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In this issue... costa culture
6
Cover story
Oranges by Mike Wilkinson
costa celebrity
10
Cover story
Claire King Exclusive Interview
costa getaways
16 22
Cover story
Marbella The jewel of the Costa del Sol Cover story
Ronan’s Challenge: The King’s Walk
costa lifestyle
28 29 30 32 34
36
What Men Want
costa business, charities & events
38
Beauty tips & secrets Dominic James Drinking
Local Business Reports plus Charities and Events News
costa homes
46 48 54 58
What Women Want Men’s Stuff Skin care
Health News A round up of this month’s health news
Property, legal & finance advice Interiors Be Bold Be Spanish
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74 76 78
Bytes & Pieces Formula 1 Report Spiritual Thought Auto Review Aston Martin DBS Volante DVD Reviews Strange But True & Challenge Showbiz Whispers & Gossip
Financial News
22
Private Passions by Simon Hill
costa stuf f
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64 66 69 72
As blind as a Bat by Erny Harrison Costa Cuisine More recipes for the kids who love to cook
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MACP: 475 Alhaurin el Grande 575,000 € Bedrooms: 4, 3 in the main and 1 in the casita, Built Area: 280m2, 350m2 including the two loft conversions, Bedrooms: 4, 3 in the main and 1 in the casita, Bathrooms: 5, Kitchen dinner in the main and a small separate kitchen in the other house, Separate self contained little house on two level with 40m2 beautiful studio or extra bedrooms, Garage at present covered into a games room, ample parking within the villa grounds or on the street. A great opportunity to purchase the only villa which is for sale on this new exciting urbanisation. The villa is in the country but walking distance to Alhaurin el Grande town. The location of this property is fantastic; being next to the town and close to all amenities. A mortgage is in place.
MACP-375 Alhaurin el Grande
199,000 €
MACP-523 Alhaurin el Grande
250,000 €
A wonderful little property on private plot with views of Alhaurin el Grande and the beautiful Spanish countryside.There is a terrace looking over pool area and a very private roof terrace with panoramic views of Alhaurin, coin and beyond. Built Area:65m2, Land Area: 522.30, Bedrooms: 2, Bathrooms 1, Swimming pool.
MACP-335
Monda
299,000 €
Built Area: 166m2, Bedrooms: 3, 2 with fitted wardrobes, Bathrooms: 2 fantastic penthouse in the best part of Alhaurin with spectacular views. The property is situated looking over the swimming pool, charming gardens, golf course and country side. The penthouse is of a very high standard,extremely spacious with loads of light. There is a wonderful private roof terrace and lower terrace that would make a great BBQ area.
Built Area: 170 m2, Land Area: 233 m2, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3, Lounge: 2, Kitchen: 2 This lovely house is situated on the ONLY urbanisation in Monda, which has only about 24 houses all of different design, which makes this property very unique indeed. Anyone who lives in Monda or visits this lovely village will agree that it really is very beautiful and pleasant place to be. The house itself is split into two levels each with 2 bedrooms and a kitchen, it is very spacious and has great views over the countryside the village and Monda castle.
MACP-427 Alhaurin De La Torre 367,5000 €
MACP 537
Just reduced from 599,000 €
Built Area: 67m2, Land Area: 3,000m2, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 4 half A marvellous property new onto the market, priced realistically. This lovely country home is very private, the grounds are totally landscaped with Astroturf grass, terracotta covered patio sections and a decking platform area with a top of the range Jacuzzi. The interiors of this property are modern with a comfortable homelike feel and completely finished to a high standard.
Built Area: 400m2, Land Area: 3,600m2, Bedrooms: 6, Bathrooms: 3 New on the market only renovated to very high standard a year ago. This property is on the outskirts of La Alqueria a village between the 2 Alhaurin’s. This is a large family home with all the extras - full oil fired central heating, log burning stove, air con. Newly decorated and fitted out this is a superb home that needs to be viewed to fully appreciate. It is situated in a very quiet lane but still within 10 minutes of 2 major towns.
Malaga / Coin
445,000 €
MACP-282 Alhaurin De La Torre 375,000 € JUST REDUCED FOR A QUICK SALE BY 100,000 € A absolutely exquisite villa on a popular urbanization. This beautiful villa is fully fenced with a nice drive and electric gates. The property comes with heating ,air-conditioning double glazing and is gorgeously decorated throughout .The property is spilt into two levels with both having 2 bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms, and could be converted into a large family home. Built Area: 170m2, Plot Area: 2000m2, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms 2/Half, Large Converted Outbuilding
MACP-456 Alhaurin el Grande
299,000 €
JUST REDUCED FROM 350,000 € Built Area: 133m2, Land Area: 168m2, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 2 Pool: Community A beautiful, immaculate house, with private garden on an exclusive gated urbanisation.
MACP 478
Malaga / Coin
415,000 €
Built Area: 300m2, Land Area: 8,000m2, Bedrooms: 4, Bathrooms: 3 !!!!!JUST REDUCED!!!!! Lovely property next to Rio Grande. The house is on a nice plot, mature trees, shrubs and palm trees, suitable for horses or dog kennels. The main house is appropriate for holiday lets, B&B, rentals, or two families. The area is great for walking, artistes, bird watchers, cyclists, and it would make a lovely therapy centre. Many original features, a spacious property. THIS PROPERTY HAS THE BENIFIT OF A MORTGAGE THAT THE BANK IS WILLING TO TRANSFER.
Hello and welcome... Editor Sharon Holdsworth Consulting Editor Harvey Mann Design and Production David Philliskirk Advertising Sales Ronan Holdsworth IT Advisor Dave Howard Contributors Carlos Cómitre Couto Erny Harrison Simon Hill Elio Howard Dominic James Annika Jonsson Jan Morley Annette Riggall Gayle Russell Russell Vaughan Mike Wilkinson Company Director Ronan Holdsworth Partner Barrie Shearman Images courtesy of Costa del Sol Tourist Board PR Shots Rick Warne Kenneth Hook
Deposito Legal MA-0054-2004
to issue 51 of Costa Life and it has been a very sad and stressful time for us all over the last couple of months. As many of you will know by now our Mike Wilkinson who has written for us for over 3½ years and worked on our website for the last two years passed away on 24th August after he was diagnosed with cancer. Mike went to hospital on 6th May and was diagnosed with cancer by way of four tumors in his body. His dilapidation was nothing short of shocking. We were all upset at how quickly the disease took over his body and after being cared for fantastically well by Cudeca he died peacefully in his sleep on Monday the 24th August. He was 49. There is a tribute to Mike in this months issue and after much deliberation we decided to run his first ever piece for us which was ‘‘oranges.’’ In addition to this Sharon was ill for over two weeks in August and at one point spent two days at hospital and had a brain scan and a lumber puncture as there was an initial fear that she might have meningitis which thankfully turned out not to be the case. She had instead contracted an extremely bad flu virus and at the same time was suffering migraines the type of which she hadn’t had before. She lost 101bs in two weeks. So a tough old time and I think the way things are in the world at the moment everybody is going through the mill in one way or another and I suppose by sharing these two things with you I just wanted to encourage you and myself that life has to go on and to hang on in there, no matter what challenges you might be facing at the moment tomorrow always comes and you just have to keep going. Apologies to everybody for the magazine coming out a few days late but as you will appreciate we have had a lot to contend with. Add to this the very lackadaisical attitude of most people over the summer, which was in my opinion one of the hottest ever, we are pleased to have got this issue out just a few days late only. We had a lot of new advertisers come on board at the end of August so it was a major task to get everybody in and to print. But here we are in September and we are heading towards the back end of an extremely challenging year and to be honest I think this winter is going to bring even more challenges for many. What can I say; keep strong and stay focused. Remember that if you have your family and health everything else can and has to come second and should always stay there. Never let the sun go down on an argument and be grateful for what you have instead of what you haven’t.
Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within this magazine, the publishers can accept no liability.
Produced by and part of COSTA LIFE MEDIA
952 492 250 info@costalifemagazine.com
See you in October.
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Michael John Wilkinson
6th October 1959 24th August 2009
he first time I met Mike Wilkinson was in Babes bar in Fuengirola. It was more or less five years ago. Sharon and I were sitting there enjoying a drink when this tall guy came in with a booming deep voice and asked the owner for a pint of lager to which the owner Sean promptly replied ‘‘you're barred!’’ Mike’s face was full of surprise and he asked for what reason he was barred. He was like a naughty school boy who, by all accounts, appeared to be unaware and shocked at the mere possibility that he could cause such offence as to get himself barred from a pub. I didn’t like him too much, and like most people who didn’t know him, I thought he was loud, arrogant and sometimes extremely cutting and rude. When I did get to know him, however, I found out that this was in fact all true! All true that is, when he was in ale, which was unfortunately, much of the time. In particular during the time he first arrived in Spain with a wod of cash in his pocket. I don’t know how it came about but Mike and I did engage in conversation a number of times and eventually I got to the point where I challenged this guy on his behaviour towards people. Again, he was aghast that he in any way caused offence to anyone. I had got to know him a bit and after a while I realized that this guy was extremely intelligent and had a number of hidden and unused talents and I remember having a go at him for wasting his life getting drunk and not doing much with himself. He was shocked and surprised that anyone would have a go at him. After all he was a big guy and had a deep threatening voice so I suppose that most of the time he went unchallenged. After a lengthy conversation I came up with the idea that he should write something for the magazine to show people that he wasn’t, as most people thought,
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just a bum around town and that he had more to offer. He was immediately excited by the challenge and we came up with the title ‘‘oranges’’ for his first piece. The rest really, is history. After oranges we worked our way through the alphabet and then we started all over again and in all he wrote over 40 articles for Costa Life. Mike has always received more comments than any other writer we have had and deservedly so. He had a dry wit and an intelligent if not sometimes obscure approach to his writing. After a period of incubation just writing for the magazine we decided to give him some part time work looking after our website and he worked closely with us for 2½ years. In that time I got to know Mike and have to tell you that he really was like a naughty school boy who needed constant attention and sometimes chastisement and for a guy who was so bright it was always amusing. I always felt for Mike and even though I knew that many people didn’t care for him I saw a guy who was continually hurting inside and it was clear that like many who find their way to these shores he was leaving behind major issues in his life. If there is one thing I hate about this coast it is the fact that it is a harsh place that makes or breaks people and in most cases it breaks them. Mike always made the claim that his five years on the coast were the best of his life and I hope this is true but I do feel that he died too young and that the Costa del Sol and all its excesses brought about his death much sooner rather than later. As his friend of many years Steve said; Mike was a person who ‘‘once met was never forgotten’’ and this is true. He was larger than life and will be missed for many different reasons, both good
and bad. At his funeral his sister Melanie told us how much writing for the magazine meant to him and that he had said he had finally found something he really wanted to do. Now knowing that fills Sharon and me with great satisfaction that in his final years he was doing something he enjoyed so much. He buzzed at being recognized and receiving the praise, something that I think, in his life, he never really had. I didn’t realize how much it meant to him. Mike was a pianist, photographer, a web designer, singer and of course writer amongst many other talents. He had in his own words the brain the size of a planet, at the age of 11 he won a scholarship to boarding school and went on to become a member of Mensa. If you had ever met him you would, like I did when I met and got to know him, have learned that valuable and humbling lesson to never judge a book by its cover. Never truer a statement made than with Mike Wilkinson. It’s always easy to judge and criticise and Mike was easy pickings but at the end of the day we all have a story to tell and some people deal with the harshness life can bring better than others. We will miss you lots Mike but I know you are in a better place and all that pain is now gone. God bless.
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>> costa CULTURE
Oranges by Mike Wilkinson
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costa CULTURE >>
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s fruit go, there’s a lot to learn about oranges.
For example, not a lot of people know that Valencia oranges first came from Portugal, not Valencia. Or that the little tummy button that gives navel oranges their name is actually a small secondary orange growing out of the main fruit, like a Siamese twin. There are countless varieties of oranges from all over the world with names like sanguinelli and salustania, ortanique and aurfora and their own, unique characteristics, just like people. A whole United Nations of oranges! I know these things now but it wasn’t always that way. We have to go back to my primary school days when I was in love with Caroline Carter. I couldn’t help it… she was really pretty and she had some really posh felt-tipped pens, all colours of the rainbow (orange included). I think she quite liked me too, because she shared them with me! Now, without trying to tug at your heart strings, I was from a poor family of six and my mother was trying to raise us, alone, on just a Widows Pension and her Family Allowance. But she always made sure that my sisters and I took a piece of fruit to school with us to eat with our state-subsidised bottle of milk at 11 o’clock break-time – to help keep us healthy and strong. On the particular day in question I was in possession of an orange. At this time in my life I didn’t particularly like oranges. I only had small fingers and wasn’t strong enough to break the thick skin with them to start the peeling-off so I had to bite it. Then I’d get the horrible, bitter taste of pith shooting down my throat, making me feel sick. “Ooh, Mikey, you’ve got an orange,” exclaimed Caroline Carter who was sitting next to me, watching me withdraw the not-particularly-liked fruit from my pocket. “I absolutely adore oranges. May I have a segment, please?” What better opportunity could I ever have dreamt of for demonstrating to the love of my life how generous and giving I could be? “Caroline,” I replied, “not only can you have a segment but, if you peel it for me, you are more than welcome to share it with me.” I must admit that I felt a little guilty about being so cunning with the one I loved but I really did have a big issue with the peeling of oranges. So she peeled and we shared. It was the first time that I had actually enjoyed eating an orange. I don’t know whether it was because I didn’t have the horrible, bitter taste of the pith in my mouth or because I was sharing food with my beloved or even because I had just learnt that you can get a woman to do the things that you don’t like doing while letting them think you’re doing them a favour! Regardless of the reason, it was also the day that cemented our relationship. I had shared my orange with Caroline Carter. Wow! I skipped my way home from school, singing.
No one was in when I got home so I went to “the rec” to play at wars with my mates. It was only later, at the tea table, that my mum quizzed us all on our day at school. You cannot imagine the shock I got from her reaction when I told her I’d shared my orange with Caroline Carter. I was feeling all pink and fluffy and in love and my mum turned into… well… a very angry mum. “You did what?” she boomed, at such a volume that my little sister dropped her sausage roll into my cup of tea. “You gave away your orange?” she added, rhetorically but equally as loud. “Oranges cost money, you know. THEY DON’T GROW ON TREES!” Now, I reckon that there are certain things in life that you learn, believe and remember forever purely because of the circumstances in which you learned them. When my mother raised her voice to any of her offspring with such ferocity it was always because she wanted to teach us a lesson. And so this was not only the day that Caroline Carter and I cemented our sharing relationship… it was also the day that I learnt that oranges didn’t grow on trees. Why should I have had cause to doubt my mother’s words anyway? Carrots don’t grow on trees. Potatoes don’t grow on trees. Why would I not believe that oranges didn’t, either? We now fast-forward a considerable number of years and I find myself on the Costa del Sol, sitting at a bar talking to Steve-Formerly-KnownAs-Ponytail-Steve. In the past he had simply been known as Ponytail-Steve, to distinguish him from English-Steve. Not that Ponytail-Steve wasn’t English. He was and still is. It’s just that he had a ponytail (although now he doesn’t…). We were talking, as you do, about the veritable plethora of fruit out on the beach that day. (“Walking on the beaches looking at the peaches”) “Nice,” he agreed, “but the funny thing is that it’s oranges that this area is supposed to be famous for.” He then recounted the tale of when he and Biker-Brian were riding up in Seville, where the oranges just dropped off the trees and they filled up both their panniers to the brim. I naturally thought that he was exaggerating somewhat, because I knew that oranges didn’t grow on trees. It was later on the same day that I was, strangely enough, sitting at the same bar talking to Philthe-Beard about a mate who had just bought some property up near Seville that had come with two hundred orange trees. He needed to cut quite a few down in order to lay a driveway.
“Sean, oranges don’t grow on trees, do they?” “Yes, Michael, they do.” was his terse but informative reply. Now I am a firm believer that if three different people say the same thing on the same day, then it must be true. If, for example, you are asked by three different people on the same day “Have you put weight on?” then you have. No doubt about it. This theory has only ever not worked once, when my friend Anna was asked three times in a day when she was going to have another baby… and she was two weeks late at the time so it seemed that she must be pregnant! But, as I say, it’s the only time the theory hasn’t worked, because she wasn’t. I therefore had to conclude that, having received the same information from Steve-FormerlyKnown-As-Ponytail-Steve, Phil-the-Beard and Sean, there was a distinct possibility that my mother might have been wrong, all those years ago, when she told me that oranges didn’t grow on trees. To the reader this may seem all too obvious, but you have to understand that absolutely nobody, up until that point in my life, had ever contradicted my mother’s words. Not in school or college or at work. Nowhere. Nobody. And then out of the blue three people start telling me that oranges grow on trees. This required further investigation, and luckily I wasn’t too far from discovering the truth. After all, apparently they were all over the place here. So, that evening on my walk (?) home from the pub, I decided to take Phil-the-Beard’s advice. The blue peter that I had made earlier stayed where it was in my pocket and instead I looked up at the trees. And, well, there you go! It seemed that my mother really was wrong. In one street alone I discovered not only oranges growing on trees but also lemons on trees and avocados on trees and even bananas, on trees of sorts. So, for the benefit of any reader who may be under the misapprehension that oranges don’t grow on trees, you can take it from me (bearing in mind the words of Jack Johnson… “I read somewhere that you’ve got to beware not to believe everything you read.”) that they most certainly do!
“No, Phil – oranges don’t grow on trees,” I said. “Steve-Formerly-Known-As-Ponytail-Steve tried to pull my leg about that earlier on.” “Of course they do,” he retorted. “They’re all over the bloody place. You need to cut out the weed and start to open your eyes once in a while, mate!” I turned to the barman. Barmen know everything that’s going on because they just sit behind the bar all day listening to all kinds of stuff. costa life 7
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>> costa CELEBRITY
K ING claire
laire King is known and loved by millions for her award winning roles in two of ITV1’s biggest shows: as superbitch Kim Tate, in Emmerdale; and Wing Governor Karen Betts, in Bad Girls. In her varied twenty year career, Claire has also appeared in some of the UK’s most popular shows including BBC’s Dalziel and Pascoe, Doctors, Holby City, Mayo, ITV1’s Donovan opposite Tom Conti, and Channel 4’s The Courtroom, and Hollyoaks: In the City.
C
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costa CELEBRITY >> >> The return of Kim Tate? No-one has seen or heard from her since she left in 1999, even though she sent flowers to Emmerdale when Seth Armstrong died in 2005. Fans of Kim Tate have always wanted her to return. It was rumoured in 2005 by The Sun that she was to return and clash with Sadie King at Home Farm but it never happened. It remains to be seen whether she will ever return to the show, as she is one of the most popular characters in the show’s history.
>> Karen Betts Karen Betts was a fictional character in the award winning drama, Bad Girls. Claire played the G-Wing governor from series 2 to series 5, when she was set up for drink driving by Jim Fenner. She later returned in series 6 to bring Fenner down for good by proving her innocence. She was last seen with Neil Grayling, confronting Jim on his wedding day by saying ‘‘The police are on their way Jim.’’
Born Claire Seed on 10 January 1963 in Harrogate, Yorkshire, she played the role of Kim Tate in the ITV Soap Opera Emmerdale from 1988 to 1999, and Karen Betts in Bad Girls from 2000 to 2004. Claire attended Harrogate Ladies’ College and, as a punk, chose a career in the music business as a disc jockey in a Leeds nightclub. She then joined the pop groups Fidea, and later To Be Continued. Her career moved her to London, where she lived with Geoff Bird, alias guitarist Cobalt Stargazer of the group Zodiac Mindwarp. After making her acting debut dancing in one of their videos, the relationship broke down and she decided to become an actress. When she tried to register with the actors’ union Equity, she found there was already another Claire Seed, so changed her name to King in light of her love of horse racing (the sport of kings) and her favourite singer Elvis Presley.
>> Kim Tate Kim Tate was a classic soap character and is seen as one of the show’s most iconic characters. She had a string of classic soap storylines including having an affair with Neil Kincaid in 1992, and marrying, divorcing and remarrying Frank Tate again. She had an affair with David Glover in 1995, which the viewers loved, and she became the centre of attention for that year. In 1997, Kim faked her own death, then returned to shock Frank who had spent time in prison for her murder. Frank attacked her, giving himself another heart attack. She watched him die, saying ‘‘You’re a dinosaur Frank, and you know what happened to them’’. When Frank died, she checked he was dead with her compact mirror and then coolly redid her makeup. Clair told the ITV show, Loose Women, that she was once hit over the head by a little old lady for being so beastly to Frank Tate.
In December 2006, it was rumoured that Claire was offered a part in ABC’s Desperate Housewives after the producers noticed her on Strictly Come Dancing during a visit to the UK. If she did gain the part, then she would play the secret sister of Edie Britt played by Nicollette Sheridan. In August 2007, Digital Spy reported that she no longer was subject to join the show. Claire appeared in Series 4 of Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with professional dancer Brendan Cole. Claire and Brendan were knocked out of the competition at the end of the eighth show, and were the ninth couple to leave. In 2007, she took part in a BBC 2 reality show, Safari School, filmed in the South African bush. When she published her autobiography, she revealed that in her late teens she had an affair with Bob Geldof and a fling with both Vinnie Jones, and the then little-known jockey Frankie Dettori. King was married for 10 years to actor Peter Amory who played her stepson Chris Tate, in Emmerdale. The marriage broke-up after she left the series. King ended her engagement to fellow actor John Robson after disagreements over where they would be living. She currently lives in a converted barn near Harrogate with her horses, including four in training, and her Labrador dogs. She loves Spain and has a horse here. We met up when she was asked to officially launch the new animal charity C.H.A.I.N in Coin in June. We got together, and I popped a few questions to the well-known and popular UK actress.
they decided to use all the girlfriends in the video because it was cheaper than using people from an agency. Then, Ade said he was doing another video the next week and he needed someone who could ride a motorbike, which I could. The video was for Elvis Costello, and I had to ride through the ‘‘gates of hell’’, which was a big arch that was on fire, on a motorbike with Elvis Costello in a sidecar. It was only when I arrived at the place that I realised the guy who owned the motorbike only had one arm - so all the controls were on one side! It was a bit hairy, but I closed my eyes and prayed I didn’t hit anything or burn him to death! R So you got a taste for acting and took acting classes but you weren’t too impressed with them? C No, I wasn’t. I didn’t last too long - only about six months. We did the usual, ‘let’s go down to Regents Zoo, study the animals, come back and then pretend to be an animal’. It just got worse and worse until one day they asked me to ‘be a chocolate’. I said ‘I’m a stale one’, and just walked out - I’d had enough. I thought ‘I’m not learning from this!’ R You then worked on the stage before you went for your first TV audition. C Yes, I did a play in Hampstead and at the same time we were going out during the day and doing theatre in education - going round schools doing Shakespeare. They were long days for no money, but it was to build up my CV and it enabled me to get some casting directors and agents down to see me, and luckily I was taken on. It was a hard slog, but it was worth it. R So, you say that when you went for the audition of Kim in Emmerdale Farm, as it was still known then, you were uncharacteristically nervous. C I was nervous because I suddenly realised that I really wanted it. I’d been living in London for a few years and it was a good opportunity to come back home. My family were all living up here, my friends were all up here, and I’d kind of done the party scene and the club scene. I thought it would be a good opportunity and such a big break if I
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R How did you get into acting? C I moved to London and started dating a guy from a band called Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love Reaction, named after the Bruce Springsteen song ‘‘Dancing in the Dark’’ - there’s a little bit of trivia for you! They were making a video and Ade Edmondson was directing it, and
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>> costa CELEBRITY could get the part. So I got to the audition and one of the main things you had to be able to do was ride a horse - I knew that was one of my strengths because I’d ridden horses all my life. I think the acting experience side was my weakness, so I kept deflecting off that and saying ‘yes, I can ride a horse!’ Anyway, I had to read with Norman Bowler (Frank Tate) and they asked me to stay behind and straight away offered me the part, which was great. I started within three or four days I think. R As you say, you’d had less experience of TV at that stage, and you suggested in your book that some cast members were more patient than others about that. C Yes, that’s right. Frazer Hines (Joe Sugden) was very good - my parents knew him anyway, and I vaguely knew him, but he was great. However, I don’t think Norman Bowler was too enamored with my lack of experience! But you’ve got to start somewhere, and I learned more in two months on Emmerdale than six months at drama school. R I suppose you have to learn to develop a thick skin? C Oh yes, I’ve got rhino skin!! I mean the whole industry is about rejection to a certain extent and you cannot take it personally. R What was it like working on such a wellknown soap opera?
Caught in the act as Kim Tate C Great fun! Particularly as in those days we only did two/three episodes a week so we actually had a social life, unlike these days where they have six per week. R What was your favouite scene in Emmerdale? C There were several over the nine years, but the one I liked the most and everyone seems to remember is when Frank died at Kim’s feet, and she used a compact to check his breath. R I want to ask you about Bad Girls, because Karen Betts was a different type of character, wasn’t she? C Yes. R And when you started, you discovered that you’d been brought into it because the ITV network wanted changes in the second series. C Yes, which I wasn’t aware of until I was there and up and running. It was very flattering for me, but also not very good because of the characters they were trying to swap round. They thought Simone Lahbib’s character [Helen] wasn’t really working, but then it did work because she and Nicki became two of the biggest characters there’s ever been in the show. But it was the network that wanted changes, and I felt really guilty and bad about that - not that it was my fault at all, but you just have to deal with it. R I think the character, Helen, did work better when she was more on the side of the prisoners, didn’t she? C Yes, exactly. I think Karen was firm but fair. She was also a victim as well - of Fenner; they had an ongoing battle for years. But after the first two or three series, I felt she wasn’t really going anywhere and became a bit of an information service, so that’s when I decided to leave. R After you left, you came back again really to tie up the loose ends with the character. C Yes, it hadn’t been tied up enough - she’d just kind of vanished. So Brian Park, [the executive producer] thought it could work with getting rid of Fenner, which he did - but then he still came back!
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R Yes, I think that was a surprise, because his storyline really did seem to be over. Then the next series started and there he was again. C Exactly, and then when they did get rid of him he still came back as a ghost! R What have you been doing since we saw you in bad girls? C Since Bad Girls, I’ve done Donovan with Tom Conti, six episodes of Hollyoaks, Courtroom for Channel 4, Holby City, and the afternoon plays for the BBC, Mayo, a detective series with Alistair McGowan, The Royal for ITV, and I’ve just finished a six part comedy series for BBC3 called The Gemma Factor, which should be out later this year. I’ve also been trekking the mountains of South Africa, building a wall in a SA township for the Children’s Society, riding in a horserace for Racing Welfare and The Injured Jockeys’ Fund, and I visited Lesotho to experience a training scheme for The World Horse Welfare, which was both fantastic and heartbreaking at the same time. R Who has been the best character to play and why? C Undoubtedly Kim Tate. It’s always more fun to play a ‘bitch’ than a victim! R Do you get recognised often and does doing food shopping become a hassle? C I get recognised less now than when I was on Emmerdale. I shop in my home town of Harrogate where people are used to seeing me about, so no, it’s no hassle. R Does it bother you when people stop you for your autograph? C No, it’s part of the job. But when you’re having an off-day it can be difficult. R What is the funniest thing a fan has ever done to catch your attention? C One wrote to me requesting my vital statistics - shoe size, hair colour, etc, as he was getting the operation and wanted to look like Kim Tate. That caught my attention!!! R Who is the most famous person you have met?
costa CELEBRITY >> R What have the next few months in store work wise for you? C I’ve got panto in Stockport from December 2nd, and I am presently starting up a business with two friends to do with racing. R Well, thanks for your time Claire. It’s been great to meet you. One final question. Are we going to see the return of Kim Tate some time in the near future? C The door’s firmly closed but not bolted!!
C Kevin Spacey at his premiere for Beyond the Sea - he was absolutely charming! R How long have you been coming to Spain and where do you stay? C I’ve had a place outside Alhaurin el Grande for four years. R How often do you get out here to visit? C As often as possible when I’m not working. R How long have you had horses here, and why? C I’ve known Les Eyre for about 20 years and had horses with him when he was training in Yorkshire, so when he moved out here I kept a horse with him so that I would have an interest at the races here in Spain. I love the Mijas track, and hope it keeps open. R What do you love about Andalucia? C The weather for a start. It’s done nothing but rain again this year in England. I love the peace and tranquility of the mountains, but also the fact that you can be at Peurto Banus in half an hour to go people watching!!
Former Emmerdale star Claire King has revealed she can never have children, following a hysterectomy to treat fibroids. ‘Becoming a mum has sort of passed me by, really... If I did want a child, I can’t have one,’ she said. ‘My doctor sent me to a specialist who said, ‘‘I’m really sorry, but one of the fibroids is about 8cm across - the size of an orange.’’ Acceptance: The former soap star has come to terms with the fact she will never be a mother She told Hello! magazine: ‘But you have to get on with things. I’m pretty rough and tough really. When something riles me, I’ll have a rant and a rave, but then it’s over. I don’t let things bubble and burn.’
Favorite colour…Black 3 favorite foods …Lamb, cheese and garlic. Football team …Leeds Utd and Newcastle Utd. Yes, I know I’ve got 2!! Favorite noise …Horses hooves thundering down a racecourse. Least favorite noise…Schreeching children! Favorite phrase or word …Live life to the full. Try not to hurt anyone and give back when in a position to do so. Least favorite…Portion. Job you would love to do… Game Warden. Job you would least like to do…Hospital Loo cleaner. If there is a God what would you like him so say to you when you arrive at the pearly gates …Your mates are throwing you a party!!
The 45-year-old actress, who played über-bitch Kim Tate in the hit soap, also talked about her battle with arthritis. She was diagnosed with the condition in 2006, and afterwards ignored her doctor’s advice and took part in Strictly Come Dancing. ‘I was completely bamboozled by the arthritis at first because I thought, as most people do, that it was an old person’s illness. There wasn’t so much information about it, and it’s not curable,' she said.
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Gymnasium fully equipped gym with both fixed and free weights crosstrainers + bikes treadmills + rowing machines professional instructor available only gym open at 8 am
Classes
over 56 fitness classes every week step aerobics, aerobics, yoga, bums & tums, latest reebok decks new from Finland “gym stick� suitable all ages pilates room with pilates reformer beds individual spin bike room with 40 bikes individual aerobics and exercise room with sprung floor Goshin Ju Jitsu plus Capoeira
Facilities
fully air conditioned - lockers high powered showers - hair dryers mens & womens saunas - jacuzzi sun beds
>> costa GETAWAYS
A
rguably the Jewel of the Costa del Sol, Marbella has taken a severe battering over the last few of years. What with all the corruption scandals and the recession it has suffered a torrid time in recent months affecting the whole of the coast. Tune into any Spain related programme on UK television and its nothing but negativity and bad mouthing of the once loved
coasts of Spain and in particular Marbella. Its failing property market and the sometimes shocking way some owners have been treated and of course, the corruption, have all made headline news continually across the world denting severely the reputation and standing of this most famous of Spanish cities. What people have to realize is that Marbella feeds the rest of the coast, if Marbella is
doing well then the whole of the coast is doing well and if it is doing poorly as it has been over the last couple of years then the rest of the coast is most definitely affected. Over the next three issues of Costa Life we are going to be taking a look at Marbella’s history, its current state and looking forward to next year and beyond to see exactly where the Jewel of the Costa del Sol is going to be in years to come.
Marbella; the jewel of the Costa del Sol
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costa GETAWAYS >> >> The history of Marbella According to historians, the town of Marbella was founded around 1600 BC by colonists of Roman origin who set off from the ancient Mediterranean port of Tyre in the Near East. They called it Saldub, which means Salt City. Archeological remains from that period have been found nearby, including the Villa Romana de Río Verde and the Bóvedas, in the area around San Pedro de Alcántara, along with the more recent early Christian basílica, dating from the 3rd century A.D.
>> Moors and Christians The first references to Marbella can be found in the geographic texts used by Muslim travelers in the Middle Ages. Muslims arrived in this part of southern Spain in the first decade of the 6th century and they called the town Marbilla. During the Islam period Marbella became a walled in city. The Muslims built a castle and surrounded the city with a moat with just three entrances: ‘‘From the Sea’’ (Del Mar), ‘‘From Ronda’’ and ‘‘From Malaga’’. The Castle remains today but the moat and the doors have disappeared. They built the fortress in the style of the Damascus Califate and a defensive wall to protect their settlement from attack by Christian forces. The traveler Ibn Battuta characterised the town as ‘‘a pretty little town in a fertile district’’ The Muslim town finally fell into the hands of the Catholic Monarchs, who were carrying out the Christian reconquest of Spain, in 1485, when King Fernando received the keys directly from the defeated calif, Mohamed Abuenza. From then onwards the town has been called Marbella. The original Muslim design of the old town is still evident today.
Puerto Banus
>> The slow course of history After the Conquest and throughout the 16th Century Marbella started to grow again, but slowly and the urban structure of the town suffered important changes. The centre of the Muslim ‘‘Medina’’ (today the Old Town), was demolished to open the square (Main Square, Royal Square or Today ‘‘The Orange Square’’) and a new street (calle Nueva) in order to communicate the square with the Puerta del Mar. (sea entrance). In those times the economic activities in the municipality were based on agriculture and livestock, although it continued to be famous from the Arab period for the sweet wines of which the British Traveler Francis Carter spoke in the 18th Century: ‘‘The Marbella wine is very good, drier and tastier that the Malaga wine and with a certain Madeira taste to it. I am sure that if it were well prepared it would be very well appreciated in England, bringing the price up and stimulating the inhabitants to take more care of their vineyards’’. In 1725 the San Luis fort was constructed to protect the inhabitants of Marbella from Mediterranean pirate raids. The fort was later destroyed by the French during their retreat at the end of the Peninsular War (1808-14). All that remains of it is a tower, now to be found in the gardens belonging to the hotel El Fuerte. By developing the surrounding farmland for agricultural production new houses and residential districts started to be built around the nucleus of the ruined Muslim town. But, even as late as the end of the 18th century there were only 820 buildings in total, and many of them were empty or falling down.
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Villa Romana Rio Verde costa life 17
>> costa GETAWAYS In the 19th century Marbella started to grow more rapidly, expanding beyond the historic old town to areas along side what is now the Parque Arroyo de la Represa. Public building works of the time included new bridges and roads. In this spirit of progress, modern machinery and new industries arrived. Private capital financed the creation of an iron foundry that employed over one thousand men who came from all over Andalucía to work here. People are often surprised to hear that the first blast furnaces in Spain were installed in this factory. However, agriculture continued to be the mainstay of Marbella’s economy throughout the 19th century. The Marques de Duero’s famous, experimental model farm dates from this period. It was the most important privately financed agricultural colony in Spain and was situated where Sampedrena is today. In the middle of the 19th century Marbella received artificial light for the first time by means of a primitive reverberation system, but it had to wait until the end of the century for the arrival of electricity and light bulbs. From the early part of the 19th century a number of plans were made to build a modern fishing port, but they all came to nothing until the 1950’s when the port we see today was finally completed. Also during the 19th Century and with the installation of the first Industrial Estates in Spain, in El Angel and in La Concepcion, in order to take advantage of all the possibilities in the Sierra Blanca Mines, Marbella began to form part of the industrialization of Malaga, becoming the second most important Industrial Province on the Peninsula.
>> Modern Marbella The town eventually started to take its present shape after the Spanish Civil War (1936-39). In the 1940s, Marbella was still a small village with only 900 inhabitants. But this soon changed when Prince Max Egon zu HohenloheLangenburg and his heir Alfonso de Hohenlohe (full name: Alfonso Maximiliano Victorio Eugenio
Alexandro Maria Pablo de la Santisima Trinidad y todos los Santos zu Hohenlohe-Langenburg!) experienced a problem with their Rolls-Royce in the vicinity. This first encounter with Marbella so impressed Alfonso that he decided to buy land commercially and marketed the area as a tourist destination. In 1954 he opened the Marbella Club Hotel; his son had recently returned from California and the hotel was loosely modeled on the motel style with lower pitched terracotta roofs among 23,000 trees. Given Alfonso’s maternal membership in Spain’s titled aristocracy (his mother, Doña Piedad Iturbe y Scholtz, was the Marquesa de Belvis de las Navas), and his paternal kinship to the royal courts of Europe, the hotel quickly proved a hit with vacationing members of Europe’s ruling elites, and those privileged to socialise with them in casual yet discreet luxury. Don Jaime de Mora y Aragón, a Spanish bon vivant, brother to Fabiola, Queen of the Belgians, was a frequent vacationer. Then the rich and famous flocked to the resort and praised Marbella by word of mouth all over the world. In 1974 Prince Fahd arrived at the city after having broken the bank of the Casino of Monte Carlo. Until his death in 2005 he was a frequent and profitable guest at Marbella, where his retinue of over a thousand people spending petro-dollars was welcome, including the then-anonymous Osama bin Laden. In the eighties, Marbella continued to be a destination for the jet set, with the most recognizable face being that of Gunilla von Bismarck. However, problems arose in 1987 when Melodie Nakachian, a daughter of Raymond Nakachian, a local billionaire philanthropist and the Korean princess and singer Kimera was kidnapped, putting the city in the focus of the media.
>> Puerto Banús Puerto José Banús, more commonly known as Puerto Banús was built in 1970 by José Banús, a local property developer, as a luxury marina and
Statue of Jose Banus shopping complex for the jet-set and the super rich. The focal point of Puerto Banús is the marina. It has berths for 915 boats, including those of the King of Saudi Arabia and several of the world’s wealthiest individuals. Behind the harbour lie streets filled with bars, boutiques and nightclubs. Behind the main square is a vast El Corte Inglés department store. The marina has slips for boats and ships from 8 to 50 meters. Its surface area is 15 hectares, and its depth ranges from 3 to 6 meters within the marina, with 7.5 meters at its entrance. There is a beach on each side of the marina. Many of the yachts moored within can enjoy an unobstructed view of La Concha Mountain, one of the coast’s landmarks.
Marbella Arch 20 costa life
José Banús himself was a developer with real estate holdings all along the coast. He was an intimate of Francisco Franco's and was called el constructor del régimen (‘‘the regime’s builder’’). José Banús, bought a large area of land, which was originally destined for the breeding of bull fighting cattle, the area of land that was purchased is now popularly known as Nueva Andalucía. Banús was a clever business man and saw that the resort was gaining popularity especially among the rich and famous, playboys and glamour pusses! It was then that he started dreaming of a marina, which would be the envy of many and would attract the playboys and
costa GETAWAYS >> him and Spanish celebrities continued to spend summers there. Additional criticism decried the presence of alleged criminals from the Russian mafia in the city. Gil’s GIL extended to other Costa del Sol towns like Estepona and across the Strait of Gibraltar to the Spanish African cities of Ceuta and Melilla.
Jesus Gil y Gil glamour pusses from all over the world, with property surrounding the marina that would be some of the most luxurious in the world. This was the beginning of the real estate boom in what is now known as the Puerto Banús area, which led to some amazing developments being built over the years including the award winning complex of Aldea Blanca. Jose’s dream became a reality with the help of two architects, Noldi Schreck and Marcos Sainz, they both believed that they key in their design was a combination of both traditional Andalucian design and modern architecture. The lavish opening of the complex in May 1970 was attended by, amongst others, the Aga Khan, film director Roman Polanski, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, Dr. Christian Barnard (pioneer of the heart transplant), and Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco. A youthful Julio Iglesias was contracted to sing for the guests for the enormous sum of 125,000 pesetas. An army of 300 waiters from Seville served 50 pounds of beluga caviar to the 1,700 guests. Puerto Banús soon became the place to go, the place to be seen, thanks to the wonderful design and the image that Noldi and Marcos had
Alfonso de Hohenlohe
created. With Jose’s dream and their design, the image of a traditional Andalucian fishing village combined with the modern design of yacht moorings, bars and restaurants soon quickly spread across the world, making Puerto Banús a favourite holiday destination for the world’s elite.
>> Jesús Gil y Gil In 1991 the builder and president of Atlético Madrid, Jesús Gil y Gil was elected by a wide majority as mayor of Marbella for his own party, the Independent Liberal Group (GIL in Spanish), promising to fight petty crime and the declining prestige associated with the region. Amongst other things, he used, as an international spokesman for the city, actor Sean Connery who later ended this relationship after his image was used for electoral purpose by Gil. The city also experimented with extensive building activity under the administration of Gil, with critics stating that this construction was often performed without regard for the existing urban plan and thus new plans were stopped by the Andalucian government. Something of a maverick, Gil despised town-hall formalities instead ruling from his office at the Club Financiero. Criticism was leveled at Gil by the major parties of Spain (PSOE and People’s Party) but this did not convince enough voters to oust
This period brought an appraisal of the city but also investigations of corruption began. Eventually, Jesús Gil was forced to resign in 2002 after being jailed for diverting public funds for Atlético. He was succeeded by Julián Muñoz, a former waiter then well-known for being romantically engaged with singer Isabel Pantoja with more than one hundred trials for corruption hanging on. Muñoz was overthrown by his own party which elected as new mayor Marisol Yagüe, a former secretary. Muñoz and Gil took part in a scandalous debate on television where both accused each other of having robbed public funds. The situation exploded in March 2006, when Yagüe was also jailed when the city council was near bankruptcy. According to unsubstantiated testimony, Muñoz and Yagüe were puppets in the hands of Antonio Roca, a councilman who got the job after failing in private business and gathering substantial wealth while working as a public servant. While Yagüe was in jail, the city council was run by Tomás Reñones, a former Atlético Madrid football player, who ended up in jail as well. On April 8, 2006, the Spanish government decided to suspend the council, the first time such a course of action was taken in Spanish democracy. The last three years have seen continuing charges of corruption and allegations of literally billions of Euros having been siphoned out of the coffers by way of illegal payments for building permits and other such brown envelope deals. In next months Costa Life we will be looking at Marbella today and its current state of affairs in today’s tough climate.
Puerto Banus
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Ronan’s Challenge: ‘El Caminito del Rey’ (The Kings little pathway) El Chorro
Caminito del Rey (English: The King’s little pathway) is a walkway or via ferrata, now fallen into disrepair, pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in El Chorro, near Álora in Málaga, Spain. The name is often shortened to Camino del Rey.
The start
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Ready to go
Images supplied by: Rick Warne, Kenneth Hook & Ronan Holdsworth
The first indication we had to climb
Ian, come get us!
costa ACTIVITIES >>
In last month’s Costa Life we started a new feature called ‘‘Ronan's Challenge’’ where yours truly committed to route out and indulge in some of the fabulous activities the south of Spain has to of fer.
Howling like a looney and only 2 metres in
Although last month it was literally ‘‘in at the deep end’’ with Scuba Diving, this month’s challenge was certainly in at the deep end but in a more metaphorical sense, as long as I didn’t fall that is. Don’t worry, it will all become clear! In last month’s issue I did cough up to having avoided doing the ‘Camino del Rey’ last year for the honest and totally sincere reason of being VERY SCARED! But a year on and like the proverbial bad penny, the introduction of ‘Ronan’s Challenge’ brought back to the fore the previously avoided ‘‘Camino del Rey’’ in El Chorro. Known as the scariest path in the world ‘Camino del Rey’ is not for the faint hearted and it is certainly dangerous. But with a skilled and experienced guide like Ian who is a qualified instructor who has been climbing here for years and by doing exactly what you are told this challenge can be an exhilarating and life
Straight up
changing experience but more about that later. History El Caminito del Rey (The King’s little pathway) is a narrow walkway pinned to the sides of the rock face that winds its way around the El Chorro Gorge for approx 3km where it arrives at the Lakes at Ardales. At any point it can range from being between 30 and 100 metres above the river. In 1901 it became obvious that workers at the hydroelectric power plants at Chorro Falls and Gaitanejo Falls needed a walkway to cross between the falls, to provide for transport of materials, and for the inspection and maintenance of the channel. Construction of the walkway took four years and it was finished in 1905.
On to the walkway
>>
The first straddle
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In 1921 King Alfonso XIII crossed the walkway for the inauguration of the dam ‘Conde del Guadalhorce’ and it became known by its present name. The walkway has now gone many years without maintenance, and is in a deteriorating and highly dangerous state. It is only one metre (3 ft 3 ins) in width. Nearly all the path now has no handrail. Some parts of the concrete walkway have completely collapsed and all that remains is the steel beam originally in place to hold it up and the wire that follows most of the path. In June this year a very lucky climber fell from the walkway when a 20-foot section of the path gave way. The reason he was lucky is because he fell 80 ft and the only injuries he sustained were a hairline fracture to the hip and some cuts and bruises! Several people have lost their lives on the walkway in recent years and after four people died in two accidents in 1999 and 2000, the local government closed the entrances at both ends and blew away the start and finish of the walkway to deter climbers. However, many adventurous tourists still find their way on to the walkway to explore it.
D-Day at El Chorro ‘Adventurous’ may be one word you could use but another is ‘stupid’, and yet another would be ‘foolhardy’ or how about ‘barking mad’? But what can I say, challenges are there to be faced and as I am now in the service of providing you, our dear readers, with exciting and interesting articles we (you don’t think I would be doing it on my own do you?) set off on a warm Sunday morning in August from Fuengirola to walk the ‘‘Caminito del Rey.’’ My co-walkers consisted of Rick Warn, our photographer, my mate Paul from Fuengirola,
Ian, King of the walk
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well he’s not from Fuengirola, he’s actually from Hull BUT we won’t hold that against him! And Ken from Sunshine Golf in La Cala. Ken deserves a medal, as he was the only reader who responded to my offer last month to join the walk. Now Ken and Paul have accused me of being a little economical with the truth as regards my description of the challenge. But I have to protest my innocence, as I was as oblivious as they were as to how dangerous and challenging it was. Apart from going to El Chorro and looking at the gorge I didn’t really know any more about it until I watched the YouTube video of the walk made by some lunatic who walked it through with a handheld video camera. (See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmDhRvvs5X w&feature=related) This video only lasts about 6 minutes so I thought that, whilst still a dangerous walk, it was no more than 15 minutes in total and no more than what the video showed. Easy mistake right? How was I supposed to know that to get to the start of the walkway we had to traverse 30 metres to the left with nothing more than some metal spikes sticking out of the rock to keep you up? And then a 20m vertical climb up the rock to where the actual pathway is accessible. (see pic ?) And furthermore, how was I supposed to know that once we had got to the other side of the water tunnel that spans the gorge there would be at least another 2.5 kames of the walk with a minimum of a further 6 death-defying climbs and traverses to get to the end? I admit that I described the walk to them as ‘‘a 15 minute walk along a footpath with a few dodgy bits and then a leisurely stroll through the beautiful forest to the lake on the other side,
Drop from here is 100 metres straight down
Not amused
where, once we arrive we can enjoy a nice Sunday lunch and drink.’’ But that’s what I was expecting myself, honestly! How wrong I was! I can sincerely say that, having now done the walk, and having the opportunity to look back at some of the other risky situations I have gotten myself into in my life this by far registers as the most hair raising, frightening and yet most rewarding thing I have ever done. And the lads agree.
At any point it can range from being between 30 and 100 metres above the river I haven’t enough pages to show you all the amazing pictures we took but you can clearly see from these that it offers the most beautiful and jaw dropping views you could imagine. The first shock came when we realized as we wandered up to the start of the walk that the first bit was going to be one of the most hairy. As already described, the first challenge was to actually get on to the walkway. And because the first part has been blown away to stop people getting on to it we had to climb sideways for 30 metres and then up for 20m. This was a shock to the system as within 30 seconds of stepping to the left we were hanging on for dear life. We were all harnessed up and hooked on so even if we did fall or slip we weren’t going anywhere but I am sorry, when you are doing it for the first time that truth just doesn’t stand up in court! Within a minute Ken and I were next to each other doing the ‘‘Elvis Knee Shuffle’’ as our bodies took over our brains and started screaming ‘‘What the heck are you doing, you stupid man?’’
The long walk
costa ACTIVITIES >>
And coupled with Ken blasting in my ear ‘‘What the hell is this all about? I only came along for a walk! 15 minutes you said and then a beer! I hate climbing! I didn’t know there was climbing involved, and this isn’t the Lake District.‘‘ Yours truly started to howl with laughter like some demented patient in a mental institution. We hadn’t even got three metres sideways and I have to admit I was in complete agreement with Ken. ‘‘I’m an idiot! Get me out of here!!’’
one we negotiate across and without further incident we got across safely. Before the water tunnel that crosses the gorge there are two more such places to cross.
But with Ken and Paul already across and guide Ian ‘geeing’ us on like a couple of kids learning to walk we had to persevere and eventually we got to point A, the Caminito del Rey. The view overlooking the reservoir was fantastic and moving to the edge of the path which in some places has crumbled away to less than the original metre width, you could see straight down to the water and rocks 100 metres below. The first part of the walk is cabled which means there is a steel wire attached to the rock face to which you hook on with two safety cables attached to your harness. As you move along you have to unhook and then hook back on past the periodic bolts that hold the wire to the rock. The most important thing is never to have both clips off the wire. So as you hook one around you then move the other around but never both at the same time as then you are unattached and in harm’s way. Moving on we came to the next scary bit that personally I found to be the worst part. Certain sections of the walk have fallen away and the only thing that you can walk on to get across is the iron girder that held the concrete path in place. The idea is to stay hooked on and then step down on to the girder and straddle sideways across to the other side whilst leaning into the rock face for support. I know! It’s mad isn’t it? (see pic??). As you do this you are told by Ian to look at the rock face. ‘‘Don’t look down! Let your feet find their way,’’ Ian says. ‘‘Easy for you to say,’’ I think. One by
Across the gorge you see the tunnel and track of the railway line chiseled out of the mountain and as you move around and look back you are rewarded with the most magnificent view across the centre of the gorge and down the waterway. We were all moved by the sheer awesomeness of the sights we encountered and as we continued on around the rock face we were blessed with more and more magnificent vistas as we looked back at where we had just walked.
Take a break
Once you get to the other side it is truly like passing through a time warp. Sheer rock face greets you and as far as the eye can see, there is the thin sliver of a walkway gripping itself to the limestone. An incredible sight!
Ian, our guide, used some clever psychology on us and encouraged us continuously throughout. His psychology went like this. Every time we conquered a scary bit, he would say, ‘‘That’s the last one. Oh yes, very well done guys, it’s all plain sailing from here on in’’ to which the boys took a deep breath and thought, ‘‘Great!’’ Until we got to the next one when Ian would say, ‘‘Ah, mmm, I, um, forgot about this one, but this one’s eeeessy and when you have done this one that REALLY is it, promise.’’ Until the next one! To be honest though, it did work because we were able to enjoy the beauty of the walk and the surrounding scenery. And then when we got to the next challenging bit we had to re-focus and get on with it. In amongst the straddling of gaps in the walk there were also two vertical climbs of approx 10-15 metres and we accomplished these by way of Ian securing lines to the top and
No more climbing please
>>
The final stretch
All finished
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>> costa ACTIVITIES
King Alfonso XIII guiding us up. The path carries on for approx 2.5 to 3km and it changes all the way. At one point it opens up to reveal the vastness of the countryside and then towards the end it closes, so narrow you could almost touch the other side. All the while the Guadalhorce River ebbs and flows through the valley. We viewed the place that had recently given way and we were all amazed that the guy who fell survived. We also saw the plaque put up to commemorate the deaths of 3 young men in 2000. A sobering thought and an instant reminder to stay focused and take the walk and climb very seriously. After five and a half hours we made the final climb out and after a leisurely stroll of a couple of miles (see Ken, I did say there was a leisurely stroll!) we made it to El Mirador restaurant which overlooks the Ardales Lake. We enjoyed a couple of well-earned pints and all wolfed down a meal before heading back to the coast. The trip back was quiet and I think the reason was that we were all taking in what we had just achieved. It was a truly fantastic experience and I am sure we all conquered some fears. I certainly came
Commemorative plaque to those who died in 2000 26 costa life
Early workers circa 1902
out at the other end a different person. Some people would say, ‘‘What a silly thing to do!’’ but I say, ‘‘No way!’’ Not until you have done it can you know what it was like. I came home and soon realized that trying to explain to friends and family what we had done was almost futile. It was a personal experience and one that has to be lived through to appreciate in its entirety. When I look back at the pictures I think, ‘‘Wow, I did that!’’ Ian was fantastic and filled us with confidence but also exerted his authority where needed and we all got through without any real incident. You can’t get insured to do the walk and as you will appreciate it’s definitely not for the faint hearted and you need to be fit. Ian can be contacted on 676 799 638 and can take you on this walk or other walks in the area. He can also take you mountain climbing. He is fully qualified to teach climbing and knows the area like the back of his hand. I can assure you, you will be in very safe hands. Brilliant!!
King Alfonso XIII of Spain
>> costa LIFESTYLE Navy Italian cotton check shirt > Burton
>> Lets get shirty
What Men Want...
Gingham cotton shirt > Burton
This Months Men’s Must Have’s Main line At Burton
Grey pintuck dinner shirt and bow tie > Burton
Purple leather fashion boat shoe > Topman
>> Mens grooming at The Body Shop
Khaki suede brogues > Topman
Of a Man aftershave balm
Black soft leather casual slip on driving shoes > Topman
>> Step on it 28 costa life
>>Store Locator
White Musk for men
Maca root shave cream
Accessorize www.accessorize.com La Cañada. The body shop www.thebodyshop.com La Cañada. Burton www.burton.co.uk Gibraltar. Dorothy Perkins www.dorothyperkins.co.uk Miramar and La Cañda . Evans www.evans.co.uk Miramar and La Cañda. Monsoon www.monsoon.co.uk Gibraltar. Topman www.topman.co.uk La Cañada.
costa LIFESTYLE >> >> Shimmer and shine
What Women Want...
Black sequin asymmetrical dress > Monsoon Grey sequin waist coat > Dorothy Perkins
This summers sensational selections
Purple glitter zebra dress > Dorothy Perkins
>> Accessorize
Purple sequin batwing top > Evans
Black Chainmail Bag
Leopard court shoe > Dorothy Perkins
>> Step out in style Technicolor Union Jack Clutch
Pewter crossover vamp wedge sandals > Evans
Purple and gold Gabriella Clutch
costa life 29
>> costa LIFESTYLE >> Skin care > Face wash Twenty years ago, it was a miracle if men’s grooming including anything more than washing the face with a bar of soap. Unfortunately, using soap is about as bad as doing nothing at all: It can leave your skin taut and thirsty. Instead, use a cleanser; look for a fragrance-free gel face wash suitable for all skin types that is strong enough to cut through those overactive male sebaceous glands yet gentle enough to be used every day.
men’s
stuff
Taking care of your skin is the single most important thing you can do for your appearance.
> Face scrub A face wash is just the opening act for facial cleansing. Men’s skin is naturally thicker than women’s, with larger pores. A granular scrub should be used two to three times a week to exfoliate and dislodge dirt deep down. No one likes to look at bumps and blackheads, and scrubbing will help smooth your complexion for a clearer, cleaner appearance.
> Moisturizer Even the mildest facial cleansers can leave your skin feeling just plain parched. The truth is that every guy, even those with oily skin, needs to replenish the moisture content of their skin. Something as routine as showering or washing your face with hot water can open pores and allow valuable water to escape. A basic moisturizer with SPF will restore moisture, protect your skin from the sun, reduce razor burn, and even prevent against premature aging.
> Eye cream Almost every man neglects to treat the skin around his eyes; the soft, thin layer of skin there is prone to developing fine lines, and it’s where men first start to show visible signs of aging. That’s why everyone should be using something specially formulated for this region. Try an eye cream with Q10.
> Clay mask A clay mask can be an important part of a man’s skin care. This takes little time, a commitment once a week to deepclean your face. The clay removes dead skin and promotes cellular regeneration. It also unclogs pores while reducing excess oil and shine.
>> Healthy hair
> Zinc
Exercise increases the blood supply to your muscles as well as your hair, which stimulates growth.
You may need to increase your intake of zinc. Studies show this mineral can affect levels of androgens, hormones associated with hair loss.
Keep your hair healthy by including these nutrients in your daily diet.
Good sources: Oysters, nuts (walnuts, cashews, pecans, almonds), beans, beef, lamb.
> Protein You need adequate protein to build muscle and you also need it for healthy hair because hair is made primarily of protein. Low-quality protein can lead to weak, brittle hair or a loss of hair color.
> Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3’s are known to support the scalp; a deficiency can result in dry scalp and dull hair.
Good sources: Chicken, turkey, beef, eggs, low-fat dairy (cottage cheese, milk, yogurt)
Good sources: Salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, flaxseeds, walnuts.
> Iron
If you have dry hair or just want to prevent straw-like strands drink more. Hair is one-quarter water. Drink eight glasses a day.
Low iron levels can lead to baldness. Researchers looked at 11 studies on the relationship between iron intake and hair loss, and concluded that treating iron deficiency may help regroup hair. Good sources: Lean red meat, turkey, egg yolks, dried beans, dried fruit, whole grains.
> Water
> Vitamin C Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, so a deficiency can make hair dry and weak. You likely take in enough C from your diet, as long as you eat a variety of fruits and vegetables daily. Good sources: Broccoli, leafy greens, green peppers, citrus fruit, strawberries.
>> Quote
‘‘The average man is always waiting for something to happen to him instead of setting to work to make things happen.’’ 30 costa life
Mr Alf Neuhaus
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Col. No: 9.220
Sandra Vincenti
UK Chartered Physiotherapist Col. No: 682 Treatment of Arthritis & Rheumatism Joint Replacements - hip,knee,ankle,shoulder Hip Resurfacing Advanced Cartilage Repair Keyhole Surgery Hand and Foot Surgery Accidents & Fractures Bone density measuring available X-ray Facilities - Diagnostic Ultrasound Back and Neck Problems - sciatica,whiplash,etc. Rehabilitation - post op,post injury Emergency Accidents dealt with (ambulance service available 24hr per day)
Travel insurance & International insurance claims welcome 24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - TEL:656 313 293 Tel: 952 577 766 - E-mail: clinica.sandalf@terra.es www.clinica-sandalf.com C./ Pepa Guerra Valdenebros, 29631 Benalmadena behind Tivoli World Arroyo
>> costa LIFESTYLE
>> Beauty trends
tips & secrets
> Eye shadow brights
beauty
It’s all over the cat walks and the celebs are pulling it off too… the brighter the better. Pale skins look great with blues, light greens and lilacs while darker complexion can pull of the pinks, oranges and flashes of deep blue. Don’t be afraid to give it a go.
> European chic Think natural untouched beauty mixed with a touch of European glamour in the form of statement lips. The key to achieving this look is flawless skin, nude eyes, odd dashes of shimmer and of course bright bold matte lips. Sporting either one of these or all of them combined will put you right on trend.
> African tribal mix Less is more; to create this look you must have strong eyebrows, angled lines, pearlescent dewy skin and nude lips. A mix of tribal life with sophisticated glamour.
> Naturally flawless This look is fresh and natural with an edge. Lips are bee stung pink, eyes are dark and smudged and skin is flawless but not matte. Keep the eyes bold, apply the liner lightly then smudge with the finger.
>> Beauty blunders Stay clear of any foundation that looks pink or too white, even if you’re extremely pale, those shades can look chalky and old-fashioned. Foundation should be used to even out the skin tone, not create a new one. Yellow-based foundation gives the most natural look. It blends beautifully into the skin, making it look fresh and healthy, which is exactly what a great foundation should do.
>> Dare to wear
Angelina Jolie, Liv Tyler, Scarlett Johansson have all been seen wearing red lipstick lately… no matter what your skin tone or hair colouring there is a shade to suite you. It can give you an instant glamorous polished look.
>> Uber With the summer drawing to a close, it’s all too obvious that the excess sun, sea, sand and sangria have taken its toll on our bodies... Now is the perfect time to restore your body’s natural balance. As well as focusing on your inner well being it is essential to maintain healthy glowing skin. The effects of the summer can be very drying and damaging to the skin. Daily use of sun cream and oil can contribute to our skin looking dull and lacklustre and feeling sticky. One of the key things to great looking skin is regular exfoliation, as this will instantly improve its tone, colour and vibrancy, not to mention leaving your skin silky soft. And as an added bonus regular exfoliation will encourage and stimulate your blood supply, therefore improving your well being inside and out. We recommend using a good quality loofah mitt in circular motions on a daily basis. When taking care of our bodies it is becoming more and more popular to use natural ingredients in our beauty products and with the right blend these ingredients can be highly effective. Apricot and walnut shells in the Uber body exfoliator help to gently remove the top layer of dead skin cells leaving your skin feeling fresh and revitalised. Not just a super food but super in your beauty regime, pomegranate is rich in vitamin c and folic acid giving your skin natural anti-oxidants to help fight impurities in the atmosphere. The calming and soothing elements of the Chinese Ja hua work harmoniously with oriental sea kelp to aid skin cell regeneration and increase natural elastin levels in the skin to retain a youthful and glowing appearance. Using Uber Exfoliator and body lotion along with a Hydrea loofah mitt will leave your skin feeling luxuriously soft and looking healthy and radiant whilst being hydrated and cared for... simply everything your summer-weary skin will need. www.uberespana.com
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>> costa LIFESTYLE
Drinking Exercise increases the production of heat from your body; sweating helps to keep you cool and stops you overheating. But fluid losses during exercise can be high (1-2 litres per hour in warm conditions) and it is easy to become dehydrated. If dehydration does set in, body temperature rises, performance suffers and heat stress results. Just a 2% reduction in body weight through dehydration causes a 10-20% loss of performance, early fatigue and circulatory stress. Higher losses cause nausea, dizziness, vomiting and, ultimately, heat stroke.
>> Early warning symptoms of heat stress > Dizziness > Fatigue > Headache > Feeling excessively hot > Nausea > Little or no sweating > Cool skin > Disorientation > Confusion
>>Pre exercise > Preventing Dehydration Ensure you are fully hydrated before exercise top up with around 200-250 ml (1/3-1/2 pint) of fluid 15-20 minutes beforehand. You can check for dehydration by noting the frequency, colour and volume of your urine. Aim for: > Light coloured urine > High volume > High frequency
>> During exercise
Dominic James - Personal Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist 686 55 44 88 www.personaltrainingmarbella.com 34 costa life
During exercise, regular drinking will help replace fluid and prevent dehydration. It is the best to drink frequent small amounts than too much too quickly. By this stage your body may already be dehydrated. Fluid empties more slowly from the stomach when you are dehydrated so this can make you feel nauseous and even cause vomiting, delaying fluid absorption even further! Aim to: > Consume 150-250ml (1/4-1/2 Pint) water or isotonic drink every 10-20 min > Start drinking early; do not wait until you are thirsty > Consume 25-50g (1-2oz) carbohydrate per hour during strenuous exercise lasting more than 90 minutes.
costa LIFESTYLE >> >> What to look for on the label of an isotonic sports drink
>> Rules of thumb
> Check: types of carbohydrates
If you are exercising at a moderate intensity for up to 90 minutes, drink water or a hypotonic or isotonic drink.
Mostly glucose (dextrose) and sucrose; small amounts of glucose polymers or fructose are acceptable. Avoid high-fructose drinks. Check: carbohydrate content 4-8g/100ml (isotonic). Check: sodium content 40-110mg/100ml
If you are exercising for 30 minutes or less, water is a good fluid replacer.
If you are exercising at a high intensity for up to 90 minutes, drink an isotonic sports drink If you are exercising at a moderate or high intensity for longer than 90 minutes, drink an isotonic drink based on glucose polymers to provide extra fuel.
>> Post-exercise
>> Glossary of terms
It is important to replace fluid as rapidly as possible after exercise. Drink freely but do not stop once your thirst has been satisfied; you could still b e dehydrated.
>> Ten ways to keep cool
> Hypotonic
> Drink a minimum of two litres of fluid per day: water, diluted fruit juice and soft drinks, fruit or herb teas, weak tea. > Consume at least 150-250ml (1/4-1/2 pint) fluid every 20-30 minutes of exercise. > Children and teenagers lose fluid mores readily than adults and dehydration can set in earlier > Increase your fluid intake 24 hours prior to competition. > Drink more fluid during hot or humid weather. > Gradually acclimatise yourself to new weather conditions (allow up to two weeks) > Wear loose fitting natural fibre clothing during training that allows you to sweat freely and allows moisture to evaporate. > Practise your fluid replacement strategy during training, don't leave it until competition. > Remember your body cannot adapt to dehydration. > Experiment to find which type of sports drink suits you best.
>> How much fluid? Fluid loss depends on how hard and long you have been exercising, the surrounding temperature and humidity, and also on your individual body chemistry. To get an idea of your fluid requirements, weigh yourself before and after exercise. The amount of weight lost corresponds to the amount of water lost as sweat - 1kg is equivalent to 1 litre of water. For example, a weight loss of 1 ½ kg means you have lost 1 ½ litres of fluid. Aim to replace this amount plus more during and after exercise, allowing 1 ½ litres for each 1litre of lost fluid, since urination increases after exercise. Your body weight should be fully restored within 3-4 hours of exercise.
>> What to drink? Water is a good fluid replacer, and if you are exercising for less than one hour at a low or moderate intensity, drinking plain (or flavoured unsweetened) water is fine. For longer or particularly strenuous workouts, fluid replacements sports drinks have a number of advantages.
>> Benefits of o fluid replacement sports drink Rapid replacement of fluid. The carbohydrate (sugars) and sodium speed water absorption in the small intestine. Maintains blood volume and decreases urine output (due to the sugar and sodium content). This is specially important during prolonged events, e.g . marathon, ultra-distance, cycle touring. Provides additional fuel. The sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose) and glucose polymers in the drink provide readily available fuel which helps offset glycogen depletion and delays fatigue. Aim to consume 30-60g per hour in events lasting more than 90 minutes. You can achieve this by drinking 1 litre of a drink containing 30-60g carbohydrate. Pleasant taste. The drink must be palatable to encourage people to drink enough to replace fluid.
A hypotonic drink is more dilute than body fluids, therefore it contains a lower concentration of particles (sugars and electrolytes) per 100 ml. Typical carbohydrate content: less than 4g/100 ml. Examples: water, low calorie or ‘‘diet’’ drinks, very dilute squash, low calorie sports drinks, e.g. Lucozade, Low Calorie Sport, Isostar Light.
>> Isotonic An isotonic drink contains the same concentration of particles (sugar and electrolytes) as body fluids and is absorbed in the small intestine faster than plain water. Typical carbohydrate content: 4-8g/100ml. Examples: diluted squash (1:4) diluted fruit juice (1:1), commercial isotonic sports drinks, e.g. Isostar, Gatorade Lucazado Sport.
>> Energy drinks Energy drinks have a relatively high carbohydrate concentration (greater than that of body fluids), and usually contain no sodium. They are emptied more slowly from the stomach and absorbed more slowly than plain water. Typical carbohydrate concentration: 8-20g/100ml
>> Glucose polymers/Maltodextrins Glucose polymers are a common ingredient in sports drinks. They are made from chemicallytreated cornstarch which breaks down to produce short chains of glucose molecules (4-20 units). They are closer to simple carbohydrates (sugars) than complex carbohydrates. The main advantage of adding them to sports drinks is that they increase the carbohydrate content of the drink (by 4-20 times depending on chain length) without affecting its osmolality (‘‘concentration’’) and speed of absorption. In other words, they provide more carbohydrate per 100 ml than glucose or sucrose at the same ‘‘concentration’’. This is particularly useful for refuelling during strenuous events lasting for more than 90 minutes. Also glucose polymers are not sweet tasting so a manufacturer can achieve a palatable drink with high carbohydrate content by using a mixture of simple sugars and glucose polymers.
>> Home-made sports drinks > HYPOTONIC
> ISOTONIC
20-40g sucrose 1 litre water 1-1.5g salt, flavouring 100ml squash 900 ml water 1-1.5g salt 250 ml fruit juice 750 ml water 1-1.5g salt
40-80g sucros 1 litre water 1-1.5g salt, flavouring 200 ml squash 800ml water 1-1.5g salt 500 ml fruit juice 500 ml water 1-1.5g salt
costa life 35
>> costa LIFESTYLE
health
A round-up of some of this month’s health news...
>> Why eating popcorn is good for your health Popcorn could help prevent cancer, research suggests. Scientists discovered the snack food contains ‘surprisingly large’ levels of health-boosting antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols in fruit and vegetables are thought to help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
>> Did you know? Men who brush their teeth at least twice a day make it more likely that you will conceive. A study showed that men who have gum disease (regular brushing and mouth wash help guard against this) are more likely to have a low sperm count.
>> Kiwis the super fruit
Smokers are less likely to enjoy a mouthwatering meal than those who avoid cigarettes as they have fewer and less sensitive taste buds. Scientists who studied the tongues of 62 Greek soldiers demonstrated how cigarettes deaden the ability to taste.
Three kiwi fruit a day are being prescribed to patients with high blood pressure.
Pavlidis Pavlos led a team from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki who used electrical stimulation to test the taste threshold of the soldiers.
Men and women with slightly raised levels are being given the fruit in a twomonth clinical trial at the University of Oslo in Norway.
They also measured the number and shape of a kind of taste bud called fungiform papillae. He said: ‘Statistically important differences between the taste thresholds of smokers and non-smokers were detected.’ Differences were also seen in the shape of the taste buds and the extent to which they were connected to blood vessels.
It follows a small trial that showed a link between eating the fruit and lower blood pressure. Kiwis are rich in an antioxidant called lutein, which, it is thought, might help fight disease. They also contain potassium, known to play a part in regulating blood pressure.
>> Moderate drinking ‘boosts bones’ Women who drink moderate amounts of beer may be strengthening their bones, according to Spanish researchers. Their study of almost 1,700 women, published in the journal Nutrition, found bone density was better in regular drinkers than non-drinkers. But the team added that plant hormones in the beer rather than the alcohol may be responsible for the effects. Experts urged caution, warning that drinking more than two units of alcohol a day was known to harm bone health. Osteoporosis is a common problem for postmenopausal women, increasing the risk of disabling bone fractures later in life.
36 costa life
>> How smoking can ruin your favourite meal
Their fungiform papillae were also flatter than those of non-smokers, with a reduced blood supply.
>> Parents ‘ignoring eye sun danger’ Three in four parents are risking their child’s eyesight by exposing them to bright sun without appropriate protection, experts warn. Nearly a third of parents in Britain do not buy their children sunglasses, a poll of 2,000 people for the College of Optometrists revealed. Of those who do, nearly half put price before protection and only a quarter buy sunglasses from a trusted brand. The College recommends choosing dark glasses with a CE mark for quality. People with light coloured eyes are most at risk from sun damage and those with blue eyes should always wear sunglasses, the experts advise. UV rays from sunlight can damage the retina and the lens of the eye and can lead to long-term damage. Too much exposure is linked to conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
>> costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS
LOCAL Business Reports PLUS Charities and Events News Business
Work
Charities At Costa Life we dedicate more space to business editorial than any other publication on the coast. It is important to us to introduce information to you about our new clients and remind you on a regular basis about existing ones. We are a free magazine and we only exist because of our clients and we therefore feel it right to
Pimlico Plumbers was established in 1979, in the basement of an estate agent, and has since flourished to become London’s most successful plumbing and service company, based at its 30,000 sq ft state of the art HQ in London. The company’s success is due to its ethos of putting customer service above all else, and striving to ensure that new customers become ‘customers for life’. And with the expansion of the operation to Spain the intension is to provide exactly the same high quality service on the Costa del Sol as we have been delivering in Britain for 30 years.
38 costa life
dedicate a section of the magazine to promoting to you, our readers, the people, both new and old, who make Costa Life possible. If you need to make use of the services or products promoted in this section or indeed throughout this issue please let our clients know that you have seen them in
Events Costa Life Magazine. In addition we also offer space to charities, clubs and associations so they can inform you of their activites plus any up coming and recent events news. Please support your local charities and clubs, they do great work. Thank You.
>>
MD Charlie Mullins knew he wanted to be a plumber at the age of 9, and first entered the profession by bunking off school and working with a local plumber for ‘two bob’ a day. He started a plumbing apprenticeship at 15 and qualified as a City and Guilds Plumber and Advanced Plumber, by the time he was 19. Today Pimlico Plumbers has over 155 employees, operates 131 vehicles, and completes 1,500 jobs a week.
customer within the hour-night or day. And all workmanship is backed by our extensive guarantee.
From the beginning Pimlico Plumbers has aimed to be the market leader, and in doing so has revolutionised the industry, by setting new standards in service and professionalism. All Pimlico engineers wear clean company uniforms and arrive at a customer’s property on time in a clean, sign-written van, featuring the highly recognisable Pimlico blue and white livery. Our charges are completely transparent, and are published on our website and printed on the back of company invoices. All operatives carry company identification cards with them at all times, and are vetted by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and their driving records are checked with the DVLA.
Pimlico is also involved with several charities, including The Princes Trust, of which the company is a patron and Charlie is a founder member of it Enterprise Fellowship, which was set up to mentor the next generation of business innovators. The company is also a backer of the Rhys Daniels Trust, Help a London Child, and a keen participant in London’s Lord Mayor’s Show.
Pimlico’s philosophy is to ‘Keep things simple’, this means do the right job, at the right price, at a time that’s right for the customer. All calls are answered by our manned 24-hour, 365 day call centre. In emergencies a plumber will be with a
In Britain Pimlico has picked up numerous awards, including twice being voted the industry's Domestic Installer of the year (1997 and 2000), and Charlie Mullins is currently a finalist in this year's Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year competition.
costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS >>
We caught up with Charlie on his latest trip to Spain.
4. What gave you the motivation to bring Pimlico Plumbers to Spain?
1. When you started out what were you goals for the business and did you ever imagine you would build a company of such stature?
Our existing customers who have their own places out in Spain have been telling me for years that there was a huge gap in the market for Pimlico to set up in Spain - I just wish I’d taken their advice sooner.
10. What difference have you seen in plumbing regulations here in Spain and how hard has it been to adapt to new rules and conditions in order to set up here?
5. What do you feel you can offer to the expat community in Spain compared with other plumbing companies here?
Adapting to the Spanish system really isn’t a problem; if anything I’d say the regulations here are too relaxed. Our people can handle any job Spain can throw at them.
That’s easy - reliability! In London that is one of our major advantages over other companies, in Spain the problem of getting people to turn up when they say they will is even greater.
11. What do you hope to achieve in Spain with Pimlico Plumbers?
When I first set up Pimlico Plumbers the aim was simple - to provide a top quality service, reliable service, which was something that was seriously lacking in the plumbing industry, and, if you take us out of the equation, still is. If I'm being honest I never would have believed things would get so big. When it was just me I always planned to expand the operation, but to hundreds of engineers, generating £15m a year…. Never! 2. Building a plumbing company into a 15 million a year business is quite an achievement, what keeps you going and what are your company's main goals for the next 5-10 yrs? What keeps me going, that’s simple - I love my job, and I think it’s mainly to do with the fact that I built the company from scratch myself. As for the next 5-10 years, well we have some serious plans to expand the Spanish division of the company so the vans become as common place here as they are in London. 3. What gives you the greatest satisfaction from you work? It would have to be when I read some of the comments people write on our website or in letters, especially when they compliment our operatives on their workmanship and the professional way they have gone about a job.
6. What are the most important attributes of a Pimlico Plumber?
9. Will you offer a 24 hour service in Spain? Yes we do.
Become the number one plumbing firm here, just like we are in London!
As I said, we show up when you want us, not two days later! Obviously to be a Pimlico Plumber you have to be a highly qualified and experienced individual, but on top of that, all our operatives are turned out in clean corporate uniforms, drive immaculate vans, carrying the company's livery, and they have all been through vigorous security checks. 7. What is the minimum amount of experience you will accept before you take on a new plumber? All our plumbers have served a full plumbing apprenticeship, and have a minimum of five years plumbing experience. 8. What area of the Costa del Sol will you cover? Malaga to Gibraltar
costa life 39
>> costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS EVENT LADIES LADIES LADIES We all love a good fashion show and Thursday 10th September will be no exception Come along to The Sierra de Albatross on the A404 and enjoy a night out in support of Animals In Distress - Doors open at 7 and show starts at 8pm All the clothes and accessories are new or nearly
and have been donated to the charity over the past few months. You will be able to buy on the night from the catwalk or off the rail and browse the many stalls that will be selling their wares e.g. PoshPets with animal accessories, Virgin Vie for makeup and Body Shop for all those extras to mention but a few. Bee Hill will be hairdressing the models and Lee Jay from Heartfm will be presenting the evening. It’s only 5 euros entrance fee which will include a tapas and drink from the bar (either wine, beer or soft drink) and the rest goes to AID.
If you want to get involved, be a model or you have any clothes to donate please either pop in and see the girls at one of the AID shops ( Ave. Gerald Brennan or Ave. Blas Infante) or ring Pat on 610774408 Come and enjoy something different. Animals In Distress is a registered charity no. 07974 -
www.animals-in-distress.eu
CHARITY
CHARITY
The ‘‘Ballad of Crocodile Rock’’
The Cudeca Coin Charity Shop is holding a fashion show on 13th September, commencing at 2:00 pm, at the Sol Andalusí. The admission is free and all garments and accessories will be for sale after the show, in aid of Cudeca Cancer Care Hospice. Brian Piccalo, a leading haute couturier from the UK, will be giving a fashion talk and hosting the show. Entertainment by the TAPAS Singers, raffle... come along and enjoy the delightful ambience, while you help support your local hospice!
is a new arrangement by Tony, of the Elton John / Bernie Taupin Classic. After the publishers gave Tony permission he produced the song putting his stamp on it. Also on the CD is a bonus Instrumental ‘Getting Closer to Heaven’, written and produced by Tony. The CD’s are on sale from the Cudeca Centre, Cudeca Shops and is also available to download from The Cudeca website
www.cudeca.org The painting for the front cover was kindly donated by the renowned Dutch artist Frits Jansen, and will be donated to the Cudeca Hospice in Benalmadena.
EVENT The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses and donkeys (ARCH) are pleased to announce a Charity Golf Day at Calanova Golf Course arranged for 20th Sept 2009, at a cost of 60 euros per person including coffee and bacon sandwiches on arrival, 18 holes of golf inclusive of shared buggy, and a complementary drink with food.The day starts at 08.45 for breakfast with a 09.30 start on the course, featuring:
Business 1st members exhibition and fundraiser in association with Caras Felices Charity. Local business networking group organise a showcase day and raffle Teams of four draw in aid of caras felices charity. Purchase your raffle tickets today and have a chance of winning fantastic prizes including, an What is eyebag removal operation, permanent make up treatment BodyCopia? and much more..! Business 1st, the newly established business networking group on the Costa del Sol has Imagine having a perfect replica of your beloved child’s teamed up with a local charity to hand or foot that, in years to come, will be a joyful hold a networking event in order reminder of how tiny they used to be. Imagine having a to raise funds for the Caras beautiful, three-dimensional replica of your pregnant Felices, cleft surgery charity so belly, maybe with your hand feeling those first gentle that the surgeon and his team kicks; or holding hands - perhaps to celebrate a can perform the much needed wedding, anniversary or simply to say I love you; maybe operation on 100 children who a part of yourself that is your partner’s favourite - all can are waiting for the surgery in Iraq. be captured for ever as a wonderfully personal piece of A huge raffle has been organised art. BodyCopia is truly personal art. A sculpture that is to help raise funds. All Business actually a part of you or a loved one, beautifully 1st members have donated mounted or framed. You choose the finish, the colour, spectacular high value prizes in the setting. aid of the cause and raffle tickets can be purchased at Vista del Renowned sculptors Michael Lindsay Orr and Annette Mar restaurant on the day or Vohns of BodyCopia will create an amazing sculpture to from all Business 1st members treasure for ever. and local radio stations in the weeks leading up to the event.
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Texas Scramble Longest drive, nearest the line Nearest the pin Team prizes, first and second Raffle and Auction Please help us support our worthwhile charity ARCH, and enjoy a great value day out. . Contact No: Tony Sparkes 686378987 or Sue Sparkes
686378938 tony.sparkes@gmail.com www.calanovagolfclub.com
SPECIAL CASTINGS FOR FOOTBALL FANS As a true football fan, what could be cooler than having your own body cast and decorated in strip of your favourite team?
A SUPER new idea BodyCopia will cast a perfect replica of your son or daughter (or you, of course) and decorate the casting as a superhero. The process is easy, comfortable, great fun....and actually very affordable with their crisis-busting SPECIAL OFFERS. A BodyCopia lifecast so much better than a photograph MEMORIES THAT YOU CAN TOUCH!
costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS >> CALLING ALL DIABETICS by Frank Bowles Meetings Start Again in September The Diabetic Support Group will be up and running again in early September following the summer break. We will be holding three meetings every month at the following venues:
EVENT Chain JK’s present in aid of CHAIN A Golf & Pool Challenge on Saturday 5th September Entry fee of €50 includes: Round of Golf at Los Arqueros plus Prize Fund Unlimited Pool & the chance to win cash, Roast Pork BBQ Lunch Thanks to Russell Wood of TSS for his support PRIZE FUND… 1st Prize = €100… 2nd Prize = €60… 3rd Prize = €40 RSVP to Phil or Duncan for on 951 31 85 16 (numbers needed for golf & food)
FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH ESTEPONA - Taino Lounge - Estepona Port - 11am sharp SECOND FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH ALHAURIN DE LA TORRE - Sol Andalusi - 11am for 11.30am LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH FUENGIROLA - The Ark Fellowship - Las Rampas - 10.30 for 11am One of our diabetic nurses will be on hand at every meeting to discuss any personal problems being encountered along the way. Your blood pressure can be checked and for the sum of 10 euros your HbA1c reading can be recorded. This should be done every three months. For more information call our HelpLine on Tel: 952 46 41 84 or EM: abowles@terra.es
ARCH & CHAIN Saturday Market Stalls include UK Foods, Cakes, Homemade Foods, Crafts, Gifts, Clothes, Bric-a-Brac, Jewellery, Health & Well Being Services Starts from Saturday 5th September 2009 11am - 2.30pm At JK’s Matchroom, Coin (with partial air con) Special Launch Theme, Natural Remedies, Health & Well Being Holistic Products & Advice Psychic Services For the Body, Mind & Soul NEW Kid’s Corner - Little PAWS! Enjoy shopping in peace at the market or La Trocha Supervised children’s area with activities & games Suitable for children aged 3 - 10 years Just €2.50 per hour per child (maximum 3½ hours) All Types of Stalls Welcome including NEW Businesses Contact Alan on 660220700 or Kelly on 666612043 for more info CHAIN more up and coming events 17th September: Garden Lunch at Aguamania, Cartama with a Legal Advice Session 18th September: Captains Day Challenge at the Bowls Club in Lauro Golf 26th September: Auction and Market at JK’s
Salon Varietes Theatre Opening Salons Autumn season is Eric Chappell’s ‘‘Natural Causes’’.This highly original Black Comedy by the author of ‘‘Rising Damp’’, introduces us to Vincent - who has an unusual occupation: his discovery of an odourless, tasteless, all-natural poison has turned him into a professional suicide merchant. Contracted by Walter Bryce, he arrives at the Bryces country house and mistakenly assumes that his product is for Walter's consumption. It becomes clear that Walter’s wife Celia is the client - or is she? Why are all her suicide letters typed and unsigned? After several thwarted attempts to poison various characters (resulting in the multiple poisonings of a rubber plant), will anyone actually manage to drink the poison? The cast includes established Salon regulars, Stephen Burns, Geoff Stansfield,Beckie Leedham and Trevor Cooper and introduces talented newcomer Xandra de Vos. Please join us for an evening of mistaken identities, hilarious consequences and some great laughs. Audition notice HABEAS CORPUS - a satirical comedy by Alan Bennett directed by Marie Legge the auditions will be held on SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26th 12noon-2.30pm production dates 20th-24th November cast required men and women varying in age from 20s upwards audition pieces available from the box office further info contact Marie Legge after sep 24th on
El Paraiso Country Club Restaurant & Bar Alternate, Saturday evening Cabaret Nights at El Paraiso Country Club, Benavista have proved so successful during the summer, that the entertainment programme has now been extended to the Autumn/Winter months. There are some great acts to come; Fabulous Frankie B & Helena Paul with Soul & Swing, Ricky Lavazza, The Blues Bros., Buddy Walker as the late, great Buddy Holly. Rob Stevens as Rod Stewart, Elton, Meatloaf etc. & Stephen Lloyd Morgan with ‘‘A Magical Night of Musical Theatre’’ to name but a few. Ideal for romantic evenings or to dine, dance and be entertained - in style. Now taking bookings for the Halloween Fancy Dress Party, Old Fashioned Traditional Christmas and ‘‘Black, White & Bling’’ New Year Gala Dinner. Also, if you are planning your dream Wedding, visit our dream location and come to our Wedding Fayre on 24th October. El Paraiso Country Club - perfect for Commitments, Blessings and all your special celebrations. The name El Paraiso Country Club is a long standing tradition & membership no longer applies. Everyone is welcome. Why not check out our advertisement on page ??? Pay us a visit and ‘step into paradise’ soon.
952 464 391 The next two productions at the theatre are: Natural Causes a black comedy by Eric Chappell directed by Leeroy Lingwood Fri 18th - Tues 22nd September followed by the ‘‘divinely decadent’’ musical Cabaret directed by Peter Mitchell - Fri 9th Oct - sun 18th Oct BOX OFFICE TEL; 95 247 45 42 Open weekdays 10.30-13-30 and 19-00-20-00 c/emancipacion, Fuengirola [off Church square] costa life 41
>> costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS ‘‘The Ark Christian Fellowship’’ to open new school in Fuengirola Many people along the coast may have heard of ‘‘The Ark Christian Fellowship’’ as it has been up and running for the last 15 years. The Ark is in the ‘‘Las Rampas commercial center’’ in Fuengirola, The Ark Christian fellowship is a whole lot more than just a church for many it is an oasis, a place to find friendship and help. The Ark house a large Scouting unit aged from 5 to 18 years, 2 mum’s and tots’ groups, a coffee shop and thrift shop, plus many other activities. The members of the Ark also feed, clothe and shower between 30 and 50 homeless a week, so as you can see it’s a fairly active place. Now you know who the Ark Christian fellowship it's time to introduce you to the new venture that the Ark in embarking on. The Ark Christian Fellowship are about to Open A SCHOOL!! For many years living and working here we (the Ark) have become aware of the many problems there are for parents living on the Coast in regard to the education of their children. We have seen many children demoralized and left feeling that they are failures, dropping out of school when they can with little or no qualifications. This is often through no fault of their own, for many it has been due to the structure of the education system which says that you have to pass all subjects to get ‘‘the end of school certificate’’ for others it has been because they and their parents do not have the level of understanding in Spanish needed to achieve the grades required. For many parents these school years have become nightmare years as the only option besides the state school is private international schooling, which is very costly and for many people living here the wages could never stretch that far. So after years of dreaming, praying and hoping we (the Ark) have come to the place where we are able to open a school. This school will be different, we hope, from other schools and will allow another option for some parents. The school will be called ‘‘The Ark Christian School’’ it is an education academy offering an alternative form of education, following the British Curriculum preparing students for IGCSE’s, NVQ’s and A levels. We will cater for children from pre-reception to senior. ‘‘The Ark Christian School’’ will be a registered nonprofit making organization which means that The fees will be lower and the profits will be fed back into the school. The desire is to have a school that is accessible to all; we are keeping the fees low and having a uniform policy that allows parents to purchase their child’s uniform wherever they want. It will be a small school with small mixed classes i.e. years 1/2 being taught together. Our ethos is to help children, regardless of their ability, race, colour or background, achieve their full potential. To encourage them to respect themselves, others and the world around them, to help them to realize that one person can make a difference! We Believe that God has made each person unique and special, that each child has a destiny, a purpose and a plan for life, our job is to help them achieve this! The Ark Christian School Will be situated in Navas 1, Calle Maestra Angeles Aspiazu, (next to Parque Los Naranjos), Fuengirola. If you would like more information regarding ‘‘The Ark Christian School’’ please phone Judy at 634 495 945 or e-mail
A Company You Can Trust If you are fortunate enough to own a holiday home here on the coast what do you do to ensure that the property is perfectly maintained and ready to use when you fly out? Trying to liaise with with all the people necessary to maintain the property from your home country can be a nightmare when you don't speak the language, you don’t know who to use and you cannot be there to ensure work is carried out on time and satisfactorily. The solution is to use a local property management company to oversee all work and cleaning making sure that you enjoy your property when you are on holiday. First Impressions is a family business which will take away the hassle associated with owning a property overseas and not being on hand to look after it. Recognising this need Jenny Davis and her daughter Sara have created First Impressions, a business dedicated to making owning a property in the Marbella area a more pleasurable proposition. They have many years experience of looking after properties for non resident owners. They have a carefully selected team of cleaners, gardeners and handymen who can resolve all problems relating to your property. All aspects of property maintenance are covered, from gardening to cleaning to building work. The properties which are managed after are typically luxury villas and penthouses requiring the utmost attention to detail.The range of services offered include regular property checks, the provision of food packs, laundry and cleaning services and the management of building professionals for repairs and reforms. Jenny Davis says ‘many of our clients are extremely successful people who value their time accordingly and it makes financial sense for someone else to manage their property locally rather than attempt to do it themselves. The fees they pay are insignificant relative to the value of their properties and the time they save by utilising our service.’ Both Jenny and Sara are ‘hands on’ when it comes to getting a property ready for the owner to use or when an emergency arises and they can call on a large team of dependable tradesmen to resolve any issues. Recent ‘emergencies’ resolved quickly include a leaking roof top plunge pool, a wireless internet issue and an overloaded electrical system. All were resolved within 24 hours meaning that no further problems were created - which can happen when an owner is not resident and a small problem turns into a big expensive problem. So why not let the professionals look after your property and so that you can relax when you come out to Spain and when you are not using your property.
schooladimn@thearkspain.com The Ark Christian School, Helping to give children a hope and a future.
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Jenny : 629238805 Sara : 630743690
costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS >> I would like to introduce to you our brand new treatment from the UK - ULTRASONIC LIPOSUCTION. Lose fat without surgery with a new ultrasound method which melts away fat. The breakthrough method of loosing fat and getting a better figure means that surgery is no longer necessary for body sculpting. Lipo is a painless non-surgical ultrasound treatment to remove fat and reshape your body. Lipo can be carried out on men and women, it is not a method of reducing weight, rather a way to remove fatty deposits which persist despite a healthy and active life.
Hollie
Michele
Lisa
Abi
HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY!!!!! KISS has just celebrated its 5th anniversary! Where does the time go? Lisa would like to thank all KISS clients old and new, for their continued support and even though things are tough out there - we are still here! I would also like to show my appreciation to all the girls here at KISS, we have a fantastic team and all your hard work is greatly appreciated. If you have not visited the salon before, bring this advert and receive a 20% discount off any of our treatments. We offer a full range of hairdressing from gents to high lights, beauty treatments including Clarins facials, pamper packages, spray tan, teeth whitening and the new ULTRASONIC LIPOSUCTION. We have a stand up sun bed, and retail a variety of products from GHD’s, hair products and the new ADIOS MAX slimming tablets. We are in the Las Rampas centre opposite the Ark Fellowship.
Each course of treatment consists of 6 to 12 sessions with 1-3 weeks between visits so the complete course is completed in 8-12 weeks. Lipo uses gentle focused ultrasound waves to remove fat cells permanently. Once removed, these cells will not re-grow. Ultrasound waves painlessly disrupt the walls of the cells containing fat found below the skin within the sub-cutaneous fat layer, while other tissues such as blood cells and nerves are unharmed. As fat cells are not able to multiply, once removed they will not return helping to maintain a long term fat reduction. (In other words, if you take ‘‘love handles’’ away once, you can forget them forever, the fat cells will not return or re grow, so that is a permanent effect. Please remember Lipo is not an excuse to eat more or exercise
EVENT Mother, baby and toddler show comes to the Coast An exciting new two-day event for young families on the Coast. Taking place at the Palacio de Congresos, Estepona, on Friday 9th October and Saturday 10th October, the show offers a great day out with free seminars and workshops on baby health and nutrition, sleeping issues, baby and child development and more - all designed to help raise a healthy, happy and confident child. Visitors can attend free workshops and seminars, watch the maternity and toddler fashion shows with the latest in both practical and stylish maternity and children´s wear, have a luxury manicure or a relaxing massage on site and sample the latest products and services on offer for expectant mums, babies and toddlers. The show is designed to offer expectant mums, and young families living on the Coast with a one-stop-shop to find out everything you need to know about having a baby and raising a family on the Coast. From choosing where to have the baby, medical care and support, decorating the nursery, buying the essential equipment from prams and car seats to clothing and toys, through to finding out what activities are on offer - from baby swimming to places to go for a day out, singing and dancing classes, nurseries and schools, specialist clothing and footwear.
less, the long term effects and results are in your hands.
>> Which areas can be helped? Lipo is used to restyle your body, rather than directly reduce weight. We all know how difficult it is to loose fat in stubborn areas such as ‘‘love handles’’, lower abdomen and outer thighs. Lipo is ideal for these targeted areas, helping to smooth contours and reshape your figure. Areas where Lipo can help are: waistline, abdomen, love handles. Advantages of Lipo: Shown great success in treating waist, abdomen, outer thighs and hips and love handles Pain free procedure requires no anaesthetic Non-surgical and non invasive No down time - patients can return to normal day to day activities immediately No risk of infection, scarring, bruising and irregularities Each treatment only lasts 45minutes to one hour and half Lipo is now available at KISS, our therapist will be holding clinics here every Thursday. We offer a free, no obligation consultation, this is an opportunity for us to learn more about what you want to achieve, and answer any questions you may have. Hope to see you soon!!!
With over 50 exhibitors, Mother, Baby & Toddler offers delegates a unique opportunity to come along and find out about all aspects of having a baby and raising a family on the Coast. A great fun day out, with lots to see and do for the whole family, why not book your tickets now at www.motherbabyandtoddler.co.uk. Tickets cost €8 per day per family, but if you register in advance you can attend for FREE. Your ticket includes access to the show including all workshops and seminars, ticket to the fashion shows and cookery demonstrations, and a FREE delegate welcome pack containing special offers, free samples and your exclusive edition of the Mother, Baby & Toddler Event Guide with all details of exhibitors. For more information, or to exhibit at the show, please call Lisa Campbell on 664 560 590 or visit the website www.motherbabyandtoddler.co.uk. Email us at lisa@motherbabyandtoddler.co.uk
Search for the Face of Mother, Baby & Toddler Mother, Baby & Toddler, in association with tc fotografia, are launching a search to find the three faces of Mother, Baby & Toddler. We are looking for a Mother, a baby and a toddler who each represent that special time. If you would like to take part, or would like to enter your baby or toddler, please contact Toni for a FREE screening at tc fotografia studios. All entries to be submitted prior to the event taking place, and winners will be announced at the show. Your prize will be a beautifully framed print of the winning photograph. www.tcfotografia.com For details, and to book your session tel. 952 865 509
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>> costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS Marbella Beauty Academy Marbella Beauty Academy strives to achieve the highest standards. Students train in a spa environment, using known Professional brands and state of the art modern equipment, allowing the students to move from an educational situation into the work environment with ease. MBA offers C.I.B.T.A.C qualifications recognized worldwide, which can be attained in the Beauty, Body and Alternative therapy fields, which lead you to a career and not just a job. If you are a school leaver or thinking about a career change, we offer full and part time courses, in this varied and ever changing industry. This year has seen a high demand, for the Aesthetics Diploma, which incorporates all UK Level 2 manicure, pedicure, waxing and Level 3 facial electrical treatments. Our flexible modules have been very popular with mature students, as it can be studied part time, thus fitting in around children and work. MBA would like to thank their past and present students and wish them luck in their future careers. Our students have had their hard work rewarded by jobs in their chosen vocations and we are also pleased but sad to say Bon Voyage, to several of our students that will be joining Steiner on their luxury cruise ships. The one day workshops have not only been great fun, but a way of people obtaining or trying a new skill. The next Indian Head Massage course is on 19th September is filling up fast, so book now. The 20hr Make-Up class was also well received by hairdressers and manicurists, wanting to offer an additional service to their clients. Due to the high demand, will be holding the next course on 17th September open to everyone, with no entry requirement needed. On behalf of the educational team we welcome our new 2009-2010 students to the Marbella Beauty Academy. If you feel, it is time for new careers please call the Marbella Beauty Academy and see where you could be in a year’s time. Please call 951 96 9070 or email info@marbellabeautyacademy.com Our summer hours are Mon, Tue, Wed and Thur 11.00- 3.00 and Fri 10.00-1.30
Facial Salon
Body Class
My time at the Marbella Beauty Academy was great and full lovely moments. Giselle & Jane are two people that mean a lot to me. They really help me to achieve my dream and I know there are always there for me. They really help me to achieve my dream and I know there are always there for me, when I need them.
When I decided on a career change, Make-up was my first choice, but after a chat with Jane, I realized it was important to understand all aspects of skincare and so my decision to be a Facialist was born. I was very nervous studying again at the age of 37, but I am glad I did, as I loved every minute of it!!
When I started on my course my dream, was to join Steiner and work on board one their luxury Spas, I had my interview on Thursday and I am now waiting for my C.I.B.T.A.C. exam results!!
Once on the course, I decided to add Waxing, Manicure & Pedicure, in with my Facials as these treatments are in high demand.
Thank-you very much for all your support and your trust. Good Luck with next year.!!! Alex C
One day Workshop I recently did the BABTAC Spray Tan BABTAC training course, as I wanted to put another edge to my business. The results spoke for themselves, as at the weekend, I was at the beach and had people approach me, to tell me what an amazing colour I was and to ask, what tanning products I used. When I explained about the secret of my tan, they have now been converted to clients!!
Giselle & Jane have always been there for me and I'll never forget my year with them!!! A big thank-you to you both Bernice W
Spray it, Fake it, all year round!! I joined the Marbella Beauty Academy, for their one day Indian Head Massage course, as I had always been interested in this subject. I wanted to do this day's course so I could treat my family and friends, to this fabulous ancient Indian treatment. I have never looked back. Kind regards, see you all in September!
EVENT Estepona floral art club Estepona Floral Art Club has now moved to new premises! We are now at The Benavista Country Club, Benavista, Estepona. Estepona Floral Art Club commences its Autumn Programme on Tuesday September 15th from 3.00p.m - 5.00p.m. at, The Benavista Country Club, Benavista, Estepona, N340 Km 167. (Behind the shops near the tennis courts) We are pleased to welcome James Burnside, from County Londonderry, Ireland, a NAFAS National Demonstrator. James will also be holding an ‘Informal Teaching Class’ on Monday 14th September at The Benavista Country Club, Estepona, N340, from, 11.00a.m 2.00 p.m. Lunch will be available for those who wish to stay on after the class and have the opportunity to speak with the demonstrator.
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Studding again was the best decision I have ever made and I am really excited about the future, and that is mainly due to Jane being such an excellent teacher and never gave us a boring lesson all year!!
Nail Technicians off to work on Steiner luxury cruise ships
This event is always well supported and is worthwhile attending. Please contact the Chairman to secure a place for this event. Estepona Floral Art Club hosted their ‘‘Fashion & Flowers’’ event in June at the Benavista Country Club, which was a great success and enjoyed by everyone who attended, we hope to organize another event in the near future. We were delighted to be able to donate to the Charity, Motor Neuron Disease a total of €258.00. Well done everyone! Estepona Floral Art Club has enjoyed their summer break and now looks forward to seeing all members and visitors at the September Meeting. For more information on the above demonstration and forthcoming events, please contact our Chairman, Anne Atkinson, on Tel. 952 890 352. Or check the Website www.bestofmarbella.com for further information about our forthcoming events.
costa BUSINESS, CHARITIES & EVENTS >>
Bev and Jean celebrated their 1st anniversary on Saturday 29th August at the Phoenix Lounge in La Cala Hills. As usual the bar was buzzing with both locals and tourists who just cannot seem to get enough of the ambience and delights on offer at their bar, which is open Monday to Saturday 1pm till late. Their first year of trading has seen the two birds go from strength to strength. As well as catering for numerous private birthday parties the girls have also hosted a christening party and a Spanish wedding party for Louz and Louis and unfortunately, more recently a funeral of a very clear and respected regular customer who will be sadly missed by all at the bar. In conjunction with the girl’s celebration of their first year as business partners their chef Nigel celebrated his 50th birthday party (many of you will remember Nigel from Silks restaurant) Nigel prepares and cooks culinary delights at the Phoenix that will blow your taste buds away. For those of you who have not yet been to sample the
extensive hot and cold tapas menu or the ‘‘specials board’’ options then this is a serious must for a top quality feasting session that will leave you well and truly ‘‘Phoenixed’’!! Food is available daily between 1.00pm and 9.00pm. The girls also now have their own golf society ‘‘The Phoenix Nomads’’ (in conjunction with the Village Inn at Mijas). The society play every Monday at Cala Nova Golf - all new members are very welcome and good discounts for golf are on offer. The golf session is followed by a well earned drinking session, ‘‘happy hour’’ at the Phoenix of course, which happens to be every day between 6.00pm and 7.00pm when a 50% discount applies to all beers, wines and spirits. The phoenix Lounge has a bright and sunny terrace that reflects the personalities of all our staff who work so hard to give their customers the best and most friendly service. In addition to the air conditioning and comfortable seating area, all major sports are shown including ESPN and the bar also has WIFI. What more could you ask for? Pay the birds a visit as the Phoenix has landed! The warm and friendly bar where a warm welcome always awaits you. Bev and Jean would like to thank all of their customers both old and new for their continued support and they are looking forward to their second year at the Phoenix.
So, for top-to-toe pampering and beauty care, look no further than Über Spain.
Über and The Natural Sea Sponge Company… perfectly matched! The Über range of beauty products is now complemented by the fantastic range of bath and body products from The Natural Sea Sponge Company.
You’ll find our products in selected beauty salons along the coast, as well as Madrid, Alicante and Zaragoza if you’re travelling further afield, but why not visit www.uberespana.com and see for yourself the full Über range and the selection from The Natural Sea Sponge Company. Our head therapist would be pleased to answer any beauty and body care related questions you may have… please email info@uberespana.com and you will receive a personal answer by return, plus a special introductory discount offer for the online shop.
EVENT Mike Varty’s 60th Birthday Mike Varty, an entrepreneur from Weybridge, Surrey celebrated his 60th birthday on the Costa. Mike was surrounded by 60 close friends; one for each year, at Villa Tiberio including Max Clifford, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and Jane McDonald. Mike asked not for presents, but donations for the Chase Children’s Hospice in Guilford, Surrey which meant they raised several thousands of pounds for the hospice. Mike who through his nightclub and restaurant businesses in the UK has a host of stars and celebs as friends was one of the founders of the Hilda Baker Appreciation Society which now has over 500,000 members world wide.
ÜBER SPAIN Tel FREEPHONE Based in London, The Natural Sea Sponge Company has for many years specialised in the sourcing, processing and packaging of natural sea sponges.
900 804561 / 952 834552 / 952 906702 email info@uberespana.com www.uberespana.com
Complete quality control is assured, where the raw product goes through a 42 hand stage production process. With successful expansion, the product range now includes a fine collection of superior personal bath care accessories, using natural products sourced from 23 countries.
Back Row (left-right)- Fay Varty, Max Clifford, Jane McDonald, Jo Westwood, Sandro Morelli, Cilla Black, Cliff Richard and Lisa Varty Font row (l-r)- Craig, Mike, Jan and Paul Varty
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>> costa HOMES
advice
property, legal and finance
On the problems of the real estate market I Developers’ bankruptcy proceedings It is quite possible that our readers may have considered purchasing a new apartment, villa or townhouse off-plan. This option was especially popular amongst British buyers, taking advantage of the favourable exchange rate enjoyed by the pound until recently, and considering a scenario of reduced interest rates (currently existing after months of uncertainty and extraordinary Euribor upturns). Thus, thousands of Englishspeaking families have destined all their savings to purchasing a home in Spain.
For years, most of the stories had a happy ending, and the purchaser would come to enjoy or re-sell the home more or less as planned. The system worked despite the scarce protection and there were not many cases that had to be taken to court in order to recover the payments made in advance. However, in the real estate sector there have always been some (the minority) ‘‘entrepreneurs’’who, blinded by ambition, did not stick to the rules of the game, selling houses without licenses, not guaranteeing the advance payments or publishing advertising that hid the true features of the product, and the legal protection system began to flounder. The lawyers who are hired to represent a buyer in the purchase operation have the duty to make the necessary background checks and advise the clients of the risks that may be entailed, as they must honour the trust placed in them by the client, which must lead them in their line of work to even recommend that the buyer not purchase the chosen home because the developer does not provide sufficient guarantees. In spite of this, clients will persist in acquiring their ‘‘dream home’’ and will not listen to their lawyer’s advice. This situation was not that common in the past, because the protection system worked or the real estate market evolved at breakneck speed, so that certain market circumstances were not that foreseeable.
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From the time that the magazine’s director commissioned this article on the real estate market until today, one piece of news makes me quiver: the bankruptcy declaration of the developer AIFOS, which proves the dreadful management of the company that has harmed so many families, retaining their money on developments that have either not been and will not be built or will never be delivered as they should be. This company is an example of what should never be done in the real estate world and their actions turned out to be the source of ‘‘inspiration’’ for the two books that Cyclo Formación has published this year, regarding the problems that may be faced by someone who purchases a home off-plan if it is not delivered within the agreed time period. Both of these books are manuals mainly aimed for lawyers who are interested in or who work with the real estate sector. The first one, ‘‘La ejecución de avales de la Ley 57/1968’’ (‘‘The execution of bank guarantees of the Law 57/1968’’), regarding the procedures in the case that the home is not delivered if the compulsory guarantee is held for over 40 years. In this work you will not find any reference to the aforementioned company, because the obligation of guaranteeing the money that it received simply never existed for this company, in just another disregard for legislation by this enterprise, which our offices have had to take to court on many occasions. The second book, ‘‘Resolución de contratos con cantidades entregadas a cuenta para la construcción’’ (‘‘Termination of contracts with sums paid in advance for construction’’), analyses an old law, article by article, which since 1968 should comprise a special protection system for those who acquire a home off-plan, paying sums in advance to the developer to achieve their dream of owning a home. A system that does not always work and which is not always correctly interpreted by legal figures and which is conveniently commented on in the book. The system of purchasing off-plan has always been the way for young people to have a home, and in our professional experience we have had close contact with the tragedy of many people who destined all of their savings and a large part of their life to the aim of sharing a life together and they now see that their dream home will never be delivered. In many cases, it was possible to recover the money, but the psychological damage caused to the family in question is not repaired with the compensation that may be obtained under this concept.
With our manuals we are demanding a new and genuine protection system for those who pursue the dream of having a home by financing its construction because we can not allow that, being the first to pay, they are the last (or almost) to receive back part of what was invested in a developer who has declared bankruptcy. We can not allow for the law to be broken and that these advance payments are received without the compulsory bank guarantees. We can not allow that the legal system, which is obsolete, does not provide the due guarantees of an efficient result within a reasonable timeframe (currently neither efficient nor reasonable). Thousands of families must become involved in the next few days in the AIFOS bankruptcy proceedings. They must notify their credits, show up in person if they deem it convenient, and defend themselves from the appalling management of the constructor’s administrators, the developer and the many legal tricks that they will try during the proceedings in order to save their personal assets. All of this must be carried out through a lawyer (and probably a barrister) and at Cyclo Abogados this is something that we do well. The process is lengthy and complex and every step must be well thought-out. There is no advantage to rushing, provided that the credit is notified within the established timeframe (one month from publication of the bankruptcy documents in the Official State Gazette). It is recommended to appear in person in the proceedings in order to see what is happening within, and to discover how the responsibility of the debts is derived towards the managers that caused them and who, with their decision to not guarantee the deposits, have harmed so many families. Neither should the public administrations look away (as they will) because with their inactivity they have led to the worsening of the problem. We hope that a lesson is learned from this experience and that the laws are changed in order to protect what is currently still the best way to acquire a new home. Carlos Cómitre Couto Lawyer www.cyclo.es info@cyclo.es
>> costa HOMES
Be Bold Be Spanish by Annika Jonsson BLOND of Scandinavia
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costa HOMES >> Let’s be influenced by the culture and atmosphere of glorious Spain. Why not create your own little Spanish paradise? Why not make a real statement and go bold and vibrant? Those old, rustic haciendas, with their Spanish décor, that seem to have been here forever, are, I would say, always very welcoming. They are colourful, relaxed, inviting and have a solid sense of family. Spanish Mediterranean colours are rich and earthy, drawn from nature. Bring in the reds and oranges of terracotta with tiles, fabrics, pottery, leather, ceramics and wood. Also, use shades of faded green and blue to bring the outside in. Don’t be strict - be very casual. One of the charms of this style is that it has been formed for a long time without any thought of interior design. This type of Spanish ‘‘design’’ or ‘‘way of living’’, I would say, is wonderfully warm and friendly, easy to live with and quite easy to achieve in your own home. Just follow this quick guide.
>> Walls To get an authentic, rustic look, for your Spanish style, start with a textured base for your walls. You can create this with a ‘‘stucco’’ style plaster on your walls, or a textured paint. Alternatively, you could ask your builder to render the walls with a rustic finish. Choose vibrant, rustic colour with a Mediterranean feel - reds, yellows, oranges,
pinks, blues, greens and browns. Try to get them to look a bit faded to get the proper look. You could also colour wash them. You use a paler base coat, then a darker shade of the same colour for the top coat. Using a cloth or brush, add the slightly diluted top coat in random swirls or strokes. It takes a bit of practice to get the look you are happy with, but it will look effective.
The Spanish very rarely use curtains >> Floors Choose hard flooring, never a wall-to-wall carpet, to get the Spanish look. Ceramic tiles, terracotta tiles or hardwood flooring are all very good. On top of this, you can put vibrant, ethnic-style rugs to create the warm and cosy look.
ago, people made their own furniture, and the furniture that was well-made, still exists today. Nothing can beat this when it comes to the rustic, Spanish style. I, myself, sell wooden furniture that is between 3 and 10 cm thick. All the furniture is solid and made of recycled teak. So even if it hasn’t been used for a hundred years the wood still has a history.
>> Fabrics The Spanish very rarely use curtains. They use wooden Venetian blinds or wooden shutters instead. On the other hand, they use a lot of tapestries, which they hang on the walls. This helps to create a warm and welcoming feel. They are also very particular about and proud of their bed covers. I know this because here in Mijas Pueblo, every year in June, we have a special day when everybody hangs their bed cover, with their finest shale on top, out of their window. This, I have been told, is a tradition to show your wealth.
>> Accessories >> Furniture Choose good quality, rustic furniture. Remember, it should last for a very long time, and I mean a very long time. It should be there for your children and even your grand children. Good quality wooden furniture always looks better with time, when it shows a bit of history. A long time
Wrought iron is a fantastic material to use for your Spanish interior design style. Choose wrought iron for chandeliers, wall lights, wall sconces and candlesticks. Also very striking is wrought iron wall art. It could simply be a copy of a wheel for example. This goes very well together with the iron grills you have on your windows.
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>> costa HOMES Some local art-work looks very good as well. You should go around to the local galleries, or artists, and buy something that you like. This is not an investment; it's solely a decorative element that will give your home a personal touch.
Choose vibrant, rustic colour with a Mediterranean feel >> Garden As I wrote in an earlier article, your choice of plants should be random, the same with the urns and pots. Don’t ‘‘design’’ your garden with colour schemes, just buy the plant you like or get some shoots from your neighbour. If you continue like this for a while, you will end up with a garden full of colours and scents just like the Spanish. Whichever style you choose, if you follow these easy steps you will end up with wonderfully bright, vibrant, warm and friendly feel. It is a very striking look, and I am sure it will give you a huge emotional uplift every time you come home. So have a try - and bring some happiness and colour back into your home and into your life. Just remember that those Spanish homes are usually very old, and in those times they didn’t have all the modern techniques we are used to today. And most importantly, they have never seen a spirit level! When I bought an old country house in the south of Sweden some years ago it needed total renovation. The first thing I did was to tell my builder that the use of the spirit level was banned! Yes, he did look at me in that strange way that country people usually do when they meet ‘‘city’’ people, but the end result was, if I may say so, stunning. My local builder totally agreed, and we are now best friends. >> PS. My cat Otto sends his love but has no comment this time. He says it’s too hot to do any work whatsoever.
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AP585: Pretty country house located on the edge of a village on 3,850m2 of irrigated, flat, fully fenced land. The accommodation comprises lounge with woodburning stove, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and shower room, 72m2 buit. Mains water & electricity are connected.Ideal for cultivation or equestrian pursuits. Excellent access and pretty views.
PRICE: 122,400€ €
AP569: Very pretty detached house within El Chorro village with stunning views to the Gorge and the famous Caminito del Rey. Lounge with French windows leading out to glorious terrace,kitchen, utility room, separate sitting room, 2 double bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. Mains electricity, water & drainage are connected. The location of this property makes it an ideal buy for rock climbers, walkers, birdwatchers etc.Fantastic price to include most of the furniture & fittings.
PRICE: 110,000€ €
AP596: Complete 3 level townhouse on a desirable corner location. At street level there is a commercial unit suitable for a variety of business uses with electricity & water connected. On the 1st floor there is a bright double aspect lounge open plan kitchen & a bathroom. On the 2nd floor are 2 large bedrooms and a staircase leading to a glorious roof terrace. 108m2 built. Great opportunity to buy a home and potential business at a bargain price!
PRICE: 115,000€ €
AP471: Charming ruin set on 11,265m2 of semi-flat land with a full project and permission to build a 2 storey, 145m2 house. When renovated it will provide lounge, separate sitting room, kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and separate W.C. Mains electricity & well water. An ideal location for an accessible rural retreat with stunning views to the Sierra de las Nieves mountain range. Further reduced to an absolute bargain price.
PRICE: 75,000€ €
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To advertise here call 952 492 250 or email sales@costalifemagazine.com
>> costa HOMES >> Spain is to set up framework for online gaming, to comply with EU regulations
news report
financial
Two working groups are being set up to determine a workable strategy that will introduce and maintain a regulated online gambling industry. The two groups are made up of the government and the gaming industry. The interaction that is happening with Spain’s government is an insight to the money generated through licences, taxes etc. It is thought the Spanish licences will be for a five-year period and, pending regulations being met, an application for a further five-year renewal will be possible. The regulations will include safeguards to protect those under age or vulnerable from participating in gambling. The conference will clarify the technical and operational requirements of the market and help the industry operate successfully in Spain, as well as potentially identify business partnerships and opportunities. Elena Salgado, Spain’s Economy Minister, warns banks not to be frugal in lending. Spain's Economy Minister Elena Salgado said in August Spanish banks risk prolonging the country's recession if they are over cautious in lending. Salgado said banks had to strike a balance between risk aversion and supporting households and companies. She called on them to fund half of a new 20 billion euro sustainable economy plan aimed at stoking recovery. 'Excessive prudence could end up being counterproductive and aggravate the recession even more,' Salgado said in a speech to a financial conference organized by Spanish bank Caja Madrid. Her comments follow warnings by other European policymakers that economic recovery may be delayed by a credit crunch.
>> Number of bankruptcies in the construction industry fall in Spain. The first improvement in years. The number of bankruptcies of construction firms, located at historic highs since the fourth quarter of 2007, has begun to give signs of improvement between April and June this year for the first time since the industry began its decline. According to the latest figures from the National Statistics Institute (INE), builders and promoters who could not meet their debt between April and June totalled 453 firms, 4.63% less than in the first quarter, representing the first inter trimestrial decline since the second quarter of 2007. However, despite the moderation in credit losses, the construction sector continues to be the number one industry in which bankruptcies occur, with 32.1% of the total, despite the decrease of 4% in April to June. With the outbreak of the economic crisis and the burst housing bubble a lot of Spanish construction companies or related industry began to have serious funding problems and a significant number of them were forced to suspend payments.
>> Record decline in mortgage applications Spanish mortgage lending dropped 33.4 percent year-onyear in May 2009, as the downward trend levels off slightly from the previous month's record contraction, the government's National Statistics Institute said in August. Mortgage lending in May fell to 6.98 billion Euros amid continuing redundancies and falling house prices.
The average value of mortgages during May was 14.4 percent lower than a year earlier at 135,749 Euros. The data followed a record decline in mortgage applications of 52.6 percent in April and a 32.2 percent fall in sales of residencies in the same month. Spain’s housing market, which provided the motor for a decade of vigorous growth, has gone into a deepfreeze as banks continue to restrict lending.
>> Spain to give 5 million Euros to Ethiopian aid plan for child nutrition The Ethiopian News Agency said the UN children’s agency UNICEF and UN World Food Programme would run the projects in 16 districts in coordination with Ethiopia’s Health Ministry. The United Nations, which has given Addis Ababa $6-million from a global emergency fund this year, said that 6.2-million Ethiopians might need emergency food aid in 2009 due to poor rainfall in some parts of the impoverished country. The number of Ethiopians needing emergency food supplies last year was 4.9-million. The UN children’s agency UNICEF says it has treated 62,000 severely malnourished Ethiopian children this year and expects the number in danger to rise. France donated 500,000 Euros in August to treat 10,000 severely malnourished children in Ethiopia.
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Ref. LPE_201: Amazing medieval castle situated in the Chianti region of Italy. Comprising of 52 hectares of land of which 18 hectares are vineyard. Producing 65,000 bottles of wine. 20 luxurious rooms. Completely renovated in 1994. This is a fantastic opportunity for gracious living or wonderful business. Price: 15,000,000 euros
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Ref. LPE_167: Amazing views from this lovely three bedroomed, two bath finca that is in beautiful condition. Situated close to Alhaurin el Grande the 130 m² house is situated on a 5,000 plus plot in the best area and has beames lounge, American style kitchen etc. The plot is fenced and gated with an attractive swimming pool, fully legal and at a give away price. Yours for 269,000 euros
A great buy at 365,000 euros
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>> costa HOMES
Private Passions By Simon Hill
P
assion Flower vines in their huge varieties have long been popular with gardening enthusiasts. They are often used to cover unsightly fencing or to smother a pergola, where many of the species can fill the air with heady scents. Passion Flowers (Passiflora in Latin) gained their name from the anatomical characteristics of its flowers thought to symbolise the Passion of Christ.
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costa HOMES >> Over 400 known species of Passiflora originate from South and Central America and the Caribbean islands. Although a great many species require tropical conditions there are a large number that will thrive in our Mediterranean climate.
P. ‘Incense’
By far the most common species in cultivation both here and in other parts of Europe is the blue flowered Passiflora caerulea. A white form is available, delightfully named ‘Constance Elliot’. Growth of this vine is often rampant and, once established, it will attempt to extend its grip on your garden by suckering from its tuberous root system. So beware when planting this species; you may well have your work cut out controlling its spread. The plant is quite hardy, surviving transient frosts down to -15° C, although such extremes would defoliate plants and survival cannot be guaranteed in cases of persistent frost.
Passiflora edulis
Passion Fruit
Ripening Passion Fruit
Most species of Passion Flower develop edible fruit, and P. caerulea is no exception with masses of yellow egg-shaped fruit that develop after flowering. However, Passiflora edulis, the Passion Fruit, is what is commonly bought in supermarkets and valued highly for its delicious pulp. The flowers of these two vines are similar in size and colour. Both carry a mild scent for those with a keen nose, although I have never found it particularly striking. As readers will know, I am often frustrated at the limited availability of plants in garden centres around our region. Several years ago, I came across plants of a red Passion Flower, Passiflora vitifolia, the vine-leaved Passion Flower. Naturally, I wasted no time in buying one in the knowledge that I would be unlikely to find it again. How true this fear was. I have since failed to propagate this plant vegetatively and, although it flowers profusely, it has never set fruit of its own accord. Nature was clearly not playing its part in the sexual processes of my ‘Passion’ vine. In its native habitat of western South America, its flowers are pollinated by Humming Birds. In many cases, birds usually warblers - quickly adapt to take nectar from and pollinate flowers of these non-native plants. This is true of my Emu Bush (Eremophila sp., native to Australia). I often spy a Sardinian warbler sucking nectar from its flowers. If only this could happen in the case of my red Passion Flower, its chances of setting fruit might be improved.
Recently, I discovered another specimen of P. vitifolia in a friend’s garden. I was able to pick some of its flowers and to crosspollinate my plant by hand. Almost immediately, fruit began to swell, and several small melon-like fruit were produced. P. vitifolia is deciduous in colder winters. The books report that it requires a minimum temperature of 8°C to 10°C for survival. In my own experience, short bouts of frost and the coldest of our winter gales have led to no damage. Stems reach lengths of up to 15 metres. Like so many climbing plants, this particular Passion Flower is best seen growing wildly in a tree or trailing through shrubs or down a bank. An unexpected scarlet flower in one’s path is always a delight. Flowering begins in mid-spring and lasts well into winter. Each scarlet blossom carries a subtle fragrance. There are many hybrids among Passiflora species. One that is considered to be one of the stars of the scented Passion Flowers is Passiflora ‘Incense’. Once established, this fast grower bears outstanding violet flowers that are edged with delicately tasselled petals. Throughout our hot summer, these produce an intense and heady scent. This species is as vigorous as most Passion Flowers, tolerating temperatures as low as 8° C, but only for short periods. The additional wind chill factor that we can suffer inland during winter greatly exacerbates the effects of frost and can scupper the chances of succeeding with this and other species of Passion Flower, not forgetting many other tender ornamental vines grown in our region. Shelter from cold north winds is very important. My scarlet Passion Flower grows over my terrace, sheltered by the house and a high wall. Many of us try to create gardens that are exuberant and luxurious. Passion Flowers are some of those plants that have a tropical look with luxuriant flowers and an abundance of foliage that can live happily in our climatic conditions and meet the seasonal challenges they are faced with. Please feel free to contact Simon Hill with questions or to seek advice: FINCAROSABLANCA@telefonica.net
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>> costa STUFF
As blind as a Bat
B
by Erny Harrison
ats are often mistaken as belonging to the rodent family and are even classified as insects by some people.
In fact, bats are mammals, belonging to the order chiroptera, which comes from the Greek words cheir, meaning hand and pteron: wing. Their forelimbs or fingers have developed into wings, with a membrane between the fingers. It allows them to fly substantial distances. By flapping their wings and using the membrane between the fifth finger and the body, they can go up and down. By changing the shape of the membrane between the first and fifth finger they go forward. Bats are the only mammals in the world who can fly (birds are not mammals). The animals, of which there are more than 1100 species, range from the Giant Golden Crown Flying Fox, with a wingspan of 4 ft 11 in and a weight of approx 3lb, to the tiny Kitti-Hognosed Bat, which manages no more than 0.07 oz. in weight and has a wingspan of 1.30 in. Unfortunately, you have to go to Indonesia to see the Giant Flying Fox. Spain is not lucky enough to have such impressive bats. Here, we have to be content with only 27 different kinds, but at least we have one of the rarest species in Europe: the bird eating Greater Noctule Bat (Nyctalus lagiopterus), a member of the small number of carnivorous bats.
Under the supervision of Carlos Iba単ez of the Do単ana Biological Institute, 14,000 faecal examples of over 200 bats throughout Spain were analysed. All of them showed the remains of insects. On average, a bat will eat up to 1,000 mosquitoes in only one hour. Reason enough to invite some into your garden! 45% however, also contained traces of bird feathers during the migration periods in spring and autumn, when millions of migratory birds fly through the Mediterranean Basin on their way to Africa and Northern Europe. Outside these seasons, no remains were found.
Bats are the only mammals in the world who can fly The bats catch the birds in mid flight and drag them down to the ground. Their enormous sharp teeth, necessary to go through the hard skin of fruits and nuts, make short thrift of their prey. It is of course more economical to catch just one bird, than to have to fly around at all hours, scooping up insects.
Bats are very interesting animals. Without them, we probably would not have bananas, figs, mangos, dates and other exotic fruits as they rely solely on bats for pollination and seed dispersal. Bats also help to re-seed forests. They are nocturnal animals that fly at night and in the very early morning. Bats can't sit like other mammals; they have to sleep upside down, their feet anchored to branches of trees or in caves. It made drinking a bit complicated as they could not lean over to fill with water, but being highly intelligent, they soon found a way: they fly very low over water and scoop it up in their fur. Hanging upside down, the liquid dribbles into their mouth! The female bat makes an excellent mother. Mating usually takes place once a year in the spring, but that doesn't mean she will give birth when her time has come. Depending on her environment, and the availability of food and roosting nests, she may decide to leave the fertilised egg free in the reproductive tract until such time that she considers the optimum for giving birth. With, on average, only one offspring, bats are the slowest reproductive mammals of their size on earth, which makes them very vulnerable to extinction. The offspring will be cared for by the mother until he is an adult and his wingspan has grown large enough for his size to enable him to hunt on his own. The hearing of the bat is based on an echo system, also called sonar. Using mouth and nose the bat will emit high frequency sounds. When the noise hits an object, an echo is bounced off. The bat needs no more than this to be able to identify the object, its size, shape and texture, however small it may be. They use their echo system to navigate in the dark and to find food.
Greater Noctule Bat 60 costa life
costa STUFF >> To avoid eating poisonous frogs, they listen to the mating calls of frogs, which differ between the species. To make it difficult to find them, frogs hide away and only emit very short calls, to which the echo system can not react.
>> They carry rabies
There are some very strong and very wrong myths about this animal, which should be expelled:
>> They fly in your hair Not true. Their perfect sonar system would forbid it.
>> They are dirty For cleanliness, bats must be compared to cats, as they spend as much time in grooming and washing. Bats hate being dirty.
All animals can carry rabies. Less than one percent of bats carry rabies.
Research is being done into the saliva of the Vampire Bat, because there is a strong possibility that it can help people with heart problems.
>> They are aggressive
>> Blind as a bat
They are not. No bat will attack, unless provoked. Of course, if you pick one up or touch it, it may well bite you in self-defence. But then‌ didn’t you ask for it?
Who knows where that one comes from? Bats have excellent eyesight, despite the fact that their eyes are small and underdeveloped. Some bats can even detect ultraviolet light. Their eye-sight, in combination with their sonar system, result in an animal well equipped for feeding and flying in pitch-dark.
>> They are useless to humans On the contrary, they are among the most helpful animals that live with us. They pollinate plants that provide food for us, which we wouldn't have without them. They help control the insect population. They re-seed cut forests. Most importantly: the bacteria in their guano is used to improve the quality of our soap, to make gasohol and to produce antibiotics.
Without them, we probably would not have bananas, figs, mangos, dates and other exotic fruits
Kitti-Hognosed Bat
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>> costa STUFF
costa
cuisine by Jan Morley
Now that the weather is cooling down a little, it’s time to get back into the kitchen and try out some new recipes. These are great recipes for those youngsters who want to learn how to cook, or are already budding chefs. It is essential to eat a variety of foods to make you feel happy and healthy. This means that your meals should contain a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fibre, fat and vitamins and minerals. Each person needs different amounts of these nutrients, depending on how much exercise you do, or if you are breast-feeding, or if you are ill.
More recipes for the kids who love to cook >> Chicken wraps This recipe was given to me by my friend Alex, (12) who is a diligent cook, and says they are really easy to do. He also assures me that they are a hit with all his family!
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They are colourful and have a refreshing zingy taste. This recipe is takes 15 minutes to prepare and a further 15 minutes to cook. You will need 2 chopping boards, a sharp knife, medium bowl, small whisk, wooden spatula, large frying pan, tongs, ovenproof plate, kitchen foil, oven gloves.
B th y, Fibre es health d pulses. ake you n m in a t s intes bles, fruit rich food but be , a e t t r e ie ib ,f ad veg n fill ir bulk ou are on en as it ca m e h t f o dr fro if y hem ll chil uller feel f with sma prevent t . protein g l . n u caref p, and the er foods, e y needs. u g h t r o e m n e h e h g t nou and e h t g w in gro eat intain to ma
Ingredients for 8 wraps 4 chicken fillets , each cut into 6 even strips 2 small peppers, 1 red , 1 yellow 1 large red onion, sliced 8 flour tortillas (ready made) Juice of ½ lime 2.5cm fresh ginger 2 tbsp of runny honey 1 pinch salt 1 tbsp olive oil 3-4 splashes of Tabasco (optional) > Preheat oven 200°C, 400°F/GAS 6 > De-seed and slice each pepper into 12 equal strips > In the bowl, mix the honey, oil, grated ginger,Tabasco,and salt, add the chicken strips, stir until coated with the marinate > Heat the frying pan for 2 minutes,
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gently fry the chicken until golden brown on all sides, turn using the tongs for 5 minutes > Put the tortillas on the oven-proof plate, cover with foil, heat for 5 minutes in the oven > Now add the peppers and onion to the chicken in the frying pan, stir for another 4-5 minutes , add the lime juice > Place 1 tortilla wrap on a plate, place 3 chicken strips and a few pieces of onion and pepper at the top, fold the unfilled end up to the middle, and then carefully fold the empty ends inwards. The filling should be peeping out at the top only. > Serve with mayonnaise or sour cream or guacamole (avocado dip) and ENJOY!
>> St. Clements Cheesecake This must be the easiest cheesecake recipe ever, no actual baking, just chilling. You will need the following equipment; large plastic food bag, rolling pin, pan, wooden spoon, flan tin 20cm or 8 inch, dessert spoon, mixing bowl, spatula, whisk, colander, chopping board, knife, nonstick vegetable paper Ingredients for 8 portions 200g/(7oz) digestive biscuits 75g/ (3oz) butter 200g/(7oz) cream cheese 300g/(10oz) condensed milk Juice of 2 lemons (approx 5 tbsps) 300g/(10 oz ) tin mandarins in natural juice You can use other fruits in the base, such as fresh strawberries, raspberries, peaches or pineapple, or even a mix. > Place the biscuits in the plastic bag, crush gently using the rolling pin, on the chopping board, until they are like fine breadcrumbs. > Melt the butter in the pan, over a low heat, and then stir in the crushed biscuits,
make sure they are all coated with the butter, so they will stick together > Line the flan tin with a circle of vegetable paper, snip the edges that come up the sides to make it fit > Press the biscuits into the base and up the sides of the tin, using the spoon > Place in the fridge for 20 minutes to set > Drain the mandarins, using the colander, so they do not make the biscuit base soggy > In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese , add the tin of condensed milk, and then the lemon juice, whisk until smooth > Chop the mandarins in half, spread evenly over the biscuit base, and then pour the creamy mixture over the top, spread evenly with the spatula > Chill in fridge for 2-3 hours until set. These recipes are perfect to keep active kids busy, an ideal way for grandparents to entertain the little ones!
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computer
bytes & pieces
Internet dangers! The Internet has come of age and every day, new virus’s and nasty software is circulated around it, often by totally innocent users like you and me. New users to the Internet are nervous about the potential dangers of viruses; Spyware or Adware; we should all be wary of these, as they are all possible threats to your computer and will affect the performance of your system or even steal your private info. It´s not just email that spreads it, instant messenger programs and fake websites all contribute. Spyware can wreck your computer, it infects your hard drive and hides in the background and affects performance as it processes your files looking for personal/private information and by watching your surfing and shopping habits will then drive you mad with pop-ups filled with ads and even porn, but that is just the NICE SPYWARE. Some new pop-ups change your toolbar or add new icons to your desktop. You should run a system scan to find out if you have Spyware hiding in your computer. Watch your system’s performance and at the sign of any unusual activity, that red light staying on, computer or laptop running really slowly, these are all signs that you are probably infected. Protect your privacy. These programs don’t care and can launch themselves when you or your children sit in front of the computer. Nasty pop-ups can turn up whether it’s an adult or a child using the computer. Protect your pc. These days antivirus isn’t enough. Spyware sneaks into your system via files that you don’t need to do anything to launch. They can sneak in as attachments that you download or by many other means. They’re harmful and annoying but you can protect your computer and your privacy with the right software. There are products on the market to help. Be sure to install software that you know is real and from a reputable source. Adware and Malware companies set up complete websites that frequently fool users by sending pop-ups telling them that there’s a problem with their computer while you think you are fixing your machine you are installing spyware. These errors can open your system up to future further problems by fooling you into thinking you’re downloading fixes, when really your personal details are being downloaded.
>> Special readers of fer 33.3% of f Laptop clean out My article on laptop repair generated loads of calls about how you clean out all the dust that accumulates inside your laptop. Cleaning it out properly is a specialist job. In all cases it makes your laptop run cooler as it doesn’t have to work so hard. This month for the whole month costalife readers can get a Laptop clean for only €43.45 (That’s a third off my usual price) collection and delivery available call 952596346.
My final thought is if you are not sure what is genuine antivirus, antispyware or antimalware software ASK A PROFESSIONAL and before you start get a back-up device for all your important files
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>> costa AUTOS
German & Hungarian Grand Prix by Elio Howard
Hamilton delighted with Hungarian win
Formula One - Off Track > All teams now have a four week break. For some it means a little breathing space while they prepare to test components for the second half season updates. For Kimi Raikonnen, he will contest the world rally championship round in his native Finland. > Renault are to be suspended from the next round of the world championship - the European Grand Prix at Valencia - following Fernando Alonso’s wheel loss in today’s race. Renault has confirmed it will appeal the decision. > Ferrari laid plan for 7 times world champion Michael Schumacher to compete in the remaining Grand Prix’s this season or until Felipe Massa can race again. This will undoubtedly spice things up in the paddock. He (Michael) is to go through an intensive training session to see if his fitness is at the level necessary to compete in this sport and he has four weeks to acclimatize himself with the F60. He has been given a 2007 Ferrari to drive and has been driving at Mugello. Although it’s not the same car as the F60, it gives him valuable track time. The rest of his programme will be to acclimatize himself with the F60 steering wheel with a simulator ‘‘the next best thing to the real car’’ he says.
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> Shock news just in is that BMW are to pull out of F1 at the end of the year, believed to be set in motion due to the current economic climate. > Good news. Felipe Massa is on the way to a full recovery. A statement from his Team said that ‘‘Felipe speaks, can sit upright and was even able to take his first steps.’’ On Tuesday 28th July his doctors confirmed ‘‘he was able to open and see with his left eye’’. This is contrary to the press stating that due to his eye damage, he may never race again. They were obviously miss-informed. On Friday 31st July doctors said due to his progress he may well travel home on Monday 3rd August for full recuperation. Felipe travelled to Brazil and is now recuperating at his home. There is a good chance that Felipe will drive again before the end of the season. This will be the best news.
>> Stop press Michael Schumacher did not drive for Ferrari in Valencia. Due to an accident on a motorbike earlier this year he has ongoing neck pains and he declared himself unfit to drive. In a statement on his own website he says he is extremely disappointed and sorry he cannot make a comeback for his former team even though he has
tried all possible treatments to resolve the issue. He wishes the team well for the future. Ferrari president Luca de Montezemola said that the whole team got behind Michael and motivation was at its highest for some time. Is there a message there? Lucca Badoer, the Ferrari test driver for the past 11 years is to take the place of Felipe Massa. Lucca last raced in F1 in 1999 but Ferrari have decided his place on the grid will be more than welcome having supported and contributed to the team for so long. Renault indeed did appeal the decision of the stewards and the hearing was set for the 17th August. I believe that the politics in F1 will in fact reduce the sentence to possibly a large fine or a suspended ban. I think he (Fernando Alonso) will race in Valencia. I say this because there is no consistency in the decision making highlighted by an incident last year that saw the Ferrari of Kimi Raikkonen having a broken exhaust (hanging off) with the second Ferrari of Felipe Massa following behind. The pipe eventually fell off but did not cause a problem. At no time did either the team or the officials call in Kimi’s car for inspection and more importantly no punishment was given. Fair or not? You decide.
costa AUTOS >> >> F1 German Grand Prix: Nurburgring > Qualifying Mark Webber will start from pole position for the first time in his F1 career tomorrow after mastering tricky conditions at the Nürburgring.
This played into Barrichello and Webber’s hands perfectly as they quickly left Kovalainen and his train behind. By lap ten Kovalainen was 15 seconds in arrears, with the three cars behind him covered by just two seconds.
The Brawns of Rubens Barrichello and Jenson Button will line up behind him with Sebastian Vettel only fourth for his home race.
But on lap 11 the stewards confirmed Webber’s penalty for the clash with Barrichello at the start - a very harsh call which left one wondering about the many past occasions where drivers had pushed rivals clean off the track without being punished.
Lewis Hamilton’s rejuvenated McLaren starts from fifth on the grid. Jenson Button went out first but didn’t set a timed lap. Team mate Rubens Barrichello put up the first time with a 1’32.797. Mark Webber slotted in second, half a second slower than the Brawn.
Red Bull pulled Webber in for his penalty on lap 14 as late as they could get away with, to take the maximum advantage from Webber’s rivals being stuck behind Kovalainen. Button had already surrendered to the inevitable and made his stop on lap 13, Barrichello following suit the next time by.
As the final set of runs began, Lewis Hamilton briefly put the McLaren fastest ahead of the two Brawns. But he was demoted by the Red Bulls and Brawns on the final set of runs.
Lap 19 saw Webber’s second visit to the pits - for his first stop. This was two laps earlier than team mate Vettel, who had started on an identical load but saved some fuel while stuck behind Massa.
It was Mark Webber who set the quickest time with a 1’32.230, but team mate Vettel was a quarter of a second slower. The two Brawns took advantage of that delay, with Rubens Barrichello nabbing the second spot on the front row.
Webber was briefly delayed behind Robert Kubica. He also had Button bottled up behind him, who had picked off Sebastien Buemi and Nick Heidfeld after his first stop. Kubica came in on lap 23, releasing the pair
The other surprise of the final part of qualifying was Adrian Sutil taking seventh place ahead of the two Ferraris. With more rain expected tomorrow, and the fuel weights yet to be published, we could be in for a gripping race.
That proved crucial to the outcome of the race, as Barrichello was now stuck behind Massa. After Kubica pitted, Barrichello lapped in a 1’37.641, Button a 1’36.313, and Webber a 1’35.665.
>> Race Lewis Hamilton takes the lead but his right-rear tyre is already flat. Mark Webber lost the lead at the start and was handed a drive-through penalty for causing a collision. But that wasn't enough to stop Mark from storming to victory in the German Grand Prix. The Red Bull driver led home a second consecutive one-two for his team while the Brawns struggled to fifth and sixth. Starting from pole position with more fuel on board than the closest cars to him, Webber might have had things easy had he got away cleanly. But by the time he got to the first corner he'd hit two cars and lost the lead. First Rubens Barrichello - who’d, started second charged past, the pair making contact as Webber tried to push Barrichello towards the pit wall. Next Lewis Hamilton came flying by from fifth on the grid thanks to his KERS boost. Unfortunately for Hamilton he clipped Webber’s front wing on the way past, which punctured his right-rear tyre. For the second time in a row at the Nürburgring he had to limp back to the pits at the end of lap one. McLaren’s hopes were now resting on the sister car of Kovalainen, which lacked the up-to-date parts that were on Hamilton’s MP4/24. Nevertheless he held onto third in the opening stages, behind Barrichello and Webber. Jenson Button took fourth off Felipe Massa with a neat move on lap two, but couldn’t do anything about the similarly slow and KERS-equipped McLaren. Sebastian Vettel found himself stuck behind Massa and, as at Catalunya earlier this year, unable to make a pass.
Unable to pass Massa, Barrichello had to wait for him to come in on lap 25 before he could pick up the pace. Even then he had little response for the flying Webber. On lap 31, the last before his pit stop, Barrichello was 1.6s slower than Webber, who had the Brawn in his sights, just 1.2s separating them. While Button’s Brawn was running a three-stop strategy Barrichello’s second stop was supposed to fuel him to the end. But it didn’t work out that way the refueling rig failed and the back-up had to be used. In addition to costing Barrichello precious time, he didn’t take on enough fuel, which ruined the second half of his race. That effectively sealed the win for Webber - and it also cost Barrichello a place to Button. Afterwards the furious Brazilian had some strong words for his team. As at Silverstone three weeks ago, Felipe Massa and Nico Rosberg used long first stints to make up a lot of places. Massa, who started eighth, found himself third, while Rosberg moved up from 15th on the grid to fourth - thanks also to a brilliant start which gained him six places. Rosberg had been running behind the Force India of Adrian Sutil in the early stages, but a clash with Raikkonen put Sutil out of the running. The pair collided as Sutil left the pits, damaging the Force India’s nose. The other driver making waves in the final stint was Fernando Alonso, who reveled in his final set of tyres and set the fastest lap of the race on the 49th tour. That brought him onto the rear of the allBrawn battle for fifth, with Button ahead after their
Massa’s accident final pit stops. Button struggled with rear tyre wear on his final set of Bridgestone’s, lapping in the mid-1’35s and holding up Barrichello and Alonso. The threat of rain that preceded the race failed to materialize, and the temperature was warmer than expected. This should have helped Brawn, but still they struggled with their tyres. Behind the Red Bull one-two - their third of the year - came Massa and Rosberg, followed by the Brawns. Heikki Kovalainen took the final point and Alonso grabbed two for seventh - making up for an embarrassing moment on the formation lap when he spun off, much as he did at Catalunya last year.
>> Hungarian GP. Hungaroring, Budapest > Qualifying Felipe Massa’s horrific crash caused a substantial delay to qualifying at the Hungaroring - after which Fernando Alonso claimed his first pole position in almost two years. The result was even more of a surprise as the final moments of qualifying were disrupted by a total failure of the timing systems, meaning even the drivers were unaware who had qualified where. Friday free practice had been exceptionally close just over a second covering 19 cars - a pattern which continued in qualifying. That meant no driver could afford to stay in the pits after their final run. All 20 cars piled onto the circuit at the end. Q1 was uneventful but In Q2 Rubens Barrichello, striving to make the cut in his Brawn, was left unable to progress to Q3 after part of his suspension broke. That failure had terrible implications for his countryman Felipe Massa. As the Ferrari driver arrived on the scene part of Barrichello’s suspension struck his crash helmet, and Massa crashed hard into the barriers at turn four.
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>> costa AUTOS Massa’s injury was gory, but could have been horrific. The spring tore a gash in the side of his crash helmet, pulling the visor off the left side, leaving him with a blooding above his left eye. The session was delayed for 20 minutes while the Ferrari driver was taken to the circuit's medical centre before being transferred to hospital via helicopter. After a lengthy delay the session got going once again, albeit without Massa and, to begin with, Button’s Brawn. The team inspected his rear suspension to guard against a repeat. Events took another bizarre turn as the session reached its climax - suddenly all the timing screens went blank, leaving everyone unclear which driver had set the quickest time. Mark Webber had been fastest before the clocks vanished - and as the drivers arrived in Parc Ferme they all asked each other what times they had done to try to work out who was on pole position. Eventually it was announced that Fernando Alonso had done the best time, narrowly beating Sebastian Vettel. It seemed oddly appropriate that a session which had all the excitement drained out of it by Massa’s crash should end in such an anticlimactic fashion. There are as yet no doubts being raised about the accuracy of the times, so it looks as though, unlike two years ago, Alonso will keep his pole position. Webber took third ahead of Hamilton, with Button languishing in eighth, setting up an intriguing race tomorrow. We’ll get a clearer picture of who is genuinely competitive once the fuel weights are published later this afternoon.
> Race Alonso’s light Renault quickly scampered off into the lead, but Webber couldn’t keep Hamilton back. On lap four another jab of the KERS button got Lewis alongside the Red Bull and past around the outside of turn two. Despite carrying more fuel, Hamilton began cutting into Alonso’s lead. Alonso’s 2.9s advantage lap five was cut to 1.2s by lap nine. From then on Hamilton wasn’t able to get much closer - but Alonso was about to come into the pits for a stop which proved the undoing of his race. The front-right wheel didn’t attach properly, and by the second corner the wheel fairing had come off.
Even more alarmingly, in light of recent accidents, the wheel then fell off completely, but thankfully hit no-one. This ruined his race. Alonso limped back into the pits for a new wheel, and later retired.
Schumacher could not get fit enough to drive
Hamilton now took up the lead and quickly extended his advantage over Webber. Despite having gone to the grid with more fuel, Webber came into the pits before Hamilton, on the same lap as Kimi Raikkonen. Webber, too, ran into trouble on his pit stop and the team ended up releasing him as Raikkonen was passing by. The pair avoided contact but Raikkonen took the position. Vettel had more serious problems. After his pit stop on lap 21 he complained to the team that his car felt un-driveable, and there were signs of smoke from the back of the car. The team summoned him to the pits to have the car looked at, but after a brief return to the track with a new front wing and tyres, he retired the Red Bull. After the early round of pit stops Hamilton held onto his lead with Button now up to second - though yet to come into the pits. He was catching Hamilton quickly, but not happy with his car's performance on the super soft tyres. But a switch to soft tyres on lap 25 only made things worse and he slipped out of the point’s positions. Hamilton’s hold on the lead never looked anything less than solid, and so did Raikkonen’s grasp on second, despite a slow getaway after his second stop. Webber dropped back from the Ferrari and was caught by Kovalainen and Rosberg. The McLaren driver pitted first of the three, falling behind Rosberg, but Webber held his position. Timo Glock ran two very long stints which worked well for him, and would have done better had he
World championship standings Drivers Standings (after 10 races)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 10
JENSEN BUTTON MARK WEBBER SEBASTIEN VETTEL RUBENS BARICHELLO NICO ROSBERG JARNO TRULLI FELIPE MASSA LEWIS HAMILTON KIMI RAIKONNEN TIMO GLOCK
70 51.5 47 44 25.5 22.5 22 19 18 16
Constructors Standings
Webber wins in Germany 68 costa life
(after 10 races) 1 BRAWN-MERCEDES 2 RBR-RENAULT 3 FERRARI 4 TOYOTA 5 McCLAREN MERCEDES 6 WILLIAMS-RENAULT 7 RENAULT 8 BMW SAUBER 9 STR FERRARI 10 FORCE INDIA
114 98.5 40 38.5 28 25.5 13 8 5 0
not got stuck behind Raikkonen. After his final pit stop he came out ahead of not only team mate Jarno Trulli but also Button, and spent the run to the chequered flag vainly chasing Kovalainen. Trulli in turn had Nakajima and Rubens Barrichello close behind him - the second Brawn driver driving a compromised race after starting outside the top ten. At the back of the field, newcomer Jaime Alguersuari finished ahead of just one other runner but it was an important one: his team mate Sebastien Buemi. The Swiss driver spun off at turn two late in the race, and both Toro Rossos set their fastest lap on the final tour. The result lifts Webber to second in the drivers’ championship race, making him the leading rival to Button. The Brawn driver's lead is trimmed to 18.5 points and Brawn’s lead in the constructors’ championship is now only 15.5.
Max Mosley to step down
F1 Off Track Stop Press Max Mosley to stand down as FIA president in October. . . . . .This is due to pressure from FIA sporting associations. Jean Todd (ex Ferrari team principal) will stand for position (nominated by Max Mosley) against Ari Vatanen (former world rally champion and ex European parliamentarian). A Spanish newspaper recently held the story that Fernando Alonso has indeed secured a drive with Ferrari for 2010. This is to be a three year contract with a further option of two years. Interviewed at the Nurburgring, Fernando commented that no decision has yet been taken. Will he or won’t he. Only time will tell but if he does this would mean that Kimi or Fellipe will not have a drive. Of the two I believe Kimi is more than likely to stand down following hints of retirement during the course of this year. If this is the case will Fellipe want to drive for another three years as effectively another number two? I am not so sure!!!
costa STUFF >>
It’s September!... Back to school for children! Are you a parent heaving a sigh of relief as your of fspring is taken of f your hands each day? It was great fun at the beginning of the holidays but now you are exhausted with frazzled nerves and longing for your own space again! Is that how you feel? Or do you miss their chirpy voices chattering away each day clamouring for your attention? How do we view children? As tiresome noisy little people disturbing our peace? Or as a blessing and a tonic in our stressed lives? Normal happy children can be an absolute delight and they have a natural ability to be able to bring joy into the lives of elderly lonely people. A group of children visiting an Old Age Home to sing some songs and just chat to the residents can have an amazing effect on those forgotten people. In today’s society many children grow up in single parent homes where the mother is so busy trying to hold the home together that she has little opportunity to spend quality time with her children. A fatherless generation has emerged and is still emerging into adulthood. This generation can develop a completely warped unnatural view of life. Without a good role model in the home they are influenced by pop stars, rock stars, celebrities, movies or TV often portraying immoral and violent behaviour. Many have grown up with no loving boundaries in their lives but are simply left to their own desires. Children need firm discipline administered with love, it gives them a sense of security. By contrast with today's generation of largely undisciplined children the oldfashioned view of very strict discipline with little love and affection was just as damaging to a child's development. ‘‘Children should be seen and not heard……!’’ was a mistaken attitude held by certain parents in the first part of last century. There are emotionally scarred adults today trying to hide their wounds and insecurities because of harsh unloving treatment by strict disciplinarians who never knew how to demonstrate affection and acceptance to their children. Being sent away to boarding school at a very young age has left some adults with a deep sense of rejection today. Ideally, every child should have an influence for good provided in the home as well as the educational environment. Sadly though this is often not the case. It is now accepted in the medical world that infants in the womb are affected by the words spoken over them during those months of development. Some of these unwanted babies enter the world already carrying an awareness of being rejected. This can cause behavioural
problems throughout their lives often developing into addictions and antisocial tendencies. Childhood traumas can be carried through to adulthood. A child’s character develops greatly during the first few years of its life and young children are acutely sensitive to the influences surrounding them. As adults we have a responsibility towards these children to influence them in a healthy loving way. Being left to their own devices in an empty vacuum is producing a generation of violent young thugs with no respect or consideration for others. Without guidance how can we expect them to understand right from wrong? Is it any wonder that society is terrorised by these young hoodlums? So what can be done about all this? Parents, be grateful for the blessing of children and do your best to keep them in an environment where they will be influenced for good and not evil. Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Grandparents, pray for your grandchildren and try to instil godly values into them. You have a wonderful opportunity to sow into the lives of these young ones. The Bible instructs us in Proverbs ‘‘Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will remain upon it.’’ Scriptures (NLT) Psalm 127:3; Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 13:24 Annette Riggall The Evangelical Christian Fellowship ‘‘an oasis where the Word of God is preached and the love of God is shared.’’ Sundays 4.30pm Iglesia San Miguel, Calahonda Tel/Fax (0034) 952 93 02 75 E-mail: tecfellowship@gmail.com Website: www.calahondachurch.com Pastors Peter and Annette Riggall
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>> costa AUTOS
auto
news
>> Government subsidies boost July car sales in France, Italy and Spain Government measures to boost demand for new cars supported European car sales in July, with French sales up 3.1 percent, Italian sales 6.16 percent higher and a slower decline in Spanish sales. Governments in all major European markets have stepped in to help carmakers hit by an industry sales slump with scrapping schemes to encourage drivers to buy new cars by paying them a cash bonus when they trade in old cars for newer, greener ones. Italian car sales rose 6.16 percent year-on-year in July, the transport ministry said. Fiat's market share slid to 33.58 percent from 33.98 percent in June, according to Reuters calculations. In Spain in July, car sales fell 10.9 percent compared with July 2008, carmakers’ association ANFAC said. Spain began offering 2,000 euro subsidies to new car buyers on May 18 and ANFAC said it expects the 200 million euro subsidy plan to boost 2009 sales by 100,000 units. The 10.9 percent fall marked the 15th consecutive monthly fall for the market, but before the scheme was launched Spanish car sales had been in free fall, with a 45.6 percent year-on-year drop in April.
>> Frankfurt Show This month Europe’s largest motoring expo throws open its doors. As the largest motor show in the world, the Frankfurt IAA is a Mecca for any car fan. Held every second year, it premiers the latest and greatest from the worldwide auto industry and 2009 looks set to be the most impressive event yet. With more than 60 car manufacturers filling 170,000 square metres there will be something to suit all automotive tastes. Open to the general public from the 19-27 September 2009 (9.00 am - 7.00pm), tickets are available online from www.iaa.de or at the door. The show is well served by transport links from both Frankfurt Airport and the main Frankfurt railway station. Further travel information is available from the IAA website, including sat-nav programming instructions if you prefer to drive.
>> The Kia Venga is coming! Meet the latest addition to the Korean firm’s line-up - a model to rival super minis such as the Ford Fiesta. Based on the No 3 concept displayed at March’s Geneva Motor Show, the Venga debuts in production trim at Frankfurt this month. It’s designed, engineered and built in Europe, and aimed at European buyers who love small, neatly packaged cars. At 4,068mm, the Venga is a few millimetres longer than a Fiesta, and Kia claims it makes use of every inch of that inside. Clever 60/40-split rear seats fold flat to create a roomy luggage bay, while a twin-level boot floor adds extra versatility. A tilt and slide panoramic glass roof gives an airy, premium feel, too. There’s a choice of 75bhp 1.4-litre petrol and 115bhp 1.6-litre diesel engines, and both will be available with stop-start technology, to maximise fuel economy. The Venga will hit dealers across Europe later this year and in the UK early in 2010.
>> Redundancies by Ford US automaker Ford has told unions it plans to cut 600 jobs from its plant in eastern Spain due to weakening demand. The company said it would go from ‘‘three to two production shifts’’ at the plant at Almussafes, near Valencia. It said the layoffs would be on a voluntary basis. Ford said it was forced to make the decision by declining sales in Spain and the rest of Europe amid the economic crisis. Spain's auto manufacturing sector is the third-biggest in Europe and accounts for just under 10 percent of the country’s economic output and 15 percent of exports. In 2008, new car sales in Spain plunged 28 percent, the largest-ever annual decline as the country entered its first recession in 15 years with the global credit crunch worsening a correction already underway in its property sector.
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Aston Martin DBS Volante
roadening the DBS’s character, the DBS Volante will appeal to drivers who wish to combine the excitement of driving a finely-tuned sports car with the invigorating feeling of being open to the elements. This juxtaposition of ultimate performance and openness stirs the senses on any drive whether an exhilarating jaunt on favoured roads or cruising on lengthy journeys. ‘Volante’, meaning ‘moving with light rapidity’, perfectly defines the performance potential and the dynamic characteristics of the DBS Volante.
B
Although the DBS was originally conceived as a twoseater sport GT, the potential for a Volante version was always in the minds of the design team. Holding a purposeful stance, the muscular shapes and forms of the DBS have been retained exuding confidence.
Adding to the sonorous V12 enhances the aural soundtrack. Special by-pass valves in the exhaust allow a quieter exhaust note at low speeds; at 4000 rpm these open to reduce the pressure in the exhaust system, raising the power output as well as generating a rousing aural accompaniment. The DBS Volante is available as standard with a rearmounted 6-speed manual gearbox with gear ratios optimized to extract the very best from the 6.0-litre engine. Providing customers with even greater personalization capabilities, a ‘Touchtronic’ 6- speed automatic featuring a torque converter is also available as an option.
The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the DBS’s form and construction. The DBS Volante is powered by the same 6.0-litre V12 engine at the heart of the DBS which was launched in 2007. Producing 510 bhp (517 PS / 380 kW), peak power is delivered at 6500 rpm and the 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque is delivered at 5750 rpm. Tractable at any time, the DBS possesses a 'flat' torque curve providing 85% of the torque from 1500 rpm. Aston claims performance of 191mph and 0-62mph in just 4.3sec!
Derived from the same ZF transaxle unit that was developed for the DB9, the system has been substantially re-engineered to accommodate the power and performance characteristics of the DBS. System functionality is consistent with that on the DB9, with ‘Park’, ‘Reverse’, ‘Neutral’ and 'Drive' modes selected via facia mounted controls. When in ‘Drive’ mode, pulling either of the leather-trimmed magnesium alloy paddles mounted on the steering column will activate Touchtronic mode, enabling the driver to control gear shifts via the paddles. Touchtronic mode is also accessible directly on engine start-up. Alternatively, the ‘Drive’ mode can be selected at any time by pressing the ‘D’ control on the centre console, engaging a fully automatic mode which will select the most appropriate gear for the speed and driving conditions automatically.
The 3.71:1 (manual) and 3.46:1 (Touchtronic) final drive ratio assures that all the DBS Volante's power is useable, while also enhancing in-gear acceleration.
The system also includes a ‘Sport’ mode - activated by a button on the centre console - which engages a more aggressive gear shift strategy as gear changes feel sharper and more forceful, engine speed
Performance
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Fusing Open Top Motoring with the Ultimate Luxury Sports Car
matching on downshifts is more aggressive and in full automatic mode, upshifts occur at higher speeds. The Sport setting also incorporates a more responsive throttle map to match the highperformance characteristics of the DBS Volante.
>> Soft top Aston Martin’s 16th convertible, learning taken from the engineering of previous soft-top cars has resulted in the DBS Volante possessing Aston Martin’s quietest and most refined roof system to date. When raised, the fabric roof is insulated with a layer of Thinsulate® material relieving cabin noise and protecting the inhabitants from the elements. The hydraulic pump has been cocooned in a noise and vibration enclosure reducing noise when raising and lowering the hood. The newly choreographed hood has resulted in an opening time of only 14 seconds due to a new fivepiston hydraulic pump. The roof effortlessly stows below the newly-sculpted tonneau cover which has been redesigned to enhance the muscular attributes of the DBS Volante. Housing the Roll-Over-ProtectionSystem (ROPS) which deploys two roll bars in the event of the car rolling over, the rear humps lead your eye to the new carbon fibre deck lid which has been re-styled for the DBS Volante. Particular to the DBS, a line flows from the leading edge of the bonnet past the elegantly sloped windscreen flowing into the carbon fibre deck lid and to the rear boot ‘flip’. Aston Martin’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: ‘‘The DBS Volante delivers the utmost relaxed driving experience with the hood up or down. It
costa AUTOS >> combines engineering excellence with design perfection’’. As with the DBS Coupe, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are formed from carbon fibre. Preventing the weave protruding the paint finish, Aston Martin employs a patented ‘surface veil’ technology applying a 200 micron thick layer of epoxy glue to the carbon fibre, before the application of seven layers of paint producing a class A level of finish.
>> Design The DBS Volante draws on the marque’s extensive experience in designing iconic ‘Volantes’ and is a 2+2 featuring two occasional rear seats, ideal for young people or extra luggage. The Volante is offered with carbon ceramic brakes as standard providing exceptional stopping power. As with the coupe, the Volante affords customers the prospect of specifying the optional 10-spoke 20’’ forged aluminium lightweight wheel with diamond-turned surface available in either silver or graphite finishes. With an overall unsprung mass reduction of 8 kg, the option aids enhanced handling, improved acceleration, and braking performance. Benefitting from materials derived from the motorsport and aerospace industries, the bonnet, front wings and boot lid are made from carbon fibre all helping to reduce weight. The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin’s commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon fibre, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres to save valuable kilograms.
>> Entertainment Delivered as standard with Bang & Olufsen’s BeoSound DBS audio system and seamlessly integrated into the DBS Volante’s bespoke interior, the system provides the driver and passengers with an unrivalled audio experience. Consisting of 13 individual speakers and Bang & Olufsen’s unique Digital Signal Processing system, the system transforms the DBS Volante into an acoustically sophisticated venue, capable of conveying subtle and striking musical dynamics from every source. The BeoSound DBS has been specifically revised for the DBS Volante and senses when the roof is up or retracted and adjusts the sound stage to compensate for wind noise and change in acoustics. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DBS system has been developed exclusively for Aston Martin. The system is acoustically and physically matched to the DBS Volante, with a design that follows the inherent quality and material honesty of the Aston Martin interior. The loudspeaker grilles are finished with smoothly contoured aluminium so as to integrate seamlessly with the fluid lines and curves of the cabin. When the system is turned on, the twin acoustic lens speakers emerge silently and swiftly, adding a touch of theatre and technological panache that is the perfect complement to the DBS Volante.
>> Control Contributing to the class-leading levels of rigidity, the VH-platform (Vertical - Horizontal) upon which all Aston Martins are founded, ensures a dynamically accomplished convertible translating into an exciting and communicative chassis. The VH architecture is a bonded aluminium structure that provides
outstanding strength and rigidity. In comparison to its coupe sibling, the Volante retains 75% of the rigidity equating to 20kNm per degree. This has been achieved by rigidly mounting the rear sub frame and optimising the front and rear shear panels. Working together these components contribute to more than 20% of the total torsional rigidity. Augmenting the DBS Volante’s supreme handling characteristics is the near perfect weight distribution - achieved by mounting the 6-speed gearbox at the rear placing 85% of the weight between the front and rear axle. To take full advantage of its extremely precise and rigid platform, the DBS employs a sophisticated Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which is specifically tuned for the DBS Volante maximising ride comfort. It uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car's ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different driving conditions. The dampers can be ‘softer’, with a corresponding improvement in ride quality, or ‘firm’, providing improved body control for more spirited driving. The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car's systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car. The DBS Volante’s Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car’s sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal’ driving conditions. A designated ‘Track’ mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for circuit driving. The DBS Volante is fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres that have been developed especially for the car. The DBS Volante also has a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system specifically tuned to the Volante to help maintain maximum traction in challenging driving conditions. In default operation, the DSC is automatically on. Select and press the button for two seconds and DSC 'Track' mode is engaged, raising the threshold at which the system intervenes to allow the experienced driver to explore the car’s limits. Hold the button for four seconds and DSC is disengaged entirely. Completing the DBS line-up, the new Volante will afford customers the combination of the DBS’s already-established benchmark sports car characteristics with all the thrills of open-air motoring. The DBS Volante will be built at Aston Martin's global headquarters at Gaydon, Warwickshire with customer deliveries expected to commence during the third quarter of 2009 and prices are from 168,000 pounds.
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>> costa STUFF
reviews
DVD
4TH SEPTEMBER THE BOAT THAT ROCKED 1966, and BBC Radio play only 45 minutes of pop every day - but that doesn’t bother pop fans, as Radio Rock, a pirate radio station anchored off the coast of Great Britain, blasts out rocking tunes 24/7 to 25 million eager listeners. Running the ship is Quentin and under him are DJs The Count, fat Dave, nutty Angus, lover Mark, hippy Bob, famous Gavin and more. Loosely based on the story of Radio Caroline, The Boat That Rocked Is a fun Pow-Biff-Wallop montage of the ship’s DJs, their madcap personalities, their crazy shenanigans and all played out to some cracking music.
HANNA MONTANA Peter Chelsom directs teen superstar Miley Cyrus in this feature that brings the popular Disney Channel character Hannah Montana to the big screen. With a crazy double life in California as an everyday teen with the secret pop-star persona Hannah Montana has forgotten who she really is. To get her back on track, Miley’s dad, decides that she needs some time back on the family farm in Tennessee to celebrate her Grandma’s birthday. But with a former childhood crush working on the farm she begins to realise what’s really important for her.
11th SEPTEMBER ANGELS AND DEMONS
Despite his notorious relationship with the Church, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is once again called upon to decipher the clues to a catastrophic conspiracy. The Pope has died, and before conclave can begin to determine his successor, the four preferitti (primary hopefuls for the papacy) are kidnapped. An ominous threat of their hourly demise, along with the complete annihilation of Vatican City, is issued as an elaborate revenge scheme for a persecuted group known as the Illuminati. With their meager time limit steadily counting down, Langdon, accompanied by beautiful physicist Vittoria Vetra, must travel throughout Rome to unravel the carefully hidden signs that will lead them to a terrifying adversary, a harrowing discovery, and the shocking truth.
CRANK 2 (HIGH VOLTAGE) In the 2006 action hit Crank, hitman Chev Chelios spent twenty-four hours in over-drive: fighting, killing, and keeping his adrenaline flowing at full-force to combat a deadly poison injected into his body. Now, in the highoctane sequel Crank High Voltage, Chev has managed to survive -- and is about to face a brand new day. Picking up where the first movie left off, Crank High Voltage finds Chev surviving the climactic plunge to his most certain death on the streets of Los Angeles, only to be kidnapped by a mysterious Chinese mobster. Three months later, Chev wakes up to discover his nearly indestructible heart has been removed and replaced with a battery-operated ticker that requires regular jolts of electricity in order to work and makes his mission to get his real heart back.
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By Simon Galley from Box Of fice Video Club 18th SEPTEMBER FAST & FURIOUS This fourth entry in T F A T F franchise reunites the original stars: Michelle Rodriguez, Paul Walker, Jordana Brewster, and of course the bad dude himself, Vin Diesel. Needless to say, there’s going to be a lot of speed and demolition, especially in the fantastic opening truck hijack executed at amazing speeds by Diesel and his sexy partner in crime, Letty. When Letty gets killed, it’s revenge time, with the path of the bad guy leading Diesel back across the border to Los Angeles (where he’s still wanted by the law) and into a high-stakes street race in which he’s teamed up with his old nemesis, undercover fed Brian O’Conner.
STATE OF PLAY Russell Crowe stars as Cal McCaffrey, an old-schoolstyle journalist working for the Washington Globe. He begins to investigate the death of a young woman who was the research assistant and mistress of his friend Stephen Collins (Ben Affleck), an ambitious congressman whose career is likely to be ruined when his affair is revealed. Joined by young political blogger Della Frye, Cal races against time and deadlines to solve the murder, which may be only a small part of a much larger crime. A thought-provoking thriller that manages to be both timely and timeless. It reflects its 2009 release date with a plot that questions the validity and existence of newspapers in the face of bloggers and the 24-hour news cycle, as well as addressing the efforts of a Blackwater-like group working in Iraq and Afghanistan. Cal must reconcile his personal life with his professional one, and ethics lie at the heart of the movie.
25th SEPTEMBER GHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST Conner mead is a celebrity photographer who loves fun, freedom and womanising, A Commited bachelor with a no stings attached policy. At his brothers wedding he meets a childhood friend, the one woman he could never charm. At the wedding he recieves a phone call from an uncle who gives him a wake up call about his lifestyle and sends him an urgent message through the ghosts of his jilted girlfriends past and present. Together they will discover what turned Conner into such a shameless player and whether he has a second chance to find and this time keep the love of his life.
AWAYDAYS Set in the post-punk era in the North West of England. Paul Carty is 19, good-looking, funny, clever - and bored out of his mind. His mother died a year ago. He lives in middle class suburbia with his silently grieving father and feisty young sister, Molly. Carty works as a junior civil servant and spends all his wages on gigs, clubs, records and football. It’s at a match that he meets Elvis. Elvis changes everything. He’s part of a gang called The Pack. The Pack is legendary; they dress in a cultish, almost effeminate style that’s at odds with the Boneheads and Bootboys they fight against. They have androgynous wedge haircuts worn with Lacoste tennis shirts, Lois jeans and Adidas Forest Hills training shoes. For as long as he has been going to football, Carty has been fascinated by The Pack. Now Elvis is offering him a way in...
AmberNight DVD and book store Specialists in UK and US TV series box sets Wide selection of books, both fiction and non-fiction Latest movie and book releases Large range of old and cult TV series Selection of musicals Variety of BBC & ITV Network series Now stocking a selection of Spanish books & DVDs DVD and book orders taken Open 10.30-8.30 Mon - Fri Sat 11-2.30 AVDA Jesus Santos Rein, Fuengirola Near Horses Head roundabout
Tel: 952 467 785 ambernightspain@aol.com
>> costa STUFF
Strange but True >> Colin Farrell Shooting Alexander (2004) in Morocco was arguably Colin's most dangerous assignment. Despite difficult stunts involving horses and elephants and the threat of the local fedayeen (Muslim jihadis), Colin escaped injury on the set (whose 15-mile perimeter was patrolled by Moroccan security). He did break a heel and a wrist three days before the end of the shoot, however, after falling down in a restaurant. What happened? ‘‘I was spending time in the company of a man with a top hat and a walking stick,’’ Colin later explained. The man’s identity? ‘‘Johnny Walker.’’
>> Tom Cruise One day on the set of Far and Away (1992), Tom (playing Joseph in the film) shot a romantic scene, in his underwear, with wife Nicole Kidman, in which her character lifts a bowl covering Joseph’s crotch. Director Ron Howard, unhappy with Nicole’s subtle reaction, asked her for another take. She agreed, removed the bowl, and reacted exactly as Howard had hoped. Tom, without telling her, had quietly removed his underwear.
>> Drunken man gives away money at airport
>> The very first ever blonde guy joke... And well
A British man who arrived at a Spanish airport after having too much to drink has been taken into custody -- not for bad behavior but for being too generous.
An Irishman, a Mexican and a Blonde Guy were doing construction work on scaffolding on the 20th floor of a building.
Turns out the tourist had recently received an inheritance, and he had started to give away 52,000 he was carrying in cash and travelers checks. Spain’s Interior Ministry says people at Son Sant Joan Airport in Palma de Mallorca first alerted police because the disheveled man ‘‘looked like a tramp’’ and ‘‘had a disagreeable smell.’’ Police realized he was giving away thousands of euros, without realizing what he was doing. The ministry says the man from Manchester, England -- was taken into custody and soon persuaded to put his wallet away and fly home.
>> Weird tales After American rock band Queens of the Stone Age released their album Songs for the Deaf, 37 deaf people turned up to a gig. A Californian burglar has been charged with attempting to ransom the ashes of a pet dog. Three police cars were sent to arrest a 12-year-old girl in Bedlingtom, Northumberland, who was playing with a toy gun. She was put in a cell, fingerprinted and had a DNA swab taken. A Moscow policeman opened fire when he was attacked by a Rottweiler. He managed to kill not only the dog - but its owner as well. A clergyman has been sacked for impersonating Elvis Presley at funerals in Ontario, Canada.
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worth the wait! They were eating lunch and the Irishman said, ‘Corned beef and cabbage! If I get corned beef and cabbage one more time for lunch, I’m going to jump off this building.’ The Mexican opened his lunch box and exclaimed, ‘Burritos again! If I get burritos one more time I’m going to jump off, too.’ The blonde opened his lunch and said, ‘Bologna again! If I get a bologna sandwich one more time, I’m jumping too.’ The next day, the Irishman opened his lunch box, saw corned beef and cabbage, and jumped to his death. The Mexican opened his lunch, saw a burrito, and jumped, too. The blonde guy opened his lunch, saw the bologna and jumped to his death as well. At the funeral, the Irishman’s wife was weeping. She said, ‘If I’d known how really tired he was of corned beef and cabbage, I never would have given it to him again!’ The Mexican’s wife also wept and said, ‘I could have given him tacos or enchiladas! I didn’t realize he hated burritos so much.’ Everyone turned and stared at the blonde’s wife. The blonde’s wife said, ‘Don’t look at me. The idiot makes his own lunch.’
Sudoku answers for Issue 50
sudoku
costa STUFF >>
3 9 7 8 5
8 3 7
1
9 4
5
7
6
6
1 2 9
2
4
5 8 7 2
7 3 5
4
3
6
The rules of Sudoku: place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell, so every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.
challenge Across 1. Fortunately (7) 4. Sensational novel (7) 8. Measure of the warmth or coldness (11) 12. Score (4) 13. Paint unskilfully (4) 14. Insanely (5) 15. Jams tight (6) 17. 8th letter of the Greek alphabet (5) 22. Bring into existence (4) 23. Grasp (5) 24. Sudden assault (4) 25. Chambers (5) 28. Bother (6) 30. Doughnut-shaped roll (5) 32. Deep wound (4) 34. Crack (4) 35. Inflammation of the tonsils (11) 38. Not at work (3,4) 39. Incomplete (7)
Down 1. Express mirth (5) 2. Bottom of ship’s hull (4) 3. Cut off (3) 5. Covering for the head (3) 6. Thin rope (4) 7. Dutch painter (9) 8. Story (4) 9. Periods of history (4) 10. Supporter (4) 11. Overhanging lower edge of a roof (4) 14. Untidy (5) 16. Sleep images (5) 18. Groups of animals (5) 19. Misunderstanding (9) 20. Masculine pronoun (3) 21. Pertaining to punishment (5) 26. Expel (4) 27. Worn by women in India (4) 28. Hades (4) 29. Optical device (4) 31. Prickly (5) 33. Grasp (4) 34. River sediment (4) 36. Posed (3) 37. Class (3)
crossword
Crossword answers for Issue 50 costa life 77
>> costa STUFF >> Peter André to be reporter on This Morning show
showbiz
whispers & gossip
ITV has signed Peter Andre as a showbusiness reporter on This Morning as the flagship daytime show is given its biggest revamp in 13 years. For This Morning’s 21st series, which begins on Tuesday 1 September, Andre will be joined on the presenting roster by the designers Linda Barker and Danielle Proud, the gardener Diarmuid Gavin and the chef JeanChristophe Novelli. Holly Willoughby, who replaces host Fern Britton, starts on September 14.
>> Bollywood ready meals Bollywood star and Celebrity Big Brother sensation Shilpa Shetty has unveiled a new range of ready meals and told me why. ‘‘Just taking into consideration how much people here love curries this was just a gradual progression,’’ she said. ‘‘When it comes to good food, that’s something that needs to be promoted.’’ ‘‘And food is not a luxury you know. For me, it’s a necessity.’’
>> Patrick Swayze: Still Fighting His courage is an inspiration to us all. The 57-year-old actor, who has been battling pancreatic cancer for the last year and a half, made use of a wheelchair to help him get around as he made his way to the car. So far it has been a bumpy ride for Patrick, who has looked frail as of late. However, he has been adamant that he’s not giving up anytime soon.
>> Leonardo DiCaprio Told To Drop 30 Pounds Leonardo Di Caprio is on a strict crash diet for his role in the new action flick, Inception, written by Batman director Christopher Nolan. A set on source tells that ‘‘Leo needs to shed at least 30lbs. He’s gained weight recently and looks almost a bit flabby, which isn’t good, especially as the camera adds pounds.‘‘Leo plans on losing the weight with a strict diet and tons of exercise.’’ The source reveals, ‘‘There’s an action scene coming up at the end of the year in which he needs to appear emaciated, so the pressure is on.’’
>> Robin Williams to Play Susan Boyle The good news for Susan Boyle: Her life story may be coming to the big screen, in a movie starring a show-biz legend. The bad news: That legend is Robin Williams. Williams tells British newspaper the Telegraph that he’s been approached to play the Britain’s Got Talent sensation in a movie - and being a big fan of the Scottish songbird, he just may consider it. ‘‘I’ve been asked if I want to play Susan in the movie,’’ Williams revealed. ‘‘I think she’s incredible. That clip of her singing on Britain’s Got Talent was extraordinary. So inspiring. It was quite a shock when she began to sing. I saw some other clip of her singing ‘Cry Me a River’ a few years ago. It was incredible. She’s got a really great voice.’’
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>> Arnold Schwarzenegger’s sworded past Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Twitter followers asked Tuesday whether he still has the sword from the movie ‘‘Conan the Barbarian.’’ Not only did the governor confirm he has the sword, he provided a picture. ‘‘I do still have the Conan sword and I keep it in my office. Here’s a picture,’’ Schwarzenegger tweeted. The sword is stored in a case behind the governor’s desk, and he’s not afraid to use it. Before the start of budget negotiations in January, Schwarzenegger brought out the sword and placed it on a conference table in front of legislative leaders.
costa STUFF >>
Useful numbers & information
>> Transport
>> Emergencies
>> Airports
>> Local Police Local Police Alhaurin el Grande Alora Antequera Arroyo de la Miel Benalmádena, Málaga, Marbella & Ronda Cartama Coin Estepona Fuengirola Local Fuengirola Municipal Nerja Torremolinos
092 952 491 074 952 496 468 952 708 104 952 562 142 092 952 422 211 952 453 267 952 800 243 952 580 900 952 197 090 952 521 545 952 376 000
>> National Police National Police
091
>> Guardia Civil Guardia Civil Alhaurin el Grande Alhaurin del la Torre Alora Cartama Coin
062 952 595 830 952 960 067 952 496 020 952 422 639 952 450 138
>> British Consulate Calle Mauricio Moro, Pareta, 22nd Floor, MÁLAGA. Open 08:30 - 13:30 Enquiries 952 352 300
Malaga Gibraltar
>> Fire Brigade Benalmádena, Málaga & Mijas Coin Estepona Fuengirola Marbella Torremolinos
080 952 455 020 952 804 483 952 461 046 952 774 349 952 381 414
>> Medical Services Emergencies
061
>> Ambulance Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Málaga & Marbella
902 505 061
>> State Hospitals Benalmádena & Fuengirola Emergencies only Málaga Marbella Torremolinos Torremolinos (Centro de Salud) Health Centre
902 505 061 951 290 000 951 976 669 952 386 484 951 924 100
>> Taxis Benalmádena Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Costa Portillo Customer Service Direct Line Algeciras Alhaurin Benalmádena Coin Estepona Fuengirola La Linea Málaga Marbella San Pedro Torremolinos
The Coastal Service stops at every major town between Fuengirola and Málaga from 06:45 and 22:30 from Málaga Call 902 240 202
>> Lost/Stolen Credit Cards
>> Tuesdays
>> Size Comparisons
Benamagosa, Fuengirola (Feria Ground), Nerja weekly market (Calle Chaparil)
Don’t let being unsure about sizes impare your shopping sprees...
Shoes
>> Wednesday Benalmadena Parque de la Paloma, La Cala, Estepona, La Linea, Rincon de la Victoria
>> Thursday Alhaurin el Grande, Pizara, Frigiliana, Inside La Trocha, Coin, Torremolinos, Velez Malaga, San Pedro, Torre del Mar
>> Friday Benalmadena Tivoli Gardens, Casares, Cartama, Aguamania, ctra Cartama, Las Chapas
>> Saturday Fuengirola, La Cala, Ojen Pueblo, Coin, Competa, Puerta Banus near bullring
>> Sunday Estation de Cartama, Fuengirola near the mosque, La Trocha, Coin, Malaga near the football stadium, Sabinillas, Estepona, Sotogrande, Nerja car boot sale
>> Tourist Information Alhaurin de la Torre Alhaurin el Grande Alora Antequera Cartamar Coin Benalmádena Estepona
952 410 005 952 491 275 952 495 577 952 702 505 952 422 126 952 453 211 952 442 494 952 802 002
SP 37 38 39 40 41 42 43
1619516500 2890330099 2072229633 1383738866 1604230230 1252513500 1132345678 1514721110
Men’s Wear UK 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
SP 44 46 48 50/52 54 56 58
902 143 144 956 654 304 952 490 709 952 443 563 952 450 366 952 802 954 952 475 066 952 172 396 953 350 061 952 764 400 952 781 396 952 380 965
>> Train Stations
Alora, Marbella near the football stadium
>> Mondays
952 441 545 952 802 900 952 471 000 00350 70027 952 327 950 952 774 488 952 476 593
>> Bus Stations
Abbey National Allied Irish American Express Bank of Scotland Barclays Bank Diners Club First Direct Girobank
>> Market Places
952 048 844 00350 73026
UK 34 36 38 40 42 44 46
Halifax Lloyds TSB Mastercard Nat & Provincial Nationwide Natwest Yorkshire Bank
8457203099 1702364274 1383621166 1274331522 1793543888 1132778899 1132424800
Men’s Shirts SP 35 36/37 38 39/40 41 42/43 44
UK 14 14.5 15 15.5 16 16.5 17
Women’s Wear SP 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
UK 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
>> Spanish Facts >> Telephone: to make an international call from Spain, dial 00 and then add the country code (UK 44; USA 1; Australia 61; Canada 1; Irish Republic 353; New Zealand 64) and the rest of the telephone number minus the first zero if there is one. To call Spain from abroad, the country code is 00 34. >> Business hours: the normal opening hours for shops are Monday to Saturday from around 10am until about 1.30 / 2pm. After siesta they reopen from around 5.30pm until 8pm or 9pm. Large stores usually stay open all day. Most places are closed on Sundays. Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 467 457 0350 774 982 952 213 445 952 771 442 952 485 900 952 521 531 952 374 231
>> Town Halls Coin
>> Banks: generally open from 9am to 2pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9am to midday or 1pm on Saturday. Hours may vary in summer. >> Customs allowance- importation from Gibraltar into Spain 1 litre of spirits or strong liqueurs over 22% or 2 litres of wine 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 gms tobacco Goods brought in Gibraltar may only be imported into spain between 0900 hours and 2100 hours Estepona Foreigners Dept Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 801 100 952 589 440 952 589 300 0350 774 902 952 135 000 952 761 100 952 485 900 952 548 449 952 379 400
952 453 020
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