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Month: September 2020

Manchester arson victim given ‘life and hope’ after overwhelming fundraising response

David Kamson’s food van was torched in a suspected racially-aggravated attack. Luckily, he says he will come back stronger. He thanked the public’s generosity after a successful GoFundMe campaign that has now raised more than £80,000 to help rebuild his business. 

On the 22nd of September, the popular Moston entrepreneur was horrified to find his much-loved trailer reduced to ashes in an incident the police are treating as “racially aggravated criminal damage”.

Supporters in Manchester and around the world have now raised almost £100,000. A kind stranger, Jolus Lutete, organised a GoFundMe campaign, pledging to “give racists a reason to frown, and David a reason to smile”.

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I am a Descendant of Noble Kings .. I Humble myself and Serve My Community … I worked Hard 3 years 9 months.. I saved money .. no social – bought a catering Trailer for £3000 pounds Spent £438 pounds to bring down from Canterbury Kent to Manchester . So I can serve food in a decent In a decent environment for my community. Some Racist Thief in Moston Named Craig Don’t like the idea of a Black Man Doing Such Business in Moston So he stole the Catering trailer .. sold equipments over £5000 and damage the inside for Fun One Month Later it was found with Him in Blackley Charles town Road Police tried to arrest him , he lied he bought it and couldn’t provide any proof who sold it to him .. He was not charged or disturbed I see him around and I just ignore him I’m a community Lad … known for Huslte and funny vibes 2 days ago on Hartley street this same Craig guy drove pass me and say to me fucking black immigrants come in Moston to do business like they own it.. he went ahead to tell me that trailer should have been his and his boys eyes are on it That was 2 days ago This morning I woke up late at about 10am and I went into the post office where the cashier was telling me oh my God what happened to your trailer , I said nothing is wrong with it it’s fine .. the council loves it and I have just fixed it back and bought back tools in it … He screen nooooo , it’s burnt down to ashes .. I said no , maybe people burn things beside it He said no , I didn’t even mind him because I started laughing So I went to check on £3000 trailer with £2200 worth of equipment Gone in ashes with some things missing … which means it was robbed before burnt This Act of Hate should not be allowed in Moston . This is hateful and sad … All the kids that gets chicken from me , all the street homeless and beggars I give food to Most are not black , I have no colour black or white … I am a community man and should be treated as one , I kept trying to feed myself and shelter my soul .. Someone is hating in Corner I leave this to God , That trailer was God’s gift to me to get out of Hunger . Somebody burn it . #SayNotoRacism

A post shared by Moston Suya (@mostonsuya) on

“It was a no brainer,” Jolus told The Mancunion. “I felt obliged to help because not only did I feel that it was my duty as a Christian, but I could also relate to him as a small business owner.

“I hope this story encourages [people] to help others when in need,” even if you don’t know or like the person, she added.

The page has since garnered over 7,300 donors, with contributors from the USA and Australia wishing him luck.

Since moving to the UK four years ago, entrepreneurial David has built his business selling suya, a West African delicacy made with spicy skewered meat. He has also made it his mission to help the homeless people of Moston by serving them food free of charge.

According to an Instagram post made by David, he was subject to racially-motivated theft and criminal damage prior to the attack.

Despite the horrific ordeal that almost cost David his business, he remains optimistic about the goodness of people in the UK. He wrote on Instagram: “We’re United Kingdom and We Unite Against Racism”.

We asked David what he thought of the seismic international response that restored his livelihood.

David replied that because of the kindness of strangers, he has a hopeful attitude towards the future: “This community response shows the quantum of love and humanity that exists within the walls of England. It just needs to spread more.”

David’s new Moston Suya catering trailer, fittingly named ‘Phoenix’, opened to the public on October 25th in Albine Street car park off Moston Lane, with a menu of suya, chicken, fish, and jollof rice.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CG2Z7efnXTz/

How to donate and support the Black Lives Matter movement during Black History Month:

Got a story on Black Lives Matter you think we should be covering? Email [email protected] 

Farris Ramzy: There is a storm coming, let us help before it’s too late

Farris Ramzy is a Manchester University graduate. He runs Manchester Students’ Group (formerly FSG) on Facebook and has worked within student communities around Manchester for the past five years.

I am of the opinion that this government has completely failed in its handling of Covid, and shown a complete lack of empathy to university students and the industries they prop up.

Freshers are already in a vulnerable situation at the best of times. Think back to when you first started university: the amazing experiences you got meeting new people, potentially getting your first taste of nightlife, but also the drastic lifestyle readjustment to living away from parents.

Students this year have no nightlife, no face to face interaction with course-mates, and significantly fewer opportunities to make lifelong friendships. Halls are not always sociable if fallouts with housemates happen, and the rule of six has removed any escape.

What happens when boredom sets in and motivation falls? You get behind at university. You fall into drinking simply because there is nothing else to do. You are trapped in your tiny one-bedroom, dimly lit, alone and away from your family for the first time.

This is miserable enough under current circumstances – can you imagine being under quarantine in these conditions?

Ramzy graduated from the University of Manchester

I say this from experience – first year was incredibly difficult for me. I began to isolate myself and I stopped going to lectures. If I didn’t have a strong support network who recognised the change in my behaviour, I probably wouldn’t have made it out alive. I don’t say that lightly, but the implications of isolation, boredom and drinking are truly worrying. It’s as simple as that. Solutions have to be found.

I don’t believe the government has anticipated the return of students particularly well. I don’t expect a bunch of disconnected MPs to understand the implications of their legislation, but it was particularly disappointing to see Matt Hancock use our demographic as a scapegoat.

The whole approach has been shambolic and highlights how out of touch the government is to this demographic. Students had a summer of no communication, getting no information on how their lives will operate in the new normal.

Universities across the country have made a fantastic effort in shifting courses online, but I don’t think there has been enough to build an alternative to keep students occupied in their isolation. It was very frustrating that one of the first pieces of contact many students had from the University of Manchester was Nancy Rothwell’s announcement that students could face exclusion if they are found flouting social distancing rules.

This, coupled with the £10,000 fines we have seen being implemented to those hosting house parties, is more evidence of the government completely misinterpreting how to effectively tackle the challenge of students returning to universities.

If it was up to me, students would not have returned to university – anyone can see that shared accommodation is a perfect environment for accelerating the spread of the virus, regardless of any policies.

But the decision was made to send everybody back, and the hard-hitting approach employed recently highlights how once again this government cares more about the illusion of safety than the real thing.

“First year was incredibly difficult for me. I began to isolate myself and I stopped going to lectures. If I didn’t have a strong support network who recognised the change in my behaviour, I probably wouldn’t have made it out alive

Their preventative methods have and will continue to fail in areas populated by students because they have taken the wrong approach. I would love to sit here and say the deterrents will work, and the students will arrive, sit quietly in their halls and behave themselves. But frankly, this outlook has already proven ineffective one week into university, with the increase in flat parties, outdoor raves and Manchester Metropolitan University halls being forced into quarantine.

The way I see it, they knew what was coming, they did it anyway, and now they are blaming us. It’s so disappointing how transparent this all is, and what every decision is centred around – money, not health.

I can’t think of a worse recipe for disaster than encouraging students into pubs, and then kicking them out at 10 pm, just when they would typically be starting their night out. The new curfew means students leave and congregate elsewherewhile the council simply does not have the facilities to cope with the sheer volume of drunk students wandering the streets.

I fear there is a storm coming in the next few months, a storm that is going to put a strain on local authorities, a strain on healthcare in Manchester when cases begin to spike, and a strain on the relationship between the student population and Manchester City Council.

If we want to aid student communities, in my opinion, four solutions are needed:

  1. Improve the messaging and tone between the council/universities and students.
  2. Increase the provision of online services, activities and communication between students so that they are not isolated from the world.
  3. Increase mental health service provision.
  4. Defuse the mounting pressure building in the city in areas like Fallowfield, for example with socially distanced on-campus events.

What we also need to understand that this clamping down on the hospitality industry will actually increase cases in student areas, because students are driven out of the relatively safe environment of regulated pubs and bars, and instead move to cramped, unsanitary flat parties.

If the government truly cared about lowering cases, the solution would be a full nationwide lockdown once again, but they have shown they are unwilling to put lowering cases above economic losses.

Therefore, they must instead offer viable, safe alternatives to defuse the pressure. Such alternatives have been effectively implemented in Trafford in the new venue Social Avenue since July. These outdoor ‘socially-distanced’ raves have offered a clever alternative, with forward-thinking promoters offering an outlet to students in this miserable time, while still being safe and complying with government regulations. It would be great to have something similar in the south of Manchester, specifically tailored to students, because mental health must not be pushed to one side.

But as of this week, Manchester City Council has cancelled all of Social Avenue’s events for the next four weeks due to cases being on the rise – yet the pubs, restaurants and bars remain open.

As a team that specialises in online communication and outreach, MSG sees the importance of online communities. Now, more than ever, it is important these young, isolated adults are able to communicate with as many peers as possible.

University is lonely at the best of times, and I dread to think how alone some students will be feeling in the coming months. It’s time to stop blaming individuals, and instead, hold the government responsible for implementing policies that set us all up to fail.

This is a call to Manchester City Council – let us help.

What a newfound lust for daytime TV tells us about student life

Before we’d even dreamed about coronavirus, a nationwide lockdown and clapping every Thursday night for the NHS, daytime television took up 6.5 hours a day on ITV, and nearly 4 hours on the BBC.

And then the world changed overnight. Presenters of all of our favourite daytime shows were now sat two metres apart, with awkward angled shots of the sofa on BBC Breakfast, huge wide shots of the desk on ITV’s Good Morning Britain, the return of Mr Motivator, and Victoria Derbyshire writing the National Domestic Abuse helpline number on the back of her hand. It was a surreal reflection of how a normal world transcended into one of distance, chaos, disconnection and attempts at unity.

Students up and down the nation suddenly became fascinated by what Stacey Solomon really thought about dogs on the sofa as they rolled out of bed at 12pm. Those who returned home were once again faced with the chitter-chatter of the Loose Women as their mothers ate dinner.

But while some students saw the constant updates in a time of uncertainty as a source of comfort and reassurance, many did not see the enjoyment of half a day’s worth of live television and never have. Two students from the West Country said neither of their families ever watched daytime television, and they rarely tuned into uninterrupted news coverage on BBC One. Student habits are a mixed bag.

Breakfast television began in 1983, when Ofcom’s predecessor created a company for it. It was a roaring success, and the same happened again in 1988, when again, they searched for a national daytime television programme. Since then, daytime TV has become a staple of British culture, a caveat to a cup of tea in the mid-afternoon, a precursor to a Zoom lecture, or even a way to make the days slip away.

Daytime television has continued into the new academic year and remained the same as it’s been since March even after the easing of some coronavirus restrictions. With the return to university campus and with it a newfound lust for the indoors, maybe something to do with over 1,000 student coming down with coronavirus, some international students have the chance to see what delights British daytime television has to offer. Let’s just say they weren’t enlightened. One student from France found the giggles of Holly and Phill too ‘obvious’, the studios ‘unfamiliar’, and our very British humour ‘forced’ throughout the day.

Despite the new constraints, the BBC have increased their live daytime television output. Health Check UK Live, which did exactly what it said on the tin, saw the return of Mr Motivator, brought us the most screen time we’ve had of Angela Rippon in about a decade, and removed 15 minutes of BBC Breakfast’s airtime all in one. Although short-lived, the BBC did manage to air two mini-series of the programme throughout the hardest days of the countries lockdown.

At ITV’s base at Television Centre, popular programmes Lorraine and Loose Women share a studio, and with set-strikers not being able to work, they were then left in limbo. The latter was taken off the air and replaced with repeats, whilst Lorraine co-hosted an ill-fated week with Piers Morgan before joining the GMB team alone for several months.

Whilst Piers Morgan ranted about MPs boycotting ‘his’ programme, they added salt to the wound by being questioned by a rather-confused looking Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield on This Morning, and even appeared on Lorraine. Victoria Derbyshire made a return to her now limited slot, but without her own branding, and instead fronted a BBC News bulletin every morning at 9 o’clock, once Mr Motivator had been put back in his cage.

Love them or loath them, the governments daily afternoon briefings did inform the nation of the latest goings-on, despite looking like something out of George Orwell’s 1984. Although burdened by a tricky start, with the Zoom usernames of many UK journalists, including the BBCs Political Editor Laura Kuenssberg, being broadcast to the nation, the daily briefings became a part of life that, like a good TV soap or drama, became a must-watch for many, and we all shared the same upset when the main character didn’t appear, and an understudy like Priti Patel or the transport secretary attempted to take his character. As our social lives and worlds shrunk, we filled the void with nuanced opinions on what was on the telly.

The briefings held no target audience, with anyone and everyone tuning in to get the latest direct from the government. Students who had not seen daytime television since spending school holidays with elderly grandparents were now glued to their screens, whether it be mainstream television or streaming online, in the hope that the government would have positive news. They rarely did, but what they did provide was a focus, a sounding board to vent frustrations and ennui, a way of passing time.

Despite increased demand for Netflix and Prime, live daytime television can never really be beaten. There’s just something about Phil and Holly laughing about Gino’s Italian sausage whilst trying to read a competition that you just can’t get anywhere else.

My Last Supper: Jay Rayner’s advice fresh out of the oven

Where in Manchester should we be eating?

One of the most exciting aspects of the interview with Jay Rayner was getting the opportunity to hear his insight on where to eat in Manchester on a student budget.  He described the Korean restaurant and shop Seoul Kimchi as a “terrific place”, which started off providing “food for Korean students that were homesick”. Luckily for University of Manchester’s students, Seoul Kimchi is within walking distance of  the university. Jay was keen to endorse European restaurant The Spärrows, which you will find in Cheetham Hill. He stated this restaurant is perfect

for a really good carb load at great prices.” 

This sounds ideal.

Jay’s final restaurant suggestion was for the well-loved Mancunian institution Albert’s Schloss, located on Peter Street. Albert’s Schloss famously attracts revellers from Manchester and beyond due to its lively atmosphere. The venue also regularly hosts live performances, music, and cabarets. Jay recounted being delighted by this when he visited. Live music is close to his heart due to his side profession as a jazz musician. Jay also endorses Albert’s Schloss as the perfect place to line your stomach before a big night out. As he summarised, “the portions are big enough that one main course would probably get you through a night lubricated”. 

Who doesn’t love a takeaway?

Although going out for a meal is undeniably great. Sometimes nothing beats a takeaway in the comfort of your own home. Jay revealed he indulged in some opulent takeaways over lockdown. This included one from the Michelin starred Hakkasan (far removed from a late night Chesters). Which he enjoyed whilst recording his podcast Out to Lunch with director Edgar Wright. Although takeaways are often brilliant and typically satisfying, they are an expensive way of eating. Alas, sometimes it can be difficult deciding what to cook, especially after a long day of lectures. Therefore, Jay recommends having a go to cookbook that you “just plough through because you like the cut of their jib.”

When asked about cookbook recommendations for students who were looking to cook more and spend less, Jay proposed “any of Nigella’s, because she’s smart, she knows what she’s doing, and the recipes make sense”. He then went on to refer to Tim Anderson’s book Japaneasy, describing it simply as “brilliant” and noting close to cost-efficient when it comes to ingredients. Jay’s final recommendation was for the Dishoom cookbook, which “isn’t cheap but it’s a very good book and you can learn a lot from its pages”. The Dishoom cookbook retails for around £18, which is definitely a hefty price tag for students. The cookbook is, however, extensive and detailed, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone passionate about Indian cooking.

During the interview, Jay also divulged in some of his (somewhat questionable) cooking habits whilst at university. Exclaiming that “I did some terrible things! I had this version of… Well, I cooked chicken legs in the oven, opened a tin of condensed mushroom soup over the top.” However he also made some recipes that still remain popular, such as stuffed peppers and chili con carne. Classic student fare.

Onto Jay’s Last Supper

Jay’s latest book, My Last Supper, takes readers on a gastronomical adventure across the globe. The book contains numerous hilarious and simultaneously heart-warming anecdotes about Jay’s life and his emotional connections with the different components that make up his last supper. If you’re looking for some food- and drink-based escapism, My Last Supper is the perfect book. It’s light reading and it perfectly encapsulates Jay’s humour and wit. He included numerous recipes, his favourite being the buttered cabbage, so that you sample the flavours of each different chapter. The buttered cabbage recipe he described as one that is “simple, and it’s mine, as in I didn’t steal it from anyone. I kind of came up with it by accident. You pour in all that stock and the butter, and you keep reducing, then something miraculous happens”. This certainly sounds like a recipe to impress your housemates with! 

My Last Supper is now available to buy from most major bookstores.

5 unexpected fashion trends to hit the streets of Manchester this autumn

The ever adapting nature of the fashion industry, from high street to high end luxury has always had the potential to throw a curve ball and strange cut into the fabric fancy and Manchester is no different, particularly in our new socially distanced scenarios. Perhaps its lockdown-induced boredom causing us to be more creative with our outfit choices, or  could it be eagerness to venture out of sweatpants? Either way, there’s no denying that this season is bizarre and filled with unexpected trends, and some of our favourite Manchester-based brands are embracing the wonderous and wild side of the ready-to-wear –

Feeling festive with a pop of red

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Moody florals to match the change in weather

A post shared by Neon Rose Store (@neonrosestore) on

Red is usually a colour reserved exclusively for Christmas and Valentines Day, but it’s coming earlier this year. Don’t be afraid to embrace this bold colour earlier this autumn, after all, we’re desperate for something to celebrate during the pandemic!

A variety of scarlets, crimsons, and wine shades were spotted on this season’s catwalks, with everyone from Alexander McQueen to Michael Kors showing off this staple colour.

Manchester has been quick to embrace this trend, with Neon Rose’s Floral Tiered Maxi Tea Dress allowing you to transition your summer wardrobe into the colder months, whilst adding a pop of colour. Just pair this sheer, floaty dress with some chunky boots and a jacket and you’re all set to brave the elements.

Alternatively, Jeneral Store’s French Vintage Wool Blazer is the ideal way to add a layer of warmth to your outfit while making a statement in this bold yet beautiful piece. This oversized jacket speaks for itself and will definitely draw eyes when worn over a dainty dress or pinafore.

Lusting over leather

Model wearing leather belted blazer and wide-leg trouser set
Photo: Neon Rose

It’s no secret by now that leather is one of the biggest trends emerging this autumn, and fashion writer Alice has already told us the secret behind these Matrix-esque jackets that we can’t get enough of. But what if I told you that the trend doesn’t have to stop there?

Embrace Manchester’s new power-suit with Neon Rose’s Faux Leather Belted Blazer and Wide Leg Trousers. You will seriously mean business in this all-over leather ensemble, so make sure to strut your stuff and embrace those boss-lady vibes.

If you want something more chilled out and lecture-appropriate, Native Youth’s Luna Vegan Pant have a more oversized fit and cargo-style pockets to bring a hint of leather into your everyday loungewear – it’s the trend that keeps on giving.

Go for gold… everything!

Model wearing gold silk dress with floral pattern
Photo: Dirty Disco Vintage

Everyone seems to be obsessed with gold details this season – from earrings to watches, you name it, it has to be gold. Our personal fave is Sour Cherry’s Cut Out Bee Necklace – you can add a bit of bling to your outfit, while embracing your inner Manc.

But don’t stop there as it looks as though Christmas party season has arrived early, with gold garments gracing both the catwalks and our local stores. Autumn 2020 is all about being seen and going all-out, and this trend is the perfect way to do so.

Make a statement in Dirty Disco’s Silk Mini Dress, which would look gorgeous styled over a jumper and paired with some chunky boots, plus this doubles as the perfect night-out attire (or should we say Zoom quiz night attire).

Spring fling with lilac – again!

Perhaps the most rogue out of all of these trends is our rekindled love of lilac this autumn – maybe we just can’t let go of the spring that Covid managed to ruin.

This colour palette is no longer reserved for the warmer weather, as these pastel pieces have been showcased by Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and Hugo Boss to name a few.

This trend has also made its way to Manchester with Jeneral Store’s Lilac Wide Leg Contemporary Trousers, which are a must-have for your wardrobe. Carefully balancing the line between smart and trendy, these trousers will see you straight from a lecture and into an upmarket restaurant.

Native Youth’s Phelps Jumpsuit is also a daring way to embrace this trend from head-to-toe, and you can guarantee heads will be turning in this statement piece.

Go big or go home with oversized collars

Model wearing lemon jumper with oversized pastel blue collar
Photo: Jeneral Store

The Peter Pan collar feels like a trend we left behind in 2014, but this autumn they’re back and bigger than ever (literally!).

Working over Zoom means that it’s now essential to look put-together on the top half, even if you’re secretly sporting pyjamas, and these collars are the perfect way to look smart yet stylish.

Achieving this trend in Manchester has never been easier as Jeneral Store are selling Crochet Collars in a variety of colours, which is an adorable nod to this trend that you can easily pair with any outfit.

Congleton Jazz and Blues festival documentary

Congleton Jazz and Blues Festival is a decade long tradition built from the ground up on community, historic roots, and local creative endeavour and vibrancy.

Years of discovery, several incarnations and a re-design (or two!) later, the festival proves progressive in its strive to entertain the people of Congleton. Rooted in the popular pub and music scene in the town, it quickly expanded to feature quirky craft and outdoor events during the day, taking on Umbrella Parade duties (the first of its kind in The North West) in homage to the original festival based in New Orleans. Akin to its American counterparts as well as its nearest rival, Nantwich Jazz and Blues Festival, the festival has fast become visually defining and ready to be let loose on film. 

This expanded vision captured the attention of Documentary Director, Callum Hilditch-Crimes. He filmed the festival and took on some research, in order to create a full-length feature film, hoping to give a national audience just a taste of the historic and deeply musical plosive punches this festival can pack! 

“I want to know what the story is here…I filmed two days of the festival in 2017, capturing people and places during prime times and crucial events.” 

Hilditch-Crimes explained as we sat down for the interview through the enforced confine of an online meeting room. He was clear to define that the film was, at its core, focused on telling the story of the vast quantity and passions of the people during its evolution, intercutting with edited and archived footage adapted with the permission of the festival organisers. Watching the film really does create a sense of how social and interactive our lives truly were! 

The hour long documentary follows up and down the historic passages of Congleton with its amusingly self-proclaimed “Congletonians” enjoying the festivities and interacting with the music scene. From its humble beginnings, despite its sleepy and quaint qualities, the town’s iconography and image has an undoubtedly dark past.

Known locally for many years as “Bear-town”, its gruesome name is drawn from the town’s thirst for Bear baiting in the sixteenth century. A barbaric blood sport, the event was so popularised that when the bear tragically passed, it was given and continues to receive ceremonial remembrance and a folklore story worthy of its cautionary telling and usage.

Callum Hilditch-Crimes @8mmfilm

Hilditch-Crimes expressed, he had often felt the icon of the town admittedly felt strange for the otherwise family friendly event. It must be said though, that the bear’s legendary status and links to the local brewery, could ascertain a kind of star quality and draw unlike any icon the town had previously experienced – perhaps its “rock-star” status and liquid link had some “bearing” on its continued success! 

 Much of the documentary focuses on Event Organisers, Louise Renley and Vince Cutcliffe’s interactions and make clear indications about why and how they employed local creatives to really build the image to match the sound and pace of engagement that the festival was beginning to receive. 

Despite enthusiasm, there are some issues throughout with fluency and lingering topic focus. This stifles some transitions in the film – the male centric casting sometimes meandering on a story which at times creates a lagging, less than decisive lead. I feel this could be rectified with added b-roll shots and would benefit from some quick, cut editing to liven up some of the stories and illustrate conversations in a dynamic way.

However, it cannot be denied the animation work of AD profile technician, Darren Graham and Hilditch-Crimes really displays an experimental edge about the film. In these animated shots, there is a dials up of the signature colour scheme and injection of energy without being overzealous and distracting. It was clear in discussion that this attitude to exploring documentary is intrinsic within Hilditch-Crimes filmmaking. Given more time, this could be made concurrent. 

It’s true that many styles are blended as he moves from “run and gun” portable footage to larger blocks of static shots and considered audio recordings in search of “narrative function” which gives people the time to reflect; 

“for me documentaries don’t always receive enough credit for allowing the most human form of storytelling…you get people who are genuinely involved in the events, giving you mostly factual but fantastic accounts.” 

It seems that giving people that voice and platform to talk about their accounts can really inform the future of creative practice and as we look towards a post-covid future for culture – these documentaries are important reminders of the people and places that enrich our experience and quality of life. 

Callum Hilditch-Crimes “Congleton Jazz and Blues Festival” is available now via YouTube. Since completing the documentary, he has also begun work on a short film set for release in 2021. 

Puzzle page: September 28th

Welcome to the first official puzzle page of the Mancunion! Each week we strive to bring you new and exciting games to take part in. Answers will be published in the following issue and we hope to get some prizes soon so keep your eyes peeled!

Puzzle #1:

Puzzle 1

Puzzle #2:

Puzzle 2

We hope you enjoy this week’s puzzles and have fun playing them!

If you have any feedback or would like to get involved please email: [email protected]

Horoscopes: Week commencing September 28th

With over 22 million copies sold, Animal Crossing: New Horizons was a game that kept us all entertained during the lockdown. It allowed us to simulate life outside of the four walls we were confined in. For this week’s horoscopes, we use some of our favourite non-playable characters to get you ready for university…

Virgo Icon
 

Virgo Aug 23 – Sept 21

Isabelle – Just like this sweet Shih Tzu, you are hard-working and reliable (especially when giving other villagers a talking to). We don’t need to tell you to get your head back in the game for the new term at uni – but please stop prattling on about your TV habits!

Libra Sept 22 – Oct 22

Libra Icon

Harvey – You are relaxed and easy to get on with but can go too far when it comes to people-pleasing (I mean you gave up your kitchen for a month-long wedding)! This week, try to use your ability to see every side of the argument to settle any post-corona clashes between friends.

Scorpio Icon

Scorpio Oct 23 – Nov 22

Mabel – While you are very smart and sensitive, you can be very stubborn and often argue with your sister about who does the most work. For the week ahead, make sure to reach out to a friend in need and use your independence to help keep them grounded.

Sagittarius Icon

Sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 21

K.K. Slider – You are an adventurous, lovable rouge. You are constantly on the move so thank you for taking time to visit our islands each Saturday night. Make sure to bring your energy this week, but don’t cancel on any plans with friends!

Capricorn Icon

Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 20

Sable – While you are responsible, helpful, and extremely focused (you won’t even look up from the sewing machine), you need to be less stubborn when it comes to letting people into your life. Make sure to take time to stop and smell the roses this week!

Aquarius Icon

Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19

Leif – Now that everyone is on the sustainable hype, you probably want to change your career again. Don’t worry it is just in your nature to be hipster and always wanting a change. This week, try to be more active and enjoy the road you are on.

Pisces Icon

Pisces Feb 20 – Mar 20

Pascal – You are a big thinker, often vague, but you love adventure and scallops! Your philosophical thoughts create a need to be listened to, but you have lots of wisdom to share. For this week, try to keep being your adaptable self, especially with the new way of learning.

Aries Icon

Aries Mar 21 – Apr 20

Redd – You are a fiery fox with a hot-headed sales technique and a cold attitude to cousins who don’t want to buy your wares. Use your enthusiasm and energy to make sure your friends’ first week back at uni is anything except boring!

Taurus Icon

Taurus Apr 21 – May 20

Tom Nook – You are a loyal friend and always give us great mortgage rates! Sometimes you can be a little materialistic, but you make up for that in generosity. Yes, we know you work hard, but allow your lazy side to flourish and relax – even if just for the first week!

Gemini Icon

Gemini May 21 – June 21

Blathers/Celeste – There are two sides to you – the intelligent and nervous museum curator and the social but distant star-gazer. You talk a good talk but remember to stay focused this week and stay on top of your work!

Cancer Icon

Cancer June 22 – July 22

Wisp – When it comes to friends, you can be loving but also a little self-absorbed and always looking for spirit pieces in return for some horrible wallpaper. We know you will reach out to your friends this week but remember to give people space.

Leo Icon

Leo July 23 – Aug 22

Gulliver – You are dramatic and bossy, but extremely confident and often ask other people to do your work (such as finding communicator parts) for you. Try to think more of others this week and keep your friends entertained during these tough times!

Manchester students speak out about year abroad uncertainty

The Covid impact has hit Manchester’s students hard. From limited travel and study abroad opportunities, threats of curfews and fines to preclude gatherings and parties, to warnings of disciplinary action if students do not adhere to government guidelines.

University of Manchester students have spoken out about the uncertainty and lack of communication surrounding their year abroad schemes as students worldwide prepare to begin a new semester under different conditions.

Abbie Francis, a third-year French and Spanish student, said: “My original plan was to spend the first semester in Bilbao, Spain, before then spending the second semester in Aix-en-Provence, France. I was planning on studying at the University of Deusto in Bilbao and then carrying out a work placement in Aix-en-Provence.

Abbie Francis says she will continue her year abroad anyway

“Our year abroad was never officially cancelled by Manchester, it was only stated that the university’s support depended on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice.

“So as long as the government was advising against ‘all but essential travel’, we would not be able to continue with our placements. We keep being told to ‘wait and see as things may improve’, yet this advice fails to recognise the expectations of the companies we are working for.

“Some of my course mates are supposed to start their placements within the next few weeks yet still have no idea what is expected of them from the university.

“I have a friend who travelled out to France the other week and when Manchester found out, she was told to return to the UK immediately. However, there are others I know who have been in France for months and have had no communication from the university and no request to return home.”

Other students corroborate experiencing poor communication and uncertainty from the university.

A final year Geography student, who chose to remain anonymous, told The Mancunion: “I was heading to the Czech Republic on an Erasmus exchange to study. I found out it was cancelled nine days before my flight.

“They could’ve enacted some plans in case travel guidance were to change instead of just waiting and thinking it was okay to leave everything up in the air.”

The student added they were offered the opportunity to study online or complete his exchange next year: “The International Placement Office were very helpful and sympathetic, they arranged me to start my exchange online but I said I didn’t want to and now I’m doing third year. They’ve given me the option to do the exchange next year so that’s fine in my eyes, [it’s] the best they can do.”

From student testimonies, it appears overseas universities and placement hosts are also struggling to crystallize feelings of uncertainty into more concrete plans, leaving complex decisions in the hands of students.

George Andrew, a third-year Business Management with Law student said: “I was planning to go to Manitoba University, Canada. I never found out my year abroad was cancelled. It was just becoming evidently clear as the weeks progressed closer to my term start neither my host nor overseas uni knew what was happening. It was for that reason I decided not to go.

“I think Manchester were good at keeping in contact. But it would have been better if they personally contacted and tried to help when your course had changed instead of the student having to try to sort the whole process out instead.”

Lauren describes the university’s communication as ‘good’, considering the context

Lauren Pearson, a final year Physics student, agreed that the university’s communication with students was good considering the context.

She said: “We started getting some indication it was going to be cancelled around the time uni closed when non-essential travel was advised against, but we still had to prepare as if we were going up until it actually got cancelled.

“I think given the situation we were given enough notice, but it would have been better if I’d had more time to sort out accommodation since it was quite last minute it made it a lot more stressful.

“In terms of what the university could have done better, I think they could have checked in on us after it got cancelled to see if we needed any help getting the return back to Manchester sorted but other than that it seemed like they updated us whenever they knew anything solid so it was mostly good communication from them.”

Since Boris’s Brexit bill, there has already been uncertainty on the future of Erasmus+ programmes which provide over 853,000 students the opportunity to work and study abroad with essential grants to cover travel and living costs.

Coupled with the global pandemic, the future of students spending time abroad studying or working hangs precariously in the balance.

Meanwhile, Manchester, the UK’s biggest university, is struggling to communicate to financially support and advise students on their next steps.

Abbie added: “We are unable to claim our Erasmus grant at the moment, while many other students across the UK – some universities, such as Exeter, Oxford, Bristol and Cardiff are still allowing students to continue their years abroad – are being granted access to this money. This will cause a great economical and social divide among students.

“Without any university support and without the Erasmus grant, my potential opportunities and experiences are much more limited. Some students will not be able to afford their own insurance, therefore leaving them at a bigger risk if they choose to travel anyway or leaving them at an academic disadvantage if they have no choice but to stay at home in the UK.

“We feel very much at a disadvantage compared to other students across the UK, in terms of financial situation, academic progression and overall support from the university.”

The alternative to a year abroad? Some languages students will be streamlined straight into final-year study, a transition which graduates tell me is “significantly more challenging” than second-year language study, putting third-year students at a significant academic disadvantage.

Despite the financial and logistical challenges posed, Abbie said she was still going ahead with her year abroad: “I am not willing to give up such an amazing experience. For the moment, I am continuing with my year abroad, my university in Bilbao has gone online and I am still hoping to travel there and spend some time in Spain, without Manchester’s financial support.”

George Andrew is missing out on a year abroad in Canada

A university spokesperson said: “The University of Manchester’s priority is to ensure the safety of our students. We are strongly committed to supporting students to study abroad as part of their degree, however, our duty of care to students is paramount. The University is continuing to follow the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice which currently advises against non-essential travel to countries where students are looking to undertake placements, including France and Spain.

“For those students affected and currently unable to travel overseas, the University has planned alternative provision. We understand that the experience of living overseas cannot be replaced, but have provided all affected students with options designed to continue the development of skills in the relevant language and to further their cultural understanding. This will ensure students can meet the level of learning required in their degree programmes.

“We are actively working to provide as much certainty as we can and be as flexible as possible in what is a rapidly changing environment for international travel.”

On behalf of all students facing uncertainty about their years abroad, Abbie has written an open letter to the university urging them to change their policy, which currently has 288 signatures. You can read and sign it here.

“No student is going to be tucked up in bed at 10pm”: Sacha Lord speaks to The Mancunion

Hot on the heels of a social media campaign urging students to follow coronavirus rules, Sacha Lord, Greater Manchester’s first-ever night-time economy adviser, spoke with deputy news editor Jess Walmsley about the city’s nightlife and how new government guidelines will affect students.

Why did you choose local celebrities to reach out to students?

I thought back to how I would have reacted when I was a student facing tight restrictions and rules, and wondered who I would have listened to. Evidence shows young people are less likely to listen to authoritative voices such as the police or universities, so I decided to do something a little bit different.

By having familiar faces such as Vernon Kay and people from Love Island, I thought they could connect with young people and influence them to respect the guidelines and not go to house parties.

Do you feel as though students have been blamed for the rise in coronavirus cases?

I feel really sorry for students at the moment, it’s an awful time for them, especially if they are coming to Manchester for the first time and are unable to fully enjoy the city, make friends and socialise.

I don’t know the science behind the cases, but this year’s freshers have had a turbulent couple of months with A-level results causing fear and anxiety and now curfews and fines threatening them. It must be infuriating coming to university for freedom and independence and then being confined to your bedroom.

Over the past couple of days there have been videos circulating of big gatherings outside with students drinking, although I do not condone the behaviour, I do get it and understand why they are out and wanting to socialise. No student is going to be tucked up in bed at 10pm whether the pubs are open or not.

Will our favourite student hotspots survive?

The government have turned their back on the nightlife industry and if Warehouse Project was a nightclub I don’t know whether it would survive. We worked quickly to save places like the Deaf Institute and Gorilla because we didn’t want to lose iconic spots in Manchester. Andy Burnham and I both feel very strongly about protecting Manc businesses and will be working hard to see that your favourite clubs do reopen properly in the future. Of course, Warehouse Project and Parklife will make their return.

“By having familiar faces such as Vernon Kay and people from Love Island, I thought they could connect with young people

How have you supported those that have lost work in the nightlife sector?

The staff we use for WHP are from agencies and those big companies are struggling to retain all staff. But I think something that hasn’t really been spoken about is the mental health of those who work in the nightlife industry.

Think about it, they get screamed and shouted at by drunken party-goers all night, have to clean up after everyone, then they normally go and have a few drinks themselves and then sleep throughout the whole day only to work in the same environment later on. They never see daylight. I am worried for bartenders and nightclub workers who are going to be struggling right now.

“No student is going to be tucked up in bed at 10pm whether the pubs are open or not

What about the mental health of freshers who are facing a challenging semester?

I really urge students to look out for one another this semester. I was watching the news this morning and Dr Alex from Love Island was on talking about the loss of his brother due to suicide and how he was supposed to be starting university this year.

He has become an advocate for mental health in young people, especially students which is really important. Don’t just ask how someone is once, ask twice as they are more likely to open up to you.

“I am worried for bartenders and nightclub workers who are going to be struggling right now

What is your message to students right now?

Nightlife will return, and it will come back bigger and stronger. Students have had such a rough time with issues like A-level fiasco, more so than any other age bracket. We need you to stick within your bubble and try to enjoy yourself. There is nothing wrong with enjoying a drink within your six but remember to social distance, wear a mask and wash your hands. We can get through this.

MMU lockdown: Will Manchester University be next?

After the news that 1,700 Manchester Metropolitan University students have been locked down and forced to self-isolate, students living in halls at the University of Manchester will be wondering what this means for them. 

Here’s the latest. 

What’s going on at MMU? 

According to Manchester Evening News, students at Birley campus and Cambridge Hall will be locked down for 14 days.

The decision has been taken jointly by MMU, Manchester City Council and Public Health England. 

Freshers were told to self-isolate “with immediate effect” after a cluster of cases were recorded. 

Several students were already in quarantine after a “100-strong” party in Birley Halls. 

But now, all students living in the halls have been locked down – even if they have no symptoms. 

Students in the accommodation blocks have even claimed that security has been drafted in to stop them from leaving. 

An MMU spokesperson said the University was “fully supportive” of the lockdown decision. 

“Our security teams will increase patrols to support the lockdown and we will take disciplinary action against any students found to have breached requirements,” they added. 

Will Manchester University be next? 

The University of Manchester has made no official statement regarding its student halls, and there is nothing yet to suggest they could be locked down. 

But there have been large parties taking place across Fallowfield campus – where it has 7 halls of residence – in the past week. 

And after the mass gatherings, students have been warned a curfew could be introduced across all halls along with “other restrictive measures”. 

This University has “condemned” students who have flouted social distancing rules and pledged to go after as many as possible with disciplinary action. 

Shocking videos unearthed by The Mancunion showed a massive “rave” in Owens Park while security looked on helpless. 

EXCLUSIVE NEW VIDEO: Freshers hold massive "rave" in Owens Park in Fallowfield. Security staff can be seen looking on…

Posted by The Mancunion on Friday, 25 September 2020

In the videos, freshers can be seen dancing close together with no social distancing or face coverings.

Another clip saw dozens of freshers cram into a small Fallowfield flat for a wild party. 

“This behaviour is totally unacceptable and the University strongly condemns it,” a spokesperson said at the time. 

They added: “Active consideration is also being given to introducing a curfew across all Halls. We really want to avoid this but if residents fail to adhere to social distancing rules we will be faced with no alternative.” 

While it’s believed some students are already self-isolating on Fallowfield Campus, restrictions are not currently as severe as at MMU. 

However, many MMU students arrived in Manchester one week earlier and other universities have also been plagued by coronavirus. 

More than 1,000 students across Scotland are self-isolating, and at least 87 undergraduates have tested positive at the University of Liverpool. 

What do I do if I have coronavirus symptoms? 

If students or those around them develop virus symptoms, such as a high temperature, new continuous cough, or loss of smell or taste, they must self isolate. This means they cannot leave their accommodation. 

The University says students should request a test to find out if they have the virus, and let them know if they test positive.

 

Each subject school will have a support team in case of studies being impacted, and students in university-owned accommodation will also be asked to inform dorm advisors. 

Those with the virus will be able to get help with day-to-day activities such as food shopping. Support will also be available over the phone.

Students that have been contacted by NHS Test and Trace must also stay at home. 

If you are currently self-isolating in Manchester University halls, please get in touch with The Mancunion in confidence through Facebook.

Freshers’ flu might be different this year

This article was written on the 19th of September.

Today I tasted freedom for the first time in ten days. Perhaps “tasted” is the wrong word, as my sense of taste and smell has not fully recovered yet. A walk around Withington wouldn’t usually be that exciting. However, after finishing mandatory isolation following a positive test result for SARS-COV-2 – the now infamous virus responsible for the disease COVID-19, it’s a literal breath of fresh air.

Thankfully, my illness wasn’t severe. For two days I was bedridden with a high temperature, muscle aches, chills, and fatigue. As I didn’t have a cough, I naively convinced myself that I had simply caught the flu, or some other bug going around. Nonetheless, I decided that I should get tested. I eventually managed to get a home testing kit after much frustration navigating the woefully underfunded NHS testing system. By the time I got my positive result, three whole days later, I was feeling a lot better, but my senses of smell and taste had almost entirely vanished, and there was a tightness in my chest.

The timing couldn’t have been worse.

That same week, the last of my housemates moved in, and we now had a full house. The whole household was forced into isolation immediately, in case anyone had caught the virus from me, or, on the contrary, if I had unknowingly caught it from them. Surprisingly, nobody else seemed to get ill. Even when one of my housemates got tested, her result came back negative. Regardless, their self-imposed exile continued alongside mine. This wasn’t how we had planned to spend the last couple of weeks of our summer break before the start of university.

The most difficult thing about my illness was, in fact, the intense depressive episode I fell into when I tested positive. Whether this is due to some physiological change in my body caused by the virus, or whether it is simply a natural result of having to self-isolate after months of anxiety and fear, I do not know. There is emerging research showing links between SARS-COV-2 and various psychiatric conditions, including depression and anxiety – a worrying prospect during a worsening mental health crisis amongst young people.

I did not write this article to seek pity. I wrote this because I believe that my experience is going to become an increasingly common one. Schools across the country have been hit with closures after numerous confirmed cases. A similar wave is likely to spread through university residential areas, especially halls, as more people move back to university and the apparent second wave of COVID-19 begins to truly hit.

Therefore, my message to other students is this – it really could happen to you.

I was extremely careful: I followed all of the government guidelines on washing hands and wearing masks, I didn’t socialise in big groups, and I didn’t go to house parties, as much as I really miss a good Fallow party. I did practically everything I was advised by the government to do, and I still caught the virus.

As a new academic year begins, you may be focused – rightly so – on getting started on your classes, meeting new people and joining societies. By all means, still try and make the most of university and enjoy yourself. But please be careful and follow NHS guidance on masks and distancing, because this pandemic is far from over, and it can take you by surprise.

If you show symptoms, try and get a test immediately. Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy, and it may take a few tries to book a test slot, but with some perseverance you should be able to find a suitable time and site. Morning testing slots often seem to become available the night before, and the nearest walk-in test site to University at the time of writing is at Denmark Road Sports Centre. Home kits are currently in short supply, but hopefully this situation will improve. I would also recommend getting a flu vaccine to avoid a potential scare if you end up infected with flu and showing COVID-like symptoms.

I’m lucky to have quickly made a full recovery from the virus, and my housemates are lucky that they either didn’t catch the virus, or were asymptomatic. But not everybody will be so lucky. There are vulnerable students at our university, and vulnerable people in the surrounding community. I really hope that everyone plays their part in ensuring that this unusual academic year goes as smoothly as possible, so that others do not have to experience the same disruption to regular life that I did when I tested positive.

Meet MUSKI: Manchester’s new, better-behaved snowsports club

The Independent Manchester Snowsports Society (MUSKI) is the brand new, reincarnated version of the former Ski and Snowboard Club (SKUM).

Hailing independence and positivity in the future of the snowsports social scene, the club is taking steps to move away from its painful history and attempting to make itself more conscious and inclusive.

SKUM was suspended indefinitely from Athletics Union (AU) activities after a Mancunion investigation found over 40 pieces of evidence showing incidents of blackface, preying on freshers, public sex acts, and destruction of property.

Following the investigation, the society vowed to tackle damaging behaviours and become more socially responsible.

Now, in an exclusive interview with The Mancunion, MUSKI reveals the society’s goals following SKUM’s disbandment.

The club aims to change its image for the better, and dedicate itself to sustainability, inclusivity, and affordability.

“MUSKI was formed to bring snow lovers of Manchester together, in a community where they can share, form friendships and support each other,” a spokesperson said.

“SKUM’s suspension by the University following The Mancunion’s article made us realise that the changes we were making in our culture weren’t happening fast enough, and that a history of bad reputation was still haunting the club. MUSKI came about to start fresh, with a caring snowsports community, conscious and proud of its values.”

“We have acknowledged the issues within our inherited culture and promised ourselves to keep only the good times”

MUSKI has introduced free memberships for social members, so that students can first get to know the “community” and then decide if they also want to take part in sporting events.

“Inclusiveness is one of the fundamental values we have built the club around,” the spokesperson added.

“We will be subsidising events as much as possible, and providing members with free events when government regulations authorise it.

“Dissociation from SKUM, we feel, has happened already. With a fresh start, values firmly defined, and dated traditions forgotten, we are an entirely new club.

“The behaviours displayed in The Mancunion‘s article last year truly shocked SKUM members. As part of the snowsports community, we have acknowledged the issues within our inherited culture and promised ourselves to keep only the good times, joy, and support our community brings us.”

“We call upon our members to think and act responsibly for themselves and their peers”

The club is also taking steps to ensure members understand incidents of blackface, destroying property, and sexual assault are unacceptable and cannot be repeated moving forward.

“We will be taking a firm stance against all antisocial behaviour, making sure people are called out on toxic attitudes and explained why such behaviour is harmful,” the spokesperson went on.

“Those past events have made us realise that we must all be concerned with preventing and remedying to these behaviours, which is why we also call upon our members to think and act responsibly for themselves and their peers, as well as obey the code of conduct set out for every activity.”

“Considering the recent COVID restrictions, we’re exploring new ways to support and provide for our members

It appears that MUSKI is moving towards a more peaceful, inclusive, and respectful domain that hails a new and positive social scene for snowsports in Manchester.

But moving away from SKUM and defining themselves by a new ethos isn’t the only challenge presented in the current climate, as a prevailing student mental health crisis demands mitigation.

In 2018, the AU introduced the new role of Student Wellbeing Officer in every society. Responsibilities now include:

  • Representing a point of contact for club members experiencing any mental health difficulties
  • Enacting and overseeing club mental health action plans
  • Ensuring the club is an inclusive environment that tackles stigma and promotes wellbeing
  • Disseminating wellbeing messages to club members and conducting mental health campaigns

Despite no longer being affiliated with the AU, MUSKI insists it will dedicate committee roles to promoting wellbeing and encouraging positive mental health action plans: “Having a strong, supportive network of friends is so important when times are tough. Members can count on MUSKI to embody that support.

“We will also be using our social media platforms to raise awareness around mental health issues and promote well-being.

“Considering the recent COVID restrictions, we’re exploring new ways to support and provide for our members, like online yoga classes, gym groups, remote movie screenings, and a platform to reach out.

“Our committee members have all taken on wellbeing as a part of their role, staying informed on the right way to help and making sure they’re always there to listen.”

“Members will have the opportunity to discover and expand their love for snowsports in an easy-going, non-pressure environment”

Without AU’s funding, MUSKI anticipates a tighter budget this year. They remain confident, however, that this won’t affect affordability for its members: “The tight budget will likely mean that professional coaching will have to be replaced by members helping each other out and captains setting up practice drills.

Despite a tighter wallet, they say working with charities to fight climate change remains an issue close to their hearts. MUSKI will support the Protect Our Winters campaign and take part in Movember and other mental health charities.

The interview ends with the expression of pride over what the club has already achieved and what the future holds: “[Our members] can expect to be a part of a buzzing, fun, loving community where they can find support and make lifelong friends.”

New videos show massive Fallowfield “rave” while security look on helpless

Shocking new videos have emerged of a “rave” in Owens Park in Fallowfield.

The videos, posted on Snapchat last night and shared with The Mancunion, depict what appears to be a massive party, with dozens of students jumping up and down.

The crowds of undergraduates can be seen dancing close together with no social distancing or face coverings.

Owens Park student party

The Mancunion reveals exclusive footage

Posted by The Mancunion on Friday, 25 September 2020

According to Manchester Evening News, the illegal event took place at around at 1 am on Friday morning.

In the new videos, two security marshals can be seen standing helplessly. The University of Manchester insists the gathering was broken up in conjunction with Greater Manchester Police.

A spokesperson from UoM condemned the “unacceptable” behaviour.

Photo: The Mancunion

The loud music appears to have been coming from an established sound system, suggesting the event was pre-planned.

The university has made it clear that any breaches will be taken very seriously and could result in fines or even removal from programmes.

Earlier this week, in an email to students living in halls, the university outlined its plans for a potential curfew and greater police involvement.

Following new guidelines from the prime minister on Tuesday, the University also took action to enforce the 10 pm curfew in student bars such as the popular Squirrels on the Fallowfield campus.

An anonymous student expressed her initial shock to The Mancunion that no action was being taken to stop the mass gathering: “I was like WTF are you doing just standing and watching. It happened a few nights ago in a similar way, however security actually did act and break it up.”

A University of Manchester spokesperson said: “We are aware of this party and our security services worked with Greater Manchester Police to shut it down.

“This behaviour is totally unacceptable and the University strongly condemns it.

“We have been clear and consistent with our messaging around student conduct and behaviour in halls and we will be working hard to identify those involved.

“Our students must respect social distancing rules and all other restrictions to keep themselves and others safe.

“If students do not comply, they will face disciplinary action from the University, which could lead to fines or expulsion, and we will not hesitate to involve the police if necessary.

“Some students have already been issued with fixed penalty notices by the police.

“Additional security officers have been deployed in Fallowfield and further reminders sent.

“Details of offending students are being recorded and a number of these will now go through our disciplinary process.”

Pushing indie comfort zones: The Magic Gang’s Death of the Party

Only 4 years since the Brighton based four-piece The Magic Gang launched onto the indie scene, they have brought yet more creativity and innovation with their new release, Death of the Party. 

The opening track, ‘Think’, brings brass horns and a more clearly defined bass track into the mix. This extra texture, on top of their signature clean guitar sound, propels the quartet to previously unexplored artistic direction. This instrumental originality is continued throughout the album. Their second track, ‘Make A Sound’, uses psychedelic synthesisers to play the hook, where in the past, guitars would have done the job.

The album displays a move from the band’s classic indie sound, making use of disco influences such as in ‘Take Back the Track’. Containing funk-based guitar rhythms and hand claps on top of a vocal call and response, this track pushes the band furthest away from their indie comfort zone.

Death of the Party is as lyrically creative as it is instrumentally. Fans are used to hearing expected tales of love, heartbreak and flirtatious exploits, but the title track and ‘Gonna Bounce Back’ contain lyrics which are slightly outlandish, the latter opening with “I’ve grown myself a beard and I don’t sing no more”. Whether this lyrical approach is desired depends on the listener, but there is no doubt that the greater range of lyrical themes can be attributed to the band maturing.

The most creative piece on the album is ‘I Am Sunshine’, which beings with short piano stabs accompanied by indie bass rhythms in a major key. This all changes in the chorus section with an explosion of alternative music techniques: a key change, a more convoluted time signature, and descending minor chords in the refrain. This two-part song is a testament to the creative explorations that the band have made in the short two years since their debut album.

However, avid fans of the quartet’s natural style should not be disappointed with this LP. Amongst their instrumental and lyrical innovation, the tracks ‘Just A Minute’ and ‘What Have You Got to Lose’ are hugely reminiscent of their highly effective and popular earlier material. It is a near certainty that these two will be launched straight onto their live set list.

Death of the Party’ clearly demonstrates the band’s shift away from bubblegum indie to a more genre-fusing, intricate and exciting sound. A continuation of this in further releases sets the band up to be one of the most promising ensembles in the UK indie scene.

POC around the block 1: Liya Kebede

The political climate of today provides, more than ever, a chance to shift our discussions about fashion and freedom to increase diversity and uplift non-white voices.

In this series, our columnist Anna Jin brings attention to the unique and talented people of colour working in fashion, as a group in the industry that is often overlooked.

Liya Kebede is an Ethiopian model, humanitarian and creator of LemLem. Born in Addis Ababa, Kebede moved to Paris when she was 18 to begin her modelling career. She was an instant success.

In her first season, she signed an exclusive contract with Tom Ford at his 2000 Gucci Fall/Winter Fashion Show, and has since appeared on the cover of Paris Vogue and M Le magazine du Monde.

 

LemLem, Kebede’s ethical fashion brand, is mostly known for its flowing kaftans and loose-fitting dresses. It was founded in 2007 to support African craftsmanship and offer jobs to local artisans.

The brand also strives to preserve traditional weaving techniques in Ethiopia. This skill is no longer in demand, but LemLem provides a market for traditional weavers to create stylish contemporary apparel.

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Love our #lemlemgirl 💓

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However, the brand’s commitment to respecting traditional methods comes with challenges.

Their weaving techniques use hand spun and locally sourced cotton, which have no stretch and are often undyed. Kebede has incorporated these features into the brand’s aesthetic: luxurious, loose-fitting beachwear in classic colours.

LemLem also collaborates with African artisans to include traditions and designs from many cultures. This includes crochet patterns from Kenya, advanced knitting techniques from Madagascar, and embroidery from Rwanda.

The brand continues to look for new ways of embracing African traditions in their collections.

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To everyone who has recently joined our Lemlem family, who has tagged us and shared the love, thank you 💜 To everyone who after all these years is with us, welcome home ⭐️ Lemlem in Amharic means to bloom. To flourish. And maybe there is no better time to give the opportunity to small, ethical brands made in Africa to do exactly that. To Grow. We started Lemlem in Ethiopia to support local weavers in finding a market for their craft. It has since expanded with swimwear in Morocco and ready to wear in Kenya. But it is, we hope, so much more than this. With every purchase, you also help support the mission of our foundation to help women artisans in Africa thrive by connecting them to healthcare, education and pathways to jobs. With every purchase, you support another artisan and by definition their extended family, who often come and learn the art of weaving, passed on to the next generations in a beautifully poetic, cyclical manner. We believe that change is on its way and NOW more than ever, we will pursue our work and our mission. THANKS TO YOU. Your continued support over the years and especially during these challenging times has given us hope anew to make the world a better place. Together 💜

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Ever since its creation, LemLem has been a sustainable business.

They use locally sourced cotton and donate any excess fabric to educational programmes, so that nothing goes to waste. They have also started to utilise recyclable tags and compostable packaging.

Kebede has also founded the LemLem foundation, which offers programmes to educate women in the art of weaving.

Liya Kebede has continued to passionately champion for the rights of women in both LemLem and humanitarian endeavours. Kebede is unstoppable; I can’t wait to see where she goes next.

Review: Where the Crawdads Sing

Where the Crawdads Sing has topped The New York Times Fiction Best Seller List of 2019 and 2020 for a combined 32 weeks, spending over 100 weeks in total on the chart. This is an astonishing feat for the debut novel of a 70-year-old retired wildlife biologist. However, after reading it, the book’s staying power becomes clear.

The storyline flits between a jumbled set of dates from 1952 to 1970, intertwining the childhood of the protagonist, Kya Clark, with her experiences as the ‘swamp girl’ in her young adulthood. In the prologue, set in 1969, a man has died suspiciously, framing a coming of age love story with the tension of potential murder.

Abandoned by her family as a young child, Kya teaches herself to fish and to survive alone in the swamplands of North Carolina. On the face of it, her ability to withstand hardship appears to be improbable at best and impossible at worst. Despite this, Owens’ detailed breakdown of Kya’s thought processes and deductions renders her achievements believable.

Kya grows up entirely surrounded by nature, which acts as the framework of her understanding of the world. Science journals act as metaphors for the characters in the text, explaining the behaviour of the two men, Tate and Chance, who become interested in Kya.

The story is perilously close to being clichéd, but somehow it still avoids being predictable. The combination of high tension and a compelling protagonist makes it impossible to put down.

A film of the novel is in development by Reese Witherspoon, whose online book club picked the novel in September 2018. A film adaption of the book has the potential to be stunning if Owen’ sumptuous descriptions of Kya’s waterland home are reflected in the filming.

The novel’s depiction of racial and social division, as well as the fragility of humanity’s relationship with nature, means the novel landed at an apposite moment. Where the Crawdads Sing is the perfect lockdown read due to its vivid detail and easy escapism.

Cream of the crop! Vote for Manchester’s food and drink heroes

The annual Manchester Food and Drink Festival has unfortunately been postponed until April 2021. The festival, which was due to run from the 24th of September until the 5th October, is a celebration of Manchester’s vibrant and fast-evolving food and drink scene.

A significant event in this celebration is the awards ceremony. These awards feature a variety of food and drink venues from all over the region. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, the ceremony is able to go ahead virtually on the 5th of October. Voting is straightforward and can be done through the festival’s website. However, voting closes on the 26th of September at midnight, so there is no time to lose!

Now, more than ever, it is so important to show support for Manchester’s hospitality sector, which continues to be heavily impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The new restrictions announced on the 22nd of September, further limit the services and opening times of hospitality venues across the UK. This is another blow to many struggling food and drink venues across Manchester.

Feeling peckish? 

Why not visit some of the venues that were due to take part in the festival? Here are some suggestions that are easily accessible via the 142, 143 and 147 bus routes:

Bundobust– This delightful Indian vegetarian chain is located just off Piccadilly Gardens at Piccadilly 61, Manchester

Hanoi 75– Fresh and filling Vietnamese fare can be found in Hatch, Oxford Road

Parmogeddon– Ever heard of the legendary Teesside Parmo? You haven’t?! Best get yourself down to Hatch, Oxford Road

Gingers Comfort Emporium– Serving both dairy and vegan ice cream, there’s something for everyone at Gingers. Located in the iconic Afflecks, Northern Quarter

 

Head over to the festivals website to cast your vote!

Go North West bus dispute continues following activist blockade

The Manchester branch of bus company Go-Ahead has come under fire for what Unite the Union has described as a “bullying culture using Covid-19 as a smokescreen”.

In August, Go North West – owned by Go-Ahead – revealed plans to change driver contracts at the Queen’s Road bus depot in North Manchester.

Unions have described this move as an attempt to “fire and rehire” bus drivers on inferior contracts.

Go-Ahead said that due to lost revenue throughout the pandemic, cuts must be made to keep the business going. The firm made a profit of up to £75m between June 2019 and 2020.

But Unite argued drivers face losing as much as £3,500 from their annual salary, and they will also face changes to sick pay and working hours.

The union said that Go-Ahead has made it difficult for bus drivers to organise effectively within the trade union, with the union representative for the Queens Road depot handed a suspension notice and banned from speaking to anybody who works at Go North West. He has since been reinstated.

A spokesperson for Go North West insisted that “there are no proposed cuts to pay or hours as alleged” and that the matter relating to the driver had been dealt with.

As a result of the dispute, Unite are balloting drivers for industrial action. If this ballot is successful, drivers servicing routes across Greater Manchester could go on strike.

Activists from various left-wing groups, organising as Manchester Public Transport Users’ Association, have come together to protest against Go-Ahead’s treatment of its workers.

With the objective of stopping buses from leaving the depot – thereby causing the most disruption to the company – activists have met regularly outside the depot in the early hours of the morning and attempting to block the exit onto Queen’s Road.

On the 11th of September, activists were joined by a large protest outside the depot. The most recent action saw around 20 local activists disrupt the buses by walking in circles just outside the front gate, preventing drivers from leaving the depot

A spokesperson for Go North West said: “There are no proposed cuts to pay or hours as alleged, and the proposals would have seen guaranteed inflation-backed pay rises in 2021 and 2022.

“We welcome Unite back to the negotiation table to discuss the offer and find a mutually beneficial solution.”

Poetry pamphlets and pub quizzes: Lit Soc’s virtual freshers events

The English Literature Society is looking for poets to join their quarterly poetry pamphlet, The Mundane Times. They are currently accepting submissions from anyone who would like to contribute.

The Mundane Times is a platform for those who would like to practice their creative writing skills – there is no experience necessary.

Bethany Roth, the chair of the English Literature Society, said that the pamphlet serves the purpose of “involving our members and allow[ing] us to show off the talent and creativity cultivated within our society.”

For their first autumn issue, the main themes are: release, familiarity, and place.

Please submit your poems to [email protected] (maximum 3 entries per author) in the following format by 4 pm on the 4th of October 2020:

  • Word document including name and title
  • Times New Roman, font size 12, unless stylistic choices are part of your poem
  • Email subject: your name and theme of your poem

The English Literature Society is also hosting a literature-themed virtual pub quiz on Wednesday the 30th September  2020 at 6:30 pm.

For more information on welcome events, follow the society on Instagram: @uomenglitsoc