QFocus On Costa Blanca South October 2023

The image which captures the essence of Spain

Followers of Specsavers Ópticas’ social media channels voted on the picture they think best reflects and captures the essence of Spain last month. Kristine Aghasyan was selected as the winner, with the largest amount of likes and comments across their Instagram and Facebook pages. Kristine’s beautiful image depicts what she describes as a “romantic sunset”, seen through the rocks at La Mata in Torrevieja. This striking and well composed image encapsulates the rugged beauty of the Spanish coastal areas and the importance of the sea to the communities along the 4,964 kilometres of coastline. It was a firm favourite amongst the jury who shortlisted the entries and the voting public, getting over 300 likes and over 100 comments to win a landslide victory. This talented photographer has won a €100 Amazon voucher and a pair of designer sunglasses.

Lisa James from Specsavers Ópticas in Guardamar was one of the three store directors to shortlist the top entries and commented, “I was very impressed with the high standard of entries we received for this years’ competition. There were 58 pictures submitted for us to judge and we thought they were so good, that we could only get the shortlist down to eight entries, before handing over to our followers to have their say and select the winner.

Thanks so much to everyone who submitted an entry and for everyone who took the time to vote. Kristine is a worthy winner and I would like to congratulate her on behalf of all of the team!”

You can see the shortlisted entries on Specsavers Opticas’ via social media - @SpecsaversOpticas on Facebook and @specsaversspain on Instagram. Find out more about the optical group and book an eye test in your nearest store via their website www.specsavers.es

Romantic Sunset by Kristine Aghasyan wins Specsavers Ópticas’ Summer Photography Competition

Health Insurance Cover

I appreciate everything has changed due to Brexit, but it is now far more important to have health insurance. You need to make sure there is an English speaker who can help you understand exactly what you are purchasing and how to use it.

Of course, ASSSA health policies are accepted for your Residencia, TIE and both Non Lucrative and Digital Nomad visa applications and they provide the legal certification required for the process and my consultants will be able to guide you with the correct policy necessary for your visa process.

It is vital you follow the guidelines for using the policy, especially in regards to emergencies and hospitalisation. You may find yourself with a hefty bill to pay, if you do not follow the correct procedures. If you decide to use the Spanish National Health, you will be required to provide a SIP card, EHIC or payment before treatment.

The Spanish health system is stretched and of course this means waiting lists. ASSSA provides hospitals, clinics, specialists and doctors, many of whom speak several languages to make your health decisions easier and faster.

Obviously if you are in acute pain, you do need to discover what is causing it and within the national health this can take many months to resolve and private health care offers the opportunity to speed up the process. ASSSA also provide emergency cover and their own ambulances, where you will be taken to a hospital related to ASSSA, which you find in your ASSSA book.

My company has an ASSSA administrator to help answer your questions, process your authorisation requests and liaise with ASSSA on your behalf if you should so wish.

Yes, there are many cheaper options that you could consider. Do not be tempted by the price, you will not get what you need or expect. All private health insurance in Spain are limited in certain areas and be sure to understand these limitations before purchasing.

Unlike health insurance in the UK you will be pleasantly surprised at the prices here in Spain. The difference is the Spanish government encourages the use of private health care, therefore the prices and the taxes are far lower than you may think.

If you would like a quotation or more information please contact one of my offices, email info@ jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net.

Normality has now returned with the end of the summer season and although it is my favourite time of year it is always a blessing when the temperatures become more bearable.

Our region sees a few red days during October with the Day of Valencia on the 9th which celebrates Valencian culture and history and then a national holiday on 12th October which commemorates Christopher Columbus landing at the “New World”.

Of course as we move on to the end of the month there will be many parties and celebrations for Halloween, which is becoming more popular to the Spanish community as the years go by.

Following Halloween comes another national holiday on 1st November known as All Saints Day.

This is a very important national public holiday when people from all over the country return to their town or village to lay flowers on the graves of deceased relatives. There are few religious days that mean quite so much to the ordinary people of Spain as this solemn festival.

Before we know it, we will then have Christmas upon us once again. Already many restaurants are booked up for Christmas Day and New Year's Eve so if you are looking at celebrating somewhere other than your own home, don't leave it too long otherwise you might be disappointed.

Until the next time.....

Michelle

QFocus Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055

Pick up your next issue on 1 November Deadline for advertising & editorial - 16 Oct

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F.A.B. (Friends after Bereavement)

We are a relaxed and friendly mixed group who meet once a week in the lounge/bar of the Laguna Hotel in Quesada at 3pm for a chat and coffee. The aim of the group is to support those who have lost someone close and help make new friends. We also enjoy meals / lunches out and day trips etc. For more information call Joan on 634 336 103 or Heather 661 116 869 or just come along for a chat one Saturday.

QFocus Magazine covering the Alicante South region and Focus On Magazine covering the Alicante North region.

10th anniversary of Alicante's mushroom street

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Alicante’s iconic Calle San Francisco with its yellow painted road, giant mushrooms and snails looks like something from a top children’s film. But 10 years ago, things were very different. This central part of the city was rundown and many of the shops were closed on the main road connecting Avenida del Dr Gadea with the Rambla.

Sonia Castedo was the mayor of Alicante from 2008 to 2014 and she searched throughout Europe to find inspiration to make an area which would be attractive to children, somewhere for them to play. She found what she was looking for in a street in Strasbourg, which was the work of an Alicante artist Pachi. They held a meeting and, thus, the idea of the mushroom street began to emerge.

The artworks breathed new life into the street, which is now a major attraction with tour guides and visitors from the cruise ships stopping off here, as well as being a place for local children to play safely.

Today, there is concern about the area looking tired and needing more care. Alicante council is now working on a project to transform Calle San Francisco during 2024 including repainting the road and replacing the children’s games and soft flooring, Calle San Francisco is in the centre of Alicante between Avenida del Dr Gadea and the Rambla de Mendez Nuñez. At either end are two ornate squares - Plaza Calvo Sotelo and Plaza Portal De Elche, built in the 19th century as a meeting point for residents.

Musical delights at the Alicante theatre

The Teatro Principal de Alicante sees in the autumn months with a variety of shows for all ages.

Highlights include A Meeting with the Blues featuring top artistes Dorrey Lyles and Marcos Coll backed by the Medicine Man blues band. The show takes place on Friday October 13, with tickets priced from €15.

From Thursday October 26 to Sunday October 29, the Alicante stage is transformed into 1950s Rydell High for the ever-popular teen musical Grease bringing alive the story of Danny and Sandy, the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies while reliving classic Grease songs such as You're

The One That I Want,

Hopelessly Devoted To You and Summer Nights. The songs have been translated and adapted by Alejandro Serrano and David Serrano.

On Thursday November 2, Opera 2001 brings Mozart's Don Giovanni to the stage. Widely regarded as one of the greatest operas of all time, the story follows the nobleman's stories of seduction and his ultimate downfall.

Tickets for all shows are available from the Teatro Principal de Alicante website https://www.teatroprincipaldealicante.com/

EPC Compliance: The Unseen Threat for Unprepared Vendors in Spain's Real Estate Market

article supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

In the sunny landscapes of southeastern Spain, where picturesque homes and dreamy villas dot the horizon, the real estate market has always been a thriving hub for property enthusiasts. However, recent events have brought to light a crucial aspect that both vendors and estate agents must not overlook.

This is a true incident that unfolded with one of our clients before summer. The names have been concealed for obvious reasons.

The Story Unfolds

A seemingly ordinary couple, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, set out on a mission to find their dream home. They approached a local estate agency, hoping to explore various properties in the region. After viewing several houses, they zeroed in on one particular property. What Mr. and Mrs. Smith didn't reveal at the time was their hidden identity as civil servants from the "Consumo" authority, responsible for ensuring compliance with various consumer protection regulations, including property-related matters.

The Turning Point

Mr. and Mrs. Smith revealed their true identity, and with a stern request, demanded to inspect the property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). The estate agent, caught off guard, found themselves in a precarious situation. The absence of a valid EPC isn't just a minor oversight; it's a stark violation of Spanish law that

carries substantial fines, ranging from 600€ to 6000€, applying to both vendors and estate agents.

The Legal Mandate

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are mandatory documents in Spain, designed to provide prospective buyers or tenants with essential information about a property's energy efficiency. These certificates rate properties on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and provide recommendations for improving energy efficiency. By law, EPCs must be obtained and made available to potential buyers or tenants when marketing a property.

Inspections and Penalties

Mr. and Mrs. Smith's visit was not an isolated incident. The "Consumo" authority, responsible for ensuring compliance with property-related regulations, conducts inspections (to Estate Agents and particular vendors) to verify the presence of EPCs. Failure to provide a valid EPC can result in substantial fines for both property owners and estate agents. These fines can quickly add up and significantly impact businesses in the real estate sector.

A Widespread Issue: Barcelona's Massive Inspection

This pressing issue isn't limited to southeastern Spain alone. In a broader context, Spain has witnessed a series of inspections targeting non-compliance with Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). One of the most notable incidents occurred in the vibrant city of Barcelona, where the real estate market has long been bustling with activity.

In a sweeping operation, the authorities inspected numerous estate agencies in the Barcelona area. Shockingly, more than 40 estate agents were found in violation of EPC regulations, leading to substantial fines and penalties. This high-profile crackdown served as a wake-up call to the entire real estate industry in Spain.

The Call to Action

In light of these developments, it is imperative for vendors and estate agents operating in southeastern Spain to recognise the critical importance of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

& continued on next page

Here are some key takeaways:

Compliance is Not Optional: Vendors and estate agents must understand that obtaining and presenting an EPC is not optional but a legal requirement.

Preparation is Key: Ensure that every property listed for sale or rent has a valid EPC readily available for inspection. This preparation can save you from unexpected fines and legal troubles. Education is Vital: Educate staff and colleagues about the significance of EPCs. Awareness and compliance should be part of standard operating procedures.

Seek Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about the EPC process or need assistance in obtaining certificates, consult with certified energy assessors or professionals who specialise in EPC issuance.

Proactive Approach: Don't wait for an inspection to remind you of EPCs' importance. Take a proactive approach by ensuring all your properties are compliant from the start.

In conclusion, the recent incident involving Mr. and Mrs. Smith, along with the Barcelona inspection, underscores the paramount importance of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Spain's real estate market. Vendors and estate agents cannot afford to overlook these requirements. Instead, they should embrace them as an integral part of their business operations. By doing so, they not only avoid potential fines and inspections but also contribute to a more transparent and efficient real estate market. The time for action is now.

Martinez de la Casa Architects is the Number One company for Building Certification, including Energy Performance Certificates (121€ IVA incl) and Habitation Licences and Retrospective Licences. They also provide Retrospective Licences (Pools 266.20€ IVA incl. and for Extensions such as glazings, coverages, sheds, workshops or any other extensions 326€ IVA incl.)

For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment, please call 665 810 411 (English) or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 300 testimonials.

Benidorm gears up to become a low emissions zone

The final steps are being taken to turn Benidorm into a Low Emissions Zone next year. Cities in Spain with a population of more than 50,000 residents have to comply with the Climate Change and Energy Transition Law to fight against air pollution that was approved in 2021 and will be implemented in 2024.

Following the busy summer season in Benidorm, the council is now putting the final works in place to control access to and parking in streets within the LEZ to certain vehicles. The restrictions will be rolled out across the seaside resort and will be fully implemented after the Benidorm festivals in November.

Other towns in the Alicante province which have to create LEZs are Alcoy, Alicante, Elche, Elda, Orihuela, San Vicente del Raspeig and Torrevieja.

Vehicles will be categorised according to their year of registration and the type of fuel they use. Car owners need to display a badge to show which category their vehicle falls under. There are four categories:

● a blue Zero emissions label. Vehicles qualifying for this include electric cars and certain plug-in hybrids.

● a green and blue Eco badge for vehicles such as plug-in hybrids with a range of less than 40km, non plug-in hybrids, and vehicles powered by natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas.

● a C green sticker for passenger cars and light petrol vehicles registered from January 2006, diesel vans and passenger cars registered from 2014, and vehicles with more than eight seats or heavier vehicles registered from 2014.

● a yellow B sticker for some older vehicles.

Some vehicles, which are more than around 20 years old will not qualify for a badge. To check which category your vehicle is in, you can use the DGT tool at https://sede.dgt.gob.es/es/vehiculos/distintivo-ambiental

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

GARDENING HINTS & TIPS from the Vega Baja Gardening Club

What a ridiculously hot summer it's been, many, probably most of us have lost plants this year, including some that have been established for years. The change in weather has also changed the amount and types of garden pests, I'm sick of batting away the locusts that sit on my plants chomping away, I swear that they look at me and blow raspberries without a care in the world. Did you know that a solution of crushed garlic in water, sprayed onto the plant leaves deters these leggy loafers?

Spring onions (scallions) are a real favourite with many people, but not always easy to find in the supermarkets, however once you've bought a bunch you can grow them on with only a window sill, a glass jar and a knife or scissors. Try and pick the onions with the bushiest root hairs you can find.

What we are aiming to do is keep regrowing the green tops of the onion so you can harvest the tops and they will keep growing back. This is easy, cut off the green bits, (and eat them) about 3cms above the white bulb, put a few of these bulbs in a glass jar so that they hold themselves upright. Next add water to about halfway up the bulbs and wait a week or two. The tops will regrow and you can just keep cutting and eating them.

A couple of important points, some areas have heavily chlorinated water, which isn't ideal for this, weather permitting I use rain water that I've collected. You'll also need to change the water every 2 or 3 days as it starts to go a bit off. Of course, you could plant them out in some decent soil, but this way is so simple and convenient and people without gardens can grow then too.

Andrea Oates. Email: vegabajagardenclub@gmail.com

Spot the 13 differences (answers in the classified pages)

COSTA BLANCA SOUTH

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007

ACTS will be performing a farce called 'Play On' by Rick Abbot from 9th to 11th November at the Benijofar Cultural Centre. The play is full of hilarity, giving an insight into what goes on in an Amateur Dramatic Group as they rehearse and finally perform their own play. You can only imagine the trouble with props sound effects and diva actors! Do join us, tickets can be reserved by WhatsApp on 672 544 026. Andante International Choir is the only choir in the Costa Blanca community devoted to sacred choral works and classical pieces. They meet in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio, 4 on Thursday nights from 7.15pm until 9pm. All are welcome to join them. They especially need tenors and basses. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain).

The Costa Blanca Singers celebrated their one-year anniversary last month and were delighted to sing at The Debra Charity Ball. What a wonderful evening it was. As popularity grows for CBS, more charitable events fill their calendar. You are invited to join them in rehearsal on any Wednesday at The Social Centre La Marina urbanizacion behind the tourist information. Come along for a 2pm start. New singers are welcome to this fun and friendly group. Think you can't sing? Let them show you that you can. Be brave. Meet new friends and enjoy the laughter. WhatsApp or call 641 992 164 for more information.

Rojales Pantomime Group are delighted to announce that they are going back to their roots and this year's pantomime, Snow White & The Seven Christmas Elves, will be performed at the Rojales Capitol Theatre on 13th, 14th, & 15th December. Costumes are starting to take shape and looking fabulous. They are also looking for volunteers who can offer their skills painting a tree or two, or just willing to give the cast a helping hand in the wings on performance dates. For further details and an informal chat over a coffee, please email them on rojalespanto@yahoo.com.

Studio32: Following on from the huge success of their latest production of Hello Dolly, Studio32 are delighted to announce details of their next show 'The Studio32 West End Party' in November (dates to come), at Benijofar Theatre. This temporary change of theatre is due to the ongoing renovations at Cardinal Beluga. Rehearsals are in full swing for the dedicated cast and excitement is growing as The Studio32 West End Party is proving to be highly entertaining. If you would like to be involved, contact Linda on 679 062 272. Rehearsals take place at Casa Contenta, Rojales every Tuesday and Thursday evening. There is always scope for new members including cast, backstage, front of house and much more.

If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com

HELP VEGA BAJA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP

HELP Vega Baja registered charity is pleased to announce the introduction of a Carers Support Group for non-professional carers.

Our aim is to connect carers so no-one is left to care alone resulting in them feeling isolated and struggling either practically, emotionally, or both. With the support of experienced volunteers, we can offer information and advice to those carers who are looking after a family member or friend and suggest services and support to make your caring role more manageable for both you and the person you support. Unpaid carers often find themselves plunged into a caring role with little warning and feel completely overwhelmed by the heavy responsibilities they shoulder. Many are exhausted from looking after their husband, wife, partner, parent for hours every day and the life they now live is miles away from the hopes and dreams they had when they moved to Spain.

Caring can and often is, a lonely place to be in and we hope this new group will provide some respite. It is envisaged that some carers may want to come along seeking advice and support whilst others may wish to simply take their mind off things and have some “me time”, to chat, play a game of cards etc. The group is in addition to the existing Facebook Page we have specifically for carers (HELP Carers Connect) and other services offered by our Welfare Team.

The group will meet on the Third Tuesday of each month in the San Miguel Library (1st floor) between 2 – 4 pm starting on the 17th October.

If you are interested in finding out more about the HELP Vega Baja Carers Support Group, please call Sue Birchenough on 966 723 733 or email welfare@helpvegabaja.com. Places in the group are limited so please reserve your place directly with Sue. Together we will make a difference to the lives of others.

Spain gets set for Eurovision 2024

The build-up to Eurovision 2024 is gaining momentum as Spain launches its competition to select both artist and song at the Benidorm Fest 2024.

The two semi-finals will be held next January 30 and February 1 in Benidorm with the final taking place on February 3.

The 16 acts taking part will be announced on November 11 during the 2023 Latin Grammy Awards in Seville with the winner going on to represent Spain in Eurovision 2024, which will be held in Malmö, Sweden, in May.

MELODY MAKERS SINGING GROUP

We are a recently formed group of singers (Male and Female) who are looking for new members.

Rehearsals are at The Lakeview bar and restaurant in Quesada on a Tuesday afternoon from 2-4pm.

If you love singing and are looking for a group to sing with then why not come along and join this friendly group. We sing a wide variety of songs and are always expanding our repertoire. We have been booked for performances in December and so are beginning to rehearse our Christmas repertoire.

There's no audition or experience in reading music but you may find it useful. Our aim is to continuously improve our singing skills, help to raise money for local charities and create a fun and friendly atmosphere.

For further information check out our new Facebook page www.facebook.com/melodymakersquesada or alternatively get in touch with Lorraine by email at lorraine.simpson@yahoo.co.uk. We're looking forward to hearing from you!

WORD SEARCH

Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the back of the magazine. Good Luck.

Going shopping

AGUA - WATER

AZUCAR - SUGAR

CERDO - PORK

CHAMPU - SHAMPOO

COL - CABBAGE

CORDERO - LAMB

DETERGENTE LAVADORAWASHING POWDER

FRUTA - FRUIT

GALLETAS - BISCUITS

HARINA - FLOUR

HUEVO - EGG

LAVAVAJILLASWASHING UP LIQUID

LECHE - MILK

LECHUGA - LETTUCE

MANTEQUILLA - BUTTER

PAN - BREAD

PAPEL DEL BAÑOTOILET ROLL

PASTA DENTAL - TOOTHPASTE

PATATA - POTATO

PEPINO - CUCUMBER

POLLO - CHICKEN

QUESO - CHEESE

SUAVIZANTEFABRIC SOFTENER

TENERA - BEEF

TOMATE - TOMATO

ZANAHORIA - CARROT

See back pages for answers

SUDOKU

Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a math game at all - it is a pure logic game. Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

CROSSWORD

Across

7 Indian class (5)

9 Simian (3-4)

10 At the apex (7)

11 Affliction is cruel cut (5)

12 Russian sleigh (6)

14 Energetic (5)

17 Tolerate (5)

19 Rarely encountered (6)

22 Get new guns (5)

24 Lunges (7)

25 No good (7)

26 Simultaneous firing of artillery (5)

Down

1 Transparent overlay (7)

2 Do over (6)

3 Engrossed (4)

4 Tie up rescue craft (6)

5 Spine separator (4)

6 Earth (5)

8 Champion (7)

13 Facilitate (3)

14 Ballet step (3)

15 Sun protector (7)

16 Income earned in the past (7)

18 Show song (6)

20 Pre-revival zombie (6)

21 Arrogant (5)

23 Blows away (4)

24 Cooking measure (4)

See back pages for answers

THE NIGHT SKY IN OCTOBERWHAT TO LOOK FOR IN THE SKY THIS MONTH

October is like the start of the star gazing season for many of us, the sky gets much darker than in the summer months, and we tend to have clearer skies too.

There are a few things to look out for this month, firstly we will be treated to a partial Lunar eclipse on the 28th, it's not something of importance but it's always fun and pretty to look at. If you look for the Moon in the south east around 10pm, you will notice a small chunk is covered by Earth's shadow. The eclipse as a whole lasts for a few hours, so you don't need exact timing to go out and enjoy it.

Next we come to Saturn, I've banged on about Saturn a lot in the past, so I'll just remind everyone that now is the best time to see the rings whilst they appear open to us on Earth. For the next few years they will become edge on to us before opening up and be worth seeing again in 2027, and regaining their full majesty in 2032. That's a long time to wait if you miss them over the next couple of months.

Now we come to Jupiter, that fabulous, huge colourful planet, over 1300 times the volume of our Earth. It's mostly made up of hydrogen and helium with an interesting garnish of other things like Nitrogen, which is why it's called a gas giant. Nitrogen and hydrogen can combine to become ammonia, and it's this gas which predominates in the incredible clouds we can see through even a small astronomical telescope. In November this year Jupiter reaches something called opposition, that means that it lies directly opposite the Sun in our sky so it will be visible all night long. This is a great time to go outside and see it. With the naked eye it's a colourful blob, with binoculars, you can see a tiny disk, and make out 4 of the 80 or so moons. With a decent telescope things get really interesting, you'll be able to see the great red spot, a seemingly endless storm much bigger than the Earth as it roars it's way around the planet. I do mean roars, even my pathetic home made radio telescope can pick up lots of radio noise from old Jove. You'll find Jupiter rising in the east, and is best viewed after 10pm. Quite near Jupiter the famous star cluster the Pleiades is beginning to rise into the autumn skies, the glorious seven sisters. It's easily seen with the naked eye, but it blossoms into a stupendous mass of newly born stars through a pair of binoculars or small telescope.

That's all for this month, enjoy your star and planet watching.

● To find out more about observing and astronomy why not join our group, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com to find out more.

Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.

Kenny Corris brings you

OUR OROSCOPE

Aries: Mars in your eighth house allows you to dig deep into spiritual matters as you currently seek answers. Your planetary leader boosts energies and backs you all the way to get results.

Taurus: The Lunar Eclipse, in your sign at the end of the month, shines a light on abundance. Fine tune your finances and get your money to work for you, not you for it. It makes sense now.

Gemini: Venus in Virgo enters your fourth house this month, and you get a green light on a domestic project that needs your skills and expertise if it is going to be effective. You will get the help you need.

Cancer: The Sun together with Mercury in the fifth house releases the child inside. This activates your creativity and finds you taking a step further in a matter of the heart. You’ve started and you will finish.

Leo: Mars enters your fourth house midmonth. This is a time to declutter so much from what you hold onto. Change allows you to create boundaries and bring in order to the equation too. Virgo: Venus enters your sign early in the month, bringing harmony and peace to a situation that was veering out of control. Go with a makeover that brings you all the results that you seek.

Libra: The mighty Solar Eclipse in your sign may set the cat amongst the pigeons. Stay grounded, whatever happens and dig your heels in only if you have to. A great month to discover who you really are.

Scorpio: The Lunar Eclipse this month resonates with a wily Uranus, planning your way ahead; and a beneficial Jupiter, waiting to reward you for a job done well. Simplifying is not compromising.

Sagittarius: Jupiter, your visionary benefactor, is poised to take a step back. It’s up to you what happens next, but control is safe in your trusty hands. Follow your own guidance in this intuitive time. Capricorn: Proactive energies abound, bringing peace in a situation that needs harmony to allow it to continue. Mercury together with the Sun and Mars in cahoots allow for highly sensitive dialogue.

Aquarius: Uranus, your trusty leader, has been opening doors to facilitate a recent request. You are far more than you think you are, and now you need to have fun finding this all out for yourself.

Pisces: Both the Solar Eclipse in Libra and the Lunar Eclipse in Taurus evoke Venus to generate love, luck and money. You ask for nothing, but now what comes next is your reward for a job done well.

As an Astrologer, Kenny has worked tirelessly for over forty years to produce quality Horoscopes Worldwide. He has received a major Award for his contribution to the Astrological Arts by being voted into the Top Twenty World’s Best Astrologers by the American Federation of Certified Psychics. He is awarded five stars as a Lightworker, and Psychic Medium. For personal readings/castings please call Kenny on: 686 361 594. kennycorris@hotmail.com www.kennycorris.com. Confidential and Personal Reply Guaranteed! Online Readings: by Zoom, Skype,WhatsApp, Viber, FaceTime.

You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net

Arena, 8 months old can be a little scared at first, so needs help to learn to trust. She is good with other dogs, and loves cuddles and attention. She is vet checked, spayed, fully vaccinated and chipped with a passport. Please call 711 075 305 or WhatsAppemail: k9clubinfo@gmail.com - K9 Facebook.

Rocky is 5 years and needs a new home. He is chipped, vaccinated and neutered. Rocky is good with other dogs and cats. For more information call: 645 469 253, visit our website www.petsinspain.com or email info@petsinspain.com

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

Across: 7 Caste, 9 Ape-like, 10 Topmost, 11 Ulcer, 12 Troika, 14 Peppy, 17 Stand, 19 Scarce, 22 Rearm, 24 Thrusts, 25 Useless, 26 Salvo.

Down: 1 Acetate, 2 Rework, 3 Rapt, 4 Secure, 5 Disc, 6 Terra, 8 Support, 13 Aid, 14 Pas, 15 Parasol, 16 Pension, 18 Number, 20 Corpse, 21 Proud, 23 Awes, 24 Tbsp.