This is...annoying

The This is....news websites (This Is Nottingham etc) have been given a revamp and all the URLs for old stories and hence changed. This means that all the links I posted on this site from This is sites are now dead, though the stories are still out there somewhere. Can I be bothered to search for them and fix the links? Nope, didn't think so!

Portsmouth Bylines

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/people/Lollipop-lady-calls-it-a.4283783.jp

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/waterlooville-and-e-hants/It39s-a-mission-accomplished.4300176.jp

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/havant-and-w-sussex/Sufferer-steps-out-to-enjoy.4278450.jp

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/Students-celebrate-winning-arts-prize.4268307.jp

Exeter Bylines

http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=137015&command=displayContent&sourceNode=136999&contentPK=20995717&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=137015&command=displayContent&sourceNode=136999&contentPK=21014566&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=137015&command=displayContent&sourceNode=136999&contentPK=21011630&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch (also by Rob Flemming & Kate Clarkson)

http://www.thisisexeter.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=137015&command=displayContent&sourceNode=136999&contentPK=21021743&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

Derby Telegraph

The Tim Carter story got in the Derby Telegraph as a nib. Another publication for the CV...

http://www.thisisderbyshire.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=124615&command=displayContent&sourceNode=124519&contentPK=20764675&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

Help For Heroes walk

This story appeared in the Dispatch and the Post but sadly the Dispatch link has gone tits up: http://www.hucknalldispatch.co.uk/hucknall/Charity-walk-to-help-armed.4066094.jp

Post link is here:http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=133965&command=displayContent&sourceNode=133948&contentPK=20629691&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch


A FORMER Royal Air Force serviceman is undertaking a gruelling twelve hour walk in aid of the armed forces.

Rob Bramley (42), from Bulwell, is tackling the walk with three friends in aid of Help for Heroes, an organisation dedicated to helping those who return from conflicts wounded or injured.

The charity is trying to raise £6 million to fund a much needed swimming pool and gym complex at RAF Headley Court, near Epson, Surrey.

Patients currently have to share facilities with the public in nearby Leatherhead.

Mike served for ten years as a storeman at RAF Honington, RAF Whittering and RAF Newton, as well as spending four months in the Falklands during peacetime.

He said: “As I am ex-forces I believe that this is a really worthwhile cause and it is something that is really close to my heart.

“Thankfully I do not know anyone affected but when anyone in the armed forces dies it is particularly upsetting, especially for those they leave behind.”

“I am really looking forward to doing the walk and we hope to raise around £500.”

The event is taking place on Saturday 17th May on the running track of the Harvey Hadden Sports Complex, in Bilborough, Nottingham.

It kicks off at 8am in the morning and finishes at 8pm.

Members of HMS Sherwood will be in attendance and an information display will also be set up.

Rob is also hoping for voluntary help from a local cadet force and scouts.

Help for Heroes Appeal Chairman Bryn Parry said: “Our appeal is about the blokes, our men and women. They are just blokes but they are our blokes, they are our heroes. We want to help our heroes.”

Anyone wanting to sponsor Rob can do so by visiting: http://www.justgiving.com/robertbramley1

Tim and his marathons

The following story about my mate Tim has been used on the Birmingham Mail website:

FOR most people running one marathon would be a challenge, but ambitious Tim Carter is attempting to run three within a month.

The 23-year-old, from Edgbaston, will be attempting the Prague marathon on the 11th May and then the Edinburgh Marathon on the 25th May, in addition to the Sheffield Half Marathon which he completed in April.

"I always planned on doing a marathon this year, and I had my hopes set on London with a
contingency plan of Paris," he said.

"Unfortunately I got into neither and I was quite disheartened until a friend pointed out that there were other marathons in the world.

"I found out about Prague and Edinburgh and for reasons which in recent days I have been questioning, I decided to go for both!

"I'm a little nervous, because with distance running you need constant reassurances that you are still in shape.

"I hope that once I get going, things will be alright!"

The architect is attempting the feat of endurance in an attempt to raise £1,000 for Cancer Research.

He said: "It's something I feel quite strongly about - it has affected a couple of people who I know in my lifetime, one of whom I was quite close to.

"I have set myself a target of raising £1000, but in truth, anything I can raise I will be pleased with.

"I have been overwhelmed thus far with the generosity of those who have contributeed."

Tim has been training five or six days a week for the last three months in preparation for the challenge, covering an average of fifty miles a week.

He is aiming to break the mythical three hour mark in at least one race, which only 1.8% of marathon runners achieve.

Anyone wishing to sponsor Tim can do so by visiting http://www.justgiving.com/2andahalfmarathons

http://www.birminghammail.net/news/2008/05/27/marathon-man-tim-carter-limber-up-for-charity-challenge-97319-20980626/

Pick Up Newspapers

I have started writing a column which covers the latest football news for something called Pick Up Newspapers Nottinghamshire which comes out every Friday. There is already a Yorkshire version of this free paper which is mainly full of ads. I get my name in it though and hey, it's my own column.....(kinda). The Pick Up website is here http://www.pickupnewspapers.co.uk/ Hopefully they will start uploading the Nottinghamshire issues soon.

The Metros @ Social for NG

Hotel staff across the country should have their fingers crossed that The Metros don’t stroll into their lobby, as this London based five-piece are doing their best to live out a stereotypical rock and roll lifestyle littered with equipment smashing, booze and reckless rebellion.

Last October, these teenage upstarts were kicked off The Coral’s tour for increasingly raucous behaviour which apparently didn’t go down that well with the Liverpudlians, and they have also received a nationwide ban from Holiday Inns. Oh dear.

This sort of behaviour is slightly more tolerable when the band in question are fairly big news, but there are sod all people at the Bodgea Social when I arrive shortly before the beginning of the set. If the numbers were any less then I dare say it would have been one of those Social gigs where you can get in by heading through the bar and going up the stairs at the back.

However this doesn’t deter the lads who swagger around the stage with cocky confidence, safe in the knowledge that other people their age are probably stacking shelves in Tesco. They don’t look the sort of kids who would smash up a hotel room – two members are wearing Hawaiian shirts and the drummer sports a vest – but they still convey a blasé ‘we don’t give a s**t’ attitude.

Lead singer Sauly Adamczewski in particular enjoys the occasion, getting progressively drunk on bottles of Becks and pints which are handed to him mid-set, and repeatedly scratching his head as if he can’t believe his luck. Their arrogance means they are the sort of band who many people would like to see fail, simply to wipe the smug looks of their faces, but tonight fans of schadenfreude would have been left disappointed as the Metros’ performance was astonishingly good.

They are an exceptionally tight knit unit, and the guitars are particularly good, catchy and delightfully infectious. People start dancing at the front and suddenly the place isn’t empty but full of happy gig goers – just where did all this lot come from?

In many ways the band are a southern equivalent of the Arctic Monkeys, with Adamczewski proudly showcasing his cockney vocals in the same way Alex Turner does with his Yorkshire twang. The songs too are of similar themes and full of wry observations on growing up and the world we live in. Where the Arctics had their taxis to Hillsborough, the Metros have their train from Victoria; effectively doing for London what Turner & co did for Sheffield.

So come out the cupboard you boys and girls because the The Metros have well and truly arrived. They are cocky yes, but there is more than enough evidence in their music to back this up. Loud, brash and in your face – the Metros coming at you faster than an underground train.

Review: Dan Palmer

Images: Adrian Pancucci

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/The_Metros:_Live_Review/

Hat-trick!

Been meaning to mention Hat-trick! for a while now, as it came to an end the other day with a couple more shows. By the end I think we produced a pretty good show, everything seemed to work well and I'm fairly proud of it.

To listen, head over to www.normanradio.co.uk and click archives. One of our shows is on the 21st April, 2008 at around 4.30, and the other is the final two hours of the 24th April.

NME New Noise Tour @ Rescue Rooms for NG

One place I wouldn't want to be after the hottest day in ages is a small, dark room which is fit to bursting with other sweaty people. It was therefore unfortunate that tonight's NME New Noise Tour took place at the Rescue Rooms, which again was far too small for the job it had been asked to do.

The place resembled a sauna and with towels not provided I got the impression that I was in for a long, hot night of general discomfort. It's a relief to report then that some top class music from four up and coming acts made the night fly by and the inferno-like conditions were made far more bearable.

First up were White Lies who strolled onto the stage at the ridiculously early hour of 7pm. With a lead singer that sounded like Brandon Flowers from The Killers, this foursome produced a decent enough set which included some powerful, anthemic music as well as some satisfying guitar riffs. Their set was short however, and they didn’t address the crowd or move about at all. It almost seemed as if they couldn’t be arsed, which can't be said about Team Waterpolo who followed them onto the stage.

"Alright! Hello! We're Team Waterpolo, how is everybody doing?" yells their lead singer as if he’s warming up a crowd at Butlins. Their opening number, which includes the lyrics: "Welcome to the Team Waterpolo show" does little to dispel the feeling that we are stuck in a kids TV programme but the lads are able to recover with a feel-good set which fitted in with the recent summer weather brilliantly.

There is dancing and headbanging galore and loads of 'yeahs!' and 'wooos!' to let us know that Team Waterpolo are just that little bit mental. They look absolutely knackered at the end and you'd be hard-pushed to find a more enthusiastic band; this pop punk outfit are definitely a band to look out for.

Next up are Friendly Fires who a fair number of the crowd seem to have come to see. Their music is a delightful mixture of pop, indie, funk and dance and they get the crowd moving for the first time all night.

Pleasing electronic noises mingle with guitars and these guys have a real presence on stage; energetically leaping about the place and generally running themselves into the ground. All of the songs are well structured and the band display a talent for music which is impressive for their young years. Run of the mill they are certainly not, so expect to see more of this St Albans-based three-piece in the near future.

Things then go a little insane as the night finishes off with Canadian electro group Crystal Castles. Flashing strobe lights and smoke build the crowd up into a frenzy and at times it feels like we are at an underground rave. They create a unique, futuristic, alien sound using all sorts of different gadgets and it’s very entertaining indeed.

A manic mosh pit developed up the front which at times devoured lead singer Alice Glass like quicksand, and security have to step in on a couple of occasions to keep things under control. It's a hectic and fitting way to end a thoroughly good night, which showcased some of the names we could be hearing about in the not too distant future. Watch this space.

Review: Dan Palmer

Paul Holland

I've got to say he's a top bloke. It was the day after his club lost league status and I guess he could have probably done without two students pitching up and basically asking why his team were crap. But he took the time out to speak to us even though we were not from a proper paper (though we did say we were from the Post to get access to him) and to be honest I think that is damm good of him. I wish Mansfield the best of luck in the Conference next season, unless they meet Basingstoke in one of the tinpot non-league trophies.

Pictures of annoyed Mansfield Fans

Mansfield FC, Local Impact

Traders who operate close to Mansfield’s Field Mill ground are worried about the effect the club’s relegation will have on their business.

Pub Manager Suzanne Hemsley, from the John Barras, on Nottingham Road said: “We were absolutely rammed on Saturday and it is a worry that there won’t be as many people in next season.

“Takings may well be down as some of the visiting teams may not bring as many fans either.”

John’s Fish Bar lies next door to the pub and staff were also pessimistic.

Owner Bambos Constantinou said: “We definitely expect to see a drop in trade on Saturday afternoons.

“It’s a shame that one of the biggest towns in England won’t have a Football League club.”

Mansfield Fans Vox Pops

Cliff Hinks, Sutton-in-Ashfield: It is always good to have a football league club in the town. Playing in the Conference is bound to have a negative effect on the economy. They have built a nice stadium, which will now host a bad standard of play. I don’t think we will bounce back unless there are some major changes.

Geoff Mellors, Kirkby-in-Ashfield: It is a shame for the football team and its fans. Hopefully some decent players will be brought in over the summer and we’ll regain our league status at the first attempt.

Ian Fowles, Mansfield – It’s a shambles. The outside of the ground looks shoddy, its no wonder the players perform badly when they turn up and look at that. They must be demoralised even before they take to the field. No wonder the team got relegated. I have been coming for 25 years but I’m not sure I'll bother next year.

Elaine Seagrave, Mansfield – It is shameful that we’ve lost our league status. We need a new manager and a few new players – then we can get back to league football. Either that or they’ll be playing against my young lad soon!

Megan Jackson, Pingston – The players just weren’t good enough throughout the season. I’m not confident we’ll be back in the league with this team. We need new players.

Paull Holland Interview for Newsweek

By Dan Palmer & Peter Fearn

MANSFIELD TOWN boss Paul Holland could not hide his disappointment after the Stags’ 77 year stay in the Football League came to an end.

Chester City’s goalless draw with Stockport last night confirmed the club’s relegation to the Conference, as they now lie four points adrift of third bottom Dagenham & Redbridge with just one game remaining.

Holland’s own playing career was cut short when he damaged his cruciate ligament and the 34-year-old says that seeing his side go down is on a par with that.

“I’m very disappointed after we’d given ourselves every chance of going into the Rotherham game with something to play for,” he said.

“Over the course of the season we got what we deserved.

“Life in the Conference will be hard but we’ve got to be positive and say we are going to bounce straight back, following the example of other teams like Doncaster, Chester and Hereford.”

The club may also have to deal with a drop in attendances next year, with some supporters choosing not to watch non-league football.

“The real Mansfield Town fans will keep coming. We’ve got to stick together and I’m sure the real fans will be behind us,” said Holland.

“As a team we need to be 100 per cent better on the field and 100 per cent better off the field.

“I hope that things are sorted out on and off the pitch. We’ve got to stop feeling sorry for ourselves,” he added.

Holland also conceded that some of the playing squad would probably leave the club over the summer.

“There are big decisions to be made regarding players and staff. I’m sure some players will move on to football league clubs.

“I’ll have to decide if some deserve another chance here or if I should send them elsewhere.

“At the moment the dressing room is not a nice place to be.”
Holland took over at Mansfield from sacked manager Billy Dearden and is keen to remain in the job.

“I only took over eight games ago and it was just too big an ask to save the club from relegation.

“Hopefully I’ll be manager of Mansfield next season and win promotion back to the football league.”

Coldplay: Violet Hill, Review for Newsweek & NG

When a huge band releases a comeback single, the day of the first play is always hyped up as a massive event. The music press and radio stations count down the days like they are using some sort of advent calendar, constantly reminding us when we can hear the precious track for the first time.

Examples of this madness include D'You Know What I Mean, the first release from Be Here Now, the much anticipated but godawful third album by Oasis and Beetlebum by Blur, the rather downbeat single which followed the glory days of Parklife and The Great Escape.

The problem is, these comeback singles rarely live up to the pandemonium surrounding them. As the track fizzles out to an end, people are usually left feeling underwhelmed and unsure why they were so excited in the first place. The sense of an anti-climax is also heightened if the band in question have decided on a change of style and a major direction shift from the previously heard stuff.

This is the case with Coldplay's Violet Hill, the first single from the pretentiously-titled new album Viva La Vida or Death And All His Friends, which is more edgier and experimental than the songs we’ve have heard from them before.

Released as a free download on the band's website on Monday, the demand for the song caused the site to grind to a halt shortly after its 12.15pm release. It is a darker tune with pounding, heavy guitars and there's even a hint of electronic music in there. It seems far less radio friendly, in the sense that if moves away from a poppy like sound towards something a bit more prog like Radiohead.

It is one of those songs that Coldplay fans will have to learn to love, just like followers of Blur would have had to do with Beetlebum. The differences are apparent, but after a few listens it could be one of those songs described as a 'grower'. Give it enough time and Violet Hill could perhaps stand alongside other Coldplay anthems. For now though, the jury is probably still out.

The free download is available for another week if you wish to judge for yourself. Otherwise it is released as a conventional paid-for download on May 6th.

Review: Dan Palmer

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/Coldplay:_Violet_Hill/

Plane Crash-landing, for Newsweek

A STRING of errors which led to the crash-landing of a cargo plane could have resulted in catastrophe, according to a new report.

The TNT Airways Boeing 737 performed the procedure at East Midlands Airport at 4.40am before taking off again and making an emergency landing at Birmingham.

Part of the Belgian plane’s undercarriage was missing after the incident and the right main landing gear detached from the wing during the accident on June 15th, 2006.

Up to 200 domestic flights had to be cancelled or diverted, although neither of the two crew members were injured.

The report released today by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch states: “The circumstances of this event could easily have led to a catastrophic accident.

“Actions by individuals which contributed to the accident were either inappropriate or were not in compliance with existing procedures.

“Non-compliance with procedures, whether inadvertent or deliberate, can be difficult to prevent and can only be addressed by effective training,” it added.

The drama started when air traffic control conveyed an incorrect message to the plane during its descent.

This confused the pilot who disconnected the autopilot system while attempting to reply, causing the plane to lose speed and height.

The crew did not make a decision to perform a ‘go-around’ – where a plane aborts a landing and returns to circuit height – until it was too late and the jet came down on a grassed area.

Other factors included a faulty weather report which made no indication of the mist and fog which occurred, and the training of the co-pilot was also said to be ineffective in regards to his knowledge of the go-around manoeuvre.

Both pilots may have also been affected by tiredness, and a series of ‘unusual incidents’ during the flight may have added to workload and caused a loss of situational awareness.

The plane was on route from Liege Airport in Belgium to London Stanstead, but it was diverted to East Midlands due to the bad weather.

Belgian based TNT sacked the pilots after the incident, saying it was down to human error.
The report recommends that the Belgian Aviation Authority require the airline to review their operation procedures to ensure that it is clear to all pilots when a go-around is required.

Half Man Half Biscuit @ Rock City for NG

If you've never heard of Half Man Half Biscuit then track titles like Bad Losers On Yahoo Chess, Lord Hereford's Knob and National Sh**e Day should give you an inkling about their style.

This manic Birkenhead four piece don't take themselves too seriously, writing songs about anything and everything that happens to pop into their heads. The end result is extremely fulfilling, a beautiful concoction of brilliant lyrics and wacky performances that you can't help but enjoy.

I doubt that there is a more likeable band than HMHB; they slap a smile on your face which is difficult to erase and the utter randomness of their stuff makes you wish that you hadn't abandoned your own fledgling music career quite so early.

There was a song my band created about fighting with shoes which was unfortunately axed for being well....too stupid. But HMHB are living proof that we should have stuck at it, as more than twenty years after forming they are still playing to adoring masses at established venues like Nottingham Rock City.

A bizarre motley crew of people from many generations await the band, proof enough of their wide-ranging appeal. Seasoned gig goers mingle with grey haired souls who have probably never been to a place like this before, but one and all are left thoroughly entertained.

HMHB are hardly the world's best musicians, but it doesn't matter as their quintessentially British style produces numerous singalongs and general merriment. Lead singer Nigel Blackwell happily engaged with the crowd and took part in all the banter which was flying about the place. He gets several laughs, meaning that this is not just a gig, but a comedy performance as well.

Highlights include F**kin Hell It’s Fred Titmus, Blue Badge Abuser, S**t Arm, Bad Tattoo, and Twenty-Four Hour Garage People which is probably the best song about a petrol station that I’ve ever heard. Another number which goes down tremendously is Vatican Broadside, a short sharp ditty with the classic lyrics: “The lead singer of Slipknot went to Rome to see The Pope/and The Pope said to his aide/who the f*****g hell are Slipknot?”

Credit is also due for the length of the set, a bumper affair lasting the best part of two hours. Veterans they may be, but this band can still last the distance on stage, an example other acts would do well to follow.

So all hail Half Man Half Biscuit, a wonderfully eccentric band who show that if you spend your money on guitars, you don’t have to write songs about your broken heart. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a music career to resurrect. Just how did that shoe fighting song go……

Review: Dan Palmer

Images: Richard Battye

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/Half_Man_Half_Biscuit:_Live_Review/

The Ting Tings @ Social for NG

The Bodega Social is stupidly busy tonight, and why the hell not? Hot Mancunian double-act The Ting Tings have arrived in Nottingham and the masses have turned out in force to see what all the fuss is about. Quite a buzz has been generated about these guys after a third place finish on the BBCs Sounds for 2008 poll, a chart which annually predicts household names of the future with a great deal of success.

The Ting Tings describe their music as garage pop but to be honest it is very difficult to classify their sound. The stuff tonight varies dramatically with a mix of different genres thrown together, each a contributing factor in making their performance extremely original.

Elements of funk, indie, electronica and waltz are thrown into a musical cooking pot with the end product being extremely satisfying indeed. It is as though the Ting Tings have ripped up the rulebook and started again from scratch in a determined effort not to conform to more recognisable musical styles. And somehow this unorthodox approach to music seems to work beautifully. It really shouldn't, but it does.

You never quite know what to expect and the Ting Tings take us on a journey which is exciting, infectious and utterly absorbing. At some gigs songs can often sound the same and blend into one, but there is absolutely no chance of that here and the crowd seem to love every minute of it.

Popular track That’s Not My Name is a perfect example of this and is a real stand-out moment. Starting off with brash, in your face rap style lyrics from singer Katie White, the song develops and White's vocals become softer and more harmonic. There is almost a sense of surprise as both parts gel together perfectly, producing a damn fine song with the most unlikely of components.

With only two members on stage, electronic wizardry is relied upon to ensure that all parts of the songs are heard. White is enthusiastic on stage, leaping around energetically while colleague Jules De Martino is like a man possessed behind the drum kit. Fears that only two people on stage will leave things feeling a bit light are quickly dispelled and White's contributions on cowbell and bass drum add to the delightful randomness of the performance.

Other highlights include Traffic Light, which sounded like it could be played in a dance hall, and the futuristic sounds of Great DJ which were so catchy that you couldn't help but dance. The only criticism was that the gig lasted a disappointing forty five minutes, but this is a purely selfish gripe as I could have done with hearing a bit more of the quality stuff the Salford duo were producing.

As I drift out, I hear a disgruntled Arsenal fan complaining about his sides' Champions League exit tonight. However, he says that the Ting Tings performance makes everything a little bit better. And if that isn't a ringing endorsement, then I don't know what is.

Review: Dan Palmer

Images: Tara Vickers

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/The_Ting_Tings:_Live_Review/

Back On It

Third term starts tomorrow, all too soon. Over the Easter Hols I found out that I passed the NCTJ newswriting exam with merit which is another good thing to add to the CV.

Ton Up

Happy to report that I passed my 100 words shorthand exam. I also passed my Law NCTJ a while back so the qualifications are coming along nicely!

http://www.nctj.com/moreshortdispaly.php?sid=11&res_id=res_id

Sam Isaac Interview for NG

The multi-talented Sam Isaac is surely destined for big things but almost incredibly still remains an unsigned act. Dan Palmer from NG Magazine talks to Sam and finds out all about life as a budding superstar, from car break-ins and high petrol prices to playing in people's front rooms.

NG: A year or so ago you were in Nottingham for a gig, and you had some merchandise stolen from your car! Is this your first trip back since then, and do you now bear a grudge towards the city?

SI: I think this is my second trip back since then! I've had some good times in Nottingham, and a lot of my friends are here. Although it was one of the lowest points I've had when the stuff got nicked - we were at the beginning of a pretty big tour and I just didn't need it! But don't worry, I don't have any grudges....

NG: Did you ever get any of it back?

SI: Nope, so that means that somewhere in Nottingham there is probably still a bag of Sam Isaac t-shirts lying around! They wouldn't have meant anything to whoever took them.

NG: You play a lot of 'living room gigs' in people's lounges. How did this idea come about?

SI: Yeah I did a lot of these throughout last year. When I was booking my own gigs, I'd often have a day off between shows and it seemed like a nice idea to play someone’s' house. With these gigs, you knew that people would get a few of their friends round and it would be a nice atmosphere, as opposed to venues when sometimes you don't know what things are going to be like. At houses you don't have to load in or load out any equipment, you don't have to do a sound check and you usually get drunk in the evening after you have finished playing. It was like being on tour and going to a party every night!

NG: Did you have any bad experiences with these though? Surely not everyone was nice....

SI: A couple of times we just wanted to get it over with and leave, but I don't really want to say why! Most people were lovely, and I made a lot of friends.

NG: I guess that as you become better known, the lounge gigs will become a thing of the past?

SI: Yeah, I want to get my music out to as many people as possible, and at the moment touring at traditional venues is a much more effective way of doing that. It would be a shame to drop them altogether though, maybe one day I can come back and play in people's houses for a couple of weeks or so.

NG: You seem to work ridiculously hard and it appears that you are always on the road, having played a whopping 200 shows last year! Don't you ever feel like taking a break? Your petrol bill must be pretty high for starters.....

SI: No, not really. I enjoy touring, and I'm still unsigned so this is the best way of getting myself known. I don't believe in constantly adding people to MySpace like some acts seem to do, I prefer to play live and to become known like that instead. I have over 5000 MySpace friends, and most of them have added me! The petrol bill is a bit high though, and yeah money is constantly an issue! If my car breaks down, or I need to repair my guitars, or if I have to book rehearsals, then I have to pay for it myself. I'm not saying I want to have loads of money or anything, but it would be nice not to be living on the edge of my overdraft all the time.

NG: How was your recent tour with folk sensation Kate Walsh?

SI: Yeah it was ace, we played lots of really nice theatres, and the audiences were really quiet and appreciative. They listened to the songs - sometimes people talk over the top of you! Kate was really nice and down to earth, and the tour was really just about the music. There wasn't much going out or debauchery or anything like that!

NG: New single 'Fire Fire' is out on the 24th March. What's it about then, and how do you reckon it'll do?

SI: Well, although it is quite an up-beat, high tempo song, the subject matter is actually quite dark. It's about me being really bad at coping with family dramas and issues, and generally not dealing with stuff! It addresses running away from problems and situations. I don't think I will chart just yet, but hopefully I'll shift a few hundred copies.

NG: And you will be going on a full band tour to promote the single. Do you prefer playing with a group, or on your own?

SI: It's really good to be able to both. For example, at the end of a tour with the band my ears will be hurting and I’ll want to return to playing on my own, in quiet, more intimate venues. However, if it's the other way round then I'll be itching to get on stage with everyone and just rock out you know? I play different songs when I'm on my own to when I'm with the band, and it's great to be able to mix it up like that. Hopefully I'll be able to keep doing it this way, it's a good combination.

NG: You seem to have become a pretty big deal lately, playing at the BBC Electric Proms, Glastonbury and the Maida Vale Studios among others, and you've had airplay on BBC Radio 1. Do you feel as if things are happening a bit quickly?

SI: It may just be that I am pushing my career along pretty quickly as well. I played 200 shows last year, a record for me, which is as many as some bands will play in two or three years. So I'm playing a load of shows in a short period of time, so perhaps all the publicity is coming fast as well. It was great to play all of those events but I should say that there is no guarantee that I'm going to make it big!

NG: So what's coming up next for you, and where do you see yourself in a year?

SI: Hopefully my first album will be out, which I'm going to record in the summer. The aim is to be a full time musician, I don't want to get another job, it would be much better to do this full time instead! There will be a few songs brought over from the Sticker, Star & Tape mini-album on the new record and the rest will be new songs.

NG: And finally, what's your favourite joke?

SI: Erm, I don't really know any jokes but I am trying to improve my puns. Unfortunately I'm not very good at them and usually end up presenting other people with a great opportunity for a great pun. So no jokes, but hopefully the puns will get better!

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/Sam_Isaac:_Interview/

Sam Isaac @ Social for NG

Standing at around six foot and sporting a large mop of messy ginger hair, Sam Isaac is a far from average looking pop-star. But as soon as he picks up his six string acoustic guitar it becomes clear that his performances are far from average as well.

This young singer/songwriter from Malvern has seemingly mastered the art of the acoustic pop song, with every number tonight succeeding in making me feel warm and tingly. Ably assisted by backing guitarist Matt Randall, Isaac produced a set at Nottingham's Bodega Social that never failed to hit the right notes.

Around forty souls witnessed the gig and they saw a man who must surely be destined for better things. Mainly playing songs from the Sticker, Star & Tape mini-album, Isaac’s vocals were particularly impressive - passionate and heartfelt, but at the same time loud and full of energy.

Lyrically he showed a talent and maturity that lies way beyond his young years, and it is hard not to relate to his raw, down to earth observations on life, love and relationships.

Highlights included Sideways, a pacy, jangly tune about growing up and leaving home, and new single Fire Fire, with its distinctive opening riff and catchy chorus. These were proof enough that Isaac can produce fast, fun, mainstream hits that wouldn‘t sound out of place on any radio playlist.

On the flipside, the more sombre What Good Did That Do? and the darker Annie Hall slowed things down a bit and showed that Sam has also mastered the art of emotion and pathos in his music. These slower numbers complimented the faster songs beautifully, creating a perfect mixture of pounding acoustic pop and gentle, quieter sensitivity.

Isaac occasionally plays with a band, and one can only speculate at how much better the songs would sound when spruced up with a variety of instruments. It is testament to him, however, that he managed to produce such an assured display predominantly on his Jack Jones. He also spent a lot of time talking to the crowd tonight, and while for some that habit would grate, it also displays a confidence that will take him far in the industry. Encouraging the small audience to get involved on Carbon Dating and I Traded My Friends For You, Isaac demonstrated that he won’t be intimidated when fame and recognition come calling.

This would be the least this man deserves, as his music strikes a chord which gets under your skin and is difficult to shake off. To put it simply, Isaac makes brilliant music without ever trying too hard and in a world full of acts trying to be too clever, he really is a breath of fresh air.

Review: Dan Palmer

Images: Jack Ladenburg

http://www.ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/Sam_Isaac:_Live_Review/

Cook Islands, for Platform

A series of gasps echoed around the cabin as our pokey aircraft gently slipped through the clouds.

Below us was the South Pacific - a magnificent blanket of turquoise blue - and the lush green volcanic island of Rarotonga.

Waves were breaking over coral reefs and beaches glistened with the perfect hue of white. But the best thing was that all of this beauty was completely unspoilt. There were no buildings here, no eyesores.

This was nature as god intended, completely devoid of that menacing human touch. "Welcome to the Cook Islands" mused the pilot. "Welcome to Paradise."

The Cook Islands are thousands of miles from Britain and about as far as it is physically possible to get. The principle island is Rarotonga and there are several others, all scattered around the Pacific. A former part of the empire, they now operate as a self governing democracy in association with New Zealand. Most of the population descend from the Maori and they must surely be some of the luckiest people on Earth.

It didn't take long to slip into the ridiculously chilled way of life that the Islanders get to enjoy. One road travels the entire circumference of Rarotonga and numerous people sat alongside it; chilling out in the shade or drying off after a swim. No-one seemed to have a job here and there didn't appear to be many laws either. My driver, an old rugged looking chap named Bill drove barefoot and the rules of the road seemed to be lacklustre to say the least. A fellow traveller told me how he obtained a Cook Islands motorcycle licence simply by following an official for about two minutes.

There were times when all signs of life just seemed to disappear completely. I'm not sure where everybody went, but I could spend hours without seeing a living soul. On a four hour hike around the island I was left completely undisturbed to explore at my own pace. The beaches were simply idyllic, pure white sand and nothing else, and the sea can genuinely be described as a picture. Most postcards exaggerate places and make them look better than they actually are, but in the Cook Islands they don't need to do that. The place is practically perfect already. With nobody around I began to drift off into my own world, so much so that I felt a bit like Tom Hanks in Castaway.

I took a trip to a waterfall which lay in Rarotonga's forested centre. What immediately struck me was the lack of buildings and high rise. Any development here tends to be carefully nestled in foliage meaning that the natural beauty is left unhindered to flourish. It was a stark contrast to places like Thailand and the Costa del Sol, where numerous high rise hotels have ruined the scenery which attracted the tourists in the first place. The waterfall was impressive, cascading from a great height and pounding into a pool below. I would have liked a picture of myself there, but once again I was the only visitor.

Eventually some other travellers turned up at my hostel and I was able to chill out with them. Days seemed to blend into one endless blur, time didn’t matter or indeed exist and the most pressing decision one had was whether to open another beer. A barbeque always seemed to be on the go and life was an endless beach party. A small crew of people from all over the world began to gather, none of us wanting to leave this haven of relaxation. You would often find us sprawled out on a sofa or bean bag, soaking up the rays having not moved for a good few hours.

However there are things to do if you can be arsed to get up. Snorkelling and diving are a delight in the crystal clear waters and you can also hire kayaks. On one day I discovered a few offshore islands that looked in easy reach so I paddled out to them. There was nobody else present on these rocky outcrops and I liked to think that I had found my own place in the world. I had visions of declaring it independent and living out my days in this tranquil paradise. Another of the islands was home to an abandoned tin shack which gave the place a spooky feel like something out of Lost. I visited the final island with a sense of caution as locals had informed me that the sound of drums could often be heard from it, despite it being empty. As I stood on its beach, regularly watching my back, it suddenly dawned on me that I was one of the few people on Earth to have ever stood on this spot. It was an extremely cool realisation.

I recounted the feeling in the bar later and the American who owned it agreed with me entirely.

“I came out here ten years ago and never went home,” he tells me. “And why would I want to? I’ve found the best place on Earth.”

It’s not hard to see where he is coming from. The Cook Islands are probably the world’s best kept secret. I just hope that they stay that way.

http://www.trentstudents.org/docs/platform/07-08/Platform_07-08_Volume-16_Issue-9.pdf

(Page 12).

Titchfield In Post

The park story posted below made it into the community section of the NEP today. This piece was found after reading a letter complaining about the park's state in the Hucknall Dispatch. I asked the Council about it and they gave me the story. Pretty proud of it as I believe the way I dug up this particular bit of news was quite good journalism!

http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/displayNode.jsp?nodeId=133965&command=displayContent&sourceNode=133948&contentPK=20052217&moduleName=InternalSearch&formname=sidebarsearch

The Coates story I did was also featured in the news, but the Post and the Dispatch had the story before I found it. I wasn't to know that though, and it is still pleasing to find a story that was considered newsworthy. Hazah!

Titchfield Park

THE Astroturf pitches at Hucknall’s Titchfield Park are set to re-open in the summer after a £30,000 revamp.

At present the courts are locked due to misuse but it is hoped that when the work is complete they can return to regular booked usage by local football and tennis clubs.

Works proposed include the replacement of solid board panelling around the courts with a strong metal mesh – commonly seen on small ball courts.

Landscape Architect Andrew Hinchley, from Ashfield District Council, said: “It is hoped that by opening up the pitch visually, we will discourage misuse of the area.

“We currently have problems with youths hiding behind the boards, drinking and damaging the surface and equipment, as well as dog owners using the pitch as a dog exercising area.

“Opening the park up in this way should discourage such activity through informal surveillance and also make the park feel safer by opening views.”

The project has been funded by a Section 106 allocation, money which is provided by housing developers for open space provision and improvement and distributed by local councillors at the Hucknall Area Consultative Group.

Titchfield Park was allocated £117,000, to be used for the pitches as well as skate park
modifications and car park improvements.

The news has been welcomed by residents who wanted to see the courts open again in time for the lighter summer evenings.

Andrew Riley said: “It will be nice to see the pitches used for sport again, as they are supposed to be.

“I think they were definitely in need of a spruce up.”

Coates

FANS of the composer Eric Coates are hoping to establish a dedicatory society to celebrate his work.

A successful concert of the Hucknall natives’ music was performed in December – and this has led to an increased interest in his scores.

He is most famous for composing the distinctive title march from the film score of The Dam Busters.

The project has been set up by Ashfield District Council in partnership with the Hucknall Tourism and Regeneration Group.

And they have invited anyone interested in forming a society to a special meeting at the Watnall Road Community Centre, Hucknall, at 6.30pm on Wednesday 27th Feburary.

The venue coincidentally lies next door to Coates’ birthplace.

Heritage and Tourism Development Officer Denis Hill said: “It is felt by many Hucknall residents that not enough is made of or known about Coates, after all he is probably the most famous of Hucknall’s sons.

“A lot is spoken about Byron and Lovelace but they never actually came to Hucknall, to the best of our knowledge, until after their death, when they were both buried in the Byron family vault.”

The aim of the meeting is to tap up local interest in Coates’ before escalating to a far wider audience.

Interest in the project will be gauged and people will have the opportunity to discuss and formulate ideas.

Coates admirer Ben Sherwood, originally from Hucknall, said: “A society for Coates is long
overdue.

“I look forward to being a part of it when it is created.”

It is envisaged that the society could hold concerts and lectures as well as printing a newsletter, but this would be dependant on the wishes of members.

The council will provide initial financial support for the group but will eventually withdraw so it can run on an independent basis.

Should you require further details in advance of the meeting on the 27th, please contact Denis Hill at Ashfield District Council on 01623 450000 or email: d.g.hill@ashfield-dc.gov.uk

Sports Relief

WOULD be athletes have been invited to take to the track for a special charity run. Competitors can choose to run one, three or six miles at the event which is part of the BBC’s Sport Relief appeal.

It all kicks off at Ashfield School on Sutton Road, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, at 10am on Sunday 16th March.

Places are expected to be limited so anyone wanting to take part is encouraged to sign up early.

Sports Development Officer Carol Hallam, of Ashfield Council, said: “We’re delighted that Ashfield has been selected to host this exciting event. It was a huge success in 2006 and we’re looking forward to seeing hundreds of residents taking part, getting sponsored and raising money for Sport Relief.”

The event will also be part of the celebrations marking the centenry of the Sutton Harriers Athletics Club whose members have been running since 1908.

Club secretary Michael Davies said: “You can stroll, jog or run around the course as this is a fun-filled event for the entire family.

“There will also be the chance to find out about the history of the Athletics Club,” he added.

Runners are encouraged to come in fancy dress and prizes will be awarded for the best efforts.

Side stalls, attractions and live music will also be part of the fun.

There is a fee of £5 for adults and £2 for children under sixteen.

A family discount of £12 for two adults and two children is also available, and all runners are asked to collect sponsorship.

Anyone interested in taking part can sign up at http://www.sportrelief.com/sutton-harriers-mile where the latest details of the event will also be available.

First Newsday Piece: Beijing 2008

THIS SUMMER'S controversial Olympics in Beijing have been heavily defended by Chinese people in Nottingham after Steven Spielberg's snub.

The American director terminated his involvement with the games on Wednesday and many others have called for a boycott because of China's human rights abuses.

But these views have been met with an angry response from the city’s Chinese community.

Acupuncturist Alice Lai (34) who is originally from Shanghai said: “People shouldn't say that China shouldn't get the Olympics, I think that is very stupid.

“There is a lack of understanding about China in the West. The only views you get are from newspapers and on television, not many people have actually been there and experienced our country.

“Every country should be allowed to host the Olympics, and in Beijing we can show the world the real China. The World is going to love China.”

The Chinese government have stressed that political issues should not be mixed with sport.

Guangzhou based Journalism Student Emma Ma (25) said: “The Olympics is supposed to encourage people from around the world to join together for one cause.

“As far as I’m concerned, sport and the government are two totally different things.”

Gaozhoao Jun, from Beijing, said: “A boycott would not be fair.

“The Olympics are a great chance for people to get involved in events, and they have nothing to do with the government.

“China is looking forward to welcoming the world to our country, and it’s going to be a great event.”

Teeline Massacre

Delighted to report that I passed my 80 words Shorthand exam at the first attempt, with 100% accuracy. My name is up in lights here: http://www.nctj.com/moreshortdispaly.php?sid=11&res_id=res_id Get in!

Mongolia Piece Online

My Mongolia bit in Platform can be found here: http://www.trentstudents.org/docs/platform/07-08/Platform_07-08_Volume-16_Issue-6.pdf

It's on page 23. Cheers to Dan Wilson for helping to get it in.

Nottinghamshire Learning Network

I just found my tuck shop story on this website: http://nln.nottscc.gov.uk/Lists/Announcements/DispForm.aspx?ID=83

Hat-trick! Goes Live

Hat-trick! went out at 2pm on Friday. We had a few technical issues but I think we managed to come through okay and produce a decent enough show. You can listen at http://www.normanradio.co.uk/. Head over to the archive section, then shows from 8.2.08. We come on after about four and a half hours, after the news. Enjoy!

Worksop Guardian

Oddly, it appears that my church story from a while back was included in the Worksop Guardian.

You can view it here: http://www.worksopguardian.co.uk/hucknall-news/Winter-of-content-for-historic.3438526.jp

And there was me thinking that there was a bit of distance between Hucknall and Worksop. I am currently trying to determine if it was included in the actual paper. Either way, Worksop Guardian is going on the CV, and this site!

Nine Black Alps @ Bodega Social for NG

The Bodega Social in Nottingham is buzzing tonight and it is little wonder as the Nine Black Alps have rolled into town. The Mancunian quartet have been causing a stir with their grungy rock sound and this small venue on Pelham Street is absolutely rammed in anticipation.

Second album Love/Hate has been released to rave reviews and the band have even been described as the Saviours Of Rock in some quarters. There is definitely expectation for a top notch performance and luckily the lads deliver - and then some.

From the get go, the Alps launch into an exciting, energetic and damn right entertaining set. Catchy guitar riffs and distinctive choruses mean that practically every song could be a potential anthem, played at Indie discos across the land. The crowd seem to know most of em, jumping and dancing along throughout - it's as if the Alps are already playing a greatest hits set.

Crowd interaction is kept to a minimum but this hardly matters as it gives the band time to play loads of songs from their arsenal of gems. There is a hardly time to breathe as tune after tune arrives in quick succession, the gig rocketing along at an exhilarating pace.

Bitter End and Unsatisfied induce brilliant sing-alongs and Every Time I Turn forces me to bring out the air guitar. I would have felt like an idiot but fortunately several others are doing the same.

The similarities to Nirvana are obvious and in the smoky venue it almost feels as if we are in the video for Smells Like Teen Spirit. But the band also stamp a bit of their own style on proceedings to create a hugely refreshing and original sound. A little bit of Oasis creeps in to show that the boys have not forgotten their Manchester roots.

Rapturous cheers greet the end of each song and it is clear that Nottingham loves the Nine Black Alps. And when front-man Sam Forrest and guitarist David Jones don Robin Hood hats it appears that the feeling may be mutual.

We eagerly await their return, but one feels that they may be playing somewhere slightly larger next time. It was a privilege to watch them at somewhere as intimate as the Social, because if they are not playing bigger venues pronto then it will be a great injustice.

You Know You're Right: Dan Palmer

With The Lights Out: Lisa Mayfield

http://ng-magazine.com/Diary/Music/In_Bloom:_NG_Magazine_reviews_Nine_Black_Alps/

Mongolia, for Platform

Mongolia is one of those funny sounding places that you would never really dream of going too. And, after all, why would you want too? The country lies slap bang in the middle of nowhere and is sodding miles from anything that could actually be considered important. Add to this the capital city of Ulaan-Baatar, which has earned the unispiring nickname of 'ugly-baatar' and it becomes obvious why this is not many people's number one tourist destination.
But for all of these reasons it was a place where I was itching to go. The fact that it was off the beaten track made the place appeal to me much more, and the sense of adventure was overwhelming. This was a journey into the unknown, a trip that would take me away from the tourists hoardes to somewhere different and exciting.
Only 3,000 Brits a year come to Mongolia so I felt ridicliously privileged when I strutted into the country. I board a train at the border town of Sukhbaatar and start to head north. It quickly becomes clear that this is a pretty empty place. As far as the eye can see, there is nothing but sand and grass and it presents itself with an eeriness that is hard to describe. The thing is, although there is nothing to look at, there is still everything to look at. The void is the attraction of Mongolia. Imagine a landscape which is completely devoid of anything. There are no twenty-first century intrusions, no ugly eyesores. Just a 360 view of absolutely sod all. And it is beautiful, completely haunting. I find myself drifting off as I stare out at the horizon through the sea of complete emptiness.
The train eventually enters the Gobi Desert and the blanket of grass turns to a blanket of sand. It is equally stunning, with the feeling of isolation being one to behold. It was a shock to realise that our hectic, vibrant society can be escaped so rapidly. Was I really on the same planet as our chaotic towns and cities? It just didn't seem possible. Mongolia really is like entering another world.
Eventually we reach the town of Choir, which is basically just a collection of tin shacks. I can't really imagine what life would be like here, so far removed from everything we take for granted. The train continues north and as night approaches we are treated to a stunning sunset over the desert. With nothing to intrude our view the sun is left with the entire sky as its canvas. It makes use of every last bit, spreading colour and light in every direction in a beautifully magical display.
The next stop is Ulaan-Baatar, the urban island in the middle of the ocean of nothing. About a million people live here, around a third of the total population. You can sense it approaching from miles off, the sight of smog on the horizon the give-away that something big looms admist the emptiness. And on arrival, you can see why it earned it's ugly-baatar monkier. The city is a communist inspired, concrete mess, but for me that gave it an odd type of charm. It wasn't the most attractive of places, but this certainly made it interesting. The lack of tourists also meant that this was a genuine travel experience. I was seeing somewhere how it should be, a far cry from South East Asia which has been ruined by the overwhelming numbers of visitors.
Sukhbaatar Square is the city's focal point and is home to parliament, as well as a statue of Ghengis Khan. They really milk that fella in these parts. During my stay I had a Ghengis Beer in the Ghengis Pub on Ghengis Street. A statue of someone in the square was being pulled down to make way for yep....a statue of Ghengis. I suppose everyone needs a hero.
I was in town during the Naadam Festival, which is a big deal in these parts. Events include Horse Racing, Archery and Wrestling and the event was the equivalant of our FA Cup final. Taking in some wrestling was a unique experience. There are no weight divisions so the biggest bloke usually wins. It seemed a bit unfair but it was a pleasure to imberse myself in a bit of the country's culture.
The food also deserves a mention. Mongolian barbeques were numerous in number around the city, and you could frequently pick up a cheap piece of steak or kebab. These were ridicliously tasty and went well down a treat with the local beers, Khan Brau being a particular favourite.
On my last night, I went for a stroll up a large hill and watched the sunset again. On one side of me sat Ulaan-Baatar, on the other, absoultely nothing. This seemed like such a peaceful existance, out in the middle of nowhere, away from crime, terrorism and all the other problems this world faces. It seemed such a shame that soon, I would have to return to them.

Hat-trick!

Hat-trick! is the brainchild of myself, Adam Harwood and Peter Fearn. It is a footy related radio show, which airs on Radio Norman at 2pm on February 8th. Another thing for the CV, and it should be good craic as well. Have been busy making jingles and the like and doing a bit of promotion. Former England manager Graham Taylor got involved which was good of him.

Non-League Daily

Recently I covered a couple of games for Non League Daily, which to be honest was pretty sweet. It's a national publication, plus I got payment and a byline for each. So not a bad deal all told. I did Basingstoke's home game against Weston-Super-Mare and our away match down at Bognor Regis. The Bognor one was a bit of an effort as I had to phone over the copy to get it in for the paper the next day. As a result it didn't read that well. I was also asked to do it at the eleventh hour when I was starting work on my third pint of the day. Bognor is a great away day, and I didn't want the report to ruin the fun. So at the match I was taking notes five pints down, which to be honest wasn't the best. Ah well.