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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Water shocker

Shops under attack

Jennifer Cunningham Insurances, a newsagent, a shoe shop and the CAM Bank were all targeted by vandals armed with acidic spray causing thousands of euros worth of damage p7

The mountain has been climbed

by jack troughton

The backstage department has been busy all week making the final touches to all the scenery, props and costume ready for the opening of The Sound of Music this Friday, Saturday & Sunday at the Auditori in La Nucia p16

Changes to Personal Income Tax in Spain Find out more on p27

Android APP of the week Turn your phone into a versatile flashlight with Color Flashlight, the app that brightens up your phone’s day and leads the way p50

Getting conned?

Beef on the move

Peek-a-bull

Noel’s been astonished at the treatment of golfers in mainland TRADITIONAL BULL running returned to Javea last weekend and one curious animal decided to Europe. p62 grab a closer look at the humans. Full story page 3.

SHOCKED COSTA Blanca pensioners were “astounded” to learn their water bill for the last three months had soared to an eye-watering 12,000€.

An estimated 4,000 cubic metres of water had drained away after an underground pipe at their home in Els Poblets burst.

Because there was no visible signs of a leak despite the size of the problem, retired Mr and Mrs E – they have asked RTN not to identify them – had no idea there was anything wrong.

And they warned readers to be on their guard – and regularly check their meters for signs of a hidden leak and turn off the supply at the meter if they go away.

There are two water meters in the boundary wall of the property. One governs the supply into the villa, the other controls the “luxury” or “garden” water needed for the swimming pool, shower and garden taps.

Sometime during the last quarter – the September reading was normal – the underground rubber pipe had perished and precious water lost.

Mr E said they had lived in Els Poblets for nine years and in that time water bills were on average around the 50€ mark. “The meters have been read quite normally.

Obviously the amount we use varies according to the season but there have been

no hiccoughs as such.

METER “At the beginning of December, three months after the last normal bill, the door bell rang and it was an official from the water company Aqualia who was obviously reading the meter.

“He said we had a problem. He pointed out one of the meters, the one concerning the garden water – it was going round like a Catherine Wheel even though there was nothing turned on.”

Mr E said: “The official rang the local office of Aqualia in Els Poblets to get our previous reading.

We were astounded to find when he worked it out with a calculator, that the bill would come to 12,146€.

“When we picked ourselves up, he pointed to several things – his machine and the meter. He said what the last reading was and what had been used since – it was around 4,000 cubic metres of water - an awful lot of water.”

The couple immediately rang a plumber and the insurance company. “It was urgent because there was no sign of water anywhere around the property, not a drop. It seems the ground is extremely absorbent – the water would have gone straight down into the ground and disappeared out to the ocean.”

Continued on page 5

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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Education cuts prompt large scale protest march in Alicante by jan gamm

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Students chanting songs and waving banners IN ALICANTE last weekend almost 50,000 people took part in a large scale demonstration in protest against cuts in education. It is the third largest demonstration in the history of the city, preceded in size only by protests against the Iraq war and the attack of 11-M, an angry human tide that surged from the Jorge Juan de Alicante Institute to the gates of the Palace of the Provincial Council.

The crowd bore banners, sang songs and shouted slogans denigrating the policies of the head of the Valencian Community, Alberto Fabra. Hundreds of posters appeared on lamp posts and walls all over the city centre as police struggled to keep the crowd under control.

Sailing Championship MORE THAN 300 children from 13 different countries will be descending on Torrevieja this weekend for the fifth annual Optimist Sailing Championship.

The competition will take place in the natural bay and starts today. Members of Torrevieja’s own sailing club based at the Real Club

Nautico will be taking part alongside sailors from all over Spain and children from countries including Ireland, Sweden, Finland and Poland. Look out for the sailors in the bay throughout the weekend.

The final day of competition is this Sunday, 29th January.

Population rise in Torrevieja

By Louise Clarke THERE ARE officially 1,730 more people living in Torrevieja in 2011 compared to the previous year, according to statistics released by the Town Hall this week. The increase in the ‘padron’ figures brings to 105,270 the number of people living in the municipality; 53% of which are non Spanish. Of that amount, 13,185 are British residents; which again is an increase on last year and like in neighbouring Orihuela Costa contradicts the highly negative “doom and gloom – everyone’s leaving” rumours that we are all hearing on a daily basis.

On top of the population increase it was also announced that more than 3,000 houses were sold in the municipality during 2011; again more evidence that the housing market is picking up. A spokesman from the Town Hall told RTN: “These figures show an increment across the board in Torrevieja.” The statistics also show that in the Torrevieja municipality, 121 different countries are represented; 50.6% are men and 49.4% are women. The population figure also represents a five-fold increase in residents in just over a decade. The spokesman added: “In 1990, there were just 23,000 inhabitants in Torrevieja, which shows the huge increase of residents in such a relatively short space of time. The only downturn we have seen is those residents from the Latin American countries such as Ecuador and Peru: presumably they have moved on for work reasons.”

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Council tightens its belt by jack troughton

THE GOVERMENT team of a Marina Alta town hall will see 10% cuts in their salaries as austerity measures continue.

Full time councillors in Calpe have agreed to tighten their belts to save money – part of a package to cut costs expected to be approved at an extraordinary meeting next Tuesday.

Already making a round of redundancies from the large town hall workforce, the local authority is one of the first to take on such measures and has been used as an example to councils across Spain. Mayor Caesar Sanchez believes in the light of Calpe’s economic situation – his team inherited debts of nearly 80 million euros – more budget cuts were needed.

SHOCK Councillor Carole Saunders said the reduction in salaries had been discussed for some time and did not come as a shock.

“We had a meeting and it was decided to reduce councillors’ wages by 10%. The move was taken because we have to set an example – it was felt we could not be making people redundant and making other cuts while we were seen to be receiving good wages,” she said. “We had to make a sacrifice as well – for some time we have known there were cuts of at least 5%. It was just something that had to be done.” Calpe And while the salary cuts were agreed, some councillors were said to Town Hall feel aggrieved. “Some feel they work 10 times harder than others.”

Bulls are back in town

TRADITIONAL BULL running in the centre of Javea Old Town seems destined to stay with moves to stage the event again during April’s festival of Jesus Nazareno.

Hundreds of people turned out last weekend to make the bull running in

the church square a success – with bars and restaurants doing a roaring trade.

However, it remains a controversial subject, not least because animal lovers question the ethics of the event in the first place and there remains little support for bull running from the majority of Javea’s residents.

Organisers also boasted the bull running would not cost the cashstrapped town hall a single euro and the Associacio Cultural Taurina de Xabia had budgeted to clean up after the party. But, according to the councillor for Services Doris Courcelles, the local authority will face a hangover from the fiesta – the bill for a more thorough

cleaning of the site, costing around 2,400€. The full cost will be made public later.

Her colleague, Councillor for Fiestas Juan Ortola believes such celebrations in the historic Old Town are a necessity for the local economy, revitalising and energising the town.

And one resident said the controversy should be put to one side because the event had been a success for the community. She said: “The bulls are neither here nor there – the whole community came together. People are smiling and laughing. What is so bad about that?”

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

On the verge of financial asphyxiation by louise clarke

Hundreds packed into the centre of Torrevieja to protest against the cuts

THE SITUATION for public service funding in Valencia is unsustainable and the region is on the verge of financial asphyxiation with debts of more than €50 million in the Education Department alone, according to the Regional President, Alberto Fabra; a bold statement which only worked to incense protesters further at last week’s demonstration in Torrevieja.

More than 800 people came out in force to voice their objection to the cuts being made to local and public services. “Many schools will be forced to close,” commented one protestor wielding a cardboard cut-out of a coffin with ‘RIP Public Education’ written upon it.

The demonstration was packed into the church square in the city and many were teachers who will see significant cuts to their own pay as well as to their school’s budgets as part of Fabra’s drastic austerity measures.

BETTER EDUCATION

Agustin Gracia, spokesman and one of the organisers of the protest, told RTN: “There are 225,000 children being educated

in the Community’s 450 public schools and all of them will be affected by these cuts. The Valencia government is cutting vital and important services such as education and health and yet it spends millions on the Formula One Grand Prix, the Americas Cup and an airport in Castellon that no-one uses and on which they have wasted more than €30 million in advertising! What we want is a better education for the next generation not less teachers, bigger class sizes and schools closing down.”

As coffins and cardboard scissors were being displayed, whistles and horns sounded for more than an hour outside the Torrevieja Town Hall in the hope that someone inside may come out and sympathise with the demonstrators.

Sadly, the majority of the councillors were at the FITUR event in Madrid trying to promote the city, so were completely oblivious to the hundreds of angry teachers, parents and pupils making their voices heard in their city.

BLOW A WHISTLE!

Banners depicting the ridiculous spending of the regional government were also on display and it was hard to stay impartial given the statistics on view. Canal 9, for example, is a TV channel funded by the Valencian Government, which many say is purely used as a tool to promote itself. This must cost millions of euros to finance every year and yet some schools are being denied essentials such as toilet paper!

This emotive subject is riling the Spanish population all over the region and RTN is constantly being asked to try to interest the support of British parents. There will be protests planned by many schools all over Valencia during the coming weeks and even if you can’t speak a word of Spanish, you can still blow a whistle and show your support.

Your child’s education is important and regardless of what you think of the quality of the Spanish public education system, no child deserves to take their lessons wrapped in blankets because their school cannot afford to pay for heating costs.

Spain and the smartphone leading Europe SPAIN HAS become the European leader in the use of the smartphone. More than a million Spaniards connect to the social network in real time and mobile broadband is displacing the land line for access to the Internet.

In September 2011 there were 16 million mobile connections; up 33% from 2010. Now there are 34.8 connections per 100 inhabitants and mobile internet in Spain is nearly nine points higher than the EU-27 average.

Neighbourhood Watch advice: Reporting a crime in operation WHEN YOU see a crime taking place phone 112 immediately. An operator will answer and if you ask to speak to an English speaking operator, you will be transferred immediately and can then report your crime in your own language with confidence. You will need to be able to give as much information as possible, i.e. where the crime is taking place, descriptions of criminals and if they are using a car, the make, colour and number.

The more information you can give the more chance there is of catching the criminals. It is possible for the Police to trace a car using only part of a number, so any information can be valuable. The police and Guardia Civil attend a 112 response usually within around 10 minutes. The emergency number 112 should only be used to report a crime in operation, not a crime that has already occurred. You should report this crime as soon as possible to your local NHW Coordinator if known (details via www.nhwinspain.com) and to the Guardia Civil to make a denuncia. The use of these simple steps will help make the area you live in safer and more secure.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

The twin meters

continued from front page However, Mr and Mrs E faced another shock. Their house insurance did not cover the lost water – even though they maintain that when they took out the policy a broker assured them leaks were covered.

HEART Mrs E: “It is particularly heartbreaking, having to pay for something we have never had.”

The couple found the water company helpful and sympathetic. It is hoped because there was a leak, the bill would be reduced, possibly to 5,499€.

The local mayor, contacted by the supportive Els Poblets English Speaking Residents Group, was also “astonished” by the size of the bill and contacted the water company head office – attempting to negotiate a repayment over 24 months.

Mr E said the local office could only authorise a term of four months to pay the bill and claimed “the longest period they knew of was across a year.”

The couple are still waiting to hear if the enormous bill is cut and the timescale for repayment following the mayor’s “very helpful” intervention.

Mr E said: “My advice to any RTN reader is that if they go away anywhere, to turn off the supply tap at the meter.

“And if they live here permanently, to make sure they check the meter every few days or every week to make sure they have not got a leak that is not visible!”

Special insurance for water leaks are available and Mr and Mrs E would like to hear from anyone who have faced similar problems.

Contact them via jack@roundtownnews.com

Blossom walk

CASUAL WALKERS can enjoy a guided stroll through the beautiful almond blossom of the Jalon Valley on Monday 13th February. Organised by Jalon Valley HELP, people are asked to meet at 9.30am outside the Tourist Information Office at Jalon’s ‘rastro’ car park. The pace is easy and the walk lasts around three hours on mainly good tracks, although there is a slight incline for the first 45 minutes. There will also be stops for photo opportunities and a rest.

Walkers are asked to wear suitable footwear and bring water and a snack. Well behaved dogs are welcome on a lead and owners are asked to walk at the rear of the group. HELP will also hold a collection to boost funds. More information about the charity is available at www.jalonvalleyhelp.com.

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Focus on plight of expats 27 jan - 02 feb 2012

EXPATS LIVING on the Costa Blanca will feature in a BBC programme as they struggle to cope in the ongoing Eurozone crisis. A team from BBC Look East visited the coast this week to investigate the affects of the Spanish recession and found there were stories of hard times but no panic.

Andrew Sinclair (left) with RTN’s Jack Troughton

by JACK TROUGHTON And RTN was invited to join the debate to give an overview of the situation as the area’s favourite free newspaper, meeting Andrew Sinclair,the BBC Political Correspondent for East Anglia.

Andrew explained he felt it was time to tell the story of British citizens who had moved to the sun but now struggling to cope in the recession and with sterling’s value depressed against the euro. “It struck me there has been a lot of reporting in the UK about the impact ongoing euro crisis is having on holiday businesses and British businesses in general,” he said. “But no one was saying how the crisis was affecting expats, people who came out here to Spain to get away from all the problems in the world and we have found there is some real hardship out there.”

CLASS He said expats were keen to point out they were not “stinking rich”, adding “a lot of people we spoke to were very much working class, they didn’t have large fortunes to

bring to Spain but felt they could do better for themselves than just living on a council estate”. Andrew added: “They were telling us: ‘don’t think we are rich millionaires, we are trying to make a better life for ourselves and it is a struggle’.

“I am not trying to paint a picture of how terrible life is out here – it’s not. But there is concern and worry about the crisis.”

Andrew said the Foreign Office had confirmed there were contingency plans being drawn up in the UK if “the balloon went up” and there was a widespread panic return to Britain.

He said that was obviously a worst case scenario and the programme was likely to feature people explaining how they were making ends meet or how they were unable to return home for health reasons because their money was tied up in property and they could not sell up. The report is scheduled to be screened on Sunday 5th February. Sunday Politics is shown from 11am and the regional slot will be screened about 11.30am.

Alicante court fire destroys records PRESIDING JUDGE Vicente Magro has announced that a fire that swept through offices in the second section of the Provincial Court of Alicante in the early hours of Monday morning destroyed a significant number of records and much of the furniture.

The Justice Ministry was informed and immediately lent full support to minimise disruption of the day to day running of the court.

The Supreme Judicial Council recently requested temporary transfer to alternative premises, warning that the building did not answer minimum standards of health and safety.

Early investigation indicates that the fire is attributed to a fault in the electrical wiring.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

Shops under attack by jack troughton VANDALS ARMED with acidic spray paint caused thousands of euros worth of damage when they attacked shop windows in a Marina Alta town.

Four businesses in Javea Port and others in the Arenal Beach area had expensive plate glass ruined in the overnight spree by hooligans. The paint actually etched itself into the glass.

In the port neighbouring businesses Jennifer Cunningham Insurances, a newsagent, a shoe shop and the CAM Bank were all targeted, seemingly on a random basis last Wednesday night.

The area has fallen victim to vandals before – two years ago there was a spate of slashing car tyres and last year car windows were smashed. Jennifer Cunningham manager John Marti told RTN he had spotted the damage as he arrived at the office on Thursday morning.

SPRAY “It looked like Christmas snow spray on the windows so we thought we could easily clean it off,” he said. “However, as you tried to rub off the paint you realised it was something more permanent.

“I actually used a Stanley blade and started to clean the paint off and found it only took off the surface coat so I went to and bought

John Marti shows the damage at CAM

some graffiti remover and painted it on – after the allotted time I cleaned it off with great expectations. Unfortunately it became apparent the glass had been etched by the paint.”

He said after denouncing the attack on the offices to the Guardia Civil he met the business’ landlord – who told him properties had also fallen victim to vandalism at the Arenal.

“It is very annoying and very expensive to put right,” added John. “All the windows will have to be replaced.”

The law of the jungle EXCITED YOUNGSTERS at Xabia International College have been on safari to exploring the jungle and learn all about the animals. Foundation stage children made hippos, tigers and giraffes, as well as creepy crawlies like spiders and snakes and now know where they live and what they eat. And as a special treat they got to cook animal shaped biscuits. Everyone agreed the walk on the wild side was a roaring success!

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Spain made simple by jack troughton THE BRITISH Consular team launches a new season of its successful ‘open days’ by visiting Ontinyent and Caudete on Thursday 9th February – the first time the roadshow has been to the towns.

New statistics within the latest town hall lists – the ‘padron’ – makes it clear Brits are still choosing to make Spain their new home.

And so the team based at the Consulate in Alicante wants to make sure they are out and about in 2012, insuring British citizens know what resources are available where they can get help, support and information.

British Consul Paul Rodwell is looking forward to visiting the two towns and talking about available consular services and living in Spain, as well as hearing colleagues from the Pension, Benefit and Healthcare Team explain their role and advise expats on queries about pensions, available benefits to apply for, and how to register for healthcare.

Mr Rodwell said: “The secret of making a success of life in Spain is to link into the services offered by your town hall and community.

ISSUES “We encourage residents to make the Spanish authorities the first point of call if there are any local issues and to insure that they are properly registered.”

He said the open days would give him and colleagues a better idea of the issues local residents face and would be providing them with information also available on the ukinspain.fco.gov.uk website.”

Details of the events are as follows: Caudete, Sala de Reuniones, Centro de Formación y Empleo, C/ San Jaime, s/n (Frente Plaza de Toros) Caudete. Doors open at 9.30am and the presentation begins at 10am.

And at Ontinyent, Palau de la Vila, Plaza San Roque, 2, 46870 Ontinyent. Doors open at noon and the presentation begins at 12.30pm.

Anyone wishing to attend either of the events should register for a place through the British Consulate website www.ukinspain.fco.gov.uk. Those who do not have access to the internet can register by calling 902 109 356.

Mystery of dolphin’s death AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into how the body of a young dolphin came to be on the rocky seafront of Javea. The mammal’s tail fin was missing and it is suspected the corpse died at sea but somehow came to be abandoned on the rocks of Montanar, which links the Javea Port and the beach at Arenal. The dolphin was quickly removed by council workmen and the facts reported to scientists at Valencia University which monitors the numbers of dead marine life found on the coast.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

Aiming high at Benidorm

by JACK TROUGHTON

Moody POPULAR BAY Radio presenter Moody has been practicing up to five hours a day to hone his darts skills ahead of this weekend’s Spanish Darts Trophy in Benidorm.

Entered into the competition by the Javeabased station after “mentioning” he was “very good” at the sport at the age of 12, he now hopes to face one of the top professionals.

Moody told RTN that Bay Radio was again helping promote the tournament following the success of last October’s competition in Benidorm, won by Mervyn King.

“I think at the time because we were quite involved in the promotion and ticket sales, I happened to mention I was very good at darts but we are talking about when I was aged 12 or 13, so more than 25 years ago,” he said.

“About that age I beat all of the local pub team, including the captain. And as far as any sporting glory goes, that was about it.”

However, it meant colleagues got Moody a wild card entry. “They didn’t ask but just said ‘you are in’.” He said it meant he had six weeks

practice with Dees Darts of Moraira sponsoring his shirt and providing the essential equipment along with plenty of encouragement.“I have been putting the hours in, four or five hours a night every day.”

Moody must win a preliminary round to get a chance of playing “one of the big boys”, adding: “It is just like Round Three of the FA Cup, it is when all the big names come in and that means I could meet, for example, James Wade, who was number two in the world.

“It is very exciting and if I can get through the preliminary round I will be very pleased because there are lots of good players out there,” he said. “Whether Bay will regret this, I don’t know. I am a terrible loser, if I am fairly beaten that’s okay but if I humiliate myself...”

Tickets are 15€ per day, either for Saturday or Sunday at the HotalMelia Benidorm, or a combo tickets for the weekend is available at 25€.

Call 96 579 6761 or 649 811 536 for tickets - the action starts at noon on both days and runs until 7pm.

RTN has three pairs of comb tickets to give away courtesy of Bay Radio

The first three callers to 902 118 999 by 1pm today (Friday 27th January) and correctly answering the following question will scoop the prizes. What is the maximum score possible by throwing three darts?

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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King Ferdinand’s Letter 27 jan - 02 feb 2012

King Ferdinand´s Letter to a Benidorm landowner

A LETTER dated 1482 from King Ferdinand to a Benidorm landowner is to be displayed in the Benidorm library.

The letter has been kept in a safe for many years after its discovery sometime in the 20th Century but nobody knows where the letter came from or to whom it belonged. It is dated 4th June 1482, sent from Cordova to the lessee Morvedre-Sagunto, enquiring why the town had not met its tax payments for some years and whether this was the result an outbreak of plague in the community.

A reply from landowner Bernat Salat confirms that “a devastating epidemic causing high mortality” was the cause of the debt owed to the Crown. Salat’s letter will also be on display.

The documents are of exceptional value and interest and in perfect condition, written in Valencian. They will be exhibited for just one month to prevent deterioration.

The king’s letter set out in the library of Benidorm.

Benidorm’s heritage. The Consistory began yesterday to present the funds in your history file with a unique document: a letter written in 1482 by King Ferdinand the Catholic, whose arrival in Benidorm is tinged with uncertainty.

On June 4, 1482, King Ferdinand the Catholic sent a letter from Cordova to the lessee of the current Morvedre-Sagunto, asking about the payment of some taxes that the town had not met for years. The document has arrived intact today and it has an exceptional value. But how is it that ended in Benidorm? Well not really know. Apparently, it would have been acquired by the City in the decade of the twentieth century 70 and stored for years in a safe but provides no evidence or official record of why it was acquired, or who or how much it cost.

Both question symbolizes the selflessness showed that long Benidorm on their own heritage. And for that neglect does not happen again, the best recipe is to spread it: hence the famous letter of the King, the oldest document that retains all the city has become the first piece of the exhibition project “The Documents File “that throughout this year will be showing some of the main funds for such public facilities.

Like all evidence of the past, the letter of King Ferdinand can already be seen in Benidorm Library also contains a story. And look at this tragic event: what the king wanted to know the landlord’s Morvedre was whether this town had not paid the outstanding taxes from 1468 due to a

plague. And the landlord in question, called Bernat Salat, says yes, that was devastating epidemic causing high mortality and that is the cause of the debt owed to the Crown.

Salat’s answer, of course, is also held in Benidorm.

The Councillor for Culture, Eva Mayor, said yesterday that the letter of the King “is after 530 years in perfect condition and legible handwriting.” The letter, as noted by the municipal technical part of the Archives, Antonio Couto, is written in Valencian, since the monarch, although married to Isabel de Castilla and therefore influential in the latter realm, sent the letter as Fernando II of Aragon, the territory in which they are located the ancient Saguntum. As for the spelling, it’s “letter Aragon”-a “gothic cursive” - that was the kind of writing than the Kingdom of Aragon “against the court of Castile letter.”

Ferdinand the Catholic sent the letter from Cordoba, according to Couto, is that his court was traveling and the time to worry about taxes Morvedre that city was in Andalusia, then belonging to the Crown of Castile. This, however, did not prevent the king to worry about money issues of its own territory.

Although unaware of the circumstances why the letter ended up in Benidorm, the fact that this city has a file of the fifteenth century is of course flashy. It should be noted that, although founded as attested to its Charter in 1328 Population, Benidorm was a century later, a very small nucleus belonging to the Barony of Polop is populated and depopulated intermittently. In fact, the following document available to the age of File-and that will be next to be exposed, is nearly three hundred years more modern: a report of the City, in this case and another in Benidorm, dated in 1732.

For the second time This is the second time it is exposed Ferdinand’s letter, which could be appreciated by the public in 1990 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the discovery of the Virgin of the Suffrage. The document will be exposed only a month to prevent light from damaging the state of conversation. Beside him, a panel was explaining how the correspondence of the time, from bending the consignment, and affects the wax that sealed the letter and ensured their inviolability, “since the breakup of the same letter had indicated that been read, “said the mayor of Culture. With the aim of “opening Benidorm’s historic heritage for all citizens,” Mayor said that in addition to documents will also be displayed books or library file, as a work of Erasmus Rotterdam seventeenth century.

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mail

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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

talk tous

letter of the week

Is this a scam?

ON TUESDAY 17th I was contacted at home by a Windows Engineer (?) who said my computer had been sending out many error messages. They said they were calling from Microsoft based in Madrid and asked me to go through various checks on my system (which I followed for a while). However after circa 10 minutes they said they could fix my problems by my spending 172â‚Ź. I then told them I was signing off.

They told me my system would crash in 20 minutes if I did not follow their instructions. I do not know how they got my telephone number. I did not give them any information although they may have been able to extract some from my system‌ Is this a scam? If so maybe we need to put out a warning.

S Hemmings * We asked Aunty Virus for an opinion to this matter. See what he has to say on page 50.

Additional stress especially for older people An excellent airport bus service

I READ in one of the papers last week that as the airport bus service has not come up with the hoped for numbers some of the journeys have been withdrawn. This is an excellent service and runs very efficiently as I have experienced when using it.

I feel that part of the problem is that not enough people (particularly non-resident travellers) know about it. It brings people to the Torrevieja bus station and from there they can continue to their final destination either by another bus or taxi.

We must do all that we can to keep this service running; the previous Mayor went to great trouble to provide it for our convenience.

Keith P Bigg, Torrevieja

I RECENTLY had to renew my driving licence and attended an authorised medical centre in Torrevieja. I had the usual examination: blood pressure; eye test and reflex test which were all acceptable but then I was weighed and had my height taken although I am an obviously very average-sized female.

I was then subjected to a myriad of medical questions such as operations; illnesses; sleep anxiety; any other anxieties; do I snore etc. etc.

This is my third licence medical examination here and I was completely baffled by these questions until at the end the female examiner handed me her personal card which related to her running some psychology clinic and telling me if I had any problems to contact her!

This medical examination is required by law and I think it is a disgrace that this (presumably) government-authorised examiner is touting for private business during this test.

This would be an additional stress especially for older people and those who are taking this test for the first time, especially non-Spanish people. I wonder if she does this with the local Spanish?

These questions as far as I am concerned have nothing to do with the requirements for renewal of the driving licence. Perhaps someone can enlighten me if I am wrong. The only time I have any anxiety is when I am driving on the Spanish roads and I am sure I am not alone in that.

S Davey

Mailbox continued --------

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

Enjoying life in the sun I READ this article with interest as my husband is one of these people ‘enjoying’ life in the sun on benefits. You state that DWP are not sending forms to over 60s - well my husband has just received one and he is 62. On a good day he can enjoy life, on a bad day, of which he has far more he cannot get out of bed - even less out of the house - something which he certainly does not enjoy. Blanket statements like these are most unfair to genuinely ill people.

He was retired from work by his employers after paying national insurance since he was 15 so why should he not be entitled to the accrued benefits? I could mention immigrants into Britain getting the same benefits after paying nothing into the system but that is another matter and I would probably be accused of racism so I won’t!

Lynda Ridsdale Quesada

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

15

A task for town halls Come and join us MODERN MOTORHOMES are well equipped, fully self-contained ‘small apartments’. The only thing they need is a place to dump water and get fresh water. And, Mr Bob Houliston, here comes a task for the town halls.

I would advise you to look abroad. In France, Germany, Italy nearly every town created a place where motorhomes can do that and stay overnight. Sometimes for free: sometimes for a fee. Why are they doing that in these countries?

Because they realise that the owners of the motorhomes are tourists. Since when do you send tourists away? They produce jobs and boost the regional economy. In France they found out they spend 40€ per day per person.

My advice to every town hall: do not send motorhomes away but take advantage by investing - you can put people to work and help local businesses in these times of crisis.

People complaining about the camper vans are nearly always jealous Bristish or German homeowners: hardly ever Spanish. Why do these expats think the Spanish tolerate them here in this beautiful country?

20 motorhomes in Playa Flamenca means about 1,000€ per day for local businesses!

Johannes van Hijum, Alfas del Pi

THE DILEMMA described by Helen Curry (RTN Mail 13th January) is, I am sure, shared by others whether they be expats or owners of holiday homes.

An ideal solution for Helen would be to join Torrevieja U3A. We are a self-help organisation with over 400 members. Whilst we encourage all nationalities to join us, our language is English.

We have over 30 interest groups, all voluntarily led by members for members; most activities are free although some carry a small charge purely to cover costs.

Full details of our association can be found on our website

www.torreviejau3a.org: The site is updated weekly and carries lots of information, including contact details for all the association’s officers and group leaders, reports and photographs of recent activities. Interested people can attend up to two of the association’s activities as visitors before committing to join; the annual membership fee is 10€.

Any member of the U3A Committee would be happy to provide further information to interested people – details can be found on the website.

Geoff Crane, geoff.crane@hotmail.co.uk

Is there anyone creative out there?

HELP - ARE any of your readers creative? I have been asked by the artists at the Rojales Caves Cuevas del Rodeo - if I can organise a big art event there on Sunday 4th March in conjunction with them and the Town Hall. I have already contacted all the artists I know, but am looking for many more of all nationalities and all kinds - e.g. you may do crochet or lace-making or patchwork or face painting or you are part of a dance group, etc.

Rather than just being an exhibition of work, it

would be good for as many as possible to be doing something too - e.g. artists could actually be painting, knitters knitting, dancers dancing, art group leaders running class with their students with space for visitors to have a go... And we need things children can get involved in too like potato prints, graffiti painting wall, etc.

You will of course be allowed to sell and advertise your groups/classes etc.

The Town Hall has already indicated that they

will probably notify TV etc and if it is a success it will help to kick start monthly art fairs there again when there would be more opportunities to display your work. The only charge there may be would be towards publicity which will be kept less than 5€ each. So, if you would like the opportunity to show your abilities, please contact me ASAP. There is not a lot of time left!

Martin: Tel 648 535 165 or email info@costaart.net

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Bus service announced for Medieval Market

by LOUISE CLARKE

IT HAS been confirmed this week that the annual Orihuela Medieval Market, one of the biggest in Spain, will take place on the weekend of 3rd, 4th and 5th February.

The Town Hall’s Department of Transport has organised a regular bus service between Orihuela Costa and Orihuela City for these three days, so that residents and visitors from Orihuela Costa can visit the Market without needing to use a car.The buses will circulate as follows (small changes in timetable may be possible): FRIDAY 3RD OF FEBRUARY Departs PlayaFlamenca at 5pm and a return service leaves at 10pm.

SATURDAY 4TH AND SUNDAY 5TH OF FEBRUARY

Departs Playa Flamenca at 10am and returns at 3pm and again, departs Playa Flamenca at 5pm and returns at 10pm.

The return ticket price is 4.90€. The buses will start at the Mercadona car park in Playa Flamenca and will also collect passengers in Entrenaranjos. A stop at Los Dolses and/or at Morgan’s Bar in Eagles Nest may also be possible.

Bookings will be taken as usual from the Tourist Office in Playa Flamenca Town Hall, in the Residents office at Playa Flamenca Town Hall, by phone on 966 760 000 ext. 31 and 32 or by email totouristinfo_orihuelap@gva.es (with Playa Flamenca as the subject)

EVENTS

Martina Scheurer (LV), Councillor for Transport and Mobility, told RTN: “We would have been delighted to be able to give our citizens and visitors this service for free, but unfortunately our current financial situation does not allow it.

On the other hand, citizens living in other remote suburbs of Orihuela, such as La Murada, also have to pay for an ordinary bus ticket.” However, the Department of Transport can confirm that there will be a public bus service to Orihuela for all the different important fiestas which will take place during the year, such as the Easter processions, the DiadelPajaro, the Moors and Christians etc. The Orihuela Medieval Martina concluded: “We hope that many of our Market is Orihuela Costa citizens will use the service and one of the take part in the cultural and historical events of biggest the City.” in Spain

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

TEULADA - LONG TERM LET 3 BED 2 BATH APARTMENT CENTRAL HEATING 154 M2

€450

PM + BILLS TEL: 615 813 076

The mountain has been climbed!

by JACK TROUGHTON THE SOUND of Music opens this Friday, Saturday & Sunday at the Auditori in La Nucia.

Our backstage department has been busy all week making the final touches to all the scenery, props and costume. Most of the costumes have been hand made by Rob Barendsma , the Director of the show, and has been assisted by Maureen and Jenny.. The authenticity of the costumes is amazing, and will help transport the audience into the era of which the sound of music was originally filmed. The Nuns habits have been expertly made by our very own seamstress Jenny, for our cast of ladies , and, together with their wonderful harmonies , you will be sure to wonder..” are they real nuns” ?

The Nuns, some of which who have never performed on stage before, and some who have been singing in Rob Barendsmas International Choir for years, and every Saturday have been belting out the tunes, and learning all the correct harmonies, so rest assured, the nuns will give you the feeling you are in the Nunberg Abbey with them fulfilling their morning prayers !

We boast in our cast a real life “ Von Trapp” family, as Joanna and Phil Baldwin, our Maria and Captain, have 5 children of their own, of which we are proud to say 3 of them are performing with us.

Some of the Von Trapp children have attended Drama classes with Joanne Venet Lazarus here in La Nucia. Joanne is assisting Rob with this production. Some of the other children attend drama classes in Alcalali.

They have all come together to make believe they are real brothers and sisters. What true dedicated performers they are! Every Saturday, they have rehearsed to perfect their voices, and acting performance so the audience can enjoy the familiar songs such as Do a Deer, So Long Farewell and they do a fabulous rendition of The Lonely goatherd that

will be sure to make you smile.

All in all , a feel good show definitely not to be missed this January. Don´t forget your tissues.. as members of our cast have cried and laughed throughout rehearsals, as this touching story unfolds.

For more information please see our poster and leaflets kindly sponsored by Europa Network and Vives. Pons & Asociados Finance consultancy.

Performances are Friday 27th, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th at 7pm and So we ask you to hurry so not to be disappointed.

All tickets are one price of 10 euros.

Tickets can be obtained for the box office at the Auditori in La Nucia, or to pay online at www.servicam.com . Or please see the number for Servi cam on our poster. For more information please call 679 646 145.

Speak the language

by Jack Troughton A FRIENDLY and relaxed group of all ages is learning the art of Spanish conversation at weekends with English and Spanish friends.

The informal community project ‘The Hour of Conversation’ is aimed at improving both nationalities understanding of the both languages and gain confidence in speaking and listening.

The group meets on Saturday mornings between 10am and noon, and Sundays from11am, at the Athenea Bar Restaurant, near the Correos, in Pilar de la Horadada.

There are no fees, no text books and no teacher and anyone interested in joining in should just take along a notepad and some coffee money.

For more information call Roger on 96 676 2308 or email rogeames@hotmail.com

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Talk is cheap

And they are off…!

BILLEE’S BAR in Algorfa will be holding a Race Night in aid of Paul Cunningham Nurses this Saturday, 28th January. Owners Mel and Sue Courtney have decided to hold a race night in aid of the charity. The race night starts at 9.30pm and you can even own your own horse for the night. There will be nine races in total; eight with horses and one with pigs - and bets will start from just 50 cents! Billee’s Bar is a sports bar catering mainly for the British but they do have all nationalities visit and everyone is made most welcome. It is a lively bar with Bingo on Thursdays and a Quiz night every Sunday and has been owned and run by Mel and Sue for nearly three years. This will be their fourth race night so you could say they are experts! Mel told RTN: “The race nights are lots of fun and you will have a sporting chance to win some nice prizes too as well as supporting PCN.” Billee’s Bar is close to The Vestry in the La Finca area of Algorfa. For more directions or further details you can call Mel on 96 619 8398.

Liz and Tom with Calpe Councillor Carole Saunders

by jack troughton PEOPLE KEEN to improve their Spanish can brush up on their language skills with ‘Language Buddies’ a new scheme on the Marina Alta.

Run by the newly formed Asociacion Voluntariad Linguistico (AVL) it brings together English and Spanish speakers to practice their skills – putting what they may have studied in the classroom into practice.

Supported by Calpe Council, AVL is run

by Liz Evans and Tom Suddards and co-ordinates people getting together to chat.

Liz said: The idea is we co-ordinate English and Spanish speakers to get together and they can do it wherever and whenever it suits them.

“There is no fee involved, people can meet for a coffee or a beer or at a picnic area – people can make their own ar-

rangements.”

AVL keeps a register of members who want to meet up and attempts to match people in accordance with preferences regarding gender and availability to meet.

“English speakers will be buddied up with Spanish speakers and they can practice their language skills in Spanish while their buddy can practice theirs in English,” added Liz. “People arrange their own meetings, we suggest for an hour. You can speak Spanish with your buddy and they speak English, or you can speak in Spanish for 30 minutes and then English for 30 minutes.

“All we do is marry you up with a partner – once you have met and exchanged contact details, it is up to you how it works.”

Currently there are around a dozen pairs enjoying chatting together through the scheme and the initial feedback to AVL s good.

“This is a good way of making new friends and helping to integrate expats into the Spanish culture and way of life,” said Liz. “Our aim is to get more involved with our fellow citizens and hope that once the association grows there will be more opportunities to meet and work together.”

And AVL is also working in the community, visiting a private English Language School so students can hear English spoken by natives.

Anyone interested in joining the scheme can contact Liz and Tom via calpeavl@hotmail.com

Look good for summer

by Louise Clarke APART FROM the odd couple of days last week, hasn’t January been gorgeous? With temperatures of 20º, it feels more like summer in the UK! And if you are looking for some new clothes to go with this lovely weather, Looking Good Boutique in La Zenia has just taken delivery of some fabulous Bermuda shorts from Chalou.

For those of you who know the brand RTN does not need to tell you how great these shorts are, they are great looking, comfortable, all with elastic waists and they will wash and wash forever!

The Boutique has sizes from 14/40 to 30/56 in great summer colours like jade, coral, hot pink, navy, black, turquoise and white. These Bermuda shorts are a great ‘must have’ for summer, so get down to Looking Good Boutique now and grab a pair! The Boutique is also awaiting delivery of their new shoe collection from Lunar. Louise, owner of Looking Good Boutique told RTN: “I know everyone will love these shoes, they are great quality leather and lovely styles and colours: as soon as they arrive I will let you know.”

It is hoped that there will be an accessories fashion show to mark the much requested return of Looking Good Boutique’s shoe department and full details of when the show will take place will be in RTN. For more information on Looking Good Boutique, call 96 676 0479 or email: lookinggoodboutique@msn.com

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

King Juan Carlos depicted as womaniser in new book: author fired by TV station

by JAN GAMM A RECENTLY published book by Spanish writer Pilar Eyre claims that King Juan Carlos has had numerous affairs and has not shared a bed with his wife for the past 35 years. Amongst other allegations made is that the King made a “tactile pass” at the late Princess Diana whilst she and Prince Charles were visiting Spain in 1987.

Eyre describes Queen Sofia as “the unhappiest woman in Spain” and claims that the Queen stays in her marriage out of a sense of duty and fear of becoming a social pariah, fit only to socialise with the ‘nouveau riche’ should she seek separation from the King. Pilar Eyre has presented on Spanish TV via the Telecinco channel.

However, following publication of the book, Eyre was told, “The station has banned talk about your book and does not allow you to continue working. You are banned, Pilar: we are sorry.”

The Solitude of the Queen by Pilar Eyre

Farmers give away lemons

It Has been confirmed by José Manuel Pamies, secretary of the farmers’ union in the Vega Baja, that citrus farmers in the region are giving away lemons in exchange for having their trees stripped clean of fruit. The price being paid to export the fruit is only six cents per kilo, making the effort of picking the lemons unprofitable. A farmer in Los Montesinos explained that as Turkey is currently selling lemons at a low price it is worth waiting until May to export in a less competitive market. Meanwhile thousands of lemons are being left to rot on the trees or on the ground and many family run farms are closing down due to inhibitive running costs. The main destinations for Alicante lemons are Norway, Germany, Holland, England and Russia.

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Happy Expats

By

Chris Marshall Expat blogger www.almerimarlife.com

NOT SURE what made me laugh the most this week, the fact that a book has alleged that the King of Spain is a serial womaniser who once made a pass at Princess Diana while she was on holiday with Prince Charles, remains a ‘professional seducer’ who regular receives vitamin injections and anti-ageing treatments, and has not shared a bed with his wife for 35 years, or the survey claiming that Spain is where British expats are most happy.

The Lloyds TSB survey ranked Spain, Canada and Germany as the countries where we British expats are happiest, based on cost of living and financial well-being, although New Zealand ranked highest for quality of life and the United Arab Emirates as best for financial prospects: that will be the tax free bit then!

And, not only are we happiest in Spain, but overall British expats are happier in their adopted countries than in the UK, which I can believe.

After careful consideration I have decided that the King of Spain gets my vote, not least because he appears to be the only story in Spain with an …erm… upward direction involved!

Heading in a downward direction this week in Spain: the birth rate with 230,537 babies born in Spain during the first six months of 2011, 1.1% fewer than during the same period a year earlier, continuing the fall in birth rate that began in 2009, and no doubt proof that the on-going financial crisis is making people think twice about starting families.

Also in decline is life expectancy here in Spain as latest statistics show that life expectancy in Spain has fallen, not by much, but still breaking an upward trend which has lasted nearly half a century. For men the life expectancy now stands at 78.87 years, while for women it is 84.82 according to the National Statistics

Institute. That makes the average for the country 81.87, down 0.8 on 2010.

Sticking with downward trends, but this time an encouraging one, signs of investor confidence returning to Spain as the recent 10-year bonds auction attracted significantly lower yields, despite last week’s move by ratings agency Standard & Poor’s to downgrade Spain’s debt by two notches and Moody’s forecast of a recession in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy. And last but not least on the way down this week is Spain’s economy which has contracted in the fourth quarter of 2011 and is predicted to shrink 1.5% this year.

To think - this the country where we are at our happiest!

On a far more positive note, and one that made me genuinely happy a flaming-horned bull trampled and fatally gored a man early Saturday during a festival in eastern Spain. Large balls of flaming wax are traditionally affixed to the beasts’ heads before they are let loose to rampage through squares and narrow streets in such festivals.

Well done to the bull I say!

And finally, one that should make us all smile, happy expats that we are, a seven-year-old who got his arm stuck in a vending machine for two hours said he didn’t suffer any pain because he was the ‘Incredible Hulk’ …which brings us back to the King of Spain...

That’s it for this week, have a happy one!

Chris runs the expat blog about life in Spain (www. almerimarlife.com) and is a regular contributor to a number of publications and radio stations in Spain, as well as writing a monthly column for the Telegraph Expat site and is a Telegraph Expat guest blogger.

He lives in Almerimar with his five cats, two Harleys and wife Sands, and together they are heavily involved in the re-homing and transport of rescued and abandoned animals to Germany and the UK through their project www.alstrays.com. His column in the RTN is sponsored by www.blitzcleaning.es boat cleaning and valeting experts across the Costas of Spain. Email: chris@almerimarlife.com http://almerimarlife.com http://chrismarshall.ws’ http://expatlifespain.com http://alstrays.com

Valencia yacht wins trophy

By Jack Troughton The Valencia Yacht Club boat ‘Phonemovil’ has won the 11th Moraira Trophy Grefusa after completing the 300 nautical mile race in just under three days.

Skippered by Jose Ignacio Vicent, she led a fleet of 23 boats home after a race rounding Isla Grossa in Murcia, crews having to contend with extreme cold and poor wind. She crossed the line in two days, 20 hours and 18 minutes.

The race is organised by Moraira Yacht Club and attracts crews based along the whole of the region’s coast, competing for the first prize of 3,000€.

University grants handed out

By Louise Clarke AS THE argument over university tuition fees rumbles on in the UK, here in Spain Town Halls are actually giving university students grants to help them with their education. This week, the Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon, along with the Councillor for Youth, Rosario Martínez Chazarra, handed out 490 municipal grants amounting 306,107€ in an annual cash handout that the Town Hall has been making since 1995 to help municipal students.

The Mayor told RTN: “In these times of economic crisis, this grant is welcome news for many Torrevieja families in order so that they can meet the needs of those children who want to pursue higher education outside the city.” Despite the economic crisis the Town Hall of Torrevieja is dedicated to not only helping young local students but also it has been increasing the scholarships that are intended for students pursuing diplomas, degrees or postgraduate qualifications at universities as well as the Official Language School and the Conservatories of Music and Dance.

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Happy Expats

By

Chris Marshall Expat blogger www.almerimarlife.com

NOT SURE what made me laugh the most this week, the fact that a book has alleged that the King of Spain is a serial womaniser who once made a pass at Princess Diana while she was on holiday with Prince Charles, remains a ‘professional seducer’ who regular receives vitamin injections and anti-ageing treatments, and has not shared a bed with his wife for 35 years, or the survey claiming that Spain is where British expats are most happy.

The Lloyds TSB survey ranked Spain, Canada and Germany as the countries where we British expats are happiest, based on cost of living and financial well-being, although New Zealand ranked highest for quality of life and the United Arab Emirates as best for financial prospects: that will be the tax free bit then!

And, not only are we happiest in Spain, but overall British expats are happier in their adopted countries than in the UK, which I can believe.

After careful consideration I have decided that the King of Spain gets my vote, not least because he appears to be the only story in Spain with an …erm… upward direction involved!

Heading in a downward direction this week in Spain: the birth rate with 230,537 babies born in Spain during the first six months of 2011, 1.1% fewer than during the same period a year earlier, continuing the fall in birth rate that began in 2009, and no doubt proof that the on-going financial crisis is making people think twice about starting families.

Also in decline is life expectancy here in Spain as latest statistics show that life expectancy in Spain has fallen, not by much, but still breaking an upward trend which has lasted nearly half a century. For men the life expectancy now stands at 78.87 years, while for women it is 84.82 according to the National Statistics

Institute. That makes the average for the country 81.87, down 0.8 on 2010.

Sticking with downward trends, but this time an encouraging one, signs of investor confidence returning to Spain as the recent 10-year bonds auction attracted significantly lower yields, despite last week’s move by ratings agency Standard & Poor’s to downgrade Spain’s debt by two notches and Moody’s forecast of a recession in Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy. And last but not least on the way down this week is Spain’s economy which has contracted in the fourth quarter of 2011 and is predicted to shrink 1.5% this year.

To think - this the country where we are at our happiest!

On a far more positive note, and one that made me genuinely happy a flaming-horned bull trampled and fatally gored a man early Saturday during a festival in eastern Spain. Large balls of flaming wax are traditionally affixed to the beasts’ heads before they are let loose to rampage through squares and narrow streets in such festivals.

Well done to the bull I say!

And finally, one that should make us all smile, happy expats that we are, a seven-year-old who got his arm stuck in a vending machine for two hours said he didn’t suffer any pain because he was the ‘Incredible Hulk’ …which brings us back to the King of Spain...

That’s it for this week, have a happy one!

Chris runs the expat blog about life in Spain (www. almerimarlife.com) and is a regular contributor to a number of publications and radio stations in Spain, as well as writing a monthly column for the Telegraph Expat site and is a Telegraph Expat guest blogger.

He lives in Almerimar with his five cats, two Harleys and wife Sands, and together they are heavily involved in the re-homing and transport of rescued and abandoned animals to Germany and the UK through their project www.alstrays.com. His column in the RTN is sponsored by www.blitzcleaning.es boat cleaning and valeting experts across the Costas of Spain. Email: chris@almerimarlife.com http://almerimarlife.com http://chrismarshall.ws’ http://expatlifespain.com http://alstrays.com

The Association Artists of Altea celebrate their 20th Anniversary FOUNDED IN 1992, the association is a group of Spanish and International artists, a live reflection of our society here on the Costa Blanca, whose intention is to inspire art appreciation through the creative richness of its members.

To celebrate their 20th anniversary, several exhibitions are programmed for the year; the first at the Casa de Cultura of Calpe from 3rd February until 29th February (Inauguration: Friday 3rd February at 8.30pm).

The association’s big celebration will take place in the Palau of Altea during the month of November. It will be a commemorative event with art exhibition, concert and fund-raising project for the Home for Mistreated and Abused Women of the Emaus organisation in Altea as an act of solidarity for the ‘International Day Against Violence Against Women’.

The Association Artists of Altea will give a warm welcome to the public in all events with a vino de honor.

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Are you getting enough?

Watts In Britain By

Paul Watts

OH TO be on the Costa Blanca...I hear from La Nucia that it’s been sunny and in the 20º range this week. Looking out over a grey Midlands Monday morning we’ve got drizzle, followed by an afternoon of sleet and the threat of a bit of night-time snow.

“What joy,” I hear you all smirk. If I was in Spain I’d be heading briskly up to the lighthouse at Albir for a goodly dose of sun, sea and vitamin D. Which rather neatly brings me to this week’s topic: not getting enough. Erm, I mean, of course, not getting enough Vitamin D. Did you know that in the last few years an ailment long thought to have been eradicated has made an insidious return? Well, it has. I refer to that Victorian malaise called Rickets.

Yes folks, since the late 1990s Rickets has made an orderly comeback and has now reached a point where the medical fraternity are beginning to worry.

Okay here’s the science: “Rickets is a softening of bones in children due to deficiency or impaired metabolism of vitamin D, magnesium D, phosphorus or calcium potentially leading to fractures and deformity. Rickets is among the most frequent childhood diseases in many developing countries. The predominant cause is vitamin D deficiency...” And a major cause of that, as we know, is lack of glorious sunshine.

Did you know that current government guidelines recommend that children under five, breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women, should take a daily supplement of vitamin D? It’s true, I kid you not. However, one recent study showed nearly three quarters of parents

and more than half of health professionals aren’t aware of these recommendations.

Dr Benjamin Jacobs, he of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, is deeply concerned that health professionals are actually peddling misinformation.

He told BBC’s Breakfast: “They’re telling families that as long as your diet is good you don’t need vitamins and that’s fundamentally wrong.” And whilst families that receive state benefit are entitled to free vitamin D supplements only 2% have taken up this offer. The chief medical officer for England will be contacting doctors, nurses and midwives to raise concerns about vitamin D deficiency. I hope they’ll get the sun turned on for a bit because as noted above, lack of sunlight does play a part in the rise of rickets.

Down at Southampton’s Children’s Orthopaedic Unit Professor Nicholas Clarke says that unlike Victorian times “it’s not about poverty... it’s simply about the reduction in exposure to sunlight”.

Prof Clarke added: “This is quite unbelievable - in a part of the country with more sunshine than anywhere else - it is honestly shocking.” The Prof thinks that current lifestyle trends such as driving kids to school and the amount of time spent indoors in front of TV and computer screens are bad for children.

Not getting enough sun

But fears of sun damage are real concerns to parents. They have even led to the overuse of high factor sun-barrier creams. One mother was putting factor 50 cream on her children - even in the winter. Ed Yong, head of health information and evidence at Cancer Research UK, says: “The amount of time you need to spend in the sun to make enough vitamin D varies as it depends

on individual skin type as well as time of day, time of year, and where you are in the world.”

So, heading up to the Albir lighthouse in January would be okay? Ed’s advice: “When it comes to sun exposure, little and often is best.” Boy, on a day like today Ed we’ll be lucky to see the sun at all.

Watts in Brum, waiting for the sun...

Volvo Ocean Race workers evicted for bomb disposal

Preparations to remove the bomb

by jan gamm AROUND 100 people working in the offices of the Volvo Ocean Race in Alicante port were temporarily evicted on Tuesday while a 50kilo unexploded bomb, a relic of the Spanish Civil War thought to have been dropped by aircraft and at a depth of approximately 10 feet was hoisted form the harbour near the pier and made safe. The operation was carried out under the direction of the Naval Commander of Alicante Bruno Fernandez. The bomb was discovered by divers carrying out routine maintenance. Navy divers used a balloon and pump to lift the bomb before towing it away in a small inflatable boat provided by the Special Operations Command. Harbour boat traffic was also interrupted while the device was moved to a safe area. Once outside the port it was repositioned at a depth of around 15ft and detonated a little before noon. The operation was assisted by the Civil Guard, the Harbour Master, the Port Authority and the Port Police.

Mountain walks

SATURDAY 4TH FEBRUARY: Cova Roget Circular-new route: A moderate walk over good paths, at a gentle pace: 9kms, 3½ hours’ duration with a 350m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel: Geoff 676 616 101.

Bamboo Curtain: A moderately strenuous route, some rough terrain but with some lush bamboo tunnels for extra interest: 12kms, 4½ hours’ duration with a 400m ascent: Dogs on leads at rear. For further details Tel: Charles 606 523 445.

Bcos Gallistero and Encaina: A very strenuous exercise over mostly rough terrain and involving some scrambling: 11kms, 5 hours’ duration with a 550m ascent: Dogs on leads at rear: For further details Tel: Jon 686 148 704.

WEDNESDAY 8TH FEBRUARY Almond Blossom Walk: An easy stroll over good

tracks: 12kms, 4½ hours’ duration with a 60m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel: John 646 310 164.

Castells Rural North: A moderate walk over good tracks: 13kms, 4½ hours’ duration, 350m ascent: No dogs: For further details Tel: Ralph 690 677 663.

Bco de la Canal & Alambra Castle: A strenuous hike over some rough terrain and at a goodish pace: 14kms, 5 hours’ duration, 500m ascent: Dogs on leads at rear: For further details Tel: Carol 629 283 186.

Walks depart promptly at 10am unless otherwise noted. Boots, packed lunch and adequate drinking water required: First aid kit 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 http://www.cbmwalkers.org.

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legal

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

White & Baos – Always keeping RTN readers up to date: MOVING TOWARDS a faster eviction process (reporting about the latest reforms made to the Spanish Judicial Law at the end of 2011) by

Carlos Baos

of White & Baos Abogados English & Spanish Solicitors

Even though it has been a little while since its approval, this week we would like to inform you about the amendments made to the eviction process by Law 37/2011 in reference to new measures to expedite justice procedures.

Many readers, clients and friends who are lessors (landlords) are worried about the increase in recent years, in the number of eviction Court cases and the increasing incidents of unpaid rental income. This new change is a step towards the streamlining of these procedures.

It is true that it still is a judicial court proceeding and as such it is not immediate, and depending on the particular Court the claim could take some time to be heard. But in general, once the process has started, under today’s regulations the eviction process has been simplified and the timing and

duration have been minimalised.

For example, we can highlight that from the beginning of the process once the Court decrees the claim’s admittance to procedure, apart from the requirement of payment from the debtor, the Court will also set a date for the hearing (if necessary) and a date for the ouster or eviction.

According to the new regulations the lessee or tenant will be requested to vacate the property within 10 days, pay the plaintiff or claimant, or in case of proposing ´enervation` the lessee must pay the total amount due to the plaintiff.

(Enervation stops the eviction process by payment of the debt as long as it complies with the Law i.e. it has not been done before by the same person etc). The lessee may also oppose the claim within the given time i.e. if he evidences that the amount being claimed does not concur with the actual debt.

Another significant amendment to the Law is the fact that if the defendant does not pay, does not oppose the claim, or does not show agreement within 10 days of receiving the Court notice, then the Court officer will issue a decree ending the process and urging the claimant to enforce the court order, now with the claimant`s request being enough to take the matter forward. This is similar to the monitorio process used to claim debts.

Although this change should be seen as a positive change to the Law there are still some contradictions and tricks open to abuse by `professional´ debtors that could delay the eviction proceedings, which fortunately now usually take less time.

Finally, and as we have repeatedly stated in previous articles, it is advisable to try to avoid these problematic situations by receiving full legal advice before signing any leasing contract. It is important to obtain from the possible lessee, guarantees of payment, either from his bank or from reliable trustworthy persons who will guarantee compliance with the renting contract, etc.

And in the event of default from the tenant, it is important to act quickly and take the appropriate actions as fast as possible. Delaying is likely to make matters worse, not better.

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.

Comment about this article in our blog at http://www. white-baos.com/blog/ and Facebook (White-BaosAbogados-Solicitors).

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) © White & Baos Abogados 2012 - 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

The price you pay to borrow in Spain drops MADRID INVESTORS have ignored S&P’s credit downgrade for Spain, much as they did in France on Monday. Rather than panic the markets have reacted calmly with lower risk premiums and debt auctions that resulted in prices significantly lower, thanks to the massive injection of liquidity to banks by the European Central Bank (ECB).

The risk premium of Spain (yesterday at 334 basis points) and Italy (471), the two countries hardest hit by this new phase of the crisis of the euro, has fallen so far this week by more than a dozen points. In addition, major stock markets rose yesterday with the Eurozone more than 1%.

+ uk tv

+ 120mins

european landline calls

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money

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

25

Rajoy and Fabra talk with new Minister for Community Economics max Buch THE NEW Minister for Community Economics, Max Buch, has admitted he is facing a challenging task to regularise the economy of the Valencian community.

His immediate priority is to balance the schedule of payments that total some €3,200 million. The optimistic Buch met with Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy and the President of the Valencian Community Alberto Fabra this week to discuss “the way forward.” Fabra described Buch as “an entrepreneur” with “great experience in the business world,” and “just what I need in Valencia.”

Max Buch

Deficit target of 4.4% Lloyds Bank International (LBI) still in place PRIME MINISTER Mariano Rajoy has confirmed that the deficit target of 4.4% remains in place. Spain’s Economy Minister, Luis de Guindos, at the Ecofin meeting of European finance ministers, denied that Spain will not meet the deficit objective, saying, “The IMF, like everybody else, sometimes makes mistakes.” De Guindos also reconfirmed on behalf of the Government that there will be no increase in IVA or VAT.

AS ADVERTISED in last week’s article from LBI, one of the benefits their Premier Account offers is global travel insurance for the family.

There was an error in the article. It stated: ‘Due to regulatory requirements, travel insurance is not available for UK and Canadian residents.’ It should have read: ‘Due to regulatory requirements, travel insurance is not available for US and Canadian residents’.

This hasn’t put many of you off getting in touch with LBI, and if you do want any further information please contact Shirley Adams on (0034) 620 308 804 or send an email to shirley.adams@lloydsbankinternational.es: You can also visit www.lloydsbankinternational.es

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money

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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

Lending strengthens euro

by Jack Troughton LENDING BILLIONS of euros from a European Central Bank war chest has stabilised the Eurozone’s immediate crisis and allowed the single currency to strengthen against sterling.

Surprise positive figures for the UK economy in December and the continuing woes over the sovereign debt crisis within the 17 member countries of the Eurozone allowed the pound to reach a peak of 1.21.60 against the euro.

However, the ECB stepped in to make “massive amounts” of money, just over 489 billion euros, available to European banks through LTRO – the Long Term Financing Operation.

The action has seen sterling slide back in value to just over the 1.19 mark.

Moneycorp’s dealing manager and market analyst David Kerns told RTN the ECB’s action – with the possibility of more money available next month – has stabilised the market.

He said sterling itself was not “flying higher” because of the general weakness of the UK economy and a lack of consumer confidence.

“It is a little surprising the sterling euro exchange rate has not gone as far as some people might have hoped,” he said.

“Ultimately, over the last month we actually had some better data releases from the UK which the market liked.”

STRONG British manufacturing showed a slight improvement, construction improved against expectations – thanks to a mild December – and the services sector showed “a very strong performance.”

David said: “That was all very positive for sterling, all be it the UK economy is still in an extremely fragile state, but the pound was ticking over quite nicely while the Eurozone was performing badly until last week when there was some stability restored.”

On the other hand, it was winter of discontent for the single currency as the risk of Greece defaulting on its borrowing remained high and no agreement was reached over lenders taking a 50% ‘haircut’ on Greek bonds as they came to be rolled over to make debt more manageable “and allow them to step back from the precipice”.

He said it caused problems as money markets began to dry up and European banks were unwilling to lend or borrow amongst themselves – until the ECB stepped in making cash available in the form of three year bonds to banks at 1% interest. It boosted balance sheets and allowed banks to buy sovereign national debt.

“For example, they borrow at 1% and buy Spanish debt for three years at 4% - it is an immediate uplift in profitability, they make 3% and are immediately in the money,” explained David. “That’s one of the reasons the Eurobond market has performed so well in the last couple of weeks.

PROFIT “The fact there is all this money sloshing around the Eurozone and banks willing to take risk and immediate profit has seen the demand for national debt go up. It provides a lot of stability.”

And with recession looming across the EU, the Bank of England is likely to announce a further round of quantitative easing, pushing money into the UK economy, which would

David Cairns

again put sterling again under pressure.

David said if Eurozone leaders could increase the “fire power” behind stability and Greece austerity measures were accepted, allowing her to receive more bailout funds, it would be very positive for the euro.

“It means we could see the single currency hold together this year although there is still a chance of a Greek default,” he said. “If Greece does not get the green light over financial support measures they could default and we could see sterling at 1.25 but that seems an outside possibility.”

And David said at the moment it appeared the ECB had put a “firewall in place” to bring “some kind of normality” back to the market “with everything heading in the right direction”.

money

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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Changes to Personal Income Tax in Spain by

Christina Brady

Regional Manager of Blacktower Costa Blanca

DO YOU hold an Investment Bond product issued by a non-eu jurisdiction like the Isle of Man, for example Friends Provident International or Scottish Widows International or still sit on investments arranged whilst resident in the UK? If the answer is yes you would be advised to make a cup of tea and get a plate of Digestives and continue reading.

The previous PSOE Government, made a temporary amendment to the personal income tax law in Spain, before the recent General Elections,that could leave investors in non-tax-compliant offshore bonds facing a higher tax bill in 2014. Whilst many thought that the newly elected PP Government would reverse this, this has not been the case.

On 1st January, the Spanish personal income tax regime was temporarily modified resulting in a rise in income tax for 2012 and 2013. While the changes will have ‘little or no impact’ on those who hold taxcompliant offshore bond policies until at least 2014, normally issued out of jurisdictions like Dublin, those using non-compliant tax-compliant products will pay up to 3% more each year in tax both this year and next.

So what does this mean? Well Skandia have said that from 1st January this year to the end of 2013, gains on tax-compliant offshore bonds will be taxed at a rate of 21% (as opposed to the normal rate

of 19%) which is then withheld by tax-compliant providers. There will be no further personal income tax liability for the policyholder if the gains amount to less than 6,000€ (£4,981, $7,661) savings income in a tax year – including interest earned on savings accounts and dividends received in the same tax year. A further 4% personal income tax liability will need to be accounted for by the policyholder on the next 18,000€ savings income and a further 6% if the overall savings income for that tax year is above 24,000€. If the policy suffers a loss over the tax period, the loss can be offset against other income tax liabilities.

In contrast, non-tax-compliant policies are required to withhold tax every year and so will be further affected by the increase during the next two years. Skandia also went on to advise that, in instances where the provider of a non-compliant policy fails to withhold tax correctly, and in a timely manner, policyholders may become subject to penalties for non-reporting, and these can range from 50% to 150%.

However, Skandia conceded that non tax-compliant policies have their merits as such policies can offer other features which can make them attractive to certain types of investors – for example, by providing access to a wider investment universe of assets and the ability offset losses on an annual basis.

What is clear is that in today’s world, the choices

available to investors can be overwhelming. It is crucial investors understand the implications of choosing the right product in order to utilise the available tax advantages to the full.

For example, tax-compliant bonds reduce the burden of reporting on individuals classed as tax-resident in Spain and can be affected by changes in tax regimes to a lesser degree than non tax-complaint alternatives. The recent changes introduced on 1st January 2012 illustrate these advantages perfectly.

But please don’t make a ‘hasty’ decision without first reviewing what you have and the tax implications with a qualified financial adviser. To find out more or for any financial advice, please contact Christina Brady on 658 892 330 or 96 505 8212 or simply email christina.brady@blacktowerfm.com The information contained in this article does not constitute financial advice and you should seek advice from a professional tax adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Blacktower Group with offices in the United Kingdom, Gibraltar, Portugal, Spain & France:Blacktower Financial Management (International) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) Licence No: 00805B. Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is Authorised and Regulated in the UK by the Financial Services Authority.

To find out more about efficient pensions or for any financial advice, please contact Christina on 0034 658 892 330 or 965 065 265 or simply email her at christina.brady@blacktowerfm.com The information contained in this article does not constitute financial advice and you should seek advice from a professional tax adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

How to keep warm by

Suzanne O’Connell Customer Care at Ábaco

THE WEATHER forecast for this weekend is not looking good. Overall, however, it has been a lovely winter with many ‘blue sky’ days. There is something particularly satisfying about feeling the sun’s warmth on a January day even if the temperature plummets at night.

We can have some beautiful days in the winter on the Costa Blanca. For some, it’s the best time of year and certainly if you’re an active person who likes cycling or walking there’s nothing like it. The problem can be how to keep warm in the evenings.

As summer visitors, we were blissfully unaware just what an issue keeping warm can be - until we came to live here. Houses in Spain are not designed for the cold and lack of carpets and curtains adds to this. Tiles are excellent for just-off-the-beach feet but there are days when I lust after thick pile and underlay. Given that we can’t afford to start again and build in cavity wall insulation, what are the choices to help us keep warm?

Gas is a popular alternative with portable and fixed

heaters of various shapes and sizes. Although the supply of piped natural gas is increasing, most areas still rely on bottles, requiring a little forward thinking if you choose it as your heating solution. You also need good ventilation and storage space for the bottles.

Oil is another option for radiators and central heating.

However, you need sufficient storage space for a tank and the initial cost of installing it can be quite steep.

Log burners and fires ooze cosiness and heat but are only suitable for some premises and are more labour intensive than other methods of keeping warm.

Another option is the air conditioner. How did we manage without them? Of course, what might be ideal in the summer is not guaranteed to keep you toasty in the winter. And there’s always that worry about the electricity bills. However, there has recently been some good news as far as your bills are concerned. Instead of every month, there will be a welcome return to two-monthly billing and only after a metre reading.

The alternating metre/ estimate bills have been something of a nightmare for people trying to

budget. One month you can be charged a nominal figure of 7€ to receive a bill: the month after you might have to pay 100€; hardly helpful when you’re trying to keep your bank account in the black.

However, if you actually preferred the monthly yo-yo system you will still be able to pay that way.

The resumption of bi-monthly payments for electricity does not apply to everyone. Some people opted to enter the ‘free market’ at the end of 2010. This means that they have already been paying their bills every two months but at a rate established by the market. If you chose this method you can still revert to the fixed rate model set by the government if you prefer, or vice versa.

The good news here in Spain (and yes, there is some) is that winters may be chilly but they don’t last long. Once February and March are out of the way the jeans go into storage (for the British at least) and out come the shorts and t-shirts. However, we can always find a new problem to overcome. For the rest of the year the ex-pats in Spain are working out just how to keep cool.

Organisations compete to represent CAM’s victims THE NOTORIETY of the case and the large number of applications for compensation has attracted interest from half a dozen organisations wishing to represent CAM’s victims in their bid to recover their lost investments. Some legal firms believe the way forward is to sue on behalf of each individual case while others recommend that bringing a class action to the courts is the only viable course open to claimants. Reports have been submitted detailing financial liability against the FROB, the Bank of Spain and the Valencian Institute of Finance.

business

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B2B4U Virtual Networking is flying!

B2B4U (BUSINESS to business for you) is an informal non-profit community open to any business person living and working in Spain. It launches on 17th February with an inaugural meeting of Associates.

It allows businesses to: • Build business relationships • Share knowledge, experiences and knowhow • Benefit from: special offers, events, trends and insider information • Develop business opportunities • Extend business reach Already many applications have been received via the website www.B2B4U.biz ranging from small independent companies to larger national and international groups with offices in Spain.

The main focus centres around the group’s social media pages which are almost identical to ‘Facebook’ but instead of being aligned to personal aspects of our lives is centred on the professional side.

Within the community you will be able to follow threads / conversations, ask questions, upload articles and content that you feel the community may benefit from and most importantly post information about your own business, products, services, offers and promotions.

The beauty of B2B4U.biz is that it is using the latest tried and tested social business software to support the community, but your own personal involvement can be as much or as little as you like - there is no commitment, no penalties and absolutely no risk.

To assist with the understanding of how a Virtual Networking Group works, here are some FAQs below: Is there any cost in being an Associate of the Group? No...and never will be.

Is this yet another referral group? No...it is anticipated that Associates will contact each other via email or telephone, having identified the contact through the website.

How do I actually join up to become an Associate? Simply register on the home page of the website www.B2B4U.biz Can I register more than one part of my business? Yes...many groups have already done this.

Is there any limit to the number of offers that I can make to fellow Associates?

No. The number of offers you can make is unlimited.

If I have any other queries how can I contact the group?

Via email: info@B2B4U.biz Are there any seats left at the inaugural meeting in Benidorm? Yes...at the time of going to press, but they are going fast.

Is there a cost involved in this inaugural meeting? No...Tea and coffee will be provided by the host, Ciudad Patricia.

Is it compulsory to come to the lunch on 17th February at Ciudad Patricia? No...it is optional, but it is a great chance to network over the 10€ value-for-money lunch.

What is the itinerary for the day? Running to a strict timetable…coffee from 10.15am, 11.00am start, Presentations for 45 minutes, and then 1 hour to network prior to lunch. If required, further networking can happen in the bar after lunch.

Will we know in advance who is going to be present? Yes...upon registration each delegate will receive a complete list of attendees with contact details. Once the Association is launched all members will be registered on the website with full details and offers.

Register today, don’t miss out!

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Flamenco for all

Rascals Beetle Drive ON MONDAY evening, Rascals held a social evening where several new members had the opportunity to join existing members for a ‘Beetle Drive’. This game allows you to meet a lot of different people as after each game one from each table moves up or down a table. After a busy morning rehearsing for their new show ‘A Night at the Musicals’, which will be performed in early May and mid June, this was an enjoyable and relaxing evening.

Cinderella is coming to Orihuela NETWORKS THEATRE’S 10th pantomime production and the best of all pantos, Cinderella, written and directed by Nick Moore, is at the Networks Theatre in Orihuela on Thursday 2nd February at 8.30pm, Friday 3rd at 9pm and Saturday 4th November at 6pm and 9pm.

The wonderful story of Cinderella and her horrible stepsisters Bubble and Trouble is the perfect treat for kids and Plans include trips, social events and adults alike, packed with great songs and traditional panto many activities year round. Jane Cronin, gags...oh yes it is! the President of the ADAPT Association Tickets are priced at 9€ for adults and 4€ for kids. Tickets of San Pedro del Pinatar, welcomed the can be reserved on 96 634 2128 and you can also reserve by new association and talked about the email via theatreinorihuela@yahoo.com important job that the two associations The theatre is situated on Reyes Católicos 1, 03300, are doing to bring Spanish culture to Orihuela, Alicante, with ample street parking close by. For the many nationalities in this area; a a map please visit: http://networksenglishstudies.com/ goal that both have been working totheatre Find us on Facebook. wards for some time.

The evening included special performances by members of the Flamenco for All amateur dance group and the guest artist was Irene Martinez, from San Pedro del Pinatar, who at 11 years old wowed the audience with her very accomplished dancing.

For more information about the activities of Flamenco for All, please contact Raquel Peña on 630 689 431 or email raquelpenya@hotmail.com. You can also visit their website at www.flamencoforall.com Flamenco for All Cultural Association

by Louise Clarke THE OFFICIAL presentation of the Flamenco for All (non profit) Cultural Association was held recently at the Casa de Cultura in San Pedro del Pinatar.

The presentation was made by the Councillor of Culture and Citizen Participation, Silvia Egea, who opened the ceremony by explaining what the Association will do.

The aim of the Association is to promote Spanish culture and art by introducing flamenco in understandable terms to the general public and the high level of integration it has achieved in a very short time.

Raquel Peña, the President of Flamenco for All, welcomed the large audience and briefly explained the plans and goals for the near future. Plans include many activities for all ages and nationalities, performers, students and general audiences.

The already very successful Sevillanas

Social Club meets every last Sunday of each month and is open to all, dancers and non-dancers alike. New classes for learning Flamenco dancing, including the Sevillanas, will start in February and aims to have you dancing in time for the many Sevillanas fairs that are held in this area during the spring.

CULTURE Conferences on understanding the Flamenco for the non-dancer will also be held where you will be able learn how to clap your hands properly, play the castanets and know what to look for with a general understanding of what you are seeing.

The amateur performing dance group is made up of over ten different nationalities and ranges in age from 35 to 75 years old. This group performs free for charities and folk festivals and is very much in demand.

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Perfect combination of comfort and flexibility for balcony and terrace glazing

by Melanie Kunz from Amás Vista SL RTN: What are the latest developments for enjoying living areas?

We provide innovative slide and turn systems by SUNFLEX (German quality product), incredible new standards for flexible window openings and glass fronts. This astounding technology resolves the boundary between living space and nature perfectly, increasing quality of life in the living area.

RTN: Where can these glazings be used?

Almost anywhere – we provide you an optimum solution for each area. This applies equally to private homes as well as for businesses or offices. Solutions are available depending on the application of various technical options available. This versatility is the key to the products high success.

RTN: What about the safety of these glazing systems?

Safety is very important to us. SUNFLEX conforms to the highest valid German standards and guidelines (DIN).

RTN: Does the technology continue to develop?

Yes. The all-new running assembly with low-friction needle bearings provides even better ‘runnability’. There are many new developments which we can demonstrate for interested clients Contact Amas Vista (translated it

New Year: New Hobby WE ALL take numerous photographs that either sit in a box, or on a shelf gathering dust.

Some may never even be printed and will remain on your camera or laptop.

We often have good intentions of putting these photographs into a photo album, but a photo album just shows you the photos. Scrapbooking tells a story: it can contain photos, mementos and notes about the event, sometimes known as means ‘more view!’) Thanks to the pro- journaling, to help bring your memories to life. Why not take fessional know-how and many years of this New Year 2012 as an opportunity to start a new hobby experience of our trade professionals that will provide hours of enjoyment and preserve your in this sector, we offer a product range photographs for yourself and for future generations?

You will need to select your photos based on a theme or that meets the most exacting requirements in terms of quality, function and event for example Christmas, a special birthday, a holiday or design. Call us on 96 645 7878 or send an everyday event. Think of each page as having a story to tell. an email to info@amasvista.com with Then pay a visit to Fiesta Crafts in Javea, where you will find all your questions, requests or for a free no of the products needed to start this enjoyable craft hobby. The obligation quotation. We will get back first decision you will need to make is which Scrapbook album to you and assist you individually. Or is right for you. They come in a variety of sizes and colours.

A scrapbook album contains plastic page covers that are acid visit www.amasvista.com (Amas Vista SL can regularly be found free which help to preserve your treasured memories. Inside in our Services page at the back of RTN) these covers your photos can be displayed on background papers. These come in a variety of patterns, colours and themes that will enhance your photos and help to tell your story. For instance you may have been on a cruise for Christmas; you could then display your photos on our beautiful ocean cruise background paper. We stock all of the glue and adhesive tape that will help you mount your photos with ease and precision.

Once your photos are mounted on the backing paper you can then embellish them. Embellishments can come in the form of stickers, flowers, gems, ribbon, lace and braids. These craft embellishments add depth, colour and creativity to your pages and projects.

For all your craft supplies, advice and help please call in at Fiesta Crafts, Local 3, Ctra Cabo La Nao Pla 138, Javea. Telephone 96 646 1788, info@fiestacrafts.eu, www.fiestacrafts.eu

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Home Garden

Home & Garden

Brought to you by

www.spanishhomefinder.com

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

Why prune? by

Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Practical gardeners and authors

A COMMON PROBLEM The other day a neighbour new to Spain asked: ‘Why am I supposed to do all this pruning in the winter? It’s hard work in the hot sun!’ We firstly answered don’t expect this wonderful New Year weather every year and secondly you may be in for a shock towards the next new moon – it can be cold!

Secondly we suggested he read the pruning chapters in our various books and thirdly as he’s interested in transforming an overgrown garden we said we would dedicate the next article to his question as there are probably many readers with a similar question.

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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12. To open up and shape interesting vistas beyond the fence.

13. To create healthy trees whether fruiting flowering or evergreen. This will be helped by using sharp tools and treating large cut surfaces with a tree sealant.

GETTING RID OF PRUNINGS If you have a vegetable plot do keep suitable prunings to use as supports to edible or sweet peas.

Large diameter branches can be cut into logs of suitable length for a log fire or stove.

Twigs can be used to protect Spring seed beds and for kindling fires.

Other twigs and small branches can be shredded to make it easier to sack them for council garden rubbish collections or to take to collection points and to add to compost heaps.

Happy winter pruning! It’s a vital job!

REASONS FOR PRUNING So here goes: a baker’s dozen of reasons for pruning. (In case you have never bought a baker’s dozen of rolls or buns, the thirteenth was traditionally free).

1. To create an attractive and strong framework of main and side branches.

2. To remove dead dying and broken growth before the health of other branches is affected.

3. To reduce the height of fruit trees to make it easier to harvest fruit from the ground. As we age it makes sense to reduce the need to climb ladders.

4. To stimulate fruiting buds. As is explained in Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain some varieties of fruit trees fruit on old growth and others on new growth. Old neglected trees need heavy pruning to stimulate new fruiting wood for the following year.

5. To reduce the number of fruit buds to reduce the potential number of fruit and potentially increase their size.

6. To thin out swelling fruit if the tree becomes over laden and there is a serious chance of branches breaking.

7. To achieve a balance of old and new growth.

8. To open up the centre of fruit trees to let in sun light and reduce the risk of fungal growth.

9. To make it possible or easier to walk and sit under trees, or make it possible to pass by spreading trees. In small gardens you might have to prune some trees by 25 to fifty percent each year to keep their size attractive.

10. To enable direct or reflected light to reach plants growing under trees.

11. To shape trees so that as rapidly as possible they block out eyesores beyond or within the garden and at the same time develop an attractive architectural shape.

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

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Relax... Let us take the stress out of your move IRWIN INTERNATIONAL, the family run Removals and Storage business based at Dolores, is urging home movers and storage clients to check references and credentials when choosing Removals and Storage Companies, to ensure they get the best possible service as well as essential insurance cover for their worldly possessions.

Moving House can be stressful enough, so having peace of mind with your contracted company is one less aspect to worry about.

Managing Director, Mandy Williams says “We have a commitment to best practice and provide our customers with an assurance of the standards and integrity of our business.”

When hiring a Removal and Storage company, Mandy recommends obtaining quotes from several reputable companies. She suggests perhaps two Spanish based legal companies along with the company that moved you over originally - provided you were happy with the service of course!

Don’t forget that all major UK companies have a presence here in Spain and can be contacted through their websites.

Irwin International staff has been trained to Pickfords standards in export wrapping and packing and use only Pickfords quality materials.

Customers are most welcome to visit the Irwin International warehouse in Dolores to see samples of their export wrapping service and discuss all aspects of house removal over a coffee with Mandy, who will explain all the procedures from start to finish, from the pre move survey to ascertaining volume; through packing; reasons for making full inventories at time of collection; insurance coverage for loss or damage; and safe delivery at the other end.

Mandy says: “Advice costs nothing, and I have learnt a lot over the years working at Irwins. If I can help a customer avoid downfalls

Home & Garden

and chose the right company for them, then even if we do not secure the job ourselves, I have helped in some small way. I believe that transparency in business is the key. Give the customers all the information and let them make an educated choice.”

You can call Mandy on 96 572 6544, email her on spain@irwinremovals.com, or visit the warehouse on the main road between Dolores and Catral, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Home & Garden

Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com

Home & Garden

Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com

Life Dame Judi Dench and www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

37

Joan Collins on Viva TV SOME OF the biggest names from stage, screen and the world of music will be appearing in a new feature on Viva TV called ‘Celebrity Archive’.

During his 17 years working for BBC Radio, Viva TV presenter Simon Baldock met and interviewed literally hundreds of celebrities and is now reliving some of the best in ‘Celebrity Archive’.

Simon told RTN: “I have had the pleasure of interviewing some of the people I most admire from the world of entertainment and I have kept these radio recordings in an old suitcase under my bed.”

DRESSING UP He continued: “Viva TV’s ‘Celebrity Archive’ has given me the chance of sharing some of my favourite interviews again with a new viewing audience.”

Interviews that you can hear on ‘Celebrity Archive’ include Simon meeting Dame Judi Dench in Harwich when she launched a cruise liner, a flustered Joan Collins at the London Palladium and Trinny and Susannah who gave Simon a dressing up! ‘Celebrity Archive’ can be seen on Viva TV every day at 4pm. For more information about Viva TV log onto www.vivatv.es

Viva TV presenter Simon Baldock getting a “Dressing Up” from Trinny and Susannah

38

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life spanish The Letter

‘R’

WITH THE letter R we come to the second sound in the Spanish alphabet that causes particular difficulties for native English speakers, the first being that pesky “ge” and “j” made in the throat. As everyone who listens to Spanish knows, the R sound in Spanish is rolled, and you probably won’t be surprised that it is in fact the commonest consonant in the Spanish language. You might not realise though that there are two different “strengths” to the rolled R. When a word begins with the letter R the roll is extra strong, and also when the R is doubled in the middle of a word. However, when you see the letter R written on its own in the middle or at the end of a word, then it is a lighter, shorter roll, more like a catching of the tongue at the top of the mouth. A good way to illustrate this is the difference in pronunciation between the word perro (dog) and pero (but). There is a clearly strong roll in the first word to distinguish it.

However, as one of my forlorn students said one day, no wonder my dog takes no notice of me, I’ve been calling him “but”!

So, do what you can and have a go at pronouncing that strong rolled R sound that comes at the beginning of these words, all of which are recognisably similar to their English equivalents. Whilst we’re talking about dogs, our first word is “raza” which means “breed” as well as “race”. Connected to this word of “racial” (racial) and , “racist” (racist). “Radiador” (radiator), “radical” (radical), “radio” (radio), “rápido” (rapid, fast), “raro” (rare or strange), “registro” (register), “repetir” (repeat), “reptile” (reptile), “ridículo” ridiculous.

As well as this abundance of similar words, there seem to be more than the usual amount of “estranged cousins” beginning with the letter R, so here are some of the more common ones. “Rato” looks as though it might be a type of rodent, but in fact means “a while”,

Basic Spanish for everyday needs

by Jane Cronin

“a short spell”. “Regular” is one that people always enjoy when they start out learning Spanish. It means “below par”, “not very good” and can be used to describe ones physical state or any other thing that is not quite up to scratch. However, note that it has nothing to do with whether you had All Bran for breakfast. “Réplica” means “reply” or “retort”; “reunión” means “ meeting”; “revolver “ is a verb meaning “to stir” and “rubio” means “blond”. A further example is the word “red” which means “net” as in fishing net, but also “network”. When you see signs for new roads or road extensions they usually contain the phrase “red de carreteras” – “road network”.

Well, as you can see, the letter R is giving us an abundance of material, and I now have the task of choosing just a few words more R words which may be of general use and interest. The first of these is: “razón” which means “reason” in the English sense of “motive” or “argument”. However, we also talk in Spanish of “having reason” when we mean “to be right” “to have right on ones side”.

Therefore, if I wanted to say in an argument “I’m right!” I would say “Tengo razón” (literally “I have reason”). Likewise, I would concede someone else’s point with “tienes razón” “You’re right”. You may have also noticed the word “razón” on signs such as ones advertising a flat rental, followed by a phone number or other contact details. In this case “razón” means “for further details ...” - don’t ask me why.

And finally, here is a nice cheerful saying containing an R word, and it’s one which my photocopy lady says on those occasions when she sees a certain look of horror on my face: “Todo tiene remedio, menos la muerte.” “Everything has a remedy, except death” - a saying which provides a sort of macabre cheeriness to help us get through the day.

The Twit of the Week Joey Essex@JoeyEssex: Yeh people I passed me theory 4th time both bang on the dot!

I got 44 and 46 and the lowest you could get to pass was 44 and 46! :) haha The Rant Kelly Osbourne @MissKellyO: If I to have a drink them Im going to a drink Im 27 years old! Was their true? NO! Is it anyones business #GiveMeABreak!

The Funny Tweets Derren Brown@DerrenBrown: Just had a filling. Favourite bit was when my dentist stopped, turned up the ABBA on this iPod, and we continued to Chiquitita.

Micah Richards @OfficialMR2: Mario Balotelli and co stealing my haircut again! He reckons he’s had it since 5 years old lol!

Am coming with a new style for 2012 Alan Carr@AlanCarr: BORED.BORED. BORED.BORED. No drinking Jan is killing me I can see February in the distance waving a box of wine and a funnel The Tribute P!nk@Pink: RIP to the late and great Etta James. Your voice and your fight inspired me and many. I love that through recordings people can live forever.

Life books

Danny Collins - copy@dannyjpcollins.com

Operation Mincemeat IN THE early months of 1943, the body of an officer of the Royal Marines, identified as Major William Martin RM, was found floating in the sea off Spain. A leather attaché case secured to his belt revealed an intelligence goldmine to the Nazi warlords: top secret Allied plans for the invasion of Europe.

But Major William Martin never existed and

the body was actually that of a Welsh tramp who’d been posthumously inducted into the British Army with a promotion to boot. The plan was born in the mind of a novelist, and took shape through a most unlikely cast of characters: a brilliant barrister; a family of undertakers; a forensic pathologist; a gold prospector; an inventor; a submarine captain; a transvestite English spymaster; a rally driver; a pretty secretary; a credulous Nazi and a grumpy admiral who loved fly fishing.

It is only through the relaxation of government rules surrounding official secrecy that the author could gain access to recently declassified files in the National Archives and the full story of Operation Mincemeat can now be told for the first time.

The documents in the attaché case finally reached Hitler’s desk and formed a Churchillean deception that set the surprised Nazi war machine on its left foot when the Allies stormed the beaches of Sicily.

Mcintyre tells one of the greatest spy stories to come out of WW II and born of the British Intelligence Service under Churchill.

Ben Mcintyre is no stranger to spy drama and is the author of bestseller Operation Zigzag, another chilling drama based on Britain at war. In all, a thoroughly enjoyable book documenting a time when we had more to fight the Germans about than the sunbeds.

Author: Ben Macintyre Publisher: Bloomsbury (paperback) Price: 10.80€ ISBN: 978 1 4088 0921 1

want have story NO?

Suduko Answer

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life health

39

Mark Phoenix Murphy Dhp MIAPH MNRAH

A better you for 2012 EARLIER LAST year I brought a gentleman called Peter Stebbings to the Costa Blanca’s attention. Peter is well known worldwide and has many famous friends, so to put his name to my adverts, as he has, is a fantastic testament to his success with the HypnoBand.

Through the new HypnoBand system he’d lost a staggering amount of weight - he’s lost 84lbs in total; an achievement that he should be and is proud of.

There is nothing more soul-destroying than not being able to look in the mirror because you hate the person staring back at you. Because you’re tired of so-called love handles, and tired of seeing those muffin tops slowly creeping over your pants. At one point in our lives, we’ve all been heavier than we should, so we can all understand how detrimental being overweight is to our self-confidence.

Some people are fortunate and within a couple of weeks of dieting they’re back in shape. But the HypnoBand helps people who have a BMI over 25, whose weight is substantially more than it should be and which is detrimental to their health. The trouble is, and it’s extremely easy to understand, with such a large amount to lose, it’s incredibly difficult to remain focused and on track, to have sufficient willpower to sustain you over such a long period of time. The beauty of the HypnoBand is that it keeps you on track - keeps your mind focused to reach that dream weight and stay there.

It’s rather like having a gastric band, hence the name, although you don’t have to worry about the surgical procedure. There’s no frightening expenditure and most importantly, there’s no pain but there certainly is gain!

Although not of the weight variety! After four sessions with this system, your mind feels as though your stomach is restricted by that gastric band. The need to feel full lessens and so you eat smaller portions, you’re re-energised because hypnotherapy is natural de-stressor and you feel ready to lose weight! There’s no better mindset than the one the HypnoBand places you in.

You may think the HypnoBand is a load of rubbish, but the facts speak for themselves. My clinic is the system’s flagship and the HypnoBand has helped thousands of people around the world attain those weight loss goals. I myself have helped hundreds of people and Peter is just one of my clients who are attaining their goals and still going strong.

If you are overweight and you’re tired of hating your body image, then why not give me a call? The first 30 minute consultation is free and I can ascertain during that consultation whether or not you’re suitable for the system, and if you are, we can start you immediately. It often happens that there may be another reason behind your tendency to overeat. Either way, I will do my very best to help your 2012 become a slimmer one!

Mark Phoenix Murphy is currently the only registered HypnoBand Practitioner on the Costa Blanca and Costa Calida. He is a consultant Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist

and Pure HypnoAnalyst. If you have any issues with anxiety or stress, or need a helping hand during hard times, then call Mark on 654 202 996 or visit www.HypnoSpain.com for more details about his practices.

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life health

Michael Burke

RHAD MSHAA of Digital Hearing

Causes of hearing loss THERE ARE many things that can cause a hearing loss, either temporary or permanent; some we can avoid and some we cannot. Today we cover just a few of them.

AGE We all wear out. Different people wear out in different places at different rates: some of us wear glasses; some of us have joint replacements; and some of us hear well while others cannot. King Canute could not stop the tide coming in, and we cannot stop the ravages of time!

Whilst getting older does not mean that hearing loss is inevitable, about a third of people aged 65 or over have a hearing loss that affects their daily lives. It is believed that many instances of hearing loss among older people are the result of noise damage earlier in life.

DRUGS Alcohol, nicotine, antibiotics, carbon monoxide and some diuretics and analgesics are ototoxic drugs that can damage the inner ear, and exposure to solvents can aggravate the damaging effects of sound on the ears.

HEREDITY

There are some genetic conditions that cause people to be born deaf or to lose their hearing. If one of your parents has a genetic impairment or is deaf, you are more likely to develop the same condition as you get older.

VIRUSES Measles often causes middle ear infections resulting in loss of hearing. Mumps can cause a total loss of hearing - usually in one ear only, leaving the other one normal. Shingles virus attacks the nerves associated with the ear and can cause a hearing loss that can also be very painful.

There are many other infections that can cause temporary and permanent hearing loss, which will be discussed at a later date.

PHYSICAL DAMAGE In some cases blows to the skull, violent accidents, or explosions can cause a temporary or permanent loss of hearing, as can exposure to steady state noise at damaging levels over a prolonged period of time or exposure to repeated short sharp bursts of sound (e.g. rifle fire, steam hammer, etc).

Pressure changes from flying or diving can lead to a

temporary or permanent change to the eardrum and the middle ear bones. A sudden loss can also occur in deep sea divers suffering from the bends: bubbles of helium in the cochlea can cause sensorineural damage.

There are many other situations and conditions that can damage our delicate hearing mechanism.

In next week’s Hearing Column we will look at some of the symptoms of hearing loss.

If you have any question’s about this week’s topic, email digitalhearing@hotmail.co.uk or contact Michael Burke at Digital Hearing, Quesada Business Centre, Calle Los Arcos 7, Quesada – Tel 698 418 642.

If you have any question’s about this week’s topic, you can email digitalhearing@hotmail.co.uk or contact Michael Burke at Digital Hearing, Quesada Business Centre, Calle Los Arcos 7, Quesada – Tel 698 418 642.

Owner of PIP arrested in France

FRENCH POLICE have arrested the owner of the French company Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), Jean-Claude Mas Florent, maker of defective silicone breast implants sold in several countries, following a red alert issued by international police agency Interpol. Sources have also confirmed that a second executive was arrested. PIP was founded in 1991 and closed in 2010 following their implants being recalled. The French Government has recommended that women with PIP breast implants have them surgically removed as a precaution against infection and other complications. More than 90% of the breast implants were sold to American and European countries with around 300,000 implants sold in more than 60 countries. Mas Florent was questioned by police in November 2010, but was released without charge. The factory where he operated PIP, located on the outskirts of the city of Toulon, southern France, is still owned by his partner.

40

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life health

Menieres Disease and Acupuncture THIS IS in reply to a query by one of our readers.

Ménière’s disease is a fairly common disorder, occurring in about 1/1000 of the population. It affects both sexes equally and tends to occur in the age range of 30 to 60 years, with 65% of cases occurring before the age of 50. In about 85% of cases only one ear is affected, however, the longer the condition lasts the more chance there is that the other ear will also be affected.

The main symptoms are: Tinnitus (ringing in the ear), hypersensitivity to loud sounds, progressive or fluctuating loss of hearing, headache and vertigo.

In the acute stages there may also be severe nausea and vomiting, profuse sweating, disabling dizziness and nystagmus (involuntary rapid rhythmic movement of the eyeball).

The frequency of attacks varies and the disease usually last for a number of years, with progressive loss of hearing.

WESTERN MEDICINE Ménière’s disease is essentially a disease of unknown origin. There are a number of signs and symptoms related to the inner ear that seem to entail a retention of endolymph (the watery fluid in the membranous ligament in the inner ear) in the affected ear. There is no known hereditary factor.

While there is no known western medical cause, several of the following factors have been linked with this disorder: • Stress and anxiety.

• A high salt intake.

• Some women have pre-menstrual attacks which are associated with fluid retention.

• There is a direct link with migraine in 30% of recorded cases.

• Head injury severe enough to cause concussion.

• Glandular or hormonal imbalance.

• High cholesterol levels.

• Allergies.

• Consumption of chocolate, nicotine, alcohol, dairy products and wheat.

Medical treatment may include diet, medication and surgery.

The eventual outcome of the disease is unpredictable.

In many cases the symptoms spontaneously disappear, in others however it may spread out over a number of years, with the end result being almost total destruction of hearing.

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) PERSPECTIVE TCM attributes aural vertigo to phlegm and dampness obstructing the ‘middle heater’ and suppressing ‘Yang Qi’.

It may also arise from depletion of ‘Kidney yin’ which causes ‘liver yang’ to rise. Deficiency of blood and Qi (failing to supply the brain) may also cause vertigo.

There are two more possible pathologies but the first two are the most common.

1. Phlegm and damp in the ‘middle heater’. Dizziness and vertigo will be aggravated by movement. There usually is nausea and/or vomiting; a heavy sensation in the head;

Robert Vandevelede Ex-president Australian Acupuncture & Chinese medicine Association and poor appetite.

2. Kidney yin deficiency leading to Liver yang rising. Vertigo tends to follow changes in moods. There is usually tinnitus, accompanied by restlessness, irritability, headache, a feeling of fullness in the ear and a flushed face; maybe red eyes and dryness in the throat.

As usual, a thorough investigation by a qualified TCM practitioner is necessary to be sure you are diagnosed and treated in the best way possible. Results with Acupuncture vary and as a rule, the younger the disease the better your chances.

It is interesting that for this disorder there are theoretical parallels between Western medicine and TCM. Practitioners of Western medicine observe structural changed in the physiology of the inner ear in Ménière’s disease. Much of this information is unseen from the point of view of TCM theory, which has no intrinsic knowledge of the semicircular canals, endolymph etc.

Likewise, TCM theory describes factors which are insignificant in Western medicine. Is it therefore possible to draw parallels between the apparently dissimilar Western medicine and TCM observations of Ménière’s disease?

It is interesting to note that both medical models seem to be describing the same condition i.e. phlegm blocking the channels according to TCM and increased amount of endolymph that enlarges the labyrinth in Western medicine.

Both conditions display similar symptoms: Dizziness or vertigo, nausea, tinnitus and loss of hearing: An essential part of the treatment principle, according to both medical models, is to quite literally unblock the ear!

At present only the Chinese medical model suggests any significant understanding of the aetiology of the disease.

However, it is interesting to note that in a Western medical study of 300 people diagnosed as having Ménière’s disease, 86% presented indications of obesity. In Chinese medicine, obesity is considered almost synonymously with the presence of phlegm-dampness. It would seem therefore that both medical systems the same disorder in similar ways.

Written by Robert Vandevelde Former President Australian Acupuncture and Chinese medicine Association, Contact him on 660 032 862.

Write to me at robertvdvelde@telefonica.net javea-acupuncture.blogspot.com

Owner of PIP arrested in France FRENCH POLICE have arrested the owner of the French company Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), Jean-Claude Mas Florent, maker of defective silicone breast implants sold in several countries, following a red alert issued by international police agency Interpol. Sources have also confirmed that a second executive was arrested. PIP was founded in 1991 and closed in 2010 following their implants being recalled. The French Government has recommended that women with PIP breast implants have them surgically removed as a precaution against infection and other complications. More than 90% of the breast implants were sold to American and European countries with around 300,000 implants sold in more than 60 countries. Mas Florent was questioned by police in November 2010, but was released without charge. The factory where he operated PIP, located on the outskirts of the city of Toulon, southern France, is still owned by his partner.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life TV

43

27th January- 2nd February

Friday 27th January BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Britain’s Empty Homes 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 The Big Performance 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 All Over the Place 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Room 101 22:00 Hustle 23:00 BBC News 23:35 Graham Norton Show 24:20 National Lottery Friday Night Draws

07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 The Large Family 10:35 Guess with Jess 10:45 Bob’s Mini Projects 10:50 Louie 10:55 Same Smile 11:10 Chuggington: Badge Quest 11:15 64 Zoo Lane 11:30 Wibbly Pig 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Bowls 16:00 Helicopter Heroes 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Perfection 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Great Barrier Reef 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 On Hannibal’s Trail 22:00 The Culture Show 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 The Review Show 24:45 Weather 24:50 The Notorious Bettie Page

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 The Hungry Sailors 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Safari Vet School 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Law & Order: UK 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 Jaws 2

07:00 The Treacle People 07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Undercover Boss USA 10:55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 12:00 Secret Location 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 14:10 River Cottage Bites 14:25 Brighton Rock 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:30 4thought.tv 20:35 Come Dine with Me 21:30 New Girl 22:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 23:30 Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night 24:20 Rude Tube

07:00 Childrens TV 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Peppa Pig 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Hana’s Helpline 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:15 See Jane Date 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Eddie Stobart: Trucks and Trailers 21:00 World’s Toughest Trucker 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:30 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side 24:30 Just for Laughs

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Emmerdale 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Loose Women 09:10 Judge Judy 09:35 Judge Judy 10:00 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of Orange County 11:25 The Hot Desk 11:30 Judge Judy 12:00 Judge Judy 12:30 Coronation Street 13:00 Farewell Becky 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of Orange County 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:05 Judge Judy 19:30 Judge Judy 20:00 All Star Family Fortunes 21:00 You’ve Been Framed!

21:30 You’ve Been Framed!

22:00 American Idol 23:00 You, Me and Dupree

07:00 Life Unexpected 07:45 Smallville 08:30 Wildfire 09:25 Life Unexpected 10:20 90210 11:15 Smallville 12:10 Desperate Housewives 13:05 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 14:35 Scrubs 15:00 Hollyoaks 15:35 90210 16:30 Desperate Housewives 17:30 Rules of Engagement 17:55 Scrubs 18:25 Scrubs 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Taxi 23:00 Beverly Hills Cop

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions with Ann Brown - Computers 18:30 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – International Model Emma Busson 19:00 An Evening With...

Lynda Bellingham 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

An Evening with....

Lynda Bellingham 19:00

SATURDAY 28th January BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast

07:00 Little Robots 07:10 Zigby 07:25 Finley the Fire Engine 07:35 Octonauts 07:45 Everything’s Rosie 08:00 Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab 08:30 Dennis & Gnasher 08:45 Shaun the Sheep 08:55 The Ministry of Curious Stuff 09:25 Live Tennis: Australian Open 12:30 Homes Under the Hammer 13:00 Island in the Sky 14:45 Escape to the Country 15:30 Live Bowls 17:35 Galaxy Quest 19:10 Flog It! 20:10 Dad’s Army 20:40 Timewatch 21:30 The Duchess 23:10 Pan Am 23:50 Pan Am 24:35 TOTP2

07:00 Mini CITV 08:25 CITV 10:25 ITV News 10:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 11:25 May the Best House Win 12:25 This Morning: Saturday 12:55 ITV News and Weather 13:00 Live FA Cup Football 16:05 The Incredible Hulk 18:15 Granada News and Weather 18:30 ITV News and Weather 18:45 You’ve Been Framed!

19:45 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 20:15 Take Me Out 21:30 The Talent Show Story 22:30 The Jonathan Ross Show 23:30 ITV News and Weather 23:45 FA Cup Football Highlights

07:00 The Treacle People 07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 That Paralympic Show 08:00 Volleyball 08:55 The Morning Line 09:55 Everybody’s Talking About 10:25 Live and Lost 10:55 The Big Bang Theory 11:25 Desperate Scousewives 12:25 The Simpsons 13:00 New Girl 13:30 Playing It Straight 14:25 The Big Bang Theory 14:55 Channel 4 Racing 16:55 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 17:25 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 18:00 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 18:35 Come Dine with Me Extra Portions 19:05 Channel 4 News 19:35 4thought.tv 19:40 ‘Crocodile’ Dundee 21:30 The Million Pound Drop Live 23:05 Clear and Present Danger

07:00 Childrens TV 08:50 Bert and Ernie’s Great Adventures 09:00 Little Princess 09:20 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:35 Angelina Ballerina 09:50 Rupert Bear 10:05 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:20 The Mr Men Show 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:40 Mist: Sheepdog Tales 11:00 Inside Hollywood 11:10 It’s All About Amy 12:10 Celebrity Big Brother 13:40 Murder She Said 15:25 Black Horse Canyon 17:05 Man in the Wilderness 19:05 Police Academy 3: Back in Training 20:35 5 News Weekend 20:40 NCIS 21:30 NCIS 22:30 CSI: NY 23:30 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:30 CSI: NY

07:00 Coronation Street 09:05 Emmerdale 11:55 Take Me Out 13:05 Take Me Out: The Gossip 13:50 Back to the Future 16:05 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 16:35 American Idol 17:30 American Idol 18:25 American Idol 19:20 *batteries not included 21:30 Take Me Out: The Gossip 22:15 Rumor Has It..

24:15 The Only Way Is Essex

07:00 Switched 07:25 Switched 07:45 Switched Up! 08:40 Dirty Sexy Things 09:45 Supernanny US 10:40 Supernanny US 11:35 Gok’s Fashion Fix 12:40 Supernanny US 13:35 Supernanny US 14:30 Hollyoaks 17:05 Perfect Couples 17:35 Perfect Couples 18:05 Scrubs 18:35 Scrubs 19:05 The Big Bang Theory 19:35 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Happy Endings 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Rules of Engagement 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 Beverly Hills Cop II 24:05 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory 24:55 The Cleveland Show

14:00 Non Stop Music

11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers 13:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 British Olympic Dreams 14:30 Live Athletics 17:30 Final Score 18:15 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 18:35 Winter Wipeout 19:35 The Magicians 20:50 The National Lottery: Who Dares Wins 21:40 Casualty 22:30 BBC News and Weather 22:50 The Rock 24:55 The Football League Show

Take Me Out: The Gossip 21:30

16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions with Ann Brown - Computers 18:30 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – International Model Emma Busson 19:00 An Evening With...

Lynda Bellingham 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

FAQ with Ann Brown Computers 18:05

Sunday 29th January BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Breakfast

07:00 Little Robots 07:10 Zigby 07:25 Finley the Fire Engine 07:35 Octonauts 07:45 Everything’s Rosie 08:00 Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab 08:30 Dennis & Gnasher 08:45 Ultimate Sports Day 09:15 Live Tennis: Australian Open 13:00 Escape to the Country 14:00 Figure Skating 15:30 Live Bowls 18:15 Ski Sunday 19:00 The Last Explorers 20:00 Sir Jimmy Savile at the BBC: How’s About That Then?

21:00 Top Gear 22:00 Toughest Place to Be 23:00 God Bless Ozzy Osbourne 24:30 The Science of Sleep

07:00 Mini CITV 08:25 CITV 10:25 ITV News 10:30 FA Cup Football Highlights 12:00 Dinner Date 13:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 13:55 ITV News and Weather 14:00 Live FA Cup Football 17:00 Vera 19:00 You’ve Been Framed!

19:25 Granada News and Weather 19:35 ITV News and Weather 19:45 Dancing on Ice 21:30 Wild at Heart 22:30 Dancing on Ice: The Skate Off 23:00 That Sunday Night Show 23:30 ITV News and Weather 23:45 FA Cup Football Highlights 24:30 Anglo-Welsh Cup Rugby Union

07:00 The Treacle People

10:00 Andrew Marr Show 11:00 The Big Questions 12:00 Country Tracks 13:00 Sunday Politics 14:05 EastEnders 16:00 The Royal Bodyguard 16:30 Penguin Island 17:00 Earthflight 18:00 Songs of Praise 18:35 Antiques Roadshow 19:35 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Call the Midwife 22:00 Birdsong 23:25 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 23:50 The One 24:30 Room 101: Extra Storage

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Childrens TV 08:50 Bert and Ernie’s 07:10 The Hoobs Great Adventures 07:35 The Hoobs 09:00 Little Princess 09:20 The Adventures of 08:00 Sailing Bottle Top Bill and His Best 08:30 The Mark Webber Friend Corky Tasmania Challenge 09:35 Angelina Ballerina 09:50 Rupert Bear 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:00 Ben and Holly’s 10:15 Hollyoaks Little Kingdom 12:45 The Big Bang Theory 10:10 Milkshake! Monkey 10:15 The Mr Men Show 13:15 Shipwrecked 10:25 Roary the Racing Car 14:20 The Simpsons 10:40 Mist: Sheepdog Tales 14:55 The Simpsons 11:00 Animal Rescue Squad 11:15 Meerkat Manor 15:30 Son of the Mask 11:50 Grey’s Anatomy 17:20 Deal or No Deal 12:45 Cowboy Builders 18:25 Channel 4 News 13:45 A Ring of Endless Light 15:30 Tinker Bell and the 18:55 4thought.tv Lost Treasure 19:00 Time Team 17:05 Fairy Tale: 20:00 Hugh’s Three a True Story 18:55 Shanghai Noon Hungry Boys 21:00 World’s 21:00 The Hotel 21:55 5 News Weekend 22:00 The Ghost 22:00 Bad Boys 24:35 Predator 2 24:25 Storm Catcher

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Nanny 911 07:45 Emmerdale 10:35 Coronation Street 13:00 Winners & Losers 14:00 The Biggest Loser 15:00 The National Television Awards 2012 17:30 You’ve Been Framed!

18:00 Free Willy 20:10 Kangaroo Jack 22:00 Winners & Losers 23:00 The Only Way Is Essex 23:45 Piers Morgan’s Life Stories

07:00 Switched 07:25 Switched Up! 08:10 Supernanny US 09:10 Supernanny US 10:05 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow: Get the Look for Less 11:10 How to Look Good Naked 12:10 How to Look Good Naked 13:15 Supernanny US 14:10 Supernanny US 15:05 Privileged 15:55 Make It or Break It 16:55 Make It or Break It 17:55 Samantha Who? 18:20 Being Erica 19:15 90210 20:15 The Simpsons Movie 22:00 Desperate Housewives 23:00 Desperate Housewives 24:00 Skins

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 Inland Spain Calasparra 18:30 The Barcelona Boat Show 19:00 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – 80’s star Yazz 19:30 The Wedding Show – The Car 19:45 Spanish Eye – The WWF in Cartagena 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

You’ve Been Framed! 17:30

The Barcelona Boat Show 18:30

44

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life TV

27th January- 2nd February

monday 30th January BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 The Big Performance 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 All Over the Place 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 The Royal Bodyguard 22:30 Mrs Brown’s Boys 23:00 BBC News 23:35 A Question of Sport 24:05 Late Kick Off 24:35 Graham Norton Show

07:00 Childrens TV 10:35 Guess with Jess 10:45 Bob’s Mini Projects 10:50 Louie 10:55 Same Smile 11:10 Chuggington: Badge Quest 11:15 64 Zoo Lane 11:30 Wibbly Pig 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 One Man and His Campervan 14:30 Animal 24:7 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Helicopter Heroes 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Perfection 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Home Cooking Made Easy 20:30 A Question of Taste 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 An Island Parish 22:00 Protecting Our Children 23:00 Mock the Week 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Pan Am

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 The Hungry Sailors 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Cornwall with Caroline Quentin 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Whitechapel 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 That Sunday Night Show 24:10 Law & Order: UK

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Living with the Amish 10:55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 12:00 Secret Location 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Country House Rescue 14:05 River Cottage Bites 14:10 The Shepherd of the Hills 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 SuperScrimpers 22:00 Coppers 23:00 Party Paramedics 24:05 Random Acts 24:10 Shameless

07:00 Childrens TV 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 08:55 Bert and Ernie’s Great Adventures 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Mio Mao 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Hana’s Helpline 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:15 Pregnancy Pact 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 World’s Toughest Trucker 21:00 Police Interceptors 22:00 Royal Marines: Mission Afghanistan 23:00 Striking Distance

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Loose Women 09:10 Judge Judy 09:35 Judge Judy 10:00 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of Orange County 11:25 The Hot Desk 11:30 Judge Judy 12:00 Judge Judy 12:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of Orange County 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:05 Judge Judy 19:30 Judge Judy 20:00 The Biggest Loser 21:00 Gossip Girl 22:00 The Shawshank Redemption 24:50 Eyes Wide Shut

07:00 Switched 07:25 Life Unexpected 08:05 Smallville 08:45 Wildfire 09:40 Life Unexpected 10:35 90210 11:30 Smallville 12:20 Desperate Housewives 13:20 Greek 14:15 Scrubs 14:45 Scrubs 15:10 Hollyoaks 15:45 90210 16:40 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:30 Scrubs 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 My Name Is Earl 21:30 My Name Is Earl 22:00 Playing It Straight 23:00 Skins 24:05 Fresh Meat

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 Inland Spain - Jumilla 18:30 Youth Tube – Local youngsters talk about their lives in Spain 18:45 Hand Made – A drama made by a local teenager 19:00 Let’s Talk with Simon Baldock – A tribute to Robbie France 19:30 The Wedding Show – The Rings 19:45 Spanish Eye – A trip round Alcoy 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music Let’s Talk – with Simon Baldock –A Tribute

tuesday 31stJanuary BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 The Big Performance 16:35 Wingin’ It 16:55 Deadly Art 17:15 OOglies 17:30 Pixelface 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 Prisoners’ Wives 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Match of the Day

07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 The Large Family 10:35 Guess with Jess 10:45 Bob’s Mini Projects 10:50 Louie 10:55 Same Smile 11:10 Chuggington: Badge Quest 11:15 64 Zoo Lane 11:30 Wibbly Pig 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 One Man and His Campervan 14:30 Animal 24:7 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Helicopter Heroes 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Perfection 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 21:00 Alex Polizzi - The Fixer 22:00 Wonderland 23:00 Have I Got News for You 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Rubicon

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 The Hungry Sailors 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 River Monsters 21:00 The Exit List 22:00 The Biggest Loser 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 Benidorm 24:35 Homes from Hell 2009

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Living with the Amish 11:00 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 12:00 Secret Location 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Country House Rescue 14:05 River Cottage Bites 14:15 King Solomon’s Mines 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Terror at Sea: The Sinking of the Concordia 22:00 15 Kids and Counting 23:00 Shameless 24:10 Desperate Housewives

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Mio Mao 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Hana’s Helpline 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:10 Secrets of an Undercover Wife 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Police Interceptors 21:00 Cowboy Builders 22:00 Body of Proof 23:00 CSI: Miami 24:00 CSI: NY 24:55 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Loose Women 09:10 Judge Judy 09:35 Judge Judy 10:00 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of Orange County 11:25 The Hot Desk 11:30 Judge Judy 12:00 Judge Judy 12:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of Orange County 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:05 Judge Judy 19:30 Judge Judy 20:00 Harry Hill’s TV Burp 20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Winners & Losers 22:00 Funny People 24:50 You, Me and Dupree

07:00 Switched 07:20 Life Unexpected 08:05 Smallville 08:45 Wildfire 09:40 Life Unexpected 10:35 90210 11:30 Smallville 12:20 Desperate Housewives 13:20 Greek 14:15 Scrubs 14:45 Scrubs 15:10 Hollyoaks 15:45 90210 16:40 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:30 Scrubs 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Shipwrecked 22:00 90210 23:00 The Cleveland Show 23:30 Bob’s Burgers 24:00 Sirens

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions with Ann Brown – Property Exchange & Education 18:30 Soltails – Fishing for Carp on the Costa Blanca 18:45 The Goldsmith of Quesada 19:00 Real England – Wiltshire 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

Real England – Wiltshire 19.00

wednesday 1st February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 The Big Performance 16:35 Wingin’ It 16:55 Deadly Art 17:15 OOglies 17:30 My Life 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Rip Off Britain 21:00 DIY SOS 22:00 MasterChef 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 National Lottery Wednesday Night Draws 23:45 Burglar in the House 24:30 Film 2012 with Claudia Winkleman

07:00 Childrens TV 09:25 LazyTown 09:50 Lulu Zipadoo 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 The Large Family 10:35 Guess with Jess 10:45 Bob’s Mini Projects 10:50 Louie 10:55 Same Smile 11:10 Chuggington: Badge Quest 11:15 64 Zoo Lane 11:30 Wibbly Pig 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 See Hear 14:30 Animal 24:7 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Helicopter Heroes 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Perfection 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Top Gear 21:00 Natural World 22:00 The Crusades 23:00 Never Mind the Buzzcocks 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Storyville

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan T itchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 The Hungry Sailors 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Unforgettable 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

07:00 The Treacle People 07:10 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:55 Living with the Amish 10:55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 12:00 Secret Location 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Country House Rescue 14:10 Quick Bakes with Eric Lanlard 14:25 All That Heaven Allows 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 How to Cook Like Heston 21:30 The Fabulous Baker Brothers 22:00 One Born Every Minute 23:00 Bouncers 24:05 Random Acts 24:10 Terror at Sea: The Sinking of the Concordia

07:00 Childrens TV 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 08:55 Bert and Ernie’s Great Adventures 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Mio Mao 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Hana’s Helpline 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:15 Stealing Paradise 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Cowboy Builders 21:00 Benidorm ER 22:00 Exit Wounds 24:00 Royal Marines: Mission Afghanistan

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:15 Loose Women 09:10 Judge Judy 09:35 Judge Judy 10:00 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of Orange County 11:30 Judge Judy 12:00 Judge Judy 12:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of Orange County 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:05 Judge Judy 19:30 Judge Judy 20:00 Take Me Out 21:15 Take Me Out: The Gossip 22:00 Love in the Wild 23:00 The Only Way Is Essex 23:45 Knocked Up

07:00 Switched 07:20 Life Unexpected 08:05 Smallville 08:45 Wildfire 09:40 Life Unexpected 10:35 90210 11:30 Smallville 12:20 Desperate Housewives 13:20 Greek 14:15 Scrubs 14:45 Scrubs 15:10 Hollyoaks 15:45 90210 16:40 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:30 Scrubs 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Romancing the Stone 23:10 The 51st State

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18.05 Costa Blanca Life – Different aspects of living on the Costa Blanca 19:00 Learn The Lingo – Spanish Lessons 19:15 British Consulate’s Conexiones initiative 19:30 Local producer’s film on stately home Sandling Park 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

Costa Blance Life, 18:05

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Crossword Solutions 640 CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS Across: 4 Asunder; 8 Paltry; 9 Cry-baby; 10 Invest; 11 Polish; 12 Hardship; 18 Endanger; 20 Aboard; 21 Alcove; 22 Buckler; 23 Funnel; 24 Reverse.

Down: 1 Upright; 2 Slavery; 3 Crisis; 5 Scrapped; 6 No-ball; 7 Emboss; 13 Heedless; 14 Aground; 15 Briefly; 16 Obtuse; 17 Tackle; 19 All out.

45

QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 4 Predict; 8 Opened; 9 Asinine; 10 Clever; 11 Obtain; 12 Decision; 18 Overcast; 20 Repeal; 21 Sprint; 22 Quality; 23 Cannot; 24 Degrade.

Down: 1 Concede; 2 Defence; 3 Recess; 5 Response; 6 Denote; 7 Candid; 13 Isolated; 14 Valiant; 15 Statute; 16 Reduce; 17 Feeler; 19 Repeat.

Wordwheel: VIEWPOINT

thursday 2nd February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

VIVA TV

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 Britain’s Empty Homes 12:30 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 The Big Performance 16:35 Wingin’ It 16:55 Deadly Art 17:15 OOglies 17:30 Leonardo 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Motorway Cops 22:00 Inside Men 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Question Time 24:35 This Week

07:00 Childrens TV 10:20 The Large Family 10:35 Guess with Jess 10:45 Bob’s Mini Projects 10:50 Louie 10:55 Same Smile 11:10 Chuggington: Badge Quest 11:15 64 Zoo Lane 11:30 Wibbly Pig 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 One Man and His Campervan 14:30 Animal 24:7 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Helicopter Heroes 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Perfection 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Escape to the Country 21:00 Raymond Blanc: The Very Hungry Frenchman 22:00 Putin, Russia & the West 23:00 James May’s Things You Need to Know 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Toughest Place to Be

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 The Hungry Sailors 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Eternal Law 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 The Jonathan Ross Show 24:35 Take Me Out

07:00 The Treacle People 07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 09:50 Living with the Amish 10:55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 12:00 Secret Location 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Country House Rescue 14:05 Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard 14:35 The Moonraker 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Location, Location, Location 22:00 The Restoration Man 23:00 Confessions from the Underground 24:05 Coppers

07:00 Childrens TV 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Hana’s Helpline 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:10 Nowhere to Land 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Holiday: Heaven on Earth 20:30 How Do They Do It? 21:00 World’s 22:00 Winter Road Rescue 23:00 The Shepherd 24:55 Inside Hollywood

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:15 Loose Women 09:10 Judge Judy 09:35 Judge Judy 10:00 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of Orange County 11:30 Judge Judy 12:00 Judge Judy 12:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of Orange County 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:05 Judge Judy 19:30 Judge Judy 20:00 The Exit List 21:00 Super Tiny Animals 22:00 American Idol 23:00 Gladiator

07:00 Switched 07:20 Life Unexpected 08:05 Smallville 08:45 Wildfire 09:40 Life Unexpected 10:35 90210 11:30 Smallville 12:20 Desperate Housewives 13:20 Greek 14:15 Scrubs 14:45 Scrubs 15:10 Hollyoaks 15:45 90210 16:40 Desperate Housewives 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:30 Scrubs 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 Rules of Engagement 22:00 How I Met Your Mother 22:30 Happy Endings 23:00 Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy 23:30 Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night 24:20 The Big Bang Theory

14:00 Non Stop Music 16:00 Shopping and Info 18:00 The Gift – Poems to Inspire & Motivate 18:05 Viva Vitality - shaping up for the new year 18:30 The Vibe Fest – a collection of top local entertainers in one festival 19:30 Hayes Guide - Costa Calida 20:00 – 22:00 Local Information and Non Stop Music

Viva Vitality - shaping up for the New Year 18:05

46

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life music

CostaVibes Tony Poole

Jazz In Blue Festival 2012 JAZZ IN Blue is a touring festival beginning on 10th February in Malaga. It stages 25 concerts in some of the major cities in Spain, before culminating in Murcia on 18th May. The three month tour takes in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Malaga, Murcia, Aviles, Valladolid and Santiago de Compostela. The programme features four major recording artists, of which three are signed to the prestigious Blue Note record label; the Erik Truffaz 4tet, the Joe Lovano Quartet Europe, the Robert Glasper Trio and The Bad Plus.

Erik Truffaz is a Swiss-born French jazz trumpeter, infusing elements of hip-hop, rock & roll and dance music into his compositions. He signed with the French EMI label in 1996.

Truffaz gained international attention with his second album on Blue Note, ‘The Dawn’, produced together with Pat Muller, Marcello Giuliani and Mark Erbetta. Since then they have produced several Blue Note albums together, such as ‘Bending New Corners’, which became a Silver Album in France. Their 2007 release ‘Arkhangelsk’ is a mixture of pop songs, French chanson, and jazz-groove.

Joe Lovano is an American post-bop jazz saxophonist, alto clarinettist, flautist, and drummer. Since the late 1980s, Lovano has been one of the world’s premiere tenor saxophone players earning a Grammy award and several nods on Down Beat magazine’s critics’ and readers’ polls. His live work, specifically ‘Quartets: Live at the Village Vanguard’, gained a Down Beat ‘Jazz Album of the Year’ award. In the late 1990s, he formed the Saxophone Summit with Dave Liebman and Michael Brecker (now deceased, replaced with Ravi Coltrane). His latest album ‘Bird Songs’ released last year primarily features the music of Charlie Parker.

Robert Glasper studied piano at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York and began working with artists from jazz, R&B and hip-hop like Mos Def, Q-Tip,

Kanye West, Erykah Badu, Jay-Z and Me’Shell Ndegeoncello.

In 2003 he published his first album, and in 2005 he released ‘Canvas’, his first with Blue Note Records, then two years after the Grammy nominated ‘In My Element’. His much anticipated latest album ‘Black Radio’ has just been released (you can listen to Robert Glasper at my blog as part of the CostaVibes9ine mix for January, along with other recommended new releases).

The Bad Plus are a jazz trio from the United States, consisting of pianist Ethan Iverson, bassist Reid Anderson,

and drummer Dave King, originating from Minneapolis. Their music combines elements of traditional jazz, free jazz, rock and pop, performing versions of Nirvana, Ornette Coleman, Blondie, Pixies, David Bowie, Black Sabbath, Neil Young and Radiohead. The trio released their first album in 2001. Their latest album ‘Never Stop’, released in 2010, is their ninth.

Jazz In Blue offers an opportunity to see performances from some of today’s finest and creative jazz artists making inroads on the international jazz scene. For the full programme and itinerary visit www.jazzinblue.es

Jazz festivals, gigs and new releases at www.vibesfromthecostas.blogspot.com Email news and views to vibes@roundtownnews.com Keep the ViBES ALiVE!

to Van Morrison and much more: songs that everybody knows but songs that have not been heard around the circuit for quite some time. His ability to perform his music is effortless but shows a passion and enjoyment that enhances his performance. The range of music and styles performed will give you a ‘something for everybody’ feel to the evening.

For further details call Phoenix Promotions on 677 222 352.

THIS SHOW is just one of the shows Pat is able to perform and offer to bars and venues. His tribute to the music from the 80s includes a mixture of pop, rock, electronic ska and reggae music. Hit after hit that creates memories from an era that brought us acts like Duran Duran; Spandau Ballet; Gary Numan; Depecehe Mode; Madness; The Specials; UB40 and many more. Complimented with live guitar and keyboards, excellent PA system and lighting with effects, along with subtle costume changes, the show is entertaining and full of surprises. Classic songs from the era have been given a new lease of life with a ‘modern’ sound. Each show will have an element of material but no two shows are the same. Take a trip down the nostalgic memory lane of the 80s and you will remember that it was indeed an era of great music.

Pat also took over ownership of Phoenix Promotions early in 2011 and since then numerous changes and advancements have taken place. Please check out the new Phoenix Promotions website. For further details call Phoenix Promotions on 677 222 352.

Out About and

Connor

EVERY NOW and then something that little bit special and different comes along that will leave an impression on bar/venue customers, making them want to see that act again. Connor is an excellent male vocalist covering material from the 60s to Present day. He is a versatile performer with both experiences singing with live bands and now as a solo act.

His material ranges from Rod Stewart to the Eagles, ELO

Pat Martin 80’s show

26TH JANUARY - Ian Henry, Interclub, Gran Alicant

27TH JANUARY - Shirelle, Cagneys, La Marina - Sam Curtis, Bar Monte, Los Montesinos 28TH JANUARY - Enigma Karaoke, ODuills, Gran Alicant - Samantha Curtis, Meroil, Catral - Wildcat PJ’s, The Rendevous, Torrevieja

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life music

Compiled by

Eric Taylor DJ (ET’s Disco)

Rommy Baker Orchestra Off Limits: - Big Band Swing Concert Sunday 29th January: 10pm: Mystique Music Bar, Avenida De Madrid, Moraira

THE ROMMY Baker Orchestra will be performing a 60 Years Big Band Swing Concert in the Hotel Esmeralda, Calpe on Sunday 29th January. They will be joined by their vocalist Anna Summer, who is also the vocalist/keyboard player with ‘Bunty and the Beanos’. The Orchestra has been performing on the Costa Blanca since 1990 and play the hits of USA Big bands like, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, and many more of that era – so come along, sit, relax, listen or dance. The concert starts at 7pm – admission 10€ on the door.

For more information – phone: 96 583 4715.

The Nomad - Live Music Show BRUCE IS the incredibly lively singer, blues harmonica and saxophone player with the trademark long black coat, top hat, and stuffed white rat on his shoulder. Previously Bruce specialised in rock and blues music, but now The Nomad - Live Music Show contains a much bigger and wider, range of songs. Bruce can be contacted on: 629 809 638, or via his website: www.nomadshow.piczo.com

BOOKINGS FOR JANUARY Saturday 28th, Bar Delfin, Camping Los Llanos, El Vergel Sunday 29th, Coll De Rates Restaurant (CV715), Parcent: 1.30pm BOOKINGS FOR FEBRUARY Saturday 11th, So What Bar, Av. De Europ, Calpe Sunday 12th, Coll De Rates Restaurant (CV715), Parcent: 1.30pm Thursday 16th, Camping Calpe Mar, Calle Estovenia, 7pm

FROM TORREVIEJA to London it’s full houses all the way for Off Limits. This is a return visit to Mystique so mark your diary now. Last time out the guys won over a full house of Ex-pats and Spanish with a keen blend mixing Rock, Reggae, Blues and Latin, keeping the dance floor full all night long.

Guitar magician Rafa Roposa duels with keyboard wizard

Christian Pearl throughout the evening while drummer Walter and bassist Victor making sure everything rocks tightly. With four singers the vocal blend is assured making CCR’s ‘Cotton Fields’ a real treat.

Off Limits aim to entertain and they really look like they are having fun. They are a band that entertains the eyes as well as the ears. Be there!

The Brink Band Monday Jam Sessions THE BRINK Band Monday Jam Sessions are alive and well and still in Moraira! From Monday 30th January they will be at Café del Mar, Moraira, a lovely setting by the sea, in Cala Andragó just outside Moraira on the coast road to Calpe, where there is easy parking.

The Brink Band comprises Billy Brink (guitar, flute, sax, vocals and harmonica), Janet (keyboards, guitar and sax) and Luc (bass) and Moises (drums). Together with many guest musicians the band has kept Monday nights rocking over the past three and a half years. ‘Greats’ that spar to reach heights of improvisation; rising beginners; and evenings of good music: many local musicians have made their first stage appearance at these jams and some stars from abroad make it a regular stop on their visits: for more information visit www.brink.demon.co.uk or telephone 635 831 922.

GIG GUIDE FOR JANUARY Saturday 28th, So What Bar, Av. De Europa, Calpe (The Brink Duo) Sunday 29th, Jam Session, Steinways Jazz & Blues Club Denia 7pm Monday 30th, Jam Session, Café del Mar, Cala Andrago Moraira 9pm

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.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27jan - 02 feb 2012

Life food

Food Consultant Edwin Cheeseman

I’m game

I’M THINKING of having a sign made for the back of my Land Rover that reads ‘this vehicle makes sudden and random stops’ and not just because of Trudy’s driving either. I ‘accidentally’ ran over a Pheasant the other day even though I had to drive across three fields, two ditches and through a hedge to catch it. The law apparently says that if you ‘accidentally’ run over a pheasant you’re not allowed to pick it up yourself, but anyone following can? No chance of that from what I’ve seen. One person we heard called an ambulance although I’m not sure if it was for her or the bird, I really don’t know what all the fuss is over a few feathers.

Personally I love game of any sort and can’t wait for the new season to start so when we were offered the bag from a nearby shoot of course I said yes. Now a ready plucked and dressed game bird can, and should, cost six to eight pounds. However, if you know how to do it and are

prepared to do it yourself, some real bargains can be had. We were offered 100 brace (that’s 200 birds) in the feather for 50pence each. Quite prepared, on behalf of my staff to pluck and dress the birds ourselves it was too much of a bargain to turn down. The following night in a barn next door to our restaurant, I gave a plucking and dressing lesson to our assembled younger members of kitchen staff. To be fair they were very enthusiastic at the prospect of a night away from the stoves, learning something new and in the barn away from my beady eyes.

Turns out they were a little too enthusiastic as some time later the barn door was opened to reveal what I can only describe as a massive pillow fight and massacre in a bedding factory. Exhausted and covered head to toe in feathers they had, despite the mess, none the less produced six perfectly plucked and dressed pheasants - only another one hundred and ninety four to go.

Earlier in the day I had promised that if they finished early, then of course they could all go home early.

It was obviously much harder than it looks and certainly took much longer than anyone had imagined; “it looks as if it’s going to be a very long night indeed” I said to the now downhearted and groaning bunch, I paused and then said “Unless there is an easier way?” Having learned the correct way to dress a bird and had a bit of practice to boot, I now demonstrated the easier way with the help of a pair of chicken shears. Dip the bird in a bucket of water (to stop the feathers flying) and snip off the head, the feet and the wings and peel off the skin along with the feathers; takes about 30 seconds per bird.

Now snip the skin at the base of the breast and break the bird in two separating the legs from the breast.

Remove the yucky bits but keep the liver and heart. The boneless breasts were grilled to order and the legs were cooked and turned into game pies with the resulting bones making the finest stocks and soups imaginable. You don’t need a gun to get the best from the game season just a friendly farmer or even just a Land Rover.

If you have a question about food email cheeseman@roundtownnews.com

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www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life horoscopes With Venus in opposition to Mars there is bound to be some conflict around this week. When positive and negative blend there is always a grey undefined area; and one dominates the other. Make sure you have your wits about you, and sharpen up your act so that there are no flaws apparent or anything untoward to stop you!

Jupiter is firmly at your side and challenging Mercury, in Aquarius, to a squaring action midweek. Be aware of something in the air, and feel the thrill this brings you as you make a start on the long list of items that have to be dealt with. If not now then maybe never will you have the chance to resolve that which you must.

Mercury’s hit on Capricorn is reciprocated as Saturn in turn looks to the balance and safety of Libra. In an ideal World actions would speak louder than words, but with Mercury’s skill of interpreting and the current need for explanation, words have to do their job; which they will if you just stay focussed and determined.

The pressure has been taken off, and now you can finally concentrate on the job in hand. It has been an uphill struggle, but it has served to show you what you are capable of, and how much you have taken in. Don’t let any rain fall on your parade this week however, as things don’t really turn out exactly as they are planned.

With Venus ensconced in Pisces there is some magic around, and it is there for the taking if you have the temerity. Looking back allows you to see your own achievements, but better still look and learn from what you are about to do, as this could change your parameters and open you up to the real experiences that you need.

Mars is in connection and in retrograde until April 13th, however the delicate balance of truth and consequence are about to take their part in the proceedings. You need to dig your heels in and take a pause eliminating current pressure and showing others that you are not only in control, but for once, one step ahead.

Saturn brings wisdom to a situation whereby you have taken on more than originally meets the eye with a view to broaden your horizons.

The challenge has brought you new ways of seeing things, but resolve is needed and this may be very much harder to achieve under current restrictions and unnecessary pressures.

Everyone breaks the rules sometimes, but you are going against your own emotions and have taken sides. You have to know in no uncertain terms that you will not be appreciated in your efforts which others see as interfering; even though you have nothing but good intentions. Walk away while you can from this no win no lose situation.

Check finances this week as the unexpected expense racks up your spending. There is a developing trend that you put your hand in your pocket, but this means that others, who could well afford to, don’t get to pay their way. Compromise will see you being your generous self but sharing costs straight down the line.

Mercury is waiting for you to get your message out once and for all, then will be the right time to stand by you and support you. Anyone who really loved you would not be treating you like this, and you have stayed silent for some time, hoping to have a solution land at your feet. Trust in Mercury getting through for you this time.

Towards The end of the week Mercury enters into cahoots with a view to show you a clear way forward, and to inspire you, by establishing new methods of communication that are right for now. Have no doubt that things need to be seen from a far different angle, and yet with your pride and determination intact.

Venus enters at the end of the week bringing a ray of sunshine in your life, stirred by current positive Aquarian energies. You are in a very positive frame of mind and this is the right time to plan and organise for the schemes and projects in the future that inspire you and make you feel in control of your developing psychic gifts.

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Kenny corris www.kennycorris.net

Come what may!

MANY READERS ask me to spread the word about Spirit hoping that it will influence their partners, spouses and children; and this includes anyone else who doesn’t believe in Spirit. I cannot make this happen as everyone has the absolute right to their own beliefs and disbeliefs, and forcing unwarranted attention on the rights of those who chose not to be Spiritual isn’t my idea of fun or what I was put on this Earth to do, either. Most people do not believe in Spirit, and yet I am proud on this occasion to be a part of such a minority group.

I do have to admit that I wonder what people actually think I do, and judging the amount of palms that have been thrust into my face, and the sheer number of those who ask where my tarot cards are; many quite clearly do not know what a Medium actually is; or what we do. Representing Spirit for a little over fifty years I have had a wealth of experience with clients from all walks of life, and I have served both them and Spirit, still do, and hopefully always will whilst I have the choice.

Just asking people to believe in something they cannot see is an anathema to many. Yet we do have the ability to appreciate that which we have never seen but must trust is there, nevertheless.

The Atlas and Google Earth cannot lie to me, but therein are countries I have never seen, and maybe never ever will. I have to rely on faith that Wikipedia is telling me the truth, and that Mr. Columbus did reliably ensure that my knowledge is broadened by knowing that the World is round.

Then I wonder if I have been talking to myself all these years? Many non believers may think so, but providing Spiritual Survival is my forte and professional necessity, just as a farmer milks his cows and Vivienne Westwood makes wedding dresses. You get what you are looking for, and you have every right on the way to question and to receive the answer that you deserve so to hear. It is through questions that so much can be learned as answers are given and decisions and judgments can be valued and learned.

I knew very early on in my life that I was able to communicate with dead people. Initially it freaked my Mother out, until she began to realise the absolute truth that I was very happy to do what I did, and that I was getting very good at

Kenny’s diary Mon 6th and Wed 8th Feb: Readings at the Bistro Maya, Albir from 17.00 onwards.

Bookings and further details from Els and her team on: 966 868 213.

2012 THE GOLDEN AGE INTO THE FIFTH DIMENSION: Saturday March 3rd at The Forum Mare Nostrum in Alfaz 10,00 to 5.00. Show with Kenny Corris and Torben Thoger, Mette and Laerke Lund. Advanced Booking at: kennycorris.net or 686 361 594. Tickets 25EUR Bookable Lunch 10EUR. 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 February/ March.

doing it. Thank God she believed in me, and I was very pleased to provide her with evidence of the Spiritual survival of many of her family whom I never met, and who had taken their rightful and just places in the Spirit World long before I was even thought of. I was encouraged and began to demonstrate and work on my abilities forever mindful that I was doing something that everyone could do if they wanted to. Many people have put their Spiritual abilities into their everyday lives and this is usual; comparatively few work to be at Spirits’ side all their life and agree to pass on messages whenever this is appropriate for those who wish to hear it. This is what I do.

In my youth I met with some crazy people who thought that they could work miracles. It never really worked out for them and I put this down to the fact that you have to have two feet firmly placed on the ground, the lack of fear that propels you through life in a Spiritual manner, and the wisdom to know that you are travelling a pathway and will be learning at every stage of the way. It is on this pathway that you will find Spiritual People.

They know very well as I do that on the journey we can so easily fall over, but we can also pick ourselves up and carry on regardless.

Every time I have been challenged by sceptics to prove to them that I am a Medium I ask them to prove to me that I am not, and this is something that they cannot do. Happily I have brought many to Spirit with a clear cut no nonsense approach, a sense of humour, and faith that this is one life on Earth, and that we will experience others, possible and probably easier than our current Earthly sojourn, and commitment.

Let all believe in what they want to, and if Spirituality isn’t their bag, then let them go and believe in something else. One day we will all see who was right, and I won´t have the chance, thankfully, to say, “Told you so!” because I haven’t wasted a breath, rather I have done whatever I could to spread the word to all those who, like me, treasure the connection brought about by the continuity of life, and the Spiritual rewards of the ever after for ever and ever, come what may.

Love & Light... Kenny Corris

Postbag Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com KENNY I can’t see any reason why I shouldn’t have the lottery numbers for the next draw. If I can ask for anything, then why not? I know that I would be able to settle my debts and live a happier life with no more worries?

Jan I. O.K. Jan ask, you have nothing to lose! Personally I find that I am rewarded with riches that are not of the financial sort.

Ask for the numbers to be revealed to you! Most people ask me for the lottery sequences, names of horses and lucky numbers. Come on do you really think if I did know them I would divulge them? I don’t get any information that involves personal gain. It is your right to ask for anything, and I hope you get it. Clearing bills and payments is releasing and would be wonderful. Best of luck, and tell Spirit that 10% is for a donation to a charity of your choice, the remaining 90% will see you through. Go for it!!

If it’s your birthday this week Accept that this slow start to the year is giving you time to make the plans you need to take you through to the new levels of achievement, since they pave the way to where you should be right now.

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

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life tech

with Aunty Virus

Email auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com

‘Sorry... system overloaded Jenny via email asks: HAVE ANY of your readers experienced what we have just found out? We are with Telefónica (or Movistar as it is now called) and have been since 2001. We are paying for 6Mbit ADSL line and discovered the other day that we only have 1/4 Mbit. When we rang to complain we were told, “Oh sorry but the system is overloaded: call back in a day or two.” We live in Los Arenales and have been told it won’t get any better until they enlarge the exchange, which they will not do in the near future. It looks as if it may be cheaper to buy a pay as you go dongle: any other suggestions?

Aunty Says: I am sure most of our readers are getting far less bandwidth than they are contracted for as this seems to be the way in Spain. I am not a big fan of the mobile dongle ADSL solution as it is dependant on the same 3G coverage your mobile phone uses which can be flakey at the best of times. There are a growing number of companies offering wireless ADSL (not to be confused with WiFi) which involves a small box on your roof that points to one of their transmitters. It can also provide phone and TV and negates the need for a fixed landline.

Printer compatability Vic via email asks: DEAR AUNTY. I went home to the UK for Christmas and bought a new Windows7 laptop. My old laptop has XP and I have an HP Photosmart C4280 all in one printer that works fine with XP but I don’t think this printer is compatible with Windows7. My question is, is there a way of connecting it to Windows7 or should I buy a new printer? If there is a way to connect to Windows 7 could you please give me advice on how to do so?

Missing from inbox

Aunty Says: Hello Vic. I had a quick look on the HP website and there does seem to be a driver available from HP. Although Windows7 comes with a huge amount of drivers readily available, it is not 100% complete, and it is always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for a more up to date version. If you’re not sure which version of Win7 you are running then click ‘start and right click on ‘Computer’ and then click Properties and it will say under the ‘system type’ section.

Colin via email asks: DEAR AUNTY. A couple of years ago I discovered that all my Yahoo emails dated prior to June 2005 were missing. I contacted Yahoo Mail who apologised but offered no explanation. They said the emails could not be retrieved. The emails are still missing from my inbox but today when I used the ‘search’ facility I opened up emails received by me in 2002! So the missing emails must be somewhere. Do you have any idea how I can find them?

Aunty Says: I don’t really know the full answer to this Colin but I’m guessing that you are using a email client such as Outlook or Incredimail which will normally store/archive your emails on your computer after they have been deleted from the Yahoo mail servers. If you only use webmail then the only other thing I can think of is that they are stored in a different area other than your inbox.

Is this a scam?

Stuart via the letters page asks: ON TUESDAY 17th I was contacted at home by a Windows Engineer (?) who said my computer had been sending out many error messages.

They said they were calling from Microsoft based in Madrid and asked me to go through various checks on my system (which I followed for a while). However after circa 10 minutes they said they could fix my problems by my spending 172€. I then told them I was signing off. They told me my system would crash in 20 minutes if I did not follow their instructions. I do not know how they got my telephone number. I did not give them any information although they may have been able to extract some from my system. Is this a scam? If so maybe we need to put out a warning.

Aunty Says: Definitely a scam. Firstly Microsoft will never proactively call customers about their computer problems, and secondly, giving anyone remote access to your computer is a very risky thing to do. The 172€ fee may seem like a lot of money for fixing a Windows problem but this pales into insignificance compared to the additional amounts they could extort form your credit card or bank account, and if that scenario isn’t bad enough, they could easily have accessed your email accounts and online banking details. Lists of phone numbers and personal details can be easily purchased on the web, and as nearly everyone has a Windows computer connected to the Internet, these fraudsters can safely assume that we are all potential victims.

Colour Flashlight HAVE YOU ever tried to use your phone’s screen as a beacon of light, only to find it’s just not bright enough? Turn your phone into a versatile flashlight with Color Flashlight, the app that brightens up your phone’s day and leads the way.

Never be caught in the dark without a light again.

LIGHT WHEN YOU NEED IT: WHERE YOU NEED IT Stuck outside with no street light? Color Flashlight helps you out in the darkest of occasions. Use Color Flashlight to find the perfect seat in a dark theatre or find your way around when the power goes out at home.

COLOR YOUR LIGHT Change the color and brightness of your phone’s screen to help guide you where you want to go. Choose from a full range of colors to find your favorite custom-made light. Make fun flashlight effects by tapping on the menu button and choosing effect, color, and brightness.

COOL CUSTOM EFFECTS Have your phone’s screen simulate police light, candlelight, a rainbow, a disco ball, and more. You can even use Color Flashlight to display your own personal message by typing in text, or host your own personal dance party with the built-in strobe light.

Colour flashlight is a really cool app that gives another reason for switching to a smartphone.

For more information or to order your unbeatable android mobile phone package call 2020tel on 966 260 777

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

Gadget Inspector Investigates

The Bang & Olufsen Beosound 5 Encore THIS WEEK the Inspector goes upmarket with a look at the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 5 Encore digital music centre.

Bang & Olufsen was founded in 1925 in Struer, Denmark, and is world renowned for its distinctive and expensive range of audio, video and multimedia products. The Beosound 5 Encore digital music centre certainly keeps up that tradition.

The Beosound 5 Encore is a very elegant design, making it exceptionally easy access to digital music, with a clear, crisp LCD display – and smooth scroll wheel to control things. Designed to compress an entire music library into a more organised space, the Beosound 5 Encore is an all-embracing sound hub that gives owners full control over how they access their music library.

Lossless playback is performed from the media that suits you best. Music can be played wirelessly or by direct connection to an external hard disk, music server, smartphone, or USB stick.

And don´t worry about the format your music is stored in, the Beosound 5 Encore can play them all.

Bored with tedious playlists and finding the music to suit your mood?

No problem, there is the handy MOTS intelligent playlist technology. This clever piece of software captures the unique musical identity of a track, and then uses this to compile a playlist of similar music. No more sitting for hours trying to find that playlist or album you know you put somewhere – the digital equivalent of losing your keys.

And if you just fancy listening to the radio the Beosound 5 Encore offers access to 13,000 international radio

stations. And if you’ve ever been irritated by other online radio stations breaking up, no need to worry in this case – Bang & Olufsen carefully monitors the uptime to ensure there are no drop-outs.

If you happen to be lucky enough to own a BeoSound 5 with BeoMaster 5, you can also extend your music to other rooms in your mansion. What a splendid idea, dahling.

The Inspector’s Verdict: Costing 3,200€, the Bang & Olufsen Beosound 5 Encore is most definitely a considered purchase – considered and then most probably the money spent on a car instead. But if you just must have the ultimate digital music centre then the Beosound 5 Encore is for you – but don´t forget it doesn´t come with speakers or anywhere to store your music, so you´ll be wanting that mortgage extension after all.

WELCOME TO the new weekly editorial piece brought to you by Europa Network, the most well established English Telecommunications Company in Spain.

We are using this space to not only give you updates on any new products or services we are supplying but also some technical handy tips that we hope will help you with any thing telecommunications! What makes you mad, what works for you we want to hear from you!

If you have any questions or seek any advice that you think will be good for this section please write to column@europa-network.com and we will endeavor to discuss topics that are direct from Round Town News readers If you are interested in finding out more about our products please visit our website: www.europa-network.com or call 965 796 736 for more information.

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life tech Welcome to 2012

– The year of the mobile switch on!

By Mark Trowbridge CEO 2020tel SO, WHAT is the mobile switch on I hear you ask? Well 2012 is the year where the number 1 method of connecting to the internet will be via a mobile phone. The numbers really are mind blowing. Last year, 472 million smartphones were sold worldwide. This year, that number will jump to 730 million and staggeringly by 2014 1 billion smartphones are expected to be sold annually. That leads us onto the big question of ‘what is a smartphone?’

In a nutshell, a smartphone is a device that allows you make telephone calls but also adds in features that, in the past, you would have found only on a personal digital assistant or a computer e.g., sending and receiving emails; searching the internet; GPS; etc…

Using and navigating a home computer is now second nature to most of us. That is in fact the same for a smartphone. Using a smartphone is actually no different and I even know an 82-year-old who is happily getting the most from his phone. Mobile phones are not just a part of our daily life but a must have and switching from a traditional handset to a smartphone should hold no fear.

The technology is very similar to using a PC and the advantages of having smartphone technology at your fingertips is something most of want even if we don’t realise it.

SO WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OWNING A SMARTPHONE? Just imagine being able to send and receive emails, search the internet for your favourite web pages, access Facebook, communicate with friends and family worldwide, benefit from literally millions of applications dedicated to your own lifestyle and needs, and all of this at the end of your fingertips, when you need it most.

And it’s surprising how much you do use the applications. Only yesterday I received an email in French. I translated the email in my translation application and replied in French all from my smartphone in a matter of minutes. I don’t speak French and did all that whilst having a drink overlooking the harbour….the harbour I found using my GPS device on my smartphone. This really is the year of the smartphone – don’t forget 472 million people last year can’t all be wrong!

For more information on the ‘Mobile

Switch On’ you can browse the following website: www.mobileswitchon.com All the while remembering that this is the year and the time of the smartphone, and as each year passes, we’re only going to become more

and more dependent on them. So why not start enjoying yours now, rather than later?

See 2020Tel’s advert in the RTN every week for our latest offers.

For more information call 966 260 777.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Life cars Spanish Licences HI BRIAN, like you I am a 74-year-old. When I was 70 I changed to the Spanish license. I found it easy to do, with a medical plus visit to Trafico. At 72 the renewal was easy with the same procedure. I was 74 in August 2011.

The lengthy visit to the medical centre in Torrevieja was a big surprise. The doctor took my photograph and I asked for the papers to take to Trafico - she said you don’t need it, your license will be posted to you and it will be for 5yrs as you passed the medical with no problems. Less than three weeks later my license for 5yrs arrived from Trafico: total cost of renewal 45€. I went to the Centro Medical Centre behind the waterfall near the harbour in Torrevieja.

Brian Bolsover Dear Brian, Thanks for your advice. I took my last medical in May 2011 and the same procedure existed then and I advised this in my column in about June (without looking it up) I personally agree with the medical system used here as it ensures that those who are not fit to drive legally are not allowed to, and those who are fit can do so with the knowledge that they are okay to drive.

In the UK they have a ‘trust’ system where at age 70 for normal licences you complete a form stating that you are fit - no actual physical medicals as far as I am aware. I have not lived there for 34 years now. Being 74 in a couple of weeks, my principle is - from sometimes sad experiences

– ‘trust nobody’. So in the UK they are waffling on about banning drivers when they reach a certain age which to me is discriminating as it will eliminate those who have kept themselves fit all their lives and are still well capable.

The new system here is excellent as it makes it easier for drivers to obtain their new licences after the medical but they must get the procedure correct. For foreign resident drivers legally using their original licences they charge a lot, average 60€, seemingly to quickly pay for the laptop setups they now have for the new procedure.

There is much more detailed information on all motoring subjects in my book. Brian Juan (John) Deller, Malaga, author, ‘Motoring in Spain’ www.spainvia.com.

Tel: 666 888 870 Brian Deller, author, book Motoring in Spain, ISBN No 978 84 611 9278 6. Shops’ addresses in my web site at: www.spainvia.com/bookshopslist.htm

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Brian Deller Author of Motoring in Spain

Club Torrevieja: Classics and Specialists Cars CABO DE PALOS RALLY Sunday 15th January the sun was shining as 15 cars met at the Lo Monte Hotel for a run to the pretty harbour at Cabo de Palos. We ran down the motorway to Cartagena where we turned left and passed through all the oil refineries before climbing over the cliffs and wending our way past all the old iron ore mine workings with their vividly coloured rock formations and slag piles.

The cars dropped down through the village of Portman and past the La Manga Golf Club before reaching the road to Cabo De Palos. In Cabo De Palos we walked around the port before dinner at the Katy restaurant: a very enjoyable day.

JANUARY MEETING Wednesday 18th January was the Monthly Meeting at our base ‘The Cafeteria Marina Club’, two weeks later than normal as it was the Cafeteria’s annual holiday.

The meeting was attended by 21 members who reiterated what a great start to the year it had been with the Innocents day and Rally. Next month’s rally to the Almond Blossom was set for the 12th February and an ‘old’ rule is to be reinstated so that any members that attend rallies in their normal cars (for whatever reason) must drive at the back of the convoy behind the classics.

If you would like to join us please contact us by visiting www.ClubTorrevieja.com, or contact Ron Blackwell on 96 679 1212. Alternatively come along to one of our monthly meetings, the next on Wednesday 1st February at 7.30pm in the Cafeteria, Marina Club, in the International Marina.

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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

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55

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

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

EXCEL AIR CONDITIONING. See main ad on page 11.Tel/Fax (Head Office) 966-897-772.

Mobiles:-680-154-432/676-265675. 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

PROTECTAPET Spains leading pet insurance provider. www. protectapet.eu tel: 965 756 371 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 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, door-to-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:600-552-030/965960-658 www.trans-pet.co.uk

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

BOATING LICENSE NOW, A LEGAL REQUIREMENT In Spain. Serenity Sailing RYA Training Centre, Competent Crew to Yachtmaster, VHF & ICC. Own-boat on sail and power. If you have a yacht or powerboat get qaulified and certified. Contact Richard 0034 633 056 224. enquiries@serenitysailing.com . www.serenitysailin.com

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. 5MINS TO BEACH, AIRPORT, HOSPITAL, GOLF COURSES. BY CAR. ALSO BUNGALOWS , HOMES & PLOTS FOR RENT. CAROL 96 819 24 25 MOB. 626 055 622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com

A.D.LAWTON CONSTRUCCIONES Digger hire, Ground-works, Excavation and Demolition. www. adlawtonconstrucciones.com.

Tel:648 052 911 or 965 770 798

NEED HELP AT HOME? Cleaning, shopping & outings etc.Sympathetic service.call Sandra on 651482106 PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL CLEANING SERVICE for your home or business at a fair price.

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

SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Long established company, own product range. First class training & support. Telephone 606586587

BYTEBACK MICROS computer repairs/upgrades in your home.

Qualified technician. Systems custom built. Whatever your problem call: 965-312-006 or 606-127-424 BYTEBACK MICROS computer repairs/upgrades in your home.

Qualified technician. Systems custom built. Whatever your problem call: 965-312-006 or 606-127-424 PC SOLUTIONS 4U For all your PC needs. Reliable & friendly service. Call Fred 634638664

57

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HGV DRIVERS/ CONSTRUCTION WORKERS WANTED KML ARE CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR: HGV DRIVERS (C+E) AND CONSTRUCTION WORKERS (ALL TRADES) FOR CONTRACTS IN THEUK AND EUROPE FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 01480 469372 OR EMAIL info@ kmlservices.com www. kmlservices.com LOOKING FOR HOUSE KEEPER! for general housekeeping and child minding.

Applicant can live in or live out, must have basic english.

Orcheta and sourrounding areas call: 966 855 312 or 648 097 752.

SPARE TIME, WANT EXTRA CASH? Start earning immediately by becoming an AVON representative. Info: ring Rosh 966785520 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.24ho urhomecareservices.com

ABC AUTOMATION LOOKING FOR WORK Full or Part-time work , can work at home, Quickbook user preferred. Please contact me as soon as possible.

For More Details Email : charles.damier@gmail.com

OASIS GARDEN pool maintenance. Calpe to Javea.

Telephone Martin 669 261 868 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

MR FIXIT: for all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance repairs. No callout. 698 320 434

S.O.S. INSURANCE Car-HomeHealth-Comercial. Funeral Plans and Insurance. Tlf:-966-787123/622-275-561/686-116-297

SOCIETY FOR THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS We buy, sell and exchange just about anything at Spain’s BIGGEST CHARITY WAREHOUSE in Gata de Gorgos in aid of S.P.A.I.N. (Society for the Protection of Animals in Need). HOUSE CLEARANCES, furniture, beds, Rastro, Antiques & collectables, bankrupt stock etc. Collection & delivery service available. Tel 96 575 6215 or 665 653 998 for details.

2 COCKATIELS 2 CANARIES 2 large cages and all accessories. first sensible offer secures. call 672 532 534.

WHEELCHAIR Light, Foldable,150€. Electric Mobility Scooter, SUNRISE MEDICAL 40km range 499€. Both like new!

Tlf:-627-019-403

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 AT MICHAEL’S Several dining sets to choose from in different styles, classic, modern, bamboo,

pine, glass etc. Many with matching sideboards: www. michaels-javea.com AT MICHAEL’S 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 AT MICHAEL’S In February you can get several high quality pieces of furniture for an extra 20% reduction on the already low price! See: www.michaelsjavea.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.

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.

CLASSIC KITCHENS 20 years on the Costa Blanca. Free quote and 3D design call Adrian on: 966865684 / 676699700.

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 9th January 2012 - Monday - 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 12th January 2012 Thursday - New Beginners class 7.30pm - 8.30pm. Intermediate class 8.30pm - 10.00pm. For more information contact Andrea 616 478 157.

PEUGEOT KISBEE SCOOTER FOR SALE July 2011model 50cc - 1400km. €900 Telephone : 966 719 491.

LOOKING FOR A CAR? We have a fantastic selection of LHD and RHD vehicles for sale or exchange for example Renault Clio 1.2, 5 door for only 1,950€, Ford KA 1.3, November 2006, 53,000KMS, FHS only 4,250€.

Khia Carens 7 seater, 2.0 litre CRDi, 57,000kms, FSH, Fully equipped, High Spec model, 11,950€ Tel: 600 726 221/965 687 976 www.fwreurocars.com MAZDA 3 2006 €5990.00.

1.6l saloon sports model FSH. LHD.80000km. ITV till 2014 call :667566998

Cars wanted

Good condition LHD Spanish Cars Wanted for cash 95 – 02 Transfers completed Tlf: 693 859 942 or 650 740 265

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

THOSE FAMOUS LITTLE BLUE PILLS will be available all over christmas. special christmas offer. buy 10 packs of 4 and get 1 pack of 4 free!!! call Tony now on :638352129.

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

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 ELEGANT SEXY SLIM Lady escort available. Home, Hotel, Villa. Region Calpe to Torrevieja.

La Manga. Mazzaron. Tel 693 357 526 GORGEOUS ENGLISH BLOND 45 years, Massage, 1 hour or over night, 15 mins Alicante airport.Tel:-Karen 662-049-021 TORREVIEJA CHINESE SUPER SEXY Young and beautiful. Calle Orihuela Nº60, 2º1 VIAGRA GENERIC weekenders and jellies. Quesada and surrounding area. Derek 685207378

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 600-781-873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

THOSE LITTLE GET YOU UP BLUE PILLS are available from Tony on 638 352 129.

I apologise for not being avaialable for two weeks due to a sudden bereavement in the U.K THOSE LITTLE GET YOU UP BLUE PILLS are now available from Tony on 638 352 129.

ENGLISH LADY 42 Provides various services.For mature gentlemen. Torrevieja.

681-362-442 DAVID TORREVIEJA 24 years old, gym body, very sexy and hard, for full massage for men and couples. Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, call me 678179616 LADIES: enjoy a Friendly and Erotic Spanking in your own home, NO FEES, Torrevieja & surroundings headmaster@live.co.uk VERY SEXY ATTRACTIVE STRICT LADY offering proffessional service for discerning gentleman. call athena on : 683605258 LOOKING FOR COMPANY? Do you want to explore your sexual fantasies with beautiful Brazilian and Oriental ladies?

24 hours, hotel or home visit Telephone 689526354

PLUMBING & HEATING BATHROOM REFORMS TILING - WATER HEATERS - GENERAL PLUMBING. Tel: 630 049 773. email: stevehayward39@yahoo.com www.stevehayward-plumber.eu NORTH COSTA BLANCA SINCE 1996 FOR ALL SHAPES AND SIZES OF SHOWER and bath screens call Don the Showerman on 96 579 2285 or 639 292 081.

Immediate delivery on all products from our stock. See our advert on Page 5 North for a map to our showroom

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 965-725-565 or mobile 676-945-360/ 620-743-048 www. pooltechspain.com

MOBILE/PARK HOMES ON CAMPING PUEBLO IN SAN JAVIER FROM 17,000E CAROL 96 819 24 25 MOB 626 055 622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com PROPERTY FOR SALE mobile home sited at la-pedrera bigastro 2bed 2bath a/c tv internet shed with w/machine fenced plot rent paid till march 2013 €15,000 tel-630888570 MOBILE HOME SITED AT LAPEDRERA BIGASTRO 2bed 2bath a/c tv internet shed with w/machine fenced plot rent paid till march 2013 €15,000 tel-630888570 EASILY MAINTAINED, DETACHED F/F,2 BED VILLA in l´Alberca, Polopde-la-Marina. 249m2 flat plot. Lots of extras. Solarium with 360º views of sea and mountains. Community pool and Gardens, easy and low maintenance. 145,000€ Tlf Lynn: 966-881-048/691-202-307 or email foundation@rtnnewsgroup.com for photographs and more information

PARK HOMES 2 BEDROOMS BOTH EN SUITE FULLY FITTED ON CAMPING PUEBLO . WITH LOTS OF AMENETIES. FULLY FITTED. ON CAMPING PUEBLO . WITH LOTS OF AMENETIES. GOLF COURSES, BEACH, AIRPORT,HOSPITAL,5 MINS BY CAR. WALKING DISTANCE TO SAN JAVIER CAROL TEL 96 819 24 25 MOB. 626 055 6622 EMAIL. haydn47@hotmail.com www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com 2 BED END OF TERRACE in La Nucia on edge of town. Close to all amenities with communal pool and parking €450 p/m + bills. Available long term if desired. Tel: 608 218 629.

ALTEA LA VELLA, COSTA BLANCA Holiday let for 4 people in a 2 bedroomed, first floor, fully furnished apartment. A/C + C/H plus much, much more. Tlf:966-881-048 or email foundation@rtnnewsgroup.com for more information and photographs

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 0034-648102-529 UK Mob 0044-7803-893-719.

Email info@euromove4u.eu 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 SPAIN2UK2SPAIN MAN AND VAN departing Costa Blanca twice a month. Full loads/part loads. Excellent rates Tel Christine 965 571 837/638 261 341 www.spain2uk2spain.com 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

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

LEARN SPANISH ON THE INTERNET with effective one to one lessons. Try them once and see how well they work. Call Martin on 600 400 668 INTENSIVE SPANISH WEEK COURSES FOR BEGINNERS 27thfeb - 5th march and 7-14th of April 2012 .Unique formula in an equally unique environment .For

More information http://tinyurl.com/ CoursesInSpain or 637063003 LEARN SPANISH NOW! PRIVATE LESSSONS Interactive tailor made courses, especially for people with difficulties in learning languages, more information 699256281 or jjmateo72@hotmail.com Benidorm and surrounding areas.

TEACHER OF SPANISH / ENGLISH Spanish / English taught ..All Ages/ All levels experienced qualified teacher. tel: 605719992 BRITISH GRADUATE TEACHER offers Primary/Secondary English Mathmatics. Telephone Margaret Johnson B.Ed. 965-350-516 Mob: 616-660-687

L N B SATELLITES We are a satellite company on the Costa Blanca, we are looking to tidy Spain up. From the lots of television aerials and satellite dishes on the roofs of your houses.

If you can’t get rid of or even moved. for just Euro 15.00 I will do this for you. We also do satellite and aerial installations 1.9.and.2.4m portugese dishes.Phone 626755156. lnbsat@msn.com UKTELEVISION.TV watch British TV channels from anywhere. Easy Setup, Secure Connection. Only €5 per month. Go to www.uktelevision.tv for FREE TRIAL SKY HD SATELLITE receiver with sports package cards, 240 euros plus monthly subs. Can deliver Tel Jeremy 667 235 205 SKYSUPPLIES New Sky HD and Humax receivers from 145€. Full package White cards, LNB`s, remotes, harddrives.

Realignments, advice and backup.

966194013/600899096.

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:965-584-097. www.ccsattv.com info@ ccsattv.com

BRIC - A - BRAC WANTED for dogs home, charity stall on Don Quijote Rastro. tel: John 626 918 833 or Lynn 691 202 307 TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Bric-a-brac into Cash.

Anything! Anywhere! 965-319220/618-165-877 I BUY RECORDS LP’S, SINGLES and cd’s any style, jazz, blues, pop, rock, etc... Top cash paid.

622 750 117 TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Bric-a-brac into Cash.

Anything! Anywhere! 965-319220/618-165-877

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

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Classified Services All Major Credit Cards Accepted - Prices start from 10â‚Ź a week.

Air Conditioning

Book your advert now! 902 118 999 (ext 2)

Builders

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Building Surveying

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Gardening

CarConditioning Hire Air

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Ikea Trips

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27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Sign up, then use it Noel’s world of golf

By Noel Eastwell Teaching Professional Campo de Golf El Plantio 639 730 891

MANY GOLFERS who move to Spain go along to a local golf club after they have settled into their new lifestyle here in our area with a view to joining a club and playing their golf just like they would have done back in the UK. Along with signing up at the local club they join Real Federacion Española de Golf on the recommendation of the golf club. Unfortunately, with the vast majority of golfers this is as far as they go when it comes to being involved with RFEG. Few if any ever play in any of their competitions and find they gradually leave real competitive golf and join a golf society.

Over a period of time they play several matches with their golf societies and may even play in matches against other societies. Their handicaps alter with the golf society according to the societies own method of calculating handicaps. Then comes the time when the golfer realises that society golf is not really where he wants to be and moves to play more competitive golf. This is where they then encounter big problems; their handicaps are all wrong. They no longer play to the handicaps they arrived with. Sometimes this is because they have improved and lowered their handicaps. They enter competitions using their Federation handicap; win; and are the accused of cheating for playing off a false handicap. There is no fun there is there?

The alternative is that they enter the higher level of competition and find they cannot compete because their handicap with their society has increased but the Federation one has not because they have not played Federation approved competitions. That’s usually where the golfer approaches someone like me. They ask me to review their handicaps with a view to getting their Federation handicap increased to match their society one. That course of action is

impossible. The Federation; rightly in my opinion; will not accept society handicap records because they have no guarantee they have been calculated correctly.

The result, unfortunately, is that the golfer is left in no man’s land. He has an incorrect handicap and there is no way of altering it in a realistic time scale. The only way around this predicament is for golfers to play Federation approved competitions; such as RTN’s Lloyds Bank International League; where their handicaps will be altered according to World recognised regulations. It makes more sense surely to play in regulated competitions if you are a keen golfer?

WIN A ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 INCLUDING BUGGY AT THE BEAUTIFUL EL PLANTIO RESORT IN ALICANTE Answer the question below correctly to have a chance to win. The winner of this fantastic prize 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 28TH JANUARY 2012 Where is the US Masters played each year?

A. Florida B. Georgia C. California All answers must be received no later than 5pm on 31st January 2012 to be entered into January’s draw, to be made on 31st January. The winner will be announced in RTN on 3rd February 2012.

Any questions you have for Noel should be sent to golf@roundtownnews.com The golf seasons are now well under way in both Europe and The USA. We have already seen some wonderful performances from the top players on both sides of the Atlantic with perhaps the results of new boy on The European Tour Brandon Grace being the most spectacular. Two wins in consecutive weeks for the player who finished 11th at Tour School is one of the best ways to start a Tour Career. In last week’s Volvo Champions Grace saw off no less than Ernie Els and Retief Goosen in a sudden death play-off. This turned out to be a bitter sweet moment for Els as Grace came through The Ernie Els Academy system in South Africa.

In the space of just a few weeks Grace has risen from a relatively unknown golfer to the top of Europe’s Race to Dubai; indeed Grace did not even have a place in last week’s winners only field of 35 players before winning The Joburg Open the week before. After being ranked 258th in The Official World Rankings just two weeks ago Grace is now inside the top 100. This again proves the strength in depth of golf in Europe at the moment.

Some of the players hoping to follow in the footsteps of Brendan Grace

will be competing in our area of Spain for the next few weeks on The Hi5 Pro Tour. January 31st is the first event on this tour in 2012 with The Pairs Challenge at Altorreal in Murcia. The format will change each day as players chase the 20,000€ prize money. Day one will be better ball format, day two Texas Scramble and day three Foursomes. These formats of play should provide some really exciting golf that can be witnessed free of charge by spectators. After that the tour reverts to normal singles medal play for two weeks before moving to Barcelona for three more events.

When professional golfers compete in pairs events there are usually plenty of birdies and eagles to be seen so go along to Altorreal and enjoy the up and coming talent of European golf at close quarters with all events on The Hi5 Pro Tour open to men and women golfers with a handicap of four or less.

After Altorreal the tour moves a few kilometres along the roads of Murcia to Hacienda de Alamo on 7th February. El Valle is the next port of call on 14th February with Hacienda Riquelme concluding matters in our area for The Hi5 Pro Tour in early 2012 before it returns later in the year. There is some great golf to be witnessed so go along and offer your support if you get the chance, you will not be disappointed.

Golf Club booking hot-line For the best deals on the Costa Blanca and Murcia call 685 538 562 or email rtngolf@roundtownnews.com

GOLF Tips

Use a tee peg whenever you can, even on short holes.

You’ll nearly always get a better strike on the ball.

www.roundtownnews.co.uk

27 jan - 02 feb 2012

Andy Kay

63

The Final Whistle

Stamping down on Mario Did Mario Balotelli intentionally stamp on Scott Parker? Do you know what, I can’t tell you. I’ve seen the incident many times over, from dozens of angles and I can’t work out if he was being naughty or clumsy. What is even more puzzling is how the FA can be so sure that he did connect with Parker on purpose. Remember, there was no outcry from any players on the pitch at the time and no-one on either bench got too worked up about it. It was only when the slow-motion replays started being shown that people got hot under the collar. If the FA is so convinced that the video evidence is that clear, and having handed Balotelli a 4 match ban then they obviously are, perhaps they should also comment about the performance of referee Howard Webb. I like Webb and have no reason whatsoever to doubt his word that he missed the severity of the incident in question. But, certain replays suggest that he had an unobstructed view and worse, was looking clearly at Balotelli from only a few yards away when it occurred. In other words, the FA seems happy to use the same evidence to believe one man but disbelieve another. I’m not sure that’s particularly fair!

Holly hits the heights It’s always exciting, particularly in Olympic year, when an athlete shows medal winning potential early in the season.

One such athlete is pole vaulter Holly Bleasdale who produced a stunning performance in her first competition of the year. Bleasdale cleared 4.87m in Lyon, smashing her old British record by 16 centimetres whilst also moving up to second on the all-time indoor list. Only Yelena Isinbeyva of Russia has ever vaulted higher. Interestingly, the 20 year old Briton is about to start using a longer pole which she hopes will move her in to contention for the world record and of course, Olympic gold in London this summer. Another Briton to come good early is high jumper Robbie Grabarz who cleared 2.34m in Germany recently, putting him top of the current world rankings and third on the UK all-time list behind Steve Smith and Dalton Grant. Grabarz will be in action for Great Britain this weekend in Glasgow while Bleasdale will be competing at the Aviva Grand Prix in Birmingham next month. Both meetings, by the way, are live on BBC Television.

Canny Lanny New England rugby coach Stuart Lancaster has refused to get in a war of words with Andy Robinson after the Scotland coach accused some England players of being “arrogant” and “disrespecting other teams.”

Instead, at the Six Nations Championship launch, Lancaster decided to talk about the values he was trying to bring to his young squad ahead of the Calcutta Cup match next weekend. However, should he ever want to hit back at Robinson, then all he needs do is remind him of his record when he was in charge at Twickenham. Robinson coached England for 22 games.....and lost 13 of them.

Perfect day at the office for ITV Orihuela RFC THIS WEEKEND ITV Orihuela RFC needed a moral boost after last weekend against UCAM Murcia and that is just what they got with both the juveniles and seniors working extremely well as a team.

The juveniles were first up with only 13 players, with numerous injuries after last week’s hard fought win.

They started by putting San Javier under a lot of pressure, but as in the past could not convert it into points, eventually Gabi found a gap in the San Javier defence to go over for his first try of the match. Pablo followed suit, driving over from close range with Victor converting. Before half time Gabi got his second try and Victor converting again to go in at half time 19-0 up.

In the second half ITV Orihuela RFC took full control, running in five more unanswered tries, but only one conversion, running out winners 46-0.

For the seniors against San Javier the home side started off on the front foot but the away side got a

penalty in front of the posts to take the lead. Some excellent defence kept San Javier at bay. After winning a turnover in their own 22, Edu found a gap in the San Javier defence, racing away to score a superb solo try.

ITV Orihuela RFC kept up the pressure on the aways’ defence, rewarded with another excellent try by Edu to go in at half time 10-3 up.

In the second half Orihuela were determined to camp in the San Javier half, but excellent defence work repelled attack after attack - again it was Edu who finally broke the defence with his third try of the game.

ITV Orihuela RFC brought on fresh legs, including yours truly, to push for the final and vital try for the bonus point, which they deservedly got, with Joaquin going over in the corner after an excellent 20 plus metre pass from second row Chima to set it up, after excellent work in the build up from the forwards.

This weekend, Saturday 28th January, the seniors take

Fishing Maggots End by

David Hoare 968 199 279

THIS WEEK’S match was the 4th and final round in the Presidents cup series at the Rio Segura Murcia.

Well, after the rain, the bank was a quagmire again. The last peg by the road bridge was not put in as it was that bad. The river was flowing a bit quicker than normal due to the rain and this certainly affected the fishing, as float fishing was ineffective. Again this week the better weights came from the top end by the crystal bridge.

The workmen are still busy on the far bank and it looks like they are putting the large pipe under the path as the lorries taking soil away are continual. We still may have several months of fishing (with a bit of luck!) If anyone has any details as to the programme of events to achieve the cleanup, would they please email me and I will put it in the paper.

TOP RODS ON THE DAY 1st Mick (The Arsenal) Hill fishing the pole using

corn with 7.70 kilos 2nd Bill (The Master) Readefishing the feeder using maggot with 6.64 kilos 3rd Marlene (The Sweetie Lady) Hutchinson fishing the feeder using corn with 6.38 kilos PRESIDENT’S CUP FINAL RESULTS Bill Reade with 12 points Dave Hoare with 17 points Dave Hutchinson with 20 points Well done to Bill: I believe this is the third year in a row that he has won this cup.

PLEASE NOTE The club does have some vacancies at present and 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 3rd round of the Abbey Angling Cup was fished on the Eden Canal on the 17th January on

Fishing

La Marina

Fishing Rods, Reels, Floats Line, Hooks, Nets, etc + Many accessories. Fishing Tackle. Maggots available.

SHOP OPEN

15% DISCOUNT ON ALL PURCHASES OVER 50€ Avd. Europa, LA MARINA La Marina Market Thurs Montcayo Tuesday & Saturday Lemon Tree Sunday Market Tel Ken: 648 134 465 New Shop: 966 189 969

on Novelda away, kicking off at 4pm in Elche.

On 24th -26th February ITV Orihuela RFC will have their usual stand at the ‘This is Spain Exhibition’, La Zenia Hotel, supporting The Butterfly Children at stand number 7.

There is a new rugby union supporters’ bar in Rojales, The Steak House in Rojales, showing all televised rugby games on Sky Sports and free-to-view channels. This weekend is the LV Cup on Friday night and Saturday, also on Saturday the Saxons v Irish Wolfhounds.

The club trains Tuesday and Thursday at the Miguel Hernandez University for the juveniles and seniors starting at 8.30pm; juniors Tuesday and Thursday at 6.15pm: 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)

For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 or email: anglerstogether@hotmail.co.uk a very cold and wet morning.

The heavy rains from the past few days had not affected the flow of the water, but we did have a very heavy storm whilst we were fishing the match that caught a lot of us out as we made a dash to get the brollies up.

The fishing does seem to be getting harder, with Mullet and Bleak making up the weights.

1st Alan (The Chairman) Reid with 3.620kg fishing the pole and feeder using maggot and bread 2nd Terry (Swing ‘Em) Screen with 3.360kg fishing pole using bread 3rd Bill (The Master) Reade with 2.780kg on the pole and feeder using maggot and bread Members are reminded that renewal fees are now due and the AGM is on the 30th January at 7.30pm at the Abbey Tavern.

These and all details are available at www.abbeyangling.com or from the Match Secretary Terry Screen 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 photo-page, NIE and insurance.

THE NEXT MEETINGS ARE Friday 10th February at 12pm at Mary’s Bar, Campoverde (near Pilar de la Horadada): Saturday 11th February at 12pm at The New Royal Bar and Restaurant at El Alamillo: (opposite the sea-front between Isla Plana and Puerto de Mazarron).

FC Torrevieja news

AFTER THE events of the last week or so when Torry announced they were in financial difficulty due to a big cut in council funding and the townsfolk not giving the anticipated level of support to a successful football team, action has been taken to reduce expenditure and players can leave if they can find another club. So far Torry have lost Nico and Petu and others may follow. Last Saturday they were unluckly to lose 2-1 at Llosa and on Sunday at 5.00 pm face Eldense at home.

Torry need your support more than ever so be there if you want a football club in Torrevieja which plays at a reasonable level to follow. Get behind them now !.