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FEBRUARY 2ND EDITION 2020 Yorkshire & Midlands Media Trash Leeds Imam finally gets apology from The Mail on “WWee nneeeedd ttoo Sunday for “ wrongly cchhaalllleennggee accusing him A Leeds Imam has news reported about called for Muslims to Muslims is fair, accurate “challenge hostile news and inclusive. a coverage” by mainstream meddiia media. He says we are all ile me Continued on page 4 hhoossttile responsible for ensuring ccoovveerraaggee..”” 2 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal visited Victim Support’s Wakefield hub to CONTACT US: launch an innovative new LiveLink for people harmed by crime in West Yorkshire. Tel : 0113 322 9911 The new service, being delivered by Victim Princess Support, will allow victims of domestic abuse 08703 608 606 to give evidence remotely via video streaming. The move will allow victims to engage with the Email : [email protected] Criminal Justice System without needing to Stories: [email protected] attend a court building or risk coming into [email protected] contact with the perpetrator. Advertising enquiries: [email protected] Anne opens After unveiling a commemorative plaque at the facility on on Tuesday 25th February, Text to mobile : 07772 365 325 Princess Anne spent time meeting victims and witnesses of crime, who explained the emotional and practical importance of being Follow us on able to give evidence safely and remotely. domestic The LiveLink facility will link into courts across West Yorkshire. Lesley McLean, Contracts Manager for Victim Support (West Yorkshire) said: “Court Asian Express is available as a FREE WEEKLY pick-up from buildings themselves can be intimidating, selected supermarkets, retail outlets, community centres, boutiques, restaurants and many other distribution outlets especially as victims and witnesses enter across the Yorkshire region. through the same shared entrance as abuse defendants, offenders and their families. For So pick-up your FREE copy victims of particularly serious crimes such as domestic abuse, this can be incredibly of Asian Express TODAY! stressful. “Many trials collapse before sentencing, as the number of victims attending court to give ©Media Buzz. All contents are Copyright. All Rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be stored in any ‘Livelink’ evidence is low. This LiveLink facility will retrieval system or transmitted electronically in any form without prior written permission of the Publishers. Whilst help to empower victims to give evidence from every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility a completely separate building, helping to can be accepted for inaccuracies howsoever caused. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the relieve anxiety. opinion of the Publishers. The editorial policy and general layout of this publication are at the discretion of the “We are delighted to offer this much- publisher and no debate will be entered into. No responsibility can be accepted for illustrations, articles or needed facility and, in the longer term, we photographs whilst in transmission with the Publishers or their Agent unless a commitment is made in writing prior to hope to extend this service to other vulnerable receipt of such items. for West adults, children and young people.” The LiveLink facility was funded jointly by Published by Media Buzz. West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Media Buzz. Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson and First Floor, St Andrews House, St Andrews Street, West Yorkshire Police, following the closure of Leeds, LS3 1LF Wakefield Magistrates court. Yorkshire West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, said: “I pledged to put victims first and it was fantastic to welcome Princess Anne to Wakefield, as part of our drive to raise awareness of this new service that I have victims commissioned here in West Yorkshire. Rajput JEWELLERS

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“The LiveLink will offer vulnerable victims and witnesses of incidents such as domestic abuse a safe, secure and welcoming space to give evidence, removing barriers to justice and improving outcomes for those harmed by crime. “This service importantly eliminates the possibility of seeing the defendant in a court setting, as well as helping to alleviate other potential issues such as travel and childcare. I look forward to seeing the results and the impact it will have.” West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable, John Robins QPM, said: “This suite, and one like it in Calderdale, make a tangible positive impact on outcomes for victims. It takes away the need for vulnerable and intimidated victims and witnesses to enter a court. “For example, a third fewer Domestic Abuse cases are failing at trial since the Live link facility was introduced in Calderdale. “Services like this mean that more victims are engaging with the criminal justice process for longer enabling more cases to reach a conclusion at court, confidence in the criminal justice system is improved and importantly victims feel more supported. “This puts vulnerable victims and witnesses where they should be, at the heart of the criminal justice process” Committed employer

Bradford businessman Saj and retain the best people, we commitments - but a growing Shah employs 350 people regularly review pay, benefits and number also tell us a minimum across his three local training opportunities. We also number of hours guaranteed McDonald’s restaurants. offer a suite of additional benefits would help them get better access He says that people are at the that can include free lunches. to financial products such as heart of his business and, as a “All contracts offered are mobile phone contracts or car responsible and proud employer, permanent contracts regardless of loans. he is committed to investing in whether the number of hours is “We are absolutely committed them. flexible or has a minimum to diversity and inclusion. Our Saj says that reward and guaranteed - a decision we took in people make McDonald’s what it recognition for his staff is a key April 2017. is, which is why we have worked priority. Each year McDonald’s in “80% of our employees have hard to create jobs and the UK invest over £43 million in chosen to stay on flexible opportunities that work for them, staff training. contracts, valuing the ability to irrespective of gender, age or life “To help ensure we can attract work around their other stage.” Bradford’s McDonald’s in Rooley Lane is now open from 5am every day

Meet a key member of the team at McDonald’s in Bradford Iolante Bob-Manuel

• Worked for McDonald's and outside of work and given for two years as a part-time her better understanding how crew member. businesses work. • Likes to work at Says: “McDonald’s has McDonald's because of the been flexible towards my people that are employed in schedule I have been able to the organisation: “They are all pursue an interest I have in supportive and friendly to dance and to get better at it.” you, I also like the way Working at McDonald's has McDonald's support me in helped develop herself as a side of work and outside if i person to become more have any issues.” confident and extend her • Loves the culture in skills in communication. McDonald's as a caring Adds: “I hope to progress supportive group that to advance my career and motivates you to do better. use what I have learnt at • Loves how McDonald's McDonald's to help me in my has given her confidence to Business studies at Iolante Bob-Manuel, 18, grow as a person both inside university.” wishes she could read minds 4 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

Whist researching the recent Cover story continued apology from the Mail on Sunday to Imam Qari Asim’s call to action Imam Qari Asim, Asian Express comes after his 10-month battle for newspaper found almost non-existent an apology from the Mail on Sunday coverage about Imam Qari Asim newspaper for publishing deleterious wining this battle. This raises information. They had (wrongly) unnerving concerns on how the accused him, in April 2019, of internet is funnelling our searches supporting a cleric in Pakistan who and continuing to (worryingly) bring had campaigned for Christian woman up the same old inaccurate articles as Asia Bibi to be hanged for top hits. It makes valid up-to-date blasphemy. information very difficult to find. Imam Qari Asim MBE, Head Speaking to Asian Express Imam at the Makkah Mosque in newspaper Imam Qari Asim said: “A Media Thornville Road, Leeds, is deemed as section of the UK media too often one of Yorkshire’s most senior misrepresents Muslims. Muslim clerics. He is also appointed “Lazy journalism, inaccurate as the Government’s Islamophobia reporting or even "fake news" about adviser. Muslims is extremely reckless and The Mail on Sunday apology dangerous; such incorrect reporting, appeared in their Clarifications & big-click journalism painting Corrections section on 23rd February overwhelmingly negative picture 2020. about Muslims fuels prejudice against It said: “On 6th April 2019, we Muslims and increase anti-Muslim alleged that Mr Qari Asim MBE, hatred in society. through his support of a protest led “It also tars the diligent work by Trash by a number of individuals including many journalists across the country.” an extremist cleric, Khadim Rizvi, Talking about the harrowing supported the proposed hanging of a experience of being a person in the Christian woman (Asia Bibi) for public domain and being so widely Leeds Imam finally blasphemy and endorsed the brutal accused of something that he never murder of Asad Shah. did, Mr Asim adds: “The story in the gets apology from “We need to challenge The Mail on Sunday hostile media coverage.” “We now accept that Mr Asim does Mail on Sunday was utterly incorrect. not support the hanging of Asia Bibi “A cursory look on the internet or the murder of Asad Shah. To the would have confirmed to The Mail contrary, we accept that Mr Asim has that I am actually reported to hold publicly condemned both these completely the opposite views than for wrongly crimes, and campaigned for Ms Bibi those alleged in their article. to be given asylum in the UK. We are “There is no one single statement happy to make the position clear, and of myself supporting Mr Khadim apologise to Mr Asim for any Rizvi's extreme views, yet despite distress caused.” lack of factual evidence, Mail on This is the second apology Sunday decided to publish a story accusing him in as many months from the linking me to him. Mail on Sunday. Last month, “We desperately require greater Asian Express featured the care in the reporting of Muslims in story of a council officer this country, given a plethora of wrongly accused as grooming inaccurate, myth-making stories ring ‘fixer’ and who won reported about British Muslims. The £180,000 in damages from religious and cultural literacy of the Mail on Sunday. journalists also needs to be improved. And it comes as no “We also need to challenge hostile surprise that a study by media coverage so what they are Cambridge University last reporting about Muslims is fair, year found that the focus on accurate and inclusive.” “negative narratives” in media Andleeb Hanif, Founding Partner reporting about Muslims in the and Managing Editor of Asian UK was contributing to an Express newspaper commented: atmosphere of rising “Journalism plays a vital role in hostility. society and democracy. “But the barrage of inaccuracies and blatant lies propagated about Muslims has reached beyond ridiculous levels. No other community in Britain receives such regular deluge of negative and inaccurate reporting. “We must raise concerns when we come across such false news with the Independent Press Standards Organisation (Ipso). “There also needs to be a stronger deterrent to reporting that fails to meet the highest professional standards that members of the press subscribing to Ipso have undertaken to maintain.” Mr Asim is the only Imam in the country to hold a full-time corporate job, as besides his work at the Makkah Mosque he is a commercial property lawyer. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 5 6 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition TV restoration show is searching for local sheds in Bradford Popular Channel 4 restoration show Find It, Fix It, Flog It is looking for local sheds across the Bradford district. The series follows presenters Henry Cole and Simon O’Brien as they search for unique and unusual items in people’s sheds to restore and sell at a profit for their owners. They want to hear from anyone in the area with garages, lock-ups, barns, outhouses or even shipping containers filled with old and interesting things to rummage through. Automotive and vintage machinery specialist Henry and upcycling expert Simon are careful not to reveal the location of any sheds featured in the programme. From the creators of Shed & Buried and Junk & Disorderly, the upcoming series of Find It, Fix It, Flog It will start filming in March. If you or someone you know has a fantastic assortment of vintage memorabilia, an incredible automotive collection, a pile of furniture waiting to be restored or just needs a good old-fashioned clear out, email: [email protected] for more information. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 7 8 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Aqua Man! Huddersfield researcher discovers nano-clay can solve Pakistan’s clean drinking water problems

A fresh, clean water supply will be a reality in applications that would expand the economy of the Pakistan, particularly in South Punjab, following the region and provide work and industry for its people. announcement of an international partnership To establish this strategic partnership, Dr Ghori spearheaded by the Pakistan government, alongside first shared his vision and initiative with the High other key stakeholders, and driven by the University Commissioner of Pakistan to the United Kingdom of Huddersfield. His Excellency Mohammad Nafees Zakaria, who The initiative, led by University of Huddersfield played an instrumental role in establishing research Senior Research Fellow Dr Muhammad Usman links in Pakistan. Ghori, will transform the water supplies in the Now, a Memorandum of Understanding has been region into affordable drinking water for the benefit signed that will initiate a strategic partnership to of the whole population and also will provide a develop a network led by the University of sustainable option of raw material to fabricate Huddersfield with the support of the Pakistan healthcare products. government which will also include universities in It is an initiative that is much needed by a Pakistan. considerable population of Pakistan. The High Commissioner Mohammad Nafees In a recent study, the Pakistan Council of Zakaria expressed his pride at the work and Research in Water Resources (PCRWR) found that congratulated Dr Ghori and the team on their a sizeable portion of the supplied water was not achievement and expressed gratitude to University suitable for human consumption. Contaminated of Huddersfield’s leadership. water was contributing to significant number of Dr Ghori met with the Foreign Minister of deaths every year and a large part of Pakistan’s Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, where he briefed GDP was spent on health care of people who suffer the Foreign Minister on the on-going research from water borne diseases. activities.. However, a solution to providing a clean water Welcoming the project, Mr Qureshi said that the supply is present in abundance in the region’s Koh- Government was cognisant of Pakistanis’ talent e-Suleiman mountain range in the form of a raw abroad and therefore many of Government’s policy nano-clay with properties that can be targeted for a initiatives are aimed at galvanising and providing number of health-giving applications. direction to young scientists and tech A recent University of Huddersfield-led research professionals for their constructive engagement article, explored a new source of montmorillonite in in the country’s mainstream economic the Koh-e-Suleiman mountain range located in activities. South Punjab, Pakistan. The project lead Dr Ghori explained that this raw clay required a sophisticated purification protocol to remove any undesirable substances from the clay, such as lead, arsenic and crystalline silica, which could impede industrial potential and have adverse health effects.

The area of South Punjab has a large dependence on agriculture and relatively low levels of industrialisation and consequently currently faces higher levels of poverty and unemployment compared with the rest of the province. An abundant supply of this largely untouched raw clay could help with economic conditions in the region on a large scale. Further work in collaboration with Pakistani universities and research institutes is now underway to use this natural resource for the benefit of the local people, not just in purifying the water supply, but for further industrial Huddersfield senior research fellow Dr Muhammad Usman Ghori will be working with Pakistani officials to bring clean, affordable drinking water to the people of South Punjab February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 9 10 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Three jailed for combined 47 years after setting fire to family home

Mohamemd Iftikar Azad Two men and a woman Thapar today for a targeted have been jailed for a attack which could very easily Vishal Thapar combined 47 years today after have resulted in several being found guilty of setting a people losing their lives. house ablaze whilst a family “Their actions resulted in a of four were sleeping. 17-year-old male receiving The three were sentenced very serious injuries from at Leeds Crown Court for which he is making a slow their roles in an arson attack recovery . All of the family on a house on Stonedene have suffered the huge Court, Heckmondwike, in the emotional and psychological early hours of Sunday August trauma of waking up to see 11, 2019. their home on fire, along with A 17-year-old male suffered suffering the loss of treasured life threating injuries in the and irreplaceable possessions. incident which also involved “It is incomprehensible that his mother and two sisters three persons would be aged 16 and 11, who managed prepared to carry out this to escape via windows. shocking crime which was Following a trial, instigated by Azad for Mohammed Iftikar Azad (45) personal and business reasons. of Mortimer Avenue, Healey, The sentences given to all Batley, was sentenced to 32 three for their roles in this years after being convicted of offence reflect the seriousness attempted murder. of their actions. Co-conspirators Vishal “We do hope that seeing Thapar, (32) from these three jailed today will Cleckheaton and Semia be of some comfort to the Hussain (26) from Batley victims and the wider were sentenced to nine years community.” and six years, respectively, She added: “I also want to after both being convicted of praise the remarkable bravery arson being reckless as to shown by the victim’s whether life was endangered. neighbour. His own property DCI Sharron Kaye of the was damaged and he himself Homicide and Major Enquiry was injured while helping one Team, who led the police of the children who escaped. investigation, said: “We “He was recognised and welcome the three sentences commended by the judge for given to Azad, Hussain and his very brave actions.” Semia Hussain Trusted legal advisers

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How to avoid catching or spreading germs Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and drinking, and after visiting the toilet. Alcohol-based gels aren’t nearly as effective as plenty of soap and water. Choose a window seat on the plane, if possible. A 2018 study found these passengers typically only come into contact with 12 other people, compared with those in middle (58 people) or aisle seats (64). There is currently insufficient evidence around the effectiveness of paper surgical masks. Instead use good hygiene etiquette and cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing. Fit For Travel also advises travellers to consider carrying a small first aid kit, with a thermometer or strips to check body temperature. Avoid contact with animals and people who appear unwell, including their personal items. And make contactless payments where possible to steer clear of handling cash. CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK: advice for travellers Cases of the coronavirus have the FCO advice has not changed to continued to rise, with some travellers advise against travel.” asking whether it is safe to travel to What you can do if you want to However, insurance company Axa Japan, South Korea, Italy, Tenerife said that each scenario would be dealt and other countries and regions with on a case-by-case basis. where there has been a significant cancel a trip and how to stay safe A spokesperson said: “If you have outbreak. been advised against travelling by The illness - first reported in your doctor due to the risk of the Wuhan, in the Hubei province of travel because of the coronavirus. If company or travel agent – unless or from Hong Kong. virus being present in a certain China - has been categorised as a you do go ahead as planned, read our you’re travelling to, or via, China – or Up until 25th February, passengers country, please contact our claims global health emergency by the World expert advice on avoiding spreading to one of towns in North Italy on were given the choice of a full refund team.” Health Organisation. While most germs while travelling. lockdown. or to rebook at a later date. Now they If you ignore travel advice and go fatalities have been confined to What is coronavirus? Instead, you’re reliant on your can only use the value of their ticket ahead with your trip, you risk China, there have been cases in 29 The respiratory disease (also travel operator’s goodwill if you want towards any other BA destination. invalidating your insurance policy. countries including the UK. known as COVID-19) has flu-like to arrange an alternative holiday or This is likely to leave customers out symptoms – including a fever, cough rebook at a later date. But some of pocket if rebooking is impractical, If you still plan to travel South Korea and Japan have had Make sure you check the latest the largest number of coronavirus and shortness of breath. Because it’s a travel agents are offering worried or they do not wish to make cases outside China, with 977 and 146 new virus, there is currently no travellers the chance to change plans alternative travel plans. advice for your destination on the people diagnosed with the disease vaccine and little is known about how where possible. Is coronavirus covered by Foreign Office website and Fit For respectively. it spreads from person to person. Check your flight is still going my travel insurance? Travel. Italy has also suffered an outbreak However, similar viruses spread in ahead if you have an internal flight If you draw a blank with your If you’re concerned about the risks in the region around Milan. The cough droplets. across Asia. Some carriers are travel company, check if your policy to you, speak to your doctor. Older number of infected people in the Will travel agents and airlines running reduced services. covers unexpected circumstances. travellers and those with underlying country has risen to 200 with six allow me to cancel because of British Airways changes Even if it doesn’t, contact your health conditions are most deaths. coronavirus? its refund policy provider directly to find out where vulnerable. Spanish health authorities are also The UK Foreign Office hasn’t BA has cancelled all flights to you stand. Check your travel insurance policy. carrying out tests on hundreds of advised against travel to Singapore, Beijing and Shanghai until 17 April The Association of British Insurers Medical evacuation and repatriation tourists after a case was identified at a Japan or any other country apart and the situation remains under said: “In general cancellation or travel cover is essential if you fall ill and Tenerife hotel. Another three people from China and Northern Italy. review. disruption, cover will activate when have to be transported home. have since been diagnosed. If you’re worried about contracting However, it has now changed its the FCO advises against all travel or Make sure you’re covered for any We talked to insurers and travel the virus and want to cancel your refund policy for passengers booked all but essential travel to an area. eventuality with our guide to the best agents to find out what you can do if plans, you won’t be entitled to a on a later flight to China that has not “Travel insurance is not designed to and worst travel insurance you decide you no longer want to refund from your airline, cruise been cancelled – and those flying to cover “disinclination to travel” where companies.

Anyone who has recently travelled to the Hubei province, or is worried they may have contracted the disease, should call NHS 111 immediately February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 13 14 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Saad Qureshi: Something About Paradise “I was born into a religious household, where the Quranic allegories of the seven heavens formed part of the backdrop to

Saad Qureshi’s ‘Night Jewel’ (Courtesy the artist and Yorkshire Sculpture Park) family life.”

Step into a fantastical palaces, nestled among panoramas “I was born into a religious dreamworld as you explore Saad of forests, deserts and fantastical household, where the Quranic Qureshi’s mindscape inspired by geological formations. allegories of the seven heavens stories people have told him of “Paradise is a very personal formed part of the backdrop to how they imagine paradise place,” says Saad. family life. The gallery artist is presenting “Over the course of my life, it’s “As I grew up and my his first solo museum exhibition a word that has kept recurring in a experiences broadened, I realised ‘Something About Paradise’ at variety of guises. that the paradise that others spoke of was often radically different Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) from mine, yet never too far from exploring what paradise means in our consciousness”. a contemporary context. Saad Qureshi is an avid gatherer The urge to stage this art project of stories. In developing began when Qureshi was ‘Something About Paradise’ he commissioned by YSP curator travelled around the country Sarah Coulson. The vision was to asking those with and without faith create a new work for Tread Softly, what paradise means for them. a group exhibition curated from Speaking directly to people the Arts Council collection. allowed the artist space to Now in the nave of YSP’s 18th- interpret the descriptions of century Chapel, three monumental indistinct and imagined places, as organic forms rise from the seen in memories and dreams, into ground, spread with landscapes, physical installations that he refers buildings and mysterious to as ‘mindscapes’. structures. Saad Qureshi was featured in The variety and also delicacy 2019's '100 Sculptors of and detail of the structures that Tomorrow', compiled by Kurt festoon Qureshi’s three ‘islands’, Beers with a foreword by Richard and the other works that Cork. The book features 100 artists accompany them - is breathtaking. all engaged in questioning the A closer viewing reveals an definition of sculpture today, what eclectic mix of architectural styles, the discipline can be, while from traditional temples and challenging traditional churches to modernist houses and formalisations of art for the future.

Where: Yorkshire Sculpture Park Exhibition: Something About Paradise On view: January 4th - March 15th 2020 natural materials. Qureshi is inspired by in Arnhem, Netherlands, which catalysed those perennial artistic motifs: worlds his career further since securing the BIOGRAPHY (Born 1986, Bewal, Pakistan) within a world, literal and finalist position at the BBC metaphorical compartments, the television program ‘School of Through the various disciplines of world. scales of monumental and miniature Saatchi’ in 2010. Amongst sculpture, installation and drawing, Rather than didactic, Qureshi sees his and their relation to the viewer. others, his awards include the Qureshi’s work probes issues of cultural work as poetic and intangible; a bridge of Since graduating from the Slade Royal British Society of belonging and separation – as well as communication. He seeks to deconstruct MFA in painting in 2010 Qureshi has Sculptors’ Bursary Award, the universals that unite us beyond culture. stereotypes and subvert narrow notions of exhibited widely both in the UK and Celeste Prize, and Red Qureshi is fascinated by memory and time, belonging to only one locality or to one internationally – including New York, Mansion Foundation Prize. and how they affect landscapes – both culture. While this forms the basis for his Hong Kong, Turin, Rome, Dubai and Saad’s work explores failures internal and external. He often creates ideas, those ideas are fundamentally a Istanbul. Following the Creative Cities of communication and notions large, multi-vocal objects that have springboard for aesthetic concerns – Collections exhibition at the Barbican of belonging in a resonances to differing faiths or cultures, colour, space, form and texture. His work is Arts Centre, Qureshi’s first museum multicultural society. and thus examining how relevant religion drawn from the deeply rooted traditions exhibition took place at the and ethnicity are in the contemporary of hand-craft, with a focus on the use of Museum voor Moderne Kunst February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 15 16 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

In the foothills of the Pennines lies opportunity for Ismail as he received milestone steps in self-improvement genres from the subcontinent and across the worldwide South-Asian the vibrant and multicultural city of various training and guidance from in his discipline by attending Middle East. Ismail realised that he community. He continued to use his Bradford woven with over half a established and renowned workshops and classes for classical wanted to pursue his passion further love and inspiration from his faith to million people. Amongst all the professionals. He further developed training. as a career. support further releases in 2017 and clattering sounds found within this his style of reciting whereby being From the onset until his teenage Concerned about the growing subsequent release ‘Ya Rab’ (O city, there is one voice that able to engage with the older Urdu- years, Ismail performed as a solo disparity between the new generation Lord) in May 2019. melodiously rises and raises the speaking generation as well as the Acapella act, balancing his passion and the classical odes with respect to ‘Ya Rab’, a Sufi poem in the listener. young English-speaking generation. with his education and social life. language as well as understanding, Punjabi language, became a very A voice poetically singing Humnds popular release which explores the (odes of love in honour of Allah), can concept of mysticism and dependency be heard. A voice carrying the tokens upon the Lord. Through his modern of love written by the saints and sages presentation of the Sufi poetry, Ismail of yesterday and presenting them to was successfully able to provide and the Muslims of today. A voice instil this concept of devotion and belonging to the young gifted talent; dependency upon the younger Ismail Hussain. Odes of love generation. Ismail Hussain was born into a Along with his Urdu/Punjabi traditional Pakistani family in the works, Ismail successfully began heart of Bradford. At the tender age Young Bradford man’s melodic voice carries working on innovative compositions of five, Ismail ascended the pulpit of in liaison with experienced and his local mosque and moved the token of love for the Muslims of today renowned individuals of the congregation into spiritual ecstasy discipline. with his ode. He was subsequently His most recent works, a implored to recite at religious events Within a very short time Ismail’s Ismail remained motivated and Ismail found himself in a position compilation of five, faith inspired, held by the wider community. voice started reaching lovers of the determined upon his goals and his where he was able to connect the two collections of poetry (in English), Recognising and acknowledging Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) far education. drastically different worlds. written by N.B Sahibzadi and his gift, Ismail’s father became an and wide and as a result he travelled His school acknowledged and Although having been influenced produced by MU-SYNC Arts, has integral support for him, both morally across the UK and worldwide to accommodated his passion for singing by sounds and musical genres from been released in early 2020. Despite and socially. places such as, Mauritius, South whereby granting him suitable time the East, Ismail sought to present the hundreds of performances As Ismail’s voice was carried Africa, Pakistan, Kuwait and many off school for his traveling and classical Sufi music to the English throughout the world and many further and wider within the local others. performances all the while assisting in audience with the intention to bridge successful albums, Ismail’s passion for community, there was an opportunity Ismail was able to sit amongst educational material. Ismail’s the gap between the two. Having an singing Acapella poetry and faith beckoning that would allow his voice luminary Islamic singers through teachers also had a profound hand in innovative and open mindset, he set inspired odes, in which he praises to have a resonance much further whose tutelage he was able to helping to mould him into an out to earnestly make the Eastern Allah and the Messenger of Allah afield. Ismail participated in a develop and enhance various inspiration for the youth. sounds more accessible to the (PBUH) remains as strong as ever – national competition in faith inspired methods and styles found within the As he continued to gain further Western audience. he readily and humbly accepts singing; a competition in which he Urdu, Punjabi, Farsi and Arabic experience and enhance his skills After his successful Urdu/Punjabi invitations to spread the love and was awarded first place. traditional odes. through music lessons and rehearsals, album release in 2014/2015, Ismail’s passion of the faith. Ismail is an The success in the competition was Ismail continued to pursue his Ismail became more musically adept bilingualism was acknowledged as a inspiration and an ambassador of a catalyst in opening further doors of dream and took determined having listened to artists of different great way to connect with his fan base Prophetic love. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 17 18 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

Bradford’s £3.5m project which influences health and wellbeing. aims to get more than 100,000 local Dr Tracy Watson, Chair of THE people engaged in the arts has just LEAP consortium and general appointed Zulfiqar Ahmed as manager at Bradford Institute for Director. Health Research (BIHR) – the Creative People and Places expert research arm of Bradford programme ‘The Leap’ is set to shape Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation a new cultural programme for the Trust comments: “Zulfiqar’s district. The news is yet another THE LEAP appointment is a tremendously exciting milestone in Bradford’s exciting step in our journey to realise ambitious cultural plans, following the creative passions and talents in the recent announcement that Bradford. Richard Shaw will lead the city’s bid Bradford’s groundbreaking “He will join a growing family of to be UK City of Culture in 2025. experts at the Bradford Institute for An expert in community-led Health Research and bring a crucial development work with a twenty- arts and culture perspective to our five-year career in the design, programme appoints social efforts to improve wellbeing for the development and implementation of people of Bradford.” innovative social impact initiatives Pete Massey, Director, Yorkshire, across the UK and internationally, and Northern Economy and Zulfiqar returns to Bradford where impact specialist as director Partnerships, Arts Council England he has more than 20 years’ said: “Our Creative People and Places experience. programme is all about giving His previous roles include six years entrepreneurs in Bradford and local people play a leading role in they live. everyone the opportunity to shape as Programmes Director at Bradford Pakistan. determining a thriving arts and With £2m of funding awarded by and experience brilliant cultural based QED UK which provides In his new role as director of The culture scene and inspire a future Arts Council England and additional experiences wherever they live. economic development initiatives in Leap, Zulfiqar will now build a team generation of cultural ambassadors funding from Bradford Council, it will “It’s great to see someone with the city; and Director of to work closely with Bradford’s for the city. focus on some of the most Zulfiqar Ahmed’s experience Development at UnLtd, leading the diverse communities and help them “The first step is to hear from disadvantaged areas of Bradford, appointed to head up this initiative. design and delivery of social to shape what is on offer. people of all ages and backgrounds where opportunities to engage with He joins this key programme at entrepreneur grant and business Zulfiqar Ahmed says: “I’m excited from across Bradford, spread the arts and culture are few and current pivotal time for culture in Bradford support programmes across the UK. to grab this fantastic opportunity with word about THE LEAP and find out levels of participation are low. where a number of initiatives, Most recently he was Global both hands and help play a role in exactly what people want this THE LEAP is governed by a including a bid to become UK City of Programmes Director at Impact Hub creating transformative change in programme to be. I can’t wait to get volunteer consortium which is led by Culture in 2025, look to reshape the Global based in Vienna, and in Bradford. started.” Bradford Institute for Health cultural landscape of the district and Islamabad where he was executive “The city is the UK’s youngest city THE LEAP is one of 12 new Research (BIHR) whose ‘Born in ensure that more people than ever director at Equal Impact, Zulfiqar and one of the most richly diverse – Creative People and Places Bradford’ project is one of the largest get to experience great art and worked closely with Bradford-based and it’s important that Bradford’s arts programmes currently starting up studies of its kind in the world, culture. I look forward to seeing how 30 Chapel Street to set up exchange and cultural provision reflects that. across the UK, putting people at the tracking the lives of over 30,000 the programme develops with the programmes between creative “The aim of THE LEAP is to help heart of culture in the places where Bradfordians to find out what people of Bradford.” February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 19 20 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Breakthrough

NUS NATIONAL PRESIDENT: Zamzam Apprentices Ibrahim welcomes the new move get a voice as their NUS membership is formally recognised

In an historic moment moving on from the for apprentices across the outdated notion of what UK, NUS’ has confirmed the ‘typical student’ looks the acceptance of The like. It is one of several National Society of democratic changes that Apprentices (NSoA) into will be implemented and its membership. experienced at this year’s The agreement means conference. that for the first time Welcoming the move, NSoA will formally NUS National President represent the views of Zamzam Ibrahim, said: “It apprentices at NUS’ has been a longstanding National Conference, ambition of NUS UK to where key policies and give more voice to campaigning priorities are apprentices. They have democratically agreed. been promised this, time This will mean the voice and time again and in the of apprentices will not just past that promise has not be heard, but also formally been met. recognised through specific “I’m so happy to voting rights assigned to announce that the promise NSoA, just like other NUS now lays fulfilled - the members. National Society of NSoA was formed in Apprenticeships is now a 2014 to represent and fully-fledged member of promote the voice of more the NUS and this makes it than 150,000 apprentices in the biggest single increase all sectors and industries in NUS’s membership in across the UK. it's history.” As the majority of “This means we can apprentices don’t study respond more effectively to through a college with a the challenges faced by students’ union, their apprentices, such as the voices haven’t been collapse of apprenticeship recognised in the same way providers like in the case of as students in further and Carillion. higher education. Voting “There are also issues for a series of reforms to around low pay, which have NUS at National been highlighted time and Conference 2019 put in time again, and the gender motion the formal process pay gap which sees women to change this. on level 2 and 3 This is a significant shift programmes occupying the in NUS’ history, lower rungs of the mean recognising the diversity of weekly pay for post-16 learners and apprenticeships.”

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Leeds based contemporary dance of Möbius Dance's new work as we company Möbius Dance return to look to continue bringing exciting new Kala Sangam on Thursday 12 March dance to Bradford. We've worked with the world premiere of two poetic Möbius Dance return closely with Möbius Dance to support and thought-provoking new works – their development over the last three Vibrant Matter and Within Each- years, and every year they bring a Other. programme that is fresh, thought- Wilhelmina Ojanen’s stage work, to Kala Sangam to provoking and brilliantly danced - I'm Vibrant Matter, explores how sure this year will be no exception. memories and emotions affect our Don't miss this opportunity to see bodies. Gianluca Vincentini’s screen some of the best dancers in the North, dance, With Each-Other uses up close premiere new work up close, right here in Bradford!’ personal physicality exposing the subtle dynamics of power. Like the majority of shows at Kala Two new atmospheric musical Dance supports and nurtures talented prospects. encourage the audiences to reflect on Sangam, this event is Pay What You compositions have been created for up and coming dance artists and Gianluca Vincentini, Artistic the body, what they value and where Decide, which means tickets can be this programme in close dialogue with choreographers both creatively and Director of Möbius Dance said ‘Our they place their intentions for booked in advance as usual but there the choreographers and movement practically. As well as producing new new mixed bill, Vibrant Matter and humanities future.’ is no obligation to pay until you have material devised in collaboration with work like Vibrant Matter and With Within Each-Other, is a poetic yet Alex Croft, Creative Director of seen the show. the company dancers. Each-Other, they break down the thought-provoking evening of dance Kala Sangam said ‘I'm delighted that, Tickets for Möbius Dance are now Founded in 2016 by Artistic barriers faced by many dance artists which focuses on the choices we make for the third year running, Kala on sale, to book visit Director Gianluca Vincentini, Möbius by offering quality employment and our impact on others. The works Sangam is hosting the world premiere www.kalasangam.org

Closure order issued to Wakefield city centre shop

Wakefield District Licencing team Social Behaviour Crime and Policing has been working closely with partners but it has repeatedly been caught in Cllr Maureen Cummings, Cabinet has issued a closure order to a Act 2014 on Friday 22 February at from Trading Standards and Wakefield criminal activity. We had no other option Member for Environment, Communities Wakefield City centre shop following Bradford Magistrates court. Council’s Anti Social Behaviour Unit other than to issue the closure notice and Poverty at Wakefield Council, said: numerous operations which The operations uncovered breaches over the last two years to tackle to and pursue the closure order at court. ‘We have been working very closely uncovered illegal activity on the of the Licensing Act which contributed illegal sales of tobacco. ‘This closure order should send a with partners to help tackle illegal sales premises. to incidents of Anti Social Behaviour PS Mark Thorgold from Wakefield positive message to all shopkeepers of tobacco. This closure order sends Tyskie which is located on Kirkgate and the sale of counterfeit and illegal District Licencing team said: across Wakefield District, we take this out a very clear message that illegal in the city centre was given a three tobacco. ‘We have tried to work with the issue seriously and we will target those activity of any kind in our district will month closure order under the Anti Wakefield District Licencing team premises over the last couple of years who continue to flout the law.’ never be tolerated.’ February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 23 24 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition ‘Trojan Bus’ Operation targets East DoDo youyou needneed Leeds youth FAMILY LAW advice? FAMILY LAW advice? problems WantWant toto talktalk toto aa specialist?specialist?

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01130113 873873 00320032 A special ‘Trojan bus’ operation further action is due to be taken in liaison targeting criminal and anti-social with Leeds Anti-Social Behaviour Team. behaviour in east Leeds has been run by Monday night’s operation followed neighbourhood officers and partner recent incidents involving buses. A youth agencies this week. was arrested on suspicion of possessing A group of fifteen officers and PCSOs an air weapon on a bus in South Parkway from the Leeds East Neighbourhood on Saturday and for a separate incident Policing Team worked alongside involving a BB gun on Friday at Seacroft colleagues from a range of partner Shopping Centre. He has been released agencies, including Leeds Anti-Social under investigation. Sabeena Din Behaviour Team, Safer Leeds, Inspector Mick Preston, who heads the Leedswatch CCTV, Youth Services, Leeds East Neighbourhood Policing Family Law Solicitor BARCA and First Bus, for the initiative Team, said: “We have been doing a great which focused on Crossgates, Seacroft, deal of work alongside our partner Killingbeck and Whinmoor.. agencies to tackle anti-social behaviour It builds on ongoing work to tackle involving groups of youths in these areas youth-related issues in the area that has and this week’s operation has been the also recently been made the subject of latest instalment of that. two dispersal orders, which give officers “It saw a significant number of youths additional powers to restrict the stopped and spoken to by officers and behaviour of those causing problems. partner services who were deployed into Email: [email protected] The operation saw the team travelling these areas aboard the ‘Trojan bus’ the area aboard a specially-provided First provided by First Bus. www.milsonlegalsolicitors.uk bus and focusing their attention on “We will be taking appropriate action known ‘hot spots’. against those directly linked to incidents 29 Harrogate Road, Leeds LS7 3PD Throughout the evening they engaged and working with youth services to divert with about 30 youths, with a number of others into positive activities away from those stopped in the Seacroft area. the streets. Some were suspected of being involved “We hope this latest operation will help in incidents of stone throwing at a bus to reassure residents that we are taking and two other passing vehicles. the issues seriously and also send a Details were taken from a total of suitable deterrent message to those eighteen youths suspected of being youths who involve themselves in anti- involved in anti-social behaviour and social behaviour in the area.” February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 25 26 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

forward to seeing this year that were shot in Yorkshire, from TV’s Last Tango in Halifax Yorkshire TV and and All Creatures Great and Small to locations in cinema’s The Personal History of David Copperfield and The Secret Garden. It’s no surprise that after seeing film industry Yorkshire on screen, people then want to experience its beauty and drama first hand.” Other Yorkshire locations to go on screen include Saltaire, which will feature in the ‘now recognised Netflix drama The English Game, and Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, which is based on a BBC documentary and is set in around the world’ Sheffield. Sally Joynson, chief executive at Screen Yorkshire, said the figures showed it was It seems Yorkshire has become In December the BBC reported that “more important than ever that we drive globally recognised as a hub for TV Halifax had become a hotspot for LGBT growth of the screen industries in and film production. tourism following the success of BBC One’s Yorkshire”. Rozina Breen, the head of BBC Gentleman Jack. "The value of filming activity to the North has said, said the region was James Mason, chief executive at Welcome region is substantial, with budgets for the "well and truly on the map" for to Yorkshire, said: “It’s great to see the film productions that we’ve supported over the silver and small screen producers and TV industry in Yorkshire having such a past year averaging between £10m and following the success of fantastic impact on the growth of tourism in £20m per project,” she said. programmes like Last Tango in the county. “Our investment fund attracts projects Halifax, Gentleman Jack and Dracula. Meanwhile the county's tourism “ chief has credited the industry for a Visitor numbers increased rapidly following the success ’rapid' increase in visitor numbers to the county and the head of of hit shows such as Gentleman Jack and Victoria, plus Yorkshire's TV and film body has predicted more growth for 2020. the Downton Abbey film spectacularly showcasing “Yorkshire’s media industry has taken a quantum leap in the last few years,” said Rozina, who lives in wonderful heritage buildings and stunning scenery. Yorkshire. “It’s gone from strength to strength and only seems to be growing. ” “Media bodies from around the “Visitor numbers increased rapidly like ‘The Duke’ and ‘Official Secrets’ to the world are sitting up and noticing just following the success of hit shows such as region, providing jobs for local crew and how much the region has to offer, Gentleman Jack and Victoria, plus the raising the profile of Yorkshire on a global putting Yorkshire well and truly on Downton Abbey film spectacularly scale. Our Film Office is also a critical the map for some of the world’s best showcasing wonderful heritage buildings component in driving this business to production companies. and stunning scenery. Yorkshire; in its first year the team has dealt “Shows like Gentleman Jack and “The amazing diversity of urban, rural with 360 filming enquiries, from ‘Gentleman Dracula give Yorkshire global and coastal locations makes the county a Jack to Downton Abbey, and with the exposure and are great for tourism, perfect place to film and is a real positive for imminent opening of a large scale city but each production also creates local businesses too. centre studio in Leeds, we’re planning for hundreds of jobs. “There are many productions to look further industry growth in 2020.’’ February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 27 28 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Terror charge for suspect in Norway mosque attack

22-year-old Norwegian Philp Manshaus Shortly after that, Manshaus drove to the suspected of killing his stepsister and then nearby Al-Noor Islamic Centre mosque storming into an Oslo mosque with where men were preparing for Eid al-Adha firearms has been charged with murder and celebrations. terror. Inside, he fired six shots but did not hit He had worn a helmet with a video anyone before he was overpowered by one camera attached and a bulletproof vest and of the men – Muhammed Rafiq, who was in had “the intention to kill as many Muslims the mosque at the time. Men from the as possible”. mosque held him down until police arrived. Prosecution said that in August 2019 He appeared in court Monday 17th Manshaus first killed his 17-year-old February with a smirk on his face as stepsister, Johanne Zhangjia Ihle-Hansen, evidence grew that he sought to emulate by shooting her four times with a hunting attacks by white supremacists in the United rifle. She fatally received three bullets in the States and New Zealand. head and one in the chest at their home in A trial is scheduled to start on 7th May the Oslo suburb of Baerum. in Oslo.

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The four police forces ‘thin blue line’ promotes the collaboration with across Yorkshire and the local community group Project neighbouring Forces across a Humber are uniting at a truly 14, which aims to raise funds number of different policing ‘grass root’ level. and awareness for mental activities and coming together They have brought together health charities. in this way is simply further their skills on the pitch to The club is purely member cementing those strong create the first ever Yorkshire funded and all involvement is relations. Combined Police Rugby Union during the officer’s own “The subject of mental Football Club. personal time. Mr Kingsman health and wellbeing also Comprised of officers from said: remains high on the national Humberside, North, South and “Yorkshire is known to have agenda and is something that West Yorkshire, the team will a real affinity with rugby and is we all proactively work to play their first match on 4th a sport, which is rooted within address across the service. March 2020 against North our traditions and “We are therefore proud to Wales Police. communities. be able to use our club to The players have now been “We really wanted to promote awareness of Project presented with their new kit, represent that strong 14 for what is an incredibly by the Chair of the club, West connection we have with the important subject. Yorkshire Police Assistant people we serve, whilst “Now we have established Chief Constable, Tim showcasing the dedication and this squad, we hope to build Kingsman. commitment among our ranks. further upon it and bring more The black shirt featuring a “We already work in close success to the region.” EDL founder Tommy Robinson arrested over alleged assault in Centre Parcs swimming pool

The far-right leader Tommy Robinson has been arrested following an alleged altercation with a man at a holiday park, according to reports. The English Defence League founder, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, reportedly got into an argument with another man at the Centre Parcs complex in Bedfordshire. Witnesses claimed the 37-year-old confronted another man in the pool area before punching him in the face. Police confirmed the attended an incident at Woburn Forest park on Sunday afternoon. A Bedfordshire Police spokesperson said: “One man sustained an injury to his face, and received first aid at the scene. “A 37-year-old man from Bedford was arrested on suspicion of common assault and has been bailed until April 2. An investigation is ongoing." Robinson was released from HMP Belmarsh after serving 19 weeks of a nine month sentence for contempt of court in September. A spokesman for Center Parcs UK said: “I can confirm that an incident occurred at Center Parcs Woburn Forest on Sunday afternoon to which the police attended.” February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 31 32 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Local 33 34 Local www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Woman receives suspended sentence for causing death of

work. He suffered serious injuries His wife read an impact doctor and was pronounced dead at the statement to the court in which scene. she said: “Many words can and A woman given a suspended At the time of his death Dr have been used to describe Amin. sentence for death by careless Alamshah was working at the A passionate colleague, an award driving in Cricklewood. Imperial Centre for Translational winning Doctor with a brilliant Nazila Sanei, 51, was sentenced and Experimental Medicine, and promising career, a proud to 28 weeks’ imprisonment, Imperial College Healthcare NHS loving father, a loving devoted suspended for 12 months and was Trust, Hammersmith Hospital. husband… but there are no words disqualified from driving for two Dr Alamshah was married and that can describe the emptiness, years at Harrow Crown Court on had two young children. the pain and devastation his Thursday 27th February. He had grown up in Iran and absence has left for my little Sanei was driving along moved to the UK to complete his daughters and I.” Claremont Road, Cricklewood, studies, graduating in 2006. Detective Sergeant Matt Smith, when she turned right across the Dr Alamshah began his career Serious Collision Investigation path of an oncoming motorcycle at Guys Hospital where he Unit, who led the investigation resulting in a collision. The specialised in breast cancer said: “This is a tragic incident in incident took place at 08:30hrs on research, in 2010 he was which a highly respected and 11th March 2019. recognised for his work in this talented Doctor has lost his life. I The motorcycle was ridden by area when he was awarded would like to extend my sympathy 38-year-old Dr Amin Alamshah ‘scientist of the year’ at the House to Dr Alamshah’s family who who was making his way into of Lords. have lost a husband and father.”

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Asian Your National and Local Express Business Round-up Business news Pitfalls for the Bank Of Mum And Dad n 2019 Legal & General not have any proof that she was published a report which owed money from her son’s Estate. I found that the “Bank of Mum Mrs Farrell had provided no and Dad” to be the eleventh documentary evidence to support largest mortgage lender in the UK her claim that it was a loan and in providing £6.3bn of funding to the absence of that the Judge ruled help loved ones get on the that the payment made by Mrs property ladder. Whilst the Farrell would be considered a gift report found that in 59% of in the eyes of the law. The Judge cases the money was given by held that the Law of Presumption the parents as a gift with no of Advancement applied to the requirement to pay it back, 41% case. Under this legal principle, expected the loan to be repaid unless contrary evidence is at some stage. produced, it is presumed that a The recent Court of Appeal transfer of property between the case of Farrell -v- Burden parties of certain relationships provides a cautionary tale for (such as between spouses or the Bank of Mum and Dad. parents and children) is a gift In 2005 Mrs Farrell loaned rather than a loan. The Judge her son £170,000 to therefore dismissed Mrs Farrell’s purchase a property and claim. £90,000 of that was repaid Mrs Farrell appealed. However, by him shortly thereafter. the Court of Appeal upheld the Mr Farrell was original decision and dismissed subsequently her appeal. The Court found that diagnosed with a due to the lack of any terminal illness for documentary evidence to suggest which he received that the money given by Mrs £350,000 in Farrell to her son was a loan it was compensation. to be considered to be a gift. Upon his death in This case highlights the need for 2016, Mr Farrell left documentary evidence to be £500,000 to his drawn up if the money provided wife, Mrs Burden, by the Bank of Mum and Dad is to and £150,000 to be repaid as, in the absence of each of his two such evidence the law will children from a presume that the money was previous marriage. given as a gift. It would be wise Mrs Farrell was not and in the interest of all left with anything by concerned to have a formal her son so she sued his agreement drawn up as this would Estate for £130,000 for avoid any disagreements and the balance of the loan potentially litigation later down together with interest. the line. Mrs Burden claimed that Blacks Solicitors can assist with the monies had been given to the preparation or enforcement of Mr Farrell as a gift and not a all types of contractual loan so nothing was repayable. documentation. Please contact At the first instance hearing the Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or by Judge found that Mrs Farrell did email at “[email protected]”.

Please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or by email at [email protected] 36 Business www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

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Professor Shirley Congdon, University of Bradford Vice-Chancellor

Government in 2015. There are maximum productivity, prosperity exciting times ahead, particularly and wellbeing. I will support the with the Local Industrial Strategy, board with its mission to secure which promises a step-change for the government investment to leverage Bradford city region’s economy, and the the power of the north in boosting continuing discussions around a productivity. “ devolution deal for the city region. Baroness Ann Taylor, the University’s Chair of Council and “I would like to thank the Pro-Chancellor, said: “I am delighted departing board members for all with Professor Congdon’s Vice-Chancellor their hard work and dedication. Their appointment to the LEP board and I efforts and commitment to the LEP’s know that she will bring a wealth of agenda have had a real and tangible experience and wisdom to the LEP benefit for the LEP, the city region together with a distinct perspective and everyone who lives and works from the region’s vital education joins LEP board here.” sector.” Professor Congdon said: “I am The new members are: pleased and excited to be appointed Professor Shirley Congdon , Vice- University of Bradford Vice- the board are from the private sector diverse backgrounds and to the board of the Leeds City Chancellor and CEO, University of Chancellor Professor Shirley and five from the public sector, with perspectives that will be invaluable in Region Enterprise Partnership. I Bradford Congdon has been appointed to the equal numbers of men and women. supporting our work across Leeds will work to support the collective Helen Featherstone , Deputy board of the Leeds City Region Welcoming the new members, city region. impact of the universities across our Director, Yorkshire Sculpture Park Enterprise Partnership (the LEP). Roger Marsh OBE DL, chair of the “The role of the LEP in ensuring region on economic and social Simon Pringle , Managing The appointment was among five LEP and the NP11 group of inclusive economic prosperity has growth. Through the exploitation Director, Project Rome that were approved at the LEP Northern local enterprise never been so important, as we work and application of research, the Kamran Rashid , Director, The board, making it more diverse and partnerships, said: “The new to unlock the potential of the city entrepreneurial culture of staff and Socially Conscious Company representative than ever before. With members of the board bring a wealth region and continue to invest the £1 students and the skills of graduates, Kully Thiarai , Creative Director a total of 18 members, 13 members of of experience to the LEP, with billion Growth Fund agreed with universities are vital to securing and CEO, Leeds 2023 38 Business www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Other News 39 TV presenter Samira Ahmed reaches settlement with BBC Samira Ahmed, 51, has reached a settlement with the BBC after winning her employment tribunal over equal pay. In January this year, a judge at the London Central Employment Tribunal ruled in favour of Samira Ahmed which saw her triumph in winning a sex discrimination and equal pay claim against the BBC. The Newswatch presenter highlighted a “600% pay gap” in a row over unequal fees. She had claimed she was being paid a sixth of what Jeremy Vine received for a similar show - ‘Points of View’. The corporation announced on Monday 24th February it would continue to work with the "highly valued" presenter, but did not reveal the settlement figure. "Samira Ahmed and the BBC are pleased to have reached a settlement following the recent tribunal," the BBC said in a statement. "Samira is a highly valued BBC presenter and now these matters have been concluded we all want to focus on the future. "We look forward to continuing to work together to make great programmes for audiences. Neither the BBC, Samira or the NUJ will be commenting further on this case." The presenter’s tribunal focussed on her contracts on the BBC News channel programme Newswatch, which she has presented since 2012. “I have a sense of pride working for a public service broadcaster that seeks to represent the diversity of Britain and its licence fee payers.”

Upon a winning result through courts, Samira commented at the time: “I love my job on Newswatch despite it being difficult and challenging. “I know that it is an important part of demonstrating the BBC service to all its audiences and the licence fee payers. “I have a sense of pride working for a public service broadcaster which seeks to represent the diversity of Britain and its licence fee payers. “I have a sense of pride working for a public service broadcaster that seeks to represent the diversity of Britain and its licence fee payers. “On the back of my BBC ID card are written the BBC values which include ‘we respect each other and celebrate our diversity’ and ‘we take pride in delivering quality and value for money’. “I just asked why the BBC thinks I am worth only a sixth of the value of the work of a man for doing a very similar job.” Samira has been among the female talents at the BBC to voice their concerns over pay equality following the scandal over former China editor Carrie Gracie’s salary. 40 Other News www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

Electric cars difficult to move when you won’t be far off. Towing an broken, a "hazard" on motorways. electric car when it’s off can cause The government is now to review the Transport minister damage to the expensive electric potential hazards that electric cars motors, as well as other components. can pose on UK roads. The AA has also highlighted the Concerns have been raised over issue. It said that the problem with how electric cars can be moved when ‘astonished’ by the electric car manoeuvrability when they breakdown, given that many they’re either out of battery or cannot be towed. malfunctioning is another in a Transport Minister Baroness Vere growing list of reasons that said that she was ‘astonished’ to learn hazard of electric car emergency refuge areas should be that electric cars slow to a stop more frequent on smart stretches of comparatively quickly, rather than motorway. coasting to a stop like a normal car. “You can’t flat tow some electric There are also concerns that electric motorway breakdowns cars are more difficult, and therefore vehicles more than 800 metres, some slower, to remove. you can’t flat tow at all,” said The debate in the House of Lords Edmund King, president of the AA. comes amid the current ongoing They also cannot be towed; they have absolutely astonished,” Baroness when the batteries were run truly flat. “So the problem is they will take discussion around smart motorways. to be put on a low-loader, which is a Vere said in response. Most cars in the test ‘locked up’ once longer to get off the motorways.” “When an electric vehicle ceases to much more complex and longer “Quite frankly, this is applicable they were out of juice. The tested Baroness Vere concluded, saying function, it stops; it does not coast in process that will put rescue teams in not just to smart motorways but to included everything from the Tesla that, “work is underway to look at the way that other vehicles do,” said greater danger. every single road. We will need to be Model 3 and Audi E-tron, to the Kia short-term measures to make sure we Barnoness Randerson, Lib Dem “So can we have special able to move electric vehicles, e-Niro and Nissan Leaf. can get electric vehicles off to places transport spokesman, during the consideration for how these new wherever they happen to stop or end If you imagine trying to move an of safety as quickly as possible, on debate. motorway layouts will operate when their days.” internal combustion car when it’s off, whichever road, because that “Smart motorways are supposed to there are lots of electric vehicles on Indeed, during a test of real-world while still in-gear, or in park in the certainly would be a large drawback be the future, but the future is electric. the road? electric car range, Carwow found that case of an automatic, and you’re to the introduction of electric Those vehicles stop very suddenly. “When I first heard this, I was some EVs were “difficult to move” unable to get it out of gear, or park, vehicles.” “Smart motorways are supposed to be the future, but the future is electric. Those vehicles stop very suddenly. They also cannot be towed; they have to be put on a low-loader, which is a much more complex and longer process that will put rescue teams in greater danger.” February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Other News 41 42 Other News www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

HRH Prince Charles to Visit Srebrenica Remembering Srebrenica UK is delighted The Prince of Wales was introduced to This year's 25th anniversary Srebrenica that it has been confirmed that His Royal some of the survivors and mothers who are Memorial Day UK Theme ‘Every Action Highness Prince Charles will be still looking for their missing family Matters' was launched at the House of undertaking an official visit to members by the Chair of Remembering Commons by the Secretary of State for Srebrenica to mark the 25th Srebrenica UK, Dr Waqar Azmi OBE on Housing, Communities and Local anniversary of the genocide next 10th July 2018 when His Royal Highness Government, the Rt Hon. Robert Jenrick month. hosted a reception of the leaders of the MP on 11th February 2020. The Prince of Wales will Western Balkans countries at Clarence The President of Remembering meet with survivors and the House. Srebrenica UK, Lord Bourne of mothers who lost sons, The Prince's visit comes five years after Aberystwyth said: "The Prince of Wales' husbands and other male Her Royal Highness Princess Anne visited visit will also mark just over 100 days till the relatives in the genocide. He Srebrenica during which she commended UK's Srebrenica Memorial Week which will will then lay a wreath and the valuable work of Remembering take place from 5-12th July and see pay his respects to the Srebrenica UK. hundreds of memorial events and activities victims at the Srebrenica Since the charity's founding, take place across the UK bringing Memorial Site in Potoari Remembering Srebrenica UK has educated communities together to honour the victims where over 8,000 Muslim 100,000 children in British schools on the and reject hatred. men and boys were lessons of Srebrenica to reject hatred, The UK's National Srebrenica Memorial systematically murdered created 1,350 Community Champions to Day will take place at St Paul's Cathedral on simply because of their stand up to hatred and intolerance in their 6th July with 2,000 guests in attendance," he identity in the space of communities and organises 1,100 Srebrenica said. just a couple of days Memorial events and activities per year Dr Waqar Azmi OBE, Chairman of in July 1995 in what across different cities and towns in the UK Remembering Srebrenica UK said: “We was the worst atrocity to bring communities together to honour the welcome the visit of the Prince of Wales to on European soil since victims and help build more cohesive Srebrenica in this important anniversary the Second World War. communities. year which will send a powerful message to the world on the importance of rejecting division and hatred and building cohesive “We welcome the visit of the Prince of Wales to Srebrenica in communities. this important anniversary year which will send a powerful The Prince of Wales' visit also sends a powerful message to those who deny the message to the world on the importance of rejecting division genocide, glorify perpetrators and continue to stoke divisions to come together to reject and hatred and building cohesive communities.” hatred and make reconciliation real for all.” February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Other News 43 DISCOUNT PRICES ON ALL TILES AND BATHROOMS

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Safe StorStoree Ready Ro se Steady vi lle StorStoree W ay VISITVISIT OOURUR SHOWROOMSHOOWWROOM TILE d POINT a o R le il AArnoldrnold v e Clark s CCallall us: 01132 120 975 o CCarar & VVanan R Rental VVisitisit us: 85 RRosevilleosevilleoseville RRoad,oad, LLeeds,eedseeds, LS8 5D5DTT Esso 44 Other News www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition Tea company to support 900 girls in rural India to complete secondary school education

will help girls aged between 12-17yrs through their academic year with the to continue their studies, who would Tea India community,” comments have otherwise dropped out. Lisa Worthington, Head of “Tea India is proud to be part of an Marketing, Tea India. “Educating a organisation which supports such “Our tea is rooted in India using a valuable projects. We are also excited traditional family recipe from our about sharing the girls’ progress Master blender’s family, so it is important to support a project from the blend’s Motherland.” girl is educating Esther Trienekens, International Partnerships Director, Action Village India said: “Educating a girl is educating a whole family. “It is essential to the progressive development of families, a whole family” communities and countries. However, education is still a distant dream for Due to discriminatory gender support 900 girls in rural Indian reduction in child marriage and raise most girls in villages in Jharkhand norms the status of women and girls communities to continue their the standard of living for girls and and Bihar. in India remains very low, especially secondary education. boys, families, and communities. “Thanks to the support of Tea India in rural and lower caste communities. As part of this partnership the The project is based in Jharkhand and the Harris Freeman Foundation, Girls here often carry the burden of Harris Freeman Foundation, a charity and Bihar both of which are regions we can get a step closer to make some child-rearing and domestic duties set up by Harris Freeman & Co. Inc, with low levels of education, of these dreams into a reality.’’ from an early age, as well as being the parent company of Tea India, will particularly amongst girls. Jharkhand The theme of this year’s affected by issues such as son be providing funds to support the has many tribal populations and International Women’s Day is preference, child marriage, early child girls’ education. both regions are amongst the #EachForEqual demonstrating how bearing. Severe poverty also limits Funds will give girls a greater poorest in India. we can all collectively work their access to and continuation in chance of escaping poverty, build The company has a long-term towards a gender equal world. education. their confidence to overcome the commitment to the communities Awareness of the project will be Now, this International Women’s barriers inhibiting their where their teas are sourced and communicated across Tea India’s day on Sunday 8th March, Tea India empowerment and set them on a path the decision to support Action Masala Chai blend, which will be is collaborating in a project assisted to healthier and more productive Village India, with its partner Nav available in stores from April by Action Village India, which will lives. It will also contribute to a Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) 2020. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Other News 45 46 Other News www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Life & Style 47

As the 2020 wedding season gets underway The Sleep Council has some handy hacks for brides and grooms about to get hitched. "A great night's sleep will leave you SSAAYY ‘‘II DDOOfeelin’’g gre at anTTd looking faObO on your big day," says chief advisor Lisa Artis. "Weddings are known to be one of the most stressful life events and worries about it can leave couples struggling to sleep. "This can have a detrimental effect on the way we look - and bloodshot eyes, dark circles and a blotchy complexion are not what you want on your wedding day. Nothing beats a good night's sleep and a SSOOUUNNDD smile to keep you looking your best." SSLLEEEEPP Continued on page 48 48 Life & Style www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

• If you're staying in a hotel • Getting a good or unfamiliar environment, night's kip - at least six do your best to anticipate hours - is essential. what sort of conditions Feeling stressed about you'll be sleeping in and the little things, plan or pack accordingly. something not going You might not be able to to plan or being too entirely eliminate sleep excited won't help. disturbances such as noise Create some ‘me' time: and bright lights but being have a warm bath, well-prepared can help listen to quiet music, (think ear plugs and eye or do some yoga. masks). These will all help to relax mind and body. So here’s how to get a great night's sleep the night before the wedding • Hopefully you'll spend the night in a comfy bed - an uncomfortable one can rob you of up to an hour's sleep. Remember, a great new bed is a must start way to married life.

• Adopt the same bedtime routine as you do at home: use the bed only for sleeping, avoid watching TV or using other technology, steer clear of caffeine and don't exercise just before bed. And if you really can't sleep, don't lie there worrying about it. Get up and do something you find relaxing until you feel sleepy again - then go back to bed.

• Switch off your phone, iPad etc and avoid using social networks. As much as people want to wish you a happy • Tempting as it might be, don't succumb wedding day on Facebook, Twitter and Insta, or by to a second hen/stag night on your texting/emailing, using technology before bed is proven wedding-eve. Go easy on food and drink to hinder sleep. Instead read a book, concentrate on and get an early night - remember it's relaxing and enjoy your last night as a singleton. called “beauty sleep” for a reason. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Life & Style 49 50 Life & Style www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

A happy marriage starts with a happy proposal Women expect ‘Mr Right’ to spend over £1,000 on engagement ring

The average woman expects UK plenty of food for thought. her wedding proposal to be at a "A happy marriage starts with a landmark in her home city, with happy proposal, and the ring is a dazzling ring costing £1013, something that absolutely has to according to new research. be perfect – whether it’s a flawless The study of 2,000 women who stone or a bespoke ring with some have yet to be asked the big personal meaning to the couple.” question also shows that the Interestingly, fewer than one in proposal should take place after five women have every detail of just 25 months of dating. their perfect proposal mapped out And when he does pop the in their mind – which gives men question, Mr. Right should drop quite a lot of room for error. Rule 1: Stop talking about down to one knee, in a private Half of women say they don’t your wedding. setting – but shouldn’t worry about care where their proposal takes Rule 2: No. Seriously. Stop asking for parental permission first. place, but men can play it safe by talking about your wedding. Three quarters of women would choosing the beach or a famous like to help pick their own Rule 3: Shut the f*%k up about landmark to get down on one knee. engagement ring, which will be a your wedding. An unlucky 35 per cent of British The five relief to blokes who aren’t sure of women say their partner isn’t Rule 4: Find your team of their partners’ tastes. yes-men/woman. These are the And over a third of women think romantic, and a quarter say that they’d probably say no if a people to whom you can say, "I their man would make the wrong want to get married while ring choice if left to his own proposal didn’t meet their expectations. skydiving and have a tea-and- devices. cake reception inside an Easter The most popular type of ring is In fact, almost one in five women have turned down a marriage offer rules of Island head," and they will reply, a solitaire (round) cut diamond on "That is SO you! I love it!" If they a white gold band – with just one in in the past, for a variety of reasons. One said that they didn’t want have a safety or budget-based twenty opting for an unusual stone concern, they will mention it, but like a ruby or emerald. any man to have any claim on their otherwise, they just tell you how Craig Bolton, Executive Director money or assets. wonderful your ideas are. Your from luxury British jeweller Mappin And another said that her would- team of yes-men/women does & Webb, who commissioned the be fiancé had picked a ring that drama-free not have to include your parents, study, said: "The results of our was so ugly she had to call the and it does not have to include survey should give the men of the romance off. your bridesfolks. Rule 5: Make your yes- men/women sign confidentiality agreements. Or, barring that, wedding make sure they don't regularly talk to the drama mamas in your family and circle of friends. This will save you from feeling like you have to justify anything to anybody. Having most people not know the details is taking a planning load of stress away. Unless they absolutely HAVE TO know, there is problem not telling. We’ve noticed in planning when it comes to weddings, all brides Criticism does usually come weddings that people are and grooms are clearly seven-year- from a place of love. People love questioning decisions a lot more old children who can't possibly make you and want you to have a than they usually do. People, decisions for themselves, and when beautiful wedding day. The especially families, don't tend to they do something different, it can't problem is that their idea of question other life decisions as much be because of a meaningful choice beautiful is absolutely nothing as they do weddings. they made — it's such a silly idea, like your idea of beautiful, and The majority of families don't and they'll regret not having a they fail to recognise that. On occasion, it is jealousy or even question your choice of partner photographer/doing a bouquet someone being malicious, but, as much as they question whether or toss/wearing white/having a formal on the whole, when Aunty not you're going to have matching meal, etc. Shazia gasps and gives you a napkins, chair covers, and tablecloths. With that in mind, we’ve given you three hour lecture on the virtues They don't tell you what job you five rules for wedding planning that of matching napkins to your The most popular type of ring should be doing. They don't tell you are incredibly sensible. Here they manicure, she just wants your how to decorate your house. But are: wedding to be beautiful for you. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Life & Style 51 52 Life & Style www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Entertainment 53

Entertainment

THE LATEST ENTERTAINMENT AND CELEBRITY NEWS FROM BOLLYWOOD & HOLLYWOOD

““II hhaavvee mmaaddee tthhiiss ffiillmm ffoorr mmeenn,, nnoott

Anubhav Sinha’s ‘Thappad’ deals with the subwwject ooof dommmestieec vinonlen”” ce Anubhav Sinha, who has his wife. What’s the big deal?’ previously directed socially “I grew up in a family of serious act of betrayal towards conscious and relevant films like strong independent women. her. ‘Mulk’ and ‘Article 15’, is now Physical violence was never an Synopsis The slap is just the catalyst addressing the topic of domestic option for men or women in my that gets Amrita to question her violence head-on. family. own choices and see Vikram His latest movie ‘Thappad’ “Millions of women suffer Amrita, a quintessential for who he really is. highlights a plethora of issues domestic violence, much of it on housewife, is happily married Then unravels other has created a stir amongst the a daily basis and they are almost to Vikram - an ambitious problems being faced by a host audience. And with a clear and always encouraged to brush it liberal city man. She loves of women connected to strong message, the trailer of the off under the pretext that their him dearly. His success is Amrita’s life. This includes her film has been lauded by movie husbands love them. her success and his failure is mother, her brother’s fiancé, critics. The director added. “Thappad her failure. She believes that her neighbour - a single mother Starring Taapsee Pannu, is about the relationships that this is a choice that she has and a successful corporate made for herself and is woman, her maid and finally ‘Thappad’ tells the story of a men and women share, in and her lawyer - a women’s rights wife petitioning for a divorce outside their marriages. happily willing to put herself second to him. activist. after her husband slaps her at a “It tackles societal of issues So what happens when one While Amrita goes onto fight party. Sinha says the story is not that have unfortunately been day the man she loves so her husband and his family, it as complex as his last films but is normalised. much betrays her in a single becomes the most important the proudest of this one. “A whole lot of us indulge in moment with a single action? mission for herself to exercise Speaking about the film, the gaslighting without realising it. One hard slap across her her right to choice. It also acts director says he essentially made In order to correct our face leads her to question as a catalyst for all these other this film for men and not behaviour, we need to first know everything about her marriage. women towards change too. women. that it is incorrect.” Amrita feels betrayed and They all in their own way, take “It is a complex issue,” says Thappad releases in cinemas shocked but what shocks her a step forward for themselves Sinha. on 28th February 2020 and is even more is that almost no and see the difference between “I can already hear people distributed by Cinestaan Film one else, including Vikram, having a choice and having the asking, ‘So the husband slapped Company. believes that what he did is strength to make the choice. 54 Entertainment www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

SFEEPBT 2020 DOLITTLE SONIC THE HEDGEHOG LIKE A BOSS STARRING: ROBERT DOWNEY JR., STARRING: JAMES MARSDEN, STARRING: TIFFANY HADDISH AND ROSE BYRNE, SALMA ANTONIO BANDERAS, MICHAEL JIM CARREY, TIKA SUMPTER, HAYEK, BILLY PORTER, JENNIFER COOLIDGE, ARI SHEEN, JIM BROADBENT, JESSIE BEN SCHWARTZ GRAYNOR, NATASHA ROTHWELL 15 BUCKLEY, EMMA THOMPSON DIRECTOR: JEFF FOWLER DIRECTORS: MIGUEL ARTETA CERT DIRECTOR: STEPHEN GAGHAN Best friends Mia and Mel (Tiffany Haddish and Sonic The PG Rose Byrne) are living their best lives running their Robert PG Hedgehog CERT own cosmetics company they've built from the Downey Jr. CERT is a live- UK R ground up. Unfortunately, they're in over their ELEASE D electrifies one action heads financially, and the prospect of a big buyout ATE: adventure OU of literature's offer from a notorious titan of the cosmetics T NOW most enduring comedy based industry Claire Luna (Salma Hayek) proves too characters in a on the global tempting to pass up, putting Mel and Mia's vivid reimagining blockbuster lifelong friendship in jeopardy. The beauty business is about to of the classic tale video game get ugly. LIKE A BOSS also stars Billy Porter, Jennifer Coolidge, Ari of the man who franchise from Graynor, Natasha Rothwell, Jessica St. Clair and Karan Soni. could talk to Sega that animals: Dolittle. centres on the After losing his infamously wife seven years brash bright GREED UK RELEA earlier, the blue hedgehog. STARRING: STEVE COOGAN, DAVID MITCHELL SE DATE: eccentric Dr. John The film OUT NO Dolittle follows the misadventures of Sonic as DIRECTOR: MICHAEL WINTERBOTTOM W (Downey), famed he navigates the complexities of life doctor and veterinarian of Queen on Earth with his newfound – human 15 Greed tells the story of self-made Victoria's England, hermits himself away – best friend Tom Wachowski (James CERT British billionaire Sir Richard behind the high walls of Dolittle Manor Marsden). Sonic and Tom join forces McCreadie (Steve Coogan), whose with only his menagerie of exotic animals to try and stop the villainous Dr. retail empire is in crisis. For 30 years he for company. But when the young queen Robotnik (Jim Carrey) from has ruled the world of retail fashion – bringing (Jessie Buckley, Wild Rose) falls gravely capturing Sonic and using his the high street to the catwalk and the catwalk to ill, a reluctant Dolittle is forced to set sail immense powers for world the high street – but after a damaging public on an epic adventure to a mythical island domination. inquiry, his image is tarnished. To save his in search of a cure, regaining his wit and The film also reputation, he decides to bounce back with a courage as he stars Tika highly publicised and extravagant party Sumpter and UK celebrating his 60th birthday on the Greek crosses old RELEASE adversaries and Ben DATE: island of Mykonos. A satire on the grotesque UK RELEA Schwartz as OUT inequality of wealth in the fashion industry, the discovers SE DATE: NOW wondrous OUT the voice of film sees McCreadie's rise and fall through the creatures. NOW Sonic. eyes of his biographer, Nick (David Mitchell).

OdeOn and The Asian Asian express bring back the Express movie mania as you get a chance to win free cinema tickets. WIN FREE Answer this simple question ETS and you could win tickets to CINEMA TICK a film of your choice. Who does Jim Carrey play in the film ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’?

Send in your answers to [email protected] Don’t forget to mention your full name, contact details and address. Entry closes March 31st 2020, 5.00pm Winners will be selected randomly from all correct entries. Hook on to this page for free cinema tickets to upcoming films.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS : The Competition is organised by the Asian Express Newspaper. The Asian Express Newspaper reserves the right to cancel or amend the Competition, the Competition Notice or these Rules at any time without prior notice. Competition entries must be made in the manner and by the closing date specified on the Competition Rules. Failure to do so will disqualify the entry. In the event of any dispute regarding the Rules, Competition Notice, conduct, results and all other matters relating to a Competition, the decision of the Asian Express Newspaper shall be final and no correspondence or discussion shall be entered into. To qualify to enter the Competition you must be resident in the United Kingdom and aged 16+. Only one entry per person per Competition is allowed and multiple entries will result in an entrant being disqualified. Additional eligibility requirements may apply to a specific Competition, e.g. a valid passport, visas and/or driver’s licence will be required. Prizes are non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. Winners may be requested to take part in promotional activity and the Asian Express Newspaper reserves the right to use the names and addresses of winners, their photographs and audio and/or visual recordings of them in any publicity. Any personal data relating to entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the individual’s prior consent. The Competition and the terms and conditions of this agreement will be governed by English law. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Entertainment 55 56 Entertainment www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Motors 57

THE BACALAR

Bentley reveals its rarest bespoke two- door, open-air, luxurious masterpiece

Bentley Mulliner has just Bentley’s strategy of naming cars panel with any other car in the The Bacalar’s dual-clutch, eight- sporting stance. They house revealed the all-new Bacalar - the after remarkable landmarks Bentley model line-up and speed transmission offers faster, bespoke, 22-inch tri-finish wheels rarest two-door Bentley of the which started with Bentayga in derives inspiration from the more efficient gear changes. An with dramatic depth and contour modern era, with just 12 examples 2015. dramatic EXP 100 GT concept adaptive chassis uses Bentley’s on the road. The unique front and of this striking, limited edition The new Bentley Mulliner car conceived to mark the intelligent, 48-volt Dynamic Ride rear horizontal lights add the model being created. Bacalar is a genuine ‘roofless’ company’s centenary last year. System to ensure a responsive distinctive, dynamic character that Bacalar looks to the future of Barchetta – a luxury, two-seat, Indeed, it only shares one exterior ride and exceptional handling and was first seen on the EXP 100 GT. bespoke luxury motoring - each open-air performance car, the component with a Continental refinement in all conditions. The exterior look of each model model will be handcrafted in likes of which has never been GT – the door handle, simply The air suspension system will be completed in collaboration Bentley Mulliner’s workshop in seen before. because it contains the keyless controls ride comfort and lateral with individual customers, who Crewe, according to the individual Handcrafted to the individual entry system. roll, cushioning passengers from are able to further personalise customer’s personal tastes. customer’s personal tastes, With all-new coachwork excessive movement, as well as their car, choosing from rare paint This exceptionally rare car is Bacalar is the ultimate expression brought to life by Bentley making the Bacalar feel options, exterior treatments and appropriately named after of an open-top Grand Tourer: a Mulliner, at the heart of the effortlessly precise. design themes. The Bacalar Laguna Bacalar in Mexico’s spirited GT combining traditional Bacalar is Bentley’s renowned The Bacalar sits on extended represents a return to the exciting Yucatan peninsula, a lake handcrafted techniques with the 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 haunches, with the rear track 20 early years of Bentley, allowing renowned for its breath-taking latest cutting-edge technology. TSI engine mated to a technically- mm wider than a Continental GT, owners to help shape the car of natural beauty, continuing The Bacalar shares no body advanced drivetrain. to provide a more muscular, their dreams. 58 Motors www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

Almost 100,000 pure electric vehicles to hit UK this year

At least 98,500 new battery electric £4,578. 2020, other all-electric Volkswagen vehicles (BEVs) will be registered in Bosses are preferring allocation of models will help with the firm’s numbers. the UK in 2020, according to figures company cars rather than employees There is growing environmental from DriveElectric, one of the UK’s taking car allowances, a trend which has awareness, about climate change and leading electric vehicle leasing been increasing. also about challenges with local air companies. The increased availability of electric quality; EVs help to provide a solution in This figure represents a significant cars in 2020 compared to 2019, in part both areas. increase from 37,850 registered in the UK due to the new EU fleet-wide average Increasing numbers of initiatives such in 2019. This will mean a 260% rise for emissions targets - selling larger numbers as Clean Air Zones are resulting in BEV registrations in 2020 compared to of EVs can help car manufacturers avoid organisations considering renewing their 2019. The figure does not include plug-in substantial fines. fleets with electric rather than petrol or hybrids (PHEVs). Existing manufacturers such as Tesla Reasons for this substantial increase in will continue with a large market share diesel vehicles. EV numbers include changes to Benefit and a high number of deliveries However there is also one additional in Kind (BIK) company car tax - there will (approximately 25,000 units). key factor that is responsible for the be zero company car tax on pure electric A number of manufacturers are increasing shift to electric vehicles: cars from April 2020 for a period of 12 entering the market with new battery drivers, many of whom may initially have months. electric vehicles, for example PSA, with a been sceptical about a move to EVs, Switching to an EV from a plug-in predicted volume of 12,000 units. vastly prefer the driving experience of hybrid could result in savings for the Volkswagen will have a big push with electric cars and vans to that of their employee and the company in BIK, fuel EVs; although the new ID won’t be ready petrol or diesel engine equivalents after and National Insurance in just one year of to roll out of UK showrooms until later in experiencing EVs. New Golf responds with intelligent climate control

Volkswagen models represent modern functionality and the brand’s typically easy orientation inside the vehicle. With the new Golf, operation is now even more intuitive. A visible and tangible example is the control for the 3-zone automatic air conditioner “Air Care Climatronic”. This newly designed air conditioning system has a Smart Climate menu that can be used to activate specific individual functions such as “Warm feet” or “Clear view”– not only at the press of a button, but also using voice control. The new model is therefore the first Golf to respond interactively to the wishes of the driver and passenger. The temperature of the air conditioning system can be adjusted in the new Golf using a touchslider or voice input. The driver and passenger can access the menu control of the “Air Care Climatronic” with allergen filter and 3-zone control via the screen of the Infotainment system or the touch field below with direct access buttons. As an alternative to the classic controls, such as for the fan function or air recirculation mode (Classic Climate), the screen features the new Smart Climate menu. To access specific air conditioning settings in this menu, it is no longer necessary to spend time adjusting different parameters of the air conditioning system. You can now intuitively activate preconfigured scenarios with one touch or alternatively by using voice control. Volkswagen has identified five frequently used scenarios and transferred them to the Smart Climate menu. The functions are “Clear view” (de-mist windows), “Warm feet” (warmer air to the footwell), “Warm hands” (warmer air via the vents of the dash panel), “Cool feet” (colder air into the footwell) and “Fresh air” (cool breeze flows through the vehicle interior). The clever thing here is that the Smart Climate functions are always only activated temporarily – they “I’m cold” briefly enhance current well-being before reverting to the previously Climatronic” than ever before: As an Golf also recognise whether it is the temperature on the driver side or Equally simply and effectively, active settings of the automatic air alternative to classic operation in the driver or the passenger speaking. passenger side for each command. It statements such as “There’s a conditioner. air conditioning menu, this works All you have to do is say “I am cold” is also possible, for example, to say draught” or “It’s stuffy” can be used to It is also easier to change individual using a touch-slider or voice control. or “I am warm” and the “Air Care “Make it four degrees warmer” to adjust the settings of the automatic air permanent settings of the “Air Care The new digital microphones in the Climatronic” will change the change the temperature accordingly. conditioner. February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Motors 59

Aston Martin commits to intercontinental GT challenge

Aston Martin has confirmed its entry for the 2020 Intercontinental GT Challenge (IGTC). It will be the first time in the series’ history that the British sportscar manufacturer will compete in the highest level of GT3 competition on some of the world’s most iconic circuits. The IGTC is comprised of five stand-alone high-profile endurance events through the year, beginning with the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hours this weekend in Australia. Following this, the Total 24 Hours of Spa (BEL) on 23-26 July, the Suzuka 10 Hours (J) on 21-23 August, the Indianapolis 8 Hours (US) on 2-4 READY October and culminating with the with an all-star driver line-up. impressed in its debut year as an Martin. Martin Racing said: “This is Aston Kyalami 9 Hours (SA) on 19-21 British driver Jake Dennis returns Aston Martin Racing partner team, “It’s a really late, late call but I’m Martin Racing’s boldest attack on November. to the scene of an event he starred finishing runner-up in the Blancpain super-excited to be going. I know it’s the Bathurst 12 Hours, a race that Aston Martin will be represented in 12 months ago when he finished GT Series Endurance Cup Am class an amazing event. showcases the very best of what in the first round by four Vantage a close runner-up. and winning the Paul Ricard (F) “I’ve never been to Australia, let international GT3 racing has to GT3s, with two each entered by the This year he shares the #76 entry round. This year the team competes alone Bathurst, so there is much to offer. brand’s valued partner teams R- with six-time IndyCar Series in the IGTC Pro-Am class with learn. We are fighting for the Pro- “We have full confidence that the Motorsport and Garage 59. This champion and Indianapolis 500 Alexander West (SWE), Chris Am class victory and looking at who combination of our two partner event has extra significance for winner Scott Dixon (NZ) and 2006 Goodwin (GB) and Côme Ledogar I am racing alongside I think we teams R-Motorsport and Garage 59, Aston Martin Racing because it also Australian Supercars champion and (F). have a great chance." and the growing competitiveness of marks debut of the new Vantage on two-time Bathurst 1000 winner Rick Joining them for the Bathurst 12 Garage 59 is also fielding a second the Aston Martin Vantage GT3, will the fearsome Mount Panorama Kelly (AUS). The sister #62 car’s Hours is works driver Maxime #159 car in the Silver class driven by provide a fierce challenge for circuit in New South Wales. line-up consists of 17-year-old Olli Martin (BEL), who currently lies AMR Junior driver Andrew Watson honours in Australia. This line-up, Spearheading this weekend’s Caldwell (GB), FIA Formula 2 third in the FIA World Endurance (GB), fresh from his stint in last and the quality of our partners, challenge for overall victory at winner Luca Ghiotto (I) and Marvin Championship, as the 2016 Spa 24 weekend’s Rolex 24 at Daytona, represents the perfect time to Bathurst is R-Motorsport, which has Kirchhöfer (D). Hours winner makes his debut at Olivier Hart (NL) and IMSA GTD commit to the overall entered two Aston Martin Vantage Returning to the IGTC for its first the legendary Australian circuit. driver Roman de Angelis (CDN). Manufacturers’ Championship for “I’m cold” GT3 cars in the top Pro category full season is Garage 59, which "It’s really good news,” said David King, President of Aston the first time.” 60 Classifieds www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

PUBLIC CAR MECHANICS ESTATE AGENTS NOTICE

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Naseem Shah becomes youngest bowler to take Test hat-trick Teenager Naseem Shah bowls like wickets in a Test innings. He the wind. The Pakistan pacer carved achieved that feat at 16 out his own little piece of history by years and 307 days becoming the youngest bowler at age against Sri Lanka in 16 - just days before his 17th birthday, Karachi last year. to take a Test hat-trick as the hosts Having already closed on victory over Bangladesh in accounted for Saif Rawalpindi. Hassan, Naseem finished Achieving the feat against the day with impressive Bangladesh, he shattering the figures of 4-26. previous record held by Bangladesh's At stumps, Bangladesh leg-spinner Alok Kapali, who was 19 were still 86 runs in arrears to when he claimed three consecutive avoid an innings defeat with four scalps, curiously enough against wickets. Pakistan will be looking to Pakistan in Peshawar in 2003. close out the game on Day 4 on Naseem was on the fourth ball of Monday with Bangladesh on 126-6 in his seventh over when he trapped reply to Pakistan's 445. In the first Najumul Hossain Shanto lbw with innings, the visitors could only Bangladesh on 124-2 at the time. The manage 233. scoreboard was about to look a lot "It was an outstanding second spell more attractive for the hosts in by Naseem ... and I really enjoyed Rawalpindi as the youngster watching him bowling in the field," repeated the feat to dismiss Taijul Pakistan batsman Babar Azam said. Islam lbw. "The best thing about Naseem is that Naseem, who made his name when he bowls according to the plan and he got into the squad for Pakistan's he's learning fast." tour of Australia last year, has already Pakistan made 445 with Babar been in the headlines as he is also the Azam (143) and Shan Masood (100) youngest fast bowler to take five hitting tons. 62 Sport www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

BRINGING OPPORTUNITIES TO ASIAN COMMUNITIES The Football Association [The FA] is set to visit eight cities across England to connect with Asian communities and discuss growing Asian participation throughout grassroots football. The You Said, We Did forums are part of ‘Bringing Opportunities to Communities’, The FA’s plan to encourage people from Asian communities to get involved in football. Kid Galahad on course After a successful first phase, The FA consulted with 500 people from Asian to challenge for communities across the country in 2018 and 2019, using their personal IBF featherweight title experiences and feedback to design and launch the second phase of the plan. By Khalil Alam should have won the bout Running until 2021, it has the following [email protected] against Galahad. objectives: “Many people believe I won Embed Asian inclusion across The FA the first fight with Warrington, and its people; Boxer Kid Galahad hopes but what’s written in the Raise awareness of pathways into to be back to his winning record books is what counts. football for Asian communities; ways after a controversial “I’ll focus fully on Marrero Embed Asian inclusion across loss to Leeds boxer and IBF now and then, if and when we grassroots football; World Champion Josh get through that, I’ll look to Warrington, last time out. right the wrongs of the first Create opportunities to increase Asian However, any boxing fight. female participation; doubters should be reminded Let’s hope Josh sticks Create more engagement and that he only just fell short of around to take the rematch as communication between The FA and winning the IBF many of his own fans and Asian communities. Featherweight title - with neutrals came out saying he Now, The FA is going back to the same many boxing experts didn’t do enough to have his Asian community heartlands to share together to grow participation even FC Leicester, Riverside Ground, declaring he was robbed of arm raised the first night.” what has been achieved so far and further. We want to continue to be Leicester, LE3 2FW [18:00-21:00] victory. Warrington is attempting to discuss what the future holds in this proactive in this space.” Forum five: Wednesday 11 March, Galahad, who is sponsored land a big unification bout space. Full information on the forums is Middlesex FA, Rectory Park, Ruislip by Bradford’s Regal Bakery, against the newly crowned Kevin Coleman, The FA’s Equality and below and anyone wanting to attend can Road, UB5 5FA [18:00-21:00] forced himself back into world WBO champion of Top Rank, Diversity Manager, said: “Asian inclusion book for free here. For more information Forum six: Thursday 19 March, title contention and is set to Shakur Stevenson. Should is a crucial part of The FA’s wider on The FA’s Asian Inclusion plan, click Bradford City FC, Valley Parade, take on tough boxing Warrington win the WBO title here. Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD8 7DY contender Claudio ‘Matrix’ then Galahad would challenge diversity and inclusion strategy and we recognise the importance of making Forum one: Monday 20 January, Luton [18:00-21:00] Marrero (24-3, 17 KO’s) in an for both belts. Town FC, Kenilworth Road Stadium, Forum seven: Thursday 2 April, IBF world title eliminator on “It’s a close fight and football at all levels as truly February 8th 2020 in Stevenson’s good,” Galahad representative and diverse as our society Luton LU4 8AW [18:00-21:00] Burnley FC, Turf Moor Stadium, Burnley Sheffield. admitted. is.” Forum two: Wednesday 12 February, BB10 4BX [18:00-21:00] The show will also be “I just think Stevenson is Dal Darroch, The FA’s Head of Osmani Centre, 58 Underwood Road, Forum eight: Thursday 16 April, headlined by Welterweight still not seasoned enough as Diversity and Inclusion Strategic London E1 5AW [18:00-21:00] Sheffield United FC, Cherry St, Sheffield Kell Brook and heavyweight a pro, but he’s got all the Programmes, added: “We’ve made Forum three: Thursday 20 February, S2 4SU [18:00-21:00] favourite Dave Allen, both ability and the skills to beat strong progress in this space in recent Walsall FC (1888 Club), Banks's For further information, please making their eagerly awaited Warrington. It would be a years and getting back out to speak to Stadium, Bescot Crescent, Walsall, WS1 contact: FA Press Office, 0800 049 9901. return to boxing after taking a 50/50 fight… I’d obviously local communities is a great opportunity 4SA [18:00-21:00] FA Out-of-Hours Duty Phone 07983 315 loss. want Warrington to win. No to discuss how we can continue to work Forum four: Tuesday 3 March, GNG 692. Victory for Galahad against matter what, the winner’s Marrero will earn him a gonna have to fight me chance to avenge his only regardless.” loss and capture the IBF Galahad was recently world title. asked whether he thinks We all know that Galahad Warrington would face him and Warrington have a bitter again or vacate the IBF boxing rivalry. Both boxers crown. have faced each other in the Galahad said: “I think he amateur ranks and then as might wait to see who wins professionals. Following their the purse bid. first professional bout, “If Eddie Hearn wins the Warrington was very vocal purse bid I don’t believe he’ll about Galahad’s credentials come over and fight me on a as a boxer and critical of his Matchroom bill. ability to beat him. “100 per cent… he’ll know Warrington has recently after that first fight, it’d be a made a third defence of his level playing field and he title following controversy and wouldn’t wanna come over speculation whether he and fight me in Sheffield on a Matchroom bill, never in a million years.” Readers, let me know your thoughts and views about boxing by contacting me on twitter www.twitter.com/MRKHALILALAM or Facebook www.facebook.com/theliongym.co.uk learn to box and get fitter @ www.theliongym.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition www.asianexpress.co.uk Sport 63

£61,000 raised by a Leicester couple - Nasreen and Sajjad Khan, who returned from the EBC challenge to organise a spectacular fundraising event for the charity. This year’s group have undertaken to raise individual targets using various methods of fundraising; from organising Victorious! family and friends picnics to one woman from Bradford (Aliya Darr) baking as many as 2,000 cupcakes in Ramadan and Daring trekkers from Bradford conquer raising more than £13,000 by her own efforts. Such sums go a long way to paying for the Pakistan’s killer mountain ‘Nanga Parbat’ treatment of cancer patients at the Shaukat Khanum cancer hospitals and we are Khan witnessed the plight of poor cancer optimistic that this larger group, having Back page story continued patients in Pakistan's hospitals, and deeply visited the hospital for themselves, will go As well as conquering the killer felt the need for a specialised cancer centre on to be lifetime ambassadors of the mountain they also hiked to Rush Lake in his country. He had a vision of making charitable cause and raise more funds for - the highest alpine lake in Pakistan and cancer treatment accessible to every the cancer hospital in the weeks and Rush Peak - a mountain in the Pakistani who needed it. months to come. Karakoram range nestling at an Ikhlaq Ahmed, Manager of the U.K. A team member from Leeds Halima altitude of 5,098m. registered charity, Imran Khan Cancer Nawaz said of the trek: “This trek was a Their mission was to raise awareness Appeal said: “We are really pleased to have challenge for all of us. We were camping in and funds for the free cancer-treatment been able to complete the challenge in the wilderness, with the night beside Rush hospital Shaukat Khanum in Lahore. Pakistan this year. Lake being the coldest. Built over 25-years ago by the now “But with all the challenges of the Prime Minister Imran Khan, “We reminded ourselves of our mountains, glacier walking and contending inspiration for setting up a free- with the harsh elements, we reminded treatment cancer hospital followed purpose every morning in our daily ourselves of our purpose every morning in after the death of his own mother Mrs. prayers; that we are here by choice our daily prayers; that we are here by choice Shaukat Khanum who succumbed to and that we are blessed with health. None cancer in 1985. and that we are blessed with health. of our struggles compare to those who need During his mother's illness, Imran None of our struggles compare to cancer treatment but cannot afford it.” “As a British born Pakistani, I am so those who need cancer treatment proud to have my roots in a country that has someone as inspiring as Imran Khan as but cannot afford it.” its leader - someone who has devoted his entire life to public service. “Not only is this year the 25th “Politics aside, we all need to do our part anniversary of the Lahore facility opening, in supporting the philanthropic path he has but also trekking in Pakistan for such a paved for us. worthwhile cause whilst exploring and “We must uplift and support those in showcasing the beauty of this resilient and need, and the Shaukat Khanum hospitals naturally well-endowed country was are a source of hope for the weak. I hope another purpose of the challenge. that more and more people become “We look forward to arranging more advocates of this cause and raise awareness trips for overseas Pakistanis in the years to and much needed funds to ensure its come and hope that our inaugural challenge longevity.” in Pakistan will be a source of inspiration Ikhlaq Ahmed added: “We would like to for many more supporters to come forward thank Hussain Balti, leader of K2 Treks and and join us on future treks.” Tours Pakistan, who led the U.K. team to Last year, the Imran Khan Cancer Nanga Parbat Base Camp.” Appeal undertook their first overseas If you are interested in outdoor treks and challenge to Everest Base Camp (EBC) challenges or have an idea on fundraising and the team raised a for the cancer hospital, get in touch with sum in excess of £60,000 with a further [email protected]. Tackling youth violence

Boxing is often praised as a can actually alienate young people sessions will also be involved in way of teaching discipline, and make the problem worse. the delivery and support in anger management and Boxing, in particular, can engaging young people. teamwork. provide an opportunity for young A spokesperson from Hamara Now, with violent crime on the men in particular to escape a life Centre said: “With our boxing rise - the sport is being used to of crime. The model has project, a youth worker will support those at risk of being successfully been used in many conduct one-to-one’s - giving each drawn into knife crime and gang cities across the country to tackle young person the opportunity to activity. youth violence. build a positive relationship and A joint initiative launched by the Speaking to the hamara Centre, speak confidentially. Hamara Centre and the one young person reported that “Relevant referrals and sign Osmondthorpe Community Centre Boxing gave them a break from posting will be conducted for any in Leeds will deliver a boxing feeling angry. additional support needs. project to tackle youth violence. The Leeds project will consist of “Growth and development will The government’s response to a boxing coach and a youth be encouraged through goal England’s knife crime surge has worker to support engagement setting. so far been to increase the use of and well-being. “In addition to the boxing stop-and-search without The Boxing coach will focus on session we will recruit ten young reasonable suspicion, introduce the boxing element whereas the people who will carry out a Gym knife crime prevention orders and youth worker will focus on building Instructor Qualification enabling most recently to announce relationships, managing emotions them to volunteer, run the boxing legislation requiring schools, and exploring young people’s sessions and also supported to hospitals and youth groups to attitudes and beliefs, as well as move in to paid work.” report those young people at risk the opportunity to talk about goals To find out more contact the of being drawn into knife crime. and aspirations. Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Academic research shows that Volunteers from the community Leeds, LS11 6RD or call 0113 277 punitive approaches such as these who are currently supporting youth 3330. 64 Sport www.asianexpress.co.uk February 2020 - 2nd Edition

We can help you grow on any digital platform Victorious! A team of 26 trekkers Daring trekkers from Bradford and other cities decided to take on the challenge of a lifetime - hiking to the from Bradford base of the notorious “killer mountain” Nanga We are specialists in digital transformation Parbat in Pakistan. The team comprised of conquer a mix of men and women with the youngest just 14- years-old.

0113 262 5590 Pakistan’s killer Continued on page 63 www.nurdigitalpr.com [email protected] mountain ‘Nanga Parbat’

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