RTN North Edition 633

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Issue 633

02 dec - 08 DEC 2011

Land grab continues

Banks plan for ‘Eurogeddon’ The head of City watchdog the Financial Services Authority Hector Sants has met privately with senior executives of the British banking system and urged they make contingency plans. p4

Fighting domestic violence

by Jack Troughton

WIBC staged its second show at the Diamante Beach Hotel in Calpe to mark White Ribbon Day – the international condemnation of gender violence. p7

Want a risk free and Tax free income?

Find out how with Sporting Arbitrage on p30

Get the Hollywood smile just one relaxing session taking between 1 and 1½ hours to have lovely white teeth p35

A league of our own IN 2011 RTN Golf Club started its member’s competitions p62

Nats the new golfing star of the Costa Blanca

Spain’s youngest female golf professional

A former Lady Elizabeth School pupil now the youngest female WGTF golf teacher in the whole wide world. Read the full story on page 5.

GREEDY DEVELOPERS are continuing to use Valencia’s controversial ‘land grab’ laws to appropriate property despite the collapse of the housing market.

Campaigners warn that even in the gloom of the current economic crisis, plans for houses, hotels and golf courses were still being submitted to local authorities for approval.

Enrique Climent, President of Abusos Urbanisticos No! – the group fighting for the rights of property owners and protection of the environment – said developers were intent on building up stocks of valuable raw material, the actual land itself.

Speaking at the AUN’s annual general meeting in Benissa, he said people might believe the battle was won with the end of Spain’s property boom but warned “this is not the time to sit back.”

As the AUN celebrated its 10th anniversary, Enrique said everyone was now living

in what the Chinese called “interesting times” and predictions had come true. “Everything has blown up.”

But he asked the meeting: “With so many empty houses, what builder would be interested in building? The actual construction is not the objective – that is the second step.

PERVERSE “The first step, which comes under the perverse legislation, is to obtain the basic raw material, the land itself.”

Enrique said councils were happy with the situation because they would see money come into town hall coffers and while the projects remained on ice, property owners were not faced with physically losing their land and paying the costs of infrastructure.

“And currently it does not cost the developers any money to keep the land on their books – the council does not charge rates as urban land – it is still classified as rural land,” he said.

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02 dec - 08 DEC 2011

Enrique Climent (left) with vicepresident Charles Svoboda

Continued from front page The meeting was told of a project for thousands of new homes and golf courses in the beauty spot of Callosa d’En Sarria and other plans in Castellon utilising land grab laws.

“This is why the work of the AUN is not finished yet,” said Enrique – saying the group could offer advice as well as continuing to fight for the rights of victims of land grab, people whose homes were declared illegal retrospectively, owners affected by off-plan purchase problems, and the problems of the Law of the Costas. “The work remains the same.”

Enrique said Valencia had undertak-

en to “modernise” the LUV legislation, itself a replacement for the earlier LRAU land laws.

DISREGARD “But there is every indication they will continue to disregard property owners and their rights,” he predicted.

And Enrique said Spain’s general election had brought about the worst possible result for the campaigners.

“Not because we do not like the new party in government that is a matter of personal choice.

“But because it is the same ruling party in central government as the one

in Valencia – it will not make things any better for us.”

Enrique said the AUN’s job remained to monitor new plans being submitted and insure they were compatible with the environment, underline errors in urban planning, and where necessary go to the Ombudsman, the government in Madrid and Valencia, town councils, the European Parliament and the European Court of Justice.

“So everyone can find out what is happening and have firsthand knowledge of what is happening,” he said. “To make sure they are no caught unaware and ignorant as has happened in the past.”

Long arm of the law

By Jack Troughton POLICE FORCES across the Marina Alta are forging closer links in the fight against crime and to secure greater security for residents.

Representatives of 13 Local Police forces and councillors met in Javea to discuss sharing resources, common problems and solutions.

Of the 33 municipalities of the Marina Alta, 13 have a police force, some 462 officers serving a population of more than 183,000 people – a ratio of 2,52 officers per thousand people, a higher than average police presence for the province.

The conference, which was also attended by commanders

of the Guardia Civil and National Police, discussed sharing communications across the region through radio telephones and the new 112 network.

It was hoped to co-ordinate reinforcements of officers between forces for in cases of emergency and to police special events and holidays.

Police chiefs are keen to improve relations with foreign residents and also aim to be able to warn the area’s businesses via mobile messaging.

And it was agreed publicity campaigns should target schools warning of the risks of violence, drugs and alcohol, gangs and bullying, and senior citizens who can fall victim to fraudsters and conmen.

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Banks plan for ‘Eurogeddon’ UK BANKS have been warned to prepare for Armageddon in the single currency as the Eurozone crisis deepens.

by Jack Troughton The head of City watchdog the Financial Services Authority Hector Sants has met privately with senior executives of the British banking system and urged they make contingency plans.

According to Sky News, representatives the FSA chief met with representatives of Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, RBS, Santander UK, and Standard Chartered.

It is understood the meeting was not called specifically to issue the warning and no detailed instructions or scenarios were discussed – rather the banks should be prepared for a catastrophic end for the single currency.

Andrew Bailey, the FSA’s head of banks and building societies, said: “Good risk management means planning for unlikely but severe scenarios.

EXIT “This means that we must not ignore the prospect of the disorderly departure of some countries from the Eurozone.”

And making his autumn statement in the House of Commons this week Chancellor George Osborne spoke of the risks

to the UK if the Eurozone “goes belly up”.

Mr Osborne painted a gloomy picture for the UK economy and admitted a failure to sort out the debt crisis amongst Eurozone members would make Britain’s situation much worse.

Asked about the affect of crisis, he answered: “I think if the Eurozone goes belly up, as you might put it, then of course things will be very much worse.

“In a way, what’s happening in the Eurozone is a reminder to Britain that if you don’t face up to your problems, you have very much worse problems.

ACTION “Britain has taken decisive action; we now need the Eurozone to do the same.”

The European Central Bank calmed the market by intervening in the bond market and yields – the cost of borrowing – on 10-year bonds fell despite learning the action was temporary and limited.

Head of the ECB, Mario Draghi has called for “fundamental” reworking of the fiscal rules governing the Eurozone and the mutual commitments made by member countries.

Mr Draghi said: “Confidence works backwards – if there is

an anchor in the long term, it is easier to maintain trust in the short term.

“After all, investors are themselves often taking decisions with a long term horizon, especially with regard to government bonds.”

STRATEGY Economists and market analysts have warned the single currency faces disaster unless urgent action is taken by members – but despite a string of meetings between governments no overall strategy has yet been agreed.

They believe the single currency will not be able to survive the current crisis in its present format – certainly with the opening of a ‘north-south’ divide amongst members and with national interests coming to the fore.

Dr Gerard Lyons, chief economist with Standard Chartered, said: “It is possible for the Euro to survive if Greece has an orderly exit, which I think is possible in the second half of next year.

But it is like most things, one needs a vision as to what follows.

“It is possible to have a two-speed Euro but the real difficulty is that no-one can get their head around how you can exit from this situation.”

New pharmaceutical standard causes havoc THE COLLEGE of Pharmacists of Alicante has asked the Department of Health to rectify the standard that came into force on 1st November establishing that health professionals should specify in prescriptions the name of the active drug and not the ‘brand’.

Pharmacists are claiming that the new regulations are causing confusions as physicians continue to prescribe by

brand name and not the generic drug. Professional associations in three provinces protest that the standard in its present format is outside the law with a reassessment urgently requested. 50% of pharmacists are supplying patients with brand named drugs, either because the generic version is unavailable or because the physician has specified a brand name.

Spain’s youngest female golf professional

Noel and Nats

by Louise Clarke LESS THAN two years ago Natasha (Nats) Woodhams was applying to be part of RTN’s Golf Factor Experience.

Fast forward 22 months and the 16-yearold is now the youngest female WGTF golf teacher in the whole wide world!

Coached by RTN’s Golf Guru, Noel Eastwell, Nats took her teaching exams last month and passed them with flying colours. She explained to RTN what happened: “The exams were taken over eight days and half a day was spent in the classroom and half a day was on the golf course practising strokes and doing drills and learning how to teach them.

“We were constantly assessed and given a ‘dummy’ golfer to teach who then assessed us on our teaching practices and on how we coped as a teacher. We had expected an end of course exam on the last day, but when we got into the classroom, which was based at the El Plantio Golf Club, near to Alicante Airport, I was told that I had passed and the exam had actually been the day before!”

Noel, who was part of the assessing team, said: “We don’t tell them that they are doing the exam at the time, because we expect them to be performing at their best at all times, not just in exam conditions. At the same time it means that they do not have time to worry or get stressed.”

ACHIEVEMENT However, ‘stressed’ doesn’t even come close though to how Nats was feeling during the week. She told RTN: “I have never cried so much in my whole life, not even over a boy!”

Nats was amongst seven other new WGTF teachers that passed the exam, which is widely known in the golfing world as the most comprehensive in the industry. As a result, Nats is now the youngest female golf professional in Spain and one of a handful of young female professionals not only Europe but in the world. She can now teach anyone and as a result she will be based with Noel at El Plantio for the next six months gaining more experience in teaching and in, of course, her own golf game.

Nats commented: “It’s a dream come true and I am so happy because I have worked so hard for the last 22 months.” Noel added: “It’s a hell of an achievement! Everyone associated with the RTN Golf Factor Experience should be damn proud of her! WGTF is the hardest of the golf teaching qualifications and Nats has proved that hard work does pay off.”

QUALIFY The former Lady Elizabeth School pupil will now spend the next six months getting in plenty of practice on the golf course and play an 18-hole round of golf every day, come rain or shine. Noel explained: “Nats will be playing lots of golf and doing lots of teaching between now and next summer and we have firm plans in place to get her in the European Ladies Tour School next year and ultimately get her qualifying for the European Ladies Tour in January 2013.”

On behalf of RTN, I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate Nats on this fantastic achievement and we will be following her all the way to European glory during the next year!

Freak car fire

By Jack Troughton A TEENAGE driver escaped with slight burns when his Mini Cooper exploded into flames in an underground car park on Wednesday afternoon. The 19-year-old was about to return to work after eating lunch at his home in Javea’s Via Augusta. However, as he started the car’s engine it sparked the fire – filling the garage with dense smoke. The driver ran back to the family apartment in Isleta Marina IV and his mother called the emergency services.

Firemen evacuated four people from the apartments – the block is mainly used as holiday homes – and were able to extinguish the fire and ventilate the car park. It is understood the teenager was not badly injured and his face was treated with cream at the health centre.

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Appalling behaviour at El Altet airport

by Jan Gamm COSTA BLANCA resident Joe Edge is still reeling after disgraceful behaviour on the part of an employee at Calderon Cargo Handling Terminal –Alicante El Altet – forced him to plead for the release of his four dogs.

Joe and his wife Helga paid a hefty 1,600€ for their dogs to be flown from Manchester to Alicante on 2nd September.

Their flight arrived at 6.45pm and after collecting luggage they went directly to collect their pets.

A heavily built man, about 6’ 4”, sauntered slowly over to the reception desk and, with an unpleasant smirk said “We’re closed” before slowly filling out a Recibe en Metalico De, asking for an extra payment of 84.88€. Surprised at this unexpected cost, Joe and Helga questioned the fee but were met with: “I only speak Spanish.” As Joe had only 50€ he offered to pay by card and was promptly and tersely refused.

Joe had no choice but to drive back to an airport ATM, (parking again) and returned

with the cash, remarking to Helga, “This is just ridiculous, terrible service – the system and the man’s behaviour is appalling –he looks like he is enjoying watching our distress.” The man then said - in English - “I am a security guard, I do not work here now, and we are closed.”

“See, he does speak English,” said Joe. The man said, “Yes, but I do not need to speak English, I do not get paid to speak English – you should speak Spanish!” before announcing he would not hand over the dogs, saying Joe and Helga must return the following day.

THREATS Exhausted, distressed at the possibility of leaving their dogs in the care of an obnoxious bully overnight after already spending eight hours in their cages, Helga now in tears and facing a three hour drive home and back to fetch them the next day, Joe had no choice but to plead, only to be threatened with the police. “Do you want me to call the Police – you will be locked up!” (He crossed his wrists

Anoushka, Cherrie and Teddy

under Joe’s nose to demonstrate handcuffs).

When two security officers intervened the tormentor then went slowly through their passports and the dogs’ passports, insisting on having their home address and phone number before, with a snide smirk, finally releasing the dogs. TFA Logistics, the agents handling the dogs’ transfer and also Monarch Airlines, could not have been more helpful and apologetic in response to the couple’s complaints, even arranging for the full refund of the extra charges, despite the money being a small amount compared with the transportation cost of 1,600€. The late arrival

time was also questioned but the couple’s request for a CCTV screenshot was ignored.

Speaking exclusively to RTN Helga said, “This has been the most unpleasant experience of my life.”

Monarch’s Airline Cargo Information has since advised that the man has been ‘spoken to and cautioned’, with assurances that such a situation ‘would not occur again’.

Airport Authority Aena has been contacted by RTN but at the time of going to press no comment from them has been received.

And the point is – would you fly your pet into Alicante El Altet?

Dental prosthesis helps reduce sentence for man accused of gender violence

IN A court where the accused, Luis SQ, is standing trial for violence against his partner, the prosecution has lowered the jail term request from five years to three and a half in response to the prisoner’s plea that the lady’s teeth, broken and knocked out when he struck her face, were a dental prosthesis as opposed to natural teeth. It was also taken into account that the accused used the back of his hand and not his fist. The incident occurred between 9pm and 9.30pm on 2nd August 2009 and was witnessed by the couple’s six-year-old son who helped his father to escape arrest. It was the third such incident reported by the victim who had returned to live with her partner after being beaten by him on two previous occasions.

02 dec - 08 DEC 2011

Fighting domestic violence

A solo from Marcia’s Dance Centre and Stage School

by Jack Troughton DEDICATED SUPPORT for the victims of domestic violence and fighting the “social evil” won members of the Women In Business Club praise at last Friday’s exhibition.

WIBC staged its second show at the Diamante Beach Hotel in Calpe to mark White Ribbon Day – the international condemnation of gender violence.

And the town’s equal opportunities and youth councillor Miguel Angel Martinez opened the event, welcoming everyone to take part in commemorating an “important day”.

He said: “Gender violence is a social evil that we fight every day. Today, especially, we want to highlight and note that we will not rest, we do not stop and we will not stop until we make society aware that this has to end.

“We appreciate that the money collected today is used to help women’s centres – WIBC is a great support and your effort contributes

every day to creating a better society.”

And he told club members: “You better than anyone know what it is to overcome – you are women entrepreneurs, women workers, and tireless women in your contribution.”

He said WIBC was to be thanked for organising and hosting the exhibition and its “fight to change things.”

The councillor was one of a six-strong delegation from Calpe Town Hall and WIBC President Chris Duffin said the local authority was very supportive of the club.

“I was very impressed it was a very important address highlighting the problem of women caught in circumstances of domestic violence,” she said.

The twin exhibitions staged by WIBC have resulted in a number of unclaimed raffle prizes – at the Marriott Hotel: green 28, 128, 140, 563; white 474, and yellow 123. At the Diamante Beach Hotel: pink 326, 326, 375; and white 408.

If unclaimed the prizes will be put back into the raffle at International Women’s Day in March.

Arranging Christmas

By Jack Troughton FLOWERS FOR the festive season will be central to a floral demonstration ‘Christmas Fantasy’ being staged in Moraira on 8th December.

The Marina Alta and Costa Blanca Floral Club welcomes talented and entertaining UK-based demonstrator Clare Foley to the Salon de Actos, La Senieta, at 3pm, to build some colourful arrangements.

And all her work will be raffled at the end of the afternoon – lucky winners leaving with some beautiful arrangements to brighten their homes. There will also be a draw to win a luxury Christmas hamper – worth 100€ - and other prizes with all proceeds going to help fund the new ambulance for Teulada Moraira in a project jointly run by the Proteccion Civil and social services. Everyone is welcome and entrance is 5€ for members and 8€ for visitors. For more information call Lynn on 96 640 542 or 686 153 807, or Pat on 96 647 1526 or 648 713 638, or visit the website www.marinaaltafloralclub.com

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If the shoebox fits

by Jack Troughton EXPATS HAVE the chance to play Father Christmas in an appeal to fill shoeboxes with small gifts for more than 100 youngsters cared for in EMAUS homes.

The children are aged five to 18 and there are more girls than boys hoping for a special surprise this festive season.

The shoeboxes should be marked ‘boy’ or ‘girl’ marked with the suitable age. They should be wrapped but not sealed – so contents can be checked as age suitable.

David and Eileen Brock, of registered charity Friends of the Children of EMAUS, hope to build on last year’s success in helping to give disadvantaged children some Christmas joy.

David told RTN: “Last year’s appeal was hugely successful and gratefully received by the children. This year we have increased the number of drop-off points for the shoeboxes in a bid to get even more people involved. “Again the idea is to fill the box with small gifts and such things as toiletries suitable

Launching the 2010 appeal, Monroes’ Karen (centre) with Carole Saunders and David Brock of the charity

for the designated age. They are much appreciated.”

Collection points for the shoeboxes are: Monroes Carvery, Pedregeur; Bar Emelio, Llosa de Camacho; No7 Hairdressers, Benichembla; Paraiso Restaurant, Parcent; The Planet Bar and Restaurant, Parcent; Miquels Restaurant, Jalon; Heidi’s flower Shop, Jalon; SR Printers, Pedregeur; and the Blush Salon, Alcalali.

For more information call David and Eileen on 96 640 5453.

Circus discount for Benidorm residents THE DEPARTMENT of Culture of the City Council of Benidorm has signed an agreement with Benidorm Circus offering a 50% discount to city residents. The collaboration agreement has been made to enhance entertainment for residents of Benidorm and also to strengthen the circus culture. The head of Benidorm Circus, David Climent, appreciated the cooperation, which he sees as an encouragement for residents to enjoy the show and also to support the traditions of the Cirque du Soleil line. Residents may enjoy the discounted price every Saturday at the 6pm showing: proof of residence is required to qualify for the 50% discount.

Welcome to English Hour

by Jack Troughton ENGLISH-SPEAKING residents of a Costa Blanca town are to get news, views and information across the airwaves with a new dedicated show.

Radio Calpe will broadcast English Hour for expats living in and around the town on the 107.4FM wavelength.

The new programme will launch in January and it is hoped local groups, clubs, and associations will take part to keep the audience up to date.

Also to be broadcast between 6pm and 7pm Monday to Friday, will be town hall news and interviews with local personalities.

Councillor Carole Saunders is organising the initiative and told RTN: “It will be launched in the New Year and I am busy building up a network of contacts now.

“I want all the associations and groups in Calpe to get in touch with any suggestions about programming and taking part. We

have up to five days a week on the station every evening.”

She said the Calpe Branch of the Royal British Legion was keen to join Radio Calpe to give information about its latest events, how it was supporting former servicemen and women, and the Poppy Appeal, and any news.

“For example how the Legion is working hand in hand with Help for Heroes,” she said.

“It is all about telling people what is going on in the town, not only in the expat community, but the wider community.

There will also be contributions from U3A and AFPO, the Foreign Property Owners Association.

“And groups like Footlights and the Gilbert and Sullivan Society will be able to bring music to the show, while we hope to interview local personalities and bring resident the news that affects them.”

Pictured is Carole standing with (from left) the Legion’s Jan Carter, President Dave Carter and Chairman Norman Hodgiss.

Christmas market

THE STREETS of Teulada come alive on Sunday morning (4th December) when the town stages its annual Christmas market.A huge variety of stalls and entertainment will be on offer – including representatives of the new animal charity AKIRA, and the Teulada charity shop Asociacion Benefica de Teulada. The Asociacion has purchased a new ambulance for the town, to be run by the Proteccion Civil and social services, and it is hoped to have the vehicle on show. The market’s centre is opposite the town hall and the market is open between 10am and 6pm.

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“We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.” Winston Churchill

by Patricia Thompson THE NAME ‘Emaus’ comes from the Gospel of Luke, which states that Jesus appeared to two disciples who were walking from Jerusalem to the village of Emmaus. The disciples did not recognise Jesus but on reaching Emmaus, they ask the stranger to join them for the evening meal.

This spirit of sharing infuses the group and is the basis of all the good works Emaus do within our community that includes sheltering vulnerable children; assisting women and children at risk; training for the disabled; attention for the disadvantaged and elderly along with labour workshops, training programmes and much more.

All these activities are addressed towards improving the social and cultural conditions of all nationalities within the community needing aid for whatever reason. There are currently more than 750 people relying on Emaus within the Valencian community and this figure is rising every day.

The economic down-turn affected Emaus on various fronts. The first is the escalating need for aid within the community. Unemployment is at an alltime high and many who lost their jobs more than a year ago or worked in the black labour market are now totally without income. There are a horrific

number of families with no members in employment and no income coming into the home.

Secondly, local government funding has all but dried up. With pressures to keep whatever funds are available to shore up local amenities, the pot runs dry when it comes to what are deemed to be the least important voters - the poor. With incomes and interest rates at an all-time low, the Cajas de Ahorros (Savings Banks) and independent individuals who donated and assisted with projects in the past are now no longer able to contribute.

This is why Emaus counts on the collaboration of local companies, public institutions and the community to help fund and support this valuable organisation - without it a large section of our society would be left abandoned and without hope.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED The Emaus Rastro is a vitally important part of the group that picks up items deemed ‘too good to throw away’ and with the help of some of the older teenagers restore these items and use them for the homes or put them for sale with the proceeds funding projects within the group.

Young people who are setting up home, including those that have been in care with Emaus, who reach the age of 18 and are gently pushed into making their own way in life, can buy cheap ne-

cessities here. A war cry we often hear from the Rastro is “We have the customers but not enough items to sell.”

The Emaus Rastro is on the Altea – La Nucia road, Partida Pla del Castell in Altea (Telephone 96 584 2874 or 691 137 422) open from 9am to 4pm during the week and 9am to 2pm on Saturday. Removals and house clearances are also undertaken. Juan Carlos does well with a smattering of English but call Lucy on 965 836 814 if you need help.

Support local events by turning up, even to buy a raffle ticket or to bring a bag of useful items for The Bed Centre’s ‘Christmas Bag Appeal’ or organise your own fund-raiser. These events are a valuable way for Emaus to raise extra funds for things like school books, winter fuel, constantly needed clothes and up-keep homes.

If ever miracles are worked by human hands, they are worked by the incredible people who support and run this much needed organisation.

Footnote: Words approved by Emaus Organisation, and supplied by Lucy Rowat.

Antique and collectors fair To be held on Tuesday 6th December at the SALON CANOR TEULADA (A venue easy to find being off the main N332 between Benissa & Gata de Gorgos.

The fair will be well sign posted on the day, so you won’t miss it) The doors will open from 9am - 3pm Extensive parking & entrance free. Bar open non-stop for coffee, drinks & refreshments.

As the fair is held indoors the show will go on regardless of the weather. For more info.

Tel 96 648 0783 or Mob. 620 570 627

Boys and girls

by Jack Troughton THE SUCCESSFUL Costa Blanca Male Voice Choir is joined by guest artists Dolce Divas for the annual Christmas Carol concert at Benitachell Church on Friday 16th December.

The choir plans an evening of festive cheer and audience participation as they sing traditional carols at one of the favourite concerts of the year in idyllic surroundings. The Dolce Divas are a talented classical duo

and will add their own considerable musical talents to the popular event. Admission is free to the concert which starts at 7pm and money donated in a collection will be given to local charities.

Dedicated volunteers rescue 72 Beagles

One of the most frightened beagles

by Patricia Thompson LATE OCTOBER, Alicante residents Eve Allen and her partner Graham learned of a Barcelona laboratory closing, requiring homes for 72 Beagles that had spent their lives in cages - on a two-week deadline before the dogs were to be destroyed!

Eve and vets Eva & Willie at CanisaX hoped to rescue 10 of the younger dogs. Angela Stacey and Marie Stacey of the Little Pod Foundation in Playa Flamenca agreed to help with funding, caring, and an internet and Facebook appeal.

Help flooded in and as the rescuers began to hope, to the delight and amazement of all involved, Shannon Keith at the Beagle Freedom Project in America advised she would take all 72 dogs!

DETAILS 12 Beagles are one to 11/2 years old: these have not been tested on. 60 four-year-old Beagles have all been tested on: all 72 dogs have received vaccinations, rabies injections and microchips.

All 72 Beagles were male and un-neutered - another cost that would have to be covered. . They have been used for human medical research but are presently all healthy. The dogs were kept singly in cages - possibly 10 in a room.

The laboratory managed to re home 25 of the dogs directly.

The first dogs arrived healthy but terri-

fied, the signs of abuse clear to see, with terrible needle scars and they all have very bad teeth. They had no idea what to do outside of a cage, never having felt natural ground beneath their paws or the open air - or warmth and love from a human being. But they were not underweight and were not hungry. One was so frightened that when you opened his cage he just held his paw up and looked away from you: heart breaking.

In the open he would freeze with fright.

IMPROVEMENT Angela of LPF said, “This past week the dogs have improved in leaps and bounds, all eating well and happy to play and run around. Even our most frightened boy is now out and mixing with the other dogs although he is still nervous with people.” All the Beagles left for LA on 22nd November.

MOVIE STARS Marie from LPF says, “We didn’t want them to leave Spain for their new lives as a number so we named each one after a male movie star!

“We would like to thank everybody who has been involved or has supported the efforts of Eve Allen and Little Pod Foundation to get these dog freed and on their way to America. I think it’s safe to say we would all do it again without hesitation.”

More photos of this remarkable rescue can be viewed at www.facebook.com/littlepodfoundation

A new Princess at the Benidorm Palace RTN is delighted to congratulate Joanna and Pepe on the birth of their third child, Sara, a new sister for Laura and Aday, and grandchild to Christine and Vicente. Sara is welcomed into the world of showbiz royalty by all at RTN. Congratulations!

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Parents call for help

by Jack Troughton CONFIDENTIAL COUNSELLING service Costa Rehab is staging a seminar to help parents recognise the signs youngsters may be misusing drink and drugs.

Worried adults requested expert advice from an agency that specialises in giving one-to-one help to people needing guidance in overcoming problems with alcohol and drugs – both illicit and prescribed medicines.

Costa Rehab’s founder Debbie Smith told RTN the seminar on Thursday 8th December was organised “at the request of a number of parents.”

She said the seminar would examine the pressures children faced and identify the signs of misuse, how to recognise different drugs and paraphernalia, the physical, behavioural and psychological effects, and what help was available.

Debbie, who lives in Javea, is a trained counsellor and a former prison officer who joined an addiction and management team helping high risk offenders settle back into the community.

She said Costa Rehab was a non-religious independent service and ready to help people of all ages cope with addiction problems.

“Addiction problems do not discriminate between age groups,” she said. Obviously youngsters can be under peer pressure to try drink and drugs – which can lead to involvement with harder drugs.

“You can also get people in their sixties and seventies who are in pain and have begun self-medicating.

“And there are people who have perhaps been through a marriage breakdown and join a new crowd and are tempted to try different things.”

Debbie said Costa Rehab offered counselling after an initial assessment and consultation – attempting to discover why a person uses a substance, why they feel they need to use it, the history of misuse, and their family relationships.

SUPPORT “From this we can draw up a support plan and targets to

Misuse of drink and drugs is a growing problem

achieve,” she said. “The plan has to be reviewed constantly and you have to be very flexible about what a person’s needs are – it is all non-judgemental.”

She said Costa Rehab was working with different groups and had won the support of doctors – who now referred people to the service.

“Misuse of drink and drugs is a growing problem, especially with the current economic situation, people feel unable to cope and turn to alcohol and drugs.”

The 8th December seminar is at the Javea Christian Centre, Calle Arquitecto Urteaga 25, and starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are 6€ and available from the Humpty Dumpty, the Inn on the Green, H2O, Jaspers and Costa Rehab.

For more information ring Debbie on 688 805 986 or visit www.costarehab.com, or email info@costarehab.com

Superman sells for super price FOR THE first time ever a comic book auction has busted the US$2 million barrier.

The first issue of the comic book Superman, released in June 1938, was auctioned online on Wednesday and achieved a record $2.16 million via www.comicconnect.com against a reserve of US$900,000.

Auctioneers Metropolis Collectibles and ComicConnect declined to reveal the identity of the buyer. The president of the auction house, Stephen Fishler, said the comic was stolen in 2000 from a collector on the US west coast. Since then rewards have been offered for its retrieval.

Last April, a Californian entrepreneur submitted material for sale at auction and Fishler subsequently found that among the cases was the stolen copy.

Christmas Fayre in Altea

WHERE BETTER to find original Christmas gifts that at Altea’s Christmas Fayre from 8th to 11th December, when Amata will be hosting a Craft Market in front of the Town Hall.

There will be live music; donkey rides; a merry-go-round; children’s games; a street and infant theatre and a juggler blowing amazing giant soap bubbles and huge flames (but not at the same time).

As the 6th and 8th are bank holidays in any case, most Spanish will not be working very much that week, and so will have time to enjoy their ‘puente’ (or bridge). Join the good burghers of the town in their festive promenade around the Fayre!

Amata brings as much variation as possible, with unusual items such as didgeridoos and cardboard furniture; decorated glass, pottery, wood and leather; toys and games; hand-painted t-shirts (the ultimate in designer clothes) and - of course – Christmas candles!

Watch some of the artisans at work and learn ‘how it’s made’ – perhaps order an item with a name on it or customise a shawl or candle…

Other stalls will offer cheese direct from the farm, herbs, spices, dried fruit and a vast variety of sausages - all made from old family recipes. And a tavern - with its own barbecue - and a pancake stand will offer refreshment for the hungriest traveller.

The market starts at 11am and is open all day till about 9pm, although things quieten down a bit between 2pm and 6pm. The Town Hall is along Altea’s main shopping street (parallel to the N332 thoroughfare), with plenty of parking space. Or travel with ‘el trenet’ (the little train) that runs from Alicante to Denia and even stops just behind the Town Hall. People in the Torrevieja area also have the option to join an organised coach trip to Altea: call Coachtrips SL on 96 678 5910.

You can get more information (also in English) by phoning 639 979 678 or you can look at Amata’s web site www.amata.es, which will also post changes to the programme if the weather looks like causing problems.

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QEHB Charity YOU VERY kindly printed a letter in your paper asking people to send Christmas cards to A Recovering Soldier, c/o Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

Whilst it is very kind of people to think of the soldiers at Christmas time, this is not something we have started and we would be grateful if people don’t send cards and if you could share this message with your readers.

The resulting well intentioned mail will cause delays in our postal system, meaning important personal mail from loved ones and friends is often delayed.

If you would like to show your support for our wounded soldiers, you could buy some of our Christmas cards at the online shop on our website and the money will go to supporting the guys throughout the year.

If you want to buy a present, we are always very grateful for Amazon or iTunes vouchers but we would please ask people not to send parcels. Vouchers can be sent to our offices at QEHB Charity, 5th Floor Nuffield House, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH. Thank you to everyone for all your kind thoughts and support.

Mike Hammond QEHB Charity www.qehb.org

mail

talk tous

Email letters to rtnmail@roundtownnews.com with your full name and address

Email: rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

letter of the week

The Chuckle Brothers STUCK IN a traffic jam, a man comes along knocking on car windows saying “David Cameron and George Osborne have been kidnapped and held hostage - they are going to burn them unless they are given £1 million - so we are collecting for them.” He was asked: “How much are people giving?” He replied: “About a gallon each.”

The ‘slash and burn’ economic policies of the Chuckle Brothers, Cameron and Osborne, have destroyed the legacy of recovery left to them by Labour. They failed to learn the lessons of history and are condemned to repeat its mistakes.

Throwing money at the banks does nothing to aid the economy because they still refuse to lend the money out: far better to cancel private debt and make the banks suffer the loss. This would help the economy by getting people spending again.

Cutting too deeply and throwing people out of work can only increase the deficit. People in work pay tax and N.I. The unemployed get benefits and have nothing to spend. Poverty increases along with the social costs; disaffected youth; greater drug and alcohol abuse; higher crime rates follow as night follows day…

The biggest joke of all is “We are all in it together” as 23 of Cameron’s cabinet of 29 are millionaires.

Jack Johnson, La Cala

What a disgrace HOW MANY of you Christians here in Spain shop at Chinese Bazaar shops? They have everything you need to celebrate Christmas, including the crib and baby Jesus etc. What a disgrace considering that to be a Christian in China means imprisonment and torture.

I boycott these shops. I am not about to tell others what they should or should not do but think on it…long ago and far away my friend died for you nailed to a cross.

Lloyd Lupin

Can you help?

I WONDER if any of your readers can help me with the following question. I am a regular reader of the RTN and if I am not mistaken you had a similar question a few weeks ago, but my situation has happened since.

I am trying to obtain an Invalid Sticker for my car and went to the INSS in Orihuela yesterday to get information and the necessary paper work. I was informed by the clerk that it takes about two years to obtain it.

I have been told from another source that one can be obtained from the local town hall in about four weeks. Can any of your readers help?

Name and address supplied

Still waiting IN REPLY to N White on receiving their premium: they should be so lucky and so self -centered! At this moment in time there are lots of investers who have not, and a merry Christmas to N White.

Mr RF Wilkes (still waiting)

I look on in despair HAVING OWNED a Restaurant in Javea for the past 15 years I look on in despair at the parlous state of the finances of this lovely country.

The new Spanish Government has a great deal to do, and very little time to do it. Callous bankers and unworthy politicians have seen

to that. It cannot be denied however that perhaps the greatest threat to Spain’s recovery remains the present labour laws.

Originally designed by good men to protect employees’ rights, these laws are now being viciously abused by some unscrupulous employees, usually with the acquiescence of

doctors and lawyers, safe in the knowledge that the courts will invariably find in their favour. The result: employers will not employ and unemployment will continue to rise.

The new Spanish Government must act bravely and decisively to reform these laws.

One need only ask, for example, why some of the World’s biggest retailers and employers - Wal-Mart; Tesco; and many others refuse to operate in Spain.

LR Gray

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International Day against Domestic Violence

by Louise Clarke LAST FRIDAY 25th November was the International Day against Domestic Violence towards women and Town Halls up and down the Costa Blanca marked the occasion with special events and support sessions for victims.

Domestic violence is physical, sexual, psychological or financial violence that takes place within an intimate or family-type relationship and that forms a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour. The shocking statistic is that during 2010, 73 people were unlawfully killed by violent husbands or fathers in Spain. Domestic violence is thought of as ‘the biggest cancer of Spanish society’ and incidents of recorded violence have increased dramatically over the last few years in line with the collapse of Spain’s economy.

DANGER La Marina’s PIPN political party have been instrumental in getting the message across to British residents of the urbanisation. Their Councillor in the San Fulgencio Town Hall, Jeff Wiszniewski, told RTN: “Normally almost 35 incidences of violence occur before a woman reports the abuse to the police. In Spain, if you are making a new life here for your family, it is possible that you are even more likely to ignore the signs of violence until they escalate.” He added: “Don’t wait to get assistance. If the situation is controlled before violence escalates into real

danger and a violent partner gets help, you will have protected your entire family.” He also explained what to do if you are the victim of domestic violence in Spain, saying: “You should ring 112 for urgent assistance during an attack and say: ‘Quiero informar un incidente doméstico de violencia. Querría hablar con alguien en inglés’ Also if you dial 016 in Spain, there is a free confidential helpline to combat domestic violence problems!

YOU ARE NOT ALONE Jeff concluded: “On the Spanish website for Ministry of Health, Social politics and Gender Equality, the section on Gender Violence includes information in English (and many other languages) detailing all the support available, including financial aid, access to women’s refuges, social and economic resources and advice for foreigners living in Spain.

From the home page at http://www.migualdad.es go to the section entitled Violencia de Género to read the information in Spanish, or go to the top of the page to convert the information into English. Everyone has the right to live free from abuse and fear. If you are experiencing domestic violence, you may feel humiliated, frightened, ashamed, alone and confused. But please know that you are not to blame and you are not alone.”

For more help and advice we have posted much more Jeff comprehensive information on PIPN’s website Wiszniewski www.pipnsanfulgencio.es

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Franco’s tomb still under discussion PLANS TO remove General Franco’s tomb from the Valley of the Fallen is still under debate. The commission led by the Government advises in its report that it is the family that should decide where to locate the grave. However, three of the 12 panel members disagree with the decision and the Church is also involved with proposals to satisfy all the concerned parties, including relatives of victims that died fighting on the Republican side during the Spanish Civil War of 1936 – 1939. Experts have warned that any activities carried out within the Basilica require the express authority of the Church. Recommendations are that the valley becomes a memorial tribute to the fallen on both sides of the conflict.

The report of the commission is to be forwarded to the Moncloa Palace for approval.

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Lloyds sponsors golf at La Manga

One of the teams

by Patricia Thompson LLOYDS BANK International were the delighted sponsors of the 2011 La Manga Club Owners Championship Golf Tournament on 21st – 25th November – in somewhat adverse weather conditions! Despite the downpours play continued with five day of fantastic

golf producing worthy winners.

Prize giving was held at the Principe Felipe Hotel, La Manga Club, with Regional Sales Director Paul Lister and Private Banking Manager Alicia Lezcano handing out golf shirts, vouchers for lessons and other extra gifts.

The tournament and dinner attracted an impressive guest list of 300.

Christmas Charity events at Restaurant El Paraiso KIDS’ CHRISTMAS menus available from Tuesday 6th December: A three course Xmas menu designed with little ones in mind for €7.95 inc. gift, meal and drink and 1€ from each meal going to Emaus Children’s Home. Santa is coming to El Paraiso on Saturday 17th December.

He is free, but you can make a donation to our Emaus fund. You may bring a present with you and hand it in to Santa to give out, or request a present to be wrapped and pay for it. Hot and cold Buffet lunch 10€: you must reserve. For more details please call El Paraiso Restaurant on 96 640 5398. The Wheel of Fortune this year has raised in excess of 5,000€ which has been donated to various charities. We would like to thank everyone for their support and wish them a Merry Christmas - Victoria and David: El Paraiso

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European golf tour qualifying school comes to Las Colinas

by Patricia Thompson ONE OF Europe’s most exciting new golfing destinations plays host this weekend to European Tour hopefuls.

Las Colinas Golf & Country Club near San Miguel de Salinas is one of Europe’s finest golfing destinations and is gearing up to welcome competitors from across the Continent to the prestigious second stage of the European Tour’s Qualifying School, which starts today (Friday)and continues until Monday 5th December. Recently recognised as one of the Top 100 courses in Conti-

Diego Otero is Mister Spain 2011

TASTY MR Toledo won the Mister Spain beauty pageant in Seville this week with the representatives of Jaén and Las Palmas the runners up at a gala held at the Palacio de Sueño in Seville. Diego Otero, replacing the reigning title holder Alberto Garcia, beat 51 other competitors, including Bartolomé Márquez Mora, Mr. Jaen, and Nestor Acosta Arencibia, Mr. Las Palmas, second and third respectively. The jury was composed of José Ángel Leiras, host of TVE; Luis Muñoz, Mister Spain 2007 and host of Canal Sur; Heike Ferrari, director of the Traffic modeling agency; Ana Linda Zago, director of the agency Interpluguin; stylist Paco Cerrato; designer Ana Torres and international model Alexandra Aguilera. Diego Otero was also appointed ‘Mr Elegance’, while the title of ‘Mr Congeniality’ went to Yerai Repecho Trejo, representative of La Rioja.

José Luis Sampedro wins National Prize for Literature BARCELONA WRITER and respected economist José Luis Sampedro has been awarded this year’s National Prize for Literature, an award under the auspices of the Ministry for Culture that also carries a significant cash prize of 40,000€.

The 94-year-old Sampedro is considered to be one of Spain’s most important writers.

nental Europe in an esteemed annual review, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club will undoubtedly provide a stern test for some of golf’s brightest stars on their journey to achieving playing privileges for the 2012 season.

TENSE

The field for the second stage is led by several young talents including 2009 Walker Cup Team member Dale Whitnell; 2008 English Amateur Champion, Todd Adcock; and Dutchman Tim Sluiter, winner of the Final Stage of Qualifying School in 2010.

There are also a number of seasoned campaign-

ers in the field hoping to make their way back out on tour, including 1993 Ryder Cup team member Peter Baker and Benn Barham, a tour regular until 2009, who is looking to kick-start his career following a successful battle with kidney cancer.

Another player in the field to watch is Tom Whitehouse, who has been on and off the European Tour in recent years, and had a bright amateur career capped with a win at the Spanish Amateur Open Championship in 2001.

With so many talented players on display it promises to be a tense weekend of action at Las Colinas Golf & Country Club. Visit: www.lascolinasgolf.es for more information.

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Spanish lessons by

Jane Cronin

A weekly ‘cut out and keep’ feature helping you to learn basic Spanish for everyday needs

The Letter

‘L’

YOU MAY have noticed that we have skipped the letter K in our romp through the Spanish alphabet. This is because it is a very uncommon letter in the Spanish language. If you check in your dictionary you’ll see it only appears in obviously imported words like “karate” and “karaoke” and measurements such as “kilómetro” and “kilograma” (although these also appear in the form “quilómetro” and “quilograma”) It is also used as a replacement for “qu” in texting, so that “qué tal” becomes “ke tal”, but this is not correct Spanish.

As for the letter L, the good news is that this is pronounced the same as in English, except that in Spanish we place the tongue further to the front of the mouth and make it very distinct, irrespective of where the L appears in the word. It may come at the beginning as in “lado” (side) or at the end as in “azul” (blue). English speakers need to be particularly careful in the way we pronounce the letter L at the end of words, and also when it appears next to another consonant within a word.

Think for a moment how we say “milk” or “hill” in English. We employ what we call the “dark L” which is pronounced at the back of the mouth and in some accents disappears completely. If we carry this tendency over to our Spanish speaking, they will not realise we are saying a word containing the letter L at all.

Someone I was talking to recently who works in a shop told me that the Spanish never seem to understand her when she offers them a bag - “una bolsa”.

When she tried her pronunciation out on me it was clear that she was almost saying something like “bowsa” which the Spanish would hear as “bosa”. As silly as it sounds, a little movement of the mouth like that can make all the difference between comprehension and incomprehension even in a situation where we might think our meaning is obvious.

As you may know, when the letter L is doubled in Spanish it makes completely different sound, akin to the “y” sound in English. In actual fact the Span-

ish sound has slightly more “friction” in it than the English open “y” sound, as though the air is slightly forced out through a narrowed mouth. The LL combination used to be considered as a separate letter of the alphabet before the advent of computers. Now it creates a technological challenge to have two letters that act as though they are one letter, so LL as a separate item in the alphabet has been suppressed, although its use remains exactly the same. Here are a few common words that illustrate the “ll” sound for us: “calle” (street), “llave” (key), “lluvia” (rain), “tortilla” (potato omelette), “millón” (million).

Now here is our usual sample of similar words in Spanish and in English, this time beginning with L. “Legal” (legal), “legítimo” (legitimate), “letal” (lethal), “libertad” (liberty), “líquido” (liquid), “literatura” (literature), “lúcido” (lucid), “laberinto” (laberinto or maze). Another word similar in both languages is “líder” (leader), the reason for the similarity in this case being because the word has been imported from English into Spanish.

An interesting and quite common L word is “listo”.

This word can mean two different things depending on whether it is combined with the verb “ser” or “estar”. “Ser listo” means “to be clever” whereas “estar listo” means “to be ready”.

An L-word that sometimes causes confusion is the word “libre” which means “free” in the sense of open, or not imprisoned, but does not mean “free” in the monetary sense, which is “gratis” or “gratuito”. That is why when you see a sign that says “buffet libre” it means it is open to all members of the public but doesn’t mean that they don’t have to pay! Another verbal estranged cousin is the word “largo” which means “long” and not “large” as it appears.

And finally to this week’s saying containing an L word: this one is short, sweet and useful in many situations. “Cada loco con su tema”, which means “each to his own” or literally, “every madman has his own subject of conversation”. Mine seems to be endlessly talking about Spanish!

Christmas Pantomime Fun

It’s time to take the family for a traditional fun night out at the Christmas panto ‘Aladdin’ at the Los Montesinos Theatre (Escuela de Musica y Cultura) commencing Thurday 8th until Saturday 10th at 7.30pm with a matinee Saturday 2.30pm tickets are 8 euros Adults 5 for children. And can be obtained from Christmas Shop San Luis, Cards & Things Quesada, The Card Place Benimar or tel 678212034. 966797683 Tickets will also be available on the door. Donations will be made to local charities.

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A stress free Christmas guaranteed..!

YOU ARE not alone if your Christmas means being a slave to the kitchen and then transforming yourself into ‘The Hostess With The Mostest’. But this year be our guest and celebrate in style with a fabulous festive minibreak 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 into the festive mood without having to lift a finger. All of the rooms are fitted with the luxuries that you would expect of this standard of hotel and the friendly staff will be waiting to care for your every need.

As a ‘full board’ guest, all of your dining requirements will be catered for, to include a Christmas Eve buffet dinner including party bags and half a bottle of cava each and on Christmas day an extravagant ‘Gala Lunch’: Salmon and Vegetable Roll Chipolata Sausage in Puff Pastry Mushroom & Iberian Ham Tart **** Chicken Soup with Almonds and Croutons **** Salmon in Leek Sauce served with Green Asparagus and Carrots ****

Madrid street to be named in honour of Steve Jobs IT HAS been unanimously agreed by the City Council of Madrid by the commission responsible for naming public roads and thoroughfares that a street will be named after the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, who died in Los Angeles on 5th October. The proposal was carried unanimously on Wednesday, with the location of the street to be decided at a later date.

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Mango Sorbet **** Turkey Leg stuffed with Plums and Pine nuts, served with mashed potatoes & broccoli **** Christmas Pudding with Brandy-Custard and Vanilla Ice Cream Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a little entertainment and the Rosamar provide a schedule of entertainment with spectacular shows & live music to have you dancing the night away.

This fantastic festive mini-break can be yours for just 187.50€ per person (based on two sharing) Price includes 3-nights stay checking in on the 24th December, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Christmas Eve Party, Christmas Day Gala Lunch, entertainment and a complimentary spa circuit.

And for just a small supplement why not spend Boxing Day night at the famous Benidorm Palace. Dress up and head out to the Palace, where world-renowned artists perform on the stage and tonight the performers will put on a show that will leave you breathless!

For further information and to book contact our reservation hotline on 96 681 3261, Monday to Friday: 9am – 6pm or Saturday & Sunday 10am – 2pm.

Spanish Team victorious in Ocean Race

By Louise Clarke SPANISH SAILING Team Telefónica achieved victory in the first stage of the 2011/2012 Volvo Ocean Race.

Iker Martinez’ boat crossed the finish line at 7.14pm last Saturday evening after 21 days, five hours, 14 minutes and 25 seconds of continuous competition.

The team receives a total of 30 points from the victory and as a result become the new leader of the latest Round the World race, which set off from Alicante on 5th November.

Three of the teams, Abu Dhabi, PUMA and Sanya, retired from the 6,500 nautical mile first leg due to technical problems, with the final of the first stage a three-boat-race in the end, CAMPER coming in second and the Groupama Team gaining a podium position after it came into port at Cape Town on Tuesday after 24 days, four hours, 28 minutes and 31 seconds.

The next test for sailors in the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12 is the in-port race in Cape Groupama Town harbour to be held on 10th December. came in third And the following day, the fleet will begin the second leg of the race to Abu Dhabi.

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Bombers’ special guest

by Jack Troughton PEOPLE WATCHER Robert Coombs was guest of honour at one of his favourite bars as more than 1,400€ was raised for ADIMA, the occupational therapy centre in Pedregeur.

The 24-year-old, who often attends the centre which aids people with mental and physical disabilities, was at a packed Bombers Bar in Javea Port for the auction and raffle with his family and carer, RTN Network’s Shaun Cryer.

Robert, who suffers Cerebral Palsy, is a regular visitor to expat bars where his wheelchair is always parked in the best position for him to watch what is going on and interact with people.

And Bombers Bar’s Paul and Chris Hackett decided to organise a fund raiser to mark the official opening of the new look and extended premises last Saturday and wanted to help a charity that in turn had aided Robert.

KARAOKE “We were absolutely packed, the auction didn’t finish until 11pm and absolutely everything went,” said Chris. “After-

(from left) Chris, Shaun, and compere and singer Colin Hulmes with Robert

wards we had a karaoke night and that kept going until we had to pull the plug!

“It was a fantastic night and great fun – everyone joined into the spirit of the evening and was really generous. We have a great bunch of people in the local community.”

She said Robert, Shaun, and Robert’s parents Roger and Pauline regularly popped into Bombers and it inspired them to raise some money for ADIMA – also represented on the night.

“It is known as an excellent centre and for helping people.”

The most unusual ‘lot’ in the auction was regular Ann Burke’s offer of a one day cleaning service. Chris added: “It attracted a lot of bidding and raised 100€ - now Ann has to look forward to eight hours’ cleaning!”

Benidorm’s first electric tourist train THE COUNCILLOR for mobility, Maria del Carmen Martinez, along with the manager of the company ‘SLU Tourist Trains’, Juan ManuelRomero, presented the tourist train service in Benidorm this week. The service is to cover the Poniente and the Levante area and the routes offered will cover city landmarks and special attractions. Users residing in Benidorm will benefit from special rates, especially travellers within certain age groups such as pensioners and minors.

The Old Castle

by Patricia Thompson

THE OLD Castle Restaurant is situated on Calle Castell no 4 Alfaz del Pi next to the Bricolage. Formerly called ‘The Castle’, this authentic building is very well known to the locals and is now under new management, boasting a fabulous international cuisine.

With its new Belgian owners, Jurgen and Rlette holding the fort, a wide range of culinary delights includes ‘Steppegras’. If you are Belgian you will know what this amazing dish is - if not, come to The Old Castle to try it out- you will not be disappointed! This charming venue is also available for functions; special occasions or parties whether for a birthday; wedding; christening or anniversary. The Old Castle features a beautiful log fire, perfect for chilly evenings, when you can be wined and dined in a warm, comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

Every Saturday evening, The Old Castle holds a jazz and blues night with regular music fans returning week after week to enjoy the great sounds: ample parking and easy access is also available.

Drop in to see Jurgen and Rlette in this beautiful setting for a regal welcome: for reservations please call 96 644 6541.

The spirit of Christmas CHARITY SHOW ‘Barry and Chris’ Christmas Cracker’ is just one of the fund-raising event aimed at insuring kids cared for by EMAUS enjoy presents come the festive season.

EMAUS faces a difficult year ahead following cuts in social services ordered by the government and the charity is even more dependent on the support of a generous public.

Starring Barry Britten and Chris Allen, the 13th December show at the Casa de Cultura, Benissa, is a fun and nostalgic romp through some of the pair’s favourite entertainers

and music – with a sprinkling of Christmas glitter.

Two of the Costa Blanca’s favourite entertainers they have years of experience treading the boards in London’s West End and on the UK cabaret circuit. And 25% of all ticket sales will go to the Friends of the Children of EMAUS – producer Philip Ashley said neither of the professional entertainers were in a position to perform purely for charity “but they can’t help wanting to bring some happiness to the children that live in the EMAUS homes.” He said the

Friends of the Children of EMAUS helped to provide youngsters with everyday essentials – that were often considered luxuries to the children “On this occasion the charity donation from Christmas cracker will go towards buying Christmas presents.”

Tickets for the show, which starts at 8pm, are 12€ and available by calling 96 558 1483 or online at www.philipashley.com. A discount of 2€ is offered to anyone booking and paying for their seats before 1st December. Doors open on the night at 7.30pm.

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Classic double act

by Jack Troughton JAVEA SEAFRONT restaurant Ca’Maria simply seduced diners with a special set menu offering both a food and wine tasting – a winning combination.

It was an opportunity to sample some mouth-watering food from the kitchen together with some excellent wines from Vicente Gandia, one of Spain’s top producers and exporter.

Ca’Maria is a relative newcomer to Avenida de la Marina Espanola – the pedestrian-only street along the seafront in Javea Port – and is certainly worth a visit for its set menus, tapas and a la carte.

Expect a warm welcome at this modern and stylish restaurant, and at least in daylight, whether eating inside or outside on the terrace, take the opportunity to admire the view across Javea Bay. It is a perfect location and a perfect accompaniment to the food.

TASTE It is planned to have special tasting menus on Thursday evenings (reservations required) and Restaurante Ca’Maria invited RTN to join the first night, a ‘Menu Maridaje’ – a four course meal with two wines and a cava at 20€ per person.

The evening started with a crisp seasonal salad – lettuce, cabbage, and rocket, with soya beans, diced crunchy Serrano ham and bacon, as well as cherry tomatoes, walnuts and avocado with a honey and sesame vinaigrette. It was a colourful dish packed with flavour.

Accompanied by bread, it was also an opportunity to sample Vicente Gandia’s delightful extra virgin olive oil Hoya de Cadenas – introduced by the bodega’s representative Yamelys Suarez and wine critic Colin Harkness. They explained as olive trees and vines frequently grew together producers had started selling the fragrant oil.

The delicate flavour of simple steamed sole fillets was accentuated by an asparagus sauce - a combination made in heaven when accompanied by Nebla, a refreshing strawcoloured young white wine packed with

Ca’Maria’s maitre d’ Darius

tropical fruit flavours and made from the Verdejo grape.

FLAVOUR A tender flank of beef was filled with sautéed mushrooms, ham and vegetables and accompanied with crisp lattices of potatoes and rice. Again it was highly enjoyable and full of hidden surprises as different flavours burst through.

The course was accompanied by Raiza Crianza, a ruby red 100 percent Tempranillo grape Rioja, one of the Valencia-based Vicente Gandia wines from another region and with berry flavours balanced with balsamic and vanilla from wood cask aging.

Dessert was served with a glass of El Miracle Cava Brut, made from Chardonnay grape, a slight acidity offset the sweetness of an apple pastry with vanilla mousse, cinnamon and with crunchy caramel ‘glass’.

Throughout the service was friendly but attentive and each course elegantly presented, a little artwork on a plate. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

The restaurant has a website, www.camariadejavea.es, and for reservations call 96 579 3083.

(from left) host Darius with Colin Harkness and Yamelys Suarez

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

23

Good news week...

Watts In Britain

Anyone remember an old hit called ‘It’s Good News Week’ by Hedgehoppers Anonymous? I think it went something like this (count us in Chic 1,2,3,4...)

By “It’s good news week,

Paul Watts

Someone’s dropped a bomb somewhere, Contaminating atmosphere And blackening the sky...”

Have you heard the news?

What did it say?

Who’s won that race?

What’s the weather like today?

“It’s good news week, Doctors finding many ways, Of wrapping brains in metal trays, To keep us from the heat...”

That song reminded me of how it’s all good news here this week in the UK - or not! Switch on the radio or open the papers and its all doom and gloom. From the report about weekend emergency admissions into NHS hospitals or Wednesday’s strike by teachers and immigration officers and onto the doubledip recession, we are all, to quote Frazer from Dad’s Army, “doomed...!”

The recently published Dr Foster’s Hospital Guide, tells us we are ten percent (yes, 10%) less likely to not make into next week if admitted to hospital at the weekend. Get stretchered in on a Wednesday and ‘you’ll be fine, mate’ leave it till Saturday and your chances have dropped by an unfavourable margin.

I guess the moral here is not to go out on the p*** on a Friday night…

However, should you wish to stretchered on a Wednesday, this Wednesday could prove troublesome - especially if you wish to be stretchered from outside the UK: yup, UK PLC is due to be brought to a dramatic

stop by striking public service workers - in fact I often file my RTN copy from the public library in Tamworth, so if you’re not reading this you’ll know why.

Queues of twelve hours were predicted for Heathrow and Gatwick airports, along with fears of lowered security. So, to all deranged nutters everywhere Wednesday is the perfect day to come and slip into Britain... you’ll just have to be prepared to wait a bit though.

On Monday the Washington Post advised its readers not to travel that day. The paper reported: “Civil service staff and contractors will be brought in to cover for striking immigration officials at Britain’s borders, though most airlines have advised passengers to reschedule any journeys planned for Wednesday into the UK.” It implied that a ‘knock-on’ effect could last until the weekend. Great... I’m picking my daughter up from Heathrow this Friday.

The weather’s not much better. Storm force winds and torrential rain swept over the north-west, with the promise of turning south. In Glasgow underground train services were halted as the system became flooded. And the Met Office has predicted that snow is just around the corner. It’s good news week.

And it’s good news week from Chancellor George Osbourne as he announced, in his autumn statement on Tuesday, that the economy isn’t recovering as quickly as he thought it would. Best laid plans, eh Georgie?

This is how he started: “The UK economy is recovering from the biggest financial crisis in generations.

Prior to the crisis, underlying competitiveness fell and economic growth was driven by unsustainable levels of debt, with the UK seeing the greatest expansion in debt of all the world’s major economies over the last decade.…” Not exactly a barrel of laughs, eh? The long

Give us a smile George

term effect is, he tells me, that I’ve got to work until I’m sixty-six. Still it could be worse: my brother’s got to work till he’s sixty-seven.

“There are bad times just around the corner,” Noel Coward desperately sang, 60 years ago, “and the outlook’s absolutely vile...” But I take heart because despite this ‘good news week’ things won’t be as bad as the post-war austerity that Noel Coward knew. I doubt there’ll be queuing in the streets for bread and bananas are still in good supply. And Youngsters, look on the bright side, you don’t have to pay 7/6 for your favourite pop group’s latest single – you just nick it from the Internet. TV is not only in colour it’s in high definition, with a zillion channels to choose. And to cap it all in most shops you can now hear Noddy Holder singing out, “Merry Chriiiistmaaas...” So, switching to Ian Drury: “There are reasons to be cheerful; one, two, three...”

Watts in Britain, so you don’t have to be…

24

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Treat yourself…. to some ‘Glamour’

by Roddy Cunningham AFTER A busy summer with lots of visitors and changeovers I was delighted to see the new show ‘Glamour’ at Benidorm Palace…I was definitely in need of some ‘Glamour’ in my life.

It has always been the case that a visit to the Benidorm Palace is one sure way of getting that “Gosh, I really enjoyed that” feeling from the beginning to the end of the evening, and ‘Glamour’ brings this sensation in swathes.

Everything is beautifully and carefully presented, and the pre-show pianist and band, the sumptuous 5 course meal, the wine and the Cava, are all included within the price and represent fantastic value. In fact as my wife remarked to me during our “we’ve earned it, let’s go and enjoy ourselves” evening at the Palace last weekend, “We have paid much more than that for a meal for two before and not enjoyed it half as much.” And we still had the two hour show to come!

From the moment the curtains pull back, and the stage rises out of the dance floor, you will watch and enjoy every minute. The show is a magnificent spectacle of colour with fabulous dancers and glamorous costumes. The dance routines are choreographed perfectly, delivering a mix of dance styles that swirl around the stage and capture the audience with their energy and excitement. One dance style after another unfolds to create a magical, musical display fully wor-

thy of its reputation as one of the top shows in Europe.

In-between the dance routines you are treated to some astoundingly different acts including a couple giving a surprising acrobatic performance where they lift each other with exceptional control, a trampoline sequence with three tram-

“I can’t wait to come again” will most likely also be a phrase that you will hear as everyone leaves.

So go on, treat yourselves now before the Christmas bustle is here. And the chances are that you will have so much fun that when your next relatives and guests do arrive, you’ll be very happily making a return trip with them too!

A Five Star recommendation from the RTN.

polinists the likes of which you will never have seen before, and a trio of male acrobats who perform mesmerising feats in slow motion using balance, skill and pure strength.

Predominantly, though, this show is about dance, music and unadulterated fun and enjoyment. This is showbiz extravaganza at its best; the colours, rhythms and lights mix together perfectly as the dancers put on show-stopping exhibitions of Flamenco, Disco, 80s, Tap, Riverdance and other upto-the-moment dance routines. You can see in the dancers’ faces that they are enjoying themselves and this transmits itself fully across to the audience. This show is about delivering sheer satisfaction for them and for you.

When the curtains finally do close and it is time to depart for home the “I really enjoyed that” feeling is definitely there, in your stomach thanks to the delicious food and wine, in your mind because of the sensational routines and acts that you have just witnessed, and in your memories forevermore.

Sign up Yance A D O T h c r ou for y to wrinuisthe is C

money

14 - 08 20 OCT 02 Dec DEC 2011 07 13 OCT 2011

23 25

Tax inspectors in cahoots by

Suzanne O’Connell Customer Care at Ábaco

“IT’S A bit like Vegas here: what happens in Spain stays in Spain.” I won’t jeopardise the job of the very ‘honest’ official whose quote this was. Neither will I pretend that there hasn’t been an element of truth in it.

We’ve all got examples of individuals who have moved to Spain, and perhaps back home again, with a level of impunity. For some, it was the main attraction of coming here in the first place. We’ve perhaps ‘tut-tutted’ or raised an eyebrow but there has traditionally been a sense of ‘letting each other get on with it’, whatever our personal beliefs might be.

However, there is a mood change out there. People aren’t as tolerant of the benefit cheats and tax evaders as they used to be. There is a recognition that in these tough times everyone needs to pull their weight and withdrawing from your tax obligations or making false claims isn’t the way to do it.

I would imagine, in spite of its reputation for wild abandonment and speculation, even Vegas is getting a little more vigilant in its dealings. And Spain certainly is – with a little help from its friends it is chasing its debtors, wherever they may have run to. But it’s not just ‘one way traffic… ‘ Take this case for example. We’ve seen some high profile headlines in the tabloid press of the Spanish banks chasing debtors into the UK – even having ambitions on the family home there. Well it’s not only the Spanish who are reaching across the border.

We were approached recently by a non-resident Spanish property owner who had been contacted in the UK about non-payment of tax. Not too great a surprise as his business had been in difficulties. The real surprise came when he opened the envelope to discover that inside was a letter from the Spanish Tax Authority informing him that they had embargoed his home in Spain for non-payment of tax.

I can almost hear the cries of indignation – typical of the Spanish Tax Authority! At it again! Not exactly.

They had embargoed it, true, but because they’d been asked to by our very own HM Revenue and Customs.

Apparently, this UK resident owed HMRC a large amount (over £20,000) of tax. The letter, sent via HMRC, was to explain that the Spanish Tax Authority would put his house in Spain on the market if the bill wasn’t settled within 15 days. In other words, he had to pay his UK tax debt or his Spanish holiday home was up for auction.

I think most of us have a fear of the Tax Authority, be it Agencia Tributaria or HM Revenue and Customs. Just the thought of a tax inspector sends a shiver down my spine. But the picture of them all in cahoots across the oceans is the stuff of nightmares rather than the dreams we have of a new life in Spain.

If you want to put your taxes in order we can help you. Please contact us for a free, no obligation tax consultation by calling our helpline 96 670 3748. www.abacoconnect.com.

If you would like a FREE, no obligation tax consultation and help with completing your annual tax declaration contact one of Ábaco’s friendly team on ÁbacoConnect Help-line 966 703 748 | www.abacoconnect.com

currency

26 40

02 Dec DEC 2011 Feb 26 - 08 March 4 2010

For more information on how Moneycorp can help you to save hundreds of euros on your Spanish bank fees, as well as helping you get more pounds for your euros, contact us on 902 887 243 or email Moneycorp directly at roundtownnews@moneycorp.com

Your questions answered by Moneycorp by

Kevin Wright

Account Manager, Moneycorp

THE COST savings of using a specialist currency company are attractive but I have been put off as I understand there could be extra work involved.

I also have concerns regarding the safety of my money - am I being over cautious?

Specialist currency providers are becoming popular choices for British ex-pats living in Spain or indeed returning back to the UK. Opening a trading facility is much easier and quicker than you may think and is needed to comply with Anti Money Laundering legislation. If based in the UK, Moneycorp allows the majority of clients to register on-line via its web site in a matter of minutes. Non UK clients simply complete the form (with an on line option) and provide a couple of items of ID. For a few minutes work there are massive benefits, including cost savings and a range of currency services simply not offered by your high street bank.

Trading is also simple and is normally conducted over the telephone. Put simply, you can have access to the most competitive rates along with ‘real time’ information on the market which allows you to trade at the most advantageous time in a variety of situations. As an example, the past 24 months have shown fluctuations in the Sterling/Euro rate but when using your bank options are limited to asking for the daily rate and booking the currency.

Using a specialist currency company means you can have the rate monitored on your behalf to avoid trading when the market is against you. If the currency is not required immediately you can often buy the total amount for that date and only pay a small deposit with the balance becoming available when you need it. Regular payments are also catered for to allow you to transfer pensions, salaries or mortgage payments hassle free with

potentially huge cost savings.

The question of security is completely understandable and one that any client needs to be comfortable with. There are certain questions that will allow you to choose a currency provider with confidence and should be addressed if you have any doubts: - How long have you been in business?

- How many staff do you have?

- What is your turnover?

- How many clients do you deal with each year?

- Do you have any other divisions as part of the company?

- Do you speculate with the funds?

- Are you registered with HM Customs as an overseas money service provider?

- Do you have audited accounts at Companies House?

- Where are your offices and can I visit them?

- Are you FSA Regulated AND Authorised so my funds are protected?

- Do you have direct access to SWIFT? (SWIFT is the world’s largest payments and settlements network for domestic and international money transfers ensuring faster payments and enhanced security).

In our experience, once a client has taken the steps above and traded they do not return to using their bank for currency exchange. After all, the banks have shown over the past 24 months that although they appear safe, clients do not always come first!

EDITOR’S NOTE: There are many reasons why RTN Money has partnered with Moneycorp to help our readers achieve the maximum return for their currency. To show that we too did our homework on your behalf, here are the answers we got to the security questions above through Moneycorp.

How long have you been in business?

Moneycorp has been dealing in foreign exchange since 1979 How many staff do you have?

Over 540 and growing What is your turnover?

The last financial year saw Moneycorp trade over £10.5 billion in currencies How many clients do you deal with each year?

In excess of 2.7 million across all of our divisions Do you have any other divisions as part of the company?

Yes. Retail, Wholesale, Commercial and an award-winning online trading platform Do you speculate with the funds?

Absolutely not! All clients using Moneycorp receive live spot rates Are you registered with HM Customs as an overseas money service provider?

Yes Do you have audited accounts at Companies House?

Yes we do. However, Moneycorp are unique in that we publish our latest accounts on our web site for clients to view on line.

PricewaterhouseCoopers have been our auditors since 1987 and we also boast of a top rating by Dun & Bradstreet, Graydon and other credit agencies Where are your offices and can I visit them? Moneycorp has offices and dealing rooms in central London and throughout the world. Details of locations are on our website and clients are always welcome to call in Are you FSA Regulated AND Authorised so my funds are protected?

Yes. Moneycorp’s client accounts are held with Barclays and HSBC Do you have direct access to SWIFT? (SWIFT is the world’s largest payments and settlements network for domestic and international money transfers ensuring faster payments and enhanced security). Moneycorp are full members of SWIFT. To ensure that our internal processes are of the highest standard we have also held the ISO9000 Quality Assurance accreditation since 1976.

money

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

27

Can I say how impressed I was with your service?

Línea Directa: the best insurance at the best price.

LÍNEA DIRECTA Aseguradora is the market leader in the sale of insurance to foreign residents in Spain. Since 1998 it is the only insurer to have offered its services in both English and German, which include handling claims, selling the policy and road assistance. This service, the first of its kind in Spain, forms part of the company’s dedication to quality and excellence, which have made it the leader in the sale of

insurance by telephone and Internet, with almost 1.8 million customers in Spain.

In addition, the International Business Line has registered one of the highest levels of customer satisfaction in both claims handling and customer service. Here are some real cases described to us by our policyholders: “Can I say how impressed I was with your service, the calls

were handled quickly and efficiently and the tow truck was on site within an hour of the accident happening. I am happy to continue to use you and my wife will be buying a new car soon which we will insure with you. Yours faithfully, Howard W. If you wish to find out more call 902 123 104 now.

Company Women November lunch COMPANY WOMEN’S November networking lunch was at The Square, Villamartin, where the food and service was excellent, with speakers Lynn Patterson from ‘That Free Thing’, explaining how it may be the next BIG thing to hit the Costa Blanca, and Shirley Adams from Lloyds Bank International who gave some very interesting information on current deposit rates and their new current account. One lucky lady was presented with a bag of Lloyds Bank International Goodies.

It was a very busy lunch with some serious networking: read the latest comment

from Cathryn who attended for the first time and came away with several leads for new business, on our website www.companywomen.org Host Karen Love (Vice-President), stood in for our President Gina Marks, who was unfortunately poorly, and reported on the success of the Expo Fiesta in Alicante, where several Company Women members had stands. Thanks were given to those who manned the Company Women Stand at the Expo. Enquiries from ladies attending will be followed up over the next few weeks.

Karen also announced categories for

The Company Women Awards for 2011/2012. Nominations forms are being received already. So if you know of a ‘Lady in Business’ deserving special recognition, please visit our website on www.companywomen.org and nominate her.

Next is our Christmas Lunch at Stan & Ollies, El Raso, where we have a wonderful party planned, including a magician, Santa and an entertaining talk from Dave Bull of All Abroad magazine: check out the website for details if you would like to attend.

28

legal

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

A claim against your neighbour for building a fence on your plot by

Carlos Baos

of White & Baos Abogados English & Spanish Solicitors

MY WIFE and I own a house in Pedreguer, Alicante. We now have a new neighbour who purchased the plot next to ours and has put up a fence that occupies part of our plot. We have asked him on different occasions to move it to his land in order to make it legal but he has not paid any attention to our requests, and so we have decided to start legal action against him. What should we do? Can you please advise?

To be able to claim against your neighbour for your piece of land occupied by him you must do it through a Court Procedure or legal action under Spanish Law called Act to restore (Accion Reivindicatoria) which refers to border disputes and claiming ownership of a disputed area or region.

In this sense it will be fundamental for you to be able to identify and prove the ‘disputed’ portion of land is yours.

The Case Law states that in order to be able to file this type of claim requesting that land currently occupied by someone

else is restored to its rightful owner, it is absolutely necessary to identity both plots, as well as the real existing boundaries between them. Only then, can the portion currently occupied by the neighbour be clearly identified and recognised.

Therefore if the boundaries of both plots are not clear and identified to start with, we must first of all identify them, which can be done by using a topographer, by checking the Town Hall plans of the plots, and by checking the cadastral plans, etc.

Once the above is done, you will commence two different actions as part of your claim: 1) A legal action to rule upon the real boundaries (Accion de Deslinde). For this you should be able to prove to the Court what the exact boundaries of the respective plots are, basing your arguments on the evidence already obtained such as the topographic report, etc.

2) You will be able to request from the court (once the real boundaries are confirmed), to RESTORE the plot illegally occupied (Accion Reivindicatoria).

In this respect, the Spanish Supreme Court has set by a Decree Court Order No. 524/2000 of May 25th which on its FIRST principle of law states the absolute and undoubted identification of the plots is needed when claiming in this kind of court action. The unequivocal identification of the plot to be claimed is a ‘sine qua non’ condition and should be carried out precisely from its 4 cardinal points; this being an essential requirement to thrive any of the legal actions derived from

article 348 of the Spanish Civil Code. The following are court orders confirming this: Court Orders of July 16th 1990, March 5th 1991 and December 1st 1993, amongst others.

Also the Alicante County Court (Audiencia Provincial) (6th Section) in Decision number 121/2004 of February 25th states: It should be agreed with the court of first instance when it establishes that there is a reasonable doubt in the boundaries dividing the plots under claim and the portion of the land being claimed by the parties as their own has not been identified.

Therefore since the boundaries of the plot to be restored are not perfectly set by the claimant, the claim is dismissed with conviction of costs for the claimant.

So the importance of identifying both plots is paramount, without which the above rulings show that a claim is unlikely to succeed. However, in the situation where the real boundaries can be proven and evidenced, then the Court will likely decide in your favour.

Should any reader find himself or herself in this situation or similar please do not hesitate to contact us and the appropriate advice will be provided. The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys general information related to legal issues.

We kindly invite you to visit and comment about this article in our blog at http://www.white-baos.com/blog/ and facebook (White-Baos-Abogados-Solicitors) your comments in this respect will be greatly appreciated.

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) © White & Baos Abogados 2011 - All rights reserved. C/Diana 19, 2º-D, 03700 Dénia (located 1 minute away from the La Via underground car park).

Tel: 966 426 185. Send your questions to spanishlawyer@roundtownnews.com or info@white-baos.com. This article is available in English and Spanish at www.white-baos.com

14 - 08 20 OCT 02 Dec DEC 2011 07 13 OCT 2011

Rajoy begins talks with unions and employers

Central Banks new resolve to loosen gridlock on global money movement A NEW project has been launched today within the Central Banks to inject liquidity into the banking system. In a press release on Wednesday The European Central Bank with the Banks of England, Canada, Switzerland and Japan announced their goal to support the financial system worldwide and hopefully stimulate inter-bank lending.

AS PRIME Minister-in-waiting Mariano Rajoy opens talks with unions and employers it is inevitable that labour reform will be imposed arbitrarily if no agreement is reached.

Rajoy met with the CCOO and CEOE on Wednesday, saying he would like to see a deal on the table by El Reyes on 6th January, with unemployment at more than double the European average. However, the UGT warns that “another reform is not the way to face the crisis.” Other meetings involved PP Spokesperson Sáenz de Santamaria and Duran I Lleida of CIU.

29 23 25

Mariano Rajoy and Ignacio Fernández Toxo

+

free

uk tv

120mins european landline calls

line rental

included

30

money

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Want a Risk Free and Tax Free Income?

ARBITRAGE IS the purchase of currencies, securities and commodities for immediate resale at a profit: Banks are constantly engaged in arbitrage situations, racking up huge profits for themselves in the process. In Sporting Arbitrages cases the ‘commodities’ are horses or football teams and the market is the biggest on the internet - the betting industry. BUT they do not gamble with your money. Sporting Arbitrage predominantly employs Betfair, a trading platform with a £450 million weekly turnover, engineering tiny margins with no risk.

How does Sporting Arbitrage produce returns at minimal risk?

If we back at a bigger price than we lay then we cannot lose.

This fact is demonstrated on the website and at our various presentations. Traders create margins, no matter how small,

to ensure clients benefit from around 60% of all the horse races in the UK, with NO losses racked up on the remainder; also grabbing margins on major football matches, dealing in mathematical certainties.

Will I know the events on which you are trading on any given day?

Without question - indeed it is a legal requirement that we provide you the ability to ‘opt out’ each day.

A lump sum may be invested or make regular contributions to build capital that way. £200 per month will be worth almost £7,000 after just two years!

You can opt out on a daily basis and withdraw part or all of your investment at 14 days’ notice, on a minimum contribution of £100, with the facility to draw off profits monthly or roll them over.

Steve Kelly,

Sporting Arbitrage’s Steve Kelly has made big profits for his personal clients since 2003. Here on the Costa Blanca, Sporting Arbitrage opened their La Regia offices in May, engaging the services of John O’Brien, a City stockbroker for thirty five years before settling in Catral seven years ago.

The office provides full administrative support and personal presentations can be arranged.

Sporting Arbitrage Ltd, Sophia Business Centre, 11 C/Isla Formentera, La Regia, Orihuela Costa.

money

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Iberswitch -

not just for Christmas

ARE YOU struggling to think of an idea for the perfect Christmas present for your loved one?

Why not give them something that they can use all year, which they will never get bored of, that will not break the bank and best of all, won’t need a pair of shoes or handbag to go with it?

SMART, PRACTICAL, USEFUL AND ATTRACTIVE Any of these words describe the Iberswitch Care Team. They will help you to fill his or her Xmas stocking with tasty and useful goodies like fixing their kilowatt rate, avoiding paying unnecessary electricity tax and IVA. You have to admit, it would be much better than a gift voucher.

On a serious note, directly after Christmas – unlike the shops where you will be shopping for gifts, there will be no January sales, no knock-down prices offered by the electricity companies. On the contrary, January always sees the largest of all the annual increases.

Last January, the cost of electricity rose by 9.9% which, although it doesn’t mean it will necessarily do the same this year whatever the increase, it is likely to be substantial.

With a recent industry announcement that a 20% increase is sought for 2012 the one thing you can count on, the price of electricity is not going down.

In October, the government announced a freeze on price hikes for the final quarter. Of course, this was in aid of the elections. A 6% increase was planned, then aborted and you guessed it, will need to be made up sometime soon. This could mean a rise of 26% for 2012.

So go on, treat your loved one this Christmas – if nothing else, it is easy to wrap!

Call Iberswitch on 96 626 5089 and quote reference: HO! HO! HO!

31

Who is the most corrupt of all?

IN A cash-strapped economy that promises to get worse before it gets better, Spain is at number 31 on a list of the World’s most corrupt countries, released

by German organisation ‘Transparency International’. The list is topped

by Somalia, North Korea and Myanmar (Burma).

In the 2011 edition of its traditional Index of Corruption Perception (CPI), TI ranks Italy at 69. On a scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 ( very transparent), where repeated Somalia ranked as the worst (1.0) and New Zealand took the lead (9.5), Spain fell one position compared to 2010, to the thirty-first place but achieves 6.2, one tenth more than the score achieved last year.

32

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Costa Blanca Writers Bookcase Mountain walks COSTA BLANCA writers is a circle of established Costa Blanca based authors of fiction and non-fiction books. Their collection of books includes hard and soft covered books and e-books. On the first Friday of each month one of the members will explain the background to their writings and describe one of their books. Mike Hillier kicks off the programme this month.

Michael Hillier retired to the Costa Blanca seven years ago and settled in a small village in the Orba Valley. A ‘hobby writer’ for many years, he is one of the founder members of the Costa Blanca Writers Group.

His object is to use his retirement to concentrate on finishing the novels he had been working on in his earlier years and produce new ones. He has now published three novels in hardback or paperback form and a further three as e-books.

His latest book is ‘The Gigabyte Detective’ – briefly: The former lady mayoress of Torquay is found murdered in a hotel room, apparently by the man with whom she was having a secret affair. But Detective Inspector Stafford Paulson is unable to find any suspects. Then it is discovered that a similarly rich lady has died in mysterious circumstances at about the same time each year for the last five years. As the sixth summer holiday period approaches panic rises in the local society.

Meanwhile Susannah Blake, a lonely former TV leading lady married to a big London businessman who is away most

Agnes Hall

Colin Hall

of the time, finds herself making friends with a very attractive summer visitor to the area called Richard Harris.

At police headquarters the Deputy Chief Constable has borrowed a bright young university graduate from New Scotland Yard to show the provincials how it’s done. DCI Charlotte Faraday is twenty-nine, clever, attractive and independent. She has developed a new computer programme which can rapidly search a huge amount of historical data to throw up links for the detectives to follow: Paulson and his team are instructed to co-operate with her.

Faraday and Paulson start looking for connections between the five deaths, not without some resistance from their more old-fashioned colleagues.

Information on another suicide provides a vital link. From that they discover the name of the man they are looking for is Richard Harris. But where is he? Who will he choose this year? Is Susannah Blake in danger?

The gigabyte detective is under pressure to find the murderer before he kills again.

Buy the book to know the whole story. The price is 8€. It is available

Dick Handscombe

Jill Launchberry

from Heidi Francis at the flower shop at Avda Rey Juan Carlos 6d, Jalon, from www.Amazon.com or via www.mikehillier.com. The book is also available as an e-book.

Next month’s contribution to the Costa Blanca Writers Bookcase is by Gill Launchberry.

Keith Geddes

Michael Hillier

SATURDAY 3RD DECEMBER Ruta del Riberer, Soldetes: A moderately strenuous but interesting walk over some rough terrain. 12½kms of 5 hours duration with a 580m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel Peter 620 319 797.

Bernia circuit, via the Forat: A moderately strenuous route involving a crawl through a low cave, rough tracks, with some scree and scrambling: 12kms of 4½ hours’ duration and a 300m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel Bill 673 220 073.

Serra del Mirant: A moderately strenuous walk over some rough terrain but with excellent views to Forada ridge: 14kms of 5 hours’ duration with a 550m ascent: Dogs on leads at rear: For further details Tel Ralph 699 784 253.

WEDNESDAY 7TH DECEMBER Jalon Parcent circuit via Col de Rates: A moderately strenuous walk but on good tracks: 17 Kms, of 5½ hours’ duration with a 550m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel Alan 96 558 3637.

Val D’Ebo and back from Pego: A strenuous walk, over some rough terrain: 15kms of 6 hours’ duration with a 600m ascent: Dogs on leads at rear: For further details Tel Theresa 96 649 1712.

Puig Campana summit: A very strenuous walk over mostly rough terrain, with some scrambling. For experienced mountain walkers! 10kms, of 5½ hours’ duration with a 1,116m ascent: No dogs: For further details call Jim 96 680 4554.

Walks depart promptly at 10am unless otherwise noted.

Boots and adequate drinking water are required. First aid kit is recommended, as well as protection against sun and wind.

Walkers participate at their own risk. The rules and guidelines for walking are given on our website, see www.cbmwalkers.org.

The Aighetta Quartet concert

THE ALFAS del Pi Classical Music Society is to present a concert by the Italian Guitar Quartet Aighetta on Saturday 10th December at 8pm at the Casa de Cultura de Alfas del Pi, featuring music by Manuel de Falla, Bizet and Vivaldi as well as works written by members of the group. The Aighetta Quartet is a prestigious name in the world of guitar music and the group has performed worldwide, regularly mixing classical, contemporary and jazz music. Tickets are priced at 10€ for non-members. For more information, visit www.alfasmusica.com

health

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

33

Don’t want to be a Christmas Pudding this year?

Planning on losing weight for the New year? by

Mark Phoenix Murphy Dhp MIAPH MNRAH

WHY WAIT until after Christmas…? You too can join the hundreds of successful clients in Spain who have already completed the treatment! And take advantage of the very special offer below…today!

There have been quite a lot of press reports in the local papers and the UK National papers and television programs, such as Channel 4’s ‘Embarrassing Bodies’, about the HypnoBand™, the leading virtual gastric band weight loss system with Phoenix Hypnotherapy pioneering the programme on the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and Almeria in 2009.

This revolutionary weight loss system HypnoBand™ could help change your life forever; it is not a quick fix, but a carefully designed system of sessions to enable you to lose weight safely over a period of time. So imagine having the results usually achieved by having a surgical Gastric Band fitted but not having to go through surgery, and spending thousands of euros!

The real gastric band is not for everyone. Usually the surgery is only carried out on people classified as ‘clinically obese’ and with a high Body Mass Index (BMI). A surgical Gastric Band works by reducing the size of the stomach and therefore you eat smaller portions and feel full. Through this method it is possible to lose weight easily. The surgical method does have drawbacks, however. It is very costly, typically costing upwards of €6,000 - €12,000 and of course you will need to go through a surgical procedure But if you have a BMI of over 25, you may be suitable for the HypnoBand™ system, in which we create a state of mind where you will believe you actually have a Gastric Band fitted! You will eat smaller portions and feel full. The HypnoBand™ system is a long term solution to your weight problems.

SO HOW DOES IT WORK? Over the sessions Mark takes you through the process of having a gastric band fitted, but only in your mind. By using Cognitive Hypnotherapy, suggestions and visualisation, your mind will be convinced that your stomach has become smaller and that you need less food. By eating less and less often you will begin to lose weight. The process uses hypnotherapy and cognitive behavioural techniques to help you achieve your ideal weight - and stay there!

The HYPNOBAND™ system comprises of four, one hour sessions plus 2 CDs or mp3 recordings.

A full dietary and medical history will be taken and an initial assessment done during the first session.

Also in the first session you will be introduced to hypnosis and experience the fantastic feelings of relaxation and calmness. We will also begin your journey to losing weight.

In the second session you will encounter the HYPNOBAND™ and we will begin the process of having the virtual gastric band fitted. In the third session the HYPNO-BAND virtual gastric band will be fitted and adjusted. In the fourth and final session (you decide when you need this, whether 1 week up to a year later, it is your choice, there is no short time limit unlike other available treatments you are not limited to one month) the process will be reinforced and you will learn a different way of eating.

NO SURGERY - NO PAIN - NO SIDE EFFECTS Mark only practices from established clinics, and holds weekly clinics in Albir, Moraira, Camposol, Villamartin and Garrucha He is a registered member of the International Association of Pure HypnoAnalysts™ the National Register of Advanced Hypnotherapists

APT Cofenat (Spanish governing body) and is the only legally licensed HypnoBand™ Practitioner on the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and Costa Almeria.

To make sure you come to the right place please rip out the advert below and get your Hypnoband™ booked in before Christmas and the New year, for a very special offer of only 275€ (full price normally 325€) only available at this price with the advert below…

For more details please call Mark on 654 202 996: or visit www.HypnoSpain.com

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Government funding for long term stays in retirement homes OFTEN WE are confronted with the question: how to pay for a long term stay? Personal funds are usually available for a short stay, respite stay or convalescent stay, but sadly many people think that a good care home is unaffordable on a long term basis.

As explained by Ilona Niemöller, director of La Saleta Calpe Yet there are possibilities to get help from the Spanish government, providing you can fulfil all the necessary criteria.

Government funding is a possibility for residents in Spain of more than five years A lot of foreigners do not know this, thinking that going back to the UK is the only option.

If you have been a resident in Spain for the last five years or more, you can apply for government funding. We will help you get all the necessary paperwork and fill in the forms, offering special discounts for those who need permanent care; this way residential care is affordable until you get the money from the government.

Now, what amounts are we talking of? Government funding goes from as little as a 100€ to a maximum of 800€ a month, depending on how much help you need. We can help you get funding and complete the application process for you.

LA SALETA CALPE La Saleta Calpe provides professional care for the elderly, as well as for the not so elderly who prefer to stay in a safe environment with 24-hour care, just in case they need it.

In La Saleta Calpe you are in a homely environment as well as a very professional care home. All our staff are qualified and collectively speak a broad range of languages as our residents are of different nationalities with individual requirements.

English speaking patients have always been very well cared for and are frequent guests in our facility.

PERMANENT, CONVALESCENT AND RESPITE CARE We offer permanent stays in our rooms or adapted apartments, as well as convalescent stays; for example after a fall, illness or stroke.

We also offer respite care for those who look after a partner, family member or neighbour - this way some of the burden can be taken away knowing that your beloved is in good hands for a short time, allowing you to recharge your energy to continue with that care. This can be from a day, a weekend or for any time required.

You will be attended by highly trained staff such as carers, nurses, a physiotherapist, social worker, doctor, psychologist and other professionals.

INDEPENDENT APARTMENTS & PETS Adapted apartments are a new alternative form of accommodation, where the resident has all the independence they need, supported by the services available within the residence.

These apartments offer inhabitants a structure which is free of barriers or obstacles, with a double bedroom and a large

bathroom, kitchen and living/dining room, fully equipped to meet all needs.

Pets that are fully vaccinated and with their passport can stay with their owners in their apartments.

For more information on any of the above, contact Ilona, director of La Saleta Calpe on 618 636 662 / 96 583 88 55, or email dcalp@lasaleta.com: see their advert on this page. www.lasaleta.com

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

RTN’s Claire gets the Hollywood ONE OF the newest and most exciting businesses to hit Spain in the past year is Smile White, who state they will whiten teeth safely, affordably and pain free in just one relaxing session taking between 1 and 1½ hours to complete.

Sounding almost too good to be true, RTN’s Claire was invited by Smile White to come along and be treated to experience the whole process for herself.

Never one to hold back on any kind of adventure (she has done four parachute jumps!) Claire met Karen Laundon and Stuart Lennox-Gordon at their new Training Academy near Calpe. This is the only dedicated teeth whitening Training Academy in Europe, to which all clinicians offering the Smile White service must attend, and take and pass stringent tutorials and exams.

This is a purely cosmetic treatment, but nonetheless a detailed consultation and assessment was taken during which Claire was asked questions about her general health and any allergies, about her teeth, any dental problems and about her eating and drinking habits. Then Stuart gave a full explanation of the teeth whitening procedure, together with a description of how it works, followed by

a close tooth-by-tooth examination using a swatch of differently shaded porcelain teeth to establish the present colour of Claire’s teeth, and a discussion took place as to what shade of white she wanted her teeth to become.

With Claire being fully at ease and totally happy to go ahead, the treatment commenced with Stuart fitting a barrier to her gums in order to protect them during the treatment, and then whitening gel was carefully applied to the teeth.

The next stage was for the gel to be activated by the clinically approved laser light which was positioned in front of her mouth, shining a calming blue light. Stuart had already explained that during the process the active ingredient in the gel causes oxygen to penetrate the enamel, removing the stains and as a result the tooth becomes lighter.

After 15 minutes all the active ingredient in the gel was used up, so this used gel was removed with a tissue. Depending on the level of discolouration of each client the treatment will consist of 3 to 4 applications of the gel to reach the desired level of whiteness. Thus the whole procedure will take between 1 to 1½ hours to complete from beginning to end, with no need to have any second or third

Stuart grading Claire’s teeth on the colour swatch before treatment

35

smile

The blue laser light activates the gel

appointments. All done in one session!

In total Stuart applied 4 applications of the gel to achieve the best possible shade of white for Claire without ending up like Simon Cowell. And what a difference! As you can see from the photos, her teeth are distinctly whiter and cleaner looking. This level of whiteness will last for between 12-18 months.

For the next two days following the treatment the teeth will be vulnerable to staining and so to achieve the very best result the client should avoid dark food like a steak or any staining agents such as red wine, or tobacco. Stuart provided Claire with a White Diet Sheet which lists what should and should not be consumed within the first 48 hours after the treatment. And much to Claire’s relief white wine is allowed!

Asked what she thought of the procedure, Claire was full of praise. “I did feel a small amount of tingling, nothing too uncomfortable though. The blue light of the laser was comforting and I almost drifted off to sleep a number of times. If it hadn’t been for Stuart telling me about what was going on, and changing the gel every 15 minutes, I think I would have done! And I am so pleased with my

teeth now! What a difference, really marvellous.”

For a brighter, whiter Hollywood smile you can telephone Karen on 610 027 154 or Stuart on 634 355 196. Their email is info@smile-white-europe.com and more information can be found on www.smile-white-europe.com (RTN comment: We confirm that NO Photoshopping has been done to any of these teeth pictures. These are true images of the results achieved.)

Treatment finished - teeth considerably whiter - and a very happy Claire

36

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Q&A Cosmetic Surgery I didn’t know that Medcare offered cosmetic surgery MEDCARE STARTED as a GP practice, but over the years has been able to add new healthcare services on demand: Medcare now offers a complete range of healthcare services in English that includes cosmetic surgery.

While in hospital you will receive as many follow-up appointments with the surgeon as you need. And the Medcare GP will keep an eye on your recovery - there for you if you have any questions or problems: good aftercare is vital for the best results.

So, who does the cosmetic surgery?

Medcare works with a top English-speaking and highly qualified cosmetic surgeon in Spain. All surgeries are carried out by him at a private hospital in Alicante.

What cosmetic surgeries can I have with Medcare?

We offer a full range of surgeries with a top cosmetic surgeon, including tummy tucks; rhinoplasty – or nose jobs; facelifts; liposuction and breast surgery – that is augmentation, reduction and uplifts. Book a free consultation for advice on what procedure is best for you.

There are loads of people offering cosmetic surgery – why should I choose Medcare?

Because with Medcare you are dealing with a qualified and experienced GP whose priorities are your medical needs, health and well-being, making an informed judgement to give you the best advice on surgery that is right for you and which will give you the results you want.

There is no hard sell with Medcare. We want you to have only procedures that you will be happy with and that will be safe for you.

Once Medcare has referred me to the surgeon that will be the end of Medcare’s role, right?

Wrong: Medcare does not abandon you - the Medcare GP remains a vital part of your aftercare team, ensuring that you make a successful recovery with the minimum of discomfort and without complications.

Who comes to Medcare for cosmetic surgery?

Medcare’s patients are from all walks of life, local and from overseas seeking Medcare’s excellent surgical service. Many are unhappy with their ageing process - perhaps they’ve overdone the Spanish sun, or enjoyed a little too much of the good life - sometimes, they are genetically unlucky, ageing faster than they would have liked. Whatever the reason, they choose to take the opportunity to regain a smooth face or youthful figure, or to change a physical feature they have been unhappy with for a long time… The one thing they all have in common is that they want to ensure they get the best and safest results from their surgery.

Call Medcare on 96 686 0258 or email doctors@medcarespain.com for a free consultation For more information visit www.medcarespain.com

Meet the cast of

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Cinderella

37

CINDERELLA’S CARRIAGE is getting ready to ride into Ondara to deliver everyone’s favourite pantomime. Enter the entrancing happy-ever-after-land of a fairytale princess, as Cinderella arrives at Ondara Auditorium on 18th and 19th December with loveable Buttons, two ugly sisters, one handsome prince and a Fairy Godmother too! and teaches dance at The Valerie Jean School of Dance.

Lucy is the choreographer for Cinderella and will ‘charm’ the audience as the Prince.

Emma Devine is Dandini: She gained a good grounding within the entertainment industry touring nationally in repertory theatre and in working in a variety of pantomimes, stage shows and television programmes, a primary teacher at The Lady Elizabeth School as well as running The Stage School with her sister Lucy.

Ugly Sister Louise Dearden trained in Cambridge as a teacher of English as a foreign language, specialising in drama, a teacher-trainer and oral examiner for the University of Cambridge Examinations Board both in Greece

The Ugly Sisters

by Big Fish Entertainment from local dance and Stage Schools and Businesses with added vocal energy form The Big Fish Rock Choir!

‘Supporting the friends of the children of Emaus…’

WHERE TO MEET THE CAST Look out for chances to win a wonderful character dinner at Restaurant El Paraiso in Parcent. Whilst enjoying a fabulous 4 course menu, diners will interact with the characters from the show and maybe have a sneak preview of some of the show stopping numbers.

Tickets for Cinderella can be booked by calling the box office 662 525 628 or by visiting the website www.bigfishentertainment.biz but hurry… with just three performances early booking is advisable.

Buttons

With a little help, Cinderella will go to the Ball. Don your glad rags, order your pumpkin and search for some white mice as we join Buttons and the talented cast in a fairytale telling of this heart-warming story with lavish sets, wonderful costumes and great contemporary songs throughout. Cinderella is the only way to start your Christmas season.

Adam King has been in the entertainment industry for 30 years as a professional singer and promoter and is a well-known local celebrity on the Costa Blanca, delighting audiences with his special swing style singing. Last seen on stage as The Narrator in the highly acclaimed Big Fish production of Blood Brothers, Adam’s truly loveable portrayal of Buttons will warm the hearts of young and old.

Lucy Glister trained professionally in Musical theatre, working for many years as a vocalist and dancer as well as professional show producer for a number of well-known hotel chains and cruise ships. As well as being a founder member of Big Fish Entertainment, Lucy works alongside her sister Emma as directors of The Stage School in Javea

Baron Hardup

and Spain. She also has a LAMDA diploma in acting and teaches primary drama as well as ESL at The Lady Elizabeth School. She recently wowed audiences with her portrayal of Mrs. Johnstone in Blood Brothers.

Ugly Sister Suzanne Millington trained professionally as a classical actor before becoming a specialist in Theatre in Education, has a wealth of experience in all styles of theatre and music and is well known for her work with children in this area, introducing dinner theatre to the coast with her much acclaimed one woman show, Shirley Valentine.

No pantomime would be possible without a wonderful supporting cast and chorus. Paul Devenish from Aquasports Javea playing the role of Baron Hardup, Joseph Altamira as The Chamberlain, Crystal Goudie as Cinderella and Claire Hascirci as the Fairy God Mother, handpicked

Dandini and the Prince

38

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Signal not strong enough

Computing with aunty virus

Entering key strokes is a problem Tony via email asks: DEAR AUNTY, I’m having a problem with entering key strokes when inputting data to Facebook. Only 50% of the keystrokes appear and I have to insert the missing letters and spaces, sometimes having to hit the key more than once. This keyboard problem only happens with Facebook and there is no problem with missing keystrokes on anything else that requires a data input. The keyboard is a Logitech wireless keyboard MK300 and the batteries are fully charged.

Aunty Says: Try using a different browser Tony and if that works let me know and we can try some common fixes.

Ken from Calpe asks: CAN YOU please tell me how do I find out whether ADSL dongles will work satisfactory here in the outskirts of Calpe? I have been told so many different stories regarding their use and I am totally confused. Some phone shops tell me that a dongle will work if I own a mobile phone, and other people say that I must have a 3G mobile. Some have said that the signal is not always strong enough.

Aunty Says: The bottom line is that you won’t know until you have tried it Ken. Normally if a mobile internet dongle can’t find a strong enough 3G signal it will revert to 2G (sometimes called CDMA). 2G is much slower than 3G and it will only allow you to do the very simple things. The best way (and only in my opinion) of testing the signal in your area is either borrow a dongle from somewhere, or test with a decent mobile phone (an iPhone is ideal) that uses 3G to access the Internet and see what kind of connection you get.

To make all this more confusing different mobile providers will have different levels of coverage in your area.

Skype video calls Dongles Justin via email asks: DEAR AUNTY. I am using a new laptop running Win7 and I am having problems trying to make Skype to Skype video calls. I have installed Skype and have got as far as logging in with my Skype name & password. It is also possible to watch the demo video which shows how easy it is to make a call. Unfortunately this seems as far as it goes and I cannot find anywhere where I can enter the Skype name I want to call.

Aunty Says: You need to click on the ‘Add a Contact’ button in the left panel and type in all or any of their details and once they have accepted they will appear in your contact list. I usually use their email address as this is guaranteed to be unique. Obviously you will need to know the email address they used to set their Skype account up.

Barry via email asks: HI AUNTY, I always look forward to your column and the useful advice you give. I have a problem that I hope you can help with. I recently fitted my neighbours PC with a Bluetooth dongle to enable her to transfer pictures from her phone. Everything went as it should and the PC recognised the phone and vice versa but when I transferred a sample picture, the PC generated a message that Windows could not transfer the file.

The phone showed 100% transferred but the PC stopped at about 95%. The O/S is Windows 7 Home Premium and the dongle is a type I have used in the past with no problems whatsoever.

Aunty Says: I have had a good ponder but I’m not completely sure about this one Barry. Maybe try initiating a transfer from the other device first (PC to phone or vice versa) and see if you can then work it the other way. This could be a Windows security issue so check you don’t need specific software for the phone and maybe temporarily switch off your firewall. Let me know how you get on.

That’s all for this week, email me on auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com and I will do my best to sort you out

How do I restore?

Peter via email asks: WHEN I lost my Outlook Express through a minor systems crash it was restored with all email addresses but not with the spellchecker. Any Ideas how I can restore it as I have toured the Internet without success?

Aunty Says: I’m pretty sure the spell checker for OE is installed when you install MS Office.

Did you have Office installed prior to your system crash?

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

39

GADGET INSPECTOR

Gadget Inspector investigates the case of:

Fun Fillers THIS WEEK the Inspector looks at that seasonal staple – the stocking filler, and suggests a few items to replace those boring old socks or Brut 33 aftershave.

Top left is the 10€ Sat Nag. Looking like a traditional sat-nav, this particular gadget is of absolutely no use in finding your actual destination (no difference there then).

When you press the button on the front, the Sat Nag issues one of the 25 pre-recorded messages, such as: “I know you’re a man but it´s been 45 minutes now, so can you please admit we’re lost and ask someone the way!”

It even has a holographic screen highlighting roads such as Earache Avenue and Backseat Drive. Could be worse - at least it doesn´t sound like Jeremy Clarkson.

Top right is the 15€ 80s Retro iPhone Case. Remember the big hair, big shoulders and mobile phones the size (and weight) of house bricks? Well, you can re-live those halcyon days with this retro iPhone case.

Just pop in your iPhone and Gordon Gekko can once again stride purposefully along the beach front of your favourite Spanish resort. The 80s iPhone case also doubles as a vertical or horizontal stand – ideal for watching those re-runs of Dallas. Better make sure you’ve downloaded some Duran Duran from the iTunes Store.

Bottom left is the €15 Bug Zapper. Fed up with those pesky flying critters and done with choking on fly spray?

Fret no more - the Bug Zapper is here.

We’ve all done the Fly Fandango – careering around the room with a rolled up newspaper (not the RTN, one of those lesser ones…), bashing everything in sight in pursuit of that errant bluebottle. And if you´re lucky you’ll be left with a nice mess on the wall or window and another fly before you know it…

Instead, why not let the Bug Zapper take the stress out of the experience? Looking like a traditional tennis racquet, the strings are replaced by a wire mesh through which a low voltage current is passed when the switch on the handle is pressed. No flying insect is safe: a swift and humane exit to Fly Heaven awaits…

Finally we have the 15€ Lav Nav. It is a well-known fact that men have a lot of trouble with loo seat etiquette – to splash or not, that is the question. Well fear not, the Lav Nav is here to save the day - or night.

Fitted with a motion sensor, it will light up on approach to indicate the state of the loo seat -Red = Seat Up, and Green = Seat Down. Sounds to me like that´s the wrong way round... green means go, red means stop – never mind, if you’re bleary eyed or drunk it probably won’t matter anyway, just go toward the light…

The Inspector’s Verdict: Personally I don´t see what´s wrong with a nice new cosy pair of socks or a bit of splash it all over – just no Christmas jumpers please.

40

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Word Ladders The key rule is that you must only change one letter at a time as you move from one rung to another, and the word you make must be a proper word! Therefore you may move from BATH --> BATS but not from BATH --> CASH because that changes two letters in one go which is not allowed.

Sudoku

Cryptic Crossword ACROSS 7. Sound way of communicating (2,4,2,5) 8. Travelling companion? (8) 9. Boats wrecked by a wind (4) 10. Cultivated Scandinavians (6) 12. Naughty ladies men dream of (6) 14. Key member of the office staff (6) 16. Decorate without a central point and it becomes gaudy (6) 18. It needs a nut to swallow in haste (4) 20. Not for heavy drinkers? (5,3) 22. Fagin’s pupils were members of it! (8,5)

DOWN 1. At the roadside, incidentally (2,3,3) 2. Drop it, perhaps, being apathetic (6) 3. Thought I’d get an early start (4) 4. Expressing willingness to make some sacrifice (8) 5. Fashion that is going out (6) 6. Game unsuitable for women (4) 11. Agreeing upon, and paying, one’s debts? (8) 13. Upright but lacking energy (8) 15. Eventually observing the correct rhythm (2,4) 17. What a snake may do to make one nervous (6) 19. It’s yours and mine in due course (4) 21. An original Christmas gift (4)

Wordwheel

Quick Crossword ACROSS 7. Understanding (13) 8. Glue (8) 9. Merit (4) 10. Cat food (6) 12. Severe test (6) 14. US inventor (6) 16. Annual (6) 18. Suffer (4) 20. Store-house (8) 22. Public notice (13)

DOWN 1. Section of an orchestra (8) 2. Oration (6) 3. Fairy (4) 4. Rite (8) 5. Climb (6) 6. Indigent (4) 11. Inviolability (8) 13. Magnetic (8) 15. Reconnoitre (6) 17. Adopt (6) 19. Whirlpool (4) 21. Comfort (4)

Answers & Winners Last week’s Crossword and Suduko answers found on page 51/53. Winner for 632 Stella Leban, San Luis

Euromillions Draw Friday 25th November

14 19 26 28 34

5

8

One Portuguese ticket won 35,062,896 Euros

Tuesday 29th November

11 25 41 45 50

2

7

No ticket won the 15,000,000 Euros jackpot prize

Feathers A WHITE feather, what does that mean to you? An act of peace? Angelic contact here on Earth? Cowardice? The symbol of a feather has many different messages to bring to our attention and our interpretation of what it stands for tests of our own spirituality.

Suddenly finding a feather can be that portent we are looking for when we have asked a specific question. Such feathers can be found in some very strange places. Places where a moulting bird have never been for instance. I was short of money on one occasion and found the smallest fluffiest feather in my wallet. I thought at the time that a 100EUR note might have been a better find, but surely enough work came that same day from a very unexpected source and put some cash back in my life.

A client called me to make an appointment and was angry that her husband had made no attempt to make contact with her. That night she received a white feather actually in her bed, and she saw this as I did, as a sign of his contact. Several feathers have come through since, with no explanation as to where they have come from, and my client is so happy that she is getting such a wonderful evidence of her partner’s survival evidence sent from the Other Side. Adding to this message of love was the fact that the departed husband had kept racing pigeons and that feathers had a symbolic connection for them both!

Feathers can mean peace. I shall never forget a young woman who had traced her brother to Benidorm, and had made the journey to meet with him, hoping to clear past problems, to establish a new relationship, and to reward him with a share of monies left to her in a will. This poor lady called me in distress because her brother was stubborn, and wanted nothing to do with her. He was angry to have been found, furious that she was trying to be a part of his life, and resentful of things in the past that had led to his running away to a new life in Spain. The poor woman then had to return home and admit defeat, I told her, truly, that she had done all that she could. Imagine her surprise when she received a phone call as she was walking along the pathway back to her home, suitcase in hand; her brother had suffered a heart attack, and had died. Naturally she returned to Benidorm to bury him, and I attended the

Kenny’s diary Monday 12th and Wednesday 14th December: Readings at the Bistro Maya, Albir from 17.00 onwards. Bookings and further details from Els and her team on: 966 868 213.

Readings in your area: Please make contact if you want to organise readings in your locality, or organise a psychic event for your favourite charity.

Some dates available for December.

service of remembrance, a celebration of her brother’s life. Clinging to me on the steps of the crematorium I repeated to my client the truth as it had to be told, that nothing more could have been done, allaying the fears that she had caused stress to him and been responsible for his death. Suddenly we noticed a small feather floating down towards us. The feather slowly landed on the ring finger( point of Venus, point of Love) of my client, much to her surprise. It was undoubtedly a sign that her brother in Spirit was forgiving her and I think asking for forgiveness for his treatment of her. Death divides but this little sign united.

My client immediately put the feather in her handbag, she said she would carry it for ever as a priceless gift.

When I made my decision to leave the Education system in the UK and continue full time as a Healer, Therapist and Medium I called my Father to tell him. He was concerned that I was giving up a wonderful salary and pension, but although he was open to my plans, there was a hint of a reservation I had never known before. We agreed to talk the next day and I couldn’t get hold of him after repeated attempts. Finally a call came and he had died during the night. I went to take the dog out for a walk to ground myself, to think and to prepare for what I knew that I had to do. There on my return, underneath the door knocker was a white feather. I was so surprised, and nobody knew of my sudden news. It was as if my Father was with me, willingly me to do whatever I thought was best, and saying goodbye whilst wishing me well on my way. This was my interpretation, but quite how a feather came to be under the doorknocker at such a time I will never know.

I do have an American Indian guide who proudly wears his headdress. Feathers are symbolic of each and every Indian tribe, worn with pride and inspiring the peaceful energy of their heritage. Indians were made to fight in the past, to save their country. Sadly they lost in the end, but the power of the eagle and the subsequent flight and fight of brave men, and women, continues to be reflective in energising the power of a nation where the feather meant something rather special, and it still does!

Love & Light... Kenny Corris

postbag Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com KENNY, MY life has changed so much in the past few years.

I have lost good friends, buried my niece and had a violent burglary at my home. I accept that you talk of the angels that protect and guide us, so where were mine when all these things were going on in my life?

Sandy. J. Waiting for your call, and your invitation for them to work on your behalf. Angels do not inhabit the Earth, and they await our instructions, then try to answer our questions, and offer the sincerest form of help when they are invited to. Many are waiting for Angels to come and work with them, but this means asking in the first place, since their intervention, as with all professionals is by request. I am so sorry to hear of all your problems, especially the death of your niece; but you have survived and live to fight another day if you have to. Do not be afraid of asking for what you want, or need, and don’t hold back. Begging is not the favourite way of an Angel getting a cry for help. Try instead a Fiat, which is a direct prayer of need sent straight to an Angel asking for result and resolve. Make it brief and to the point, no waffle, and light a candle to bring attention to your actions. If you need to talk give me a call, and all the very best for getting some positive and inspiring answers from Angel intervention.

contact Kenny Appointments: 96 587 8424 Mobile: 686 361 594 Web: www.kennycorris.net Forum: www.kennycorris.net/forum Email: kennycorris@hotmail.com Please contact me for inclusion in my healing list!

02 Dec 08 may DEC 2011 20 -- 26

horoscopes by Kenny Corris

23 41

Actions with both mighty Mercury in Sagittarius and loving Venus in Capricorn brings something rather new and very exciting into play this week. Not before time you are about to experience what could be, and just what’s missing in your life. Let things happen as they will, and remember that you have the right to be happy yourself, and to ring the changes every which way!

Venus, you amorous planetary leader, acts as a catalyst this week making things happen by magic. This is because you very often take things close, but give up leaving unfinished business. Accepting nothing but the best will be rewarding, and should inspire you away from taking second best in the future. Put all of you into all of this to maximise an opportunity that’s not to be missed!

You are on the way to a major eclipse, coming shortly, and this time is dedicated to you and rewards you for all that you do, so well. Putting yourself first maybe something rather new, but get used to it because it’s time for you to enjoy, and all that this implies. Bigger things are closer than you think, and the Full Moon ahead has dedicated energy and power to your elbow.

With a Full Lunar Eclipse on the cards, use this powerful and inspiring energy of now to take back your losses, promoting yourself and all your strengths. Dreams both can, and do come true and what you sow then so shall you reap! Drag yourself out of that shell and stop feeling sorry for yourself, there are things to be done right now, and you’re stalling for absolutely no reason.

A time to offer help where it is so badly needed. Someone hasn’t told you the full story, and the record needs to be straightened for all concerned. Replace anger with positive power and just give this your very best shot, as you blend your endless capabilities with your need for justice and resolve things tactfully without making a delicate situation any worse than it needs to be.

Mars enters and is responsible for calling the shots with both inspiring Mercury and romantic Venus. The message has finally got round to you that someone is wanting to get closer, but they have been harshly judged by you and well deserve to have a second chance. Things didn’t really begin on the right footing, but please consider what’s at stake, and how they really make you feel!

With Venus, your planetary leader, involved in actions with a warring Mars, take the chance to seal something that will develop into a future plan. You are waiting for a quick solution that may not be possible just yet. In hindsight you would have avoided what you need to face, but things can be different if you play your cards right. Stop any sulking, and do what you know that you have to!

The famous and vital sting appears inside you, and you have never been so angry, mainly with yourself, for allowing things to get to where they have. If you could turn back time then you would, but all is not lost, because someone older and wiser takes up the cause and puts you right back where you truly belong, on track, and well able to come up somehow smelling of roses.

Mercury comes just in time, helping you to clarify a current situation, and extending your vision of possibilities for the future. Open your eyes and you will see that things certainly do not have to have a history of repeating themselves. You have everything you need in the here and now, so take strides that bring on those changes as they will put you just where you really do belong.

Venus weaves her magic because she can, but it is now up to you to take this to where it could be and use it. Believe in yourself and the future will be different. You are non judgemental and unafraid, so put your best foot forward and prepare to make a difference that will be taken up by all who really have your interest at heart. Surely too this serves to open a door you may be well advised to walk through.

At last a time when you can take things easy and spend some time taking care of your self for a change. With Uranus under the control of wary Aries and time on your hands use this relaxing time to pamper and spoil yourself. You have worked very hard, and under pressure just lately, but you have to know that much will come from your expertise and hard work, so feet up and enjoy some r and r.

This has to be the very best of times as you are working with the creativity and balance you are famous for. It feels right to take on what is coming for you since there is a plan to use your talents in the future that sees you establish yourself in different ways. This is not re inventing yourself, as this isn’t necessary, but it is putting your very best foot forward for all the right reasons.

If it’s your birthday this week...

Lucky chances will see you able to finally move on from nagging doubts and negative energies. You are about to experience something that lifts your mood and starts you to focus on number one, yourself, for a change.

42

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Home Garden

Brought to you by

www.spanishhomefinder.com

RTN reader offer…

save €400 off the usual cost…

YOU’VE GOT an Alarm system? If it goes off you think the Guardia Civil will attend? Not necessarily…

Every day in the Valencian Community 2,400 burglar alarms go off, but 90% of these are false alarms.

Since 18th August this year the rules about Private Security have been changed and now your Alarm Company cannot notify the Guardia Civil even if your alarm goes off, unless at least one of these three verifications happen: 1) Personal Verification: A Patrol car from the Alarm Company attends your property and a guard confirms that a break-in has occurred.

2) Video / Audio Verification: Cameras or microphones in your house confirm the presence of intruders.

3) Sequential Verification: If a minimum of three detectors in different parts of the house are activated within 30 minutes. Or if two detectors are activated and if the telephone line is cut or if the alarm equipment is damaged, this will also be viewed as a ‘confirmed alert’.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU, THE HOMEOWNER?

Since only 10% of alarm activations are genuine emergencies the rules have changed to reduce the number of callouts that the Guardia Civil have to attend. Now, before alerting the Police, the Alarm Companies must now verify that a burglary is happening by one of the above methods. Only then can they alert the Police to the incident.

These new measures are forcing hundreds of thousands of residents in the Valencian Community to review their alarm systems, and switch to firms that can meet the new requirements.

Carl Barclay, the well-known Javea Locksmith and Security Advisor, registered with the Guardia Civil for many years, says, “The new Carl Barclay requirements have been in place from around who is an 18th August, but very few homeowners seem authorised to understand that the Police are no longer supplier obligated to attend their property if it has not and installer been confirmed that a burglary is in progress.” of Alarma He continues: “The upshot of this new legislaDirect tion is that all those clients using alarm syssystems

tems that do not have video or audio feedback to a Control Centre, or with systems that have only one or two sensors in their house (instead of the required three) are running the serious risk of relying on an alarm system that will no longer be enough to alert the Police in the event of an incident occurring.”

This matter has been quite well publicised in the Spanish Press with double-page spreads devoted to the topic in papers like the Las Provincias, but it seems to have pretty much missed the English Press - until now!

As a main agent of Securitas Direct’s alarm company called Alarma Direct, Carl is able to supply and fit systems that immediately meet with the new regulations, meaning that should something happen in your property the verifications above will happen swiftly and the Guardia Civil will be alerted and on their way at the earliest opportunity.

A standard Alarma Direct system for a typical mid -sized villa or standard apartment would normally be €939 + IVA fully installed.

available.

This standard system for a villa includes two motion detectors with covers, one magnetic door contact, three swipe tags, a main panel with ‘speak and listen’ facility, and an additional siren. Additionally, the system will be smartphone friendly, meaning that using your smartphone you will be able to control your alarm system and view images from the cameras directly onto your iPhone, Blackberry or Android handset.

Carl will do a free estimate and site survey in the Javea and surrounding areas to ensure that the standard system is right for your property…for obvious reasons additional detectors, cameras and so on may be required as every property can be different.

Phone 96 646 3712 to book your site inspection now, or visit Carl in his shop Casa Segura Locksmiths at Avenida del Pla 116 (opposite Solbank) Javea Arenal to discuss your alarm needs. Credit and debit cards accepted: Carl’s mobile 659 853 645.

RTN OFFER In view of the number of systems that Carl is now installing as a result of this legislation change, Carl is offering a very special RTN Discount price of the exact same system fitted for an incredible €539 + IVA, fully installed.

That’s a saving of €400 + IVA to all RTN readers. Special rates for apartment alarms are also

More grants for boilers!

A NEW grant scheme for the exchange of Central Heating boilers began on 13th October.

The scheme known as ‘Plan Renove Caldera’ provides grants of between 400€ and 500€ to those living within the Valencian Community keen to exchange their existing gas or oil boiler for a more efficient condensing model. It has proved so popular that already, a little more than one month after the start, 250,000€ of the 900,000€ available has been allocated to those residing in the area.

A Condensing boiler can considerably reduce both fuel consumption and emissions. A government study estimates that during a year the savings for a 100m2 property located in this area running on Propane gas would be approximately 22%, amounting to a saving of up to 200€. The bigger the property the bigger the savings and with Natural gas the savings are estimated to be even greater. Not only that, but the CO2 emissions reduce by up to 940KgCo2/ year.

To qualify for the grant you must reside within the Valencian community. You will need a copy of your NIE certificate or Certificate of Residencia and also copy of your passport. Only installers affiliated with the scheme can offer these grants which are deducted from the invoice at point of sale. The installer then claims

Home & Garden

Enjoying a steaming hot bath

back the grant directly from the Valencian Government.

Only one boiler grant is allowed per person and is available subject to the installer removing your old boiler for correct disposal.

Registered installers are listed on the pages of the Aven website at www.aven.es but for more information contact 100% Plumbing SL on 96 583 5939. Hurry though! The scheme is due to end on 30th March 2012 but only whilst funds last, so there is no time to lose!

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

43

Don’t get wet growing vegetables by

Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Practical gardeners and authors

I WAS planning a day in the garden today but drizzle-drizzle and drizzle… so I am getting ahead with writing gardening columns and articles! Luckily vegetables for dinner can be harvested without getting wet, as onions, garlic and potatoes are stored in the cellar; wild mushrooms are ready to harvest in the garage; sprouting seeds are ready to harvest in the kitchen; and lettuces, young garlic and cut-and-come-again leaves are growing in window boxes attached to the security door from the bedroom to a small terrace…

These are just examples of the mini-ways of growing vegetables. Many more are illustrated in Chapter Two of ‘Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain’ and Chapter Seven in ‘Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style’.

In the latter book we illustrate how apartment covered terraces, as well as open ones, can be made both beautiful and productive. Luckily there are some benefits to this compared to gardening in a garden as illustrated below.....

Benefits of gardening on covered terraces • One can garden day and night by the lights on the terrace.

• Gardening is possible when it is raining and you won’t get your feet wet.

• By pulling the blind down one can work comfortably when it is cold and windy.

• Many things can be done standing up or sitting on a stool if growing surfaces are on hanging window boxes or metre high growing tables with legs – like a raised bed on legs.

• One can change the position of plant containers several times a year.

• Fewer problems with feral cats polluting seed beds and digging up plantlets.

(Extract from ‘Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style’ 2010).

Unfortunately doing the above is not yet as popular on the Costa Blanca compared to the apartments of Valencia and Barcelona where there are even service companies that will set up and maintain ‘urban allotments’ on apartment terraces.

And it is not only vegetables that can be grown on covered apartment terraces.

A wide range of flowering and evergreen plants can be grown in a diverse range of types of containers Native trees can be grown to reduce the atmospheric pollution

Herbs of all types can be grown for their leaf colours, perfumes, medicinal properties and their many culinary uses.

It is possible to grow up to ten types of fruit trees, bushes plants and vines in just ten square metres with less chance of problems with honey fungus than in an earth-bound orchard With such possibilities it is such a pity that some apartment blocks show no sign of greenery from the ground floor maisonettes to the tenth floor penthouses. But green blocks do exist or are being built. It is a joy when we discover them.

Clodagh and Dick’s instructive books are available to help you achieve a great garden from scratch or improve an existing garden. You will find them in bookshops including Bookworld, Carrefor and Humpty Dumpty. For convenience many internet bookshops stock them including Santana Books, Amazon UK, Bookworld and The Royal Horticultural Society. © Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com

Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com

We offer two copies of our book to the first two readers to send us photographs of good examples to gardeninginspain@hotmail.com. ’Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain’ and ‘Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style’, along with Clodagh and Dick’s other books are available from high street and internet bookshops plus www.gardeninginspain.com which has a special offer for their latest book ‘Living Well from Our Mediterranean Garden’. Each make good Christmas presents for family members and presents.

44

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Save money, save energy and reduce your carbon footprint: why the choice of window frame is so important IF YOU are thinking of replacing your windows and doors there are some things you should be aware of. In Spain, building codes are not particularly stringent, which means that you might replace your existing windows with a sub-standard product. Don’t!

SAFESTYLESPAIN supply top quality German UPVC windows and doors using the internationally recognised Aluplast and Winkhaus systems, not only guaranteeing windows and doors for 10 years, but also guaranteeing to better any like for like quote!

Double glazing explained: Double glazing is a way of creating an insulating layer of air or special gas between two panes of glass. It lets in as much sunlight as single-glazed windows, but holds the heat in more efficiently.

A well designed double-glazed window with a UPVC frame can: • Halve the heat loss through the window • Reduce external noise • Reduce condensation.

Why our double-glazing is better than others: For the best performance, you should look for the following things: • Frames that are ‘thermally broken’, or made from an insulating material such as UPVC. These will perform better thermally than windows with standard aluminium frames. Window heat loss can be reduced by between 20% (Aluminium frame with a ‘Thermal Break’) and 40% (UPVC frames), compared with double-glazing fitted into standard aluminum frames.

• Low-emission (low-e) glass. This allows light and heat in, but reflects escaping heat back into the room. SAFESTYLESPAIN can supply Low-e glass which cuts window heat loss by about 20% to 30%, compared with double-glazing without low-e.

• Multiple layers of good seals to keep draughts, moisture and

Home & Garden

noise out to ensure the joints between the glazing unit and the frame are always well-sealed. The difference between Aluminum and UPVC: Since aluminum is a metal, it transfers heat much more easily than a UPVC frame. This is bad news for energy savings because the more easily heat can pass through the frame, the sooner heat trapped inside the room will escape, or in summer the heat from outdoors will leak in, thus making it more difficult to maintain the temperature inside the building.

Although we can supply both types we recommend UPVC because a well-sealed reinforced UPVC frame is better at moderating temperature exchange and preventing heat losses (see graph). And as reported by the British Plastics Federation, the life expectancy of a UPVC window is over 40 years.

All of SAFESTYLESPAIN windows and doors are: • Easy to clean with no further protection needed • Have a long life expectancy • Require no maintenance • Give sound as well as heat insulation • Safe and secure A choice of many designs and colours is available including: • Tilt / turn and sliding systems • All shapes and sizes including arches • A wide range of colours and wood effects • The option to have a different colour finish on the inside from the outside • SAFESTYLESPAIN also supplies and fits Glass Curtains.

Read more and see some of the many installations that SAFESTYLESPAIN has done at www.safestylespain.com Existing customers are happy to speak to prospective purchasers and site visits may be arranged on request.

Call SAFESTYLESPAIN now on 96 646 2830 and put us to the test!

Brought by Brought to you to byyou spanishhomefinder.com

02 26 Dec - 08 DEC 2011 Feb - March 4 2010

45 45

Spanish Music straight from Madrid

I like food, but I also like art but which is better?

BEFORE YOU all yell ‘fight!’…thanks to TV’s Burp and Harry Hill, It really got me thinking. It’s a good job that there are different types of art that cater or appeal to just about everyone. As many people gush about a particular piece, as many people will recoil in horror at the same thing, From Tracy Emin and her unmade bed to Damien Hurst and his jelly covered cow, even Banksey deserves a mention although there must be a fine line between art and graffiti.

Even down at my end of the spectrum (that’s the cheap end) there are loads of different styles and subjects. Walk into anyone’s home, office or restaurant and you are suddenly confronted with some of the most odd or even bizarre combinations of styles and colours. Nick-knacks and personal possessions adorn the walls with impunity and the slightest quizzical look from you will open the floodgates of how and where their choice was acquired and then obviously why it is where it is followed by why it means so much to them both. All this unfortunately does not make you like the style any more than you did although it may explain why they are like they are…or is it

just the ones we know?

For me in any restaurant it’s the same: I don’t care how much the chef has been influenced by someone else or why he or she put these particular ingredients together or how their particular style of cooking has evolved - all I want to know is if they can actually cook or not.

Of course individual styles are to be encouraged and of course presentation is important but can we please get the ingredients, the recipe and method right first. To quote a now well worn phrase: “You can put lipstick on a pig and it’s still a pig” Both Trudy and I are fans of Mexican foods but if any restaurant food could do with a visual makeover it’s that one.

In some restaurants it takes longer to read about the dish on the menu that you have chosen than it does to eat it. Elaborate descriptions on the menu or just making the portions smaller or even prettier on the plate does not improve the flavour if the chef in the kitchen has no talent and just can’t cook. As more and more food is bought from the internet more resources are being spent on what the item you have chosen looks like and

less on what it tastes like. I see fewer customers closing their eyes in delight when they first taste their dish preferring more to comment on what it looks like. So try an experiment that we use on our students: with some assistance from your partner and preferable without stabbing yourself in the face with a fork, try eating something new, then describe it all without looking at it first. As our trainees will testify, there is nothing more enjoyable and scary at the same time than closing your eyes and then trying something new.

For those who are visually impaired, a blind tasting is a regular occurrence: we use the clock system letting them know what they are about to eat as well as where on the plate it is located, for instance, meat 12’o clock, vegetables 3`o clock and potatoes at 8. It helps if you know beforehand what you are about to put into your mouth.

Following a long discussion recently about new Spanish wines, we all agreed that the marketing and especially the labelling, has improved tremendously over the past few years, but, I said, I hope that it does not come at the expense of the product inside the bottle.

Edwin Cheeseman is a practical food consultant. If you have a question about food email cheeseman@roundtownnews.com

PROMINENT MUSICIAN Mario Boville, accompanied by highly accomplished guitarist Hector Ribao Gonzalez, will be performing an acoustic set with vocals at ArtHouse Gallery Gata de Gorgos on Friday 9th December at 8pm.

Direct from Spain’s capital, Boville is currently recording his second album with his band Alpargata but for one night only he will be performing at ArtHouse in Gata.

This is the first art/music fusion night at ArtHouse . The evening will also be an opportunity for those of you that missed the ArtHouse recent exhibition as it will still be on show alongside work by international artist and owner of ArtHouse Julia Evans.

Tickets are €8 per person on the door or €6 if you reserve. You can do this by contacting Julia Evans on 96 575 6286 or email arthousemail@gmail.com Reservations are recommended as we have limited places. All information including how to find us is on the website www.arthouseonline.net or http://www.myspace. com/marioboville

46

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

music scene

Black Glitter

The Shamrockers – Celtic Rock Band

Rock/Soul Band Compiled by

Eric Taylor Presenter Heat Gold 94.1FM

FOR A real Celtic experience, check out The ShamRockers at Bar Quo Vadis in Javea on Sunday 4th December at 5pm. There you will find the lads and lassie of the band playing their special blend of Celtic pop and rock ‘n’ roll. More and more people are getting to know about this gem of a venue, where the ‘Craic’ is great! You will hear accordion, piano, tin whistle, guitars, mandolin, drums and even Nigel playing the ‘Badhran’. For more information contact Des at 96 647 1875, or check out their new website with lots of photos and videos: www.theshamrockers.webs.com

O

N FRIDAY 18th November ‘Black Glitter’ will be appearing at the Quo Vadis Bar, Javea and on Saturday 19th November they will be appearing at Steinways Jazz n’ Blues Bar, in Denia. Geoff Britton is now part of a new and exciting band called ‘Black Glitter’. The line up is Geoff Britton (drums), Kelly (vocals), Carlos (guitar) and Chema (bass). The band’s repertoire includes the great lady vocalists of rock and soul, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle, etc. There is plenty to enjoy, quality musicians, classic songs and some great dance music. For more info on the band phone Geoff on: 647 946 306.

GIGS FOR DECEMBER Friday 2nd, Blues Bar, (near Marina), Denia Saturday 3rd, La Plaza, Altea at 11.30pm Sunday 4th, Aleluya Bar, Jalon at 7 pm Friday 9th, An Sheeben Irish Pub, Javea Saturday 10th, Steinways Jazz & Blues Bar, Denia Friday 16th, Blues Bar, (near Marina), Denia Saturday 17th, Steinways Jazz & Blues Bar, Denia Friday 23rd, La Plaza, Altea at 11.30pm Friday 30th, Blues Bar, (near Marina), Denia Saturday 31st, Taberna Antigua, Ventas de Pedreguer

Manhatton Jazz Band – Don Quijote, Moraira ON SUNDAY 4th December, at 15.00, Manhatton Jazz will be playing their special blend of jazz, swing and blues at the Don Quijote Restaurant and Bar, Paichi Centre, Moraira. They will be performing there on the 1st Sunday in the month. A Sunday Lunch menu will be available: bookings: 606 721 288. The entrance to the Paichi Centre is opposite the Paichi Garden Centre on the Teulada / Moraira road before you get to Moraira.

Cowboys & Cowgirls The Country Legends Show

COWBOYS & COWGIRLS are Benidorm’s finest Country & Western duo made up of vocalist Chloe Hooper and guitarist Bernie Price from New Orleans, USA. Their show is called Country Legends and they perform a mixture of classic songs from Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline & Tammy Wynette, plus country roadhouse favourites from the likes of Shania Twain, Bonnie Raitt & The Eagles. They will be performing their show at the ‘Western Saloon’, Calle Gerona in Benidorm from 8.30pm every Tuesday and Thursday. Phone Chloe: 607 621 699 for more details or visit her website: www.chloehooper.net.

ET’s Golden Oldies Disco Tel: 965 748 199 or 659 921 875 or email: etinspain@hotmail.com. If there are any music venues or acts that wish to be featured in this column,please contact Eric directly.

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

5 course fine dining including ½ bottle wine pp bread, ali-oli and dips-

12.95€ Now taking bookings for BOXING DAY WITH STRIKLAND & FOR NEW YEAR

early reservations are advisedOPEN FOR SUNDAY LUNCH. CLOSED SUNDAY NIGHT & MONDAY, OPEN AGAIN FOR TUESDAY LUNCH

PABLO- SATURDAY 10TH DEC CHRISTMAS CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT- FRIDAY 23RD DEC

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4 - Dec 10 NOV 02 - 082011 DEC 2011

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Noise Squad 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:40 Doctors 15:10 Only Fools and Horses 16:05 Driving Academy 16:35 Splatalot 17:00 Stuck on Sheep Mountain 17:30 Dani’s House 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 The Two Ronnies Sketchbook 22:00 Have I Got News for You 22:30 Live at the Apollo 23:00 BBC News 23:35 Graham Norton Show 24:20 National Lottery Friday Night Draws 24:30 The Hand That Rocks the Cradle

07:00 Childrens TV 11:15 Big Barn Farm 11:25 Louie 11:35 Octonauts 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Coast 14:15 Trash to Cash 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 17:30 Flog It! Travels Around Britain 17:45 Euro 2012: Live Draw 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 Heir Hunters 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 Accidental Husband 22:50 Coast 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 The Review Show 24:45 Weather 24:50 Crossing Guard

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 May the Best House Win 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Ade in Britain 18:00 Best Dish: The Chefs 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Wild Britain with Ray Mears 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 I’m a Celebrity...

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23:30 ITV News 24:00 Granada News 24:05 Fearless

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:20 Frasier 09:55 Secret Millionaire Australia 10:55 Relocation, Relocation 11:55 Renovation Game 13:00 Drop Down Menu 14:05 Channel 4 Presents 14:10 Campbell’s Kingdom 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:30 Unreported World 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Come Dine with Me 22:00 Peter Kay’s Top 43 Greatest Comedy Moments 24:05 Peter Kay Live at the Bolton Albert Halls

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Law & Order 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Meerkat Manor 15:45 Last of the Dogmen 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 Home and Away 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Fifth Gear 21:00 Ice Road Truckers: Deadliest Roads 22:00 Black Hawk Down 24:50 Inside Hollywood

06:00 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Home Cooking Made Easy 13:00 BBC News Regional News 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Live Snooker 15:00 Live International Rugby Union 17:30 Final Score 18:10 BBC News Regional News 18:30 A Question of Sport 19:00 Tonight’s the Night 20:00 Strictly Come Dancing 21:00 Merlin 21:45 Casualty 22:35 National Lottery Saturday Night Draws 22:45 BBC News 23:05 Match of the Day 24:30 The Football League Show

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06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Mini CITV 08:15 CITV 10:25 Coronation Street 12:45 This Morning: Saturday 13:45 ITV News 13:50 You’ve Been Framed!

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20:30 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 21:00 The X Factor 22:30 I’m a Celebrity...

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23:30 ITV News 23:45 FA Cup Highlights 24:45 The Cube

07:35 Extreme Sailing Series 08:00 Great Ethiopian Run 08:55 The Morning Line 09:50 Smallville 10:50 Made in Chelsea 11:50 4Music Video Honours 2011: Top 20 12:50 The Album Chart Show Special 13:20 Big Bang Theory 14:20 The Simpsons 14:50 Channel 4 Racing 16:55 Come Dine with Me 17:25 Come Dine with Me 17:55 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 Come Dine with Me 19:30 Jamie’s Great Britain 20:30 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Tony Robinson’s Gods and Monsters 22:00 Taken 23:50 8 Out of 10 Cats Uncut 24:40 Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night

07:00 Childrens TV 09:25 Funky Valley 09:30 Angelina Ballerina 09:50 Rupert Bear 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:10 Mr Men Show 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:45 Animal Families 11:00 The Gadget Show 12:00 London: The Inside Story 13:00 The Adventures of Robin Hood 15:05 My Spy 16:50 Sleepless in Seattle 18:55 Ghostbusters II 21:10 5 News Weekend 21:15 NCIS 22:00 An Audience with Bob Monkhouse 23:05 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 24:55 Inside Hollywood

06:00 BBC News 06:30 Record Europe 07:00 Breakfast 08:30 Match of the Day 10:00 Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Fern Britton Meets Katherine Jenkins 12:00 Country Tracks 13:00 The Politics Show 14:15 EastEnders 16:10 Frozen Planet 17:10 Frozen Planet 18:10 Points of View 18:25 Songs of Praise 19:00 BBC News; Regional News 19:25 Countryfile 20:25 Strictly Come Dancing 21:00 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 Garrow’s Law 23:00 BBC News; Regional News 23:25 Have I Got a Bit More News for You 24:10 Would I Lie to You? 24:40 The Sky at Night

07:00 Childrens TV 08:00 Roar 08:30 Arthur 08:50 Dennis & Gnasher 09:05 League of Super Evil 09:15 Jinx 09:35 Wingin’ It 10:00 Sam & Mark’s Big Friday Wind Up 11:00 Something for the Weekend 12:30 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 13:15 Escape to the Country 14:15 Flog It! 15:00 Live Snooker 18:30 Easy Virtue 20:00 The Party’s Over: How the West Went Bust 21:00 How to Build...

22:00 Mark Zuckerberg: Inside Facebook 23:00 Match of the Day 2 24:00 Fast and Loose 24:30 Never Mind the Buzzcocks

06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Mini CITV 08:15 CITV 10:25 Monk 10:30 Horrid Henry 10:45 Horrid Henry 11:00 Finger Tips 11:15 Tricky TV 11:40 You’ve Been Framed!

12:10 ITV News 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:00 Live FA Cup Football 16:05 The X Factor 17:35 Midsomer Murders 19:35 Granada News 19:45 ITV News 20:00 The Cube 21:00 The X Factor 22:00 A Night with Beyoncé 23:15 ITV News 23:30 FA Cup Highlights 24:30 Premiership Rugby Union

07:05 The Hoobs 07:30 Channel 4 Presents 07:35 Ironman Wales 08:30 Triathlon 08:55 One Tree Hill 09:50 Battlefront 10:05 Hollyoaks 12:40 The Album Chart Show Special 13:10 The Simpsons 13:45 Shipwrecked: The Island 14:45 The Simpsons 15:15 Turner & Hooch 17:15 Deal or No Deal 18:20 Channel 4 News 18:45 The Political Slot 18:50 4thought.tv 18:55 Golden Compass 21:00 Secret Millionaire 22:00 Black Mirror 23:00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man 24:05 Escape from Alcatraz

07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:30 Angelina Ballerina 09:45 Mio Mao 09:50 Rupert Bear 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Mr Men Show 10:25 Funky Valley 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:40 Animal Families 11:00 Inside Hollywood 11:05 Andre Rieu at the Albert Hall 12:05 Highland Emergency 12:35 Ice Road Truckers: Deadliest Roads 13:35 What about Bob? 15:30 The Fifth Element 18:00 Click 20:10 5 News Weekend 20:15 xXx: the Next Level 22:00 Pineapple Express 24:15 Harold & Kumar Get the Munchies

tv Saturday

tv Sunday

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Emmerdale 08:20 Gossip Girl 09:05 Judge Judy 10:25 Beauty and the Geek 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Beauty and the Geek 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 The Cube 21:00 The X Factor USA 22:00 Super Tiny Animals 23:00 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 23:30 I’m a Celebrity...

Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:30 Miss Congeniality 2: Armed & Fabulous

07:00 One Tree Hill 07:45 Ugly Betty 08:35 Wildfire 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:20 Gilmore Girls 11:15 Ugly Betty 12:10 Desperate Housewives 13:10 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 14:35 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Desperate Housewives 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:30 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Desperate Scousewives 22:00 Ever After: a Cinderella Story 24:20 Made in Chelsea

10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House?

11:35 Sink the Bismarck!

13:25 3 Minute Wonder 13:30 3 Minute Wonder 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:10 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun 18:15 A Place in the Sun 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:55 River Cottage 22:00 The Sixth Sense 24:05 World Trade Center

Peter Kay’s 43 Greatest Comedy Moments Channel 4, 22.00

07:00 Emmerdale 09:35 Gossip Girl 10:20 Nanny 911 11:15 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 11:45 The X Factor USA 13:15 The X Factor USA 14:10 A Night with Will Young 15:10 Life’s Funniest Moments 15:40 The Hot Desk 15:50 Holiday Showdown 16:50 All Star Family Fortunes 17:50 The Cube 18:50 Catwoman 21:00 Homes from Hell 22:00 Grimefighters 22:30 The Xtra Factor 23:30 I’m a Celebrity...

Get Me Out of Here Now! 24:30 Harry Hill’s TV Burp

07:00 Switched 07:25 Supernanny USA 08:10 How to Look Good Naked 09:05 How to Look Good Naked 10:10 Wife Swap USA 11:05 Great British Hairdresser 12:10 Supernanny USA 13:05 Wife Swap USA 14:05 Hollyoaks 16:40 Desperate Scousewives 17:45 Deck the Halls 19:35 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Big Bang Theory 20:30 Happy Endings 21:00 How I Met Your Mother 21:30 Big Bang Theory 22:00 Rude Tube 23:00 28 Weeks Later

10:00 A Place in the Sun 10:35 Time Team 11:35 Time Team 12:40 The 100 Greatest Christmas Moments 16:35 Grand Designs 17:40 Grand Designs 18:45 Grand Designs 19:50 Grand Designs 20:55 Grand Designs 22:00 The Story of Film: An Odyssey 23:25 The Sixth Sense

Ghostbusters II Channel 5, 18.55

07:00 Coronation Street 09:05 Emmerdale 12:00 Coronation Street 14:30 Bean 16:15 Holiday Showdown 17:15 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 17:35 The Xtra Factor 18:35 Wild Wild West 20:45 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 21:00 Grimefighters 21:30 Grimefighters 22:00 The Xtra Factor 23:15 Duplicity

07:00 Supernanny USA 07:45 How to Look Good Naked 08:40 How to Look Good Naked 09:40 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow 10:40 How to Look Good Naked 11:45 How to Look Good Naked 12:50 Supernanny USA 13:45 Supernanny USA 14:40 Ever After: a Cinderella Story 17:00 Make It or Break It 18:00 Make It or Break It 18:55 Sorority Girls 19:55 Scrubs 20:25 Scrubs 20:55 X-Men: The Last Stand 23:00 Misfits 24:05 Tool Academy

A Night with Beyonce ITV1, 22.00

10:00 A Place in the Sun 10:35 Scrapheap Challenge 14:50 Four in a Bed 15:25 Four in a Bed 15:55 Four in a Bed 16:30 Four in a Bed 17:00 Four in a Bed 17:35 Stars of the National Book Awards 18:05 Come Dine with Me 18:40 Come Dine with Me 19:15 Come Dine with Me 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:25 Come Dine with Me 20:55 A River Cottage Christmas Feast 22:00 Heston’s Christmas Feast 23:00 Father Ted 24:15 Vic Reeves’ Turner Prize Moments

OCT - 3DEC NOV 2011 2011 0228 Dec - 08

49 49

tv Monday

50 61

14Dec - 20-may 2010 02 08 DEC 2011

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Noise Squad 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:40 Doctors 15:10 Only Fools and Horses 16:05 Driving Academy 16:35 Splatalot 17:00 Alesha’s Street Dance Stars 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Inside Out 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 Young Apprentice 23:00 BBC News 23:35 A Question of Sport 24:05 John Bishop’s Britain 24:50 Graham Norton Show

07:00 Childrens TV 11:15 Big Barn Farm 11:25 Louie 11:35 Octonauts 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 Live Snooker 16:45 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 The Big Bread Experiment 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 MasterChef 22:00 RBS: Inside the Bank that Ran Out of Money 23:00 Never Mind the Buzzcocks 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Snooker

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 May the Best House Win 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Murder, She Wrote 18:00 Best Dish: The Chefs 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Little England 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Coming Out 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Fight of Their Lives 24:50 David Jason’s Greatest Escapes: The Full Story

07:10 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:25 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Secret Millionaire 10:55 Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare 11:55 Sealed Bid 13:00 Drop Down Menu 14:20 Seven Days to Noon 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Date with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Turner Prize 2011 21:30 Dispatches 22:00 The Great British Property Scandal 23:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 24:30 Random Acts 24:35 My Transsexual Summer

07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Mio Mao 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Law & Order 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:15 Jesse Stone: Night Passage 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 How Do They Do It? 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 Charley Boorman’s Extreme Frontiers 23:00 Shadow Man

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Noise Squad 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:40 Doctors 15:10 Only Fools and Horses 16:05 Barney’s Latin America 16:35 Splatalot 17:00 Alesha’s Street Dance Stars 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Death in Paradise 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Imagine...

24:40 The Other Man

07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 Something Special: Out and About 10:40 Charlie and Lola 10:55 Zingzillas 11:15 Big Barn Farm 11:25 Louie 11:35 Octonauts 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 Live Snooker 16:45 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 The Big Bread Experiment 21:00 MasterChef 22:00 Money 23:00 Life’s Too Short 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Snooker

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 May the Best House Win 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Murder, She Wrote 18:00 Best Dish: The Chefs 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Adventurer’s Guide to Britain 21:00 High Stakes 22:00 My Child’s Not Perfect 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 The Interpreter

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Secret Millionaire 10:55 Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare 11:55 Sealed Bid 13:00 Drop Down Menu 14:35 Face of a Fugitive 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Date with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Food Hospital 22:00 The Great British Property Scandal 23:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 24:30 Random Acts 24:35 Joy of Teen Sex

07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Law & Order 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 The Tenth Circle 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 How to Take Stunning Pictures 21:00 London: The Inside Story 22:00 CSI: Miami 23:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 24:00 CSI: Miami 24:55 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:20 Gossip Girl 09:05 Judge Judy 10:25 Beauty and the Geek 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Beauty and the Geek 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 The X Factor 21:00 I’m a Celebrity 22:00 Vampire Diaries 23:00 Inside Man

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Noise Squad 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:40 Doctors 15:10 Only Fools and Horses 16:05 Barney’s Latin America 16:35 Splatalot 17:00 Alesha’s Street Dance Stars 17:30 Serious Survival Special 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 That’s Britain!

21:30 The Impressions Show with Culshaw and Stephenson 22:00 Frozen Planet 23:00 BBC News 23:35 National Lottery Wednesday Night Draws 23:45 Who Do You Think You Are? US 24:15 Film 2011 with Claudia Winkleman

07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 Something Special: Out and About 10:40 Charlie and Lola 10:55 Zingzillas 11:15 Big Barn Farm 11:25 Octonauts 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 See Hear 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker 16:45 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 The Big Bread Experiment 21:00 MasterChef 22:00 Inside Job 23:40 Newsnight 24:30 Snooker

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 May the Best House Win 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Murder, She Wrote 18:00 Best Dish: The Chefs 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Live UEFA Champions League 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 UEFA Champions League 24:35 Homes from Hell

07:05 Sali Mali 07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Secret Millionaire 10:55 Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare 11:55 Sealed Bid 13:00 Drop Down Menu 13:50 Warlock 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Date with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas 22:00 Phil’s Empty Homes Giveaway 23:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 24:30 Alan Carr: Chatty Man

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Milkshake! Monkey 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Law & Order 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 Three Wise Guys 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Ultimate Emergency Bikers 22:00 Erin Brockovich 24:40 Forensic Files

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:20 Gossip Girl 09:05 Judge Judy 10:25 Beauty and the Geek 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Beauty and the Geek 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 20:30 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 21:00 I’m a Celebrity 22:00 Peter Andre: My Life 23:00 Perez Hilton Superfan: Lady Gaga 24:00 Disclosure

tv Tuesday

tv Wednesday

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:20 Gossip Girl 09:05 Judge Judy 10:25 Beauty and the Geek 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Beauty and the Geek 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 The X Factor 21:30 You’ve Been Framed!

22:00 Duplicity 24:30 Three Kings

07:00 One Tree Hill 07:45 Ugly Betty 08:35 Wildfire 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:20 Gilmore Girls 11:15 Ugly Betty 12:10 Desperate Housewives 13:10 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:30 Desperate Housewives 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 My Name Is Earl 22:00 Rude Tube 23:00 Desperate Scousewives 24:00 Sorority Girls

10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 The Sea Chase 13:15 Turner Prize Shorts 2011 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:55 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 22:00 Secret Millionaire 23:00 Undercover Boss USA 24:00 The Daily Show Global Edition

Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170

07:00 One Tree Hill 07:45 Ugly Betty 08:35 Wildfire 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:20 Gilmore Girls 11:15 Ugly Betty 12:10 Desperate Housewives 13:05 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Shipwrecked: The Island 22:00 Sorority Girls 23:00 Tool Academy 24:05 PhoneShop 24:40 The IT Crowd

10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House?

11:35 Carry On Spying 13:15 3 Minute Wonder 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:25 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:55 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 21:30 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 22:00 Come Dine with Me 23:00 True Stories

Emergency withNot My Child’s Angela Griffin Perfect Sky1 ITV1, 21.00 22.00

07:00 One Tree Hill 07:45 Ugly Betty 08:35 Wildfire 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:20 Gilmore Girls 11:15 Ugly Betty 12:10 Desperate Housewives 13:10 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 14:40 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:40 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Desperate Housewives 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:25 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Charlie’s Angels 22:00 X-Men: The Last Stand 24:00 Misfits

Emergency with That’s Britain!

Angela Griffin BBC 1, Sky1 20.3021.00

10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House?

11:35 Murder She Said 13:15 3 Minute Wonder 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Celebrity Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:25 Celebrity Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:55 Celebrity Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 21:30 Celebrity Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 22:00 Time Team 23:00 Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day 24:00 Cannibals of the Stone Age

tv Thursday 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Noise Squad 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:40 Doctors 15:10 Only Fools and Horses 16:05 Barney’s Latin America 16:35 Splatalot 17:00 Alesha’s Street Dance Stars 17:30 Welcome to My World: A Newsround Special 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 DIY SOS 22:00 The Manor Reborn 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Question Time 24:35 This Week

07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 Something Special: Out and About 10:40 Charlie and Lola 10:55 Zingzillas 11:15 Big Barn Farm 11:25 Louie 11:35 Octonauts 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 Live Snooker 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 Live Snooker 21:00 MasterChef 22:00 Rev 22:30 Life’s Too Short 23:00 Frank Skinner’s Opinionated 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Snooker

8 -02 14Dec JulY- 08 2011 DEC 2011

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 May the Best House Win 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Murder, She Wrote 18:00 Best Dish: The Chefs 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Without You 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Piers Morgan’s Life Stories 24:35 Party People

Crossword Solutions 632 CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Opts; 8 Exasperate; 9 News-reel; 10 Siam; 12 Strays; 14 Stigma; 15 Direct; 17 Wagers; 18 Into; 19 Pageants; 21 Crossroads; 22 Owns.

Down: 2 Pedestrian; 3 Sees; 4 Capers; 5 Spills; 6 Dressing; 7 Beam; 11 Admiration; 13 Alehouse; 16 Topers; 17 Wigwam; 18 Inch; 20 Also.

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:20 Frasier 09:55 Secret Millionaire Australia 10:55 Beeny’s Restoration Nightmare 11:55 Sealed Bid 13:00 Drop Down Menu 14:00 The Net 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Date with Me 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Kevin’s Grand Design 22:00 Living with the Amish 23:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 24:30 Random Acts 24:35 Secret Millionaire

07:00 Childrens TV 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Milkshake! Monkey 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Law & Order 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 Christmas in Canaan 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Fairground Attractions 22:00 The Mentalist 23:00 It’s All About Amy 24:00 Police Interceptors

QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Cask; 8 Impossible; 9 Decisive; 10 Each; 12 Gamble; 14 Mutiny; 15 Dilate; 17 Sordid; 18 Once; 19 Contract; 21 Underrated; 22 Ewer.

Down: 2 Alteration; 3 Kiwi; 4 Sprite; 5 Esteem; 6 Director; 7 Mash; 11 Confiscate; 13 Bracelet; 16 Escort; 17 Sanity; 18 Onus; 20 Rude.

Wordwheel: WHIMSICAL

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:20 Gossip Girl 09:05 Judge Judy 10:25 Beauty and the Geek 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Beauty and the Geek 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

20:30 I’m a Celebrity 21:30 The X Factor USA 23:00 Miss Congeniality 2: Armed & Fabulous

07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Ugly Betty 08:35 Wildfire 09:30 One Tree Hill 10:30 Gilmore Girls 11:25 Ugly Betty 12:20 Desperate Housewives 13:15 Greek 14:10 Scrubs 15:10 Hollyoaks 15:40 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Big Bang Theory 21:30 Perfect Couples 22:00 How I Met Your Mother 22:30 Happy Endings 23:00 PhoneShop 23:35 Facejacker 24:10 Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night

Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170

51 51

10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House?

11:30 Blood Alley 13:40 Deal or No Deal 14:40 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me 16:05 Coach Trip 16:40 Location, Location, Location 17:10 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:25 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 20:55 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 21:30 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 22:00 Southland 23:00 The Closer 24:00 The Killing

52 44 48

28 OCT 33NOV 02 - 08 DEC2011 201128 28Dec OCTNOV 2011

Once Upon a Time…

Showbiz Goss by

Peter Taylor

Writer and Broadcaster

BRAZILIAN SWIMWEAR model Suelyn Medeiros has surely got herself a sizeable pay rise after she got the company she represents into the World’s press. And how did she do that I hear you ask?

Let me start at the beginning...

Video tapes were leaked onto certain sites on the internet last week showing a man and a woman…em…you know…em…doing it…that’s right!… having ‘em…featuring a young lady that not only looked like Suelyn but actually was her, and using the old adage that ‘attack is the best form of defence’ she reacted furiously by posting on Twitter “I will find the person who stole those videos of me and my boyfriend having private couple fun and… “blah blah blah… The thing is, Suelyn, what we are all gagging to know, Sweet Pea is, did you invite the film and lighting crew into your house at the time of your ´private couple fun’ or did they accidently happen along for a coffee and quick movie? Possibly roused by the press attention she was now getting Ms Medeiros then rather smartly shot herself in the foot when she quoted from the Bible John 8:7… “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” … Sorry babe … It was a porno and the Bible can’t change that.

Katy!...Katy!

FOR QUITE some time now I have been saying that I had no idea why the lovely Katy Perry could ever have hooked up with pratman Russell Brand, but in the wake of what I recently found out and what you are about to read, I´m starting to think a little differently. Katy attended yet another Awards Bash last week and when quizzed about the belly bump that was on show beneath her skimpy pink mini dress she said “I like burgers and Taco Bell!, but if you want to make that pregnant that’s your problem.” Katy must’ve then plugged herself into the mains when she added “I’m not ready to start a family as I still love alcohol … so … no kids yet!” … junk food and booze! … OMG … Katy! … Katy! … And yes … you guessed it … there´s more … last month when she appeared on top US chat show Ellen and the discussion got on to babies Mrs. Brand said: “ If it doesn´t hurt the first time I´ll just keep popping them out! … OMG! … and again … OMG! … As I said at the top I had no idea why Katy ever took up with that idiot Brand, but I´m now a-thinkin they were made for each other. KATY! … KATY!

Christmas Book Review by

Danny Collins

Book Review

BOOKS MAKE wonderful gifts for all ages. RTN’s regular reviewer, copy@dannyjpcollins.com author Danny Collins, presents his selection of four books, each with special appeal to a section of readers. All are available off the shelf or by mail order from Librería Europa, C/ Oscar Esplá 2, 03710 Calpe. Telf: 96 583 5824 to help you solve those Christmas gift quandaries. The answers are here: STARTER FOR TEN Hodder paperback 10.80€ The first book by brilliant One Day author David Nicholls. First year student and Kate Bush fan Brian falls for beautiful University Challenge queen Alice Harbinson with hilarious results.

ACCIDENTAL BILLIONAIRES Arrow paperback 10.80€ Ben Mezrich’s sex and money thriller that inspired the film The Social Network: a true tale of betrayal and the founding of Facebook.

MURDERS AT THE BLACK MUSEUM John Blake paperback 10.80€ Author Gordon Honeycombe was given privileged access to the darkest secrets of New Scotland Yard’s Black Museum and presents his readers with the true facts behind some of the country’s most

He’s gotcha by the nadgers THIS SECOND item is about Steve Coogan and the stand he is making against the UK media regarding the way they break the rules with gay abandon with no thought for no one and nobody, and his latest attempt at shutting them up sounds like a winner to me Tommy. Firstly, and very importantly, he said: “I’ve never stated I was a model of morality,” (important, as they could climb all over him if he had). Then he added: “I don’t appear on panel shows as ‘myself’, I create comedy characters, I don’t sell myself as a person” … see where he’s going … then he said: “There are people who exploit the press, play the fame game … I don’t do that, so I must only be judged

on my work!” … right on brudder! …

Steve Coogan is a leading campaigner for reform in the media which more specifically comes out as the ‘gutter press’…get a bucket of water and flush the whole bleedin’ lot of them down the plughole gets my vote!

Viva TV Schedule Friday 2nd Dec – Thurs 8th Dec Friday 2nd December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 FAQ with Ann Brown Reflexology and Business Directory 18.30 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – International Model Ema Busson 19.00 An Evening With... Cor Meibion Taf Welsh Male Voice Choir 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Saturday 3rd December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 FAQ with Ann Brown Reflexology and Business Directory 18.30 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – International Model Ema Busson 19.00 An Evening With... Cor Meibion Taf Welsh Male Voice Choir 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Sunday 4th December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info

18.00 Viva Vitality 18.30 Spanish Dive Adventures 19.00 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – Dave Jones and Frank Oliver 19.30 Spanish Eye 19.45 Learn The Lingo 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Monday 5th December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 Dave and Andy’s Excellent Adventures – Racing Cars and Water Skiing 18.30 Spanish Dive Adventures 19.00 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – International Model Ema Busson 19.30 The Wedding Show 19.45 Hand Made – Going Ballistic!

20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Tuesday 6th December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 FAQ with Ann Brown – QROPS and Cake Making

Suduko Answer notorious murder cases, including Jack the Ripper, Dr Crippen and Reginald Christie.

MAY I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION, PLEASE? Century hardback 24.70€ The autobiography of James Corden, co-writer of Gavin & Stacey and alter ego of Gavin’s best mate Smiffy: Corden writes with the pathos of the fat boy who makes good and nearly loses his head to fame. You’ll laugh and cry along with this chubby comic genius who co-created some of the most lovable characters of UK TV comedy soap.

18.30 The British Consulate 19.00 Real England – The Lost Gardens of Heligan 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Wednesday 7th December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 Peraleja Golf – The Mary Leishman Foundation Golf Day 19.00 Learn The Lingo 19.15 Spanish Eye – Mini Golf 19.30 Viva Vino 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Thursday 8th December 14.00 Non Stop Music 16.00 Shopping and Info 18.00 Spanish Eye – Cartagena Museum Volunteers 18.30 Let’s Talk Special Ex boxer turned actor, Big Joe Egan 19.00 Vibe Fest 2010 20.00 – 22.00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

motoring

Dec3 -NOV 08 DEC 2802 OCT20112011

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Don’t take chances with your car Book it in with the experts at Costa Car Clinic right now!

IN THE past 7 days the Guardia Civil reported 274 serious accidents on the roads in the Alicante Province. Many of these would have been to do with the wet weather and the storms causing hazardous driving conditions.

However, a number of these accidents will undoubtedly have been caused by vehicles unfit for perilous weather conditions.

Don’t become a statistic: there really is no need. Come along to Costa Car Clinic located on the Pedreguer Industrial Estate (site of the Sunday market) where Richy and Helen Lister will check over your vehicle and sort out any problems.

There is no-one better qualified on the Costa

Blanca than Richy to ensure your safety, and your car’s performance during this winter. For 20 years in the UK, Richy’s main employer was Jennings Ford, the largest Ford and Mazda dealership in the North East of England with 12 branches, where he was a fully trained mechanic undertaking numerous Ford recommended courses. He also became a specialist in automotive air-conditioning systems, and obtained many Ford recognised Diplomas.

Importantly Richy became a Quality Controller and MOT tester. Be honest, who better than a Ford Quality Controller and a MOT tester to check your car for its performance and safety to protect you and

Inside the garage

your loved ones?

Here are four recent client testimonials for Helen and Richy. The telephone numbers of the clients are available at Costa Car Clinic for anyone who wants to speak with these clients.

Colin & Chris Pawley from Jesús Pobre: “We have been taking our two cars to Richy for six years now, well before he and Helen opened Costa Car Clinic. We trust his advice implicitly, he has helped us on many occasions and we recommend him regularly to all our friends at Church.”

Sue & Justyn Byman from Javea: “Richy has given us very sound advice all the time that we have used him, which is about five years now. On one occasion another garage wanted €400 to solve a problem, which Richy resolved about a third of the cost. We can highly recommend his services”.

Rod & Claire Cunningham from Jesús Pobre: “Helen and Richy go to extreme lengths to sort any problem. When one of our cars needed a part, Helen sourced the part from the UK, saving us a considerable amount on purchasing the same part here in Spain.”

Heather & Colin Norgett from Monte Pedreguer: “We have been using Richy for years before he and Helen opened their own garage and we are very pleased with their service. They are always there and will always fit you in, and do everything to help that they can.”

Helen and Richy welcome anyone who

Richard and Helen believe that honesty and reliability are rewarded with loyalty

wants to call in for a look around, for a talk with Richard, or to get a quote. Their belief is that ‘Honesty and reliability is rewarded with loyalty’ and with genuine recommendations like the above you can see that they are very good at what they do. They also look forward to helping you soon at Costa Car Clinic – keeping you on the road…

Costa Car Clinic is situated on the Pedreguer Industrial Estate (site of the Sunday Market): Tel: 96 576 1023 Email: costacarclinic@gmail.com

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Dec - 08 DEC 2802 OCT3 NOV 20112011

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Classified Ads 56

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

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

UK-SPAIN-IRELAND All European Destinations

Removals with the personal touch. Full/part loads.

Parcels, flat packs, luggage, door to door service, Storage available, pets transported

Phone 965 696 750 • 0044 (0) 1460 74191 email: chrisyounge73979@aol.com

14 - 20 OCT 2011

Book your advert now 902 118 999 (ext 2)

PRISTINE POOLS

• Professional pool maintenance & cleaning • Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems Ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed • Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired • Structural leaks investigated and repaired • Refurbishments & upgrades undertaken British Trained with over 15 years experience.

Extensive references. All work guaranteed Tel: 96 677 4199 or 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

EXCEL AIR CONDITIONING. See main ad on page 11.Tel/Fax (Head Office) 966-897-772. Mobiles:680-154-432/676-265-675. Email excelairconditioning@hotmail.com.

All credit/debit cards accepted.

SERVICE AIR David Higton: (Tel) 966-865-883 (Mob) 629-308-505 (Email) cool@serviceair.biz

PET TAXI transporting your pet door to door in our air conditioned vehicles, stopping in pet friendly hotels travelling twice monthly.

Accompanied travel also available.

Tel: 952 541 147 HOMES NEEDED FOR ABANDONED KITTENS I have 4 gorgeous kittens which are really friendly and love people. 1 male g/w and 3 female tabby, tri, t-shell . If you can offer a good home to one please give sarah a call 600552031 or 965960658.

HOUSE AND PET SITTING Call Margaret experienced multi lingual telephone 968 186 781 Mobile 659 824 156 PET TRANSPORT we treat your pet as if they belong to us and that is our promise. van fully air conditioned we believe we have the best rates so give joe a call on 966074576 or 650341087 for a chat or e mail pawspettransport@hotmail.com SMALL DOGS CARED FOR IN OUR OWN HOME So if you need to go away on holiday but don’t want your dog to go into kennels then we will look after them. References available. Tel: 965843781 Mob: 622514980 TRANS-PET We do regular, doorto-door journeys between the Costa Blanca and the UK.Our aim is to provide a professional, caring service for your pets.Boarding facilities for Cats and Dogs. This may be for an overnight stay or of longer durations.Tel:600-552030/965-960-658 www.trans-pet.co.uk

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - COSTA BLANCA Confidential Helpline, South 625 912 078, North 648 169 045. www.aa-costablanca.org.

DO YOU SUFFER THROUGH ANOTHER PERSON DRINKING? Don’t suffer alone. We meet in Benidorm every Thursday at 5.00pm.

Al-Anon Established Worldwide for 60 years. Ring 634758539 for details.

GATA CHARITY SHOP Description: House Clearances, furniture, bric a brac, beds, etc. High prices paid for quality items. We buy, Sell and Exchange just about anything at the GATA CHARITY SHOP in aid of SPAIN, the Society for the Protection of Animals in Need. Collection and Delivery service available. Tel 665653998 or 965756215.

ON 6,300 SQ MTRS IN SAN LUIS, TORREVIEJA Large complex comprising of 2 indoor bars, one outside bar, bowling green, large swimming pool, big function room with bar, stage, lighting & sound, restaurant 80 covers, crazy golf another mirrored letting room with toilets, english tv / sports screen / 9 toilets all together & 2 shower rooms, large complete kitchen, music licence, store room, lease hold €175,000 Tel: 627371731.

INTERNATIONAL NUTRITION COMPANY expanding in Costa Blanca urgently requires 2-3 independent (bi-lingual) hard working entrepreneurs with a “can do” attitude to start their own Home Based Business. Excellent communication skills, self motivated, capable of working proactive, excellent entrepreneurial skills are a plus, not a necessity. Training provided. To apply please send your resume to: nutricion@mail.com AMBITIOUS? Life changing opportunity with a money back guarantee. For details telephone 965 322 863 A 6 FIGURE INCOME is eminently achievable with us – and there’s a money back guarantee.

Telephone 965 322 863 COLD DRINK / SNACK VENDING MACHINES EXCELLENT RECESSION PROOF BUSINESS WITH NO OVERHEADS AND ALL CASH. 5 COLDDRINK VENDING MACHINES €24,900. 25 PRINGLE MACHINES €14,900, ALL WITH GUARANTEED SITES. 619307318.

10 COLD DRINK/SNACK VENDING MACHINES with sites,€44,900. excellent cash income, no overhead, work from home, work only one day per week, €31,000 nett yearly.

25 pringle vending machines with sites €14,900.€250 per week guaranteed.965-326-442/ 659-696-455 SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Long established company, own product range. First class training & support. Telephone 606586587

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE for your home or business at a fair price.

References available. (Altea area) Tel: 965843781 or 622514980 PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE for your home or business at a fair price.

References available. (Altea area) Tel: 965843781 or 622514980

COMPUTERS We can change your Spanish computer into English without effecting your data for only 25€ Call John on 638356368 for details PC SOLUTIONS 4U For all your PC needs. Reliable & friendly service.

Call Fred 634638664

MOBILE/PARK HOMES from 17.000€, Fully furnished ready to move into, A/C, Tel, Eng TV, on permanent site, Bar/Res, Pool, Tennis, Gym, Shop, walking distance to San Javier, 5 mins to beach, Airport, Hospital by car. (also bungalows for rent and caravan plots short term or permanent stays) Tlf Carol 968192-425 mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com

of 2-4 weeks to suit your personal situation. Experienced nurses or carers welcome, also those with no previous experience, our in-house training is available. British/EU passport/references/drivers/good spoken English essential. This progressive friendly company was established in 1962 and is a market leader in U.K. live-in care for the elderly, CONSULTUS CARE AND NURSING LTD. Call our local consultant Sandra Field on 658 965 204 or email s.field@consultuscare. com or visit our website www. consultuscare.com.

ADULT INTERNET PHOTO AND VIDEO Females and couples, 18-65, required as models.

Excellent rates. Tlf:-697-697-842

Energy Saving

GARDEN MAINTENANCE Do you need help maintaining your garden? we can supply a full service at competitive prices. Call today for a free quotation 689075125

FUNKY FREESTYLE DANCE with Louise, every Saturday morning at Villamar Campsite in Albir/Benidorm, come and learn all the moves and routines to your pop idols! Call Louise on 655-781-068 for more information!

MERCURIO CONSTRUCTION .

ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS FROM SMALL REPAIRS TO NEW HOUSES. COVERING ALL COASTAL AREAS OF THE COSTA BLANCA. www.conpro.com.es TEL: 669.669.339

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SPARE TIME, WANT EXTRA CASH? Start earning immediately by becoming an AVON representative.

Info: ring Rosh 966785520 CARERS WANTED To work in England 3 weeks on 3 weeks off email CV to 24hourhomecareservices@ googlemail.com 24 HOUR HOMECARE SERVICES LTD Wanted companions, carers to work in England as live-in carers. 3 weeks on, 3 weeks off. If you are caring, a good listener and cook contact Karen Jones on (0044) 01929 472 810 or mobile (0044) 07500 836688 email: 24hourhomecareservices@ googlemail.com or download application form from www.24hourho mecareservices.com TELESALES OFFICE IN ALBIR OPENING A NIGHT SHIFT 25 to 30 hrs per week, Basic, commission, contract and training offered. We are looking for reliable staff, willing to work hard in exchange for great commissions.We need..... * A sales manager * 2 Closers * 15 telesales staff * 2 Administration staff. This is a great opportunity to get in while the company is young, with offices throughout Spain, Tenerife, Malaga and Barcelona the world is at your fingertips! Call Kris now on 697551459 WORKING HOLIDAYS FOR EXPATS Join our team of selfemployed live-in carers in the U.K. We require live-in carers to provide housekeeping and personal care for our elderly clients in their own homes particularly during the autumn and winter months. Flexible bookings

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011 AT MICHAEL’S Beautiful hand carved Spanish antique furniture all in high quality walnut - side board + dining set with leather chairs. See: www.michaels-javea.com AT MICHAEL’S Two large Buddha statues in stone! Several large wardrobes and many small patio sets in stock, + lots more. See more than 600 photos: www.michaelsjavea.com AT MICHAEL’S Oyster bed with white cushions for the terrace.

Two beautiful very high quality Chesterfield sofas in brown. Photos on: www.michaels-javea.com MICHAEL’S 28 YEARS IN JAVEA ENSURES YOUR SATISFACTION! We sell high quality pre owned furniture, many from show apartments etc. Look at: www. michaels-javea.com Tlf:965-791-328.

FSH. Aircon. Full equiped.

Showroom condition. Metallic burgandy. Only 7750€. Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www.fwreurocars.com

PRIVATE BUYER, LOOKING TO BUY A CHEAP CAR DIRECTLY FROM THE OWNER, TEL 638 81 18 81.(PLEASE MIDDLEMEN DO NOT APPLY)

BI/GAY MASSEUR OFFERS FREE MASSAGE Relaxing enjoyable and very stimulating. Withheld numbers and texts not answered.

Tel: 660 409 206 YOUNG LOOKING 50 YEAR OLD wishes to meet lady for fun, friendship and outings. 688259498 Torrevieja area.

ALEXANDERS PAY TOP LONDON PRICES Javea Port seafront – Monday to Saturday - 10am till 3pm. Established since 2003 Tel: 965792595 or 667270969

GOLD WANTED English Jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery & coins for cash. Call for an appointment. Peter (7 days) 664 890 990.

BALLROOM/LATIN/SEQUENCE DANCING WITH LA BAMBA’S. At La Rustika [Los Arcos] Restaurant, Avenida Balaeres 34, Torrevieja.

Saturday - Social Dance 7.30pm - 10pm Starting 5th September - Monday - New Beginners Class - 10am - 11.30am Monday Intermediate Class - 11.30am - 1pm Tuesday - Popular Sequence class 7.30pm - 8.30pm followed by Social Dance 8.30pm - 10.30pm [not 2nd Tuesday of month]. At Casa Ventura, San Luis, Torrevieja Starting 8th September - Thursday - Beginners class 7.30pm - 9.30pm. Got more information contact Andrea 616 478 157.

PET INSURANCE Protectapet: Looking for Pet Insurance? Spains Leading Pet Insurance Provider. www.protectapet.eu 965 756 724 S.O.S. INSURANCE Car-HomeHealth-Comercial. Funeral Plans and Insurance. Tlf:-966-787-123/622275-561/686-116-297

2 WOOD BURNERS FOR SALE complete, brand new cost 500€ each will accept 300€ each. Tlf: 65505 84 26 (CALPE) WHEELCHAIR Light, Foldable,150€.

Electric Mobility Scooter, SUNRISE MEDICAL 40km range 499€. Both like new! Tlf:-627-019-403 AUTOMATIC GATE SYSTEMS €449!! AUTOMATIC GARAGE DOOR MOTORS €249!! FULLY INSTALLED/GUARANTEED!! All brands repaired 627-191639/ www.elektro-nex.com

AT MICHAEL’S you can get part exchange on certain beds when you buy a New bed from our New Bed shop in the Arenal. See photos (updates every 5-6 days): www.michaels-javea.com

WE CAN IMPORT all of your KIT CARS and also RHD Vans and Trucks. Call Marcelo; 609-600-993 WANTED Scrap cars, vans, lorries, plant and caravans. Turn your scrap into cash. From Valencia to Alicante.

Free collection. Tel: 689-929-395 WANTED I buy any car, van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

OPEL ASTRA 1.6 PETROL AUTOMATIC 1999, 5 door hatchback, all extras, fully serviced, excellant inside and out. 2450€ tel 680665583 FORD FOCUS 1.8TDDI ESTATE November 2002, all extras, low kilometers, fully serviced, excellant inside and out, PRE CHRISTMAS BARGAIN 2950€ tel 680665583 CITROEN PICASSO XSARA AUG ‘07 - MPV 1.6 HDi Exclusive,67,000 kms, 1 owner. Full service history.

A/C (Climate), Alloys, PAS, ABS, Cruise. Electric windows/mirrors.

High spec model, CD, Rain/light sensors Isofix, Rear picnic tables.

Metallic silver €9,250. Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www.fwreurocars.com OVER 75 LHD AND RHD VEHICLES IN STOCK for sale or exchange. Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www.fwreurocars.com FORD FOCUS 1.6 AUTOMATIC TIPTRONIC July 2008. New model.

Aircon. Fully equiped. Stunning example. Light metallic blue. 10450€.

Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www.fwreurocars.com 1.6 TREND FORD FOCUS. JULY 2006 1 owner. 50,000kms.

BASS GUITARIST AVAILABLE with vocals, will travel: 691-622-804

GAY, BI OR CURIOUS. H20 SAUNA.COM Safe, Discreet, Clean, Benidorm Old Town. 966 805 091.

GENERIC VIAGRA safe and effective blue pill. Guaranteed happy ending. Call Ron, TT Marketing, 966499204 SPANISH LADY PLAYA FLAMENCA near new Carrefour before La Florida. 35 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, economical prices from 40€. Full discretion. Call Ana 680-735-412 ARE YOU MALE, FEMALE OR A COUPLE? Need some Sexy FUN? Contact me soonest. 63 year old Dom/Sub switch. Available for fun with Males, Dom and Sub and Cross Dressers, Females Dominatrix and Submissive. Couples including Same Sex Couples. “Anything Goes” Can sometimes accomodate. Home Visits no extra Charge/Low Fees. Call me now on 693-478-573 ELEGANT SEXY SLIM Lady escort available. Home, Hotel, Villa. Region Calpe to Torrevieja. La Manga.

Mazzaron. Tel 693 357 526 TORREVIEJA CHINESE SUPER SEXY Young and beautiful. Calle Orihuela Nº60, 2º1 VIAGRA GENERIC weekenders and jellies. Quesada and surrounding area. Derek 685207378

PLEASURE HOUSE TORREVIEJA

Sexy girls from South America.

Come and enjoy, low rates from 40€. Address: Calle Finlandia. 682-776-068

CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA

Luxury private chalet, parking.

Drinks invitation. Feeling alone? Just want some company? Exotic girls from South America. Call us, Also Escort Service. Full discretion. Come and enjoy at: Avenida Asociacion Victimas del Terrorismo.

609-573-468 or 639-832-118

POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired.

Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, consciencious service to the highest standards. Refurbishments and upgrades undertaken. Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed. All work guaranteed.

British trained in the UK pool industry with over 15 years experience. 8 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 SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING SERVICE BY POOLTECHSPAIN. We are a fully legal, qualified and registered business who have been operating on the Costa Blanca for 6 years.

We offer a professional, reliable, safe and efficient pool service, inc. re-grouting, pressure testing and leak repairs. Private and community swimming pools undertaken. Call now for more information on 965725-565 or mobile 676-945-360/ 620-743-048 www.pooltechspain.com

SPAIN. LOVELY 2008 40 X 22 PARK HOME BUNGALOW STYLE. On New Residential Park.

Extra large patio,gazebo ,shed.

Fantastic views of village, 2 beds with ensuit .Full bathroom. Large kitchen/ dishwasher.. Furnished.

Large lounge. Dining. Heating and aircon. Trains and buses village 6-8 mins walk. Beaches 12-15 mins by car or bus. More details e-mail. rincondelviento@yahoo.co.uk Sale price would be £88.000 ovno BUNGALOW IN LA SIESTA 2 beds / 2 baths, american style kitchen, lounge, english tv, fully furnished, air con / heater, solarium, close to all amenities. €57,000. Tel: 627371731 LARGE FINCA, CAMPO OF ALBATERA Ideal for kennels, cattery or horses. Main house, 4 beds, 2 bathrooms, large lounge, open fireplace, aircon, heater, english tv in all rooms & free uk phone calls. Seperate - 1 bedroom granny flat. TV, Aircon, heating (ideal for letting). large pool, shower & pool bar. Enclosed terrace.

Stables for 3 horses or kennels for 8 - 10 dogs, large carport 3 cars, caravan etc, mature garden, solarium, 6,000 sq meters of execrsing land. Everyhting completely fenced. Fantastic 360 Views mountains and sea. All legal €249,900.

Tel 627371731 LARGE COUNTRY HOUSE, IDEAL FOR BUSINESS Bowling green, tennis, B&B, mortgage available.

Outskirts San Isidro. Main house 4 beds, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounges, country kitchen, beamed ceilings, open fire (wood burner) tv / internet, phone in all rooms, (free sat tv & free uk phone calls) office and pantry & seperate two onsuite bedrooms leading onto pretty courtyard (ideal for letting).

Second seperate house large litchen and bathroom plus large main room, currently used as dance / fitness /gym beauty could easily be three bedrooms (ideal for family, 2 families or rental) enclosed mature garden, shed, 24,000 square meters all fenced. Ideal for horses, dogs, camping, wooden houses or bowling green. Very large salt water pool with shower, a decked terrace of over 80 sq meters, hot tub (hardly used) organic vegetable patch, fenced car park for twenty cars, everything totally legal. All of the above only €299,000 627371731.

MOBILE/PARK HOMES on Camping Pueblo in San Javier from 15.000€ Tlf Carol 968-192425 mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com

GREAT VALUE IN JACARILLA large 3 bedroom apartment, fantastic views, 20 minutes from the beach and golf courses in the lovely Spanish village of Jacarrila. Price €325.00 per month. Please call Michael UK 00447831123631 WINTER LET. Available until May 2012. Los Lagos near Javea, 2 bed, 1 bath, Log burning stove, hot cold air con, phone line and ADSL, UK TV, washer/dryer, stunning mountain backdrop and award winning communal gardens. Sorry no pets.

450€ per month plus bills 620 144 315 1 BED PART FURNISHED bungalows on Camping Pueblo in San Javier with lots of ameneties Tlf Carol 968-192425 mobile 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com ALTEA/ALTEA LA VELLA COUNTRY HOUSE Refurbished Apartment, First Floor. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, kitchen, diner, 40m2 terrace, private pool, parking and gardens. Sea and mountain views. F/F, Air Con/CH.475€ pcm plus Water, gas and Electric.

Available 01.10.11. Tlf:966-881-048 or 691-202-307

ALBIR 2 BED to rent, couple with a baby and looking for a stable long term rent. Max price 525€ plus bills, Call Danny on: 646 619 466 Register your property for FREE at www.rapidpropertysales. com and when we sell your property we will charge you absolutely nothing! The average time it takes us to sell a property is 8 weeks. Register now at www. rapidpropertysales.com – you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011 JUST HIRE IT ONE WAY ! Van Hire To UK, Spain and France, different van and car sizes available tel: 952 541 147 / 667 235 205 MICK WITH HIS VAN Removals Collections Deliveries. For a reliable effective service. Hourly rate or quote. Call Mick anytime 600-247-535 VAN LEAVING FOR THE UK/SPAIN EVERY 2 WEEKS great rates please contact joe on 966074576 or 650341087 or civic1235@msn.com MAN & LWB SPRINTER VAN going to UK- Spain twice a month. Tel: 610-846-260 or 0044-7519-186-355 email:-van.man@hotmail.co.uk EUROMOVE4U Full & Part Loads.

Spain to UK/UK to Spain on a regular monthly basis. Cars & Motorcycles transported. Call Grant or Jan Office 0034-965-300-959 Mobile 0034-648-102-529 UK Mob 0044-7803-893-719.

Email info@euromove4u.eu

QUALIFIED TRANSLATOR Bi-lingual Spanish-English and high level French and German.

Confidential and reliable accompaniment service. Competitive rates. Torrevieja and surroundings.

Virginia 629201192.

INTERPRETER English interpreter provides aid and assistance for visits to hospitals/schools/tax offices/ police stations etc. Friendly and reliable, available in Benidorm and surrounding areas. Call 600 809 698

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BRITISH GRADUATE TEACHER offers Primary/Secondary English Mathmatics. Telephone Margaret Johnson B.Ed. 965-350-516 Mob: 616-660-687 COMPUTER TUTOR Software training, ebusiness education, website publishing, photography, videography and more DIY tips and tricks for all of your business and personal needs. Karla Darocas - certified instructor since 1990. Tel: 96 597 3234 info@KarlaDarocas.com Referrences - www.KarlaDarocas.com

SKY HD SATELLITE receiver with sports package cards, 240 euros plus monthly subs. Can deliver Tel Jeremy 667 235 205 SKY SUPPLIES New sky hd and humax digiboxes from 145€. White cards, LNBs, spare remotes, hard drive upgrades.

Advice and backup. Tel: 966 194 013/ 600 899 096 CRYSTAL CLEAR SATELLITE AND INTERNET TV for all your digital and TV requirements. No Annual Fees on Sky Cards. Steve:-660-186-505/Ros:-965-584097. www.ccsattv.com info@ccsattv.com

TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Bric-a-brac into Cash. Anything!

Anywhere! 965-319-220/ 618-165-877

Classified Services All Major Credit Cards Accepted - Prices start from 10€ a week.

Airport Parking

Builders

Book your advert now! 902 118 999 (ext 2)

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011 CarConditioning Hire Air

Builders Cont...

Business Consultants

Gardening

Gold Wanted

Locksmith

Limousines

Clearance Specialists

Computers

Double Glazing Maintenance

Electrical

Garages

Man & Van

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011 Plumbing & Heating

Solar Energy

Pools

Properties Wanted

Secure Storage

Removals

TV & Satellite

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02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

A league of our own

IN 2011 RTN Golf Club started its member’s competitions to see if we could bring affordable and competitive golf to our members. We have certainly done this with the conclusion of our season just yesterday at El Plantio.

In 2012 we plan to change the way the league is run and who exactly can win it. The league matches will be played every second Tuesday of each month between January and DecemNoel’s world ber excluding July and August. During these months we will of golf continue with our hugely successful Greensomes League at El Plantio where we will be starting at 9am each Tuesday MornBy Noel Eastwell Teaching Professional ing.

The venues we use for league matches will be limited to the Campo de Golf El Plantio 639 730 891 central section of the area covered by RTN, in and around Alicante city, at courses where we receive guarantees we will be treated the way we deserve. The courses selected are Alicante Golf, Bonalba and El Plantio. As well as supporting us by offering good green fee prices, these golf courses will provide our members with a fair test of their abilities.

Perhaps the biggest change we will implement for 2012 will be that The League Title can only be competed for by players who are members of Real Federacion Española de Golf. RTN Golf Club members who are not RFEG members can still play but they will not under any circumstances be allowed to compete for the league championship. They will receive prizes of lower value when they play in our monthly events. We have made special arrangements for RTN Golf Club Members to process their RFEG membership at greatly reduced rates so that they can get to compete for the league if they are not already members: contact Noel Eastwell on 639 730 891 for more details. With over €1,500 of prizes on offer throughout the season, accurate handicap records are vital.

In addition we will have two divisions next season. The Levante Division will be for players up to handicap 18.4, and The Lebeche Division with players of handicaps of 18.5 to 36. This means that each month we will be giving away at least twice as many prizes as we have seen in 2011 to the winners of each monthly competition.

Over the season the winner of The League will be the player with the best 7 scores returned from the 10 qualifying events. Format of play will be individual Stableford.

We see the changes we have made as vital if we are to make a start in getting handicaps fair and providing a top quality league for our members to play in.

To enter the league, please email your RFEG Licence number to golf@roundtownnews.com together with you name and RTN Golf Club membership number.

Records will be kept of all Licence and membership numbers and will be provided to golf clubs each time we play so that accurate handicap records can be kept throughout the year.

More information will be sent to members in our next Monthly Newsletter.

WIN A ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 INCLUDING BUGGY AT THE BEAUTIFUL EL PLANTIO RESORT IN ALICANTE To enter this competition, answer the question below correctly. Every correct answer will be entered into a draw at the end of the month and the winner of this fantastic prize worth over 180€ will be picked at random at the end of each month.

Send your entries by email to golf@roundtownnews.com. The decision of the editor of RTN will be final in making the winning selection.

QUESTION FOR 2ND DECEMBER 2011 Which Spanish golfer has the nickname ‘Chema?’

A. Jose Maria Olazabal B. Jose Maria Canizares C. Miguel Angel Jimenez All answers must be received no later than 5pm on 31st December 2011 to be entered into December’s draw, to be made on 31st December. The winner will be announced in RTN on 7th January 2012.

November’s winner: Tom Edwards

Any questions you have for Noel should be sent to golf@roundtownnews.com

The Professional Scene

The South East of Spain has some of the best golf courses in The World and we are lucky that many of the professional golf tours recognise this. This winter we have seen The Hi5 Pro Tour compete at our local courses where European Tour players have plied their trade against those who are preparing to go to Qualifying School and The Challenge Tour.

Last week at Hacienda Del Alamo we saw three of GB & I’s victorious Walker Cup team competing in the professional ranks for the first time in their professional careers in Spain. There is no doubt that The Hi5 Pro Tour has some quality players in its ranks and we will get the chance to see them again in early 2012 in and around the Murcia area. Spectator entry to these events is free and it is a great chance to see some top European Tour players up close and also the best of the up and coming players.

Last week’s event in Hacienda Del Alamo survived some atrocious weather and the golf course certainly provided a test of golf that challenged all aspects of the players’ games.

Out of a field of 90 players the half way cut was made after round two with 44 players making it through. The final round on Thursday was no easier than what went before but like all true champions some found a way to get a good score. Andy McArthur and Andy Sullivan ended tied at 13 under, just enough to beat European Tour star Scott Drummond. The play off on Hole 1 saw McArthur win through with a solid par to the three putt bogey of Sullivan. The Hi5 Pro Tour returns to our part of Spain in January at Altorreal in Murcia and stays

in Spain until mid-March.

The top quality golf in our area continues at La Manga this very weekend with European Tour Second Stage Qualifying taking place on The South Course. Las Colinas also takes centre stage, hosting a European Tour event for the very first time.

El Valle also stages the Second stage qualifying so we are a little spoiled for choice when it comes to quality golf this weekend.

Some really talented golfers will be competing to get to Final Stage Qualifying in PGA Cataluña in Girona next week. Amongst the top names are Peter Baker, Benn Barham, Sebi Garcia, and Tom Whitehouse at Las Colinas. El Valle plays host to James Busby, James Hepworth, Zane Scotland, and former Tour winner Sven Struver. Whilst at La Manga, Sion Bebb, Trevor Fisher, Colm Moriarty, and James Ruth take their chances. These are just a few of the names many will recognise. Once again entry is free so if you have the chance, go along and show your support.

WESTWOOD AND MCILLROY TO REJOIN US PGA TOUR Two of The European Tour’s top names will be plying their trade on the other side of the Atlantic in 2012. McIllroy made a similar decision two years ago and found he got homesick. Lee Westwood has been one of the Stalwarts of The European Tour for many years; his decision to go will be a real blow to Tour officials. Let’s hope they have made good decisions and that it will result in them both winning majors in the coming year.

For the best deals on the Costa Blanca and Murcia call the RTN Golf Club booking hotline 96 817 5716 or email rtngolf@roundtownnews.com

GOLF Tips

Muscles can only perform a golf swing efficiently if they are kept warm, it is better to be too warm than a little cold if you want to play better golf.

Andy Kay With Andy Kay The Final Whistle

Spoty THERE’S BEEN a huge amount of debate this week regarding the fact that no women made it onto the short list for the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year award.

The Daily Mail wasted no time in putting up a BBCbashing headline despite the fact that the corporation doesn’t even get to decide who makes up the list of 10 finalists (mind you, the DM never worries about the facts when it has a chance to take a swipe at Auntie).

In fact, the BBC sends out a questionnaire to around 30 UK newspapers and magazines and it’s the sports editors of each publication that get to vote. Now here’s where it gets interesting… First off, I can’t see why the BBC includes Zoo and Nuts in the process if they don’t balance that out by inviting submissions from the likes of Marie Claire or Cosmo. Additionally, they should never again invite the views of Peter Spencer, sports editor of the Manchester Evening News.

In his list of 10 candidates, he selected seven sportsmen from his own patch including cricketer Glen Chapple and Man Utd’s Paul Scholes! To make matters worse, his choices also included Dimitar Berbatov and Patrick Vieira. Now two things here...first off, neither are British so couldn’t win the award anyway and secondly, Berbatov can’t even get a regular spot in the United first team and was omitted from the squad altogether for their biggest game of 2011, the Champions League final, while Vieira had similar selection problems at Manchester City and has now retired. Spencer, I’m afraid, has made a mockery of the voting process purely to win favour with his local readers and the first thing the BBC should do in their voting review for 2012 is cross him off the list.

ROB’S IN BUT OUT Rob Andrew has survived at the RFU but has been demoted from his current role and will no longer have any association with the senior England team. This opens the way for my favourite candidate; the former Springboks coach Nick Mallet, to take the job as the new England coach after the 2012 Six Nations Championship.

So after weeks and weeks of RFU-bashing, one has to say congratulations to director Ian Metcalfe and acting chief executive Stephen Brown who, in making the decision to remove Andrew from the front line and re-appoint him as professional rugby director, have acted with a bit of clarity and firmness.

Mind you lads, it’s about time.

TOP MAN Flying back from the UK last weekend, I managed to sneak in to Gatwick’s VIP lounge and ended up sitting next to Rafa Nadal.

He’s probably had better days, having been knocked out of the ATP Tour finals at the O2 Arena 24 hours earlier, but even though it was 7am in the morning, he still found time to sign autographs and have his picture taken with fellow passengers.

What a class act that man is.

ITV Orihuela RFC gets back to winning ways

ON SATURDAY 25th November ITV Orihuela RFC played away, hoping to retain their winning record against local rivals Torrevieja.

After a half hour delay in the kick off, the game was played under floodlights, with ITV Orihuela RFC starting the game at a fast pace to take the sting out of the more experienced Torry forwards with a lot of success.

The Orihuela’s defence repelled everything that Torry could throw at them with their defence holding firm, allowing the home team just a penalty in the opening exchanges.

Orihuela were then awarded a penalty of their own, which Alvaro converted after one of the Orihuela players had their head almost taken off by a home side player, and no yellow card (terrible decision by the ref).

Orihuela started to put some excellent moves together with Alvaro breaking out of defence with an excellent run to go over for the first try of the game, but was unable to convert. After a strong, powerful run Edu went over for Orihuela’s second try of the game to extend their lead, but a lapse of concentration again cost Orihuela as Torry went over for a try of their own and a penalty at the end of the first half, bringing the score 1311 to Orihuela at half time.

In the second half ITV Orihuela RFC continued to dominate the scrum, but the lineouts were fairly even with Orihuela having two brand new jumpers in their first game.

Torry took the lead with another penalty, but Orihuela stepped up a gear and continuing to put the pressure on got their rewards with their third try of the game with Richie going over, but the elusive fourth try just would not come. This was after having a perfectly good try disallowed in the first half only to be given a penalty at 5 metres out.

ITV Orihuela RFC triumphed by 18-14 - a great result considering quite a few players were missing through injury - their defence was back playing the way they were at the start of the season.

Our next game for the seniors is against one of the top teams in the league UCAM Murcia on 17th December at home.

The club is training on Tuesday and Thursday at the Miguel Hernandez University for the juveniles and seniors starting at 8.30pm, while the juniors are on Tuesday and Thursday at 5.15pm.

New players are always welcome no matter what age or skill level. For more information contact the club by phoning Garry on 692 767 242 - for the juniors contact Oscar on 600 871 606 (Spanish)

FC Torrevieja news

TORRY HAD a set-back last Sunday, losing to Alzira 1- 0 and also as a result their unbeaten home-record.

They were unlucky not to get something out of the game after hitting the woodwork 3 times!

On Saturday Torry travel to top of the table Catarroja where they need to come away with at least a point to stay in contention.

02 Dec - 08 DEC 2011

Fishing

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Maggots End by

David Hoare 968 199 279

For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 or email: anglerstogether@hotmail.co.uk THIS WEEK’S match was the Christmas Fayre match or ‘Fur and Feather’ as it is known in the UK. Well, the weather certainly had its say in this year’s competition. Firstly, we had to cancel the match on the Rio Segura at Murcia as the river was bank high, the water was the colour of chocolate and there was more bamboo debris coming down than you needed to build a fleet of Kon Tikis. (Okay, I know it was built from balsa tree trunks…)

The alternative venue was the drain next to Mercadona at Guadamar. Now there are some fish in here in, but they had, not so long ago dredged this stretch and left all the silt on the bank. The pegs were sat on top of the silt and for the whole match it rained stair rods! Just touching the silt got it stuck on you or your gear! My second worst weather day for fishing in Spain.

TOP ANGLERS ON THE DAY 1st Dave (The Sweetie Man) Hutchinson, fishing the pole using corn and maggot with 10.54 kilos 2nd Alan (The Emperor) Roscoe, fishing the pole using corn with 7.02 kilos 3rd Doug (Welsh Goldminer) Hornblow, fishing the pole using maggot and corn with 6.90 kilos Well done to Steve Budd who was fishing the feeder with bread had one bite a carp 4.28 kilos (in English 9•5lbs).

PLEASE NOTE At present the club has some vacancies: if you are interested in joining please contact Derek Swann on 96 672 9293 or 667 407 026.

ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS supplied by Terry Screen The penultimate round of the Winter League was fished this week on 22nd November at the Eden Stretch on the River Segura.

After last week at Nancy’s you would think it could not have got any worse - wrong! When we arrived the water was up and coloured with a steady flow after the thunder storms of the last few days, but that soon changed as the river authorities cleared the filter system above and opened the sluices. The river rose 18 inches very fast with everyone having to scramble

up the bank, rapidly, to drier ground and this put an end to fishing for most anglers.

This was reflected in the poor weights: 1st Bill (The Master) Reade with 4.580kg fishing floating bread 2nd Terry (Swing ‘em) Screen with 1.560kg on the feeder and maggot 3rd Andy (The Web Man) Stevenson with 1.300kg on feeder and maggot I am not sure where we will be fishing the final round of the winter League on the 29th November because of the heavy rain storms of the last week: Please telephone me on 96 532 8368 on Monday for details.

All details are available at www.abbeyangling.com or from Terry Screen the Match Secretary on 96 532 8368.

Anglers Together WE HAVE been having a lot of enquiries about licenses from anglers who are passing the ‘magic age of 65’ and therefore pensioners!

Licenses are still required and are free providing you have a Spanish ‘Pensionista’ card, otherwise you will have to pay the normal fees.

Licenses are available from either Town Halls or the Caja Rural Bank if in Valencia region. In Murcia you will also require insurance.

Make sure you take photocopies of all relevant documents to obtain your license, i.e. passport photopage, NIE and insurance.

Anglers Together was formed to introduce and encourage anglers of all abilities to meet up and get together to fish, either sea or freshwater.

Firm friendships have been formed during the time the group has been active and information on fishing venues and licenses required are available at the meetings or by regular emailed newsletters.

Meetings are held in two locations each month.

Anyone with an interest in fishing (sea or freshwater) is welcome to come along to a meeting to see what we’re about.

The next meetings are: Friday 9th December at 12pm at Mary’s Bar, Campoverde (near Pilar de la Horadada); Saturday 10th December at 12pm at The New Royal Bar and Restaurant at El Alamillo, opposite the sea-front between Isla Plana and Puerto de Mazarron.