QF Focus 25th September - 22nd October 2017

25th September - 22nd October 2017 Deposito Legal A-685-2016

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Inside this issue:-

Focus on CC La Finca Golf Local Business News Your Local Entertainment Scene The Vega Baja Astronomy Group A View From the Top Book Review by Ivor Kindle Your Horoscopes Keith Nicol's Forthcoming Events Club & Charity News & Events Win 50â‚Ź 'Spot the Logo' Puzzles, Recipes and much more...

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QF Focus Magazine

New Opening Hours at Stan & Ollies Restaurant, El Raso From Tuesday 3rd October we will now be able to indulge ourselves at lunchtime as well as in the evening, with quality food served in this fine dining restaurant, making it the perfect venue for all occasions.

Due to popular demand Stan & Ollies Restaurant will be open every Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm until 4pm serving a delicious NEW 3 course set menu for only 14.95€ including ½ bottle of wine per person.

You will have a choice of 6 starters and 6 main dishes followed by a scrumptious homemade dessert. Their deluxe menu and A La Carte menu will also being available during these times. The restaurant will then re-open serving their evening menus from 6pm – 9.30pm.

Every Sunday Stan & Ollies is open from 1pm – 9pm throughout, serving a delicious 3 course Sunday Roast for just 13.50€ including ½ bottle of wine per person.

As from the launch of their lunch menu, Stan and Ollies will be closed every Monday.

This modern restaurant makes the ideal venue for any private party from business lunches to birthday/ anniversary celebrations and as the Christmas period approaches a festive menu will be available.

Bookings are now being taken for Christmas Day and New Year's Eve but space is filling up fast so book your table now to avoid disappointment.

Stan & Ollies current menus can be viewed at www.stanandollies.com and on their Facebook page.

For more information or to make your reservation call 637 583 373.

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QF Focus Magazine

Normality has finally returned to our household with my not so little angel starting secondary school and returning to dance school. The main difference this year is the change in school hours, which now has me up at the crack of dawn, which in effect has me needing an afternoon nap – chance would be a fine thing!

The masses of homework have yet to arrive but I’m sure it won’t be long before this has me stressed out as usual and at my wits end. Oh the joys of parenthood.

We will soon be off for a short break to the UK which includes a late Christmas present for my little angel and son's girlfriend tickets to see Little Mix in concert, and also late birthday presents for my son and husband to follow their passion - watching Aston Villa play. I just hope this time they actually win so I don’t have to put up with the bad moods I normally have to attend to. As for me…..well I will be quite happy doing a little early Christmas shopping (or just treating myself), I just hope the weather is not too cruel on us all.

As for work – well let’s just say the busiest time for me is approaching fast with the deadline for the 12th edition of the Professionals Services magazine for the Vega Baja area. Any businesses out there that want to promote their company and benefit from inclusion in the next issue, then please get in touch soon to book in your space and avoid disappointment.

Congratulations to Marlene Kerry from Quesada who won last month's 50€ competition after spotting the logo on page 25. See if you can spot the logo in this issue for a chance to win 50€, see alongside for details of how to enter.

Good luck!

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

Michelle

QF Focus Magazine Office Tel: 96 587 5421 Please send editorial to editor@qffocus.com Advert content to advertising@qffocus.com Pick up your next issue on 23rd October Advertising deadline is 9th October Editorial deadline is three days prior to advertising To discuss all your advertising needs please contact Michelle on 663 178 228 or email michelle@qffocus.com

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QF Focus Magazine After the death of his father Tony took time out from singing and embarked on an acting career, where he was cast in many parts, both straight plays and appearances in Pantomime. He co-starred with Bobby Davro, Bradley Walsh, Cannon and Ball and many others, including the charismatic Noel Brodie.

Hi All!

Well, after months of sweltering heat here, as I type this review this morning we are experiencing a thunderstorm and heavy rain...... Hallelujah.

This month I would like to feature Tony Francis, a complete all-round entertainer, who began performing at 5 years of age along with his siblings and father. During his adolescent years he was a member of several bands, working in dance halls, theatres as well as other venues including clubs and restaurants.

Tony, who originally hails from Dublin in Ireland, moved to Spain in 2003 and is now known on the local music circuit as "Mr Entertainer".

He and his father worked together many years ago in a duo called "The Two Generations". They performed extensively throughout the U.K. in the late 1960s and 1970s, playing the British club scene.

One amazing incident he recalls, while working at Weymouth Pavilion, with a famous comedian (who shall remain anonymousas he is still working) - With 500 people in the audience the curtain was about to raise when the comic was overcome with "stage fright" for the first time ever in his long career, and he refused to go on stage at first. As a true professional, Tony stood in and filled the 45 minute spot. However it all ended well when the comic regained his confidence, and the evening continued with great success. This was one of many hiccups that Tony has overcome in his long career.

Tony Francis has the knack of getting his act into the audience ... and the audience into the act. It was after his 2003 move to Spain, that Tony Francis resumed his singing career. Since then he has also performed in many other places in Europe, even travelling further afield to Turkey and Australia.

An evening with Tony Francis takes you across the decades from the 1940s swing period onwards. I enjoyed his 1960s section where he sang songs from The Beatles, The Monkees, Rolling Stones and many more numbers that I "grew up" with. With a repertoire of over 200 songs to suit everybody's favourite genre of music, Tony demonstrates his versatility.

A mature and highly professional act specialising in entertaining the "40 plus" age group, with a high level of audience participation, or laid back music.

The local press will feature Tony's forthcoming performances. Highly recommended!

Bye for now, D.P.

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QF Focus Magazine

our

ARIES There are some issues to sort out before you start to feel happy about the situation you find yourself in but once these are addressed you really will move forward with a new spring in your step.

TAURUS Your creative side is overflowing and you have ideas for every part of your life, as well as some for friends and family. Make the changes you want for yourself, but don't push anything onto them, they might have other ideas.

GEMINI You need to get practical and even get your hands dirty to get things the way you want them. A brilliant idea at work gets all eyes on you and gives you that boost you needed as things were getting a bit mundane.

CANCER You have a lot to offer and can't understand why people don't see it. Maybe you need to be a bit more demonstrative about just how much you are capable of as it could be they just didn't know this side of you existed.

LEO Asking the same question over and over will just get the same answer. If they are not understanding the meaning, then maybe you need to change the way you are asking it.

VIRGO If you don't handle a situation well then don't be surprised by the reaction. Think before you respond, you may not agree with their point of view but they are entitled to it.

oroscope

LIBRA After a time of socialising and chance reunions leading to late nights and dining out, now is a time for a few earlier nights and moderation in your eating and drinking. A bit of a detox and getting back into a more manageable routine is needed.

SCORPIO Mixed messages only lead to confusion so make sure you are giving clear directions and information or things will quickly go wrong. Don't have high expectations for anything this month.

SAGITTARIUS Things are becoming a bit too competitive for your liking, to the point of being aggressive at times. Keep your head down and get on with things and let them battle it out. Don't take sides and you will come out unscathed.

CAPRICORN Thoughts turn to holidays and planning for them. Having something to look forward to will really help you get through the coming challenges.

AQUARIUS Listen to the opinions of those close to you as they give them to you for good reason. Be more wary of those who you do not know as well, they may have a different agenda altogether.

A change is on the horizon, be prepared.

PISCES You are ready to face some unresolved issues head on now which is a relief to those all round as this has gone on long enough. Don't do anything you will regret though, think things through and even get advice if you are not sure.

QF Focus Magazine

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What are shooting stars?

Shooting stars, or meteors to give them there proper name, have been in the news recently. The newspapers and radio have been telling people to go outside and have a look at the Perseids. That was good advice, but it was a shame that we had so much cloud about so there wasn't much to see from our home in Torrevieja. Don't worry though, there will be another great shower around the same time next year, and some others through the year. The next good one is on 21st October - The Orionids.

All that leads to 3 big questions, why do they have such odd names? How do we know when they are coming? And what are they anyway?

I'll answer the last one first, it helps us with the other two. Meteors are specs of dust, usually no bigger than a grain of sand that hit our atmosphere very quickly and burn up. What we see is the flash of light as they do that. Incidently, a meteor is one that burns up, a Meteorite is so big that bit doesn't all burn up and hits the earth. An event popular with disaster film makers.

Most meteors are from random bits of space dust, the place is full of it, but some clouds of dust are more concentrated, and we know where they come from, they're from comets. Comets are often described as dirty snowballs that come from the outer solar system, as they get near the sun they boil off a lot of their mass, leaving a trail of dust across space. As Earth orbits the Sun, (once a year) it passes through this cloud, and we get a lovely display of shooting stars. Because astronomers know the path of past comets, they know where the dust is so we all get to know when the showers will occur. Good isn't it?

Lastly, why do these showers have such odd names, Perseids, Orionids, Geminids etc. Quite simple really, you probably noticed that the names are taken from constellations. Orion, Perseus and Gemini in these examples. The position of the constellation in the night sky is where the meteors appear to start from.

If you know where Orion is in the night sky in October, it's in the south, you'll know where to look on the 21st for a treat. There won't be much moon that night so it should be good.

The last thing I should say is what you will see. The name “shower� can be misleading. You might expect one every few seconds. That's not likely. Around 20 to 30 an hour is more probable.

If you miss the Orionids in October, watch out for the Geminids on 13th December. That's usually better anyway.

Charles Oates. Vega Baja Astronomy Group. vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com.

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

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QF Focus Magazine

Interested in finding out more about diabetes?

Help Vega Baja can help you….

The Help Diabetic Support Group celebrated its 15th Anniversary in September and continues to go from strength to strength. Under the direction of Oscar Norhona it provides support and advice for those who have recently been diagnosed as well as for people who have learnt to live with the condition.

The group started following a chance meeting at one of the HELP monthly lunches. There was a discussion about diabetes and someone said that because of a lack of understanding of the Spanish language, they were struggling to find out more about the condition and how to deal with it day to day.

It was decided to approach the then President of HELP Vega Baja and the rest, as they say, is history! The group was originally known as DIA-AID although it is more often referred to as the HELP Diabetic Support Group.

There have been several venues over the years but it is now well established at Casa Tom, in Avenida Jaca 31, San Luis where they meet on the last Wednesday of each month at 11am.

As it is under the umbrella of HELP Vega Baja there is NO FEE for people who attend the meetings. The aim of the group is to: 1. Provide up to date information concerning medical and practical developments in the management of diabetes.

2. Use guest speakers to provide information on a variety of subjects of interest to attendees.

3. Have a lively exchange of information between everyone attending.

4. Enable members to take responsibility for their diabetes with the guidance and encouragement of the group to support you to obtain better control. Often by making simple changes to your lifestyle and a few “do’s and don’ts” a person with diabetes can enjoy a perfectly normal life.

Recommendations put forward by members are encouraged, no

matter how small, and are discussed before being put in to practice.

Members are encouraged to talk about any diabetic difficulties they have and often a solution can be found.

If you think that you or someone you know could benefit from this group, or can contribute advice or experience on living with diabetes, why not pop along to the next meeting. You can be sure of a very warm welcome!

For more information, call the HELP Vega Baja San Miguel Centre on 96 672 3733 or email office@helpvegabaja.com.

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QF Focus Magazine

Cathy’s Curiosity Corner, Benijófar – BACK OPEN WITH A BANG For a few months this gem of a used furniture store has been closed due to Cathy having to return to the UK to tie up some loose ends. However Cathy is delighted to be back to business and looks forward to welcoming both old and new customers.

As always, you will find some of the most delightful pieces of furniture, pictures and accessories to turn your house into a home and be reassured that Cathy will give you the most realistic and fair price to purchase your quality unwanted furniture.

Cathy’s Curiosity Corner also acts as a drop off point for Reach Out Torrevieja and the Elche Children’s Home so if you are having a bit of clear after the summer, please keep this in mind as the less fortunate will greatly appreciate anything you might be able to offer.

Open Monday – Friday from 10ish until 4ish. Cathy will provide the coffee if you provide the biscuits!

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Why not call us for a no obligation quotation. We will come to your premises with samples, a range of 19 colours and take an accurate measurement to provide you with an on the spot quotation.

We will also answer any questions you may have about the product.

We offer a 2 year labour warranty backed up by a 10 year manufacturers warranty on materials & are fully legal & registered in Spain.

Proud to collorate with DEBRA, charity for children with butterfly skin. Safety surfaces allow children to have safe play areas.

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QF Focus Magazine

Quesada Bowls Club Report sponsored by Spanish Life Properties First of all we are delighted to announce that our current sponsor Spanish Life has agreed to support the club for the next three years, and would like to express our gratitude to them for their continued support.

As we were in the off season at the Bowls Club during the month of August there is nothing significant to report on league activities, which will be recommencing at the beginning of October - many of our members have gone off to cooler climates for a couple of months and to spend some time with their families.

However our skills evenings for our club members have still been taking place, with the absence of one week when the temperatures reached such a high and it was impossible to stand on the green!

The South Alicante Knock Out Competition Finals weekend is taking place in the middle of September and we are hoping to bring back the trophies, as we have players competing in every discipline, Ladies Singles, two Men’s Singles, Men’s Pairs, Ladies Pairs, Mixed Pairs and two teams in the mixed triples. Fortunately none of the men’s singles and mixed pairs met each other in the semi finals, so hopefully we could be looking for all Quesada finals.

Also, at the end of September the Valencian Championships are due to take place and several of our members will be competing. We are pleased, once again, to be one of the clubs chosen to host a number of games.

Our Saturday morning ‘Chicken Drive’ is open to visitors. Players wishing to take part should report at 09:45 for a 10:00 start.

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.

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QF Focus Magazine

Anyone can paint using the ‘One Stoke’ painting technique At long last the weather seems to be cooling down a little as we head into the autumn.

Now is a great time to think about a hobby for the months ahead, and time you could put to good use by creating your own gifts and cards for Christmas and of course any other occasion.

I teach the ‘One Stoke’ painting technique here in Quesada. It is a decorative art technique developed in the USA by Donna Dewberry. I have been to the USA and trained with Donna and I am the only Certified ‘One Stroke’ teacher here on the Costa Blanca.

Unlike traditional painting it is much easier and quicker to learn. It can also be used on almost any surface like wood, glass, tiles, card, fabric, canvas and just about anything else you want to put it on.

My classes are small and informal and a lot of fun, so places are limited, why not bring out the artist in you and come along and have a go. All you need to bring with you is yourself and a smile. As the weeks go by you will learn this technique by painting a project with me which is yours to take home with you.

If you belong to a club and would like a painting demonstration, I would be happy to come along and show this technique to your group, please contact me to arrange a date and time.

If you are interested, please give me a call for details of the classes and availability on 96 572 5919 or leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Look forward to hearing from you soon. leen

Ei

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QF Focus Magazine

MABS Cancer Support Group Glitz & Glam Fashion Show

Community N ew s

The Fashion show will be held at Las Claras Centro Civico, Los Alcazares on Tuesday 7th November at 2.30pm. Doors open 2pm. There will also be a sale of high quality used clothing and accessories.

Tickets available from MABS Charity Centre Calle Ramon & Cajal 12, San Javier at only 3â‚Ź, or pay at the door... but limited numbers! Bar facilities available.

The SAMM Race Programme SAMM’s sail racing programme has started its Autumn 2017 Series following their summer break.

It is open to all boat owners and sailors, including non-SAMM members, of any nationality, sex or age. You need no previous racing experience and many of the competitors did not sail until they came to Spain. To find out more and race dates visit http://sailingmarmenor.com/.

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QF Focus Magazine

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.

A sad 2017

At the start of the year I for one had a great sense of positiveness about what was the forthcoming year. It is always good to hope for progress and wellbeing, as well as to try and be excited about what can be advanced in terms of World advancement ...peace to all men (and women) etc. Sadly for me however the year thus far has been difficult in the exo-personal sense. Home and family life has been, and does continue to be, the good life. However as an individual I do not live in a bubble and like any other person I am effected by what is going on around me. The outside World seems to be a World of complete confusion ...the oceans are dying being full of plastic and pollution ...climate change is being ignored by the worlds most powerful nation and the race to develop more nuclear weapons is in full swing. Add to this the terrorist threat from what appears to be a whole range of disaffected people then, as an individual, the year thus far has been hard to take. To further add to my general feeling of Annus Horribilis 2017 seems to be the year that my circle of friends both immediate and distant has suffered from many sad losses. Like many of you reading this, you will be living the life of an Expat and therefore will be likely to circulate within a close personal circle of friends and associates ...you will form reliant friendships via your common language and the need for closeness and confidence in what is essentially a foreign country, although to many of us home. That is not to say that you do not get out and about and enjoy all that our adopted home has to offer, and that you do not enjoy the day to day life in the glorious land that is Spain. No, my direction of travel is about the impact that living an Expat life has on your circle of friends and associates after you pass on. Living like we do in a close community, each loss seems to have more of an echo value in that, the affected people all know each other on a seemingly friend or neighbour basis. This year to date I personally have lost upward of six friends and associates to a sudden death, and I don't mind saying that I have been effected by their passings, as they were all part of the circle of friends and associates that I move

around in every day. My character and personality type is one of being a reflexive ...not a reflective. I view everything around me in a dynamic now situation and therefore things always seem to be happening in the "Now"and thus a death in my close circle (Expat sense) tends to mean that my thinking is dominated by the events in question, almost but not quite to the detriment of other things.

My apologies to the readers if they find this article somewhat downbeat for a monthly free magazine ...however it must be obvious from the tone of my writing that this was something I just had to say. Let's hope the remainder of the year perks up and that the norm, in terms of the status quo, comes singing and bouncing around the next corner.

Another summer survived

Many years ago as a family when we decided to up sticks and move to Spain, one of the many attractions was the climate. Our holidays here in Spain were always marked by beautiful sunshine ...we felt better ...we looked better ...and in truth we went back to Britain looking forward to the next holiday. After our move on a permanent basis the summers were something to be enjoyed by the pool ...the beach ...and generally doing very little whilst soaking up the rays. The years have flown by and now the summers seem to be more and more difficult to get through.

As an individual the long hot summers never bothered me ...it was 'Pah' to air conditioning. Now however I struggle to operate at any sort of level when the hot summers arrive. Air conditioning is a must and the thought of long nights with temperatures in the high 20s and the pillow becoming soaked with sweat is not something I look forward to. That said I do love to lunch on the Guardamar beach strip watching the sea and enjoying the sea breeze, whilst eating a very reasonably priced meal, and of course how good does an ice cold beer taste when the sun is shining. I suppose you cannot have it all ...roll on next summer.

Nuclear Madness

I thought I would take a paragraph to comment on the madness that is building up via the North Korean desire to be a nuclear armed state and the desire of the U.S.A. to stop them. My concern is that both the U.S.A. and North Korea seem to be led by a couple of the Worlds most unstable leaders. I watched in horror as Kim Jong-un held a photoshoot with him and several underlings pointing at the little fat device that the Koreans had tested. My horror turned to laughter as I realised the device has the same shape as the North Korean leader ...a small round thing with two large midriffs. Let's hope if they actually fire the thing Kim Jong-un gets loaded onto the missile by mistake.

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QF Focus Magazine

Book Review by Ivor Kindle Book Title: A Tapping at my Door Author: David Jackson.

Publisher: Zaffre A gripping tale of murder set in the city of Liverpool.

A serial killer is on the loose and the killers targets are members of the Liverpool police force.

Detective Sergeant Nathan Cody is assigned to head the manhunt.

The problem is that Cody is psychologically damaged by past experiences .... can he cope with the pressure of a city wide manhunt.

This is a brilliant, well written crime thriller. It will raise the hairs on the back of your collective necks... it will force you to face some of your own particular fears with its gripping plot, brilliant settings and believable characters.

If you see this book grab it. This is the start of the Nathan Cody dynasty.

...keep reading Ivor Kindle.

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QF Focus Magazine

The Royal Naval Association Dinner Dance

ty Commun&i News Events

This Association is always very welcoming and friendly, socialising at their monthly lunches at different restaurants in the area as well as holding their meetings at Restaurante El Paraiso near Carrefour in Torrevieja on the first Wednesday of every month at 5pm. We welcome, not only current and former members of the Royal Navy, but also any landlubbers who will take The Royal Navy values to heart as well, as enjoying our social side.

We celebrate Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21st October with a Dinner and Dance. For more information please call Chairman Paul Edwards on 618 644 934, Vice Chairman Danny Kay on 96 671 6274 or Secretary Margaret Forshaw on 96 692 1996. There’s a “tot” waiting for all new members!

Gary from Carpet Heaven is going Sober for October in aid of AECC Anyone who knows Gary knows that giving up for 2 days would be a challenge let alone 31! But yes he is going to do it.

If any of his old customers, friends or contacts would like to sponsor him that would be great. He is also pledging all the money he saves during this period with all proceeds going to the Spanish Cancer Charity AECC. If you like to show your support and sponsor Gary please send an email to carpetheaven@hotmail.es, call him on 96 672 0782 or pop into Carpet Heaven in Los Montesinos. See their advert below for more contact information.

QF Focus Magazine

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Focus On La Finca Golf Commercial Centre, Algorfa During my many visits to La Finca Golf commercial centre I have noticed just how much the centre has grown, with many new businesses investing there, and thought it would be nice to share with our readers just what is on offer in this picturesque area.

Not only does La Finca boast one of the largest golf courses in the area and a beautiful hotel, there are some fantastic properties that overlook the most spectacular of views. La Finca is very well located being within easy reach of the AP -7 motorway and many local villages, and therefore attracts the public from many different locations.

Within the centre you will find some newly opened bars and restaurants as well as an established hairdressers, chemist, boutique, supermarket and real estate, everything you would expect to find in one zone.

&

One of the most recent bars to open is The Corner Flag sports bar, where live sports are shown on 6 large screens so there is no reason for you to miss out on watching your favourite sporting event. Aside from the sporting theme, they also have a wide variety of entertainment in the pipeline with race nights, rock and roll, bingo and quiz nights. Food is available daily from 10am to 9pm serving breakfasts, lunch and snacks and they even have unique Beer Giraffes which are 2 litre dispensers brought to your table so you can be your own barman!

'If Carlsberg did a Sports Bar, The Corner Flag would probably be the best bar in the world........'

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QF Focus Magazine

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Another recently opened establishment, which is already proving very popular, is the stylish and modern restaurant and terrace “Olivos�.

Their mouthwatering A la Carte menu has a wide variety of dishes created with a flair of Mediterranean cuisine which will leave you spoilt for choice and a set menu is also available daily.

Currently Olivos is open Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm for drinks on the terrace, with food being served from 7pm, and every Sunday serving food from 6pm (Closed Mondays).

If you are in the process of buying or selling a property in the area then Connect CS can offer help and assistance in conveyancing management. They are a unique team with many years of experience, covering all aspects for the safest purchase or sale of your property in Spain.

They will carry out important checks of the property at the Land Registry, Tax office and Town Hall, making sure the property fulfils all the legal requirements as well as taking into account any existing debt on the property, including mortgage cancellations, to guarantee a smooth completion.

Connect will also give you a comprehensive and secure service regarding your taxes and expenses that will arise.

&

Additionally, they can also assist you with: obtaining your NIE number, opening a Spanish bank account, organising Power of Attorney, Spanish Wills, translations, Nonresidents tax, utility contracts, etc.

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QF Focus Magazine

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If you need help in buying or selling a property then WELCOME ESTATES are a family run REAL ESTATE business with an enhanced experience of a 3rd generation Management Team. Having been established since 1983 they have built considerable knowledge and expertise stemming from longevity within a wide range of businesses.

WELCOME ESTATES have developed a strong passion for the growth and development of La Finca Golf Resort and its surrounding areas. They are committed to further their presence on LA FINCA, ALGORFA, QUESADA and the ORIHUELA COSTA. They work hard with their highly skilled, friendly and innovative team and are determined to deliver nothing but excellence.

"I understand that the service we deliver to our customers is the key to a successful business." - Gary Cornforth, Company Director.

Fancy a new look or simply some pampering? Then pop into Bliss Unisex Hair & Beauty award winning salon where their experienced team of stylists and beauticians can advise you on the latest treatments and trends of cuts, colours, skin care, nails and much more.

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Bliss specialises in wedding packages for your hair and nails making you look stunning for your special day. As well as microblading / semi permanent make up and lash extensions, they also offer body massages, sports and remedial massage and hopi ear candles to name just a few.

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QF Focus Magazine

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OP Group Spain has been established on La Finca since 2006, selling and renting out hundreds of properties to thousands of clients. The area makes the perfect holiday destination not just for golf and amenities but for the tranquil environment and scenic and safe location. They offer the perfect package - meet and great at the airport, chauffeur you to La Finca with a hire car waiting for you at your property so you can arrive at the airport and be in your pool within 40 minutes. With rental properties being in such high demand OP Group are always looking to take on new rental properties to give you guaranteed regular income without the hassle of having to find tenants yourself.

I’m sure you will agree with me that a visit is definitely needed to appreciate all the amenities La Finca has to offer – just make sure you tell them I sent you and enjoy. Michelle.

Special thanks to Ken Taylor for the photographs.

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QF Focus Magazine

Recipes by Pushpa from the Spice Hut

Spiced fried prawns 2 tsp coriander powder 2 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp garlic paste 1 tsp ginger paste 2 tsp sugar pinch of salt (to taste) 2 tsp lemon juice 1/2 tsp ground black pepper 500 g peeled prawns Oil for frying.

Mix all ingredients and coat the prawns and leave to marinate for 2 to 3 hours.

Deep fry in hot oil, drain on absorbent paper. Serve hot with dips.

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

Answers: 1. A coin.

2. A needle.

3. Forward I am ton, backwards I am not.

4. His breath.

5. If the tide is raising water, then it is raising the ship on water, too. So water will reach still the first rung.

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QF Focus Magazine

P & O Cruises "Aurora"

by Michael Walter Smith Having been fortunate to have travelled on a number of cruise ships during my lifetime, most people agree, it's a great experience to enjoy a lifestyle that most of us would not experience normally. Comfortable accommodation, good food, spectacular entertainment, also visiting other countries allowing us the opportunity to tour and sample their cuisine.

Not everyone has sea-legs but with ships well stabilised, most of us enjoy the possible slight motions and sounds of sea life.

My photograph this month is of a favourite ship, which I am hopeful of visiting Cartagena in the not too distant future, P & O Cruises "Aurora". I took the picture at P & O's 175th Anniversary celebrations, and though the livery has changed somewhat, it is the same ship.

Preparing this article, the ship is currently in New York on a cruise that commenced in Southampton, and sailed to the Eastern Seaboard of United States and Canada with the present Master, Captain Wesley Dunlop in command.

Also shown is a recent picture of Captain Dunlop and fellow Officers on the Bridge of "Aurora". Very few of us get the opportunity to visit the Bridge of any cruise vessel but I highly recommended it if the opportunity should arise.

No matter which Ship or Cruise Line, the Master and Officers are highly professional - this includes the Chief Engineer, rarely seen on deck and able not only to operate the machinery, but also having the skills to solve mechanical problems that possibly could occur. I suggest if seen, hand should be shaken for the mainly unseen skills of him/ her and the team. Also the Captain normally makes him/ herself known while at sea, so likewise I suggest you shake his / her hand for the skills and responsibility held.

When on board, it's well worthwhile standing on deck to admire the actions of deck Officers and crew on berthing, and likewise on departure. The actions of shore staff who perform the mooring and subsequent un-mooring should also be admired. With the assistance of a Sea Pilot it all adds to safe and comfortable cruising.

Just for laughs - A musician who joined an orchestra on a cruise ship was having difficulty keeping time with the rest of the band. Finally, the captain said, “Either you learn to keep time or I’ll throw you overboard. . . . It’s up to you, sync or swim.”

- A very nervous first time cruiser approached the Captain: "Do ships like this sink very often?"

"Not too often," replied the Captain. "Usually it's only once."

- You know that slight bump you feel when the ship has finally pulled entirely into the port?

Pier pressure.

Quesada Office: +34 966 718 836 El Raso Office: +34 965 501 006 Mobile: +34 628 045 614 info@propshopspain.com

www.propshopspain.com

WE URGENTLY REQUIRE NEW LISTINGS DUE TO AN AMAZING YEAR SO FAR. Ref: 3447, Montebello 80,000€

Y U B R A ST Ref: 3405 Quesada Doña Pepa Townhouse 3 beds, 2 baths Overlooking pool 145,000€

Ref: 3227 Entre Naranjos Apartment 2 bedrooms 1 bathrooms Communal pool 55,000€

NEW OFFICE OPEN

This delightful, Quad style property is situated just off the AP-7, giving easy access to both Alicante and San Javier (Murcia) Airports. It is also just a 15 minute drive away from the wonderful beaches of Guardamar and the popular town of Torrevieja.

On the ground floor the property has an open plan lounge/dining area with fully fitted kitchen, including all the appliances and a utility room.

There is also a double bedroom and family bathroom on the ground floor, with a staircase leading up from the lounge area to a further 2 double bedrooms and a bathroom with shower. From upstairs, there is also access to a glazed roof terrace, with lovely views over to the orange groves. Outside, the covered terrace has been glazed to make a lovely summer room and there is also off road parking. This property is being sold fully furnished and has access to a communal pool and children’s play area.

Ref: 3439 Quesada Doña Pepa Townhouse 2 beds, 1.5 baths Communal pool 104,995€

Ref: 3444 Quesada Doña Pepa Apartment 2 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 95,000€

We advertise on rightmove overseas

WE HAVE OPENED A NEW OFFICE IN QUESADA JUST THROUGH THE ARCHES ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE!

As seen on

Are you looking for the right property at the right price? Are you finding it hard to sell your property?

Would you like to see your property advertised in this magazine as our star property? If you have answered yes to any of the above then give us a call or pop in to one of our offices for a chat.

We are actively looking for new listings in all areas due to an amazing year so far and are currently short of good properties.

We do have genuine clients waiting for the right properties.

QF Focus Magazine

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Helping the children of Kotukala School On the 23rd December, Spanish Insurance are travelling to Gambia, Africa, with one goal in mind, to take Christmas Cheer to the children of Kotukala School. These children have never experienced Christmas before so let’s make it an experience they will never forget!

This is what we are setting out to achieve : - To provide each child with a school bag full of stationery, books, a Christmas present and a full tummy on Christmas day.

- Raise enough funds to firstly get their current toilet facilities update but, as we are getting to know the school and speak to the teachers, the list just keeps growing for the essential repairs and upgrades the school is in desperate need of. There is so much more we may be able to do to help.

We need your help to achieve this, you can help out by: - Donating to one of our collection boxes at many businesses around the area. If you’d like to give us a call we can let you know where your nearest one is.

to get a group of friends or work colleagues together and let your hair down. Although we are suggesting school uniform style dress up just for a laugh it's not essential. The main thing about the night is that we want to make it fun. There will be some fun games and prizes for everyone who wants to get involved and food served by our very own dinner ladies to kick start the night. Tickets are on sale now from the offices at 15€ a head.

We need the following : - Pencils, Pens, Erasers, Rulers, Scissors, Small Gifts, Writing Books, Reading Books and School Bags.

- As a business you could donate a raffle prize for the big raffle draw we will be holding at the end of November.

- Make a donation to our gofundme page: www.gofundme.com/christmastokotukala.

- As a business you can have one of our collection boxes and collection tins in your shop/bar/business.

We are also doing a bungee jump on the 15th October and are asking for sponsorship. We have 20 jumpers so far and if you think you could raise some money to help our cause give us a call to find out how to get involved!

Every donation, however big or small will be highly appreciated by us and of course the children of Kotukala School.

On the 13th October we are holding a FUN “Back to school” party at the Quesada Country Club. It's going to be a great opportunity

For more information you can call us on 96 673 0694 or email info@spanish-insurance.net.

You can follow our Facebook page for updates, and follow our journey! www.facebook.com/SpanishInsuranceLaZeniaQuesada.

APAC

Furia - PRE (Pure Rasa Español) Mare, she is 16+ years old and 155cm. Huge experience in Spanish Doma, excessively so and now needs a loving home with an experienced rider.

Lovely nature and very forward but needs care and patience to continue her rehabilitation from an abusive background. Please email us if you can offer her a loving home - jules@apac-cv.com.

K9 Club.

Cassandra is a beautiful black and white Schnauzer cross who loves people and other dogs. She is very lively and enjoys playing. She is about 6 years old and spayed. She is used to living as an outside dog and would benefit from a home with a large garden. If you would be interested in adopting Cassandra, then call 600 845 420. www.k9club.es.

Pets in Spain.

Dotty is a 10 week old English Setter x and is a happy, playful little girl. She is in excellent health, started her vaccinations and is good with other dogs, cats and children. Call: 645 469 253.

Email: info@petsinspain.com.

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

Calling all charities - let us know about your forthcoming events and animals for adoption. See page 4 for contact details.

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QF Focus Magazine Una cita con el médico - An appointment at the doctors Last month we looked at the A to C of Spanish words that you might use at the Doctors, this month we move on to the D to F....... Hopefully you will never need to use any of these words but may be useful one day. There are 29 Spanish words (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.

Word Search

D

DÉBILES - WEAK DEFICIENCIA - DEFICIENCY DENTAL - DENTAL DENTISTA - DENTIST DESINFECTAR - DISINFECT DIABETES - DIABETES DIAGNOSTICAR - DIAGNOSE DIAGNÓSTICO - DIAGNOSIS DIARREA - DIARRHOEA DIETA - DIET DOCTOR - DOCTOR DOLOR - PAIN DOLOR DE CABEZA - HEADACHE DOLOROSO - PAINFUL DOSIFICACIÓN - DOSAGE DOSIS - DOSE DROGA - DRUG ENFERMEDAD - SICKNESS ENFERMERA - NURSE ENFERMO - ILL / SICK ESGUINCE - SPRAIN ESPECIALISTA - SPECIALIST ESQUELETO - SKELETON ESTÓMAGO - STOMACH EXAMEN - EXAMINATION FARMACIA - CHEMIST FIEBRE - FEVER FÍSICO - PHYSICAL FRACTURA - FRACTURE

E F

QF Focus Magazine

Spot the difference -

See if you can spot all 10 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 on page 30

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Forthcoming Events

By Keith Nicol Autumn has arrived, school is in full swing and with many expatriates now back for the winter, many of the local pubs and clubs have a full range of entertainment planned for the month. Least we forget, although Halloween falls on a Tuesday this year it seems to be an event the Spanish have embraced with open arms, with many special events planned plus the following day, All Saint’s Day, is a Red Day and a national holiday.

Fans of CD Torrevieja will be glad to hear that home games are returning to the Vicente Garcia Stadium, with an expected kickoff time of 6pm. More information from the Torry Army website: www.fctorrevieja.net or www.ClubDeportivoTorrevieja.com.

CD Torrevieja will be looking to bounce back up and gain promotion this season, so it could be a fun and competitive season.

Meanwhile, just up the road, CD Montesinos, are playing in Regional One this season and have a couple of games you may enjoy: http://cdmontesinos.com/fixtures.

The Rojales Craft Market at the Cuevas del Rodeo in Rojales is a fun place to visit if you are looking for small a gift, piece of art or decoration. Local artists put their work on display along with other craft works to browse and enjoy. It takes place on the 1st Sunday of every month January to June and September to December in the morning from 11am to 2pm and in July and August from 7pm to 11pm.

QF Focus Magazine Another fun and unusual event for kids of all ages is the Torrellano Miniature Steam Train. It is run by the friends of the railways association and so is normally only open on Saturdays between 4pm and 8pm. Every month the Friends of the Railways Association host a miniature train event at the railway museum in Torrellano. Donations of 1.50€ per visit are requested.

Alicante’s Exhibition centre (www.feria-alicante.com) beside the airport has reopened for the Autumn season and has a number of different events and fairs open to the public. This weekend 29th and 30th September and 1st October, they offer two fairs for the price of one with Firhogar 2017 as the first of these: offering a selection of Furniture, Hardware and Home Decor. This 24th edition offers both furniture and interior design plus lighting, kitchens, outdoor services and attracts those interested in new trends in home fashion, along with those looking for deals on furniture and decoration.

For the kids, there is Children, Kids & CO. by Fatima Cantó, for children aged 0 to 10 years, It is a show dedicated to parenting, offering a showcase of everything one needs before and after your baby arrives. It offers national and international brands and a wide range of products and accessories. Among the exhibitors are the leading brands of baby care, cosmetics, food, personal care, cleaning, auto, insurance, health care, toys, textiles, etc. The fair is open from 10am to 9pm, The price for the general public is 5€ at the box office: 3€ presenting the discount voucher which can be found in the downloads section of the web and 2€ in advance.

Children under 12 accompanied by an adult are free. Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firahogarIFA. Stockcity! Feria Outlet Alicante takes place the 6th, 7th and 8th October at the IFA. Radical discounts of 70%, 80% and 90% in leading brands of fashion, sport, children, urban, surf, snow, sunglasses and more. At Stockcity! Alicante you will find all your favourite brands with massive

[

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Email advertising@female-focus.com or contact your local Female Focus representative

QF Focus Magazine discounts on Adidas, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Ray Ban, Vans, Levi’s, Lois, New Balance, Oakley, Salsa Jeans and many more. There will also be a raffle for 1,000€ of goodies among all visitors who come to the event before 2pm. Do not miss it!

VIDEO GAME CÓMIC 2017 the Feria de Videojuegos, Cómic y Juegos de Estrategia or video games, comics and strategy games fair takes place on the 21st and 22nd October. Video Game Comic is a national benchmark, welcoming the various forms of entertainment and art of modern culture including: video games, comics, strategy games, TV series, collectors, board games, movies, music etc. You can enjoy video game tournaments, competitions, exhibitions, strategy games, workshops and discover everything you can imagine. http://www.vgcomic.com.

The Virgen de la Salud and San Miguel Arcangel fiestas are coming to an end and Redovan will be honouring their patron saints, on Sunday 27th September at 8.30pm with a concert in honour of San Miguel in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento and finishing the fiestas on Tuesday 29th September at 8pm with a solemn procession with the statue of San Miguel Arcangel, followed by a firework display, starting from the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.

San Miguel de Salinas is celebrating their Fiesta Miguel Arcangel until Sunday 8th October. The celebration honours San Miguel Arcangel and offers concerts, tapas route, carnival parade, lots of partying and a firework display. Thursday 28th September at 8pm there is a Flower Offering followed by a Concert by the Choir Alcores in the plaza de la Libertad. On Friday there is Mass at noon, and at 8pm a Procession followed by a firework display and then a Concert by the Union Musical San Miguel de Salinas Band.

On Saturday it is Equestrian Day at the Recinto Feria on Ctra.

Campoamor near the Castle starting at 11.30am. On Sunday 1st October everyone can enjoy a Giant Paella in the Plaza Jaime I with live music, with the activities closing the following weekend.

Friday 6th October starting at 8pm there is a Trade Fair, exhibiting products and services from local companies while on Saturday and Sunday the Trade Fair continues along with Food Trucks to tuck into.

The local fiestas celebrating the Virgen de Rosario in Rojales take place until the end of October. Highlights of the events include: Sunday 1st October at 7pm - Offering of flowers to our Patron Saint, the Holy “Virgen del Rosario”. Saturday, 7th October - “Virgen del Rosario’s Day”. Giants and big heads parade round the streets all day. They will be accompanied by the “dulzaina” and drum. Sunday, 8th October at 9pm there will be a Fancy Dress Parade. Everybody is welcome to take part. Register at the Information Office at Rojales Town Hall! Cash prizes for the best fancy dresses. Wednesday, 11th October at 9pm - 3rd Festival “Night of Stars Rojales 2017” in the Malecón del Soto.

An opportunity to enjoy the performances of the best international singers. Saturday, 14th October at 9m - In the Capitol Theatre a “Tribute to Queen”. Sunday, 22nd October at 6pm - In the Capitol Theatre, musical for children “El libro de la Selva”.

There is also a Rojales Museum Tour in English that is free to join. You must reserve your place in advance, in person, at the Information Desk in the Rojales Town Hall. It takes place on Friday 29th September at 9.30am at the Archaeological Museum.

If you somehow missed the multitude of Moors and Christians festivals during the summer, fear not because Crevillent will be holding their annual Fiesta from the 29th September to the 10th October with the main ‘official parades’ and the ‘entrance parades’ on the Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th October.

Page 29 The hamlet of La Mata celebrates their patron saint, Ntra Sra. Del Rosario until Sunday 8th October 2017. The fiesta includes such fun events as bull running for the children with inflatable bulls, paella competition, fancy dress parade, and a procession.

On Saturday 30th September at noon there is the running of the Bulls for Children in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, when inflatable bulls are used and at 10pm a mobile disco in the main plaza. www.torrevieja.es.

Finishing the month is the annual Halloween Parade through the streets of Torrevieja on Halloween Night, 31st October. No details as yet, but expect the action to start around 9.30pm from outside the Town Hall and finishing on Paseo Vista Alegre. More exact details next month.

For classic car lovers, on the first Sunday of the month, the Ace Cafe Classic Car event takes place outside Le Torre Hotel in Los Montesinos from 11am to 1pm.

And last but not least, thanks to Torrevieja Town Hall missing their deadlines, the May Fair will now be held in October and be called the Sevillanas Fair 2017 Torrevieja. It takes place from 10th to 15th October, in the port area. During every day of the fair, you can enjoy Sevillanas dancing and eating in the booths all day long with entertainment on stage every evening. The opening presentation and firework display is expected to start at 9pm on Wednesday.

We try to ensure that all information on forthcoming events is correct. We advise you to check any information as there are sometimes last minute changes or cancellations which are out of our control.

Calling all groups and charities. Send your forthcoming events and information to editor@qffocus.com.

See page 4 for deadlines.

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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 Ex-Services to join us. Further details and/or directions from Robin 96 669 5423 or Brian 639 917 971. Email: granalacant.secretary@gmail.com.

QF Focus Magazine

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, now in its 29th year. 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 20.30-22.00 contact Javi on 603 727 179 for more information.

Catral’s writers / cultural group. If you like to write, talk or read about cultural issues you are coming to the right starting group every Wednesday in Catral, Vega Baja. Interested?

Please email J. Rivero on jrivero-santana@skynetlink.com.

Calling all groups and charities Send your forthcoming events and information to editor@qffocus.com.

See page 4 for deadlines

Answers to Sudoku & Spot the Difference

Easy

Hard

Page 31

QF Focus Magazine

‘Get on yer Bike’ Cycle Fitness Training Cycling for fitness can be one of the most beneficial and easiest ways to lose weight. The benefits of cycling to lose weight is the low impact nature of cycling and the ability to cycle more frequently, with more volume (and intensity when appropriate) than you can with running.

Swimming is also another great sport that has low impact during a weight loss period, however it is not as convenient as getting on your bike and cycling. If you have a spare bike or have your bike set up on a bike trainer during the winter it’s even more accessible and easier than driving to a pool. Any weight loss programme that involves exercise should also involve balanced nutrition, just because you are working hard at exercise doesn’t give you a licence to stuff yourself with cakes and sweets once you have finished your workout. Next time you finish a hard cycle or exercise make sure you have an apple or a banana rather than a bag of crisps. Always think about the food you are going to eat, how will it help you to get fit and get your weight down, if you think it is not going to help you reach your goals then don’t eat it!

It sounds simple but it is a hard rule to execute.

Power Up. As little as 4 interval sessions can boost your power and ability to maintain higher intensity sessions. Ride 20 x 1 minute at peak power with 2 minutes recovery between bursts, after a few weeks you should notice an improvement in your power output.

You will get faster and leaner with interval training, you can increase your body’s anaerobic capacity, power, endurance and your cycling speed with short, sharp bursts of interval training.

Hill Climbs.

Hill climbing takes it out of you at the best of times, but this hard and fast short burst of pain will help your long term power. Find yourself a short, sharp hill with approx 4-5 minutes of climbing, power up the climb as fast as you can, once you reach the top, roll down as the recovery and then repeat as often as you can.

Other Skills.

Skills such as one leg pedalling involve pedalling with one leg clipped into your pedal and one leg hanging by the side, this will help you to find out which leg is doing more work than the other. Try this for approx 3kms, alternating between legs every 50 revolutions, make sure that you are on a slight incline whilst carrying this out. High revolution spinning with one leg will focus on getting you to spin above your normal cadence and will get your heart rate above aerobic for a few seconds at a time. These types of drills will improve your efficiency and help you become better at pedalling because you will be wasting less energy.

Muscular Endurance.

To improve muscular endurance pedal at a lower cadence which will improve your strength. By using the big chain ring at the front of the bike and a small ring at the rear you are forced to pedal slower and with a more focused pedal stroke, cycle in the high gear for as long as you can.

Sprints.

After warming up for approx 20 minutes on a flat road, sprint for 20 seconds flat out followed by 20 seconds of slow gentle recovery, repeat this for approx 15 minutes or until you are exhausted. This helps to improve your endurance, strengthen the muscles, letting you ride faster.

Rest Day / Recovery Time.

Whichever type of training you decide is good for you ensure you have a rest day in between as this is just as important as training.

If you feel tired, lethargic or not looking forward to your next ride then this could be a sign that you may be over training.

Gary and Lynn are available at Cyclogical in Quesada from 9.30am - 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am - 2pm on Saturdays to assist and advise you on all your cycling requirements.