CULTURE EDITION
GIGS NOT TO MISS!
Two swimmers dive into literary waters with a new book celebrating the history of Jesus Green Lido BOOKS Creating a splash Two passionate swimmers and long-time lido enthusiasts, Annie Morgan James and Becky Allen, have teamed up for a captivating book celebrating the deep history and vibrant community of Jesus Green Lido. Written and illustrated by regular swimmers, the book, entitled 100 Yards, 100 Voices: A century of swimming at Jesus Green Lido , is a love letter to the iconic outdoor pool that has been a cornerstone of the Cambridge community for decades. The book dives into the history, culture and personal stories surrounding the lido, offering readers a glimpse into its role as more than just a place to swim. The book explores the lido as a gathering spot for wellness and friendship, and a place to connect with nature. It features stunning photography, historical insights and heartfelt anecdotes from local residents, lifeguards and swimmers whose lives have been touched by this cherished space. Annie and Becky met at the lido, where they have both been swimming for more than three decades. The idea for the book arose during discussions with a fellow longtime swimmer and – after another conversation – Annie and Becky decided to seek contributions, put pen to paper and make it a reality. “The centenary of the pool seemed like the obvious time to capture the magic of the lido and share its story through the voices of the people that love it,” says Annie. “Anyone that visits Jesus Green Lido regularly will know it’s far more than simply a pool – it’s a sanctuary for people from all walks of life and of all ages. Many of the people that swim at the lido go every day and have done so for decades. But there’s also a growing number of new swimmers who found a love for the place in the wake of the pandemic and are curious about the much-heralded benefits of cold-water swimming.” “Writing this book has been a personal journey for both of us,” adds Becky. “We’ve spent countless hours connecting with people at the lido to gather the content and are grateful to everyone that gave us their time and insights. We hope this book conveys not only the historical importance of Jesus Green Lido, but also the sense of community which makes it so special.” 100 Yards, 100 Voices: A century of swimming at Jesus Green Lido costs £20, with profits going to the Friends of Jesus Green Lido. Buy the book at Waterstones from 4 December, or from the lido on selected dates. Email books@thelanepublishing.com
ECHOBELLY
5 December, Mash Cambridge Considered by many as one of the major players in the 90s Britpop scene, Echobelly have been a fixture on the indie music scene for nearly 30 years and just recorded their latest studio album.
EZIO
7 December, The Junction Italian-born Ezio and Mark ‘Booga’ Fowell, from Cambridge, mix rock and folk with gorgeous melodies and thoughtful lyrics – and have been forerunners in acoustic music for two decades.
SHED SEVEN
10 December, Corn Exchange Performing live in Cambridge for their 30th-anniversary tour, this indie rock band from York were crucial to 90s Britpop. They have achieved 15 top 40 singles and five top 40 albums.
THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN
14 December, Corn Exchange Celebrating new album Glasgow Eyes , brothers Jim and William Reid mark their 40th year with an autobiography and tour. Their music is a maelstrom of melody, feedback and controlled chaos.
SIZAR ACTION BOOKS
Local author Susan Grossey will be launching the second book in her historic crime series Cambridge Hardiman Mysteries at Bodies in the Bookshop, Botolph Lane on 5 December. “The book is called Sizar – named after a category of charity student that the university used to accept with reduced attendance fees, in exchange for doing menial tasks such as waiting tables in halls,” says Susan. “But the main theme is the effect of the 1826 vice-chancellor’s decree that no member of the university should attend, bet on or even watch a horse race…” Set in Cambridge, the series centres on ex-soldier Gregory Hardiman as he settles into civilian life, working as an ostler and university constable. When an undergraduate is found hanged in his rooms at St Clement’s College, the Master asks Gregory to investigate. The launch evening promises to be a fascinating insight into Regency Cambridge and is free for ticket holders. Email info@bodiesinthebookshop.co.uk
BAD MANNERS
23 December, The Junction Fronted by Buster Bloodvessel, this ska band take us back to the early 80s, when they spent 111 weeks in the charts with tunes including Ne-Ne Na-Na Na-Na Nu- Nu , Lip Up Fatty and Special Brew .
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