22.43

That’s it – over and out from us…thanks to everyone who got involved by commenting, and to our fantastic Welfare Tutor Moderators. (We’d vote for you and your Pokemon knowledge any day!)

Make sure you catch us throughout the election season: our mini-site will be brimming with info and interviews tomorrow afternoon, news stories throughout, and then another live blog on Results Night: Thursday March 3. Until then!

22.39

And it is all over for another year. We hope you all had a much fun as we did

22.38

Torris has the strike through his ‘o’ in his name but I can’t figure out how to do that on this computer…so let’s focus on his policy. He wants to make the University give an even better education to students by opening it up to new ideas and policy. Never mind the ‘o’!

22.37

After talking to a lot of people he’s noticed the same problems cropping, such as with feedback from departments. He wants to create inter-departmental links, talk to JCRCs and societies to change even the small things around campus like printing costs. He wants to get into student politics and thinks this is a role for him.

He’s looking a little less tired than this now…

Photo: Pete Iveson

22.37

Farrell bringing the “indie” to hustings

22.36

Jake Farrell, running for YUM chair, emphasises his experience as sports editor of Nouse, presenter on URY and on the YSTV york sport show. Wants to bring guest speakers and create cohesion between media societies so they can build on the variety of experience available at York and maintain the high, award winning standard evident across all media societies on campus

22.35

Tom Rigby for Senate Rep appears to have run here, he’s arrived just in the nick of time but seems pretty exhausted…wonder why

22.35

Sophie Shaw for NUS Delegate: she believes that since the student protests, things have become a bit “stagnated”. She believes the Union seems to engage with just a few students rather than the student body as a whole – and respects the need to represent all student views, not just her own

22.34

Sophie Shaw for NUS Delegate: she believes that since the student protests, things have become a bit “stagnated”. She believes the Union seems to engage with just a few students rather than the student body as a whole – and respects the need to represent all student views, not just her own

22.34

And it’s Jaime Riley for YUM. Her main policy is unity between media society, forging stronger links. Wants to stress the importance of the relationship between the media and YUSU. Wants to keep YUM the best media society in the country

22.34

22.33

Sophie Shaw for NUS Delegate: she believes that since the student protests, things have become a bit “stagnated”. She believes the Union seems to engage with just a few students rather than the student body as a whole – and respects the need to represent all student views, not just her own

22.31

Raoul Lundberg, also running for NUS delegate, thinks fees and cuts can be fought at NUS level

22.30

Sophie Shaw for NUS Delegate: she believes that since the student protests, things have become a bit “stagnated”. She believes the Union seems to engage with just a few students rather than the student body as a whole – and respects the need to represent all student views, not just her own

22.29

And Luke Sandford again, this time for NUS delegate. Having been campaigns officer last year, he has dealt with the NUS and all the issues surrounding fees. Also wants to bring the issue of music at York to the NUS, to take advantage of them as a larger publicity platform and to ensure the DR Dre UGM is taken further

22.27

Ben Humphrys says it doesn’t matter what he thinks, or what policies he might have, as NUS Delegate what matters is what students want.

He might stop you in the street – or maybe at lunch (bad idea, we like to eat in peace!) – to ask you want you want, to be able to take it to the NUS Conference effectively

22.27

Apparently we misheard and Rowley said he WASN’T like Gordon Brown, waiting in the wings. Apologies there Rowley, we clearly got too caught up in the excitement of the evening

22.26

Luke Sandford

Photo: Pete Iveson

22.26

Pav Dhande

Credit: Pete Iveson

22.24

Pav Dhande also running for Chair tugging on the heartstrings – it’s his birthday on elections results night, will that sway your vote?

He wants to increase participation and represent all groups across campus

22.23

He wants democratic processes to be better publicised, as even if you’re not involved in Union politics, it can affect someone as a student

22.22

Council Chair – Luke Sandford thinks he knows the way it works, having sat on it for a year now.

He wants to bridge the gap between active policy and blog style responses from Officers, getting people engaged in that way

22.22

Live blogging the part-time candidates is proving a little challening- they are all talking in vague concepts. Pretty difficult to outline all your policies in one minute I guess!

22.20

The racial equality candidates, bringing LAD points to the whole affair

22.19

Liam Haakon Smith is running for Disability Officer on an “accessible, accountable and active” campaign strategy

22.19

Leslie Tay for International Officer

Photo Credit: Pete Iveson

22.18

Loving the time commitment being put in by some candidates – it’s all very ‘get in, get out’ at the moment

22.18

International Officer candidate Leslie Tay wants to make sure international students can have a home away from home, and focuses on inclusion. Got good experience in the ISA

22.18

More entrances from the Courtyard, casual times from Chris Edwards and Ozge Bektasoglu running for Ents Officers. They feel prepared for the job – and just referring people to Facebook tomorrow.

22.16

Rebecca and Baxter – using visuals in their election speech. Innovative

Credit: Pete Iveson

22.15

Charlie Rowley tells us about being Council Chair “it’s something of a catch 22, everyone thinks you’re part of the Union, when in fact you’re holding Officers to account on their behalf!”

22.14

And a half- empty vodka bottle drops from the pocket of the racial equality candidate. Classy

22.14

They’re offering a “new direction and new emphasis”. Speaking a bit loudly but enthusiastic stuff, with a flair for exits…they’re outta here!

22.13

Aaron Rolph also hopes “I have a good chance at winning”. Seems to be something a recurring theme amongst the candidates

22.13

Basim and Lawrence want to give back to campus, through their backgrounds and experience, by collaborating with ISA and Cultural Society

22.12

Aah, here they are, fashionably late but here nonetheless

22.12

The Racial Equality candidates are off having a good time in the Courtyard…are they coming back!? The suspense is killing us

22.11

Rebecca and Baxter have a very visual tactic for their speech…and the crowd are loving it!

They want to raise awareness and participation, for instance by putting money boxes in campus bars…they’ve had a lot of College and YUSU experience…fun bunch!

22.10

Emma, also for Womens’

Photo: Pete Iveson

22.10

Nell and Cat for Womens’

Credit: Pete Iveson

22.09

We can’t rely on students who spend their money on Efe’s, she says – there needs to be different Volunteering fund raising strategies

22.09

She wants to focus on sponorship, integration and awareness, as well as making sure the Volunteering processes are democratic

22.09

And we have some Presidential feedback. Lydia says “I was really pleased there was a variety of questions, and that they related my policies which gave me a chance to expand on them. I don’t want to be overconfident and i’m going to really get into campaigning and do the best that i can”

22.08

Brearley already has experience having been YUSU Volunteering Officer for the past year, and now she’s re-running.

22.07

Nice that a part-time position is contested. Emma Gardiner sees it as an important time for Women’s Committee. Her tagline “Vote for Emma, and if you don’t vote for me, vote for somebody”. Convincing…

22.07

Was this Lydia stressing about her lack of Pokemon know-how?

Credit: Pete Iveson

22.06

Tim Ellis on his speech: “It wasn’t too bad, I got my main message across. There were really good answers from all of us, and it was good natured and a good debate.” He’s off for a “good night’s sleep”, apparently

22.05

Cat and Nell want to ensure women’s welfare issues don’t get forgotten or swallowed up in larger welfare spectrums

22.05

Graeme Osborn definitely wins the prize for snappiest dresser of the evening

22.04

Big crowd leaving…sadly not the same for the rest of us. There’s hope for food yet

22.03

The excitement is running so high in here, the smell of pizza making we bloggers delirious

22.03

And we say au revoir to our NUS guests. It’s been a blast guys

22.02

We spoke too soon! Wow, it’s like we’re psychic. Questions are over! On to all the other part-time and supplementary Officers

22.02

Lydia sees the Big Bang event is the best way to draw in the big names to York, and is all about the student consultation on all issues.

22.01

Times a-tickin’…just saying…who decided to put it all in one evening? Mr. Walker?

Credit: Pete Iveson

21.59

PWM and Robert Hughes really DO look so similar. Very Next Gen feel going round here

21.59

Oooh Rolph has been thinking of running for Pres since his first year.

21.59

Love that James Anderson and Arthur Pitt are sitting together…aww

21.58

The Efe’s has arrived. Smells…interesting

21.58

Ellis thinks the Dre motion was very important and wants to work with clubs in town to bring big names into Central Hall. He is worried about accountability for events with the abolition of democracy and services

21.57

Ben Humphrys on the amount of candidates from within YUSU:

“All the candidates are by no means from YUSU, they’re contested across the board…if you mean that all the candidates are in some way heavily involved in student activities, I think that’s great. I want people who are passionate about working with and representing students, this set look like they are exactly like that!

21.57

Rowley has compared himself to Gordon Brown, always waiting in the wings for his moment of glory, and has the confidence to lead. He trusts the student body to make ALL decisions apparently, but thinks the decision to scrap Democracy and Services was rushed

21.53

There has been such disappointment in the lack of Pokemon knowledge, that people are walking out. HOW CAN WE SUPPORT A PRESIDENT THAT DOES NOT HAVE THIS KNOWLEDGE?!

21.53

He’s usually playing sports or in the Courtyard supporting their prices…and further disappointment – he only knows Pikachu

21.53

A question on the “abolition” of Democracy and Services!? Well, that’s just a bit dramatic

21.52

Aaron thinks it is “a little late to get real action” on another demo now, and thinks going out and getting noticed is how to get things done

21.51

He’s usually on Hes East most, where he lives…and he’s never played Pokemon either! He tentatively suggest Jigglypuff. Oh dear.

21.50

Tim says it’s not about what he’d want in terms of support another demo, it’s about what the students want.

21.50

He will “research Pokemon and get back to you”.

21.50

Rowley will organise a demo against £9000 fees if that is what students want. Can be found in the Courtyard usually if you fancy a drink, with his yoyo

21.49

Question time is getting hardcore

Credit: Pete Iveson

21.48

Lydia recognises that fees will inevitably rise so another demo might be useless, and resources should be focused on other important issues such as printing.

She calls herself a “loser” since she’s on campus a lot, and can only name Pikachu as a Pokemon – apparently she never had an…at least she admits to having played the sympathy card

21.48

Asfahani, out of sheer persistence, has finally managed to put his question “which is your favourite Pokemon?” to the candidates. It is, apparently, the proudest moment of his life and will be the swaying factor on who he will vote for. The pressure is on.

21.47

Our fantastic photographer is having a “relatively” good time, but is loving the upcoming Pokemon question!

21.46

A set of very good speakers – but who is inspiring you the most, and why? All thoughts on our comments…

21.45

Tim thinks that talking to people and working on welfare is important – and agrees with Lydia on BNOCS, so thinks he’s not one

21.44

Rowley sees the relationship between President and YUSU management as very important, but needs to be kept professional. Communication between YUSU and students is the most important aspect for him, and thinks everyone can be a BNOC if they want as everyone has the power to change things, however small, and make their mark on campus.

21.44

The relationship with the uni is important, says Tim Ellis – but that’s not the same as needing to stand up to them. He think there needs to be a balance.

21.42

Blundell doesn’t believe in the “whole guns blazing” approach with the University Management, and her most important quality is listening…she wonders “to who” are you a BNOC, if you are one? It depends on the situation, she says…so to some extent that means yes!?

21.42

Aaron Rolph bigging up his enthusiasm for the President role. Will apparently always have a smile on that much admired face. Also doesn’t consider himself a BNOC- giving himself cool ‘outsider’ points

21.41

Laura Borisovaite, current Officer and candidate for Welfare Officer, has said “I think no one will be able to replicate what Tim [Ngwena] has done, but whoever is elected will find their own way. Ultimately we want someone who is going to represent us both individually and as a Union”

21.39

The candidate’s BNOC status’s are being brought under the spotlight.

21.38

He also thinks that advertising is something to be worked on in every event. And he says that all other roles should perhaps be called “Vice-Presidents”, to avoid misleading title roles.

21.37

The crowd behind us are enjoying Charlie “banter” Rowley. ROFL

21.36

“I don’t think anyone has the right to say what’s important to you”, says Rowley of University. There’s lots of skills to be learnt – social, academic – all essential to get into the world of employment

21.35

Lydia thinks that YUSU should be there to “facilitate” rather than “dictate” political involvement. Interesting…

21.35

The title, Blundell feels, can be quite misleading. But she believes all the Sabbs are “equal with each other”.

21.35

All the candidates chatting away, but it’s getting a bit more political now the questions have started

Credit: Pete Iveson

21.34

For Rolph the President’s role is a representative one, but first and foremost a supportive one, for students when they need it most

21.34

Rolph sees it vital for student to be involved in more political involvement.

21.33

Tara Jessop thinks that all the candidates might be all too similar and bland for President…”Possibly, because I want a President who inspires me and has a bit more political motivation, especially now. We need a President that will put their foot down – but I’m not sure who’s the best yet”

21.33

Sees the role of the President is to lead. Draws on his experience as Goodricke Chair. President is a representative role

21.32

Ellis was impressed with the turnout at the National Demo – but then there wasn’t much debate about it afterwards, which he feels was lacking

21.32

Tim believes University should be for both for graduate prospects as well just for the pure joys of academia

21.30

Graeme Osborn has also given us updates on how he felt it went: “I was very pleased, really enjoyed it. I wouldn’t be placing bets already, but if I felt I’d lost already I wouldn’t still be here. I would like to say Alastair’s a very good speaker.”

21.26

closely followed by a beaming Blundell. They are a perky bunch..

Photo credit: Pete Iveson

21.26

Iiiiiiiiit’s Tim Ellis

Credit: Pete Iveson

21.26

Question time is upon us once again, we’re in for the long haul

21.25

He wants to make sure YUSU listen to students all year round, not just at elections

21.25

Putting a face to a name- Aaron Rolph taking to the stage

21.24

Lots of language about “arguing” and “fighting” for students, and the importance of consultation

21.24

Another focus on tuition fees – he’d “work tirelessly” to make sure work loads match fee prices

21.23

Tim Ellis now – he’s run because he wants to be part of an effective Student’s Union and let students know how to hold the Union to account

21.23

Remember: it’s Air-on, not Ah-ron. Try to get it right, people

21.22

Aaron Rolph wants to bring a fresh perspective to student perspectives as an outsider. Wants to see a mobile union across campus with workshops, and to make Hes. east feel more included. Also wants to attend JCRC meetings every week, and create a more student facing union

21.22

The candidates don’t really seem to be looking very enthused. Or paying attention. It’s not over yet, don’t they know!?

21.20

Blundell wants students to dictate the direction of the union, and wants to introduce regular feedback and updates. Wants more platform for students to have a voice- online policy forum is among her policies.

21.19

Charlie enjoying his time to shine

Credit: Pete Iveson

21.19

Alastair Logan says he’s going to “try my upmost not to miss any lectures during campaigning, but it’s difficult.”

21.18

And now for a female touch, Lydia takes the stand

21.18

He wants to consult all students, and sees himself with the only candidate with enough experience to “build a better Union together”

21.17

Charlie Rowley up first:

He wants Brian Cantor (BC the VC) to publish how much the university will be raising fees to, immediately.

For YUSU to be welcoming and improve an open relationship with students, understanding the problems students face

21.17

Under Rowley, YUSU will come to you

21.17

Charlie Rowley is repping his mum in his speech. Awwww

21.15

Ralph Lauren seems to be a popular wardrobe choice for the candidates- product placement anyone..

21.14

The big kahuna now…PRESIDENT

21.14

Graeme likes David Howell for his affair…a popular choice it would seem

21.13

None of the Presidential candidates paying attention…all absent mindedly chewing on pens

21.12

Alastair wants an affair with Paul Walton. Kinky.

21.12

Logan is very against the differentiation of course fees- finance shouldn’t come into course decisions

21.10

These questions are getting hardcore – EXCEPT: who are this university would you most like to have an Academic Affair with?!

21.09

Logan LOVES chemistry. Rather you than me.

21.07

Graeme loves his degree…aww!

And he thinks he can keep elections time management under control. You say that now, Graeme…

21.07

Whoever said academic issues are boring. Logan fights against the stereotype

Photo credit: Pete Iveson

21.06

Graeme thinks electives are a great opportunity but are poorly published and poorly organised. He wants to make it into an online system.

21.04

MORE questions!

21.04

This is all making me want to win a YUSU Award. Talk about encouraging participation

21.04

Osborn was awarded YUSu course rep of the year

21.03

He would want to work especially closely with the SA Officer as a “goldmine” of information in academic societies about feedback issues

21.02

Alastair helped the Chemistry department win a YUSU Award. Shiny…

21.01

James Anderson says “I would seek to improve participation through developing better online facilities and by ensuring that support structures are better organised”

21.01

Last chance for food as Asfahani is putting in the Efe’s order now. Place any final pizza requests via comments.

20.59

Alastair also wants to create more ties with the GSA in academic areas…but he can only thing of “rice are” and “mice are”…hmm. Better than nothing? Kudos for the attempt, Logan.

20.58

Oh no! Graeme can’t make an anagram out of Academic Officer. Sad times.

20.58

As a Course rep Graeme has hardly seen the GSA so wants to introduce departmental contacts

20.57

Countdown skills being put the test…oooooh. But who will Carol Voderman in this scenario!?

20.56

According to Raoul Lundberg, the prospect of course closures is something they the academic candidates need to be prepared for

20.55

He also wants to move feedback weeks to give students a rest and markers a chance to get through the workload

20.55

Graeme wants to re-evaluate the Faculty/Course Reps system works to make representation more streamlined.

20.54

Alastair see faculty reps as a severely unused resource. Not enough training or course rep contact. Will consult with departments such as Chemistry who give speedy feedback to spread the word to other departments

20.52

Sam Asfahani is doing an Efe’s run. Anyone want in?

20.52

It really is friendly, so true.

Hope you’re all enjoying the photo influx…

Credit: Pete Iveson.

20.50

Wonder how many people will leave by the time part-time candidates are left

20.50

Aaron Rolph is feeling “fine”, very “chilled”. He’s looking very smiley as usual…

20.49

Graeme loving life on the podium

Credit: Pete Iveson

20.48

Cheer up YSTV, it’s not that dull!

20.47

Alastair up now. Says that the current assessment and feedback standards are “unacceptable”. Increased tuition fees need to impact on contact time, resources and teaching quality.

20.47

The issues are clear, it seems – everyone wants very similar things – but who will win in the end?

20.46

Arthur Pitt on his speech a few minutes ago…”I messed up my speech but it helped me relax knowing that I had already made a mistake…I feel my policies are influenced by actually talking to societies”

20.45

Lots of support in crowd, it would seem for Graeme

20.45

He’s said his opponent, Alastair Logan, is “clearly a nice guy, it will be a friendly but competitive race”

20.45

He’s listing his policies…24 hour library, faster feedback, better quality teaching

20.44

Graeme Osborn first: he wants to continue the work he has started and “make a lasting difference to students at York”, particularly in the difficult year to come

20.43

Academic Affairs candidates are taking the floor

20.43

Charlie Rowley is “excited, wanting to see how it goes and it’s a good crowd here tonight. Next year will be a difficult year and my speech will be about getting into the nitty gritty of it”

20.42

This five minute break is…well…long.

But look, we’re sort of backstage and seeing what it looks like for the candidates!

Credit: Pete Iveson

20.40

Ben Humphrys says of his potential successors: “I’m looking forward to what they both have to say, they’re very strong candidates and I will be leaving the position in good hands”

20.39

Apparently there was something about horcruxes from Arthur in regards to Nouse and Vision merging…can we have some clarification here!? Arthur?

20.36

Apparently there was something about horcruxes from Arthur in regards to Nouse and Vision merging…can we have some clarification here!? Arthur?

20.35

A shout out to Jason Rose for old times sake

20.34

Lydia is “a bit nervous with all the hanging around. It’s been good to see everyone’s responses so far.” A politician’s response if I ever heard one.

20.32

Tim Ellis is feeling a “bit nervous” but thinks it’s been a good night so far with some interesting questions. He’s starving too apparently though, that makes two of us!

20.31

Here’s a quote from James Anderson to tide you over during the break: “Went well, really enjoyed it. I’d like to think that i’d win but there’s fierce competition. Anyone of us deserves the role.” How diplomatic.

20.28

A five minute break – come and give us your opinions!

20.28

According to Pitt, the world will end with the creation of Nou-sion. Here here. Croydon however only sees the two papers as only “slighty different”

20.27

SA Officer could in Croydon’s opinion make handovers less stressful.

20.27

Croydon sympathises with posters taken down, from his experience in RAG week and calls the YUSU website calendar “ineffective”

20.25

He also wants handover guide books and use societies committee efficiently…

And the big one for Nouse and Vision: he thinks we’re “distinctive” forms of media, and would say no to a merger on the premise that they are different societies and are ratified as such

20.23

James Anderson has a manifesto point on publicity, especially for postering round campus.

He wants to further develop the YUSU calendar and phone app to ensure that people can know that events are there and reduce the need for posters

20.22

Of course, a merger a question…didn’t see that come…so original, eh?

20.22

Lots of people going in and out – encouraging to see so many people involved, like College and Society Chairs

20.21

Croydon says that more advertising on Refreshers is a great idea and a “decent point in the second term as well”

20.19

Tim ensuring all is kept kosher

20.18

Anderson sees Hes East as a solution to societies storage difficulties, as well as Central Hall

20.14

Nick Scarlett says of his potential successors: “all three are impressive candidates who have done their research, the most creative policy is James Croydon’s society vouchers”

20.13

Anderson thinks the media could be a part of getting more people involved in smaller societies

20.13

Croydon wants to introduce society vouchers, where students can join a society for free to encourage greater participation

20.12

Anderson would join History Soc

20.12

Croydon thinks he’d be “pretty boring” and join URY. Wonder how they feel about that comment…at least it’s the media!?

He doesn’t think the number of members doesn’t equate to how much money they receive. And that publicity is the way forward for smaller societies

20.11

Pitt thinks aside from fairs participation can be encouraged by videos made by the Union.

20.10

Arthur would’ve joined Dance Soc earlier he says…he thinks dancing is sexy. Ooer!

Grants depend on numbers of members for running costs of societies in some cases, but also on how many people interact with them

20.09

We are “mean” according to our NUS chairs. Ouch

20.09

Celvin Lai thinks that “James Croydon was quite idealistic”, and when international students are applying for university they don’t really think about activities

20.09

Pitt refuses to choose between RAG and volunteering as that would be “morally void”- probably wise choice then. Wants to use the media to promote society success, even taking advantage of that highbrow publication The York Press. Interesting

20.08

Get commenting below…there’s lots going on down in L/N/028 tonight, so if you can’t be here…

20.07

And then it fell. Pandemonium ensued. The crowd were outraged!

Credit: Pete Iveson.

20.07

Anderson wishes to make applications for funding termly, and tailor grants to individual societies. Everyone is loving up the YUSU awards, though that may be attributed to the copious amount of free booze provided last year.

20.06

Sequence of events…The banner was up…everyone was happy…

Credit: Pete Iveson

20.05

Croydon sees both RAG and volunteering as equally important. All societies should never have to worry about their running costs and wants to get more sponsorship to help with funding issues

20.04

Questions for SA candidates

RAG or volunteering- which is more important?
How will you support societies that apply for funding?
There is a myth that only the media will win awards- how will you promote the achievement of others?

20.02

Laura B has given us a quote, she says “I think I said about a fifth of my speech…my mouth is very dry!…I’d never predict anything, I think I bring the experience the continuing enthusiasm”

20.00

Apparently not many people watch Jersey Shore in here. So disappointing. GTL.

20.00

Croydon in the heat of speech…

Credit: Pete Iveson

20.00

Anderson looking dynamic, clearly taking tips from his drama experience

19.59

Our live-bloggers are getting hungry. Snacks appreciated.

19.59

Greater cooperation, greater efficiency and fair play are Croydon’s main policies. Wants to start a societies week and wants to provide finance training to help with funsing and spending. Overarching focus on keeping costs down for cash-strapped societies, particularly with regard to equipment. Has “experience, drive and ability to create real change” apparently

19.59

It’s question time again…

19.58

Very few people aren’t perturbed by the thirty second warning. It just let’s the rest of us know that it’s almost all over…

19.57

Like the description of societies’ work as “sterling”. Hear, hear!

19.56

Big woops throughout the room for James Croydon

19.56

‘Fair Play’ as his policy is all about co operation, and sharing equipment to spend money more efficiently. He wants work closely with York Sports, but improve the university experience through Student Activities

19.55

He says he’s been speaking to societies already about floorspace and bookings

19.55

Arthur Pitt describes himself as the “worst dancer in Dance Soc” as well as the Chair of Lemon Press and York Sport player. He wants to attack problems at the Union such as the way grants are allocated at University and getting fair floorspace

19.54

Wants to make YUSU more approachable by societies and encourage RAG involvement participation. Cites experience in panto among others

19.54

Robert Hughes feels his time on the podium “went fairly well. I think it’s hard to get all the points across in thirty seconds – campaigning is better as you can tell students what you’re about and it’s more approachable”

19.53

James Anderson sees student activities as vital to the university experience, and are just as important as studies for student development

19.52

They also all look quite similar – brown short hair all round

19.51

Apparently this is gonna be a lively one for Student Activities but they’re all looking ridiculously friendly right now

19.51

Tim looking super-excited about the whole shindig

19.50

When’s the break? So hot in here. Want some more Haribo

19.50

Back to a focus on mental health – mental drives…hopefully people will therefore be encouraged to go to services such as Open Door

19.49

Accountability of landlords again is a “massive question” of importance, and maybe a ‘rate your landlord’ of rolling feedback methods is the way to go

19.49

Pav Dhande, who is running for Council chair, told us ” the incumbents definitely haven’t got an easy ride if they think they can just rely on their experience”. Clearly sees Hughes as fierce competition for Bo. It’s a brave man who goes up against an incumbent

19.49

Robert agrees about the importance of bursaries and the worries of financial stress for a lot of students

19.48

It’s a topical one – bursaries or fee waivers: which are more important and why?

Laura says bursaries are her priority, students often find its more difficult for students to continue paying their fees, rather than initially getting to uni

Regular checks of landlords are adhering of codes of practice is extremely important

Also the availability of clear and concise Open Door info is the way forward, thinks the incumbent

19.45

That said – shout out to YSTV doing their thaaaaang

Photo: Pete Iveson

19.45

Bo is a big fan of the meet and greet- more freshers bonding and buddy scheme proposed for freshers. Nightline is brilliant according to her, and she wants to fight for increased provisions for them

19.44

Look how busy it is in here! And it’s not even all the media…there are actually other people in attendance for once

Credit: Pete Iveson.

19.43

He also wants to work more with the public faces of Nightline

*post has been factually edited

19.42

He feels that tours around the city and campus might be beneficial

19.42

Robert wants to see more events for off-campus Freshers, especially given the issues encountered this year

19.42

Sam Asfahani on his chances of re-election: “I’m fully aware that i’m the favourite but you can never be complacent. Ben is a great candidate so it will take lots of work to ensure I get elected.”

19.40

Ben McGladdery has commented on his speech a while ago “the only thing I feel down in was knowledge of York Sport, where Sam had the advantage, being the incumbent”

19.40

Robert believes they need to push for more anonymous welfare services. Also wants a sexual health booklet along the lines of “the joys of teen sex”. Sounds like fun…

19.40

Robert believes the media welfare training needs to be making sure that things are “less personal” and perhaps anonymous in terms of comments

19.38

She wants an increase in the “friendly face” and mentions “other services available”

19.38

Bo believes newspaper editors should go through welfare training by a professional.

19.38

She says “not everything can be solved by a welfare rep, there are certain boundaries” and other places to seek advice and support

19.36

Oooh contentious. Welfare in the media question…

19.36

Candidates thinking carefully about their answers during their speeches

Photo Credit: Pete Iveson

19.35

Laura says there needs to be an insurance for proper welfare training, including termly meetings, for College Welfare Officers

19.34

Sam Asfahani says of the welfare candidates ” They’re both really good candidates but Roberts speech was very good, it was a very well structured speech”. Wise words there

19.34

Laura thinks there needs to be a “drive” for those committees to bring information together and make changes that need to happen take place

19.33

Robert Hughes talks fast but he makes many points in there too

19.33

Robert says he has been involved in a variety of committees, so has a sense of the different needs of different groups across campus. Communication between these groups needs to be improved so they can work together- cohesion is they key

19.32

Bradley Lineker says he feels Laura knows what needs improving, and that a lot of people will recognise her a vote for her that was as an incumbent officer.

19.31

Spenser Cullum thinks “it’s good to see Sam being challenged, Ben has a lot of good policies. It should be a good fight”

19.31

Welfare questions up now:
How will you ensure the distinct needs of the liberation committees are met?

Apart from raising awareness, what is the most important change needed for the welfare organisation?

19.31

Luke Sandford, current Campaigns Officer who is running for Union Council Chair and NUS Delegate says both York Sport candidates did very well but Sam does have “the incumbent advantage”

19.27

Wow got about 100 policies into a two minute speech- impressive

19.26

Robert believes communication is “key” and develop “evidence based welfare policy”

19.26

Wants to promote awareness of mental health issues, and asses the gaps in people’s sexual health knowledge more than just “peeing in pots”

19.25

If students don’t know what’s going on, they don’t know what help they’ll be able to get

19.25

Robert now. Emphasises the work of welfare volunteers. Sexual and mental health are a focus of his speech

19.24

She wants to make sure everyone gets accommodation in their first year on campus and make sure that experience isn’t “contravened by any lack of welfare services”

19.24

ooh awkward silence in Laura’s speech

19.23

She thinks even more improvements can be made despite challenges ahead. Students were pushed off-campus at the beginning of the year…

19.23

The welfare candidates looking chummy

19.22

She wants to focus on who, how and where people can get help

19.22

Current Sabb Laura Bo is speaking – she says she’s made it here priority to make sure welfare awareness provisions are incrased

19.22

Nouse is getting a strange sense of deja vu…

19.21

Hustings has suddenly become the place to be as we experience a sudden audience influx

19.21

Next up is welfare, with Laura and Robert making their way to the front

19.20

And that is York Sport finished

19.20

Pork
Fork
Retort
Abort
Short

And a couple more – he had more time to think about it but Ben gave some lyrical answers, of course

19.20

Ben would involve the council in a decision to build a climbing wall. He also wants free off-peak gym membership, and has looked into it.

19.18

Sam’s skills as a poet leave alot to be desired. No great future as a rapper sadly..

19.18

Sam can make the following words rhyme with ‘sport’:
Shore
Four
Poor
Score
Court

Yes…this was a question. And no, we’re not sure that ‘score’ does actually rhyme with ‘sport’

19.18

Sam responds saying everything is a possibility, if students really want it. Can continue to push for more ambitious facilities and not that expensive apparently…

19.16

More questions incoming- on mountaineering apparently. They want to know if a climbing wall on campus is possible…

19.15

Is there anything you’d change about the plans for the new Sports Village?

BG: Certainly – Ben think it’s a shame that there isn’t a new multi-purpose sports hall

SA: “it isn’t enough, but it’s such a huge improvement on current facilities”. Sam thinks would much prefer a bigger one if there were enough money

What’s your proudest sporting moment?

Ben represented his University first team and is very proud of that.

Sam has spent 3 years in the University American Football club and they recently got their first win, woo!

Could you illustrate how you’ll better facilitate College sport?

BG wants to make College sport a part of Fresher’s weeks, right from the start

SA wants to have more coaching and refereeing clincs, and to bring off-campus college sports back on to campus

19.10

Q. Do you have an effective plan for increasing participation and reducing costs?
Sam says we are in unique situation as we have college sport, which is an easy way to get involved. Increased funds for college sport this year- need better coaching and refereeing
Ben says- peoples attitudes towards sport needs to be addressed. Wants an entirely new publication for sport. Ooh more media competition…

Q With fee rises in the pipeline, do you think it is more important to make York Sport free or spend more on bursaries?
Sam says- Feels that the majority should go to bursaries but thinks that they should also be used towards the hidden costs to assist students all around
Ben- agrres with Sam. Not all additional funding should go to work sport, but sports should get additional investment

19.06

6 questions for our sporting candidates. Let the battle begin…

19.04

and Sam following closely behind

19.04

People seem a bit shy to ask questions: speak up! These people are going to be representing us for a whole year to come…

19.04

Ben making his speech

19.03

Wants to rerun because he thinks he cannot leave his role while these three major problems still plague sport at York

19.02

3 issues that have to be solved- membership, facilities and storage and funding

19.02

York Sport membership for free! Woo!

19.02

Asfahani appealing to various players and his understanding of them as current York Sport President. He calls himself “incumbent”…well, not it’s not definite yet…

19.02

York sport is all about rowers, college sporting heroes, the small clubs as well as the large clubs according to Sam

19.01

Pats on the shoulders from the two York Sport candidates – friendly friendly…for now!?

19.01

Now for Sam…

19.01

He wants to make sport at York “part and parcel of the whole student experience”, and promises to do “everything in his power” to achieve his policies

19.00

Has met with officials at Hes hall to verify all his policies. Going for a “radical’” approach apparently

19.00

He wants to make ‘The Tent’ a proper structure and improve attitudes towards College sport

18.59

Ben McGladdery’s speech:

He wants to revolutionise sports at York and represent students needs…and continually fight to get the best deals possible for students

18.59

The tension is palatable. Ben steps up to the podium

18.58

Ben and Sam take to the stage

18.58

It has begun: York Sport President candidates are up

18.58

Send in your questions through comments if you wish, and we can submit them on your behalf

18.57

Our NUS guests for the evening. Look like they are having tons of fun Peter Iveson

18.56

YUSU seem to be experiencing some technical difficulties

18.56

HCSA President has come in with a suitcase – how long does he think this is going to go on for!?

18.55

We have two NUS chairs gracing us with their presence as well tonight. Very official

18.54

Full time Sabbs going first, followed by part-time officers

18.54

anyone up for Tokyo tonight?

18.53

And Tim takes to the stage to rowdy applause

18.53

The turnout isn’t looking too bad- people other than just the candidates have turned up which is always a bonus

18.52

We are excited to have our first comments of the evening, something of a novelty for us after the last two days. Keep it clean people!

18.41

It’s hotting up in here…quite literally.
Credit: Pete Iveson

18.05

Welcome to the Nouse live blog of YUSU’s election Hustings 2011! We’ll be bringing you the latest from all the candidates’ speeches and questions tonight – so get your popcorn ready. or come and join us in L/N/028 from 6.30.