Robin Williams - The Passing of a Legend

I started writing this blog post at 2:45 in the morning GMT, it is my first on my own blog since the London Riots of 2012, and like with that post, it bears a true significance on life. 

At 2:30a.m I woke up to find that I had been tweeted some terrible news... I was catching up on the news that one Robin Williams, the man that had so easily and fluently brought laughter to my childhood, adolescent, and adult lives, he had passed away after suspected suicide. The first thing I thought was that I had to write; sure I had posted a Facebook post about this tragic event, but there aren't many people who will sit and read a long FB post and you know... Truly read it. So my writing brought me back here, to the scene of much love and laughter in my life, and a sanctuary for my memories. 

Throughout my childhood it was my dream to become an Actor. A dream I have sadly not lived except for on the stages of Northumbria Musical Theatre Society.However, growing up with this dream, wishing and longing to be part of this lucrative, magical, but cut-throat industry, there were few greater people I looked up to and admired than Robin Williams. Through films such as Patch Adams, Jack, Mrs Doubtfire, Toys and Hook his acting, his passion that he allowed you to feel and absorb through the screen, and the messages he taught helped me through times of being bullied as a child, and let me know that if I had compassion, self belief and love for others, then I could get through anything. As I matured into a young man, films such as Dead Poet's Society and Good Will Hunting showed me what it was to live life, and parts of what it took to be a man. No other actor has had such an impact of my development than Williams, and through his incredible talent and dedication to his art, he helped me grow into both the man, and father I am today.

Isn't it strange how, even though you may never have met someone, you may never have spoken on the phone, exchanged emails, or even bumped into them in the street, you can feel a connection to them, a bond that is created out of hours of hearing their voice on the cinema screen or the television. It is this incredible gift of being able to connect with his audience that made Williams the true star he will be remembered for. 

Robin once said, "You are only given one spark of madness, you mustn't lose it". As my clock ticks on past 3:30a.m I realise that he was right. Life is for living, and those dreams and passions you hold inside, you must never let them dull, but embrace them, and ensure every decision you make will lead you down the path to achieving them. I will never understand the pain that a person can feel, the sadness and loneliness that would drive someone to suicide. However, I have felt alone, there have been times when I have sat at home, without any answers or understanding for what is happening around me, and that is a lonely place. Though where I can find solace and comfort in the words of actors like Robin Williams, by simply switching on a film, or opening a book, it is truly heartbreaking to know that this sheer darkness brought on by depression could not be lifted, and Williams turned to taking his own life. 

In that moment, that last glimmer of life, whatever it may be just before you take your last breath. I hope in those final seconds that Robin could look and, if he could know that in his life he had felt even just 1% of the happiness he brought to lives such as mine through his acting, directing, writing and stand-up, then I can assure you that he lived a happy life. 

The world has lost one of its brightest stars, one that lit up the night sky for 63 years.The family he has left behind who, amid his recent struggles with sobriety stood by him and supported him all they could, they have lost what will feel like the largest part of their lives. Robin brought so much joy, happiness and love to so many lives around the world; if films could bring around World Peace and love then please someone stick on Flubber and watch as the universe unites in laughter. 

As I sit here, having to get up for work in under 3 hours time, and as my tears begin to hit my keyboards, I can only express with all my heart how much I appreciated the life of Robin Williams, and how much I, like I am sure many of you will also, wish that I could have gotten the chance to thank him for his lifetime of dedication to putting a smile on people's faces. In your passing, though it has brought sheer sadness to me, it has also brought me back to my writing, and for that I also thank you. 

Williams' death is truly tragic. It is a devastating thought to know that a person felt that much sadness that they were driven to such a point. If you feel alone, or depressed, if there is a darkness that has surrounded you like it did Robin, I want you to know that you are not alone in this feeling. Millions of people around the world suffer from mental illness and depression, and there are people who can help such as 'Mind', http://www.mind.org.uk/. Nobody should ever feel so alone and helpless that they resort to taking their own lives, and if Robin Williams' death teaches us anything, it is that we must provide better support and help for those in their time of need. 

Perhaps the greatest quote I can find of Robin's is that, "No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world". This is a motto we should all live by; if you have something to say, a passion to express, a dream to achieve, then write it down, shout it out, be heard and let the world know you are here. This is our world, and it is ours to mould the way we see it. It is our responsibility to achieve all we can, and in doing so, to change the world for the better. Your words matter, your life counts, and if we can each do our bit to improve this world just a little bit, then that will go a long way to making this a better place for our children and for generations to come after that.

Robin's wife, Susan Schneider said today that, "This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings". No better words will be spoken about Williams in his life or his death, it is comfort for us all to know that he knew not just one but two great, life-changing loves. That of his family and wife, Susan, and that of his art. Since the 1970's he had been an important part of the acting world, and his loss will send shockwaves throughout the industry. Be it an intense, serious role, a heart-warming one, a one-man show with laughs galore or a getting into costume and transforming into someone new, Williams lit up the screen and wowed audiences each and every time. And with that talent, that God-given gift, he was able to make even the saddest of little ginger boys the happiest kid on the face of the Earth... For that I here thank you Robin Williams... A true Legend. 

Robin once said, "Death is nature's way of telling you that your table is ready" well I think I speak for us all when I say that I wish that reservation had been put back a hell of a lot longer. 

Rest in Peace Robin Williams, and from the bottom of my heart and soul, thank you for every second of joy and happiness you have brought to mine and so many others' lives.

Robin Williams: 1951 - 2014

Matty Clarke's photostream

Matty Clarke's photostream on Flickr.

The Most Likely To...

Good evening bloggers... It's been a while ;)

Acknowledgements

I used to think I had forever to know what I wanted to do, what I wanted to be, and who I wanted to be with. Now I sit here, 4 days from handing in the single most important piece of work I have ever had to do, and under two months from having finished my university life. I look around me and think about what I have achieved, and I immediately know that I have achieved nothing more important than meeting the most amazing people.

Often people ask me what's next? And I am confident in answering that I am not all that sure at the moment. I have a dream of living in New York, of being accepted onto the Mountbatten Programme, and of living my life how I wish to. Do I have a plan B? At the moment I do not, I wish I did, but I simply know not what I want to do. I am indecisive. I feel incomplete. I have not yet reached the point in my life where I can openly say I am ready to move on from this life, a life that revolves around socialising, around friendships and close bonds. I dare not cut the ties, for I wish not for the bridges to fall.

They say you lose touch with something like 90% of the people you meet across your academic life, I will forever try to prove this wrong. I have been studying in higher education now for six years if you include sixth form, and I find it one of the easiest things when I say, I regret nothing. Especially not meeting all the people I have. Sure I have not got along with everyone, I mean come on, I’m ginger, I’m a fiery git! But I would not change my situation for anything else in the world, I would not give up the troubles and trials I have met to have coated through. I would not change the hard work and late nights for a free ride. And I most certainly would have not change the break-ups and make-ups for a care-free life, for every single experience, good or bad, has led to me being who I am right here right now. And of myself, I could not be prouder.

I have met, loved and even lost some of the greatest, smartest, funniest and, without a doubt, craziest characters possible, and this blog is a dedication to all those, across four fantastic years of university. I thank you all for your friendship and your love. I hope this supplies even just a small taste of the warm, kind, humorous and perfect feeling that you have given me. Lets get this show started.

The 'Most Likely To' Awards

The nominations for 'Most Likely To... Become World Famous' Are...

• James Walsh – For his dazzling star studded exploits on YouTube
• Katie Bilton – For solving the Italian economic crisis... with her vagina
• Craig Morrison – For taking 'Brits Abroad' to a whole other level
• Chloe Dougan – For her starring role in Dave hit show Woman vs Food

And the winner is... for their unwitting brilliance and majestic naivity, James Walsh. James can be currently found coaching at The Sheffield Eagles rugby team supposedly learning some new moves for a few videos he, 'has in mind'.

The nominations for 'Most Likely To... Receive a Knighthood Are...

• Mathew J Evans – For his services to Trolling
• Laura Payne – For her services to the Gin industry
• Kate Newman – For her service to Cleavage
• Ash Milns – For his services to Snaking
• Edd Cook – For his services to Truancy
• Scott Lindsay – For his services to Cointreau

And the winner is, for their sheer, shameless and dedicated lifelong slog, Edd Cook. Edd can be currently found playing Xbox with his two cats when he should be doing his dissertation.

The nominations for 'Most Likely To... Shop Until They Drop' Are...

• Katy Snowdon – With a glass of wine in hand as time passes her by
• Lisa Brown – With her pet Chihuahua Alfie in close tow
• Ash Milns – Who knew one guy could shop online so much
• Sam Maloney – For his sheer time taken to do any medial task

And the winner is, for their brutal misuse of government funding, and their open admittance that they, 'probably didn't need that', Ashley Milns. Ash can currently be found hiding from the outside world in his student house as his dissertation swallows him whole.

The nominations for 'Most Likely to... Go Out In a Blaze of Alcohol Fuelled Glory' Are...

• Sean Potter – Whether it be doing the robot or AVBombing this boy puts 'em back
• Tori Clarke – Be it on the vodkas at family Xmas or Jaeger with the wife
• Matty Stevens – Red Wine, Vodka, Mojitos or just plain beer, this Turk nows how to roll
• Mathew Clarke – AVB shouldn’t drink so much, maybe its why he lost his job
• James Mellor – Swallows alcohol like a fish in the sea. Ungodly and unashamed.

And the winner is. Due to pure dedication to the cause over an extended period of time, Matty Stevens. Xavi as he is known to his closests, can be found in his bed, sleeping off the days pints.

The nominations for 'Most Likely to... Be Arrested For Public Disorder' Are...

• Sean Potter – For the harassment of innocent rabbits
• Samantha Robinson – For the soliciting of drunken texts
• Thomas Melody – For indecent exposure
• Simon Rogers – For harassment of innocent bystanders
• Mathew J Evans – For Trolling all over Facebook
• Joe Marriot – Harassment by Draw Something

And the winner is, due to an insane amount of buzz gained in the run up to these awards, Mathew J Evans. Matty can currently be found masturbating into a trainer sock whilst eating calzone.

The nominations for 'Most Likely to... Become a Reality TV Star' Are...

• James Walsh – Rude Tube
• Tom Melody – Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer
• Simon Rogers – At One With My Sheep
• Sam Maloney – Playing It Straight
• Chris Richards – Pimp My Ride Donx

And the winner is, because of how much I would love to see the show, Simon Rogers. Simon can currently be found in Hull regretting the day he chose to go to uni.

The nominations for 'Most Likely to... End a World War' Are...

• Sarah Bailey – With her 'intelligent reasoning'
• Lucy Robinson – With those smoky eyes
• Sophie Attari – With her great political nouse
• Sam Maloney – With his reliable raptor hands

And the winner is, because nobody can deny their delightful delayed bants and unawareness to all around, is Sam Maloney. Sam can be currently found in Northumbria Library, still unpacking his stuff from this morning.

The Nominations for 'Most Likely To... Break A World Record' Are...

• Kellie Westerman – For most over-achieving natural blonde
• Mike McPherson – For longest time taken to do hair
• Luke McMahon – Most refusals for nights out
• Katie Bilton – Most penis to surface area
• 'The Cadiz Crew' – For most alcohol consumed over the space of 2 weeks (Carnaval)

And the winner is, for the sheer amount of alcohol consumed during the fortnight of Carnaval, never mind the reminder of the time there, is the Cadiz Crew. They can now be found separated around the world all looking back with tears in their eyes.

The Nominations for 'Most Likely To... Run Away With ____' Are...

• Mairi Davies – Most Likely To Run Away With a Tractor
• Natasha Pitt – Most Likely To Run Away Without Anything To Her Name
• Kellie Westerman – Most Likely To Run Away With A Cutout Of Edward Cullen
• Ash Milns – Most Likely To Run Away With A Tied Up Mike McPherson
• Tom Melody – Most Likely To Run Away With A Bus Of Schoolchildren
• Kate Newman – Most Likely To Run Away With An Entire Sports Team
• Dave Smith – Most Likely To Run Away With His Shadow And A Can of Beer

And the winner is, for the pure fact it would probably happen, Ash Milns. Ash can currently be found in his room plotting the very plan outlined above.

The Nominations for 'Most Likely To... Run Their Own Explicit Company' Are...

• Kate Newman – Why Have Your Boobs When You Can Have Mine
• Ash Milns – I'll Fix Your Roof-Alin
• Sam Maloney – Raptor Hands Happy Endings
• Steph Chan – I'll Have a Number 69 With Boiled Rice Please

And the winner is, by a clear mile, and picking up their first award of the evening, Kate Newman. Kate can currently be found harassing sportsmen and saying dumbass things across Nottingham's night-scene

The Nominations for 'Most Likely To... Front A Criminal Organisation' Are...

• Sam Maloney – Thai Brides Go Wild
• Mairi Davies – Farmers Alliance
• Lucy Robinson – Delhi Belly
• James Walsh – Slapheads
• Tom Melody – His Own take on Kony's army
• Sean Potter – JD and Co...caine
• Joanna Burke – Shamrocks and Cider Army
• Steph Chan – 7 Dwarves

And the winner is, for the fear it instils in the world to have this gang running cities and even countries, Mairi Davies. Mairi can now be found rolling hay bails and driving tractors around Britain's countryside.

And finally, The most coveted prize of the evening follows;

The Nominations for 'Most Likely To... Succeed' Are...

Well there are no nominations for this one. It is simple. I need not think about it and nobody need debate it. You all will. No matter if you have been mentioned or not. Such as Geoff or Clodagh, James or James Tom, Tom or Tom, Oli or whoever. No fret, no worries. I have faith in us all, for this generation is the special, we are special. We will be great, not because of what we have achieved thus far, but for what we will achieve in the years to come because of what we have learnt from one another. So tomorrow, when you are freaking out over exams, assignments, dissertations or essays. Relax. Take a breath and look at those around you, and think of this. One day you will be successful, in whatever you do, you will be successful, be it a great parent, a rich businessman, a coveted novelist, a wily reporter or brilliant teacher, no matter what you do, you will be successful and it will not be from what you learnt in school, in lectures and in books, but because of what you learnt from one another. That is perhaps the greatest lesson you can learn.

Happy Blogging :)

Poems.

To Live But A Dream

Oh if i could live but a dream,
A thousands moments, a million seconds as one,
Drifting through lifes different scenery,
Landscapes and floating lightly through song.

To lead my life like directing a film,
To enhale the future and breathe in the past,
All so close, so near, so possible,
Yet all which vanishes, to be gone so fast.

I wish I could stay asleep for all of time,
Sailing on seas as vast as my imagination,
To wake is to die a little, to lose that I have created,
For now I must wait, watch and be patient.

Months go by, the weeks seem like years,
The pain of those lost in the tears on my pillow,
To know but for only eight hours we shall be together,
Great wars and great loves lost, a tough pill to swallow.

I fear I must leave them all behind,
Moving on in life within the limits of reality,
Living each day as twenty four long hours in time,
And change this world as my dream world i did so passionately.


Name In Lights

Fame and all fortune, your name up in lights,
The hassle the pain, all your secrecy dissapeared,
Each day turns into one long series of fights,
The crash as it all ends just as you'd feared.

Would it be harder to have it and lose it,
Or to not know it at all, not even a tad,
To live life with everyone knowing your shit,
Or to live as a nobody, is that really so bad?

To have all the wonder for simply one day,
And for every man and woman to scream your name,
Being known in every country, every city, everyway,
And then it's all gone and you're back to your same...

Old life on the dole, struggling as nothing but a shadow,
"Please give me a chance i'll bet ya i'll do"
Bit parts in your own imaginary life below,
"Please just don't give up on me, i'm a somebody"... somebody who?

I'll show them i'll make it, your parents said how,
But i'll work twice as hard and i'll pay my own way...
To Hollywood, to stardom if you'll allow,
But that big break still don't come and now all you say...

"Is I need fifty bucks for some crack, some sniff, some coke"...
"I'm good for the dough, you'll see i'll be a star",
Ten days later no money, and he's a big fucking bloke,
But you lost it, gave up, fameless and far...

From the home you once knew, the dream was too big,
Beat you down till your nothing, nothing to the Police,
Who look up at your hanging body, your big final gig,
Beat by the game, may they rest in peace.

Lonely Hearts

Afternoon Bloggers,

So upon the request of quite a few people i thought i would take a moment out of my busy schedule (Dissertation, Work and of course managing Chelsea are keeping me very busy!!) and write to all my lovely followers.

It has been quite some time since we last spoke, since my rant which i apologise for to those who i may have hurt, but my reasons were pure. I have since become single, turned 22 and kicked the first semester of final year's ass :) so there have been some ups and downs!! However today i think it's time to reflect, to consider what we have, and think of those who have not.

Those who truly know me, the real me, know me to be among other things a people person. If i were to describe myself in one sentence it would have to be a lanky, ginger, happless romantic who surrounds himself with people and loves to have the attention every now and again ;). Now there may be those who dissagree, there may even be those who wholy agree. However, this is how i see me. Ambitious and driven perhaps, charming and witty maybe, but the above sentence is the core of me, without the facades, without illusions, me, stripped.

But there are times, even for me who many consider to be a 'people person', where i find myself sat on my bed, staring at my computer screen, missing people, and being as a whole, pretty lonely. My parents are just on the end of a telephone line as are other family members including my older sister, whilst my younger sister resides a mere 20 minute walk away. Facebook tells me i have 984 friends, probably around a third of whom are also living in Newcastle, so loneliness should be a million miles away.

However, why do i find myself feeling that way at times? Perhaps it is because i, like many others, take what i have for granted. The people we are closest to we often treat poorly, and we forget how lucky we are to have them around us. Recently a poor girl from my hometown of Doncaster was murdered, she was by herself in a park after being stabbed on her way to meet her friends. She herself had to ring the police and report the crime, she soon died of the fatal wounds. Do i deserve to allow myself to feel lonely when i am fortunate enough to have a world of friends and family so close?

The answer is no, I would be stupid to truly consider myself alone, Casey was alone when she was stabbed, the poor girl was alone in the middle of a park as she was cruely taken away from her friends and family.

I turned 22 exactly a month ago, I spent a long weekend celebrating turning old and wrinkly with some of the best people around. My friends helped me to get plastered beyond belief. In the process i got lamped by a girl, which gave me a beautiful black lip! Spilt numourous drinks on lovely new clothing, wandered to previously unknown parts of both my drunken states and Newcastle! And not forgetting of course, managed to keep drinking beyond those days and make myself lovely and ill!!

I truly believe there can be moments, when we are away from family, when we are bored, that our minds can wander, wander off into devoid scenarios, where it feels we have nothing to do, and nobody to do it with. However, it is these times that i say to you, take those pensive moments and put them to good use. Think about those less fortunate; the homeless people with nowhere to live. The mothers in Africa who have to watch their children die because they have no money for healthcare. The soldiers dying in hospitals thousands of miles for home protecting our freedom, and even Casey, as she lie there in Doncaster, fighting for her life, with nobody there to tell her it was going to be alright. I ask you, use these solitary moments of reflection to remember those we have lost, and those who sit alone, with nothing and no-one, for it is these people who are truly lonely, you, well you are just having a bad day.

Chin Up.

Unnecessary Politics: The Rise And Fall Of A Dreamer

Three months ago the ever enthisiastic, smiley and happy Mathew Clarke sat down with the ever majestic Sean 'Pistol' Potter to be interviewed about Clarke's upcoming directorial debut with PROJECT X. Today you would be pushed to find similarities between Clarke of today and of three months before. Today we see a sullen face, a broken man, beaten down and ready to give in.

During the interview Clarke was thrilled to be asked about his love for Musical theatre and his excitement at the opportunity that had come his way, auditions were underway and everything was going swimmingly. You could be forgiven for assuming this was to be a great production, and that Clarke's enthusiasm would drive it home.

But things never go to plan do they, there are always bumps in the road, some bigger than others... some egos bigger than others. The cast grew, the cast shrunk, enthusiasm picked up and dropped off, but with a production, these things happen.

Clarke couldn't have asked to work with a better group of people, he ensured he had the best people around him to allow it to run smoothly and be a good show. He fixed it so the people with the right expertise looked over the right parts of the show, and was happy with the way the show was coming along. Numbers were dished out, ideas batted around, and the rehearsals set in motion.

If you could have heard some of the singers, soloist supremos, smashing numbers from hit musicals that have been performed on the most famous stages of the world, it was a great formula for a great show. So where did it all go wrong?

Like building a house, if the foundations arent there, the house will fall down, but if the foundations are there, but are bad, rotten foundations, then the house will collapse, the building will fall, and all the work that went into it, the design and dreams will dissapear, and die in a pile of rubble.

As well as building a house, building a structure, an organisation, even a family, needs the same solid foundations, sadly, those were overlooked, a genuine oversight in this case, a miscalculation, at first seemingly small, that festered and finally brought down the house.

The idea was big, the idea was ambitious, the idea was shot down. Idea becoming ideas week by week, the enthusiasm was sucked out by the fun police, the house began to wobble. The show became little more than a group of numbers thrown together in haste. The talent would still shine, but the backbone, the heart of the show had been ripped out and broken.

Bit by bit Clarke would be beaten down, belittled and feel downheartened as the pesimistic vultures started to circle. He still maintained hope, he still clung on in hope. The cast were still the same talented bunch, the same smiley faces, the same undoubtable effort, who were to receive the same lack of thanks.

But hey, work was done and they moved on, struggling in an uphill battle towards the show, as the weeks passed, and the show drew closer, the negative views started to grind the upbeat Clarke, then the shit hit the fan. A stupid, unproffessional mistake from Clarke saw the foundations begin to crumble, people began to talk, people began to bitch, and although people make mistakes, perhaps not all are forgiven.

Then something strange happened, a glimmer, a shining light of positivity, a mere 5 days till the show, and the majority of the group numbers were ready, the solos sounded good and attitudes were on the up, the words 'Im confident it will be a great show' were uttered, but uttered in hypocrisy, and the term familiarity breeds contempt springs to mind.

Like Julius Caeser Clarke was destined to fall, as the haters drew ever closer, and their plots were set in motion, the foundations began to crumble, and the house began to fall, now, like Caeser was, Clarke is left, alone, stabbed in the back from nowhere.

When did postivity leave the world, when did people become okay with belittling the dreams of others, and screwing over their friends? Come March, come 'Clarke's show' in which he will not be, you can understand if Clarke is nowhere to be seen, hoping for the fall of what could be described as the third reich. They call it a society, they claim it to be a democracy, their regime remains, their arses comfy on their much needed large thrones.

The Day Society Imploded

The scenes on the television, the noises in the street, fear fills most, but those few, those idiotic few, have found something else, a new found lust for destruction, for theft and anarchy. This is not 1981, this is 2011. Under a year until this proud country plays host to the top athletes and invites the world to join us for the greatest spectacle in the world... the 2012 Olympic Games.

Some may blame this on the death of one man from London. Mr Duggan, a father of four, was shot in Ferry Lane, Tottenham, north London, on Thursday, as officers attempted to make an arrest. There may be no evidence to suggest Mr. Duggan opened fire on the officers, but a gun was found on the scene. What was to come next could not have been predicted... Some of the worst scenes Britain has seen for many years.

Since Saturday England has been plagued by the complete devastation of buildings, looting of stock and the abuse of the police force. Starting in London that terrible night, we have seen shops burnt to the ground, once of course everything in there had been stolen, and groups of hundreds if not thousands of young people uprising against the people we put our faith in every day to protect us and our streets.

But where exactly were the police? It is clear to see that the situation was not handled as well as it could have and should have been. Many people have been interviewed and quoted as saying that they rang for the police, in desperate need of assistance, and, sadly, their calls were not answered. Youths left to their on devices, youths that without a doubt should not have been out at such times of the night as 3a.m when the riots were still going on.

So what or who is to blame? Were the police too trigger happy, were the police too slow to react to the uprising we are still seeing 4 days later? Are these just a collection of Britain's scum? Are we seeing an eventual reaction to the financial turmoil we see the world's economy in? Well if not the answer, I do know one thing... This may be the beginning of a sad and sorry end to society as we know it.

Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, and several areas of London sit in devastation and turmoil. Society is in a downward spiral and as the economy fails, and the government fail to act accordingly, there is one outlet, one service that has thrived, and sadly it has thrived in the worst way... Social networking has provided a way for the scum of Britain to get in touch and coordinate attacks and riots. On the 9^th of August 2011 perhaps the saddest and most disgraceful Facebook request was published... One sad, pathetic, horrific person organised for people to meet at 5pm at Salford Shopping Centre in Manchester to 'Steal Things'. A sad day for us all I think you'll agree.

What is this answer? How do we fight this issue? How can you stop this when there are people, men and women, aged everything between 7 and 47 ignoring every social norm, all respect for people around them and joining together to fight against the very people who are here to keep you safe? Plastic Bullets has been tipped as the best answer. But if this was America we wouldn't just see riot police trying to calm things down, the Army would be in, the real bullets would be out, and lives, however sad it may be, would be lost... But our police force are not allowed to do this. Bring out the water cannon? Not a chance says Theresa May.

The 6,000 brave men and women in the police force who were battling the crowds up until today, has now been raised to 16,000 police officers on the streets to try and nip this in the bud as soon as possible. To the Police Officers who are risking their lives to stop this nightmare, I commend you, you are brave, and brilliant, but you are too late. The government's decision to delay this move, to not decide upon this until the 4^th day, has let down those tax paying, honest citizens of Britain who have seen their homes destroyed and work places looted. Mr. Cameron you have let us down. Bring in what Army forces we haven't shipped out to fight yet, bring in the water cannons and plastic bullets, bring in an early curfew, bring in trucheons and tear gas, where is our Zero Tolerance to gang crime now?

111 of those brave officers who have put themselves in danger in the line of duty have been injured, people have been stabbed, shot, killed, and what is happening? Not a lot!

In this social networking world, our imperfect society has come undone. A faltering economy, a lack of opportunity for young people, and friction between the police and gangs around London have all been quoted as reasons for this nightmare, but I have some facts to add, some home truths that, thanks to this horrific time have been made aware;

• What are the parents of these youths doing? Children being allowed, some maybe encouraged to go out and join the madness, by parents who will probably sit on benefits, drinking their sorry lives away.
• The government has failed to react in a strong manner to combat the obvious uprising. The coalition has once more let us down in our times of need.
• The youth crime culture that has haunted our streets since the birth of the 'chav' has not been dealt with.

These sorry truths are now haunting us, and this, without a shadow of a doubt, needs to stop. These are not riots, this is not a reaction to the death of Mr. Duggan on Thursday. This is not Brixton Riots. This is the thuggish, yob, youth culture rising up, from their low IQ, Jeremy Kyle, Strong Cider, no qualification lives, and taking what is not theirs. People's livelihoods they have worked for. People's homes they have earned. People's history and future gone within days of sheer idiocy and anarchy.

A few right steps have been taken to stop this devastation; fast-track courts have been opened to see the criminals put to justice. Plastic Bullets are being given to the brave police who's numbers are gladly being increased to stem this mayhem.

This has been a sad time for our society. We no longer stand as a proud country, but a country ashamed of the people we see around us acting in such a shameful way.

Thanks to Twitter, Facebook and BlackBerry Messenger, this has surely become the biggest organised crime case in history.

My fellow educated people, let us all come together, as the scum has, but instead of destroying people's lives, let us join together to correct all the wrongs of these sad people.

And The Award Goes To......

Afternoon Bloggers,
So after 9 months in the sun, i only have 5 days remaining in the place that i have come to call home... Cadiz. Like at the end of all great seasons, football, film, music, music and television, there comes the awards. And with the end of the Cadiz blog very close, this is no different.

So by selecting the most appropriate of awards from the BAFTAS and Oscar's, it is my proud priveledge to announce the nominations and results for the Academy of Cadiz Erasmus Awards 2011 (ACEA)

But first thing i have to mention the amazing 3 weeks i have had since we last spoke, things have really taken off here in Cadiz, a moment too late, blink, and its now over! First visitor was Craig 'The Lad' Morrison, a week in the sort of sun with him, drinking and partying hard, loving life with an old freind, reminscing of times gone by. Then came Charlotte, one of my best friends in the world, and who i had an amazing weekend with, also with one of her close friends Scouse Jade. Then arrived Claire, here for a week, one of the best weeks ever, hand down, and our first real amaount of time together, amazing! Then she was gone and for a day i was alone, no visitors here to rid the sadness from my bones, but just around the corner was a big ball of banter.... James Walsh, the Youtube Legend and loyal reader ond feature of this Blog, and this week with him, (now longer as he has cooly extended his stay to go home with me!!!!) has been truly sensational.

On top of the visitors, the business has been going swimmingly, Erasmus payed us a nice amount for our Uni lifestyle here, exams have gone well and the sun has been blazing down beautifully!

Best Male in a Leading Role:

• Michael McPherson in the rollercoaster RomCom 'The Dark Kike'
• Max Sturridge in the hilarious Inbetweeners-esque 'Why Won't It Work?'
• Ashley Milns in the reoccuring nightmare of 'Floppy'
• Matthew Stevens in the Glittery madness of 'Carnaval'

And the Award, after much deliberation, goes to Ashley Milns for his dedication to the cause, narrowly beating out Matty's drinking dedication to the Prize

Best Female in a Leading Role:

• Katie Bilton in the knackering 'The Italian Job'
• Maisie Kennedy in the risque Cadiz slot of 'The L Word'
• Kellie Westerman in The Painfully awkward 'Slam: A Tale of Two Doors'
• Laura Payne in The mystery departure RomCom 'For a Boy!'

And the Award, for Best Female in a Leading Role, for Cadiz 2011, goes to, for her consistency over the long time spent filming and her commitment to the cause, Katie Bilton, narrowly beating out Kellie Westerman in her hilarious role in Slam.

Best Male in a Supporting Role:

• Lucas Uhold in the exciting 'Fight Club'
• Dave Smith in 'For a Boy!'
• Alex Coyne in the seaside college comedy 'Fraturday'
• Mathew Clarke in the drag queen thriller 'Halloween'

And the award, for Best Male in a Supporting Role, goes to, and this was a difficult one, they all performed so well, but in the end, due to comedy value, the award goes to Dave Smith for his persistent annoyance of Laura Payne in For A Boy.

Best Female in a Supporting Role:

• Kellie Westerman in 'The Dark Kike'
• Bee Heal improving her Spanish in 'International Relations'
• Kate Newman for her portrayal of Max's supportive friend in 'Why Won't it Work?'
• Lucy Robinson in the Crime Drama 'The BBQ Thief'

And the award, after changing my mind 4 times, each person having recieved it at least once in my mind, goes to, for her delicate, under-the-radar portrayal of a predator, Bee Heal.

Best Newcomer:

• Craig Morrison in the Hangover-esque 'The American'
• James Walsh in the alcohol fueled 'Vomatron'
• Mael M'Baye making a brilliant cameo in 'Carnaval'
• Abi Housden in the chilled sofa comedy 'Connect Four'.

And the winner, coming out of nowhere to grab not only the girl, but the award here is Craig Morrison.

Makeup and Hair Design:

• Matthew Stevens for his Yellow, Gold and Silver outings in 'Carnaval'
• Matthew Stevens in his sexy Nurse costume and Red Hair in 'Halloween'
• Mathew Clarke in Blonde and PVC as a slutty Nurse in 'Halloween'
• Sam Maloney giving his best 'Suited Up' attempt in 'Granada Couture'

After much discussion between myself and me, erm, the award, although i somehow came last in this category, goes to Mathew Stevens for his role in Halloween, a ghastly mess which looked somehow scarily perfect.

Best Moment in Drama:

• Kellie Westerman slams the door in Mike's face in 'Slam...' the painful prequel to 'The Dark Kike'
• Katie Bilton hobbling to the Hospital during 'Carnaval' madness
• Katie Bilton susses Me and Claire out in Umec in the edge of your seat romance 'Risky Business'
• Lucas Uhold drops broken legged Fausto mid HelicopterMan in 'Fight Club'

And the award, in a tough category in which any of the 3 people from the four moments could have snatched the award...... goes to...... Katie Bilton for her brilliant sisterly nouse which helped her to suss out mine and Claire's relationship, 3 days after it began!

Best Moment in Comedy:

• Lucas Uhold running around in 'Carnaval' dressed as a gay bee
• Mike McPherson getting kicked out of Granada 10 topless in 'Granada Couture'
• Laura Payne picking her sick out of her sink and throwing it our of her window in 'For a Boy'
• Ash Milns pissing himself in the street outside our hostel in the opening scenes of 'Slam...'
• James Southam for his inability to stand up in Magdala in '1 Tequila, 2 Tequila....'

Like all great comedy moments these four had the magic formula, great participants, the shock value, perfect timing, and the hilarity factor. One of the hardest decisions so far, but after taking time out to let my mind wander back to these great moments, the award goes to..... Laura Payne for her shockingly gross puking incident.

Best Original Storyline:

• Mike McPherson and Kellie Westerman's Kike romance in 'The Dark Kike'
• 'Carnaval' opening weekend madness
• Granada weekend in 'Granada Couture'
• Portugal Road Trip in 'Four go Car-Boating' 

All four of these were perhaps the most brilliant, random and enjoyable of times here in Cadiz, out of nowhere these occured, from Mike and Kellie's love, Carnaval's manic opening weekend, The brilliant weekend celebrating Tash and Mike's birthdays in Granada or the Road Trip in which Myself, Tash, Katie and Ash almost sank in floods on our way to having an amazing time travelling to and from Portugal in one day. However a winner must be chosen, and by the hair on my nose, the award goes to Granada Couture for giving us a great weekend in Granada, partying, hanging and seeing the beautiful sights.

Best Adapted Storyline:

• 'Halloween' costume madness
• Sam Maloney's inability to pay the right amount at a restaurant in 'Special Sam'
• 'Carnaval' closing weekend madness
• Erasmus new arrivals in 'Welcome to the Free Life'

Each of these great storylines could have knicked it, each one a shadow of another great time before, but in the end, because of consistency, annoyance, comic value and how it sticks in your memories, the award goes to Sam Maloney for his, A in Maths ALevel or not, inability to add up his items on a bill and pay the correct amount for his meals.

Best Director:

• Mathew Clarke for Directing England's World Cup Futbol Sala win in '3 Lion Glory'
• Matthew Stevens for Directing Cadiz's Erasmus Futbol Sala win in 'Malaga Mayhem'
• Lucas Uhold's HelicopterMan in 'Fight Club'
• Katie Bilton's directional struggle to keep Matty Stevens' shirt on in 'Its Getting Hot In Here'

There are few people who can say they have managed a World Cup winning England team, but a few weeks ago in the 3rd Cadiz World Cup, arguably the toughest so far, playing indoors, to Futbol Sala rules, i became able to say that, and so, and one of the proudest moments of my life, The Award for Best Director goes to me Mathew Clarke for Managing Englands World Cup Winning team.

Rising Star Award:

• BBQ Club in 'Lazy Days'
• James Walsh in 'Vomatron'
• Claire Bilton in 'Risky Business'
• Clodagh Ryan in 'Chill Out Clo'

Although i probably risk castration for the outcome of this category, after much hard thinking, and head hurting, the final decision is made, and the award for the Rising Star in Cadiz award goes to James Walsh for his ability to slot straight into the group and go harder when needed, drink drink drink the Cadiz way! (Sorry Claire!

Best Music:

• Stephan Meine
• Alcon Moroney
• Matthew Stevens
• Dave Smith

DJ sets here there and everywhere, pre drinks, bar crawls, beach days, someone always has a playlist on the go, or can be seen fading tracks into each other, laptop on knee, drink in hand, but this category was always a two-horse race, and the bookies favourite came through strong. After a recent return to Cadiz, DJ Stephan Meine has stolen the award from the hands of Alcon.

Best Animation:

• Matthew Stevens' classroom penis drawings in 'Welcome To The Free Life'
• Mathew Clarke's Lecturer drawings in 'Welcome To The Free Life'
• Maisie Kennedy, Natasha Pitt and Sarah Bailey's Posh Scale in 'Three Puta's, a Pad and Pen'
• James Southam for his ability to create a Zoo on his mobile Phone Cover in 'Welcome To The Free Life'
• Lucy Robinson for her Spanish Lit Love Hearts and Scribbles in, 'Welcome To The Free Life'

Drawings are not just drawings, each one of these magical sketches or designs are a way to pass time during dull lectures, pass by the rainy Cadiz days, and fill your life with a bit of childish fun, and although normally quality would prevail, and Lucy Robinson would win this category, her lack of imagination and flair has led the judges to a 3 horse race between James, Stevens and The Girls. Each one displaying a desire to ignore the task at hand and express their artistic side. Each one deserving recgnition, but only one can win, and after the recent death of half of James' phone zoo, and Matthew Stevens' recent Penis drawing drought, the award, for the longevity of the laughs and the imagination and inspiration of the project goes to Maisie, Natasha and Sarah for the Posh Scale.

Best Foreign Language:

• Geoff
• Stephan Meine
• Lucas Uhold
• Liz Zy
• Papa Shmumph

Each of the above have successfully integrated themself not only into Cadiz life, but into an English group of friends which must be pretty daunting for any foreigner. However although they may all deserve the award, and recgnition for their efforts, only one can win. So the award for Best Foreign Language member of the Cadiz 2011 crew goes to..... Papa Schmumph, for his long term battle with starvation, murky waters, loud music, alcohol abuse, and Fausto as an owner.

Best Writing:

• Cadiz: A Journey Too Far or The Beginning of More – Mathew Clarke
• A Room With A Review – Matthew Stevens' 'special' film reviews
• Motivation....less. Michael McPherson's Pre-World Cup(2) speech
• Kellie Westerman's Jekyll and Hyde essay.

The Award, for best writing, after a year of inspiration stemming from the characters, scenery and eevents around in Cadiz, goes to this Blog, Mathew Clarke: Cadiz; A Journey Too Far? Or The Beginning Of More.... narrowly beating out Matty's 'special' reviews and Kellie's brave attempt at her Jekyll and Hyde essay.

Best Dance Direction:

• Matthew Stevens' '3 Step' in 'Vomatron'
• Lucas Uhold HelicopterMan in 'Fight Club'
• Ashley Milns 'Tonight I'm Lovin You' in 'Floppy'
• Michael McPherson Granada 10 topless dance in 'Granada Couture'
• Mathew Clarke World Cup2 Macarena celebration in 'So Near Yet So Far'

Its never easy to decide the last category, a retired category in the Academy Awards of Hollywood now, but here in Cadiz, with the amounts of nights out, football celebrations, and all round mayhem that goes on here, we had to include this brilliant category. With the judging panel split, it was down to me to cast the final (and only) vote, so to finish ACEA 2011, The Award for Best Dance Direction, goes to, for his imagination in the moment, and ability to recall a drunken dance, Matthew Stevens for his '3 step' routine which is taking the breath away of people all around Cadiz nightclubs.

Special Mentions

Special Mentions go to the whole Cadiz Erasmus crew of 2011, my amazing housemates, our brilliant English crew both first and second semester, the Germans from San Antonio of first and second semester, the Italians, The Americans, The French, Polish, Dutch, Mexicans, Spanish, Belgians, Irish, North Africans, the people from all over the world i a, proud and honoured to be able to now call my friends, to the good times we have hard, and the difficult times we have all made it through and have come out smiling. You are all brilliant people and i thank you all.

Also a special mention goes out to all my mates back home in England and out on Erasmus placements around Europe and placements elsewhere who have read this blog religiously, i truly thank you, even if you have only read one every other month, it means alot to me that all you guy here in Cadiz and around the world give up time in your days to read what i have to say, I couldn't thank you all enough.

To all my family and all my friends, thankyou for your love, support and friendship throughout this year, you all mean the world to me.

A Final Fond Goodbye

What a brilliant year! The Best of my life, I'v one of the most perfect places in the world, A tonne of Perfect friends, all for life, and the Perfect girl, what more could i ask for? I have had a dream of a time here, yes there have been ups and downs just like in every situation, but we have gotten through them all, and come out the other side smiling and the best of friends. This has by far been the Time of my life, not only the Cadiz life, but writing for you guys, my loyal readers, i cannot stress how much it means to me that you give me the time in your days to read this. I hope you find the same time in your busy schedules next year to read it, and that i find the time to write to you all.

I am very sad at the prospect of leaving this place and these people, to leave behind La Caleta, Playa Santa Maria, Playa Victoria, McDonalds, Sagasta 36, San Antonio, The Bars, The Clubs, La Punta, Plaza Mina Ice Cream Shop, The Frozen Yoghurt shop down near Caleta, the wonderful Uni life here, and the gorgeous food we have had the luxury to eat over the past 9 months. But not all is lost, plans are in motion to return for Carnaval next year, and this summer, although i wont be in Cadiz, wont be so bad; time back at home with the family and Fudge, finally getting to see the Donny boys again and get back to good ol English football, and time spent, weekends and weeks with Claire, watching the Summer go by, before returning for a final year in Newcastle. Not so bad :)

So once again my fellow bloggers, my loyal readers, my family and my friends, i truly thank you, for you friendship, your time spent reading my babble, and for putting a smile on my face :) So here we go, with this Blog its one last pushg towards 5000 page views, what an honour :)

Its hard to say this but as the beautiful sun sets on Cadiz each night, the Sun has finally set on my time here, and my time writing this enjoyable blog for all you brilliant people out there, my family and friends i know read it, and the people i don't know, from Denmark, Israel, The USA, Russia, everywhere over Europe who have stumbled upon, or somehow found my blog, i thank you dearly, and would love if you could leave a message this time and maybe facebook me. So as the sun sets on our time together, there is only one last thing to say....

And so, sadly, for the last time, and with a slight tear in my eyes i say to you all, Goobye and....

Happy Blogging. :')

Remember, its simple to just click the boxes to let me know what you think, and if you have 2 seconds longer, just a line or two to say anything to me to make this last blog truly memorable.

Look out for the Summer 2011 blog, Blogged Reviews, and The Newcastle Blog all coming soon to your favourite webpage <3

Our Very Own Disney Musical :)

Afternoon Bloggers.

I rarely apologise for anything on my blog, or for much in general! I am what I am, I write what I write. The aim of the previous two blogs was, like the others, entertain, and inform, however many don't seem to have appreciated them, for this I apologise. I may have gone on about a certain someone a tad too much, but hey, I write what comes to me, and she is stuck on my mind.

For the first time in too long I am churning out a second, fantastic blog in around a week, and this one is certainly back to what you guys love; funny, loving and above all involves a hell of a lot of people!! Boredom has both it's upsides and downsides, the major downside being I have been flipping bored for the last few hours, the upside, I decided to channel it into creating something beautiful, touching and hilarious :) let's see if you enjoy it as much as I have....

So welcome, one and all. Get yourself comfy, grab a cuppa, or maybe, just maybe this time, grab yourself a) some popcorn, b) a comfier chair , and c) a box of tissues be it happy or sad, and allow me, your ever loyal blogger, to take you on a journey through my mind.... No not the mind of a child... But instead through the past few years, and the Disney Musical I have been living.

The last 3 years of my life have been by far the best, I have lived the uni lifestyle, making the most out of the opportunities thrown my way; I have taken part in Rag Week, Performed in Fame the Musical and hopefully played a big role in the Society, helped Becky Warburton get re-elected into her Sabbatical position, done well in my exams, drank Newcastle out of Skittles and VK's, and now I am thoroughly enjoying every moment of my time in Cádiz, living a Spanish life, beach, booze, fun, frolics and fiestas!

I have met so many amazing people it would have been difficult to include you all but iv given it my very best shot, sorry if I have left you out,I don't think any less of you... Well..... ;)

First things first with my animated Disney extravaganza, bringing the characters together from all those sensational movies out there, and giving them roles as my friends....

After which will come the musicals all important soundtrack, playing to all the key incidents throughout my last 3 years!

Myself - I do feel, not just this year, but through the last 3 years at uni, I have grown up substantially. I am still a kid on the inside, but I mostly know where to draw the line. This year especially has been a big step up for me, and I only think il further myself in the future. To represent me, I have chosen because of these facts, the fun, childish, but king-to-be Simba from the Lion King.

Claire Bilton - the Narla to my Simba, Claire is beautiful, adventurous, kind and considerate just like Narla, but also has the same boisterous, bossy, mean streak Narla's character has too. Bringing out the best in me just as Narla does to Simba, she is the luckiest lioness in the world :D

Ashley Milns - My friends, we have covered this ground before. The Ash we all know, with the farty arse, the thirst for being the best, the lack of common sense, and particular body odour.... Is the one we know as Pumba also from the Lion King.

Geoffrey - Geoff is our young buck. The French weird food connoisseur, with the sober smooth nature, and drunken arrogance of his proud nation. With a quick tongue, smart mind, but sometimes naive nature, he is the perfect fit for the character of Lumiere from The Beauty and the Beast.

Kelpie Westerman - Also covered ground, Kellie's nature is one of seeing the most, and the best of the world around her. Sometimes a little too naive, Kellie normally has the right balance between her thirst for adventure, and her need for companionship. Belle represents both her intelligence and kind nature.

Michael McPherson - Unfortunately for Mike, this means only one thing.... He's stuck with the Beast. This however, is not due to looks, (although his new attempt at a beard is seemingly sending him in that direction), but in fact because at the start, he was unknown to us, a new, maybe intimidating prospect. Now, now he is just himself, a good guy (maybe needing to see a few wrongs righted.... Like the washing up!!!!) and has fallen for the girl he was snacked up with.

Sam Maloney - When he was in Cai Sam was the one who, mistakenly, often thought he was right. A hilarious guy that could be on either end of a joke. Our little meercat with the raptor hands could only be portrayed as the loveable, dim, very funny Timone from the Lion King.

Sarah Bailey - This sophisticated blonde is perhaps more of a thrill seeker than her appearance and accent would tell you. Enjoying a night out with the lads perhaps not what she was 'brought up to' like, but hey, she likes an adventure as much as the next person. Throughout her little adventures, she rightly looks to keep her feet on the ground and keeps perspective of things around her.... Perfect for Alice from Alice in Wonderland.

Katie Bilton - Up until she had been here a few months Katie was a taken woman. A boyfriend back in Blighty she was reserved and motherly. Sadly that went pear shaped, and she was 'released from her box', her hair let down, the Katie we now know and love was set free. Intelligent, Fun, strong willed but up for a laugh any time, always longing for company but maintaining her independence throughout, Katie is the embodiment of Jessie from the 2nd and 3rd Toy Story films.

Natasha Pitt - Last time I did this for Tash, she may not have been best pleased by the outcome. This time round I hope for more. Although always among friends, always having a laugh, Tash has a motherly nature and will always keep you in touch. Because of this I thought Mrs. Potato Head from the Toy Story films was much more fitting this time round than Balloo the bear.

Kate Newman - Although seemingly rather intelligent, Kate keeps this on the down-low, her bubbly, forgetful, hilarious nature covering any smidgen of intelligence. Her funny, loving, but often dim nature makes it impossible to not give the role to Dory from Finding Nemo.

Bee Heal - Little Miss Priss. Bee was brought up seemingly by the Queen ;) a silver spoon may be sometimes seen protruding from her mouth, but only when she is aboard the yacht of course! Loveable, kind, caring and considerate, Bee can have as much of a good time as anybody else, but maintains her air throughout. So sorry for the sex change Bee but it was too difficult to not give you Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast.

Max Sturridge - Max was our very own free spirit. Did what he liked, or who he liked;)and made the very most out of his semester here in Cádiz. Only brought down to Earth by the affection of a woman, Max is a perfect representation of the Tarzan character in the film by the same name.

Maisie Kennady - Maisie is our cockney rebel. Under the watchful eye and brilliant care of Cogsworth she is a friend to all.... Especially the carrefour alcohol aisle! She too is a free spirit, but has the rebellious streak against social norms and inequalities max did not. For this reason I have chosen to cast Nemo in the role (sorry for the sex change too Maisie!!)

Alex Coyne - The White guy with the Blackman's swag. Boastful and boozey, Coyney is hilariously entertaining. Sometimes straying a little too big for his boots, he can be easily mis-understood and cause offence. On the inside, and the majority of the time the outside too, Coyney is top guy, a great PAL and key to any great night out. For the fact he likes to be on top, sometimes show off, but in the end is a top guy, Alex is my Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story.

Joe Walby and Reuben Litman - the two are together here as they are in Cádiz life. Rarely are the two seen apart. They are brilliant guys, up for a laugh and a great night whenever you want, and never ones to turn down shots on offer. Reubs and Joe are the Scooby and Scrappy Doo of our Disney extravaganza, for me this only means one double act.... Crush and Squirt from Finding Nemo. Just like the turtles, these two are laid back and chilled to the maaaaaaxxxxx, and perfectly portray the characteristics of the two coolest Turtles in the ocean.

Dave Smith - Our loveable, hilarious, cockney tool has quickly established himself as a major part of Cai life. Always one of the first people up for a night out, and always one of the last ones to get in at the end. He has a wicked sense of humour, but mixed perfectly with his wonderfully kind personality.... Weird for a Londoner ey?! Our Dave is the perfect candidate for the Toy Story unsung hero, Mr. Potato Head.

Clodagh Ryan - Normally my very rational fear of wronging the Irish in fear of leprechauns murdering me in my sleep, means that Clo escapes my witty Tongue.... Crash.... end of that madness! Clo is, well, special :) her intelligence may often cloud her social rational and a thirst for things to be just right, the same.... So maybe she is a tad anal. I did think of making her Zazu from the Lion King, but then I remembered, her heart is very much in the right place, and she has seen a lot of the world, and experienced a lot, so instead I chose Jane from Tarzan, the intelligent, worldly heroine who has her feet firmly on the ground.

Laura Payne - The little lass from the midlands, previously described as pretty and witty, much like her character, Tinkerbell from Peter Pan. Pretty but Vein, witty but sometimes quite wrong, the most important thing? Her heart is firmly in the right place!

Lucy Robinson - Our exotic beauty with a lazy ass but desire to do good when she gets the bug. Wise and wonderful, opinionated and moody, she has two sides to her, depending on how tired she is!! So I did ponder Mulan for her character, but recent developments have led me to see her as more of a Jasmine from Aladdin, but will she hop on the magic carpet and go along for the ride?

Matty Stevens - How easy would it be just to say that Mad Hatter Matty was indeed the Mad Hatter...? Too easy! Mat is our mad man, high on life and low on inhibitions. With a wise nature, and a friendly tone, his voice is unmistakeable and everyone knows who he is..... Who is he? Rafiki of course from The Lion King!!

Sophie Attari - Mathew's Missus was plunged from her world into ours and quickly became a loved part of the Cádiz crew. Although not a red head, her desire to be part of our world and be with her man makes it a simple casting... Ariel from The Little Mermaid.

James Southam - The loveable, quiet character is James, our Manchester Utd scummy fan who may me mis understood as too reserved. A true laugh when he is out and about, as long as the scum aren't the topic of choice. The Genie from Aladdin perfectly tells you of James, quiet and quite reserved, but rub his lamp and baaaaammmmm, he's a hoot and a half!

Tom Bates - the londoner with the diet of beer! A colourful personality to say the least, easily angered, but often freaking hilarious. Likes things his way, but as an Arsenal fan rarely gets them! Often sending him into a sulk just like his character Donald Duck.

Erin Hunter - Tom's crazy Yank girlfriend, bubbly, funny, gleeky and mad! Get a drink down her and she is unstoppable! She is caring and cultured whilst maintaining her wild side. Perfectly matching Tom's Donald as the alluring Daisy Duck.

Alcon Moroney - DJ Alcon in the hizzeyyyy, in the day he is a regular everyday teacher, but cometh the hour cometh the man, when the sun goes down out comes super Alcon, the drunken DJ from the land of the Leprechauns! Although intelligent and witty, he often let's that sit on the back burner and his chilled nature comes to the forefront, much like good ol Goofy.

James Walsh - What does James love to do? Well apart from minging women, he loves nothing more than lazing in bed and eating the day away! A superb friend to all, the big guy has a heart of gold.... Of golden honey! Winnie the Pooh perfectly captures the character of one of my Best friends in the world.

Pieter Lishman - The guy who lovessssss to be the centre of attention! He's got swagger and he knows it. People love him even if he can be a big headed git! And I am thoroughly looking forward to living with our very own Mickey Mouse next year! (You were so close to being given Gaston from Beauty and the Beast Lishman!!)

Tom Melody - The lazy Sheffield sod! If you are lucky enough to roll him off of his arse and out of bed you are usually in for a good time! He makes the time he can be arsed to do anything count! Somehow the lucky bugger, be he lazy or not, always seems to come out on the right end of things, just like Eeyore, the pessimistic lazy ass!

Sean Potter - likes to have the rule of the roost, and loves nothing more than being right! If he had it his own way he would be right always, and always in charge, however, when it comes to the big things, he often has to swallow his words and take a back seat.... This however does not mean he's a plonker... Far from, my housemate next year is a top guy. Who can have a good time when needed, and works his ass off the rest of the time. Our very own Woody from Toy Story.

Chris Richards - My brother from another mother, one of the best friends a guy could ask for, but he sure needs some looking after when he's rat-arsed!! Perhaps a kid at heart, the boyo works hard during the day and then makes up for it in booze when the chance comes up! He is the Mowgli of our group at home, being looked after of course by our very own Balloo, one James Mellor! The big git is a softy on the inside without a doubt! One of the terrible foursome who maintain the Donny atmosphere when the rest of our group are away at uni. Helping him along with Chris is Joe Marriott, the Bagheera of the three, more reserved and studious, whilst, when given the opportunity, ready to drink the night away!

Simon Rogers - annoying, childish, loud, arrogant, always wrong.... But amazing beyond belief. A boyo down to the core. A great friend and vital to any nights out we go on in Donny! He may never grow up much like his character Peter Pan, but we don't need him too, because it's hilarious going along for the ride!

Mathew Evans - a joy to be with, a brilliant guy with his very own twist on reality! Style passed him by in the 90s LOL but we love him nonetheless! His loud mouth though we often do not appreciate!! When drunk his mouthy nature gets him in as much trouble ad it does his character.... Iago from Aladdin!

Luke Mcmahon - the full of energy, but full of small man syndrome dude. Always longing for something to do, be it footy, or boozing, he is always a laugh and, having known him since nursery, a true friend to all. He is very much our Tigger from Winnie the Pooh!

Matthew 'Dobbi' Hopson - the biggest git I know in Donny! Not one you would ever mess with on a night out, towering at heights of around 6 foot 5 Dobbi is an imposing sod! However, those of you who know him, and know him well, know this to be false, he may be tall and scary looking, but our own Sulley from Monsters Inc is a big softy, who wouldn't hurt a fly.... Unless you pee him off!

Charlotte Caley - Now my second best female friend in the world (sorry dude gotta praise my lady hahaha!!), Charlotte is an insistent fool, constantly searching for the best in people, be they ding-bats or not! She has a longing to see the most of the people around her, and rightly make the most of the opportunities she is given. Seemingly drawn to damaged goods, Charlotte is caring, loving and hilariously lacking of common sense! She is the story's Esmerelda from the Hunchback of Nottre Damme.

The soundtrack and key events

- Opening Credits - Go The Distance (Hercules)

- The three years kick off with me going off to university, or Breaking Free (High School Musical) of home and starting a new life of independence.

- First and Second year flew by, and living with the likes of James, Sean, Lishman, Tom etc was a blast, we had all we needed in life.... The Bear Necessities (Jungle Book)!!

- Holidays were always thoroughly looked forward to, be it summer, Easter or Christmas back in Doncaster with the family, the lads and other great friends such as Oliver, Charlotte, Greg etc... They were some of the best times, and I will never forget the times that were so, how can you put it?.... Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (Mary Poppins).

- Coming to Cádiz was a massive step in my life, and my growing up. It was one I wasn't 100% sure of and one I was quite worried about. To think I was leaving England and stepping into A Whole New World (Aladdin)

- Meeting all my new friends here, all the Erasmus, locals, teachers and students was a daunting thing. You had to make a good impression, these were your friends for the next year, in a foreign country!!! Luckily they too were Strangers Like Me (Tarzan).

- The birth of Kike was a big event in our year. It saw the loss of two bodies, and the formation of one entity! It was definitely the Start of Something New (High School Musical).

- Heading to Granada was the major expedition we went on as a group first semester, meeting new friends, re-aquatinting with old ones, we had an absolute blast with everyone, all friends together, enjoying life..... You've got a friend in me (Toy Story)

- Christmas 2010 in England was possibly the best and most meaningful ever. Haing been away from the family for many months it meant all that more to be back with them and back among all my friends in Newcastle and Doncaster having a scream of a time! You know what means no worries?.... Hakuna Matata (Lion King)

- Sadly in January we had to say goodbye to some very good friends, each one amazing and special to us in their own way, each one dearly missed. A Friend Like Me (Aladdin)

- But the roundabout of life took another turn, and we welcomed a new batch of students, and with them, a huge new batch of friends, great friends, but hey that truly is the Circle of Life (Lion King)

- Then along came Claire, Katies sister, beautiful and fantastic, and all I wanted was to listen to Sebastian and Kiss The Girl (Little Mermaid)

- A short but amazing trip to Essex came along then to see the now my girlfriend Claire. A brilliant trip back to England, that was everything and more than I could have hoped for.... Right Here, Right Now (High School Musical 3)

- For not just me, but everyone like Clodagh, Matty, Lucy, James Southam, Maisie and many more, not just girlfriend and boyfriends but best friends and family, we miss people so much at times and just, truly want to be Part of Your World (Little Mermaid)

- Now sadly our time in Cai is drawing to an end, it has been amazing but now only 6 weeks remain, much less for other people. We have had the time of our lives and Cádiz I speak for everyone when I say... You Will Always Be In My Heart (Tarzan)

- Closing Credits - Can You Feel The Love Tonight (Lion King)

This was just a lot of fun to write, I do apologise if I have missed anyone out, as you can see ii covered a lotttttttttt and now my hands hurt from typing on the saint Ashley Milns' ipad2!!!

Other than the fun I had with this, the idea was to show you that n matter where you are in the world, whoever you are with, don't forget those you care about back home, or when you're at home, this who matter elsewhere. Friends are for life, they mean the world too you, even if you may not show it. My life is a laugh, I have a great life, a great girl, and some of the best friends anyone could ask for (If I had Alan Shearer, Robert De Niro, Martin Scorcese and Vanessa Hudgens too it would be the best not some of the best.... Sorry!!!) and I am very lucky for this. So why not tell that special someone, or even those special people how much you appreciate them, you've only got so long!

Happy Blogging :)

If you've made it this far I thank you ever so much :) it has been a pleasure writing for you these last 8 months! But please, comment, share with friends, hell if you're lazy, just check a box below :) and remember.... A smile is infectious, spread it about :)

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