LucieFurr

Hold the front page for UCLan graduate

2010-07-21T11:44:00.000+01:00

UCLan Creative Festival and Degree Show 2010

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) graduate Melanie Mingas will soon be jetting off to Dubai after securing an assistant editor role for a leading construction magazine.

Melanie, who will graduate from UCLan this summer with a 2:1 BA(Hons) Journalism has been studying at the University for the last three years.

The 25-year-old previously worked as a school secretary before making the decision to return to education. During her final year at UCLan, Melanie worked on placement at the Press Association, held two editorial roles on the student newspaper, Pluto, and was assessed on her contribution to the class newspaper, The Preston Journal.

In her new role, Melanie will take responsibility for a whole host of newsroom activities, including feature writing, drafting new stories, launching the magazine’s new website and representing the publication at industry events.

Commenting on her UCLan experience, Melanie said: “My course and the whole University experience have dramatically changed my life. Initially, I was concerned about finding work, but my lecturers have been so supportive and it’s through UCLan and its contacts in the industry that I’ve secured this role.

“Dubai is a great place but the real jackpot is the job. The magazine has a great reputation and I can’t wait to start working on it.”

More information on the UCLan Creative Festival and Degree Show 2010 is available on the dedicated web pages.

Published by UCLan, July 2010

Race for Life

2010-07-21T11:43:00.001+01:00

Feature written for The Preston Journal, 3rd Year assessed group project.

The Journal Race for Life

I also enjoy lapping up a bit attention about the fact that I absolutely smashed my PB when I took part in a Blackpool race in 2007; 19 minutes 46 seconds.

Preston's rich/poor divide

2010-07-21T11:35:00.001+01:00

Feature written for The Preston Journal, 3rd Year assessed group project

The Journal poverty

The promise/reality concept was my idea, I conducted most of the interviews and did the bulk of the writing. Lauran designed the pages, gathered information for the breakouts, took one of the pictures and conducted some of the interviews.

Former Preston councillor could face 14 year sentence

2010-07-21T11:04:00.000+01:00

by Melanie Mingas. Published Mon 01 Mar 2010 17:23, Last updated: 2010-03-01

Former Preston Council deputy leader Frank McGrath could face a jail term of up to 14 years after he was convicted of nine charges connected with underworld business deals.

A five-week trial at Manchester Crown Court heard how police uncovered a complicated web of McGrath's secret business deals, luxurious purchases and laundering of drugs money.

The court heard that McGrath, 59, set-up the racket after he left the old County Borough of Preston Council, in 1992.

Under the guise of a “self employed business consultant and sole trader” McGrath approached a number of businessmen with “easy money” schemes and “loaned” £300,000 to drug dealer and car ringer Silvano Turchet.

The pair met when Turchet was on day release from Kirkham Prison.

McGrath completed a series of purchases on Turchet’s behalf, including a three-bedroom house for his girlfriend and more than £2000 in phone bills.

McGrath was found to have been funding Turchet’s life with “clean money” in return for banking the profits Turchet had made from class A drugs.

He was the “respectable face” which allowed Turchet to continue importing millions of pounds worth of drugs in his private plane.

Published by ClickLancs, March 2010

Preston Council force cabbies to pay for own CCTV

2010-07-21T10:53:00.000+01:00

by Melanie Mingas. Published Mon 22 Mar 2010 13:26

Taxi drivers will be left to fork out up to £600 on CCTV in their cabs after Preston Council refused to fund their own proposals.

Plans were put forward last week to install CCTV in 190 black cabs to “improve the safety and security of drivers and passengers”.

Drivers have demanded help with the cost, but council bosses have refused.

A council spokesperson said: “It’s only a recommendation that drivers may want to install CCTV.

"But as commercial operators they’re there to make a profit.

"It’s not the best use of tax payers money in a privately run business.”

The proposals were made at a meeting between trade chiefs and police last week. Concern for the safety of drivers has been rising since one had his ear bitten off in an early morning attack.

Eddie McClean gave up his job with a private hire firm two years ago following an attack. He recently began driving a black cab because the cars are safer.

He said: “I’ll be installing a system because I was attacked two weeks ago. About ten cabs I know of already have them; the one I’ve chosen is £600.

"There are cheaper ones but I want to feel safe.

"I was hoping the council would put some funding towards it and actually help us with the cost of doing it.

"They refuse to pay because we’re businesses but they admit themselves that it’s for passenger safety as much as our own.”

Robert Ward gave up driving after an attack and now works on a firm’s switchboard.

He said: “If you put CCTV in town centres it cuts crime rates so obviously this will have an effect. From the other point of view it also makes more women feel safe as passengers.

“If this is going to become a standard the council should be meeting at least half the costs; other councils around the country have managed to fund it with various partnerships and schemes.”

One of those is in Blackpool, where advertising space inside cabs has been used to fund surveillance systems.

The council added: “It would be good practice for drivers’ own safety and security and for passengers’ but we’re not suggesting it is compulsory.”

Plans will be finalised later this year.

Published by ClickLancs March 2010

The many faces of Frank McGrath

2010-07-21T10:50:00.000+01:00

Produced for weekly assessed newspaper The Preston Journal, possibly the best project of my entire degree.

Click this link to see page PDF file:

The Journal McGrath BG

Art up your street

2010-07-21T10:43:00.001+01:00

Year 3, assignment 1; Write, design and lay a four page supplement about the environment with a 1500 word double spread feature, re-packaged with multimedia for online.

Ladies and gents, the infamous graffiti feature...

You can watch the supporting videos here:

Hulme is where the heart is

2010-07-21T10:17:00.000+01:00

Hulme is where the heart is when it comes to home furnishing.

Melanie Mingas has a browse...

Date Published: 26/04/2010

Where is it?

InSitu
252 Chester Road
Hulme
M15 4EX

History:
InSitu has been trading in the South Manchester and Trafford are for over 25 years. Run by Laurence Green, it's an “architectural salvage” enterprise, aiming to pair customers with the period, unique and antique items their restoration project or simple home furnishing idea requires.

Recently it's undergone a bit of a transformation and is now part of an antique cooperative of sorts, based in an old warehouse on Chester Road.

Green, from FE26 said: “InSitu was a collaborative idea; we have all known each other for some time and now take it in turns to staff the shop in return for trading from here.”

In total, four business trade from the premises:

Planet Vintage Girl- interior design with an environmental conscience where post war influences are applied to practical objects.
Silverleaf- antique mirrors and lighting.
FE26 – sculpture and design from scrap materials.
Kyran Hall- stained glass creation and restoration.

What does it sell?

In short, Green explains the business as: “All the stuff people throw out of houses is stored here

until somebody puts it back.”

InSitu doesn't just sell, it finds and creates according to your vision. The finds are all sold under

the Salvo Code; a voluntary ethical agreement that gives customers piece of mind that items for

sale aren't stolen or from protected historic buildings.

Walking in, it's easier to note what's not here. Greeted by an overwhelming number of radiators, mirrors, chandeliers and bath tubs, there's even a mosaic bust perched above a sideboard.

Downstairs the collection diversifies to fire places, stained glass windows and bathroom tiles. Harking back to the idea of “architectural salvage” there's also an extensive supply of mouldings and stone urns. Oh, and a bit of taxidermy. It's quintessentially niche.

Who goes there?
“People who don't quite know where else to go for something. We have a huge range of people coming in. Our core business comes from people restoring buildings back to their original state, but we also have people who are looking for unusual and unique designs and people who like to walk around to see how things are being used.

“We also get a fair bit of business from people doing films or needing props for a photographic shoot.”

The stock is sourced from from old hotels, churches, house clearances or just reborn from scrap as new art and snapped up by those with a keen eye for the queer and quaint, including developers and decorators.

Green says: “It's a bit of a schizophrenic business of sorts. People come here looking for certain things from the past but then other people are looking to re-imagine the future.”

Why go there?
In Green's words, InSitu is “part department store, part gallery and part market.”

These two floors of a warehouse not far beyond Deansgate, hold everything required to restore a room or entire property to the glory of a bygone era.

The refreshingly hap hazard approach to meeting customer needs means you truly will find items here that can't be found anywhere else: “stuff that fires the imagination. People come here with an idea what they want and they want to make that thing unique.”

The innovative collaboration between the businesses also makes it a kind of convenience store of sorts; a one stop shop somewhere between your imagination and wildest dreams. And the novel arrangements mean they all collaborate to provide customers with the contacts and expertise they need to make almost any vision a reality.

Future:
Having already clocked up 25 years in the business, the future is looking bright. A demand for quality and an eye for the unusual provides a never ending supply of rarities for a clientèle tiring of the “use and destroy” model pioneered by Ikea.

Compounding the popularity is a nationwide hunger for anything more than a decade old, which keeps the arty director types coming back to forage props for their set.

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

Election debate: live in Manchester

2010-07-21T10:16:00.000+01:00

Melanie Mingas gets a piece of the action at Granada Studios as Manchester prepares to host the live election debate...

Date Published: 15/04/2010

As the country gears up to go to the polls, the leaders of the three main parties will fight volcanic ash to come head to head in the first ever live televised debate of its kind... in Manchester.

It may seem odd to stage politics' biggest night of recent times outside London, especially as we had one of the lowest voter turn outs last time, but it was here when less than 2% of the population had the right to vote, that modern democracy was born.

It may seem odd to stage politics' biggest night of recent times outside London,but it was here that one of the foundation stones of modern democracy was laid - in tragedy.

In 1819, 60,000 people descended on Peters Fields (under the site of the Free Trade Hall, aka the Radisson Edwardian) in protest against a lack of representation. Only Newton-le-Willows returned an MP to Parliament at the time. This lack of a voice was felt acutely in the years of deep recession following the Napoleonic Wars. One opinion voiced at the time, declared that “governments, not immediately derived from and strictly accountable to the people, are usurpations and ought to be resisted and destroyed.”

An over-reaction from the magistrates resulted in the military and militia being called in and led to 15 innocent people losing their lives. Peterloo became a symbol of the struggle for democracy.

In the years following Manchester was at the heart of the fight for representation. This is the city of the Free Trade Movement, where the TUC and the Suffragettes were formed, where Clause 28 was fought fiercely. It's a city that has always believed passionately in free speech and liberty.

Whether by accident or design Brown, Cameron and Clegg, couldn't have chosen a better location for their first face-to-face televised debate in the nation's history.

Watch the election debate live on ITV1 tonight, 8.30pm-10pm.

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

Interview with Alex Preston

2010-07-21T10:15:00.001+01:00

Melanie Mingas meets Alex Preston, author of the highly acclaimed 'This Bleeding City'

Date Published: 15/04/2010

Alex Preston is an Oxford graduate, city trader and brother of The Ordinary Boys frontman, Preston (AKA Samuel Preston). He's also one of Waterstones' new voices for 2010 and this month his début novel 'This Bleeding City' hit the shops.

It tells the story of a man swept away in 'emotional, financial and moral boom and bust' and has launched to rave reviews. But as the credit crunch eases and we wave good bye, for now, to the longest recession since WWII, how many people want to read about bankers?Preston explains: “I felt there was a lot of picking over of the credit crunch and of how the banks got into trouble but from a semi-academic stand point. I wanted to look to what was happening with the people, how they were so greedy, how they built all these things around themselves and got it so wrong.

“It's not asking people to feel sorry or sympathise with the characters, they don't lend themselves to that.”

'This Bleeding City' is about Charlie Wales, an ambitious young man with humble roots, who graduates from Edinburgh University and goes to work in London.

During his time at Edinburgh, he befriended the wealthy crowd with 'magazine-bright lives' and naturally re-adjusted his aspirations. Offered a job in the city, Charlie is just getting his feet under the table when the credit crunch hits.

In humanising the story, Preston draws on the symmetry between “the fluctuations of the market and the fluctuation of human emotions.”

“It's not my story, but I think it has become a common experience to be at university and to be offered a position in the city which offers enormous amounts of money. People ended up extremely unhappy.”

How have Alex's colleagues, past and present, reacted to the book?

“I've been pleasantly surprised that people have understood it's a work of fiction and secondly that a lot of people read it and, at least to me, said they enjoyed it.

“I expected people would desperately pick through to see if there were any references to themselves, but I've had some lovely emails about it.”

How does life as a writer compare to life as a city trader?

“It's about as different as you can get. I work all day, go home, bath my little boy then sit down to write.

“I wouldn't want to change that balance in either direction at the moment. Rather than being an academic, doing something where I'm in Tokyo one day and New York the next brings something to my writing that I wouldn't have otherwise.”

This Bleeding City is available to purchase at Waterstones priced £12.99

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

Bratt's Vintage

2010-07-21T10:14:00.000+01:00

Melanie Mingas marvels at a 70s hair dryer in the latest addition to the Northern Quarter's vintage shopping community

Date Published: 16/04/2010

Where is it?
Bratt's Vintage
Oldham Street
Manchester

While the first pioneers of the oldy worldy look may despair at the mainstream appeal it now holds, they could still find themselves at Bratt's.

Oldham Street may be barricaded with fences for now but there is a nice big sign right outside the door with an arrow. You cannot go wrong.

History:
Partners Jeff and Terry initially wanted to open a bar in their Oldham Street basement cavern, but fire regulations would have meant all manner of inconvenience and general logistical problems.

Instead they filled it with vintage finds from all over the world, some you can wear some you can't. On the plus side, it's a very cool looking shop. Bratt's has been open a matter of weeks but there are already big plans for the future.

Before Bratt's, Jeff passed his days doing admin work at an accountancy firm, which “bored him to tears”. Terry has run retro tea house Café 3 at Affleck's Palace for the past three years.

What does it sell?
The name leaves little to the imagination but this is vintage for the discerning.

The racks of clothes are the real floor filler and there are lots of them, for boys and girls. From your standard fur coats and jeans to more niche items like mohair cardigans with sequinned motifs, blouses, bags and hats with a twist of style your grandma would be proud of.

There's also a nice and rather extensive range in gloves, sunglasses and vinyl, stocking the usual bygone heroes such as Floyd and Bowie.

It's also possible to find the odd piece of glass ware.

My personal stand out item was a hands-free hairdryer; imagine a shower cap with a portable jet pack. It's from sometime before 1975 and will set you back £20 but hurry.

Who shops there?
The young, the old pretending to be young and everybody in between. Included in that category are students, waifs and strays. Apparently.Most importantly people who know what they want and what they are buying shop here. This isn't vintage for the benefit of tourists and children.

Why go there?
It's no secret that vintage is everywhere and has been for some time. The Northern quarter is packed with 'boutiques' with demand so high some even cut the labels out of last year's H&M and think they can get away with it.

But while the first pioneers of the oldy-worldy look may despair at the mainstream appeal it now holds, they could still find themselves at Bratt's.

Here, the hard work has been done for you with pieces almost hand-picked for the rails.

More relics than rip-offs, Jeff explains: “We sell old originals and we have a vast range of all kinds of stuff. If you look at all the other vintage shops around here we are totally different. We buy stock from America, Amsterdam, odd pieces from all over.”

Believe it when he says odd, I refer to the previous point about the hair dryer.

Future:
Jeff and Terry have plans to expand the shop beyond its current ply wood and curtain walls. Apparently there's another fifteen foot of stylish space to be utilised and the shop is “a work in progress”.

The entrepreneurial bug is still biting too and Jeff and Terry are looking into the possibility of a second premises where they can open that long awaited bar next year.

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

Manetian pizza lands at Dough

2010-07-21T10:13:00.003+01:00

Jet2 and a Northern Quarter Restaurant creates a pizza that's a bit Manc and a bit Venetian

Date Published: 14/04/2010

It's not a bird but it does have a little bit to do with planes. Ladies and gentlemen behold the Manetian; the pizza that tells the tale of two cities. (NB* you may want to note that nobody pictured is actually biting into it)

The pizza combines traditional tastes from both cities, with a full English flying the flag for Manchester and a combination of olives, aubergines and Mozzarella firing up the Italian half.

Created by Dough head chef Paul Rippon, the limited edition dish celebrates Jet2's new route to Venice with a culinary bang.

The pizza combines traditional tastes from both cities, with a full English flying the flag for Manchester and a combination of olives, aubergines and Mozzarella firing up the Italian half.

The pizza will be sold at Dough in the Northern Quarter until 6 May, with adventurous diners entered into a prize draw to win flights to Venice.

Restaurant owner Alyson Doocey, said: “We pride ourselves in creating innovative flavours for our pizza toppings.

“We think the pizza tastes great but the proof really will be in the pudding with how it goes down with our customers.”

That would be the locally sourced black pudding, which, along with streaky bacon and cheddar cheese, creates the full English flavour.

Ian Doubtfire, Managing Director at Jet2.com, said: “It has been a hugely exciting process working with Dough to create the recipe and we hope that the people of Manchester deem the Manetian a huge success. Who knows – it may soon have a regular place on the menu. We hope that Dough’s customers will be inspired to venture to Venice themselves to find out what the magnificent city has to offer.”

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

City news in 250 words: Friday 16 April

2010-07-21T10:13:00.001+01:00

Alcohol exclusion zone, Sir Richard Leese' cat fight and Mike Leigh nominated at Cannes Film Festival

A daily round up of the top four news stories of the day, selected and written by myself with only one rule; it must be extacly 250 words long...

Date Published: 16/04/2010

POLICE WILL IMPOSE A TWO AND A HALF MILE ALCOHOL EXCLUSION ZONE during tomorrow's derby to prevent fans causing trouble. The zone will reach from the city centre to Eastlands stadium, with extra officer drafter in to patrol streets and bars. The decision was taken after 18 arrests were made during the team's last clash at Eastlands in January.

THE “FURIOUS ROW” WHICH LED TO THE RESIGNATION OF COUNCIL LEADER Sir Richard Leese was sparked by a cat. Reports claim his 16 year old step daughter “flew into a rage” after Sir Richard gave medication to the family pet on Monday night. Sir Richard was arrested and held in custody for 20 hours. It is believed he has not returned to the family home following the incident.

SALFORD BORN DIRECTOR MIKE LEIGH has been nominated for the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival. The film stars Jim Broadbent and Imelda Staunton but the plot of the comedy drama is being kept secret. Fifteen others have been nominated for the Palm D'Or, which will be judged by a panel including Tim Burton. Leigh last won in 1996 for Secrets and Lies.

BRITISH AIRPORTS HAVE CANCELLED ALL FLIGHTS for a second day because of a cloud of volcanic ash. The National Air Traffic Services (NATS) confirmed no flights will take off until 1am Saturday 17th April, at the earliest. Manchester Airport has drafted in extra staff to assist passengers. Updates are available via the airport's website or Twitter feed.

Out of the window weather forecast: Started off overcast but it's brightening up fast.

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

City news in 250 words: Thursday 15 April

2010-07-21T10:12:00.003+01:00

Volcanic ash could delay leaders, Corrie actress gets driving ban and British Obama won't be long

A daily round up of the top four news stories of the day, selected and written by myself with only one rule; it must be extacly 250 words long...

Date Published: 15/04/2010

HUNDREDS OF DOMESTIC FLIGHTS have been cancelled following a volcanic eruption in Iceland. The Met Office placed restrictions on air travel as a result of volcanic ash in the atmosphere. Airports in Scotland are closed and more disruption is expected as the ash drifts south. Confidential learned this morning that it may even delay the arrival of party leaders ahead of tonight's first televised live leaders' debate, at Granada Studios.

CORONATION STREET'S Eileen Grimshaw has been banned from driving for 17 months. Sue Cleaver was pulled over near her home in Didsbury last month, when her landrover hit the curb. She was fined £1000 and ordered to pay £85 costs. The ban comes in the same week her on screen son Jason, played by Ryan Thomas, was fined £2020 for leaving the scene of an accident.

MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY PROFESSOR Ed Fieldhouse has published a book predicting a “British Obama” within years. Collaborating with professors from Harvard and Guardian journalist Tom Clarke, he says tolerance amongst younger generations has reduced racial prejudice over the last 50 years. “The Age of Obama” is released this week.

GREATER MANCHESTER POLICE claim crime rates in Salford have dropped by 15%. They call it a dramatic decrease, with serious violent crime and vehicle crime both down by 18%. Chief Superintendent Kevin Mulligan said: “Our latest neighbourhood survey shows that 77 percent of people agree police and Salford City Council are dealing with anti-social behaviour and the crime issues that matter to them."

Out of the window weather forecast: Bright and fair with a nip in the air

Published by ManchesterConfidential, April 2010

City news in 250 words: Tuesday 13 April

2010-07-21T10:12:00.001+01:00

Hiddink miss for City, music tour of Manchester, mystery Canadian death, naughty Corrie boy

A daily round up of the top four news stories of the day, selected and written by myself with only one rule; it must be extacly 250 words long...

Date Published: 13/04/2010

GUUS HIDDINK FELT TORN between coaching City and staying in international football. It was rumoured last year the 63-year-old ex-Real boss would return to the Premier League – where he briefly coached Chelsea. He said: "It's a big club, a club with history, also a club with money." The job went to Roberto Mancini. Hiddink starts in Turkey in June after his current contract with Russia.

JOURNALIST LUKE BAINBRIDGE has drafted in friends Peter Hook, Mike Joyce and Badly Drawn Boy to “liven up” his music tour of the city. The tour is part of the The Guardian and Observer's Enjoy England series and takes place on Saturday 24 April. Bainbridge said: “I managed to pull in a few favours and get some special guests. They will all be meeting us at locations which have played an important part in their story.”

THE DEATH OF A CANADIAN TOURIST found in a canal near Trafford Park is being treated as "unexplained". Anthony Muise, 53, was found on 24 February with a puncture wound in his chest. He arrived in the UK in June 2009 and was living in hostels and hotels. Police are appealing for information concerning the mystery death.

CORONATION STREET'S JASON GRIMSHAW left the scene of an accident – via taxi - after fans began taking photographs of him. Celebrity lawyer Nick Freeman, aka Mr Loophole, told Manchester Magistrates Court that 25-year-old Ryan Thomas felt “intimidated”. He was fined £2,020 and ordered to pay £50 costs.

Salty Seadog's Manchester weather forecast (he's just looked out of the window): Sunny, with some clouds

Published by ManchesterConfidential April 2010

Cathedral puts on its party frock

2010-07-21T10:10:00.001+01:00

Those seeking a truly heavenly dining experience will be pleased to hear Manchester Cathedral is to feed the five thousand.

Well 800. A select group of local businesses have been invited to an inaugural dinner on Tuesday 27 April to enjoy a “deliciously designed menu, exceptional service and an evening out of the ordinary.”

Inspired by similar events in other cathedrals, the plan, according to Dean Rogers Govender, is to “raise awareness of the Cathedral's role in the city community.”

It's not the first time the church has diversified from the bread and wine theme. In 2008 the aisles were transformed into catwalks for designers Y-3 and, more recently, Harvey Nichols has utilised the holy space.

Director of development Anthony O'Connor said: “It costs over £1m a year just to open the doors and run all our projects and this is a way of helping to pay for that. The Cathedral is used by school children, for homeless projects and some vast work within the community.

“We're looking to arrange and host twenty to thirty events a year.”

But what about criticism from some quarters that running events such as Gala Dinners in the nave of the Cathedral is an inappropriate use of a religious building.

“When the Cathedral was built in medieval times,” says O'Connor, “it was the community centre for the town, where people from every walk of life came together. Then the Victorians filled the space with furniture and started using it only during services. We want to take the Cathedral back to its original role as the place where the community can come together to engage with each other. This is not a new idea at all.”

Merseyside based chefs Pickled Walnut have been drafted in to cater the event. As regular gourmets at Liverpool Cathedral, they're well versed on constructing portable kitchens in historic buildings.

Founded and run by chefs Jamie Anderson and Mark Kershaw, Pickled Walnut have cooked for Gordon Brown, Martina Hingis and even Prince Charles. Athough not at the same time.

And while the Cathedral may have taken 600 years to develop, the transformation from Cathedral to venue takes just twenty-four hours.

Fiona Guy, from promoters ImpactMedia, said: “The sound, lights and kitchen equipment can all be set up quickly and around other groups already using the building.

“It may be difficult to imagine the Cathedral transformed, so this dinner will people the opportunity to experience an evening here in a more traditional sense.”

Published by ManchesterConfidential April 2010

Press Association

2010-07-21T10:08:00.002+01:00

Interviews I set up and conducted during my week on the video desk at Press Association

Others can be viewed via these links:

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6430347

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6431583

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6431885

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6437492

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6437361

http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net/article.jsp?id=6441167

http://latestnews.virginmedia.com/video/

http://latestnews.virginmedia.com/video/#Top

Maths prodigy, 14, offered Cambridge place

2010-07-21T10:08:00.000+01:00

Melanie Mingas, PA

9th January 2010

Home-educated Arran Fernandez, 14, of London, with the offer he has received to join Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, in October. Photo: Neil Fernandez/PA

A young maths prodigy who broke records with his GCSE results is set to achieve a new academic landmark.

Arran Fernandez has been offered a place at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge, aged just 14.

According to his father, Neil Fernandez, it will make him the youngest Cambridge undergraduate since William Pitt the Younger went to the university at the same age in 1773.

The conditional offer was made after Arran, from Surrey, passed exams set by the university last summer.

Prof. David Cardwell, who will be teaching Arran, said: "Fitzwilliam College decided to make Arran a conditional offer after considering his application very carefully, as we do with all students who apply, regardless of background.

"The college looks forward to welcoming Arran in October should he meet his offer, and to helping him develop and fulfil his considerable academic potential to ensure a productive and rewarding experience during his studies at Cambridge."

To enrol on the course, Arran, who already has A-levels in maths and further maths, needs to pass his A-level physics exam.

The home-educated teenager said: "Maths has been my favourite subject for as long as I can remember. "I enjoy being home schooled because I'm more involved. I can see the mark schemes and help my dad decide the curriculum."

The degree, or "tripos" as it is known to Cambridge students, is widely regarded as one of the most difficult in the world.

Former scholars include Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking.

Arran first made headlines in 2001 when, aged five, he gained the highest grade possible in the foundation maths paper.

He went on to sit the intermediate GCSE paper the following summer and gained A* in the advanced level paper in 2003.

At the time Arran said he aspired to be "a mathematician, lorry driver or space explorer".

Speaking about his latest ambition, Arran said he now hopes to be a research mathematician.

"It would be nice to work for Cambridge. There are a few things I want to work on; I'd like to solve the Riemann hypothesis."

The Riemann hypothesis is a theory about the patterns of prime numbers that has baffled the greatest mathematicians for 150 years.

Orginal article published here

Snow brings extra day's holiday for pupils

2010-07-21T10:05:00.001+01:00

By Melanie Mingas, Press Association

Monday, 4 January 2010

Thousands of school children enjoyed an extra day's holiday today as dozens of schools were shut due to the wintry weather.

Local authorities confirmed 19 closures in Northumberland, 13 in Lancashire and 12 in Durham.

Seven schools were also shut in North Yorkshire due to weather and heating problems and one in Staffordshire due to conditions on local roads.

A spokesman for Cumbria County Council said pupils were not due back until tomorrow but one teacher training day had been cancelled.

He said: "We're working hard to grit primary routes and minimise disruption.
"The conditions vary across the county. Some places are quite icy while others only have minor problems.

"We are advising people to listen to local radio updates and take care on dangerous routes."

Schools in Scotland were closed today for a public holiday and some are expected to remain shut tomorrow, with 20 centimetres of snow forecast in some areas.

It means an extra long break for pupils and staff, after some schools closed early for the Christmas holiday.
Andy Ratcliffe, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, the weather arm of the Press Association, said the wintry weather would move south in the next few days.

He said: "The bad snow will continue in Scotland tonight and early tomorrow with Lincolnshire and London also seeing snow by Wednesday."

Published by The Independent January 2010

Supermarket sales warm up as Big Freeze hangs on

2010-07-21T10:04:00.000+01:00

By Mark Bulstrode and Melanie Mingas, Press Association

Tuesday, 5 January 2010

Supermarkets reported a surge in panic-buying today as shoppers across the UK faced heavy snowfall.

Cat litter was proving popular in icy areas, with customers using it as an alternative to salt for clearing roads and pathways.

An Asda spokeswoman said sales of Wellington boots, puddings and take-away food, as well as anti-freeze products, fire logs and thermal underwear, had all seen big increases over the past two days.

She said purchases of 25kg bags of grit were up by 32 per cent, George thermal underwear by 1,000 per cent and cat litter up by 55 per cent. Fire logs were also up by 71 per cent and vacuum flasks by 129 per cent.

Sainsbury’s said shoppers were stocking up on store cupboard and winter essential items.
David Bailey, Sainsbury’s weather analyst, said: “We know shoppers’ buying habits change according to the weather – a temperature change of three degrees from the seasonal average can result in sales of some products going up by as much as 50 per cent.”

The supermarket chain said flask and travel mug sales had increased by more than 160 per cent on this time last year.

Hotpots and casseroles rose by 20 per cent, cat litter by 20 per cent and oat cereals by 50 per cent.

Published by The Independent January 2010

Swindon twinned with Disney World

2010-07-15T11:08:00.003+01:00

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Melanie Mingas

Swindon has been twinned with Walt Disney World, Florida.The town was selected from 500 nominations, following a competition to find a British twin for the place where “dreams come true.”

The nomination was made by 20-year-old Rebecca Warren, who submitted a minute-long video showcasing the town’s highlights and comparing them with those of the original Walt Disney Resort in Florida.

Rebecca also penned a poem to accompany the video. One line reads: “We may not have a castle or the hot Florida sun, but we do sure have what Disney has, it’s fun for everyone”

Rebecca’s nomination beat stiff competition from Blackpool, Chorley and Edinburgh, who all featured in the 25-strong short list.

Hugh Wood from Disney destinations International said: “Her local pride and creative approach, coupled with her obvious knowledge of Walt Disney World just made the difference.

“We’re looking forward to building a friendly and magical relationship with our new twin, Swindon.”

Walt Disney Wiltshire will benefit from a string of accolades including an honour in the United Kingdom

Pavilion at World Showcase within Epcot throughout 2010 and a community outreach programme in collaboration with Swindon Council and Disney’s community relations team.

Celebrations will kick off with a "twinning ceremony" in January.

It’s the first twinning for Disney, but the fifth for Swindon; its other twin towns are Salzgitter, Germany, Ocotal, Nicaragua, Torun, Poland and Chatanooga, USA.

Mayor of Swindon, Cllr David Wren, said: “We’re delighted the judges decided that Swindon’s magic complemented that of Walt Disney World.

“Rebecca did a great job promoting our town and we look forward to linking up with Disney over the coming year.”

To see all the nominations click here

Published by TTG, December 2009

Iberostar opens Cape Verde resort

2010-07-15T11:08:00.001+01:00

Friday, December 11, 2009

Melanie Mingas

Hotel group Iberostar has opened its first resort in the Cape Verde archipelago.

The resort is set on the Areja de Chaves beach on Boa Vista, meaning Beautiful View. The four-star Cape Boa Vista comprises 273 suites and rooms, all with balconies.

The islands have enjoyed a surge in popularity with statistics suggesting visitor numbers could rise to 500,000 in 2010.

Iberostar hopes to attract winter sun seekers this season with a range of entertainment and relaxation options. All suites are low lying and the resort features a spa, pool, sports facilities and programmes and a children’s club.

Iberostar chief marketing officer Luis Herault said: "We are delighted to be entering the New Year on such a positive note with the opening a new hotel in a new destination. This certainly sets the scene for Iberostar's dynamic expansion strategy which will continue throughout 2010.

“The opening of the new Iberostar Club Boa Vista on a prime beachfront location [in Cape Verde] means that British visitors can now enjoy the very best this destination has to offer whilst still benefiting from Iberostar's high quality and value for money experience that they know and trust.”

The group already operates 100 resorts across Spain, the Mediterranean, Caribbean and South America.

Published by TTG, December 2009

Sandals axes Ocho Rios resort from portfolio

2010-07-15T11:06:00.000+01:00

Travel Trade Gazette
Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Melanie Mingas

Sandals is to drop the River Villaggio Golf Resort & Spa complex in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, from its luxury portfolio.

Sandals has operated the resort for 15 years, leasing the land from The Sagicor group, but Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has declined to renew the lease beyond May 31, 2010.

In a statement, SRI said: “It is felt that the marketplace for the product has changed significantly and as a result it no longer fits in the Sandals luxury product range.

“Reluctantly the decision was made to hand back the property, and the requisite notice was given to the owners. By agreement, Sandals will continue operations there until July 30, 2010.

“Every effort will be made to accommodate displaced team members within the chain whether in Jamaica or across the Caribbean.”

SRI has assured customers they will honour existing bookings until July 30 next year. Tourists visiting after this date will be accommodated in other Sandals resorts on the island.

Sandals would not comment on the details of the decision to drop the resort. However, discussions on some consumer travel forums suggested that Sagicor had “significantly increased” the lease price.

Set in 20 acres of land on Jamaica’s north coast, the complex was a popular Sandals destination. Built in 1959, the Sagicor group took over the land in 1999, refurbishing and modernising the property.

No operator has yet been named to take over the lease.

Sandals to open third resort in Bahamas (21 Aug 2009)

Interview with Sandals boss Adam Stewart (20 Nov 2008)

Published by TTG, December 2009

StudentSteals.com

2010-07-15T11:00:00.003+01:00

A Fresher tip or two

Ah, August: just when you thought the years of spending the summer months trying on nylon clothes and buying pencil cases were over, it’s suddenly time to start packing for uni.

As a soon to be third year student, I’ve read my fair share of articles entitled “tips for freshers” and “welcome to university” but not a single one told me anything more useful than to share the cost of utensils, drink responsibly and use condoms.

Forget that stuff, that’s the easy part. This is what you really need to know…

Money

It spends itself when you’re not looking. Despite the resolutions most students make each time their bank balance isn’t preceded by a minus sign, they’ll still be broke for at least a week before pay day.

If this sounds like it could be you, you have only one option; multiple accounts.

I know what you’re thinking; if I’m bad with money, why would I open more than one account? But if the combined temptation of cheap credit and cheap booze is too strong, you’ll need to separate your funds.

Account No. 1 is for all your payments- loans/ grants/ bursary etc. It’s vital you know what’s being paid when. To the penny. And cut up the debit card. If this money is going to cover your rent, ring fence it from each instalment as soon as the money hits your account.

Now the fun part begins… divide the amount of money you have left by the number of weeks it has to last; this is your weekly budget. Set up a weekly standing order for this amount to account No. 2, which is for spending money only (you’re allowed to keep the plastic on this account). If you get any generous donations from relatives that you don’t need to save, put them here and enjoy them, but DON’T GO OVER BUDGET. And never get an overdraft on this account because overdraft is income, not spends and you will waste it. Yes you will!

Your university will probably also keep quiet about the extra expenses incurred on creative courses. Materials, printing and other “unforeseen” costs will quickly mount up. It’s a similar story with books, so check if your university has any online libraries (sometimes known as an E-brary- clever- all the books on the internet so everyone can have access). Alternatively, share the costs and build your own mini library.

The union is your friend the university… isn’t so much. Many students don’t realise the distinction between university and union, or the full range of services and support on offer at the union; it’s not just another bar.

Typically you can expect them to organise events and fundraisers, but many also offer legal advice, employment agencies, counselling and housing support. They’ll also support you in any academic or housing issues you may have.

Accommodation

Think of it like Big Brother before the transformation into a televised psychiatric wing.

Five strangers in a flat together, all away from home, all new to the university. You have three things in common already, so don’t worry about making friends. Anybody locking themselves in their room during first term is either, nervous, private or strange. It’s important you decipher which and act accordingly.

We all know how to make friends, but what many people lack is a thorough understanding of household etiquette.

If it’s not your soap/ sponge/ razor, don’t use it without permission. Your housemates will find it utterly grim that somebody else’s pubes are sprouting from their personal hygiene utensils and products and they will rate you as a result.

Don’t be precious over your favourite crockery, if it is in fact precious, don’t take it to uni. Like wise don’t use any family heirlooms to pour alcohol into/from. They will get broken and you will blame everybody but yourself and resent them for the rest of the year. Not fun.

Halls of residence are generally clean, secure and hassle free digs, if they’re not, something has gone wrong. Make a formal, albeit polite, complaint; you are the customer after all.

On the other hand, it wasn’t designed to be The Ritz so don’t be a snob. You won’t appreciate how good uni halls are until you move into a dive on a back alley next year.

Freshers' Week

As Baz Lurhman said: “If I could offer you only one tip for the future…” lap up freshers week, and indeed all of first year.

This is the time and the place to work hard, but play hard too. Meet people, have fun, learn about yourself and expand your horizons. Talking to people is scientifically proven to lift your mood (although I would personally add a warning clause, as it’s a rule with many exceptions). However, get in the spirit and enjoy the only orientation you will probably have in all your life, which involves so much alcohol.

Oh and the freebies are usually excellent too. Get all the voucher books and free wooden spoons you can lay your little hands on. Believe it or not, they will come in handy.

Health

“Freshers 15” is the catchy term given to the extra 15 pounds the average student gains when they go to university. Tip; alcohol has calories and mid night pizzas are not a treat when consumed daily.

Eating well involves decent food and plenty of it; it’ll help your concentration and self esteem. Regular light exercise is also good for your general health, if you hate gyms try a low impact aerobics class or sports societies. It’ll lift your mood and it’s another outlet to broaden your social circle.

It’s also a good idea to register with the university medical centre if there is one. There was a mumps outbreak on my campus this year and they offered free inoculations to everybody. Considering the wildfire spread of “freshers flu” and the new threat of swine flu, it’s better to sign up sooner rather than later.

University as an Institute of Higher Education

The only regret I have of first year is not knowing about all the resources and extras I could access; it didn’t occur to me to learn a language or take extra electives until about November of my second year.

Most students pay over £3000 every year for a degree… get your money’s worth!

In a similar vein, if you need help with any aspect of academic life, whether that be essay writing, library navigation or computer literacy, seek it in first year- you have much more time on your hands

Oh and one last thing, the best cure for a hangover will always be fruit, water and fresh air. You’ll hate it at first, but if you insist on going out again the next night, you’ll need to stop puking first!

The Bunny Blog

2010-07-15T10:59:00.001+01:00

Courtesy of the Association of Cruise Experts, I sailed on the Carnival Splendor, July 2008, on the condition that I masqueraded as a 17 year old Bunny. This is the resulting "Bunny Blog", currently posted on the ACE website

Thursday 10th July

I hopped on board Carnival Splendor to a fanfare of music and dancing. Lido deck, with an open air pool, bars and restaurants, was buzzing with excited guests and busy staff.

I was just taking in the pool and views on the two tiered outdoor deck, when Splendor’s Godmother, Myleene Klass, took a seat at the baby grand piano and began a rendition of “Sailing” by Rod Stewart. Then a Royal Navy sailor scaled a rope to smash the customary bottle of plonk (Nyetimber English sparkling wine) on the ship’s hull. Carnival definitely pulled out all the stops for the launch of their 22^nd ship. Fireworks and confetti followed and soon the party was in full flow.

As Myleene signed autographs, I went to explore the outdoor decks and sample some of the food on offer. The ship accommodates 3000 guests so I expected a good selection, but nothing as extensive as what was actually offered. There was everything from simple sandwiches to Chinese meals freshly prepared in front of you and 2 buffets remained fully stocked for the whole afternoon… I worried all the guests might get too heavy for the ship!

Within a couple of hours it was time to see the rest of the sights and, more importantly, my cabin.

I arrived to find my suitcase waiting at the door. My stateroom had a balcony with sun loungers, complimentary toiletries, bathrobes and towels. There was plenty of wardrobe space and the room was very clean.

After a quick change it was time to go exploring. With 10 decks of facilities, cabins and places to relax, I had to consult the deck plan to map a route round it all. But I soon found my bearings- the ship is easy to get around and most of the entertainment is centered on Deck 5 and the Atrium areas.

On board entertainment catered to most tastes. Tonight’s show was “Spectacular Spectacular”, a professional cabaret with singing and dancing to rival Broadway.

After the show I listened to the jazz trio in Robusto Bar. The low lights and red leather furnishings created the perfect cruising-chic ambiance and it was the sophisticated way to wind down before dinner! To my surprise I wasn’t the only bunny on board. A hen party wearing bunny ears and tails descended on the bar and popped up later on at the Red Carpet Club.

The main dinner is split into 4 sittings over 2 restaurants with an alternative bistro and salad bar for those who don’t want a sit down meal. I was in the later sitting at the Golden Pearl Restaurant, and although the staff had already served half the ship’s passengers they were still patient and attentive when I arrived. Guests were seated at large tables - the perfect opportunity to meet people.

The choice and quality of food was excellent again and everyone at m table agreed. The service was also great but the highlight of the evening came between main course and desert when the waiters danced!

The Vegas theme was continued in the Restaurant. The Golden Pearl had some unusual mouldings on the walls and ceilings but the ocean views from the floor to ceiling windows were serene, so it wasn’t too much. There are also 2 other restaurants the Black Pearl and the Pink Pearl.

After dinner it was time to explore more bars. I started with El Morocco where Karaoke went on until after midnight. The design was a huge contrast to the other places I’d been- Moroccan style lamps created a calming atmosphere and beautiful mosaics adorned the walls.

The Piano Bar followed; the pianist/ singer entertained everyone with songs from the charts of yesteryear, musicals and films. His piano was in the centre of a ‘bar’, fashioned into giant keys, where guests could sit and sing along.

It was a busy day with lots for a bunny to take in. Splendor really does cater to every taste and whim. The staff I met were courteous and friendly - nothing is too much trouble and they always greet you with a smile.

When I arrived back in my stateroom that night, I saw a towel had been made into a swan and perched on my coffee table. They really have thought of everything!

Friday 11th July

Friday started with a buffet breakfast in Lido deck. Again, the food was excellent and there was a huge selection so guests can choose if they want continental, English or American foods. I sat by the window and watched as we navigated a lock and arrived in the port of Amsterdam.

Disembarkation took a little while because of a mix up with Dutch authorities, but when we did leave the ship we were greeted by a photographer who snapped me with a girl in traditional Dutch costume.

Amsterdam is full of things to do, but trying to do them all isn’t a good idea! A canal or walking tour is a good way to start if you’re a first time visitor because you see the highlights and there’s somebody explain the stories behind them.

From the port I hopped down to the main street towards Dam Square. The main shopping area and Red Light district are on opposite sides of the square. The tourist information office sells 1 day canal and museum passes which are great value if you have a list of places to see.

Most of my day was taken up sightseeing. I went to see Rembrandt’s house (not to be confused with Rijksmuseum) and bought some Dutch souvenirs.

We had to bee back on the ship for 9.30pm but by that time there had already been a game show, Motown show in the theater featuring Marcus Anthony and a variety of other music and dancing opportunities.

It was late when I arrived back on the Splendor, but there was another fun packed night planned. A deck party was held in the outdoor Lido area, with live music, dancing and late night Mexican fare. The usual sing-alongs continued in the karaoke and piano bars and the casino and Red Carpet night club were open until late.

Posted by Bunny at 09:05:48 | Permalink | No Comments »

Saturday 12th July

After the hectic shenanigans of Friday, I was glad to spend a relaxing day at sea. I stayed in my stateroom until mid morning then hopped to Lido deck to (re) sample the amazing variety of foods they have on offer.

A soak in the hot tub with a ‘cock tail of the day’, gave me the perfect opportunity to talk to other guests. Regular cruisers and first timers alike were stunned by the ship’s facilities and entertainment programme and everyone I spoke to loved their time in Amsterdam.

Some of the guests had been to the champagne art auction held in Robusto earlier that day, and others had been trying the many themed trivia quizzes and bingo held at various locations on the ship.

I went on my own little hopping tour of the ships many bars, shops and gym (although I didn’t go as far as to have a work out). Even though I’d been here since Thursday I was still finding new places to go like the amusement arcade and sports bar. The shops were open today (customers regulations meant they were shut yesterday). There were lots of things for women but men weren’t catered for in the same way. One shop sold handbags, jewellery and perfume (with a small selection for men) and the souvenir shop sold mugs, key rings and t-shirts with the Carnival Splendor logo and picture. I bought model Carnival Splendors for some of my bunny friends.

The décor on board was a little much for my tired eyes today- the black tiled lobby with pink and silver leopard print is fantastically brash, but a little too shiny! Saying that, each bar and dining area is themed which makes a nice contrast.

After my tour I indulged in a bit of pampering and sushi before the Captain’s reception and black tie evening.

The Black Tie theme was the pinnacle of the weekend – it was fun to see everybody dressed up and professional photographers took portraits in front of a range of back drops (including the Titanic staircase!) After another dinner in the Golden Pearl it was time for more karaoke, dancing and gambling before a (relatively) early night ahead of tomorrow’s early start.

Posted by Bunny at 09:05:12 | Permalink | No Comments »

Sunday 13th July

Disembarkation was early but I was a good bunny and packed my bags before the Captain’s reception on Saturday, so I went for one last breakfast ‘Splendor style’. I headed to the Golden Pearl today, where they served all kinds of eggs, pastries and cereal, smoked salmon and melon.

Disembarkation took a little while as there were so many guests to check out, but all the staff were helpful and worked together to make everything run smoothly.

Overall, the main hub of activity had been Lido deck which after a day of swimming and socializing, transformed into an open air cinema in the evenings, showing recent releases.

Despite the 3000 guest capacity, the ship didn’t feel over crowded. The Spa was booked up quickly, but only the nightclub got really busy and you wouldn’t want it empty anyway.

The Kid’s Club and teen areas were well equipped but with so much food on offer there’s a strong temptation to spend your afternoon at the pool side and chocolate fountain.

For fans of Carnival’s signature style, Splendor will not disappoint. The 112,000 tonne Vegas-on-Sea is an all American carnival of entertainment, food and drink. However, if understated elegance is your thing this isn’t the place to be. The ships designer, Joe Farcus told me: “when people book a cruise they are buying into the romance of the sea. the design has to take their feet off the land, the normal, and take them out to sea in a very special world, designed to enhance that initial romantic and nautical desire.”

You would need about a week to fully sample everything on board at a reasonable pace, but there are a variety of week long itineraries planned for summer 2008 before Splendor heads to America to begin a run of sailings along the West Coast and Mexican Riviera.

Posted by Bunny at 09:04:32 | Permalink | No Comments »