QFocus On February 2023

Winners announced for the Specsavers Ópticas short story competition

Two aspiring authors have been crowned winners of the Specsavers Ópticas short story competition.

Eight-year-old David Adsuar Vélez from Guardamar and 14-year-old Inés Peiró López from the Malaga region impressed the judges with their creative and imaginative stories and have been awarded a prize and gift for their respective schools. Children were invited to submit their short stories for the competition between the 3rd of October and the 16th of December. Entries were reviewed by a panel of authors and poets who judged them based on the quality of writing, maintaining suspense, creativity and imagination, clarity of ideas, characterization and dialogue. The judges were very impressed by the level of the entries, and commented, “The overall standard of the entries was very good. We were pleased to see short sentences and a natural rhythm, as well as combining realism and fantasy in an effective way As judges we’d like to celebrate each of the stories, as the act of creation is a prize in itself! Being able to express yourself and start experimenting how to make art with language is a wonderful achievement. Congratulations to all of you – keep on writing!” They were particularly impressed with the two winning entries. The winner of the Junior Category was David Adsuar Vélez, with his story "The Crystal Ball". The judges loved its attention-grabbing beginning, elements of action and a variety of characters. The winner in the Senior category was the story by Inés Peiró López entitled "Future". It was chosen as a very technically well-constructed story, with short phrasing, precise use of words and a balanced and striking mixture of realism and fantasy.

David Adsuar Vélez visited Specsavers Ópticas in Guardamar to collect his prize and store director Lisa James threw in a cool pair of Suneez kids’ sunglasses too. He was delighted to have been chosen as the winner. His school CEIP Reyes Católicos will also be receiving a donation of 200€.

The photos show: David Adsuar Vélez with Michael Olsson from Specsavers Ópticas Guardamar.

Find out more about Specsavers Ópticas by visiting www.specsavers.es

What makes Jennifer Cunningham Insurances so different?

A good question and I can offer you a number of answers.

I started my company nearly 30 years ago, working from home and developing the business slowly over a number of years. Once established, I employed staff and rented a large office in Jávea port, where I am still to this day. How life has changed for me, and for the better.

I realised when I moved to Spain, that there was very little help available and what was available was normally in Spanish. There was no private health insurance, no funeral plans and no insurance dedicated to the Expat, and little customer service.

I started the business selling health insurance for a British company, along with funeral plans. Having lost my husband in Spain, I realised how difficult it was to arrange a funeral and the costs were enormous.

Being very disciplined myself (probably due to my time in the Air Force), I have a strong work ethic. I used to work from home during the day, and I would go out early evenings making home visits until I was busy enough to take someone on to help me. From those early days when I worked tirelessly, I built my company and now have 7 offices. I demand from my excellent and loyal staff that they treat all my clients with respect, courtesy and honesty and offer them the best service that is possible.

I pride myself that the after sales service is the best, a service very rare in Spain. I have a Claims Administrator and a dedicated Renewal Department, who will make sure that as your circumstances change, your policies can change with you and you are fully aware of your coverage.

So these are just some of the reasons why we are so special. We are more than just a voice on the phone, offering good, old fashioned service. Not always the cheapest, but the best, working with Liberty Seguros and ASSSA healthcare, who both provide special Expat policies and are the best in the market.

For more information or a quotation, please call one of my offices, email info@jennifercunningham.net or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net.

www.femalefocusonline.com

We have recently had my brother in law with his young son over to stay which meant that we had to get our home child friendly for their visit. This also resulted in finally getting our bathroom finished in time for their arrival so I am looking forward to any other visitors coming to stay, as this seems to be the only way things get done in our household.

The month of love is already upon us with many venues up and down the coast serving special menus for the celebration. Spoil your loved one and book early so you don't end up being disappointed and in the doghouse.

February also sees Carnival in Spain and many towns go all out with the festivities with parades for all the family to enjoy. Check with your local town hall for events to be held near you.

We've been fairly lucky with the weather so far this winter however February and March do seem to be the months that take a turn for the worst with high winds and rain. There is always a silver lining though because on the other side of this comes springtime.

Until next time....

Michelle

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

Discuss your advertising with your local representative:-

Female

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

Pick up your next issue on 1 March Deadline for advertising & editorial - 15 Feb

Sales Manager Michelle 663 178 228 michelle@femalefocusonline.com Female

A New Home, A New Lifestyle

by Jaime Sanchez - Ciudad Patricia

They say that getting old is no fun. At Ciudad Patricia we say different! We believe people should have the opportunity to live and enjoy their senior years to the full. Ciudad Patricia is a senior resort where every detail has been designed so that you can live your best life. Our senior living model provides senior citizens of different nationalities a place where they can enjoy an active life each day with total independence in a unique setting with countless services to boost their well-being and provide the highest level of security.

All our luxury apartments for seniors have a spacious living room and one, two, or three bedrooms. Discover the different possibilities, which vary in location, layout, and size - from 77m2 to 200m2. Fully equipped: air conditioning (cooling/heating), electric blinds, etc. Our apartment buildings are set in 100.000m2 of lush parkland with beautiful gardens, well-manicured lawns, and outdoor and indoor pools.

Ciudad Patricia provides an extensive range of living, convenience, and care services to make your life easier and help you with whatever you need, whenever you need it so that you don't have to worry about anything. These include: organised activities, 24/7 medical service, accommodation for family members, home care & rehabilitation, resort transport, CCTV security, building & garden maintenance, handyman, social worker, and building caretakers. You'll never feel lonely, and you can count on our 24/7 emergency medical support to give you peace of mind. So why not let someone else take the strain whilst you enjoy life? We do understand it's quite a move and, in many ways, a new lifestyle. For this reason, we invite you to visit us for your own personal tour where you can see for yourself why so many seniors have decided to call Ciudad Patricia their home.

To find out more, please contact me, Jaime Sanchez, on 673 064 288 and take your first steps to a new home and a new lifestyle.

20% return per annum

Rarely do I use Structured Notes for investors on the Costa Blanca as the minimum requirements of investment are too high –such as USD125,000 per investment, however, an opportunity has come up for the level to be USD40,000 or Euro equivalent €37,000. (Sterling £32,500). This opportunity will close 28 February 2023.

A structured note is an investment that has a fixed term such as 2, 3 or 5 years and promises to pay the fixed interest on certain dates or at the end of a term. The invested capital is raised to back specific business ventures. The Structured Note mentioned above with the reduced minimum investment amount was set for 31.12.2025 maturity (at 20% per annum) but owing to an investor wanting to take over the underlying business, there is a possibility that it will run for just 1 year more at 20% per annum.

So, if you are an experienced investor, and can wait 1 or up to 2 year and 11 months for your return of capital, please call me and remember that if the investment goes full term you still get 20% PER ANNUM, meaning almost 60% interest return in just under 3 years. If you are not an experienced investor I can not sell you this Structured Note but I might have other investments that will suit your needs, depending upon your circumstances.

Our well known British product is still paying the following:

(Sterling) Growth Fund 4.9% p.a. (Sterling) Cautious Fund 4.2% p.a. (Euro) Growth Fund 3.9% p.a. (Euro) Cautious Fund 3.2% p.a.

(note: The above is what new investors would receive and investors of over 5 years would receive 1.2% p.a. more than published rates above)

• Minimum investment £20,000 or €25,000 or US$35,000.

• 1.5% allocation bonus for investments over £150,000 (immediately worth £152,250). 0.5% allocation bonus for investments over £75,000.

Please call or email me for information on investment solutions for your circumstances.

David Diggle C.A.T. DipFA (Certified Accounting Technician & British level 4 Professional Financial Adviser)

CISI - Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments membership number 249741

TEL: 865 751 713 / 615 607 278 / 965 704 338.

Seagate Wealth Management, Avenida Federico Garcia, 101, Benijofar, 03178, Alicante, South Costa Blanca.

EMAIL: dave.diggle@seagatewealth.es.

WEBSITE: www.seagatewealth.es / www.daviddiggle.es

See our advert in this magazine for more information.

Valentin Garden Center Valentine's Day Party

Valentin Garden Center in Los Montesinos will once again be celebrating Valentine's day on Tuesday 14th February with a party. Everyone is welcome to attend from 9am until 4pm where there will be gifts, free appetizers and surprises throughout the day. Come along and join in the festivities and browse our vast selection of plants, trees, flowers and ornamental ceramics to make your garden prosper in 2023. You will find us on the main road heading into to Los Montesinos.

EASY GUIDE TO SAVE MONEY (AND ENERGY) WHEN PROCESSING YOUR PROPERTY'S HABITATION LICENCE

article

A valid habitation licence will be one of the first documents required to market your property by your estate agent, solicitor, or prospective purchaser.

Here are some tips to save money:

1. When coming to habitation licences, always ask for a breakdown of costs: The cost of a Habitation Licence entirely depends on each town hall. Orihuela town hall asks for 102€ to 111€ as opposed to 17,50€ Registration Fee at Torrevieja, for example. Therefore, ask for a breakdown of the tax you are paying and the technical fees.

2. Only architects are entitled to sign off the necessary certificate to process the licence, so if you are considering commissioning the licence to your lawyer or agent, investigate if there are any commissions on top of what is strictly the architect's fee and registration tax, that again takes us to the first point: always ask for a breakdown of the quotation you are obtaining.

3. Here are some of the most common registration taxes Orihuela: 102-111€ - Torrevieja: 17.50€ - Rojales: 50€ - San Fulgencio: 50€ - San Miguel de Salinas: 100€

Currently, the process for obtaining a Habitation Licence is straightforward. Once confirmed, Martinez de la Casa Architects will arrange an appointment to survey the property, requiring only your NIE, latest SUMA bill and Title-Deeds. After the Habitation Licence is processed at the Town Hall and delivered within 10 working days (guaranteed). We undertake all the process, tax payment included, so we just need to arrange our survey.

The cost of a habitation varies depending on each Town Hall, so feel free to contact us to obtain a quotation or any free advice over the phone.

Martinez de la Casa Architects is the Number One company for Building Certifications, including Energy Performance Certificates (121€ inc IVA), Habitation/Occupation Licences and Retrospective Licences. (Pools 229€, extensions 326€ IVA inc).

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

supplied by Martinez de la Casa Architects

Intelligent traffic cones to improve road safety

Article by Sarah Farrell -

www.sarahswritestuff.com

Spain has developed the world’s first traffic cone with geolocated lights to improve road safety for drivers and operators carrying out road maintenance works. The devices, developed by the Alcoy-based Grupo Erum company, allow motorists to be alerted in advance of the presence of works and other incidents.

The Erum Group, through its subsidiary PF Erum Vial, the ALVAC company based in Madrid and the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda (MITMA) have successfully completed the first tests on the Reguerón highway in Murcia.

The high-tech PF cones have lights, sensors and locators that collect information such as the location of roadworks as well as other information including how heavy the traffic is, how fast the traffic is moving and weather conditions. The cones transmit the location of works and accidents on the road in real time with the purpose of preventing risks to road users and improving safety for road maintenance workers.

Gastronomy fair in Benigembla

Lovers of traditional produce including artisanal sausages and cured meats should head to Benigembla on Sunday March 5 for the annual Feria del Embutido.

The Feria del Embutido y el Producto Tradicional de la Vall de Pop celebrates the local gastronomy in a day full of activities as well as stalls offering typical gastronomic produce.

During lunch, dozens of kilos of the best sausages and cured meats are available as well as wines and other gastronomic delights. It is also a chance to savour figatell made with various meats and spices, which is widely known as the Valencian burger. In addition, there will be live music, workshops and a charity raffle. The Jalon Valley's history with traditional sausage-making goes back around 400 years. After the expulsion of the Moors in the early 17th century, the population was sparse until the Mallorcans moved in and brought the production of their sausages to Jalón, especially sobrasada, figatell, butifarra, blanquet and longaniza.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

THE NEW SPACE RACE

I think most people will have seen the recent launch by NASA of the Orion capsule around the Moon. They might also have heard that it was an important step in men returning to the Moon after so long a time. What most people might easily miss, is how many other countries are sending unmanned landers there, and just how many space launch and satellite nations there are.

I'm writing this on the day that the UK is expecting to make it's first space launch, a capability we would have had long ago if it wasn't for the appalling cancellation of the brilliant Black Arrow rocket back in 1971, so it seems a good time to remind ourselves just how big a business space has become. You might rightly expect that most satellites are made by America, Russia and China, but did you know that the UK is the fourth largest manufacturer? Well over 500 satellites so far, worth billions to the economy. Where is the nearest rocket factory to us here on the Costa Blanca? It's in Elche, right on our doorstep. PLD Space, are a successful company that so many of us have never heard of, Spain has a launch site being developed near the Portuguese border where they have been testing rocket motors for PLD.

The list of new players in the space race goes on and on, how many of us know about the very experienced Swedish launch site? Over 500 sounding rockets have been launched from there, and they will be launching orbital rockets soon. Many people might have missed the very successful Mars probe sent by the United Arab Emirates, and that there are many countries building Lunar landers. Over the next year or two Japan, India, Russia, the USA, South Korea and the UAE will all be going or trying to go to the Moon and I expect others will follow.

So, what's driving all this exploration? Firstly, space launch costs have dropped considerably in the last decade, mostly because of technical advances. Secondly, countries do not want to be left behind in a changing world, the future is out there as the old saying goes. Lastly, the discovery of water on the Moon is a game changer for any bases that are built in the decades ahead. Simple H2O is remarkably useful, not just for drinking but because it can easily be changed into lots of other things, even potentially rocket fuel. All this makes the moon a very attractive place to launch missions to the rest of space, including Mars. Lastly, for successful players in this game, there's a lot of money to be made and that's always a huge motive for anything. Do you fancy a trip around the Moon? Perhaps you will fly past the new lunar orbiting space station now being built. Tickets aren't available yet, but one company is planning to sell them soon, a snip at 150 million dollars a seat, months of training included.

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

Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.

Crescendo International Choir concert successes

Crescendo International Choir performed several wellattended concerts in December, mixing a variety of popular songs like I Say a Little Prayer for You, originally made famous by Dione Warwick, The Rose, made famous by Bette Midler, and Hallelujah by Leon Cohen and many Christmas songs like Jingle Bell Rock, White Christmas and the popular Spanish carol Campana Sobre Campana (Bells Upon Bells).

One concert was given Saturday night, December 10 in Benijofar’s Catholic Church. Almost 140€ was raised for the local food bank at this event. The second concert took place Saturday night December 17 at La Siesta Evangelical Church in Torrevieja, raising almost 200€ for church-supported charities. Earlier in December, Crescendo performed a fundraising Christmas concert with the Royal British Legion Band at Cardenal Belluga Theatre in San Fulgencio.

Interested in Joining?

If interested in joining Crescendo, see the Crescendo website at www.crescendo-choir.com. The choir would be delighted to have more male singers, especially basses. The choir includes sopranos, altos, tenors and basses.

The group sings a variety of songs ranging from musicals to spirituals, from pop to classical, in English and Spanish. Rehearsals take place at Rincon de Miguel in Los Montesinos Mondays between 17:45 to 20:00. All singers are welcome!

The photos show: Crescendo International Choir performing a fundraiser concert at Iglesia Santiago Apostal in Benijofar, Crescendo International Choir pianist Antonio Guillen playing at the concert in Benijofar and Crescendo Choir Music Director Irene Oliva conducting singers during the Benijofar concert.

WORD SEARCH

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

ABRAZOS - HUGS

AMOR - LOVE

BESOS - KISSES

CENA - MEAL

CHAMPAGNECHAMPAGNE

CHOCOLATESCHOCOLATES

CORAZÓN - HEART

CUPIDO - CUPID

DIAMANTES - DIAMONDS

FLORES - FLOWERS

PAREJA - COUPLE

PASEAR - STROLL

PASIÓN - PASSION

POEMAS - POEMS

PRETENDIENTE - WOOER

REGALOS - PRESENTS

ROMANCE - ROMANCE

ROSAS - ROSES

SENTIMIENTOS - FEELINGS

SERENATAS - SERENADES TARJETAS - CARDS VELAS - CANDLES

New Year, New Challenges

16,800€ is the New Year target for Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre. For some months now the rescue centre, based in Rojales, has been working hard on their next project to provide and build shelters on site. Not only will these provide better facilities for the animals in their care but it is a necessary requirement for the centre to be able to obtain their farm licence which will be a game changer for the future of Easy Horse Care.

Founders Sue and Rod Weeding have been doing much of the work themselves on building the shelters and this will continue but Sue explains: “We have a quote of 16,800€ for all the materials which we have been fundraising for but we have now been informed that building materials are expected to sky rocket in price in 2023 and so we desperately want to get all materials before this happens.”

The urgent plea comes as a generous donator has offered to match any donation made so the couple are hopeful they can raise the money needed soon before prices increase.

With materials purchased work can continue on the shelters which will lead to the all important farm licence. “We believe this is the key to everything” said Sue. “When we have this we will be eligible for European grants and the council have said when we do this work we will get the licence, it’s not pie in the sky it is reality and it is doable and it is getting nearer and nearer to the dream of having a farm licence. When we get that we will be able to rehome some of our horses which currently we are not permitted to do.”

Easy Horse Care is a registered foundation that will be around for many years. “It will be here forever but the farm licence is the final key to everything we have created and will ensure Easy Horse Care and the work we do will remain.”

If you can help in any way, contact them via their website www.easyhorsecare.net or follow them on Facebook 'Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre'.

Commemorating Valencian artist Sorolla

More than 100 paintings are on display in Alicante to commemorate the centenary of the death of Valencian painter Joaquín Sorolla Bastida (1863-1923).

The exhibition, Sorolla and the Valencian painting of his time, can be seen at the Museum of Fine Arts of Alicante - MUBAG - until June 25. The first section is dedicated to artists such as Francisco Domingo, Bernardo Ferrándiz, Joaquín Agrasot and Muñoz Degrain who made an important contribution to the foundation of the Valencian school of painting towards the end of the 19th century.

Also on display are works by artists including Ignacio Pinazo and Emilio Sala, who had enormous influence on Sorolla as well as a large display of Sorolla’s paintings from different periods. Many of these paintings have come from the Museum of Fine Arts in Valencia and private collections in Spain.

Jávea’s impressive landscape was a major influence on the Valencian painter who visited the town five times. In a telegram, Sorolla wrote: “Jávea is sublime, immense, the best place I know for painting.” He created more than 100 paintings and around 200 drawings showing the diverse Jávea landscape such as the Port, Cabo San Antonio and La Grava.

One of the star pieces of the exhibition is Sorolla’s extraordinary canvas, Fiesta Valenciana, painted in 1894, which can be seen for the first time in Alicante.

MUBAG in Calle Gravina, in the centre of Alicante, is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 8pm, and on Sundays and fiesta days from 10am to 2pm.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

Asociacion Protectora de Animales Horadada (APAH) need your help

Exciting news for the New Year from APAH ...but we still need your help!

You will remember that back in June 2021, we shared our desperate plight to find a new home for our cattery. We set up a GoGetFunding page – Our Future In Your Hands - a simple way for people to donate to our campaign to help with the relocation of our cats (and some of the dogs who share an adjoining piece of land). So far, we have gratefully received donations of 1,585€.

The exciting news is that we have been offered some land on which to build a new Cattery and Kennels and now comes the extra cost and hard work of building new sheds and erecting new fencing before we can relocate the animals to their new home. We will also relocate the rest of our dogs from their temporary kennels in Cartagena. We will gratefully accept your donations, no matter how small, towards the relocation of our cats and dogs and the building of their new home.

Here is the link to our GoGetFunding page: https://gogetfunding.com/save-a-life-today-2/

If you prefer to donate directly by transfer, our Caixa bank details are:

Relocation Fund ES50 2100 8231 4513 0034 0790

Thank you so much for your support!

APAH is an Animal Rescue Charity based in Pilar De La Horadada. Registered in the year 2000, APAH rescues abused and abandoned cats and dogs in and around the area and helps to find their forever homes.

F.A.B. (Friends after Bereavement)

We are a relaxed and friendly mixed group who meet once a week at the Laguna Hotel in Quesada at 3pm for a chat and coffee. The aim of the group is to support those who have lost someone close and help make new friends. We also enjoy meals / lunches out and day trips etc. For more information call Joan on 634 336 103 or Steve on 623 220 052 or just come along for a chat one Saturday.

Spot the odd one out A

SUDOKU

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

CROSSWORD

Across

Sandy shores (7)

Done at last! (5)

State of disgrace (5)

Musty rubbish (7)

Monastic life (8)

Social work gatherings (4)

Duration (4)

(8)

Officer plays on cello (7)

Ransack (5)

Deadbeat (5)

Distinct sort or kind (7) Down

Where to find Timbuktu (4)

Capital of Bhutan (7)

Survey the top storey? (13)

Dog ends (5)

Run down apartment (8)

Faculties (6)

Plant flower (5)

Unidentified salesmen go berserk (8)

Protected (7)

Fishing gear (6)

Essentials (5)

Chemically unreactive (5)

Lay an egg (4)

Andante International Choir is the only choir in the Costa Blanca community devoted to sacred choral works and classical pieces. They meet in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio, 4 on Thursday nights from 7.15pm until 9pm. All are welcome to join them. They especially need tenors and basses. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain). The Costa Blanca Singers are so proud to have such an enthusiastic, friendly and fun-loving group. YOU are invited to join us. We sing every Wednesday from 13.30 at The Social Centre La Marina urbanizacion (behind the medical centre). We are led by our fabulous music director who encourages the best in everyone, whatever level of experience. We sing in English. All nationalities welcome. Keep an eye out for our performance dates, to be announced soon. Your previous experience or complete lack of it is equally welcome. BE BRAVE. Come and join us. For additional information, 624 144 703, janetford@btinternet.com or 641 992 164.

Rojales Pantomime Group’s OSCAR NIGHT After the resounding success of their pantomime, Treasure Island, the cast voted for the best actor and supporting actor. At the after panto party John Fagg, Group President, awarded Oscars to best actor, Dave Hart, the magnificent Dame, and supporting actor, Len Beedham, a very funny Polly Parrot. Well done to both, but very

well done to all the cast and crew for such a fantastic pantomime. A great night was had and enjoyed by all....... oh yes it was!! Discussions are now being held for their next pantomime production and if you would like to be involved in the Group email – rojalespantomimegroup@yahoo.com. They have a great social group as well as the theatre side so anyone can enjoy being a member.

Studio32 are currently rehearsing for their next show Hello Dolly which will be showing at the Cardenal Beluga Theatre, San Fulgencio from Wednesday 31 May to Saturday 3 June. SEARCH FOR A STAR They are still casting for the show and are desperately in need of two men in the age range of 18 to 40 years of age to fill two principal roles. If you have what it takes contact Linda on 679 062 272 or email press@studiothirtytwo.org. They rehearse at Casa Contenta, Rojales every Tuesday and Thursday between 7.30pm and 10pm.

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

Spot the 13 differences

(answers in the classified pages)

Founded by Benny Davis in 2007

Best waterfalls to visit in Alicante province

Amid the dramatic mountains and picturesque villages in Alicante’s interior are some wonderful waterfalls to visit. Here are some of the best waterfalls to visit within easy driving of the Costa Blanca.

Algar waterfalls

The Algar waterfalls or Fuentes del Algar (pictured) are the best-known in the area. They are 18 kilometres inland from Benidorm and three kilometres from Callosa d'en Sarrìa. This natural beauty spot is one of the finest in the Alicante province. You can bathe in the waters or walk around the group of connected waterfalls and rivers.

It is a tourist area, so it is crowded in the summer months. But this does mean there are several restaurants close by as well as a picnic area, camping and the DinoPark Algar dinosaur theme park.

Xorros waterfall

About four kilometres from the Algar waterfalls is the lesser-known Font dels Xorros. The water cascades into a little pond and is a beautiful natural haven. You can also bathe in these waters.

Elche reservoir

This is another lesser-known sight and is the first arch dam built in Europe. You can hike from the Carrús industrial estate through palm groves and picnic areas to reach the Pantano de Elche reservoir with its dramatic cascading waters. Keep an eye out for the variety of flora and fauna in this stunning location.

Rambla de Puça

Thirty kilometres inland from the Elche reservoir is the Rambla de Puça walk. On the eight-kilometre round trip from the centre of Petrer, you will visit waterfalls, small natural pools and historic mills.

Tibi dam

About 35 kilometres from the Elche reservoir heading back to the North Costa Blanca is the Tibi dam. At one time this was one of the largest in Europe and has been providing water for nearly 450 years.

Article by Sarah Farrell - www.sarahswritestuff.com

our oroscope

ARIES

You are away with your dreams, fantasising about all the things you could be doing rather than actually doing them. It’s nice to think about how it could be, but it never will be unless you actually get on and make it happen.

TAURUS

Your social life will see a boom after a quiet period. Don’t overdo it otherwise you won’t be able to enjoy it properly. Life is busy at the moment so don’t let too many heavy nights out impact your ability to function.

GEMINI

A break from the hussle and bussle of daily life is what you need now. If you can’t get away then make some time for yourself doing something for yourself. Read a book, watch that movie, do some baking, or retail therapy, whatever suits you.

CANCER

Love is in the air this month, and in many different ways. For some of you it will be a romantic gesture, for others it will be time spent with family. However it is enjoy it. Towards the end of the month you will want to start planning a trip away.

LEO

Sacrificing something important to you might be the only way you can mend a relationship which you do not want to lose. If you think about it, nothing is that important. Once your mind is made up you will feel so much better about it all.

VIRGO

Patience will be needed this month as you will want everything to be perfect first time and for changes to happen faster than they ever could. You will have to work hard to get there, but it will be worth it.

LIBRA

You have a big decision to make this month and may need help with making it as it effects so many people. Make time for loved ones as you will very easily be totally consumed by finding the right choice. Also remember you can change your mind if it does not go to plan.

SCORPIO

Planning a holiday now will give you something to look forward too. You are working hard at the moment to reach your goals but remember to rest as well otherwise you will be too tired to enjoy it.

SAGITTARIUS

You are looking forward to spending time with loved ones, real quality time and not just the usual day to day routine. Don’t plan too many activities otherwise you will be all too busy to enjoy each others company.

CAPRICORN

A trip away, even just overnight will be enough to recharge the batteries and get you back on track. An upset towards the end of the month, although unseen, is not really unexpected. Deal with it and carry on as dwelling on it will do no good.

AQUARIUS

This month will pass by in a flash and you will wonder where the time went. Things will mainly go smoothly and any problem will be easily dealt with, you can only hope this continues to be the case.

PISCES

Recognition at work is long overdue. You are getting a bit fed up with being overlooked. Pick your time to let them know how you are feeling or they will think everything is fine. Rather that than things coming to a head and it being too late to turn things around.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.

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

This is the gorgeous Cookie, who is a 4 year old Mastin x She loves her walks and is good on the lead, likes being made a fuss of, lots of cuddles and is very playful. Can anyone give Cookie her forever home. Call K9 on 711 082 807 - email: k9clubinfo@gmail.com - K9 Facebook.

Lotte’s daddy has sadly passed away. She is 10 years old and such a wonderful little girl, good with other dogs and cats and will make a wonderful companion. For more information call: 645 469 253, visit www.petsinspain.com website or email info@petsinspain.com

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

Across: 7 Beaches, 8 There, 9 Odium, 10 Cobwebs, 11 Monkhood, 13 Bees, 15 Time, 16 Unbutton, 19 Colonel, 20 Rifle, 22 Loser, 23 Species.

Down: 1 Mali, 2 Thimphu, 3 Psychoanalyse, 4 Stubs, 5 Tenement, 6 Senses, 7 Bloom, 12 Nameless, 14 Guarded, 15 Tackle, 17 Needs, 18 Inert, 21 Fail.