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January

(EL CAMPELLO - VALENCIA)

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

United against crime p3

Green shoots for Golden Leaves p18

BENIDORM MUST “stand united” against the plague of street crime that threatens to drive tourists away and ruin the holiday resort’s economy, say residents and businesses.

SPRING CAME early on the Costa Blanca on Tuesday with the “rebirth” of Golden Leaves International – an established company of 20 years experience helping Spanish expats.

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YOUR ESSENTIAL weekly guide to all things including Charity, Health, Cars, Sport, Horoscopes, TV & Showbiz and much more!

See pages 37-77

HOPE FROM TRAGEDY

by JACK TROUGHTON

A QUARTER of a century after the murder of her daughter Alison, Costa Blanca writer Jill Morrison finally felt able to write about the tragedy and its aftermath.

U NDER HER pen name Jill Lanchbery, she has penned ‘Memory of a Daughter’, the story starting with the domestic killing – Alison’s husband was later jailed for life – and how a family coped.

Jill and second husband Peter were looking forward to enjoying their middle age when they became parents to three young boys, the eldest just six at the time.

“This is not a ‘poor me’ story,” Jill told RTN. “It is a story about survival. When my daughter was killed she left three small boys and they grew up with us – they are grown up themselves now and married – the youngest is 30. “When something as dreadful as that happens, it is a parent’s worst nightmare happening to one of their children.”

Jill, who lives with Peter in Lliber, said it was important for readers to know who her daughter was and how she got to the age of 25 when she was married with three youngsters – but had “outgrown” the relationship.

See page 12.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

From the Editor’s desk...

Hola!

OPERATION CAPTURA continues to reel in the UK´s ´most wanted´ - the guys who still believe Spain offers a cosy hideaway – and 73 from 86 fugitives have been snared to date, an amazing success story.

The public has played a valuable part, thanks to an ongoing love affair with Crimestoppers and the charity´s professional allies; Britain´s National Crime Agency and the various Spanish police forces.

Naturally, RTN and other newspaper and media sites in Spain are happy to do their bit too; publishing photographs and highlighting the wrongdoings of those on the wanted posters. There is nothing better than writing when, where and how they get their collars felt – sometimes in real life police dramas.

And on occasion, because of a tip off, an arrest has been made within hours of the wanted list being issued. It is just the thing to get a newshound excited.

It is also good to pass on what has happened to those deported back to face justice in the UK. This week we are able to report the new address of an international drug smuggler – starting a 13-year stretch of porridge at one of HM´s prisons.

Enjoy the read, JT GOT A STORY?

Call Jack Troughton, 661 403 016, for Costa Blanca North Keith Nicol, 609 417 385, for Costa Blanca South & Ian Askew, 628 580 367 for Costa Calida

TO AIR YOUR VIEWS Letters on any subject are welcomed by the Editor for publication and must arrive by 12 noon on Monday for consideration for the following Friday’s edition. Priority will be

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

United against crime

by JACK TROUGHTON AND JEANETTE RICE

BENIDORM MUST “stand united” against the plague of street crime that threatens to drive tourists away and ruin the holiday resort’s economy, say residents and businesses.

A protest was staged outside the town hall on Monday calling for action to drive away robbers, prostitutes and conmen – with a petition being handed to Mayor Toni Perez who promised urgent action.

Social media sites have already come alive with victims of crime relaying their experiences while on holiday in Benidorm – the third most visited place in Spain after Barcelona and Madrid.

And it is feared that if nothing is done, visitors will simply vote with their feet and head for other destinations.

Calling for a new-look resort and led

by Scottish piper Drew, the protest was organised under the banner ‘Save Our Tourism’ and organisers are pressing for solutions to create “a new and positive Benidorm”.

The movement has the backing of residents and business groups and the influential OCC, the Observatorio Cuidudana contra la Corruption, made up of serving police officers has pledged its support.

Karen Cowles, spokeswoman for the group, said she knew people who had been victims and she had been moved to get involved. “We have to do something; the situation just cannot carry on.

Karen Cowles with Mayor Toni Perez

“I have hundreds of emails from people who love Benidorm but don’t come anymore...let’s make a new start and build a new Benidorm.”

Karen says the situation had grown worse in recent months as criminals preyed on visitors, especially in the Rincon de Loix area. “These people comment to me that Benidorm is going downhill fast.

“We are tired of this...it can no longer just be a topic of conversation in a bar or when having coffee – Benidorm should not be like this and it must be stopped.

“And we are here today to ask the town hall for help – to help our tourists and to help Benidorm become a safe and positive place.”

Performer and businessman Wayne Wright said: “We must stand united.

We must get Benidorm back to where it

should be. There should be thousands of people here today; standing in solidarity, standing united.”

Holiday rep Trisha Rhodes said it was “heart-breaking” to see a much-loved town being hit by street crime “and people’s spending money ending up in the hands of muggers and pickpockets.”

The mayor was handed a petition bearing over 800 signatures and was told more than 1,300 people had signed an electronic version.

He said: “Protecting tourism is very important, and also protecting people who live here is also very important. We are now working on proposals that will take us forward and will work and have an effect.”

The town hall is to launch a “prevention plan” against crime on Tuesday aimed at improving “police effectiveness” in tourist areas like the Rincon. .

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Costa Blanca’s terrorist link

Abdelhamid Abaaoud

by KEITH NICOL ABDELHAMID ABAAOUD, ‘Abu Umar al Baljiki’, the dead suspected planner of the attacks of 13th November in Paris, provided training in Syria to a former Torrevieja resident.

For several days Abdelhamid Abaaoud trained prospective terrorists in the handling of weapons and explosives, with the local connection being Abdeljail Ait El Kaid. Apparently the Moroccan El Kaid, a jihadi, lived in Torrevieja until mid 2014 before going to Syria.

Abdeljail Ait El Kaid was arrested on June 22nd, 2015, in Warsaw airport, during a stopover, as he was returning from Belgrade to settle in Barcelona. El Kaid was arrested under an international arrest warrant (OID) issued in January this year, by the head of the Court of Instruction 1 of the Audiencia Nacional, Santiago Pedraz. This alleged terrorist was sent to prison after the Polish authorities extradited him to Spain. Before his departure to the Islamic State, Abdeljail Ait El Kaid had been under close surveillance by members of the Headquarters of Information of the Guardia Civil, which had taken note of his radicalisation.

According to research by the Spanish anti-terrorist services, in spring of 2015 El Kaid, was

under the command of Abdelhamid Abaaoud during a stay of several days in Raqa, the capital of the self-styled Caliphate. He fled to Greece in January, 2015, after avoiding an antiterrorist operation conducted on 15th January, in the Belgian town of Verviers,. Here two jihadists were killed and three others were arrested, all friends of ‘Abu Umar al Baljiki’. After his arrest, El Kaid admitted to “combat” training in Syria and may have been trained to carry out attacks in Europe by Abbaoud, although the Guardia Civil maintains that the Moroccan had no specific plans to attack. They also said that El Kaid had another colleague, fellow Moroccan Reda Hame, who had received specific orders to attack a concert hall in Paris.

Spain immediately alerted the French counterterrorism authorities of his arrest and information about a possible terrorist attack. Hame was arrested in France in August after having travelled through many European countries.

The French authorities, following the capture of Hame, averted the attack on the concert hall. However, Abaaoud resumed his plans with another cell which resulted in the tragic terrorist attack on Friday 13th November and the loss of 130 innocent lives.

Human error caused Alton Towers crash ALTON TOWERS have reported that the tragic accident in June which seriously injured five people was caused by human error.

The Merlin group, who operate the Alton Towers theme park, released a statement this week saying that “the investigation into the tragic accident in June has concluded that the incident was the result of human error, culminating in the manual override of the ride safety control system without the appropriate protocols being followed.” The Smiler ride accident occurred when two carriages collided on the track, with one 17 year old girl, Leah Washington, having to have her left leg amputated following the crash.

Merlin state that they are continuing to work with the Health and Safety Executive to ensure that such an accident does not occur again, including measures to ensure that all protocols and the training of employees is improved. Despite some of the victims’ legal representatives previously stating that they did not feel the ride would re-open, the park has announced that The Smiler will re-open during the 2016 season. Alton Park is currently closed for the winter, but Merlin said “we are confident that lessons have been learned and that appropriate action has been taken to address all the issues raised by our investigation, and we believe our core conclusions will be in line with the HSE findings.

Having completed all the necessary steps, the ride, which has been closed to the public since June, will re-open in 2016.”

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#NEWSBITES

SPAIN HELPS FUND AUSCHWITZ

THE AUSCHWITZ-Birkenau Foundation has received a contribution from the Spanish government of 100,000€ to help with the museum’s maintenance.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Foundation, which oversees the conservation and maintenance work at the site of the former Nazi concentration camp in southern Poland, receives contributions from many countries with Spain being the 36th. The money, made to a Perpetuity Fund of 120 million euros to ensure the consolidation, restoration and long-term maintenance of the camp site, includes the most sizeable contributions, of 60 million euros, from Germany. The United States has contributed 15 million dollars and Poland 10 million euros. The contributors also include the President of the World Jewish Congress Ronald S. Lauder and Steven Spielberg’s ‘The Righteous Persons Foundation’. Paweł Sawicki of the Auschwitz Museum Press Office said that the “conservation work commenced in the middle of 2012 and currently focuses on two brick barracks in the Blb section of Auschwitz II-Birkenau, which were erected in 1941.” The site of the Auschwitz camp extends over an area of almost 200 hectares and comprises 155 buildings.

Over 1.1 million people perished at Auschwitz, including European Jews, as well as non-Jewish Poles, Roma and Sinti, Soviet POWs and people of many other nationalities.

350,000 traffic tickets may be cancelled Drivers on the Costa Blanca who frequently feel they have attracted unwarranted traffic tickets and fines will welcome a new European investigation.

Because of changes in Traffic Laws, the Department of Transportation, the DGT, decided it more prudent to collect money by offering drivers the opportunity to save 50% of their ‘multa’ or fine, by paying up within a set time but in doing so, admitting their guilt and taking away their right to appeal.

But now the DGT is being scrutinised because of the vast amounts of errors in reporting European motorists and the complaints against them. The DGT denies any wrongdoing and defends the legality of their actions.

All fines reported to date this year by the three Provincial Traffic authorities amount to a total of 190,000 violations and another 160,000 from the 129 Valencian municipalities.

However, where the system has fallen down is in the vast number of noted irregularities in their date of the fines and their publication. The situation affects, among others, the City of Valencia, plus Elche, Torrevieja, Orihuela, Benidorm, Alcoy, Elda, Villa-real, Alzira, Denia and Peñíscola.

The matter has been brought to light by the defence organisation of European Automobile Associates (AEA) representing the rights of European drivers.

Notice of fines have not been delivered to motorists and payment and pleading guilty

is only effective if drivers can manage to find out and do so within the 20 calendar days the DGT gives them to take care of the penalty.

And where the system omitted the date on which the fine was given, the AEA argues “it results in them being invalid, ineffective and with no legal validity for the publication of fines.”

The AEA notes: “Any motorist could oppose the executive collection of such fines from the tax office, or any other collection service, because the required notice has not been given and is not successful.”

And it is seeking a review of records for: “Those Valencian motorists who have been overcharged by having to pay the full fines, executory by embargoes, provided they have not received notification by registered mail or have submitted a written response to the recommendation of the fine management services.”

In essence, since 2010, the DGT have made it as easy as possible for drivers to pay fines but very difficult to fight against them.

The attitude of the DGT appears to be is if a fine is given to an unknowing driver and the system fails to deliver any notification, the driver must constantly check the DGT website to see if any penalty has been lodged – most frequently for speeding.

And, further, the 20 day payment period starts from the day an offence has been committed – frequently leaving drivers no alternative but to pay the fine in full with the possibility of further charges.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Low cost Festival denuncias workers denounce

by JEANETTE RICE SECURITY PERSONNEL who worked for the Low Cost Festival 2015 have begun proceedings against the company that employed them for non-payment for services.

Segurcon, the company that provided the security for this year’s Low Cost Festival, has come under fire from several of its ex-employees for allegedly not paying for the services that the staff provided, with eleven workers filing denuncias and complaints with the Labour Inspectorate.

RTN reported in September that the festival organisers had subcontracted the security personnel to Segurcon and that they were accused of owing 540€ to the ex-employees as well as for not having made their social security payments.

One of the complainants, Fernando Fernández said “I heard from others that they had also not been paid so we set up a WhatsApp group and united.”

There have been two arbitration meetings held within the

Industrial Section of the Labour Inspectorate that the former workers attended, the last being held on October 27th, but it was reported that Segurcon did not attend and merely presented documents via legal advisors.

The company that manages the festival, Baltimore Productions, made a statement saying that “we have no responsibility for the course of action with a subcontractor. For this event we worked with many companies and cannot control their administration when paying their employees. What we do care about is ensuring everything is legal.”

José Manuel Pinero, spokesperson for Baltimore Productions, confirmed that they had received many complaints from exemployees of Segurcon and that they had tried to assist as much as possible.

José Ramón González de Zarate, councillor for Benidorm events, said that “there are other cases similar to these eleven. We have tried to contact Segurcon without success to resolve the matter.”

NEWS BITES

NORWEGIAN COMMUNITY BEGINS ADVENT

THE ALFAZ del Pi Norwegian community begins their Advent today, Friday 27th November, which is the celebration building up to the arrival of Christmas.

The party atmosphere will focus mainly on decorating Calle Teniente Seguí where there will be dances, candles, traditional foods and tree decorations.

The Nordic tradition of the lighting of fir trees and decorating them during the first weekend of Advent has also become traditional in Alfaz del Pi and it is organised by several local Norwegian business owners.

The festivities start at 7pm with mulled wine for the adults, alcohol free wine for the children and cinnamon rolls for all attendees. The organisers welcome all nationalities to join them in their celebrations. decorations

Providing information for the UK and Spain since 1998

www.UKandSpain.com

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

George Osbornes first autumn statement IN WHAT is being called one of the biggest U-turns, George Osborne, Chancellor for the Conservative government, gave his autumn statement on Wednesday to the House of Commons.

A brief summary of the Chancellor’s plans for tax, welfare and government spending included the announcement that tax credit cuts have now been abandoned, pensions will rise and police funding would not be cut.

It is estimated that the tax credit cuts would have adversely affected over three million Britons if they had gone ahead and, although this will be welcome news for those who were fearing the worst, Osborne said that they would continue to axe £12 billion from the welfare budget.

Pensioners are also set to receive a rise of £3 a week taking it to £119.30 although this had already been announced. It will be the largest increase in 15 years. However the Chancellor also stated that there would be a further rise in pension age to enable the triple lock on pensions (which protects the value of the state pension) to be maintained.

In another surprise move, the Chancellor also announced that the police budget would not face any further real terms spending cuts, while the Foreign Office budget would also be protected.

There will be a 3% increase in Stamp Duty for those buying second homes or buy-to-let properties, effective from April, to assist the extension of the “right to buy” scheme and build

more affordable housing.

Osborne announced that the “Tampon tax”, VAT levied on the sale of tampons at 5%, could not be repealed because of EU rules. However, the £15m raised by it each year will be handed over to women’s charities.

The Chancellor outlined major cuts to a number of government departments, much of it targeted at spending on Whitehall staff and resources. This included 37% cuts to the Department of Transport and 14% cuts for the Department for Work and Pensions.

A spending boost on defence and the fast-tracking of £3.8bn NHS funding

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Captura captive jailed DRUG SMUGGLER Anthony Dennis flushed out of a Spanish bolthole through the successful ‘Operation Captura’ publicity campaign has been jailed at the Old Bailey.

The 48-year-old, who spent two years on the run in Spain, was last week sentenced to 13 years and four month imprisonment after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit a foreign drug trafficking offence – involving more than three tonnes of cocaine worth millions of Euros on the streets.

Dennis, from Ongar, Essex, was named as one of Britain’s ‘most wanted’ under Operation Captura but returned to the UK and was arrested after his photo appeared on a mobile digital billboard that toured Spanish beach resorts this summer.

The criminal initially went on the run after Dutch gang members failed to remove 67.5 kilos of cocaine from a shipping container at Antwerp in Belgium; which was later discovered and seized.

The plot had been hatched in a cafe in Rotterdam but a joint operation between the UK National Crime Agency and Dutch Police; other gang members being arrested in October 2013.

Dennis and co-conspirator Anthony Wilson, 38, from Harlow, had sourced the drugs in South America and arranged its transportation to Europe in containers carrying legitimate cargo.

However, despite attempts to maintain secrecy, the gang’s activities were covertly monitored and Dennis and Wilson were proved to be involved in the trafficking.

Wilson later received a 12 year jail sentence.

had already been announced before Wednesday’s statement.

Councils have been given power to raise council tax to fund social care in a bid to tackle the gap in funding for elderly social care. The Chancellor announced plans to allow councils to raise council tax by 2% to boost their social care budgets.

As with all budget statements, there were winners and losers, but the House of Commons was certainly lively on Wednesday afternoon as Mr Osborne took over an hour to deliver his statement to the usual barrage of paper waving and jeers.

#NEWS BITES

PEACE PROTEST IN MADRID A PEACE protest has been organised for this weekend in Madrid in response to mounting pressure that all European countries hit Syria hard.

Following the Paris attacks, many leading Spanish actors, journalists and politicians have called for a weekend of peace protest in Madrid as opposition mounts against the

use of force in response to recent attacks.

A manifesto stating that “we refuse to participate in the false trade off between rights and security” has been signed by the Barcelona mayor, Ada Colau, actress Pilar Bardem and TV presenter Chechu Monzón.

The document has over 6,000 signatories and calls for the protest at midday on Saturday in central Madrid.

Spain’s prisoners help militants

One of the leading forces behind the decision for the protest includes statements issued by other members states such as the French President Francois Hollande’s response to the bloody attacks, including intensified strikes on Syria and tough new domestic security measures, which has raised concerns that the drive for safety in Western countries is slowly eroding freedoms and causing more harm than good.

THE INTERIOR Ministry has released details of two men currently serving sentences in Spain who are suspected of recruiting militants from within their prison cells.

An Interior Ministry statement at the beginning of the week said a man of Moroccan origin, who is serving a sentence for domestic violence outside the central city of Segovia, is now under investigation for recruiting jihadists from prison and sending them to Syria and Iraq to train with ISIS fighters. The prisoners he recruited were nearing the end of their sentences. The other man, Belgian-born Mustafa Maya Amaya, the son of Spanish parents and married to a Moroccan, lived in north eastern Morocco until December 2012. When he escaped a police raid he relocated to the border city of Melilla, where he was arrested in May 2014. It has been reported that Mustafa, who is 52 and wheelchair bound, is an Islamic extremist and that he has confessed to sending more than 200 jihadists to Syria and Iraq, with many that he recruited being from France and Belgium. Connections have been made between Maya and some emails involving the purchasing of a Kalashnikov rifle, the same weapons used in two French attacks this year.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Goodbye party for Terra Natura Rhino

by JEANETTE RICE

SHUSTO, THE first Indian Rhinoceros to be born in captivity in Spain left the Terra Natura Zoo this week to begin a new adventure in Ireland.

The young Rhinoceros, that was born at the Benidorm Park almost four years ago, left yesterday, Thursday 26th November to begin his journey to the Fota Wildlife Park in southern Ireland where he will take part in a reproduction programme for endangered species.

On Sunday 22nd November the park held a special day to say goodbye to one of their most beloved animals with members of the public and staff invited to share in the special day and the fitting of a plaque in memory of his birth.

Shusto, who weighs more than a ton, had a very specific training schedule which meant that visitors on Sunday could see him for just a few hours in his meadow before being returned to his inner area and out of the public eye.

To commemorate the event the Park invited one lucky family to say a special goodbye with a competition that they ran on

Facebook. Entrants were asked to write a few farewell words to the Rhino and the park keepers chose the one that moved them the most.

The lucky winner was Maria Garcia who wrote “You were born a little after I was born, we’ve been growing and learning alongside our mothers, to me you’ve been my friend on my visits to Terra Natura, I always ask for you and I’m going to see you. I hope that, as I do someday be happy away from your mom that will mean that we are the greatest thing that can be dreamt. I hope to see you soon, wherever you are. A big kiss.”

The Terra Natura Park staff were very sad to see Shusto leave but stated “the Indian Rhinoceros is critically endangered and their conservation is a priority. All Rhinos housed in captivity in zoos are distributed in a manner that will ensure the genetic viability of the species. As a member of the European programme of reproduction of the Indian Rhinoceros, Terra Natura Benidorm hosts to two females, an adult male and the small Shusto, who now, as a result, needed to move to another park.”

Shusto through the years

NEWS BITES

VILLAJOYOSA TOURIST OFFICE SHABBY

THE VILLAJOYOSA Tourist Office is suffering from neglect, according to the Popular Party in the town.

The PP has accused the Villajoyosa town hall of not caring about the image that they present to residents and visitors following a complaint they made, that has not being acted upon. The complaint was that the area surrounding the Tourist Office was dirty and the gardens had been left neglected and untended and that although they had made complaints over a week before the council had made no attempt to rectify the situation. A spokesperson for the party said “it is totally unacceptable for tourists to go to the office and have this as a first impression, this is not the image we wish to project for our town.” Within the grounds of the office there was apparently a dead pigeon which had been there for more than a week.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Art fraud on the Costas!

FIVE FAKE Picassos have been seized in two separate raids on the Costa Blanca.

The Heritage department of the Generalitat Valencia Police Department has seized five “suspected counterfeit” Picasso works and arrested eight people who were attempting to sell the art to unsuspecting buyers.

At an estimated 160 million euros, if the art was real, the detainees could have been laughing all the way to the bank if it hadn’t been for some very basic mistakes made on their part.

The seizures were carried out in two operations, completely unconnected, one in Benidorm where two arrests were made and the other in Granada, where six were arrested. Álvaro Rodríguez, the Commissioner of Police of the Generalitat, said at a press conference “there is no precedent for such an operation in Spain. Although the detainees are not related, the operations were carried out jointly to deal with two attempts to sell counterfeit Picasso paintings that have amazingly come together in time.”

Police detected that a group of individuals in Benidorm had attempted to get expert reports on a work by Picasso, called ‘Life and death’, and wanted to sell the art for 30 million euros. Whilst, initially, three suspects came to the attention of the police, only two have currently been charged, one of whom has a history for fraud and the other for scamming.

Details came to light that the fraudsters had already put into place a tax haven account and tried to sell the work on 19 previous oc-

casions. Explaining to potential buyers that they had inherited the picture from a private collector in Barcelona who had died, it was incredible that they had been seen carrying the art in a van which also contained building materials.

Whilst some experts had signed documentation stating that they believed the works were authentic, it is not clear if they were under duress or had only seen images of the art,and not the actual piece.

The Commissioner also highlighted that, in some cases, there is a “shared interest” as experts can received “a percentage of the sale.”

The operation in Granada saw six people arrested for attempting to sell four works by Picasso in a similar scene to that of the Benidorm case. The accused were trying to get documentation to certify the validity of the pictures which caused some gallery owners and art experts to become suspicious.

Rodríguez said that one of the paintings, called Cuba, did not correlate to any known works by the artist. Although his grandfather had been a painter and lived on the island, he stated that there was “no evidence” that the artist painted any pictures there.

The paintings are going to undergo spectrogram analysis to work out where and when they were painted as well as whether or not the signatures are authentic.

The Commissioner said that the defendants “attempted to make contact with foreign and international investors to give documentation and certificates that were false”. The defendants in Granada are also charged with crimes of fraud and anti-intellectual heritage. Two of them have a history for urban corruption and bribery.

The works of art

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Quieter eating campaign

by JEANETTE RICE

A HEARING ORGANISATION has launched an “eating without noise” campaign in Spain to encourage diners not to be so noisy when visiting local restaurants.

Svante Borjesson, director of a Spanish foundation called Oír es Clave (Hearing is Key), has started an initiative that it is hoped will provide diners with a more relaxed restaurant experience, particularly as Spain is known for its slightly more animated meal times.

The initiative, “eating without noise”, hopes to provide diners with a more relaxed restaurant experience, especially when they are eating top quality food and, so far, 22 restaurants across the country have signed up, declaring themselves to be “quiet dining” venues, including Michelin-starred eateries such as Restaurante Martín Berasategui in the Basque town of Lasarte-Oria and Hotel Único in Madrid.

Mr Borjesson said “without a doubt we have a problem with noise here in Spain. According to the World Health Organisation, Spain is the second noisiest country in the world, behind Japan.”

He goes on to highlight that it is not just the vocals that make dining in Spain a noisy experience and feels that changes to table layouts and the use of building materials that do not reverberate sound could also improve the experience.

The campaign, which has attracted big names, including the chef Ramón Freixa, of Hotel Único and also James Blick, the co-founder of Devour Spain, specialising in food tours, asks restaurateurs to fit sound insulation and space tables further apart.

Mr Blick said “anyone who goes out to eat in a real restaurant is right to expect a proper experience. However, sometimes, the hustle and bustle in a small venue can be part of its unique atmosphere.”

Svante said “when you go north people are quieter. Here you get this effect whereby the more people that arrive in a res-

Hotel Unico in Madrid

taurant, the louder people have to speak to be heard above the next table until, in the end, everyone is screaming. It’s a noisy country, but if the acoustics were better, we wouldn’t need to get used to screaming.”

It is hoped that famous food guides like the Michelin Guide also take quiet dining criteria into consideration, and that, one day, acoustic comfort will be just as important in the evaluation of a restaurant and will appear in reviews.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Hope from tragedy

by JACK TROUGHTON

A QUARTER of a century after the murder of her daughter Alison, Costa Blanca writer Jill Morrison finally felt able to write about the tragedy and its aftermath.

Under her pen name Jill Lanchbery, she has penned ‘Memory of a Daughter’, the story starting with the domestic killing – Alison’s husband was later jailed for life – and how a family coped.

Jill and second husband Peter were looking forward to enjoying their middle age when they became parents to three young boys, the eldest just six at the time.

“This is not a ‘poor me’ story,” Jill told RTN. “It is a story about survival. When my daughter was killed she left three small boys and they grew up with us – they are grown up themselves now and married – the youngest is 30.

“When something as dreadful as that happens, it is a parent’s worst nightmare happening to one of their children.”

Jill, who lives with Peter in Lliber, said it was important for readers to know who her daughter was and how she got to the age of 25 when she was married with three youngsters – but had “outgrown” the relationship.

Alison and her husband had moved to Kent where he was to work on the Channel Tunnel in 1988. Two weeks later Alison was dead and her killer quickly arrested.

Jill said: “We were 47 when this happened. My youngest was still at school – I had already brought up four children and the

last thing on my mind was bringing up another three children.

“But we sat down with social services and realised there was not really an alternative. Peter said the decision was mine but whatever I decided, he was there for me.”

She added: “We wanted the boys to grow up with the least damage possible and we had to take advice from the professionals.”

Jill praises the police, the courts, professionals, family and friends, who supported them and helped them all survive.

“I will carry the scars to my grave. There are times when you scratch the scab off, the healing scab, and it is all as painful as the day it happened – but you cannot continue to feel that intensity through your own life,” she said.

“We had to be strong for those little boys; they were just babies. They had gone to bed one night and woken up and their whole world had been demolished.

“We also gave up our middle age years but I would not have done anything differently and I know Peter would not have changed things.”

Jill said it had taken “a very long time” to put the story and her feelings in into the 130 pages of ‘Memory of a Daughter’.

The process began by writing poetry about her feelings for Alison and her loss “and feeling confident and secure enough to share it with a group of writers.”

“Memory of a Daughter” is available from Amazon as a Kindle edition.

Jill Morrison

Dancing legend dies aged 101

THE ITALIA Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London made the sad announcement on Tuesday that Miss Ruth Conti has passed away.

Richie Sparks presenting at the Town Meets Country event

The statement read “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Miss Ruth Conti. She passed away peacefully at home in Sydney at the incredible age of 101.

So many people in the arts & entertainment industry owe a great deal to this amazing women. We have lost a legend.”

Miss Conti taught at the school until the 1970s, when she returned to Australia after working with the Royal Ballet, having counted Margot Fonteyn as a close friend.

The school students have included names such as Tracey Ullman and Olivia Hussey, and the school was famously a training ground for the likes of Noel Coward and Gertie Lawrence.

Big FM serving the community

BIG FM is local radio for local listeners provided by local presenters - one of the few radio stations on the Southern Costa Blanca committed to helping local charities, NGOs and small businesses reach out into the community.

Big FM was founded three years ago by presenter, producer and station manager Richie Sparks, who spent more than a decade in broadcasting with the British Army.

Following his stint in the forces, Richie became an onsite engineer for a local radio station in the UK before moving to Spain when he was asked to be a presenter for Vibe FM and then at Spectrum FM as the local presenter for this region.

Richie said: “Having worked as a local DJ and Karaoke presenter, and continuing to do so, keeps me firmly grounded with the local community. I felt that the area would benefit from a dedicated community station with more music and less chat and that’s how Big FM came to be.

“The Station’s vision for the future is to expand into more communities, with local studios for each region, keeping it ‘local’ and avoiding the canned celebrity shows, with future closer ties to local town halls so that we can broadcast relevant information to each of the local communities.”

Most recently the station supported the Town Meets Country event in Torrevieja, providing music and audio support for all the events and activities with Richie sharing the broadcasting duties with Lee Howard during the event.

Richie added: “Our presenters all voluntarily give their time to the station and receive individual sponsorship from businesses they personally know.”

The station was set up as an alternative to the standard commercial radio stations and has grown in popularity and coverage, reaching from Novelda, north of Alicante, as far as La Manga, on the Costa Cálida, and it has three new transmitters being erected to reach new audiences.

The primary frequency is 89.9fm with 99.8fm used for local fill-ins. Richie continued; “Some of the charities we support include Elche Children’s Home, The Norwegian Church, Pets in Spain, Debra Spain, Help for Heroes, Reach Out Torrevieja, AAN San Fulgencio and many more. All charities are welcome to place notices on our community notice board which we broadcast daily.”

Contact details and schedules can be found at www.bigfm.org or call the studio on 966 19 40 45.

Ruth Conti

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Spanish pensioners descend on Benidorm

by JEANETTE RICE

THOUSANDS OF Spanish pensioners descended on Benidorm during the week to finally begin their state assisted holidays, nearly a month later than normal.

The Spanish social scheme, Imserso, is the holiday scheme for pensioners sponsored by the Spanish Government. Normally, during the off-peak season, from October to June, cheaper holidays are made available to resident pensioners in Spain, whatever their nationality.

As reported in the RTN in October, problems with the scheme and its operators had meant that some of the local hotels in Benidorm who cater for the annual influx had been forced to make staff redundant and even temporarily close the hotel.

One such hotel was the Cabana which had to lay off permanent staff until the bookings came through from the scheme.

A staff member said “we will be at 100% occupancy. Considering that this business has a capacity for about 500 staying, it is such a relief, I have been working here since the 80’s and this was the first time I had been temporarily out of work.”

Other hotels, such as the Alone, Antea and Olympus, have also reopened to receive the Imserso visitors.

The scheme has a significant impact on Benidorm hotels with thirteen taking part directly in the resort and a further three hotels elsewhere on the Costa Blanca.

For many of the pensioners taking advantage of the scheme it was a relief to finally arrive for their break, although some were unhappy that the delay had meant colder weather for their visit.

Toni Mayor, president of Hosbec, said “it is good that the programme has now started to help with hotel occupation and, hopefully, it will alleviate some of the loss generated from it not starting in October”.

Hotel Cabana

Savings galore with “Black Friday” SHOPPERS ALL over Spain have been holding out for this week’s “Black Friday” offers hoping to grab some bargain Christmas gifts.

In Spain, Black Friday, or Viernes Negro, has only been running for three years, but it has already become one of the days of the year that produces the greatest amount of sales in the country. This is followed by Cyber Monday, another day of huge discounts, but generally related to technology only.

Online retailers started early this year with Amazon offering deals at the beginning of the week and guaranteeing prices if purchased before today, November 27th, the official date set in the retailer calendar.

Amazon.es was the first company to start celebrating Black Friday in Spain. There are more than 1,000 products with special discounts this year, 500 more than in 2014.

El Corte Inglés are offering discounts of up to 40% both in their stores and online whilst Adidas has said that all their catalogue items will have a discount of 25%.

Media Markt store and online offers will continue throughout the weekend with discounts mainly on consoles, films and IT. Other retailers participating this year include PC Componentes, Sony, The Body Shop, Visionlab, Merkal Calzados, Xbox, Toys ‘R Us, eBay, Phone House, Sprinter, Marypaz, HP, Worten, Ikea, Apple, Zara, Mango, H & M, and Decathlon.

Some stores in the UK have decided not to participate this year in the “one day” super sale following shocking scenes last year of people being trampled and security guards overrun as bargain hunters went to extreme lengths to get heavily reduced items such as televisions and games consoles.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

No bulls in Aldaia vote

by JEANETTE RICE

A TOWN in Valencia held a referendum to decide if bullfighting should continue as part of their traditional events.

The residents of Aldaia, in Valencia, were asked by their town hall if they still wanted bullfighting since many authorities have voted to stop funding such activities in the past year.

Despite a very poor turn out at the polls 1,801 voted that they were opposed to bullfighting and 1,418 voted in favour.

With the population being registered as 23,000,

only 13% participated in the referendum.

However, as the majority that did vote were in favour of ceasing the events the fiestas due in the summer of 2016 will now be bull free.

The town of Aldaia has held bullfighting for the past five years with events such as setting a bull on fire.

Aldaia council said that they “welcomed the turnout in the referendum, the first of its kind conducted in the town, and the civic response of the neighbours, which is one step in the direction the government team seeks to broaden participation and democracy.”

#NEWSBITES

LA MANGA TO GET CYCLE PATHS

LA MANGA is finally to get its long awaited paths for cyclists and pedestrians at the edge of the Mar Menor, announced councillors, Bernabé, Carrillo y Martínez-Cachá, during the presentation on Wednesday of the project in the marina of Lo Pagán, San Pedro del Pinatar.

The European funded project also includes the construction of a boardwalk along the Mediterranean shore.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Sports day for disabilities ALTEA TOWN are hosting their first “day of disability sport coexistence” this weekend.

This Sunday, 29th November, the Altea Department of Social Welfare and Youth are holding a sports day for those with disabilities to commemorate the International Day of Disabled Persons which is celebrated on 3rd December. The Palau dels Esports in Altea will be the venue for the event which starts at 10am and finishes at 1.30pm. Activities will include a game of Boccia (specific to disabled sport), by APADIS followed by activities in the indoor swimming pool and in the outside area. With the collaboration of Altea Equestrian Club there will be horse riding.

Other activities will be music therapy, football, painting, inflatables and games for all ages.

The event was presented by the Councillor for Social Welfare, Verónica López, and the mayor of Youth, Pere Barber. Verónica López said about this initiative “we want the town to look straight in the face of disability in our municipality and also with industry associations who need to come from outside Altea. We want to combine sport with coexistence between the associations and organizations working for and with disability.”

Further details of the programme can be found on www.altea.es.

Green shoots for Golden Leaves

Mayor Chulvi cutting the ribbon

by JACK TROUGHTON SPRING CAME early on the Costa Blanca on Tuesday with the “rebirth” of Golden Leaves International – an established company of 20 years experience helping Spanish expats.

The company is best known for offering specialist funeral plans but has been reinvented as Golden Leaves Expat Services and a “hassle free” one-stop shop for people needing assistance on a whole range of issues affecting their lives.

And on Tuesday Javea Mayor Jose Chulvi officially opened the new headquarters of the company at Avenida De La Pla 123-125, in the Arenal – and more offices are planned in Spain.

As well as funeral plans, the company now offers services including: all forms of insurance, legal services – including wills and family law

– money and wealth management, NIE assistance, and tax advice.

Chairman Steve Rowland thanked colleagues for their months of hard work in preparing the new look Golden Leaves.

“Although we have been selling funeral plans in Spain since 1995, we have been born again to offer a helping hand with all services in all areas of public life,” he said.

And Mr Rowland said expat services would help expats who had lived in Spain for many years as well as people considering a move to the sun.

“This office represents the rebirth of Golden Leaves in Spain and is the first of many we have planned,” he added.

Pictured is Mayor Chulvi cutting the ribbon watched by (from left) Steve Rowland, Managing director Barry Floyd, and Operations Manager Emma Quantrill.

NEWS BITES

TOUCHY-FEELY THIEF

POLICE HAVE warned of a teenager pickpocket preying on older people in the street she appears to befriend.

Victims have reported how the thief operates in the street or large shops. She attempts to strike up a conversation, before moving closer to try and make physical contact – stretching out a hand or even giving her target a hug.

However, they say she is actually trying to steal valuables - a purse, watch or an item of jewellery she has spotted.

The thief is described as being aged 17 or 18, well dressed, and “respectable looking”.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Big in Berlin

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#NEWSBITES

CHEESE BURGERS FAST FOOD restaurant chain McDonald’s raise money to help children with an annual ‘McHappy Day’ – with takings from the sale of the iconic Big Mac burger going to the company’s charitable foundation.

The proceeds of sales across Spain on a single day last week are donated to the Ronald McDonald Foundation which runs homes in Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga.

Calpe Town Hall accepted an invitation to join the celebration and Councillor Carole Saunders was one of the representatives attending the launch of the foodie appeal.

She told RTN: “The homes are where families can stay while their children are undergoing treatment in the city hospitals – it is a great scheme by a multinational company – unfortunately it is now advertised very well beforehand.”

McDonald’s also donated vouchers for the children from the EMAUS home in Calpe to go and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.

ALICANTE TOURIST chiefs are in Berlin at the prestigious ´Éxpolingua 2015´ trade fair to broadcast the advantages of travelling to the proving to learn Spanish.

Edward Dolon, Vice President of the Alicante Government and the minister for tourism, is in the German capital with representatives of Federation of Schools of Spanish for Foreigners and the universities of Alicante and Elche´s Miguel Hernandez de Elche and CEU.

The mission is to highlight the learning programmes that have been developed in the region and the attractions of the Costa Blanca – including gastronomy, culture, leisure and sports.

Mr Dolon, explained: “Every year thousands of young people choose to study Spanish in the province; attracted not only by its exceptional climate, but also by its good communications, excellent schools and varied complementary offers of cul-

tural and leisure activities that make the stay in this territory a unique experience that combines learning and fun.”

He also stressed the importance of Germany as a source of students because of its numerous universities where Spanish was one of the most popular languages studied.

And the Enjoy and Learn campaign was working to explore the potential of the foreign student market to attract as many visitors as possible.

Carole Saunders (fourth from left) at McDonald’s

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Food Bank concert

by JEANETTE RICE

LA NUCIA is hosting a charity concert on Sunday to help raise funds for the La Nucia food Bank.

The “Friday’s Choir” will be holding their charity concert on 29th November at the Auditori La Nucia from 8pm to benefit the food bank of La Nucia, with performances also from the Hazel Hilles Dance School.

Fridays Choir is an international group from Marina Baixa who have performed many times before at the Auditori and, in this performance, the choir will join with the dancers to create a show where “chorus and dance” merge.

The pre-Christmas charity concert will include classics like “Love Shine a Light”, “Granada” or “Nature Boy” and traditional Christmas songs such as “White Christmas” and “Merry Christmas”.

The choir, which was created by Rob Barendsma who was its director for ten years and is well known within the community, has more than 80 people from different countries, mostly residents in Marina Baixa and especially in La Nucia. The name of this choir is translated as “choir on Friday,” because that was the day they met.

Tickets are priced at 5€ and can be purchased at the box office l’Auditorium of the Mediterranean and through Instant Ticket, phone: 965 11 71 17 and 902 44 43 00 or through the website www.instanticket.es.

Friday’s Choir

NEWS BITES school

SCHOOL EVACUATION PRACTICE

PUPILS AT LA NUCIA Institute got to take a break from lessons on Wednesday morning as the staff performed their annual emergency drill and evacuation process.

The drill, which was coordinated by the La Nucia Civil Protection and Local Police involved 720 pupils and staff. The evacuation was successful and took 4 minutes and 6 seconds.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Quirón Hospital gives advice on fear for smaller children

by KEITH NICOL

AFTER THE tragic terrorist events in Paris on Friday 13th November, experts from Quirón Hospital recommend that such actions are explained to children before they receive such information in school or on television. Following the attacks in Paris, Torrevieja Hospital Quirónsalud specialists are advising parents not to try and hide the reality of such situations from smaller children.

Although our initial tendency is to protect children and to not tell them anything, this does not help their understanding of such situations and can backfire. According to the specialist in psychology at Torrevieja Quirónsalud Hospital, Nuria Javaloyes: “We have to talk to them about what has happened, anticipating what they will hear at school or on TV. Always tell them in words, with concepts they understand for their age and maturity and be very attentive to their questions during the conversation. It is important to use toys or drawings in order to explain to them but always providing tools to manage what is happening without being alarmist or going into the gory details.”

It is vital that children see that everyday life remains the same, with no sudden changes or significant limitations after what has happened, as that is their main source of security and stability in routines that they know. It is also important to assess the information they are receiving from outside the home as the days pass and any changes in how the child is playing; You should also try to prevent the child from seeing certain images on television for which they cannot be emotionally prepared.

The specialist at Quirónsalud Torrevieja stresses the importance of “providing security to children by speaking of the work carried out by the armed forces and state security, the confidence we as adults place on them, plus the influence that there is no good or bad, according to religion, because it is not about that, but about people who want peace and others who use violence to try and achieve their means.”

According to Nuria Javaloyes, “We’ve observed that after the attacks in Paris that there is a collective ‘hypersensitisation’, ie: increased reactivity or sensitivity to any stimulus associated when terrorism occurs”. We feel more vulnerable and

perceive more threatening situations because we feel more identified with what happened: “It could have been me,” or “it could have happened to my brother, or my son.”

This hypersensitisation is a normal reaction. It is caused by one of the most basic human emotions: fear. It is therefore a logical response to a real threat with the outcome being that we seek; ‘protection’. However, she adds: “it is important to keep things in perspective because we know that fear can be our ally, if kept at tolerable levels, but it can also be our enemy, if we allow fear to rise to exaggerated and even irrational levels that can start to limit what we do in life, and block us”. As in many other situations in life, the issues of terrorism may be a situation by which we can transform something so terrible into a good opportunity to learn how to improve our emotional management and pass this on to our children.

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#NEWSBITES

CAMPOVERDE THEATRE GROUP DONATE TO LOCAL CHARITIES CAMPOVERDE THEATRE Group has just presented two more cheques to local charities.

This time Reach Out Torrevieja who support and help homeless people or others in desperate need received a cheque for 500€ and AMMA, the association based in the Mar Menor, who provide a day care centre for English and Spanish speaking people with Alzheimer’s, were presented with a cheque for 250€. Both of these charities have been past recipients of donations from Campoverde Theatre Group. All members of the theatre group felt that Reach Out, AMMA and Help Vega Baja, who received a cheque of 500€ last week, made valuable contributions to the local community.

Campoverde Theatre Group is currently in full rehearsal mode for their next production, a totally original pantomime, The Owl and the Pussy Cat. This fun filled romp develops the traditional nursery rhyme and has every feature expected in pantomime, the love story between the Owl and the Pussy Cat, the over the top dame and her embarrassed son, the money grabbing pirates, to name just a few. This panto has something for everyone, laughter, music, dance and guarantees to entertain you on a chilly February evening.

Go along and enjoy an entertaining evening and help us raise more money for local charities. The Owl and the Pussy Cat will be performed at the Casa de Cultura, San Miguel, on Friday 5th, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th February, 2016, and tickets will be on sale shortly. The Ticket Line number is 629 25 86 97 or send an email to ctgticketline@gmail. com. For more information about the theatre group and its activities contact Jan on 966 18 97 41.

Spanish artists sued by church A SPANISH artist, whose new exhibition has been described as provocative, is being sued by the Christian Lawyers Association.

Giant squid captured A GIANT squid has been caught in Asturias and donated to a local specialist centre.

Trawler fishermen were shocked to find that they had caught a 150 kilo squid in their nets when fishing in Asturias this week.

The fishermen on “Minchos VI” arrived back in port with their unusual haul but unfortunately the squid had died three hours previously.

Measuring ten metres long from the head to the end of the tentacles the squid was donated to the local Cepesma Giant Squid Centre so that they could use it to study and help protect the marine species.

The Centre in Lurca, which was established in 1996, is an international reference of maximum scientific and environmental interest.

Visitors can go to the centre, which has nine giant squids, and discover the myth and legend of the deep ocean. One of the examples is a female Architeuthis dux that is almost 14 metres long.

Artist Abel Azcona’s exhibition, in Pamplona, Spain, entitled “Desenterrados” (Unearthed), contains 242 consecrated hosts, the small wafer received when being given holy communion, several of which he has laid on the floor of a local exhibition hall to spell “pederasta” (paedophile), in criticism of the church’s highly-publicized sex scandals.

Azcona allegedly obtained the wafers by pretending to receive Holy Communion at mass before using them in his exhibition which is meant to honour those who were kidnapped and killed under the threedecade dictatorship of Francisco Franco, which lasted until his death in 1975.

Polonia Catellanos, the spokesperson for the Christian Lawyers, said that the association has filed a lawsuit against Azcona for “an offense against religious sentiments and desecration,” which is outlawed under Articles 524 and 525 of the Spanish Penal Code.

Azcona is an outspoken critic of religion, having recently stated in a magazine that “religion is at the same level as cancer or AIDS, and, in fact, has killed more people than these better-known diseases.” Over 89,000 people have signed a change.org petition calling for the city to take down the show.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

More money raised for animal welfare A COFFEE and cake fundraiser organised by long-time supporter Elaine Sissons, at Laguna Green’s Bamboo Lounge,

has raised 353€ for the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre at Rojales. Earlier this year Elaine completed a sky-diving jump to celebrate her 60th birthday, raising 571€ for the rescue centre in the process. Elaine is now in training for the gruelling 26-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks run next year, again hoping to raise money to support the rescue centre’s animal welfare work.

“What an amazing person;” said centre co-founder Sue Weeding. “She volunteers at our charity shops, she’s sky dived, now she’s training for the Three Peaks. How on earth will she top that one?”

The centre relies entirely on donations to fund its important animal welfare work, including the feeding and care of the centre’s more than 90 horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from abuse, neglect and abandonment. Donations of cash, or items for the centre’s eight charity shops across the Alicante province, are gratefully welcomed. A pick-up and delivery service is available for large items such as furniture. To make a donation, be a long-term sponsor, or volunteer, call Sue on 652 02 19 80.

The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga, 59, opens to the public on the first Sunday of every month, between 1pm and 4pm. Free horse tours run throughout the afternoon and refreshments are available in the café. For more details and directions, please visit www.easyhorsecare.net.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Chris’s Corner

by

Chris Ashley

Writer & Broadcaster

Was it W. Churchill, O. Wilde, GB. Shaw or perhaps J. Krankie who opined the sage observation “Great Britain & America, 2 nations divided by a common language?”

Never mind your Yankee Doodle Dandies, how about our Aussie Cobber Cousins?

Not sure who to attribute this tale to, or even if it’s fair dinkum, - but heigh-ho! why let a little thing like veracity get in the way of a good yarn.

A true blue English Aristocrat was travelling through the Queensland outback when he came upon a flooded billabong. “How simply spiffing, that looks jolly inviting, and I’m as hot as a glass blowers backside by Jove!” With one hand he scoops water into his mouth. Suddenly, down came the Troopers 1,2,&3 - looking for Matilda waltzing with a wallaby. One of them called out to the Toff in very broad Strine - imagine Crocodile Dundee on crack cocaine (me neither).“G’day Mate, I wouldn’t drink that water it’s where Skippy & his marsupial mates relieve themselves (although he didn’t use relieve, he used a word far more pithy, if you’ll excuse the lisp).” Our Pommy Popinjay replied “God’s Boots Old Bean, I can’t understand a word. Speak the Queen’s English man.” The Canny Cop replied slowly “ I was just saying, use BOTH! hands to scoop up the sparkling spa like water, that way you won’t spill so much as a drop your Lordship.

Pip pip.”

Another example of Antipodean v Anglo dialogue disasters happened to the Current & Final Mrs. Ashley. We had visitors from New Zealand and on the first day were asked what they would like for lunch. The C&F Mrs. A is a Nottingham wench where bread rolls are called cobs. In N.Z. however (those of a prim disposition look away now) cobs, in urban slang, means two thirds of the male appendages. The 2 veggies that go with the meat, if I may be so delicate. Alright just to beat the analogy to death, Hitler only had one. So it came as a bit of a shock to the system for our Kiwi visitors when asked “Who fancies crusty cobs for lunch?” They couldn’t wait to get a whole lot of gone between GB & NZ. Spread the Vegemite Mabel, looks like Top Tucker to me.

I’m spreading myself over the airwaves too – check www.bigfm.org schedules.

Sponsored by www.rightmoveinsurance.com with 50€ cash back on new motor/home policies.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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What a frightening world we live in Last month I mentioned Europe and I feel the need to discuss this further. What some of us feared was going to happen regarding DAESH has started.

by

Jennifer Cunningham

I have felt frustrated for some time now at the laid back global attitude regarding the lacklustre approach to DAESH and the threat of possible attacks combined with Europe´s immigration policies.

Fortunately the UK seems to have the more efficient surveillance, information structure and experience in place. However, it will never be enough. At long last, because of the events in Paris, there does seem to be determination from a number of countries, especially France, Russia, and America to stand up to the terrorists as in the words of French President Hollande, “we are at war”. Currently Belgium seems to have got themselves into a nightmare situation; one reason being, of course, the easy access into other parts of Europe, but particularly France. Fortunately the UK did not sign the Schengen Agreement concerning the open borders – that was a wise decision.

What a frightening world we live in and it seems so surreal going about our normal lives, never knowing where or when something could happen, as ISIL (DAESH) is becoming more and more part of everyday life, which is increasingly unacceptable and frightening.

There are now many discussions about bringing the border controls back into place within the EU but Brussels does not seem to agree with this which, in my opinion, is naive, as it is not dissimilar to the Trojan horse entering Troy. I think the dreaming has got to stop and reality needs to come to the forefront on all decisions. However, the current events are reinforcing my beliefs on the importance of the

UK remaining part of Europe. I just can´t understand how the British, who do not consider themselves Europeans, and currently 50% believe that leaving the EU will benefit them, which will leave the expats very vulnerable. The UK is just too small to become isolated and we need to be an integral part of Europe, especially for our own protection.

I am extremely unhappy not being able to have a vote on the referendum as it will obviously affect all of us living in Spain and other parts of Europe.

I have already registered my displeasure and signed the petition on https://petition.parliament. uk/petitions/111271. Can I suggest that if you feel strongly about not being able to vote in the referendum, you sign this petition. There is no point complaining when subsequently our lives become more difficult, if we have not voiced our views.

Returning to the world of day to day business, with winter now upon us, we may be affected by storms, hail, high winds and massive downpours during this season. Please make sure that you are correctly covered for these situations. This is where Liberty Seguros Accidental Damage clause can be very beneficial.

You may discover that you are not insured, other than through the consortium. This type of claim is only available when the Government assesses and decrees that some events are a “natural disaster” and the consortium processes these payments.

My staff are often advised by clients that they can purchase a policy that is cheaper than we offer, with cover that is exactly the same. No – I don´t think so. In fact, I know this statement is often incorrect. A lower price for car insurance is often achieved by lowering the cover, for example on accident cover, to include the number of seats, or

even just driver only. Just take care, please always check before committing and if in doubt, ask us.

I was very shocked when we lost a house insurance policy to a Spanish company because it was cheaper than our policy. When the sales consultant enquired as to how the quotes differed, they were told that the re-build costs were lower. The re-build cost is calculated, regulated and updated annually by the Spanish government (BOE). Therefore the insurance company has no input in this figure and are advised by the government accordingly. This is how the insurance world works and it is not up to an individual insurance company to lower the re-build cost.

I have recently noticed in the newspapers that there are increasingly advertisements for low cost health care. Health costs are always expensive and realistically premiums need to reflect these costs.

Once again, please do not be seduced by these companies and always check the policy thoroughly and your list of services and doctors available.

Last week a friend, on returning to his car after shopping in Lidls, discovered that he had a flat tyre. Within minutes, two gentlemen arrived and offered assistance as they just happened to have the right tools with them. As this had happened to him before, he was suspicious and declined their offer, instead calling a friend. After replacing the tyre, he took it for repair and they found that the tyre had been slashed with a knife. Be careful of good Samaritans – what a terrible world! The garage told my friend that the gentlemen were only intent on robbing him, as this is becoming an increasingly common occurance.

If in doubt, please call one of our offices or visit the website www.jennifercunningham.net

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Farewell Father John

NEWS BITES

SIMPLY TOPPING!

RESIDENTS OF Benitachell are backing a scheme to help youngsters by collecting plastic bottle and container lids for recycling.

Mayor Josep Femenia and town hall colleagues presented the Marina Alta Solidarity Federation with 300 kilos of plastic which will be sold later at 200€ per tonne – the money raised is used to buy orthopaedic aids and specialise treatments for children not available through the health service.

The mayor signed a formal agreement to support the foundation and said residents were “very generous and supportive” and would back the scheme. Collection boxes for lids are sited at the town hall, the local police station, the library, the school and in the covered market.

Father John (centre front) with friends

by JACK TROUGHTON FRIENDS OF priest Father John Dewis celebrated his 89th birthday on Friday and wished him well for the future – he is returning to the UK after 18 years in Spain.

The group met for lunch at the Planet Restaurant in Parcent to wish him well.

Father John is moving to a residential home in Coleshill near Birmingham because of health reasons.

And he will pass another milestone next year. It will be 60 years since he was ordained on 17th march, 2016. The father’s friend Vincent O’Brien told RTN how it was his second retirement after working in the Birmingham Diocese before coming to Spain.

“This was his official retirement when he moved to Spain, he officially doesn’t have a parish or a diocese but he has been very active,” he said. “He came

out here because of his health – he got permission to retire here but like many people he didn’t want to give up.”

Vincent added: “It is amazing where you go and mention ‘our priest’ and people immediately say ‘Father John’.

Everyone seems to know him and he is extremely popular.” Father John became the representative of Catholics living on the Costa Blanca and held Sunday mass at the church in Benimarco.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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#letters 28

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

k #rtnemail of the wee

Both sides of the story

DEAR SIRS, judging from the adverse and very one-sided comments regarding the council in San Fulgencio and the perception that Urbanisación La Marina is merely a poor and severely deprived relative, I believe it is only fair to express an alternative view.

I have seen a vast improvement over the last six or seven years since the change of administration and the establishment of the Deputy Mayor’s office in C/Madrid. Prior to this there was a distinct feeling of discrimination between San Fulgencio and La Marina, which is certainly not the case today. When Jeff Wiszniewski occupied the office, he was always happy to listen to sensible suggestions; like the traffic calming system which was installed at the top of the Urbanisation by the old vet’s surgery, shortly after the change of administration. The present incumbent, Paulino Herrero, is always keen to hear about matters affecting the urbanisation. The complaint published provided no evidence to support discrimination by the council against the urbanisation and although fun runs and rock concerts are not my priority, it is entirely feasible that some people will be in favour of the way the council seeks to spend money on entertaining its residents.

Last year most of the street lights in La Marina were upgraded, and the pine forest along Avenida San Fulgencio was severely cut back and thinned, giving vastly improved sight lines for oncoming traffic, whilst, at the same time, greatly improving road safety. Earlier this year a number of the urbanisation’s roads were resurfaced and currently there are major works under way installing proper roads in La Marina/Oasis. All this must have required an enormous amount of money spent on the urbanisation. With regard to rubbish collection and the occasional blip, one can only imagine that people in England would die for the facilities we have here.

Things can always be better and we should always be challenging those in power to improve conditions on the urbanisation, but, in identifying possible shortcomings, let us also be gracious enough to acknowledge the things that they get right.

Yours faithfully, Ken Turner, Urb. La Marina, San Fulgencio.

A sinking feeling

WE HAD planned to buy property in the south of the Costa Blanca but we have had our eyes opened. The urbanisation has over seven thousand houses, and many have construction problems related to subsidence. Talk about a sinking feeling! Over 120 properties are awaiting repair under the ten year guarantee but the building contractors have said they cannot finance repairs to the properties or crumbling infrastructure. Much of

the planned infrastructure has also not been completed.

Inadequate public road drainage and road surface quality causes continuous, and alarming, damage to private properties. Continuing subsidence as a result of a lack of compaction of the substrate prior to construction and poor workmanship in construction of both roads and pavements is a continuing problem along the lengths of Calle Cazorla and Calle Araucarius, leading to property walls subsiding, and damaging foundations to boundary walls. When it rains, water pours into gardens, while many swimming pools have cracked and subsided. Sub-

sidence of up to three feet is not uncommon. Raw sewage has also been detected in these areas as a result of collapsed, or broken drains under subsided roads. This has been reported to the building company, but without any response. Following recent heavy rains our worse fears materialised when one villa tilted and started to collapse. A number of villas also reported many subsidence problems. It is very difficult to understand how a Spanish property company can get away with such terrible construction standards.

Craig Pero

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

AS PREVIOUSLY noted, individuals and also companies affected by a mortgage floor interest clause, or by the purchase of preference shares,or Bankiashares on its IPO, or etc., can, in most cases, successfully claim against banks.

All such legal actions, whilst not identical, have many similarities with each other, usually they contain the possibility of a legal petition for the nullity (voidability to be exact) of part or the entire contract, to be declared.

Legally the basis for these legal claims is found in the article 1261 of the Spanish Civil Code (CC), which says that for a contract to exist, there must be present within3 requirements: the agreement and consent of the parties, there must be an object of the contract, and there must be a cause of the obligation. Failure or defect in any of these requirements, pursuant to Article 1300 of the Civil Code could result in the contract being void.

Regarding the deadline for claiming by thoseaffected, Article 1301 CC says that the action of nullity lastsfour years, and in cases of error, fraud or false cause, this limitation period of 4 years starts to run from the completion of the contract.

The Spanish Supreme Court has clarified when it should be understood that the limitation period of four years startsfor these types of legal actions. In various of their judgments,includingnumbers 769 of 2014, and number 376 and 489 of 2015, they make it clear thatthe period of 4 years does not begin to count from when product is contracted, but rather from the consummation, or where appropriate, from the moment the affected is made aware of the existence of error, wrong information, etc, That is to say, from the occurrence of a fact for which the affected can understand and be aware, depending on the product concerned, the existence of circumstances that make the contract voidable.

To use the case of Bankia shares, we understand that the term of four yearsshould start running from May 2012 at the earliest, which was when the annual accounts of the bank were reformulated and investors

could know the real situation of Bankia. This gives us a limitation period of until May 2016at least to claim.

Where the sale of toxic bank products is involved, the period of four yearsshould start, for example, from when the customer is aware the product sold was not

an ordinary deposit but a risky and complex product, or from when they are aware that the investment madecannot be recovered, etc.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please contact.

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys general information related to legal issues. White & Baos Abogados. Tel:+34 966 426 185. E-mail: info@white-baos.com White & Baos 2014 – All rights reserved. Send your questions to spanishlawyer@roundtownnews.com or info@white-baos.com

LEGAL & FINANCE

What is the time limit for those who have lost out, to claim against their bank for floor interest rates, preference shares, Bankia shares, etc.?

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by

Carlos Baos

Over a barrel

FFriday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

YOUR MONEY

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by

Keith Littlewood

International Financial Adviser

I AM compelled to discuss some sales tactics that are becoming increasingly frustrating by companies that are forcing their customers to take out products that they do not necessarily need or want.

I myself became a victim of this practice this week when hiring a car which was booked online and with full super cover taken and then only been forced to take out the hire companies insurance when I went to pick the car up – this is an ongoing situation for me which I am not letting lie and may update in a future article.

This sales practice seems prevalent with the banks here in Spain. Every week I meet clients who have been forced to take out products with the banks to either avoid getting charged extortionate fees for transfers or to get an extra .5% interest on their account. The worst of which I have seen this week which I will go into detail now: This couple Mr and Mrs X had a bankers draft paid into their account from a house sale.

Of course the bank contacted them saying they needed to see them urgently. Upon seeing ‘manager’ (or head of pressure sales I prefer to call him) they were told the entry of money into the account would cost them €600 and any future transfers out would also cost them similar amounts. This charge could be miraculously waived should the couple take out 2 ‘qualifying’ products with them. This is bad enough and in my opinion blackmail but these so-called qualifying products on closer inspection were the most frightening.

The average age of this couple was 70 and the first ‘qualifying’ product was a savings plan investing €600 per annum minimum – it was hard to decipher other conditions but a saving s plan for a couple that actually required to increase their income was in itself absurd. The second ‘qualifying’ product was a €30,000 investment which was guaranteed not to lose capital. On closer inspection this product was for an eight and a half year term and was invested in high risk stocks and the guarantee was only in place should they not make a withdrawal until the end of the eight and a half years. This couple were unaware as all the information was in Spanish and this was not properly explained to them and they would definitely have needed access to this cash during this period The most important rules when investing are first to make sure you understand every aspect of the product you are taking and secondly never feel pressured into buying anything. At any sign of sales pressure run away – the salesman’s interest is not with you the customer but it is with himself either earning commission or hitting a target In today’s financial climate it is essential you do everything you can to make sure your money is safe and secure and what you want to transpire in the future has the best chance of happening.

If you need advice or if have any questions regarding the above you can contact me on 657 684 094 or email keith.littlewood@blacktowerfm.com The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is licenced by the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licenced in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) Licence No: 00805B and registered with the DGS in Spain.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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#life&leisure

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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

Legion’s spreads the word

OFFICERS OF the Royal British Legion were “delighted” with the success of an Open Day as they recruited new members and answered crucial welfare questions. Read the full story on page 54.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #what’s on 

Focus on ballet Teulada fiesta

THIS WEEKEND Teulada will be honouring Santa Catalina (also known as Santa Caterina) from 27th to 29th November 2015.

by JACK TROUGHTON

COSTA BLANCA artist Jenny Anne Morrison is painting a series of pictures of ballet dancers – using oils to ‘sketch’ loose pictures that still bear the her hallmark.

The studies of dancers make a collection of her latest work and have titles like ‘Ballet Shoes’, ‘Snow Queen’, and ‘White Swan’; and they were an eye-catching centre piece to her latest exhibition during an ‘open day’ at her Tormos home.

Jenny believes art should be open to everyone and there should be an affordable option to her large works in oils.

“To start and to loosen myself up, I had a paint brush and found another trick to give me distance myself from the ‘camera’ – the dance pictures are very loose and relatively haphazard; sketches in oil,” she explained. “At the very end I use a pallet knife to give the picture some texture.”

Jenny’s work now features in galleries and shops across the area and she takes her “little shop” to events to sell limited edition and small prints, posters, cards and calendars, to get her work on everyone’s wall. “I want people to be able to own my work. There is something for every pocket.”

She stages a home exhibition two or three times a year and the town house walls show off pictures old and new – including the large oils and vibrant colours that have made the artist so popular.

“I have to produce new images for each exhibition so everything feels fresh when people come,” added Jenny. “It is always nice to welcome new faces for the first time and to catch up with people who have bought work before and want to see what is new.” For more information about Jenny and her work, visit www.jennyannemorrison.com.

Throughout the weekend there will be a children’s fun fair, parades, concerts, discos and of course the traditional fireworks display.

The Iglesia Fortalesa de Santa Caterina, a church housing one of the oldest existing organs in the region, is in the old town area, next to the Ermita Divina Pastora.

For the town this building served two purposes, religious and defensive, and is said to be one of the most important edifices in the municipality.

The construction of this magnificent building took 35-40 years to complete and was built by the residents of Teulada. Documents show that in 1574 over 600 locals worked on the building! For a full programme of events please go to www.turismoteuladamoraira.com.

Teulada Santa Catalina

Ballet Shoes’

Singing for animal magic POPULAR COSTA Blanca singer Matt Mason will be entertaining visitors to the Jalon Valley ARC ‘Christmas Fayre’ – his wife Sally is one of the animal charity’s founders.

All proceeds from the festive event at the Pensionistas Hall in Jalon on Sunday 6th December will help the animals rescued and re-homed by ARC. And Matt will be singing some favourite numbers while the U3A Casual Choir is also appearing to perform some well-loved festive songs.

Stalls will be selling Christmas gifts, jewellery, cakes, and cards, and Jalon Valley HELP will also offer crafts and calendars.

A raffle and tombola is being staged, refreshments will be on sale – and Santa will be on hand ready to meet youngsters armed with a Christmas ‘wish list’.

Matt Mason

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure #events



Art exhibition of paintings

by Nigel De-Ville

by JEANETTE RICE LOCAL ALBIR resident Nigel De-Ville will be holding an art exhibition in Albir on Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd December.

Nigel, who is well known within Albir, can often be seen playing the banjo at many of the local “jam sessions” in the area. However he also has an exceptional talent for painting which he has now re-discovered having taken a break for a few years.

Nigel said “I started painting at sixteen to supplement my wages as an apprentice electrician and can go two or three years without picking up my brushes! However I always enjoy creating. Some of my pictures are from actual scenes, but most of them are from my imagination.”

The “Chill Out Bar”, opposite Albir Gardens in Albir, will be hosting the art exhibition, with paintings available for viewing from 9am onwards on each day.

Picture auctioned for charity Nigel went on to say “even if you don’t want to buy any of my paintings call in and have a look, I take commissions and have many examples of my work which may make ideal Christmas gifts.”

One of his recent commissions was to paint for local band “Sugar Shack.” Nigel painted both musicians in the same scene, but with a mirror image which, when the two are put together, shows a continuous view. He also painted a moving silhouette of soldiers for a local remembrance Sunday auction which raised 175€.

If you wish to contact Nigel about the exhibition you can call him on 639 04 97 87.

Head down to the Crossroads COSTA BLANCA Blues hosts the final Crossroads Coffee House of 2015 on Saturday 28th November at Teulada’s Bar Mediterraneo.

Everyone is invited to the special Christmas event between 11am and 1.30pm and can take along their songs and instruments, poems and stories, art and dance moves.

The Crossroads events are a fun social network for people living on the Costa Blanca and they provide an opportunity to share a creative side.

Book a chair at 5€ via www.CBBlue.com – many people enjoy grabbing a bite to eat afterwards, adding a real family feel to the afternoon.

Sugar Shack commission

Christmas concert

THE JOYFUL Gospel & Soul Choir Costa Blanca perform their concert “Building Bridges” in a run up to the Christmas season.

The concert, which is tonight, Friday 27th November, is sold out, but, because demand was so high, the organisers of the event were inundated with requests to hold another performance. The extra concert will take place on Sunday, 29th November in the Minnekirken of Villajoyosa at the Norwegian Sjømannskirken, directions to which can be found on www.sjomannskirken.no/albir-villajoyosa/. You can pre-book your tickets for 10€ via email info@joygospel.nl or by calling 673 01 86 06. Please state your name, telephone number, and number of tickets you require.

Brain teaser fun APASA IS staging its final event of 2015 - a Christmas Fun Quiz - at Javea’s Quo Vadis on Wednesday 9th December and is planning a cracking night out.

Tickets are 20€, including a three-course meal with half a bottle of wine, and booking is essential for this popular event – just call Sue on 96 574 1668 or 606 588 197.

The function starts at 7pm for 7.30pm.

The animal charity’s President Mandy Conway said: “It is the last event of the year and we would like to thank all those who support our events throughout the year; and also thank RTN for its help in promoting our events and trips – and helping us to find homes for our animals.

“We wish all our supporters a very happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.”

APASA’s penultimate fund raiser is a Christmas Market at the Javea shelter from 1pm on Saturday 5th December.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #feature



Soil erosion could be a thing of the pastwith Vetiver

by

Dick Handscombe Holistic gardener and author

I REALLY enjoyed my recent lecture from the Costa Blanca to the Almanzora Valley and Axarquia regions and having seen many areas of steeply sloping gardens needing an inexpensive solution to soil erosion I was surprised and pleased to come across the plant Veltiver, ChrysopogonZizanioidea.

This grass like plant originally from India can grow to around 1.5 metres and put down roots of two to three metres so as well as being great for stabilising eroding banks and terraces it is highly drought resistant once its roots start to grow, normally just three to six months. It therefore has the potential for a wide variety of uses as outlined below.

Fourteen practical ways to use Vetiver plants in gardens To prevent further erosion of steep slopes.

To prevent the constant erosion of the outer edge of plateaus created to provide a level area on which to build a house and surrounding terrace on sloping sites.

To create terrace walls on sloping sites as a less expensive alternative to stone or block walls.

To repair the banks of unlined agricultural water channels.

As a backcloth to a garden pond. Not just good to look at but could attract birds that like reeds in which to rest and nest.

In containers to provide greenery on eating terraces.

To hide an unattractive concrete block dividing wall.

To provide internal windbreaks in windy gardens.

To provide low maintenance green hedges on either side of the drive from the entrance gates or in front of the garage.

To provide a wind break around a vegetable garden.

To hide away the compost heap or perhaps experiment with an eco-natural compost heap with three sides provided by mature Veltiver plants If cut a couple of times a year in addition to the above uses the cuttings can be dried as a feed for horses and rabbits.

If you have a small vegetable plot or orchard in the agricultural countryside with imprecise boundaries between yours and others surround yours with a boundary of Vetiver plants.

As one of the plants used to create a natural water cleaning system for a swimming pool or koi carp pond.

That list was just a quick thoughtful brain dump at 6am.. I am sure that there are others.

The two photographs illustrate what a just planted row of rooted slips on a steep slope would look like and the same row just four months later.

The only supplier of Vetiver plants that I have discovered is Vetiver Spain contactable via www.vetiverspain.com and info@vetiverspain.com. They supply the inexpensive plant in two forms, young cuttings or slips and potted cuttings with larger root balls.

The former of are the least expensive and easiest for postal or courier delivery if you do not live near enough to collect grown on cuttings/slips in containers of various sizes and age.

‘Just planted slips’

‘The same slope four months later

’

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leis re music u ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Chill Factor/Rio

Chill Factor are Pam (vocals) and John Pearson (guitars/vocals), now one of the most popular live music acts on the Costa Blanca. They play carefully selected, originally arranged and well performed classic pop/rock songs . Together with Christian Pearl (phenomenal keyboardist) they form the rock band ‘RIO’, playing popular rock anthems including tracks by Tears for Fears, Coldplay, Pink Floyd, U2, Simple Minds, Arcade Fire, Sting, Spandau Ballet, Pretenders, Talk Talk, Yes, Peter Gabriel, etc... For more details phone Pam or John on 696 731 290 or, as they live in the mountains and have nearly no phone signal, better to email: pamandjohnspain@hotmail.com and/or check out their web site: www.pamandjohn.net November Gigs: Friday 27: Bar Tropicana, Paichi Centre, Moraira. 9 pm Saturday 28: Saxo Disco Garden Chill Out, Moraira. 5 pm. (RIO BAND) Sunday 29: Coll de Rates Rte., Parcent. 1.30 pm December Gigs: Friday 4: Saxo Disco Garden Chill Out, Moraira. 5 pm.

Sunday 6: Aleluya Bar, Jalon. 8 pm (RIO BAND) Friday 11: Bar Quo Vadis, Javea. 9 pm Saturday 12: Saxo Disco Garden Chill Out, Moraira. 5 pm.

Saturday 19: Nostro Lounge, Arenal. 10 pm. (RIO BAND) Sunday 20: Bar Quo Vadis, Javea. 6 pm Sunday 27: Laguna Ribs, (Javea Karting), Javea. 1.30 pm.

Thursday 31: Himalaya Indian Rte., Moraira January Gigs: Friday 1: Café Haventje, Altea. 8 pm.

Sunday 3: Aleluya Bar, Jalon. 8 pm (RIO BAND)

TimeWarp Duo Tribute Shows

Husband and wife duo Justin James and Jaime Lee are better known as “Timewarp”. Both Jaime and Justin have a true talent for singing whether performing haunting ballads, powerful rock anthems or pop classics. They have been performing professionally together for the past 15 years. All “Timewarp” shows are known for their feel good and upbeat music for all generations to enjoy, where the audience is invited to relax and sing along or get up and dance the night away. Phone: 671 354 188 or visit www.timewarpduo.com November Gigs: Friday 27: Hotel Sol Ifach, Calpe. 9 pm.

Saturday 28: Kathmandu Indian Rte., Las Marinas, Denia. 7.30 pm.

Sunday 29: Camping Fanadix, La Fustera, Playa Benissa. 8 pm December Gigs: Friday 4: Hotel Sol Ifach, Calpe. 9 pm.

Saturday 5: Camping Fanadix, La Fustera, Playa Benissa. 8 pm Friday 11: Hotel Sol Ifach, Calpe. 9 pm.

Friday 18: Hotel Sol Ifach, Calpe. 9 pm.

Saturday 19: La Gasolinera, Busot Friday 25: Bar Quo Vadis, Javea Saturday 26: Viva Espania, Oliva Wednesday 30: Camping Calpe Mar, Calle Estovenia, Calpe. 7.30 pm Thursday 31: Private Function – Javea U3A

The Hot Dogs Jazz Band

The Hot Dogs Jazz Band ,the Costa Blanca´s premier Trad Band are giving a Jazz Concert on Friday 27th November at the Restaurant ¨La Union¨in Calpe from 8pm till 11pm.

The Hot Dogs Jazz Band has been in existence for over 10 years playing a great mix of Dixieland, Swing and Standards. Admission is 5 euros and food will be available either Menu or Tapas or just drinks. For further information contact Gerry on 619 177 752 or Dave on 685 321 594. For reservations contact the restaurant on 96 583 2224.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

#tv&showbiz goss

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by Peter Taylor

 BEING AN ‘A’ lister as well as being beautiful and famous is an ongoing dream for many, having the looks and the dosh to go where you want on the arm of who you want!

Sounds perfect doesn’t it! Not so according to Jennifer Lawrence, a female who fits all the above criteria and then some. Featured on the cover of December’s Vogue she says “No one ever asks me out, I’m lonely every Saturday night, I feel like I need to meet a guy who’s has been living in Baghdad and has no idea who I am!”

Odd city to mention Jennifer, but we know what you mean sweet pea!

AS EUROVISION was 60 years old earlier this year Australia were invited to take part, a decision that produced many sideways glances, and one kinda thought that was that!

Alas not! The competition will take place in Stockholm, Sweden, next May and the Aussie’s will be there … again! “The feedback we got after Australia’s participation in Vienna was overwhelmingly positive,” said the contest’s executive supervisor Jon Ola Sand, “we strongly believe the Eurovision Song Contest has the potential to evolve organically into a truly global event.

Better change the name of it then!

BAYWATCH FIRST went out on NBC in America in the mid 80´s, but was cancelled after just one season, a decision I’m sure haunts them to this day considering the show became one of the most popular in the world. A movie of the Santa Monica lifeguards is now in the pipeline, and hunks Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Zac Efron are already confirmed in lead roles. Not so simple on finding the new ‘Pammy’ though, with six relatively unknown females battling for the part. The XXX version could maybe be called ‘50 Waves of Grey’.

TESCO’S HAVE come up with a very interesting Santa type sandwich called ‘Chocolate And Cherry Mascarpone Christmas Sandwich on Cinnamon Bread’, and it’s had mixed reviews. A picture of the new meal was shared on ‘Sh*t London’s Facebook’ page by Londoner Nic Branch with the message: ‘More gold at Tesco’. And people are seriously freaked out! Like yourself mate! ‘Chocolate and cherry sandwiches? Has the world gone mad?’ asked Jane Craigie-Payne. 30% of internet peeps said - Sounds Delicious!

A seminar of big bums and other body parts at Brunel?

NOT MANY of you would expect to have Brunel University London and the Kardashians in the same sentence, but here it is, and the reason it’s here is equally unexpected. I am aware that I said a week or three back that The Kardashians would never darken these pages ever again, so please bear with me as I fancy it will be worth the effort.

Brunel’s campus is located on the outskirts of Uxbridge, West London, and has around 15,200 full-time students and 2,500 staff. The chalk and cheese that is a top UK University and a USTV Reality Show from hell, joined together yesterday (26th November) in a seminar, and Dr Meredith Jones, who organised the event, told Times Higher Education “the sessions will examine the Kardashians as a powerful popular culture phenomena and discuss what Kim Kardashian’s vulva can teach us about contemporary life,” Heavens!

Then the good Doctor added “there will also be a session called ‘Colour and Curves’, this big bum thing has taken over the world,” have you no shame woman!

Doctor Jones then upped the ante on her bedside manner when she added “You may love them or hate them, but the Kardashian family must be examined, they may be vacuous and bland (yep! I’ll run with that), but they are also very powerful, therefore it is silly to think this subject is not worthy of academics,” top drawer stuff there Doc, but the lady ain’t done yet! And it’s quite an ending “They do nothing except be themselves – it’s like the same fascination we have with the British Royal Family.” Oh dear oh dear Doc, not the smartest thing to say if you’ve got half an eye on being a Dame Doctor Meredith Jones.

Kardashian Filter back to Active!

FUNNY MAN James Corden has recorded a duet with Kylie Minogue on her Xmas album due for release this Monday 30th. It’s a cover of 80’s Yazoo song ‘Only You’ and Kylie said “He suggested the song for the album and I just knew he would sound amazing on it, it’s so subtle and lovely and I think it will surprise a lot of people.” Other toons to enjoy feature a duet with Iggy Pop and Kylie’s singing classic Xmas song ‘Christmas Wrapping’, and thanks to modern technology there’s a bonus track featuring Kylie and Frank Sinatra singing ‘Santa Claus is coming to Town’. Fan-dabbie-dozie!

MÁLAGA BORN Antonio Banderas went into movies when he was just 21 years old. He eventually married the lovely Melanie Griffith when he was 34, and won critical acclaim for his performance in ´The Mark of Zorro´ 3 years later. With lots of time on his hands due to not getting offered too many interesting enough parts, the 55 year old has enrolled at Central Saint Martins of Art and Design school in London explaining “A couple of years ago I had this idea to put a company together, and base it around design, we’re learning patterns, sketching, everything!” Cool!

44

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

tv listings 27th November - 3rd December

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friday 27th November BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Fake Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Oxford Street Revealed 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at One 14:30 BBC Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Coroner 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Len and Ainsley’s Big Food Adventure 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven 19:30 BBC Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 A Question of Sport 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Citizen Khan 22:00 Have I Got News for You 22:30 Peter Kay’s Car Share 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:35 The Graham Norton Show 24:20 Josh

BBC2

07:25 Homes Under the Hammer 08:25 Oxford Street Revealed 09:10 Len and Ainsley’s Big Food Adventure 09:55 Live Formula 1 11:45 Coast 12:15 Planet Dinosaur 12:45 Daily Politics 13:15 Live Davis Cup Tennis 19:00 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 An Island Parish: Falklands 22:00 Great Continental Railway Journeys 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 Artsnight 24:30 Weather 24:35 Moon

saturday 28th November

BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Football Focus 13:00 BBC News 13:10 Live Formula 1 15:05 Live Davis Cup Tennis 18:10 Celebrity Mastermind 18:40 BBC News 18:50 BBC Regional News 19:00 Pointless Celebrities 19:50 Strictly Come Dancing 21:05 Doctor Who 22:00 Casualty 22:50 The National Lottery Live 23:00 BBC News 23:20 Match of the Day 24:40 The Apprentice

BBC2

07:10 NFL Highlights 07:55 Tennessee’s Partner 09:20 Formula 1 10:55 Live Formula 1 12:05 Formula 1 Rewind 13:05 Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip 13:35 Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip 14:05 Live Snooker: UK Championship 17:30 Final Score 18:10 Flog It! 18:40 The Great Pottery Throw Down 19:40 Great Continental Railway Journeys 20:40 Japan: Earth’s Enchanted Islands 21:40 Dad’s Army 22:10 QI XL 22:55 Papadopoulos & Sons 24:40 Snooker: UK Championship

itv2

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 1000 Heartbeats 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Gino’s Italian Escape 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:30 ITV News 24:00 ITV News 24:15 Raw Deal

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Countdown 07:45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Come Dine with Me 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18:00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:30 Unreported World 21:00 TFI Friday 22:00 Gogglebox 23:00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man 24:05 First Dates

CHANNEL 5

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07:00 Bottom Knocker Street 07:35 Dino Dan: Trek’s Adventures 08:00 Signed Stories 08:05 Oddbods 08:10 Sooty 08:25 Super 4 08:40 Adventure Time 09:00 Marvel Avengers Assemble 09:30 Thunderbirds Are Go 10:00 Jessie 10:25 ITV News 10:30 Murder, She Wrote 11:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 13:30 ITV News and Weather 13:39 ITV Central Weather 13:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 14:45 Judge Rinder 15:45 Doc Martin 16:45 Midsomer Murders 18:45 ITV News 19:15 Catchphrase 20:00 The Chase 21:00 The X Factor 22:45 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:45 The Jonathan Ross Show 24:50 ITV News and Weather

07:15 The King of Queens 07:40 The King of Queens 08:05 Race of Champions 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 The Morning Line 11:00 Frasier 11:30 Frasier 12:00 The Big Bang Theory 12:30 The Big Bang Theory 12:55 The Simpsons 13:30 The Simpsons 14:00 Channel 4 Racing 17:00 Come Dine with Me 17:30 Come Dine with Me 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 Come Dine with Me 19:30 Channel 4 News 20:00 The World’s Weirdest Weather 21:00 Grand Designs: House of the Year 22:00 2 Guns 24:10 TFI Friday

07:00 Childrens TV 07:50 Milkshake! Monkey 07:55 Make Way for Noddy 08:05 Paw Patrol 08:20 Little Princess 08:30 Pip Ahoy!

08:50 Blaze and the Monster Machines 09:10 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:25 Wanda and the Alien 09:40 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 10:30 The Saturday Show 12:40 Annie Claus Is Coming to Town 14:30 The Christmas Shepherd 16:20 Finding Mrs Claus 18:10 Christmas in Conway 20:00 5 News Weekend 20:05 Police Interceptors 21:00 Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Away 22:00 Football League Tonight 23:20 TV’s 50 Greatest Magic Tricks

07:00 Emmerdale 10:10 Coronation Street 13:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

14:30 The Xtra Factor 15:30 The Hot Desk 15:45 Scorpion 16:40 You’ve Been Framed!

17:10 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

18:40 Hulk 21:25 Back to the Future 23:45 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:50 The Keith Lemon Sketch Show

07:00 Rules of Engagement 07:25 Rules of Engagement 07:45 How I Met Your Mother 08:10 How I Met Your Mother 08:35 The Goldbergs 09:05 The Goldbergs 09:35 Baby Daddy 10:00 Baby Daddy 10:30 Melissa & Joey 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Made in Chelsea 12:35 Couples Come Dine with Me 13:35 Couples Come Dine with Me 14:35 The Goldbergs 15:00 The Goldbergs 15:30 Alvin and the Chipmunks: the Squeakquel 17:20 Rude(ish) Tube 17:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 Shallow Hal 23:15 Gogglebox 24:20 Gogglebox

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV1

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:30 Matchmaker Santa 14:10 5 News Lunchtime 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 The March Sisters at Christmas 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 UK’s Strongest Man 2015 21:00 Police Interceptors 22:00 NCIS: New Orleans 23:00 NCIS 23:55 NCIS: Los Angeles 24:55 Access

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07:35 Psych 08:20 Emmerdale 09:20 Coronation Street 09:50 Dinner Date 10:50 Psych 11:45 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

12:45 You’ve Been Framed!

13:10 Emmerdale 14:15 Coronation Street 14:40 Dinner Date 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift 23:15 The Hot Desk 23:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:30 Celebrity Juice

E4

07:00 Revenge 07:45 Charmed 08:30 Charmed 09:30 Hollyoaks 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Melissa & Joey 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Charmed 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Melissa & Joey 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 The Woman in Black 24:00 The Big Bang Theory

sunday 29th November BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 08:35 Match of the Day 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Fern Britton Meets 12:00 Sunday Politics London 13:10 Live Formula 1 16:15 Escape to the Country 17:15 Songs of Praise 17:50 The Hunt 18:50 BBC News 19:10 BBC London News 19:20 Countryfile 20:20 Strictly Come Dancing 21:00 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 The Hunt 23:00 BBC News 23:20 BBC London News and Weather 23:30 Match of the Day 2 24:50 Citizen Khan

BBC2 07:30 Big Dreams Small Spaces 08:30 Countryfile 09:30 An Island Parish: Falklands 10:00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 11:30 Simply Nigella 12:00 My Life on a Plate 12:50 Live Davis Cup Tennis 16:15 Match of the Day Live 18:25 Live Snooker: UK Championship 20:00 Robert Peston Goes Shopping 21:00 Ireland with Simon Reeve 22:00 The Secret History of the British Garden 23:00 The Cider House Rules

07:00 Bottom Knocker Street 07:35 Dino Dan: Trek’s Adventures 08:00 Signed Stories 08:05 Oddbods 08:10 Sooty 08:25 Super 4 08:40 Matt Hatter Chronicles 09:00 Marvel Avengers Assemble 09:30 Fish Hooks 10:00 Jessie 10:25 Murder, She Wrote 11:20 The Jeremy Kyle Show 13:25 ITV News and Weather 13:29 ITV Regional Weather 13:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 14:35 The Chase 15:35 The X Factor 17:20 The Mummy Returns 19:35 ITV News 19:45 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Jekyll and Hyde 21:00 The X Factor 22:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:30 ITV News and Weather 23:45 Off Their Rockers 24:15 Premiership Rugby Union

07:00 Hugh’s 3 Good Things: Best Bites 07:05 The King of Queens 07:25 The King of Queens 07:45 Race of Champions 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:30 The Big Bang Theory 13:55 The Big Bang Theory 14:20 The Big Bang Theory 14:45 The Simpsons 15:20 Small Animal Hospital 16:20 Parental Guidance 18:25 Sister Act 20:15 Channel 4 News 20:30 Guy Martin: Last Flight of the Vulcan Bomber 22:00 Homeland 23:05 Gogglebox 24:10 Bullet to the Head

07:00 Childrens TV 08:45 Pip Ahoy!

09:00 Blaze and the Monster Machines 09:25 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:40 Wanda and the Alien 10:00 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:30 LazyTown 11:00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 11:35 Football League Tonight 13:00 Access 13:05 Road to Christmas 14:55 The Heart of Christmas 16:35 The Little Mermaid 18:15 Deck the Halls 20:05 Police Interceptors 21:05 Impractical Jokers 21:30 Impractical Jokers 21:55 5 News Weekend 22:00 Gran Torino 24:25 Justice

itv2

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Emmerdale 10:20 Coronation Street 13:10 The X Factor 14:55 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

15:55 Catchphrase 16:40 Happy Feet 18:50 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

19:50 Back to the Future Part II 22:00 The Xtra Factor 23:00 You’ve Been Framed!

23:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:35 Plebs

Quote the Week

E4

07:00 Rules of Engagement 07:20 Baby Daddy 07:40 Baby Daddy 08:00 How I Met Your Mother 08:30 How I Met Your Mother 09:00 Melissa & Joey 09:30 Melissa & Joey 10:00 Made in Chelsea 11:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Astro Boy 15:20 Rude(ish) Tube 15:25 Couples Come Dine with Me 16:30 Couples Come Dine with Me 17:30 The Big Bang Theory 18:00 The Big Bang Theory 18:30 The Big Bang Theory 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 The Simpsons Movie 22:50 The Big Bang Theory 23:15 The Big Bang Theory 23:40 The Inbetweeners 24:15 The Inbetweeners 24:50 The IT Crowd

Congrats to 103 year old George Kirby and Doreen Luckie, 91, the world’s oldest newlyweds, who recently got married at the Langham Hotel, Eastbourne.

“I wasn’t a blushing bride, but I was a bit giddy,” said Doreen.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

45

monday 30th November BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Fake Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Oxford Street Revealed 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at One and Weather 14:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Escape to the Country 17:15 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Fake Britain 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 Tomorrow’s Food 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:35 Have I Got a Bit More News for You 24:20 Doctor in the House

07:00 Escape to the Country 07:45 Oxford Street Revealed 08:30 Len and Ainsley’s Big Food Adventure 09:15 Caught Red Handed 09:45 Thief Trackers 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 BBC News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands 20:30 Only Connect 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Simply Nigella 22:00 London Spy 23:00 Live at the Apollo 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 Snooker: UK Championship

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 1000 Heartbeats 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 The Martin Lewis Money Show 21:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:40 Travel Guides 24:45 Murder, She Wrote

07:00 Countdown 07:45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Come Dine with Me 16:10 Countdown 15:10 Deal or No Deal 17:00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18:00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The World’s Most Famous Train 22:00 The Murder Detectives 23:15 Fargo 24:25 The World’s Most Expensive Food

07:00 Childresn TV 08:20 Bob the Builder 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:25 The Christmas Shepherd 14:10 5 News Lunchtime 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS: New Orleans 16:15 A Christmas Visitor 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 The Gadget Show 21:00 Ultimate Police Interceptors 22:00 Dino Autopsy: T-Rex 24:00 Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Hawai

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07:35 Psych 08:20 Emmerdale 08:50 Coronation Street 09:20 Coronation Street 09:50 Dinner Date 10:50 Psych 11:40 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

13:10 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:15 Coronation Street 14:40 Dinner Date 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Plebs 22:30 Plebs 23:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:05 Celebrity Juice 24:50 Safeword

07:00 Revenge 07:45 Charmed 08:35 Charmed 09:30 Hollyoaks 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Melissa & Joey 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Charmed 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Melissa & Joey 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 A to Z 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 Made in Chelsea 23:00 Scream Queens 24:00 Gogglebox

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

tuesday 1st December BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Fake Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Oxford Street Revealed 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two 14:30 BBC Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Escape to the Country 17:15 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Capital 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:25 BBC Regional News and Weather 23:35 Imagine 24:50 Possession

BBC2

07:00 Fake Britain 07:45 Oxford Street Revealed 08:30 Bargain Hunt 09:15 Great Continental Railway Journeys 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 BBC News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals 22:00 The Great Pottery Throw Down 23:00 Mock the Week 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 NFL Highlights

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 1000 Heartbeats 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Countrywise 21:00 You’ve Been Framed!

21:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:40 The Jonathan Ross Show 24:50 Benidorm

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Countdown 07:45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Come Dine with Me 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18:00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 22:00 The Murder Detectives 23:00 Catastrophe 23:35 Tattoo Fixers 24:35 Revenge Porn

07:00 Childrens TV 08:50 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:30 Finding Mrs Claus 14:10 5 News Lunchtime 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Dear Secret Santa 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Ultimate Police Interceptors 21:00 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 22:00 Eamonn & Ruth: How the Other Half Lives 23:00 CSI: Cyber 23:55 Capital One Cup Highlights

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07:35 Psych 08:20 Emmerdale 08:50 Coronation Street 09:20 You’ve Been Framed!

09:50 Dinner Date 10:50 Psych 11:40 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

13:10 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:15 You’ve Been Framed!

14:40 Dinner Date 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Tricked 23:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:05 Celebrity Juice 24:50 Safeword

E4

07:00 Revenge 07:45 Charmed 08:30 Charmed 09:30 Hollyoaks 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Melissa & Joey 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Charmed 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Melissa & Joey 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 A to Z 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 Empire 23:00 The Sitter 24:40 The Big Bang Theory

wednesday 2nd December BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Fake Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Oxford Street Revealed 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two 14:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Escape to the Country 17:15 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 19:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 20:00 The One Show 21:00 Cuffs 22:00 The Apprentice 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:25 BBC Regional News and Weather 23:35 Live at the Apollo 24:05 Film 2015 24:35 The Road

BBC2

07:30 Homes Under the Hammer 08:30 Oxford Street Revealed 09:15 See Hear 09:45 Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 BBC News 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals 22:00 This is Tottenham 23:00 The Apprentice: You’re Fired 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 Snooker: UK Championship

ITV1

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 1000 Heartbeats 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:40 Sports Life Stories 24:40 River Monsters

07:00 Countdown 07:45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Come Dine with Me 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18:00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Supervet 22:00 The Murder Detectives 23:00 Peep Show 23:30 Toast of London 24:05 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Christmas in Conway 14:10 5 News Lunchtime 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS: Los Angeles 16:15 Lost Letter Mysteries for Christmas 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Secrets Of 21:00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 22:00 Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Away 23:00 Suspects 24:00 Capital One Cup Highlights

itv2

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07:35 Psych 08:20 Emmerdale 08:50 You’ve Been Framed!

09:50 Dinner Date 10:50 Psych 11:40 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 13:10 Emmerdale 13:40 The Cube 14:40 Dinner Date 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Tricked 23:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:05 The Vampire Diaries

E4

07:00 Revenge 07:45 Charmed 08:30 Charmed 09:30 Hollyoaks 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Melissa & Joey 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Charmed 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Melissa & Joey 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 A to Z 21:00 Unstoppable 23:00 Supernatural 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory

46

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

THURSDAY 3rd December BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Fake Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Oxford Street Revealed 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at One Weather 14:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Escape to the Country 17:15 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 19:30 BBC Regional News and Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Watchdog 22:00 Doctor in the House 23:00 BBC News at Ten 23:25 BBC Regional News and Weather 23:35 Question Time 24:35 This Week

BBC2

07:00 Fake Britain 07:45 Oxford Street Revealed 08:30 Bargain Hunt 09:15 MasterChef: The Professionals 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 BBC News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals 22:00 The Last Kingdom 23:00 Russell Howard’s Good News 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 Snooker: UK Championship

ITV1

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 1000 Heartbeats 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News Central 23:40 Travel Guides 24:40 The Chase

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Countdown 07:45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Come Dine with Me 13:35 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Come Dine with Me 14:35 Come Dine with Me 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18:00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Secret Life of 22:00 24 Hours in A&E 23:00 First Dates 24:10 Gogglebox

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Childrens TV 08:20 Bob the Builder 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:30 The Heart of Christmas 14:10 5 News Lunchtime 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 A Christmas Promise 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Secrets of Great British Castles 21:00 Alex Polizzi’s Italian Islands 22:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild UK 23:00 At Christmas 24:00 Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Hawai

ITV2

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07:35 Psych 08:20 Emmerdale 08:50 Coronation Street 09:50 Dinner Date 10:50 Psych 11:40 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

13:10 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:40 Dinner Date 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 18:00 You’ve Been Framed!

18:30 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

20:00 The Xtra Factor 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Scorpion 23:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:05 Celebrity Juice 24:50 Two and a Half Men

E4

07:00 Revenge 07:45 Charmed 08:30 Charmed 09:30 Hollyoaks 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Melissa & Joey 11:30 Melissa & Joey 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Charmed 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Melissa & Joey 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 A to Z 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 The Inbetweeners Movie 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory

YouTube videos of the week

DAYTIME USTV cooking firstly and keep an eye on Drew Barrymore and you´ll love this to bits ‘Martha Stewart Cooks with Ellen and Drew’ then with the writers of ´Porridge´ being asked to produce a new series, watch Ronnie Barker excel in ´Fletcher knows best - Porridge - BBC classic comedy.´

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life&leisure ask Sara ////////////////////////////////////

by Sara

Bell

Life Coach

WITH A background in family and matrimonial mediation, Life Coach Sara Bell helps Readers with their daily worries. If you are having difficulties with relationships, family, work or any other aspect of your life, then help is at hand.

Lost our spark My wife and I have been married for 9 years. We have three children and life is very demanding. There is no time for ourselves, outside of our children’s lives with all their hobbies and interests. We have considered splitting up, but acknowledge that we still love each other, and are still friends. What can we do?

When children come along, it is all too easy to focus on them, and in doing so, you lose sight of yourselves as a couple. You have acknowledged that you both still care about each other, so you now need to work on getting things back on track. Why not go on a weekly date night with your wife, (and no kids) - dress up and go dancing or have a meal together. You could also ask family to occasionally help out with the children, and plan the odd weekend away. You are great parents, but you also need your relationship with your wife to be loving and solid, otherwise ultimately there may be no family.

Too much invested I have lived with my partner for 20 years. We are unhappy and want to separate. I own the house and its contents - we have joint savings etc. I worked while my partner raised our children, and kept the home. She hasn’t contributed financially to the relationship, and it doesn’t seem fair that she should get half of everything, but she argues that she has contributed to the household.

The thought of losing all my money has prevented me from leaving many times,

but we are both so miserable.

Your first port of call should be your Solicitor. Although you are not legally married, your partner may have certain cohabitation rights, and you need to be fair to the woman who has worked hard looking after the house, and bringing up your children.

Regarding how you feel about staying because you’ll lose out financially -that depends on what value you place upon your happiness.

Write to Sara in confidence. A pseudonym will be used if you wish. Sara reads all letters and can give a personal reply. Email your question to agonyaunt@roundtownnews.com or Sara is available for private consultations, telephone 650 054 467.

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life&leis ure advertising feature  

Forget the ghost of Christmas’ past AND THIS year celebrate in style with one of the fabulous festive mini-breaks brought to you exclusively by Round Town Travel.

PAMPER YOURSELF silly at the 3* Rosamar hotel & spa centrally located in Benidorm´s popular Rincon De Loix with a 3-night, pamper pack.

Checking in on the 24th you can get straight in to the festive mood without having to lift a finger. All of the rooms are fitted with all of the luxuries that you would expect of this level of hotel and the friendly staff are waiting to care for your every need.

Resident on a “full board” basis all of your eating requirements will be catered for, to include an extravagant

Christmas “Gala Meal”. Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a little entertainment and the Rosamar have a schedule of entertainment with spectacular shows & live music that will have you dancing the night away.

If you’ve had your fill of Christmas fayre, why not take yourself off to for a spot of tranquility in the beautifully appointed Spa with it’s uniquely designed swimming & wading pool, or, for those with a little more energy, or if you want to burn off that Christmas lunch, the Rosamar also has a fully equipped Gym, tennis court & mini golf course.

This fantastic festive mini-break can be yours for just 209€ per person (based on 2-sharing) Price includes 3nights stay checking in on the 24th Dec, check out on the 27th, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Christmas Gala Meal & entertainment.

For further information and to book contact our reservation hotline on 966 811 123.

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life&leisure #horoscopes

Kenny Corris kennycorris@hotmail.com 686 361 594

 Mercury squares with Jupiter and luck is on your side in what would seem to be a hectic week. Make sure that you take advantage of an offer that you seem to have not taken up so far. It was meant sincerely and designed to give you a helping hand just when you need it; but you may feel there is an underlying ulterior motive, when there really isn’t.

With Venus opposing and about to make a move on your opposing sign of Scorpio, you may feel as if you have somehow been dealt a double blow. The way forward should be one of clarity and transparency, and yet you shouldn’t have to consider making an apology. When all is said and done you have to move on, but you are not running away.

Communications take on a precedent this week when Mercury takes on mighty Uranus, planet of Technology and Enterprise. The result is, for certain, the telling of some highly necessary home truths to those who may choose not to hear them. However the odds are on that things can only get better and you have much bigger fish to fry right now.

Subtle energies are in force to awaken your psychic senses in a week when you will find that your loyalties are to be tested. You do not have to make any decision that you do not want to, but it is high time that your own views and opinions were aired and those who need to can eat some humble pie whether they want to or not, for the sake of all Three actions of the Sun bring a blessing this week. As Ceres sextiles, Neptune squares and Saturn conjuncts with the Sun....you get the break that you have been long awaiting.

Someone gives you the thumbs up as the green light brings you enhanced security for the immediate future and thankfully helps to eke out your finances one more time.

Look at something as being a blessing in disguise even though you had high hopes. Far from blowing the wind out of your sails it should be a time to feel free to take on new responsibilities, as it is time now. Jupiter beguiles Mercury and lets you see beyond a smoke screen that was there only because you had to find out the truth for yourself this time.

Your sensitive balance goes out the window when there is a new method in your madness. Weighing up the pros and the cons may seem to bring you the equilibrium that you need but someone has been economical with the truth, and that should stick out like a sore thumb. Venus veers close to Scorpio in a bid to back you all the way.

Gone are those minor irritating niggles that meant that you were in danger of taking things out on the wrong person.

The wisdom of the Sun in Saturn brings illumination where there was darkness; and lights the way forward for positive future ventures. Whatever you do, just be yourself right now, and then you should hit the ground running.

Lucky Jupiter paves the way for the success of future events by taking on Mercury midweek. Now that clearand receptive channels of communication are open and willing there should be more takers signing up with you. Often you do your very best work under pressure, and therefore the vigours of a busy month work well for you.

Someone finally steps up to be a real friend this week and your relationship takes on a new dimension. You are so independent and stubborn that sometimes you do not see that others are doing their very best to help you in any way that they can. Time to reward those who love you for the wonderful and inspiring gift of their enduring friendship.

Uranus trines Mercury and it seems that not only is there magic; but it appears to be working right for you for a change. Positive energies have been hard for you just lately, but your routines and your determination have served you well, and you never lost focus. This week however it is someone’s loss that is, thankfully, very much your gain.

Check your finances because a corner is developing and you need to check even your change. Your money has to work for you, not you for it, and for sure there has been some necessary but non planned expenditure just lately. You might also check out who is not paying their way. Neptune squares with the Sun midweek so economic help is well on the way.

If It’s Your Birthday This Week

You are made of stronger stuff! What has happened has been sent to test your good intentions, and you will pass with flying colours. Aim high,because this astrological year amply rewards those who help themselves!

Old soul

OLD SOULS of the World unite..... and heaven knows there are many of us.

We all know that it is the information coded and stored in our souls that releases all of our spiritual energies for any future lives we are able to participate in. The Old Soul has already made several appearances on this Earth and we carry with us a host of lives that we have experienced in our past times right here on this Planet. Where are we going and where did we come from much is etched in that malleable soul within us, and the information we can give out that appears to come from nowhere can actually come from somewhere. Of course we do meet those people from time to time who do not know that they have had more than one life and do not fathom or even wonder why? When Spiritual energies connect with us there comes sometimes, often, a reveal, and we have been those people at those times and here we are together in the here and now; with always one foot in the past and a focus on the future to spur us onwards. New souls are born daily, and each life of each new born just may be their opening gambit in the Old Soul’s journey through life, bringing what it will. Old Souls are reborn daily too, and we never seem to know when we have had enough, as we keep coming back. Are we aware of each and every life? Well I thought I knew all of my lives but I guess we do also get surprises. I was responding once to a question from a friend whose daughter was knee deep in English Tudor history and studying for an exam, and my reply shocked me, and her, because it gave replies not normally revealed in the history book and showed that I had an intimate connection with the Court of King Henry the Eighth. It took me ages to confirm the truth in what I said that day, but even then there were comments made by me that could only have been possible because I was actually there. I have lived a life as a woman too. I think this re confirms the reason why I do not always take on an automatic male view of things, and why my profession was my choice because divination has always been a female dominated genre, and it has been my World.

If you have the slightest inkling for bygone times you too may be an Old Soul. It emphasises too that the process of reincarnation is a real one. If your belief system makes it hard for you to accept the concept of rebirth, then get over it. Home into the past history that maybe stands out for you in some way, any way, and know that there are many walking the face of this Earth that have been around before. Old Souls are survivors who just keep on keeping on and we are born again with triggers that can take us right back when, whenever. Have you ever met someone who very quickly gets right in there, under your skin? I have found that there could be a connection from a past life and that maybe you just have met before! If history leaps out at you so that too can be explained by your being there and then, wherever and whenever that may be. Many Old Souls will take you back to Egypt where so much of our civilised World, as we know it, began. Some are revealing past lives that maybe originated in other Worlds on other planets; travelling Earthbound as starseeds. Anything is possible, especially since we know that this present World needs some help in moving on sometimes, and so many have chosen to be here in the Present Now to face the uncertainties of the future. I love to look at the most recent fresh crop of newly born babies; and whether they are new or old Souls I can’t help but to wonder what they will experience in their lifetime, and then, wonder if they will be able to enjoy another, like me!

Kenny‛s Postbag

Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com

KENNY, I find it hard to ask for what I deserve, as you rightly pointed out to me recently; but then I figure out that there are those who need things more than I do. Jane P. Jane if you deserve it you should have it, right? There is nothing whatsoever wrong with asking for that which you deserve, especially since you could maybe use it to help others. If you give then you should always get your share. If nobody asks nobody gets anything so be very unafraid to ask; even if maybe it is true that others deserve it more. Why not ask on behalf of other people who deserve too?

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life&leisure #puzzles /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Last weeks crossword answers can be found on page 60.

Sudoku

Doodle box

ACROSS 1. Vigorous (9) 8. Wonder (3) 9. Abstainer (11) 11. Go before (7) 12. Additional (5) 13. Majestic (6) 15. Blow (6) 17. Collier (5) 18. Balcony wall (7) 20. Communication (11) 22. Anger (3) 23. A plant (9) DOWN 2. Born (3) 3. Small wood (5) 4. Merchant (6) 5. Accumulate (7) 6. Airborne soldier (11) 7. Lasting (9) 10. Crises (11) 11. Practical (9) 14. Extend (7) 16. Coil (6) 19. Spacious (5) 21. Dry (of wine) (3)

Cryptic Crossword

Quick Crossword

ACROSS 1. It’s right for top actor to join the directors (9) 8. Strange ring worn by learned divine (3) 9. Approach the lamp so as to be revealed (4,2,5) 11. Got out of the way with theologian coming round quite deceived (7) 12. Frequently mollify missing skinhead (5) 13. Amused a female who wasn’t nice to know (6) 15. Some of the side let everybody down - get rid of them! (6) 17. It takes a cool head and continuous pain to find a hiding-place (5) 18. Make a ripping removal (4,3) 20. Not well and inclined to be not at all friendly (3-8) 22. Bill may take it as lovers do (3) 23. Fell back and received medical attention again (9) DOWN 2. Also in the direction of nothing (3) 3. Restrained Edward the graduate (5) 4. Refer to everybody with due order (6) 5. Wild flower came up under animal (3-4) 6. Visit the greyhound stadium and be ruined (2,2,3,4) 7. Mend a torn decoration (9) 10. Curse the way men talk! (11) 11. Popular government production of funny comedy about over-turned car (9) 14. All rest of stars in disturbance... (7) 16. ...restrictions are precisely defined in part (6) 19. The fruit of temptation... (5) 21. ...by a woman the night before (3)

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #people /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Legion’s spreads the word

OFFICERS OF the Royal British Legion were “delighted” with the success of an Open Day as they recruited new members and answered crucial welfare questions.

by JACK TROUGHTON

The Posh Club in La Marina hosted the event aimed at reaching out to British residents and visitors and informing them of the work of the Legion in District North of Spain.

The local branch is Gran Alacant and La Marina – which covers Gran Alacant, La Marina, Santa Pola, Guardamar, and inland to Dolores.

And a spokesman for the charity told RTN: “We were delighted with the numbers attending this local event which gave us the opportunity to talk to a lot of people; those who came in from other areas were given details of their local

Legion Branches.

“The Legion welcomes anyone to become members – they do not need to have an Armed Forces connection.”

He said the Legion actively campaigned and lobbied the British Government over issues affecting veterans; including the Insult to Injury Campaign, where those injured on active service can lose compensation to cover the cost of social care; and helping those suffering Asbestos Cancer, who can be left thousands of pounds worse off than civilian contemporaries.

The charity is also “custodians of Remembrance”, which involves organising annual services taking place around Remembrance Day on 11th November – and the highly visible

Poppy Appeal.

The Legion’s website www.britishlegion.org.uk shows the different facets of its work and contact details for all the branches of District North of Spain can be found at www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north. Call 676 451 780 for welfare inquiries and for all other queries, call 648 860 251.

Pictured are (from left, back row) Robin Hargrave, Chairman of Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch, District Welfare Coordinator Pamela Twissell-Cross, and Peggy Wyatt, Principal District Recruitment Officer; and (front row) Derek, Ron and John, all members of Gran Alacant and La Marina.

life&leisure #aunty virus //////////////////////////////////// Email auntyvirus@ roundtownnews.com

Windows 10

Hi Aunty, may I ask your advice once again. I use Internet Explorer and Windows 10. Recently I’ve been plagued with a black screen when I open up, and, when I click on almost anything, the screen stays black for anything up to 10 seconds. It is continuous, and it is driving me nuts. Can you help? Tom. Aunty says, Not too sure what your issue is. If the problem is with Internet Explorer, or Edge as it is in W10, perhaps try a different internet browser like Chrome or Firefox.

Perhaps running cleaners like Antimalwarebytes and Adaware will help, if some unwanted programs are causing issues with your internet browser. Have a look at the installed programs, via the control panel, and see if there are any suspicious ones in there, or look at what programs are loading on start up, and eliminate or stop those that you do not want to run all the time.

Interrupted by the message Dear Aunty Virus, My screen is frequently interrupted by the message, “A script on this page may be busy, or it may have stopped responding. You can stop the script now, open the script in the debugger, or let the script continue.”

I am then given 3 options, Continue, Debug script or Stop script. At the same time, at the top of the screen there appears the message “Mozilla firefox (No Responde). If I choose ‘continue’ I can carry on with my task for a short while before the message reappears. If I choose ‘debug script’ a panel appears at the bottom of the screen with a series of letters/numbers/symbols, but nothing appears to develop. If I choose ‘stop script’ again I can continue with whatever I am doing, but the message eventually reappears. Can you help, please? Alex

Aunty says, It sounds as if a file in an extension or add-on is not working, or is corrupted, so you´ll need to try to find out which extension or add.on is causing the problem, and then uninstall and reinstall it. Alternatively, you can simply restart firefox with no add-ons, and add the add-ons as and when you need them. That way, you should see which add-on is causing the problem.

1. Click the menu button and then click help .

2. From the Help menu choose Troubleshooting Information.

3. Click the Reset Firefox button in the upper-right corner of the Troubleshooting Information page.

4. To continue, click Reset Firefox in the confirmation window that opens.

Reply: Rock on, you’ll do me Tommy. Thank you for your patience and help.

Can’t log on Dear Aunty, I use Windows 10 on my laptop, but recently cannot log on to various websites eg Facebook, Hotmail, most Windows sites, anything with a HTTPS in the title. I can log onto Round Town News, Elche football club, etc. Any ideas? Terry

Aunty says HTTPS is a secure website that requires some form of user name and password to access. As you say, it happens on Hotmail and Facebook, but not other sites, so something in your browser settings is blocking the access.

Of course, this depends on which browser you are using, “Edge”, Internet Explorer, Chrome or Firefox. For example, in IE, you click the Tools menu > “Internet Options.” Click the Advanced tab > Security section. Check the boxes for “Use SSL 2.0” and “Use SSL 3.0”. You could try another browser instead.

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life&leisure #travel 

Exploring an Islamic castle THE CASTELL de Forna at Adsubia was explored by history lovers during a trip with archaeologist Emili Moscardo Sabater acting as guide.

by JACK TROUGHTON THE FRIENDS of Javea Museum – or Amics del Museu de Xabia (AMUX) – recently held an exhibition featuring local Islamic castles – and the Castle of Forna is one of the best preserved and most accessible of fortifications in the Marina Alta.

The day started with coffee and a short walk around the historic centre of Pego with Ximo Bolufer, the Director of the museum and ended tasting local delicacies; including Arroz con Costra, baked rice with an egg crust.

The castle’s largest tower was probably a military or refuge watchtower – or ‘atalaya’ – during Almohad Islamic times in the 12th or 13th Centuries. The village of Forna was taken from the Muslims by King Jaume I in 1258; but the first records of the castle are not until the middle of the 14th Century.

The extensions and conversion into a

feudal palace apparently took place 100 years later when the village was owned by the Cruilles family.

The castle was excavated in 1981, revealing ceramics dating back to the 14th to 16th Centuries and in 2003 it was restored by Adsubia Town Hall with technical assistance from MARQ, the provincial archaeological museum of Alicante.

And a particular piece of fun was a set of medieval or renaissance graffiti drawings on the wall of a room in the North West tower – one of the best collections in the province.

AMUX is a society of people of all nationalities with an interest in the history and archaeology of Javea and the Marina Alta. It supports the activities of the town museum and organises talks and excursions – annual membership is 10€.

More information is available from the museum or the blog http://amuxabia. weebly.com.

Inside the castle walls

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life&leis ure #food ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Creamy Chicken Casserole WINTER MAY not be as cold as in Britain, but there’s still nothing better than a hearty casserole to warm the long winter nights.

Here’s a recipe for a quick and easy casserole that will make you glow inside, serve with a jacket potato, plain boiled rice or simply with chunks of fresh bread to mop up the juices.

4 chicken legs or 8 chicken thighs, boned and cut into bite sized pieces.

2 medium red peppers, cut into chunks.

2 medium courgettes, cut in half lengthways and sliced.

1 large onion, roughly chopped.

2 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped.

300ml chicken stock.

4 tsps Dijon mustard.

4 tbls thick cream or crème fraîche.

1 tsp fresh thyme, stalks removed (or ½ tsp dried thyme).

Olive oil for frying.

Salt and pepper.

1 tsp cornflour mixed with a little water 1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees.

2. Fry the chicken pieces in a little oil over medium heat until lightly browned (about 5 minutes). Remove and place in a medium sized ovenproof casserole.

3. Fry the peppers and onion in the same oil until they take on a little colour, then add the courgettes and fry for a further 4-5 minutes. Add to the casserole.

4. Add the chicken stock to the pan and heat while scraping

of any burnt bits (these will add to the flavour).

5. Pour the stock over the chicken and vegetables, add the thyme and season with a little salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. Cover the casserole and place it in the oven. Cook for 40 minutes.

7. Remove the casserole from the oven and stir in the mustard, cream and cornflour. Return to the oven for 5 minutes. Serve immediately.

Tips Dijon mustard is best for this recipe because of its mild and creamy texture. You can use grain mustard if you prefer, but it may add a slight hint of vinegar. Ready-made English mustard is fine but you may need to use a little less.

Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes.

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life&leisure food



Taste of the orient MEMBERS OF the Dining Out Group of U3A Marina Baixa found themselves full of eastern promise after much-anticipated trip to the Yang Hu Restaurant in La Nucia.

last year’s food bank

La Nucia food collection

by JEANETTE RICE

LA NUCIA town has announced that, for the second year running, they will be participating in the “great food collection” campaign.

The town of La Nucia participated for the first time last year in a food collection for disadvantaged people and has announced that this weekend the “great food collection 2015” will take place within many local supermarkets.

Today, Friday 27th November, and tomorrow, anyone wishing to donated non-perishable food can do so at Dialprix La Nucia (former Super Valu), Super La Nucia, Lidl and Mercadona in the Plaza del Sol. The stores will take donations within their opening hours.

The national campaign aims to collect as much non-perishable food as possible, which is then distributed to the most disadvantaged within the community.

Last year’s campaign saw 7,800 kilos of food collected and it is hope that the volunteers, 65 in total, can surpass that total this year.

In particular they need donations of vegetable oil, sugar, cocoa powder, breakfast cereals, crackers, whole or semiskimmed milk, pasta, soups in packets or cartons, packets of mashed potatoes, canned fruit (pineapple, peach etc.), canned fish (tuna, mackerel, sardine etc.), cans of prepared meals (stew, meatballs etc.), canned tomato sauce, canned milk (for infants), poultry and vegetable baby food, fruit baby food and nappies.

Beatriz Pérez-Hickman, councillor for Social Welfare in La Nucia, said “we want to appeal to all residents of La Nucia to join this national campaign. Unfortunately there are always people hungry and we need to help however we can”.

Organised by Ann and Liz, 32 members enjoyed a fabulous meal and the marvellous company at the restaurant.

The group has a non-seating reservation policy, encouraging people to mix; however, if people do want to sit together, all they must do is arrive at a venue together.

U3A normally holds its meetings on the fourth Monday of the month; however the next general meeting is on Monday 30th November because the venue was booked.

Doors open at 10am and the desks close at 10.50am to allow a prompt 11am start.

Anyone wishing to join U3A will be made most welcome.

Visit the website www.u3amarinabaixa.com for more information or the Facebook page – those without internet access can call Secretary Joan Flint on 96 586 1226 or 663 637 167 to find out more.

Enjoying the Yang Hu

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #Spanish

Basic Spanish for everyday needs

by Jane Cronin



Introduction to Past Simple Festive THE TIME has come to learn the “past simple” tense in Spanish.

I know we learnt another past tense only recently, but that was the “imperfect” or “continuous” tense, and it’s not the same thing at all. The Spanish language has more past tenses than the English language, and herein lies a problem for us, especially those of us who like to translate everything word for word.

The past continuous tense has a number of possible translations, and therefore we have to be clear about the concept it represents. Today’s “past simple” tense is actually a little easier for us in this respect. It is used to describe finished events in the past. For example, things I did yesterday – I got up, I had breakfast, I went to work – these are all events that would be described in the past simple tense. This would be the same for things further back in the past – last year I went to Italy on my holidays, ten years ago I lived in Asturias, twenty-one years ago I was born, etc. (yes, that is a joke!)

These are all events of varying durations, but the important thing is that they are over and done with.

That essentially sums up the use of the past simple tense.

You will find that grammar books may give you a range of other uses, but they can probably be summed up by the ones I have explained above.

So, that’s the good news – it’s easy to know when to use the tense. The not so good news is how it is formed, which has its difficulties, particularly because there are quite a lot of irregular verbs in this tense. However, first things first, let’s look at the formation of regular past tense verbs, which after all do form the majority.

We will look first at “ar” verbs, and go back to one of our

most straightforward ones “mirar” to look.

Here are the endings for “-ar” verbs. As usual we place them on the end of the root, in this case “mir”.

-é -amos -aste -asteis -ó -aron

I will set out the verb in linear form to avoid problems in the way it comes out on the page and to allow room for the translations.

Miré – I looked Miraste – you looked (familiar) Miró – he, she looked. You looked (formal) Miramos – we looked Mirasteis – you looked (familiar plural) Miraron – they looked.

There are a couple of things to point out straight away.

Firstly, notice the accent on the first and third person endings, which are important when saying the word. If we remove the accent from “miró”, that will give us “miro”, meaning “I look” in the present tense.

Notice, on the other hand that “miramos” is the same as the present tense form – so it can mean “we look” or “we looked”.

We would only distinguish the difference between these two words by being aware of the context in which they are used.

If you think this is confusing, just think of the words “put” or “cut” in English which are exactly the same in past and present, or even more confusing, the word “read” which is spelt the same but pronounced differently in the present and past.

Well, we’ve made a start. There will be quite a few more articles on this subject, but at least you now have something to think about between now and next week! See you then.

season boost THE ANNUAL HELP of Denia and the Marina Alta Christmas Fair raised over 3,500€ to support its ongoing work in the community.

Saturday shoppers arrived at the Los Arcos Restaurant at Pedregeur throughout the day to enjoy all the usual charity stalls, and buy cakes, bric-a-brac, books and toys. There were also stalls selling cacti, jewellery, rugs, Christmas cards and calendars – Santa was also present, running a ‘play your cards right’ prize challenge.

The charity has thanked everyone who supported the event and the organisers and volunteers for their “tireless” efforts. To find out more about HELP or to join its team of volunteers, visit the website www.helpofdenia.com or its Facebook page ‘HelpDAMA’.

Crossword Solutions for Last Week CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS Across: 7 Primer; 8 Search; 10 Receded; 11 Maxim; 12 Seen; 13 Knell; 17 Plump; 18 Pare; 22 Sloop; 23 Elector; 24 Eleven; 25 Patron.

Down: 1 Oppress; 2 Pitched; 3 Wends; 4 Sea-mile; 5 Proxy; 6 Thyme; 9 Odd number; 14 Clipper; 15 Pasture; 16 Wearing; 19 Asset; 20 Rowed; 21 He-man.

QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 7 Repair; 8 Damage; 10 Verbose; 11 Agree; 12 Road; 13 Tally; 17 State; 18 Moor; 22 Tramp; 23 Tension; 24 Fluffy; 25 Rugged.

Down: 1 Bravery; 2 Spartan; 3 Pilot; 4 Manacle; 5 Harry; 6 Sever; 9 Devastate; 14 Stupefy; 15 Foliage; 16 Grenade; 19 Stuff; 20 Vague; 21 Annul.

Suduko Answer

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure #pets



Dog language IN THIS article Im going to try to teach you how to become more at ease within your family home and that directly means teaching you how to understand your best friends language. Dogs do not understand ours.

by MARTIN JAMES

ITS A very complex understanding that requires both time and patience on the both parties.

The objective being that your lifestyle will change forever, an for the better I can assure you. My family and I have been living like this for over a decade now and the results are minding blowing.

Life will become easier and your sense of pride and confidence will most certainly grow. Personally seeing people walking with their four legged friends while under the utter most control is a pleasure. It shows commitment an respect to the animal.

From day one you will notice a difference between yourself and your dog. Now its not going to be plain sailing and it will be be frustrating to say the least. But I assure you it will be worth it.

There is a couple things that you will need to purchase yourself and I can help with those items along the way. You will need to be focused on the changes coming.

For now I would like you to really consider

this. Upon your return to the family home, office or workshop. How does your dog react? Do you instantly pet your furry friend.

Is that the only way you can reach the front door before being subjected to harassment.

Did you nip to the loo and got harassed upon your return.

Between now and the next time, try to ignore your dog until they settle down and relax. This is when they are lying on their side and not looking at you. it will be hard to start with, this is when your patience will be tested. And only once the animal has relaxed and totally lost interest in you should you recall back to you. This is the start of the balance of leadership within the home changing. Depending on the individual animal this may take a few minutes or hours. My own experience in this stage was hard, an it took hours. This is a change of lifestyle from the start. This now needs to be implemented every time you return to your dog.

Good luck to you all and until the next time. woofpad@gmail.com

Shelter’s progress ANIMAL CHARITY AKIRA proudly invites everyone to view the new purpose-built shelter currently nearing completion in Benissa.

It is hoped to finish construction soon but the charity hopes supporters might wish to see progress on the dog shelter for themselves at the Polygon Industrial Estate, Benissa, near to the Eco Park. The charity, backed by its fund raising team and people’s donations, is supported by Teulada Moraira and Benssa town halls in building a rescue and re-homing centre to serve the two municipalities. The open day has been organised on Thursday 1st December between 2pm and 4pm and there will be signs to the site from the main road – with volunteers looking forward to explaining the facility.

BRONCO - He is a bright and intelligent Pastor Alemán 4 years old - He loves to please you. Bronco is a good boy but would also protect your home. He is full of fun and loves the lady doggies - Bronco needs Somebody to love and take care of him Castrated- full passport - negative of lishmania. 96 5878284 info@doggieangells.org

Alma Blanca rescued

FINCA SAN Miguel de Salinas has managed to rescue another horse. Alma Blanca, whose name means White Soul, had been neglected, and not fed properly, and it is thought her owner wanted to have her put down because of her age. She is about 20.

Finca San miguel de Salinas will do all they can to give Alma Blanca the love and care that she needs, to give her a good retirement, but they need some help. Every donation is welcome!

Their bank details are: Banco Popular oficina 1055-14, IBAN ES 80 0075 1055 4806 0035 0496 or Paypal happyanimalesspanien@gmail.com.

They are having an open day on Saturday 28th November from 1pm, and also a special Christmas open day on Sunday 13th December from 1pm with music and a raffle.

Take along some carrots, apples, old bread, dog-food , or dog-biscuits, and have a drink and a bite to eat in a nice atmosphere. All money raised goes to the animals for food, hay and vet’s bills. You can also sponsor an animal from 5€ or 10€ a month, or be a member for 10€ a year.

Finca San miguel de Salinas is on the canal road between Villamartín and San Miguel de Salinas. For more information see www.happyanimalesspanien.com, become a member of the FB group finca san miguel de salinas or email nicosolm@hotmail.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure health

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Facts about pneumonia

PNEUMONIA IS swelling of lung tissue, usually due to an infection, but can also be caused by breathing in corrosive chemicals, or toxic smoke from a fire.

Rarely, pneumonia can result from breathing in something to which you are allergic, eg “farmer’s lung”, caused by breathing in dust from mouldy hay.

Pneumonia commonly affects: babies, young children and elderly people. smokers. people with lung conditions or weakened immune systems. people who have had their spleen removed. alcoholics.

Seek medical advice if you have any of: shivering and fever. a cough, possibly with yellow, green, brownish or bloodstained phlegm. fast and shallow breathing. bluish tinge around lips and nails. pain on breathing or coughing. acute confusion. herpes (cold sores).

If you experience rapid breathing, chest pain or confusion, seek urgent medical attention.

Mild cases of pneumonia can usually be treated at home with antibiotics, rest and fluids. For people with other health conditions, pneumonia can sometimes be severe and should be treated in hospital as complications can be fatal.

If somebody has recently been abroad, they should tell their doctor as foreign bacteria may require a different treatment.

In repeated cases of pneumonia and where the condition fails to respond to a series of different treatments, further investigations will be necessary to rule out more serious conditions such as lung cancer.

Even following successful treatment, the patient may feel tired, get short of breath, and have a persistent cough for a few weeks.

A pneumococcal vaccine protects against the most common kind of pneumonia, All adults over 65 years. of age, and those with chronic conditions, should consider having a pneomococcal vaccine. If unsure, contact your health centre for advice. Unlike the flu vaccine which needs to be given every year, the pneumonia vaccine is usually a ‘one off’ injection. Around five

years after the vaccination, your doctor can take a blood sample to see if it is still effective. Failure to get vaccinated means you run the risk of catching pneumonia.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

63

Fourth anniversary of Spinal Unit

“WITH ENDOSCOPIC spinal surgery we can operate on disc hernias with one single 3-4 mm cut” says Dr. Benghezala, HCB Neurosurgeon.

The Spinal Unit of the Hospital Clínica Benidorm has incorporated a new system with a spinal endoscope, allowing neurosurgeons to operate on the lumbar area and the rest of the spine through endoscopic techniques.

In four years, the unit has evolved and adapted these latest techniques in order to, minimize the structural damage that comes with this type of surgery and speed up patients’ recovery time.Dr. Karim Benghezala, HCB Neurosurgeon and creator of the unit, says, “In four years we have managed to control MISS techniques (Minimally Invasive Surgery), Microsurgery and now Endoscopic surgeries; ie the three bases of advanced spinal surgery.” The new techniques mean, for the patient: One single miniscule incision (approx. 0,5cm).

Possibility of local anaesthetic.

Hospital discharge the same day or next day.

Rapid recuperation (back to work in approx. 4 weeks).

“This new endoscopic system allows an innovative, safe and non-aggressive access to the spine, beating the endoscopic systems used previously, and improving versatility. Additionally, this allows us to treat obese patients with spinal pathologies without the difficulties found with the usual techniques”, explained Dr. Benghezala, adding “These advantages allow us to minimize structural damage which affects the patient positively, so that, after the operation, they can return home quickly, on the same day if circumstances permit, and within just a few weeks recover their normal life”.

The endoscopic techniques cannot be applied to all spinal pathologies but can be used in the most common ones such as disc hernias.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #people

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The Samaritans need you! by patricia thompson

DO YOU have what it takes to be a Samaritan in Spain? Are you curious about the work of Samaritans in Spain?

Would you be interested in becoming a duty “listener” on the 900 52 51 00 freephone help line which offers a 24 hour/365 days a year service, or do you have a few hours a week to helpin a charity shop, fundraising or admin?

In 2016 Samaritans in Spain will be expanding their network and are currently advertising for new volunteers to come forward not only for their headquarters at Punta Prima, but also for new listener teams planned in the Gran Alacant - Alicante, Javea and Mazarrón areas. Samaritans in Spain welcome applications from fluent English speaking adult volunteers of any nationality. Due to the confidential nature of their work offering impartial emotional support, listener volunteers are asked to provide references for some background checks and undergo a period of training and mentoring. It is a thoroughly rewarding yet demanding rôle and hence there is constant support and focus on team welfare and back-up.

Some listeners at Punta Prima also volunteer for the charity shop and are on call during shop hours and for face-to-face consultations at the newly opened drop-in centre.Other shop volunteers are happy tobeengaged solely forthe retail side of things but have awareness training and are fully briefed to handle people in distress and direct them to the duty listening team.

Many callers make a first tentative approach for help by browsing in the shop and getting to know the staff and stopping for a friendly chat.Extra hands are always welcome even if only one day a week. The duty rosters are drawn up as far as possible to suit everyone´s needs. All volunteers are unpaid, but expenses may be claimed.

Samaritans in Spain would also love to hear from volunteers who might like to assist at headquarters with general office admin., delivering publicity material, running errands and so on.It might suit a recently retired person with their own transport who would welcome joining an established group for social contacts and an opportunity to get out and about and meet other people. Samaritans volunteers also attend shows, fairs and exhibitions and help with organising fun day events etc. All volunteers receive a monthly newsletter, invitations to group social occasions, AGM and other team meetings.

For those who do not feel they can commit to a listener role orregular workat the centre, there is also a new group called Friends of Samaritans (they have their own Facebook page) who organise numerous fundraising events.For more information please visit www.samaritansinspain.comand, to register your interestas a volunteer for Alicante, please contact the GeneralManagerstephenrbaker@ outlook.comand help play an important part inyour local community. Remember, ifanyone in distress needs someone to talk to, lines are always open: Call free 900 525100.

Moraira Teulada monthly general meeting details THE VENUE for the meeting, on Monday 7th December, is Salón de Banquettes, Avenida Mediterráneo, Teulada.

The doors will open at 9.30am in order for the committee to prepare the room. The formal meeting starts at 10:30am. Those attending are welcome from 9:30am until 10:30am to join groups and also find out about travel and cultural events. Once the meeting has started at 10:30am these desks will be closed. The membership desk will not be open at this meeting for renewals nor for new member applications. These will have to wait until the first meeting in the new near, on Monday 4th January 2016. Whilst there is no speaker at this meeting, the committee have made arrangements for the U3A Band to play between 10am and 10.30am, before the meeting. The photograph group will display some of the photographs that were exhibited in an exhibition held in the Art Hall in La Senieta in Moraira in October, and Pauline McGough will sing some Christmas songs.

The writing group, which has enjoyed recent successes, will present a Christmas reading and the drama group, who recently gave a special performance to the local children of Teulada and Moraira of “Alice”, will present a comical sketch. All this, along with coffee, mince pies and Christmas goodies, plus the free raffle with three prizes, one of 50€ and two of 25€, will take place after the formal business.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

65

life&leisure #people



Christmas comes to town CALPE’S HOSTS a Christmas Fair next month that is planned will become an annual event – and the largest in the region.

THE HISTORIC centre of the Old Town will become a winter wonderland packed with attractions for all the family from Saturday 6th December until Tuesday 8th December.

And Calpe Town Hall has brought in specialist festival organisers La Fragua de Vulcano to run the event – with market stalls being given free to local businesses and associations.

Councillor Carole Saunders said: “It is the first time the organisation has been to Calpe. Apparently they are very good and run different events throughout the year.

“They bring everything to turn the streets into Christmas. There will be lights, inflatables, and a whole host of people dressed up in costume.

“There is music and workshops, large

The Ritz

Gift shopping THE RITZ Restaurant in Albir will be holding a Christmas gift fair on Wednesday 2nd December.

Christmas.

Nativity scenes, and, obviously a chance to visit Santa in his Grotto,

or as the Spanish say ‘La Caseta de Santa Claus’.”

In the build up to Christmas many of us struggle to buy that “something special” gift for our loved ones or friends, so stalls at the Ritz seasonal fair will be offering a wide variety of present choices, ranging from Guess watches to perfumes and beauty products, as well as items that may make the finishing touches to your decorations or outfits.

The restaurant is on Passeig de les Estrelles, Playa del Albir, and starts at 12 noon. For further information please telephone 966 86 74 48 or go to their website www.theritzalbir.com.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leis ure people /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Humanists of Murcia easy rambling

by PATRICIA THOMPSON

TWENTY HUMANIST members and friends met at the harbour in La Azohía for a gentle stroll up the rambla to Campillo de Adentro.

There was a stop at the edge of the pueblo for a short talk on Christopher Hitchens’ interpretation of the 10 commandments.

Another stop was made at the Campillo bar and social

centre for drinks and then the group set off to the old Guardia Civil barracks. There are several differing explanations of the original use of the building. The walk returned down the rambla and some walkers who had not expected to complete the walk excelled themselves by doing just that. The morning’s discussions during the walk centred, as expected, to the French murders and how society could

cope with such incidents.

Lunch was held at La Chara Restaurante in Isla Plana for their usual excellent menú del día.

The next easy rambling walk may be on Boxing Day depending on the numbers. For more information about the Humanists of Murcia activities, go to the new web site at humanistsofmurcia.com.

Dog shelter to host Christmas fair THE LA Nucia dog shelter, Protectora de Animales de La Nucia, is hosting an open day with a Christmas theme on Sunday 6th December.

The shelter, which houses unwanted and abandoned animals, is hoping that as many people as possible can join them in celebrating the festive time whilst raising money to help maintain the shelter. From 9am until 2pm visitors will be able to enjoy a market, bar, music and of course see many of the animals looking for “forever homes.” The shelter can be found at the Polígono Industrial de l´Alberca, Parcela 51, 03530 La Nucía. Further information can be found at www.protectoraanimaleslanucia.com.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure people

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Let it snow...indoors!

by JACK TROUGHTON

SNOW IS forecast in the Marina Alta on Saturday 5th December when Teulada Moraira Lions Club stages its ‘Christmas Cracker IV’.

This annual Christmas celebration – and the Lions Club’s legendary snow machine – will be in the Plaza de la Iglesia from 6pm.

And for the first time the fun is being staged under canvas. Because there will already be a huge tent in the Church Square – measuring 25m by 17m – the club has been invited to take advantage of it...so it will be snowing indoors.

Enjoy the start of the festive season with stalls selling mince pies and shortbread – the adults might also enjoy the warming taste of ‘Gluhwein’.

The Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir will be on hand to lead everyone in some traditional carol singing – sadly the Band of the Salvation Army from Madrid has been forced to cancel at short notice; but other musicians have stepped into the breach to play live on the night.

The event is free to all but Lions will be circulating through the crowd in their distinctive yellow tops ‘rattling buckets’ to collect donations – and proceeds from the night will go to the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal.

For details of all Teulada Moraira fund raising events, go to the club’s Facebook page or join the mailing list by sending ‘add me’ by email to mailinglist.tmlions@gmail.com.

Jacaranda’s presentation party

THE JACARANDA in Moraira is staging a special ‘Auction Presentation Night’ on Monday 14th December at 6.30pm with two Costa Blanca charities receiving welcome donations.

The restaurant and bar regularly stages Saturday afternoon auctions with Bob Gingell wielding the gavel – the sales on the first and third weekend of the month.And now animal charity AKIRA will receive cash towards its new shelter, while Make A Smile gets a helping hand to support children cared for by EMAUS.The evening at the Jacaranda on the El Portet Road starts at 6.30pm and there will be free tapas and a ‘mini auction’, as well as the presentations.Providing the entertainment to get everyone in the party mood are sensational singer Mike Lee and the fantastic vocalist Becky BB.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #people 

Up the Legion - another successful poppy appeal

by KEITH NICOL

THE ROYAL British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal has once again been raising funds for ex-servicemen and their families. In fact, all year round, as well as in the run up to Remembrance Sunday, volunteers work hard, either helping with fundraising or doing something else to help the cause.

Members of the Torrevieja Branch

At the Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch, the Branch Treasurer, Brian Hunt, was keen to point out that all the funds raised in Spain stay in Spain to help beneficiaries who live here, with 91% of all the monies going directly to help ex-servicemen and women, and just nine cents in the euro going toward administration.

The Torrevieja Branch raised 18,000€ in 2014, although Chairman Gerry Lynch explained that local efforts took a major knock recently with the closure of the municipal theatre and the cancellation of the planned Armistice Show. However, he was hopeful that this year’s end result will be pretty similar to 2014.

Similar efforts have also been taking place at the Orihuela Costa Branch where the new Poppy Appeal Coordinator is Eddie Coleman. The branch had raised 10,666€, to the end of October, from a variety of different events and functions. Following the Poppy Appeal count, the total sum raised by the Orihuela Costa Branch currently stands at 31,000€, with a number of benefactors still to hand in their monies.

Here in Spain the funds collected are consolidated by the District North offices, from where they are allocated to the support and welfare of veterans and their families living in Spain. This can include vital medical equipment, hearing aids, wheelchairs, glasses, mobility scooters, food or anything else required for their immediate support. All applications for help are income and savings related, to ensure the neediest are dealt with first, but the RBL will reply to any call for assistance within 3 days. Branches are also training more welfare case workers, with volunteers who generously give up their time to work with the many brave souls who gave, and continue to give, so much for us all.

Contact details of all the branches in District North (Spain) are available on the website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spainnorth. For welfare enquiries please ring 676 45 17 80 and, for all other queries, ring 648 86 02 51.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure charity



Christmas Market success CHILDREN AS young as five years to sixth form students entertained visitors to the Xabia International College’s 19th Christmas Market with some inspired musical performances.

MABS’ Sue Reula thanks guests

MABS enjoys a party

by JACK TROUGHTON

THE MABS Cancer Support Group Benidorm celebrated its fourth anniversary with 155 people joining the celebration at Camping El Raco.

Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course meal at the dinner Dance followed by live entertainment from compere Danny and the night’s singer, together with the Spanish group Ole Duo. And once again MABs has thanked generous businesses for the donation of raffle prizes, with Tien 21 supplying a Nes-

presso Coffee Machine won by Diana and Tony, from Javea.

MABS Director Sue Reula thanked everyone for supporting a successful evening and underlined how every euro raised throughout the year went to help those with cancer.

She also said the charity had secured funding for a palliative care and respite bed at the Savia Nursing Home in La Nucia for the next 12 months because of continued fund raising and generous donations.

Photographs from the evening are currently being displayed at www.facebook.com/mabsbenidorm.

Saturday’s event had over 20 stalls offering goodies from homemade cupcakes, scarves and gifts to more typical festive fare such as crackers, cards, sweets and decorations.

Highlight of the day at the Javea school was the arrival of Father Christmas who thrilled young ones with an early gift and posed for photos in his glittering Grotto.

The school thanked Friends of XIC and their helpers for their hard work in organizing another successful seasonal market.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #people 

HELP on the road VOLUNTEERS OF Jalon Valley HELP are now mobile after the charity purchased a much-needed van to ferry people, equipment, and furniture to sell in its shops.

Van

by JACK TROUGHTON VOLUNTEERS OF Jalon Valley HELP are now mobile after the charity purchased a much-needed van to ferry people, equipment, and furniture to sell in its shops.

The Masonic Home of Valencia Association donated 5,000€ to help buy the second hand vehicle; and HELP was also supported by a 1,500€ from La Caixa Bank, and 1,000€ each from Premier Villas Spain, Ansteel, and S&S Building Services.

And SR Print and Design completed all the graphics for the van – which lists the supporters’ names on the coachwork – while mechanic Steve Barnsley from Benichembla will keep it on the road.

The can bears the charity’s mottos: “Together we can make a difference” and “Jalon Valley HELP, in time of need”.

The van – which is already in use – was officially unveiled at a cava reception outside the Moraira Charity Shop. It was described as being “worth its weight in gold”.

Charity President Elaine Horton told RTN: “It’s a lovely van and I cannot begin to tell you what a difference it has already made for are team of volunteers.

“The money arrived within a month of me saying ‘we need a van’. As soon as the Freemasons heard of the appeal, the money just fell in – the van is second hand but it looks very good.”

She said it was felt the Jalon Valley charity was now getting the recognition larger good causes attracted. “This is a huge leap forward for us and we are very grateful for it. “As a charity, we cannot do it on our own. We need volunteers and the community putting its hands in its pockets to support us.”

Date change for carol evening

DUE TO totally unforeseen circumstances, the date of the Vivace Carol Evening has had to be changed and will now be on Thursday 3rd December at 8pm.

Once again, San Miguel based choir Vivace is inviting everyone to join with them in a gentle start to the Christmas season. A programme of community carols, seasonal items and a short Christmas cantata sung by the choir, make up the evening’s entertainment.

Admission is free, and carol sheets will be provided, so why not go along to the Casa de Cultura in San Miguel for an hour or so, and get into the spirit of Christmas.

Remember the date! Thursday 3rd December at 8pm.

For any further information, telephone 965 72 09 19.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure people



Giving4Giving nearing target

by JEANETTE RICE

THE GIVING4GIVING charity has yet again generously donated to another local charity this week with a cheque for 1,000€.

Gary, from Giving4Giving, went to the Anemona office on Monday (breast cancer charity in Benidorm) to present them with a 1,000€ cheque to help fund their treatments and also buy Christmas presents for sick children hospitalised over the festive period. This donation means that the charity has now donated a massive 39,000€ to charities but would love to say by the end of the year that they had been able to donate 40,000€. This is where our readers can help, as the Giving4Giving charity shop in La Nucia is yet again hosting their very popular euro sale this weekend, starting today Friday 27th November and also Saturday 28th November, between 10am and 2pm.

All fashion items are priced at just 1€! This includes clothing, footwear, bags, jewellery and accessories. There are hundreds of bargains in the store, so it’s an ideal opportunity to grab a bargain and help support the local cancer charities.

The shop is situated at 12 Monver Plaza CV70, La Nucia. If you require further information or wish to make a donation please telephone 603 13 76 97.

cheque presentation

Christmas Glitter

THE CHARITY Shop of Calpe put everyone in a festive mood with its successful annual ‘Christmas Event’ last Saturday – raising 2,040€ to continue supporting good causes in the Marina Alta town.

The public areas of Galerias Mar Azul glittered with tinsel, balloons and Christmas decorations as people browsed stalls, bought cakes, raffle and tombola tickets, and enjoyed a refreshing glass of Buck’s Fizz.Charity shop President John Bridge said the fair was once again well supported by customers. “Thanks you to everyone who donated prizes for the raffle and tombola, both were extremely popular and added to the fun.”

Sale success HELP OF Denia and the Marina Alta raised a total of 1,600€ after staging a charity auction at the El Cid Restaurant.

The sale took place in October, but when President Candida Wright and Gail Horler, the Fund Raising Coordinator they were surprised and delighted to accept a donation of 350€ from the El Cid Charity Auction Team.

The 235 lots in the auction sold for 1,250 and with the proceeds were topped up to the final amount written on the cheque, presented by Alan Lewis on behalf of the auction team.

Handed the cheque, Candida said: A big thank you to all the team and we are already looking forward to next year’s fun event.”

Anyone interested in learning more about HELP of Denia & Marina Alta please visit the website www.helpofdenia.com or their Facebook page ‘HelpDAMA’.

(from left) Candida, Alan and Gail

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure #motoring

Tim Saunders Independent unbiased car reviewer

Peugeot 5008 MPV



TRANSPORTING SEVEN people in comfort can present a problem, unless of course you don’t mind Transit vans.

PEUGEOT HAS a solution though in its 5008 MPV (multipurpose vehicle).

Unlike the earlier Peugeot 807 people carrier the 5008 is more compact, making it more enjoyable to drive but this does mean that if there are seven passengers there’s not a huge amount of room for luggage. Importantly for the driver it’s not too difficult to reverse or manoeuvre.

This style of vehicle is quite van-like in terms of appearance but it is very much like a car to drive and driver appeal is one of the advantages of the Peugeot. The test model, a two-litre diesel Allure – top-of-the-range - is equipped with a six-speed automatic gearbox but it can also be driven like a manual. At low speeds, typically up hill, this gearbox is a little indecisive, not sure whether to go for third gear or second, which does make for the occasional uncomfortable jolt. It is quite frugal for a vehicle of its size, returning over 40mpg on average.

I put it through its paces over a long weekend to Pembrokeshire where we experienced a variety of roads.

On the motorway (the M4, over the Severn Bridge) it was very capable, happily cruising at 70mph, even though it was heavily laden with five passengers and luggage. Cruise

control makes life so much easier on such travels and the electric child lock engaged by the click of a switch on the driver’s door is easy to operate.

The one-way streets, invariably up sharp inclines in this part of the world, certainly cause the tired motorist some confusion but thank goodness I’m driving the 5008 because the auto box makes light work of the hills. I’m not usually a fan of electronic handbrakes but the one fitted to this vehicle is quick and simple to engage and disengage.

Inside, the Allure benefits from an enormous panoramic glass roof (with electric sliding cover), which makes the vehicle really light and airy as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz. The front passengers get captain style seats with pull down armrests that can be adjusted to the desired height. The driver’s seat is certainly comfortable, hardwearing and supportive although I do find that when my daughter’s baby seat is in place behind I cannot push my seat back quite as far as I might desire. There are all the gadgets the modern day motorist could dream of including sat nav, a useful head-up display showing the speed and ensuring the driver doesn’t take their eyes off the road.

Air conditioning and a good quality sound system are all part of the package.

New price range: 22,223€ - 30,892€ Power: 163bhp 0-60mph: 10.2secs Top speed: 118mph Economy: 40mpg Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz

Advanced motorist Tim Saunders is the former Business and Motoring Editor of the Bournemouth Daily Echo. His regular test reports appear in numerous newspapers, magazines and websites throughout the UK, Ireland and Gibraltar. For more independent unbiased car reviews and videos visit www.testdrives.biz

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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life&leisure #clubs /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Benitachell Bowls Club “Tigers”v “Bonalba” ANOTHER EXCITING, extremely close game meant the Tigers lost, away to Bonalba, by 1 shot overall (58 - 59).

At least they are consistent in losing by the narrowest of margins. Well done to the Challenger side who won 1311, and to the friendly side who won 26-12.

“BBC Lions” V “Javea Onyx” BBC Lions were at home to Javea Green Onyx, winning 6-4 but the result could nearly have been 10-0 with two teams going into the last end 13-13. The ladies team won convincingly 26 – 9. The overall score was Javea Onyx 55 shots and 4 points, BBC Lions 83 shots and 6 points. The challengers lost on the last end 34 – 11.

“Jaguars” v “Quartz” It was a very tough day against the 2nd in the table, Javea Quartz, where the final score was Jaguars 2, Quartz 8.

“Jaguars” v “Opals” This was expected to be a tough game against the league leaders. At one time the Jaguars were ahead

on three of the four scoring rinks but, after some great bowling from all teams, ended up winning 2 and losing 2, but lost out on the shot difference by 69 to 89.The final score was Jaguars 4 Opals 6.

“Winter League” v “Berleen Team” A win on all 5 rinks, plus the shot difference, gave the BBC Winter League Team at home to La Siesta all 12 points, another excellent result for the whole team, the second in two weeks, and they remain in second place in the league. The Berleen Team, while not playing, still remain top on shot difference.

BBC Saturday Winter Rinks The BBC Winter Rinks, sponsored by Prudential International and Direkt Optik, have 4 teams on 6 points, separated by shot difference, with “Doggett Coat & Badge” having a game in hand.

For a full update and further information about forthcoming games and results, please visit www.benitachellbowlsclub.com.

Javea Bridge Club open day Members of Javea Bridge Club, in conjunction with their major sponsors; Telitec and Scottsdale Overseas, recently held an open day at their club premises.

Several prospective new members were welcomed, to see at first-hand how they conduct their regular tournaments, and to be introduced to their Teaching Programme. A total of 360€ was raised on the day, which was presented to Asociación Familiars de Alzheimer Teulada. For more information about Javea Bridge Club see www.javeabridgeclub.com or telephone Pat 966 47 21 58.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leis ure #leagues /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Alfaz Fantasy Football League

by PATRICIA THOMPSON LAST WEEK’S 9 Premier League games gave the Fantasy League 29 goals,4 clean sheets,32 yellow cards and no red cards.

Wayne’s team, Arthur’s Wombles, are at the top of the Alfaz Fantasy Football League, replacing Joe’s team, Keith Lard F.C. Paul’s Elite Kitchens, Swinton and Joanna’s Hup Hannah City are in joint 3rd place. At the foot of the table Lyn’s Handbrake City are still trailing Alison’s Team Foxywise.

In the U.K.T.V.SPAIN Junior League, Super Rhys are still at the top, despite pressure from Nathan’s Tyrrannosuarez-Rex F.C. Bradley’s Hero to Zero are now looking a good bet to finish up with the wooden spoon.

After 4 weeks, Maxine’s team, Plaistow13hammers, has given way to Joanna’s team, Hup Hannah City, by 1 point. Jin’s Dream Team are in 3rd place. Lyn’s Handbrake City and Alison’s Foxywise are still at the bottom. Karen’s Tricky Trees and Gil’s Eastlanders are battling it out for the QUICK SAVE 20€ voucher, both on 76 points. Joanna’s Hup Hannah City have taken a firm grip on the Leonard Knowles Construction Golden Boot League with a 17 point lead over Keith Lard F.C. Kevin’s team, One for the Road, are 3rd. At the bottom Shelley’s team, Funsize Hammers, are just 2 points behind Foxywise.

Charlie’s team, Motherwell F.C., were the highest scoring team this week with 59 points. His team joins Clive’s team, F.A.Cup Kings, this week’s lowest scoring team with a minus 2, in the Monthly Premier Imports Draw for a case of Cava.

Manager of the Month for November is sponsored by EVEREST Restaurant in Albir who provide an excellent Indian cuisine as well as other tasty dishes. Arthur’s Wombles have a 4 point lead over 3 teams, Keith’s Last One Out, Mick’s Marvels and Dave’s Loosen my Sterlings.

Chris’s team, Flying Swans, have won this week’s Super Breakfast for 2 sponsored by Kate at Rafters, after moving up 76 places to 155.

The replays in the RTN K.O. Cup Competition took place last weekend when the Bentley Boys disposed of Danny’s Bone Breakers by 36-22. Waverley Wanderers beat one of our junior teams, Roos & Woos Wombles, by 18-14, whilst Law’s Lads became the 10th Lady Manager to make it through to the last 64. The draw for the next round will soon be on the website www.alfazffl.com, or pop into one of the bars which display the league tables and results on their notice boards, in Albir, The Local & Wyndhams, in Moraira, Barilloche, in Benidorm, Union Jack, and in Alfaz, Robin’s Nest.

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Classifieds

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Book your advert now 902 118 999 (ext 2) email: classifieds@roundtownnews.com

All Major Credit Cards Accepted - 0.31€ per word + IVA



PRISTINE POOLS PROFESSIONAL, CONSCIENTIOUS POOL REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE SERVICE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS

• Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired with a proven guaranteed success rate • Structural leaks investigated and repaired • Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, Ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed • Refurbishments & upgrades undertaken • Weekly maintenance contracts

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Extensive references. All work guaranteed.

TEL: 966 774 199 / 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com NO CALLOUT CHARGE WITHIN THE LOCAL AREA

Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida

Chris Young transport UK-SPAIN-IRELAND All european destinations

Removals with the personal touch.

Full/part loads. Parcels, flat packs, luggage, door to door service, short/long term storage. Competitive rates, PETS CARRIED WITH CARE.

965 696 750 | 0044 (0) 744 791 8589 chrisyounge73979@aol.com

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

K9, PET ONLY TRANSPORTATION We only use fully fitted out ex police vehicles to transport your pet. DEFRA Registered, Fully legal.Specialist in Animal only Transportation. Owners welcome to travel with there pets k9transportation@hotmail. com UK: (00)442380 668 000 SPAIN: 671 797 151 PET TRAVEL UK Family pet transporters Spain/UK. Travel with your pets for free.

All air conditioned vehicles (no vans) www.pettraveluk.co.uk. Removals also arranged in other vehicles.

Tel UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960 130 537 IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A DOG OR PUPPY please join our Facebook group. We have many dogs, large, small, scruffs and pedigree! Just go to Facebook and search Costa Blanca Dog Homing. Even if you cannot offer a home, rescues are always needing foster homes, and just sharing the dog posts really helps us to help them.

DOG SITTING HOME FROM HOME Secure garden,Costa Blanca North 637 160 545

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY Own your own lingerie, clothing and swimwear boutique. Prices from 10,000 Euros including stock and shop fittings. Full help and support given throughout.

Established company with over 10 years trading in Spain. Call Peter on 660 170 355 without obligation.

STRICTLY SOCIAL CLUB Why not come and join us for an afternoon of entertainment, fun, quizzes and games.

We also have speakers, and arrange meals out and coach outings. We meet on the top floor at The New Asturias Restaurant, Punta Prima between 2.30 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each Month. Open to all age-groups. For more info call Margaret on 966730569 or Brian on 678807159.

Looking forward to meeting you.

LA BAMBA’S BALLROOM / LATIN / ARGENTINE TANGO / SEQUENCE DANCING. Los Rosales Restaurant, Guardamar CV895 ( near Lemon Tree Sunday Market ) MONDAY- Social Dance 8.30pm - 10.30pm ( Sequence Class 7.30pm - 8.30pm ) FRIDAY- Social Dance 7.30pm - 10.30pm WEDNESDAYNew beginners class ( new beginners welcome every Wednesday ) 2pm - 3pm Intermediate class 3pm - 4pm Intermediate plus class 4pm - 5pm Call: Andrea Murphy ( 0034 ) 616 478 157 TAPPY TOES DANCE CLASS FOR BABIES from 18 months, at 4kwatro in Albir, 11am, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information.

LADIES DANCEFIT WITH L.A DANCE at 4kwatro in Albir, Mondays at 7.30pm, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information

REPAIRS Washing machines, Dishwashers & Dryers. Also Boilers and any electrical problems. 24hours. Cheap prices Tel 604 103 909

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

SOS INSURANCE IN SPAIN Best prices available. CALL US FIRST for all your insurance needs, including best deals on Funeral plans. Buildings and contents cover from just 82 euros per year & cars from 120 euros. Tel 966787123 / 622275561 / 686116297 email info@sosinsuranceinspain.com

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WANTED I BUY ANY CAR van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish.

Immediate cash 600 781 873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

work guaranteed. British trained in the UK pool industry with over 18 years experience. 10 years served on the Costa Blanca. Torrevieja and surrounding areas including Costa Calida. Tlf: Pristine Pools on 966 774 199 or 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com NO CALLOUT CHARGE. SEE MAIN ADVERT ON FRONT PAGE OF CLASSIFIEDS

PROBLEMS WITH INSECTS? Cockroaches, woodworm, rats & mice. Call 626 828 974 All insects

SPANISH MOVES Small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK Budget prices.

Last minute jobs undertaken. www. spanishmoves.net. Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Telephone UK DETACHED VILLA pla de corrals close to gandia. 1600m2 plot. 4 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, Gas central heating, A/C, Double Glazing, Mountain views 199,995€ For more information please call: 622 448 247 TORRETA FLORIDA Detached villa 3 bedrooms with 2 en suite bathrooms and 1 full family bathroom. Lovely gardens and private pool. 800 sqm plot. Price: 250,000€ Call: 00353 872 75 9618

0800 612 4922 or Spain 960 130 537

DIGBY REMOVALS Weekly removals to and from Spain. 1 box to full household.

Storage - UK & Spain. Insurance included. Worldwide removals inc. USA, Australia & New Zealand. Call today for FREE advice no obligation quote. Tel: 676 582 333 or +44 1268 728 855 email: sales@digbyremovals.co.uk or visit: www.digbyremovals.co.uk

POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired. Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, conscientious service to the highest standards. Refurbishments and upgrades undertaken. Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed. All

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

I BUY RECORDS, LP´S, SINGLES AND CD´S Anystyle, Jazz, Blues, Pop, Punk, Rock, ect... Top cash paid 622 750 117 I BUY RECORDS LP´S SINGLES AND CD´s ANY STYLE, JAZZ, BLUES, POP, PUNK, ROCK, ETC... TOP CASH PAID. 622 750 117 RECORDS AND CDS WANTED Pop,Rock,Jazz,Blues.

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TORREVIEJA & SURROUNDINGS - LADIES enjoy a sensual spanking and much more. The Headmaster visits you at home. Details: headmaster@live.co.uk GENERIC VIAGRA Blue Pill Spain supplies all your generic Viagra at the best prices. Buy Super Kamagra, Kamagra, Kamagra Polo, Super P-Force, Aurogra, Tadalafil/Cialis or weight loss pill Sibutril. email bluepillspain@gmail.com or call 660 332 803.

Nationwide Delivery Service SOPHIE ESCORT Slim elegant naughty lady. Hotel/home visit available.

Tel: 693 357 526 CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA Luxury Private Chalet, parking. Drinks invitation.

Feeling alone? Just want some company?

Exotic girls from South America. Call us, come and enjoy! Also Escort Service.

Full discretion. Street: Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609-573-468 or 639-832-118

Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

life&leisure sports



Rugby La Vila THERE WERE no home games last weekend, but the under 12s and under 8s travelled on Saturday to Tabernes Valldigna, near Valencia, for a Mini Rugby tournament.

The under 18s team travelled to Alicante and had a convincing victory over Akra Alicante by 48-12.

Next Saturday 28th November, there will be plenty of rugby at home as, at 11am the under 18s will play Cau Valencia, at 1pm the under 16s will play Cau Valencia, and at 5pm the second team will play Castellón RC. The first team will travel to Barcelona, to play Barcelona University Club at 5pm.

The next home game for the first team will be on Sunday December 6th at 12.30pm when they will play Quimics from Barcelona. An adult ticket will be 5€, with under 12s free.

La Vila Rugby Club is situated at Carretera El Pantano, Villajoyosa. Just take the motorway AP-7 exit 66 (Villajoyosa). At the first roundabout head for the mountain. It is about 1 km from the Motorway exit 66. Alternatively, take the Villajoyosa by-pass, and take the middle exit, at the first roundabout bear right towards the motorway entrance

The first team wants to support France after Paris Attacks.

and at the second roundabout bear left towards the mountain.

If you are interested in joining La Vila

contact Jason Craig on 659 67 47 68 or Ignacio Davila 608 06 82 08 or email oficina@rugbylavila.net.

Pego Golf Society “Blacktower Trophy” AFTER TORRENTIAL rain on Monday, it was amazing that the Oliva Nova course was open, and in such pristine condition, with blue skies and a gentle breeze, and hardly a drop of water showing. 48 members and guests played the last major tournament of the year, “The Blacktower Trophy”, a medal competition, played off the yellow tees for the men and red tees for the ladies.

The winner of the guest prize today was John Snelling with a net 78 playing off 14 and the “Blacktower Trophy” winners were: 1st Gordon Weston with net 67 playing off 17.1; 2nd Shaun O’Gorman with net 72 playing off 4.5; 3rd Steve Patton with net 73 playing off 12.3; 4th Robert Jenkins with net 75 playing off 18; 5th Andrew Harrison with net 76 playing off 11.6; 6th Charlie Miller with net 76 playing off 16.9. There were three twos today, by Captain Brendan Young, Angus Muir and Robert Jenkins. “Balls in the Water” was won by Paul Singh with 126 balls. “Nearest The Pin” at hole No 5 with his second shot was Brendan Young with 1.44 metres, and at hole No 16, the winning shot was played by Ken Millar with 2.92 metres.

The competition next week will be a “Singles Stableford ”. Please enter through the website www. pegogolfsociety.com or send an e-mail to Donna Green at pegohandicapsec@gmail.com.

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life&leisure #sports



CF Torrevieja receive award THE PRESIDENT of CF Torrevieja, Joaquín Sala, and coach of the Under 18 ‘A’ team, Helios Martínez, collected the Champions’ trophy that the team obtained last season.

by KEITH NICOL AS IS tradition, the trophies were awarded at the gala organized every year by the Valencian Football Federation.

Last season the team had a brilliant regular season in which they took first position, being one of the top four clubs in the regional category, which is divided into six groups in the region.

This path even served them to be exempt from the first round of play offs for promotion, but they were eliminated in the second round by the Celtic Elche, who came second to Torrevieja in the league standings. Although there was an expectation for promotion to National League, which has not been achieved since the late 90s, the group lost against Elche 2-0 at home and had a goalless draw in Torrevieja. CF Torrevieja’s Youth ‘A’ team are currently second in their league and, this year, will be hoping to once again reach the play offs, which will allow this season’s ‘B’ team, who next year will become the ‘A’ team, to play in the top category, if they are successful.

Ruben Suarez, one of CD Torrevieja’s new signings

Cricket España National Finals El Plantio Golf Society monthly medal

19 MEMBERS turned out for the monthly medal together with a guest couple from Belgium, the female part of the duo coming a very creditable second.

LAST WEEKEND three Spanish Cricket teams met in a contest to decide who would be crowned the Spanish National Cricket Champions. The splendid Woodbridge Oval at Alfaz de Pi was the venue where Cataluña Cricket club, champions of the Cataluña league, St Georges cricket club from Lanzarote, champions of the Spanish Islands and the Eastern and Central league champions, Sporting Alfas Cricket Club came together on Friday 13th November to battle it out over three days. Many spectators had come to watch the finals take place. Even the famous duck pond seemed to have more feathery friends than usual. They flew in from everywhere.

First up was Sporting Alfas CC hoping that home advantage would see them into Sunday’s final. Their opponents for Friday’s clash over a forty over contest was St Georges CC, who finished their innings on a healthy 172 for 7. In reply, Sporting Alfas batted to a comfortable victory in the 32nd over, and they were into Sunday’s final.

The Island champions had to be at the very top of their game if they were to beat the impressive Cataluña CC on Saturday, knowing the winners of the game would play the home team in

Sunday’s final. Having won the toss, Cataluña CC decided to bat, but disaster struck when in the first ball of the second over A. Ali was back in the pavilion for a first ball golden duck. The ducks in the pond quacked him off, with the team score on 8. However the second wicket fell some 229 runs later setting St Georges CC a massive 367 to win, which was just a step too far.

Not many grounds would look better than the Woodbridge Oval, soaked in sunshine, clear blue skies and surrounded by a beautiful landscape, a perfect setting for Sunday’s final. As spectators tucked into their bacon baps and sipped their tea, the captains started proceedings with the toss of the coin. Cataluña CC won the toss and decided to bat first. Cataluña CC finished on 243 for 9. The game come down to the last over. Sporting Alfas couldn’t add more drama to this thoroughly entertaining final, with the last wicket falling with 2 balls to go, finishing on 232, and so the cup and the title of the National Champions went to Cataluña Cricket Club. It was a marvellous 3 days of entertaining cricket and all the players, officials, helpers and supporters should be praised and thanked for the spirit in which the games were played.

The results were:- NTP hole 1 Lawrence Wanty, hole 8 Ian Henderson.

In 3rd place, handicap 7, Ian Craig Net 58, in 2nd place, handicap 14, Mereille Net 57, and in 1st place, handicap 9, Ray Housley Net 55.

The society plays at El Plantio Golf Club on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, using both courses, the Par 3 nine hole course and the main 18 hole course, catering for all abilities. The membership rates are very competitive, and anyone who wishes to play in the society as a guest or join as a new member, should contact Ian Henderson on 966 71 66 16 or 636 11 62 30.

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Friday, November 27 - Thursday, December 3 2015

Rugby La Vila THERE WERE no home games last weekend, but the under 12s and under 8s travelled on Saturday to Tabernes Valldigna, near Read the full story on page 86.

Valencia, for a Mini Rugby tournament.