and the normalizing of the practice oping new products containing poly- are just selling these through now.’ even some household cleaning prod- moved from all products. e beads within the industry meant by the turn ethylene microbeads and have been So what can you do to help? ucts). e beads add an extra dose of are being eaten by sh and other wild of the millennium, natural products conducting environmental safety as- Check the labels of your facial friction to these products that makes animals in the water, who believe the were a minority rather than the ma- sessments of other alternatives. ese cleanser very carefully and if you penetrating and removing an area of beads to be pellets of food. e beads, jority. assessments are part of our “informed see microbeads or any of the plastics dirt much easier. e cheap cost of the once in the animals system, break So what are companies doing to substitution” approach, which helps named above in the ingredients swap beads means that using them had be- down and become toxic. As a lot of change these practices? Seren con- ensure that the alternatives we choose for another product. If you’re unsure come standard industry practice. commercial water treatment centres tacted some of the larger companies are safe and environmentally sound, of products to use, a quick Google But research into the long term ef- dump the water in public waters this to clarify their stance on microbeads. and that they provide consumers with search will provide you with a selec- fects of these micro beads has un- means that the potential for our daily Johnson and Johnson (which owns a great experience. Our goal is to com- tion of plastic-free options. Alterna- earthed some disturbing results. It supply of sh to become a toxic food Clean and Clear and Neutrogena) re- plete the rst phase of reformulations tively, make your own facial exfoliator emerges that the microbeads are too source is ever increasing. plied, stating: by the end of 2015, which represents using 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 small to be ltered out of the water at Until the mid-1990s the practice of ‘At the Johnson & Johnson Fam- about half our products sold that con- tablespoons of either sugar or salt and treatment plants and environmental- using microbeads in beauty products ily of Consumer Companies, we are tain microbeads.’ help do your bit to preserve our wa- ist claim that the end up in our rivers, was highly uncommon, with compa- phasing out and will eliminate the While e Body Shop tweeted the ters. lakes and oceans. e sheer concen- nies using natural ingredients such as use of polyethylene microbeads in response trated mass of micro beads contained crushed walnut shells or dried coco- L’oreal Skin Perfection Pull the Other One by SARA WILLIAMS sembles a face primer. It’s used above in well and therefore can easily be by SARA WILLIAMS meaning that the toxins are attracted your daily moisturiser and uses ‘4D’ used as a base for makeup. Out of all to the oil in a greater mass. E ects can ’Oreal Skin perfection is a new light re ective technology to even the products this is de nitely the one be seen a er a week of daily use so if range of products brought out to out the colour of your skin and less- that I feel makes the biggest di erence you want to attempt to get a dazzling compensate for the problems by en the appearance of any blemishes to your skin, brightening up even the smile for your May Dance or Gradua- Lyoung skin, with the target audience or imperfections on your face. It can most tired eyes. tion photos here’s the technique. aimed to be 20 – 30 year olds. With be worn on its own or as a primer ere are many more products that so many products designed as ‘anti- for makeup. e texture is extremely I haven’t tried, and I encourage you to • Take 1 large tablespoon of coconut wrinkle’ or ‘age de ning’, aimed to- smooth and doesn’t feel oily or intru- seek them out if they appeal to you. oil and put in a large microwaveable wards the older generation it’s nice for sive on your skin. While there is no ey de nitely succeed in lightening bowl. Melt the oil down until it be- a company to identify that those with immediate e ect a er 10 minutes the your skin, and can work a miracle ver the last few weeks there comes liquid, or gets a so er texture younger skin do not necessarily poses skin where you applied the product a er a heavy night revising (or party- have been numerous reports form. is will make it easier to pull the youthful perfection portrayed on in noticeably brighter and even toned ing!). of various celebrities using a through your teeth. television screens. e range contains that it was previously. While it can be techniqueO called oil pulling. e an- • Swish the oil around your mouth a lot of products from moisturisers to used all over your face the relatively cient Hindu medical technique is a for 15 - 20 minutes without stopping. skin primers; I personally bought their small amount in process of ‘pulling’ oil through gums • 5 minutes prior to completing Advanced Serum, Magic Touch In- the tub along with and teeth through a sucking motion, your course of pulling create a water stant Blur and Awakening Eye Cream. the price means much as you do with mouthwash. It and salt mixture in a mug using 1 Beginning with the their Advanced that I tend to be a is meant to remove microbes from teaspoon of salt in 1 full mug of wa- Serum this is a serum that’s meant to bit more selective in-between teeth and detoxing your ter. Allow to cool as you nish the oil be applied a er face cleansing either and only apply to gums leading to whiter teeth and pulling as a standalone face serum, or un- the worst of my overall healthier gums. But is there • A er the allotted time is done spit derneath your usual moisturiser. I’ve problem areas. any merit to the process? out the oil in your mouth, making been using it as a base for my normal Finally the Opinion in the medical world is still sure not to swallow any of the sub- moisturiser as I’ve found its texture to Awakening Eye currently divided. ere has been no stance as you do so. be a little bit too oily without another Cream uses the long term testing as yet into the e ects • Rinse your mouth using the salt moisture layer to compensate. e same technology of oil pulling but overall the general water mixture for a further minute product is designed to tighten pores as the Instant Blur opinion is that it does no harm. Con- and spit out. and minimalize their appearance over to lighten the dark sensus also shows that while any oil • Complete the process by brushing time. When the product is applied circles under- can be used in the process, if coconut your teeth as usual. I de nitely felt that my face looked neath your eyes. oil is used the natural vitamins and smoother but a er nearly 2 weeks of Again you can ap- minerals found in this oil increases An immediate e ect might not be use without it on I can’t honestly say I ply this on its own the health bene ts signi cantly. Co- felt but doing this once a day for 4-5 see much di erence. or as a primer to conut oil also has the added bene t days will guarantee an overall cleaner Magic Touch Instant Blur closely re- make-up; it sinks of having little fat attached to the oil feeling for your mouth. May Issue 2014 | Seren 35 HEALTH AND BEAUTY GAME OF HAIR by SARA WILLIAMS

CERSEI LANNISTER SANSA STARK DAENERYS TARGARYEN • Start by taking two small sections • Part hair in the centre from the • Take a large section of hair from the (from either side) from the mid-way front all the way to the back. top of each side of each side of the down back of your head, and begin head and Dutch braid it back. plating these sections together. • Section o one or two inches on either side of the part. • A Dutch Braid is the same as a • Take a small section of hair from the French braid, except each section of top of each side of the head and twist • French braid one section until it hair is braided under rather than over. the stands to the ends, pinning away reaches the end of the part. from the face. • Tie braids together into a ponytail at • Repeat on other side. the back of the head. • Tie twists into one large ponytail and lay above the large braid. • Braid the ends of the two French • Take another section of hair on each braids together and secure in pal- side and Dutch braid it backwards. • Take two large sections of hair from ace the temple area and loosely braid MELISANDRE • Tie braids together and include the across your head towards the back. • Curl the free owing hair and ponytails from the rst braid. MARGAERY TYRELL liberally spray with hair spray. • Begin by centre parting your • Combine the ponytail, two braided hair. • Leave the rest of the hair straight, or sections, and back braid into one • Braid partially damp hair and leave you can use a barrel curler to create braid. over night to create subtle waves • Section o a large section of your so waves. through your hair for light texture. hair at the front which will be le • Tousle the free owing hair to sepa- lose to frame face. rate your newly done plait, liberally • Loosely pull out braid in the morn- spray with hairspray and go ‘hang out’ ing (or to preserve waves no more • At the back section o top part of with your brother. than 2 hours before an event) and n- your hair (above the ears) on both ger comb through any knots that may side and braid together. have occurred. • Twin braid into a bun and pin se- • Take small sections of hair from curely against your head. around the temple area and twist through to the ends, away from your • For added volume keep section- face and pin at the back of your head. ing o parts of your hair and secure around the bun, keep doing • Take larger sections from under- this until you feel the bun is large neath the same area and repeat the enough, but make sure you still above process, pin in place under- have enough hair loose underneath the original section. neath the bun.

• Braid both sections together at the end and tie together at the ends

• Repeat on other side. Beards, And Why You Look Ridiculous Maybelline 24 Colour by WYATT WARNER Does it go far enough up your cheeks style is a full beard trimmed close to by EMILY HOULSTONJONES take some pretty heavy make-up re- to actually look like a beard? ( is is the skin or slightly longer. Experi- mover. A annel and water will not ou're a dude at University, and the big one. Evaluate honestly.) If not, mentation is good, otherwise trends nyone who has a modicum cut it here. But a couple of minutes you're starting to really feel try again next year and see where you would never change, but keep in mind of experience shopping for scrubbing is well worth the long last- like an adult. You're trying to can get. when trying to emulate Elvis or Her- make-up knows how deceiv- ing colour. cule Poirot that you look ridiculous. Aing make-up advertising can be. Sup- At only £8.99, this product is de - Yact manlier and the girls in your at won't stop talking about or, Hugh posedly “long-lasting” make-up is no nitely worth the price. It works best in Jackman and every member of the So you won the genetic lottery (or exception. It seems like every other matte shades, with the glitter shades Canadian bobsled team. You gave maybe your dad was Armenian or product on the market is marketed as having slightly less staying power. shaving a miss for the fourth time something) and you can grow thick long-lasting, and very few products Use sparingly and let the colour dry this week because you didn't wake and even facial hair? Congratulations, actually live up to the moniker. before applying the balm, and you’ll up early enough to do it before your you testosterone-pumped beast, lots However, every rule must have an have a lip colour which will be able 3 PM lecture. You look in the mirror, of people are envious (including my- exception. And in this case, the excep- to withstand everything from a three- and see the same stubble that you see self). at doesn't give you a free pass. tion to the rule is Maybelline’s Super- course Sunday lunch to Bangor’s rainy on the kind of Hollywood actor who Feel free to experiment (hair grows, stay 24 Colour. Available in a range of weather. makes the rounds on Pinterest every a er all, so your terrible goatee won't colours to suit any skin-tone or taste, week. “Hmm,” you think “I could to- be there forever), but keep in mind this lipcolour can withstand even the tally grow a beard.” that the shape of your face is a big part drunkest of nights-out in Bangor. e of what looks good on you. If you're a two-part applicator allows easy ap- Sorry to let you down, buddy, but bigger guy, your hair follicles will be plication, with one end resembling a you probably can't. Your mom's not further apart than say, Ryan Gosling's normal lip-gloss applicator, and the here to tell you when you're getting hair follicles, so you'll have to grow other end being a balm, used to lock scru y so that's now my job. Bangor, your facial hair a bit longer than his in colour. ya'll are getting scru y. First of all, to get the same coverage. Besides, big e colour itself is almost super- even if you've got hair on your face, dudes look great in a thicker beard. natural in its staying-power. A er that doesn't give you the strong jaw- Ok sure, let's say you can grow a extensive testing, I can safely say that line of Jake Gyllenhall or the innocent pretty good patch on your chin, but And please, whether you're grow- this lip colour can withstand pretty good looks of Ryan Gosling. Let's be your moustache is still as peachy as ing a beard on accident because your much anything. is colour has lasted honest, you probably just look like a when you were thirteen. If you want fourth nal this week is coming up or through several cold sore bouts, a lot university kid who could use a shave. to look like a circus ringmaster or Lu- because you think you're suave, trim of cocktails, and many, many, hango- cifer, then by all means rock your chin about an inch o the bottom of your vers. It’s also pretty to boot, my per- Next, even if you've got the hair in point, but it's not as modern, manly beard on your neck. Keeping that is sonal favourite being Absolute Plum place, is it even thickness and color? or sexy as you think it is. e current just unacceptable. (340.) Be warned, this colour will usually 36 Seren | May Issue 2014 ARTS AND CULTURE

ou might think a play about a served a sequel, then it's de nitely there's a certain serious tenderness love, friendship and, overall, fun. alcohol you can't help but put your couple lesbians who live in a Low Tide. Watching the Bronnie to Robwyn Jones’ (Robyn Wilson) Bronnie and Karen believe them- faith in them and know it's all done Ysmall Welsh town and drink all and Karen saga play out on stage is blossoming teenage romance with selves pretty unsuited to being par- out of love. day sounds completely mad – and somewhat addictive. As a pair, Salt George Hope (Hector Dyer), this is ents and in some ways are, having All the extra things, the little bits you’d be right. Low Tide in Glass Bay and Fitzalan Howard have a solid on- perfectly counterbalanced by the decided not to get a cat because of attention to detail, are what push is brilliant, boldly written, and abso- stage rapport which comes across ludicrous and passionate love a air it's too much commitment and they the whole performance over the lutely barmy. The eccentric but love- as relaxed and subtly irtatious. The that evolves between Lynette Hope might kill it. Being landed with their edge from being very funny to be- able Karen Thomas (Missy Fitzalan performances of other cast mem- (Bryher Flanders) and Owain Grif- niece after her mother 'Bitch Suze' ing down-right hilarious. From the Howard) and Bronnie Lewis (Eliot bers are just as good, each playing n (Finbar Fitzgerald). Equally, the (who is never seen but is regularly note on the fridge saying 'Fuck o Salt) stumble from drama to disas- partially on an existing stereotype slightly insulting yet wholly playful slagged o ) dies on holiday, both Owain' (a reference to their neigh- ter, carrying the audience with them but keeping their characterisation bickering that takes place between they and the audience wonder bour's penchant for stealing their through a whirlwind of hilarious ca- fresh and original. Bronnie and Karen helps keep the how they will cope. Their clueless yoghurt), to costume quirks such lamities. Ironically they’re also the There's a great strength to the whole performance light and down- attempts at parenting and o ering as Kerry Hope’s (Katie Wells) fabu- most stable and rational individuals story as a whole, and the main nar- to-earth. advice are tragic but heart-warming, lous bunchies, everything visual had in the whole play. rative and side plots have been The play might be a comedy of and even when little Robwyn's aunts been purposefully placed to add to If there was ever a play that de- written to intertwine with ease. If family chaos, but it's also a story of are feeding her copious amounts of the comedy.

17-year-old nds the key to success by KIRSTY WARRENJONES after entering two years ago. "My mum always had it on the TV the age of eight. role was awarded to violinist Nicola The other nalists were percus- when I was growing up so it's some- He has been learning at the Purcell Benedetti on the 10th anniversary of 17-year-old pianist from Essex sionist Elliott Gaston-Ross, 15, and thing I've thought about for quite School in Hertfordshire after becom- her win. has won the BBC Young Mu- recorder-player Sophie Westbrooke, some time. I did it two years ago and ing a student there in 2010. Benedetti said: "Martin lives and A sician 2014 describes as “the 15. learnt so much from the experience They were judged by a panel of breathes music. He is a powerful and highlight of his life”. Martin, from Hornchurch, said he so I thought I'd come back and try world-renowned musicians; com- natural musician and his love for Martin James Bartlett performed could not believe he had won. again." poser James MacMillan, conductor music is serious enough to carry him Rachmaninov's Rhapsody on a "It was a real shock as I've watched Martin began learning the piano Alice Farnham, pianist Alice Sara through the challenges ahead." Theme of Paganini in the nal at the the competition for so many years at the age of six and has studied at Ott, percussionist Colin Currie and Usher Hall, Edinburgh. and I was in it two years ago. It feels the Royal College of Music junior recorder-player Michala Petri. Martin won at the second attempt amazing," he said. department with Emily Je rey since For the rst time, an ambassadorial May Issue 2014 | Seren 37 ARTS AND CULTURE What’s going on in Bangor?

End of year music Dawns Yr Haf/ Summer concert Ball THE Music at Bangor season draws to its tra- Flute Concerto with soloist Josephine Wilkin, THIS month, of course the end of year summer performances from Katy B and Charli XCX! Keep ditional close on 6th June with a programme and best of all a free glass of Cava for all! ball is also happening. Tickets are pretty much tabs on the Seren Facebook Page and website of popular classics from the University's Mu- £12 / £9 concessions / £3 student, Tickets sold out, but anyone who has already put a de- for coverage! sic Society, Brass Band, Concert Band, Cham- available on the door only. posit down or paid for their ticket have a lot to See page 33 for more details. ber Choir, and Symphony Orchestra, includ- Doors open at 7.30pm. look forward to. What hopes to be a beautiful ing a performance of Lowell Lieberman's night in the Bangor calendar, there are exclusive Dracula rises once again!

by PORTIA HELENA DODDS Van Helsing, played by George Gladwin, and his friend, Jack Steward, played by Andrew Hull, EDS has once again delivered another who really took charge of the action. They were fangtastic (excuse the pun) show in the both powerful and bold and the acting of both Bform of an adaptation of Bram Stoker's men was professional and in some cases touch- "Dracula". This particular performance may not ing. They were, however, seemingly no match be as bloody as the Sky adaption, but it was for the seductive and impressive count himself. bloody brilliant nonetheless. He was able to capture the minds and souls of From Samuel Ball playing the charming Count his female victims, Mina Harker, Sarah Gri ths, of Darkness, Sam Davies playing the wonderful- and Margaret Sullivan, Sarah Homerstone, as ly crazy Ren eld to the horrifying undead wives, well as almost taking the innocent Lucy, Lydia the entire cast made the Victorian sensation ex- Walker, nearly sucking the life from them all, inciting and intriguing to watch. cluding Jonathon Harker, Jonny Stuart, with his The directors, Chib Alexander, Maeve Elmore vampire powers. and Natasha Raso worked with all the red light- Although many jokes could be made about ing they could nd and made the audience the entire cast really having a good stab at a shiver with fear by having their scary monster, classic adaptation, it must be said that they re- Raphael French, lurk around the auditorium. ally pulled out all the stakes. The use of stage Although he is the title name of the play, Drac- ghts was somewhat comical but only added to ula in my opinion was not the focus of the per- the great adventure that the characters had and formance. Yes, he was the mysterious and the left the audience thirsty for more. Or at least, cause of the terrible things happening to the thirsty enough to read the book the play was women and the children mentioned, but it was adapted from!

Directors: Nastasha Raso, Chib Alexander and Maeve Elmore 38 Seren | May Issue 2014 GAMES

Christmas come early, for Gamers at least?

as the latter two attempt to catch punk shooter The Order: 1886. It rumours of a Gears of War 4 which, at E3 itself, Bayonetta 2 will put a up to the formidable lead Sony has is also rumoured that there will be combined with the new Call Of Duty more mature-orientated game on taken since the start of the shift to new entries in the Uncharted and game, would complete the trio of the console and rumours of a new by LEWIS JENKINS the current generation of consoles God of War series which, along with shooters that made the Xbox 360 so Legend of Zelda title and a Pokemon last November. After a couple of tep- the imminent release of the mas- popular. They’ll be looking to ll the Fighting game will certainly draw in- he closest thing the gaming id releases, the thing that will really sively hyped Watch_Dogs, should dry spell until then with the wild- terest to the system. If Nintendo pull scene has to Christmas is right shift the balance will be the upcom- ensure that Sony remains a strong card third person shooters of Sunset it out of the bag this year, there’s no Taround the corner. The Elec- ing exclusives on each platform. An competitor in the eld. Overdrive and Quantum Break. reason why they wouldn’t be able to tronic Entertainment Expo (E3) is iconic game that will move consoles Microsoft will be playing catch up This E3 is really make or break for make a U-turn in the market. taking place from the 10th to the is really what everyone is looking for after a disastrous presentation last Nintendo after dismal sales of the Essentially, it’s all still to play for 12th of June in Los Angeles and mil- at the moment. year. To succeed this time, they’ll WiiU despite having a year’s head- in the console war. Let’s not for- lions will be watching online as the Firstly, Sony will look to preserve need to focus much more on games start on the competition. The “con- get about the multiplatform titles biggest names in video game de- it’s lead in the market with an up- for the system, which is why they’ll sole-selling game” is even more im- appearing however. Look out for velopment gather to show o their date on the games it showed last be showing o sequels to some of portant for them. Luckily, they have Dragon Age: Inquisition, Batman: upcoming games. year as they approach imminent re- their classic exclusives. The recently a few titles that may ll that role. Arkham Knight, Destiny, Assassins Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo are lease. The racing game DriveClub is announced Halo 5 will be there, Mario Kart 8 is launching just before Creed: Unity, Far Cry 4 and as always, obviously the ones to watch out for, expected to be present along with along with Fable Legends and Forza E3, Super Smash Bros WiiU will be if you’re incredibly optimistic, Half gameplay from the Victorian steam- Horizon 2. On top of this there are prominent, including a tournament Life 3.

Main: Broken Age (2014) Inset: LucasArt’s The Secret of Monkey Island (1990) The Point and Click Comeback by ADAM WILLIAMS go? All these games hold something lisher and pitch an adventure game, number of successful adventure ti- genre truly is. that is sorely missed among the big they’d laugh in my face”. However, tles that further prove that the genre For a lot of people, the point and uring the nineties, LucasArts budget AAA games of today; a focus with Broken Age raising over four is still alive and kicking, most notably click genre begins and ends with was a pioneer of the point on complete originality. Sadly, the times its estimated budget entirely being Telltale Games’ The Walking poorly made room escape ash Dand click adventure game, point and click adventure’s are pain- from public donations, it’s obvious Dead series. Instead of taking the games, and blame can be partly put bringing us now classic titles like the fully absent from recent game pub- that there is a huge want among oversaturated rst person shooter on publisher’s neglect of this now al- Monkey Island series and Day of the lishers calendars, and many would consumers for a return to this once approach to the zombie apocalypse most rare category. However, this re- Tentacle. These games have a special say that the genre is well and truly mighty genre. And happily, the end trope (see the pointless The Walk- cent resurgence in adventure games place in my heart, and looking back dead. But is it really? result is a triumph. Not entirely per- ing Dead: Survival Instinct) Telltale has shown that consumers not only it’s not hard to see why. These games The beginning of this year saw the fect; the puzzles are a little on the injects new life into an almost stag- enjoy, but demand these games, and were original, completely engaging, release of the rst act of Broken Age, straightforward side, and it su ers nant theme through a focus on nar- are willing to fork out the money and most of all, they were funny. an entirely crowd funded point and from patchy moments in its duel rative and character development, a to play them. We may be past the Looking back, when was the last time click adventure game from Double story, but Broken Age is packed with feat that is hugely entrenched in its golden age of LucasArts adventure you played a game as unique as the Fine with a second act and an IOS charm, humour and originality, remi- adventure game roots. Worthwhile games, but hopefully projects like dystopian motorbike adventure Full release currently on its way. In its niscent of those classic point and indie titles such as the robotic love Broken Age will help bring the genre Throttle? Or as charming as the Mexi- tongue-in-cheek Kickstarter video, click titles that dominated sales in tale Machinarium and the eerily at- to a new generation. can fork-lore inspired Grim Fandan- adventure game spearhead Tim the nineties. mospheric Kentucky Route Zero also Schafer states “if I was to go to a pub- The past few years have seen a continue to display how valuable the May Issue 2014 | Seren 39 GAMES Survive the summer gaming drought EVERY Gamer knows that Summer is hardly something to get all that excited about. Sure Whatever it is here at Seren we’ve built up a list of the best games from the last year that there’s the promise of hot weather, a break from your studies and for the football fanatics you can now get your hands on at a decent price, or replay if you already have them, as well among us this year even brings us the World Cup - however, little to no new games are about as a few of the most recent to grace the shelves of GAME and our pick of the best summer to land in our consoles. releases yet to come. Perhaps it’s a government conspiracy to get us out of our darkened rooms, away from our tvs and out into the world. Beyond: Two Souls The Summer Catchup PS3 Exclusive. Pick it up on Amazon for just £15.35 Its been a pretty decent year for the gaming industry. With RELEASED in late 2013, Quantic Dream’s return summer round the corner and the end of exams in sight to the cinematic, psychological thriller has been why not catch up on some of the best? racking up accolades. It stars Hollywood’s Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe in the lead roles, in an attempt to take cinematic gaming to a whole new level - something it masterfully achieves. Beyond Two Souls is a game meant for those among us who love a game with a great narrative because at times the gameplay fails to be completely convincing and there’s little freedom to do much other than follow the story. Like Heavy Rain before it though, Beyond pushes the boundaries between game and movie and is nothing short of addictive. Without going into much of the plot, it centres on Jodie, a young girl with psychic powers and Aiden a mysterious and unseen entity. Beyond may not be the best game you’ll ever play but if you’ve a penchant for a good story and want to see the PS3’s graphics at it’s best then it’s de nitely worth your time. Grand Theft Auto 5 PS3 & XBox 360. Pick it up at Amazon or Game for just £29.99 £38 £20 PERHAPS the most anticipated game of the last few years, Rockstar’s GTA V did not disappoint. It seems unlikely that there’s a gamer yet to get this in their collection and for good reason. GTA V gives you exactly what you want from the franchise; cars, guns, money, ridiculous characters with a side of a decent storyline and the biggest open world map that gaming has ever seen! And to shake things up a little Rockstar decided to include not one ridiculous criminal protagonist but three! Whether you’re a hardcore GTA fan who will endeavour to not only complete the game’s story but gain 100% or more of a casual criminal who just wants to have a drive around Los San- tos, GTA V is de nitely a game that needs to be on your shelf! £15 £18

There’s little to shout about in gaming over the summer, but if you’re going to spend Summer Picks your cash on any we recommend these... Release Date: 27th May 2014 Release Date: 20th June 2014 PS4, XBox One, PS3, XBox 360, PS4 (PS3 version also available) Windows & Wii U ITS pretty di cult to choose the best new games during a THE hotly anticipated open-world action season where very little new games are released. That being adventure Watch Dogs is almost upon us. said, it’s just made it a lot easier to highlight The Last of Us: The game, set in Chicago Illinois, has sparked Remastered as one of the games to add to your collection quite the following online since its o cial this summer. Remastered sees Naughty Dog’s 2013 action- announcement during Ubisoft’s E3 2012 panel. It horror third person survival masterpiece make its way to the was originally scheduled for a Novemeber 2013 Playstation 4, enhancing its already beautiful graphics. release date but was pushed back for ‘further The game follows survivor Joel as he attempts to escort 14 polishing’. Watch Dogs’ open world environment year old Ellie across post-apocalyptic America which has been and entire premise seem to mirror the developer’s infected by Cordyceps fungus. The game, which has won successful Assassin’s Creed franchise; something over 200 game of the year awards, combines hand to hand that can’t entirely be a bad thing. combat, guns, melee weapons and stealth techniques with Players will control vigilante, Aidan Pearce, a Joel and Ellie coming up against a number of enemies, from highly skilled hacker. Judging by the amount of the fungal-zombie clickers to other survivors. Like every- time spent on getting the game ready for release and the attention to detail the thing that Naughty Dog creates it is pure genius, with an amazingly written, heartwarming and developers have undergone (they worked closely with Russian anti-virus company thought-provoking story to uid gameplay and stunning graphics. If you have a PS3 you better al- Kapersky to ensure the hacking with the game was realistic), Watch Dogs is going ready have this in your collection, and if you own a PS4 make sure you pick up your copy when it’s to be...well, one to watch! released in June! 40 Seren | May Issue 2014 FOOD AND DRINK CREAM OF BANGOR A pudding a day keeps the exam blues away

Photos by Victoria Allen by HARRIET WELLER f you fancy a break from revision puddings and some Indian sweets wanted to make it unique to Bangor We look forward to it! Where do for events from birthday parties to or want something to satisfy that for people to try. so ended up settling on Cream of all these delectable desserts come student events; our aim is to have Isweet tooth in the summer sun Bangor. from? Cream of Bangor on everyone’s lips. then head on down to the new- So tell us what brought you to All our ice creams and desserts est edition to Bangor’s high street, Bangor? How has the response to all come from down the road in Har- Finally for all those who want to Cream of Bangor. Having opened up I live just down the road in Llanelli, these puddings been so far? lech, coming from Welsh producers come and try out Cream of Bangor just three weeks ago, Cream of Ban- and I already own 5 Indian takea- Great, especially because of the was a really important factor for us for themselves, what do you rec- gor has an impressive array of tanta- ways and restaurants but wanted sunshine and the biggest surprise and their ice cream is award winning ommend? lising treats with something to suit to start a new venture along with has been the response to our Indi- but our Indian delicacies come from The strawberry and chocolate everyone from crepes, to wa es, to my business partner Jamal and an sweets, they sold out in the rst a speciality baker in Manchester. crepes are my favourite but if you ice creams, to even the weird and we thought Bangor was missing a week and as that is our unique sell- want something a little di erent I the wonderful, like Indian sweets. place like this. Being in business is ing point, we were really happy. We The ice cream de nitely lives up recommend one of our Indian de- With all that on o er, Seren could all about building connections, and also have already had regular cus- to its award status. (said happily lights, Rashmali, it’s very sweet and not resist a visit and is here to wel- that’s how we acquired this place as tomers building up who are bring- after demolishing the ice cream melts in the mouth. Kinder Bueno come you to Bangor’s one and only we knew the landlord and thought it ing their friends so we are feeling sundae!) Are you hoping to go one milkshakes are what my sta always dessert parlour, with an exclusive was a great space to create a dessert positive. step further and make anything go for though. interview (accompanied by a mam- parlour in. homemade at all? So why not take a break from moth ice cream sundae of course, all Who are you trying to reach here We de nitely have ambitions to those exams, and join the Cream of in the name of journalism). Wow, so business number 6! But in Bangor? go homemade, especially with the Bangor craze. We are sure you won’t not quite an Indian takeaway, Students are our main focus, which cakes and Indian sweets but we be left disappointed and ice cream We chatted to joint owner and where did the idea for a dessert is why we do a 15% discount (great!), wanted to see what the customer is de nitely good for those brain business entrepreneur, Ali, who parlour come from? but everyone really from students, demand was rst. We do make sand- cells. Before you jump out of your gave us the lowdown on Cream of Due to my very sweet tooth I want- to tourists, to locals, everyone loves wiches on site here every morning seat though, we have even more Bangor and some great tips for any ed to expand to something a little puddings! though and everything is freshly as- great news as the generous people budding entrepreneurs. bit di erent. We often visit Bradford sembled right before the customer’s of Cream of Bangor are o ering you due to past connections and saw Discounts sound great but are eyes. a free regular Wa e or Crepe with So to all those who haven’t had that dessert parlours were popping you planning on doing any excit- every copy of Seren until the end of the delight of visiting yet, tell us, up everywhere and people were lov- ing events to promote your new You have a lot to o er already May! what does Cream of Bangor have ing them, so we thought why not, business? but do you plan to expand at all? on o er? let’s give it a go and here we are! We are hoping to host a grand We are dreaming big as we hope Enjoy and for more info and the Well as you can see our menu is opening in a few weeks where we to open branches across North latest dessert news head to Cream pretty extensive as we are trying Where did the inspiration for the will have lots of free tasters and en- Wales, starting in Llandudno and of Bangors facebook page. everything out. We have crepes, waf- name come from? tertainment as we showcase every- then heading to Chester but Cream es, ice cream milkshakes, chocolate There are so many names out there thing we have on o er so watch this of Bangor will always be our central bar milkshakes, ice cream sundaes, but we came across one that we space. branch. We also want to be more sandwiches, cakes, some traditional loved in London called ‘Cream’ and than a café and are happy to cater May Issue 2014 | Seren 41 FOOD AND DRINK DYLANS: THE BEST PLAICE AROUND FOR SEAFOOD

by KAYLEIGH REID rom the beautiful location with Sourced Strait from the Menai gourmet burger feast. ing you to recreate a little of Dylan’s an abundance of seafood and From humble beginnings, Dylan’s A range of sides, starters (now in- magic at home. This project was a DRINK Fthe stylish setting it’s hard to started as an old boat yard building cluding sushi!), and tempting des- huge success when it was trialled in believe that Dylan’s will only have which has now been extended on serts are also available as well as an December, the cute packaging and been open for two years in June. to the river bed to become a unique extensive drinks list which is prob- great taste served as great Christ- Now rmly embedded in the heart of restaurant that aims to work with the ably longer than the food menu! mas presents and inspired Dylan’s to OF THE the local community, this re ned res- community by sourcing all their food Dylan’s prides itself on its diversity make a New Year’s resolution to keep taurant is sure to leave anyone who locally and preparing fresh on site. and the ability to welcome anyone. the project going all year round. visits hooked. Seafood such as their famous Me- The scenic decking allows custom- MONTH Dylan’s is a restaurant doing more nai mussels, lobster and Anglesey ers to dine outside and even o ers a Seafood Festival: we’ll sea you Yes, summer hasn’t quite had than simply o ering great food and sea bass are all sourced from the Me- basket of blankets for when the sea there! the sun you expected so far, but experience, it’s a restaurant striving nai and around Anglesey, everything breeze gets a little chilly. As well as sourcing their food local- at least you’ve nished exams! to bring a community together and else from breads to chutney is freshly Indoor seating is available across ly, Dylan’s aims to work with the com- Time to celebrate with a delicious put it rmly on the map. made on site. two oors, however upstairs has a munity and by collaborating with cocktail that will take your mind o Dylan’s doesn’t shy away from big capacity of 90 and can be hired out other local businesses. This unique your internally predicted grade. Dylan’s First Steps portions either, their “Ferryman’s Plat- as a private room for special events. business mantra captures Dylan’s From the clever avour combina- ter” starter for two generously com- ambitions to encourage other busi- tions right down to the innovative prises of smoked trout, prawns, fresh nesses to help put Menai Bridge on The Old Fashioned presentation, you would never guess shelled Menai mussels, and smoked the map. Ingredients that Dylan’s was the rst venture of salmon. If this wasn’t enough, Dylan’s This year Dylan’s is hoping to build - Sugar cubes co-owners David and Robyn into adds two dips; a wonderfully smooth on the phenomenal success of last - Angustora Bitters catering.They have proved that all smoked mackerel pâté, horseradish year’s Seafood Festival which will - Rye whiskey it takes is one big idea and bucket- and tarragon mayonnaise complete take place 29th – 31st August this - Cherries loads of passion and anything is pos- with a lush crispy salad and soft year. The 2013 festival saw 50 local - Oranges sible. freshly baked focaccia bread, sour- businesses working together to cre- - Ice David and Robyn were frequent dough and cornichons. ate a Seafood Wonderland in Menai visitors to Anglesey and saw a gap in Dylan’s o er a variety of pizzas Bridge and was a huge hit with the 1. Place one sugar cube into the the market for something truly spe- baked to order, from the classic “Mar- local community attracting a crowd cocktail mixer cial. They envisioned family restau- gherita” to the innovative “Aphrodite of 10,000. 2. Throw in two ‘dashes’ of Angus- rant where customers can expect a Pizza” which combines roasted g, A year in the making, the seafood tora bitters. You needn’t worry how “relaxed, informal atmosphere whilst cured ham, goats cheese, tomato So whether you want to relax with festival, which now is hopefully to much speci cally, play around with enjoying the highest quality of food and mozzarella with rocket leaves co ee and homemade cake whilst become an annual event, sees busi- it. and service.” and honey. But let’s not forget the looking out on to the sparkling Me- nesses, Anglesey Sea Zoo, local peo- 3. Put in one cherry and half a They rst imagined this to be a locally inspired “Welsh Rarebit Pizza” nai Straits or an evening celebration ple and Bangor University come to- slice of orange pizzeria in the scenic town of Menai with perl las blue cheese, Pant Ys- to remember, Dylan’s has it all. gether to create a fantastic event. 4. Mash, muddle the ingredients Bridge, however, the beautiful scen- gawn goats cheese, taleggio, tomato They Really Push the Boat Out The free festival kicks o with a pro- 5. Put in two measures of rye ery soon served as inspiration. The and mozzarella. If anyone has attended local food cession through Menai Bridge which whiskey Menai Straits o ers a wealth of sea- Or perhaps you nd yourself in a events in the area they will be famil- invites children to workshops to 6. Pour in ice cubes food, with a staggering 90% being ounder where you fancy a pizza, but iar with Dylan’s pride and joy, Ron- create jelly sh lanterns. Later in the 7. Stir, pour into glass (tumbler exported across Europe, it seemed don’t want to miss out on the sea- nie. The little blue French van which event, festival-goers can expect arts preferred) a travesty to ignore, so the idea for food? Well Dylan’s thoughtfully ca- judders up to events such as food and crafts galleries for the children as 8. Peel a small strip of orange Dylan’s to specialize in pizza and sea- ters to this dilemma by adding “Swel- festivals and farmers’ markets allow- well as educational presentations on zest, twist it tightly to release juic- food was born. lies & Skerries Pizza” with prawn, ing people to buy their freshly baked sustainability and exhibitions on sea es, then rub the juices around the Dylan’s is now a name recommend mussel, smoked mackerel, tomato & goods. creatures made by marine biologists glass lip, before placing it inside by locals, students and tourists alike, mozzarella, or “The Menai Strait Piz- Dylan’s itself o ers something for from the School of Ocean Sciences. the drink. receiving overwhelming positive za” combining local lobster, scallops, everyone from movie and pizza There is also a cooking master class feedback as they look to appeal to chilli, basil, tomato & mozzarella. nights, where the upstairs is changed on Sunday evening, and live music Some real old-fashioned nerds everyone. Not surprising due to their Dylan’s also o ers a variety of veg- into a cosy cinema, to Welsh music including international harpist Catrin say no cherry or orange, but it’s mouth watering menu which chang- etarian options as well as other main events. Finch on the Friday night. really just a matter of opinion and es twice a year to infuse the avours dishes including the ingeniously pre- An exciting development for 2014, taste. di erent each season o ers. sented “Burger Boxes” which holds all is the selling of Dylan’s products such you could ever wish for to create a as their sauces and chutneys, allow- 42 Seren | May Issue 2014 TRAVEL Seren Down Under - Goodbye di erent to feelings of people leav- our rst year. member them? This train of thought tion and make the most of it. by JOE KEEP ing university for their home towns It is this grounding I feel I need. Af- is one that has stuck with me over So, this is just a chapter in my life over the summer, leaving behind ter spending such a long time away, the past few weeks, as I wonder what story, one I can look back to and re- what has become home and head- I need an injection of normality to coming home will actually be like. member fondly whilst also saying: ell, this will be the last Seren ing somewhere that seems a distant tell me what I’ve done was real. The All of these questions trouble us in “I did that.” Despite it coming to a Abroad, at least from me as memory to most. experience is one that no one should times of change though, as we know close, I can only approach the next Wmy time in Australia is set I am looking forward to the little pass up though, it de nes you as a time has changed us. one with the same vigour, intensity to draw to a close. My plane journey things though, knowing family are person and proves, if not to every- One thing is for certain though: we and optimism I approached this one home is booked and beckoning, yet around the corner, one else, but yourself, just what you cannot go back to how we were. If with and I can only hope everyone I don’t want to walk down that cor- has the same approach as me. ridor and say bye to this year. This experience de nes you as a person and proves just The memories that have been cre- what you are capable of... Joe will be back in the UK and ated, the friends that have been writing for Seren Bangor again made and the experience itself have compared to 30 hours away and be- are capable of. we did that, we would never make in September 2014. all been fantastic, and make me ing able to talk to friends that haven’t However, questions of what can progress or develop to our potential. wonder if coming back will be able been seen in a whole year. These are we expect are at the forefront of our This, combined with fears of change, to make up the things I have to leave also the reasons we go back home minds. Is everything the same? If not, is what makes us question if what we behind. during university, for a semblance of what has changed? Are the people are doing is right. The best course of However, this feeling can be no realism and grounding, especially in we once called friends still like we re- action: just go headlong into a situa-

Top 5 Destinations - Summer 2014

BRAZIL SCOTLAND BELGIUM MALAYSIA SEYCHELLES

AS the largest country in South THIS summer Glasgow will be hold- A largely unrated country amongst COMPETITIVE fares o ered by Ma- TOURISTS enjoy the Seychelles’ America, Brazil is diverse. Whether ing the 2014 Commonwealth Games. the gems of Europe, Belgium has laysia Airlines, AirAsia, Fire y and coral beaches and opportunities for you are exploring one of its many To coincide with this the city and Sc- some of the worlds best and most fa- new operator Malindo Air make get- water sports. Visiting wildlife in the cultural cities, walking amoungst its totland itself has had a major devel- voured foods such a beer, chocolate ting around this widely spread-out archipelago is also a major attraction famous dune beaches or taking a dip opment with new sports venues and and chips. Its picturesque cities of country a cinch boosting its tourism for most. Whilst it can be described in one of lagoons along your way, transport links for accessibility. Many Bruges, Antwerp, Ghent and Brussels in the past few years. With its bus- as paradise on earth, the Seychelles Brazil has something for everyone to people are drawn by the culture of o er a cultural and idyllic experience. tling capital of Kuala Lumpur break- are not just there for those looking enjoy. This summer it hosts the FIFA Scotland such as its historic castles, Yet somehow the words ‘Belgium’ ing new grounds in buisness, Ma- to relax. Hiking, diving, snorkelling, 2014 World Cup followed by the 2016 houses, and battlegrounds, ruins and and ‘holiday’ do not seem to meet. laysia also o ers some of the worlds boat tours and other adventure op- Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. museums, not to mention Haggis 2014 marks the 100th anniversairy of best beaches and islands aswell as tions are all readily available with the Top Places to Visit: and whiskey. WWI which may change many pre- National Parks and Reserves. promise of hot weather and beautiful Iguazu Falls, Paraná, on the Brazil- Top Places to Visit: conceptions. Top Places to Visit: scenery. Argentina border. Loch Ness to search the lakes for Top Places to Visit: The Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Top Places to Visit: Sancho Bay, in Fernando de Noron- the famous monster. A brewey to taste some of the world Lumpur Morne Seychellois National Park ha Archipelago, elected the most Scale Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest best beer. A guided tour of Sabah through cy- The glorious bays and idyllic beach- beautiful beach in the world. mountain. The trenches in Ypres. cle tourism. es of Maye. May Issue 2014 | Seren 43 TRAVEL TOURISTS EVACUATE The Worst Place KENYA THE foreign o ce has issued a ‘high threat’ of terrorism resulting in thousands of Brits being evacu- ated from Mombasa and areas of to Fall... the Kenyan coast. Both Thomson and First Choice have cancelled all holidays and ights to Mombasa A piece of original travel writing up until October as a precaution. The FCO has advised against non- essential travel to areas nearby the Kenyan-Somali border and Nairobi. by STEPHANIE YEABSLEY Bombings in the Kenyan capital have killed at least ten people and wounded scores of others. It comes man swings a bucket over- as a real shock to many Brits hoping owing with ice through the to travel to this area to experience a Amuggy air and scorching heat. African safari. “7 up... Coca Cola!”, I watch the beads of sweat roll down his face and notice his rolled up jeans and billow- RYANAIR vs ing shirt. Compared to my shorts and vest top he seems overdressed. EASY JET So why do I feel like I’m melting? My eyes are drawn to the drinks in the RYANAIR have vowed to rival bucket. Oh I wish. I can feel the freez- easyJet in the battle to attract high- ing liquid falling down my throat, re- er-spending business travellers. freshing my body with a cool wash. Deputy Chief Executive Howard Mil- This is the last thing I remember be- lar stated that “...we essentially both fore everything goes black… have the same product and y to As a young teenager, a tour round similar airports - largely around Eu- The Valleys of the Kings on holiday in rope.” He believes that by targeting Egypt was not my idea of fun. After certain aspects such as allocated two hours of constant moaning to seating, buisness fares and a better my parents that I would be ne back webdesign they can “catch up very at the hotel by the pool, we arrived. quickly” with the rival budget air- Looking back now, I wish I had appre- line company. Next month see’s the ciated it a little more. Then however, launch of a new family product for all I remember was the blistering Ryanair which o ers discounts for heat and sun-burnt shoulders of the children on allocated seating fees thousands of unprepared tourists all and bags as well as family discounts here to see the ancient tombs. for frequent iers. We walked towards yet another tomb. They all looked the same to A me. Pausing outside I look at the hi- eroglyphs for a split second, feigning NECESSARY interest, before I retreat and once more stare at the oor. Even my Hello ACCESSORY? Kitty sunglasses aren’t blocking out THE ‘b-tourist’ band aims to pro- the intense rays of the Egyptian sun. vide travellers with a private space I catch every couple of words the in which to eat and sleep during tour guide says. “Tombs… History… a ight. Made of a piece of elas- Egypt… Ancient…” I’m sure from the tic stretched between two seats it concentrated looks on my parents’ gives passengers their own private faces it’s very interesting… area during a ight. The strip is said “Pay attention Steph!”, my dad to be lightweight, easy to pack and whispered. My eyes dart upwards. He assemble, and can t several seat is frowning at me. Does he not real- that girl. I stare at him a while longer. I rise shakily to my feet. I hear mut- plane seats. ise how hot it is? I feel tired. I cling on Temple of Ramses II to the wall of the tomb for support. He looks blurry… I feel tired… So, so, tering and turn around to see a cou- The walls are wet with the perspira- hot… ple of Egyptian o cials staring at me. JUST HAD TO FISH YOUR SUNGLASS- tion of thousands of tourists. I really “Steph?!” “Steph?!” “Wake up Steph!” Staring at the stupid English girl who ES OUT OF THE BIN!”, she shouts. need a drink. A man walks by in the I open one eye, and then the next. faints and lands in a bin… What? What is she talking about? I near distance. A young girl about my The sun is too bright… and, where “So can we go and get a drink look up. My dad is laughing. My mum age runs over and trades a few coins am I? I sit up. I’m on the oor? My now?” looks terri ed. I knew I should have for one of the cool drinks he carries. eyes adjust to the bright sun, I see my stayed at the pool… I would do anything right now to be sister waving something in the air. “I

BUT is the so called clever design merely an inconvineance to other yers? The ‘b-tourist’ band may po- tentially block other passengers own private spaces on the plane by ruining their view of the back- seat television screens. It could also be seen as a hazard by preventing passengers from moving to visit the toilet aswell as preventing them from leaving their seats in the event of an emergency. A current poll claims that 74% of frequent iers “wouldn’t be seen dead” with this accessory on their travels. 44 Seren | May Issue 2014

THE SEREN CROSSWORD

Across 1. New ice cream parlour, ___ of Bangor (5) 2. Comeback of the ___ and click adventure game (5) 5. 31st May, the date of the Summer ___ (4) 6. Swiss Alien designer ___ Rudolf Giger (4) 7. The Smith’s frontman who has a lm planned (9) 9. Flighty exam disrupter (6) 10. Super long-lasting lip colour as recommended by Seren (10) 12. First heavy metal band to headline Glastonbury (9) 13. Acronym of recently ended American sitcom with Ted and Robin (5) 14. Spy writer John le Carre’s latest novel, A Delicate ___ (5) 17. The reason we are all here, they come in 2:1s and 3rds mostly (6) 18. Graduation month (4) Down 1. Graduation out t (3)(3)(4) 3. Serener Joe Keep returns from his study year in ___ (9) 4. Duke University are studying the behaviour of ___ in the 70s (6) 5. Name of this page (9) 8. Harry Potter spin o Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them will be released in ___ 2016 (8) 11. Unfortunate mishap for out Travel Editor as she travelled around the tombs in ___ (5) 15. American sitcom that ending after twelve series, Two and a ___ Men (4) SUDOKU! BEFORE 16. Planet that could be a twin to Earth, ___ 186f (6) EASY

Look at these ‘identical’ photos from the society awards- HARD AFTER can you nd the six di erences? With the World Cup just around the corner things went a little World Cup crazy during the Seren all-nighters. As you can see we all dressed the part and may, or may not have formed the Seren Pigeons - our totally o cial, high ranking professional football team. We will be available to defeat your amateur team from next September. Anyway, the World Cup is pretty exciting. Whether you like football or not there’s a good chance you’re going to get into it anyway. Plus with the time di erence in Brazil the pubs are going to be opening extra late! It’s going to be a good summer! We just hope you aren’t supporting Eng- land, because that would be unfortunate... To get you in the World Cup spirit we’ve put in some pretty interesting World Cup facts and gures, expertly sni ed out by our American Wyatt - we aren’t too sure if he knows what football or the World Cup is! We’ve also included a sweepstakes kit for you! Well, we say kit...it’s just a list of countries that you can cut out - but we saved you the trouble of trying to work out if you’ve got all 32. That part did take us quite some time - journalists obviously aren’t any good at maths! Right, this is it from us until September now so enjoy your summer, enjoy your World Cup and COME ON ORANJE!!! THE WORLD CUP IN NUMBERS 76 4721 MOST WORLD NATIONS HAVE TAKEN M MILES FROM BANGOR TO CUP WINS PART $35FIRST PLACE PRIZE BRAZIL RIO RUN YOUR OWN WORLD CUP SWEEPSTAKES

Cut out all of the countries, fold them in half KOREA FRANCE GHANA MEXICO and put into a hat (or other substitute item) to then be picked out in random. Each person who participates will pick out AUSTRALIA COLOMBIA ITALY HONDURAS one of the countries at random. How many countries people are allowed to choose depends on how you want to play it PORTUGAL ECUADOR CROATIA CHILE and how many people are taking part. For example, in the Seren sweepstakes we’ve allowed people to enter up to three times. Or you could only allow one per per- ENGLAND JAPAN GREECE SPAIN son and let the remaining countries become that of a ‘pot’. Once a World Cup winner is crowned the BRAZIL BELGIUM ALGERIA IRAN person who drew that country is the sweepstakes winner. It is a good idea to write down who picks ARGENTINA GERMANY CAMEROON BOSNIA out which country since the World Cup winner won’t be crowned until 13th June and you don’t want people to have lost or forgot- SWITZERLAND ten what country they picked! IVORY COAST COSTA RICA URUGUAY HOLLAND USA NIGERIA RUSSIA 46 Seren | May Issue 2014 SPORT

Bangor City: Season in Review by LJ TAYLOR important. e more we play them the It was a tough start to the season Big things are to be expected of City ere’s also a lot of great things go- more we know their strengths and which saw the team struggle to come next season, as they turned around a ing on o the pitch for Bangor, such espite a tough start to the sea- their weaknesses, we’re able to work away from matches with the im- poor start and nished the season on as the development of the 3G train- son for a very young Bangor out strategies. We’ve beat them three portant three points, but they have form, playing exciting and attacking ing pitch which Bangor University’s side, it this week ended in a times in the last month or so and it’s worked hard to gel as a team over football. With a youthful rst team football teams will also bene t from. Dsuccess which saw Nev Powell’s team about getting that winning formula. the season and establish themselves and their Under 19’s nishing second ere are also plans to extend e li the Play-o Trophy and make a ere’s a lot of psychology in football amongst the top half of the Welsh Pre- in their league it looks as though Ban- Book People Stadium in Nantporth, welcomed return to European Foot- and I think we’ve really managed to mier League. gor’s youngsters still have a lot to o er. in what has been a really successful ball. get the edge.” explained Powell. It was a stunning 9-1 defeat to Welsh “A lot of the younger lads have been rst full season at the stadium. e e Bangor manager was full of Bangor went on to win the match Premier League Champions, e New a part of the rst team, and those who club has managed to host a number praise for his young players; “So if you 2-0 and their supporters rushed onto Saints, towards the end of the season haven’t been on the bench have still of Wales Under 21 matches, as well as look at it from that perspective our the pitch to join the celebrations at the which saw e Citizens miss out on come to train with us. It’s really great the Wales Women’s World Cup quali- young lads; Joe Culshaw, Iolo Hughes, nal whistle. third place to Carmarthen due to goal for them to have that belief in them- er against Montenegro earlier this Jamie McDaid to name a few, have “We always have a lot of support, di erence. However, the Blue and selves and know we’re interested in month. come in and done really well being even if we’re on a bad run of form White Army picked themselves up, the younger players - Nev de nitely is, anks to a considerable investment thrown straight into it,” he said. there’s 300-400 there. e support is and wins against Newton and Rhyl FC look at what he’s done this year,” said from both Bangor University and the It could not have been more perfect there for us so we just have to do our saw them return to European Foot- Bangor’s captain. Football Association of Wales, the for e Citizens as they took on their job and put the club back where it be- ball. For manager, Powell, Bangor’s future club looks to extend its main stand, erce rivals, Rhyl, in front of a home longs; back in Europe.” said Johnston. “Getting to the playo s has been a could hold even greater things with construct a supporter’s stand and cre- crowd of over 1400 on one of the sun- Nev Powell was full of praise for real plus and our form going into it his hopes of one day being able to be a ate an education suite. e work on niest a ernoons of the season. the fans as well; “Bangor is the best was great. A er the TNS defeat we ‘full-time’ club. the ground will also mean that Bangor “Playing Rhyl there’s always that supported side in the Welsh Premier haven’t conceded a goal, hopefully “We won the league as a part time City will be able to play home games extra incentive, the fans love to beat League. ey always go that extra yard we can manage not to concede in Eu- club and when you see TNS, as a full in their Europa League xtures at Rhyl. And it really spurs you on, and on the pitch you can really feel rope,” said Johnston. time club, winning it and having it Nantporth. it’s not just an important match but that buzz from them. ey were great “At the start of the season, our aim wrapped up by Christmas, you’ve re- With this season all wrapped up there’s all that history and rivalry be- for us on Saturday” was to nish in the top six. Anything ally got to look at how we won it as a successfully, Powell and his Blue and tween the clubs,” Bangor captain, Mi- “Even been stood on the touchline above that was a plus so it’s been great. part time club. at wouldn’t happen White Army are already looking to- chael Johnston, told Seren. you can feel it and as an opposing Not being in Europe this year has re- anywhere else. In the conference it’s wards the next. “You can say we play Rhyl too many player you must be stood there think- ally hit home for the experienced lads, the part time clubs who are right at “ e lads are back in training in just times but from my point of view, it’s a ing ‘what is this’. It’s superb, they’ve you really notice the consequences the bottom of the league. No one else a couple weeks and we just need to local derby and it still adds something been superb for us all season.” he told and it was horrible not to be involved,” will do that and that will live long with keep ticking over and try and progress Seren. he said. us,” he said. even more,” he said.

Dragons are Spirit of AU jury can make to the dynamic of the and participation within the Athletic by YAN TRINH team and the squad’s choreography, Union, resulted in the awarding of the Bangor Dragons have enjoyed their Steve Connor Spirit of e Athletic his year Bangor Dragons success. Union Award to the Bangor Drag- Cheerleading Squad have had Training three times a week, the ons Cheerleading Squad at the Ath- their most successful year to squad have also given their time to letic Union Dinner. A number of the Tdate, managing to place in the top 3 participate in many university events. squad, achieved half and full-colours squads at competitions an astonish- e Dragons have supported the for their commitment and perfor- ing nine times. At both Regional and Men’s Basketball team at all of their mance throughout the year. National level, Bangor Dragons have home games, giving demonstrations Despite the majority of the squad excelled. e highlight of the year was and creating an exciting, motivat- having no previous cheerleading ex- a rst place trophy for the all-girl level ing atmosphere. ey also travelled perience, all have excelled, both indi- 3 group stunt team that competed to Aberystwyth to attend Varsity this vidually and as part of the team. Many against not only university teams, but year for the rst time, to support all of have grown to love the sport and see also well-known all-star teams from the Athletic Union’s Clubs. e squad the squad as their second family. across the country. In April, the co-ed were delighted to be asked to perform On a more personal note, I would level 3 cheer squad also took second at the successful Bangor Sport Relief like to say well done to everyone who place at the annual National Univer- Mile in March, which allowed them made Bangor Dragons what they have sity Championships. ese outstand- to showcase their talents to students been this year and a huge good luck ing results and growing reputation and public alike. As well as pleasing to the new committee and next year’s could not have been achieved without the large crowds, a number of squad squads! the hard work and dedication of every members got involved in the run it- team member. Although stressful at self and raised hundreds of pounds times, due to the changes a single in- for charity. Other fundraising events May Issue 2014 | Seren 47 SPORT Season of Progress for Hockey Ladies

By FIONA HAILSTONE Jitsu Grading Success he 2013/14 season for Bangor the Jitsu Club attending the TJF Ran- career, the awarding of an SP is given ing). is is the second time a Bangor University Hockey Club La- by JITSU COMMITTEE dori Nationals. e second and nal for contributions by the individual not Club member has come back with the dies has been extremely posi- national competitions of the academic only to their own club but to their en- award and this is a big achievement for Ttive. e cohesion between the both he beginning of February year for the Club, looked at the lesser tire region, and allows Sensei Craig to Gareth. the rst and second team squads has marked the start of a 90 Day known part of e Jitsu Foundation now progress to training for his Sec- roughout April, Bangor was hon- been fantastic. e support for both Sober Challenge for the Club Jitsu- ground ghting. e two day na- ond Dan. oured to be present for some key mile- teams games has been incredible and TCaptain, Felicity Walker. From the tional event sees Jitsuka from around e Club had no time to rest a er stones in the careers of two of Preston’s the regular movement of players be- 1st February to the 1st May she gave the UK come together to train under hosting such an event though, as the brown belts. Bangor and Preston are tween squads has meant that every- up all alcohol and for the last 30 days the instruction of world renowned next weekend they travelled to Aston two of the closest clubs in the region one has had to compete for places, all forms of tea. e task was under- Sensei, with a focus on ground ght- to help West Midland clubs celebrate and Bangor would like to congratulate helping to both improve performance taken in an e ort to raise money for a ing. As well as training, the event has their 25th anniversary. e 25 years of Sensei Michael Quigley on becoming and development. trip the club plan to take later in the a competition element with Jitsuka Jitsu in Aston was celebrated with a re- the instructor for the Preston Junior On the pitch this year the Club has year to train in Canada. A er attend- being given the chance to compete gional training event and black tie din- Club and on the presentation of his enjoyed many successes, as the La- ing the e Jitsu Foundation (TJF) against other Jitsuka of their grade, ner, and the month was then rounded Hakama, and Sensei Brian Naisbitt on dies second team went very close to International last summer Felicity be- gender and weight in Judo-esque com- o in spectacular fashion with another being presented with his mandate. promotion in both their BUCS and came determined to ensure that others petitions. 100% pass rate at the annual grading. So far in May the Club has continued Saturday League divisions. e Ladies were able to experience international March was also a hugely busy time Bangor University Jitsu Club was the in its nonstop antics, welcoming a visit rst team were the only Bangor hock- training opportunities. Aware of the for the club as it hosted the annual only university club to come away with from Sensei Ady and Sensei Sophie ey side le in the quarter- nal stages nancial constraints of many students Bangor Regional. is year’s regional a 100% pass rate and is proud to con- from the West Midlands region, and of the BUCS Cup and also progressed and what such a training opportunity was the largest yet with an impressive gratulate the following people from Sensei Frankie and Sensei Winston to the quarter- nals of the Saturday would mean to the majority of the turnout from the entire region, to both the club on achieving their next belt: from the Wales region for a special 4 League cup, narrowly losing 1-0 to a club members, Felicity set about try- the training and the social event later Tate Jack who was awarded orange hour session. e Club had an excel- penalty corner goal. e rst team ing to raise money to help reduce the in the evening. e regional was an ex- 1 and Sabine Hildebrandt who was lent time attending the nal regional also travelled to Cardi to compete in individual costs for any member wish- tra special event as the Club was able awarded her orange, Bradley Critch- of the year last weekend in Liverpool, a national competition in the second ing to take part in the trip across the to welcome Jitsuka from some Scottish low was awarded his green belt, James and now looks forward to the nal round of the Welsh Cup, where they Atlantic. Felicity’s GoFundMe account clubs, who travelled down especially Smith was awarded his purple belt and grading of the year next month, the played against a very strong Cardi (http://www.gofundme.com/6lu85k) to visit. e region also took this op- Gareth Jule was awarded not only his Foundation’s Summer Ball and train- Metropolitan University team. has so far raised £548, but she hopes to portunity to award Sensei Craig Byrne light blue belt but also top of the mat ing course in London in July, and the Most recently the Club competed raise more before the deadline of pay- of Preston his Senior Primary (SP) (a special award for the Jitsuka who Club’s end of year meal and AGM later in Varsity against Aberystwyth Uni- ment for the trip. February also saw badge. A huge event in any Jitsuka’s performed the best during the grad- this month. versity, elding two teams. An excellent day was enjoyed by all, with the Ladies rst and second teams both winning tough games, 2-0 and 3-1 respectively. e Club’s reputation has improved immensely this year within the North Successful Wales Women’s Hockey League; for the rst time the Club has attended all league meetings and represented the University at development meetings with Hockey Wales. Bangor players have become active members of the Year for hockey community through coaching and umpiring and there have been organised social events with local hockey teams, such as Ardudwy & Arfon Hockey Club. At the Athletic Union Dinner the Frisbee Club was shortlisted for the Club place nish at the Indoor Nationals. of the Year award, which is a great However, the Women’s Team topped by ADAM GRIFFITHS achievement in itself. Development that performance by going undefeated this year has been the main objective at the Outdoor Nationals to become he past year has been Bangor Regionals, with the team coming away tained their undefeated record with and this will continue with the sup- National Champions for the rst time University Ultimate Frisbee’s from the weekend with eight wins and the Men’s Team winning by the maxi- port of the incoming committee. is, in their history. most successful to date. only one loss to qualify for the Out- mum margin of 17-0 and the Women’s as well as many more fundraising ef- TOn the eld, the Women’s Team have e Men’s Team did not perform as door Nationals. Team winning on their debut 13-1. forts, such as our involvement with expected at the Indoors Regionals and had a record-breaking year, beating is spurred on a great performance O the eld the Club has enjoyed a the Movember tournament and our narrowly missed out on qualifying for their previous highest nishes in all at the Outdoor Nationals to nish very good year for fresher retention recent and successful fundraiser for the Indoor Nationals a er losing the competitions. is included placing fourth in Division 2, placing the team and also had two of the biggest socials Wales Air Ambulance. second in the Northern Indoor Re- nal game in sudden death. in the top 20 nationally. that the Club has seen with over 40 gionals before progressing onto a sixth is was turned around at Outdoor At Varsity, Ultimate Frisbee main- people in attendance. Success for Bangor Dragons Cheerleading Page 46 SPORT Bangor City Return to Europe

Main: Bangor celebrate winning playo Date: Saturday, Inset: Jamie McDaid in action Venue: e Book People Stadium, Nantporth Photos by: LJ Taylor Attendance: 1442

by SCOTT WILLEY utes continued in the same vein, on Bangor goalkeeper Cudworth. Bangor could have lead soon af- a penalty, much to the delight with neither team really asserting Bangor once again went close with ter, when Rhyl defender Chris of the vocal home crowd. Goal- n a sunny day at the busy themselves. e rst real chance of Jones played in behind Rhyl’s high Rimmer missed his clearance, but keeper Ramsay and mid elder Book People Stadium, the half came from Sion Edwards, line, but he was pushed wide by Jones failed to gamble and the ball Mark Cadwallader protested, and Bangor triumphed over whose cross was knocked down by the defender and can only pro- rolled out harmlessly for a goal received yellow cards for their ORhyl FC to return to European striker Les Davies for Chris Jones, duce a weak shot which goalkeep- kick. troubles. Chris Jones was the man football a er a one year absence. who volleyed inches wide of the er Ramsay easily saved, leaving the Bangor’s periods of pressure soon to step up for City, and he red Finishing 4th in the Welsh Pre- Rhyl goal. Straight back at the oth- score 0 – 0 at half-time. told, as they won a throw deep in down the middle to surely send mier League, Bangor were con - er end and Bangor City goalkeeper Bangor City manager Neville the Rhyl half on the right. e ini- e Citizens into Europe. Rhyl FC dent of progressing to the Europa Jack Cudworth was called to make Powell’s words at half-time must tial ball in is cleared, but only as began to lose their heads in the last League qualifying stages against his rst save, diving low to his have done the trick, as Bangor far as Les Davies, who takes one ten minutes, and a rash challenge a 6th placed Rhyl side they had right to keep out a strong header begin to start spreading the ball touch before slotting the ball le from substitute Tom Donegan re- beaten twice in the last month. from a Rhyl corner. around on the deck, rather than footed into the bottom right hand sulted in another red card, and the e game started very cagey, with A sustained spell of pressure trying to win the ball in the air corner of the goal from 22 yards. away team were to play out the last neither side able to dominate pos- from Rhyl came as Bangor tried to against Rhyl’s tall back-line, as Bangor lead 1 – 0. ten minutes with nine men. A er session and create many chances play the ball out of defence rather they tried to do in the rst half. Bangor pressed for a second, as a scrappy nal few minutes, the within the opening ten minutes. than opting to clear it long. For- e rst real action of the second substitute Jamie McDaid caused referee blew for full time and Ban- Rhyl’s Peter Dogan earnt himself tunately for e Citizens, Rhyl half is another late challenge by Rhyl problems down the right gor City returned to the Europa a yellow card with a tough chal- could not capitalise. Rhyl striker Peter Dogan, who already on a hand side. A cross from McDaid League and European football for lenge on Bangor le -wing Sion Steve Lewis received an unneces- yellow card, is shown another for resulted in a handball from a Rhyl the rst time in a year. Edwards. e rst twenty min- sary yellow card for going in late a red. Rhyl FC down to 10-men. defender, and the referee awarded