November 2011 Degree not passport to employment

hard and live under lower conditions or Meray Diner even return to their parents’ house until things get better in this recession. There isn’t too much the Scottish Government raduates are likely to take up can do apart from encouraging the busi- internships or fall into a low- nesses to employ more young people.” skilled jobs instead of entering Cesar Diaz works in software engi- Gemployment in their subject neering testing at SigmaSeven, which area, a Stirling scholar has warned. provides information mobilization and David Bell, a Professor of Econom- map management systems. He gradu- ics at the University of Stirling, found ated with a Masters of Business Admin- that young people are struggling to find istration (MBA) from the University of a job in the current labour market and Stirling last year. He said, “I have ap- internships after graduation are becom- plied to around 15 different jobs related ing more popular. Graduates who need to my masters degree but I wasn’t able to earn money after completing their to get these positions. Therefore, I have degree are taking jobs below their skill started to look into something related to level and less qualified young people are my degree and tried to gain experience. getting squeezed out of the job market. Another graduate who could not enter The latest statistics show 70 per cent of employment straight away is Stuart Mc- Stirling graduates were in work, full or kenzie who graduated from the Univer- part time, six months after graduation. sity in 2010 with a Philosophy degree. However, this figure does not mean that He said, “There were not many chances all of these students went into degree- around Stirling for graduate jobs during related jobs. my job hunting.” He tried to go into a Among 1,217 graduates in 2010, 678 graduate programme in the civil service (56%) went into graduate jobs and 215 to become a diplomat, but found it dif- (18%) were recorded to be unemployed. ficult to enter. After taking a work train- The rest went into labour jobs. ing programme he got a job at an out- Bell said that the current situation sourcing company in customer services. resembles the recession in the 1980s. “The young generation is going to work continues on page 2 Graduates are unlikely to enter degree-related jobs Picture: Rajmund Bakonyi Sad academia, biggest strike, no teaching, happy students

reason for the University’s staff to strike. that as many as three million people will gotiating Committee (JNC) meetings to obliged to exercise my casting vote on Zsuzsanna Matyak Some of the teaching staff will refuse to go on strike on the last day of November prevent the committee from being able proposals which I believe will help to News Editor hold classes. However, as yet, it is un- across the UK. able to pass the vote in favour of the ensure the long-term sustainability of known who those lecturers and tutors The pension row across higher edu- changes. It was clear that the independ- USS.” eaching will be affected at the will be. cation entered a new phase when UCU ent chairman would vote for the changes A UCU Stirling spokesperson said, University of Stirling by “the Mark Serwotka, the General Secretary called for “sustained industrial action” that would mean 50 per cent, plus one “The changes are that we contribute biggest strike for a long time” for Public and Commercial Services Un- last month. From 10 October, staff are vote for the alterations. The committee more, they contribute less and at the end Twhen the University and Col- ion (PCS), suggested that it is possible “working to contract”. This means re- is made up of 50 per cent management of the day the pension scheme pays out lege Union (UCU), the main union for fusing to work longer hours than stated and 50 per cent teaching staff, plus the a lot less. It has a drastic affect, particu- pre-1992 universities, hand-in-hand UCU repre- in their contract, attendance of non- chairman. larly on people who are just starting off. with numerous public sector unions, sentives and obligatory meetings or covering for col- Sir Andrew Cubie, the independent They could lose hundreds of thousands will go on a national strike on 30 No- politicians leagues. chairman of the JNC said, “Whilst I was of pounds if they stay in the university vember. fought The move comes after the changes pleased that the meeting was once again system until they retire.” against the Most of the academic and admin staff came into effect on 1 October, as the quorate, I was deeply disappointed that Another major change is that staff can changes in are part of the Universities Superannua- last March University management proposed legal the employers and UCU were not able to be made redundant easier. Until now, tion Scheme (USS), which has recently action. This was because union mem- reach agreement on these important is- been substantially changed, giving the Picture: Rajmund Bakonyi bers refused to attend the USS Joint Ne- sues. In these circumstances I was again continues on page 4

HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN / SUN 20 NOV THE TWILIGHT SAD / FRI 25 NOV RELOADED: ROD JONES’ THE BIRTHDAY SUIT / SAT 26 NOV RODDY WOOMBLE’S CHRISTMAS HOOTENANNY / FRI 16 DEC 2 Brig | November 2011 www.brignewspaper.com

Brig News Editors: Graham Swann, Ailsa Stokes, Editorial Aya Kawanishi & Zsuzsanna Matyak News Email: [email protected] To get in touch with a sec- tion, email section and @ Degree not lead to job brignewspaper.com i.e. [email protected] continued from page 1 Little short life of Scottish To tackle the increasing youth unem- Editor in Chief ployment rate, some national projects Iain Blackwood have been launched involving Stirling. Editor@ One of them is the Scottish Govern- children made better ment’s new Young Scots Fund which Deputy Editors was initiated to support young people, Daniel Nunan aged 15-22, in activities that allow them Aya Kawanishi to flourish within the creative indus- News Editor Jeremy Watssman tries. It is in partnership with Stirling Council and is contributing £3million News Editors towards a new National Conservation hildren with life-shortening Graham Swann Centre which will host the activities in conditions in Scotland could Aya Kawanishi Stirling and Forth Valley College. benefit from resources spawned as a result of a £30 million gov- Zsuzsanna Matyak A spokesperson for Stirling Council C ernment funding programme south of Ailsa Stokes said, “It will focus on reviving scarce technical skills and promoting best the border, according to a Stirling re- practice in conservation. In addition, a search group. Politics Editors brand new stone masonry training fa- Together for Short Lives, a charity of- Elsa Andre cility will be created at the new Kildean fering quality care and support for life- Colm Currie campus at Forth Valley College, opening shortened children and their families, in August 2012.” defines palliative care as an active and Features Editors Finance Secretary John Swinney said, total approach to care, from the point of “We continue to tackle youth unem- diagnosis or recognition throughout the Anna Jordon child’s life, death and beyond. Catriona McGale ployment and we are now supporting 25,000 modern apprenticeships a year, The programme announced by the the highest ever number in Scotland, Department of Health (England) made Music Editors giving young people new skills to enter £30 million available for organisations Ross Dunn the workforce. To tackle areas with the to fund projects that would improve the Andy McDonald highest levels of unemployment, Skills lives of children in palliative care. As a Development Scotland has realigned result, 36 per cent of all projects south of Film Editors its pre-employment programmes to en- the border produced such resources that sure our employability initiatives can could be used in Scotland. Laura Muir For example, one of the grant holders, Stefanie Pryke respond effectively to local labour mar- kets.” Alder Hay Children’s hospital, devel- oped a master formulary for paediatric Arts Editors palliative medicine, meaning that med- Christopher Smail “the economy is still ics will have a “guidebook” for serving Catriona Keddie prescriptions and children will receive struggling and com- safer and appropriate medicinal care Opinion Editors based on high quality research evidence. petition for all jobs “Essentially, this is a guidebook for David Devereux remains stiff” doctors for prescribing medicines to Simon Ewing this very specific group of children and Antonia Kelly, from Skills Develop- young people,” said Dr Liz Forbat of Game & Tech Editor ment Scotland, evaluated the job market Stirling University, the lead author of Jamie Wright in Stirling. “The Scottish Government the Review and Analysis of the Depart- predicts that the key industry growth ment of Health (England) £30 Million Food Editor sectors are creative industries, energy, Funding Programme for Children’s Pal- Victoria Pease financial and business services, food and liative Care. drink, life sciences and tourism. There “This means that children in Scotland who are approaching the end of life will Fashion Editor are some obvious examples of these in have better controlled symptoms, which Children in palliative care will have better quality of life as a Nicola Smith Stirling, such as the Innovation Park and a thriving tourism sector.” is good news for the child and their fam- result of the various projects funded by the government ily.” Jo Speed, from the University’s Ca- Pictures: Together for Short Lives Sports Editors reer Development Centre, also said that Another project brought influence Scott Lorimer over the education sector across the UK. there is good potential in Stirling, espe- Dr Forbat added, “The course is now missioned organisation, Association for Graeme Young cially for financial sectors for the coming Coventry University and Acorns, a chil- dren’s hospice in the West Midlands, available for anyone across the UK and Children’s Palliative Care (ACT), ap- Stuart Kenny year and lots of companies are recruit- beyond to study. pointed the institution following a suc- ing graduates already. “We have had a designed an E-learning programme for a Postgraduate Certificate course for “With investment in England, there is cessful application. Online Editor number of large employers on campus potential for clinicians in a wide range It was reported that the majority of the this semester, including Barclays Capi- Children and Young People’s Palliative Daniel Nunan and Complex Care. of countries to benefit and study the project will continue to have impact in a tal, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, HSBC, Ma- course.” long term as 64 per cent of grant hold- jestic Wine, Morgan Stanley, PwC, and It is entirely online-resourced in or- Head of Photography der to allow students to complete their ers intend their project to be sustainable Standard Life. All of them are keen after the initial funding ended. Rajmund Bakonyi study through the internet. In one of to promote their summer internships “It will be great to “We are confident that important and photos@ aimed at penultimate year students and the six modules, Engaging Children and Young People with Palliative and Com- innovative developments in paediatric graduate programmes to Stirling stu- see in a few years palliative care have been made through dents.” plex Care needs, students will even learn Head of Advertising in a form of avatar with virtual scenarios what a genuine dif- this funding, which can improve the Nash Riggins Lesley Grayburn, from the Univer- lives of children and families using pal- sity’s Career Development Centre, said especially created for this purpose to ex- ference all this hard Adverts@ ercise role-play to learn care and needs liative care in Scotland,” the lead author that students have to start to plan their said. career during their study and compete in the field. work has created.” Heads of Proofing Commenced in September 2011, the Lizzie Chambers, Deputy CEO of ACT with the growing number of graduates. & Children’s Hospices UK said, “It will Lydia Nowak PG certificate course has 35 students “In terms of the future, the economy is The scholar and her team at the Can- be great to see in a few years what a Travis Emond still struggling and competition for all enrolled at the Centre for Children and Families Applied Research (CCFAR), cer Care Research Centre at the Univer- genuine difference all this hard work jobs remains stiff, but employers are sity of Stirling published the findings on has created.” still actively searching for graduates.” Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, Cov- Visit our website: entry University. 24 October, after the government-com- www.brignewspaper.com You can also find us on Twitter and on Facebook. Freshers’ triumph over signing-in rules Brig, The Robbins Centre, The University of Stirling, The finalised version makes relatively shifted from the initially proposed 7pm ing to and responding to the students Aya Kawanishi little change to the old procedures, al- and 1am, to 10pm and 1 am. living in halls accommodation.” Stirling. lowing each resident a maximum of The revised proposal came into prac- He said, “The new overnight guests FK9 4LA News Editor two guests, and asking them to show tice after the mid-semester break. […] are a result of positive action by all Tel: 01786 467176 (ask for their hall ID card when signing in their No change is made in regards to the involved,and a result of good relations Brig) iscussions over restricting guests. exam periods commencing 1 December with University Services, of which or 01786 467166 the existing halls signing-in The University Services also dropped 2011 and 1 May 2012 as well as Freshers E&CS is part.” Fax: 01786 467190 rules have come to an end, the much-objected 3am departure rule, week in both semesters when no over- Karen Plouviez, Director of Estates Dwith Estates and Campus meaning that guests will be allowed night guest or signing-in are allowed. and Campus Services said that they Services (E&CS) and the Students’ Want to Advertise in Brig? to stay in their friend’s bedroom or a Having been in negotiation with the managed to come up with a “more flex- Union (SU) reaching an agreement by booked guest room but should not sleep E&CS since September, Luke Fenton, ible approach” and “something more com Editor@brignewspaper. abolishing some of the new rules dis- in communal areas of the residence. the Students’ Union president, said that progressive than students may have cussed in the SU’s General Meeting. Furthermore, the signing-in time was he would like to “thank E&CS for listen- expected.” Brig | November 2011 3 NEWS www.brignewspaper.com Student prevails over Asperger syndrome to go to Namibia

obbie Newton, a third year sociology and criminol- ogy student, will spend three weeks volunteering in the Namibian city of Windhoek in August 2012. This Rmove is a respectable one in itself. What makes him extraordinary, however, is that he has Asperger syndrome that renders the project more daunting for him than most of us can imagine. Robbie explain his illness as “It gives me a higher function of the brain and gives me a higher IQ and better study skills but in return it lowers my social skills.” Even then, he goes for the mission and he was happy to share his worries with News Editor, Zsuzsanna Matyak.

Where did the idea come from to go to Namibia to volunteer? I go to the Holy Trinity Church in Stirling which has some connections with Imkerhof, the Bible School I will be volunteering with in Namibia. The project is run by a family who used to go to Holy Trinity, as the dad was a minister. They had some posters on and I asked the current minister about it and she was all up for it and put me in contact with the family. What was your first thought when you heard about the project? I thought “oh, wow, that would be pretty intense”. Then I looked at the possibilities whether it would be right to go and whether I would be able to go. Then I decided that, yes, this would be the right thing to do and it would be a good experience and I would be delivering a good service. What will you do at Imkerhof? I am expected to do some Bible teaching over there. I pick a passage in the Bible, I read it through, I interpret it and I deliver it in a way that children can understand. Sometimes the Bible can be very intimidat- ing for children, so it’s all about delivering it in a concise, manageable manner. In addition, their Care and Compassion Ministry offers such services as HIV testing, and support for people with the virus, and their families. As you may know, Namibia has an incredibly high rate of in- fection of HIV/AIDS compared to the rest of Africa, and so to provide support is amazing. You have Asperger syndrome. How does it affect you in your daily life? Robbie wants to know everything about Nambia to set his mind for the trip I’m not the kind of student who would go out to party or go out to the Picture: Provided by Robbie Newton Union. I don’t feel being able to do that. For an Asperger person noises teered in a number of camps where I was exposed to a wide number of able and I’m only gonna get more able. Another challenge will be be- are louder and lights are brighter. So you can imagine, a night club or new people. So I suppose I evolved in coping with strangers. ing away for so long. I will miss my girlfriend. the Union would be pretty intense. I prefer staying in and studying. The How do you prepare yourself? Are you proud of yourself? majority of my socialisation comes from Facebook. Also, Asperger is af- With the risk of sounding cocky or overconfident, I think it is pretty fecting my hands. They are not as good as they can be when it comes to First, it’s the fundraising. Also, I have recently found a work-out pro- brave of me, taking a step back, removing myself from my head. I am writing, so I have to use a laptop. That’s the biggest effect it has on my gram on a website. I lost 3 kilos in the last 2 months to cope with the proud of all the things I managed to accomplish in my life despite my life: the lack of fine motor skills. heat. I also have to get travel injections including but not limited to hepatitis B, hepatitis A, meningitis and tetanus. To prepare myself disability. Five years ago I wouldn’t have thought that I could manage mentally, I am asking a lot of questions from my contact in Namibia to a journey like this. So I’m proud that I came over a lot of barrier. get things set in my mind. I want to know more information about the If you should name one thing that you look forward to the organisation. Also, I will research a lot about Namibia, for example most what would that be? using the university library service because if we got it why not use it. One thing I am looking forward to the most is experience. It will be What are your targets with the fundraising? very interesting to see the culture and the inhabitants and to see a lots My first target was to get £500 offline by the end of December. Now wild life. They have elephants and hippos over there. I might get to I’m sitting on £550. I also got an online fundraiser on a website called ride an elephant. Crowd Fundraiser. It works in a way that I pick a length of time for You can donate to Robbie’s cause at http://www.crowdfunder. my pitch. I picked 90 days, now I’ve got 40 days left [as of 31 October] co.uk/investment/robbie-s-namibia-work-399. to reach £500 online. Right now I’m sitting on £441. If I don’t reach the target then the money goes back to the donator and I don’t get any of it so I cannot go to Namibia. I’m hoping to raise at least £2000 in What is Asperger syndrome? total by next June. So in the New Year I will have various fundraising events around Stirling and some places in Edinburgh to raise another Asperger syndrome is a form of autism. The condition £1000 pounds by June. On Valentine ’s Day I will be holding a cake is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a Picture: www.mapsnworld.com sale outside of the Chaplaincy. With Holy Trinity I will do a ceilidh person communicates with, and relates to, other people. using Spotify to save on the costs of hiring a band. I will also be doing It also affects how they make sense of the world around It sounds astonishing that you have these problems and you things like bobby job which is a Scottish word for renting yourself out. them. People with autism may experience over- or un- still decided to go alone to a completely different culture far For example, I help out if someone needs their car washed. der-sensitivity to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, light or away from home. colours. People with the condition often prefer predict- What challenges will you face? I know, it will be completely intimidating with my Asperger. Going able routines that help them feel secure and make sense around the airport by myself is scary. It is very difficult for me to find There will be various challenges. You have to get all the money on of the world around them. They are often of average or the directions and facing a lot of new people. However, I’m feeling bet- time. Also, it will be daunting because it is difficult to speak to new above average intelligence. An estimated 50,000 Scots ter about it because I’m also a volunteer at an organisation called Scrip- people especially if I am in a rush. So if I had for example only half have autism. ture Union Scotland. It delivers camps for young people. I have volun- an hour to change flights that would be pretty intimidating. But I feel Brig | November 2011 4 www.brignewspaper.com NEWS In Brief Strike against he University of Stirling and Say “no” to Succeed changes Forth Valley College (FVC) are Tcelebrating their new partnership agreement whereby Stirling will now to pension validate FVC’s BA Media and Com- munication and BA Art and Design and it will love you scheme degrees. The collaboration signals the beginning of joint working be- continued from page 1 tween the University and FVC as the college moves more of its activities to Graham Swann if someone was made redundant they the city’s new campus. were entitled to pension from the time News Editor of redundancy. Their pension was paid second public consultation by the university until retirement age and from then on by the scheme. Now meeting will be held at the Uni- fter a controversial start, it ap- A if they become redundant they are not versity on Tuesday 8 November re- pears that Succeed, the Uni- paid until they reach retirement age. garding the redevelopment of some versity’s new online source The spokesperson for UCU Stirling of its student residences. Members that gives students access to A thinks that the changes were not nec- of the public, University students information related to their modules, is essary. “We acknowledge that some and staff are invited to attend. The not causing any further problems. changes are necessary because for ex- consultation meeting will be held on Disruptions to the new software ample people are living longer. How- Tuesday 8 November from 6.30 to were first noted very shortly into the ever, those changes should only be mi- 8.30pm in Lecture Theatre 2W1 in 2011/2012 academic year on 12 Septem- nor. The scheme is 90 per cent funded. the Cottrell Building of the Univer- ber, when the system ran very slowly It means if everybody in the scheme sity. initially, then stopped completely early retired tomorrow they would have 90 that day. per cent of the money to pay them. It is ostgraduate Fair will be held on Succeed had further problems on 14 an incredibly high level. Most schemes Wednesday 9 November at the and 20 September and had to be re- P are not funded like that. In most cases Atrium, Andrew Miller Building of started. The problem was identified by it is 30-40 per cent. So they do not need the University from midday until Blackboard as being a bug in the system. to make these changes and the changes 2pm. The event is open to students However, since September 20 the sys- were imposed rather than negotiated.” and members of the public. To book tem has been running smoothly with no The fund for the scheme comes from a place email: recruitmentsupport@ problems being reported by students to contributions from working people be- stir.ac.uk or contact Recruitment Information Services. Asked about the Succeed is the upgrade from WebCT CE 8 ing in the scheme and contribution from Support Officer Sarah O’Connell on reasons for the disruptions, Informa- Picture: Iain Blackwood the management. 01786 467039. tion Services commented, “It was unfor- He said the UCU expects the strike at tunate that there were problems on its Explorer 8. This turned out to be the the blocking and it will behave the same the end of November to convince the eputy First Minister and Cabinet first outing for students, but it is difficult fault of the web browser. way on any secure web site. The solution employer representatives to restart ne- Secretary for Health, Wellbeing to handle the very high peaks of usage at D Upon accessing Succeed, the user is is to answer ‘No’ to the original question gotiations instead of imposing their set- and Cities Strategy Nicola Sturgeon the beginning of semesters and almost faced with a dialogue box with the ques- or make Succeed a ‘trusted site’ in Inter- tlement on the members of the pension visited the University of Stirling re- impossible to test such heavy loading tion: “Do you want to view only the web- net Explorer.” scheme. cently to hear more about research conditions effectively in advance. The page context that was delivered secure- Guidance for those still having difficul- He said one of the reasons why the being carried out in the School of first day of the autumn semester prob- ly?” Information Services explains that ty can be found by visiting: http://www. changes should be reversed is “they Nursing, Midwifery and Health. ably represents the heaviest load the clicking “yes” is the wrong thing to do. is.stir.ac.uk/docs/succeed/Security.pdf make entering academia as a career a Ms Sturgeon praised pioneering re- system will ever need to deal with in the “Lots of pages will not load any longer Introduced at the beginning of the less attractive option because one of the search being carried out by staff and future.” because they are not delivered securely. 2011/2012 academic year, Succeed is main things that attract people in this students across all areas of health Information Services has recently Thus it appears that Succeed is blocking built on the Blackboard Learn 9.1 soft- career is the good pension scheme. So care at the University’s three cam- noted, however, that whilst Succeed has access to various external and internal ware and is the upgrade from WebCT the standards might fall in the future puses in Stirling, Highland and the been running smoothly, there has been web sites. Succeed isn’t doing this at all, CE 8. and that can affect students in the long Western Isles. a problem with access using Internet but rather it is Internet Explorer doing term. Fourth floor library fire alarm fails Stirling hosts Booker Prize Winner he 2003 Booker Prize winner only five universities in the UK to be Ailsa Roworth-Stokes DBC Pierre will be visiting the offered this opportunity, with St. An- T University on Monday 14 No- drews being the only other Scottish News Editor vember, to read from his prize win- university participating. ning book Vernon God Little, and Professor Gerry McCormac, Princi- tudents were left bewildered answer questions. pal and Vice Chancellor, says: “I am when a fire alarm on the fourth Every first year student has been delighted that the University is par- floor of the library failed last given a free copy of the book in prep- ticipating...Created to introduce stu- month. aration for this event, and discussion dents to high quality, contemporary S groups will be taking place this week fiction, it allows students across our Students were asked to evacuate by a member of staff after the fire alarm in various locations around campus. various disciplines to have a shared failed. In addition, non-first year students experience to encourage debate.” Two fire engines attended the scene, can buy a copy of the book from the All are welcome to come along to but luckily it was a false alarm. English Studies office for only £2.50. the reading on 14 November, and to A student who was on the fourth floor This is courtesy of the Booker Prize the discussion groups this week. Stu- when it happened said, ‘It was very Foundation’s Universities Initiative, dents should look for flyers and post- confusing. We were asked to evacu- which aims to encourage an appre- ers around campus for more details. ate immediately. At first I thought it ciation of literature in all students, The University is counting on the was a joke, as the man didn’t look like regardless of their subject. success of this initiative in order to a member of staff, and the fire alarm The University of Stirling is one of be chosen again next year. wasn’t going off. “I asked another staff member what The library has been recently refurnished at cost of £11.4 million was going on but he had no idea. It was Picture: Rajmund Bakonyi only when I went out onto the landing of the fourth floor I heard all the alarms had happened, as, had it been a real The aim is to ensure that hazards are going off. When I got downstairs it Who is Lucy? fire, students could have been seriously comprehensively identified, evaluated was clear that the rest of the building hurt due to the fire alarm not going off, and managed. It is a central feature of progress of Gender Equality Movement had been clear for a while. When I got especially on the fourth floor.’ health and safety legislation covering Aya Kawanishi (GEM). She said, “I am hoping to help outside everyone was already standing Brig spoke to a member of Campus hazardous substances, display screen GEM progress this year. This year the there. News Editor Estates and Services once the fire alarm equipment, manual handling, and fire aim is to do more awareness campaigns “I was angry when I realised what had been turned off, and although he safety.” and work with as many people as we could not say why the fire alarm did not Luke Fenton, President of Stirling n the Students’ Union election, the can in doing this. I feel when it comes ballot box collected 584 votes to Retractions work, did say it would be put in the fire University Students’ Union, said, ‘While to matters of liberation everyone should report. we understand that failures in safety decide four members to represent be involved.” The University had not commented at procedures happen, for such a serious the students at the University of Claire Heuchan wishes not to be I Jordan Tiller, who received 129 votes, time of publication. flaw to occur is unacceptable. The time Stirling in the National Union of Stu- 22 per cent of the total ballot, said, “I’m associated with the headline “Clubs Standards imposed by the Health from the alarm sounding and then only dents (NUS) on 17 and 18 October. and Societies will benefit from looking forward to a fantastic opportu- and safety at work, etc Act 1974 and sounding on some floors until the time Receiving the majority of the votes, nity to represent the views of Stirling membership card” published in the the Management of health and safety it took staff to make sure the building 207 votes or 35.6 per cent, Lucy Drum- October 2011 issue of Brig. students. This year is increasingly at work regulations 1999 require risk was clear is concerning. mond will attend both national and important and, as an NUS delegate, assessments to be performed by the “I hope the University has learnt Scottish NUS conferences. The current I’m looking to hear the views of the In the “Students fined amid purple University. from this situation and that the proper Vice-President of Education and En- bin bag misery” article of the Oc- individual students themselves.” According to the University of Stir- procedures are in place so that if failure gagement of the Students’ Union, Hollie The winners of the Women’s Officer tober 2011 issue it was stated that ling’s Safety Policy and Procedures, of the alarm occurs again, manual Cameron, is the other member to serve Sam Agini is a second year student. and Postgraduate Officer were also “Assessing the risks posed by work checks are carried out properly so the as an NUS delegate. announced as Christina Andrews and In fact he is in the third year of his place hazards is the key practical task University can perform its duty of care One of the elected members, Christina studies. Laura Mackay respectively on the same of health and safety management. to its Students.” Andrews, said that she wishes to help day. Brig | November 2011

POLITICS www.brignewspaper.com 5

Politics Editors: Elsa Andre & Colm Currie Politics Email: [email protected] Alex Salmond New legislation to allow promotes Scottish gay couples to host civil partnership education and ceremonies in Church

businesses in the Middle Elsa Andre Politics Editor

East ay couples will be able to cele- brate their civil partnership in Colm Currie church, starting next Gmonth, the government an- Politics Editor nounced last week. Equalities minister Lynne Feather- cottish First Minister Alex Sal- stone issued a written statement assur- mond last week undertook a ing the gay community that “the gov- five-day tour of the Middle East, ernment is committed to removing the including visits to Dubai, Qatar legal barrier to civil partnerships being S registered on the religious premises of and Abu Dhabi. The SNP leader was there to promote Scottish educational those faith groups who choose to allow links and business opportunities. this to happen.” While he was in Doha, Qatar, he At the moment, the law only allows The Church of England will not opened a new branch of McGrigors, an marriage for opposite-sex couples and allow same-sex ceremonies in its Edinburgh based law firm. This became bans civil partnership ceremonies in re- churches Picture: eurout.org the eighth office of the company, and ligious buildings. of England and Wales also announced the second outside the United Kingdom, The Church of England immediately its intention to refuse gay couples the after three in Scotland, two in England, announced that it would not allow right to host their civil partnership cer- one in Northern Ireland, and one in the ceremonies to happen in its churches. emonies in Catholic churches. “As the Falkland Islands. “The House of Bishop’s statement of regulations require prior consent, the Speaking of the connection between July 2005 made it clear that the Church measure can have no direct impact on the two nations, the First Minister said: of England should not provide services Catholic premises. “Although both Scotland and Qatar have of blessing for those who register civil “The church welcomes the fact that common strengths in the oil and gas partnerships and that remains the posi- The First Minister is keen to increase Scotland’s ties with the United the government has made an explicit sector, we are both seeking to develop tion. The Church of England has no in- Arab Emirates Picture: labrujula.elperiodico.com statement in the draft regulations that our low carbon energy industries. This tention of allowing civil partnerships to nothing in them creates any obligation is where Qatar’s focus on becoming a the potential increase of ties between Edinburgh-based Heriot-Watt Uni- be registered in its churches”, a spokes- to make an application for approval”, a global knowledge hub links well with the two countries. versity. The campus, which began op- man said. spokesman said. Scotland’s considerable reputation as a “The Scottish Government’s economic erating in 2005, recently underwent a The new legislation was, however, Other religions’ responses have yet world-leading education nation.” strategy is focused on encouraging the major £35 million redevelopment, and welcomed by gay rights campaign to be heard, but it seems clear that al- It would appear that Salmond’s trip move to a low-carbon economy which this year saw its student body increase groups. Stonewall chief executive said though the law allows these ceremonies was a success as TAQA, the Abu Dhabi has already delivered significant invest- by 55% on last year. The new changes “religious groups and lesbian and gay to take place on religious premises, as national energy company, has agreed ment to Scotland, and could support also mean that the campus now has the people of faith have expressed the im- long as the decision to go ahead remains to invest £630 million in the North Sea 130,000 jobs by 2020”. Salmond said facilities to teach several new courses, portance of being able to celebrate their with the religious institutions, it will be oil industry over the next three years. after the meeting. “Scotland is home to a including computer systems, interior commitment to one another in their difficult for gay couples to combine faith TAQA, a government controlled com- wealth of ambitious, innovative compa- design and architectural engineering. place of worship. It is a clear signal of and civil partnership. pany, has existed since 2005, and has nies and it’s essential that we do all we At the opening ceremony, Salmond how far we’ve come that, for the first Some gay rights campaigners like Mr already invested over a billion dollars in can to help these businesses capitalise said, “This 21st century campus will time, the many lesbian and gay couples Tatchell are not entirely satisfied with the industry in the last few years. on opportunities in new international quite rightly help establish the high of faith in Britain today will be able to the new legislation, since legal marriage Salmond had high praise for TAQA and growth markets. I am confident that quality reputation of Heriot-Watt Uni- do so.” still isn’t allowed for same-sex couples. their heavy contribution to the North Scotland and the UAE have much to of- versity in the United Arab Emirates and The law will not be binding for reli- “We believe religious organisations Sea sector. He said, “This significant in- fer each other both in business, industry will pave the way for the University’s ex- gious institutions however. The govern- should be permitted by law to perform vestment and the jobs it will bring will and education and look forward to fur- pansion in the region and further afield. ment specified that “no religious group both same-sex religious marriages and be a boost to growth in Scotland.” ther strengthening these relationships However, even more than that, it will will be forced to host a civil partnership same-sex civil partnerships, if they wish Salmond also met with Sheikh Ham- over time.” showcase the advantages of gaining an registration, but for those who wish to to do so. The current blanket bans must dam, Minister of Finance and Industry On the final day of his trip, Salmond education in a Scottish university.” do so this is an important step forward.” go”, he said. for the United Arab Emirates, to discuss officially opened the Dubai campus of The Catholic Bishops’ Conference

action planned for 30 November. detriment to their retirement income,” Government The TUC said there were still “major he said. areas of concern” within the reform. Ministers warned that the changes News in Brief Unison, the country’s biggest public to the reform could be withdrawn if an concessions sector union voted in favour of carrying agreement could not be reached. Alex- on with the strike. The results were ander said, “I reserve the right to recon- on public sec- contested by the government, because sider whether these enhancements are . Government-funded research shows UK ri- of the 29% turnout, which they deemed appropriate under circumstances where ots were triggered by opportunism, anger at was too low to express real support for agreement is not reached.” tor pension the strike. He said he hoped “that the trade the police and atmosphere. The study is based Unison’s general secretary remained unions will now grasp the opportunity on testimonies of 50 young people. reforms are reserved as to the significance of the that this new offer represents. It is the results, as they do not mean an end to chance of a lifetime to secure good, negotiations with the government for high-quality and fair public service not enough the union. “We support the TUC day pensions.” of action on 30 November, but will be . Thinktank King’s Fund has warned the NHS for unions negotiating right up to then and beyond that the regulator Monitor would not be inde- to get a fair deal for our members.”, he said. pendent from ministerial interference if the Elsa Andre The main change to the reform was an bill is not amended. increase of the cost ceiling by 8% on the Politics Editor previous reform, meaning that the per- centage of salary earned as a pension hief Secretary to the treasury every year will be based on one-sixtieth Danny Alexander announced of an average salary. . The Greek parliament has made a U-turn on changes to the public sector Danny Alexander also announced that its decision to make a decision on the coun- C pension reform last week. the reform would not be implemented The government conceded two major until 2022, instead of 2015 as was Danny Alexander announced try’s economic bailout based on a referendum. changes to the reform in an attempt to originally proposed. “Anyone 10 years changes to pension reform in an avoid another strike, but unions said or less from retirement age on 1 April effort to placate unions they were going ahead with the strike 2012 is assured that there will be no Picture: flickr.com Brig | November 2011 POLITICS 6 www.brignewspaper.com Politics: Comment European debate on the best thing for the UK rages on throughout the continent, which in turn Nash Riggins drives major international investment back into the UK. If Britain were to pull n a complex globalised econo- out of the European Union, financial my, there is absolutely no room giants France and Germany would find for isolationism. Yet last week, themselves backed into a corner, with as French President Nicolas UK voters to thank. Out of spite, Euro- I pean nations would find new ways to Sarkozy scrambled to beg the Chinese government to invest in his failing Eu- receive financial aid from British enter- rozone bailout plan, MPs in Westmin- prise, primarily by raising trading tariffs ster were demanding just that: a refer- and imposing higher corporate tax rates endum calling for an end to the United on investments by British companies. Kingdom’s EU membership. Luckily In turn, this inevitable move would no for a wary David Cameron – who must doubt cripple weaker industries within back Britain’s obligations to Europe – the UK, and thousands of British citi- the motion failed. However, the dam- zens would then find themselves un- age had already been done. employed and under foreclosure simply There is hardly anything new about because, two or three years prior, they this movement – in fact, ‘Eurosceptics’ ticked a box indicating that Britain’s in Westminster have been scoffing at EU membership was hindering their the economic policies of the European economy. Union since its inception, and the ques- tions they pose are anything but simple. “Westminster Protesters celebrating the death of Gaddafi Picture: abc.net.au On the one hand, sceptics justly argue that British voters have not had a direct say over any European issues whatso- appears to be ever since 1973; and to be frank, the Celebrating the death of an British government has handed over sitting idly copious amounts of economic powers to Brussels without voters, or indeed by in order many MPs, getting a chance to voice enemy: what would Martin their disdain. to debate Whilst this group of sceptics is pri- marily composed of Conservatives, Luther King do? Mr Cameron is reluctantly sticking to whether or his guns. Yet almost immediately after April 2003, and captured in December mining industry and the trade unions, the Prime Minister delivered a speech not it should Colm Currie of the same year. He had been out of as well as introducing the poll tax in outlining the major reasons as to why power for several years before his death, Scotland, where she had no mandate. participation in the EU is vital for the shoot itself in Politics Editor so it was a far less important event for However, there is no logical reason to survival of Britain’s economy, 81 Con- all those who opposed his regime. Gadd- wish for her death. She has not been servative MPs then crossed party lines the foot” he recent death of Mua- afi’s reign was ended shortly before he in power for over 20 years now, and by voting to schedule a referendum mmar Gaddafi, and that was captured, so the celebrations were the end of her life would not signify an against EU membership. After count- As a desperate David Cameron stated: of Osama bin Laden ear- also about the end of many years of un- end to Conservatism, nor a significant less debate, the often-contested notion “When your neighbour’s house is on fire, lier this year, provoked democratic rule in Libya. change in the politics of this country. then gained substantial momentum be- your first impulse should be to help him widespread celebrations. Similarly, bin Laden was a figurehead She is an old woman who no longer has fore finally being cast out by the Labour put out the flames … not least to stop the Gaddafi had been the lead- of an organisation which had killed any real significance. And yet, songs party. flames reaching your own house.” Ter of the Libyan Arabic republic since many innocent people. While Al Qaeda have been written which welcome her As a result, politicians and journalists The UK simply cannot turn its back on 1969, when a coup he led overthrew the will continue to exist, there was a strong demise, and there are many people who alike have found this minor rebellion the Eurozone. Whilst China is at long government. Bin Laden was the leader feeling that justice had finally been look forward to it happening. To an ex- reason enough to scrutinise whether last realising its super-power ambitions of the terrorist group Al Qaeda, and done, and that his death was an enor- tent, it is understandable, but it makes David Cameron is losing control over by stepping up to the plate as the prima- had been public enemy no. 1 in the USA mous step in the ‘war on terror.’ How- little sense when you consider what dif- his own party, asserting that his elitist ry backer of both the US Dollar and the since the attacks on the World Trade ever, it did not signal the end of a long- ference it would make to most people’s upbringing has inherently led him to Euro, Westminster appears to be sitting Centre and the Pentagon, for which his standing tyrannical political climate, daily lives. scoff at such an attempt of direct de- idly by in order to debate whether or not organisation were responsible. Gaddafi like the death of Gaddafi did, so perhaps Of course, it should also be noted that mocracy. What is far more prevalent, it should shoot itself in the foot. was killed last month in the captivity of the joyous celebrations of bin Laden’s most of the people on their high horses and certain, for that matter, is the fact That being said, it seems fairly likely Libyan rebels, while bin Laden’s com- death are less justifiable. repeating the misattributed Martin that a non-binding referendum against that the primary reason the movement pound was invaded in May by US sol- Luther King quote without checking its EU membership is a complete and ut- was cast aside in the House is because, diers, who then shot him dead. authenticity, have no idea how it was ter waste of time and effort for British for all their money-mongering, not even Considering the various atrocities “The relief at living in Libya under Colonel Gaddafi’s voters. Eurosceptics are keen to set a referen- performed by both men, the rejoicing reign, or how it felt to have a family Aside from the fact that the issue of dum date. Similar to Alex Salmond’s at the news of their respective deaths is knowing that it member killed in the September 11th Europe ranks at the absolute bottom never-ending threat of Scottish Inde- understandable. However, there were attacks. The relief at knowing that it of voters’ concerns, ‘Eurosceptics’ have pendence, neither side of the EU debate those who opposed it, and a fake Mar- was over, and was over, and that the person respon- hardly taken into account the economi- can predict the outcome of any poten- tin Luther King quote spread all over the sible would never be able to do it again, cal implications of their desired refer- tial referendum. That is to say, it typi- internet. “I mourn the loss of thousands that the person may have been overwhelming. In that endum. As agonising as it is to admit, cally behooves politicians not to ask a of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in sense, it is impossible to appreciate the David Cameron is absolutely correct question unless they already know the the death of one, not even an enemy.” responsible view that those affected might have. in his assumption that it is in Britain’s answer, and regarding Britain’s mem- This was posted immediately before a Most people would probably agree, best financial interest to support the bership in the EU, this sentiment has real quote from King on Facebook and, would never however, that some good will surely European Union. proven truer than ever. due to a misunderstanding, it was at- come of Gaddafi’s and bin Laden’s For starters, the worst of Europe’s There is no margin for error when an- tributed to him and repeated in count- be able to do it deaths, even if they can’t see it as being double-dip recessions has failed to swering a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question; less other Facebook posts and Tweets. an entirely good thing. drastically affect the UK, as Tony Blair’s yet the fact that politicians on both sides Nevertheless, true or not true, the popu- again, may have government had the good sense not to of the debate are afraid to ask that ques- larity of the quote shows that there are been adopt the ever-plummeting Euro. As a tion should be evidence enough that the many people in the world who object to Politics online result, the only financial risks for Brit- answer is not as simple as they might the celebration of death. The question ish taxpayers as far as EU member- have voters believe. Membership in the is: is it ever right? overwhelming” Liked these articles? ship is concerned are the investments EU is a necessary evil – it may be hin- If we contrast the reaction to the It is quite unpleasant to think of Check out Nash Riggins’ thoughts on that Mr Cameron keeps pumping into dering Britain’s economy, but it’s also deaths of Gaddafi and bin Laden with someone taking pleasure in the death Martin McGuinness’ Presidential bankrupt European economies. While carrying it. This may not be what vot- that which followed the execution of of another, but one only has to search candidacy in the Republic of Ireland. these major investments appear to be ers want to hear, but the truth is plain former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein for Margaret Thatcher on Facebook to “Voters in Northern Ireland view lost causes, they are indeed necessary to see: there is absolutely no way out of in 2006, we can see some significant see the number of groups and pages for McGuinness as one of the primary losses. the European Union, and Westminster differences. The reaction to Hussein’s people hoping or waiting for her to die. figureheads in finalising the peace- Europe is the UK’s single-largest ex- is blatantly incorrect in its assumption death was far more subdued, and much The reasons for her unpopularity are process .” port market; over 50% of British-made that there must be an easy way out of the less of an issue. One important thing to clear: she crippled many of the working products and investments are sold global recession. note is that Hussein was overthrown in class areas of the UK by destroying the www.brignewspaper.com Culture front page

November 2011 Brig culture Brig | November 2011 8 www.brignewspaper.com CULTURE: MUSIC

Music Editors: Ross Dunn & Andy McDonald culture: music Email: [email protected]

music music news “We’re powerful now Muse have best bass line ever Muse’s track Hysteria has been more than ever.” voted as having the best bass gui- tar line ever in a poll conducted by Music Radar. The top five included Punk poet Itch of The King Rush’s YYZ, Queen’s Another One Blues talks to Music Editor Bites The Dust and Under Pres- sure, and Pink Floyd’s Money. Andy McDonald about be- ing spoiled for choice with Nickelback are biggest turn- influences, politics and off shifts in power, the chal- A survey by music-based singles website Tastebuds.fm has found lenges faced by students, that Nickelback are the most unat- overcoming adversity, and tractive band to find on a potential how Glaswegians are just partner’s MP3 player. Site owner as bad as Londoners. Aled Parish advises getting a ring on their finger before revealing The kids are united: The King Blues (Itch, second from right) Picture: alterthepress.com you’re a fan of Chad Kroeger and onny ‘Itch’ Fox finishes off a hamburger co. in an underground dressing room in the “There was no Internet to download from. So was the fact that workers and the unemployed heart of Glasgow. A few hundred miles whatever the people around you chose to play, came out to protest too. They realised that we’re may separate him from his native Lon- No turning back for Stipe J that’s what you listened to. in this together. I think students need to realise don but, apparently, very little distinguishes the “The six of us in the band don’t agree on a lot their personal struggles are part of something REM guitarist Mike Mills doubts inhabitants of each city from each other. of music, but I think it’d be boring otherwise. much larger. Sharing your struggles with others that singer Michael Stipe will con- “People aren’t different anywhere. There are There isn’t a genre I don’t like – each just has makes you far stronger.” tinue his music career following nice folk and dicks no matter where you go.” he good and bad stuff.” He drops his fag to the floor and stands on it their recent split. He tells Mojo: “I laughs, swivelling his chair away from the mir- Its impact on radio is not his only observation like it were a greedy corporation. ror. of the World Wide Web. “Even when being political, you always need don’t think it’s where his passion He would certainly know, having spent the lies. I think he wants to be in the “The mainstream media had so much control to have some humanity.” last few months touring Europe with his rock before social networking. For example, they Bands come and go. Some make it big and are visual arts.” band The King Blues. However, ‘rock’ is too could demonise protestors so that everyone hyped ad nauseam. Others pack a punch to a insultingly broad a term. Their sound is a hard would turn against them, without realising that cult following, but never climb the ladder. This, Motley Crude one to define: a pendulum of punk, hip-hop, the problem was higher up. Thanks to the Inter- however, is the first time in many years that Motley Crue singer Vince Neil is ska and folk, swinging between cheeky pop net, we can talk to each other and tell the other an act have felt so important. The King Blues to plead guilty to a misdemeanour sensibilities (the bittersweet female harmonies side of the story. We’re powerful now more than are entirely unafraid to hit out at the world’s of Everything Happens For a Reason) and ever.” wrongs, but not from the top of an ivory tow- charge and pay a $1,000 dollar compellingly unsettling vitriol (the snarling charge following an incident in Las And this is also where the other side of the er or from a Hollywood mansion like today’s call-to-arms of We Are Fucking Angry). That’s band’s story starts to show: their politics. Grow- shameless stars for whom global warming is a Vegas in March this year in which not to mention the palpable poetry juxtaposed ing up around the streets and squats of the profile-booster. Instead, these are the heartfelt he was seen verbally abusing and with their more energetic offerings, the lyri- capital, Itch witnessed the social and political words of an honest group of people who relate poking at his ex-wife. cal themes of which range from Itch’s respect injustice faced by those at the bottom, but chan- to how unfairly tough life can be, but who aren’t for women, despite his inability to understand nelled his feelings into positive energy through reserved in urging the idea that you can make a Reed it and weep them, to his tongue-in-cheek branding of cer- activism and music, all in the name of the un- difference, that you can shape your own future, tain politicians as fascists. derdog. and that it’s okay to smile all the while. Lou Reed has received death threats And it’s on streets like the ones above that this after his recent collaboration with “Education is a vital thing that everyone auditory regime was formed. should be entitled to.” he states, when told The King Blues’ latest album Punk & Metallica. The singer is apathetic “You couldn’t get Radio 1 where I grew up. about the increase in tuition fees at the Univer- Poetry is available now on Transmission about it, saying: “Who cares? I’m There were just pirate stations coming in from sity of Stirling. “Right now, only the rich can af- Recordings. essentially in this for the fun of it.” every angle, playing all kinds of music.” explains ford it. There’s something incredibly wrong with the frontman, lighting an after-dinner cigarette that. It’s all part of the worker-and-boss divide. without a second thought for the smoking ban. What inspired me most after the student riots music Two steps forward, one step back alifornians Rival Sons burst onto the rock scene this year from behind piss have been thrown at us… yet.” a Zeppelin-esque wall of crashing Was it a conscious effort to be a blues Cdrums, screeching guitars and blues rock band, or did it come naturally? howling. Owing more to the past than the Scott: “It was natural. Our influences are present in terms of inspiration, the anachro- things like Otis Redding and The Who, but we nistic young men have had an interesting time never thought ‘let’s make a classic rock or retro fitting into a music world that forgot about rock album.” their genre long ago. Singer Jay Buchanan and Jay: “I love rock ‘n’ roll, but I had only been guitarist Scott Holliday took some time to tell in blues bands because rock had got so cheap. Brig about being born in the wrong era. To me, Rival Sons is what rock is. The genre be- You’re not a metal band, but you’re came really self-absorbed through the ‘70s, and signed to Earache Records and have the rhythm and blues roots took a backseat to toured with Judas Priest. How does that the rockstar lifestyle and posturing. When you feel? see us play, it’s just four guys with no money, Jay: “It’s pretty interesting. We were raised sweating it out. I loved coming to Scotland, be- Not a cheap trick: Rival Sons (Scott and Jay, front l-r) Picture: orangeamps.com on blues and rock ‘n’ roll. I was never really ex- cause I’m a Buchanan, but I was that broke – or posed to metal.” ‘skint’ as you guys say – that I couldn’t afford a kilt, just a tartan scarf!” ing songs and just talking about our ideas. Scott: “All of a sudden we were signed to wanted to make; something visceral and filled How did your album Pressure & Time That’s when we came up with the concept of the a death metal label and being interviewed by with immediacy. Fortunately, it turned out fa- come about? record. metal magazines. It’s fascinating! Earache vourable, because I’m talking to Brig!” pulled every string they could pull for us. We Scott: “We were on a six-week tour of Amer- Jay: “We got home at night and the next ica, during which we were signed. We had to morning we were due in the studio. We wrote, looked at their track record and saw they knew Andy McDonald how to work a metal band. We thought ‘let’s see beeline from Florida to California in two days, recorded and mixed it all within twenty days, if they can work a band like ours.’ No bottles of and we spent the time listening to music, writ- hence the title. That’s the kind of record we Brig | November 2011 CULTURE: MUSIC www.brignewspaper.com 9 Bc live review Volbeat liant they sound live. I know nothing about the technicalities of music but I know that they are Garage, Glasgow, a bunch of very talented guys and as a band I think they are very underrated. Monday, October 24 If you enjoy live music then I really suggest seeing Volbeat next time they come or, if they t is amazing what a little bit of rock and play a festival you’re at, then take the time to roll can do for your soul after days of nev- go see them. er-ending course work; a sold-out Volbeat Another reason seeing them is such a pleas- Igig certainly provided a welcomed pick- ure is because it’s clear to the audience that they me-up. love performing and they’re appreciative of you This was the first time Danish rock band Vol- taking the time to come see them. As cheesy as beat has ever played Glasgow (after their last this is, they even have a “thank you” song. It’s show in December being cancelled due to the the first time I’ve ever experienced a band do- beautiful Scottish weather). It was nice to finally ing that. see them playing their own show rather than a They also appear to be the kind of guys that festival. would be a good laugh down the pub. The joke The style of music is hard to describe, but I where they referred to Motley Crue as dress- Volbeat: “they referred to Motley Crue as dressing like ‘old transvestites’” Picture: Gregers Overad think “rockabilly-metal” describes it best. It’s ing like “old transvestites” went down well with a mix of old fashioned rock and roll with a met- most of the crowd but made me feel like I maybe that might have had more to do with how busy that when the tickets say doors open at 7.30, they al edge to it. They played all the songs that I shouldn’t be there, but Motley Crue isn’t every- it was. I was surprised when I found out that mean the gig will start round about 7.30. Hence had hoped they would play, such as Sad mans one’s cup of whisky. it was a sold-out show. I completely underes- why I haven’t mentioned the support act ‘Black tongue and Hallelujah Goat. Check them both Considering the tickets were only £10 each it timated Volbeat’s popularity, which gives me Spiders’. I only caught one song and, from what I out if you haven’t already. was definitely worth the money, although I’m hope that some of you reading this may actually heard, it was good but I can’t really make a judge- I’ve seen a lot of bands over the years, but unsure about The Garage as a gig venue. The know who I am talking about. ment based on that. Volbeat stand out for me because of how bril- atmosphere just didn’t feel right for me but If you ever go to The Garage for a gig take note Victoria McEwan 4 out of 5 Bc album reviews Lisa Hannigan - Passenger more up tempo and Kelly Clarkson - Stronger you.” This is a step fun tracks in the back to younger form of the amazing tronger is the highly anticipated fifth Clarkson when ack in 2009, Irish folk singer-song- Knots and What’ll I album from original American Idol, this would have writer, Lisa Hannigan, released her Do. The only weak Kelly Clarkson. Clarkson has been been acceptable, debut album Sea Sew. The album track is Hannigan’s strongly criticised in the media for but now however, went on to receive critical acclaim and duet with Ray LaM- S B everything from weight issues to hindering her we would expect was even nominated for the Mercury Music ontagne on O Sleep, creative input in her own music, since breaking her to demonstrate Prize. Since then, folk music has gone through with the overall out onto the music scene back in 2002. This more complex- some sort of a renaissance period, and with the cuteness of the song album is very much where the singer wants to ity in her words. popularity of this genre of music being at an all sounding somewhat be and it is quite autobiographical. The first Despite that song, time high, Hannigan returns with her second out of place on the record. Hannigan not only single from the album, Mr Know It All, peaked the rest of the album is fantastic. There will be album Passenger, and once again delivers a deserves praise for her song-writing ability on at number 6 in the UK singles chart. The song at least one song that everyone can relate to. compelling album. this, but she deserves credit for her vocals. On is very catchy but very moving also and Clark- It’s extremely difficult to pick a favourite track Friendship, love, heart-break and loss are the each track of this album, she gives a quite sim- son’s vocal style on this hit is empowering. and I am torn between The War Is Over and main themes of the album, woven in each of the ply stunning vocal performance. Kelly Clarkson is set to release the album’s title The Sun Will Rise (featuring Kara DioGuardi). ten tracks. The album tells the story of a nostal- Overall, Passenger is yet another fantastic al- track What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger) as the Both songs are powerful and both have the gic Hannigan, looking back at events in her per- bum by Lisa Hannigan. Through her song writ- next single. This song gets stuck in your head central theme of looking to the future and mov- sonal and private life, while travelling the world ing and vocal performance she has been able but I can’t help but think the track would be ing on. Stronger really is one of the best Kelly preparing to write this very album. Passenger to create something truly brilliant and elegant. expected from a band such as The Saturdays. Clarkson albums. It is so beautifully honest, is a collection of folk ballads, with the beauti- Certainly one of the best folk albums this year. The weakest song on the album is Einstein. heartbreaking and uplifting. I would recom- ful and lavish opening track Home being one of Lyrically, it is too simplistic and can be said mend this to everyone. It is simply genius. the highlights from the album. But in amongst Kris Gunn 4 out of 5 to be immature: “Dumb plus dumb equals the emotional ballads, the album also features Ashleigh Dodds 5 out of 5 Bc singles reviews Mary J. Blige feat. Drake Drake feat. Nicki Minaj - Foo Fighters - These Days - Mr. Wrong Make Me Proud The latest single to be taken from MJB returns and Mr. Wrong is the Another fantastic single from the the Foo Fighters’ most recent album, second single to be taken from her Canadian rapper’s new album Take Wasting Light, These Days is yet album My Life II... The Journey Con- Care. With a Timbaland style pound- another excellent track, highlight- tinues (Act 1). This strong single fea- ing beat, Drake shines in what will ing Dave Grohl’s ability to write a tures vocals from Drake, which gives probably be his biggest commercial serious, heart rending rock ballad. the track a bit more credibility than it hit to date. The biggest compliment I Opening with a finger-picked guitar deserves. But Blige returns to her best can pay him is he is far from outshone solo and Grohl’s guff and earnest vo- and has struck the balance between by the immense wordsmith Nicki Mi- cal, the song gradually builds, with the nonsensical pop dirt of Just Fine naj, who, as always, adds her own guitars getting evermore heavier and and the tremendous Family Affair. Blige has certainly moved with unique verses to any track she appears on. One of the best hip-hop distorted, ultimately leading to a warm, insistent chorus packed the times and found her feet with this track. singles of a very strong year for the genre. with melody and style. One of the Foo’s best. Ross Dunn 4 out of 5 Graeme Young 5 out of 5 Kriss Gunn 4 out of 5

Cher Lloyd feat. Mike Steel Panther - If You Snow Patrol - This Isn’t Posner - With Ur Love Really, Really Love Me Everything You Are Haters gon’ hate and Cher Lloyd is If You Really Love Me is the new Scotland’s most famous adopted band going to rap her wee socks off. The track from Steel Panther and al- returns with their second single, tak- X-Factor finalist has done well to cul- though the title may have connota- en from their upcoming album Fallen tivate an image and maintain it and tions of being a nice song, it delivers Empire. This Isn’t Everything You With Ur Love is another stellar effort; the usual dose of humorous sleaze Are is a rock anthem, much like pre- a child-like track repeats in the back- we expect. It’s the kind of ballad vious records Run and Chasing Cars, ground and Cher is superb at striking that you know you and your friends however, it lacks the quality which a balance between rapping and sing- are going to be singing drunk on the made those records instant classics. ing. This song loses points in the last walk home. Another Steel Panther While it’s certainly up-lifting, little verse where an interminable river of shite falls out of Mike Pos- classic. innovation has gone into it, making it fail to stand out from the ner’s stupid face and ruins an otherwise delicious track. crowd. Quite a disappointing song unfortunately. Ross Dunn 3 out of 5 Victoria McEwan 4 out of 5 Kriss Gunn 2 out of 5 Brig | November 2011 CULTURE: FILM 10 www.brignewspaper.com

Film Editors: Stefanie Pryke & Laura Muir culture: film Email: [email protected] film news interview

Following our speculation last month, it has We Need To Talk About Lynne Ramsay been announced that Bond 23 will definitely be called Skyfall. Director Sam Mendes has Lynne Ramsay returns to the lime- announced that the film will be shooting in light after a directorial absence London, China and Scotland. of 9 years. The Scottish director speaks exclusively to Brig Film Elijah Wood has been cast alongside Nora about what took her so long to re- Arnezeder in an Alexandre Aja remake of turn and how she had no intention gruesome 1980s film Maniac. of directing an adaptation. ince the closure of the UK Film Council A new trailer for the fourth Underworld earlier this year, the outlook for British film movie has landed online. Kate Beckinsale and filmmakers has looked extremely grim. returns to her role as Selene, which takes SHowever, you can’t help but notice that so place 12 years after Underworld Evolution. far it’s getting a lot stronger, with filmmakers hav- ing a lot more freedom with their works and releas- Warner Brothers have ordered a first draft es from talented directors such as Terence Davies of Clash of the Titans 3. Thats right, 3! and Andrea Arnold later this month. Clash of the Titans 2 comes out in cinemas Despite only ever directing two feature films throughout her career, Lynne Ramsay has been in March 2012 and unless the second film regarded as one of the most beloved Scottish film- is monumentally better than the first, there makers within the past ten years. may be no need at all for a third. Having just been awarded best film at this year’s London Film Festival, Ramsay’s third film, We Niels Arden Oplev, director of the original Need To Talk About Kevin, has been one of the Swedish adaptation of The Girl With The most anticipated films from a British director Dragon Tattoo, will begin shooting his new this year. Adapted from Lionel Shriver’s bestsell- Ezra Miller, Tilda Swinton, Lynne Ramsay & John C. Reilly at Cannes Picture: AP film early next year. Dead Man Down is a ing novel, it shows a mother trying to cope with the aftermath of her son’s killing spree at his high try, her long absence left critics worried over the ly different to what she had originally planned. story of blackmail and revenge starring Co- school. Noted, this isn’t going to be the feel good whereabouts of any future film projects. In an in- Likewise, with Kevin she changed the narrative of lin Farrell and Noomi Rapace. film of the year, however, it’s a film that should be terview with Brig Film, she says that there were the book, which is told through a series of letters experienced. Ramsey’s filming techniques are usu- reasons for the long wait. However, the biggest addressed to Eva’s husband, to her own vision of Comedian Steve Carell has signed up to pro- ally what make her work loved by both critics and blow was when her project of The Lovely Bones flashbacks and dropping the first person narrative. duce and star in action comedy Conviction, audiences. We can see this with her use of colour was pulled from under her feet by Peter Jackson. But Ramsey states that working between original which is said to be comparable to 48 hours and emphasis on imagery that not only shows us a Despite both Bones and Kevin not being the best- and adapted works was all very coincidental. “I and Ocean’s Eleven. As of yet there is no re- time where things were ‘happy’ but also effectively selling books they are now when she thought of didn’t have any plans to work on an adaptation lease date or final script. amplifies the tension with this disastrous relation- adapting them for the screen, Ramsey states that after the last one. The only reason why I did this ship between a mother and her son. Ramsey’s idea she didn’t have any real trepidation when carrying was that you don’t get many contemporary novels of taboo issues and the grittiness of a mother/son out the planning stages. “It was very clear that after that are this original. People were frightened of it Amanda Seyfried is set to star in the biopic relationship work well with her use of Cinescope The Lovely Bones experience, this was going to be and thought it was un-filmable. Having read some- Lovelace, based on Eric Danville’s biog- when filming. Something more associated with the my movie. But Lionel [Shriver] was very cool about thing modern, because I read a lot of classics that raphy, The Complete Linda Lovelace. The Western genre, it works well in order to capture that, it was the first thing I said, I’m not going to really hit me with something original, it’s unusual story will be told from the perspective of the everyday struggle of Tilda Swindon’s character, use the letters, and I’m going to make it my own. because it’s something that’s exploring original three reporters interviewing Linda at differ- Eva, and the epic battle that faces her with every- There was a lot of trust involved and it’s a difficult themes, and there have been other things that have ent stages in her life. day life. However, one thing that has to be noted thing for a novelist to let go of their work but it had touched it, and to go there in a modern piece of here is the performance of Kevin, played by Ezra the essence of what she felt she was writing about work and still manage to enrapture an audience, I Miller, who looks as if his main aim in life was to as well, which is wonderful and unexpected really.” think is pretty amazing.” Check out www.brignewspaper.com play this psychotic character. When adapting books for the screen, Ramsey is We Need To Talk About Kevin is in cin- to see the latest movie reviews includ- It’s been nearly ten years since the release of successful in putting her mark within the piece emas now. ing The Adventures of Tintin and Par- Lynne Ramsay’s second film, Morvern Callar, in that also provides a sense of originality at the same John Darley anormal Activity 3. 2002. Noted as being one of the most anticipated time. She states that the direction Jackson took directors within the British filmmaking indus- with The Lovely Bones would have been complete- review airtv

he past month was business as Greifenstein, continues the tradition of Edinburgh hosts 6th African Film Festival usual for AirTV. Everything is squishing all the best action into a satis- beginning to kick off into sec- fying 5 minutes; well worth a watch. ond gear as we pass the mid- However, if your curiosity extends to rom 2 to 6 November, the Ed- T way point in the semester, and the new AirTV, and why wouldn’t it considering inburgh Filmhouse and Edin- Air3 music show is no exception. It now you’re reading this article, then you’ll burgh College of Art hosted the has three episodes under its belt; the last be pleased to hear that the full line up Fannual Africa in Motion film outing showcasing Beerjacket perform- of AirTV Oscars 2011 films are now up festival. Now in it’s 6th consecutive year ing their new song called Eggshells. on the website. Anyone who attended it is the UK’s largest African film festi- Now filming in the cramped Airthrey the festivities in the MacRobert last val. castle basement isn’t exactly straightfor- semester, both neutral and otherwise, This year the festival showcased a ward, but the crew is improving all the would be quite happy to tell you what number of films from the continent, time in overcoming the limitations of a success the event was. A plethora of with a common theme of ‘Children and the location. There’s no wasted motion top quality student films from horror to Youth in Africa’. Many of the films relat- with the camera angles for one, and they comedy, and a little bit of romance as ed to education, entertainment, stories all manage to serve the purpose of keep- well. I’d personally like to give my rec- and myths, the future and social issues. ing our focus on the performing artist, ommendation to Riverside Drive (no, The festival was kicked off with a po- no mean feat for a live broadcast where I didn’t make that one), winner of the etic fairytale story from Tunisian di- there’s no time for second chances. With Best Screenplay award. You’ll have to rector Nacer Khemir titled Bab’Aziz: the most important variable, sound, also look long and hard to find a student film The Prince who contemplated his soul. unblemished with little interference, it that can pack so much emotional sub- A beautiful story of a grandfather and leaves the Air3 music show both looking stance into a 5 minute short. It’s truly a granddaughter’s journey across the A journey through the desert with Bab-Aziz Picture: AiM and sounding like a professional pro- very poignant, subtle narrative, and the desert to attend a reunion. With aston- duction. photo-film effect helps tell the story in a ishing cinematography and terrific mu- split into African Social Documentaries films made specifically for children. The From new to old, AirTV still has its truly organic way. sic to accompany this tale of longing and and African Documentaries about Chil- screenings were followed by djembe most successful weekly show, StirSport, With winter now having well and truly belonging. This film really sets the mark dren. The former emphasised the social drumming and African dance work- kicking about. The latest episode of the arrived, you can also look forward to for the rest of the festival. issues of disability and domestic abuse shops for the kids. long running series looking into the AirTV dipping its toes back into the dra- A number of seminars and documen- while the latter tackled serious chil- Africa in Motion is undoubtedly one sporting life of Stirling saw the AirTV ma side of things. There’s plenty of films tary screenings, as with previous years, dren’s issues in Africa. of the most interesting film festivals team report on the women’s hockey now in production so keep checking the were held at the Edinburgh College of The penultimate day of the festival to bless the UK with it’s presence. The match between Stirling and Edinburgh website or come to one of the meetings Art. Director Obi Amelonye spoke about was dedicated to younger audiences. opportunity to peer into other cultures University. Stirling staged a comeback on Thursdays at 6pm in B3 for news. Nollywood, the creative, albeit low- The fun started with a storytelling event through their films and seminars will from 2 down to triumph 4-2, the over- Horror and parodies await! budget Nigerian film industry and his by Edinburgh based Kenyan/Scottish be enough to keep this festival alive for worked cameramen doing well to keep For those who need reminding, the ad- award winning film The Mirror Boy. storyteller Mara Menzies. The children years to come. up with the action. If you’re at all curi- dress is www.airtvonline.com. The festival appeared to have quite a then had the chance to watch an array ous about the adventures of Stirling’s focus on documentaries, which were of entertaining and colourful African Stefanie Pryke, Film Editor sports clubs the new show runner, Jakob Ehssan Shamoradi Brig | November 2011 11 CULTURE: FILM www.brignewspaper.com Bc cinema reviews Contagion The Help Dir: Steven Soderbergh Dir: Tate Taylor

emember the bird flu and swine flu he Help is the film to see. Fact. Not only scares? What would have happened if does it stay close to the story-line of Ka- one of those viruses had been deadly thryn Stockett’s book, but it transports as well as transmitted by touch and Tthe audience into Jackson, Mississippi, R 1962. Right down to the food, people, weather airbourne? How many more people would have died? How would you react? Contagion, directed and sweaty armpit stains. This film is going to be by Steven Soderbergh, asks these question and as popular as the book. attempts to answer them as best as it can. The It is Aibileen’s (Viola Davis) story about living result is sometimes eerie, sometimes terrifying as a black maid in Southern U.S. during the Jim and sometimes quite brilliant. Crow years. Her stories, alongside Minny’s (Oc- Matt Damon is one of many well known ac- tavia Spencer), are real eye-openers of the rac- Contagion abandons plot in a sense. There’s Beautiful friendships are formed in tors in Contagion Picture: Blog Critics ism during this time, where Whites and Blacks no protagonist or antagonist in the traditional this tale of inequality Picture: Total Film sense; the film adopts a birds-eye view examin- lived so closely together, but were still seen as ing events at different levels, looking at govern- paranoia and suspense, the feeling that anyone unequal. Some of the stories are heart-warming the scene. Emma Stone is just getting bigger and ment officials and scientists scrambling franti- could have the disease, anyone could be conta- as she speaks about her love for the white chil- better. cally to restore some order, and normal people gious. The cinematography contributes to this as dren she cares for, or heart-breaking when the Hilly is the poisonous rich White lady, who be- struggling to make their way in the chaos. Two well; the camera loves to linger on the surfaces way she is treated is shown. Then, of course, lieves that diseases can be caught if Blacks and sides of humanity emerge: the worst of our self- touched, the odd touches, handshakes. The im- there is Minny’s “questionable pie”, which will Whites share a toilet. Her evil tendrils are hid- ishness manifests in chaos and in looting; but plication being that these are now contagious. be sure to make everyone laugh. den under perfect hair and manners, but reach also the best of us, in the researcher who tests All this is, of course, accompanied by the grind- Davis and Spencer’s characters portray the out to try and sway all members of the commu- the vaccine on himself, the doctor who gives it ing techno of the soundtrack, inhuman and un- hopes, dreams and fears of maids during this nity, whether it is to have segregated toilets in to the son of his friends. The film doesn’t judge relenting just like the virus. time. And, boy, do they do it well. They are the the home or to ostracise poor Miss Celia (Jessica in any of these cases, it just shows, as objectively Soderbergh also likes to play with the satura- perfect choice of actors: Davis shows Aibileen’s Chastain), a ‘white trash’ character who mar- and as accurately as it can. tions, and while these add to the atmosphere, calm and reserved nature to a tee, and Spencer’s ried Hilly’s childhood sweetheart. Hilly does get There is a definite sense of realism to the film. they also feel a little gimmicky. For example, we fiery attitude is the spitting image of Minny. her comeuppance, though, and to make justice The events are extreme, but they never feel un- see Kate Winslet, struggling in the field, and the Spencer’s sassy quips and stares are a real laugh- sweeter, she gets a huge cold sore to top it off! realistic, given the circumstances. This is what saturation is cold, cut to Laurence Fishburne, ing point in the film, but her change of character This film really does show the fears and dreams gives the film much of its power. The events safe in his office, now the saturation is warm. during her private-life at home marks her as a of Blacks during this troubling time, even if it’s aren’t far off of impossibility; they are plausible. The film does this sort of thing quite often and versatile actor. just hoping to get home safely. The actors rep- This is helped by the stellar ensemble cast, in- after a while it feels a little heavy-handed. Also, Emma Stone’s character, Skeeter, cannot go resent these people wonderfully. Yes, the cos- cluding actors like Kate Winslet, Marion Cotil- the last third of the film is a little weaker than without a mention. Presented as the ‘ugly duck- tumes, setting and music are brilliant and should lard and Jude Law, who all deliver their per- the first two thirds. Events sort of grind to a halt, ling’ of the Ladies’ Bridge Club, Stone fits her have a review of their own, but it’s the actors that formances excellently. Matt Damon in particular and not a whole lot happens. The ending isn’t character well, with frizzy hair, dull clothing make this film the success that it is. gives the film a human touch, playing the normal entirely satisfying, but then, perhaps, neither is and a briefcase all in tow. Stone makes Skeeter It’s two hours long, but the time does fly by family man, among all the film’s doctors, scien- it supposed to be. awkward with head-strong ambitions, and her quickly. Give yourself time to get drawn into it, tists and government officials. Still, these problems are small compared to interaction with all the characters helps the flow pull a blanket around your shoulders and give There is something morbid about watching what the film does well. It won’t scare you like of the story. You can see her read and gauge the this thought-provoking film the attention that it events unfold, slowly at first, then gaining mo- a horror film will scare you, but it will creep you other actors, ready to add more tension, awk- deserves. mentum as the death toll rises, first by the doz- out, have you gripping your seat and genuinely wardness or sincerity to the situation: one look 5 out of 5 Lydia Nowak ens, then by the hundreds, then by the millions. unsettle you. at Aibileen whilst talking to Hilly (Bryce Dallas The film effectively builds up an atmosphere of Howard) gives a whole new depth and texture to 4 out of 5 Erik van Berlekom television Bc dvd and blu ray reviews Tree of Life However, it is not the storyline that takes cen- TV round up tre stage in the film. Throughout there are ex- Dir: Terrence Malick tended sequences of nature, the universe, even dinosaurs. The cinematography by Emmanuel ree of Life is undeniably a masterful Lubezki is truly stunning throughout, this is not E4 Superman origins story soars to finale piece of modern art. Does that make it in question. It is all just overdone. Malick is de- a great film to watch? It has split opin- termined to display the minuteness of individual fter ten years of cheesy dialogue, high ions down the middle and it is clear traumas and exploit the vastness of existence, school romances and the running of T but the visual sequences feel like they should trivial sub-plots alongside the fre- why. It is indeed rare for a film that won the Palme D’Or at the Cannes Festival to have been be voiced over by David Attenborough, not ran- quent saving of Earth, the final se- domly slotted into the middle of a potentially A greeted by such a mixed reaction. ries of Smallville has reached its climax. And Brad Pitt stars superbly as a suburban father gripping film. it turns out Clark Kent actually became Super- in 1950’s America, disciplining his sons vig- Those who enjoy unique, artistically startling man! Shocking stuff. orously to the extent that they are terrified of films will lick their lips at the prospect of watch- Smallville first aired on our picture boxes him. Alongside Pitt is Jessica Chastain as the ing this and they will not be let down. Those in 2001, bringing to life the transformation of angelic mother, who sinks into the background looking for a plot that flows and reaches a satis- Clark Kent (Tom Welling) from a regular school whilst her husband bullies their children. The factory conclusion would best give it a miss. kid into the cape wearing Superman whose par- storyline travels from past to present, with Sean The ‘Exploring The Tree of Life Documenta- ty tricks include X-ray vision, super speed and Penn cast as the eldest son in the future, strug- ry’ feature gives an interesting insight into the strength, heat vision and eventually the ability making of the film and how the stunning visuals Not exactly inconspicuous Clark! gling through an apparent mental breakdown to fly. Although that one takes a while. Picture: E4 and revisiting the past. This leads us to the tense were mastered. We first met Clark in a hometown unfortu- upbringing of the children as their relationship nately crawling with Kryptonite as a farm boy present when Clark’s team of heroes fancy a with their father teeters on the brink. 3 out of 5 Greg Barrie working to thwart a weekly villain with his new day out. powers. Soon enough though, he has passed There is a moment in season one when Clark through the clumsy teen drama years and our is asked what job he desires in the future and Bad Teacher Diaz does a good job in treating her pupils as extra-terrestrial buddy is finding time for a ca- replies anything not involving ‘wearing a suit one would an irritating fly, but the film never re- reer at the Daily Planet and dating Lois Lane, Dir: Jake Kasdan and flying around a lot’. This sort of foreshad- ally gets going in terms of outrageous humour. whilst also saving the citizens of Metropolis owing humour is ripe throughout Smallville, Getting high in the car and reversing at high in such a morally correct manner he makes and alongside the impressive acting and plot ad Teacher had all the ingredients for speed don’t really provide the shock factor re- Mother Theresa look like a pissed off parking lines which see no lack of Krypton powered an outrageous comedy, but sadly fell quired. There are a few laughs to be had through attendant. fighting or emotional deaths, the programme short with a bit of a whimper. Cam- the course of the film, but nothing that really Over the course of the 218 episodes, you learn flows brilliantly into its final season. Series eron Diaz stars as gold-digging teacher hits the spot. to expect certain things from Smallville. Each 10 doesn’t let down either, providing a fitting B The turning point in her teaching comes when time you tune in for a new episode you will be Elizabeth Halsey, who, following her collapsed climax as Clark finishes a decade long journey engagement, decides to get a boob job in order she discovers the teacher with the best class met with either an epic tale providing more towards his destiny by flying high to save Earth to bag a rich man. results gets a substantial cheque. Whilst this twists and turns than Mike Tindall’s nose, or from Armageddon in the shiny red and blue Elizabeth bluntly avoids everyone in the school provides a convincing reason for her change in you’ll find yourself observing a comically bad spandex we know all too well. except substitute teacher Scott Delacorte, played attitude, the story as a whole is just too loose to instalment which normally sees Clark’s powers Smallville’s take on the Superman saga has by Justin Timberlake, who happens to be the really get the best out of the cast. A lack of depth accidentally passed to a friend. reignited the hero’s comic book legacy, and al- heir to a watch empire. A battle for his affections to Diaz’s character makes the inevitable change Although the writers of Smallville do not ap- though this may be the end of the origins story, ensues between Elizabeth and fellow teacher of personality at the end appear clumsy and un- pear to take each episode entirely seriously, it is also the beginning of a new chapter for Me- Amy Squirell, a dreadfully tightly strung goody- convincing, and whilst the supporting cast does they certainly know how to get you hooked. In- tropolis’ man of steel. two-shoes played by Lucy Punch. Timberlake its best to add hilarity; you feel they could have deed, the farcical episodes have faded out over and Punch both provide solid performances, given so much more with a tighter storyline. the years and these short lapses of concentra- Stuart Kenny, Sports Editor though the most convincing role is Jason Segel 2 out of 5 Greg Barrie tion are well worth enduring to reach the full as an easy going gym teacher. throttle superhero drama that is particularly 12 Brig | November 2011 www.brignewspaper.com

Crossword courtesy of crosswordpalace.com. For the full solution, go to: The Brig crossword http://www.crosswordpalace.com/quick/1001/qa1030.html Clues

Across Down 1. Dismissal (7) 1. Abundant (7) 5. Subtitle (7) 2. Beggar (9) 9. Being on a very small 3. A type of bridge (7) scale (9) 4. Absurd (9) 10. Stair part (5) 5. Not dirty (5) 11. The angle of a 6. Disquiet (7) celestial body (7) 7. Publish (5) 12. French for “New” (7) 8. Take under one’s wing (7) 13. Easily controlled (9) 14. Decorate with needle 15. Move very slightly (5) work (9) 17. Foreword (5) 16. Waste pipe (9) 19. Cause to feel 17. Temporary (7) self-conscious (9) 18. Righteous anger (7) 22. It browns bread (7) 20. Revolutionary (7) 25. A number defining posi 21. The absence of sound (7) tion or rank (7) 23. Directed (5) 26. Cuban dance (5) 24. Sometimes it’s “pennies 27. A formal entry into an or from heaven” (5) ganization (9) 28. Insanity (7) 29. Alleviate (7)

Online in November Student Picture of the Month What to look out for this month Website Stats & Figures www.brignewspaper.com The Brig website recorded 6, 773 hits during October (brignewspaper.com’s second-highest hit count for the web- Fixtures are piling up this month at site). the BUCS, so don’t forget to check out Most music hits: Camo & Krooked Cross Brig Sport, who will have plenty of The Line, 54 hits. match reports. The men’s football first XI will be playing their home games at Doubletree Dunblane stadium, the Brig’s online favourites this home of Stirling Abion FC. month. Each month we shall be bringing you a surprise selection of the most-talked- Head to Brig Culture for all the latest about websites around the Brig office. music and film release news, Kirsty Just scan the QR codes below into your Whitmore’s coverage of the Frank Android phone, Smartphone or iPhone Fashion Boutique Show, and Daniel QR code app and sit back while the Nunan’s Bonfire Jacket Potato filling technology does the rest of the work. recipes. Don’t worry, we won’t be sending you anywhere too lewd or unkempt. There’ll be no funny business here, thank you Read Adrew Jenkin’s review of the very much. Stirling University Drama Society (SUDS) production of Macbeth Don’t forget to check the accompanying photo gallery courtesy of our head of photography, Rajmund Bakonyi.

Gina Rusrud covers in-depth the ins and outs of the first ever University of Stirling International week, an event celebrating cultural diversity at the University.

Editor in Chief Iain Blackwood talks about Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s vist to the University.

Join in with the online debate on David Derverux’s article Join the club? I’d rather not.

If you are interested in getting involved with Brig, then come along to one of our meetings, every Monday evening at 7pm Student picture of the month goes to Ellie Underdown. Ellie visited Longleat Safari Park in August this Summer and managed in A3, and get involved with the to capture a couple of meerkats having a bicker. She does not look happy! exciting world of student media! Join Brig today to see your name in print and receive your own website login to build your own online portfolio and upload con- Each month we shall be featuring what our editors consider to be the best photo taken by a Stirling student over tent whenever you like. the course of the month. Please submit your photographes to our head of photography, Rajmund Bakonyi. All photos that get sent and are not choosen for print will appear on our website. www.brignewspaper.com Brig | November 2011 13 Brig | November 2011 CULTURE: ART 14 www.brignewspaper.com

Arts Editors: Christopher Smail & Catriona Keddie culture: art Email: [email protected] Bc Book Review Hug me - I feel good atrick Monaghan, winner of ITV’s latest searching for a star The magical realm of Cupido Sacra series ‘Show me the funny’, just Pback from a tour which has tak- en him all over the world, popular per- upido Sacra is a bold new addi- issues here to challenge readers’ percep- and worked to a smaller scale, but with former at the Edinburgh Fringe, is ask- tion to the fantasy fiction genre. tions. Take the emerging relationship as much passion. ing me if I would like a hug and telling Heavily reminiscent of the likes between Tickle, the cross-dressing elf, This means that the important themes me my hat is cool. Cof The Lord of the Rings and and EggWiff, the wizard with the per- and dark humour that Baker is explor- Say what you will about the guy but the Discworld series, it may be aimed sonality disorder, as an example. It is ing in this novel are overlooked. And when you get up close to him you can’t at the teen and young adult end of the handled in a very mature manner. The that’s a shame because it’s these ele- help but like him. Maybe it’s his confi- market, but it still stands out as a formi- nature of their friendship is obviously ments that would have made this novel dence or his winning smile or the fact dable addition to the field. more than plutonic. Although it seems an instant classic as opposed to simply a that for the last 2 hours he has been Here we have a compelling work to be more focused upon emotional in- very good read. entertaining you with ridiculous stories from an inspired young author. R. P. timacy, mutual acceptance and respect Overall, this is a great novel and an which have left you laughing so much Baker has been moulding the Cupido than sexual attraction, it is essentially exceptionally good first one at that. that you’re finding it difficult to breathe. Sacra world for the past 9 years. This a burgeoning same-sex relationship be- It is definitely worth your time and de- Whatever it is you find yourself vying is evident from just a few chapters in; tween members of two different species. serving of a sequel. My only hope is that with other audience members just to ter is one of his main strengths and it the reader can see Baker growing and The same could be said for the love- Baker is brave enough to take a step get a photo with him and offering your was this that really made the show dif- expanding his range as a writer as the affair which develops between Saria and back and explore a bit more of his world; ticket for him to sign. Patrick Monaghan ferent from any other comedian I have story unfolds. Flick, the two dwarves who find them- a world which I’m definitely looking for- may not be one of the most well known ever seen. This technique of heavily in- The story concerns a band of unfor- selves in the frontline of the stories bat- ward to taking a second visit to. stand up comedians but judging from volving the audience in his routine also tunate misfits who must travel through tle of good against evil. One is a proud Will Grant this show it is very likely that this won’t means that no two shows will be the the magical realm of Sahihriar in order Amazonian the other a lowly Surthan be the case for very long. same. to find and destroy a jewel (the epony- breed and this is something that proves When he walks out onto the stage Yes, they’ll have similar bits of the rou- mous Cupido Sacra) and save Sahihriar difficult for the two to come to terms (after giving himself a quite generous tine that he’ll follow no matter what but from certain annihilation. Things, of with. There is a theme of the perceived introduction) he brings with him a very from what I saw the vast bulk of the per- course, are not as simple as they first stigmas of inter-racial relationships obvious sense of cool, calm, confidence formance rests on Patrick’s willingness appear. Before the story reaches its con- here which is touched upon, if only that immediately draws the audience in, to break away from his planned routine clusion the main characters will have briefly. If there is one major criticism of making us eager to hear the stories and and respond to whatever the audience travelled through time; hopped between Cupido Sacra it is, ironically, its grand opinions he has for us tonight. offers him in a way that makes the night dimensions; questioned their own basic scope. Whilst watching him you believe that memorable for anyone in attendance. moralities and completely changed their The story never settles upon a central nothing will faze him whether it’s the At the end, he even goes as far as invit- loyalties, all in the name of the quest. protagonist or protagonists. Second- disappointingly small audience filling a ing four of the audience members that Alongside the prisoners’ quest there is ary characters appear throughout the majority of the seats in the front 6 rows he has addressed throughout the show another story: one which sees the for- novel and step in to replace those that of the Macrobert Theatre or his inabil- up onto the stage to help him with his mation of the Cupido Sacra jewel itself the reader had previously been follow- ity to understand the Scottish accents finale sketch of how men should dance and the appointment of the elemental ing. Only one or two of the characters when asking where people are from. He in a nightclub; one of the most well re- guardians who are tasked with protect- feel satisfyingly fleshed-out and you’re seems to take it in his stride, turning any ceived sketches of the entire evening ing it. Within the pages there is enough left wishing that they had stuck around potential awkward moment into a joke and a personal highlight of mine. material for two novels, and this is hope- for longer. which everyone is able to laugh along Yes, there are bits of the routine that fully only the first part of larger series. It There’s almost too much going on: with. don’t quite work but overall the evening really is a work of grand scale, and one amazon warriors, elemental spirits, fair- It’s this ability to work with the audi- is a thoroughly enjoyable one and you that is all the more inspiring consider- ies, dark mages, the commander of an ence, no matter what the size, and make can be certain that no-one else will see ing this is Baker’s first published work. army of holy pigs and Death himself. All them take an active part in the show that the same performance you did. And of Cupido Sacra is, of course, aimed at of them are trying to take centre stage You can purchase Cupido Sacra by will stand Monaghan in good stead in course at the end, you can get a hug from adolescents, but that is not to say that and all vying for the readers’ attention. Ryan Baker, Honours graduate student the future. the man himself to cap off a great night. it doesn’t have the potential to speak to You’re sometimes left wishing that Bak- in Psychology, from Amazon and His ability to joke with the audience older readers and there is some weighty er had been less bold in his initial vision WHSmith. and have some well appreciated ban- David Pellow Bc Interview Daniel Sloss is the up and coming joker in comedy

Our very own Nicola Smith met the comedy sensation after seeing his show in Glasgow and found out what makes him tick, from getting girls to what the future holds...

t 21, Daniel Sloss has been Charlie Brooker saying, “He’s someone vite you into my house is the same as if storming the comedy scene who has a really strong opinion and I invite you into my show. You can have since the tender age of 16. The the way he gets it across. I’ve got really a look around but if you were to break London born Fifer took his strong opinions but I just can’t make into my house, I would kick the shit out A of you; so if anyone breaks their way third stint at the Edinburgh Fringe with them funny yet.” his show “The Joker” which incidentally A life without comedy is a scary into my show, then I really hold back was the song at number one when he thought for Daniel. “I’d be screwed! And no bars in breaking them down so they was born. my life would be a lot more dull than it will never want to speak again.” Word Sloss plays it cool when introducing is right now. I reckon I would have gone of warning here, do not heckle Daniel his show claiming, “You’re not going to to university to study history but to be Sloss. His show is his house, you have come to my show and learn anything. honest I doubt I would have passed. I’d been warned. I’m not going to change your opinion probably be working in McDonalds or Girl attention is a new fascination and you’re not going to leave with a something like that.” with Sloss and he can’t believe his luck new lease of life. It’s just the stand up Unlike many comedians, Daniel saying, “In high school I couldn’t pay a I’ve been doing for the past year and it’s doesn’t like to read his reviews and girl to look at me and it still bewilders quite funny if I do say so myself.” doesn’t really see the point in it. “I just me that women out there are moronic When it comes to writing his material, realised it’s one moron’s opinion and enough to find me attractive and it still Daniel feels that real life surroundings they can really affect you.” And he re- bewilders me but it’s flattering!” bring the best jokes out of him whether alised that his jokes will appeal to some Daniel’s plans for the coming year are it be in the car or even the shower. He and not to others saying, “Comedy is now to finish off his tour and complete finds material in his day-to-day life in- the most objective thing in the entire his growing list of Xbox games and cluding relationships, he says, “Natural world, everyone has a different sense of heading off to do shows in Australia. banter I have with my friends I like to humour.” He doesn’t see the need for a Appearances on shows such as Mock the churn into jokes and I‘ve really enjoyed comedy reviewer particularly adding, Week and 8 out of 10 cats are going to stand up since I was young.” “To think you can define what comedy be a more regular occurrence for this Comedians who influence Sloss are is, is really naïve.” promising comedian. from a range of genres including Ed Daniel is very protective of his show Nicola Smith Byrne and Tom Stage and he really likes and sees it as his house saying, “If I in- Fashion Editor Young comedian promises to be a star Picture: Edinburghfestival.list.co.uk www.brignewspaper.com Brig | November 2011 15                  Brig | November 2011 CULTURE: FOOD & GAMES 16 www.brignewspaper.com culture: food & games food Food & Drink Editor: Victoria Pease Email: [email protected] Review: BBC Good Food Show Recipe: Toad in the Hole with Caramelised Red Onion Gravy n what could only be the biggest reheated and poured into ramekins or gathering of foodies for miles glasses and chilled. The simplicity of around, the BBC Good Food Show the product means the consumer can Iopened up like a sprawling laby- become creative with flavourings and rinth of food stalls, pop up restaurants presentation, without worrying if the and demonstration theatres. If you base will split, scramble or even having thought Glasgow had little to offer the to whip out the old Come Dine with Me foodies of the world, the displays of favourite, the bain-marie. the finest whiskies, cheeses, and meats Of course, the show also provides amongst others would have you curs- cookery demonstrations from a pletho- ing your reservations immediately. ra of well established chefs such as Tom The show aims to show off the emerg- Kitchin and James Martin. Although ing talent and products on the Scottish places in the Super Theatre came at an and UK food scene, through a series of extra cost, the benefit was to see the demonstrations, stalls and classes all likes of past Masterchef winners Tim housed under the great armadillo itself, Anderson and Dhruv Baker battle it out the SECC. in the kitchen. Hosted by John Torode Amongst the plethora of stalls, seas of and Greg Wallace, who camped it up samples and refuges dedicated to cock- in great pantomime style, the pair had tail sticks, companies like Perry Court the audience laughing and cheering Farm showcased their exciting new as the two champions created incred- products. The business, which prides ible dishes in just 20 minutes. And of itself on supplying farm shops and course they delivered in true outland- A mouth watering Toad in the Hole with a twist Picture: Victoria Pease avoiding supermarkets, offers an alter- ish style, with Tim opting to make an native to the traditional potato crisp, by edible hen’s nest with deep fried corn using air dried fruits and vegetables. husk silk, the perfect boiled egg and ometimes, the only way to deal A knob of butter and brown, turn up the heat and add Meanwhile Albert Bartlett, famed for edible flowers. Dhruv concocted a high with the advancing cold, loom- A splash of red wine (optional) a splash of red wine, if using. Add the their delicious Rooster potatoes had end version of the donner kebab, with ing deadlines and darkened 500ml beef stock stock and let the gravy bubble away an impressive violet-hued stall, sing- crusted lamb served sliced on canapé- Smornings is to comfort our- 100g plain flour until the liquid has reduced by half. ing the praises of the purple majesty sized flatbreads with two accompany- selves with traditional food that warms 1 egg potato. The company had decided to ing sauces. This style of cooking high- the heart and soul. So why not try an 300ml milk 3. Add the egg to the flour and a promote the colourful alternative for lighted the celebration of food that the updated version of Toad in the Hole splash of milk and whisk until com- its healthy properties, as well as its in- Good Food Show aims to address, tak- with a Christmassy pigs-in-blankets 1. Preheat the oven to 200oC/180oC bined. Add the rest of the milk and triguing colour. The samples of purple ing food to new heights of colour, tex- twist. fan/ Gas Mark 4. Cut the rashers of ba- whisk to a smooth consistency. Re- potato wedges were wonderful, and ture and flavour. con in half and wrap up each sausage. move the sausages from the oven and highlighted just how simple, yet fun The BBC Good Food Show was an eye Serves 2-3 Place in a ceramic dish and drizzle with quickly pour in the batter and return to cooking can be. opener into the diverse and exciting the oil. Place in the oven and cook for the oven. Cook for a further 30 minutes In the wake of the Come Dine with landscape of Scottish and British cui- You Will Need 15-20 minutes until starting to colour. or until the batter has risen and golden Me renaissance of the dinner party, one sine, showing Glasgow has far more to brown. Serve with the gravy and a glass company that certainly stood out was offer the foodies of the world than the A pack of 6 pork sausages 2. Meanwhile, melt the butter in of red wine. DeviliShh, promoting its simple dessert deep fried mars bar. 3 rashers of unsmoked streaky or back a saucepan over a medium to low cheats. Taking the hassle and stress out bacon heat, add the onion and slowly cook. of making the perfect custard based Victoria Pease 1 tablespoon olive oil This will take about 20-30 minutes Victoria Pease dessert, the product simply needs to be Food and Drink Editor 1 red onion, sliced to caramelise. Once the onion is soft Food and Drink Editor games and technology Games & Tech Editor: Jamie Wright Email: [email protected]

Review: athe Humble Indie Bundle folk have made a name for Batman: themselves selling collec- Btions of Indie games on a “set your own price” basis. Their lat- Arkham City est promotion is the debut of a neat little shooter called Voxatron. Buy ou might think that comic book within the week, and you can pay heroes are perfect as video as little or as much as you want for game protagonists. Already im- lifetime access to this game and all bued with demigod-like resil- its updates. Y Voxatron is a voxel-based shooter, ience, a wealth of well explained super- powers, and villains that compliment which means its world is made of them like black compliments white, they tiny cubes. This allows for a com- should be perfect in this role. This has pletely destructible game world and sadly not been the case. Usually reduced some fun shooting, but not much to shallow movie tie-in games that are, more at the moment. Like Minecraft at best, poor and at worst, shameless eighteen months ago, this is a game cash grabs by movie studios trying to which is more about potential than boost the profits of their movie, they actuality. In time, expect it to be- have not been worth the discs they have come something truly special. It also has low requirements, which is a bo- been printed on. However, in 2009 a Batman doesn’t care about your face Picture: Giantbomb.com Dark Knight arrived to change all that. nus. Batman: Arkham Asylum put to shame Batman game more of an open world is frantic yet methodical, without it feel- for all the people who live in university What’s really exciting about this is its brothers and sisters with a gripping feel and it does give you more side mis- ing like you’re unbeatable, something halls, be warned, the Catwoman content the possibility that future games will storyline oozing with character, amaz- sions and other open world trappings that games like Assassin’s Creed have is locked behind a single-use keycode be released in this way. The contrast ing vistas, and combat that made you but the main storyline is still a linear still to master. Stealth also makes a re- and a 250Mb download. So, if you want between this “humble” debut and the feel like the caped crusader himself. affair. If you decide to blaze though the turn but almost completely unchanged, to play this part of this singleplayer AAA release of Arkham City (which With such a flawless game, Rocksteady story it will probably take you about 12 which isn’t a bad thing. game you will want to find a friend who locked out parts of the game if you has a lot more to live up to this time. to 15 hours, but if you decide to tackle all Riddler’s challenges also make a wel- lives off campus and has Xbox Live. didn’t pay the full £40) could not be Arkham City is the location for this of the side missions and other little dis- come return, with literally hundreds of Batman: Arkham City is not that greater. What’s more, the strategy new sequel and what gives the game its tractions you can easily double that. The trophies to collect and picture puzzles to different from its predecessor. Even seems to be working, since the game name. This condemned area of Gotham side missions are only that because they solve. If you didn’t like being Riddler’s though it has some open world frills it has made over £300,000 in a few city plays host to the scum of the Batman aren’t necessary to finishing the main lab rat the first time you won’t be swayed is still a very focused affair. It manages days. The future is bright for indie universe. Joker and Harlequin make story, but they are just as well fleshed this time either, but there are some fun great moment to moment action that is games. Jeremy Watssman their return to continue their wild antics out. Most of them deal with one of Bat- side missions if you do decide to put in always putting you in new and interest- after the events of Arkham Asylum, but man’s enemies from the comics and are the considerable time. ing situations, and a story that is always there are a few new faces to shake up the well worth the extra time investment. Catwoman’s part in this sequel was pushing you forward. Add to that some crazy storyline and to give the story a The way in which you will be dispens- heavily marketed during the months great side missions and the Riddler’s different feel to the first game. The real ing with the Arkham city inmates isn’t up until release, and rightly so in some puzzles and you have some of the best star of the show though has to be the art very dissimilar from the first game. The respects because if you have the content gameplay this year. If you enjoyed the direction and design of the city itself. differences are subtle, for example ene- you will start the game as her. As a char- first Batman get this one, and if you Its dark and moody atmosphere really mies won’t just wait for you to take them acter she plays differently enough that haven’t played Arkham Asylum, go play helps to get you immersed in the story out one by one but multiple enemies when her sections in the story are trig- that. and feeling of the game. will attack you at once. The combat does gered they are a welcome respite from Jamie Wright 5 out of 5 Buy now to pay what you want Arkham City is meant to give this new have the same flow as the first game, that the way Batman is controlled. However, Picture: igf.com CULTURE: FASHION Brig | November 2011 17 www.brignewspaper.com

Fashion Editor: Nicola Smith culture: fashion Email: [email protected] X Factor fashion debate: November’s best dressed student’s Left The do’s and don’ts of the Name: Natalie Dalgleish Favourite item in your live show outfits wardrobe: “My scarves, I’ve got millions!” very year we look forward to Neither love nor money could prise the the new series of The X Factor hairspray from that boy’s uber-Beiber- Your autumn wardrobe and the talent which will grace cut. Although his do(n’t) is not nearly essential? Eour screens. And every year we as troubling as the Rhythmix girls’ cuts. “A chunky cardigan.” are greeted with talent, yes. But stylish While one looks like she’s wearing the ensembles, we are not. Remember Katie fur from an Afghan hound as a weave, Weasel’s (sorry Waissel’s) “futuristic” another has half a clown’s wig glued to helmet? Diana Vicker’s lack of shoes? her head. One suspects they either really Right Or anything Jedward wore? Point made. pissed off the stylist, or the hairdresser But, the styling team has changed this lost a contact lens. Either way, it’s sim- Name: Dmitry Mateshin year. So it must get better, surely? No. ply unspeakable. Favourite item in your No. And no again. Let us direct our at- Although it’s not all doom and gloom wardrobe: “My jeans.” tention to last weekend’s Saturday night on the style front. Some contestants Your autumn wardrobe show and the train wreck that was some have gone for a more simple and stylish of the fashion choices. look. Janet Devlin looks quite excellent essential? Train wreck is perhaps the most per- with her new ginger locks and the outfit “Big winter boots.” fect of metaphors to describe some of chosen for her suited her quirky nature the contestants’ outfits: you know it’s down to a tee. Continuing in the same not pretty, but you just can’t look away. fashion, Nu Vibe were all looking suit- Micha B most certainly falls under ably sharp. Yes, we’re ignoring the fact this category: wearing a shiny, purple that one of them was wearing a two-tone Pictures: Amy Dunsmuir and Alice Hinds jumpsuit with mega shoulder pads, she gradient shirt. Let us assume that was a stood out from the crowd, but for all the mere glitch on the stylist’s behalf. Simi- wrong reasons. Sweetheart, you look larly, Marcus Collins, who was channel- like the love child of MC Hammer and ling a sophisticated, gentlemanly look, Move over Wendy, Pan’s the man a Gremlin. Please stop distracting from will be keeping many a teenage girl’s your phenomenal voice. Jumpsuits are heart fluttering with his clean cut style. hen I first heard that you go or what magazines you read, the If, however, you can’t afford to splash a fashion must for this season, but next Perhaps in the coming weeks the styl- Peter Pan collars were Peter Pan collar has become a staple out on a brand new outfit to ensure time, choose a more flattering fit and ists and contestants will find their fash- making their way to the of chic, modern British fashion. There your place amongst the fashion elite or, subtle opal colours for more style props. ion feet and we will be treated to more fashion front line my are many different styles of collar that if you’re just not sure if this is the trend W for you, then fear not! With numerous Another contestant in need of new style on-trend, A/W styling rather than the initial thought was something along the fashion forward can opt for, with advice is Johnny Robinson. They had garish and over-the-top outfits that can the lines of, “Why would anyone want the contrasting collar being seen on the high street stores having started to sell him dressed as an extra from Miss Sai- often take over the performances. Re- to take fashion tips from the boy that great and the good of the celebrity world detachable collars that you can simply gon. Need we say anymore? member contestants, just because it’s never grew up?” But, I must admit, I within recent weeks. Whether you opt tie around your neck, or for the more Our eyes are not just hurting from the their job, does not mean all stylists are was pleasantly surprised when I saw for a contrasting colour, texture or fab- adventurous, sew to an existing top, sting of the outfits worn by the contest- worth their weight in Vogues. them grace the necklines of dresses, t- ric, a collar covered in glitter or even the you’ve got no excuse not to buy one in ants, but their hairstyles are equally shirts and coats in both the designers’ more simple one that matches the rest of every colour, one for every occasion offensive. Frankie Cocozza’s hair looks collections and the high street stores. your top, you’ll be right on trend for the and one to just play about with until like he’s been standing for too long in a It seems now that, no matter where months ahead. you find your own personal style. side breeze and it’s just stuck like that. Alice Hinds Amy Dunsmuir Brig | November 2011 OPINION 18 www.brignewspaper.com

Opinion editors: David Devereux & Simon Ewing Opinion Email: [email protected] Police and the media: too close for comfort it. For example, Michael Jackson en- Emma Thomson dured an entire court case claiming that he abused children and even with a not- he media is the most power- guilty outcome he is still considered to ful industry in the world, and have been a paedophile. like any all-powerful entity, its So, how can such media attention af- Tpowers can be used for either fect normal people? Headlines such good or evil. The coverage of the phone as “Angel of Death” and “Killer Nurse” hacking scandal and the super injunc- combined with personal pictures found tions shows how the media can have a on Facebook of Leighton having a good positive effect on society. The media time on a night out, as any 27-year-old loves to finger point, and if Rupert Mur- would do, have destroyed her life. The doch and Ryan Giggs are at the end of sad fact is that she will probably struggle it, then that’s fine, but what about when to find any sort of nursing job again, due the media targets ordinary, innocent to the now public persona of her party- people? The media will latch onto any ing too hard and trying to kill patients. possible suspect or lead that the police The News of the World scandal ex- have on a high profile case and will sub- posed how close politicians and the me- sequently butcher any reputation an in- dia are, but the relationship between the dividual has left, regardless of whether police and the media is just as suspect. they are innocent or not. Police count the media as an ally in their The police and the media have far too quest against crime, with any suspect, close a relationship, one that is destroy- such as Murat, being publicly torn to ing lives. Nurse Rebecca Leighton’s shreds by basically every credible pub- name was dragged through the press lication, turning public opinion against when she was charged earlier this year them and encouraging any juror to de- with administering a poisonous saline cide a verdict of guilty before any form solution to patients, resulting in several of trial has commenced. deaths. Leighton was proved innocent, Yet it is not just the suspect who has with all charges dropped. In 2010, land- to live with this torment. Think of fam- Newspaper headlines tarnishing the reputation of nurse Rebecca Leight Picture: fleetstreetblues.blogspot.com lord Chris Jefferies was charged with ily, friends and neighbours who have to on the relationship between the police witnesses come forward and speed up media. The media is highly influential, the murder of Joanna Yeates, and then face the suspicious looks and barrages and the media, with the media not find- the investigation. Media coverage of and if something is said on BBC News released. He has now claimed damages of questions as to why they didn’t know ing out any information about an inves- the disappearance of schoolgirl Shan- or written in The Sun, many believe it to for the abuse he endured from the na- that their son or daughter was a murder- tigation until a court trial commences. non Matthews ultimately became too be true. Press intrusion into an innocent tional press. Property developer Robert er. Even after proven innocent, there is We should adopt this. It would save the much for Karen Matthews, her guilty person’s life is a defamation of charac- Murat was also investigated, and not always that unease and distrust that will destruction of lives following a dropped mother, who, as it turned out, faked ter and could even be classed as stalk- even charged, with having some involve- unfortunately stay around for the rest of charge and would take media pressure her daughter’s abduction to get money ing. Both are criminal offences which ment in the abduction of Madeleine Mc- their lives. off the police, allowing them to focus on from the Madeleine McCann fund. would normally result in a jail sentence. Cann. As we seem to do with almost every solving the crime. As so much money is pumped into Anything would be better than the life It can take decades to form a respect- other policy, it might be a good idea Of course, if properly controlled, the the police force each year, you would sentence that these perfectly innocent able reputation, and one damning, en- to look to Europe for guidance in this. media can actually help a case. Attract- think they could figure all this out by people have been sentenced with. tirely false newspaper article to destroy Portugal has incredibly strict controls ing public attention can make unknown themselves, instead of involving the Steve Jobs and our changing attitude to death “RIP Steve Jobs”: “R.I.P IPhone 5 =(“; difference, and into a public mourning. My problem isn’t with technological ad- without considering the reality. Ehssan Shamoradi “Fuck Steve Jobs”; “Haha every single Thousands still gather every year at vancement, though; flowers and cards However, while his slate isn’t as clean person’s status is about Steve Jobs... Presley’s Graceland mansion, while mil- or status updates and emails amount to as those rewriting history would like to lions of flowers are left outside Bucking- the same thing. It’s the sentiment that acknowledge, Steve Jobs still possessed teve Jobs has died. And I have no idea in the world who this ham Palace in memory of Diana. matters. a unique quality to his fame: merit. The But you already knew that. guy is... ??” These status updates are What bothers me is that we seem in- technological genius never suffered re- The news that anyone has suc- typical of the 21st century. With thou- capable of being moved as a community marks that normally taint celebrities’ cumbed to cancer after a seven- sands dying everyday, young and old, S we’ve become accustomed to death to unless a celebrity of our time dies, those reputations, accusing them of being year struggle is neither sudden nor sur- individuals we’ve propelled to be para- “manufactured”, “untalented” or even prising, and the subsequent avalanche the point of becoming taciturn. As we no gons of virtues deemed important in our “unworthy” of their success. There’s a of coverage and analysis has likewise longer live in the intimate communities society. We have a tendency to focus on feeling from a clear majority that Jobs been inevitable considering our obses- of days gone by, where we lived united in celebrities rather than those close to us, is entitled to be mourned with due rev- sion with celebrity death. order to survive, the death of our neigh- and feel the need to cast our fallen he- erence. He was a champion in a field Commenting on Amy Winehouse’s bour has become inconsequential. The roes in a sanctimonious light, washing where you couldn’t get by on a pretty death earlier this year, Hadley Freeman more death there is, the less it matters. away their imperfections in an apparent smile and a sob story; he needed to be wrote that the singer gave the media “a As the 20th century drew to a close, need to illustrate just how much better more intelligent, more perceptive and collective orgasm of prurient crocodile the event of a celebrity death seemed the they were than all of us. Any dissenting more dedicated than his contemporar- tears by dying”. Like all writers, journal- only death capable of moving us in an voices highlighting, for instance, that ies, all admirable qualities in the right ists have to cobble together some sort of increasingly connected world. A Twitter Steve Jobs’ record was far from spot- context. coherent narrative from an otherwise account called YoForbes was widely dis- less (facilitating user privacy violations; Thus, I’d urge people not to tarnish chaotic world. Death in its every grimy cussed for highlighting this in relation to turning Apple into a well-designed pris- Jobs’ brilliance by forgetting about the detail is the ultimate, and most pro- Steve Jobs’ death, stating that “1 person on; ambivalence towards child labour; tragedies happening on their doorsteps, found, weapon in their arsenal. For one dies and 100 million cry; 1 million die controlling, bullying and silencing col- nor to dress him up as some perfect be- final time, it provides spectacle, contro- and no one cries”. In a world where we leagues and the public; refusing to give ing, something he himself admitted was versy and front page news, all qualities can find out more about someone thou- to charity; refusing to acknowledge his far from the truth. His life’s work was that celebrities command throughout sands of miles away than the people on Picture: db-in.com daughter’s existence) have all been cen- not simply the invention of the iPod. their lives. our own street, the death of a celebrity Steve Jobs’ death marks another sored with an almost fascist vigour. This He improved the way we see the world, The public isn’t a passive observer of is one of the few things capable of unit- change in a process perpetuated for can’t be healthy in a supposedly free and expanded what we believe to be possible this, though. You only needed to log ing communities. The deaths of Elvis hundreds of years. Public shrines are re- democratic age of information, particu- in it, and blinding people to this truth is onto Facebook or its derivatives on the Presley, John Lennon and Princess Di- ceding in the face of social networking; larly when young people are being en- the ultimate disservice to his legacy. morning after Jobs’ death to be con- ana fall into this category. These seismic a shift from public to virtual mourning. couraged to idealise people such as Jobs fronted with countless deviations of events shook us out of our modern in- Brig Writers On... Editorial & Opinion “I prefer being graded on something I’ve “Exams are better because you can write “With essays, you have everything in Each month, we ask Brig put time and effort into, not the essay beforehand and memorise it; front of you: books, notes, bottle of wine. Online Articles what I can scribble down in an hour.” they also give you an adrenaline boost.” With exams you have pens and stress.” Check out brignewspaper.com to read: writers their opinions on Andy McDonald Iain Blackwood & Zsuzsanna David Devereux Matyak a given topic. This month: David Devereux on the clubbing con- Essays vs Exams spiracy. “I’d normally love to burn them both, “Exams are good; they make you learn a “There’s no time to contemplate during “Forgetting absolutely everything in an Simon Ewing on why autumn is the best but at least exams are quick and invigi- little about everything. With essays, you exams, but there’s no pressurised time exam is horrific especially when season of the year. it’s worth 50% of your entire grade! Es- lators look sorry about the pain caused.” learn lots but only about one topic.” limit on essay writing, unless that’s your say wins hands down!” Ehssan Shamoradi Simon Ewing desired effect.” Emma Thomson Stacey Leslie Brig |November 2011 OPINION www.brignewspaper.com 19 Status update: social media might not be so bad after all all about. Surprisingly, I was impressed the possibility that I talk far too much their comfortable surroundings, while the case for a long time, since children Stacey Leslie by how easy it was to keep in touch with but this demonstrates that people are they explain on video how qualified and and adults alike have been exposed to friends and family from back home. still interacting with one another and amazing they are. Therefore, social me- computers and video games for a good n last month’s edition of Brig, not just through social media. Social dia is encouraging us to demonstrate couple of decades now. I remember Craig Wilson criticised the use of media allows for unlimited communica- originality. my brothers and I being particularly social media sites. People today are tion while travelling all over the world, “Social media is addicted to Crash Bandicoot on the Ivery aware of the disadvantages of bridging the gap between home and PlayStation and I still remember the these sites. They seem to dwell on the away, making us more confident to ex- suggestion back then that the games negatives, but there are many benefits of pand our social circles. encouraging us to were too addictive. The only difference social media to be considered. It can also be an outlet for creativity. An between now and then is the develop- The greatest and most important bene- increasing number of people write blogs demonstrate origi- ment of the internet, making it possible fit of social media is that it allows people in response to news stories and other to socialise online while playing these to communicate with ease. As we rely so current events, allowing the voice of the nality.” games. Therefore, if anything, it could heavily on social networking sites such public to be heard. In the past, we were There is an argument that we are wast- be argued that social media is making as Facebook, Twitter and Skype in order unable to voice our opinions on what we ing most of our free time online doing us more sociable. to communicate with friends and fam- were witnessing in the world, but now nothing in particular apart from social There are many benefits to social me- ily, the world would collapse without social media gives us more ways to par- media. In my opinion, if we are creat- dia, and it is our ever-evolving fascina- them. Especially as students, we know ticipate, such as tweeting into live shows ing blog posts, reading and commenting tion of and dependence on technology the thought of living away from home is Picture: topnews.in such as This Morning for audience feed- on news stories, keeping in contact with that has made us fall head over heels daunting and social media helps in eas- back, voting via Facebook for contest- friends and watching TV online, we are for it. There is the possibility that our ing the transition. Knowing that, thanks I was also able to reconnect with friends ants on The X Factor or commenting hardly wasting our time, since we are lifestyles are dominated by this technol- to Skype, we can not only talk to, but from years ago, and this turned me into on online news stories. Never before still processing information. Granted, in ogy, or else that our lifestyles are chang- actually see our family members on our a Facebook follower. It has been sug- has the audience been so involved with the past we would not turn to a compu- ing so frequently that technology has screens. gested that the rise of social media sites broadcast content. Furthermore, the ter to write a blog or to watch TV, but to move quickly in order to keep up. I Originally, I was determined to rebel has reduced actual conversation be- follow-on from the blog, the vlog, has we are merely moving along with the suppose it’s the story of what came first, against the trend of Facebook, but when tween people, but there is a reason that become a substitute for the traditional advancements of today. The argument the chicken or the egg? Technology sure I came to University I decided to swal- I run out of my free calls every month, CV for the younger generation, offer- is that people spend too much time on isn’t going to wait around for us to fig- low my pride and see what the fuss was and never my texts. OK, there is always ing employers a glimpse of applicants in their computers. However, this has been ure it out. The stress of learning to drive Against the “vegetarian ban” in French schools cycle of spending money towards driv- mon questions asked of vegetarians is, takes away from them the opportunity Clare McKenna ing does not end when you pass, because Simon Ewing “Where do you get your protein from?” to make one of the most important then there’s the joys of getting your very Opinion Editor As far as many are concerned, protein is decisions of their lives. Obviously, not own car that needs insurance and lots earning to drive can be a daunt- something you can only get from meat, every child who follows a vegetarian and lots of petrol and maybe even a bit ing experience. I still recall my n 3 October, the French gov- which of course isn’t true; it’s easily ob- diet has made a moral choice to do so; of décor if it unfortunately happens to very first lesson, sitting behind ernment passed a law issuing tained from cheese and eggs, and non- many simply can’t eat meat, whether be a shabby second-hand mobile. the wheel, holding onto it ever new nutritional guidelines to dairy foods such as rice and pulses. As for religious or health reasons, while L However, if we put the substantial costs school canteens. These de- vegan dietician Virginia Messina writes, others have been raised in a family of so tightly and waiting for the vehicle to and frightening road incidents of driv- O move that little bit forward as you light- manded that each school meal include specifically in relation to schoolchildren, vegetarians or just don’t like the taste. ing aside and concentrate on the main ly press your feet down on the pedals some kind of protein element, whether “A meal including 2 tablespoons of pea- But for those who would otherwise outcome of the learning experience, it which you have just learned the names this takes the form of meat, fish, cheese nut butter and a slice of whole wheat make the conscious decision to be- really is a worthwhile and useful skill and functions of. However, seeing as or eggs. Guardian writer Sandra Hau- bread can provide a 10-year-old with come vegetarian on ethical grounds, it to have. Many learner drivers cannot how the first lesson took place in a retail rant outlines the new system in the one-third of her daily protein require- seems absurd that their school should cope with the pressures and anxieties car park, my driving experience did not following way: “On a 20-meal cycle, a ment.” So while children have different prevent them, a place which should placed on them during lessons and pack become stressful until about the fourth minimum of four meals must include dietary requirements from adults, they promote critical thinking and indi- it in after a dozen or so, whereas there or fifth lesson when the bold and wind- ‘quality meat’ and four ‘quality fish,’ and can still fulfil these on a vegetarian diet. viduality. If it’s immoral for a right- are some who just cannot afford to keep ing roads were introduced. From then on the other days, egg, cheese or ‘abats’ Other nutrients that vegetarians are minded adult to eat meat, I can’t see paying for weekly lessons which they on I was forced to tackle full-on junc- (offal) should be the main dish.” Ulti- supposed to struggle with (such as vita- why it should be any different for an feel are doing them no justice. Persever- tions and roundabouts. mately, then, this legislation means that min D, B12 and iron) are likewise easy intelligent child, and such children ance and focus is what is needed in these There are various aspects of the roads any school promoting (or even just ca- to get from vegetarian foods. For exam- should be given all the encouragement instances. I remember all the awful hor- and learning experience that prospec- tering for) a vegetarian or vegan diet is ple, B12 can be found in soya, the basis needed to follow through with their rors I was exposed to when I was learn- tive drivers find intimidating. It seems considered to be breaking the law. for many meat substitutes, while those convictions. ing to drive. Even though the mistakes that one of the major worries out on These guidelines rely on the argument with allergies to soya can take vitamin There’s always going to be the ar- you make benefit you as you are able to the roads is careless, impatient driv- that you need meat to get certain nutri- supplements. It’s therefore clear that gument that if you enjoy meat you learn from them, some drivers are an- ers whose thoughtless actions result in ents, or at least that meat is your best the evidence supporting these nutrition might as well eat it, and I’m not sure gered and annoyed by them; this leads death. The Department of Transport access to them. Unfortunately, it isn’t guidelines is no real evidence at all. this is such a bad stance to take. How- to the learner feeling unnecessary stress reported that in 2010 there were a total so surprising that this stance has been We live in a culture where, more of- ever, this should be a personal choice, and becoming agitated over nothing. of 208,648 people involed in road acci- taken; after all, one of the most com- ten than not, meat forms the standard and nobody should be able to make These occurrences might sound dis- dents that were reported to the police, “substance” of a dish, with vegetables or this decision for a child, regardless couraging, but consider the alterna- with 1,850 people being killed. They also rice added as a side or sometimes just of whether the person is a parent, a tives of not learning to drive. Constantly stated that an estimate of about 9,700 of as decoration. It may be that in the past teacher or a member of parliament. spending money on buses and trains these casualties occurred as a result of meat was a necessary part of our diet, As children can keep perfectly healthy and having to follow a schedule all your drink-driving. So it is not unusual for but this is no longer the case, and with a without meat, it seems to me that it life can soon get tiring and degrading. a driver to feel pressured and nervous little imagination it’s easy enough to get would be more respectful if we didn’t Also, non-drivers will never have the when one small mistake or misjudge- out of this “meat and two veg” mental- impose it on them at all, and instead liberty of going wherever they want, ment could cost either the driver or ity. In fact, eliminating meat from our brought them up to be vegetarian un- whenever they feel like it, and they will someone else their life. diet, or at least reducing the amount of til they were of the right mind to de- be unable to feel that sense of independ- The financial aspect of learning to drive it we consume, can encourage us to look cide for themselves if meat might be ence and responsibility. It is safe to say is also something which learners can feel to other foods for the body of our meals, something they’d want to try. It’s true that the process of learning to drive can stressed about. Due to the increasing and so add some variety and fun to our that removing meat from a child’s diet be a stressful, expensive, time-consum- price of petrol, a driving lesson can cost food. So, if you don’t want to eat Quorn would amount to something similar ing one, but the daunting experience is around £20 or £26. Also, with the aver- for the rest of your life, you can make to what the new law achieves, insofar definitely worth it in the end. Anyway, age person taking around 30-40 hours a meal that’s cheap, healthy and tasty as it involves deciding what children a little stress never killed anyone and of lessons in order to reach the level based around tofu, mushrooms, or len- should and shouldn’t eat; however, at when it is all in aid of a lifelong, useful needed to sit a practical test, it is clear tils, to give only a few examples. least this way the restrictions would skill, I think it should be something that that a great deal of money is needed, not My main problem with this new law encourage a diet that doesn’t promote people tolerate for the benefits of being just to take lessons, but to sit your the- isn’t that it’s based on false information, the unnecessary suffering and slaugh- able to drive. ory test, another pricey aspect. And this Picture: wikipedia.org but that forcing children to eat meat ter of living creatures.

with them then I’ll be surprised. she was their own child. She grew into They grow up so fast: kids with kids But the odds are highly stacked against such a gorgeous wee girl and I loved years and if he hasn’t changed then he’ll bies and getting married? Surely it’s bet- them. Instead of going out with their her to bits, but she also drove me nuts. Craig Wilson definitely need to, because when I knew ter to grow as a person by travelling the friends or taking a year out to see Asia When you’ve spent a day playing, feed- him he was pretty immature. Now, like I world, meeting people, seeing amazing or some other exotic land, they’ll be ing and cleaning a baby, and you finally few days ago, I found out that say, he could have changed and matured things and doing stupid stuff that you getting a few hours’ sleep a night, con- get them to sleep, head downstairs, grab a girl I worked with over the in the past years, especially the last nine can reminisce about with your friends stantly worrying about money and being a cool refreshing beverage and slowly summer is pregnant. I also months, but a child should not be re- when you’re older. stressed to their eyeballs. lower yourself onto that soft couch, be- A found out that a guy I went to sponsible for raising another child. I mean, relationships between young Don’t get me wrong: I think kids are fore you know it the moment is gone, secondary school with has just become For all I know, he could be a great dad people rarely last in the long term. In to- great. I have great fun with kids, proba- because for some the reason the child a father. In fact, there are a few people and really step up; another girl I knew day’s society a lot of us are too independ- bly because I’m still a big kid myself. My has woken up and is seeking attention I went to school with who have either had a baby over a year ago with a guy ent and want too many things from our cousins and I used to have a great time for something. Who wants that every married, have plans to marry, or have seven years older than her but I hear other halves. We’re too inexperienced to and they were always excited to see me; day for years on end? Sure, the reward had a baby. I want to say congratula- that she’s a great mum, the dad is really count to ten when our partner does that they still are, and there’s no better sound of being a parent and raising your child tions and good luck to them all, but at responsible and great with the kid and thing that thing really irritates us. In- than a young child laughing, soppy I to be healthy and happy will be the best the same time I have to ask: what are they both work. That’s great, but don’t stead, pointless arguments follow along know. My ex’s family fosters children feeling you’ll ever have and you’ll never you doing? You’ve only just entered you want to live your life focusing on with tears and broken crockery. So, if and for the majority of our relation- love anything more, but it can wait. Live your twenties and you’re having fami- yourself and having a good time for the all these former classmates can stay ship fostered a baby from five weeks to your own life first before you dedicate it lies? I haven’t spoken to this guy in three next five years at least, before having ba- together while their child is still living a year and a half old and loved her like to someone else. Brig | November 2011 Features 20 www.brignewspaper.com

Features Editors: Anna Jordan & Catriona McGale Features Email:[email protected] Can I hitch a ride...to Morocco? The Hitch has raised over £3.5m We would wake up in a bumpy field big balls.” up his son from school on the way Maria Ristimaki for Link since it started twenty years that smelled of cows, dismantle our Hippies with a campervan drove and he invited us to have dinner with ago, and according to the Link Fun- tent and trek to the nearest road, and us through French countryside to his family. When they heard that it draising and Events Officer Lotte by the end of the day find ourselves Bordeaux, after a woman with an an- was the day before my 20th birthday, -O-U-T-H. I finished colouring Kendall “the money raised from the in the luxury suite of a small coun- tique car and a massive rottweiler on I got an apple tart with a candle on the H as the underground came Hitch is crucial for Link, because tryside B&B some 200 miles south- the back seat, who initially looked so top and chocolate as a gift. to a halt at its final destination in they are classed as unrestricted in- wards, by the invitation of the owner intimidating that Douglas valiantly In hindsight, the twenty-seven a suburb in South London. Feel- S come and can thus be spent on new who had happened to give us a lift. offered to sit at the back but turned lifts that took us from the suburban ing increasingly nervous, I got up, gath- projects that would otherwise be un- This unpredictability was not char- out to be the biggest softie in the his- roadside in London to a ferry port in ered my newly finished cardboard signs derfunded.” acteristic of our own hitch. Mahdi tory of rottweilers, had dropped us Southern Spain did not only work as and stepped out into the chilly morning Despite its well-established nature Shariff, a student at the University of off in a roundabout. an alternative for a flight ticket. More air. in English universities, Douglas and Warwick, offered his help to a wom- Even though on a couple of occa- importantly, they taught us about the We found our way to the nearest I were the first students in Stirling to an on the street who was struggling sions a car stopped for us in less than cultures, languages and lives of those big road, double-checked the feeble take part in the Hitch, and generally to juggle a baby, a young child and a five minutes, sometimes immediate- we met in a very unique way. last-minute purchase of a compass speaking the initial reaction we got tangle of luggage and prams, only to ly, there were times when we had to There were times when we were to make sure we were heading in the was that of surprise. realise they were headed to the same learn what it means to be patient. tired, hungry or stuck in the middle right direction, dumped our ruck- “My first reaction was something destination. For example, on our first day in of nowhere, but there was always sacks on the ground and stuck our along the lines of ‘oh my god, I can’t “We began talking and she men- France, we ended up in a commer- someone who stopped for us in the thumbs out. Portsmouth, please. believe they’re actually going to tioned her parents were picking her cial centre on the outskirts of Caen, a end. Like most memorable things in life, hitchhike all the way to Morocco.’ up from Calais and driving back to place that I will always associate with The excitement of opening the door my decision to hitchhike 1,200 miles The more we got talking about it their house in West Germany in their an acute sense of desperation and the of a new car, meeting new people and from London to Morocco was the re- though, the better it sounded and 8 person car. Before she knew it, she feel of wet, soggy cardboard in my getting closer to your destination was sult of a rather rapid and spontane- when I learned it was for a good was seduced by our charm and had freezing cold hands. one of the best things I have ever ous process of reasoning; it sounds cause as well I didn’t hesitate in offered to give us a ride and a place Our miserable faces did arouse experienced, and there is no doubt I cool, therefore I should do it. helping them to reach their target,” to stay.” sympathy in one man in the end, af- will hitchhike again. Our mission had been triggered by says Christina Prifti, one of our flat- The next best thing in hitchhik- ter five hours of wandering around a poster my hitch partner, Douglas, mates. ing was the people. When the Hitch the car parks of furniture stores try- had seen in the Atrium about a hitch- So, with the help of our friends and had only been a distant idea in our ing to get a lift. hiking event called the Hitch. family, we raised £750 for Link, and heads, the stories that we heard from He took us to his village, we picked “My brother in Newcastle Univer- after attending a health and safety veteran hitchhikers about free meals, sity took part in the Hitch a few years briefing and trying to memorise invitations to stay overnight and the ago and seeing the poster reminded some hitching guidelines, mostly to general unconditional friendliness of me of it. After hearing his stories I calm our parents’ nerves, we were people had seemed like one-off occa- decided that it was a must-do event -Largest organised hitchhike in the UK ready to go. sions, but our experience taught us and something I’d love to include in However, after standing on the otherwise. my university experience.” -Two destinations: Morocco or Croatia roadside for an hour and half with There were days when we did not The Hitch started in 1992 on the -The hitchhike takes place between 16 cars shooting past arrogantly and have to spend literally a penny, be- initiative of two students in Cam- the shopkeeper from the pound shop cause so many of those who gave us a bridge, and it has slowly made its way March and 29 April across the road continuing to peer at lift wanted to take us to their homes to other universities through word of -Fundraising target of £375 goes to Link us suspiciously as if we were out of and cook for us. And even if they did mouth. By the time we set off, over our minds, I could not help but think not, most were friendly, and all of seven thousand students had taken Community Development, the organising we may have set ourselves a rather them were memorable. part, with the fastest having com- charity of the Hitch unrealistic goal. A man in a sports car with a cracked pleted the journey to Morocco in less Once the first car stopped, the mix- windscreen took us to a small sea- than three days. - The charity operates in 5 Sub-Saharan ture of relief and excitement and side town of La Rochelle in western As a charity fundraiser, the aim countries: Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, gratefulness was intoxicatingly over- France. He was driving 100 mph, of the participants is not however whelming, and in the following eight overtaking erratically, smoking pas- merely to thumb their way through South Africa and Uganda days that it took for us to reach the sionately and listening to AC/DC on Europe, but also to raise money for -They work to improve the quality of educa very southern tip of Spain, I never repeat. I’ll never forget how my nails the organising charity, Link Com- lost that feeling when I saw a car stop dug into the flesh of my palms with a munity Development, who work to tion for us. mixture of nervousness and amuse- improve the quality of education in The best thing about hitchhiking ment, while the speakers blasted Sub-Saharan Africa. was the unpredictability of each day. with “I’ve got big balls, oh, I’ve got Be in the mo’ this November and grow that tash Anna Jordan world will be tracking their facial moustache while having fun along worldwide. action. Female supporters (or ‘Mo Features Editor hair growth while raising money for the way. Eager participants register online Sistas’) can assist with fundraising, prostate and testicular cancer. The first year of Movember didn’t and submit a clean-shaven photo- help spread the word or just watch ovember 1 marks the start Popular styles include the Box Car, aim to raise any funds; that began graph at the start of the month and their partner’s face get fuzzier. of Movember, a chance for the Wisp, the Connoisseur and the the following year. followers can track their progress on Luke Moore is being supported guys to grow a moustache Trucker. Since then, the event has spread the participants ‘mospace’. by girlfriend and Stirling University and change the face of men’s The movement started in 2003, like wildfire and guys from countries Mo Bros need only know three student, Victoria Pease. N when a group of Australian men such as South Africa, Denmark and rules about their ‘taches: “I will try to help as much as I can. health. Millions of “Mo Bros” across the met over a few pints to promote and Canada are now taking part. •There is no joining at the side- So far I’ve put Luke’s Movember appreciate the growth of the male 2011 is Movember’s biggest year so burns – that is a beard page on my Facebook and Twitter far, with over 10,000 registered Mo •There is no joining at the bottom and I will be encouraging our friends Bros in the UK. of the chin – that is a goatee and family to donate. I am also ex- The charity aims to educate men •A small complementary growth cited about the prospect of baking about health conditions that affect under the bottom lip is allowed (aka some moustache shaped cookies and them specifically. a tickler) selling them.” Prostate cancer is a prevalent is- First time Mo Bro Luke Moore, a This year, students can join the sue among males and Mo Bros want student at Dundee University, ex- UK University Challenge Movember encourage men to get themselves plains why he is taking part in Mo- group as an individual or as a team, checked as they do not always dis- vember this year: just sign up at www.movember. play symptoms of the cancer. “A lot of other people do charity com Movember works in close partner- work and I’m a bit too busy to do There’s also a chance to win some ship with charities such as The Pros- anything radical like a marathon so amazing prizes. tate Cancer Charity who provide in- I thought I’d try something little to For current and future Mo Bros, formation and support to those who help” Movember representative Laura need it. Moore is keen to raise awareness Mair gives some sound advice: Every year 37,000 men in the UK of men’s health as his brother died “Remember to have fun with the are diagnosed with prostate cancer of cancer. mo. Keep your Movember clean, which is now the most common can- As for fundraising, he’s not too simple and fun and do what you cer diagnosed in men. Statistics show sure how his first Movember will go, can to spread the word of why you that 1in 9 will get prostate cancer in so he is aiming for around £75: are rocking out a fine moustache: to the UK and that one man dies every “I have no idea how much hair my change the face of men’s health.” hour as a result of it. face is capable of growing in 30 days Find out more information about Last year, £48.5 million was raised so I will just see how it goes!” Movember and Luke’s efforts at Which one is your style? Picture: www.melindastanley.com for Movember’s partner charities Girls don’t have to miss out on the brignewspaper.com. Features Brig | November 2011 www.brignewspaper.com 21 Lest we forget: why we should all wear a poppy Emma Hazell explains why she feels it’s important for students to be a part of Remembrance Sunday

he sun is setting across a golden jacket pockets, what is harder to see, desert. Ripples of heat are ris- and arguably more concerning, is stu- ing from the gently moving dent attendance at local memorial serv- Tsand. It’s hot, and your eyelids ices and parades. are heavy as you sit, watching nature in Whilst asking students from Stirling its full powerful magnificence. University why they don’t attend a serv- Yet you’re not on holiday, you’re not ice or parade it is obvious that ignorance sat in Bermuda shorts drinking beer and is not largely the excuse. Even an under- laughing with friends. You’re over 3,500 standing of the modern significance of miles from home, fighting to stay awake Remembrance Day is easily expressed in a hot, dirty, cramped Sanger, tensely for most, but still many don’t attend, watching those ripples, waiting for any won’t attend or never have attended a sign of movement. You’re a soldier, memorial service or parade. serving Queen and country in Afghani- Second year Law student Simon Leigh stan, stagnating in month four of six. expressed his personal dislike of formal gatherings. “Personally, I feel it’s a day for quiet remembrance. I wear a poppy “I think there is and last year I gave £2 to two grateful a misconception veterans in Tesco during evening shop- ping ‘rush hour’.” about Remem- Fourth year Outdoor Education stu- brance services, dent Amber Haston said, ‘I do wear a poppy, I take part in the two minutes that their purpose silence, and I sometimes watch a parade is to glorify war and on the TV but I’ve never been to a serv- ice or parade. I suppose that’s due to Lest we forget, poppies being the symbol for Remembrance Sunday Picture: www.nickglaves.com violence while en- time and other commitments.’ experiences of sheltered gap years or Ypres, 92 years after the end of World shared his thoughts on why students Indeed busy lives lead to busy minds couraging patriotic the dispatches they view on television. War I. The aim being to give them a bet- may not attend, and something which occurs only once In general, unless they have friends or ter understanding of the meaning of re- “Firstly, it is a simple fact that only flag-waving pride. a year can be easily forgotten. But it family in the armed forces, they have no membrance. a small percentage of students attend shouldn’t be, and it is a sad fact that For me, this is cer- appreciation of the daily sacrifice being The Royal British Legion’s National church or religious services of any kind. more often than not it is only those di- made on their behalf. Unfortunately a Chairman John Farmer said, “We hope I think there is also a misconception rectly affected by war who take time to tainly not the case” lot of people are more concerned with that it will continue into the future and about Remembrance services, that their truly remember; gathering together to beating their Call of Duty scores on ensure all generations have the opportu- purpose is to glorify war and violence share, understand and support. - Reverend Alan Miller Xbox than with the butcher’s bill from nity to learn and to remember.” while encouraging patriotic flag-waving Territorial Army NCO, L/Cpl Hazell, Afghanistan.” pride. For me, this is certainly not the who has served twice in Afghanistan, War is an unfortunate familiarity, case, and the service acknowledges that At home it’s 3:00am and your mum first at the age of 18, an age which rep- for those who fight in it, those who are war is a tragedy that costs the lives not is making a cup of tea in an attempt to resents ten of the war’s UK fatalities so caught in it and those who see it hap- only of combatants, but also of innocent calm her nerves. It’s not that she’s hav- far, is preparing for a third tour in the “Personally, I feel pening. Perhaps it is because we see so civilians; war is the result of our failure ing nightmares about the worst possible New Year. His time spent in theatre has many reports, images and news feeds to resolve problems by peaceful means. scenario, it’s just she can’t stop think- made Remembrance Sunday, and its it’s a day for quiet ‘live from the front line’ that we have Remembrance must always include con- ing. Thinking about you when you were importance, all the more poignant. become unintentionally immune to true remembrance. I fession and repentance, while we turn to a child, thinking about the day you left, “Remembrance Day is personally im- horror of war. Immune and unapprecia- God seeking forgiveness and praying just thinking and rethinking and it’s portant as it allows me to remember tive of it’s true cost. wear a poppy and for peace, justice, and reconciliation be- driving her to the brink of tears. Not just both the friends I’ve lost in action and The opening paragraphs of this arti- tween former enemies.” this night but every night, on reloop in the countless others who have sacrificed last year I gave £2 cle mention Afghanistan, a mother and “Whilst going to war against an enemy month four of six. themselves, mentally or physically, in a son, but the separation and bereave- like Nazi Germany was for most people Since 1921, Remembrance Day has the service of their friends, family and to two grateful ment war inflicts is not and cannot be unquestionably the right thing to do, been a significant date in the UK’s cal- country. I also appreciate how impor- absolute to time, place, country or per- veterans in Tesco attitudes to more recent conflicts have endar. The months leading toward the tant it is as a unifying event to remind son. War is our undeniable history and been more ambivalent, and people have second Sunday of November see mil- the whole country that their way of life, an unfortunate part of our foreseeable during evening questioned the motivations and inten- lions of the symbolic red poppies being has, and still is, being defended by the future. Remembering can be painful, tions of those involved. Even if we have distributed, sold and worn. The money sacrifice of their compatriots.” shopping ‘rush it can be hard but it needs to be done. doubts, we need to make the distinction raised going to The Royal British Le- “It is a shame more students don’t Whilst private remembrance is admi- between the political leaders who make gion, where it is used to help current, as attend or appreciate Remembrance hour’” rable it does not install any sense of the decision to go to war, and those well as ex-soldiers and their families. Day parades, but it is understandable. community, encouraging instead, as the - Simon Leigh whose duty it is to serve in the armed Yet whilst the vivid red poppy is easy The majority of students have no idea modern technological world often does, forces.” to see, proudly worn on coat collars and of the world around them beyond the impeded and isolated personal develop- As University students, we are at an When asked if there was anything that ment. age beyond the pupils this kind of ini- could be done to increase student at- L/Cpl Hazell added, “It could also be tiative targets but that doesn’t mean tendance at parades The Reverend said, argued that university is the ideal time independent learning can’t aid an “While I would hope that more students for the young to develop in a sheltered emotional and social development of would attend services of Remembrance, environment before they are subjected remembrance. While it was expressed I don’t think there are any easy answers. to emotionally degrading aspects of earlier that ignorance is rarely an ex- The only thing I would do is to encour- the real world, so perhaps students cuse, a historical understanding of re- age students to remember and give shouldn’t become that involved. But in membrance only stretches so far, the thanks for those who have given their my opinion the young are our future emphasis for University students should lives so that we might live as we do.” diplomats and leaders, so an apprecia- be the cultural and social importance of Wearing a poppy is for a reason, not tion of the true cost of war will be essen- remembrance. Our acts of remembrance just that of remembrance. tial to our collective future.” will directly affect future generations, so It is a symbol of national strength, love The Royal British Legion has recently we should take responsibility in under- and support and it’s this sense of nation- developed a 28 page ‘Learning Pack’ for standing and participating. al community that we should not lose. schools, designed to aid teachers in in- Stirling’s Church of The Holy Rude Paying a pound or two is an easy act, troducing themes of remembrance into carries out a Remembrance Service and what is harder is becoming part of the classrooms for younger pupils. Available Parade each year attended by the city’s greater concept of remembrance. Reli- to download online it includes sections TA unit, Army Cadet Force Detachment, gion, although a part of the act, is not on International Peace and Security, Scouts, and local dignitaries amongst why the services and parades take place. Conflicts since World War II and one many others. Yet for a city with a large They take place in honour of those who simply and aptly named “We Will Re- population of students there are always have died so you can live today. member”. This year, through The Le- very few present. 13 November is fast approaching: wear gion students from the UK, France and The Reverend Alan Miller, who has a poppy and attend a service and parade Belgium were given the opportunity to been organising and conducting servic- of Remembrance, I urge you to. Remember those who died for us Picture: www.nickglaves.com gather in the historic Belgian town of es for Remembrance Sunday since 1998, Brig | November 2011 SPORT 22 www.brignewspaper.com

Sports Editors: Scott Lorimer, Graeme Young & Stuart Kenny Sport Email:[email protected] Glasgow City: The road to the Champions League last sixteen Sports Editor Graeme Young speaks to last decade but it has been there show- ings in Europe this season which have University lecturer Katharina Linder about her taken the club to a new level. City have part in Glasgow City’s European campaign. reached the last 16 of the Champions League, a feat no Scottish team has ever managed before. niversity of Stirling lecturer she has also lifted various other cups in and German native, Katharina the Scottish game. ULindner, who works in the Film Katharina believes the club’s com- & Media department at the University, mitment to excellence has seen them Brig Sport takes a look at how the combines her role at Stirling with her achieve at such a high level. She said, “I Scottish side have managed to achieve endeavours on the football pitch. think the main reason for our success at so much this season in the world’s Katharina has been involved in the Glasgow City is that we have a profes- premier club competition. ladies game for many years. She first sional attitude and if you have that you Glasgow City got their Euro campaign made a name for herself while playing get a belief which is hard to break. That off to the perfect start with a convinc- at FFC Frankfurt as a teenager. After has allowed us to compete at this level ing 3-0 triumph against top Serbian winning the double with the German and get through to the latter stages of outfit Spartak Jaffa. All three of the side, she accepted a scholarship to go this competition, we believe like we group games took place in Serbia and and play football in America. At the belong at this level and we now know City knew a win against the hosts would Hartford Hawks, she made a name we can compete against top European help them greatly to try and qualify for for herself as the one of the most sides.” the last-32. talented players at college level. After Katharina believes the success has The Scottish side then produce a a short spell with Western Mass Lady been all the more remarkable due to masterful display in their second and Pioneers, she found herself in Scotland the club being non-professional. She third group games, as they blew away to complete her PHD. Lindner joined added, “I think the Champions League Malta outfit Mosta with a thumping 8-0 up-and-coming Scottish side Glasgow has been very exciting for all of us at the scoreline before dismissing Klaksvik of Ladies, and the rest is history. Lindner, club. For us to be competing at this lev- the Faroe Islands. Kat Lindner got this while at Glasgow has been part of 5 el is remarkable in itself due to the fact game off to the best of starts with a goal straight winning league title sides and we are an amateur club. Almost every in the opening minute which helped the other team we could face in Europe is at ladies on their way to a 5-0 win. the minimum semi-pro and for us to be The University of Stirling lecturer in action Picture: Lorraine Hill The history girls had become the first still involved in the latter stages of the Scottish team to make it through to the competition is pretty unbelievable.” picked up a backpass, rocketing home club. I think it is fair to say that we last-32 in Champions League history. Whatever happens during the rest of the equaliser from six yards out. thoroughly deserved the result today. City would be looking to go one better, Glasgow City’s campaign, Katharina Glasgow pressed on, but couldn’t find As a team, the girls felt that they had but they knew that Icelandic side Valur believes only good things can from con- a winner and were disappointed to fin- let themselves down last week; how- Reykjavik would put up a tougher test tinued participation in the competition ish with a draw. ever, the staff believed that the away than some of their group opponents. and facing Europe’s elite. One week later, Glasgow City pro- tie would suit us better and that has “The great thing about winning the duced one of their greatest performanc- proved to be the case. Last-32 Champions League league again is that whatever happens es when they dismantled Valur on their Glasgow City played their first leg Valur Reykjavik 1 - 4 Glasgow City this season it allows us another shot home turf 3-0. City started brightly and against this week against tournament Home Leg 1-1, Away Leg 0-3 at the Champions League next season. found themselves ahead when Valur’s favourites and two-time champions This will help us push on and establish Hallbera Gisladottir turned the ball Turbine Potsdam of Germany. Al- Glasgow City hosted Valur at Peter- ourselves in the competition for the into her own net after an excellent cross though City were well beaten 10-0 away shill Park and expectation was high for long-term. That can only be good for from Emma Mitchell. In the second from home, the progress the team has the Scottish side as they played their us and Scottish football. Hopefully it half, Glasgow dealt the killer blow to made as a competitive side in Europe first ever home game in the Champions will also lead to more support from Reykjavik with a Lisa Evans double, two this season has been startling. After es- League. Lisa Evans gave the hosts a the SFA towards the Women’s game excellent finishes from the striker were tablishing a foothold in the tournament, quick 1-0 lead with a neat finish but in this country.”Amateur side Glasgow enough to end the tie. City will believe they will be in the latter after the break Valur improved, with City have been the standard bearers for After the match, City Head Coach Ed- part of the tournament for many years Laufey Olafsdottir taking advantage Katharina Linder Picture: Glasgow City Scottish ladies football for most of the die Wolecki Black said, “I am absolutely to come. after City ’keeper Claire Johnstone delighted for everyone involved in the

Olympic hype dampened by hectic tennis schedule FIFA slammed by Winning Students

ex-SFA Chief << continued from p24 Scott Lorimer UEFA spokesman has blasted Sports Editor FIFA as being “endemically Listed below are the thirty-eight corrupt”. University of Stirling students to former Stirling student and A Andy Mitchell, who previously held be selected for the 2011/12 win- member of the British Davis Cup a role at the SFA, made the comment ning students programme: tennis squad has claimed that A while giving a lecture at the University the Olympic Games are “just another of Stirling. Mitchell said of the world Golf tournament”. football governing body, “FIFA is Eilidh Briggs, Kelsey MacDonald, Colin Fleming made the remark after endemically corrupt. It seems to always Hannah McCook, Jack McDonald, being questioned on the intense sched- be a ploy of Sepp Blatter to take out his Graeme Robertson, Rebecca Wilson ule undergone by professional tennis election rivals to stay another term in players. office.” Hockey Fleming said, “There are some serious He also described the situation as a Alison Bell issues that need to be addressed.” “big, big problem” while commenting The Economics & Finance graduate on the operations of UEFA as “simple”. Swimming criticized the arrangement of the tennis On the subject of players wages, he Ryan Bennett, Cameron Brodie, Mar- season, which may ultimately have an was critical of the salaries of the Celtic tin Cremin, Danielle Huskisson, Ross effect on his performance. team, whom he described as “non-enti- Muir, Jamie Ross, Douglas Scott, “Last week I was in Kuala Lumpur, ties” despite their high salaries. Jak Scott, Lewis Smith, Josh Walsh, which is seven hours ahead of Britain, Student Colin Fleming faces a busy playing schedule Mitchell, who was the Head of Joseph Welstead next week I’m in Russia for two weeks. in protest. tournaments and my ranking is further Communications at the SFA for ten It’s pretty horrible always having to Those most vocal about strike ac- ahead.” years, also recalled the time with then Triathlon adapt,” he said. tion include Andy Roddick and world Ranked number 30 in the doubles Scotland manager Berti Vogts as “the Marc Austin, Andrew Hood, Cameron Last year, Fleming was part of the number two, Rafael Nadal. rankings in October, Fleming has be- longest two years of my life.” Milne, Natalie Milne, Grant Sheldon, Scottish Commonwealth tennis team Last month, Roddick said, "It's a more come a staple of the British Davis Cup Vogts took charge of Scotland in Greg Turner that took gold. While expressing his physical game than it used to be, but side along with fellow Scots Andy and 2002, but his time as manager was pride at the achievement he believes the season is longer than ever. Jamie Murray. unsuccessful to say the least, which Women’s football that he can’t dwell on previous success. "I don't think we're storming offices, However his rise up the tennis ranks saw Scotland slump to their lowest ever Lee Alexander, Frankie Brown, Sarah “We did really well last year in Dehli; but I think the sentiment is still there. hasn't been easy. world ranking of 88 in 2005. Crilly, Emma Brownlie, Lisa Evans, we got gold and I’m so pleased about it. We need to be smart about it and take While taking a two year sabbatical FIFA has been plagued with rumours Molly McKean, Lauren McMurchie, “But the likes of these big interna- our time and make sure that it's well from University, Fleming turned pro of corruption and underhand tactics for Eilish McSorley, Emma Mitchell, tional events, like the Commonwealths, thought out and not be kind of reaction- after visiting a variety of strange and several years under the Blatter reign. Christie Murray, Khym Ramsay, Jane like the Olympics, they are just another ary. But, you know, there is a discussion exotic locations. “In my two years out Most recently the football federation Ross, Emily Thomson, Kimberley tournament. I just have to prepare for it going on." from Stirling, I ended up in Cuba. I has come under scrutiny due to accusa- Thomson like I have to for, say, the tournament I Speaking on his current singles rank- never thought I'd end up there,” laughs tions claiming committee members had have next week.” ing (351 in the world), Fleming says Fleming. been bribed to award the 2022 hosting Individual Scholarships Because of the hectic schedule, some that his main focus is on the doubles “I've also played tournaments in the duties to Qatar. An investigation into Scott McCowan (Boccia). Sarah of the world's best players, including events. “Because I've had more wins in Ivory while I was starting out at the the matter is ongoing. Young (Ski-ing) Andy Murray, have threatened to strike doubles, I can now play in the bigger lower levels to get my rankings up.” Brig | November 2011 SPORT www.brignewspaper.com 23

Check out all the latest sporting action online at Sport www.brignewspaper.com Two try Stirling pay penalty in hard fought encounter

Stuart Kenny then showed off his pace as he released Sports Editor a low kick past the final defender before taking control of the ball in the left cor- solid performance from the ner of the pitch to claim Stirling’s open- Men’s University of Stirling First ing try which was skilfully converted by AXV rugby team was not enough Johnson. to stop student rivals Dundee from The Dundee contingent hit back claiming a 37-26 win in the BUCS Scot- with a converted try of their own ten tish 1A league. minutes later. After enduring countless The Stirling students have had mixed phases of attack inside the Stirling 22, fortunes in their Caledonia 2 Midlands the opposition forwards then quickly Saturday league this season, sitting spread the play across field where a mid-table after their opening games, three on one situation presented itself but the team faced a tough ask in beat- to the away side. Dundee then wasted ing a Dundee side who have not seen no time in using their numbers advan- defeat in some time. tage to run into touch and tie the game The Stirling men scored two excel- once more. lent tries, through Chris Stannage and The Dundonians then added their Gordon McGuire, but their solid per- second try on the half hour mark. The formance was undone as the travelling score came after an impressive diagonal Dundee side held strong to maintain kick trundled just over the try line their untarnished winning record in the where Dundee numbers were waiting to BUCS league. pounce for a well-earned five points. Dundee got off to a quick start, and The sides went on to trade kicks, after driving up to the Stirling try-line, with Stirling giving away a whopping the visitors were handed a penalty ten penalties in the first half hour, and in front of the posts and wasted no through golden boots at each end of the time converting to claim the opening pitch, Stirling ran in for the half-time break down 18-13. three points of the match. Stirling kept The Stirling Men’s First XV battled hard against Dundee University Picture: Rajmond Bakonyi their heads high however, and within Dundee returned to the field with a fill ten minutes the scores were drawn of fire, and within five minutes they had level after a solid attack ended with an broken through the Stirling lines once of the action, executing a cheeky side the ball down and see the score line the Dundee right wing break several impressive penalty score from Stirling more. Following a blast of pace down step and quick pass to outside centre move to 30-23. tackles before forcing down a try which fly-half Kyle Johnson on the right edge the left wing, the visiting side made Gordon McGuire who sprinted clear The University received another blow was not converted to see the final score of the 22. good use of a two on one scenario and through the posts to put Stirling within shortly later when second row man read a regretful 37-26 for the battling The men in green and black stripes generated an open pitch, allowing them three points of Dundee. Grant Young took a hard blow that saw Stirling contingent. then took the lead after fifteen minutes, to run between the posts unchallenged. This momentum was quickly undone the tall lock rushed to accident and The next BUCS venture for the Uni- when a speedy break saw winger Chris Stirling hit back soon after, with by the formidable Dundee side how- emergency for checkups. versity of Stirling first-team men sees Stannage run in for a try. The break Johnson converting his fourth kick of ever, and within minutes the cluster Another Kyle Johnson penalty saw the the side take on a Heriot-Watt Univer- began in the Stirling half, and saw Stan- the day from an impressive thirty-five of red strips had pierced Stirling’s Stirling XV claw back three points but sity side that have a divided record after nage released through some impressive yards following an offside call from the guard once more. Following the restart Dundee soon put an end to the encoun- one win and one loss. quick passing. The electric Stannage match official. Try scorer Chris Stan- Dundee played to their wing and bolted ter with their fifth and final score of the nage then landed himself in the middle straight towards the corner flag to plant match. The closing try of the game saw Cashback promote youth sport in Stirling Lacrosse team see off Glasgow

Graeme Young Graeme Young Michael Gardiner also added a brace Sports Editor Sports Editor to the second-half masterclass. Tommy Russell and Steven Coutts both also got oungsters in the Stirling area The University Men’s lacrosse first- their name on the scoresheet for the were recently treated to a day team recorded an impressive 6-1 win home-side. Yof fun and education involving over a motivated Glasgow side on Senior Stirling midfielder and Scot- sport, which was held at the Raploch Wednesday (2 November). land International Derek A. Whyte was community centre. 68 children in The game was a tetchy affair for long obviously pleased with the outcome of total came along to the CashBack for spells but Stirling showed their class as the match. He said, “We went in to this Communities programme which was the game progressed. game quietly confident of a win and attended by the Minister for Common- After a frustrating first-half, where used this opportunity to get on as many wealth Games and Sport. Stirling found themselves trailing 1-0, freshers as we could to allow us to see The main aims of the project are to it looked as if it wouldn’t be the home where they are at in terms of skill and encourage children to take part in good side’s day, with Glasgow showing a their progression rate.” citizenship and to learn a host of new resilience throughout the early ex- It started off sticky but eventually paid skills and to keep a sustained participa- changes. The away team didn’t have dividends in the second quarter where tion in sport. any replacement players on the bench we got our flow, took the lead and never The government initiative was set up and that obvious disadvantage seemed looked back. This was a training game to allow 10-19-year-olds to take part to really make a difference in the latter in preparation for the BUCS trophy in free sport and participatory pro- stages of the contest. which, with the dedication that I saw grammes in their local area. The fund- The second half was much more like out on the field, I see Stirling Mens La- ing for the event comes from money it as they scored six unanswered goals. crosse making it to the quarter-finals, recovered from crime. Scotland international Malcolm Kent if not the final, against English teams Sports and activities on offer for the was the star of the show with two goals that are more experienced than us and kids on the day included, graffiti art, of his own and many influential runs have been playing this game from an badminton, hockey and basketball. to get Stirling into attacking positions early age.” Members of the Glasgow Rocks profes- and pinning the Glasgow side back. sional basketball team were also in attendance at the event and a BBQ was put on for the kids after the event. The children also spoke to fire safety advisors and drugs awareness groups. Also in attendance was NKBL (No Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport Shona Robison Knives Better Lives), who gave a demo to the youngsters about the dangers and consequences of knife crime. sporting, cultural, youth and third ties on offer today demonstrates that Minister for Commonwealth Games sector organisations. To date, over half places like Stirling really do feel the and Sport Shona Robison said, “When a million young people have benefited. benefits of a scheme that helps young asking young people to be responsible That’s why the Scottish Govern- people to give something back to their members of society we must provide ment invested an additional £250K community. them with opportunities to help reach of CashBack funding into developing CashBack for Communities is part their potential and to have a real hope educational programmes on issues such of the Scottish Government’s commit- for their future.” as violence, sectarianism and alcohol ment to a safer, stronger and healthier Since its launch in 2007 by Justice misuse and to train youth workers and Scotland. Secretary Kenny MacAskill, over £40 sports coaches to deliver inputs on More information can be found at million has been reinvested back into these issues to young people through www.scotland.gov.uk/cashback communities across Scotland through CashBack activities. The range of activi- University of Stirling taking on Glasgow Picture: Ruta Sile November 2011 FREE

Page 23 - Men’s First XV Rugby report Page 22 - Colin Fleming talks about hectic Sport tennis schedule www.brignewspaper.com www.brignewspaper.com Semi-final loss but Alex Jack cup glory awaits

Stuart Kenny stared into a blinding sun, and it was Sports Editor unfortunate circumstances that lead to the opener. After a pass back to Univer- ead Coach Ian Ross has sity goalkeeper Kevin Walker strayed to said there will be no loss of the left side of his area, Walker pounced confidence in the Stirling on the ball and appeared to have it un- camp despite defeat in the der control when City attacker Grant H Vanson dispossessed him to shoot into semi-final of the Image Printer’s cup. The University First XI fell 2-1 to rivals an empty net, to the dismay of Walker Edinburgh City in a tough encounter whose vigorous appeals for a foul were which could have gone either way. Ross ignored by the referee. is not dwelling on the result however, The University hit back with pace how- and instead has moved to look forward ever, and after Stephen Hoyle controlled to upcoming matches away to Manches- a long ball well and played Emmot Parr- ter University and a glamour tie against Gallagher on the wing, the ex-Rother- Gretna 2008 in the final of the Alex Jack ham man wasted no time in cutting Cup. inside and driving forward before being Ross commented, “City played well, we cut down on the edge of the area to win a will keep our heads high after that one dangerous free-kick. With several play- and look to the game next week, and ers standing over the ball, it was mid- then of couse we still have the Alex Jack fielder Craeg Robertson who stepped Cup final to look forward to. That’s why up with a slow run to ping a pacey shot everyone is in the game, you know, we’re narrowly over the wall and into the right all here to win matches, win leagues and side of the net to bring the scores level win cups and we are looking forward to again after fifteen minutes. Despair for Stirling as Edinburgh City progress to the Image Printer’s cup final Picture: Stuart Kenny the chance to get our hands on some sil- After this, end-to-end football ensued verware this season. with no real end product, but after a pe- “We have no reason not to be confi- riod of strong possession, it was Stirling in order to save. danger zone for team-mate Shaun Har- land stretched to divert the ball towards dent going into the final, we didn’t play who created the next scoring oppor- After returning to the field, the pos- rison to volley into the left side of the net the net. The shot would likely have badly against City but they’ve just edged tunity. After an impressive Chris Mc- session was all Edinburgh City’s, but the and see his side take the lead once more drawn the game level had goalkeeper an extra goal. Either way, we’ll lick our Kee challenge, the men in green broke away side struggled to create chances with what would be the deciding goal. Stobey not produced an outrageous wounds, move on and look to get back to through Chris Geddes, who quickly in Stirling’s final third, and this gave Nevertheless, Stirling refused to give save to parry the ball away where it was winning ways in our next match. played striking partner Hoyle through the University time to readjust to the up, but despite upping their game with cleared by the mob of City players back “Against City we just weren’t flowing on goal. Hoyle barged past his marker match. In the 60th minute, Stirling then impressive passing and good move- in defence. nearly as much as we often do. We were before attempting an audacious lob over launched a dangerous attack. After Jack ment, the students could not work the The University had one last effort dissapointed with both the goals let in City goalkeeper Andrew Stobey, but Nixon drove down the right wing the ball past a sturdy Edinburgh City de- from a corner, which saw Stirling keeper and the lads know we maybe should have Stobey jumped high to collect an effort centre back launched a high ball into the fence. A counter-attacking play provid- Kevin Walker join the attack, and after defended them better. When you’re not which could have been better. heart of the area, where it fell around ed the next chance for Stirling, coming Hoyle controlled and hit a shot at the firing on all cylinders, you have to have City created a chance of their own soon the six yard box to cause a goalmouth when substitute Michael Pentland ran top corner it seemed it may float in, but a tight defence and then you’ll always after, playing across the field to Mark scramble. After several miss-hits and at- down the right before playing in a low good defence from City meant the ball have a chance of winning, but we were Torrance who knocked a tempting ball tempted clearances the ball fell to Ged- ball which if Stephen Hoyle could have was cleared and the Edinburgh side a bit shaky. The City keeper has made a into the box for Andy Howat to head des but he failed to take advantage and managed an extra yard would likely of progress to the cup final where they will brilliant save at the end from our header with power, but the central midfielder’s the attack was eventually cleared. been flicked into the net. face a tough tie against Whitehill Wel- as well, you can’t fault the guys on effort, effort cruised narrowly wide. The University then were temporar- The students continued to push, and fare. I think it just wasn’t our day.” Dangerous winger Parr-Gallagher ily reduced to ten men as goalscorer with just five minutes left they came Next up for the University of Stirling The semi-final kicked off at pace, and then had the last effort of the opening Robertson came down from a contested within inches of scoring. Left back Mat- First XI is an away tie at Manchester it wasn’t long until early Edinburgh City half, cutting in once more from his left header with a harshly bleeding nose. thew Sheridan took control of the ball University in the BUCS league on 16 No- possession gave way to the first goal of wing to take on several men before firing During this time, City capitalised on around the half-way line before thump- vember. The Stirling side lie third in the the tie. The Stirling defence was nota- a bullet shot which, had it not flown nar- their advantage, and after a short corner ing a cross into the box. The blast flew BUCS Premier North league after one bly struggling to clear their lines as they rowly past the top corner, would have was played to Torrance, the midfielder over the City defenders and landed to win, one loss and one draw. left Stobey requiring some supreme skill played a cheeky first time cross into the the left of the penalty spot where Pent- Stirling athletes picked for Winning Students programme their studies. opportunity and stepping stone to fol- Iain Blackwood First year student and triathlete, Marc low their dream in their sport but some Editor in Chief Austin competed at this year’s Europe- athletes know it’s not for life and doing ast week, Scotland’s Olympic, an Junior Mixed Relay Championships a degree, while training, or competing, Paralympic, and Commonwealth in Spain and claimed the gold medal for is vital for a future career path. hopefuls were selected for the Great Britain. Marc also competed at Robbie Renwick, from the University L the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World of Strathclyde, won gold and silver nations sports scholarship programme, Winning Students. Championship Grand Final in Beijing medals at the Delhi 2010 Common- The Winning Students programme and finished 27th. The 17-year-old BSc wealth Games and is very passionate has been in operation for four years Mathematics student spoke to Brig about swimming but he believes, after and over that time the programme has and talked about how training and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, established a network of Scottish col- competing are made easier with the he will be using his degree in Sports En- leges and universities with the capacity scholarship. gineering as a long-term career. to support Scotland’s best student “I want to be able to compete at the The 23-year-old spoke to Brig and athletes. highest level and become a better tria- said, “My aim at the moment is to Athletes are identified and selected thlete. Being part of the Winning Stu- qualify for the London Olympic Games through the partnership of nine gov- dents programme means I can balance next year and compete in the Com- erning bodies and the SportScotland both academic work and training. The monwealth but after that I see myself Institute. programme offers a lot of flexibility and focusing on my career that I have built The University of Stirling has 38 with triathlon you need that chance, for myself with the degree in Sports Winning students from around Scotland Picture: Rajmond Bakonyi athletes on the scholarship programme as a lot hours are needed to train and Engineering. “I have been in the swimming pool Jason Atkins is delighted about being and many are potential medallists for compete”. “I have a lot of faith and confidence since I was six-years old and now I train able to help students compete at the the future at major competitions like Marc is looking to improve on his early in my ability and I’m so passionate 16 times a week so it will be good to get top level. the Olympics and the Commonwealth successes and is hoping there are more about swimming but I want to put out of the pool when I do finish swim- “Some of the most talented young Games. Once an athlete is selected medals around the corner. “I have had into practice everything I learnt from ming, but I want to have plenty experi- athletes are currently combiningg their to be on the programme they will a successful year and it was great to win university.” ence and, most of all, enjoy competing sport with study and the Winning Stu- receive up to £5,500 each year, which a gold medal but my aims now are to For swimmers to compete at the high- at the highest level I can”. dents scholarships recognise this. I’m students can put towards sporting costs qualify for the junior world champion- est standard and better themselves The Winning Students scholarship is delighted the programme is able to sup- and academic related expenses. The ships, amd medal, and hopefully be on within the sport, they most train at a governed by the University of Stirling port so many athletes and wish them programme also ensures the student the starting line at the Commonwealth high intensity and most swimmers have as Scotland’s University for Sporting every success in the years to come.” receives necessary academic flexibility Games in Glasgow”. been in the pool from a very young age, Excellence and funded by the Scottish enabling to perform in both sport and Each athlete will see this as a massive like Marc. Council. Programme co-ordinator, Student athletes listed p22 >>