Gran Alacant Advertiser April 2016 by Gran Alacant Advertiser

APRIL

2016 ISSUE 135

YOUR LOCAL NEWS MAGAZINE SINCE JANUARY 2005 Gran Alacant Hospice Fund read more on p.20 & 32

DISTRIBUTED IN & AROUND: • • • •

Grand Alacant La Marina El Altet Los Montesinos

• • • •

Santa Pola Guardamar Quesada Torellano

ADVERTISE WITH US

PHONE - ENGLISH : 865 663 993 Lou&Ged PHONE - ESPAÑOL: 676 741 983 Camila

Scan to Visit our Website

NOW IN OUR 12TH YEAR NUESTRAS NOTICIAS LOCALES AHORA ESTAN EN ESPANOL

EMAIL: info@granalacantadvertiser.com

WEBSITE: www.granalacantadvertiser.com www.facebook.com/GranAlacantAdvertiser

TRUST US

We would like to thank the TOURISM COUNCILLOR for enabling Jose Manuel Blasco to join our magazines monthly column. Many of you will surely have met Jose at the Tourist Information Counter in Santa Pola. He always exudes enthusiasm for all that is happening in our area. Here are his suggestions of “Where to visit” and “What to see” for this month ... Hi to everybody, After Holy Week and “Las Fallas in Valencia” in April we look forward to the Moors and Christian’s parades, especially the magnificent parade held in Alcoy on the 22nd at 10.30 am. The Moors takes place at 5pm. The Christians, in my opinion is simply “spectacular” and declared of international importance. The only trouble is that takes the whole day. More parades of Moors and Christian are held this month in: San Vicente del Raspeig, Busot, Banyeres, but the parades in Onil, Granja, Rocamora are also very good. In Alicante “Romeria de la Santa Faz” takes place on the 6th of April. If you want to discover what a popular pilgrimage in Spain is go and join in., but I must warn you that there will be thousands of people. On the 7th of April in Santa Pola there will be a guided visit to the Salt Museum from 11a.m to 1p.m and in the evening to the fish auction, fishing port and Aquarium at 5p.m. Advance booking is required by phoning first or pop into any of the Tourist Info offices.

Bye-bye my friends ... until next month. Hello everyone, A lot is happening at the moment on Gran Alacant. New LIDL opened their new store and is proving very popular. Fosters Hollywood - an American diner style restaurant and JYSK a Danish homeware store will also be opening soon which is a great boost to Gran Alacant. All the pipe laying should be completed shortly. Plans are also underway for a new health centre or improvements to the existing buildings, which are currently shared with other services - read more inside the magazine on these topics. Tarmacking has begun not before time we have to say, a new pumping station comes into operation soon, so hopefully less unwanted odours in the air this summer, and well done England on their Grand Slam in rugby! Have a good month, Lou & Ged Our little dog has hidden herself away in the magazine, can you find her? Last month she was on page 21

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

We at your Gran Alacant Advertiser continue to bring you all of the NEWS, and answers to your questions from Councillor of Citizen Services, as we have since May 2005. If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please just email them to us at the magazine - granalacantadvertiser@hotmail.co.uk Q: Recycling Bins: As an ex-resident of La Marina I have to ask why Gran Alacant has such a shortage of rubbish bins. On La Marina wherever you found a general food waste bin, close by would be a plastic/tin one and a paper one and sometimes a glass one. Why can’t the council for Gran Alacant provide similar for its’ residents? You can go along several extremely long roads (Avenue Polonia is one example) where all you find are general grey waste bins. I am sure not all residents have a car to get to the closest one and we are not talking short distances here! Gran Alacant residents deserve better.I thought all EU countries were committed to recycling targets set by the EU. If we are willing to sort surely the local council should be able to provide us with the correct containers. Ann Paterson Town Hall Answer: About providing more rubbish bins, plastic/ tin bins included, it is necessary to study the demand situation so as the infrastructures can be provided. That is why the local Council wants to encourage the neighbors

to describe the places where they think more bins are needed. Thus, a better service can be achieved by all of us. In order to submit all the complaints or suggestions about this issue, there is a local office at the ambulatory building, from where citizens can communicate to the local Council in an official way. We will be waiting for your participation so as the life quality in Gran Alacant can be improved. Q: Pipe Laying on GA What are the pipes for coming down from the Post office?

looking like a war zone. Some areas have been replaced with concrete, which looks awful.Will the construction companies be laying new tar mac over the areas affected? Town Hall Answer: Regarding the roadwork, which is being done at the moment, all neighbors can be relieved because the “awful concrete” is only a temporary solution. In fact, the companies, which are in charge of the roadwork, will asphalt all affected areas as soon as works are finished. Q: Dangerous Ramp: Ramp outside the church is considered dangerous for cyclists if it is dark or cars pulling in there. A suggestion is to paint the edges yellow as a warning.

Town Hall Answer: After asking the municipal Engineer about this Work, it is confirmed that they are for driving sanitation towards the purifying plant. It is anticipated that these works will have eneded up in late March. Q: Roadworks on GA With so much roadwork going on at the moment on GA, many of our roads are

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

Town Hall Answer: Related to this issue, it is very important to say that the area, which is shown above is a parking band. Therefore, vehicle circulation is not allowed. However, regarding to the safety of the people who live on Gran Alacant, the suggestion about painting the sides in yellow has been moved to the Infrastructure Councillor in order to be studied. Q: Jungle Garden

Hi all, just wondering if there is any progress re above garden on Calle Belgica. I understand the Town Hall is trying to ascertain ownership of this house. Fact is they will never find anyone to take responsibility. The two people who owned the building died some 7 or 8 years ago. No taxes of any sort have been paid since then and the respective families want nothing to do with it. The male partner in particular was hated by his family and the lady (very nice ) didn't have any family. To the best of my knowledge there were no wills either Spanish or British. The " gardens " are in a terrible state and god only knows what insects etc are living there. Specifically we are overrun with mosquitoes. I have purchased some spraying

equipment, which I hope to use to control them somehow. What's going on inside doesn't bare thinking about. Kind regards, Tom & Linda Lormor Town Hall Answer: This issue is a very difficult one. When it comes to private property, and moreover with no owners who can be notified, the procedure to enter the property in order to remove all plants and do what is needed is a complex legal process. The legal services of the Town Council has been informed about this issue, and they are searching for the procedure in order to be able to act, because we also think that public health is the most important thing to keep in mind. We will keep you in touch about the progress regarding to this topic. Q: Mobile Phone Signal: Hello Lou & Ged!! I am very grateful that you both are continuing with an excellent magazine for us living in Gran Alacant, and say thank you for all the passing years. Now over to a much more serious business. The 28 of June last year I sent the mail below after a very shaking experience. It was published in the magazine and Sandra and Barry also informed the Town hall.

were accepting to place an antenna close to their house!!! The situation seems to have been even worse and you can every day see people running around with a mobile close to their ears, on terraces, balcony’s and streets trying to get a signal. Beside the very high risk that someday a very dangerous situation could arise and cause a disaster, it is a question of fairness. Why  should we all in Gran Alacant pay the same amount as others for something, which is far away from what all operators are offering their customers??? How are police, ambulance and fire brigade communicating without problems? I have heard that they have mounted an extra antenna near the El Faro urbanization to get better signals. Why cannot more antennas be placed there? Hope once again you can inform someone who have the authority to deal with this very urgent matter in the Town Hall. Best regards, Nils Town Hall Answer: About the lack of telephone signal, in the last two weeks, our first

I think it was an answerer from the Town Hall in September that they were aware of the problem, but no house owners

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

We at your Gran Alacant Advertiser continue to bring you all of the NEWS, including that from a representative from the Town Hall, as we have since May 2005.

If you have any QUESTIONS or PROBLEMS you would like us to discuss, please just email them to us at the magazine - info@granalacantadvertiser.com authority has been talking with Conselleria so as they can improve this service. In fact, both administrations are working in agreement which can establish a better way for the Town Council to solve this persistent problem. We hope that by April we will know more about this issue and we will be happy to inform you. NEW LIDL:

first time at 9am. Grand opening was accompanied with music and free food and drink on offer in the car park. JYSK TO OPEN IN GA: JYSK - the largest Danish retailer with 2300 stores in 37 countries is soon to open their new store in the Commercial centre selling household goods such as furniture and interior décor. The new store is scheduled to open in June. FOSTERS HOLLYWOOD TO OPEN IN GA: . The famous American diner serving onion rings, rib eye steaks, burgers, salads, sandwiches, chicken and fish is soon to open in Gran Alacant.

The new revamped Superstore opened on the 10th of March with plenty of shopper’s queing outside waiting for the door to open for the

LEPRECHAUN GRAND RE-OPENING: TheLeprechaun.Bar reopened its doors on Thursday 10th of March. The ornate decor was refreshingly familiar to past patrons and one of the highlights was to see Joan, Lisa and Michelle back smiling and chatting away and renewing acquaintances. The evening was full of laughter and entertainment to a packed bar and lounge area. The music and vocals were fantastic and the launch

was a complete success into the early hours. Tony and Joan took to the stage area for the briefest of speeches to welcome and thank guests and the two barmen coped with expertise and flare to ensure everyone’s glasses were serviced promptly. A very professional and smooth opening to the refreshed Leprechaun Bar.

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

NEW PUMPING STATION: The new pumping station came into operation in Gran Alacant a few days before Easter. The project budgeted at two million euros will provide greater capacity to deliver manifold wastewater. The previous pumping system was insufficient to cover the hundreds of properties, especially in the summer when more people live in the area. The residents of Panorama, Altomar 1 and Grand Vista had spent years denouncing the bad smells and the proliferation of mosquitos by discharges of sewage into the ravine Les Reixes. For this reason, the previos municipal

Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s party government decided to take action on the matter. The project consisted of running 1626 meters of pipe casting that passed through several avenues through Gran Alacant. The next 2-3 few weeks will be devoted to checks and final touches of the work done in the last 6 months. HEALTH CENTRE: The mayor of Santa Pola Yoanda Seva and the mayor for health Maria Delores Thomas met in Valencia with the assistant of primary care to prepare for health reinforcements ahead of the peak tourist season, which starts in May

to insist on providing Gran Alacant a health center to meet the needs of users in the area. The current buildings are far too small to meet these needs, so plans deposited in 2009 with the department of infrastructure have been recovered so at this time we do not know if there will be improvements to the current buildings or a new building which would be built near Monte Faro Altomar on municipal land which is also the location for the planned second school on Gran Alacant.

Dear Editor Despite Jean Reiterbund, who is the MABS official fundraiser for Gran Alacant and has been for many years, having had a letter published in your excellent paper, she is still having problems with nasty minded people who unfortunately reside in Gran Alacant. There are two persons in particular, who have resided for many years in GA, who are known to me but of course I am unable to name them for obvious reasons. But, I do not see why Jean and her team must put up with innuendos of monies being misappropriated either by her and team or the MABS board. This Group has been in existence for 17 years and all our accounts are audited each year (January â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December) by a person with no connection with MABS. Statements of Accounts are prepared and these are available to anyone who cares to ask for them. These accounts are sent to the Hacienda and I can assure you there have never been any queries from them to date. It is a pity that such people do not have anything else to do but cause mischief for others. Of course they load the bullets for others who are also of similar mind to fire and step back with looks of horror on their faces when confronted. I challenge them to produce any evidence of misappropriation, that will prove me wrong and if so I will certainly take the necessary steps. They can send the papers to me or if you agree deposit with you for checking. If they cannot do this simple thing then may I suggest they either put up or shut up once and for all. Yours sincerely Jacquelyne Phillips MBE President, MABS

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

We are easy to find in El Altet. From Gran Alacant turn off the N332 signposted El Altet. Over the roundabout. Over the traffic lights and we are on the right, before the next roundabout. 8

EL ALTET

There are coffee shops next to us when waiting for that short job to be carried out. For longer jobs drive your car over to us and we will run you home and collect you when your car is ready, if in the Gran Alacant area. EL ALTET

Gran Alacant Advertiser ahora en Español! Para Información sobre precios de publicación contactanos al 676 74 19 83 Las noticias locales traducidas del ingles por Camila. Todas las fotos se pueden ver en la Información redactada en Ingles Contenedores de reciclaje: Como ex residente de La Marina tengo que preguntar por qué Gran Alacant tiene tal escasez de contenedores de basura. En La Marina donde quiera que vayas puedes encontrar un contenedor normal y a poca distancia uno de plástico, papel/ cartón y vidrio. ¿Por qué el Ayuntamiento de Gran Alacant no nos facilita estos contenedores? Si vamos por cualquiera de las calles largas (Avenida Polonia es un ejemplo) sólo se encuentran contenedores grises. Estoy seguro de que no todos los residentes tienen un coche para llegar a los contenedores de reciclaje más cercanos. Los residentes de Gran Alacant nos merecemos algo mejor. Yo pensaba que todos los países de la UE están comprometidos con los objetivos de reciclado establecidos por la UE. Si estamos dispuestos a reciclar seguramente el Ayuntamiento debe proporcionarnos los contenedores adecuados. Ann Paterson Respuesta del Ayuntamiento: Sobre proporcionar más contenedores de basura y contenedores de reciclaje, es necesario estudiar la

situación de la demanda para así proporcionar la infraestructura. Por eso, el Ayuntamiento quiere animar a los vecinos a comunicarnos los sitios donde creen que se necesitan más contenedores. Por lo tanto, se puede lograr un mejor servicio para todos nosotros. Con el fin de presentar todas las quejas o sugerencias acerca de este tema, hay una oficina local en el edificio ambulatorio, desde donde los ciudadanos pueden comunicarnos sus sugerencias de forma oficial. Estaremos esperando su participación para mejorar la calidad de vida de Gran Alacant. Tuberías en Gran Alacant: Qué son los tubos que están colocando alrededor de la oficina de correos?

Respuesta del Ayuntamiento: Después de preguntarle al ingeniero municipal sobre este trabajo, se confirma que son para la conducción de saneamiento hacia la

depuradora. Se prevé que estos trabajos terminarán el próximo miércoles. Obras en las calles de Gran Alacant: Con tanto trabajo en las calles de Gran Alacant, muchas de nuestras calles parecen zona de guerra. Algunas áreas han sido reemplazadas con cemento, que se ve horrible. ¿Las empresas de construcción van a colocar asfalto nuevo sobre las áreas afectadas? Respuesta del Ayuntamiento: En cuanto a las obras de las calles, todos los vecinos pueden estar aliviados porque el "cemento horrible" es sólo una solución temporal. De hecho, las empresas que están a cargo de las obras, van a asfaltar todas las zonas afectadas tan pronto como obras se den por concluidas. La rampa fuera de la iglesia - peligrosa: La rampa es peligrosa para los ciclistas (si está

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

oscuro) y para los coches que pasan por allí. Una sugerencia es pintar los bordes amarillos como advertencia.

Respuesta del Ayuntamiento: Relacionado con este tema, es muy importante decir que la zona de alrededor de la iglesia, es una zona de aparcamiento. Por lo tanto, no se permite la circulación de vehículos. Sin embargo, con respecto a la seguridad de las personas que viven en Gran Alacant, la sugerencia de pintar los bordes de amarillo se ha trasladado a la concejala de infraestructura. Jardín Selvático

Hola a todos, sólo me preguntaba si hay algún progreso en relación a la casa de la calle Belgica. Entiendo que el Ayuntamiento esté tratando de determinar la propiedad de esta casa. El hecho es que nunca encontrarán a nadie que asuma la responsabilidad. Los dueños del edificio murieron hace 7 u 8 años, no se han pagado impuestos de ningún

tipo desde entonces y las respectivas familias no quieren saber nada que de la casa. El señor, en particular, fue odiado por toda su familia y la señora no tenía ningún familiar. Por lo que yo sé, no hubo ningún testamento (Español o Británico). Los "jardines" están en un estado terrible y sólo Dios sabe que insectos, etc están viviendo allí. Específicamente nos invaden los mosquitos. He comprado algunos equipos de pulverización, espero poder controlar los mosquitos de alguna manera. No quiero ni pensar en que estado está la casa por dentro. Saludos cordiales, Tom y Linda Lormor Respuesta del Ayuntamiento: Este problema es muy difícil. Cuando se trata de propiedad privada y añadiendo que los propietarios no pueden ser notificados, el procedimiento para entrar en la propiedad con el fin de eliminar todas las plantas y demás, es un proceso legal complejo. Se ha informado acerca de este tema a los servicios jurídicos del Ayuntamiento, y están buscando el procedimiento a fin de poder actuar, porque también pensamos que la salud pública es la cosa más importante a tener en cuenta. Nos mantendremos en contacto sobre el avance de este tema.

Hola Lou & Ged !! Estoy muy contento y quiero daros las gracias por seguir con la excelente revista para todos los que vivimos en Gran Alacant. El 28 de junio del año pasado envié un email a la revista después de una experiencia desagradable. El email fue publicado en la revista y Sandra y Barry también informaron al Ayuntamiento. Creo que recibimos una respuesta del Ayuntamiento en septiembre, diciéndonos que eran conscientes del problema de la cobertura, pero que los propietarios no iban a aceptar la colocación de antenas cerca de las casas. La situación parece seguir igual, todos los días se puede ver a gente asomándose por las terrazas y balcones, alzando el móvil en alto tratando de conseguir una señal. Junto al riesgo muy alto de que algún día podría surgir una situación muy peligrosa y causar un desastre, está también la injusticia... ¿Por qué los residentes de Gran Alacant debemos pagar lo mismo que otros por un servicio que está lejos de lo que los operadores ofrecen a sus clientes? ¿Cómo hace la policía, ambulancia y bomberos para comunicarse sin problema?

La señal del teléfono móvil:

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

Gran Alacant Advertiser ahora en Español! Para Información sobre precios de publicación contactanos al 676 74 19 83 Las noticias locales traducidas del ingles por Camila. Todas las fotos se pueden ver en la Información redactada en Ingles He oído que han colocado una antena cerca de la urbanización El Faro para mejorar la señal. ¿Por qué no se pueden colocar más antenas? Espero una vez más, que puedan informar a alguien que tenga la autoridad para tratar este asunto tan urgente. Atentamente, Nils Ayuntamiento de respuesta: Sobre la falta de señal telefónica, en las últimas dos semanas, nuestra primera autoridad ha estado hablando con la Conselleria de manera que puedan mejorar este servicio. De hecho, ambas administraciones están trabajando en un acuerdo para establecer la mejor manera para resolver este problema persistente. Esperamos que antes de abril vamos a saber más acerca de este tema y estaremos encantados de informarle. NUEVO LIDL: El renovado supermercado abrió el 10 de marzo con un montón de compradores haciendo cola esperando que abriera sus puertas a las 9am. La inauguración fue acompañada con música y comida gratis y bebidas

que se ofrecían en el aparcamiento.

JYSK VA A ABRIR EN GRAN ALACANT: JYK - el minorista más grande de Dinamarca con 2300 tiendas en 37 países va a abrir su nueva tienda en el centro comercial con artículos de uso doméstico tales como muebles y decoración. La nueva tienda está programada para abrir en junio. FOSTERS HOLLYWOOD: El famoso restaurante de Estados Unidos que sirve anillos de cebolla, filetes, hamburguesas, ensaladas, sándwiches, pollo... abrirá

pronto en Gran Alacant. LEPRECHAUN GRAN REAPERTURA:

TheLeprechaun.Bar volvió a abrir sus puertas el jueves 10 de Marzo. Dio gusto volver a ver a Joan, Lisa y Michelle sonriendo y charlando con viejos conocidos. Una noche llena de risas y entretenimiento con el bar y el salón llenos. La música fantástica y la apertura un éxito completo hasta primeras horas de la mañana. Tony y Joan salieron al escenario para el más breve de los discursos

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

de bienvenida, para agradecer a los invitados y los dos camareros que se aseguraron de mantener las copas llenas toda la noche. Una apertura muy profesional y sin problemas para la renovada Leprechaun Bar. NUEVA ESTACIÓN DE BOMBEO: La nueva estación de bombeo se puso en marcha en Gran Alacant unos días antes de Pascua. El proyecto con un presupuesto de dos millones de euros proporcionará una mayor capacidad de entregar las aguas residuales de los residentes. El sistema de bombeo anterior era insuficiente para cubrir los cientos de propiedades, especialmente en el verano, cuando hay más personas viviendo en

la zona. Los residentes de Panorama, Altomar 1 y Gran Vista habían pasado años denunciando los malos olores y la proliferación de los mosquitos por descargas de aguas en el barranco de Les Reixes. Por esta razón, el anterior gobierno municipal del Partido Popular decidió tomar cartas en el asunto. El proyecto consistía en correr 1626 metros de tubería que han pasado por varias vías a través de Gran Alacant. Las próximas 2-3 semanas se dedicarán a los controles y toques finales de los trabajos realizados en los últimos 6 meses. CENTRO DE SALUD: La alcaldesa de Santa Pola Yolanda Seva y la concejala de salud María Dolores Tomás se

reunieron en Valencia con el asistente de atención primaria para preparar los refuerzos de salud antes de la temporada alta, que comienza en mayo, e insistir en la prestación de un centro de salud que satisfaga las necesidades de los vecinos de Gran Alacant. Los edificios actuales son demasiado pequeños para satisfacer estas necesidades, por lo que los planes presentados en 2009 con el departamento de infraestructura se han recuperado, lo que en este momento no sabemos es si con esto van a mejorar de los edificios actuales o si se construirá un nuevo edificio cerca de Monte Faro, que es también el lugar donde planean construir la segunda escuela de Gran Alacant.

Estimado editor A pesar de que Jean Reiterbund, que es la recaudadora de fondos oficial de MABS para Gran Alacant, haya publicado una carta en su excelente revista, todavía está teniendo problemas con ciertas personas, que por desgracia viven en Gran Alacant. Hay dos personas en particular, que han residido durante muchos años en GA, a las cuales conozco, pero que por supuesto no puedo nombrar por razones obvias. Sin embargo, no veo por qué Jean y su equipo deben soportar estas insinuaciones de apropiación indebida de dinero. Este grupo ha estado en existencia durante 17 años y todas nuestras cuentas son revisadas cada año (de enero a diciembre) por una persona que no tiene relación con MABS. Las declaraciones de cuentas están preparadas y disponibles para cualquier persona que quiera verlas. Estas cuentas se envían a la Hacienda y les puedo asegurar que nunca ha habido ninguna consulta de Hacienda hasta la fecha. Es una lástima que estas personas no tengann nada mejor que hacer que causar daño a los demás. Van contando historias por allí, pero por supuesto en cuanto se les confronta, se hacen los sorprendidos. Les desafío a que me traigan cualquier prueba de apropiación indebida, que pueda demostrar que estoy equivocada y si es así, sin duda voy a tomar las medidas necesarias. Pueden enviarme los papeles a mi. Si no pueden demostrarlo, entonces sugiero que se callen de una vez por todas. Saludos cordiales Jacquelyne Phillips MBE, Presidente, MABS READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

PLAZA MAYOR

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

PLAZA MAYOR

TheLeprechaun.Bar

MONTEMAR BOWLS & SOCIAL CLUB

Sponsored by AVALON

INTERNAL COMPETITION FINALS

Hola Everyone,

Saturday 12th March, MonteMar Bowls Club held our Internal Competitions Finals, In Fantastic Weather, we saw the Men's and Ladies Singles Finals, both matches were of the highest quality between Mens, Ronnie Cairns v John Albutt, With Ronnie Cairns Winning 21-18. (see pic) Ladies, Pauline Woodfine v Geraldine Fisher, With Pauline Woodfine Winning 21-17, (see pic) Both Ronnie and Pauline now qualify for the Champion of Champions Competition played in April. All the Leagues have now Finished, Pride of place must go to the Fed 4s Team for Winning their Division 3 League and gaining promotion to the 2nd Division. The Monday and Friday MonteMar Matadors after a very hard Season managed to stay in the A Division in both. MonteMar Toreadors stay

where they started Monday in B Division and Fridays in C Division.

The Winter League side still have another 6 Matches to play and are about half way. The last Friday in the Month we hold our Dinner Dance at the El Rincon Restaurant. It is a very good evening and a chance for all our Members to get together, The Food and Entertainment is First Class and everyone has a very good Evening. If you fancy taking up a new sport, why not give Bowls a go, a chance to meet other people, make new friends and get fit at the same time, Plus tuition, Shoes and Woods are available free of charge, Come along and give it a try. New Members are always welcome.

For further information about MonteMar Bowls and Social Club,,please contact Press Officer Brian 966790606. Also at www. montemarbowls.com and at info@montemarbowls. com and on Facebook.

Thank you all the lovely people at MonteMar Bowls Club who donated 200â&#x201A;Ź to the planned Gran Alacant Hospice fund. With fundraising getting harder every year it is so nice that M.A.B.S. was thought of as we were last year. Thank you all so much. Jean Reiterbund, M.A.B.S. Fundraiser

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 11TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

AVENIDA NORUEGA

CARABASSI AVDA.NORUEGA CENTRE

LOS MONTESINOS & TORRELLANO SIERRA MAR

LOS MONTESINOS CARABASSI SIERRA & MAR CENTRE TORRELLANOS

SIERRA MAR

TRUST US

SIERRA MAR

CARABASSI CENTRE

FOR SALE

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

• Full Licence Included • Price Reduced (Good Turnover) • All Reasonable Offers Considered • Oldest Establishment in Gran Alacant 26

CARABASSI CENTRE

CARABASSI CENTRE CARABASSI CENTRE

hello, spring!

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

Wanna sell your house? Call us! 966 699 441

estate agent inmobiliaria fastighetsbyrå eiendom byrå

Centro Comercial de Carabassi, Avenida de Noruega, 214, Local Nº7, 03130 Santa Pola, www.granalacantproperties.com

CARABASSI CENTRE

NEW - CAR RENTAL AVAILABLE

LOOKING FOR NEW LISTINGS

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

CARABASSI CENTRE

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

CARABASSI CENTRE

CARABASSI CARABASSICENTRE CENTRE

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

3030

CARABASSI CENTRE

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

CARABASSI CENTRE

TRUST US

Gran Alacant Hospice Ball

other things to raise funds. The ticket price is 26.50€ per person. The Gran Playa is giving us a special deal on an overnight stay of 30€ per double room. Yes – per double room and a buffet breakfast for 5€ per person.

M.A.B.S. is holding a Gran Alacant Hospice Ball at the hotel Gran Playa next to Pola Park. This is part of our fundraising venture to raise money for a pending hospice in Gran Alacant. The date is 3rd of October kicking off with a meet and greet champagne reception stating at 8pm. All you handsome men need to dress up in a shirt and tie, suit or tux, and of course our lovely ladies dressed to impress in cocktail or evening gowns. We will have wonderful prizes in our raffle and lot of

The hotel can sit 150 people and at the moment we have 130 tickets gone and 34 rooms. I am sure, as the ball is not till October people’s situation could change, but like our pre-booked show only about 4 tickets were returned and resold again. As this is a really special night if you want to come – book now to avoid being disappointed if you are unable to get a ticket. We will keep you informed of the ticket sales and when they are all sold we will be doing a reserve list. So don’t delay, book today and enjoy a very special evening. Jean Reiterbund, Fundraiser for M.A.B.S. Cancer Support Group

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

Caring and campaigning for our ex-Service community.

The Royal British Legion in Spain. Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch BR 3606. The Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch meets on the First Monday of the month, 1900 at "Raco Jove" Council Room. Upstairs in main building in the Life Resort Building (above the shops). Lift access is provided. Next Meetings 4th Apr & 2nd May 2016. "Raco Jove" Council Room 19:00 Further details from - Robin 96 669 5423 or Brian 639 917 971. Email:granalacant.secretary@gmail.com

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

LA MARINA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

FOR MORE LA MARINA NEWS VISIT https://www.facebook.com/groups/lamarinagossip LA MARINA

LA MARINA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

FOR MORE LA MARINA NEWS VISIT https://www.facebook.com/groups/lamarinagossip

LA MARINA

TRUST US

MY EXPERIENCE OF THE SPANISH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM by Terry Green, Allington, Lincolnshire

e are still in the process of reaching a final decision about moving permanently from the UK to the Gran Alacant area. One of the things our friends in England frequently say is “Be careful, there isn’t a proper health service in Spain” The reason for my writing this piece is to describe my recent experience of this health service, and (I hope) to set people’s minds at rest if they are concerned about whether it is safe to be ill in Spain. My wife Cathy and I came out to Gran Alacant at the beginning of December, for a six week stay. After a couple of weeks I started to feel unwell, with abdominal pains, loss of appetite and generally feeling pretty ill. I assumed it was a touch of “holiday tummy” but when it hadn’t got any better (in fact it was getting worse), and I suffered a really nasty bout of projectile vomiting, our good friend Wilma, a retired nurse and all round good egg put me in her car and whipped me down to Elche hospital. We arrived at about 11.00am on 23 December and within a little more than two and a half hours I had two x-rays, a CAT scan and was on a trolley hooked up to a glucose drip, antibiotics and painkillers. They had also taken a blood sample. Very shortly afterwards I had a visit from the Surgeon (who spoke excellent English, by the way), who explained what they had found, what it meant, and what they intended to do about it. Apparently urgent surgery was called for. If you’re a bit squeamish, you might not want to read this next bit. It seems I had a gallstone which had blocked off the bile duct, resulting in the gall bladder becoming gangrenous! The cure was to remove the gall bladder. The Surgeon said she would try to do it that day, but couldn’t promise, as they were very busy. At 10.30 that evening, she returned to apologise for not being able to operate, but promised to do so early the next day (Christmas eve). Sure enough, at 7.30 the next morning I was on my way to the operating theatre, and a few hours later I was back on the ward, having undergone keyhole surgery (just four small incisions each about two centimetres long). I spent the next few days in hospital, while they treated any remaining infection with

antibiotics. Blood samples were taken at regular intervals (OK, 4.30 am probably isn’t the best time to be woken up to give a blood sample, but

I’m not complaining). At every stage, everything was fully and carefully explained to me, and I could not have received better or more caring treatment. The Monday after Christmas I was sent home, with a prescription for antibiotic pills and daily anticoagulant injections (thank you Wilma – I don’t think I could have done those myself, although in practice they were not too bad). For the first few days I had to go to the Gran Alacant clinic (above the library) to have the dressings changed, and again, the nurse there was excellent, explaining exactly what he was doing and why. A follow up appointment was fixed for a couple of weeks later, at which the Surgeon declared all was going well, and I just needed to watch my diet for a month or so, and avoid any heavy lifting. I did ask if that meant I couldn’t do the washing up, but unfortunately it seems that washing up doesn’t count as heavy lifting. Oh well, you can’t win ‘em all. I am now back in the UK, and progressing well, but I wanted to get this saga down on paper, partly as a thank you to the medical services at Elche and Gran Alacant, partly to recognise the tremendous ( and possibly life-saving) help from our friends Wilma and Bill, who took me to Elche, visited me in hospital, ferried Cathy about when needed and administered my daily injections, but mainly I wanted to write this to reassure people about the Spanish Health Service. Oh, I should mention that as a holder of a UK ‘EHIC’ card, apart from the small cost of the prescriptions, this whole experience has not cost me a penny. Perhaps you could show this article to anyone you meet who is dubious about what happens if you are ill in Spain. I know it’s only my personal experience, but I can find no fault at all with any aspect of the care I received. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that Cathy and I went to Spain specially to have a quiet Christmas with no over-eating. Be careful what you wish for! We’ll be back.

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

REPOSSESSION New apartments being offered for sale in Gran Alacant, each offers spacious living room, separate kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and terrace which adjoins the complex interior with views over the communal gardens and a swimming pool. Just 2km from the beach.

Price: 75,700€

Ref: GAS144

MONTE Y MAR

End of terrace house with garden, 2 bedrooms with a/c, 2 bathrooms, balcony and access to a wonderful communal swimming pool. He property is a short distance to bars, restaurants and services and around 10 minutes’ walk on the flat to the beach. Beds: 2 Baths: 2 Price: 85,000€

SUPERB VALUE!!!

Ref. GAS145

CARABASI

This large 4 bedroom house is located in one of the most popular communities for its wonderful large communal swimming pool, its access to the beach and the stunning sea views. The property consists of a good sized garden, front terrace, roof terrace with views of Alicante bay and the sea. Beds: 4 Baths: 2 Price Price: 145,000€ Ref. GAS147

GRAN ALACANT

Superb sea view apartment with some of the best views of the coastline of Alicante. Ideal for a couple or small family for a holiday home. The property is located in a gated community, has o/s/parking, tennis court, 2 com. pools, a lift, air con, glazed balcony.Beds: 1 Baths: 1 Price: 59,950€ Ref: GAS67

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

MANY MORE PROPERTIES ON OUR WEBSITE VISTA BAHIA

MONTE Y MAR ALTO

Detached Villa Ref: GA0084 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Townhouse Ref: GA0108 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

U ED

PUERTO MARINO

Detached Villa Ref: GA0141 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

€100,000

€160,000

€115,000

MONTE Y MAR

BRISAMAR

Townhouse Ref: GA0266 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Semi-Detached House Ref: GA0050 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3

Townhouse Ref: GA0018 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

€100,000

€255,000

€79,000

MEDITERRANEO

MONTE Y MAR

L SO

Townhouse Ref: GA0012 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

€125,000

www.ga-homefinders.com

Topfloor Corner Apartment Ref: GA0031 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1

€88,000

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

Apartment Ref: GA0163 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1

€79,000

www.ga-homefinders.com

TRUST US

DUE TO CUSTOMER DEMANDS, PROPERTIES WANTED ON GRAN ALACANT PUERTO MARINO

NOVA BEACH

MONTE Y MAR

Apartment Ref: GA0105 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1

Apartment Ref: GA0002 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

Townhouse Ref: GA0074 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

€73,000

€262,000

€135,000

ALTOMAR I

MONTE Y MAR

Townhouse Ref: GA0001 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Ground Floor Apartment Ref: GA0047 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1

Townhouse Ref: GA0092A Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3

€145,000

€104,000

€79,000

MONTE Y MAR

MONTE Y MAR BAJO

Semi-Detached Villa Ref: GA0247 Bedrooms: 5 Bathrooms: 5

Townhouse Ref: GA0066 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 2

Townhouse Ref: GA0074 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

€235,000

€99,000

€135,000

COMMERCIAL CENTRE READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com www.ga-homefinders.com www.ga-homefinders.com

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA

AVENIDA AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA ESCANDINAVIA

AVENIDA ESCANDINAVIA

SANTA POLA

SANTA SANTAPOLA POLA

visit the picture perfect ... Santa Pola

image by Fuster

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

SANTA POLA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

SANTA SANTA POLA POLA

SANTA POLA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

SANTA POLA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

SANTA POLA

LIVE MUSIC EVERY FRIDAY FROM 21:00

Communion Menus Available Menus para comuniones a su disposition PISCINAS ANTONIO SOIKE CONSTRUCCIONES EN GENERAL BUENA RELACION CALIDAD PRECIO!

TEL: 660823035 58

PISCINAS REFORMAS TERRAZAS MUROS CASAS Y MAS SANTA POLA

POOLS REFORMED TERRACE WALLS/FENCES NEW BUILDS AND MORE

POOLS UMBAUTEN TERRASSEN MAUREN NEUBAUTEN u.v.m.

SANTA POLA

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

SANTA POLA

ARENALES

60 60

CARABASSI CENTRE

CARABASSI ARENALES CENTRE

ARENALES

LOS MONTESINOS

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

LOS MONTESINOS

TORRELLANO

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

Police officer: "Can you identify yourself, sir?" Driver pulls out his mirror and says: "Yes, it's me"

6464

THIS MAGAZINE NOW CARABASSI 11TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK. THIS MAGAZINE IS IS NOW ININ ITSITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

Why are frogs such happy animals? Because they always eat whatever bugs them. CENTRE READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

Two friends are talking, one says: “Man, I fell off a thirty-foot long ladder yesterday.” “Oh no, dude, are you alright?!” inquires the other one, shocked. “Yeah, I’m OK, I was only on the second rung then.”

6666

THIS MAGAZINE NOW CARABASSI 11TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK. THIS MAGAZINE IS IS NOW ININ ITSITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST TRUST US US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

A husband and a wife sit at the table, having dinner. The woman drops a bit of tomato sauce on her white top. "Och, I look like a pig!" The man nods, "And you dropped tomato sauce on your top!" READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com CENTRE

w TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

An optimist sees light at the end of a tunnel and thinks itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an exit. A pessimist sees light at the end of a tunnel and assumes it is an onrushing train. The train conductor sees two stupid guys staggering on train tracks.

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS CARABASSI 12TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST US

CWW Electrical Services

Qualified electrician All electrical work undertaken Tel: 617 872 405 *** Contact Clive or Wendy A man was telling his neighbour, 'I just bought a new hearing aid. It cost me four thousand dollars, but it's state of the art... It's perfect. 'Really,' answered the neighbour . 'What kind is it?' ' Twelve thirty...â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com CENTRE

w TRUST US

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS CARABASSI 12TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.GRANALACANTADVERTISER.com

If you start to think I talk too much, just tell me. We’ll talk about it.

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com CENTRE

CLINICA VETERINARIA GRAN ALACANT EXOTICS

Liliana Aldeguer Cerdán 793 English translation by Sergio Reina Esteban col 747 near to hashish. She is not trained to find THE STORY OF FOSCA money or weapons; that’s not her task. Despite this, she was able to find weapons Fosca is a 7 year old Nova Scotia during an inspection in a marble and Retriever. When she was just 2 months old granite manufacturing plant. The Police she was abandoned; they tied her to the suspected there were hidden weapons and fence of K-9 unit facilities at Valencia. She drugs. The owner of the plant recognized was rescued by Rober, a Policía Nacional there were some weapons there, but officer who works at K-9 unit. assured the officers they wouldn’t be able Fosca appeared to be in a good to find them. Then the officers came in health condition, so Rober with the dogs, but they adopted her as a companion couldn’t find anything. dog. But a short time Then, suddenly Fosca later, considering Fosca’s started to scratch a remarkable attitude for piece of wood on the learning, Rober trained floor. The officers lifted her to be a police dog. the piece of wood but The most important thing there wasn’t anything in these dogs is to have a under it. Fosca kept good instinct of searching scratching and scratching and to have a playful nature, the floor. Officer Rober because the training consists thought Fosca was of searching and finding a too tired and moved group of substances (such as her outside in order to marijuana or money) when “give her an exit”. This ordered, and having a prize implies the officer gives which consists of playing the dog something to games. So it becomes “find”, because, if the animal is unable to absolutely necessary for the police dog find anything at all when it’s working, it to “love” its job and to be in perfect gets frustrated, and if it gets frustrated condition to do it. Not every dog can be a too often, it stops being interested in police dog: some dogs are not interested its job. Minutes later, when Fosca was on searching and finding, or maybe they resting, the rest of the officers came out are too nervous or shy to obey properly, or to congratulate her: after digging the they are suffering a disease which makes place Fosca marked, they found a plastic them not to be in an optimal condition. container full of weapons. Why did Fosca When a dog is valid for working find it? Just because thereo was also a as a police dog, it’s trained for finding small piece of hashish at the container. two different kind of items maximum Fosca was only 8 months old. (such as drugs and money, or drugs and Police dogs are never wrong: explosives). They are trained everyday when they point a place it’s because there for improving more and more and for is (or there has been) what they are trained being able to face successfully every to look for. They are great professionals new situation in order to become real and real experts. specialists in their specific task. One Fosca and Rober moved to other single dog cannot be trained for finding place, and she is no longer working as everything; for this reason, every K-9 a police dog; she is happily retired and officer usually works with two dogs. lives with Rober and his family, which also Fosca is specialized in finding includes another companion dog. hashish resin. Of course this means she is also able to find every object which is Very special thanks to Police Officer Rober.

Tel: 966 698 569

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

PETS IN SPAIN www.petsinspain.com

Pets In Spain is a website dedicated to the re-homing of abandoned and unwanted animals on the Costa Blanca. Whether you are looking to adopt an animal, advertise an animal or if you simply want to know more about taking care of your pet in Spain, please take a look at our site or Call: 645 469 253

Batman is 3 years old, chipped, vaccinated and neutered. He is great with other dogs, cats and children and weighs just 7 kilos.

Austin is a 4 month old English Pointer pup, he is great with other dogs and will be large when fully grown.

Jasper and Jet from last month issue have all been adopted. Bella is 2 years old and is a lovely, laid back pure white cat. She loves attention and isn't that really bothered about going outdoors. Bella is sterilised and good with other cats.

This is Noelia and she is 5 years old, sadly she has spent 4 of those in kennels so is desperate to find a home of her own. She is healthy, energetic, very lovable and great with other dogs. She is chipped, vaccinated and sterilised

Huevos a la flamenca

" Seville Fair" takes place this month. The fair generally begins two weeks after Easter and this year the dates are from 12th until 19th of April. If you can't go to Seville don't worry! You can still enjoy the taste of the fair in Alicante! YES - from 13th until 17th of April Check out our online a copy of the fair is taking place in Avda Doctor Rico step by step video tutorial on next to Diario Informacion, so if you want to discover www.granalacantadvertiser.com and enjoy the drinks, food, dance and the flavour of Seville you have a great opportunity. There are many FLAMENCO EGGS varieties of tapas but one of my favourite is ...

HUEVOS A LA FLAMENCA

Finely chop the onion, peppers, garlic and stirfry for couple of minutes. Then add the peas and fry until its almost cooked. Then add the tomato, salt to taste and cook further for 10-15 minutes. Cut the sausage and add to stirfry. Then transfer in a clay pot and place the egg in the centre. Put in the oven at 180C for 10-15 minutes until the egg is done. see more Seville recipes on our website ...

2 green peppers 1/2 onion 200 gr frozen peas 4 garlic cloves 1 tin of chopped tomatos 1/2 glass olive oil salt 4 eggs 200gr chorizo, bacon, ham...

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

WHAT’S THAT IN THE CLOT?

by Mark Etheridge

lder readers may remember an author in the 1950’s called Stephen Potter who invented the notion of “One-upmanship” whereby the use of a little extra knowledge could be used to your advantage in social, sporting and career matters; this idea was continued in the 1970’s with the “Bluff Your Way In…” series of books and continues today with “(Whatever) …For Dummies” – all these are a way of using a few limited facts to get you ahead of the pack. This can be applied when watching birds too, a few bits of inside information can be added to your basic knowledge to give you the appearance of an expert, and I’m here to help you. Most people know the Swallow. The Common (or Barn) Swallow is familiar to us in the UK, and can be seen just as easily here in Spain as well. But if you look closely, you might just have noticed that there is another bird here which looks very much like a Swallow but which is a little bit different, and here's one sitting on my roof in GA last year. This is the Red-rumped Swallow (Golondrina Daurica in Spanish), and you should be seeing them both in the Clot and around the urbanisations right now – they are one of the first of the summer visitors to arrive and the first ones for this year were seen around the 3rd March. You can see them before they start to breed chasing insects over the pools in the Clot, and if you are statistically minded you might work out that for every ten

swallows you see, on average one of them will be a Red-rumped. It does all the swallow-ey things that it's cousin does – whizzing about catching insects on the wing, building a mud nest, migrating to Africa – and

it's only the red-tinged rump and neck and slightly chubbier outline which mark it out as something different. The reason why you need this knowledge is that hardly any British birders will have seen one as they are fairly rare in the UK (these are sensible birds which have heard about British weather and decided it's not for them), so when your friends arrive you can casually drop the Red-rumped Swallow into your conversation and impress the hell out of them. It's a much better idea than the one I had originally for this article, but our esteemed editors pointed out to me that my column this month would not have been seen by most readers until well after 1st April, so sadly you have been denied my in-depth analysis of the introduction of the Wild Scottish Haggis into the Clot by the Spanish authorities as a biological mosquito control. Pity really. See you next month.

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH 11TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

FERAL FRIENDS OF GRAN ALACANT & NEARBY AREAS

Bank account details: 0073 0100 54 0486406431 Iban ES94, Swift OPENESMM

Numerous pets waiting for adoption to loving homes

7 kittens in need of an URGENT home & We need kitten food and litter.

Male German Sheppard , aprox 2 years old. He has been beaten and abused since he was a puppy, so he is extremely traumatised and needs an experienced female adopter.

Hundreds of Kittens and adult cats some of which have been abused and disabled are in need of responsible owners and loving homes.

Foster Homes & Volunteers Needed. Litter, food & material accepted (EXCEPT Generic Market Brand Food. Aldi is ok). Contact: feralfriends.ga@gmail.com, Tel: 697 574 199 (Mon-Sat).

GASP Theatre “ Breath of Spring” Tickets

The cast are now getting into the final stages of rehearsals for the next presentation. This will be a fast moving comedy “ BREATH OF SPRING “. The plot concerns a group of pensioners, fur coats, a maid, and of course a policeman. Has Dame Beatrice been “ at it “ again ? Are the tactics of the Brigadier up to muster? Has Hattie had too much nerve tonic? Answers will be revealed at …....... The Venue SANTARA LIFE RESORT (Life Resort). The performance dates are Saturday 21st May and Sunday 22nd May. Curtain up at 19.30.

Tickets cost €8 and can be reserved by calling David on 966 181 113 or 628 774 461 also Penny and Chris on 966 181 194. or email gasptheatre@hotmail.co.uk As usual a donation will be made to CRUZ ROJA from the proceeds of this show. Come and see them show and you will be helping GASP to help the CRUZ ROJA, you never know if you may need them one day. The pictures show the characters and players and a scene during a recent rehearsal. The remainder you can see next month . For information on the Group, contact Christine on 96.669.98.45.

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

WORDSEARCH WORDSEARCH FLOWERS in Spanish or English

C E P I O D E R A M N R C E A I P

L O A S A L S I U T H I S T L E V

A O N I A O S I C R A N O E N I C

V E L S Y H S Y I T AM I MR O A L N R E L GD O A I MR T A I A H T M T A E S L L O A C H L R A UD

S O D E S I H A N O I T A N R A C

I A G L U D G T T E G E R A N I O

O L Y C N O R D N E D O D O H R A

I I E A F F A T A I L O N I C O N

R N I L L F O I U I C O D H E S R

S I C I HH A G L I L A OW E A DO OR R QD T A P U L T L F I I A D P I Y I O V H A R I A F F A L L

N R R C R L N A R F A Z A N L R R

GU C E OO O A E E NW S F A A C U J V A I CO I C NG T L ON I S

Geoff’s

LILAC LILA DAFFODIL NARCISO GERANIUM GERANIO ORCHID ORQUIDEA SUNFLOWER GIRASOL VIOLET VIOLETA TULIP TULIPAN HYACINTH JACINTO PANSY PENSAMIENTO RHODODENDRON RODODENDRO CARNATION CLAVEL DAISY MARGARITA SAFFRON AZAFRAN THISTLE CARDO CLEMATIS CLEMATIDE

1. What is the maximum number of stars a restaurant can win from the Michelin Guide? 2. What was the title of the TV series about a Canadian Mountie who went to work in Chicago? 3. Who is the Earl of Chester? 4. In which Sport does your team only have to travel 3.6 metres to Win? 5. In Thunderbirds, by what other name is the character Hiram J Hackenbacker better known? ANSWERS ON MAP PAGE

NOW IN OUR 12TH YEAR

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

SUDOKU Difficulty Rating: EASY To solve the puzzle each 3 x 3 box, each row and each column must contain all the numbers 1 to 9. While the rules of this logic puzzle may be simple, there are numerous strategies to help you solve Sudoku.

2 9 8

5 8

6 8

4 6

2 4

5 4

4 5

7 4

2 5

1 3 4

4 5

5 2

DOODLE AREA

7 8

3 8

3 6 2

2 3 4

1 7

8 7 1

8 1

Difficulty Rating: MEDIUM

Difficulty Rating: HARD

4 9

For hints and information visit www.sudoku.org.uk

DOODLE AREA

3 1

4 2 5

8 3 1

ANSWERS ON NEXT PAGE READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

Find places of interest, and the locaton of all of our advertisers on Gran Alacant.

TRUST US

1. CARABASSI CENTRE • ALEXANDRIA • OLIMPO • OCEAN • AQUARIUS • GA PROPERTIES • CORK N BOTTLE • ODUILLS

b 2. PLAZA MAYOR

• VET GA EXOTICS • AZAFRAN INDIAN • HOLE IN THE WALL • PATAGONIA • DARBYS • BIG ALS

3. COMMERCIAL CENTRE

2 Church

• EURONICS ELECTRICAL • HOMEFINDERS • BRICO HOUSE • OP GROUP SPAIN • GRANNET • GLAROS • GET FRESH

Playpark

QUIZ ANSWERS: 1. THREE 2. DUE SOUTH 3. PRINCE CHARLES 4.TUG OF WAR 5.BRAINS

Dog Park

GA Farmacia

Dialprix

Tourist Info

Mercadona

Thursday Market

Supermarket

New Market

School

Sports Centre

Taxi Rank

ECO Rubbish

SODOKU SOLUTIONS from previous page 2 9 8 7 3 1 5 4 6

7 3 6 8 5 4 2 1 9

4 1 5 6 9 2 3 8 7

5 2 4 3 1 7 9 6 8

9 8 7 2 6 5 1 3 4

1 6 3 4 8 9 7 5 2

6 5 2 1 7 8 4 9 3

8 7 1 9 4 3 6 2 5

3 4 9 5 2 6 8 7 1

7 4 2 1 5 8 3 9 6

9 3 5 6 2 7 8 4 1

6 1 8 9 3 4 2 5 7

4 5 9 8 6 3 7 1 2

3 6 1 4 7 2 5 8 9

8 2 7 5 1 9 6 3 4

1 7 4 2 8 5 9 6 3

2 8 6 3 9 1 4 7 5

5 9 3 7 4 6 1 2 8

6 3 8 5 4 1 7 2 9

2 1 7 6 9 3

4 9 5 8 2 7 5 3 8 1 4 6

5 6 2 1 3 8 4 9 7

7 8 9 4 5 2 1 6 3

3 4 1 9 7 6

9 2 3 7 6 5

1 5 6 3 8 4

8 7 4 2 1 9

2 8 9 6 5 4 7 3 8 1 2 5

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12TH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

To get your business on our map call ENGLISH : 966 699 167 / ESPANOL: 676 74 19 83

TRUST US

TAXI SANTA POLA & GRAN ALACANT Tel: 965 41 25 25 24h service - English spoken Accept card payment (VISA, etc)

4. SIERRA MAR • PATAGONIA No.2 • La PALETTA • ZEST

5. ESCANDINAVIA

• LA PIEDRA • CHIROPODY & PHYSIO • GA SERVICES • SOL COMPUTERS • GA TV • TOLDOS AWNINGS • AMIGOS • ONCE UPON A TIME

• • • •

a. DENTIMAR b. NOVADESA

Medical Centre GA Councillor Municipal Offices Library

GA Advertiser Top Up Delivery Point CARABASSI GROCERY SHOP - QUICKSAVE - EURONICS - GA SERVICES

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Aquagest 24hr..(water co.) 902 250 170 Aeropuerto 966 919 000 Ayuntamiento-GA 966 697 749 Bus Station 965 130 700 Train Station 902 240 202 Bomberos (Fire) 085 Biblioteca (Library) 966 692 773 Butano gas 966 672 222 Emergency 112 Guardia Civil 062 Guardia Civil 965 411 290 Iberdrola (electric co.) 901 202 020

Library GA 966 697 110 Local Police 092 Local Police 965 411 103 Medical Health Service 966 699 081 National Police 091 Red Cross (Cruz Roja) 965 416 936 Red Cross emergencies 112 Rubbish collection 966 693 955 Suma 965 292 000 Taxi sited at LIDL 96 541 11 11 Telefonica 1004

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

TRUST US

SANTA POLA & ALICANTE BUS TIMETABLE

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS 12wTH YEAR. TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

GRAN ALACANT BUS & TRAIN TIMETABLE

TRUST US

HORARIO DE LUNES A VIERNES (FROM MONDAY TO FRIDAY)

GRAN ALACANT TOURIST TRAIN TIMETABLE From 01/04/2016 To 31/05/2016

SALIDAS DESDE

DON PUEBLO

COMMERCIAL CENTRE

10:00 12:15

9:30 12:00

10:45 12:45

10:30 12:30

11:15 13:15

11:00 13:00

11:45

11:30 13:30

TOURIST TRAIN STOPS

Monday to Saturday from 11:00h till 14:00h and 16:00h till 20:00h Sunday from 11:00h - 14:00h

Website: www.granalacantadvertiser.com

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com

w TRUST US

INVESTING FOR TAX EFFICIENT INCOME A question I am constantly asked. I need to supplement my pension/income what are the alternatives to keeping money tied up in a bank account, either offshore or in Spain? Bank deposits are reasonably secure (protected to €100k) however, with interest rates remaining low for some time to come returns are not good. Funds held offshore need to be reported on a Modelo 720 declaration. Interest will be taxed at 19% whether withdrawn or not and beneficiaries will not be able to receive the proceeds until the asset has been disclosed for succession tax purposes. A tax efficient solution would be to invest in a Spanish Compliant Bond. No tax is paid until a withdrawal is made and tax is only then paid on the growth proportion of the withdrawal. Not only is tax deferred, but any tax due is paid directly to Hacienda by the bond provider and there is no Modelo 720 declaration requirement at this time. For joint accounts there is no potential liability to succession tax on first death.

Example Initial Investment Grows to Withdrawal

€100,000 €130,000 €10,000

Non Taxable return of capital €7,692 Taxable Income €2,308 Tax payable @ 19% €439 an effective tax rate of 4.39% on total withdrawal Funds can be denominated in Sterling, Euros and Dollars with a minimum investment of £20,000, €25,000 or $35,000 with a top up facility of £15,000, €20,000 or $25,000 with a minimum allocation rate of 100%. Flexible withdrawal options available (maybe subject to changes) so clients can access their when it suits them Funds featuring smoothing to help reduce the volatility of client investments with fund performance which has consistently been well above bank deposit rates and many investment returns. Next Month: Brexit, why your vote is important and what are the potential implications of a “leave” vote for all us expats both retired and/ or working.

THIS MAGAZINE IS NOW IN ITS CARABASSI 12TH YEAR. CENTRE TRUST US. WE MAKE YOUR ADVERT WORK.

TRUST US

READ THE MAGAZINE EVERY MONTHCARABASSI AT www.granalacantadvertiser.com CENTRE

TILING SPECIALIST

(your choice of tiles for house or garden)

All types of BUILDING WORK undertaken. UNDERBUILD CONVERSIONS You choose what you want. 1, 2, 3 bedrooms or just 1 large room for your own home cinema.

Coral & Serena Terrace Extensions. Bring your terrace forward and create more room.

Auroras & Albas Terrace Extensions

From Small Terraces to LARGE EXTENSIONS All WORK GUARANTEED! Give SOL a call on 606 818 442 or E-mail: solbuilders@hotmail.co.uk