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ISSUE 85 (#128) March 14th
Happy St. Patricks Day - Meet Mickey Pearce @ The Queen Vic 2-5pm & Why Not Bar 9pm - Happy St. Patricks Day
British Fugitive
Caught In Benidorm Listen Online See Our Advert Page 10
Gareth Bryan Edwards, 25, had been on the run for nearly a year when he was collared in Benidorm, Edwards, according to Spanish authorities, was wanted for robbery and intimidation and was described as ‘very dangerous and possibly armed’. Continued Page 17
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March 14th
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Long jail term for “Spanish Bernie Madoff” By Simon Russell
FRAUDSTER German Cardona Soler has been sentenced to thirteen years in jail by a court in Madrid for masterminding one of the biggest ever financial scams to originate in Spain. Soler, a Valencian, is believed to have conned as many as 180,000 people out of over €350m in a fraud that operated out of 110 countries between 2007 and 2010. Over this period he persuaded people to invest in a scheme which promised fantastic financial returns in a
short period for very little risk. However the money was largely diverted to Soler’s and his girlfriend’s personal accounts and the investments talked about were fictional. What money was paid to investors came purely from new investors, what is known as a Ponzi Scheme, made famous by US fraudster Bernie Madoff. As well as the jail sentence Soler was ordered to pay a staggering €300m in fines to victims of the scheme. His girlfriend, Lisa Mantilla, was
also found guilty of conspiracy to defraud and sentenced to seven years imprisonment and a fine of €900,000. Two other people standing trial with the couple were both
Don’t forget your Padron
By Simon Russell
ALICANTE’S Provincial Council is continuing with its campaign to get foreign citizens to sign on to the town Padron. Town’s such as Javea which have a high amount of foreign residents are promoting the
campaign through mediums such as Facebook and posters to remind people of the importance of the Padron for both individuals and the municipality they have chosen to live in. The website for information is
acquitted by the court. After Bernie Madoff was found guilty of a similar fraud in 2009 the US courts sentenced him to 150 years in jail-so Soler may consider his term lenient in comparison.
www.ciudadanosextranjeros.es where the information is available in English as well as Norwegian, German, French, Dutch, Russian and Spanish. If you reside in Spain for longer than three months each year and are a citizen of a European Union country it is obligatory to sign on the Padron.
Teacher investigated for assault By Simon Russell
PARENT’S of a ten year old boy have accused his teacher of physically assaulting their son at his school in Camp de Turia (Valencia). They allege in a letter to the Ministry of Education that the boy was assaulted and then dragged several meters by the teacher. They have also alleged that he was subjected to a sustained campaign of physical and mental bullying by his fellow pupils at the small village school. When he had complained to teaching staff they had ignored him or even punished him before this latest incident prompted the parents to finally complain. At this time the school refutes the claims and there is an internal investigation underway by the regional education authorities.
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BUZZ MAGAZINE – 169mm x 247mm – Colour
6 March
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March 14th
Dear Readers
Dear Readers, welcome to you all and for those reading this note before the weekend HAPPY ST PATRICKS DAY! What a week we have to look forward to, with the Cheltenham Festival and a Charity Race Night at the Ibrox bar on Wednesday 15th, a Pre Paddy Party at the Pig and Whistle on Thursday and then on St Patricks Day itself we will be joining in the party at the Queen Vic Pub in Calle Gerona for the afternoon with Mickey Pearce (Only Fools & Horses). As if that wasn’t enough we join Mickey again in the evening at the Why Not Bar for a Karaoke Paddys Night party. We’ll need a week off to recover after all that.... So it’s over half way into March and so far we’ve been spoilt by some of the best weather ever for this time of year. Last week we had temperatures in the high 20’s with lots of sun and everyone was so pleased to have it. Rain has been forecast with much lower temperatures, but come on - it’s been glorious in the main and we know that we are in for a wonderful six or seven months ahead. So what’s happening here and across the region? Well why not have your say? We really want to connect with you and have dedicated a specific page just for you. Turn to page XXXX and see how we are getting connected. Post on our Facebook or write to us and we will include this in our next issue on 28th March. Don’t forget it’s Mothers Day in the UK on 26th March, so get the cards and flowers sent early to avoid dissapointment. If your Mum’s here in Spain, why not book a table with one of our advertisers and let them
know that you saw them in The Buzz, we would love to see your pictures and reviews so feel free to share them on Facebook & Twitter. We will also be out and about to meet you with the Galaxy Radio road show while Benidorm Star Radio is also busy with a daily event at the new Sinatra Premium entertainment venue in Benidorm’s Rincon. Why not come and join us at 8pm Tuesday to Saturday and meet “Only Fools and Horses” star Mickey Pearce as well as the Jolly Boys of Star Radio. Tune in to Galaxy Radio 106.8 FM & 93.4 FM across the region and listen to the greatest hits down the years or tune in online at www.galaxyradio. es where you can even request your own choice of music using the interactive player. Please send us in your local news or call us at the Buzz Media team who are waiting to speak to you and working hard to provide our British readers with the best and most enjoyable newspaper in town. You can also read your local Buzz paper online at www.buzznews.es. Contact us anytime at the news desk on 965 020 250 or on my mobile 634 310 665. Have a great week!
Marco - Editor in Chief - Buzz Media
Editor - Buzz Spain S.L Managing Director - Marco Baiardo Production Manager - Marco B Jr. Editorial - Simon Russell Head Office & News Desk C/Castellion 5, Benidorm, 03500 Tel - 965 020 250 info@buzzmedia.es www.buzznews.es
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BUZZ MAGAZINE – 169mm x 247mm – Colour
14 February
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Schools out Fallas dedicated to children with cancer By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
LAST Thursday (9 March) saw the latest in a series of school strikes with pupils across the country having an unplanned day off. The strikes have been called by teachers unions and are in protest at the planned cuts to education budgets, despite government promises to the contrary. Although most schools will remain open teaching staff were urging pupils to stay away to show support for the strike. This was the case across the Valencian region where only a minority of children attended schools which on the day were largely adopting a childcare rather than teaching role due to the absence of teaching staff.
THE children’s oncology ward of Valencia’s main hospital has been building a Fallas statue as a tribute to their young patients. The work is being undertaken by volunteers from the Spanish Association against Cancer (AECC) and is intended as a gift for the children in the hospitals care.
The project has received global publicity and financial support, catching the attention of Valencianos from around the world who have fond memories of the Fallas festival from their own youth. Unusually this very special ninot will not be burnt down during the Fallas’ climax on 19 March, but will instead be
donated to various places and patients after the festival.
Ten years for vet who killed his wife By Simon Russell
AN Alicante vet has pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of his wife in 2013 at the veterinarian surgery in Benijofar where he worked. He claimed in court that he gave her a lethal dose of drugs as a mercy killing at the request of his wife. However in his original version of events he said that the woman took her own life. A further version came about in 2016 when he claimed that she had died as the result of a botched attempt at a stomach reduction operation by the vet. After the death the man
burnt his wife’s body, he said to honour her wishes to be cremated. Prosecutors had requested a sentence of fifteen
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years for the killing although were willing to accept the reduce sentence as part of a guilty plea.
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March 14th
Fresh fish back on the market
By Simon Russell
ALICANTE Port’s fish market has reopened after more than a decade and 8 March saw the landing of the first catch for the new enterprise. Local vessel Pesca Cuatro landed 750 kilos of mainly sardines and anchovies for auction where there was plenty of interest from fishmongers and other markets from the province and beyond. The Department of Agriculture granted the licence to trade earlier this year after a long period of negotiations, a franchise that
costs the market’s owners €100,000 annually, payable to the port authorities. About 50,000 kilos of fish a year were being auctioned at the old market until its
closure in 2003. The original closure came about after the market spent €3m on new buildings that it was thought, wrongly, would be paid for from EU funding.
The Germans are coming
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Spy Kid
By Simon Russell
An Alicante woman used her young daughter as an unknowing accomplice to allow her to spy on the activities of her former partner, the child’s father. With the help of a friend she fitted a listening device in the child’s favourite toy, a cuddly pink pig. This allowed the woman to eavesdrop on her ex while the girl was visiting him when she always took the toy pig with her. The plan backfired after the device was discovered and National Police arrested the woman in Burjassot, charging her with crimes against privacy. Her friend was also arrested as an accomplice. The man had found the device after mending the zip on his daughter’s toy and reported the incident to the police. The two women, both Spanish and aged 29 and 33, have been released awaiting formal charges as they have no previous criminal records.
By Simon Russell
ALICANTE City has had a delegation promoting the city at this month’s Berlin ITB Tourism Fair. Attractions they are highlighting include the beaches, shopping, golf and sports as well as the Volvo Ocean Race and other one off events. The German cruise ship market is also important with FTI Cruises, TUI, Aida and Phoenix
Reisen all stopping over at the city. Overall, 2016 saw a nearly 20% increase in German visitors to Alicante City. 13% of German holidaymakers last year chose Spain as their destination with 77% of those citing sun and beaches as the main reason, followed by shopping, both boxes that Alicante can tick.
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March 14th
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Untying the knot Family outing ends in tragedy
By SImon Russell
THE Valencian C o m m u n i t y registered the most divorces per capita in 2016 along with the Canary Islands. 2.9 out of every 1,000 Valencian r e s i d e n t s dissolved their marriages last year compared to a national average of 2.6. The national f i g u r e s represented an overall drop of 7.8%
in separations from 2015, with a total of 114,000 couples going their separate ways. The figures supplied by the General Judicial Council also showed that over 18,000 children were involved in custodial agreements in both divorce cases and the s e p a r a t i o n of unmarried parents
By Simon Russell
A man died and the other members of his family have all sustained injuries after the car they were travelling in left the road just outside the small town of Montixelvo, inland from Gandia. It appears that when the car came off the road it turned over and fell down an embankment in the mountainous area. Emergency services
arrived at the scene to find the man, his wife and their five year old daughter still trapped in the car although sadly the man was declared dead at the scene. The woman and her daughter, along with the couples other child of six who had managed to escape the vehicle, were all taken by air ambulance to Gandia hospital.
JS
The woman and her younger child both have serious injuries including head and internal traumas. The eldest child was also treated but her injuries are less serious. Twenty five fire fighters were involved in the rescue efforts as well as police, ambulance services and the SAMU emergency response team.
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March 14th
Global scamming gang arrested
By Simon Russell
NATIONAL Police carried out a coordinated series of raids last week at locations across Spain, including Valencia, which culminated in the arrest of ten people that they believe to be behind a huge number of fraudulent financial operations. The scams were of a technological nature, and included such frauds as convincing victims that they had a large amount of money to transfer into Europe, but needed a financial deposit to make the transfer. Once they had this money they would then, of course, disappear. Other scams included such things as the lottery winner and inheritance cons, again both requiring a payment from the
victims to allow them to receive the huge sums promised – which never materialised. Six residences and a call centre believed to be used by the group were raided and evidence was seized including false passports, bank books and cash.
Toddler consumes cocaine
By Simon Russell
THE parents of a two year old girl have been arrested in Alicante after traces of cocaine were found during blood tests on the child. The girl had been hospitalised with various symptoms including dizziness and panic attacks
and after toxicology tests were carried out by doctors, they found small traces of the drug in the child’s system and contacted the police. The arrested Spanish couple, aged 38 and 40, are said to be known drug
users and have initially been charged with child abandonment. Police are working on the theory that the toddler came across the cocaine in the house and consumed it without her parent’s knowledge.
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Royal visit to UK lined up
By Simon Russell
King Felipe and Queen Letizia are expected to visit the UK on 6 to 8 June in a state visit that was postponed last year due to Spain’s political stalemate. Now that a government is finally in place the visit can go ahead, and early June has been pencilled in though not yet officially confirmed. As well as meeting Queen Elizabeth and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, King Felipe is also
expected to address parliament. However, it is thought unlikely that the King will publicly address the two main issues between the countries, Brexit and Gibraltar. There are around 200,000 Spaniards currently living in the UK, many of whom will turn out to see their King – and be interested to know if he has any comments to make on their future once Britain leaves the EU.
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Criminal gang arrested
By Simon Russell
THREE people have been arrested by Alicante’s Guardia Civil on suspicion of various serious crimes including drug trafficking, vehicle theft, armed robbery and burglary. They are believed to be behind an armed robbery on a currency exchange booth in Torrevieja last August where €25,000 was stolen. They are also thought to have stolen at least two truck trailers and resold the cargo as well as dealing in large amounts of cocaine, hashish and marijuana. Goods to the value of around half a million Euros were seized in
the raid on 7 March including cash, drugs, marijuana plants and cultivating equipment plus high end cars and motorcycles.
Two men have been detained in prison while the third person, a woman, has been charged although not detained.
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Vicious attack by children condemned
By Simon Russell
Multiple identities for multiple thefts
TWO sixteen year olds carried out a brutal assault on a man who intervened after the youths had been verbally assaulting his wife. The man’s facial injuries were so severe that he required plastic surgery and he also suffered from a fractured nose, broken jaw and other cuts and bruises. Despite the viciousness of the attack the two will be tried as minors and have been referred to the Children’s Courts in Valencia City for recommendations.
By Simon Russell
A man was arrested in Valencia on suspicion of defrauding at least €80,000, crimes police believe he carried out by using at least 40 different identities. The man, a 44 year old Italian, was actually arrested for common or garden shoplifting in a Valencian shopping centre.
He was found to have several different ID’s on his person which were linked to real people although with the man’s photo on all the documentation. A subsequent search of his residence turned up 13 more forged ID Cards, 22 fake credit cards and 23 fake residential documents relating to various
EU countries and citizens. They also uncovered a laminating machine, card reader and colour printer, all of which was being used to help create the false documentation. The man is being linked to a number of crimes including the illegal transfer of €40,000 from one man’s bank account.
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Hackathon held Whirlwind event in Alicante By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
THE University of Alicante (UA) held the Valencian leg of the “Hack for Good 2017” event earlier this month. The event - known amongst participants as a hackathon involved more than a hundred people all aiming to develop new applications to help with social problems. The hackathon was held simultaneously in venues throughout Spain and across the world. The programme was supported by talks from various people
in the tech industry such as Chema Alonso, head of Data for Telefonica. Data and ideas created from all the venues will be collated and studied and, if suitable, earmarked for further development.
IN a winter of unusual weather one of the most bizarre must surely be the whirlwind that destroyed parts of a cemetery in Pinoso on the Alicante-Murcia border. The meteorological phenomenon tore up concrete beams, uprooted headstones and caused various other damage to the cemetery. Some of the concrete slabs were thrown over 40 meters, giving an idea of the strength of the whirlwind which struck in the early hours of 5 March.
The 120 metre square area affected was subjected to viciously spiralling winds of around 70 km per hour according to weather readings. However everything outside of this zone was completely untouched and luckily the time and location meant that no people were around at the time. The cemetery was closed for two days but has now been reopened although repairs are still on-going.
Long jail term requested for paedophile
By Simon Russell
PROSECUTORS have asked for a 24 year imprisonment for a man who continually abused a girl of twelve. The alleged abuse happened between mid-2014 and June 2015 and took place in an abandoned house outside of Almassora in the Castellon province of Valencia. The man
plied the girl with drink and drugs and took advantage of the influence he had over her, according to the prosecutor. Some of the abuse was filmed by the man on his phone and this will also form part of the prosecution’s evidence. The trial will be held in Castellon’s provincial courts.
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March 14th
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Global reach for new campaign
By Simon Russell
“RONDA Iberica” is the inflight magazine for Iberian airlines and is read by an estimated 2 million people from 50 different countries around the world. Teulada-Moraira’s tourist department is taking advantage of this huge reach by running an advertising campaign in the magazine this year aimed at promoting the municipality as a
tourist destination. Iberian Airlines include Iberia, Iberia Express and Air Nostrum and their magazine will also be seen in 57 airport lounges across the globe. This is all part of the areas 2016 to 2020 tourism plan, which also saw promotional material being handed out at Madrid’s Atocha station recently, one of the busiest travel hubs in Europe.
Have a go heroes thwart bank robber Trip to the Fallas
By Simon Russell
WHEN a man tried to carry out an armed assault on a branch of Bankia in Alaquas near Valencia he didn’t count on the brave actions of local residents. They acted swiftly to prevent his escape by holding the bank door closed to stop his exit. Earlier he had held a knife to the throat of a female bank clerk and was trying to escape with the €1,300 he had been handed over in the robbery.
While he was trapped in the bank, local police soon arrived and By Simon Russel arrested the man, identified as a 41 A coach is being organised by year old who was believed to have the Association D’Ames de Casa taken drugs prior to the robbery. of Callosa d’en Sarria to view the famous Fallas displays in Valencia City. The trip is being arranged for 17 March, when all the statues will be in place, and costs 10€. Other cultural events from the town this month include a display of photographs of the regions beautiful Fonts de L’Algar, which is in the Casa de la Cultura from
24 March to 5 April. For more details about these and other events visit www.callosa.es
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March 14th
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New Green Tragedy avoided Zone approved By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
RESIDENTS of Teulada-Moraira were asked to vote on what they thought would be the best municipal investments for the town last October. 1,219 people voted for the “Pinaret de la Costa” area to be converted to a green zone for use by citizens and the town hall have now approved the decision for the work to go ahead. The 35,000m2 parcel of land will now be developed as a leisure area for all citizens, including those with dogs as their will also be a
designated area for our four legged friends. The land in question is between the school and train station and is currently privately owned, although the owner has agreed to sell the land to the council.
FIRE fighters in Canals, near Xativa, were called out to a dramatic scene where a young mother was threatening to throw herself and her children from the balcony of their fourth floor apartment. As the authorities and relatives of the woman were unable to talk her down, eventually the fire crew
made the decision to enter the building. Once there they were able to grab the woman who was holding her baby during the entire event. Though the reasons for the incident are unclear, her husband said that she had been suffering from depression and had a history of psychological problems.
Old clothes bring in some cash Shop fire lights up town centre
By Simon Russell
TEXLIMCA, the company that purchases used clothing donated in the designated collection bins, presented a cheque for €6,724 to Denia City Council for the clothes collected in 2016 across the town. The cash will be split between the members of Denia’s Mesa Solidaria, the Red Cross, Caritas, Salvation Army and Extiende tu Mano. The 22 containers collected
just under 70,000 kilos of used clothing and footwear, a 15% increase on 2015. The increase was attributed primarily to a raise in public awareness, helped by campaigns in schools and other public institutions. When using the bins the public are reminded to place the clothing in plastic bags and also that the condition is not crucial as unusable clothing will be safely recycled.
By Simon Russell
AN explosion in a Poble Nou de Benitatxell locutorio and general store appears to have caused the fire that then blazed through the shop on the Marina Alta towns Calle Mayor earlier this month. The shop’s proprietor was inside at the time and suffered from smoke inhalation but was rescued promptly and their condition is said to be comfortable. The Guardia Civil, local police and the fire brigade foot showers will also be shut all attended the scene which off, except for the ones on Playa occurred at the busy midmorning period and it was L’Ampolla. There is a final reminder that fortunate that no customers
or bystanders were injured in the explosion or fire. The town centre was severely disrupted by the incident and the building containing the shop has been severely damaged, while the reason for the initial explosion is being investigated.
Weeds staying where they are By Simon Russell
MORAIRA’S beaches will not have the weeds and algae along the shoreline cleared away until 9th April as a measure to protect their sands from erosion. The Town Hall also wanted to remind people that the public toilet facilities will be closed for the winter months and the
animals are not allowed on the beach all year round. As usual, the lifeguard service will begin during Easter week and then resume during the summer months.
Techno Girls
By Simon Russell
GANDIA’S campus of Valencia University has run a presentation aimed at encouraging more female students to consider taking technology based courses such as science, engineering and maths. These subjects are becoming increasingly more important as Spain increasingly moves towards more white collar type careers, in
particular involving computing. However many girls have showed a lack of interest in this type of career and it is hoped that the half day activity went some way towards rectifying this. Speakers on the day included Clara Luzon, who was recently awarded the prize for outstanding college student in technology.
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March 14th
Hit by car on cycle track
By Simon Russell
POLICE are investigating how a car came to be on a test track set aside for bicycles after a cyclist was badly injured after being struck by the wayward vehicle. The incident happened at the mountain test track in Crevillent and it appears that a barrier may have been removed by another motorist though it is
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Politician’s trial suspended By Simon Russell
THE trial of the former Pilar de la Hordada councillor accused of corruption has been suspended due to failure to put together a full jury. The case against Francisco Javier Lara was due to begin on 8 March in Elche’s crown court but will now be held on an unknown date in the future. unclear why. This allowed the 60 Lara has been accused of year old driver to enter the track where he struck the 31 year old bike rider, an Elche resident who was airlifted to Elche hospital. The man was participating in a race at the time and witnesses say that the race and track were all clearly signposted and there would be no reason for cars to enter the area.
abusing his former position as Pilar de la Hordada’s Heath and Fiesta’s councillor to illicit bribes, notably a new car from a company tendering for work in the town. The firm refused to pay the alleged bribe and instead reported the incident which has led to the prosecutors believing Lara has a case to answer.
Venus uncovered
By Simon Russell
AN important historical artefact was discovered this month at the La Alcudia historical dig near Elche. The 8cm Roman Venus statue that was dug up is considered one of the best examples ever found across the Iberian Peninsula and although the feet and head are missing the remainder is in excellent condition.
It is thought that the statuette was a fertility symbol and may have belonged to a wealthy Roman household as a display piece. The dig began earlier this month at the site where the Dama de la Elche bust was found back in 1897, described by some as the most famous Iberian sculpture of all time and dating from the 4th Century BC.
Healthy handling of food
By Simon Russell
SANTA Pola’s local Development Agency is offering a free course aimed at promoting food hygiene practices and basic knowledge on the likes of cleaning equipment, disinfecting food preparation areas and also allergies. The course will be held on 28 March from 4pm to 9pm in
the Baluarte del Duque (Castillo Fortaleza). It is subsidized by the Valencian Tourist Agency and the European Social Fund and is aimed at forming part of a vocational training package. People interested in attending can register at the ADL office on Calle Astilleros No 4 or online at www.adlsantapola.es
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Sterilization campaign Erotica by the sea prompts complaints By Simon Russell
By Simon Russell
TABARCA’S programme of sterilization to control the burgeoning cat population on the island has led to at least one official complaint to the police. This alleges that the programme is not being conducted humanely and some cats have been killed by the procedure. Alicante’s councillor for animal protection, Marisol Moreno, denies the allegations. These include that twelve cats have been killed during the procedure while Moreno said they are aware of only two cats having
died that had been treated and these were from causes unrelated to the sterilisation. She also states that it is common knowledge who has filed the complaint and that the person should be prosecuted for filing a false complaint. There are 180 cats known to be on the island and if the population is not controlled it will soon get out of control added the councillor. Seprona, the animal protection department within the Guardia Civil, are investigating the complaint.
SPAIN’S biggest seller of sex toys over the internet is based in an office in El Campello, which may come as a surprise to some of the local residents. “Diversual” was started by two young friends in 2012 who were looking for ideas to tap into a new on-line market. Someone jokingly suggested sex toys but they decided there was indeed a gap in the market there for online customers and this has proved to be the case.
The office and warehouse now employ twelve local people and last year their turnover exceeded a million Euros. They are currently shipping out various products at the rate of around 300 units a day to Spain, Europe and the USA and expect greater expansion this year. Choice, discretion and low shipping costs are all part of the secret of their success said the companies’ founders.
Cable thief hauled in
By Simon Russell
Pupils among injured in school bus crash
By Simon Russell
THREE people, including two children, were injured as a school bus collided with two cars on the CV-930 outside Orihuela. The crash happened during the morning school run on 8 March although the reasons for the crash are unclear at this stage say the authorities. The injuries are not
life threatening although all three victims were taken to the Vega Baja Hospital for treatment. The same stretch of road was where there was a fatal crash earlier in the year, with one death and four serious injuries occurring after a lorry and a car were involved in a head on collision.
A 36 year old Spanish man has been arrested in Sant Vicent del Raspeig and charged with the theft of large amounts of copper cabling. The cables had been used for telephony and internet connections and the theft caused many residents in the Moralet area to lose their access. The supply company had reported the thefts in January, with 1,200 metres of cables worth around €20,000 being stolen. Police were aware that the suspect had a history of similar offences and gained a warrant to search his property
which uncovered the stolen copper cables and specialist cutting tools. The loss of internet and phone lines had caused many residents major problems with even the emergency services being unavailable while facilities such as centres for the disabled lost all phone lines.
Making an exhibition
By Simon Russell
EL Campello is offering three free exhibitions until April, all of them with an artistic theme. A display of works in plastic made by local artists can be seen at the Rafael Altamire library until 1 April every day except Sundays. The Casa de la Cultura is hosting an exhibition of sculptures by Hans Some entitled “sphid:phague:glia”, again every day except Sundays and fiestas. The Casa de la Cultura
is also the venue for a display by AMUDECA or the Women of Campello group. This includes paintings, handicrafts and various other items, daily except Sundays. For more information on these and other cultural events in the town visit the website at http://www.elcampello.es/ index.php?s=agenda&i=en where information is available in both English and Spanish.
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Bobbies on the beach Drink driving clampdown By Simon Russel
By Simon Russel
BENIDORM has announced that they will be hiring ten extra local police to cover the peak holiday periods this year. The ten new officers will be attached to the Beach Section of the local police and will be starting at Easter and then serving for the next six months. Security Councillor Lorenzo Martinez said “This is a high quality selection procedure and the candidates are expected to face the same tests and requirements as permanent staff.” One of the tests they will face is on
their level of English, as well as other physical and mental agility tests. Mr Martinez foresees no problem filling the roles as the last time a similar recruitment programme was made there were over 300 candidiates.
Brutal beating of minor By Simon Russel
A 26 year old Bolivian man has been arrested and charged with gender violence crimes after he was seen kicking and punching his 17 year old girlfriend for around three minutes in Benidorm. The incident was captured on CCTV but the young woman, a Czech national, refused to press charges against her boyfriend as she had what the police described as “a strong emotional attachment to the man”. They clearly felt her feelings were misplaced although they were still able to arrest the man on the
basis of the CCTV images and the fact that the girl was a minor. These images had only come to light by accident while police were investigating an unrelated report of property damage. They were then able to trace the couple after some diligent police work.
VILLAJOYOSA police said that they carried out 20% more breathalyser tests on drivers in 2016 than in the previous year. This resulted in a 66% increase in drivers testing positive for alcohol while driving, said Public Safety Councillor Jaime Ramis. “Public awareness is very important” said the councillor. “We ask once again that people don’t drive under the influence of either drink or drugs.” Drug tests have also been introduced for drivers and there have been awareness campaigns aimed primarily at younger drivers.
Last year saw 231 recorded traffic accidents in the municipality and 54 motorists convicted of road safety offences. Around three quarters of the offences were alcohol related.
Housewives helping fight cancer
By Simon Russel
The Amas de Casa (housewives) Association of Callosa d’en Sarria raised an impressive €9,000 in the second Solidarity March against Cancer held last month. On 10 March the association presented a cheque for €7,000 to the AECC cancer charity while earlier in the month they had
presented €2,000 to the Anemona Association, a charity that supports women with breast and gynaecological cancer. The presentation to AECC was made in the Casa de la Cultura by Rosa Mari Savill from the Amas de Casa group to AECC’s provincial president, Pablo Ortiz.
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New green route launched
By Simon Russell
SEVENTY people took part in the launch of the new “Camins d’Altea” route earlier this month, led by local historian Juanvi Martin. The new route is designed to run through some of the lesser known spots around Altea
and will be accessible by bike or on foot. Highlights include the ancient Camino Real del Mar and the shrine of St Thomas as well as the Cap Negret. The weather played its part in making the day a success said Tourism Councillor Anna Alvado, while those taking part agreed the new route was a welcome
Tree doctors
addition for the areas walkers and cyclists.
By Simon Russel
A huge cypress which is on the list of Alfaz del Pi’s most important trees has been repaired after damage sustained in the February storms. The first priority was to make the tree safe and once it was established that this could be
done the towns Green Brigade were able to correct the tilt sustained in the strong winds. The 16 meter cypress tree is located near Calle Federico and is one of many trees on the towns “Catalogo M u n i c i p a l de Arboles Singulares”.
Looking after workers health
By Simon Russel
FCC, the firm that has the concession to deal with Benidorm’s rubbish collection and road cleaning is promoting activities aimed at keeping their staff fit and healthy. The latest example of this was the organisation of a hike for staff and
their families on a set route through Benidorm’s city centre. Other activities have included staff football matches while employees can take advantage of a special rate that FCC has negotiated with a local gym. There has also been an anti-
smoking campaign, with talks organised and a goal to reduce the number of smokers working for the firm. In December 2016 FCC was certified as a “Healthy Company”, mainly as a result of the firms efforts at improving its owns staffs health.
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Wanted Brit apprehended Floods prompt round
By Simon Russell
ONE of Spain’s most wanted fugitives, a British national, was arrested in Benidorm by the National Police on Friday 10 March. Gareth Edwards has been sought by the British authorities and is due to serve three life sentences for armed and violent robbery offences. He was thought dangerous enough that he was on Spain’s “Top Ten most Wanted” list and his image would have been widely circulated amongst Spanish authorities. Sharp eyed police officers had noticed a man on Benidorm’s Calle Mallorca who resembled Edwards and asked him for ID. The man showed them a passport but the police were not convinced that the picture on the passport was of the same man that they were questioning.
He then ran off but officers caught and detained him and also found cocaine on his person. After taking fingerprints at the police station the authorities were able to confirm that the man was Gareth Bryan Edwards, a British National aged 25.
Elephant study underway
of spending
By Simon Russell
BENIDORM Town Council has announced that they have authorised spending of around €180,000 on various infrastructure projects over the run up to Easter. Much of this has been necessitated by damage caused in the winter’s storms while some is already part of the normal town planning budget. The work is to be carried out across the city and includes asphalting and street lighting that were damaged during the flooding. Works will commence on the streets and avenues of
Alemendros, Ruzafa, Carrasco, Invierno, Verano, Primavera, Calpe, Asturias and Europa and drivers are warned that traffic flow will be affected. They have been asked to drive with caution and within the posted speed limits during the duration of the works. Much of the wiring that is being replaced in the public lighting system is up to 40 years old and would have been due for renewal shortly; therefore the flooding has merely brought this project forward.
By Simon Russel
zoos and animal parks have similar dietary regimes and the study will look into any ways these might be altered or improved.
THE Terra Natura natural pack at Benidorm is collaborating in an international study to analyse the feeding habits of Asian elephants. They are one of forty European institutions taking part in the project which hopes to find ways of improving the welfare of elephants in captivity. Diet is a vital part of this welfare, with Terra Natura’s own elephants each consuming about 100 kilos of grain as well as fruit and vegetables each day. Most
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Benidorm pulls in the viewers
By Simon Russell
THE series premiere of “Benidorm” shown on 1 March was the most watched British TV show that day with 23.5 million viewers, according to industry figures. As series nine draws in viewers, the filming of the tenth season was due to commence on 14 March with once again the Sol Pelicanos Hotel being the main
venue, doubling up as the Hotel Solana for the duration of the filming. Film crews and their entourage actually started moving in and setting up on and around Calle Zamora on 7 March, and although there will be some disruption to traffic and local businesses this will be kept to a minimum, said Pere Agullo, head of Filming Spain,
the local production company for the series. Mayor Toni Perez praised the economic benefits of the series
for promoting Benidorm as a tourist destination, estimating it has a positive economic impact of around €2m.
Help with studies Get your skates on By Simon Russel
By Simon Russel
FORTY students attended a two day course in La Nucia’s Youth Centre aimed at helping them with study hints, tips and techniques. The two day course was organised by parent-teacher association AMPA along with the town’s secondary school and the Youth Department.
Techniques focused on included compiling study schedules, reading comprehension, time management and tips on when, where and how to best maximise your study periods. Attendance was free for AMPA members and just €2 for nonmembers.
Corpse of youth discovered
By Simon Russel
THE Guardia Civil are carrying out an investigation after the body of a 30 year old Spanish man was found in his rented apartment in Polop. A relative of the deceased had raised the alarm after not hearing from the man for several days and the Guardia took the decision to break into the apartment where the grisly discovery was made. It appears that the young man has been dead for a while and his wounds suggested a possible violent death. The man had only moved down from Granada a few weeks ago, according to local sources. The police are also said to have
THE new skate park, part of the Parc de la Sequia Mare project in Benidorm, has now been completed announced mayor Toni Perez. The 70,000m2 facility cost €50,000 and is part of the cities continuing goal to provide top level sporting facilities for all its citizens and visitors said Mr Perez.
The park came under some criticism from the opposition Green Party for its location and poor signage. However the governing party spokesman said that the park was intentionally constructed away from the centre to minimise noise problems for residents and that the signs erected were more than adequate.
Getting a handle on complaints
uncovered large amounts of drug paraphernalia at the residence and are looking into this as a possible motive. An autopsy is being carried out as at this stage it is still too early to confirm if the death was an By Simon Russel unfortunate accident or another ALTEA’S OMIC department, party was involved. which looks into consumer complaints, received 360 enquiries and handled 126 official complaints in 2016. The most common area of complaint was in the technology sector, particularly telephony, as well as utility companies, especially gas. They also received complains about the financial sector, including alleged misselling of financial products. Local tradespeople were more
likely to resolve any customer issues themselves whereas OMIC did receive more complaints concerning larger stores. Altea’s councillor for Commerce, Anna Alvado, said that OMIC is becoming higher profile and better known in the town and residents are beginning to appreciate its value to them as consumers. The office is located on the ground floor of the town hall and is open on Friday’s except for August.
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Call Now +34 966 26 50 72
Empty housing stock increases
THERE are 3.5 million empty houses in Spain, a figure only surpassed by Greece, Mexico and Malta, according to figures released recently. This represents around 14% of the total housing across the country with much of the empty properties in the hands of banks and other major financial institutions. However there are also other reasons for the glut such as unwanted property after the death of an occupier, unresolved wills and people simply moving on without selling the property. In Sweden, by contrast, only 1% of houses are unoccupied. As a general rule warmer countries tend to have more empty property, mainly due to the more fluid nature of their markets regarding tourism and immigration.
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BUYING or SELLING your PROPERTY? It’s TIME for a FRESH approach
REDUCED TO SELL
Alcalai
175,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201672-A
Build: 108 m Plot: 600 m2
2
3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
INLAND
Av. Joanot Martorell, Nº 17-C 03727 JALON (Alicante)
Javea
375,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201556-A
Build: 217 m Plot: 1138 m2
2
4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms
Tel: 96 648 2480 info@garciavillas.es www.garciavillas.co.uk
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info@designvillasmoraira.com www.designvillasmoraira.com
We are looking for properties for our clients in all price ranges
Jalon
260,000€
Villa
Ref: GV 201793-A
Build: 103 m Plot: 600 m2
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Ctra. Cabo La Nao, Pla, 122. Bloque 12-Bajo, 03730 JAVEA (Alicante)
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Business Feature
Wellnesspark Costa Blanca The Wellness Park Costa Blanca was established in 2014 offering a centre for the world’s premium wellness products such as the original Jacuzzis®, whirlpools, spas, swim spas, swimming pools, infrared cabins, saunas, barrel saunas, hot tubs and all of the accessories that you may need to complement your lifestyle. Hans and his team welcome you come along and take advantage of his 20 years experience. Originally from Austria has gained his knowledge from some of the best companies, he has created a complete centre with over 500 square meters dedicated to Jacuzzis and Spas situated in El Verger, Alicante. The Saunas at Wellness Park are primarily manufactured in Canada using top quality red cedar wood as well top of the line models from Switzerland, produced using Swiss stone pine. Many of the Saunas can be fitted out with steamers effectively creating a bio sauna and even with infrared emitters that offer a whole new form of wellness and therapeutic benefits. Scientific studies of patients with rheumatoid arthritis showed a reduction in pain, stiffness and fatigue during infrared sauna therapy, while regular usage of the IR Sauna can assist in alleviating pain by relaxing the muscles and helping to excrete toxins more efficiently than with conventional saunas. The company are dealers of the most original brands including Jacuzzi and of course Master Spas from the USA, many of the top of the line
models are available for demonstration at the showroom. The latest models are fitted with after glow LED lights directly inside the jets providing colour therapy, soothing colours that deliver an ambience and true sense of relaxation. The Swimming Spa was developed by Olympic champion swimmer Michael Phelps it combines swimming with a spa, with in built wave propulsion system or counter current it has all the benefits of a spa and swimming pool in one, but offers clients the freedom and flexibility to be able to install it with ease at the fraction of the cost that a traditional pool. Saving clients expensive planning and permission, licenses, architects and excavation, it is simply dropped in place and ready to go the same day. It offers far more economical running costs, less maintenance and less chemical and power usage than a standard swimming pool, and offers the benefits of a spa at the same time, making swimming and relaxation available year-round. The Wellness Park take pride in offering a complete service,they can customize the product to fit the needs and requirements of each individual client and offer a thoroughly professional service. Their installation team are trained by the very companies that manufacture their products, so clients can be sure that the team have expert knowledge and are able to offer a first class professional service. There are discounts and promotions available all year round on any ex-showroom model, with
JS
huge savings and a lot of extras thrown, the large showroom has a truly great selection on offer and something to suit all tastes and budgets. Wellness Park is open 6 days a week from Monday to Saturday, 10am – 2pm and their sales team, Hans and Frankie are happy to arrange viewings and consultations outside of these times by appointment.
Wellness Park Costa Blanca Avenida Valencia 36, 03770 El Verger www.Wellnesspark.es - 965 750 227
JACUZZI & SAUNA CENTER Wellnesspark Costa Blanca QUALITY OUTLET
SPECIAL QUALITY SPECIAL PRICE - SPECIAL SERVICE
AVENIDA VALENCIA 36 - 03770 EL VERGER MON. - SAT.: 10 A.M. - 2 P.M. WWW.WELLNESSPARK.ES - 965 750 227
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Living
March 14th
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Home & Garden
Basil Herb Growing In Spain
Why pay a lot at the grocery store when you can grow your own? This video will teach you the best way to plant, grow, care for, and harvest basil.
Even if you don’t have a garden, try growing some in a pot right outside the door or in another sunny spot. Easy to grow either in the ground or in a container, it’s a great herb for the summer as it grows quickly in warm weather to yield big harvests. For an assortment of flavours, you can grow various types of basil together in flower beds or containers. Popular varieties include cinnamon basil and Thai basil for Asian dishes.Purple basil because it’s so pretty. Spicy globe basil for small leaves that are easy to sprinkle atop your favorite dishes and sweet basil for Italian dishes and terrific pesto. Delve into this little book to find notes on herb flavours, the best growing con-
ditions, storage and how to use them in the kitchen.
insulating it with a frost blanket or other covering.
There are inspirational planting schemes for window boxes and pots including Mediterranean
It really doesn’t like temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit so you may find it sulking and yellowing if the weather is unseasonably cool. Because it is so leafy basil will wilt quickly in hot weather.
Basil does best with at least six hours of sunlight. Set out plants at least two weeks after the last spring frost or plant during the summer. Check the label to learn how much space to leave between plants, usually 12 to 18 inches. If planting in a container, use a large pot so there is enough soil to support growth and so it won’t dry out too quickly in hot weather. In the ground, a spot that doesn’t lect water, but drains to avoid causing root
pick colwell rot.
This plant is very frost sensitive so protect it, in case of a late cold spell, by bringing it indoors or
Water as often as you need to keep the soil moist but not soggy. For best growth, fertilize with liquid plant food every couple of weeks. Keeping the basal stems pinched encourages the continual production of tender new leaves and prevents the plant from flowering and producing seeds. To harvest a big bunch for pesto or just to keep the plant productive, shear off the top third of the stems regularly once the plant has reached 12 to 18 inches tall. Also, never cut the woody part of the plant near the
base or the won’t grow back.
Harvest basil leaves anytime after the young plants have reached a height of six to eight inches. Keep in mind two or three plants will yield plenty of basil unless you’re making lots of pesto. When the night begins to cool down plants will slow their growth dramatically. At the first prediction of even the lightest frost, go
ahead and harvest all your basil because it will quickly turn black in cold weather. Make easy work of this by cutting off the entire plant at ground level then picking off the best leaves for use. Cutting the ends of the basal stems and placing them in water will keep them fresh for days and fill your home with a wonderful fragrance.
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WEEKLY WORDSEARCH
Allan Allay Allege Allegiance Allegory
Find All The Words - All in All Allegro Alleluia Allemande Allergy Alleviate
Alley Allies Alligator Allocate Allot
Allow Alloy Allspice Allure Alluvium
SUDOKU (EASY)
QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS
1 Journey to a shrine (10) 7 Uncertain (2,5) 8 Wooden shoe (4) 10 Hairless (4) 11 Winter month (8) 13 Burrowing animal (6) 15 Iterate (6) 17 Indoor footwear (8) 18 Quick (4) 21 Leading performer (4) 22 Took a risk (7) 23 Signal to proceed (5,5)
DOWN
1 Foot-operated lever (5) 2 Yob (4) 3 Preferably (6) 4 Oily fish (8) 5 Farewell (7) 6 Gobbledygook (9) 9 Thankfulness (9) 12 Scatter (8) 14 Bubble raised on the skin (7) 16 Thrifty (6) 19 Parcel out (5) 20 Self-satisfied (4)
CODE CRACKER
Ally
SUDOKU (MEDIUM)
SUDOKU (HARD)
Find the 9 letter word and as many other words as you can!
SCORE BRILLIANT 60 EXCELLENT 45 GOOD 30 GREAT SCORE FOR KIDS 25
LW O E A T R GF
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CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
THIS WEEKS
HOROSCOPES ARIES
ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) The recent eclipse illuminates what was hidden. You’ll now go forward with a hunch. The weekend is magical on account of some spectacular planetary activity and anything could happen. Look out for some surprises proposals and propositions.
LIBRA
LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd) Sound corny but dreams can come true after an eclipse so don’t stop believing. At least that’s the way the song goes and this sums you up this week. Try not to take everything so seriously at the weekend, and trust in the good deeds of others. You’re a magnet for love.
SCORPIO
SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd) Your ears and your eyes are opened this week - plus someone may confide in you a secret that you suspected beforehand. There’s a change to your romantic life and/or with how you spend your leisure time thanks to the eclipse, and Mercury helps you vocalise what’s been muddled in your head.
SAGITTARIUS
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st) You might want to hide away now that the sun’s at the bottom of your chart and home and hearth are big pulls for you. Work may challenge you, but you’ll get there in the end, and you could be playing equally as hard come the weekend.
CAPRICORN
CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th) The time has come to follow your ambition - whatever this means to you - and to be upfront about it. What you were dreading actually turns out to be a charm, and the sky also shake things up on the love front, lifting your spirits, plus you feel a greater sense of freedom. You’ve a gentler take on life by the weekend.
AQUARIUS
AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th) You’re very popular this week and probably won’t stop just because you’re told to. No bad thing. On top of all this there’s a sudden change in the offing, and you’re out there and making the most of what the longterm has to offer. A dynamic presence lights up your weekend.
TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)
Down 2 I am sane - suffering loss of memory (7) 3 Thirsty doctor coming to end of surgery (3) 4 Pinch the Spanish metal (6) 5 A cat - a lion - wandering in part of Spain (9) 6 Impression made by public relations in time (5) 7 Cranky music-maker (5-7) 8 Gratitude for increase in value (12) 12 Unpleasant argument in Hyde Park (6,3) 16 Atrocious house in ruins (7) 17 Up-to-date fashion with the navy (6) 19 Intended to make an impact on the media? (5) 22 Some sailors suffer (3)
TAURUS
Take on board what others say this week. There’s a turning point midweek so don’t be afraid to step through a door of opportunity. The cosmos throws up something from the past by the weekend. Don’t push too hard at work, or where what could be a misguided principle is concerned.
GEMINI
GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) The cosmos does wonderful things for your creativity this week, and you’re also a social butterfly. Keep your eyes open for a hidden truth midweek, while the weekend promises love, affection and some emotional surprises. Destiny also plays its part.
CANCER
CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) The coming days are all about who you are and what you want, plus you’re now able to look at the details, now that the sun is in Pisces. Venus also reveals a lot about close friends, and the cosmos also gives you the green light over financial planning. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) You’re a force to be reckoned with this week and so you’ll ruffle a few feathers no doubt. But don’t forget to join in with people and be your charming, sociable self when it counts. You’re fun loving and sensual at the weekend.
Across 1 Scorn aid, perhaps, with a sneer (8) 6 For a professional (3) 9 Poles pay out for a flower (5) 10 Sarcastic extract from a newspaper? (7) 11 Keep demonstrating reticence (7) 13 The French can get this old language (5) 14 Pure tea set out (6) 15 Insect on female part of flower (6) 18 Conscious of a town in Herts (5) 20 Opposition leader’s share in speech (7) 21 Some slimmers eat duck (7) 22 Do return to enter Lincoln residence (5) 23 Be agreeably sleepy? (3) 24 This may be turned to make girl breathless (8)
Scribble Pad
PUZZLE ANSWERS - See page 51
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LEO
VIRGO
VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd) You can be upfront without being cruel. There’s a big difference. The more you talk about your emotions the better you feel this week, and the sun pulls the focus on all your relationships, which is a good thing if you’ve been neglecting them.
PISCES
PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th) The sun in your sign makes you feel alive, and the sky also throws a social opportunity your way, too, so don’t turn down invites. Allow everybody their say at the weekend and try to rein in impulsive spending tendencies.
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Simply Delicious or Truly Scrumptious
Celebrating 10 years of business Karen and her team of hard workers serve the best pastries, cakes and lunches to meet the daily needs of both the thousands of holiday makers as well as a host of local business owners and their workers. Benidorms answer to Gregg’s arrived 16 years ago after Karen came back to Spain after having first lived with her parents here as a teenager. In 2006 Karen decided to open her own business, so I asked her why the name Simply Delicious ? Karen said “the name was chosen to reflect what we want to serve, which is the best tasting food that relies on both good quality ingredients as well as the know how in preparation and cooking. People may think making snacks sandwiches and cakes is easy but to do it well I know is no easy task” Originally one unit the single local was a take away only outlet, after securing the then next
door building Karen completed the alterations that knocked through into one space then reformed. The extra space allowed them to serve the food there with space for the tables and chairs. Now 10 years on from the start of what is a very well known the success story continues. Recent refurbished with a reformed entrance the whole frontage is made up of glass known as Glass Curtains that fold back leaving the opening to the complete terrace. Complimented with new stylish flooring and furniture to match with comfortable cushions. The wide selection of British favourites offers a huge range of Sandwiches and pastries. For a healthy option Simply Delicious are famous for their salads and Baked Potatoes. If your not watching your waistline then you can indulge in Chips, Home made Cakes that include Cream cakes - Lemon Marange - Carrot Cake - Chocolate Dime Bar Cake - Chocolate Eclairs- Scones with real cream or clotted Banoffe Pie - Chocolate Fudge Cake - Apple Pie the list is Simply endless...... For more than a snack there are daily specials and Crispy Chicken with Chips Pies filled with Steak - Steak and Guinness - Mince Beef - Chicken and Mushroom they even have home made Gravy, Peppercorn Sauce and Curry Sauce. Popular for that early start enjoy Breakfast with superb Bacon Butties and Sausage baguettes. Talking to Karen about
the produce used she told me “ We cook our own ham, Chicken and beef Beef. We also make our own stuffing and bake our own cakes. We select Foods from the U.K. and also serve real Coffee as the original instant Nescafé”. “Our current offer is with any cake togehter with a cup of Tetley tea or Nescafé for only 3€ how good is that” Being in Benidorm you also need to be a little diverse so Karen also serves bottle beers, Smirnoff Ice or why not relax with a cake and G & T. More and more popular are Karen’s latest invention, girly afternoon Tea Parties called “Tipsey Tea Party” great for a warm up to the evening ahead.
Find them at Avenida Amettla de Mar, 26 opposite Hotel Dynastic
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Albondigas
(Meatballs in Garlic-Tomato Sauce) For the meatballs: 1lb minced pork 1/2tsp lemon juice 1/2tsp cumin seed 1 egg For the tomato sauce: breadcrumbs Cook onions and garlic in a little olive 2 garlic cloves oil. Add can of tomatoes, tomato puree salt and paprika. Boil for 5 mins then lower pepper the heat. Add the wine, sugar and bay leaf. For the tomato: Cook for 10mins then liquidize. 1 tin tomatoes Bring back to the pan and place garlic the meatballs carefully in the sauce. 1/2 bottle white wine Simmer for another 20mins. tomato puree Sprinkle with parsley and cheese. pinch sugar bay leaf 1 large onion parsley and cheese garnishing For the meatballs: It is so simple! Mix all ingredients together and make into small meatballs. Roll in flour and fry gently until brown.
for
What to do if your dog or cat has a seizure During a seizure try to keep calm and let your pet handle the seizure. Your pet will be completely unaware of surroundings . Your cat or dog can be very anxious, agitated, and even blind immediately following a seizure. Please do not try to hold or pet your animal during a seizure because they can seriously injure you even as you try to comfort them. Make the environment as safe and quiet as possible for your pet. Clear space. Record a video. It can help your veterinarian discern epilepsy or other conditions , such as balance problems, weakness, and certain behaviors can look like a seizure. A seizure doesn’t always mean you need to rush
Residencia canina y felina Boarding kennel & Cattery
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RESIDENCIA CANINA Y FELINA BOARDING KENNEL & CATTERY Habitaciones individuales Ozono Hilo musical Calefacción Parques ajardinados Servicio a domicilio Admitimos todas las razas
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your pet to the emergency clinic, although it’s a good idea to check in with your veterinarian at least by phone if this is a first-ever seizure but there are two seizure situations that warrant immediate emergency action: “Status Epilepticus” (a seizure lasting over 5 minutes) and Cluster Seizures (multiple seizures that occur within 24 hours of one another). In these situations, medical intervention and an overnight hospitalization are often required to stop the seizing and otherwise stabilize your pet. The most common cause of seizures in dogs is idiopathic epilepsy, which means that no underlying cause can be found for the seizures. Some breeds are actually predisposed to having idiopathic epilepsy due to a genetic cause. Many dogs with idiopathic epilepsy live an otherwise long and happy life once seizure management programs are in place. The alternative reasons for seizures are much less common. These include: Infectious disease Inflammatory brain diseases Strokes Metabolic diseases Brain tumors An complete physical and neurogical examnation with basic blood work will be necesarry to rule out causes of seizures after first seizure.
An high field MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and spinal tap are required to definitively diagnose idiopathic epilepsy. For the diagnosis of seizuresrelated injuries it´s necesarry an High Field MRI because the low field devices ( less than 1 Teslas) are not enough. In the province of Alicante there is one center with a High Field MRI in Cuidad Quesada: Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico por Imagen de Levante Tel: 966716176 or 609779109, Here there is also a specialist in veterinary neurology who will advise you.
Are you looking for a medium sized dog that has a big heart for those nights to curl up together. Nena was born in 2011 and has been with us since 2013. Nearly 3 years she has been waiting for her forever home and love, yet still she keeps the faith and rewards the volunteers with love and affection. Please help us find her a home.
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Dogs Eating Poop (Coprophagia) - Why Do They Do It? Poop eating in dogs is definitely a behavior problem. According to experts there are a few reasons for poop eating in dogs. It occurs mostly in puppies. It might be a behavioral problem or even an underlying medical problem. If this occurs excessively, the responsible thing to do would be to take your dog to your vet to have him checked out. Although this is a possibility, it is mostly a behavioral problem. So when all medical problems are eliminated, it is time to look at the other reason why this happens. It is important for your dog to have his vaccinations regularly. Diseases can also be spread through poop eating.
Dog might be bored. Your dog might be bored and have nothing to do. Get your dog a few toys or even a friend. Dogs learn to socialize while interacting with other dogs. He needs to come into contact with others like him. If you grew up among dogs and never came into contact with humans like you, you might think you are a dog, right? And you might not know how to interact with others like you.
Copying other dogs If you have more than one dog, there is a possibility that one of your dogs might copy another. Especially the younger ones.
Why does your dog eat poop?
Hungry Dog.
Hiding evidence.
This can occur in dogs that get fed once a day. They get hungry and the poop is the closest thing to supper.
Your dog might know that this is unacceptable bad behaviour. So he might eat it after having to go in the house for fear of the consequences. Your puppy might even be confused about it. If he was punished for doing it inside, he might think he was punished for doing it. So he might eat it even if he does it outside, because he thinks he should not do it at all.
Overfed Dog.
predators. After all, dogs are wild animals... and they have protective instincts.
Dog Cleaning House Your dog will eat his poop if things get too much. If you take too long to clean his house out, he might just take the initiative to spring clean his house. There are quite a few theories on how to stop your dog from eating poop. However I have found a few that is quite useful. Clean up as soon as possible. Your dog will not eat poop right after he had a meal.
Likes the taste.
Protecting against predators.
If possible try to clean as soon as possible. Try feeding him twice a day to avoid him getting too hungry. If he is not hungry, there is a good chance that he will not eat his poop. Mix pineapple or garlic into his food. Apparently it tastes awful in the poop, but I will not be able to verify it as I have not tried it before.
Your puppy might simply just love the taste of the poop.
This is protective behaviour. When a bitch eats her puppies poop, one dog eats another (sick) dogs poop in an attempt to protect him against
Try to keep your dog stimulated. If he does not get bored too often, he might not see an opportunity to eat his poop. Happy Puppy Training...
An overfed dog can digest his food too quickly resulting in the poop still smelling like his supper. And if it smells like supper, then it must be supper, right? Well for a dog it might be.
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March 14th
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The Problems of Low Sex Drive The drive for sex is an important thing; it affects a person’s self image and makes them feel complete. When the sex drive falls or collapses completely, it can make people feel like a total failure as a person. The causes of low sex drive are numerous. Most are the same for both men and women. There are physical causes such as anaemia, alcoholism, drug abuse, diabetes, obesity and low testosterone in both men and women. There are hormonal problems following childbirth in women and prostate drug problems with “Proscar” in men. When any of these problems are suspected, the person should talk to their doctor. -Equally likely are psychological problems; the main ones are: -Depression, and unfortunately anti-depressant drugs -Stress, including the stress brought about by sexual demands -Anxiety, often due to a lack of sexual interest -Sexual abuse or rape -Relationship problems, including a falling out of love or lust with the partner -Environmental problems such as living with parents -Childhood problems such as overpowering parents Where the problems appear to be psychological, it can help to identify when the problem first started. This may point at a recent problem or one that has existed since childhood. Some recent problems, such as a sexual assault are easy to identify, but older ones can be harder to pinpoint. It is necessary to iden-
tify the cause of the problem if a resolution is sought. Most psychological causes have long term effects. Physical problems can be overcome much more easily. A negative sexual event as a child may make a man or woman have an unconscious fear of sex without them being aware of it.
the cuddles that make them feel good. People with a low sex drive are often afraid to have any physical contact in case it leads to sex. Resolving a low sex drive may be as easy as a three monthly injection or a discussion with a trained therapist. Of course, some problems are well hidden but once they are found, it brings a huge sense of relief (plus a large amount of pleasure). Those with low sex drive, often justify their lack of interest with a variety of excuses. They find it easier to say that “It’s for young people and not for me”, or “I am getting too old for that sort of thing”. There are usually partner pressures which make it hard to discuss easily.
The problems caused by a low sex drive often centre around the person’s self esteem. If the person appears to be sexually uninterested, it makes them feel that they are not a complete man or woman. It also causes problems for their partner because the partner then feels that they are not wanted sexually. Often these issues go on, unspoken, with both Article supplied by partners afraid to discuss it. Grahame Milton – Jones, Sexual contact, love making, is Psychotherapist a demonstration of affection, and For more information, call the without this contact, a valuable Family Medical Centre, Albir, on form of communication is miss966 865 072. ing. At the Family Medical Centre, time after time, people complain that they want Article Provided By to feel wanted, See Our Advert Page 39 needed and have
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Alicante City
Alicante past present and future. Different civilizations have passed through these lands, leaving their mark which can be seen in all corners of this emblematic city. All of this adds to the appeal of this modern city with a primary focus on tourism, but also a special interest in industry and commerce. Alicante, situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, offers not only a great variety of services but also a wide range of cultural activities, with its museums, its festivals and its nature areas, in particular the Island of Tabarca (Mediterranean Marine Reserve). Alicante’s well-known climate and beaches make this a perfect city for spending a few pleasantly relaxing days away from it all.
streets. The front of the building was designed by Enrique Sánchez Sedeño and is presided by an impressive staircase surrounded by two emerging figures with decorative features. On 25th May 1938, the Mercado Central was hit during the worst bombing suffered by the city of Alicante during the Spanish Civil War, which resulted in 300 civilian victims. The Italian air force was responsible for that tragedy. All kinds of high-quality products can be bought at the Market, especially local fish and seafood, vegetables and fruit, as well as other typical local products. That is why the city’s top restaurants source their food from the Mercado Central.
Central Market
Santa Barbara Castle
This building contains some modernist features and was built between 1911 and 1912 under the management of Juan Vidal Ramos over Balmes Square, over which there was still a part of the 18th century wall. With its rectangular shape, the Market mimics the layout of a basilica, with a circular appendix on the Southwest side covered by a semispherical dome called La Rotonda (the roundabout). The building is split into two floors, one of which is a semi-basement due to the irregular surrounding
visit to the Santa Bárbara Castle is highly recommended. Located atop Mount Benacantil, at a height of 166 metres, it is one of the largest medieval fortresses in Spain, with unbeatable views over the Bay of Alicante and on clear days you can see all the way to Tabarca Island. Such is its importance that during the 20th century it was declared a Monument of Historic and Artistic Importance and a Site of Cultural Interest. Here we can also find one of the most characteristic images of the city,
a rock formation resembling a man’s profile on the south western slope, known as the Moor’s Face, which is best viewed from Postiguet Beach. The Museum of the city in Santa Barbara´s Castle “MUSA”, housed in the Castle itself, was included to this cultural offer and it explains in five theme rooms the history of the city of Alicante and their inhabitants. To descend down from the Santa Bárbara Castle take the route through Parque de La Ereta, along the moun-
A visit to Tabarca island is an absolute must for visitors. Boats from the company Kontiki depart from the marina in Alicante several times a day during the summer months. In low seasons confirm timetables beforehand.
tainside. Its location and views transform it into a place of relaxation as well as a great meeting place. It also has a spectacular restaurant and, on the way down to the old town quarter, you can visit the picturesque, quintessentially Spanish Santa Cruz district. Another attractive option between the castle and the Santa Cruz district is walking along the remains of the walls that surrounded the Castle, which
The journey takes around one hour from Alicante. The route will give you the opportunity to enjoy the coastline. Try one of the traditional fish stews on the terrace of one of the restaurants. Also, on the island, you will find nice little bays to swim in as well as a beach offering different facilities. If you decide to stay overnight on the island, there are also little hotels peppered along it.
now end in the Santa Cruz district. Visitors can also access the castle via a lift built within the rockface opposite El Postiguet beach.
Tabarca Island
Clubs & Charities
U3A Marina Baixa at La Nucía International Day 2017 By Simon Russell
The whole day is built on noise and colour, probably in that order! There are over 85 different Nationalities living in La Nucia and many of them were represented in the huge hall, with so many national costumes and the aroma of international cuisine, there was no chance that anyone would go home hungry. The whole day was very interesting & entertaining, with the stage being busy all day with musicians, singers and dancers including a number of very young performers. The U3A “Olde Tea Shoppe” was busy all day long, serving copious amounts of tea and coffee with an excellent variety of cakes & buns, all home baked and donated by the members. We raised in excess of €500 for charity and such success makes all the hard work worth while.
U3A Marina Baixa holds its general meetings on the fourth Monday of each month in the auditorium at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi. Please note though, that the next Meeting will be on Monday the 20th March, due to a double booking of the room! The doors open at 10am and the desks close at 10.50am for a prompt 11.00 am start. Please come early to sign in and get your seat! If you have not heard of this Association and would like to join, please visit w w w. u 3 a m a r i n a b a i x a . c o m or our Facebook page, to find out more information. If you do not have internet access, please contact the secretary, Joan Flint on 96 586 1226 or on Mobile 663 637 167.
Grant a Wish B
O
U
T
I
Q
U
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Fresh Flowers
Printed Clothing
Books / Novels
Celebration Cakes
Children's Books
Greetings Cards
Reconditioned Clothing Photocopying Printing Javea Old Town Market Square 96 500 8816 Come and enjoy fund raising!
Javea U3A trip to the theatre AROUND 50 members of Javea U3A went behind the scenes of the El Palau De Les Arts opera house and performing arts centre on a recent visit to Valencia. It was part of a coach trip to the city led by the U3A’s Travel Group co-ordinator Joni Hills. During a guided tour, the party enjoyed a rare glimpse inside the building, dedicated to music and the scenic arts which is surrounded by 87,000 square metres of landscape and water as well as 10,000 square metres of walking area. They visited the four sections of the complex – the main hall, master hall, auditorium and Martin y Soler theatre, which hosts many events such as opera, theatre and music. Afterwards, some of the group visited the nearby open-air Ocean-
ografic, the largest such attraction in Europe, where they watched a spectacular dolphin show and toured the aquarium, which is home to more than 500 different species. Other members chose to go sightseeing, shopping or walking before heading back by coach to Javea. For details of Travel Group outings and other U3A activities, visit the website www.u3ajavea.org Photos by Jacqui Rogerson show inside the spectacular theatre.
Learn from my mistakes, not your own. How to invest sensibly and securely in Spain I made my first investment when I was 17. I was convinced this ‘internet’ malarkey that we had started using in the last few years was guaranteed to take off, and so with several years of savings from part time jobs, I invested in a small internet supplier called Telewest. Despite my instincts being right, by putting all my eggs into one basket, rather than investing in the industry as a whole, I ended up losing nearly all of my money. This did not put me off, and by the time I was 25 I had invested in pretty much everything you can imagine from Eastern European property to Penny Stocks, small businesses and more. I made more losses than gains, but those mistakes I made in my early years as a professional investor have been the most valuable of my life.
management. These include tens of thousands of underlying assets, a dynamic portfolio managed and updated on a daily basis, covering global fixed interest securities, equities, property and alternative assets. Our clients in Spain have the opportunity to invest in this portfolio via a Spanish compliant bond. This is one of the largest and most diverse, if not the most diverse, portfolios in the World, covering off the ‘diversification’ requirement more than adequately. Below is a chart showing the Growth Funds performance from November 2008 to January 2017. Please note that past performance is no indication of future performance, and values can go down as well as up. Illustrations of growth are not guaranteed and returns may be lower than those shown.
I learned the essential lessons that I still use today in my career advising expats on their Financial Planning and Investment matters. The most important lessons being ‘due diligence’ and ‘diversification’. Since moving to Spain I have witnessed more and more investment ‘opportunities’ including some that can only be described as ‘ponzi schemes’. These included sports betting, too good to be true investments, ‘low risk’ funds returning 20%+ a year, property investments offering unrealistic ‘guaranteed’ yields. These schemes can struggle to survive and will more than likely collapse, leaving their investors high and dry. Naturally, as a financial planner, I understand why people want to invest. I have been investing my whole life and despite my early mistakes, success over the last 15 years has dramatically improved my lifestyle, making my money work for me. That is not taking into consideration the eroding effects of inflation - £100,000 left in the bank for 10 years will lose around £25,000 of its spending power as a direct result of inflation – that’s equivalent to nearly £7 a day, which would go a long way in Spain. So, on the whole, people understand that in an inflationary world, investment is essential. What is not essential, though, is taking unnecessary risks for unrealistic returns. Let us look at that £100,000 in another way. If you invested £100,000 and achieved a moderate return of 5% per year over the last 10 years, that £100,000 would now be worth £162,000. A strong growth of 7% per year the figure would be £197,000. A figure like this is an example to show you what can be achieved. This level of return cannot be guaranteed; your personal appetite for risk and the length of time you invest for will affect your potential returns or losses; it is important to remember that the value of your investments can go down as well as up. So the big question is where should expats turn to for advice they can trust? This takes me back to my original hard learned lessons – ‘diversification’ and ‘due diligence’. As an independent financial planner we have access to the whole of the market, so we can carefully select the most suitable product for you. Two providers who have proved incredibly popular with our clients here in Spain are The Prudential (remember The Man From The Pru?) and Old Mutual. These insurance and investment giants, both listed on the FTSE 100, have a combined 40 million clients between them worldwide and have set up international solutions specifically for expats here in Spain. That, along with their reputations and experience is part of the ‘due diligence’ requirement I mentioned. Their Spanish compliant bonds offer a whole host of advantages which can include tax efficiency, inheritance tax mitigation, ease of accounting and no requirement to report on the Modelo 720 as an overseas asset. One offering from The Pru is their Spanish Bond, which is managed by the Prudential Portfolio Management Group, a collection of 80 of the World’s leading financial experts with £173 billion of assets under
Similarly, Old Mutual International offers a Spanish Portfolio Bond, which can hold a choice of thousands of fully regulated funds. This is a perfect option for those with existing investments they wish to move to a Spanish compliant product, or for more sophisticated investors who wish to set up a portfolio under the guidance of a regulated financial planner. In both cases your funds are held directly by Prudential or Old Mutual. My overriding intention of this article is to let you know that there are options out there from reputable, established providers, and there really is no need to take aggressive financial risks to get good long term returns. This should not be considered as investment advice or a recommendation of any particular investment product; if you have any questions about these products or their suitability for you then please contact us for more information and to receive our personalised advice. Investment contracts are intended as medium to long term investments, and all investments have some level of risk. Fees and charges for these investments can vary and will be fully explained to you before any advice can take place. Chorus Financial offer fully regulated financial planning and independent investment advice from our office or at your home anywhere on the Costa Blanca. Call Sam Kelly now on 664 398 702, email on s.kelly@chorusfinancial.es or visit www.chorusfinancial.es if you would like to arrange a free consultation, or to find out more about the solutions covered in this article. Chorus Financial are a trading style of Tourbillon Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar). Licence Number FSC1118B.
ECB Comments push GBP/EUR to 1.14
The euro broadly strengthened in the wake of the European Central Bank’s latest interest rate decision, leaving GBP/EUR to trade at new lows.
What movement have we seen in the currency market? While the pound put in another poor performance on Thursday, sliding to 1.14 against the euro and touching a low of 1.21 against the US dollar, the euro surged across the board. EUR advanced by over 0.5% against GBP, AUD, CAD, NZD and JPY as the market responded to the European Central Bank’s latest interest rate decision. Euro gains against the US dollar were less substantial in light of the high likelihood of a Federal Reserve interest rate hike taking place next week, but EUR/USD did briefly breach 1.06.
So, what happened? Initially the reaction to the ECB’s interest rate decision was pretty minimal as the central bank left everything unchanged. However, Super Mario (the affectionately nicknamed ECB President) gave the euro a big kick higher as he announced positive revisions to Eurozone growth forecasts. The future path of ECB policy is still pretty unclear, but Draghi stated; ‘We haven’t seen yet any significant development on the wages front, and that is the key point. We are more optimistic about the growth forecast, we have to see how these improved prospects, as far as growth is concerned, translate into higher headline inflation.’
With little news to lend the pound support, the slightly more optimistic outlook put forward by the ECB was enough to drive the GBP/EUR exchange rate to its worst levels of the week so far.
What should you be looking out for Next week is set to be a volatile one for the currency market. For one thing, we’ve got the hotly-anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate decision. If the Fed hikes interest rates, and the odds of that happening are currently sitting at over 80%, the US dollar is likely to surge – potentially causing GBP/USD to drop to its lowest levels since 2016. But UK news is also likely to trigger GBP volatility next week. Of the data set for release Wednesday’s employment numbers and Thursday’s Bank of England (BoE) interest rate decision carry the most weight. With the job stats, a dip in average earnings or a disappointing employment change number would inspire pound losses, but the BoE decision could have the power to reverse any previous pound movement. As the recent UK PMIs hinted at a slowdown in domestic growth in the first quarter the BoE may opt to err on the side of caution and reiterate that interest rates are as likely to be cut as raised. However, pound volatility is likely to follow any indications that the central bank is leaning more one than another. We’re here to talk currency whenever you need us, so get in touch if you want to know more about the latest news or how it could impact your currency transfers.
Carretera Moraira A Teulada, 5, Edificio Benidorm 7 (behind the taxi rank on high street), 03724 Moraira, Alicante, Spain Call Now +34 966 26 50 72
Turbulent times ahead for budget airlines FEW sectors of business will be as badly affected by Brexit as the budget airline industry in the UK, fear its main operators. Based on a business model that depends on EU wide co-operation for everything from permission to use airspace to gaining crucial slots at airports, the operators are pursuing various legal options to try and ensure that they can continue to operate viably. While the possible worst case scenario of British planes not being allowed to use European airspace seems highly unlikely, it does seem inevitable that things will become more costly and complicated post Brexit for British flyers. Brussels have said that there will be no special deal for any business sectors and there are also concerns that budget airlines in the EU outside of Britain may take advantage of the uncertainty to poach much of the British operator’s
trade. As is so often the case, the uncertainty is the worst thing, exacerbated in an industry that needs to plan as far ahead as possible. Combined with the fall in the value of sterling, budget airlines in the UK at least may well become a thing of the past.
London FTSE 1000 13/03/2017 Name III ADM AAL ANTO AHT ABF AZN AV. BAB BA. BARC BDEV BLT BP. BATS BLND BT.A BNZL BRBY CPI CCL CNA CCH CPG CTEC CRH CRDA DCC DGE DLG DC. EZJ EXPN FRES GKN GSK GLEN HMSO HL. HIK HSBA IMB INF IHG IAG
3i Group Plc Admiral Group Anglo American Antofagasta Holdings Ashtead Group plc Associated British Foods plc AstraZeneca plc Aviva plc Babcock International Group BAE Systems plc Barclays plc Barratt Developments plc BHP Billiton plc BP Plc British American Tobacco plc British Land Co plc BT Group plc Bunzl plc Burberry Group plc Capita plc Carnival plc Centrica plc Coca-Cola HBC AG Compass Group plc ConvaTec Group Plc CRH plc Croda International plc DCC plc Diageo plc Direct Line Insurance Group plc Dixons Carphone plc easyJet plc Experian Plc Fresnillo GKN plc GlaxoSmithKline plc Glencore plc Hammerson Hargreaves Lansdown plc Hikma Pharmaceuticals HSBC Holdings plc Imperial Brands Group Informa plc InterContinental Hotels Group plc International Consolidated Airlines Group SA ITRK Intertek Group plc INTU Intu Properties plc ITV ITV plc JMAT Johnson Matthey Plc KGF Kingfisher LAND Land Securities Group plc LGEN Legal & General Group plc LLOY Lloyds Banking Group plc LSE London Stock Exchange Group plc MKS Marks & Spencer Group plc MDC Mediclinic International plc MERL Merlin Entertainments plc MCRO Micro Focus International plc MNDI Mondi Plc MRW Morrison (Wm) Supermarkets NG. National Grid NXT Next plc OML Old Mutual Plc PPB Paddy Power Betfair plc PSON Pearson plc PSN Persimmon plc PFG Provident Financial plc PRU Prudential plc RRS Randgold Resources RB. Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc REL RELX plc RIO Rio Tinto plc RR. Rolls Royce Holdings Plc RBS Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc RDSA Royal Dutch Shell Plc A Shares RDSB Royal Dutch Shell Plc B Shares RMG Royal Mail PLC RSA RSA Insurance Group SGE Sage Group plc SBRY Sainsbury (J) plc SDR Schroders plc SVT Severn Trent Plc SHP Shire plc SKY Sky plc SN. Smith & Nephew plc SMIN Smiths Group Plc SKG Smurfit Kappa Group Plc SSE SSE plc STJ St James’s Place Plc STAN Standard Chartered plc SL. Standard Life plc TW. Taylor Wimpey plc TSCO Tesco plc TUI TUI AG ULVR Unilever plc UU. United Utilities Group Plc VOD Vodafone Group plc WTB Whitbread plc WOS Wolseley plc WPG Worldpay Group plc WPP WPP plc
Current price (p) 729.5 1,901.00 1,186.50 784.5 1,698.00 2,633.00 4,815.00 543.5 899.5 635 230.2 536 1,275.50 463.5 5,139.00 611 331.6 2,301.00 1,817.00 568 4,541.00 220.9 1,962.00 1,513.00 255.5 2,861.00 3,639.00 7,005.00 2,271.00 347.5 305 984.5 1,638.00 1,436.00 371.4 1,677.50 314.9 583 1,321.00 2,135.00 672.1 3,859.50 647.5 3,850.00 565
Day change
3,875.00 279.9 207.2 2,952.00 336.8 1,044.00 249.4 68.54 3,056.00 337.8 756.5 495.6 2,192.00 1,890.00 233.1 980.6 3,970.00 226.4 8,850.00 672 2,118.00 2,952.00 1,664.50 6,965.00 7,276.00 1,539.00 3,304.50 762 241.3 2,120.50 2,222.00 407.8 591 650.5 269 3,137.00 2,339.00 4,937.00 987.5 1,235.00 1,574.00 2,216.00 1,510.00 1,093.00 742.9 371.5 194.1 191 1,156.00 3,989.50 978 203.35 3,882.00 5,015.00 291.9 1,711.00
20 2.4 -0.5 41 1.3 4 0.6
4.5 -3 46 36.5 20 2 55.5 2.5 5.5 -2
0.62% -0.16% 4.03% 4.88% 1.19% 0.08% 1.17% 0.46% 0.62% -0.31% -0.71% -0.19% 31 2.49% -7.2 -1.53% 31 0.61% -1.5 -0.24% -3.17% -6 -0.26% 13 0.72% 23.5 4.32% -20 -0.44% -1.9 -0.85% 14 0.72% 3 0.20% -0.9 -0.35% -23 -0.80% -4 -0.11% 5 0.07% 2 0.09% 2.5 0.72% 0.2 0.07% 7.5 0.77% 12 0.74% 76 5.59% -0.1 -0.03% 5 0.30% 4.35 1.40% 2 0.34% 2 0.15% -4 -0.19% 5.4 0.81% 12 0.31% 1.5 0.23% 0 0.00% -1.5 -0.26% 0.52% 0.86% -0.24% 1.41% 0.39% 0.38% 0.24% -0.32% -4 -0.13% -0.30% 11.5 1.54% -1.3 -0.26% 17 0.78% 11 0.59% -1.1 -0.47% 1.9 0.19% 4 0.10% 2.6 1.16% 35 0.40% -4.5 -0.67% 10 0.47% -7 -0.24% 21 1.28% 120 1.75% -45 -0.61% 4 0.26% 126 3.96% 7.5 0.99% -3.7 -1.51% 7 0.33% 12.5 0.57% 2.3 0.57% -0.17% 4.5 0.70% 2.6 0.98% 9 0.29% 5 0.21% 46.5 0.95% -5.5 -0.55% -4 -0.32% 42 2.74% 16 0.73% 7 0.47% 10 0.92% 1.6 0.22% -8.5 -2.24% 1.6 0.83% 2.2 1.17% 6 0.52% -46 -1.14% 6 0.62% -0.5 -0.25% -9 -0.23% 21 0.42% 3.4 1.18% 10 0.59%
Hyundai i30 2017 A good engine range, impressive refinement, a well-made interior and a generous level of standard equipment combine to make the Hyundai i30 an excellent family car. But all the gadgets and improvements mean the latest model is similar in price to the Volkswagen Golf. And the Golf is still the better all-rounder. That said, on the road the i30 is better to drive than ever before, with plenty of grip through corners and decent steering. The suspension is comfortable on all but the most uneven and broken of roads, yet it does a very good
job of keeping excess body roll at bay when cornering. All of the engines are quiet and capable, but the 1.6-litre diesel is only worth choosing if you do a lot of miles. The 140PS 1.4-litre petrol is just as punchy but it’s quieter, while the 1.0-litre is far from a poor relation, thanks to a wide torque spread that makes for surprisingly strong acceleration when on the go. Inside, the i30 is very well thought-out. It maybe lacks the style or panache of other hatchbacks this size, but it feels well
built, durable and most importantly - is simple to use. The seats are comfortable, the driving position is good and there is plenty of space, although taller occupants might struggle for rear head room. The boot is sizeable though, at 395 litres and it’s a good shape, so getting awkward items in and out is easy. Even entry-level i30s come with some very useful equipment, including cruise control and a speed limiter. Lane keep assistance is standard too, which
attempts to stop the car drifting out of its lane on the motorway, plus there is autonomous emergency braking to prevent or reduce the severity of collisions. The Vauxhall Astra, Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf are all excellent family cars and while the Hyundai i30 is better than ever, it still only as good as those key rivals – not better. But for a pragmatic car buyer it’s great, especially when you remember that it comes with a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty.
In Automotive History Toyota was the first company to mass produce a hybrid vehicle that was successful in the United States. The Prius launched in Japan in October 1997 and was made its way to America by July 2000, but it wasn’t the only hybrid from the auto giant. On this day in 2009 Toyota announces that it has sold its one millionth gas-electric hybrid in the US under its six Toyota and Lexus brands, more than
700,000 of them being Priuses, which was more than half of all the Priuses sold worldwide by that time. Other hybrid models included the Lexus RX 400h, the world’s first hybrid luxury vehicle, which was followed by the Toyota Highlander hybrid which launched in June 2005. Just over two years later, on April 6, 2011, Toyota announced it had sold its one millionth Prius in the United States.
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Job worry at Ford City THERE are fears that up to 240 workers may lose their jobs at Ford’s giant car plant at Almussafes – known locally as Ford City. In 2013 based on long term forecasts the company had begun plans to make 700 temporary workers permanent. While 460 have now become full time employees the conversion of the remaining 240 is in doubt as production forecasts have been altered.
There has also been uncertainty in the plant since the election of US President Donald Trump who has made it clear that he wants US firms to create jobs for US workers. As the Almussafes plant is one of the largest outside of the US there are concerns about whether Ford will push through future development plans in the face of Trump’s not very veiled threats.
Improvements for pedestrians
THE first phase of the works on the CV-743 in Teulada has now been completed. The aim of the works is to improve conditions for pedestrian users, primarily with the addition of a pavement which has now been
done. In the next phase of work the walkway will be painted and lighting added as well as some benches. There was also some asphalting work done on the road and the detours that were on offer are now no longer required.
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Entertainment
Mickeys’ Little Piece
Today has been a total washout weather wise, after the thunderstorms of last night and today’s constant downpour the dry river in Albir is now a lovely sight as the rainwaters from the higher ground rush towards the sea. Earlier this week I went out in my quest to find the best Tapas bars in Benidorm. Old Benidorm and Tapas alley was my first stop and I’ve gotta say I was not disappointed. The culinary delights were a far cry from Goddards pie ‘n mash shop down Deptford High St but then you can’t whack a good pie. Funnily enough it was National Pie Week last week. Anyways, back to Benidorm where I tried oxtail tapa for the first time. It was magnifique. This article is beginning to make me hungry so let’s change the subject ‘cos I want to tell you about a local fella I met in Nebraskas Bar. As you probably know my mother was from Andalucia so my Spanish is not too bad, but it does need sharpening up and that’s what I was doing holding a conversation with a man called Joselito. I told him I was an actor and pretty
famous back home. He then said he was also a famous actor, more so when he was a young boy. Then it dawned on me this was THE Joselito. I watched his movies with my Spanish family when I was a young boy. He had a wonderful voice and was a superstar in the day. This was a pure chance meeting in a Spanish cantina so who knows how many more surprises Benidorm has in store for me. Until next time. Bonsoir.
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Party @ The Pig
Join in the fun at the first ever Pre Paddy’s event with special guest Pat Murray (aka Mickey Pierce) When Pat and myself went along to meet Lee and Helen we had a open mind about the prospect of having a special event with the legend “Mickey Pearce” as to what the Pig and Whistle team and Pat Murray had in common and it certainly didn’t take long for Lee and Pat to find out... First it was their love for ale, not only does the Pig have a choice of real ales but they also take great pride in the pour and delivering what can only be described as a perfect pint! Wow that really did impress us and after sampling the more-ish taste of Greene King IPA and the famous Spitfire brand both on draught it was time to get down to business. There was only one easy way to do that and this was for Lee to challenge Pat to a game of pool, supposed to be fun but I could see them both taking their game quite seriously so in fact at the
end it went to the wire and Lee managed to pot the black to seal victory. “Ok your the better man today but I will be back on the 16th March for another crack” Pat said with a massive grin. So that time has almost arrived for the Patrick Murray AKA “Mickey Pearce” to return to the Pig and Whistle Old Town Benidorm for a great night of fun and games and to meet all you lovely readers for their “Pre-Paddy’s Party at the Pig” there will be some great give always, Mickey Pearce signings and photos together with the best music in town you might even get to hear Mickey sing a song or two. See you there from 8pm I would arrive early to make sure you get in....
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How Ed Sheeran owned the charts - with 16 tracks Ed Sheeran’s new songs are currently hogging 16 places in the Official Chart’s Top 40. And based on current sales the singer’s new album ÷ is set to sell more than 500,000 in its first week. It will be the most any artist has sold in the UK since Adele’s 25 in November 2015, with 800,307 copies. Sheeran utterly dominates the top 10 in the midweek chart, to the point that you’ll probably think your eyes are playing tricks. The only exception being Chainsmokers and Coldplay’s Something Just Like This at number five.
Despite Adele selling more than 800,000 in seven days, her album didn’t take over the singles charts because 25 wasn’t initially available on streaming services. Because a lot of people are streaming the whole of Sheeran’s ÷ on repeat, pretty much all its tracks are getting the numbers that singles normally command. He recently told GQ magazine: “Adele is the one person who’s sold more records than me in the past 10 years. “She’s the only person I need to sell more records than. That’s a big feat because her last album sold 20 million. “But if I don’t set her as the benchmark then I’m selling myself short.” Streaming, a huge marketing campaign and a Brit Awards performance have all boosted Sheeran’s chart onslaught.
”Traditionally you might see an artist start to dominate the charts after an awards show or following a death,” says Newsbeat Music Reporter Jimmy Blake. “In Ed’s case it’s seemingly down to a perfectly timed return. “After very publicly announcing a year out, he’s capitalised on his fans being excited for him to come back.
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Alfas Fantasy Football League Report There was a mixed bag of Fixtures going into last weeks Alfaz Fantasy Football League which included 2 Mid-Week Premier League games plus 4 at the Weekend along with 3 F.A.Cup Quarter Finals which gave the Fantasy League 30 goals,6 clean sheets,28 yellow cards and no red ones.There was 2 penalties awarded to Bournemouth by Referee Bobby Madley which the Cherries declined to take advantage of thanks to their Hat-Trick hero Joshua King and striker Benik Afobe both missing them causing the Fantasy Managers who selected them a minus 5 score. Wayne’s aptly named team Gonnawinitthisyear have been patiently waiting in the wings for weeks and they have now finally made a giant leap forward from 4th place to reach the Summit and become the 9th team to lead the A.F.F.L. this Season.Last weeks leaders Keith’s Max & Paddy are only 2 points behind in 2nd place then comes former leaders Chris’s Always Hoping who have moved back into contention by jumping up 3 places to 3rd.With only 40 points between the top ten places this Season’s Fantasy League is shaping up to be the most open and exciting for years with so many teams in with a chance of lifting our prestigious Trophy.Unfortunately at the other end of the table you could say it’s all over bar the shouting as Kevin’s team El.Portet Elite have vanished out of sight and are trailing Angie’s Blues by 186 points. In our Mark Carter Ladies Section Julie’s team The Gers have maintained their place at the top for the last 4 weeks over Joanna’s Hup Hannah City
then there is plenty of breathing space between 2nd & 3rd place with Jenny’s Mackemville trailing 70 points behind.Down at the bottom Angie’s Blues seemed to have turned the corner courtesy of Manchester City’s return to form as they are now only 2 points behind Jo Jo Wants a Dog. There is a right ding dong tussle going on in our Quick Save 20 euro voucher Competition.There are 4 teams battling it out at the top with Los Cracks & Rosado Blanco’s both on 88 points 2 points ahead of Debbie’s Foxy Filberts & Anne’s team Bolton Wanderers.Quick Save is the only British Supermarket in Albir and they do a great job sponsoring this top prize for our Ladies teams. After losing their place at the top of our U.K.T.V. SPAIN Junior League Ant & Brad are chasing hard to win back their number one spot back from Leo’s 6 in a Row as they are now only 10 points behind the leaders.At the opposite end of the table Anna’s Radji United have slipped further behind Charlotte’s Arm Wavers United the distance now is 59 points. In our Leonard Knowles Construction Golden Boot League Lee’s team Walkden Town have not give up on catching the current leaders Dave’s Juke Box Mackems.They have managed to close the gap to only 53 points and with over 10 weeks to go it is possible although that injury to Spur’s Harry Kane could prove to be decisive for Lee.Down in the basement there was a shock when El.Portet Elite picked up points thanks to Janssen’s goal in Spurs 6-0 drubbing of Millwall at White Hart Lane which will be
the last ever F.A.Cup Tie there what a way to go out ! The 2 teams going into the Monthly Draw for a case of wine sponsored by Wyndham’s Bar in Albir are Eric’s City Slickers who benefited from Manchester City’s extra game against Stoke which helped to get them this weeks top score of 55 points.At the other end of the scale the lowest score went to Coey & Doey’s team Parkwydnn who finished up with a big fat Zero mainly because their team is full of Manchester United Players who don’t play till Monday Night. Manager of the Month for March is being kindly sponsored by Danny at the Vintage Restaurant in Albir who provide an excellent Menu at reasonable prices. Eric’s City Slickers have a very fragile 2 point advantage over Dean’s team North Island Athletic then comes Jimmy’s team Nick’s Blues & Jackop in 3rd & 4th place both still in contention for this super meal for 2. Heimir’s Reykjovic have won this weeks Breakfast for 2 sponsored by Jo & Peter at the Two C’s in Alfaz after climbing up 28 places to number 119 in the main League. I have not had time to collate all the scores and points for our Ex-Pats F.A Cup League & K.O.Out Cup Competition because of the Cup Tie between Chelsea & Manchester United taking place on the Monday Night but I’m sure by the time you read this all the scores and results will be up on our website which is www.alfazffl.com.Any replays in the K.O Cup Competition will take place this Weekend.
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La Vila win again
The final score 43-10 does not tell the whole story. Far from being a walkover the BUC Barcelona team gave La Vila a really tough match. They were the first to score with a penalty which the home side countered with a converted try. BUC then scored a converted try leaving the home side trailing 7-10. La Vila finished the half 19-10 by virtue of two tries and one conversion. As I suggested last week La Vila have the knack of playing with a confidence, gained by their aggressive form, for the full 80 minutes which was born out in the second half where they scored four more tries converting two of them. BUC played with a tenacity and vigour which showed form beyond their low league position. La Vila in winning did not show the game management skills needed to be
a force in the premier division. Their choice of not taking two easy 3 point penalties, one in the last minute of the first half which would have sent them in 22-10, and going for line out positions instead may cost them dearly at a higher level. Their next game is away to CAU Valencia the team that were responsible for the player registration objection which saw their exit from last seasons play-offs. This is on March 26th giving the VilaJoyosa team ample time to recover any injuries and hopefully repeat their home victory against CAU earlier this season when they won 54-12.
Sporting Alfas Cricket Club Match Report fter chasing down 258 on Friday the Nomads fancied piling on the runs and batted first, SACC never allowed the visitors the chance, Mohib in for the first time this year bowled an excellent spell his 8 overs only costing 32 his strike partner Bash Ali even tighter getting Hussey(15) 1 for 14 from his 6 over stint. First change bowler Alger took two quick wickets and Orminster(17) kindly ran out Reeve(9) to make it 4 for 55,Shawl(3) after his 120 on Friday missed a full toss from Crompton and was adjudged LBW,leaving Nomads in a terrible mess 5-55, a lot to do but the spin pair Crompton(4-14) and J Perman gave the normally free scoring batsman a torrid time and the game crawled along to 159 for 9 from the 40 overs. SACC opening pair K Perman and G Crompton raced away trying to finish the game quickly K Perman reached 29 with some excellent hitting before holing out to a tempter from Hussey Reeve catching the ball on the deep mid on boundary. Crompton the next to fall when on 48,all in
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boundaries,his fortune changed and Thornton held him at deep square leg. Morgan and MuĂąoz carried on with the run chase before MuĂąoz was given out LBW. Ward joined Morgan and was happy to watch as Morgan approached his fifty rapidly with only 1 run needed they chose not to take a leg bye to win the match, Morgan hit the next ball sky wards and was caught by Shawl at short mid on. SACC skipper strode out to the normal Nomadic welcome with the mammoth task of scoring one run from the last 240 balls amidst the chants from the ever closing in fielders Laundon managed to scramble a single ably assisted by G Ward playing in his first match this season. Cricket is played at the Woodbridge Oval in Albir (golf range) Next week we will entertain Harpendon Cricket Club on Friday and Saturday please come along and enjoy our facilities, Free social membership if you bring along this copy. Call Kevin on 637120660 for any information you might require.
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WTA confirm Sharapova return
The Women Tennis Association (WTA) have confirmed former world No 1 Maria Sharapova has been given a wild card for the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart next month. The 29 year-old’s 15-month ban for testing positive for meldonium ends on April 26 and the event in Germany starts on the 24th. However, three-time winner Sharapova, whose main sponsor is Porsche, has been handed a wild card
to the tournament and will play her first match without a ranking on the day the ban finishes. In a statement WTA said: “Five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova becomes eligible to play WTA tournaments on Wednesday, April 26, following a 15-month suspension. “As both a former Grand Slam champion and WTA Finals winner, Sharapova may request and receive an unlimited number of wildcard
nominations, including the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix (in Stuttgart), where she will make her return. “In compliance with WTA and the Tennis AntiDoping Programme rules, Sharapova can participate in a tournament in the week that her suspension ends, providing that the first match that she is scheduled to contest takes place on or after the day on which she is eligible to return to competition.”
Hadwin claims Valspar thriller
at Innisbrook from the outset, making pars at the first five holes before a poor drive at the six led to a bogey, but Cantlay dropped a shot at the same hole to offset his birdie at the first. Hadwin atoned with a superb 230-yard tee shot to 12 feet at the eighth which he converted for birdie, although Cantlay responded with a wedge to three feet at the next before rolling in another cool birdie putt to start the back nine. The combatants traded birdies at the long 11th as well as the par-three 13th, where Hadwin holed a monster 53-foot putt for a two before Cantlay followed him in after a pure iron to five feet.
MVG expects ‘special’ atmosphere
Michael van Gerwen says he is expecting a “very special” atmosphere when the Premier League hits the Rotterdam Ahoy on Thursday night. The Dutch ace made his return from the back injury which forced him to miss Night Five in Exeter and the UK Open with a 7-5 comeback win over Belgium’s Kim Huybrechts at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow. A high-quality opening saw Huybrechts score 171 on his way to the opening leg and Van Gerwen respond with a 109 checkout in the second, before claiming the first break of throw to lead 4-3. Huybrechts, though, hit back with a 76 finish
and took out 96 for a 5-4 cushion, only for the reigning champion to level, punish four misses from the Belgian with an 80 checkout to lead 6-5 and then take out a 14-darter to seal the win. “I feel good and it was great to be back tonight,” said Van Gerwen. “It’s always nice to get the two points and Kim played well, but you have to take advantage if he misses and I did that.” Mighty Mike’ acknowledged the generosity shown from a raucous Glasgow crowd, but expects it to be even more atmospheric when the Premier League hits the Netherlands on Night Seven.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Adam Hadwin edged out Patrick Cantlay in a thrilling final-day duel to collect his maiden PGA Tour title at the Valspar Championship in Tampa. Hadwin held a four-shot lead overnight, but Cantlay piled on the pressure with five birdies in six holes and drew level when the Canadian double-bogeyed the 16th after finding water from the tee. But Cantlay blocked his approach to the last into a bunker and under-hit his escape before missing his 15-foot par putt, and Hadwin played a classy “belly wedge” from the rear fringe and tapped in to complete a 71 for a winning score of 14 under par. Hadwin was content to plot his way cautiously around the Copperhead Course
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Floyd Mayweather coming out of retirement just to fight Conor McGregor ‘No more excuses’ Floyd Mayweather says, announcing he’ll come out of retirement just to fight Conor McGregor. The drum beats grow louder for a massive-money showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor. Mayweather announced on Sunday morning (NZ time) in England, where he’s been on a publicity tour, that he’s “coming out of retirement just to fight Conor McGregor”. “I don’t want to hear no more excuses about the money, about the UFC,” Mayweather, 40, said in a video posted by FightHype.com. “Sign the paper with the UFC so you can fight me in June. Simple and plain, let’s fight in June. ”You’re the B side. I’m the A side. We’re not here to cry about money. I’m tired of all this crying about money and saying you want to fight. You’re blowing smoke up everyone’s ass, if you want to fight, sign the paperwork.” Mayweather and McGregor have been going back and forth for months about the proposed super-fight. At first, it seemed like a pipe-dream, perhaps even a publicity stunt.
But the talk continues to grow louder. And if Mayweather is serious, just maybe the boxing match against the UFC lightweight champion gets done. Of course, with two massive egos in the negotiating room, petty deal points will be fought tooth-andnail, aside from the No. 1 matter: money. “When I faced Arturo Gatti, I went to his turf,” Mayweather said, referring to his first pay-per-view main event. “He was the A side. I was the B side. I beat him. I didn’t cry. I didn’t complain. When I faced Oscar De La Hoya, he was the A side and I was the B side. I didn’t cry. I didn’t complain. I beat him and I became the A side.” It’s clear this fight won’t get done unless McGregor concedes on a few matters. Mayweather isn’t going to
walk to the ring first. He’s not going to be second on the billboard. And he’s surely going to want the lion’s share of the purse. Mayweather claims he didn’t even know who McGregor was when the Irishman first called him out last year. But “Money” knows who he is
now. And with sacks of money - likely hundreds of millions - awaiting him for what should be an easy night’s work, Mayweather is ready to end his second retirement and go for that 50th win. Now it’s McGregor’s turn to further build up a fight that may never happen.
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Ireland ‘a World Cup final’
Eddie Jones says England’s Six Nations finale against Ireland in Dublin will be “like a World Cup final” given the prizes at stake. Ireland are the last remaining obstacle in the way of a second straight Grand Slam and the record for most consecutive tier one Test wins. Jones said the pressure on Saturday’s performance is ideal preparation as England continue to work towards a World Cup challenge in Japan in 2019. “We’ve got to be really well prepared,” he said. “The more preparation we have, the more knowledge we have of what Ireland are likely to do we can anticipate, react with speed and create pressure.
”It’s a great opportunity and a great experience. We’re building up to a World Cup and this is like a World Cup final - winner takes all. To have this experience is only positive for us.” Jones acknowledged the opposition have made this year’s tournament “immeasurably harder” than it was 12 months ago and rejected Sir Clive Woodward’s view that the title alone - without a Grand Slam - would represent failure. Jones said: “If we were to get beaten - and we won’t - is it a failure? We’re still Six Nations champions. “We’d be disappointed. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity.” Jones is confident Elliot Daly will be fit as the winger goes through a return-to-play protocol following a
possible concussion in the 61-21 win over Scotland. The England squad enjoyed a drink in celebration of that result
and the championship. Jones said: “You’ve got to enjoy the occasion, but everyone understands this week is the biggie.”
Widnes 0-34 Castleford: Tigers beat Vikings to go top Castleford regained top spot in Betfred Super League after scoring six tries in a 34-0 demolition of hapless Widnes. The main damage was done in an 18-minute period before the break when the Tigers turned a goalless scoreline into a 22-point lead thanks to a combination of spectacular long-range efforts and simple, effective play. Former York City Knights star Greg Minikin and former Brisbane Broncos wing Greg Eden
both scored two tries in the rout. They were the main beneficiaries of smart work from pivots Paul McShane, Luke Gale and substitute Ben Roberts, and some brilliant centre play from Michael Shenton. They all had a hand in the Castleford fourpointers and were outstanding in every department, once again underlining Daryl Powell’s side’s silverware potential in 2017.
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F1 Is Back
Are Ferrari This Years Favourites?
Yes the Formula One season is upon us, the first race is in Australia so it will be an early one! Over the testing period, Ferrari have shown spectacular pace, so are they now this years favourites? Then winter testing began and an altogether different narrative emerged. The Ferrari was fast. Then it was reliable. Then it was
very fast and very reliable. And Mercedes sounded worried. ”I think Ferrari must be the favourites,” said Lewis Hamilton. “We are definitely not confident that we are in front,” agreed his new Mercedes team-mate Valtteri Bottas. But was this just talk? As one paddock sceptic put it, if Mercedes were saying
Ferrari were the favourites then Mercedes must be the favourites. Such caution is well advised. There are no points won in winter testing but plenty of fun and games played. Nevertheless, on the surface and in the detail, the evidence from Barcelona is that the Prancing Horse really might be back in the frontrunning mix.