Instead of the daily pint of the white stuff keeping bones healthy, scientists have found that stronger associations can be made between bone mineral density and beer.
However good this news may sound for regular drinkers, don't get too excited because the study also proves that binge-drinking damages bones and makes them weaker.
The research carried out by Professor Katherine L Tucker from Jean of Agriculture Human Nutrition based in Boston U.S.A indicates bone health is affected by ingredients other than alcohol. Unfortunately for some, research also states it should not be consumed just for developing stronger bones.
Dr John David Keel, a GP at Sheffield Hallam University's Medical Centre believes there could be a positive connection between beer and bones strength but this should not be misinterpreted;
"There is a relationship between large numbers of people having strong BMD (bone mineral density) who also drink on a moderate level, which means that the alcohol is not deteriorating bone strength but could be making them slightly stronger"
The same studies say that older women who have a heavy alcohol intake could be associated with an increase in bone density, thereby protecting against fractures caused by osteoporosis.
In the findings, men who consumed one or two drinks a day of total alcohol or beer had a greater bone density at the hip (4.5%) than the non drinkers (3.4%). Postmenopausal women who drank more than two drinks a day of total alcohol or wine had significantly greater bone density at the hip and spine (8.3%) than non-drinkers (5.0%).
Further research suggested Men who drank more than two drinks a day of spirits were associated with significantly lower bone density at the hip (3.0%) than those who drank one to two drinks a day of spirits (5.2%).
Gary Peters (18) is like every other student; he samples the West Street nightlife every Thursday and he sticks to beer not because it builds strong bones but because it's cheap as he stresses there can be no positives effects what so ever;
"I mainly drink beer on night out because it's less expensive than spirit and mixers, but not drinking it to improve the strength of my bones, which is just crazy. If I was weak in that department I would drink more milk."
The research is surprising, which just makes me wonder how long it will be until we can have pints of beer delivered on our door step instead of milk. I wouldn't complain.
Sheffield Hallam University has illustrated the importance to sustain healthy teeth and well-being by opening its doors on the new postgraduate education unit.
The recently finished state of the art facility is aimed to enhance trainee health professionals’ development of the management and leadership skills essential to have a successful career.
Prof Rhiannon Billingsley, pro-vice chancellor at Hallam University, said “The new medical building will work closely with practitioners to ensure that courses add real value of profession the participants.
This latest step of innovative learning methods proves that Hallam has is leading the way in supporting professional development that goes hand in hand with courses designed to make a difference to peoples working lives.”
Medical Student Sam Grimthorpe (24) believes that the latest addition to the Hallam campuses will be a great acquisition for both the University and participants;
“All will feel the benefits, Hallam will receive recognition from all over showing the passion it has for progressing education onto another level others cannot compete with. For us the students our knowledge on the subject will improve to an exceptionally advanced stage due to the involvement with practical activities making this more interesting.”
Along the same thoughts were those of Lord Naren Patel, one of the country’s leading obstetricians who opened the establishment, stating;
“The centre is an invaluable resource for trainee doctors and dentists who recognise ongoing training is vital to progress in the foreseeable future.”
By Jay Sreekumar Days after your birthday party, you dream of every day being like that.
Weeks after a family holiday, you tend to think why we couldn't make these trips more often. Months after you find your life partner, you sit and wonder why it took so long to happen. Years after your first child is born; you hope every year would be as fantastic as that one.
Certain things in life are special that you hope will never fade from memory.
I didn't have a recent birthday party. It's been ages since I was out on holiday with my family. I'm yet to meet my life partner. And I have never experienced the boundless joy and excitement of being a father for the first time. Yet, I had all I could wish for in one day. A trip to the Peak District!
Now, put that down as hyperbole but only until you decide to find it out for yourself. The greenness of the grass spreads uniformly in the vastness of the land redefining beauty in its most intricate form.
The trees stand tall one after the other, like guarding angels of heaven, branching deep into the sky as if reminding us how small we are in their gigantic presence. The sight of a flock of sheep amused me, for rarely in life have I seen any breed of animals in such large numbers. Quite strangely, they were a friendly bunch, not just among themselves but with everyone who made a visit.
They even posed in a few different ways like fashion models posing on a catwalk in New York, loving every minute of publicity they were given as they posed to my camera.
The Dovedale ducks found in the small ponds were a feast to the eyes. Their graceful moments along the water reminded me of the great Russian dancer Vaslav Nijinsky in his prime; both made good use out of their small physique to produce moments of pure finesse.
What caught my attention the most was the flight of the birds having an unusual curve when gliding to the ground, as if being dazed in amazement by a scene of sheer beauty; they showed appreciation for the surroundings as much as I did. Everything about the place was magical.
As Claude Monet, famous painter of the 19th century once said ''The richness I achieve comes from Nature, the source of my inspiration," his thoughts replicated my feelings as I drew inspiration in each passing step I made across the heavenly countryside.
Roger Federer's forehand, David Attenborough's voice-over, Friedrich Nietzsche's philosophical quotations, Beethoven's fifth symphony, Van Gogh's 'Sunflowers' and Ravi Zacharias' theological speeches, these naming just a few things that are as inspiring as Nature itself.
Tracing back to the first few lines, I dream of everyday being like this. I begin to think why I could not make these trips more often. I sit and wonder why it took so long to happen. And I hope every year would be as fantastic as this. I really do.
By Liam Bend After the harshest winter in recent times, the first signs of spring have finally started to show.
Snow drops bunches growing, flowers blossoming and the leaves foaming on trees, I must concur the thoughts of many in thinking what a nice change these conditions make to the previous weeks of hard frosts, heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
As the last few months have seemed like an eternity to pass, a visit to Sheffield’s glamorous back garden was well overdue and what was needed to make the most out of the glorious weather, actions that I don’t regret one bit.
The Peak District was in full glory and even though it is only March the afternoon could have easily been confused for that of a July day but for a slightly cooler climate.
Heading out of Sheffield towards the Derbyshire Dales, the peak was bathed in sunshine that is all too familiar with the deserts of Africa not typical rainy England. The greenery below the clear blue sky was a landscape that would even tempt an artist to use the scene for an oil painting. Never before have I seen a place transformed by the rays so much that it changes from a very attractive destination to almost a heavenly place, if I knew what heaven even looked like, no words can describe. When parking the car at Chatsworth the location was just pure perfection; the stately home looked in fine condition amongst the hills guarding its territory.
The water fountain sparkling from a distance only added to the already tranquil settings as sheep chopped on grass, the ducks swam undercover to get out of the over powering brightness of the sun that no clouds could prevent, this was special.
Make no mistake this is one of the most scenic places on earth. There is not another place anyway that can be as diverse but as gorgeous as the Peak and from my experience this is as good a place as any to laze your time away at little costs but maximum guarantee.
Its days like these that you forget what is actually on the your door step, Sheffield and it’s surroundings can be as beautiful as any other place in the world if you get out and see what it has to offer.
The ones who love to listen to rock and folk and dance to its beats would perhaps go for U2 or Bob Dylan.
People who prefer Carnatic music or Indian classical would ideally stick with MS Subbulakshmi or TN Seshagopalan.
What if someone wants a mix of the two or if someone else feels too bored with either that he wants to hear something different. Something unique. You still have an answer – Susheela Raman.
Born in Hendon, London, the talented musician has her ancestral roots in India. Every since she was a child, she developed a passion for all kinds of music and started working on its possibilities.
She has released four albums so far, each revealing the craft in her trade – a brand of music that is so original, so refreshing, so captivating.
Raman’s band includes musicians from all over the world – Cameroonian bassist Hilaire Penda, Guinea-Bissau born percussionist Djanuno Dabo, American drummer Marque Gilmore, British-Asian tabla player Aref Durvesh and British guitarist and producer Sam Mills.
Most of her songs are in English and offers a variety that no other kind of music has had in recent years. Her music is a rare mix of Indian Ragas and Western harmonies.
Salt Rain (2001), Love Trap (2003), Music for Crocodiles (2005), 33 1/3 (2007) are the four albums released so far. Her first album, Salt Rain, won her the best newcomer award from BBC Radio 3. She was also short-listed for UK ’s Mercury Music Prize in the same year. The album is a wonderful blend of traditional Tamil music and contemporary jazz-folk and pop style.
After their dream gold rush in the Beijing Olympics, the British swimming team are competing at Sheffield's Ponds Forge for a place at the World Championships in Rome later this year.
Results indicate that the young talent are living up to their potential set in East Asia last year, highlighting noneother than the performance of Northallerton youngster Joanne Jackson.
Loughborough University product Jackson (22) picked up gold for the 400m freestyle at the packed out venue.
In a spectacular race that set a world record she made sure she defeated double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington, the Mansfield born swimmer having to settling for silver.
After Jackson earned bronze in Beijing she's delighted to still be progressing for the event in the Italian capital;
“I was really happy with the bronze in Beijing but you still want to do better and to come away eight months after the Olympics and do that has totally shocked me,” said Jackson.
The showcase once again provided us with evidence of the nation's richness in young swimmers and their sporting brilliance, something British swimming has rarely seen before. Each stroke defined purpose, each breath grabbed courage and each victory echoed greatness.
As the two great swimmers settled for a photo-finish, many a supporter among the crowd shouted in celebration as they realised the intensity with which they competed against each other;
''I'm always happy whether I come second or not to Jo, she is such an incredible swimmer. I just have so much respect for her as a person and as a swimmer,'' said Adlington.
The event will be a perfect warm-up for the their trip to Italy and Team Britain will be hoping to win more gold medals there. If what we saw here is an indication, it could well be a reality.
After being hosts to the British Swimming Championships, Sheffield will host a major National Championship for swimmers with learning disabilities.
More than 180 pool lovers that have handicapped abilities are going to compete in the British Short Course Swimming Championships and Festival of Swimming for People with Learning Disabilities; these will take place at Ponds Forge Sports Centre on July 14 and 15.
The events sponsored by Westfield Health are a joint venture between Mencap Sport, Special Olympics GB and Down Syndrome International Swimming GB.
Nick Parr, National Sports Manager for Mencap said;
“We’re looking forward to another successful championships packed with talented swimmers. We’re delighted that Westfield Health has offered to sponsor the event and welcome their involvement.”
Westfield Health Chairman Graham Moore said: “We feel privileged to be associated with this fantastic event. We’re thrilled to be sponsoring it and look forward to a competitive weekend of swimming.”
What makes the occasion unique is that it is going to be split into two competitions with elite and festival swimmers competing for medals in their categories.
The elite swimmers have the added incentive of the forthcoming World Championships to be held in Belgium in August, while some of the festival swimmers will be challenging for a place in the squad to travel to Geneva for an international Mencap event in October.
For more information contact Nick Parr at Mencap on 01924 234912 or nick.parr@mencap.org.uk.
Want to try a different dish other than fish and parsley sauce this Easter? This recipe has a unique taste that no English food can offer, one that will certainly make your Good Friday the 'best'!
Chilli Prawn Vindaloo
Ingredients
Onions – 2
Ginger Paste – 1 teaspoon
Garlic Paste – 1 teaspoon
Tomato (sliced) – 1
Chilli Powder – 1 teaspoon
Turmeric Powder – ½ teaspoon
Garam Masala – ¾ tablespoon
Hot and Sweet Sauce: 2 tablespoon
Green chillies (finely chopped) – 1
Method of preparation:
1. Soak the prawns in hot water and keep it aside.
2. Pour a little oil in a non-stick pan, add garlic, ginger paste to the sliced onions, and heat it until it turns light brown.
3. Add the tomatoes and stir for 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, salt to the mixture.
5. Now put the prawns into it and stir properly for a couple of minutes. Close the pan and heat it for 10 minutes.
6. Add the chopped green chillies and the hot and sweet sauce. Stir well and cook it for a further 20 minutes and serve it with plain rice or bread.
Business as usual for England then, the 2-0 defeat was hardly a shock to the system against the European champions.
Result aside though and Sheffield can be proud of a former red and white football hero. Following the previous ‘Wally with a Brolly’ campaign which saw Steve McClaren’s disastrous spell as England manager cut short to just 15 months, now in charge Italian tactician Fabio Capello is looking no further than to former Blades defender Phil Jagielka to help him build a World Cup winning team for South Africa 2010.
The 26 year old earned his second cap on Wednesday night but more significantly this was the first start for his country at senior level.
Despite having a number of England ‘B’ and under 21 honours which illustrates the significant progress the player has made since joining the Sheffield United youth academy back in 2000, the call up came as a shock for Jagielka;
“My form has not been bad at club level so it's always a nice surprise when you get recognised and called up for the England seniors.”
However, ten years ago the Mancunian could only dream of an England cap, on the boggy fields of a Manchester suburb, he played for local team Hale Barns United before being signed by the South Yorkshire outfit.
And on his arrival, then Blades boss Neil Warnock believed the defender would make an instant impact stating “he has all the qualities to be a real asset for the football club in the foreseeable future.”
Months later, Jagielka proved Warnock had a point, making his debut as a trainee aged just 17 in May 2000 against Swindon Town.
Although the defender didn’t establish as a first team regular until his second year as a professional, he became transformed into an instant icon amongst the Blades faithful in 2002-2003, scoring a stunning memorable last gasp winner against local rivals Leeds in the League Cup quarter finals and still aged just 20.
Jagielka’s consistent performances that season helped the Blades reach the play off final but a 3-0 defeat to Wolves meant he had to wait 3 years before playing a crucial role in the Blades promotion to the Premiership in 2006.
One of the highlights of 2006-2007 was the home game against Arsenal when Jagielka was forced to play in goal for the reminder of the match due an injury Blades keeper Paddy Kenny received during the second half.
A late save from the makeshift stopper in that game saw the Blades win 1-0 showing his utility on the field, but this was not enough to escape a quick return to Championship football the following season.
Although not reliant on his goalkeeping skills, it was his highly rated defensive qualities that attracted Everton manager David Moyes to sign the Blade for £4m in the summer of 2007, hoping he would be the answer to strengthen the Toffees backline.
Since the move, Jagielka has carried on from where he left off at Bramell Lane, recent displays show the former Blades academy product is becoming a man mountain on the pitch and is receiving deserved recognition.
Winning endless balls in the air and being tough in a tackle, the player boosts to having the attributes of an old fashioned centre half but combine that with calm and educated football brain and you have a rarity, no wonder he has caught the eye of Capello according to current boss Moyes;
“Phil has worked hard on his game and is getting better by the day, he is a fine performer.”
In all fairness his performance in Spain wasn’t his best, at fault for David Villa’s opener the defender seemed to gain more confidence as the game went on and despite Spain’s Fernando Llorente confirming the win for the champions of Europe, the England international enjoyed the experience;
“Making the mistake for the first goal doesn’t help my chances of another call up, but if I keep performing well for Everton I’m sure I’ll be able to add to my caps, its what every player dreams of” said Jagielka.
Whatever happens from now Sheffield United should feel honoured in playing a critical part in the development of producing a fine footballer and I’m sure Blades fans will wish him well in the future.
The talented solo artist makes an appearance at the O2 Academy, playing songs from his current ‘Songs For You Truths For Me’ album which include the hit single 'You Make It Real' plus classics from the hugely successful Undiscovered released back in 2006.
MUST ATTEND!!!!
Tuesday 24th March
THE ENEMY
The young rock ‘n’ roll trio release their second album named ‘For The People’ on April 27th which follows up the chart topping We’ll Live And Die In These Towns, fans can have the chance to hear the exclusive material at the gig including the new single 'No Time For Tears' due out on April 13th.
WORTH SEEING!!
Saturday 28th March
THE SOUNDS
‘Crossing The Rubicon’ is the new highly rated album from the Swedish outfit. After three years away from the music scene the band are back in business and the latest material is due for release in May but punk rock followers can listen out for the new songs which are sure to be unveiled at the gig.
IF YOU CAN SPARE A MINUTE!
LEADMILL
Saturday 28th March
STARSAILOR
The boys are back!! Sounding as great as ever!!- New Album 'All the Plans' music review follows
After the coldest winter for years, why not try out this exotic favourite from my hometown in Southern India to warm you up for the Summer:
Kerala Duck Curry Ingredients
Duck Meat – 1 Kg
Fenugreek – 1 teaspoon
Onions – 250 gms
Sunflower or Olive Oil – 3 tablespoon
Chilli Powder – 1 tablespoon
Coconut Milk – 250 ml
Turmeric Powder – 1 teaspoon
Clove – 1 piece
Green peas – 150 gms
Masala Powder – 2 ½ teaspoon
Green Chilli – 5 sliced pieces
Garlic Paste – 2 teaspoon
Cinnamon – 5 pieces
Cardamom Powder – 1 pinch
Cashew Nut (grinded) – 50 gms
Method of Preparation:
1. Marinate the duck meat in a mixture of salt and pepper for 30 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the onions, green chillies, garlic paste, cashew nut, cinnamon, cardamom powder, clove and fenugreek until it turns golden brown.
3. Add chilli powder, turmeric powder, masala powder and green peas. Once the meat is properly marinated, transfer it along with all the contents in the pan into a large dish and set to medium heat.
4. After 10 minutes, add the coconut milk and continue heating.
5. Cook for a further 30 minutes. Stir well and serve with rice or chapatti.
Sheffield Wednesday is the latest club to offer students reduce ticket prices for the forthcoming home games until the end of the season, the slash comes into place from the Crystal Palace match onwards.
The move follows across the city rivals Sheffield United as a result of the current economic downturn and is an attempt to bring the crowds back to S6 following disappointing attendances so far this campaign, despite lying in their highest position mid season for nearly a decade.
On the official club website it was announced that “students of all ages will be able to book their seat for games at Hillsborough with ticket priced at £10, £5 and £2.50 for all valid NUS card holders.”
The tickets are available from the Sheffield University’s student Union on Western Bank but must be purchased the day before the game in order for them to be at a reduced rare.
Owls fan Matt Taylor (20), a geography student at Sheffield University believes the action taken will reflect in the gate receipts;
“The idea is fantastic but common sense; students were getting priced out of games having to pay the same amount as adults and that was really disappointing to say the club need money, but I will certainly be going to watch my team more now it’s cheaper.”
Although the measures taken offer great value especially with high flying home games against Reading and Wolves coming up, some feel they have been short changed.
Tom Ellerton (22) who is currently studying Law at Sheffield University has a season ticket for the kop and suggests that steps for a student giveaway should have been in place during the summer;
“Being charged £360 when no NUS tickets were introduced, I’m loosing out on the offers that others can take advantage of despite pledging my support to the team since the beginning of August.”
There are no further plans for the club to address the their ticketing infrastructure until the new campaign, meaning current student season ticket holders in their final year of study will not be eligible for NUS discounts next term but the new policy will come as great news to football fans especially many young Owls.
Sheffield has been voted one of the best locations in the U.K for the student experience.
Studies found that northern cities in general which include the likes of Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen shared top honours according to analysis of 38,000 reviews on the website www.accommodationforstudents.com.
Undergraduates were asked to rate their university location on five points including shops, transport links, community, facilities and least importantly the nightlife.
A number of northern cities in the top 10 had an average score of over 60%, the only other places to get over this mark were Exeter and Brighton as the lowest score was Pontypridd receiving 44%.
Simon Thompson, co-founder and director of the on-line student accommodation provider believes is it no surprise Sheffield is thought of so highly “Sheffield has the making of a great city with plenty of pubs and clubs, lots of sights and two top class universities, it everything that students want and this is the reason why many have voted in favour of it.”
Having the largest database of properties that makes it an easy option when searching for new accommodation, the research marks the revamp of the website that has nearly 2 million members.
Protesters will be out in force over the coming weeks as Sheffield council leader Paul Scriven calls for the city residents to unite in the campaign against the introduction of train barriers.
March's are planned throughout the city centre to oppose the installation of the community breaking policy in the near future as the idea would prevent pedestrians walking through the station without a ticket.
Campaigners want the area to stay ticket barrier free so locals from Park Hill and Norfolk Park are able to access the city centre via the route through the station, though East Midland Trains argue are huge financial loses daily due to ticket dodging, especially in this recession stuck period.
Coun Scriven “Restrictions on the use of the footbridge will have a negative effect on Sheffield . So many people have expressed feelings of unrest at the idea and we must now make sure we stand up so East Midland trains will take notice.”
“Every person at the protest is going to be critical, the more people attend then the more East Midland trains are going to listen to us.”
Geraldine Roberts has been a resident at Park Hill for 30 years and is the organiser of the protests since she uses the footbridge everyday for her job based in the city centre;
“I feel something has to be done to prevent this city becoming separated into two parts, that can’t be a good thing for its future.”
Coincidently the same level of concern is illustrated by students who live in the suburbs to the east of the city, Steven Phillips a geography student who is based at Sheffield Hallam’s city campus believes the barriers would cause major disruption;
“Cutting off our part of the city has no logic behind it as high population of students are location in these places due to the University being a short walk away, this could change to possibly 45 minutes trip.”
The backlash on the barriers can only be concluded by high profile rock star Jon McClure, front man of Sheffield band Reverend and the Makers, opinions against the plan;
“know that gating would cut off the community who live on the other side of the railway from the city centre. In particular it would pose difficulties for wheelchair users and for baby buggy users as East Midland Trains seem to be giving priority to income generation over social needs."
East Midland trains are currently looking at methods that interact with both their ticketing policy and local residents but “people power” can change all that. Come on Sheffield!!
Jay Sreekumar investigates at what it takes to wear a shirt with the white rose
It was at a church on Ecclesall Road last month that I met Peter Thompson, a young cricket enthusiast living in Sheffield. An hour of talk revealed many things. His love for the sport was quite evident.
He dreams of making it big one day and wearing England caps but feels it's a distant dream. 'Almost impossible' is what he says.
The following week, I made a visit to one of the local grounds to dig through the cricketing expanses of the city. An hour-long view of how some of them played and a talk with a selected few led to me to the path of realisation.
What I saw there was refined talent, solid potential, sheer passion, and much more. But why can't they go beyond this? Some unsolved mystery, hidden truth beckons. What should they do as stepping stones to the big stage? I decided to have a chat with James Buttler, PR & Communications Manager of Yorkshire County Cricket Club and find out what it really takes to earn a place for both Yorkshire and the national side.
I also asked him about the training methods adopted in the club to promote fresh talents. It was an insightful trip that helped me to find out what the young cricket aspirants can really look forward to.
How does your club work towards the emergence of new talent?
The Club works in conjunction with the Yorkshire Cricket Board to promote grass roots cricket, work with cricket clubs and ultimately identify young talent. Yorkshire operates a number of age group sides and an Academy where the cream of the crop rise to. At the end of their stay in the Academy a select few are offered a junior professional contract and the chance to progress towards 1st Team cricket.
What are their methods of training?
There are a wide variety of training methods – cricket skills and nets through to the theory, diet advice, fitness, media training and life skills – that is in the Academy.
How would you compare the coaching standards available here with the ones in other parts of the world, like the MRF Pace Academy in Chennai, India?
The standard of coaching in Yorkshire is very high. We do send players to other parts of the world like India, Australia and South Africa in the winter to learn the game. The current coaching staff is very forward thinking. You never know everything and they are also always learning from other coaches both in the UK and abroad.
What does it take to be something special?
There is little difference in skill levels between many youngsters and those that make it through to international cricket have that little bit extra in skill, but also temperament and commitment to their own games.
Some ‘lesser’ players make it at international level because of the people they are and likewise some very talented people fail. It is a popular phrase in sport, but is true, that the most successful sports people have the whole package – mental, physical and skill.
Yorkshire CC aside, Can anyone from anywhere in the country get into the national team? Is ability the only criteria for a place in the squad? What are the other factors involved in it?
Yes anyone can progress to the national side – if you are good enough and score enough runs or take enough wickets you will be recognized – for some it takes longer than others, but that can be down to many different reasons – your role within a side, who you succeed against, etc.
Buttler's words are certainlty inspiring, the key is keep believing and never give up on your dream! You too could become the next Darren Gough or Michael Vaughan leading out the team at Headingley.
Four years since they last gigged here, Starsailor are returning to Sheffield giving us an eagerly anticipated taste of the new album ‘All The Plans’.
The band currently have a number of tour dates in the U.K throughout this spring and will appear at the Leadmill on Saturday 28th March.
Along with support acts they will be promoting their latest material from the band’s fourth studio album that is released March 9th, available on CD, 7” plus download formats.
The album includes the single ‘Tell Me It’s Not Over’ featuring the Killers front man Brandon Flowers and the exclusive ‘In Their Word’ which features Rolling Stones legend Ronnie Wood but fans who expect similarities to 2005’s rock based ‘On the Outside’ will be in for a shock.
‘All The Plans’ sees Starsailor go back to what they do best, creating music with solid beats and brilliant harmonies that produced the band’s most successful hits in the ‘Love Is Here’ era such as ‘Alcoholic’ and ‘Poor Misguided Fool’.
Though the last album received mixed reactions from the music press, this back to basics approach can only be a step in the right direction for the boys from Chorley.
Easy listening songs such as ‘Boy In Waiting’ and ‘Change My Mind’ have simple sounds created by the tambourine and piano intros that have become a tradition since Starsailor’s early days.
These are the tracks that develop a personal feel that the listener can relate themselves too and this adds nice contrast to the heavier guitar reliant songs like ‘You Never Get What You Deserve’ were they are then able to rock out, to a Starsailor extent.
If you approach the album with honesty, not expecting an album as succesful as U2’s Joshua tree but giving it a rightful chance, you will understand why you come to love music in the first place.
Great bands keep things simple, Starstailor are one of these, they deserve another listen.
That early morning cuppa that simulates you for the day tastes better from your favourite mug research has found.
Dr Tom Stafford (23), a psychologist from Sheffield University says that a person’s brain is trained to pouring a cuppa in a certain way that delivers maximum pleasure to the drinker
He said: “Drinking tea and coffee is very ritualistic and people have become very addictive to the way they want their brew made.”
“Caffeine is very much a drug of reward and like any addict: people develop passions on how the drug is delivered. Wherever there is drug use rituals will always develop.”
A daily cuppa contributes to the belief that people genuinely think it tastes better out of a certain cup. Stafford states that more than 60 percent of Brits have a favourite mug they use for their morning drink according to recent studies carried out.
Although these are the thoughts of the nation, Sheffield University student Adam Foster (21) is a part-time worker at the Starbucks on Western Bank and he believes their can actually be some truth between cup and taste;
“I certainly think that a brew can be more appealing in a mug you use regularly.”
"This can relate to Starbucks, we are a highly recognised brand that is renowned for its hot drinks worldwide; therefore people will recognise the sign of quality with the company's logo on the cup."
Whatever people believe, the cup alone can’t enhance the quality of taste but the chances that you’ve had your best brew in a favourite mug is only because you have used it the most.
The sky is clear and so are our minds, fresh from last night’s heavy snowfall. The snowflakes form an icy layer on the roads helping us glide along the slippery surface.It is slowly but surely melting as the sun’s ray's fume with greater intensity. Scene 2 – The atmosphere is all too gloomy with spells of rain and chilly conditions to deal with. The melting snow suddenly freezes and the sun surrenders like colonists at the hands of conquerors.
Fur coats and winter jackets replace transparent shirts and air-cooled jeans. A passer-by takes a heap of snow and digs his sunglasses into the ground below, much in frustration as the reflection is too bright even with eye protection.
The transition from the first to the second is just a matter of seconds. These scenes go back and forth and play around in circles until you become quite unsure about what you really need - An umbrella, a warmer or a bottle of suntan lotion. Welcome to the United Kingdom!
The attention shifts to the sixth largest university in the UK – based in the south Yorkshire City of Sheffield, England – Sheffield Hallam University.
With thousands of international students, it offers all that is required to make them feel home. However, there is one thing they could do little about – nature’s mysterious weather-drama in this part of the world.
Numerous international students, especially the Asian lot find it a bit difficult to cope with this sudden climate change. For them, this is a new scenario - one that leaves them wondering what is up for grabs at the next moment.
Neither the wintry breeze nor the heavy blizzards give them the kind of assurance they would need to set their mind at rest. Adaptability is craved for and a little immunity is all that sees them through.
Shanath Kumar, a post-graduate student of Pharmacology and Biotechnology at the University, finds it extremely difficult to cope with the weather conditions;
“I come from the southern part of India where people run for cover due to over heating. This is the other extreme and I find it really difficult to adapt,” says Shanath.
Even for people who have been here for ages have struggled coping with the 'wild weather', Dr Seena who is a child psychiatrist with the NHS is one of those. She says the struggle to overcome the unpredictable climate is hard to cope with;
"Being in Sheffield for 12 years, I find it tough even now to adapt to conditions. It just keeps on changing and I fall ill most times, meaning I am unable to go for work when I can't afford to."
This year has been worse. It has been the coldest winter for 12 years with heavy snow jamming the roads and closing the schools, even producing serious health concerns for a lot of individuals.
A few Asian students living in Abbeydale Road developed flu due to the cold weather and couldn't attend the University for more than a week, disrupting their studies.
Sights which were visible in that first week of February would have been the first time some international students may have seen snow, but for many they hope it’s the last.
Earlier in the week, BBC news claimed research had found sex improves health to the same degree that physical activity can do.
Recent findings carried out by NHS experts proved that regular sexual intercourse plays an important role in daily lives by giving good cardio exercise that can reduce the chances of heart disease; as they are trying to encourage sex as a form of physical activity.
Sex is nothing new of course, humans have been pursuing the physical pleasure since time began, but we never envisaged the day where it could become more popular that sport or a work out at the gym as someone’s answer to maintaining their health and fitness.
The thought is even harder amongst young adults i.e. students considering that the U.K currently has the highest rate of teenage pregnancies in Western Europe; it would therefore suggest that the issue needs controlling before being promoted as a ‘good thing’.
Michaela Suckling, a nurse at Sheffield Hallam medical centre believes the report isn’t suggesting that we should substitute our daily fitness regimes for sex but says we must respect it can be just as beneficial if approached with the right intentions;
“We promote any increase in physical activity and are not simply saying to go out and have sex but have it because of the enjoyment, after all sex has many good factors that can relate to exercise.”
“Our main aim is to illustrate the importance to have good and safe sex, by this we are always giving out protection around the University campuses and beyond.”
The NHS haven’t directly targeted young adults in the campaign but people of all ages, this is made clear on billboards around the city. Posters promoting physical activity show a happily married old couple together, highlighting the importance of a long lasting relationship and not using sex just as an excuse for sport.
Other organisations, Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation have also used the similar imagery to receive public attention.
The advertisements provide us with evidence that they are not trying to make sex compulsory in everyday life but if personal feelings are right between you and a partner then your body will benefit from the exercise, especially older people as they are not as mobile to playing sports on a regular basis as the younger generation.
Even if the campaign does increase the nations levels of sexual activity, recreation supervisor at Sport Hallam Victoria Watkin Jones says that gym membership will not decline in the foreseeable future despite what’s taking place behind closed doors;
“Of course sex is better than doing no exercise; I don’t think it will replace a session in the gym because it doesn’t burn off as many calories.”
The Sheffield Hallam students that were asked shared mixed opinions, in a poll of 10 over 50% saw sex more for pleasure purposes than as a form of keeping fit, though some did state its just a case of how much effort you put into it.
What was interesting, over half the females would consider an increase in sex activity to staying healthy as well as carrying out their same levels of daily exercise.
The males surprisingly showed less interest in having intercourse to keep up their fitness; just 40% stated they would consider sex to boost their health. When asking the reminding males, the same percentage stated that as much as they enjoy sex they would never put it before football.
Although the research suggests there is some element of truth in the findings, it’s hard to imagine love making being introduced at the Olympic Games, well not before London 2012 anyway.
Traders are calling for a restriction on the Wicker bus gate operating hours as its putting financial strain on Sheffield businesses.
Since changes in the Wicker road plan last year, cars are no longer allowed to drive in the bus lane that runs alongside the shops preventing passers by a parking space or drop off point to pick up the shopping.
The city centre, south and east planning board has been forced to act and change its decision resulting from a petition that collected 2,047 signatures of local workers who want action by reducing the amount of time the gate is used from 24 hours to a possible 12 hours between 7pm and 7am to encourage trade.
But Sheffield Council head of highways John Bann says decreasing the operating hours is not the answer, and could result in fatal consequences;
“Changes would increase the number of vehicles making a turn banned turn across the pedestrian crossing, putting people at risk.”
The problem Bann suggests is the pedestrian crossing that is to the left of the junction at Wicker and the inner ring road outside the city centre.
No left turn is permitted but that doesn’t stop some drivers making the forbidden move through the pedestrian crossing when both lights are on green.
Bann suggests preventing fatalities comes before revenue but Martin Bennett, of Associated Chemists based near the junction, can’t understand the council for not acting already;
"It's just a really negative approach. The officers are lacking the willpower to make a change, they don’t appreciate the need for every customer because their job is different but we need money to live.”
"Unfortunately, it looks as though it'll be less likely the restrictions will now be relaxed but it is up to the councillors and we hope they will stick to their guns."
Pav Ahmed, of local store Raja’s Pizza also feels aggrieved “This is unbelievable. You can’t tell me there is no safe way to open the bus gate at night, to give the local community more revenue.”
“A petition was taken and that means the officers should find a way to make it happen.”
The survival of the Wicker stores is crucial for its community; John Goode has been a resident in Wicker for over 35 years and reiterates the importance;
"Local stores must be supported by its community. There are lots of family run businesses in Wicker and if these go they could be gone forever, this could prove disastrous for the local economy."
This along with the new Tesco's express being opened 12 months ago below the newly built student accommodation shows that the area isn't helping itself get through the current dramatic economic turndown.
But however hard residents like Mr Goode try to argue against the bus gate; the planning board have not changed their plans of discussing Mr Bann’s conclusions on the issue in the coming weeks; for some local businesses though this may be too late.
Just remember Local Businesses need you to survive just as much as you need them.
