QF Focus July 2018

Deposito Legal A-685-2016

Inside this issue:Your Local Entertainment Scene The Vega Baja Astronomy Group A View From the Top - Book Review by Ivor Kindle Finance - Health & Beauty - Your Horoscopes Violet King - Keith Nicol's Forthcoming Events Club & Charity News - Local Business Reviews brought to you by....

Win 50â‚Ź 'Spot the Logo' Classified Adverts Puzzles, Recipes and so much more...

EE FR

July 2018

Page 2

QF Focus Magazine

A moon with an attitude

Anyone who reads these articles regularly will have guessed that I have a fascination for the planet Jupiter.

I've mentioned it quite recently because it is so brilliant in the night sky at the moment. In case anyone has missed it, Jupiter is the very bright object about halfway up the sky in the south-west, it's the brightest thing in that area.

In the last meeting of the astronomy group, David, one of our members brought some pictures he had taken of the planet, and excellent they were too, the storms and the famous giant red spot were easy to see. What was more interesting for the group, were the pictures of the moons, we were particularly looking for a strange moon called Io. Io is probably the most active place in the Solar system, incredibly volcanic, sulphurous and a downright nasty place to visit.

Why is it like that? Io is sometimes called the squash-ball moon, it orbits Jupiter very closely and quickly, the immense gravity of Jupiter constantly pulls and pushes at the crust and like a squash-ball, it gets hot, really hot. Much of the rock melts, volcanos erupt and there are huge lava fields. Add to all that a really intense radiation belt and you might get a picture that reminds you of Dante's Inferno.

Let’s add one more incredible thing. Back in 1979, the Voyager spacecraft flew near Io. It was expected to be a routine fly by, to gather routine data. Luckily a brilliant NASA engineer, Linda Morabito noticed something very strange in one of the pictures. A volcanic plume was spotted going all the way from the surface into space, quite incredible, and a new discovery. We now know that these are a regular occurrence on Io. I've simplified quite a bit in this article, so those reading this can rest assured that we can discuss Ganymede/ Europa orbital resonance and tidal heating effects on Io, just come to one of our meetings and enjoy some astronomy.

Charles Oates Email: vegabaja.astonomygroup@gmail.com.

For more information on the group and meetings please visit: https://sites.google.com/site/vegabajaastronomy/.

Page 4

QF Focus Magazine

Our weekend in Mojacar was a lovely break but unfortunately far too short. On arrival we were informed it was the Moors & Christians fiesta so the area was very busy with lots going on. The complex we stayed at was really big and we were very fortunate to have apartments close to the main reception area.

I would highly recommend this complex to anyone planning a visit to Mojacar ... it is very clean throughout, the location very central and really good value for money.

Now we are on count down for our main holiday to Majorca in a few weeks time!

Schools in Spain are now out for summer, and I for one am a very proud parent with my little angel passing all of her subjects, giving her guaranteed progression to year 2 of the high school. We also had the end of year dance festival to attend recently, where she performed 5 different dances from classic to flamenco. It really is quite astounding to see just how much work the students put into the routines… as a parent, I do the drop off and pick up to dance class but see little of their efforts until the end.

At this time of year we all need to have a little more patience on the roads. There are a lot of hire cars around, and although it can be frustrating for us residents trying to get about our normal daily routine to be stuck behind someone that clearly doesn't know where they are going, we should all remember that on our visits back to the UK we are probably just the same driving on the “wrong” side of the road!

Congratulations to Gordon Anderson from Albatera who won last month's 50€ competition after spotting the logo on page 23. See if you can spot the logo in this issue for a chance to win 50€, see inside for details of how to enter. Good luck!

Michelle

Front cover photo taken by Ken Taylor. See advert on this page, telephone:- 633 479 031 email: ken@kentaylor.photography Photography website:- www.kentaylor.photography

QF Focus Magazine Office Tel: 96 587 5421.

Office closed for staff holidays 7 to 15 July inclusive.

Please send editorial to editor@qffocus.com Advert content to advertising@qffocus.com Pick up your next issue on 7 August Deadline for advertising and editorial - 20 July Female Focus covering the Alicante North region and the QF Focus Magazine covering the Alicante South region.

To discuss your advertising needs with your local representative contact:-

Gran Alacant to Torrevieja Michelle 663 178 228

michelle@femalefocusonline.com

Los Balcones to San Javier Lou 643 451 966 lou@femalefocusonline.com

Page 5

QF Focus Magazine

Summertime just got better at The Clubhouse and Chillout Cocktail Bar The popular Chillout Bar at La Marquesa Golf, Quesada is now open daily from 9am and has introduced new summer menus so you can now enjoy breakfast from 9am until midday and snacks around the pool area from 9am – 4pm. A new covered terrace area within the Chillout Bar provides the shade you may desire to dine al fresco, and there is also a large terrace area to the side of The Clubhouse Restaurant. You can enjoy their 3 course set menus or a la carte menu at either of these seating areas served from 6pm – 10pm.

In addition to the fabulous food available, The Chillout Bar has an extensive cocktail menu and a large selection of G&T cocktails for the gin lovers out there.

Want to watch the World Cup in style? The Chillout Bar has two large screens so you can sip cocktails, enjoy a glass of wine or beer and savour the food on offer. What more can you ask for?

To reserve your table at this superb venue call 96 684 5598 or Paul on 637 583 373. See main advert on page 3.

Page 6

QF Focus Magazine

INFORMATION published 28th May 2018 by THE PRUDENTIAL NET expected returns as follows: PruFund Cautious (Euro) Fund PruFund Growth (Euro) Fund

3.6% p.a.

4.1% p.a.

PruFund Cautious (Sterling) Fund 4.3% p.a.

PruFund Growth (Sterling) Fund 5.0% p.a.

Below is a summary of benefits of our most popular Spanish Tax Compliant investment product for Spanish resident ex-pats produced by The Prudential International.

Key benefits: • Mechanism employed by the Pru to smooth returns.

Excellent for inexperienced investors.

• Avoidance of inheritance tax liabilities between spouses if written as a joint policy.

• If your Spanish Will contains the UK law of succession clause then your UK resident heirs will only pay inheritance tax per UK rules on the passing of this bond. In most cases this will be Nil. • Option to give a regular monthly or quarterly income of 5% p.a. penalty free.

• All income tax deduction and reporting and Modelo 720 asset reporting is done for you in Spain by the Prudential International (based in Ireland).

• Portable, should you move back to UK or most other countries.

• Investment in € euro or £ sterling (minimum £20,000 or €25,000) • 1.5% allocation bonus for investments over £150,000 (immediately worth £152,250).

This article does not constitute an offer to sell the above product and any product recommendations will absolutely be based on your family circumstances and objectives. Please email me or call for more information.

David Diggle C.A.T., DipFA of Blacktower Financial Wealth Management (International) limited, telephone: 615 607 278 / 96 505 8212, email: dave.diggle@blacktowerfm.com.

Website: www.blacktowerfm.com. Location: Costa Blanca.

The Blacktower Group has been established from the UK for 32 years offering sound, independent advice.

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

See advert below for more details.

QF Focus Magazine

Page 7

Are you interested in learning a new practical skill?

KCI Hair and Beauty are a hair and beauty supplier that offer part time and full time hair, beauty and nail courses. When we started we supplied distributors and hair salons throughout Spain with famous British brands. Caroline, one of the owners was an NVQ Teacher in the U.K and now travels around Spain teaching in academies and salons.

We decided to open our own academy here on the Costa Blanca for local salons to come and update their skills, and also offered short courses in beauty therapy and nails.

As this was very successful Caroline decided to open the Osmo Hairdressing Academy and from September 2018 will be offering 10 month courses in beauty therapy on Thursdays and Fridays, and beginners hairdressing Level 1 and 2 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. On Mondays she will be doing Level 3 hairdressing and advanced colouring, hair up and cutting courses for hairdressers.

We decided to do the courses over two days a week so that people are still able to work around them while they gain a new skill, and have also kept them affordable with monthly payments.

These skills with accredited certification from the Beauty Guild U.K. will enable you to work not only in Europe but also in the U.K. and on cruise ships, or if you want to open your own salon will enable you to gain public liability insurance.

We also offer the latest training in lashes and run one to one short courses in beauty therapy for people who don’t want to do the 10 month courses.

Come and see us or call for more information. Courses are run in small groups and places are limited.

If you would like to train in any of our courses please call KCI Hair and Beauty on 96 672 5710.

Page 8

QF Focus Magazine

THE MEANING OF HORIZONTAL CRACKING Horizontal cracking under the roof or terrace slabs is probably the most common building defect in southern Spain.

The defect is easy to identify as they generally have a perfectly horizontal direction, beneath or on top of concrete slabs.

The cause that produces this fault is a differential expansion and contraction (due to drastic temperatures in summer and winter) of roofs or terraces which is different to the expansion of walls, some of them are never hit directly by solar radiation.

It is a minor building defect and can’t be considered structural.

Repairing the cause is technically impossible, by eliminating the borders of the crack and re-rendering the area the crack will reappear, and therefore the easiest and cheapest way to approach the problem is just a cosmetic repair by filling in the crack with a neutral silicone or with an elastic mortar decorating afterwards to unify the finishing colours.

Requesting a Structural Survey is now common practice in Spain, affordable and typically proven to save clients’ money by avoiding problem properties. For the nominal cost of 84€ IVA Inc, Martinez de la Casa Architects offer an on-site Building Survey and Defects Assessment for property buyers and owners throughout Almeria, Murcia & Alicante.

The service includes a property inspection by the Architect, with on-site defects advice and appropriate plan of action. A survey inspection will expose potential hidden costs.

Recommended before buying a home, Martinez de la Casa Architects (fully insured) also offer full Technical Property Reports, officially stamped by the College of Architects, for 450€ plus IVA. They can also provide sclerometers, hygrometers, luxmeters and poroscope and other highly sophisticated inspection services (by separate quote) to find hidden damages.

Martinez de la Casa Architects is Number 1 company in EPC Certificates (121€ inc IVA), Certificates/Retrospective Licences for pools (190 €+IVA) and extensions (270 € +IVA) and also offers superb discounts for groups (+2) or if you require more than one certificate for your property done at the same time. Plus, if your solicitors are studying your case, ask them to contact us to provide the necessary certificate/s, and we will make the whole process easier, cheaper and faster for you.

For all enquiries or to arrange an appointment please call 665 810 411 or visit www.martinezdelacasa.com to see an impressive list of over 150 testimonials on our services.

QF Focus Magazine

Page 9

Smiles for Kotukala In August this year Spanish Insurance return to Kotukala in the Gambia but this time for a week of nonstop repair work to get the school ready for the new term. Vital repair work will be done to the roof so in turn the internal ceilings can be made safe and the classrooms can be painted. Of course, Smiles for Kotukala wouldn’t be Smiles for Kotukala without finishing off with an extra special treat for the children. The work trip will end with a back to school party where the children will be rewarded for their individual achievements throughout the previous school year.

And this time Spanish Insurance are not going it alone! They have teamed up with Construcciones David from Quesada, Jayne from Serenity Insurance and Gregg from Black Cat Ink, and this time they are aiming higher. Not only with the work they carry out on the school but literally 4000 metres higher. To kick start the fund raising off they jumped out of a plane last mnth.

There are a number of ways you can help and get involved this year.

- You can donate your child’s English language learning school books that they no longer need, you can donate pencils, pens, rubbers, art material and exercise books into either Spanish Insurance office, One Way Services in Quesada or Black Cat Ink in Algorfa.

- You can make a cash donation on the Facebook page ‘Smiles for Kotukala School’.

- Businesses can get their names on the 2018 We Helped Kotukala t-shirts by calling Leisa on 649 179 122.

- Or come along to the fun afternoon at La Finca on the 4th of August where your kids can get a "tattoo" and bounce away on the bouncy castle while you enjoy a cocktail or beer on the terrace and fill yourself up with the best BBQ around being laid on by Delicias Benimar!

Page 10

Active Surfaces Spain's Leading Rubber Surfacing Company celebrating 3 years in Spain 3 years ago we came to Spain with a unique product to enhance pools, play areas, pathways etc.

On July 1st we reached our third anniversary and have completed over 100 projects.

We take pride in our work. Always turn up when we say and leave the job looking clean and tidy.

We hope to continue to provide our clients, old and new with good service and an excellent product which lasts for years.

We have a team of guys who not only turn up every day but carry out the work with enthusiasm and care.

If you need to improve the look of your pool area and never worry about flaking paint, sharp edges, slippery tiles or crumbling coronas again then we have the perfect solution for you which is proven by our many complete areas.

Our clients include communities, bed and breakfast owners and private pools with several now returning to us for more areas to be covered.

Here is just one example of testimonials we receive from our clients, taken from our Facebook page, along with some images of our more recent projects.

What a lovely looking pool and surround!! Thank You so much! It's perfect! You guys rocked up on time, did a splendid job and tidied up after too. I can't get over how much it has changed the look of the pool.

Highly recommend Active Surfaces! Thanks again. X

QF Focus Magazine

QF Focus Magazine

Page 11

Passport cost increase The FACTS With all the recent controversy and rumours spreading around regarding the costs of renewing your British passport, wouldn’t it be nice just to be able to see all the costs plain and simple?

If yes, then worry no more!

The FULL costs of renewing a British passport are: • £86.00 Adult Passport (32-Page) • £9.70 Standard overseas delivery • £10.16 Secure Overseas return Total renewal costs for an Adult British passport: £105.86 The true cost and not just a headline!

You will also need new photographs taken and a secure delivery service to the passport office as well and usually help and advice along the way. If your lights went out you would get an electrician, it’s the same with the most important document you will own, your passport. You need to make sure that it is 100% safe from leaving your hands to returning. And for that you need a professional service.

The best service to use is one which tells you the correct price up front and has no hidden fees with a proven track record. The Card & Gift Shop in Quesada have a combined experience of over 7 years in all aspects of U.K. Passports! Including lost and stolen, damaged, child’s first and even renewals! With all applications now being completed online there is even more pressure to get it right. Once the application is completed online you then have to print it, sign it and securely send it with your new photos and old passport to the appropriate office in the U.K.

This is one area where there has been a lot of confusion, the only safe way to send the most important document you own is through a guaranteed, insured and fully tracked service.

Passport photographs have changed dramatically in the last couple of years, photos taken in Spain for ID purposes, such as driving license or N.I.E., are not suitable for your passport, the Passport Office insist that the photo must be taken in the last month, 95% of delayed applications are because of incorrect photos.

With every step and stage all included in one place it makes sense to use an expert service such as The Card & Gift Shop in Quesada’s all inclusive service, especially as it is priced well below others whilst offering the same service. They are experts in the process, completing hundreds every year and can even arrange for customers to pay in cash as not everyone has the ability to pay by card.

Just give them a call on 96 671 8684 or pop into The Card & Gift Shop in Quesada (behind the Santander Bank) for more information or to book an appointment. See our advert on page 4.

Page 12

QF Focus Magazine

Are you a Love Addict?

Do you feel you are lacking enough love in your life to feel happy? Apparently so many of us do!

This can cause many problems socially, emotionally, and even end up as physical illness, but if you recognise it and deal with it, all can be well.

We bring an awful lot of problems on ourselves by the way we allow ourselves to be pulled down by dwelling on masses of things that happened years ago and we can do nothing about! Then, as if that isn’t bad enough, we choose to also worry about many other things that MIGHT happen in the future that haven’t happened yet!

There is nothing wrong with CARING about things, but worrying about everything 24/7 is going to wreak havoc in our lives, destroy relationships, and make us miserable and incapable of enjoying life too.

People become love addicts because they have experienced rejection in their youth, they did not feel the love they needed back then, so they become addicted to wanting that feeling in their lives as adults. Reason? No love of self, due to lack of self esteem, which we are not born with, it is a gift we receive from those who love us. If that explains things to us, then maybe we can now find the way out of being the sort of person that we are not happy about, and we can see things differently and handle things differently, and get different results.

No one is in control of us mentally as adults, so change the way you think and see what a difference that makes....the choice is yours.

Until the next time! Take care!

Violet King

Page 13

QF Focus Magazine

Book Review by Ivor Kindle

Bird Reference Books Hi all QF Focus readers...This month's book review is about books in general rather than something I have recently read.

As Spring turned to Summer I took to watching the arrival of the varied and beautiful birds that arrive on our shores here in South West Spain heralding the arrival of the Summer months. I sometime walk my dogs along the riverbank in Benijรณfar and do marvel at the amount of bird life that can be seen when just strolling along.

To this end I have been rooting around the markets and charity shops and now have in my possession several bird reference books to enable me to identify bird types ..species etc as I enjoy Spain's bird life.

Go on fellow readers ...seek out some bird reference books and put names to the beauty that is Mother nature.

My current must watch bird is the Swift, in Spanish the wonderfully named golondrina...master of flight with a wonderful turning circle ...a true joy to watch and read about.

...keep reading and learning Ivor Kindle.

Page 14

QF Focus Magazine

Does your Spanish investment bond have you tied up in knots?

By Sam Kelly, Managing Partner, Chorus Financial.

I’m a big believer in investment bonds, and many of my clients here in Spain hold them, in particular Spanish compliant investment bonds created by companies including The Prudential, SEB and Old Mutual.

Investment bonds offer great tax efficiency – as an example, a net return of 7% per annum would actually double your investment over 10 years thanks to the gross roll-up (compound growth) these bonds allow you to benefit from. (As always, returns aren’t guaranteed, and the figures given are for illustration purposes only).

Alongside that, if your bond is appropriately advised and designed for you as a resident here in Spain, it will also be fully tax compliant, meaning it is effectively taxed at source, and under most circumstances you won’t have to declare the bond itself on the Modelo 720, or indeed your annual gains or income.

Within a bond you can hold a fully diversified portfolio, and if that portfolio is advised through Chorus you will also benefit from our promise that we only use FCA regulated funds, that guarantee no hidden fees or commissions.

So, with all these advantages, where can a bond fail to provide what you’d expect as an investor?

Firstly, the annual charges. Did you know that you could be paying more for exactly the same bond depending on which firm you sign up through? I’ve seen people commit to annual charges of over 1% a year for as long as 10 years on a bond. That’s an unnecessarily high charge, and if you’d taken that exact same plan through Chorus, you would be paying far less.

Secondly, and probably worst of all, there are certain bonds offered here in Spain which not only commit clients to incredibly high charges for a very long period of time, but also have exclusive agreements in place with particular financial advisories. This means if you become dissatisfied with your financial advisor you

could be effectively forced to stay with them or face heavy exit penalties. This really isn’t how the market should operate and would be illegal in the UK. Chorus only use investment bonds that are openly available to all licensed advisors (such as the 3 I mentioned previously), so this means that if we fail to provide the service we’ve promised you, you can simply cancel our ongoing fee and appoint another advisor. For us this is the only fair way for the relationship between an advisor and their client to operate.

The final element comes down to the investment funds your advisor uses within your bond. As I’ve been saying for many years here in Spain, the use of commission paying funds is prolific, and can mean your portfolio is loaded with low quality investments and high hidden fees that you may be unaware of for many, many years.

A well put together Spanish investment bond can offer so many advantages and can be a fantastic long-term investment solution, but sadly many advisors here in Spain fail to put them together with their client’s needs at the forefront of the advice.

Your long-term financial security is simply too important to risk not asking enough questions or signing paperwork until you’re 100% sure you’re getting the best possible deal and the best possible investment advice. Never be afraid to get a second opinion, whether it’s on a new application or an existing plan.

If you’d like to discuss anything in this article, please call me direct on 664 398 702 or email s.kelly@chorusfinancial.es. All initial advice is free and without pressure or obligation.

Page 15

QF Focus Magazine

Exercise helps forego intake of drugs in 20% of hypertension cases Cardiovascular diseases cause more deaths after the age of 50 in women.

Two out of every menopause. “This reduction in oestrogen, protective hormones ten patients could against cardiovascular diseases, causes weight gain, rise in forego taking drugs if cholesterol and the occurrence of hypertension and diabetes. they do regular physical The signs of alarm of ischemic heart disease in women are also exercise daily, as it lowers blood pressure by 4 to 7 milligrams of not so clear, as there is less intense pain which usually does not mercury, providing the same effect of some medicines, according radiate to the left arm, and usually is accompanied with shortness to specialists of Quirónsalud Torrevieja and Valencia Hospitals. of breath, many times causing a delay in diagnosis.” according to Hypertension is the origin of most cardiovascular diseases: “The the specialists. higher the blood pressure, the greater are the chances of suffering How to prevent hypertension a myocardial infarction, heart failure, stroke or kidney disease.” says Dra. Catheline Lauwers, cardiologist at Quirónsalud Valencia Dr. Juan Luján, cardiologist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja Hospital, Hospital. As it usually does not have any symptoms, the most explains, the tips to keep our blood pressure under control are common way to diagnose hypertension is during a routine visit to based on leading a healthy life, mostly related to what we eat and the doctor. The specialist recommends to get your blood pressure our physical activity. We should also consider the kind of life we checked at least every two years after 35 years of age. “It is lead: work, stress, the time we devote to ourselves and to our near essential that patients get to know about their illness in order to and dear, as well as toxic or healthy habits that we have. As general avoid more serious diseases. Undergoing periodic blood pressure recommendations Dr. Luján advises to: checks is vital to detect and control of the progress of this disease.”

• Avoid hypercaloric diets and diets rich in sugars. Plant-rich About 40% of the adult population in Spain is affected by high diet is recommended (fruits, vegetables and legumes) and natural, blood pressure, and this percentage reaches 85% among people non-manufactured or non-processed products. One can and must above 65 years old, “An increase in its prevalence is expected as eat healthy fats such as fish or olive oil. a result of the ageing of the population, obesity and a sedentary • Reduce salt intake. Use lemon juice, vinegar or spices instead. lifestyle.” says Dr. Lauwers.

• Exercise 3 to 4 times weekly adapted to our body characteristics.

This will help prevent obesity and all its negative consequences.

It affects more women Contrary to what you may think, cardiovascular diseases cause • No smoking and drink alcohol in small amounts (not more more deaths among women than among men, especially after 50 than one glass of wine a day). years of age, mainly due to the drop in oestrogen that occurs with • Check blood pressure on a regular basis after 40 years of age.

Hospital Quirónsalud Torrevieja. Tel: 96 692 5779. www.quironsalud.es. See main advert on page 13 for more information.

Page 16

w

A View From The Top

Welcome to my monthly column “A view from the top”.

Hopefully you will find my rambling readable (maybe even enjoyable). You may agree or you may disagree with my views, I care not. These are my views long held and forged over a life time of work, travel and experience. Now that’s over let’s have a look at what is really winding me up.

More home thoughts from abroad.

Apologies to fans of the great poet Browning ...yes I know I have pinched one of his great titles and yes I also understand that technically abroad for a born Englishman should not be England ...but that said here we go. Following on from my June Focus ramblings you may remember that I had finished my piece back home in Spain getting ready to enjoy the oncoming summer. On arrival back home I was greeted by ‘Er indoors and the Mother in law who had come to stay for a few weeks ...just to get away from the British weather. No Mother in law jokes here ...in fact myself and the Mother in law get on very well ...apart from the usual generational differences ...political viewpoint ...what papers we read ...trying to prise the T.V. remote out of her hand whilst I attempt to stake my claim to MY favourite seat on the sofa ...and having to eat at times not conducive to my eating habits because she is, or at least seems to be, always hungry. There that should

QF Focus Magazine set the scene for you dear reader. Anyway, a couple of weeks after my return home ‘Er Indoors says “Mum needs to go home. She has some bits and pieces that need her attention in England”. “Ok” says I, “what is the plan?”

“The plan is that as Mum needs some assistance on and off the plane etc ...a coin has been spun and you (me) have been declared the winner of the ‘special assistance’ to Mum competition. Oh and by the way you are going this Saturday!”

Saturday arrives and off we set to Alicante airport ...me with a small cabin bag ...the mother in law with a hold bag and a cabin bag full of Mother in law things. On arrival at Alicante Mum decides she does not need assistance at this end as "It is only a small airport"... she decides that she will make her way to our boarding gate via several shops and or course the compulsory cafe con leche stop or two. We board Easyjet xxxx to Gatwick and, once the initial scrum has subsided inside the cabin, we are informed by the Pilot that due to a take-off delay on the trip out from Gatwick we will have a corresponding delay on the trip back ...the current delay is one hour and forty minutes. This is simply because Gatwick has only one runway and sheer numbers of aircraft waiting to take off and land nearly always mean that take-off slots are missed resulting in later landing slot follow-on delays. Oh no thought I ...what can you do sitting inside an aircraft ...it’s boring at the best of times but sitting on the Alicante tarmac ...no thank you. After what seemed an absolute age (ten minutes or so) the pilot announced that our delay would now only be 40 minutes... sure enough forty minutes later off we went into the wide blue yonder. Little did I know the fun had only just begun. It was a mundane flight interrupted only by my stomach rumbling due to hunger that could not be sated due to the aircraft having little or no food for sale on our much delayed journey to Gatwick ...apparently it was all eaten on the way out due to that delay. Settled in my seat with a bag of crisps and a cup of coffee I look over to see the Mother in law tucking into a ham roll and several biscuits that on last viewing were nestled in my fridge back home in Spain.

QF Focus Magazine Tummy rumbling, we land at Gatwick. All the other passengers leave the plane save for me and Mum. I have to wait here she says ...you go on and I will meet you in the Terminal. I exit the plane ...down the front steps and I spot a bus with several elderly people waiting within. My thought was that this must be her transport ...so I decide to wait ...and I wait ...and I wait until I eventually meander into the terminal and stretch my legs for a minute or two. It has now been 40 minutes since we landed and still no sign of the Mother in law. I decide to wander back out and once again park myself by the plane ...standing under the wing tip in a nice shady spot.

Imagine my shock when I notice that the bus full of old codgers has gone ...now missing Mother in law for all of 50 minutes.

As I contemplate how to tell her indoors that her Mum has gone missing under my charge at Britain’s second airport...I notice a young man exiting the front door of our aircraft.. the pilot. He walks down the stairs ...walks up to me and asks "Can I help you?"...I reply that I am waiting for my Mother in law ...I seem to have lost her! She was taken off the aircraft 40 minutes ago explains the nice young man ...by the rear back door ...he then says could I suggest you do two things ...the first thing he suggests is that I enter the terminal and find my missing Mother in law ... “And the second?” I ask - to which he replies, “You really do need to stand away from the aircraft as I am waiting to start up the engines.” I look up to see several people waving at me from the aircraft as I wander red faced away to search for my missing in action Mother in law.

My next move is to make my way through the airport to the train station as we were due to travel down to Havant in Hampshire via South West Trains. I would bump into her at the station ...

Page 17 of course I would. After working my way through passport control ...once again those eye recognition entry terminals failing to work ...tried about ten times to date all without success, I eventually gain entry to the country of my birth and begin the long haul to the train station at Gatwick. Why oh why are the terminals so far apart at Gatwick? Even fairly fit people need assistance to cover the Gatwick miles.

Arriving at the station I join the long queue to purchase tickets.

My turn arrives via an announced instruction ...next customer to booth number four. At booth number four a nice young lady asks “How can I help?” “Hello,” says I, “I would like two single tickets - Gatwick to Havant for today and one return Havant to Gatwick for next Wednesday.” She looks at me and says “two singles” “yes” I reply ...just in case I ever find my lost Mother in law. That will be forty two pounds please she says to which I announce with confidence “I will pay with my card”. I enter the card in the payment machine ...enter the Pin number and stand back... “It does not like that,” says the young ticket lady “give me the card and I will type the numbers in on my keyboard.” “Oh dear,” she says” it does not like that either.” “I wonder why I enquire?” “Because the card is out of date.” says the nice young ticket lady looking at me and looking over my shoulder at the vast amount of eager ticket purchasers being held up by an idiot who not only has contrived to lose his Mother in law ...but is now trying to purchase train tickets with an out of date credit card. Just when things could not get any worse Mother in law appears ...in this case it’s Super Mother in law ...as she rides to my rescue with a handful of crisp twenty pound notes. Onward we travel, eventually arriving safe and sound on beautiful Hayling Island.

The moral of this story ...always check the expire by date on credit cards before you travel, and at all times keep the Mother in law close at hand. Whilst I love to travel, if something is going to happen it always seems to happen to me ...years ago a teacher of mine said "You Boy...you should not be allowed out on your own."

I think he may have had a point.

Page 18

QF Focus Magazine

Clearwater Drinking Water Systems Are you tired of carrying heavy plastic water bottles?

Would you like to help the environment by reducing plastic wastage?

Did you know that your body needs fresh water to perform its daily functions such as digestion, temperature and blood regulation?

Then read on...........

The most economical, environmentally sound choice you and your family can make is to purchase and install a drinking water filter system in your home.

We use a two filter system that fits under the sink which will remove the worst contaminants from your source water (tap) without removing the naturally occurring minerals, which are critical for optimal health.

Many people have asked me “Is filtered drinking water better than tap or bottled water?”

My answer is simple: YES! filtered drinking water from your tap is the safest, healthiest and least expensive way to go.

Clearwater is a local, family run business here on the Costa Blanca, we are a fully legal business in Spain and also offer a guarantee with all our installations.

Advantages of Under Sink Water Filters • These filters do not take up sink or counter top space • Separate tap fitted, or a three way tap at additional cost • The filters last 6 months, thus saving money • No more carrying heavy water bottles, there will always be a supply of drinking water • The under-sink systems use multi-stage filters that remove many water contaminants • These filters improve water taste and reduce odours • Perfect for all the family, even your pets For a free no obligation quotation, home visit or should you require any further information please contact Steve on 686 921 052 or email scaleaway@live.com.

QF Focus Magazine

Page 19

My name is Steve Woods and I am a solicitor specialising in claims for asbestos related diseases and I thought I would look at a number of questions that often arise and that make people worried about the possibility of making a claim. My message is, if in doubt ask!

I NEVER MADE A CLAIM BEFORE. I understand that making a claim can seem daunting and this is why I always visit my clients and meet them face to face. I can explain the process and I find this reassures them. I come to Spain regularly and so personal visits are not a problem.

I CANNOT REMEMBER WHERE I WORKED, OR THE COMPANY I WORKED FOR NO LONGER EXISTS. It is not unusual for companies that traded in the 1960s, for example, to have long since stopped trading. With investigations I can trace insurers who provided cover for these companies and they are obliged to deal with the claims. Even if you are hazy about the exact name of a company or your period of employment with them, I can obtain your work history from HM Revenue & Customs and this provides confirmation of who you worked for all those years ago.

I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH AN ASBESTOS CONDITION BUT I DID NOT WORK WITH ASBESTOS. It is surprising how often, when you start talking about a persons work history, what they remember. Often, it turns out that even if a person did not actually work with asbestos, they worked alongside people who did and therefore came into contact with dust. Another possibility, and a particularly sad one in my experience, is a wife who comes into contact with asbestos from her husband’s work clothes.

MY BREATHING PROBLEMS ARE NOT TOO BAD. A lot of people I meet are dismissive of their breathing problems and underestimate how they affect their daily lives. Some people I have seen do not realise there is a time limit for bringing claims and so it is important that investigations are started as soon as possible.

Claims for breathing problems caused by exposure to asbestos can be complex but the quicker the claim is started the quicker these issues can be dealt with. So, if you are concerned about your particular situation or have any questions please do not hesitate to get in touch. I am happy to talk to you free of charge.

Page 20

QF Focus Magazine

Password – What password?

I haven’t got a clue Guv….

Do you know, if I had a Euro for every person who came in with a phone, tablet or email query who didn’t have a clue what password was created for their specific account I would be a millionaire! Yes, it is a common problem. From time to time, due to problems with email accounts, Android or Apple tablets / phones, one may need their password to log back into their respective account.

Let me give you a few examples. Let’s take the IPAD or iPhone (my pet hates due to the over and above security applied to these devices). These devices when initially setup require you to assign an Apple account (commonly known also as an iCloud account) and password.

Now let’s take an Android tablet or phone. These have a GMAIL account and password associated with them when initially setup. Both Apple and Android devices backup photos, email, applications etc. to what’s known as a cloud (come on you must have heard this bantered around in your discussions with friends and neighbours?). Why? Because if there is a requirement to factory reset a tablet or phone due to a rogue bit of software causing a problem with these devices, which 99.99999% of the time will rectify the problem, they require the account and password that was used on initial setup. Thus, no data or applications are lost! It’s magic! Yes, the respective tablet or phone will interrogate the cloud using the account and password to request if there is anything to download to the device and if there is, low and behold your information is saved!

My suggestion would be that now, on being advised of this information find out who setup your tablet or phone and write down the information and place it in your safe for safe keeping should it ever be required. Don’t leave it until D-Day and find out all is lost!

One more thing folks, many a time I have had clients come into the shop with a notepad or scratchy bits of paper with passwords for various applications such as email, Facebook, skype etc. and guess what, the password is written down differently maybe 3 or 4 times and still they don’t work! We don’t recommend leaving passwords such as access to banking etc. on a computer in case it is stolen. I always recommend having them stored somewhere safe such as a safe, stuck behind a fridge or bed headboard. Sounds daft but who would think to look in those places?

Finally, the least number of passwords you have to remember the better for you. Just ensure they are hard to crack and encrypted with 8 or more alpha-numeric characters with the odd capital letter thrown in. Good luck everyone!

Quesada Computers, Avenida De Las Naciones, Quesada, Telephone, 96 627 2416, email sales@quesadacomputers.com. Checkout our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/quesada.computers or on the web www.quesadacomputers.com.

Page 21

QF Focus Magazine

CBD in Sport

Welcome to the fourth article in our series where we will discuss the use of CBD (Cannabidiol) in sports and fitness.

CBD has been used by professional and amateur sports people for a number of years and they have risked their sports careers by doing so, but obviously thought the result outweighed the risk. One of the most famous in recent times being Nate Diaz an MMA fighter who openly vaped CBD at a post-fight press conference, causing the media to focus on CBD and not the fight itself. Diaz said at the time “It helps with the healing process and inflammation”.

This is of course true as CBD has been seen to help with many inflammatory conditions including arthritis, strains, joint inflammation and of course bruising and muscle soreness.

The key point is that using high quality CBD oil WILL NOT GET YOU HIGH! This is because there is virtually zero Tetrahydracannabinol (THC) in the oil. EU legislation allows a maximum of 0.2% (Genius Hemp oils are independently Laboratory tested and range between 0.03% and 0.05%) Dr Stuart Titus, PhD, President and CEO of Medical Marijuana Inc. in the United States says “CBD seems to have a much greater anti-oxidant effect than vitamin C or vitamin D, so many athletes are using this to deal with inflammation. Dr Titus also believes that CBD could soon become an essential component of a healthy lifestyle and a ‘go to’ supplement, following further research.

Another great believer in the use of CBD oil for pre and post exercise recovery is Eddie Hall, 2017 World's Strongest Man who has also been quoted as saying “there are many benefits to CBD oil, one of them being pain and inflammation, it can reduce pain, it can reduce inflammation”. This, from the man who currently holds the world deadlift record of 500kgs.

From 1st January 2018 WADA (World Anti Doping Agency) removed CBD from their banned substance list, much to the relief of professional athletes and sports people around the world.

There are now up and coming athletes being sponsored by CBD companies.

My own personal experience with CBD oil is mainly in the health and fitness areas. I find CBD reduces back stiffness and also DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) following heavy lifting sessions at the gym. I would suggest my muscle recovery is more like a man in his early thirties not early fifties as the reality stands.

As a competing Masters Physique bodybuilder CBD has been a key component in my supplementation and success.

So there you have it. CBD is being used by amateur and professional athletes and sports people across the whole age spectrum. When you decide to try CBD make sure it is from a reputable company offering the relevant background material including batch codes and independent lab testing.

Please be aware that Genius Hemp are not qualified doctors or physicians.

Genius Hemp - visit our Facebook page to check out our forthcoming events or call Sylvia on 622 233 091 to find out more.

Page 22

Journalist and broadcaster Jack Troughton plays ‘Johnny Foreigner’ and casts an eye over Spain and focuses on stories that serve as a gentle reminder he remains an Englishman abroad.

QF Focus Magazine

All change in Madrid: The captain at the helm of the good ship ‘Spain’ suddenly changed with a vote of ‘no confidence’ in Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy and his government – leaving rival Pedro Sanchez to grab the wheel.

The centre-right leader had been in office since 2011 but the particular Jonah hanging over his Partido Popular government was a series of corruption scandals – always hard to swallow by the electorate – suddenly again making headlines with gaol time for figures within the PP after a long-running court case.

Mr Rajoy stood proudly on the deck of his sinking ship after fending off bankruptcy for Spain, managing an unpopular period of austerity, and reinforcing ties with Europe; but unable to make real headway with a minority government since 2016.

And Mr Sanchez, leader of socialist party PSOE, now has to steer a course through troubled waters and his crew are a mixed bag as he also relies on the support of minority parties - all ready to whip out a hidden dagger, mutiny - and head for the polls.

General elections are expensive to run but in this case – with the flourishing centre-right liberals of Ciudadanos wanting a ballot – how long Pedro can successfully pander to the ambitions of parties like Podemos remain to be seen. Expect a polling day soon.

That old devil called Catalonia: Changes in the capital have also again stoked up the independence controversy surrounding the wealthy autonomy, its illegal 2017 ‘referendum’, and the emergency use of central government powers to take over running the region.

The peeps living in Catalonia are pretty much evenly split over the question, at least that’s what the polls and ballot boxes have shown, and the leading figures in the independence movement are either abroad or in custody facing charges of rebellion and sedition ...just remember the man who would be president is called Puigdemont and not Poldark.

Mr Sanchez’s new government proposes to let the region take charge of its own purse strings again. The new PM is to meet the new regional premier – a hardline separatist – but self-determination is apparently not open for discussion.

Cynics back in the PP and the C’s (that’s the Partido Popular and Ciudadanos) suggest it is the price of support in the no-confidence vote and to keep the new government afloat. It has already been described as a ‘mortgage’ around PSOE’s neck.

Steaming into Valencia: Hundreds of migrants were promised a refuge in Spain after being rescued at sea; plucked to safety from frail boats and the prospect of a watery grave in the Mediterranean.

The 629 souls – including pregnant women and scores of children – risked their lives in an attempt to reach the promised land of Europe from North Africa and were taken on board the rescue ship Aquarius following six separate rescue missions. Italy and Malta refused the ship permission to dock.

With supplies running low, Spain offered sanctuary, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez saying the country had an “obligation” to “avoid a human catastrophe”. Following Italy’s move following elections and her tough love after years of helping out – the new populist movement declared it was someone else’s turn.

The West must try and find some sort of solution to help this migrating mass of people and prevent them risking a visit to Davy Jones’ Locker. The people smugglers – if you will, the Pirates of the Mediterranean – appear to be the only winners.

However, a distinction must also be made between people escaping persecution, imprisonment and torture, and those many single young men more easily described as ‘economic refugees’ and simply looking for the good life.

Be afraid, be very afraid: Health chiefs have warned of a plague of cockroaches in our homes and on our streets this summer as the mercury rises after an extended damp spring.

In space no one can here you scream, and it is easy to feel equally as alienated walking the dog at night under the stars with the bugs scuttling underfoot – these creepy crawlies are not only about under cover of darkness but also, increasingly, during the day as they leave hiding places in search of food.

They may play a leading role in ‘I’m a Celebrity’ Down Under – and an Australian species of cockroach is making inroads here in Spain - but these particular creepy crawlies bring the risk of disease as well as sparking allergies.

And these guys apparently have the biological capability of surviving almost anything (and never appear in a Bush Tucker Trial)...trample underfoot or utilise sprays but be quick, they are speedy little blighters.

Page 23

QF Focus Magazine

The Pregnancy Countdown

By Steve Iball – deVere Spain It’s only 9 short months until Brexit and like all pregnancies, good planning leads to a successful birth. As an expat, what sort of planning can you do to ensure a happy financial life after March 29th 2019?

Pre-Retirement Expats Ask yourself 2 questions: Firstly, what does my UK state pension look like and am I going to receive the maximum pension aged 67, and what can I do to maximise this? And secondly, have I checked the status of my company and private pensions and what dangers do I face? The sort of things to look for are: • Are you in full control?

• Is the work pension at risk – remembering the issues with BHS, Carillion and British Steel?

• Is it time to transfer the pension to your own scheme to avoid the 25% tax that will be applied after Brexit?

Post Retired Expats Again 2 questions: Firstly, is the exchange rate affecting my UK pension? Secondly, are you sure you draw down all the pensions you’re due? You’d be surprised how many people have pensions they have forgotten about!

All Expats Living in Spain Many people are actually paying the wrong tax in the wrong country, and often too much. It often comes down to investments being taxed incorrectly. And then there’s the issue of inheritance tax. Tax laws are complex and the Spanish Modelo 720 can be complex. There are ways to minimise tax legally, so why not find out?

This is your Brexit Pregnancy Countdown to ensure you have delivery of investments, pensions, and taxation. You’re not alone and we at deVere are here to help with FREE ADVICE on any questions raised in this article.

For more information, contact Michael Lewis on 637 909 435 or email michael.lewis@devere-spain.es.

Page 24

QF Focus Magazine

Benefits of Indian Head Massage Indian Head Massage is a massage therapy that was created in India thousands of years ago and was brought to Western culture in the 1970s. It is regularly used throughout India on a daily basis.

A full treatment will last approximately 25 to 30 minutes and is completed in three separate areas. The therapy begins with the neck and shoulders, where the practitioner applies pressure to relieve tension and release any knots that have accumulated in those areas. Any blockages in those vital areas will also be released clearing away toxins from the body. The massage then goes to the scalp where the treatment relaxes the entire head and this in turn encourages and stimulates hair growth. Finally the therapy moves to the face where a very gentle massage will take place. This can greatly help with sinus problems, headaches and encourages better circulation which helps give a glowing complexion. The full treatment will leave the client feeling calm and relaxed.

There are many health benefits to this wonderful treatment and they include assistance with restlessness, sleepless nights or insomnia.

It also helps to improve circulation, which in turn increases your energy levels. It can also detox the body by stimulating the lymphatic system. It can relieve tension headaches and migraines that are generally caused through stress and pressure. It will also relieve the symptoms of sinusitis. It calms the whole body into deep relaxation which in turn brings clarity to our thoughts.

Many years ago essential oils were used during the massage but many therapists do not use these oils during the treatment today.

Should you wish to discuss this therapy with Tricia, please see the advert below. Call 96 671 9115 or 673 465 245, email tricialee77@outlook.com or visit www.tricialee.co.

Page 25

QF Focus Magazine

“TrustedHousesitters gave me travel freedom” Hilary and Geoff Stokes moved to Spain in 2005 and live near Cartagena where they ran a hairdressing and beauty business until 2016.

Passionate animal lovers, the couple have their own cats and also care for cats living in the area.

Hilary has a combined membership with TrustedHousesitters which means that she has sitters for her own pets and goes on house sits to look after other pets, she explains, “We decided to become sitters when we retired because we needed to watch our pennies! It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to house sit and look after pets, we can travel without restriction and we can go to areas and countries we want to see. We look for sits in Spain because we can drive there."

Hilary continues, “Through housesitting we have met so many lovely people, even if you are not chosen for a sit, you still have contact with great people."

When Hilary and Geoff go house sitting, they find sitters to look after their beloved cats. It’s very important to them that their cats are kept in the best possible place (home), looked after by the best people and Hilary says, “It’s up to me to find the right people. I’I write a check-list and brainstorm what I want from my sitter. I divide up my needs into things I must have, would like to have and blue sky wishes.”

Hilary’s approach has worked very well for her and she has used TrustedHousesitters to find sitters each time she and Geoff have gone away to house sit themselves.

TrustedHousesitters owners and sitters never exchange money their pet care pact is based purely on a shared love of animals and travel. The only payment is an annual membership fee of €89 a year, which helps the like-minded members connect in a safe and secure way. It also includes everything sitters and owners need for peace of mind, such as sitter verification processes, unlimited access to vet advice, and 24/7 support from an award-winning Membership Services team.

Exclusive 50% off membership Use PETFOCUS to receive 50% off your membership at the checkout at TrustedHousesitters.com.

#

#

Page 26

QF Focus Magazine

Fill someone’s day with happiness Written by Carer Suzann Roberts I had never worked in the care industry before and thought I’d use the job as a way of touching base with my family in the UK. I started with another company and soon realised that they weren’t for me. Whilst online one day I got an alert about The Good Care Group and thought I would apply. What a difference!

The recruiting staff in Spain have been amazing, from my initial Skype interview to the organisation of paperwork and references before being accepted on the course, to the course itself, which I have to say was incredible. It showed just how little the other company had done for me. With an emphasis towards ongoing development this was what I thought being a carer should be about.

You became aware that what you were about to do would really make a difference to a person’s wellbeing and that of their family.

The company are always there for the carers as well as their clients which is very reassuring as the job can be challenging for various reasons.

I have a wonderful client who loves to laugh and boy do we laugh.

She says I fill her day with happiness and laugher. So not only is my job a way of keeping up with my family, I now have an extended one which I am loving being part of.

For more information about becoming a carer with The Good Care Group, contact Anne Greatrex on 96 571 3746 or 628 343 240 or email anne.greatrex@thegoodcaregroup.com.

Page 27

QF Focus Magazine

our ARIES Your head and your heart are tearing you in two different directions and you will need some advice to sort this one out. Decisions are not coming easily at the moment so try and take a back seat and let others take charge of things for a while.

TAURUS If something seems too good to be true then it probably is. Check the small print before you get yourself into something you may regret later on.

Look at alternatives and then you can choose the best option.

GEMINI You are all fired up but with no real direction or plan. This will leave you feeling very frustrated so find something to do or all this energy will be wasted.

CANCER Don't feel guilty for someone else's misinterpretation of what happened. If they cannot be detached enough to see things objectively then it is their fault, not yours. They will come round eventually, in the meantime carry on without beating yourself up about it.

LEO Your diary is really filling up for the coming months and you are maybe getting more excited about one event than you should be. Not everyone is going to see it with as much enthusiasm as you do!

VIRGO You feel like the world is against you and that nothing you do is good enough. Instead of thinking it is all your fault, look at them. It may be that they are just asking too much of you.

oroscope LIBRA Things are getting out of hand but the art of delegation does not come easy to you as you like to have more control over things. Before there is a complete loss of control start putting a bit more trust in others.

SCORPIO DIY jobs are piling up and the to do list is getting longer and it is getting you down. Once you get started you will be surprised how quickly things get ticked off the list and the sense of achievement you have been missing will return.

SAGITTARIUS Spend wisely and keep a back up fund as this summer could end up being more expensive than you think. Give someone time to cool down before you meet with them otherwise you will just end up with more misunderstandings.

CAPRICORN Explaining something more than once is necessary at the moment as everyone seems to be getting a different message from the same instructions. Getting everyone together may be easier.

AQUARIUS You are eager to get out there and enjoy life to the full. The fact that someone is telling you to be careful and slow down only means they care about you, they are not trying to ruin your fun.

PISCES A friend needs you to be there for them more than they will let on.

Although you are busy yourself, make time for them as they would for you. Just showing them how much you care and are there for them may be all the support they need.

A Successful Summer Fair for Age Concern

On Saturday 16 June Age Concern held their annual Summer Fair at their centre in La Siesta. People of all ages visited and strolled around the car park and grounds browsing the many stalls selling clothes, jewellery, plants, bric-a-brac, cakes, electrical items and mobility aids. s t Resting under shady umbrellas they enjoyed a welcome drink and n Eve delicious homemade scones, and watched a fabulous display of Morris Dancing and the Alpengold Oompah Band play a selection of songs.

Inside the centre there were many fundraising opportunities for visitors to win a whole host of prizes. The guess the name of the Teddy competition created a lot of fun and his name was Sidney. The Treasure Trail got visitors scratching their heads to guess the secret location, another bric-a-brac stall; with the guess the amount of bottle tops in the jar, of which there were 551, the winner guessed 550, a very close guess. Two gala raffles brought a huge amount of interest as the prizes were fabulous. Francisco won an enormous basket of goodies including spirits, wine, food, chocolates, tin stuff and more. The grand raffle had 21 prizes and the first prize of 200€ worth of coach travel was won by Tony Harrison. This celebratory 20th anniversary year Summer Fair for Age Concern raised 2,7,00€. Funds raised will go to help the caring and welfare requirements of the over 50s in our area. If you want to become a volunteer for Age Concern why not pop into our centre any morning Monday – Friday between 10am – 1.30pm. at Calle Paganini, La Siesta, have a coffee, meet the team and find out how your skills or knowledge can be put to good use helping to care for less fortunate people than ourselves.

ty

Communi

Rojales Pantomime Group supports Cancer Foundation

On a beautiful sunny day Bob Clayton, Coordinator for MABS Cancer Support Foundation was delighted to accept a donation of 300€ from Mike Smith, President and Chris Smith, Treasurer of the Rojales Pantomime Group, part of the 3000€ raised by the group from the production of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves performed in January 2018 in Los Montesinos.

MABS helps all people affected by cancer and those around them by practical help with equipment and also emotional help through their many volunteers. There are six MABS Charity Shops on the Costa Blanca reliant solely on donations and the Rojales Pantomime Group were very happy to be to be able to donate to such a worthy cause.

All performances by the Group aim to raise monies for various charities and the next pantomime will be Camelot the Panto in January 2019.

Not only does the group need an audience, they also need a cast and helpers so, if you think you would like to join our fun group of very friendly people and enjoy the many and varied social events throughout the year, simply contact our Director, Thelma Judson at rojalespantomime@gmail.com or telephone 634 339 588.

Page 28

QF Focus Magazine

Recipes by Pushpa from the Spice Hut Chicken Biryani

Ingredients 400g basmati rice 1 kg chicken diced Little oil 2 large onions, finely chopped 1 tspn of ginger paste 1 tspn of garlic paste 3 green chillies, finely chopped 5 cloves 5 cardamoms Few cinnamon sticks Few bay leaves 1 tspn of turmeric powder 1 tspn of cumin powder 1 tspn of coriander powder 1 tspn of chilli powder Salt as required 70 ml water

Method Wash the rice a few times and soak in a bowl for 10 minutes.

Heat oil and fry the chopped onions until brown. Add the ginger, garlic, chillies, cloves, cardamoms and cinnamon. Fry for couple of minutes and add the chicken, cook on medium heat, stirring until the chicken is cooked.

Add the chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt and stir it all well. Then add 70ml of water and let it simmer for 15 minutes on a medium heat until dry in texture.

Boil 300ml water, add some bay leaves and then add drained rice and boil for 10 minutes uncovered ...then leave aside for the rice to absorb the water.

In a large ovenproof dish add first a layer of cooked rice (approx half) then the cooked chicken, then cover again with the rest of the rice. Cover with a lid and cook in a preheated oven at gas mark 3 (160ยบC) for 30 minutes.

Enjoy hot with yoghurt raita.

The Spice Hut Quesada. Tel. 96 673 1063 or visit www.spicehutspain.com.

Page 29

QF Focus Magazine

Bidding for success

As FC Barcelona once again hits the headlines

On Saturday, 9 June, Huntington’s Disease Association held their first auction at El Castillo s Restaurante, near La Marina. There were 52 lots t n Eve of various sizes and values, as well as vouchers and promises such as ironing, cleaning, caring, airport runs etc. Bidding started slowly, but with Mike Hack, the auctioneer, and helpers Bev and Peter, people started to get into the bidding mode.

ty Communi

The night culminated in the biggest lot of all, a signed football from this year’s 1st team of FC Barcelona. With pre-auction bids on the table, and strong opposition by a football fan in the room, bidding rose to a staggering 550€. The ball was bought by Sam Gibson as an “investment for the future” for his 14 year old grandson, Joshua.

Lucky boy! Altogether 1929.29€ was raised.

New venue for Slim4Life with Exante Slimming Club

Now available in Los Montesinos Our new group will meet on Tuesdays at Bobby Jo's bar, Los Montesinos.

Come and join our summer challenge to lose weight and regain your health.

Phone Wendy Ralph for more information on 633 068 399.

Marion Smith, the President of the HDA Association, was overwhelmed by such an achievement and said “It will go a long way towards helping people living in the Costa Blanca who suffer with this terrible disease”.

Huntington’s Disease is a neurological disorder. It is the third most common inherited neurological disease in the UK and affects more people than Motor Neurone Disease. It is a hereditary disease which is caused by a faulty gene. The faulty gene leads to damage of the nerve cells in areas of the brain. The damage of these cells affects a person in a variety of ways, including physically, emotionally and cognitively.

The visible symptoms usually begin between the ages of 30 and 50 years, though they may occur at any time from childhood to old age. Life expectancy from diagnoses is between 15-20 years.

At the moment there is no known cure. If you feel you would like to help in any way, either by organising an event, or becoming a volunteer, please contact Marion Smith, email: info@hda.org.es or by clicking onto the HDA website on www.hda.org.es.

Page 30

QF Focus Magazine On this particular evening, as it was a Restaurant that they were performing, they played purely acoustically, at a very acceptable level of volume.

Hi All! What is happening with the weather this year? It’s the beginning of June as I’m writing this feature and there’s a thunderstorm raging, accompanied by torrential rain!

Before I digress any further let me tell you about this month’s featured artistes.

On a recent night out, I had the pleasure of meeting (and being entertained by) a most charming and very different type of duo.

Norbert Dari and Azucena Carrillo are the names of this delightful twosome.

Norbert, who is originally from Romania plays guitar, while his musical partner Azucena is a very accomplished harpist.

They have lived and worked on the South Costa Blanca for over 20 years and their versatility knows no bounds. Over the course of the evening their repertoire covered a vast range of genres of music. Everything from Ballads, Boleros, Pop, Jazz, Country, Swing, Bossa Nova and much more - right through to Rock and Blues music. They truly are an “International” Musical Duo.

However, Norbert and Azucena are able to play through amplification for the larger venues and outdoor events.

In conversation with Norbert and Azucena, we chatted about their residential work for a Benidorm Hotel Group, and their diary of musical engagements to date.

I was impressed with their versatility in being able to cater for restaurants, bars and social events, while also feeling very much at ease performing at some of the bigger fiesta gatherings in the area during the summer months.

There is no doubt in my mind at all that these polished, professional artistes are very able to fill a niche in the current local music scene.

If you haven’t already had the pleasure of listening to Norbert and Azucena, keep watching the local press for details of upcoming appearances.

Alternatively, if you are a venue owner or an organiser of local events and are looking for “something different” this summer, I can thoroughly recommend this duo.

I am very much looking forward to being entertained by Norbert and Azucena again in the very near future.

Let’s hope there’s an improvement in the weather, and the rain has disappeared before I speak to you all next month.

Bye for now, D.P.

Page 31

QF Focus Magazine

Quesada Bowls Club The Summer leagues are in full swing but Quesada members were also heavily involved in the Spanish Nationals which took place at Emerald Isle Bowling Club during the last 2 weeks in May. Quesada were victorious in both the Ladies’ and Men’s Triples - a fantastic result.

Ladies Triples Champions Congratulations to QBC’s Melanie Highland, Deidre Leeming and Jacqui Johnston winning the ladies triples championship with a convincing win over a very strong ladies team from San Miguel.

Men’s Triples Champions Congratulations to QBC’s Terry Morgan, Peter Morgan and Paul Parkes taking the men’s triples title with a very convincing win over a strong team from San Miguel.

In the Men’s singles final Paul Parkes took on Ian Kenyon from San Luis in one of the most nail biting matches. Throughout the game the lead swung from one player to the other, then Ian was able to pick up 4 shots which was close to the end of the game, and despite some incredible bowls from Paul he was unable to save the day, and Ian went on to take the title.

QBC’s Carol Broomfield and Peta Rhodes reached the quarter finals of the ladies’ singles and had to play each other. Unfortunately one had to lose after we had been privileged to watch an incredible display of bowling. Peta went on to play the semi finals against Mary Dyer from San Miguel, who went on to become the ladies’ singles champion. Peta and Carol were also the semi finalists in the ladies’ pairs.

What has been very obvious during these Nationals is the tremendous camaraderie which has been evident among the Quesada players taking part, with people turning up every day to support their fellow players. A big, big thank you from all the players in the competition to all of you who turned up at Emerald Isle to give your support - it was wonderful to hear the cheers of support coming from the sidelines.

In terms of the leagues there’s been some ups and downs for Quesada this month including home and return matches between The Lancasters and The Blenheims. The first match was won by The Lancasters and the return match was won by The Blenheims. The Blenheims are now in second place in the South Alicante Summer Triples League, only 3 points behind the leaders San Luis Wellingtons.

With only 4 more games left in the season, it looks like it could be a race to the top!

Other results saw The Tigers VCL team in a hard fought match at Emerald Isle. Although only the rinks team of Sandra Heath, Harry Rhodes, Dave Donovan and Paul Parkes (19-14), plus trips consisting of Carol Lowry, Steve Hibberd and Keith Lowry (17-14) won, all other disciplines were hard fought. But the 4 points earned have increased the Tigers’ lead at the top of division 3 to 18 points. However, with only 2 home matches remaining, nothing can be taken for granted.

And apparently Summer has arrived - although that wasn’t obvious when the QBC’s Cheetahs VCL team were due to host Emerald Isle at QBC. There was torrential rain, thunder and lightening and despite both teams battling the rain (and hailstones) and turning up fully prepared to play, after much deliberation it was agreed that the game had to be cancelled and has now been re-arranged. Great commitment from both teams though!

For more information about our club please contact our membership secretary Joe Riley on 96 572 5787 or email joediriley@gmail.com.

New bowlers are welcome and introductory coaching is available.

Quesada Bowls Club - Sponsored by Spanish Life Properties.

Good Advertising Doesn’t Cost -

It Sells!

For more information contact your local representative - details on page 4

Costa Blanca Focus

www.facebook.com/FemaleFocus/

Page 32

The Stage Diary now in its 11th year of publication is not only an important guide to what’s on in all regions but is also an online web introduction to potential expat’s researching community life in Spain. The diary also acts as a planning guide to assist groups avoid unnecessary clashes of production dates.

Actors Community Theatre Company: Will the buns be big enough? If you laughed or cried at the film `Calendar Girls´ then you can do it again when A.C.T.S. bring the play to the stage near you. On 18, 19 and 20 October, you will be able to see if the baker’s buns are big enough to cover Celia’s embarrassment. Tickets will be on sale in September. More info from Ian Vallender: icvallender@gmail.com.

Adante Classical Choir:

After the choir’s successful end of season concerts, they are now taking a break until the Autumn whilst many members return to their home countries for holidays. A new programme of choral music will begin in the Autumn ready for concerts at Christmas and Easter time. New members are welcome so if you think you would like to join them, please contact: elcvdvecht@gmail.com or telephone: 96 671 6016 or mobile: 625 707 294.

QF Focus Magazine Rascals: Due to unforeseen circumstances RASCALS have cancelled their October show. Hopefully they will be able to produce a Christmas show early December. If you have a talent and would like to take part in this, or any of their productions, pop along to Sackos Bar El Limonar for a coffee any Thursday from 11am or call Jill: 96 672 7282.

Rojales Pantomime Group: Charity group Help at Home, received a 200€ donation from the group, raised from their performance of Ali Baba earlier this year. Joan Waddington and Jacky Jones received the cheque from Mike and Christine Smith. Auditions have been held and the cast chosen for the next pantomime, `Camelot the Pantomime´ but new members are always welcome. Telephone Thelma: 634 33 95 88 or email rojalespantomime@gmail.com.

Stagestruck: 3,000€ was donated by Stagestruck after their last sell out show. But now the group could be in danger of folding as the current director has decided to call it a day. If there is anyone who may be able to help this very talented group to carry on raising money for good causes as well as having fun, please contact Jenny 608 129 983.

Velvetones Harmony Choir:

Cantabile Ladies Choir:

Cantabile are on a summer break but will be back to perform Vivaldi’s `Gloria´ during November, as part of their 20th Anniversary concerts. It is believed, this was originally written for a girls’ orphanage. A selection of other sacred music will also be performed at this time. They always welcome new members so if you are interested, contact: valcantabile@gmail.com or telephone 96 679 5816. Rehearsals are Fridays 14.45 – 17.00 at La Siesta Church, Torrevieja.

New Cardinal Theatre Group: The group are in rehearsals for their 2018 variety show, ´It´s Show Time´. All family entertainment with singing, dancing, and comedy. Performance dates, 19, 20, and 21 September at 19.30.

Tickets available soon at 7€. All proceeds donated to local charities. Still looking for lighting and sound engineers, contact Tom Ford: 96 679 0547 or pop along to the Community Centre at the back of Urb La Marina police station, Monday or Thursday at 14.00.

The choir are on a Summer break until early September. But if you are looking for a fun hobby, visit El Paraiso, Torrevieja Thursdays from 17.15 to 19.45 where the ladies sing 4-part Harmony A Capella style. Check the website: www.velvetonesharmonytorrevieja.com, Facebook: Velvetones Harmony Chorus. Or call Mary-Anne on 96 671 4973. Rehearsals will recommence 6 September.

If you would like your group to be part of the Stage Diary please email benny@female-focus.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Stage Diary Costa Blanca North information can be found online at www.femalefocusonline.com

Page 33

QF Focus Magazine

Word Search Answers to puzzles in the classified pages

En el aeropuerto - At the airport - It's that time of year when we start to get the family and tourists arriving making the roads so much busier, so take care and allow extra time for travelling. There are 25 Spanish words about the airport, (listed in blue). Remember words can go up, down, across, diagonally and even backwards and to make it harder, some letters will have been used more than once.

AEROPUERTO - AIRPORT ADUANA - CUSTOMS ASIENTO - SEAT ATERRIZAR - LAND BILLETE - TICKET COLA - QUEUE DESPEGAR - TAKE OFF EQUIPAJE - LUGGAGE ESCALA - STOPOVER FACTURAR - CHECK IN LLEGADA - ARRIVAL MALETAS - SUITCASES PANTALLA - SCREEN PASAJERO - PASSENGER PASAPORTE - PASSPORT PASILLO - AISLE PILOTO - PILOT PISTA - RUNWAY PUERTA - GATE RETRASO - DELAY SALIDA - DEPARTURE SEGURIDAD - SECURITY SUBIR - BOARD TARJETA DE EMBARQUE BOARDING PASS VENTANA - WINDOW

Page 34

&

Spot the difference -

See if you can spot all 12 differences

SUDOKU

Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try.

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.

Answers to puzzles in the classified pages

QF Focus Magazine

QF Focus Magazine

Page 35

XX Moratalla Marcha, May 2018 Here we are again, another 5am start from the shop on a beautiful Saturday morning in May. This time 12 of us in 3 vehicles headed off to Moratalla in the North of Murcia to participate in the XX Moratalla cycle Marcha (Sportif).

There were 2 routes to choose from and as 2 of the guys were doing their first one, and 6 competing in their second one we decided that 4 would do the complete 180km with 2500 metres climbing and the other 8 of us would do the 100km with 1400 metres climbing including myself as I’m waiting for a new hip and struggle to sit in the saddle for more than 4 hours.

We were soon on the start line along with 700 other riders of all ages and abilities, all out to achieve the same as us, to successfully finish with a good time.

At 9am sharp the gun sounded and off we went, following the safety car for the first 25k at quite a brisk pace, passing through the beautiful picturesque town of Carravaca de la Cruz. It wasn’t long before the car sounded its horn which meant ‘Trama Libre’ (free ride) and we were off straight into the first climb of the day which lasted for 7k, with an average gradient of 8%, this sorted everyone out and our team was already split into several little groups with the fast guys making a rapid getaway. There was quite a lot of under 23 semi-professional Spanish riders taking part and you could see how good they were by the speed that they left everyone behind. The route was excellently thought through with everything from gentle climbs to tough climbs, switchbacks, downhills and level sections and as usual in this part of Spain the scenery was fantastic especially as we gained height. The group that I was riding with were all of an equal level approx. 20 of us, all working together to complete the ride. The weather was great with hardly any wind. 10k from the end, I ended up taking the front of our group, pushing the front back to Moratalla and the 100k mark. We continued up into Moratalla to a massive crowd shouting us on to the finish line. At the finish line there were 2 lanes, the lane on the right was the finish for the 100k riders but the lane on the left was for the 180k riders to continue on. The next of our group to finish was Kevin James followed by Jack Swift, Graham Hope, Alistair Gray, Terry Wye and Dave ‘Sniffer’ Robertson. We all waited here for another 30 minutes but there was no sign of Steve ‘Snooky’ Snook who was the last of our group to complete the 100k. When he finished us he told us that he had been knocked off his bike and also had had a puncture which cost him a lot of time. We managed to get a brilliant seat on the finish line and waited for our main 3 riders. First back out of our group was Mathew ‘Moth’ Robertson who had a brilliant time of 5hr 45 and an overall position of 46, next was Alan Quearns and then Harry Morrow both with good times. Many of the riders in their group had been riding for many years and had lots of experience, however Mathew who only moved to Spain last year and has only been riding a road bike for 12 months is already flying. Another great sportif, well organised, well marshalled and plenty of water stops, well done again Murcia Region.

Team “Cyclogical” meet every Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 8am and cover between 90 and 120kms at a moderate to fast pace so, if you fancy a challenge come along and join us. Looking to improve your fitness, riding ability and speed and also have a new group of friends to train with, then why not come along and give it a try or call Gary on 637 487 377.

Page 36

Forthcoming Events

By Keith Nicol As the temperatures rise and the tourists arrive in their droves, it’s time to move into summertime mode for the next couple of months. It’s also Moors and Christians time of year with many of the local towns and cities having their celebrations throughout the region.

The San Javier Jazz Festival started on 30 June and runs through to 28 July. This is the 21st edition of this fabulous event. Tickets are available to buy online or via the Festival Office in San Javier. The line up is below, along with the price of the tickets, and more information can be found on the official website: www.jazz.sanjavier.es.

Tickets and season passes. For more information you can contact the festival office at the following numbers: +34 96 819 1588 / +34 96 819 1568 or you may write to the following email address: festivales@sanjavier.es. The San Javier Jazz festival offices are located on the ground floor of the San Javier municipal hall building.

6 July: Pat Metheny: 35€ 7 July: Ludovic Beier Montmartre Quartet, Special Guest: Pierre Blanchard + Travellin’ Brothers Little Band & Guests: 15€ 12 July: The Mavericks: 30€

13 July: Keyon Harrold Quintet plus Zalon: 20€ 14 July: Joao Bosco plus Kenny Garrett Quintet: 15€ 18 July: Mike Sanchez & Band – In La Ribera: Free 20 July: Sarah Mckenzie + Nine Below Zero Big Band: 15€ 21 July: Ignasi Terraza Y Antonio Serrano plus Walter “Wolfman” Washington: 15€ 22 July: Kurt Elling Quintet - special guest Marquis Hill: 15€ 24 July: Los Bluesfalos – In La Ribera: Free 25 July: Kyle Eastwood Quintet + Big Sam’s Funky Nation: 15€ 26 July: Tricia Evy Quintet & Roland Baker – In La Manga: Free 27 July: Luis Y Juan Salinas: Dúo Acústico plus Luis Salinas Quinteto: 15€

Sat: 28 July: Chick Corea Akoustic Band Featuring: John Patitucci & Dave Weckl plus Bruce Barth Trio & Rene Marie: 35€ Season tickets: Numbered seating: 11 nights: 120€ (does not include Pat Metheny on Friday 6 July). All concerts at the auditorium will begin at 9.30pm. Free concerts that take place outside of the auditorium will begin at 10pm.

The first July weekend usually also sees Santa Pola celebrating the Fiesta de Playa Lisa y Tamarit. However, details were not available as we went to press so please check out the Santa Pola Tourism website for updates on this and other activities during July: www.turismosantapola.es.

A little to the south and the Festival La Mar de Musicas in Cartagena starts on Friday 20 July and continues until Saturday 28 July. The concerts take place in the Auditorio Parque Torres and the Auditorio El Batel. https://lamardemusicas.cartagena.es/2018/.

The 24th edition of La Mar de Músicas will feature Denmark, which apparently is the happiest country in the world. The Nordic country will show its music, its art and its literature during this week. Nine musical groups, ten films, eight exhibitions and a dozen literary authors will show the great quality of the Danish culture.

Local Danish promotor Andrea Vaccaro Aaberg noted that there is something for everyone and the Danes all speak great English too.

Some of the other household names include: Texas, Gegory Porter and The Human League, making up almost 50 performances that will be part of the festival.

QF Focus Magazine The Scottish group Texas, one of the Britpop’s most influencial bands will present their latest album ‘Jump on Board’ , on Sunday 22 July. The world of Jazz is represented by Cécile McLorin Salvant and Gregory Porter. Cécile Mclorin Salvant won the Grammy for the Best Vocal Jazz Album for the album, ‘Dreams and Daggers’. This concert will be on Monday 23 July. Gregory Porter, one of the most sought-after and charismatic jazz and soul vocalists, will also be in Cartagena with his latest album dedicated to Nat King Cole, which will be presented on Tuesday 24 July.

The legendary British group The Human League will also be part of the varied line up of this festival. The Human League will be closing the festival with their concert on Saturday 28 July, in which they will play both old songs and those of their last album, ‘Credo’. David Bowie said in his day that this group was the future of music and, indeed, were a fashion icon and set trends. Don’t miss such classics as ‘Don’t you want me’, which reached number one throughout Europe and the United States and their more than 40 years making music.

Don’t forget that the Hippy Market in Torrevieja is open every night and located beside the fairground which runs until the early hours of the morning. Torrevieja, Quesada and other towns all have their aqua parks open through to the beginning of September and the local Go Kart tracks in La Marina and Orihuela Costa are all there for summer fun and an adrenalin rush.

In a slightly gentler vain, the monthly Craft Market and Meeting at the Cuevas del Rodeo in Rojales takes place on the 2nd Saturday of July from 7pm to 10pm and the 1st Saturday of August & September. You can browse and buy many different types of art, crafts, try some of the free workshops or sample some local food and drink.

For fans of classic and specialist cars, Ace Cafe meeting takes place in Los Montesinos at La Torre Hotel on the first Sunday of the month. Cars are usually on display from around 10.30am until noon. On the last Sunday of the month, the action moves south to Pilar de La Horadada, just off the roundabout with the giant Bull, where there is a small market, car boot sale, food and drinks, entertainment, plus a display of cars, scooters and bikes, plus activities for the kids, making for a fun morning out. Cars are usually on display from around 10.30am until 1pm.

For a complete change of scene there is also the Isla de Tabarca Fiestas. The Island celebrates a fiesta in honour of the Virgen del Carmen. She is the patron saint of fishermen, so a very important fiesta for the small island which is only a few hundred metres wide and 2 kilometres long! If you are planning a trip to Tabarca, then this is an ideal time to go and enjoy one of the parades or mascletas.

Torrevieja also has a number of Museums worth a visit. The best of these is the floating museum close to the Fishing Zone.

The main attractions are the S-61 Delfin submarine, the only Spanish decommissioned Submarine that you can visit along with the Albatros III Patrol Boat Floating Museum. The S-61 Delfin submarine offers people the possibility of visiting the interior of a submarine and imagine how the members of its crew used to live inside the same. The Delfin is a Daphne class submarine given by the Spanish army to the Torrevieja’s Council, thus becoming the “first floating museum” of its type in Spain.

The Delfin submarine is based in the Torrevieja’s harbour and has become a part of its landscape, having received over 1,500,000 visits since it was inaugurated.

The “Albatros III” patrol boat belonged to the Customs Surveillance Service until it was given to The Museo del Mar y de la Sal (the Sea and Salt Museum). It guarded our coasts for 33 years until it became a floating museum, in March 2006. Torrevieja pays tribute to its crew, the professionals and members of the customs maritime surveillance service. Opening hours: During July and August from 5.30pm to 10.30pm. Admission Price: 2€. Minimum height to enter and visit the submarine: 1,15 metres. Telephone: 96 670 4643.

Please note: All details correct at the time of going to press.

QF Focus Magazine

Page 37

Classified Adverts

Noticeboard

The Association Of Retired Police Officers (known as ARPO). Retired police officers from any national or international force are very welcome to join our group. We meet every 2nd Wednesday at Sacko’s Bar, El Limonar at 10:30 We are a social and self help group and look forward to meeting new members and their partners. For information and forthcoming events, www.arpo.org.co.uk.

Torrevieja Christian Fellowship is a lively English speaking church located at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas 68,Torrevieja 03183. Residents and holiday makers are welcome to attend our services every Sunday at 10:30 with communion and “kids church”. Wednesday Fellowship meetings (Bible Study) starting at 18:00. For further information see our website www.tcf-spain.org or tel: 96 670 0391.

Crime Watch Spain (Vecinos Colaborando) Reg. VG – 08261/2002 advise the community citizens about security matters and help them to report any incidents in their communities to the authorities to try to keep out any intruders. For more information please email: colaborando.crimewatch@skynetlink.com.

F.A.B. or Friends After Bereavement meet on a Saturday at the La Laguna hotel, Quesada at 13:45. We are a friendly group who meet up, chat, and spend days out together helping people to re-start their lives after the death of a partner. We are not in the least morbid, just a cheerful bunch who support each other through difficult times.

Royal British Legion, Gran Alacant & La Marina Branch meets on the first Monday of the month at 18:00 at La Taberna - next to the Monte Mar Bowls Club & Restaurant, Plaza Mayor (Masa Square), Gran Alacant. New members are always welcome, and remember, You do NOT have to be ExServices to join us. Further details and/or directions from Robin 96 669 5423 or Brian 639 917 971. Email: granalacant.secretary@gmail.com.

The Royal British Legion, Torrevieja Branch have a bowls team who play at Casa Ventura on Thursdays and Saturdays, 1.30pm for a 2pm start.

We would be pleased to see you there. Come along and have a game.

Everything supplied.

We are Torrevieja Maritime Association and our aim is to “Stimulate and maintain interest in maritime activities in the Torrevieja area among people of all nationalities”. We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at Casa de Galicia in El Chaparral, Torrevieja and can be contacted at torreviejama@outlook.com or via our Facebook site, Torrevieja Maritime Association.

The Royal Naval Association, Torrevieja Branch meet on the first Wednesday of every month at Bar/Restaurante El Paraiso near Carrefour, Torrevieja at 17:00 and remember you don’t have to have served in the Royal Navy to become a member. We look forward to seeing you soon!

If you would like to join the ship mates or just find out more please phone Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 96 671 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 96 692 1996.

Almoradi scrabble club. The club meets at Cafe Almoradi, Calle Major 91 on the last Tuesday of the month from 15:30. We really want to extend our membership. If you are interested please come and join us, or for more information call 694 437 698 or email mrandcwatkins@hotmail.co.uk.

The Aircrew Association Costa Blanca. Former and serving aircrew of the UK or Allied Armed Forces are very welcome to join this convivial and friendly organisation, founded here in 1988. Details from the Secretary on: 96 640 4123.

Bettas Torrevieja RFC new rugby club, based on traditional ethics, respect, training by the Nelson Mandela Stadium on Wednesdays and Sundays 20.3022.00 contact Javi on 603 727 179 for more information.

Puzzle Solutions

Animal Adoption or Re-homing

Easy Horse Care.

You’re invited to come and meet our rescued horses, ponies and donkeys during our open day, held on the first Sunday of each month from 1pm to 4pm. Entry is free and children are welcome. On the day, we offer a free guided tour of our stables and fields at 2pm sharp – make sure you pop along at this time to be able to meet our horses. Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net.

For more information visit our website http://www.easyhorsecare.net.

K9 Club.

Very easy

Medium

Approx 10-12 weeks old, very friendly grey/ white female kitten, Lucky. Loves people and fine with other cats. Has been treated for internal and external parasites and is ready for rehoming. Very clean and litter trained.

Please call 600 845 420 or visit our website www.k9club.es.

Pets in Spain.

Wispa is an 12 week old puppy that was rescued with his 3 other siblings. He is good with other dogs, cats and children, has received his puppy vaccinations and will be small to medium size when fully grown. Call: 645 469 253.

Email: info@petsinspain.com.

To view more animals for adoption go to www.petsinspain.com.

Page 38

Classified Adverts

Health & Beauty

Wanted

Slim4Life with Exante. New group venue. Bobby Jo’s bar in Los Montesinos. Tuesday 2.30pm.

Telephone 633 068 399.

Services REMOVAL & VAN HIRE specialists providing a reliable and trustworthy service to ensure your belongings are delivered safely. Telephone: +34 688 70 40 93 or Email : rasspecialists@gmail.com or visit Facebook : https://www.facebook. com/rasspecialists/ COYS RENT A CAR An independent Car hire company operating from the Torrevieja area, Alicante & Murcia airports. To get a quote, look at our website: www.coysrent-a-car.com TRANSLATOR AND INTERPRETER English/Spanish. All legal, medical and business matters. Covering the Costa Blanca. Contact: 658 957 404 or ejbtranslations@gmail.com BUILDING WORK All types of small or large building work undertaken including bathroom and kitchen refits, patios & terraces, painting, pool repairs, extensions and underbuilds, plumbing and electrics.

Call 96 671 2832 or 662 455 960 for a free no obligation quote or email s_sconstruction@yahoo.co.uk

www.femalefocusonline.com

GLOBAL DISCOUNT FURNITURE Wanted – Quality used household and garden furniture. Top prices paid.

Cash Waiting. Collection available.

96 671 3457 or 604 239 149 or email info@globaldiscountfurniture.com www.globaldiscountfurniture.com

Employment INTERESTED IN CBD oil? Genius Hemp are looking for Motivated Distributors. Facebook message ‘Genius Hemp and CBD’ for more information.

Misc Sales RAYMOND WEIL WATCHES Ladies and Gents Raymond Weil watches, 1000 pounds each will accept 600€ for the two telephone 634 333 240.

Personal

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers.

There are meetings in Torrevieja and Quesada. Phone 692 799 318.

THE COSTA BLANCA’S Fastest Growing Business Directory...... If you are not on there you are losing out! business.femalefocusonline.com

All adverts must be sent with your Name and NIE or Passport Nº (not to be published).

ADVERTS SHOULD BE sent with correct spacing and spelling, the first three words (only) in capitals. Email addresses will not be published on the website or in the magazine unless requested or supplied as part of the main text.

FREE CLASSIFIED ADVERTS. Sell your unwanted items for FREE! Free adverts cannot be faxed, phoned or posted they must be emailed to classifieds@qffocus.com. Photos can be sent with your free advert, both will be published online but text only in print. Classifieds that are supplied incorrectly, all in capitals or with missing information may well be deleted.

‘Misc sales’ are for example one-off sales of second hand items to the value of 500€ or less. Maximum twenty words per advert/ item & maximum five adverts per person*, (email & web addresses count as three words). Property rental or any type of service, business opportunities, wanted, etc are not free and will be charged at the commercial advert rate.

Free Property adverts: Property sale adverts should also be emailed to classifieds@qffocus.com by the property owner. They will be published free for a 3 month period and can include Property Agent contact details (and photo to be included online only).

Commercial adverts: Minimum advert length ten words. 35 cents per word plus 21% IVA per month. Payment can be made by credit card or paypal. *Free adverts will be published in print on a space permitting basis. If you want to ensure your advert appears, normal commercial rates should be applied.

By using this service you agree to receive the Female Focus publication newsletters to your email address unless you state otherwise.

WRENCHES, SOCKETS, SNOW chains +more. Socket wrenches from €10. Plus extensions and sockets, Snow chains €25. 1/2” DR. Micrometer adjustable torque wrench ‘new never used’. €55. Telephone 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

PSP inviZimals. PSP camera included +2 Traps 2 games; 1.THE HUNT STARTS HERE. 2. JOIN THE HUNT. €15 . WhatsApp or Tel; 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

MARTIAL ARTS TROUSERS Black with a white stripe down the sides, size large or 30. As new, never used. €15 Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

3m TRANSMITTER TOWER. €40.

Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

AUDIO VIDEO SENDER & TV bracket. Total Control UC-AV10 R00. Picture and sound of your AV equipment, such as DVD, VCR, Satellite, Set-top box, etc. Available everywhere in your home without the use of cables. Quality picture and sound using ultra high frequency.

Noise free signal assured by three free selectable channels. Remote control extender that enables you to control your device from the viewing location. Easy to set up. €30. TV Bracket; Previously used for a 42” Flat screen TV 83cm long x 38cm wide x 4 1/2 - 3 1/2 depth. Wall Bracket only €10. WhatsApp or Tel; 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

VINTAGE GLASS PUNCH bowl & 6 cups set, perfect condition. €15. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

YOGHURT MAKER, Makes 1 litre of yoghurt. Includes 1 spare container and instructions. €8. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

POLE-WHIP CARBON fibre telescopic rod & rod rest. Rod Rest €15. Rod: Tenax carbon telescopic pole whip rod 8 sections with bag.

7metres. as new, never used.

Telescopic pole/whip is suitable for salt water fishing and freshwater lake and river fishing. €45 Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

TROWELS (BRICK, TILING, notched), spreaders, hand floats.

12 in total, €30. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

QF Focus Magazine 1/2 SECURITY CONCERTINA DOOR grill white; 204cm x 83cm. t is only half a large concertina grill, the side without the lock. Great condition. €30. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

ARCH WINDOW with integrated Mosquito Net: SINGLE glazing.

To fit size width 181cm x height (at highest point) 140cm. €60. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

FOOTBALL BOOTS BAG, shin pads, skates, helmets, Black/Negro Casco/Helmet Large Oxelo €7. “TSG Dawn” White/Blanco Casco/Helmet 57-60cm with/con Go-Pro base, €30.

Vintage Women’s/Girls “California” quad roller skates retro style size 4/5 or 37/38, €30. Nike Men’s/Large Boys Shin Pads with detachable Ankle guards, never used in bag, €10. Nike Football Boots/Shoes bag. €5. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

ELECTRICAL PARTS Junction boxes, terminal strips, circuit breakers, control switches, outside light switches, wall plug bases, socket outlets, trunking, cable... All for €65. Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

KEY SAFE POD Brand new/never used key safe pod Keep keys safe while you surf Dimensions L 9cm x W 6.3cm x D 2.8cm. €20. Da Kine 2x roof rack pads with tie down straps 45cm. €10. Da Kine 2x Foot Straps WINDSURF €15. Body Glove BOOTS size 8 / 40-41 M 6.5mm €20. Sola Titanium wetsuit hood Size M 2mm. €10. 2 pairs Titanium Alder Polypropylene Gloves Size M 6.5mm. €20 each. Thermo X O’Neil Rash top surf top Size M 3mm €10.

676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

Visit our website for more classifed adverts www.femalefocusonline.com SEAFOR POOL Size S-M short & blue €10. SEAFOR POOL Size M-L short & blue €10. Black beachline scuba Size 34-35 €15. Blue+Grey TRIBORD Size 41-42 €20. Yellow CANCUN SALVAS Size 40-41. €20. Yellow SUNRAY Size 36-37. €15. Whatsapp or call 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa.

MAMBO “GIMP” Shortboard 6ft 6” includes RHINO SURFLITE Padded Surfboard Bag, 3 fins and Leash, €240. FINS/FLIPPERS: Whatsapp or call 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa.

QF Focus Magazine

Classified Adverts

Misc Sales continued HIX UNDERGROUND, Classic Longboard, three finned, 7ft 10” made in Pembrokeshire, Wales, by HIX Surf Company - circa late 1980’s. Includes RHINO SURFLITE Padded Surfboard Bag and 3 fins. Needs TLC. €190.

Whatsapp or call 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa.

HANDCRAFTED ALOHA 7ft 8” Longboard. Greg Clough Design. Includes Body Glove Padded Surfboard Bag, 3 fins and Leash. €340. Whatsapp or call 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa.

BARBED WIRE GALVANIZED, Durable High Resistance. Alta, Res, Duro GALV, 1,6 x 15 RO 250m. €35 Tel. 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa.

Sold as seen.

ENGLISH READING BOOKS Mostly all Hardbacks, 6 Fishing Books €10.

4 Gardening Books €10. 2 DIY Books €5. 2 Surfing Books + 1 Book about Sharks €5. 8 Animal & Geographic Encyclopaedias €15. 5 Mixed Books €10.

Tel; 676 519 118, Villamartin, Orihuela Costa Sold as seen.

TUBING; PVC CORRUGATED 60m x 32mm + reinforced corrugated PVC 60m + Polyethylene 10m. + Galvanized metal cable bracing 150m. All for €40. Tel; 676 519 118 Villamartin, Orihuela Costa. Sold as seen.

Property Sales & Rentals BOOST YOUR GOOGLE Ranking with the Costa Blanca’s fastest growing business directory… With live Facebook feeds turning our readers into your customers business.femalefocusonline.com JACARILLA - SPACIOUS (57m2) one Bed Apartment including Garage space, Aircon, Walk-in Shower, Bug Screens, SW facing Balcony with Palace views. One owner from new (2005), redecorated 2017, secure Community Pool / Garden - €60,000, phone Jim 0044 798 907 9174.

REDUCED LUXURY VILLA. Built 2001. 225m2/ 800m2. West facing. Lovely sea and hillside views. Benissa Coast. 4beds / 3baths. Spa bath. 2 sitting rooms, 2 kitchens, utility. Large naya. All upgraded. Excellent decorative order. Gas CH, Double glazing. Auto. gates leading to large driveway. Nice gardens. 9x4m pool with lights. Quiet area. Garage/ workshop/ pump room/ storage. REDUCED from €425,000 to €375,000 for private sale. Tel: 96 649 7841. Mobile: 647 008 223. Email: jeanprice.spain@gmail.com for photos.

SPACIOUS APARTMENT, JAVEA Lovely and spacious apartment for sale in Javea, walking distance from the port and the town, close to shops, doctors and amenities, 3 Double Bed, 2 Bath, Communal Pool, garage, large sunny terrace. 165.000€ ONO. 615 949 828.

BUNGALOW IN JAVEA, Bungalow near Tosalet in a quiet area but close to all the necessary services. Two bedrooms - good sized, independent kitchen, bathroom (completely renovated 2 years ago) and the living room with fireplace. The naya is glazed to have more space. It is a very well built bungalow. All the windows of the house have double glazing, and mosquito nets. The Bungalow offers several terraces. There is a large community pool and several tennis courts. Distance to the beach aprox.

5 min. Photos available on WhatsApp or Email. The sale is private to private. For more info please contact 688 692 229 (WhatsApp) or Email: quierovender2013@gmail.com SUPERIOR BUILD LUXURY 2 storey villa - 372 x 6618. 2. minutes village, (9 restaurants). 40 minutes Alicante airport. Spectacular mountain views.

- 4. bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. central heating. Designer pool. Swim up bar.

Jacuzzi. Waterfall. Pizza House. 2 car garage. Summer kitchen/bar. Reduced €335.000. Owner 639 237 835.

FREE PROPERTY ADVERTS To get your free 3 month property for sale advert send your advert content (up to 40 words) to classifieds@qffocus.com - Please include your name, NIE or passport number and address, this is not for publishing but we must have these details on file. And remember you can also send a photo to go with your advert that will be published with your wording on the website. (Wording only in the QF Focus Magazine.)

THE COSTA BLANCA’S Fastest Growing Business Directory...... If you are not on there you are losing out! business.femalefocusonline.com

Page 39