Filming has already begun on the big screen version of The Damned Utd, the Leeds-born author's fictional account of Brian Clough's torrid 44 days at Leeds United and now his four novels about the Yorkshire Ripper also look set to
be adapted.

Concentrating on police corruption and the mistakes which allowed Peter Sutcliffe to roam free, killing 13 women in five years, it was always going to be an uneasy watch and with Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas director Tony Grisoni apparently at the helm of the final instalment those of a nervous disposition should probably look away now.

Modesty clearly has no place in music. In an industry crowded with egos, it seems Will Young has already learnt that the only person guaranteed to say nice things about you is yourself.

Ahead of his performance at Sheffield City Hall later this year, the Pop Idol winner has been telling anyone willing to listen just how brilliant his new album is.

"I've never been happier with my music than I have with this album," he told one interviewer.

"I took a lot of time off. I went away travelling, but after the acting I went straight back into the music. I've spent the longest I've ever spent making an album and I think it feels right. Maybe I'm finally growing up but everything is clicking into place."



Could the Pigeon Detectives be responsible for the recent bad weather? During their set at this year's Glastonbury, the Leeds group seemed desperate for the heavens to open. Playing songs from their second album Emergency alongside older favourites I Found Out and Take Her Back, frontman Matt Bowman led the crowd in a rain dance saying: "I'll let you in on a secret. I've bought a brand new raincoat and wellies and I haven't had a chance to use them yet." During the gig the sun kept shining, but given recent downpours perhaps the gods were listening after all.



FURTHER bad news from camp Björk. The famously eccentric Icelandic singer cancelled a previously postponed gig in Sheffield last week leaving some fans feeling a little shunned.

Organisers gave "throat problems" as the reason for the no-show and a statement on her website thanked fans for their support and understanding. However, with another performance pulled in Helsinki, fans have been left wondering whether they will ever hear from the Oh So Quiet singer again.

SIR Ben Kingsley has won an Oscar, a couple of Golden Globes and two Baftas, so one wonders what he'll do with an honorary degree from the University
of Hull?

The Scarborough-born actor is due to return to the seaside resort for the presentation ceremony next week and the campus dean Dr Craig Gaskell is hoping a little Hollywood glamour will rub off on what he describes as the town's already "vibrant arts scene".

He adds: "Our students are thrilled to be sharing their graduation day with such a high-profile actor."

Whether Sir Ben will stay on to catch any of Scarborough's summer season at the Futurist Theatre, which includes Red Hot Abba and Basil Brush's Laughter Factory, remains to be seen.