Football's Fallen - Phil O'Donnell

By Simon Wright – Follow me on Twitter @Siwri88

Recently, I wrote a couple of pieces for a new website called Football's Fallen - a site dedicated to those footballers who sadly get taken away on the football field. Set-up by my former colleague at Total Football Magazine and fellow football fan, Laura Jones, I have written pieces on one of Scotland's brightest hopes, Phil O'Donnell and this one about the ex-York striker David Longhurst.

Christmas is a period where families come together and celebrate a special time. It is often the period for goodwill, giving and joy but not in all instances.

For the O’Donnell family, their world was feeling good as the end of 2007 dawned. Married with four children, Phil O’Donnell (pictured below) was skipper of SPL side Motherwell and was enjoying one of the best spells of his injury-hit career. Sadly their hearts were about to be ripped out by a tragedy that is among one of the worst to have hit the game in Scotland.

Phil O'Donnell had found form and fitness again before his shock death in 2007

Full of promise as a youngster, O’Donnell had won the Scottish Cup twice and experienced the big time as a Celtic player in the mid-1990s before injuries ruined his stint in England with Sheffield Wednesday. 

To continue reading this article, visit Football's Fallen

Categories: 1990s, 2007, Career, Celtic, Christmas, Family, Injury, Motherwell, Phil O'Donnell, Scotland

Christmas adverts of today...and the past

By Simon Wright - Follow me on Twitter @Siwri88

It is the time of year where the festive season is around the corner and it is time to be jolly. No-one likes a Grinch at this time of year. It is also this period where the shops go into overdrive as they launch huge campaigns to get us to shop on the high street or online and to grab our money for the presents you want to buy for your loved ones.

This involves advertising and it means that on almost every single commercial break on primetime TV, you will see a Christmas advert. They range from the stupid and ridiculous to the simple classics that always entertain us every year.

Having seen the majority of the big boys launch their commercial campaign already, I’ve come to the conclusion that the average Xmas advert in 2013 is disappointing.

Retail giant John Lewis has set the standard in recent years with powerful and heartfelt adverts that capture the attention of the viewers and more importantly, the shoppers.

However their 2013 advert (caption pictured), premiered last Saturday during the X-Factor on ITV falls well short of expectations. Had it not been for the big build-up, you would struggle to guess what it is actually advertising. Having cost a reported £7m to make, I have to consider it as a total waste of money. While it does show the love and caring side towards Christmas (advert below), it hints that the brains behind the campaign were struggling for ideas to promote the brand this year. The only advantage they have is the use of a decent soundtrack. Personally, I think Lily Allen’s cover of the Keane song ‘Somewhere Only We Know,’ is lame and dreadful but it is selling copies and being downloaded heavily. It is more than likely that Allen will have a number one to her name come Sunday night but it will her most fortunate success to date.

On Wednesday night during Coronation Street, supermarket chain Sainsbury’s launched their Christmas campaign which shows normal families enjoying the build-up and the actual day of joy and company. The campaign of home videos is for an upcoming documentary film called ‘Christmas in a Day,’ directed by an Oscar winner in Kevin Macdonald. The advert in terms of content is of good quality and the ending is quite joyous as two youngsters experience the thrill and delight of their father having returned home from combat in Afghanistan to be with family on Christmas Day. Unfortunately, the advert is too long at three and a half minutes and it won’t be remembered for that. At the two minute mark (advert below), there is a gentleman in his kitchen talking into the camera but eagle eye viewers spotted three food items from one of Sainsbury’s rivals in the Co-Op!

A Co-Operative spokeswoman said on Thursday: “It seems that our Truly Irresistible Christmas pudding, lemon torte and Christmas cake are so good, even Sainsbury’s can’t resist advertising them!”

It is an embarrassing faux-pas for Sainsbury’s, as they struggle to compete with the tried and trusted Tesco’s, a Morrison’s campaign with TV favourites Ant & Dec and ASDA, recently voted best supermarket for low prices for the 16^th successive year. Even ALDI have made their moves into the industry with joyous promotional material (2012 advert example below).

Other commercials for the likes of Littlewoods, Marks & Spencer, Very.co.uk and TK Max pass by without hardly a comment, let alone a big fuss. My personal favourite this year actually comes from Sky. The advert shows a teenager with headphones almost glued to her ears looking pretty downcast at this joyous time of year. Her younger brother seems upset, so leaves a gift in her doorway and the generous idea works as she comes down with her family to watch some good Christmas TV on Sky Movies (advert below). It might seem simple and basic but it is an excellent effort from Sky, who have been rivalled by the likes of Virgin Media and more recently, BT in the past 12 months.

Christmas from the past

The Christmas advert has been on our TV screens for many years and there have been some real crackers down the past three decades. Here are some of my favourites, including ones from Woolworths, John Lewis, Boots and of course, the Coca Cola Christmas trucks.

I believe though that none of 2013’s adverts will be remembered fondly in the years to come.

Categories: 2013, Adverts, Christmas, ITV, John Lewis, Lily Allen, Oscars, Sainsbury's, Sky, TV

Can Tesco compete in the competitive tablet market?

By Simon Wright - Follow me on Twitter @Siwri88

This article is also available on TheRankTank

The tablet market is one of the most keenly anticipated battles in the technology world. It has taken on a new scope with some of the major retailers joining the race to win buyers with Christmas just two months away.

With Apple’s iPad the best tablet around but also the most complicated and expensive, consumers will want the best deal. That means a combination of excellent battery life, a wealth of applications and performance levels that are so good, you won’t worry about needing an upgrade every five minutes.

Tesco Hudl's new tablet can make an impact in a competitive market

Earlier last week, Argos entered the tablet market with the MyTablet, costing under £100. It is too early to say if this will be a successful move but it follows the latest trend which was recently triggered by Tesco’s competitive move with the introduction of the Tesco Hudl (pictured).

At £119, the tablet is in the price range for many members of the everyday public and there are plenty of positives about the Hudl. Tesco have made it available in four different colours. While the standard black colour is available, those with a creative feel will appreciate the choice of red, purple and blue colours.

The design is slick and smooth and appearance levels are crucial to attract buyers. When a customer enters a store or goes searching online, they will be instantly put off by something that has a lack of care and attention in its design. The Hudl shouldn’t provide any complaints and with a seven inch screen, is big enough to read e-books, listen to the latest chart hits and stream quality movies in stunning HD.

For any tablet to be successful, they need an easy-to-find store with hundreds of applications. That isn’t just the standard apps either. Tesco’s Hudl doesn’t disappoint with access to the successful Google Play store as it runs Android operating technology. Therefore, there shouldn’t be any hassle catching up on TV with BBC iPlayer or staying in touch through video calling on Skype – both available in the store. At 16GB in internal storage, tablet space is fantastic. There is the ability to purchase a Micro-SD card separately to extend memory space to 48GB, keeping the user very happy.

There are bugbears of course. The battery life is not the best and the 3MP camera is a huge disappointment. Tesco shouldn’t invest in this and need to look at other avenues if they were to launch a second edition.

So can Tesco take on the likes of Amazon and Samsung, both viable competitors in the tablet market? It will probably struggle to match them on sales but it has the ability to cause some headaches for these companies. The tablet market is not easy to crack. HP pulled their tablet from the shelves after poor sales while the BlackBerry Playbook was so bad, it made watching an episode of Antiques Roadshow more appealing.

The Hudl sold out in its first two days on the market and this is a great start for Tesco. If you are flushed with cash, stick with the more powerful Samsung tablets but if you are sticking to a budget in the festive season, a Tesco Hudl would be the ideal winter gift.

Categories: Amazon, Android, Apple, Argos, BBC iPlayer, Christmas, Colour, HD, Hudl, iPad, Samsung, Tablet, Technology, Tesco, TV

The 100 Greatest TV Adverts - Part Two (40-21)

By Simon Wright

The television advertisement has been around on our screens for almost 60 years.  They portray all of our favourite products, promoted by either everyday celebrities or just normal everyday members of the British public.

Christmas officially arrives when the Coca Cola Christmas trucks appear

Adverts (Coca Cola Christmas trucks pictured) have come a long way since a toothpaste company broadcast the first ever commercial on ITV's opening night back in September 1955.  Some of them can be a real nuisance, especially if they pop up in every single advertising break.

It has been over 13 years since a programme was produced by Channel 4 to find the nation's greatest advert, and there have been some real gems since.  Five years ago, I did a top 60 selection on my YouTube account, and have always noticed the commercials that actually can leave you laughing, amazed or even feeling a bit emotional.

In this five-part series for Viewing Perspectives, here is my updated list of the 100 Greatest TV adverts of all-time.  The part covers numbers 40-21, with all years given a rough reference of when the commercial was either first screened or shown most regularly.

40. The AA: You’ve Got a Friend (2005)
In an effort to improve their reputation, the AA produced this advert, with a song that would grab the attention of most.  When you have a breakdown on the road, their message is to call the AA at any time of the day and the year, and they will come and fix the issue.  Whether this happens all the time can't be assured by myself as I don't drive, but their insistence that you've got a friend with the AA made it one of the best ads of 2005.

39. British Airways: To Fly, To Serve (2011) 
In recent years, British Airways have had mixed fortunes, but most definitely have a distinguished history, which is reminded in this advert through the ages.  It provides the audience with a memory of flying with privilege with the world's favourite airline.  This commercial is one for those with a nostalgic feel. 

38. John Lewis: The wait (2011) 
This is such a touching and memorable commercial, and one of the best ever adverts I've ever seen around Christmas time.  A young child is waiting for the big day to arrive, but it isn't to receive gifts, but to give one to his parents.  His anguish in the slow countdown is clear to see and it reminds us that Christmas is totally more than just receiving presents.  John Lewis produced an absolute masterpiece here, and it's low ranking is only because they managed to trump this with the 2012 edition which has made the top 20.

37. Vauxhall: Wacky races (2003) 
Vauxhall Corsa models have always had an element of fun around them and this is real fun.  With the help of some animation, various colours of Corsa get involved in their own rendition of 'Wacky Races,' with some unpredictable results.  However, it does really put the fun back into driving.

36. Guinness: Evolution (2006) 
In 2006, Guinness came up with this interesting take on the evolution of the modern male individual.  Three friends each enjoy the start of a strong pint of Guinness, then go back in time through the ages into various creatures, including sea animals and dinosaurs.  

35. Cadbury’s Smash: Martians (1979) 
Martians from another planet, talking in a different language and wanting to know more about this product.  This is a strange advert, but it does grab the attention of the viewer.

34. Coca Cola: Christmas Trucks (1990s onwards)
One of the first signs of the Christmas holidays nowadays is when this commercial appears on either ITV or Channel 4 for the first time.  First making an appearance in the 1990s, kids and the entire family get excited when the famous Coca Cola trucks come past their town.  This is when you know the festive season is approaching relatively quickly.

33. Mercedes-Benz: Alonso/Hamilton (2007) 
They had a tempestuous relationship driving for McLaren in 2007, but there is healthy respect between Brit Lewis Hamilton and double world champion Fernando Alonso.  When they were team-mates, they did this superb advert for Mercedes-Benz, which highlights their determination to beat one another, whether that is to the hotel room, the race circuit or in the gym.  Eventually, the competition becomes too hot in the steam room, until a rather cool-looking Mika Hakkinen makes a chilled appearance, with smiles all around.  Stunning from start to finish.

32. Toys R-Us: Geoffrey and Helpers (1989) 
The toy superstore Toys R-Us have sadly ditched this advert after over 20 years, but it is one of television's most famous advertising jingles.  When the shop closes for the evening, Geoffrey and Helpers come out from hibernation and reload the store full of stock, from toys to bicycles, before the sun rises.  I wish this returned, as the new commercials just don't have the same appeal.

31. Dunlop: Tested for the Unexpected (1993) 
When advertising budgets simply didn't matter, commercials could range from the stupid to the totally extravagant.  Director Tony Kaye used his budget to the maximum for this advert which sees Dunlop tyres tested to every single element known to the man, including different road conditions and flying objects.  Perhaps Pirelli could look at this example, and improve their own tyres!

30. Kit Kat: Dancing Pandas (1989) 
This advert is actually now on our television screens again, but it first appeared back in 1989.  An observer is keen to see pandas, but gets frustrated by their non-appearance.  When he turns around to take a break from looking at nothing, the pandas appear for a fast-moving dance routine before he finishes his Kit Kat.  They then return into their habitat, as the guy finishes his Kit Kat, turns around and starts looking at nothing again.  The motto to this advert is never turn around.

29. Fiat: Robots (1979) 
The Fiat Strada was handbuilt by robots in 1979 in a two-minute advert which shows the inner makings of the car industry.  Watch it to see a car built from scratch.

28. Skoda: Cake Car (2007) 
Czech manufacturer Skoda has a questionable reputation and has often been the victim of some crude car jokes.  However in 2007, they produced this masterful advert which has one of their models built out of just cake.  Very classy and memorable.  

Watch this advert on YouTube

27. M&M’s: Being British (2012) 
This is a fantastic commercial to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee last June.  Yellow sweet tries to get into the special packs of M&M's, but he doesn't manage to achieve it despite his best efforts.  Featuring some American voices and animation from our good friends in Australia, this makes it into the top 30, but sorry yellow - not into the top 25.

26. Pepsi: Swedish Girl (1974) 
Shy, scared and clearly experiencing fear of talking to girls, this nerdy bloke, played by Mike Grady (from Citizen Smith) approaches a Swedish girl with two cans of Pepsi, and plucks up the coverage to ask her out, only for the girl to respond in the Swedish language that he simply doesn't understand.  Turning to the camera, he wonders why he even bothered, before we get one of the strangest and longest slogans ever: "Lipsmackingthirstquenchinacetastinmotivatingoodbuzzincooltalkinhighwalkinfastlivinevergivincoolfizzin.'  That's not easy to say!

25. Halifax: Howard the Halifax Man (2000) 
Sometimes, adverts can turn normal people into massive UK superstars.  In the year 2000, Halifax began a long-running television advertisement featuring staff singing popular songs with the words changed to reflect the banking products it offered.  Step forward Howard Brown from the Sheldon branch, who became the star of these commercials for eight years, starting with this commercial on Boxing Day 2000.  Brown was moved into public relations in 2008 and left the corporation two years ago, but he will also been known as Howard the Halifax Man.  He even got into the top 15 of the music charts, with a cover of the Barry White Song 'You're the first, the last, my everything' back in 2003.

24. Heineken: The Water in Majorca (1986) 
The late Bryan Pringle appears in this popular TV commercial advertising Heineken, where he is trying to teach a posh girl to say 'The water in Majorca don't taste like what it ought to.' in a cockney accent.  He is failing miserably until the refreshment of Heineken comes in, when after one sip, the girl starts pronouncing the phrase in the cockney accent.  Voice expressions do change on the taste of good beer.

23. Renault Clio: Papa/Nicole (1998) 
The famous 'Nicole' and 'Papa' series from Renault came to an end in May 1998, when 23 million people tuned in to see the finale when it was broadcast.  Comedians Bob Mortimer and Vic Reeves star in this advert, playing out a classic scene from 'The Graduate.'  Who gets the girl and drives off in the Clio, find out by watching!

22. Cadbury’s Dairy Milk: Gorilla (2007) 
Cadbury launched a new advertising campaign entitled Gorilla in the summer of 2007, consisting of a gorilla at a drum kit, preparing and then drumming along to the song 'In the Air Tonight' by Phil Collins.  The advert immediately amassed over five million views on YouTube, and put Collins back into the UK charts.  The meaning of the advert is to relate the joy of playing drums to that of eating a chocolate bar.

21. Evian: Rolling Babies (2009) 
Babies roller-skating, and undertaking some fairly devilsh moves to a rap single for Evian.  Okay, not sure what the connection is, but it is cute and hilarious.

Categories: Britain, Budget, Christmas, Coca Cola, Dunlop, Fiat, McLaren, Pandas, Pepsi, Toys R-Us

The true meaning of Christmas

It is just one week to go now until Christmas, and I’m sure a lot of us have stocked up on chocolates, alcohol, turkey and of course, the presents for all your loved ones.

The true meaning of Christmas has often been confused and we probably all have different reasons for why this festive celebration is so special.

To me, Christmas is a time to put aside all the feelings of the year and enjoy the day.  I mean, if you can’t enjoy Christmas Day – then you must have some serious issues. 

Presents are always nice but they are now a bonus to myself

As I have grown older, my attitude in presents has changed.  Gone are the days of ripping off the wrapping paper without a care in the world to get the latest games console or mobile phone.

We all like presents, but for me now, it is the thought that counts when it comes to buying gifts for loved ones, whether that be family, long-distance relatives, friends or boyfriends/girlfriends.

Socks are the only accessory I’ve never seen the point of.  Sure, they are practical and as a bloke, you never can have enough socks, but admittedly, I’ve always struggled to appreciate getting a pair of socks.

I agree with Barcelona defender Gerard Pique in this advert for last year’s FIFA game.

Spending time with loved ones
However, I will accept and appreciate any gifts given to me because it is thought that counts.  It isn’t about being greedy, it is about being grateful that you were thought of. 

The most important thing about Christmas is spending time with your family.  Enjoy the Christmas TV with them – as for some, there isn’t many occasions where you gather around with the family over the course of the year.

Christmas is all about having a laugh, putting a smile on your face and embracing what the day holds. 

I hope everyone is looking forward to next Tuesday.

Categories: Alcohol, Chocolates, Christmas, Presents, Turkey

2012 - A year in review - My favourite adverts - top 25

Sometimes, adverts can look absolutely ridiculous on television nowadays, or they can be memorable for the right reasons.

2012 has seen a great mixture of funny commercials and don't worry, moustached men have been banned! So, if you missed a cracker while in the toilet, or making a cuppa during the year, here is my personal favourite selection of the top 25 adverts from 2012.

Featured include Christmas commercials, wet paint, being British, crazy goalkeepers and testing events from the likes of mobile phone companies, retail shops, betting companies and insurance firms.  Enjoy my selection of the best commercials of 2012.

25. Aldi - It's beginning to look a lot like Aldi
The Christmas season has begun and all the major supermarket brands have brought out adverts to celebrate some great deals.
However, all the major supermarkets should hang their heads in shame.  Aldi have produced these great adverts (this example for roast), to a retune of 'It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas.'
Mocking the other players such as Waitrose and Sainsbury's, the catchphrase says it all at the end; 'It's beginning to look a lot like Aldi.'

24. Nokia - The new Nokia Lumia
Nokia has been left behind in the smartphone market by the likes of Apple and Samsung, but their new phone, the Lumia isn't the worst on the market.
They also produced this advert in February for the new 800 edition, promoting their apps to some catchy dance music.  It is a catchy tune and a different model to most smartphones.

23. Sky Sports F1 - The race is only part of the story
It has been a difficult year for Formula One fans like myself, especially if you haven't got Sky Sports F1 HD. However, they have produced a brilliant first season of coverage, helped by this promotional ad which was shown on all commercial channels in the spring.
The fact is that the future of F1 is on satellite now, and I might be joining the bandwagon in 2013.  It is true too, the race on Sunday is only part of the story.

22. BlackBerry - Two kinds of people
Apple and Samsung have led the way in the smartphone market and unfortunately, BlackBerry has been left behind.
When I say that, it is because I'm one of their customers.  They haven't recovered from the RIM server crash of October 2011 but I still liked this commercial, which portrayed two different types of people.  Just a shame they can't make decent phones!

21. Carlsberg - The England fan academy
Euro 2012 came and went.  It was another typical tournament for England but to be a Three Lions fan, you must follow the rules and graduate into the fan academy.
Starring the likes of Des Lynam, Ian Wright and Stuart 'Psycho' Pearce, this is what being a true England fan is all about.  Sorry, I'm a Spanish football fan!

20. BP - Inspiring Dreams
The best adverts of 2012 will be dominated by Olympic campaigns.
This was BP's summer ad for London 2012, inspiring the dreams of a nation.  Poster girl Jessica Ennis is seen here daydreaming while refuelling her car, perhaps having the vision of success she would have in the Olympic Stadium on that amazing Saturday evening in early August.

19. Febreze - Experiments with the Azerbaijan wrestling team
I'm not generally keen on the product but Febreze came up with this commercial in the summer, experimenting the smell of air effects with the Azerbaijani wrestling team.  The results speak for themselves!

This advert can be viewed at: http://www.ispot.tv/ad/7VTD/febreze-air-effects-featuring-the-azerbaijan-wrestling-team

18. Maltesers - Airport dancers
Let's be honest.  Standing in a queue at check-in can be boring and tiring and it can't be much better for the airport staff.  Introduce some Maltesers into the action though and the entertainment value is bound to happen as seen by this funny commercial in the autumn.  The staff had a laugh but the travellers seemed largely unimpressed.

17. BT - Bringing us all together for London 2012
Telecommunications giant BT produced this powerful advert for the Olympic Games, going down the lines of the 'Inspire a Generation' motto.  The Olympics brought us all together and BT's fibreoptic network along with BT London Live (which I went to TWICE!) certainly lived up to expectations.

16. Paddy Power - The Vuvuzela returns
What was your abiding memory of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa?  Mine was definitely the noise of the dreaded vuvuzela.  In fact, I asked someone (whose name will remain unidentified) to bring one back cheekily when they went to South Africa last year!
In 2012, Paddy Power took one to the Ukraine and the noise is so loud, a block of flats is demolished.  I don't want to hear that sound ever again, but the advert does make the point it was aiming at.

15. Lynx - Unleash the chaos
It seems like every single year, Lynx brings out a commercial which grabs the attention of the TV viewer.  This year, it did so again with the new 'Attract' range by unleashing chaos on New York City.
It is false advertising though.  I tried this range in October and it didn't work!

14. Google Chrome - The satchel craze
The power of the internet grows with every year and the web browser war is on.  Internet Explorer has had a revamp while Safari tries to please the Apple consumers.
Leading the way though is Google Chrome, and this was a great commercial in the summer, as the satchel gets relaunched through the internet's force.

13. Virgin Media - Meditation
I honestly preferred the Usain Bolt commercials with Richard Branson in the spring but these were banned by the ASA for breaking regulations over the offer Virgin Media promoted.
So, I've gone for this one in the top 25, which features Branson and former Doctor Who star David Tennant, who tells the media mogul he is weird - probably not for the first time either!

12. Direct Line - Sob Story
2012 saw an end to the Direct Line commercials starring comedians Chris Addison and Alexander Armstrong.
Yes they are promoting insurance, a boring topic, but there was good humour around the adverts.  This was the best of the bunch in 2012, involving a sob story about the insurance salesman's nan and emigration to New Zealand.

11. Toyota - Talking cameras
Japanese car manufacturer Toyota have had a testing few years, thanks to the recession and the worldwide recalls over some of their models.
To show they weren't lying down though, they brought out the YARIS hybrid car in May and this commercial, which is daft but clever at the same time.
Who would have thought that speed cameras, lamp posts and traffic lights had a way of talking to one another!

10. British Airways - London Calling
The national airline of choice, British Airways released this advert to the beat of the cracking 1979 song, 'London Calling' by The Clash.
This promotes their support of the London Olympics by having an aeroplane travel through and past some classic city landmarks, before arriving at the Olympic Stadium.

9. British Gas - The British Gas team

Big problems, small issues.  To the tune of The A-Team, gas supplier British Gas ensure this is a memorable advert, through some decent animation graphics.  If you have a problem that needs fixing, like a leaky boiler - call the British Gas Team!

8. Vodafone - Freebee Rewardz
Vodafone have had the bees promoting their UK campaigns for a few years now and the 'Freebee Rewardz' scheme was highlighted through some BlackBerry Curve phones and wet paint.  Be careful in how to impress the female equivalent, it could lead to a very sticky situation!

7. Ladbrokes - John McCririck rattled
Horse racing expert John McCririck lost his job with Channel 4 Racing this year after over 30 years in broadcasting.  His enthusiasm will be missed next year, as the terrestrial broadcaster becomes the home of horse racing in the UK.
Ahead of this year's Cheltenham Festival, he gets hot under the collar from Ladbrokes' Tiziano Crudeli in this brilliant take on the betting ring at the races.
Crudeli has hit Chris Kamara in the face with a football this year too, so he's had a decent 2012!

6. VISA - Usain Bolt
Usain Bolt had another incredible summer as he retained all of his Olympic titles.  However, he was racing before the Olympics.
Using VISA's new Flow Faster scheme, he races across London against a keen customer and the Olympic Starter.
This is a great demonstration of how Bolt appeals to the UK, not just his Jamaican home nation.

5. Mars - Crazy Goalkeeper
Filmed in Milton Keynes and it isn't looking good for England.  Another penalty shootout and defeat looms, especially when the goalkeeper hurts his knee and can't continue.
Step forward an energised match steward, and a Mars chocolate bar and the results are spectacular.
The crazy goalkeeper saves a spot-kick from Robin van Persie, then pulls off the 'wobbly legs' and the 'scorpion kick' to win the shootout for England.
This is hilarious - where was he in Kiev when the country needed him!

4. EDF Energy - Athlete Dreams
EDF Energy had the power of electricity behind London 2012.  Starring cyclist and Strictly Come Dancing's Victoria Pendleton, two technicians have their own dreams, trying out events in the Velodrome, Aquatics Centre and in the Olympic Stadium itself.
You can't blame them for trying!

3. Weetabix - 'You're Gonna Need It.'
Breakfast time has arrived and Weetabix introduced a new cereal for 2012, called 'Golden Syrup.'
Little does the Dad eating know that he is going to be in for an action-packed day out with his son, who tells him 'You're Gonna Need It.'
Featuring cycling, swings and piggy-backs, this is a humorous take on a father's grand day out.
Never trust the youngsters, they need to be loved all the time.  This is a worthy of a top three ranking.

2. M&M's - Sorry Yellow
I'm unimpressed that M&M's tried to steal the 'epic fail' catchphrase from 'Yours Truly,' but this was a fantastic commercial all the same.
To celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee at the beginning of June, yellow tries to get into the special packs of M&M's but he doesn't manage to achieve it.
Featuring some American voices and animation from the Aussies - this is number two in the top 25.  Sorry Yellow, it doesn't make it to number one.

1. John Lewis - The Snowman Journey
So we come to the number one advert of the year and for the second year running, it goes to John Lewis for the Christmas commercial called 'The Snowman Journey.'
The commercial is tender, heart-warming and emotional.  I'll even admit that it nearly brings me to tears every time I see it.
John Lewis encourage everyone to go the extra mile to get the desired gift and this advert once again ticks all the right boxes.
The song 'The Power of Love,' is currently in the iTunes top 10 too and fits the advert superbly.  This totally deserves number one ranking once again.

Congratulations to John Lewis on winning this advert of the year prize for the second year in a row.  Here's to more corking commercials in 2013!

Categories: Adverts, Aldi, Azerbaijan, BlackBerry, BP, BT, Carlsberg, Chris Addison, Christmas, England, Febreze, Google Chrome, John Lewis, Lynx, Maltesers, Nokia, Olympics, Paddy Power, Richard Branson, Usain Bolt

2012 - A year in review - Me

We are approaching the end of another year.  What are the first words you all think about 2012? 

Mine are quite simple.  I would describe my 2012 as life-changing, emotional and character-building. 

I have had to adapt to a year full of change.  I don’t think I’ve said as many goodbyes as I have had this year.  Some were for the best, others as it was natural progression and some it was really sad.

There have been testing times but I ended the year with a degree and more life experience.  So here is how 2012 turned out for me in my opinion. 

A difficult start

2012 began difficult for me.  I had been ill over Christmas and started January on antibiotics for the second time in three years.

I don't think Valentino Rossi needs to be worried about my motorcycling skills!

I visited the Autosport International Show in January for the annual motorsport exhibition, and I must say it was one of the best years for the show.  I will be back in 2013 to experience the atmosphere and the buzz at the LG Arena in Birmingham for the 10^th consecutive year.

As winter turned towards spring, the end was getting ever closer in regards to my time at the University of Northampton.

I had some mixed results at the start of third year, and getting the degree classification on my journalism course I wanted was touch and go.

Then I worked harder than ever before.  I spent day after day in the edit suites filming, editing and interviewing people for my TV project.

This project challenged me as did my final dissertation and at times, I let the pressure get to me.

In February, I even considered whether I was chasing the right path in my future career.  A lecture talk from former NME editor Neil Spencer left me with plenty to think about.

He gave a real negative persona to the media industry and I wasn’t sure if I was prepared for long slog in the world of journalism. 

Eventually, I decided to stick with journalism and it proved to be the right decision.

Some satisfying results and goodbye to Clarks

As I was approaching the end of my life in education, another chapter was closing and that was in my part-time retail work at Clarks Shoes.

I was working at the Northampton branch, since making a permanent move to the area in September 2010.

However, I couldn’t stay there after the end of June because I was leaving Northampton after my course, so I was hoping to get a transfer back to Milton Keynes.

Unfortunately they didn’t have the hours I required and in May, I had to hand in my notice and get prepared to leave.

The job was never the most exciting but it kept the money ticking over, especially at Uni and I met some amazing people in six and a half years, in two completely different environments.

My last shift was on 9 June 2012.  It was a sad goodbye but I was excited to finally leave the retail market. 

As my time with Clarks reached its conclusion – my results at University improved and I started finding my best form in March, which was the UK summer this year!

I completed my major individual project, a 10 minute TV documentary into modern technology and how it has changed our everyday lives.

You can see the video below:

I also took part in the Current Affairs Show, a 30 minute radio programme which was recorded by me and two of my fellow coursemates, Lauren Bowen and Miles Aitkenhead.

Surprisingly, I found this module to be quite exciting to do.  I did my own telephone interview without any hassle and when we put the show together in April, we were excited and the results came back very well too.

I can honestly say that it was the best group I ever worked with.  The three of us had one goal and that was to get it done and get it done with some quality and style.  The Current Affairs show can be listened to here.

It also opened a new door into a radio career…more on that later.

The end of University and a brilliant final couple of nights

My dissertation was an interesting challenge to complete

Wednesday, 16 May 2012 and it was all over.  The final project was handed in just before lunchtime – I had officially finished as a journalism student at the University of Northampton.

I didn’t want to leave to be honest; I knew it was great to finish but sad to finish at the same time.

I had done all I could to get the results I desired and now, I just had to wait and hope.

In the meantime, it was time to party and that night, the majority of the journalism group went out into town to the NB’s Sports Bar and the Fever nightclub.

While Fever was a real letdown, I had so much fun in NB's.  Apart from one night out in early February at the preferred nightclub destination of Balestra in Northampton – I had focused on my degree and now, it was time to enjoy myself.

Farida and me in NB's on the final journalism party night. As a course, we did it!

I had such a laugh that night.  There were plenty of drinks, some crazy dancing (apparently I’m quite the dancer….) and I did a few things that were slightly out of character but the night was memorable.

We hadn’t gone out as a massive group since my own birthday the previous October and it was great to socialise with my coursemates. 

A lot of us had many differences with our personalities, and I’m not the easiest person to get on with at times, or the most interesting individual to meet but we knew how to party.

We did it and we finished in the best fashion possible!

Lights out! The Silverstone Grad Ball lived upto expectations

10 days after the NB’s madness, it was destination Silverstone for the 2012 Grad Ball.  What a lovely night that was too.  I even dressed up smarted and booted for the event and I’m not the smartest person ever when it comes to these occasions.

Professor Green rocked the stage after Rizzle Kicks pulled out, one of them was ‘ill.’  It was great to be at the home of the British Grand Prix and to be in the lovely Wing pits complex for the night.

It was another special night and well worth the price for going.

Friendships and graduation

What I have learnt this year more than anything, is about the value of friendship and where the line needs to be drawn.

I had to deal with people talking about me online (not directly mentioned but aimed around me) in both April and June.

That was not nice and led to me taking disappearing acts from Twitter and Facebook.  I changed my Twitter username from @HappyDude88 to @Siwri88 in February for professional reasons and I’m still trying to find the right balance with social media.

I think I’ve found it with both Twitter and LinkedIn (joined in January).  My use of Facebook has still caused me more trouble than what it is worth - it is now the poor cousin relation to both Twitter and LinkedIn.

BBM also caused me problems in the summer.  It might be free but sometimes, you can come across as an entirely different individual.  I will look forward to ditching the BlackBerry in September 2013.

Then there were the goodbyes to some of my closest pals from University, pretty much for the last time.  I have some regrets and at times, my honesty cost me more than what was expected.

With Tamika on graduation day: One of the sweetest and kindest individuals I've ever met

Luckily I didn’t need the tissues at any stage, but it still feel strange to not see some that were around me almost day in, day out for the last three years.

After Uni, I’ve distanced from some for the right reasons, while some just drifted away.  However, I would say I stay in touch closely with at least four coursemates from Uni and occasionally speak to around 10 others.

So this leads me into the big graduation day in July.  The event was held at the Derngate Theatre in Northampton. 

The certificate confirming my degree.  No-one can take this away!

I was so nervous in the build-up, hoping I didn’t look like a clown in the gown, or make sure my name was pronounced correctly. 

Luckily on the day, it all went to plan.  Although some of my behaviour could have been better on the day, it was a nice feeling to have my final degree classification of a 2:1 down on a certificate.  I worked massively hard for that!

So it was goodbye to my coursemates, the lecturers and to Northampton, both the University and my accommodation.  It was time for the next chapter.

A new chapter and moving on

I do miss my sole independence although I have settled back into everyday life with my beloved family in Milton Keynes.

I made a final visit back to Northampton in October, just before my 24^th birthday to collect all of my work. 

It felt like I finally found closure, as I did miss not being a student anymore.  I still do but that’s life – you have to move on.

Amidst all the celebrations of summer events like the Diamond Jubilee and Euro 2012, there was also the small matter of the London Olympics.

It inspired a generation and it inspired me too.  What a spectacular 17 days of competition and there were so many highlights.

The golden postboxes in Milton Keynes.  Nice one Greg!

I was delighted when local lad from Bletchley Greg Rutherford won the Men’s Long Jump, as that meant we had two golden post-boxes painted by Royal Mail in his honour of winning gold.

The women’s football excited me, as did Andy Murray’s gold medal in the tennis at Wimbledon, the feats of Jessica Ennis and Mo Farah and of course, Usain Bolt’s three gold medals in the 100m, 200m and the 4x100m relay.

Although I didn’t have the privilege of being at the Olympic Stadium, either as a spectator or working in media, I did go to BT London Live twice, once at Hyde Park and once at Victoria Park in August. 

Great day experiencing Olympic atmosphere

Both were lovely sunny days and were great occasions to sample and experience the atmosphere. 

And so a new chapter has begun.  Unfortunately, a paid freelancing contract collapsed recently with Total Football Magazine, meaning I had to leave after six months of hard graft, but I have begun a career in radio, hosting the F1 Zone on Bee Vocal which will be back in February and I am dedicated to new and future challenges.

2012 has thrown up plenty of challenges.  I had to say plenty of goodbyes and make some difficult decisions.  The year could have gone a bit smoother and it has been tough but would I have swapped any of it – not a lot of it anyway.

I do hope 2013 is a little bit less dramatic and a bit quieter though!

Merry Christmas everyone and have a Happy New Year!

By Simon Wright

Categories: 2012, Autosport International Show, Birmingham, Christmas, Clarks, Emotion, Journalism, Nightclub, Professor Green, Silverstone, Student, The Current Affairs Show, TV, Twitter, University of Northampton