RTN North Edition 582 by Round Town News

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north EDITION Building community bridges Read about local businesswoman’s Maria Jose ambitious plans to integrate foreigners into the decision making in Javea. • p5

Your English Newspaper

Issue 582

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Calpe in corruption crisis by Jack Troughton

Magic of Christmas Join Bay Radio next Thursday as they bring much needed Christmas cheer to children from the Preventorio de Gandia. • p12

Great graphics are key to good business Karla Darocas takes a look this week at how your business can make a lasting impression with high quality graphics. • p29

Are you covered if the sun don’t shine?

More invaluable information from guest writer Michael Rushe about renting your property. This week he takes a look at buildings and contents insurance. • p31

Meet the RTN Golf Club Agents

Introducing the RTN Golf agents, Mike Probert and Dennis Jordan. • p62

Mayor Ximo Tur

See page 17

CHAOS REIGNS at Calpe Town Hall as the crisis grows over allegations of generous backhanders being paid in a multi-million euro scam centred on the resort’s rubbish disposal. Mayor Ximo Tur is clinging to power but faces a stormy council meeting tonight (Friday) as former allies prepare a political onslaught: a vote of no confidence in his regime is expected at any time. The BLOC politician dismissed three Partido Popular councillors – former mayor Javier Morato, Juan Rosella and Fernando Penella – over their alleged involvement in fraud. However, a week ago the remaining five PP councillors resigned from the ruling alliance is what was described as a show of “solidarity”. Mr Tur came to office after a local government coup in October 2008 – when backed by the PP and a social democrat, he overturned PSOE Mayor Luis Serna’s regime, in which he sat as Number Two; an alliance forged following the 2007 elections. And making the situation more complicated, his one time socialist allies are also angered at being denounced over Mr Tur’s claim they did nothing to prevent the ongoing corruption involving the waste disposal company Colsur. The Murcia-based company, its owner Angel Fenoll and others were already being investigated by the anti-corruption prosecutor over the notorious Brugal case said to involve Orihuela Town Hall. Attention turned to Calpe last month and revelations concerning a waste disposal contract signed by the town hall with Colsur in 1998 by the former PP mayor. The allegations centre on the transportation of rubbish to Orihuela and the fraudulent inflation of the weight of the waste being ferried south, along with a system of double invoicing. A new report suggests the inflated figures soared after 2006, when Colsur was said to have “invented” more than 30,000 tonnes of waste, rising to more than 56,000 tons last year. continued on page 3

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10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

U3A Moraira-Teulada

Continued from front page Mr Tur, who still has the backing of social democrat Antonio Romera, and former PP councillor Pedro Jaime Fernandez – who resigned from the party over the scandal – has admitted the Calpe council is in havoc. However, he has refused to reinstate the trio implicated in the Brugal case. “It is impossible, while respecting the principle of presumption of innocence, to reconsider the decision to remove them.” And he said the remaining councillors had failed to think about Calpe’s citizens when they resigned. It is understood tonight’s meeting could see a proposal for their payments for being part of the governing body be ended – in itself likely to cause a walk out. REGRET Mr Tur has said he has examined the documents linked to the case and it was simple to see what had taken place. He alleged: “My only regret is that this was not undertaken earlier.” Meanwhile PSOE leader Mr Serna has criticised Mr Tur for allowing what he described as “24 months of lawlessness and corruption” to continue. He said the mayor had been extremely vocal in criticising the PP while in op-

U3A Moraira-Teulada: General Meeting: Monday, 3rd January, 2011. The venue for this meeting is Salon de Banquettes, Avenida Mediterraneo, Teulada, the doors will open to Members at 09.45 and the meeting will start at 10.30. Members will be able to join Groups and find out about both Travel and Cultural events. Members will also be able to renew their memberships for 2011 at this meeting. We will hold an extra Renewal Day on Monday, 17th January, 2011 at the Espai La Senieta in Moraira from 10.00 to 12.30. For further information please contact the U3A President, Ann Colclough on 965 747 343 or visit www.u3amoraira-teulada.org

Two die in storms Billboard news

position but did nothing to investigate alleged “irregularities” since June 2007, after the local elections. Independent councillor Antonia Avargues, who plans to launch an independent green party in Calpe for next May, described the whole situation as “incredible”. She told RTN: “It is time to clean up Calpe. Everyone is absolutely sick to death of allegations of corruption and at a time when everyone is struggling

to make a living, tired of stories of fat cats apparently bleeding the town dry.” And she believed inflated invoices covered 7 million euros of overpayments, yet it appeared over ten years invoices had never been questioned. Calpe owes the banks more than 60 million euros and she said the situation over the rubbish was “very complicated” but all the papers were in front of a judge who had yet to make any rulings.

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A 31-YEAR-OLD man died last week when lightening entered the window of a bar and hit a TV, which then exploded. The incident took place in Jaén. A nine-year-old boy has also died after being swept away in a flood in Ciudad Real. The

boy was with his father and brother in a car. Storms also left a group of 32 isolated last Monday when a river washed away a bridge in Ciudad Real. The authorities took several days to figure out how to get to the stranded group.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Doctors inpay compensation after failing to diagnose cancer TWO DOCTORS in Murcia will pay €188,000 in compensation to a woman whose cancer they failed to detect. The woman had tests performed on a breast lump and was told that there was no cancer and she needn’t come back for a year. Eight

months later she went for a check-up with the National Cancer Association, and a biopsy showed the lump to be cancerous. The woman had to undergo an emergency mastectomy. The gynaecologist and radiologist who attended to the woman initially, reportedly did not prescribe the normal test used to detect malignancies, according to the court. The court ruling ordering the doctors to pay compensation comes after a lower court originally dismissed the case in January.

Costa Blanca Campaign hits the supermarkets AS RTN reported in last week’s paper, the Costa Blanca promotional campaign launched by the Costa Blanca Tourism Office in association with HOSBEC, the hotel and travel agency organisation in the province, has had some very positive feedback since dozens of posters were placed in train stations up and down the country. If you are returning to the UK for Christmas, look out for the Costa Blanca posters when you do your Christmas food shopping because the posters have, this week, been placed in many of the four major supermarkets. The campaign posters have been placed in Morrisons, Waitrose; Tesco and ASDA stores in Manchester; Birmingham; Glasgow; Doncaster; Newcastle; Leicester; Derby and Cardiff and it is hoped that more than 5.3 million people will see them during the coming months. Travel agencies will be the next target and will have posters and tourist information for all potential Costa Blanca clients when they book their summer holidays after Christmas.

The posters are now on display in UK supermarkets

Smoking ban amendments continue

The fight from the Spanish Government to introduce tougher anti-smoking legislation for the New Year continues, with the Partido Popular attempting to block parts of the legislation in the Senate. The PP approved an amendment which would allow for the creation of smokers zones of up to 30% in bars, and want the requirements for the establishing of a smokers club to be weakened. An amendment to delay the whole package until July next year was also approved. The Minister for Health, Leire Pajín is insisting however that the Government will not accept the amendments from the Senate and that the legislation will proceed as is, to bring in the new rules from January 2.

70th birthday celebrations

SEVENTY GUESTS attended a very special 70th birthday party on 9th November with Eileen Jackson, a wellknown figure in Marina Alta and especially familiar to the members of the Cardenal Beluga Theatre Group as she is their dance director. The venue for the party was The Hillside in La Marina, where guests were treated to Sausage and Mash! Compere Tommy gave a resumé of Eileen’s life and career that spanned her first stage appearance aged two, to various tap and soft shoe performances on the boards. Maria Mosley, Chairman of the Theatre Group, presented Eileen with a digital camera from her friends and a beautiful cake was made by Molly Smith, Wardrobe Mistress. The evening included dancing to music through the years and members of the Theatre also contributed to the entertainment. After the party, Eileen and her husband Bernard flew to UK to celebrate her birthday with family.

Building community bridges EXPATS HAVE an important part to play in the modernisation of one of the Marina Alta’s busy coastal towns says determined politician Maria Jose Sueiras. She aims to integrate foreigners into the decision making in Javea and forge links between the community and town hall. A busy married mother-of-four, Maria Jose is a successful businesswoman and a hard working member of the Partido Popular in the town. She is a member of the conservative party’s executive and is co-ordinating the expatriate vote for the local elections in May next year. And she believes a refreshed and integrated PP is the key to making real and beneficial changes in Javea. Passionate about politics and the community in which she lives with her family, Maria Jose said Javea needed a “majority party” to lead proposals for change rather than the ongoing alliances between parties where everyone was fighting for “personal benefits and the town gets nothing.” She believes a crucial step in integrating the expatriate community was to have a bilingual person in every town hall department, and additionally a full time councillor working solely for the benefit and support of councillors – figures show around 55% of Javea residents are non-Spanish. In a unique move, she aims to have the town hall undergo the ISO 9002 Quality Assurance ranking. This is already established in her own company. It involves an independent annual audit and is totally transparent to allow the public to scrutinise the local authority’s ongoing performance. Maria Jose herself is bilingual and comes from outside Javea. “I am totally ‘clean’ and don’t have any ‘hidden agenda’. I completely know what the English in Javea want to change and need support with.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Christmas Fair at Ciudad Patricia

CHRISTMAS FAIRS are all the rage at this time of year, but here are the details to a very special one. For five years, Ciudad Patricia in Benidorm has been having a Christmas Market. It has gone from strength to strength and is very well known in the area. You would naturally expect stalls such as Christmas decorations, Christmas cards, jewellery and candles to be at a Christmas market and so they will be, along with other traditional offerings. But how about a butchers stall, a bakery stall, an Indonesian saté specialist, fashion stalls including handmade knitwear and lots more! Nearly 50 stalls will be there and even companies as diverse as Prominent Maria Jose the riser armchair and “I am a businesswoman with four profitable businesses scooter specialists, will throughout Spain, all serving the English community. I know how to balance the books and make people responsible for their actions.” She told RTN: “All the English residents of Javea have the same problems as the Spanish, South Americans, and everyone else who lives here. “There are several political individuals that are taking advantage of the expatriates by saying they will look after their issues – we all suffer from the same problems in the community and the town hall.” To contact Maria Jose email javea.pp@gmail.com

demonstrate their products and let you try them out. There will be free coffee and complimentary Gluhwein and Oliebollen, the traditional Dutch cakes with raisins. And we must not forget Father Christmas, who naturally does not want to miss out! He will be there between 11.00 and 13.00, ready to greet children and adults alike, and he asks you to bring along your Christmas lists for him to take back to Lapland. So for a fun filled atmosphere, Christmas music and a warm, glowing feeling inside come along to the Christmas Fair at Ciudad Patricia, located at Calle Rumanía 26, this Saturday, 11th December 10.00 – 15.00. Ciudad Patricia is well signposted, easy to find, and less than two minutes away from the Benidorm Palace.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Government angry at air traffic strike AIR TRAFFIC controllers were slated by politicians at the ceremony to celebrate the 32nd anniversary of the Spanish Constitution in the Lower House of Parliament last Monday. The Spanish Prime Minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, attended the ceremony along with members of the government and official state institutions. José Bono, The speaker for the Lower House commented on the recent air traffic control strike, saying that he regretted that a certain “group of individuals” abandoned their duties in order to “challenge the state, thereby causing serious negative consequences for many Spaniards and Spain itself”. Bono said that “the only people to blame” for the chaos are the air traffic controllers who resorted to “blackmail” in order to de-

fend their “privileges”. He continued to say that “they have failed on this occasion and anyone who tries such action in the future will similarly fail”. Spanish pilots will fly at Christmas Spanish pilots have confirmed that they won’t strike over the Christmas period. Pilots are at loggerheads with the government over working hours for themselves and their crews. The pilots’ union SEPLA and the Development Ministry had scheduled a meeting for last week, but the Ministry delayed the talks, saying they required more time to prepare. SEPLA has confirmed that they will wait for the talks, which will now be held on 14th December.

Queues in El Prat airport in Barcelona

Educational standards are average in Spain

New flights from Málaga to London BRITISH AIRWAYS will start a new route from Málaga to London City airport on 7th June, 2011. There will be four flights per week during the summer and reports state that a one-way ticket will cost from €76, including taxes. The route will be operated by BA’s subsidiary, BA City Flyer.

Andalusia, the Balearics, Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla were below average

THE OECD’S latest PISA study (Programme for International Student Assessment) shows Spain with 481 points for literacy, compared to the global average of 493. The survey tested half a million teenage students, in more than 70 economies with two-hour

exams to ascertain skills in maths, literacy and students’ ability to handle digital information, amongst other things. Within Spain, Murcia showed average overall results, and Andalusia, the Balearics, Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla below average.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Charity success

By Jack Troughton HARD WORK by volunteers and the support of customers has made 2010 a vintage year for the Original Charity Shop and Library. The Javea-based charity has made a total of €55,000 in donations to chosen organisations – its most successful year Roger Dawes, chairman of so far. At a recent meeting, the volunteers had decided to make Javea Royal further donations and reach the “brilliant” total for the year. British Legion, President of the Friends of the Children of EMAUS, Carole with shop Saunders accepted a €2,000 cheque for the youngsters being volunteers was cared for in special homes, and June Harris was given a further presented with a cheque for €1,000 to help fund the work of the Javea Feral Cat Association. €1,000

Memorial service

MORE THAN 100 people attended the memorial service to the late John Rooks at La Fustera Church, Moraira. Father Robin Carter presided as family and friends remembered John, a member of both Benitachell and Javea bowls clubs, and the Autos y Espana and Wanderers camping and caravanning clubs. A closing collection raised more than €372 and the money will be donated to the MABS Cancer Support Group. John’s family and friends Roger and June Davis wish to thank those attending the service for their support. They said he would be sadly missed.

Cars restricted from Alicante centre

A NEW system to cut the number of cars in Alicante city centre will come into operation on 1st February 2011. Only residents will be allowed to take their cars into the historic centre and any non-resident caught driving or parking in the zone will be fined. Cameras will identify number plates to help police track down any unauthorised vehicles.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Stop nail biting with Fast Track Hypnosis

Alan Gilchrist

“Nail biting is a common habit, particularly with children, and there are many reasons why a person bites their nails, the skin around them, or picks their fingers” Most nail biting cases start during childhood and become a habit which may continue to be a problem as the person grows up. People who bite nails find they often do it whilst completely unaware of what they are doing; it has become an unconscious habit. The habit may have started due to: • Nerves, tension or anxiety • A habit from early years • Being copied from parents • Using it to relieve stress Whatever the reason a person has for starting to bite their nails it can be made worse by stress or anxiety. There are many reasons why they want to stop: • It is annoying to their partner. • Their fingers/nails are now going to be on show e.g., they may be getting married and are having their rings photographed, etc. • Embarrassment. • Some nail biters indulge in their habit with such intensity that they are constantly biting them down to the quick, causing them to bleed, and resulting in severe pain and discomfort. If the biter does persist doing this it can result in • Split and fractured nails. • Bleeding and scaring around the nails. • Deformed nails • Infections (in the nails and possibly the mouth and/or gums) The are many methods people will try to quit biting their nails such as putting sticking plasters over the tops of their fingers, wearing gloves, applying ‘stop biting nail polish’ and more! In the end it all comes down to will power and retraining the mind to treat the nails with the respect they deserve and caring for them correctly.

FAST TRACK HYPNOSIS IS IDEAL TO HELP THE CLIENT STOP NAIL BITING Nail biting or picking is the only treatment where I automatically give a follow up session free of charge. This is simply due to the fact that the client will not see any immediate results at the end of the first session. Their nails are exactly the same length at the end of the session as they were at the start! On occasions I have had clients phoning me two or three days after the session to tell me their nails haven’t grown yet, even though they are no longer biting them! I have to emphasise to them that it takes time for their nails to grow! Nail biting and finger picking are habits that are quite easy to treat using Fast Track Hypnosis, regardless of the number of times the client ‘decided’ to stop by himself or herself and failed! The simple reason for this is because in the past they made a conscious decision to quit biting for what is, in actual fact, a subconscious action. Nail biting is ‘unconscious’ - some people do it without even noticing. So when they make a ‘conscious’ decision to stop nail biting or picking, it rarely succeeds - that is why Fast Track Hypnosis can help. Fast Track Hypnosis is ideal for helping people who want to stop biting their nails or picking them once and for all! It can help change their behaviour patterns and make the choice to stop nail biting a very real one. By tapping into the subconscious and putting in positive suggestions, the client no longer wants to bite or pick them; the habit disappears. A CD is also provided to reinforce all the suggestions that are given on the session. The final result is the client enjoys healthier nails. “Hi Alan, I want to thank you for helping me to stop biting my nails (and the skin around them). I have been doing this for over 30 years since I was a young child. It has caused me so much embarrassment throughout my life, in my personal life

The Costa Blanca’s Top Hypnotherapist

Nail biting is a common habit, but help is at hand

and also at work. I am a teacher so my chewed fingernails were always on show. Now, thanks to your services I have been able to stop and I do actually have ‘fingernails’. Thanks for everything. Edward...” Alan holds his Fast Track Hypnosis Stop Smoking and Weight Control Sessions as well as personal problems in Cabo Roig, Guardarmar and Benidorm. For an appointment, brochure or free of charge initial consultation on your particular problem, contact Alan Gilchrist on 659 229 408. Or visit www.alangilchrist.com or www.thegastroband.com, www.fitnosys.com

Library and Three Kings for the coast

The Three Kings will be on the coast in January

by Louise Clarke THE SPOKESMAN and Councillor of Orihuela opposition party CLR (Centro Liberal Renovador), Pedro Mancebo, is delighted that his proposal for a library on the coast has been accepted. RTN highlighted his proposal three weeks ago and last Tuesday, following his motion at the Town Hall’s monthly ‘pleno’ meeting, his proposal was approved by an absolute majority. Pedro told RTN: “A library would serve many purposes and not just the lending of books. It would be a central point where residents could meet, WiFi could be offered to enable people to bring their laptops, the daily newspapers could be available to browse through, a childrens’ corner with perhaps a story teller; the list is endless.” He proposed that the building should also house an auditorium and a theatre, creating a multi-cultural space and an international artistic environment in Orihuela Costa. Pedro added: “With the acceptance of this proposal the CLR achieves its aim of developing projects that mean a real investment for the community.” CREDIBILITY However, as much as this is a positive move on behalf of the Orihuela Town Hall, don’t expect the foundation stone to be laid any time soon. Pedro commented: “We expected the expenditure for the library to be included in the budget for 2011, but this is unfortunately not going to happen in the short term future

as the budget for 2011 has not yet been presented by the PP governing party.” And if this year’s budget presentation is anything to go by, we won’t see it until at least the summer. Pedro added: “This important document should be ready by the end of October but it is most likely that the it will not even be presented until later in the year, especially as the PP will be quite busy planning the local elections and trying to recover some of its lost credibility after the outbreak of the Brugal corruption case, where half the PP governing team is being investigated by the Orihuela Courts.” THREE KINGS PARADE Pedro concluded hopefully: “It will probably be the CLR who will put this project into practice and will present the budget for 2011 if the result of the local elections in May confirms the collapse of the PP in Orihuela.” At the same ‘pleno’ meeting, Pedro also asked for a traditional Three Kings parade on the coast and the Town Hall has now confirmed that they will in fact be organising a parade in Orihuela Costa.” Pedro commented: “The CLR had hoped that more Christmas activities would have been organised for our residents in Orihuela Costa, for example a pre Christmas parade for the children which would have provided free advertising for the local businesses and perhaps a “best decorated house competition”. Hopefully, the Three Kings Parade will bring a little bit of Christmas spirit and cheer to the coast.” RTN will have more information on this parade nearer the time of the event.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

The magic of Christmas

The party starts on Thursday 16th December

by Jack Troughton BAY RADIO’S annual party for the youngsters of the Preventorio de Gandia keeps the spirit of Christmas alive with this eagerly anticipated treat. The Costa Blanca’s top radio station is once again staging the party for the children on Thursday 16th December at CD Javea’s football ground between 11.30 and 17.00. The excited kids and some of the nuns and volunteers that care for them will be bussed down the coast for some timely festive fun – including slap up party food, a host of entertainers, a bouncy castle, and the real star, Father Christmas with a sack packed with goodies. Bay’s Andy Stammers told RTN: “I guess you could call the annual orphans’ party as something of a tradition with us and we try and do everything to make their Christmas special. “We have been supporting the Preventorio for three years and during that time have generated more than €28,000, which has allowed us to install central heating and hot water in the home, maintain the gas tank and support the youngsters themselves on an ongoing basis.”

He said around €6,000 had already been raised this year and the appeal was going well. “But we really do need more money because of the crisis, the numbers at the home have swelled and gone from 32 kids to 45, aged between three and 14-years-old.” HELP Andy added: “They all desperately need our help to maintain not only the building, but also their personal welfare.” He said Bay was appealing for people to buy an extra present while out Christmas shopping or to make a financial donation. Presents can be dropped off at The Christmas Shop, just past KFC in La Nucia, or at the Bay Radio studios in Javea – while details of how to make a financial donation were on the Bay Radio website www.bayradio.fm Andy said the station aimed to give each child a present at the party, one for Christmas Day and another for Three Kings. “We are overwhelmed by some people’s generosity in these difficult times – and several members of the public have already made substantial donations,” he said. Bay Radio is also running an ‘on air’ charity auction for its listeners to help boost the appeal fund.

A winning Advent Calendar BayRadio are running an Advent Calendar during the breakfast shows for La Marina from 1st December to 24th December, where listeners phone in to answer a question, then enter in a daily draw for the prize. They also have a 30 second advert from 1st December to 5th January,

detailing events, and promotions at La Marina over Christmas.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Thank you from AECC ON BEHALF of the Torrevieja and the Vega Baja branches of Associación Española Contra el Cancer (AECC) I would like to thank the organisers and everyone that took part in this weekend’s Santa Run in Torrevieja. Despite the cold weather on Sunday morning, a large number of men and women, plus children and dogs, donned their Santa outfits to raise money for the cancer charity. Can I also thank and praise ‘Just Brass’, who provided the much-appreciated musical entertainment for the event in less than perfect conditions. Thanks to you all. Mike Bissett AECC Press Liaison Officer)

A frosty reception ON BEHALF of the Rojales Pantomime group I would like to apologise to all the people that supported us in the freezing conditions of the theatre. We were promised that the heating system would be sorted out but as you will know, that was not the case. The back stage was just as cold as the front of house. It is such a pity when we have worked so hard to put on this show for charity and the Town Hall do not do their part by getting some heating on. To all those who managed to freeze their way through to end, thank you and we hope you enjoyed the show but sorry to all the ones who could not stay to face more cold in the second half. Christine Smith (member of the group)

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Sewing for the Olympians WE HOPE to interest RTN readers in our project to produce 14,000 pennants, made by numerous people, to give to the Olympians/Paralympians who will attend the 2012 Olympic Games. Perhaps anyone who enjoys arts and crafts and sewing might have a go? Details may be found at www.quilts4london.org.uk or email Deborah Crowe at crowe.k@sky.com We are all working on a voluntary basis to get this project up and running and eager ‘stitchers’ are welcome. Deborah Crowe

An idiot’s choice WE AT FAG have been quiet of late as the ‘We Will Save You No Matter What do gooders’ have left us alone but Pilar Peon changed that. Once again they moan about going into bars and restaurants where there are smokers, obviously ignoring the sign outside saying ‘smoking allowed’. Your choice! You say that you miss out on many good restaurants and bars but they are being kept open by the 25% of smokers; your 75% cannot keep the limited non smoker’s establishments

with enough trade to sustain them. We do not dictate to anyone where they can go, we abide by the rules of the house, unlike you who say that we should not even stand by the entrances to have our smoke. It is not law yet so please do not count our fag ends before they are smoked. You can call us what you like just give us the FREEDOM OF CHOICE. Yours (going to a smokers’ bar tonight with a free BBQ where there will be even more smoke), The members of FAG

Go back or get a life! I READ your mail column with interest and wring my hands in shame of the ‘whingeing Brits’ that live on the Costas, brought to bear by Mr A Smeaton complaining about Via Park Three and noise levels. These people obviously do not know how to enjoy themselves. I only write this as I saw one of the ‘whingers’ in action outside his property, trying to stop a motorist driving away by moving his car closer and closer to the guy that had parked outside his house, opposite Via Park Three. He and a lot like him have nothing better to do than complain about others: they and people like them give the Brits a bad name. If they do not accept the lifestyle, go back to where they are most happy, watching the 650 UK MPs making rules every day to give the likes of the Smeatons and friends more and more to complain about - which will obviously make the whingers happier. Go back or get a life! C Capper

The mindlessness of owners RESPONSE TO a letter regarding dog owners: Sadly, Fran Frith was wrong in claiming that only a minority of dog owners allow their animals to cause trouble. That is the usual excuse that is trotted out. The volume of excrement on pavements and verges is not down to the irresponsibility of just a few. I have been a jogger for years and see it happening most days, sometimes furtively, at other times brazenly. And as a jogger I can certainly bear witness to the

aggression of dogs and the mindlessness of their owners. And like many other people I have to endure the barking of neighbouring dogs and the indifference of their owners… The earlier letter from Dave of Balcones, listing ‘10 rules for dog owners’ was excellent and very apt. I would like, however, to add a further issue: if I were to walk into a restaurant with a goat or a pig in tow, there would be uproar. Why, then, is it deemed acceptable for dogs to be brought into eating places?

In other areas of their lives many dog owners may be responsible citizens and would be horrified not to be considered respectable. I have friends who fall into that category. But where dogs are concerned different values are applied and the judgment of the owners as to what is acceptable behaviour, is distorted. The reality, as yet unacknowledged, is that dog ownership has become a blight on modern society. Terry Cook, Javea

Useful to keep us in touch

JUST A quick note really to say thanks for the information in RTN. We’re not full time residents in Spain and getting RTN every week is useful to keep us in touch with what’s happening at ‘Your End’. We’ve only been receiving RTN for few weeks after finding a copy left on bench somewhere! The last couple of articles on ‘speaking the lingo’ properly, have been a real eye opener, Thanks, Jane !... very interesting! Lots of other topical stuff too! Roj n’ Maz Duffy, Preston, Lancs

They need our help

I WAS saddened to hear about the death of Chance, one of the first horses rescued by the Easy Care Horse Rescue Centre. Sue and Ron Weeding and all those involved show great care and commitment towards horses in desperate situations. In this huge undertaking, Easy Care Horse Rescue Centre needs our full support and although they no doubt will face totally unrealistic expectations, demands and opinions, the work they do is invaluable. Linda Thompson

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Shelters take the prize by Jack Troughton MEMBERS OF the Women InBusiness Club are dedicated to ensuring Christmas is celebrated across the Costa Blanca at shelters for the victims of domestic violence. At last month’s successful Calpe exhibition they staged a ‘reverse Santa’ where toys are handed to Father Christmas to be wrapped and opened later by youngsters forced to flee with their mums from the family home. Small gifts of toiletries and a few “celebratory bottles” are also purchased for the women at the shelters. The exhibition, which celebrates businesses run by members, also raised €3,200 for the club – which can put between €10,000 and €15,000 into its coffers each year – to continue its support of the women’s shelters. And WIBC chair Susanna Mace explained how money was spent improving conditions at the shelters – the club has recently refitted a kitchen – and giving women a ‘leaving pack’

A WIBC Christmas

as a starting block to a new life. She said it was actually presented when women arrived so it was looked after and kept safe. “It contains everyday items such as bedding, towels, pots and pans. When they arrive they have nothing, they have just run away from their problems.” Susanna said WIBC also advised women what to do in a crisis with information available in English, Spanish, Dutch, German and French. November’s exhibition also saw prizes scooped in a

Man’s life saved by off-duty policeman A 41-YEAR-OLD man who lost is balance and fell into the path of an oncoming metro train in Madrid was saved by an off-duty police officer who made an heroic leap onto the track and dragged the man free with seconds to spare. The 30-year-old officer had only been in the police force for two months and was on his day off, shopping with his girlfriend. Passengers on the platform at the Puerta del Ángel station saw the man fall onto the tracks and tried in vain to alert the train driver, but the train was unable to stop. The man who fell was only slightly injured after the incident, which took place last Saturday.

Spain stubs out cheap smokes By Jack Troughton SMOKERS WERE this week hit with price hikes on tobacco after Madrid raised taxes as part of a package to control Spain’s budget deficit. Prices soared in shops as the 28 percent rise began to hit home – and the government looked to raise an extra €780 million a year in duty. Spain has some of the cheapest tobacco products within Europe but the move is part of strict emergency “anti-crisis” measures announced a week ago. The move will be unpopular – around a third of the population smoke – and was expected to trigger even more protests from beleaguered smokers. On 2nd January next year, the controversial smoking reforms come into effect, intended to end lighting up in public places – including bars and restaurants. However, economy minister Elena Salgado is unrepentant, saying the

tax rise could have been higher as Spain looked to cut costs and raise cash. “It is the right time to increase tobacco taxes,” she said. “It is the right thing for public health. Making our tobacco more expensive will reduce consumption and will help finance the income deficit.”

bumper raffle and at Monday’s monthly WIBC meeting Linda Townsend collected the flat screen television and Carole Saunders the laptop computer they won in the draw. Also at the meeting in Calpe’s Diamante Beach Hotel were Paul and Sam Dunn, of the Christmas Shop, La Nucia, who presented to WIBC a decorated Christmas tree and toys for the Altea women’s shelter, currently home to 12 women and their children.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Senior British MP stranded by air controllers’ strike

Coastal Residents

Enjoy PP ‘Party’ by Louise Clarke

Stranded passengers at Gatwick Airport

THE WILDCAT strike of the Spanish air traffic controllers prevented Mr Nigel Evans MP, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons in the British Parliament, from flying out to the Costa Blanca at the weekend. Mr Evans had a full programme arranged by Conservatives Abroad, designed to find out what the Brits think of living in Spain and what the Spanish think about having us here. He was due to speak at the Christmas lunch of Jávea Conservatives Abroad, with local mayors of the Marina Alta and the British Vice Consul. On Sunday he was to meet representatives of the Alicante government, including Sra. Maria Asunción Prieto, Diputada for European Residents, Monica Lorente, Mayor of Orihuela and expats from Orihuela Costa. Despite overcoming the total closure of the railway system in Southern England and cancelled buses, but encouraged by Gatwick airport’s determination to clear

thousands of tons of snow and ice he was actually in the queue to board his plane when, at the last minute, he was prevented from flying by the wildcat strike of the Spanish air traffic controllers. However, the Christmas lunch went ahead with stalwart help from the committee. Chairman Mrs Margaret Hales MBE, said, “Mr Evans rang me at 05:25 this morning with the news that he could not get to Spain. He sent us photos of everyone already queuing to board and the closed desks. No-one could have made more effort to be with us. He told me that he still plans to come and see us when things are normal again!” Conservatives Abroad is a part of the British Conservative Party for those living outside the UK in all parts of the world. More information on Spain can be obtained from the Secretary on 966 197 239.

MORE THAN 3,000 people attended last Sunday’s PP Christmas ‘Party’ in Orihuela, including nearly 300 from Orihuela Costa and the Entre Los Naranjos Urbanisation. The event, which included a feast of traditional Spanish food, music and several bouncy castles to amuse the children, was held at the main fairground in the town and was hailed as an opportunity to thank the loyal Orihuela PP voters for their support of the PP led Town Hall during the last year, which has seen some turbulent times following the ‘Brugal’ corruption scandal. Mónica Lorente, President of the PP of Orihuela and Mayor of the Municipality made an impasMore than sioned speech and commented that the Central 3000 Socialist Government is doing all that it can to people ensure that there will be more PP Mayors in Spain attended than ever before after the elections next May. the ‘party’ Ironically, the event came just 24 hours after Spanish air traffic controllers held wildcat strikes fic controllers’ strike, he was unable to fly over to and the Socialist Government called its first Spain and had to cancel his arrangements. ‘State of Emergency’ since World War II, which of Many of the British expats who attended the course was highlighted in the speeches. ‘party’ from the coast expressed their appreciation to RTN for the invitation. Rather than feelAPPRECIATION ing ‘duped’ into going by the PP, as suggested by Amongst the attendees were representatives some opposition parties, they welcomed the opfrom the Conservatives Abroad Association, portunity to be able to integrate with their Spanwhich is based in the north of the Province. Mar- ish counterparts from the City. They suggested garet and Gerald Hales and Benitachell Council- that in the future, they would like more opporlor Stephen Kidgell had been invited to attend the tunities like this, in order to meet more Spanish ‘party’ along with Deputy Speaker of the House people from the same municipality and also enof Parliament and Conservative MP for the Ribble joy the beautiful City of Orihuela, which is often Valley, Nigel Evans. However, due to the air traf- unexplored by coastal residents.

10 - JANUARY 16 dECEMBER 2010 8-14 2010

Bay-Connect offer total freedom from Telefonica THERE IS an undoubted need here in Spain for an efficient telephone service supplying low cost high quality calls and fast internet, delivered in a language that we can understand. Recently there have been many companies attempting to join this market, but there is one English company which continues to stand out above the rest. Bay-Connect is a telecoms company with offices on the Costa Blanca. They have become the fastest growing business in the market by offering a product of remarkably high quality at rock bottom prices and linking it to quite outstanding customer service. We asked head of customer support Lisa Monrabel why she

felt Bay-Connect was enjoying such success. “It is a simple formula really: from the outset we set out to provide the best service possible at the lowest possible prices and we have achieved just that. We supply our customers with fast internet, free calls in Spain, a package that allows them to call the UK from 1 cent a minute and free UK television. We deliver a totally free and more importantly legal way for our customers to watch all the channels they enjoyed in the UK. BBC 1, BBC 2, ITV 1, ITV 2 and more. “We take great pride in providing the best products and giving the very best customer service and technical support in the market-

place. And not to mention giving people total freedom from Telefonica! We have grown so quickly that we are once again looking to add to our staff and have positions available for agents in all regions of Spain, so if anybody is interested in joining us they can call us on 902 906 018 we would love to hear from them.” There can be little doubt that BayConnect have made a big impression. Operating at the cutting edge of modern technology they still manage to offer old fashioned levels of service where the customer is King and profit takes a back-seat to the customers needs. You can reach Bay-Connect by calling 902 906 018 or visit www.bay-connect.com

New animal protection service launched AN ANIMAL protection service has been launched to act in cases of animal mistreatment in the Alicante region south of Elche. The Brigada Azul, a team of animal welfare inspectors working along similar lines to RSPCA inspectors, has been operating in and around Alicante city since 2003, and now the service is to be extended. Brigada Azul founder, Raúl Merida, told RTN: “We are very pleased to be able to bring this important service to a new area. We have been working informally with a number of charities in the region and are aware of an urgent need for the Brigada Azul to extend its area of operation. We aim to offer our services to animal welfare charities and individuals to help in cases of animal abuse.” FULLY RECOGNISED The Brigada Azul can investigate reports of animal mistreatment and work with the police and town hall authorities to get action taken under animal protection laws. Although not an official body, the Brigada Azul is fully recognised by state security bodies including the Guardia Civil, National Police and Spanish government.

Brigada Azul helped to rescue this cat

Founder, Raul Merida, with rescued dog

The Brigada Azul operates through The Fundación Internacional para la Protección de los Animales (FIPARM), a charitable foundation based in Alicante that provides animal protection facilities and campaigns for awareness and better treatment of animals. FIPARM runs three animal centres and re-homes an average of 230 animals every month. FIPARM has no official funding and relies on charitable donations to fund its work. FIPARM is legally incorporated under Spanish law and registered with the Ministry of the Environment in Madrid. ANIMAL MISTREATMENT Local Town Halls can contract the services of the Brigada Azul and help fund its work but currently there is no such funding in place for the Brigada Azul to operate south of Alicante so the service will be run on an entirely voluntary basis. To find out more about the work of the Brigada Azul, learn how you can become involved or to report cases of animal mistreatment, email bluebrigade@fundacionraulmerida.es or call 648 498 668. Enquiries can be taken in English, Spanish and German. (Charity no. 030002)

Immigrants enter Melilla via water pipes FOUR ILLEGAL immigrants were arrested in the Spanish town of Melilla in North Africa last Monday. The sub-Saharan men gained access through pipes that run between the coast and a water treatment plant. Police say it is possible that more illegal immigrants have entered Melilla this way. The men now face extradition. Also the Euroferry, ‘Juan J. Sister’ covering the route between Málaga and Melilla, went to the aid of a small inflatable boat carrying 44 Sub-Saharan immigrants which had got into difficulty when some 40 miles off the Granada coastline. The Motril Coastguard said that the ferry picked up 44 people, 21 men, and 18 women, two of who were pregnant, and two babies.

10 - 16 DECEMBER 2010

A happy ending for Sharpy by Louise Clarke ON 14TH November, after two months of TLC and two operations to restore his sight, ‘Sharpy’ was collected by his potentially new owners and taken to meet Harvey, whose home he was hoping to share. RTN had highlighted the plight of the Shar Pei dog, which had been called ‘Sharpy’ by APAH charity volunteers following his rescue, and have been inundated with requests as to how he is doing. We are delighted to report that he is happy and settled in at his new home. The operations to restore some of his sight have been deemed a success in as much as ‘Sharpy’ is now undoubtedly able to see. It is unclear how much he can see, but he cer-

tainly now has some vision, whereas before he couldn’t see anything. The crucial factor in the whole thing was Harvey, a two and a half year old Shar Pei, who is also owned by Sharpy’s potential new owner and his reaction to the younger dog coming into his territory. MALNOURISHED

Margaret from APAH commented: “We needn’t have worried. ‘Sharpy’, now called ‘Charlie’, travelled the two and a half hours to his new home in Denia, slept in the back of the car and fitted straight in. Harvey was even willing to give up his bed for Charlie, even though Charlie had a new one of his own, providing Harvey could sleep on the sofa! It didn’t take long before Harvey and Charlie became

Mass protest against fur

AROUND 100 people stripped naked and poured red paint on themselves in a protest against fur in Barcelona last Sunday. The demonstration was in the Plaza Sant Jaume, organised by the AnimaNaturalis group. The aim was to bring attention to the number of animals it takes to make a fur coat. Leticia Olivares, the group’s spokesperson said that a fur coat should not be recognised as a luxury item but as a symbol of animal suffering.

the best of friends and his new owners are absolutely delighted with the newest member of their family.” Charlie, AKA ‘Sharpy’, is a VERY lucky dog. In reality, he should have died. Alone and abandoned in the Spanish heat, blind, dehydrated, sunburnt and malnourished, he should not have survived but he did because the person who found him thought he was worth it; the vets who restored his sight thought he was worth it; APAH, who looked after him, thought he was worth it and finally, his new family definitely think he is worth it. Margaret concluded: “I hope that everyone who showed an interest in one poor little dog, without a future, is delighted to read about his happy ending.”

Sharpy, or Charlie as he is now known, is the picture of good health

A timely reminder from Neighbourhood Watch CHRISTMAS IS a time when we should be especially alert with regard to our security, carrying extra money and buying presents and storing them in our homes. Keep your gates, doors and security grills shut and locked if you are not actually in the room or even if you are on the terrace or patio. Keep wallets and handbags out of view, as it only takes a thief one moment to step inside and take them or ‘fish’ them out through the grills. When out of the house - IF YOU DON’T NEED IT, DON’T

TAKE IT. Be especially careful at Street Markets; all of which have pickpockets. Do not leave handbags casually on seats in bars and cafes. Put one strap through the leg of your chair or place them between your ankles or knees. BE WARY Keep your car doors locked at all times. When parking, check that the windows are properly closed and bags, suitcases or items that appear to be valuable are not visible. Be wary of strangers asking

for directions, especially in Supermarket car parks and at cash points. In these situations, thieves usually work in teams, so be alert at all times - DISTRACTION is their game. If you are in a car, lock the doors and try to drive away. Sound the horn if you feel threatened. Do NOT take valuables to the beach. REMEMBER: if you don’t need it don’t take it! HIRE CAR STICKERS If you do not have a safe, hide your valuable articles out

of sight in a place not likely to be found easily by a thief. If visitors arrive in a hire car immediately, if possible, remove the hire car stickers from the windows (ensuring you do not cause any damage to the vehicle). Do not advertise that they are holiday makers. Please follow this basic security information which we hope will ensure peaceful and happy holiday. You may think you have heard it all before but remember: ‘FAMILIARITY BREEDS CONTEMPT’.

Yuletide haven by Jack Troughton

FIESTA CRAFTS offers busy Christmas shoppers a perfect solution for finding that missing essential for the perfect celebration. Even the most organised people frequently find they have missed something off the list or have run short – so the Javea shop’s packed shelves could save the day. And there is an additional bonus for anyone looking for a last minute gift or stocking-filler, as owners Sally and Samantha have started a sale to give additional value for money. Decorations are very much in evidence, including colourful baubles and tinsel – all the tinsel is flame retardant as an extra safety factor

– and miniature decorations could liven up a Christmas cake. There are also Christmas napkins and table clothes, party cups and plates, and always important for a festive meal, Christmas crackers and party poppers. The is also a wide range of wrapping paper and labels, gift boxes and bags in all sizes, and huge stockings to hang up to be filled for 25thDecember. For a bit of extra festive fun, Fiesta Crafts sells Santa hats and even full Father Christmas costumes – or why not treat someone to a very fetching pair of Christmas earrings? And should there be a last minute need for Christmas cards or a gift for an unexpected guest; Sally and Samantha

might just have the solution. “Lots of things are already in our sale so there are absolutely great ideas for small gift and stocking fillers,” said Samantha. “They start at just 50 cents. “The sale is good because it gets people to come to Fiesta Crafts and I think we are helping people’s money to go a little further this Christmas.” She said Fiesta Crafts was also a drop off point for the EMAUS Toy Drive – helping insure youngsters in care had presents to open on Christmas morning. Find Fiesta Crafts at Local 3,Ctra Cabo la Nao, Pla 138, Javea. For more information, call 966 461788, email Cute and traditional info@fiestacrafts.eu or visit gift bags www.fiestacrafts.eu

Crowds flood Yuletide fair Floods

devastate Andalusia

HEAVY RAIN led to flooding and forced dozens of residents to leave their homes in Écija, Seville last Tuesday. The town hall called in military assistance when the river Genil burst its banks, also flooding the hospital. Fifty soldiers from the Military Emergency Unit (UME) came to the rescue with three pumping machines, a tanker, a sludge remover and an ambulance.

Ballroom blitz

HUNDREDS OF shoppers from across the Costa Blanca packed the annual Christmas Gift Fair at the La Sella Marriott Hotel last Sunday – raising €2,174 for children’s charity EMAUS. Visitors to the Marina Alta hotel’s ballroom were asked to pay €1 to enter

the region’s biggest festive fair – and the total is expected to be boosted soon by around a further €1,000 from the patchwork quilt raffle. And such was the success of the event; the Marriott has already been booked for a repeat performance next December.

Anti-doping operation THE GUARDIA Civil has carried out a large operation against doping in Spanish athletics, with several searches being carried out simultaneously across Spain on Thursday morning. The operation is codenamed ‘Operación Galgo’. A dozen or so people are reported to be affected, and one of the places searched, according to El País, was the home of top athlete Marta Domínguez in Palencia. Her trainer, César Pérez, has been arrested. Other searches are reported from Madrid and El Escorial, and Telecinco reports that cyclist Luis León Sánchez, the current time trial champion in Spain has also been detained. As yet there has been no comment from the Spanish Athletics Federation. The police operation remains open and more arrests have not been ruled out.

10 - 16 DECEMBER 2010

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Santa comes to ‘HELP’ Javea belts up get that Christmas cheer DENIA AND Marina Alta HELP’s very own Jolly Santa opened the Christmas Fayre at Casa Holanda on Saturday, 4th December; another successful event. Cakes and homemade preserves soon disappeared into shopping bags, everyone tried their luck on the Tombola stall and the ‘Play Your Cards Right’ game was manned by Santa himself! Stalls with books, jewellery, toys as well as ‘guess the Christmas Cake weight’ went down well with visitors and a beautiful doll provided by one of HELP’s volunteers was won by Angela Lemon who correctly guessed ‘Candida’. A big thank you from HELP to everyone who donated to the Raffle, ensuring that ticket buyers went away with great prizes. The Fayre concluded with festive Carols performed by the singers from Denia Church. For more information on HELP or to find out how to become a member, Santa visit the website opened www.helpofdenia.com. the fayre

The successful students and instructors

FOUR KARATE students of Club Deportivo Washinkai have successfully won black belts – watched by 25 senior grade members of the Javea martial arts club. Teenagers Nathan Tongue, 15, a student of Xabia International College, and Natasha Lakin, also 15, of the Laude Lady Elizabeth School, won their belts after training with instructor Ray Sweeney for eight years. Joana Inigo Regidor, 33, and 53-year-old David Reed,both trained for five years to be awarded the coveted

black belt. Examiner Chris Thompson, chief instructor at the club, said: “I am very impressed by the standard of all four candidates. It was one of the most impressive performances I have seen this season and is a reflection of the quality of their instruction.” Club Deportivo Washinkai is the municipal karate school of Benitachell and Javea and supported by both town halls – and with more than 175 students is the largest karate club within the Valencia community.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

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10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

the

Jon

Column What a bizarre world we live in?

Email Jon at: jongaunt@roundtownnews.com

Jack “The Man” of Straw

Want to better yourself and get a decent university education? Then you will have to burden yourself with massive debts. Lay in bed along with 1.6 million other slobs who have never worked in their adult life and keep on banging out the kids and you get thousands in handouts that you NEVER have to pay back. Live a life of crime or become a junkie and have your human rights respected and NEVER pay a penny back to support your dysfunctional and anti social lives. Arrive in the back of a lorry at Watford gap never having paid a penny in and get hot and cold running benefits, translators and health care and NEVER have to pay a penny back. The students might be educated but Recent protests who’s smarter?

Manifesto Promise

WE ALL know that the Lib Dems are hypocrites and

liars with their U-turn on University fees but now the Conservatives seem to be competing with them for the prize of most manifesto promises broken. In opposition, Cameron and his cronies portrayed themselves as the party of law and order, promising full life tariffs, prison for carrying a knife and more prison places including using prison ships. But once in power, Cameron appointed Ken Clarke as the Minister of No Justice and he has achieved

what I thought was impossible; he is actually softer on crime than Jack The Man of Straw. Ken reckons prison doesn’t work and do you know what I agree with him. Prisons, or more accurately the holiday camp prisons we have in the UK, don’t work. However, the answer isn’t to let out all sorts of crooks muggers and rapists early. The answer is to build more prisons and hand out longer sentences. Don’t get me wrong - I am not a ‘lock them up and throw away the key’ or a ‘bread and water’ merchant. I do believe in rehabilitation and education but I believe even more in punishment. We need to have longer sentences so that there

is time to educate and rehabilitate and more importantly, get junkies off drugs as well as give them more time to reflect on their crimes. No prisoner should be released whilst they still have a drug habit and drugs, and for that matter mobile phones shouldn’t be in prisons. And as for human rights and calling a gangster Sir, Mr or by their first name, I’m sorry, you lose your human rights as you crawl through my kitchen window with my DVD player. We all know that the lunatics have taken over our asylum policy but surely the Tories are not going to let the liberals take over prison policy?

See Jon live on Sky News with Eamonn Holmes each Wednesday morning at 7.40am and 8.40am with a review of the UK papers and don’t forget you can listen to Jon on BayRadio each Wednesday morning from 11.00am and Friday afternoons at 4.30pm with his current affairs review.

Staying in the EU

Over the past few weeks, I have given you the political and economic reasons why we must have a referendum on staying in the EU. However, for the doubters out there this week I present you with the argument clincher! Barmy Eurocrats now want to ban children from buying …..Christmas crackers! That’s right: shopkeepers face a five grand fine or six months in prison if they sell crackers to anyone under 16. Pull the other one! (Sorry!) Crackers are categorised as category one fireworks but these Eurocrats should be categorised as ‘class one prats’. This is a joke and a clear case of Euro Elf and safety (sorry!) gone mad.

X-Factor Fix?

If X Factor wasn’t a fix last week to let that Little shrunken-headed fool Cher through to the final then Simon Cowell should be quite happy to show us the results of the public vote as there would be nothing to hide. But there’s about as much chance of that happening as Cheryl singing live isn’t there?

No hats in the ring By Jack Troughton BENIDORM’S BULLRING will not host bull fights in 2011 – the third year in succession. It is understood there have been no bids to run traditional contests over the next 10 years, although the town hall is considering reopening the process and reducing some of its financial conditions. The ring has been used for alternative interests, including becoming a base for concerts. However, the news helped this magnificent pedigree beast (pictured) relax and enjoy Orba’s annual Christmas Fair

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1015 - 16 dECEMBER - 21 october2010 2010

Christmas Market in Alicante

Some of the hand crafted gifts available

THE WEEKEND on the 17th - 20th December, before Christmas, a market will be held in Alicante town centre in the Plaza Gabriel Miró. A live nativity complete with a small farmyard will entertain the children and there will be tavern; a tea tent; stalls selling cheeses and hams; and sixty or so stands featuring the finest craft work in the province. Local children will be helped to write their letter to the Three Kings and help Joseph repair the manger in which Jesus sleeps. Board games, a merry-go-round and a miniature Ferris wheel as well as donkey rides are all free, but you may have to wait in the queue. Unlike Disneyland, there is no entrance fee. The contact juggler moves large glass balls

along his arms and head as if held by magnets and metal hoops seem to hang in the air. Later in the evening he plays with fire! There are three slightly mad musicians who stop only now and then to wet their whistles and with them two slightly loony Roman soldiers, or perhaps a beggar or two or a noble Roman lady slumming it in search of a slave going cheap. The market is open from 11.00 to 14.00 and from 17.00 till 21.00, Friday morning to Monday evening. Make your way to the Explanada, parallel with the sea front; about half way along, turn into the town. For more information ring the organisers on 639 979 678 or visit www.amata.es

“We are mo

re t h an j u

st a v oice on the phone”

Dog lover remembered

By Jack Troughton ANIMAL CHARITY LAPS has received a €400 donation in memory of Fiona Wilson, who last month lost her battle with cancer. With husband Shaun she came to Spain six years ago to enjoy a more relaxed life and the sunshine. They lived in a villa near Oliva and had recently started a ‘dog-sitting’ service as an alternative to kennels to look after pets while owners were away for a short while. Sadly, Fiona was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer in September and passed away on 21st November. At her funeral service in Denia, a collection was made for various charities – including the MABS Cancer Support Group – and money was given to the Local Animal Protection Society to help construct and run its Pego sanctuary. Shaun, who will become a LAPS foster carer in January, said the charity was to place a plaque in memory of Fiona on the wall of the first kennel built. “She would be immensely happy and proud to be associated with such a wonderful venture and we hope others will follow in her footsteps,” LAPS he said. LAPS founder Chrissie Edwards - pictured with puppies Dillon, founder Marley and Tom, all needing to be homed – said she was very grateful to Chrissie Shaun for thinking of the charity at such a sad time. Edwards

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10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Edmundo is now in the top 100 Watts In Britain By

Paul Watts

ONE DAY, back in the golden summer of 1967, I was deeply immersed in Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band when my younger brother strolled over and peering into my Dansette record player asked, “Have you ever used the 78 button properly?” The 78 button was the fourth speed setting on the turntable. We both knew that the ‘33 rpm’ setting was for LPs and the ‘45 rpm’ for singles but we’d never had occasion to use either the 16 or 78. I had a vague idea what 78 was for. I had a mate whose dad had a collection of old ten-inch 78s that were scratchy, crackly, popped loudly and were boringly classical but “no,” I’d never used the Dansette’s 78 function in earnest. My brother and I had both used it, of course, to make our mum’s Val Doonican singles sound like Pinky and Perky (a vast improvement we would argue) but the 78 speed hadn’t been used for a specifically designed phonographic recording of the 78 rpm type. That was until later that day. Cut to the late afternoon and I’m searching in my dad’s record box. To my delight, hidden in the back, in a plain brown sleeve, was a real, proper 78rpm record. “Wow,” I thought, “it’s time to use the 78 speed.” The 10-inch record was scratchy but unlike Phil’s dad’s 78s it was not boring. It only had one song per side but the music captured within those grooves was pure delight. Side one was a song called, Chocolate Whiskey and Vanilla Gin and the number on the back was, Samba Samba. It was my introduction to Latino music and I was hooked. I played it incessantly for the next few days. My dad was kind enough to provide me with the provenance of his

disc. Apparently, he’d liked the song so much that he’d actually gone out and bought the record (back in 1948) before he even had a record player to play it on. “Gosh,” thought me, in that naive way of teenagers, “this is an heirloom.” My brother then had a plan, “Let’s play it on dad’s radiogram.” Hmmm, well it might improve the sound. Compared to the Dansette the sound quality of our dad’s Murphy Radiogram was vastly superior. Now, the thing was, the Dansette was a single-play piece of technology: you played just one record at a time. The radiogram however, was a luxury piece of kit that featured an autochange - you could play six singles, one after the other without needing to re-load. Cool... Indeed, it might well be cool but it was here that things went horribly wrong. Instead of laying the delicate shellac disc onto the turntable I loaded it onto the auto-change. The playing arm swung across, it ‘donked’ against the outside edge of the disc which dutifully plopped down onto the turntable, whereupon it cracked into four rather un-playable pieces. Arrrgh, no! The record’s remains were quickly, and somewhat secretly, dispatched to the dustbin. It wasn’t spoken about again. I don’t know if my dad ever wondered about it or even gave it a second thought; after all, he hadn’t played the thing for years. I however, was mortified and missed hearing those songs. Time moved on and I forgot Chocolate Whiskey and Vanilla Gin and never heard it again until last week, when messing about on t’internet I absent-mindedly put the

Association Vecinos Cooperando

Neighbourhood Watch THE NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch was honoured, once again, to have been invited by the Torrevieja Town Hall to take part in this year’s Flower Fiesta. The Fiesta took place last Saturday, 4th December and all the coordinators met at the ‘Sagrado Corazon’ Church in the centre of the city. From there, they joined in the vast parade with other organisations of all nationalities to march through the town with streets lined with spectators cheering and clapping, to the Immaculada Church. At the Church, they presented floral offerings to the Priest and retinue. The flowers were then put on vast trellises on the front of the church; marking another successful Flower Fiesta and another great opportunity for the NHW to integrate into local culture.

All the flowers were placed on trellises outside the church

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

My first record player! The fabulous Dansette

title into Yahoo and a thirty second sample of the song came up, along with details of a CD that features it. Dad, guess what you’re going to get for Christmas? Yes, finally after all these years you’ll be reunited with that classic record, only this time you’ll have something to play it on. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MAESTRO All of the above finally brings me to the crux of this week’s column and that is the artist that appeared on that cracked shellac record. He is still very much alive and he is a resident of the Costa Blanca. Step forward please the favourite bandleader of HM Queen Elizabeth ll, the one and only Edmundo Ros. On Tuesday this week (7th December) Edmundo reached the milestone of becoming one hundred years young. He lives these days in Javea; and five years ago I saw him slowly padding along the seafront there. I was amazed at how all the locals nodded to him and bid him, “Good day, Maestro.” I should have gone up and told him all about my dad’s 78 record of Chocolate Whiskey but I didn’t want to bother the great man. Anyway, here is a potted history: Edmundo Ros was born in Trinidad in December 1910. His musical career started in the army. In 1937 he moved to London to continue classical studies but popular music became his passion. He played drums on Fats Waller’s records and sang and played percussion in Don Marino Barreto’s Cuban band. In 1940, Edmundo formed his own five-piece

Rumba Band and with its strange new rhythms was soon a smash in war-ravaged London. Like The Beatles to come, Edmundo recorded for Parlophone Records. The Bagatelle Restaurant was instrumental in opening the doors to high society for Edmundo. The Royal Family and most of the leaders of the Allied Countries went there to dine and listen to Edmundo’s Rumba Band. In 1951, Edmundo bought the famous Coconut Grove and re-named it the Edmundo Ros Dinner and Supper Club. It is rumoured that if you were not mentioned in, ‘Who’s Who’, you weren’t allowed inside! Edmundo’s career peaked commercially in the 1960s with top selling albums and regular TV appearances. Edmundo retired to Spain in 1975. However, he came out of retirement in 1994 to conduct and sing with the BBC Big Band at The Queen Elizabeth Hall in London, along with Stanley Black. Shortly afterwards, he was tempted back into the studio to recreate the concert for CD. The Queen awarded him an OBE in the 2000 New Year’s Honours List. And now at the age of 100, Edmundo Ros is still going strong. If you see him along Javea seafront, give him a big wave and wish him, as we here at RTN do, “Feliz cumpleaños, maestro!” Watts in Britain, saying phone Vince Tracy on Cool FM this Sunday and ask for an Edmundo Ros song.

Georgie May goes to market

Georgie May (Pics courtesy of GTS Pics)

AFTER ‘GAMBLING the night away’ with the Fun Casino Roulette and Black Jack at Hotel El Corazon on Friday night, Georgie May joined Susan from Paul Cunningham Nurses at Moncayo Market (now open Saturdays and Tuesdays) in Guardamar early that morning! Cathy Carson, Ritchie and some wonderful Flamenco Dancers along with The Mariachis, kept everyone entertained throughout the morning and Bina, the next Madhur Jaffrey, was ‘hot to trot’ with her curry demonstrations, drawing a large audience. The traditional ‘Bike Raffle’ raised €200, on again this Saturday - just €1 for 10 tickets and the chance to take home a wonderful bicycle. Also don’t forget we are planning a bike race for all winners and all wishing to join in early next year. Contact Susan at sueinthesun@terra.es for details. An additional €70 was raised with donations for signed copies of the Bikini Bash Calendar.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Collaboration and integration in the spirit of Christmas

The craft fayre was a great success Photo by Trevor Maston

WHEN MABS Murcia/Mar Menor planned their ‘Craft Fayre with a Difference’ back in April, they hadn’t anticipated that it would cause disappointment for the Asociación de Vecinos de Oasis. The Asociación normally holds an annual Christmas Fayre at the Centro Municipal Las Claras towards the end of November, at the same time as the MABS Fayre had been booked. When they discovered the clash MABS Director Lyn Baines offered them a solution: a craft fayre with a Christmas flavour. The Asociación provided Glühwein, Christmas cakes, snacks and hand-made table decorations, and MABS stands displayed crafts, cards, pickles, home-made pastries, lavender bags, shawls and glitzy evening crochet items. “It all worked out really well” said Lyn. “It was great to have English, Spanish, German and Scan-

dinavian nationalities mingling in the festive spirit and we’ve made a good alliance with the Vecinos de Oasis members, who are keen to collaborate on more events in the future. They have also kindly offered assistance with translations, so this has been a worthwhile exercise.” Zigi and her ladies enhanced the afternoon with a lively and professional fashion show, modelling clothes from the new retail area at the MABS Cancer Centre in San Javier, which went on sale to the visitors to increase the funds already raised. “The afternoon was a great success and we’re planning another one in the spring of 2011.” commented Janet Bell, MABS Fundraising Co-ordinator. “We raised €515 on the day, which is a splendid total in the current economic climate. We’d like to thank Centro Muncipal Las Claras and all the ex-

The Ong Samaritan THE CHARITABLE organisation ‘The Good Samaritan’ was founded in February 1998 in Cartagena in the region of Murcia. Now the charity and Medical Office is at C/Ciudadela, 17 Bda. San Gines. The charity’s aim is to assist those experiencing personal emergency such as those suffering with addiction such as alcohol and drug dependency; orphans; the homeless; poverty stricken families and immigrant children who are unable to find work so beg on the streets to survive.

A social dining room feeds around 350 each day and is open to the public from 12.30 to 15.00, every day of the year. There are also washing facilities, with limited emergency accommodation provided for those who have nowhere else to go. In special cases, the charity will also deliver food to a person’s home. At present 30 men may be accommodated and a newly built facility caters for families. Social reintegration is encouraged and the centre also has a ‘detox’ programme to help with addiction. For more information please visit: http://www.ongsamaritano.com/index.html

MundoMar Benidorm and the Dolphin Therapy Charity PASCALLE BRUENS, Director of Streetwise Productions, founded her company for Musical theatre and dance/drama classes in 2008. Musical theatre requires strong skillbases in acting and dancing and the ability to combine these core skills convincingly. Pascalle taught drama, dance and directed and produced many shows in Holland and other parts of the World before starting her own company, now teaching 120 children full time, 80 of which will perform in January/February 2011 in the musical Grease at the Auditorium in La Nucia. The children are given a creative choice and may participate in dancing, singing or drama classes separately and/or be involved in small events or big productions, with English and Spanish spoken among several nationalities involved. Pascalle has now decided to form a charity to promote Dolphin-Therapy, having first-hand experience of the benefits of such therapy with her daughter Zana who, thanks to Mundomar (www.mundomar.es)

hibitors for supporting this event.” MABS Cancer Centre in San Javier offers information, counselling and therapy treatments to all those affected by cancer in the Murcia region. MABS plans to have a lymphedemist available once a month at the MABS Therapy Room, so please contact them on 615 016 035 if you would like to be included. There is also an excellent retail area selling top quality clothing, accessories, brica-brac, books, CDs and DVDs; if you have items to donate or would like to help out at the Centre, call 615 016 035 for further information. MABS Murcia/Mar Menor helps people in the Murcia/Mar Menor area affected by cancer, providing drivers, translators, information leaflets, equipment, a listening ear, or a shoulder to lean on. To volunteer, donate or if you need help, contact MABS on 693 275 779 or visit www.mabsmurcia.com

was able to try out the programme earlier this year. The results were amazing: Zana´s concentration levels increased and she had an all-round happy experience. Therapy is free of charge, paid for by the foundation Aqualandia Mundomar. The dolphins do not have to ‘work’ during the therapy session and the therapist does not control the dolphins; they play with the children because they want to - the secret of the success of dolphin assisted therapy. The therapy lasts one week, from Monday till Saturday, half an hour every day. The Foundation’s executive, Camino Herreros Paris, Pascalle and Camino have decided to work together on this project and the charity’s aim is to help raise money to benefit disabled children with this form of therapy. Streetwise Productions may be contacted on Tel: 677 070 890, via email streetwiseproductions@hotmail.com or visit www.streetwiseproductions.es

Pascalle with her daughter Zana

TAABS (Torrevieja Association of Amateur Balladeers Singers) FRIDAY 10th DECEMBER 17.30: Spanish Property Consultants in La Siesta is the venue for a carol service in conjunction with Torrevieja Ayuntamiento for Homeless Families. Carols for everyone - come along and join in. Further information: 966 785 279 SATURDAY 11th DECEMBER 17.30: Cheers Bar, Eagles Nest in aid of: Make a child smile for EMAUS Children’s Charity: Free entry: Contact Cheers bar on 966 723 438. MONDAY 13th DECEMBER 20.00 (Christmas Show): In aid of the Easy Horse Care Centre, Rojales. SUNDAY 19th DECEMBER 20.00: Asturias Restaurant, Punta Prima: TAABS Christmas Show. TUESDAY 21st DECEMBER 19.30: Sports Complex, La Marina: Christmas Carols for everyone. Further information contact: 966 795 165. For further information please contact Musical Director Cathy Carson on 666 180 118.

Holly & Ivy party Enter into the spirit and dress in either red or green (or both) and celebrate Christmas at our “Holly & Ivy” Party, Saturday 18th December 2010, Hillside, La Marina Urbanisation. There will be a buffet and a singer/ guitarist. Price of the tickets are 7 euros and can be obtained from: Hillside Bar Brenda: 966 796 436, Mark: 676 447 682 or Sue: 619 606 725

legal

10 - JANUARY 16 dECEMBER 2010 8-14 2010

Deadline for ‘non-residents’ tax payments in Spain

is closer than it looks by

Marc White & Carlos Baos English & Spanish Solicitors

WE WOULD like to take this opportunity to thank RTN readers for all the queries sent us during 2010. We hope to have met your expectations and kindly ask you to please continue sending us your questions and problems. It is our duty to remind our readers, clients and friends that: You must pay taxes in Spain even if you are Non Tax Resident and even if you do not have any income in Spain, as you are liable for the Income Tax for Non Residents (IRNR) just for the fact that you own a property in Spain. Up to 2008 it was an obligation for Non

Residents Tax persons in Spain to pay Wealth Tax and Income Tax, but from that year the Wealth Tax has been abolished as per the Law 4/2008, of December 23rd. therefore the last Wealth Tax declaration was the one you submitted (or should have submitted) for the year 2007 and presented in 2008. But Income Tax for Non Residents (IRNR) is still due and you are liable for it, just for being a property owner in Spain, as previously stated. The actual rate for this Tax this year (2010) is 24%; it has been reduced from the previous 25% as per the Law 35/2006, of November 28th. Therefore if you are Non Tax Resident in Spain and you receive any income in Spain: i.e. rents from a letting, interest on bank accounts or even in the case that you do not have any income but you have a property or a share on a property in Spain you must pay Non Residents Income Tax (IRNR). In this last scenario, if you do not have any

You must pay taxes in Spain even if you are Non Tax Resident

income in Spain, but own a property in Spain or a share of a property, your tax bill will be based on a calculation as per the Cadastral Value (value that appears on your Spanish Local Rates receipt from the Town Hall, the SUMA office or the equivalent). It is important for you to know that the National Spanish Tax Authority (Agencia Tributaria) is reviewing the cases where the Non Tax Residents in Spain are not paying the IRNR. They are asking for the taxes due to be paid plus an interest for delay. We recommend that you pay your taxes and avoid any future unpleasant surprise from the Spanish Tax Authorities.

Please contact our offices for further advice and please remember that EVERY PERSON, NON TAX RESIDENT WHO OWNS A HOUSE (OR A SHARE OF ONE IN SPAIN) must pay Non Resident Income Tax, don’t wait for the Taxman to knock on your door with a penalty proceeding against you. Last but not least please remember that the deadline for submitting for non resident tax returns is 31-12-2010 but you have to consider that Christmas holidays will be here very soon and some offices will be closed. Please contact us to avoid having the taxman as your first visitor in 2011. We will be more than pleased to assist you in this matter.

Marc White LL.B. & Carlos Baos (English & Spanish Solicitors) © White & Baos Abogados 2010 - All rights reserved. C/Diana 19, 2º-D, 03700 Dénia (located close to the Glorieta Square at the end of Marques de Campo). Tel: 966 426 185. Send your questions to spanishlawyer@roundtownnews.com or info@white-baos.com

Mortgage debt increase Mortgage debt in Spain rose by 0.6% in October, compared to the same month last year, to reach 678.09 billion €. Such debt amounts to 75% of the total home debt according to the Bank of Spain. The Bank notes how the VAT/IVA increase in July put a brake on the housing market.

Gibraltar raking in the money from online gaming The Gibraltar First Minister, Peter Caruana, has announced that the tax placed on the gaming companies which have set up on the rock is set to be increased from 1% to 10% next year. At the lower rate the Gibraltar Government was already claiming 12.4 million € a year. Some 2,000 work in the sector in Gibraltar in companies such as Party Gaming and Bwin, the latter famous for sponsoring Real Madrid, and the former making profits of 310 million € last year. Spain is still to legislate on internet gambling and therefore official figures for the extent of the industry are not available. However it is estimated that 200,000 gamblers spent 575 million € in Spain last year. With the Ley de Juego still not in effect in Spain, it means that winners only pay tax if they are honourable and wish to do so. The Spanish Government has said it wants the future legislation to contain measures to protect children and those who have a gambling addiction from online gaming.

Moroccan parliament reclaims Ceuta and Melilla The Moroccan Parliament has passed a resolution insisting the Government must reclaim from Spain the cities of Ceuta and Melilla and the adjacent islands, located on the Moroccan Mediterranean coast. The Parliament recommends the Government to revise all relations with Spain, as soon as possible, including politically, economically and in matters relating to security, social and cultural activities.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

business

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Great graphics are key to good business by

Karla Darocas

Information Technology & Communications

IF A picture is worth a thousand words then having high quality graphics on all of your marketing materials will tell your prospects that you are a ‘real’ business professional who wants to make a lasting impression. The graphics you choose will play a major role in the success or failure of your business. I always tell my student to “stand in your client’s shoes” and consider the prospect when they come across your product/service marketing materials or online shopping website: think about their thoughts and emotions just when they’re about to decide if they want to buy from you

or not. If they do not know you – and have no previous buying experience from you, they are not going to let go of their money. Would you? Scams are becoming more and more commonplace nowadays. Thus customers have every right to be wary. To aid their confidence, I always suggest that a nice, smiling photo of yourself or your team of professionals is on all of your marketing. Your logo is your most important graphic. Why? Let me count the ways… 1. Because it is the first impression that your business

makes when out in public: it is the face of your business. 2. Because it expresses the personality of your company and gives an insight into your unique characteristics and what you are trying to sell. 3. Because it is the most prominent visual element on all of your marketing materials that ‘IS’ the identity of your brand. You really only have just a few seconds to express your business attributes. A unique, high caliber logo shows that you are sincere about offering a high quality product and service. WHAT ARE SOME KEY POINTS TO CREATING A GREAT LOGO? A great logo should be simple, flexible and adaptable. If your logo is complex and unreadable it will not adapt to branding your materials. A simple logo is often the most recognised and the

Your logo is your most important graphic

most memorable. When I say “Nike,” you can quickly imagine their ‘swoosh’ check mark. Then when you see all of the merchandise that has that logo – from shoes to shorts, you know that it is speaking for the brand; for the company. A great logo speaks to your market segment quickly. If your client is in a car and driving by a billboard and sees your logo only for a second – they should be able to identify in that second what your company is all about. Your logo can be one of the

Karla Darocas * Business Communications Software Training & Computer Repairs *Helping You to Help Yourself 965 973 234

most important investments that you make in your business. It can be used on marketing and merchandising, which is a popular way to build consumer confidence, brand your products and services and if you sell them – say hats or beach towels; you can make some extra cash! PS: if you want some FREE graphic E-Christmas Cards in both English and Spanish – please visit my website: help yourself! www.Darocas.com

money The Spanish Property 30

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Inheritance Tax time bomb by

Mark Roach

Company Director and Spanish Tax Consultant

NON-DOMICILED property owners in Spain are sitting on a ticking IHT time bomb. Most owners do not understand that their heirs and their estate will pay IHT in two jurisdictions: Spain and their Country of Domicile. The reason for this is that in Spain the individual inheritor is taxed whereas in other countries, like the UK, it is the estate that is taxed. This could mean that on the death of an owner the surviving partner, or the owner’s Beneficiaries, could have a Tax Bill that virtually wipes out the entire Spanish Inheritance. Add to this the cost of Probate in both countries for the inheritors too. Most Lawyers in Spain recommend to owners that having a Spanish Will deals with the problem; this is incorrect as a Will only deals with the issue when there is a death and does not remove taxation in Spain. Other advice given is that double taxation treaties between Spain and the UK help with the tax being reduced, this is true in identical taxes but these are not, as in the UK it is the Estate which is taxed and in Spain it is the beneficiaries who are taxed. It therefore should not be assumed that one tax can be offset against the other

as they are both totally different taxes on totally different entities. Many owners are advised to re-finance the property as IHT is not charged on the property amount if there is an outstanding mortgage and loan, but this could leave the beneficiaries with a huge debt they cannot pay off and many lenders will only finance the ownership if suitable life insurance is taken out, so the property is paid for on death and the tax still becomes due. Owning a property with your children is a favourite: this is not a good idea either as their share of the property may end being at risk through financial or marital issues and if they die before the parents then the parents have to pay taxes to get the property back. Our solution to the IHT/ISD problem in Spain is for the owner/s to invest the property into a UK Private Limited Company which they would own as Shareholder/s. There would not be a 7% transfer tax in Spain on this transaction, unlike other property transfer transactions. This method may eradicate all taxes in Spain in the future, in respect of the property, as under EU Treaties a UK Company is only taxed in one jurisdiction, the UK, and no taxes are

payable onwardly in Spain. A UK Company is not an Offshore Company as in Gibraltar or the Isle of Man as they are charged an annual tax by Spain of 3% for not being part of the European Community. Shares in the UK Company can be dealt with a UK Will and depending on the structure of the Company the Shares may be exempt from Inheritance Tax in the UK as well. A further advantage of the company structure is that ‘attributable expenses’ such as mortgage interest, council tax bills, water, electricity, repairs and maintenance can all be tax deductible by the company; this may also include car hire and flights for the directors. Unfortunately, if you own a property in Spain in your own name you may not be allowed to offset income against expenditure by the Spanish Tax Authorities. Also the benefit in kind tax for Directors of a UK Company which owns property abroad has now been removed. This is a simple solution costing less than most probate and legal fees in Spain when there is a death of an owner of the property and requires no NIE numbers for the beneficiaries to inherit. Our unique service is available to all nationalities, including residents and non residents of Spain, and can be completed within 2 to 4 weeks if required. We have been developing our systems and process for many years as we strive to be the market leader in this type of

transaction with an extensive customer base using this method, who are extremely happy with the service they have received. Clients can also be assured when talking to Wincham that they are dealing with professionals who are operating in this type of business on a daily basis, unlike other professionals who are not yet still offer advice on the method: due to their lack of understanding and knowledge they confuse or put off interested owners from exploring the concept. We find clients are failed time and again by both Spanish and UK professionals as they are unable to advise on more than one jurisdiction. The clients’ website to register for their free illustration showing the IHT/ ISD liability in Spain is www.winchamiht.com Wincham is an International organisation established since 1994, helping clients purchase and own property in Spain using a corporate structure to combat taxation in Spain. In recent years we have seen a significant increase in the number of people concerned about ISD in Spain and are now seeking to address the situation to protect their beneficiaries. Wincham has offices in both the UK and Spain and within our organisation we have qualified professionals in both jurisdictions including Gestors, Economistas, Tax Consultants, Estate Planners, Lawyers, Will Writers, Chartered Accountants, Members of the Institute of Credit Management and a Companies House Formation Agent.

Wincham Consultants Limited, Wincham House, Greenfield Farm Trading Estate, Congleton, Cheshire, CW12 4TR, England. (Wincham Consultants also have offices located on the Costa Blanca) UK Tel: +44 (0)1260 299 700 | Spain Tel: +34 965 830 991 | Email: iht.info@wincham.com | Web: www.winchamiht.com

European Central Bank acts as ‘Fire Brigade’ Without any warning the European Central Banks started to buy bonds on a massive scale from the Euro-countries, severely hit by the financial crisis, especially Portugal and Ireland. The action caught financial speculators on the wrong foot and resulted in a substantial reduction on market pressure in those countries, including Spain. Together with the new urgent economic measures taken by the Spanish Government (plan B) the country has taken a few steps back from the precipice. The premium as a “risk country” fell 64 points to 219.39 and the interest rate on Spanish bonds on Friday fell to 5.05%.

Government presents its “Plan B”

What? Padron - a list of all the people who live in a certain town Empadronarse - the act of registering yourself on this list with your local town hall Who? All residents in Spain are required by law to register on the padron How? Fill in the form provided by your town hall. You will need to show your passport, an NIE card or residency certificate, a recent utility bill in your name and the deeds to your house or a copy of a rental contract Why? Better public services including provision of health centres, police officers, fire fighters and schools. Access to financial benefits and social care. A potential reduction in local taxes. Voting rights in local and European elections. An easier life! More information can be found at: www.residenteseuropeos.com/padron_en.php

The Government has released details of the costs and gains relating to the emergency measures, which we presented briefly last week, and to which some more measures have been added. The Government will reform the system of public pensions, details of which be presented in parliament at the end of January. It is expected that the sale of 30% of the company, which controls State Lotteries and Betting, will raise 5,000 million euros, and the sale of 49% of a company which administers airports, another 9,000 million. Moreover, the Government is increasing the price of certain cigarettes, anticipated this will raise a further 780 million yearly. The reduction in Company Tax will cost the State 230 million euros per year.

Increased unemployment figures

The highest increase was in Andalusia

The number of those registered as unemployed in November increased by 24,318, to 4,110,294. The largest increases were in Andalusia; 8,517 and Galicia 7,827. Falls in jobs lost were registered in the Canaries, 3,580 less; Extremadura, 2,573 and Madrid 2,309. In reality, unemployment in Spain is much higher than the official figures show.

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Are you covered if UNTILSOLD the sun don’t shine? BENIDORM

Insurance is essential even if your property is in a community

By Guest Writer Michael Rushe of House Proud Property management & Letting

Fantastic apartment for holiday rental and also available through the winter months either weekly or monthly. A beautifully furnished one bedroom apartment, comfortably sleeping 4 people with fantastic sea views and a very short walk to Poniente beach. Contact us for availability and prices starting from an amazing 200€/week.

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www.opialfaz.com

BEFORE MAKING your property stand out in the holiday lettings’ market place let’s ensure that it stays standing up! It is essential that your holiday home has buildings and contents’ insurance, even if your property is in a community. Some owners are under the impression that they do not need individual home insurance because they have community insurance. However, community insurance only covers communal areas, such as gardens and pools, and not individual properties. Your existing policy probably does not cover commercial holiday lettings. As well as buildings and contents’ insurance you will also need public liability insurance giving you protection in the event of any legal issues associated with holiday lettings. Your existing home insurance company may offer a policy that covers holiday lettings but it is best to shop around to get the best value and the best cover. Some insurance companies offer a policy whereby you can insure for holiday lettings for a set period i.e. June to September. However, you may find it cheaper and less hassle to arrange holiday lettings cover for the whole year. Buildings and contents’ insurance should be as comprehensive as the one for your primary residence. It should cover the cost of

rebuilding your property and cover your belongings. Check that outdoor furniture is covered as well as accidental damage by your guests. Look for a policy that covers theft by non-forcible entry to cover you if any windows are left open and check how long you can leave your property unoccupied without invalidating the cover. Public liability insurance covers you against any claims a guest makes if they injure themselves while staying at your property. An indemnity of £3m is recommended and you should ensure that the policy covers your swimming pool and any accidents involving the pool. Remember to inform your guests that it is their responsibility to organise their travel insurance and medical cover. If you do not look after your property all year round then who does? I saved an owner thousands of Euros when I discovered a leak during a regular check of his water meter earlier this year. His home insurance helped cover the cost of the repairs but did not cover the water bill which could have been substantial if the leak had continued for several months. A straightforward arrangement to have your property checked on a regular basis by a reliable property management agency can save you loads of money and heartache and you can trust the agent to fix the problem with the minimum of fuss. Next time we’ll look at ways of effectively marketing your property in the worldwide market place.

House Proud Property Management & Lettings Tel 96 578 1731 or 680 274 831 | info@houseproudindenia.com | www.houseproudindenia.com

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

‘Steel’ the limelight with Steel Work Direct

WITH CHRISTMAS just weeks away, the last thing on many people’s minds is updating or renovating their house. But what if you could guarantee some brilliant discounts on any standard or bespoke designs of gazebos, grills, railings and gates as well as car ports, so that your home and business can really ‘steel’ the limelight on your urbanisation in the New Year? Steel Work Direct is taking orders now for the New Year and if you book before Christmas Eve you will be entitled to real credit crunching

savings that will certainly not be available in the New Year. Steel Work Direct is part of the Iron Art Factory Outlets, which is the Costa Blanca’s leading outlet store, offering quality products at superb prices. Sales and Marketing Director, Paul Hamnett, has many years of experience in selling quality products at great prices and often buys in bulk to ensure that he can pass on the best prices to all of his customers. Iron Art Factory Outlets started out specialising in garden furniture and gazebos but soon extended its range to include a diverse selection of products for the home and garden, such as fountains and ‘Supergrass’, artificial grass technology at its best and guaranteed to make tiled porches and terraces a thing of the past.

ENTIRE COAST The first Factory Outlet opened in Quesada six years ago and soon the outlet outgrew its original premises. Two years ago, Paul relocated to a larger site at the Procomobel Home Centre, just off the N332, near to the recently reopened Moncayo Market in Guardamar. There are Factory Outlets now in Vera, Almeria; Gata de Gorgos; Mazarron and additional market stalls at La Marina on Thursday and Zoco Market, near Algorfa, every Sunday. All the branches are packed to the brim with the same great choice and value for money products. They Paul told RTN: “The business now spans the enalso tire coast from Valencia to Mojacar and inland, make bespoke and we are constantly searching for new markets items to bring our products even closer to our clients!”

For more information, please contact Tracy on 966 726 891 or visit www.steelworkdirect.com

Spotlight: Property

One of their beautiful all steel Gazebos

FIT AND FORGET Steel Work Direct has over eleven years of experience manufacturing bespoke steel products on the Costa Blanca and specialise in a range of ‘Fit and Forget’ aluminium gates and railings. Once fitted, your railings or gates will never rust and will always look as good as the day they were fitted. Aluminium is a great alternative to traditional steel and boasts a wealth of benefits, providing equal strength but only one-third of the weight. Because it can be easily shaped, is impermeable and corrosion-resistant, it will not be damaged by air temperature, moisture and chemical attack so it will not rust. Perfect!

EXPERIENCED INSTALLERS Steel Work Direct is open throughout Christmas and New Year so you will be able to visit them anytime to discuss your needs. Railings are sold in a selection of colours and their all-in-one service includes a home survey by one of the company’s experienced installers who will visit your home or business to discuss the options available and measure up and calculate a ‘no obligation’ quote. All the products, once ordered, can be fully installed within a week, depending on the intricacy of the specification, and you can be assured that you will never find a more superior product, range or standard of service anywhere else on the coast.

Pay your Spanish taxes or lose your home by

Suzanne O’Connell Customer Care at Ábaco

IT’S AS simple as that: pay your Spanish taxes or lose your home. “I’ve heard it all before and nothing ever happens.” “I know Bob/ Sue/ Roger down the road - they’ve never paid anything and nothing’s happened to them.” That’s what some people will be saying if they are still reading this article. You don’t have to stray far into the British community to hear comments such as this. After all, it probably was true. We know that the Spanish Tax Authority has not always been on the ball. But don’t be misled by the appearance of blustering bureaucracy: there is in fact a change in the wind and it arrived in the Ábaco offices this week. Customer Care received a query from a very anxious lady living in London. She is a non-resident of Spain and wasn’t a client. The reason for her contacting Ábaco? She had just received a letter, written in English from Suma Gestión Tributaria, Alicante. It came as a bit of a shock because she didn’t think any officials in Spain had her new address. What was also a shock was that they informed her that she owed property taxes and that if she didn’t settle them in less than two weeks, her house would be put up for public auction; not what you want to read during the run up to Christmas. So how had Mrs. N allowed this to happen? She wasn’t normally someone who avoided paying tax and she certainly didn’t want to lose her Spanish holiday home. Originally, Mrs. N had been paying taxes and had a fiscal representative. However, in 2007, she was told by her fiscal rep that she no longer needed to pay ‘Wealth

Tax’. She took this to mean she didn’t have to pay any tax at all and cancelled her fiscal rep. She hadn’t paid tax since. Of course, most people now know, as a non-resident she should have been paying two taxes. The IBI (council tax) and second-home income tax (imputed income tax). Now she has a very big bill to pay but in some ways she’s lucky. If the Tax Authority hadn’t managed to track her down on her next holiday trip to Spain she might have found a ‘To Auction’ sign in her patio.

This isn’t just a cautionary tale. It’s a living example. But just like a cautionary tale it has some very clear messages behind it: • all non-resident Spanish property owners should be paying two taxes • all non-resident Spanish property owners should have fiscal representation ( the letter said this was a legal requirement) • the Spanish Tax Authority are desperate to get some money • they will track you down At least this story will have a happy ending and Mrs. N needn’t worry about seeing her house as a lot number at a public auction. Can the same be said for you? If you are worried that you might receive an official notification and want to make a tax declaration before the 31st December deadline call the ÁbacoConnect Help-line 966 703 748 www.abacoconnect.com

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Properties of the week brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com Search- view -enquire

Bungalow in Playa Flamenca

Attractive 2 bed, 2 bath bungalow with communal pool in Playa Flamenca. Attractive gardens to front and back, huge solarium with built in barbacue and storage. Walking distance to shops, bars and restaurants. Large communal pool area. Secure Off road parking.

138,000 euros

Finca near Orihuela

Suzanne O’Connell - Customer Care at ÁbacÁbacoConnect | Help-line 966 703 748 | www.abacoconnect.com

Country Finca with swimming pool near Orihuela. 3 beds, 1 bath. Living room and open kitchen. 3 Large terraces and private pool. Total plot 4700 m. Fully furnished. 15 min. from Orihuela City and Murcia. 30 min. from Airport Alicante and San Javier and beach.

450,000 euros

Quad in Torrevieja

Quad 3 bedroom house, Torrevieja. Communal pool, separate secure parking. Close to commercial shopping area.

79,000 euros

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10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Fashion show success for the horses by Louise Clarke LAST WEEKEND’S Looking Good Boutique Fashion Show in aid of the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre in Rojales was deemed by organisers to be a huge success. Both inside and outside, the Boutique, lo-

cated in La Zenia, was packed full of people eager to view the latest designs from Looking Good’s Autumn/Winter collection as well as lots of party outfits ideal for the up and coming festive season. AMAZING

Louise from the Boutique told RTN: “I would like to say a huge thanks to all those people who came along to the Charity Fashion Show last Saturday. The day was fantastic and as always, our models did a great job. The hog roast was a roaring success, the raffles were well received and the entertainers did the most amazing job. I would like to say thanks again, especially to Julie McCracken and Gina L.” The event raised an amazing €500 for the Rescue Centre which currently homes more than 30 horses and donkeys. Louise concluded: “I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.” JANUARY SALE

A model struts her stuff

The Boutique will be having a ‘Party Madness’ sale between Christmas and New Year for all those last minute party outfits so go along and bag a bargain! The Boutique is

The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre Volunteers

open until 14:00 on Friday 24th December, closed Saturday and Sunday 25th and 26th December and then open as normal from 10:00 until 19:00 until New Year’s Eve when

they will close at 14:00. The Boutique will re-open at 10:00 on Monday 3rd January 2011 with a fantastic January Sale guaranteed not to be missed!

Carol Over 3000 euros Concert raised for Age Concern

THERE WILL be a Christmas carol concert at the Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, next Monday, 13th December, from 20:00 onwards with mulled wine, mince pies and BBQ food also available. Singing will be led by Cathy Carson and the TAABS Singers and all proceeds will go towards the rescues and after care work at the centre where there are currently 30 horses and donkeys being looked after, some of whom have disabilities and require constant attention. They can all be seen on guided tours of the centre during the Centre’s Open Days; Wednesdays and Sundays 13:00 until 16:00. For more information and directions, please call Sue on 652 021 980 or visit www.easyhorsecare.net.

Maureen Payne and Raquel Pena

THE AGE Concern Charity has benefited well over the last few weeks and a massive thank you is due to all the organisers, volunteers and of course, the public, who contributed to the various fund raising activities. Over €300 was raised at the recent ‘This is Spain’ Exhibition, and the Annual ‘Christmas Fayre’ took place on 27th November at the Charity’s centre in La Siesta. All the usual stalls were well supported and in spite of the bad weather, a massive €3,000 was raised. Last Saturday, Age Concern’s President, Maureen Payne attended a presentation at the Bull Flanagan in Quesada, where she received from the Charity 4 Charities (C4C) committee, €1,000. The C4C team had raised the fantastic sum of €15,000 during 2010 and presented 15 charities with a cheque each for €1,000. The Raquel Pena Dancers also put on a great show as usual at the Rojales Municipal Theatre, enjoyed by all who attended. Maureen was again presented

with a cheque for €1,000. Finally, the Footwork Dance Troops are putting on a show at the Virgen Del Carmen Theatre in Torrevieja on 18th December in aid of Age Concern. For further information regarding tickets, prices, times etc, please call the Centre on 966 786 887. DEDICATED The Charity would like to stress that without these donations etc, and all the hard work and support of the people who organise them, plus the people who attend and contribute, it could not carry out all the welfare work and dedicated help to those who need it. Both shops and the Centre will close on Friday 17th December 2010, and re-open on Monday 3rd January 2011 and the Centre a week later on 10th January 2011. The Charity would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

health

10 - 16JANUARY dECEMBER2010 2010 15-21

Question: My sister has just found out that she is expecting twins! Can I assume that when I start a family I will also be more likely to have a twin pregnancy? Also can you please explain what extra care my sister will need?

Ask the Specialist by

Dawn Blythe S.R.N. R.M.

TO ANSWER you first question regarding your ‘risk’ of a twin pregnancy, it depends if your sister is expecting monozygotic (identical) twins or dizygotic (non-identical) twins. With identical twins a single fertilized egg divides into 2 (or 3 for triplets!) and this is not a hereditary trait. With non-identical twins, 2 or more eggs are fertilised and it is this type of multiple pregnancy that has a familial tendancy. Diagnosis of multiple pregnancy is made by early ultra sound scan but prior to this there are often early clinical signs. The uterus will be ‘large for dates’ and the woman may be suffering from exaggerated pregnancy symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Whereas for women with a single pregnancy the primary care provider will be a Midwife, all women with a multiple pregnancy should be seen by a Consultant Obstetrician as soon as possible. Both mother and babies have a higher risk of complications.

Therefore, increased pre-natal care, investigations, and monitoring of both the mother and the developing fetuses are a must. Delivery should be booked in a Consultant Obstetric Unit where there is a Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU). The mode of delivery will be decided by the Obstetrician who will take all factors into account such as the gestation, current condition of both mother and fetuses, the mother’s wishes and of course the fetal presentations! In 45% of cases both fetuses present as cephalic (head first), 25% 1st twin cephalic, 2nd twin breech, and in 10% of cases breech / breech, breech / cephalic. The remaining 20% will include oblique and transverse lies. Obviously a cephalic presentation is more favourable but the Obstetrician may consider a vaginal delivery for a breech if the woman has had a previous uncomplicated vaginal delivery of a term baby. Rest assured that the Obstetrician will consider all options

A new mother with twins will need extra support and help at home

carefully before any decision is made. Understandably, a new mother with twins will need extra support and help at home. Caring for a newborn is tiring; caring for twins can be exhausting! Do

encourage your sister to breast feed as once breast feeding is established she will find this far easier than bottle feeding, and with the help of a breast pump, feeding duties can be shared!

This article has been written by Dawn Blythe SRN, RM. Dawn is a British trained midwife who has spent over 20 years caring for mothers and babies in expatriate communities. She now offers midwifery care (excluding delivery) to the patients of ‘The English Medical Clinic’, Albir. To chat to Dawn, pop into her free ‘drop in’ clinic on Wednesday mornings. Email englishmedicalclinic@gmail.com

Don’t let back pain be your handicap THE MOST common injury experienced by golfers is that of low back pain. Poor posture, incorrect stance and poor swing mechanics are the main contributing factors to golfing injuries. Research has shown that an incorrect posture combined with poor swing mechanics can increase the load pressure on the low back by up to by three times. If an average golfer takes 90 shots per round it is only a matter of time before poor posture The Costa Blanca and technique results in a low back injury. It is Chiropractic Centre due to these forces that many top professionals including Tiger Woods, Greg Norman and Nick Faldo (with good technique) utilise the profession of chiropractic. “I’ve been going to chiropractors for as long as I can remember. It’s as important to my training as practicing my swing.” -Tiger Woods.

Lawrence King

CHIROPRACTOR LAWRENCE KING EXPLAINS HOW TO KEEP GOLFING INJURIES TO A MINIMUM

Low back injuries can result in varying degrees of pain as well as reduced motion, both of which can have an effect on the amount and quality of golf a player can enjoy. Many golfers experience more serious injuries by ignoring the early warning signs and not taking action against them. Whilst working in Scotland I had the opportunity to work alongside one their top golf academies. In the academy players received chiropractic care to keep the spine strong and supple. We also worked strongly with player stance and correct swing plane. With these measures in place, not only did we see vast reductions in players’ injuries but also consistent

improvement lowering handicap levels. Research has shown with correct technique and posture, adverse stresses on the spine can be kept to a minimum. If you require an appointment to prevent or help golfing injuries or any other spinal related complaints please contact the Costa Blanca chiropractic centre on 966 865 432.

For an appointment with Dr. Lawrence, please contact The Costa Blanca Chiropractic Centre on 966 865 432 or call Dr Lawrence direct on 656 589 740.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Health and beauty gift ideas for Christmas from your Parafarmacia PARAFARMACIAS WORK in harmony with pharmacies but offer a larger range of non-prescription products and do not sell prescription drugs. Readers are invited to come along for an informal chat on what they are looking for, either for themselves or others, but here are a few gift ideas:

Patricia Ballester

Parafarmacia Archiduque Carlos

BEAUTY Products proven to help reduce body fat, skin aging, and combat cellulite are all very popular gifts. Nearly all the major international brands such as Galenic, Vichy, Sesderma, Roc, Klorane and Ren, as well as brands very well known in the UK are available from Parafarmacia Archiduque Carlos. The latest non–solar tanning treatments and machines giving a natural healthy glow are also a great Christmas idea. PROBIOTICS Well known in the UK, Probiotics increase the body’s natural defences and ‘good’ bacteria levels essential for health. DIET It is important to speak with a qualified dietician. Our dietician has a doctorate in pharmacy and speaks English. The latest technology uses a body mass analyser, which indicates what type of body morphology you have and where, and what type of body fat and fluid volume. Our dietician service is offered free to customers (conditions apply, please ask at the Parafarmacia). Extremely popular gifts are the wide range of effective products for weight loss, based on non-aggressive natural medicine.

CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH There is now cutting-edge analysis equipment that performs blood analysis such as blood sugar, cholesterol, etc ... the results are available in only 3 minutes and cost only €6.5 per analysis. There are also machines available to purchase that measure blood pressure, both wrist and arm and from only €35; a sensible health gift SPORT AND ENERGY Products for all those who wish to maintain or improve optimum physical performance and mobile health, from shark cartilage for joints to products to improve performance and recovery and also the ‘power balance’ bracelet for improving balance and sport performance. SEX A best-selling masculine product often bought by female clients for their male partner is VIGORIMA, to optimise male performance, whilst avoiding the possible side effects of prescription sexual health products, with this 100% natural product: A popular women’s product is MACA, a product intended to increase female desire and revitalise the spirit. For more information, or just an informal chat, come and see us. We offer a 10% across the board discount for RTN readers. We´re based in the top of Calle Diana n.14 (near the Castle, opposite Amadeus clothes) in Denia: see our advert below.

This article has been written by Patricia Ballester of Parafarmacia Archiduque Carlos. Based in the top of Calle Diana n.14 (near the Castle, opposite Amadeus clothes) in Denia, tel: 966 427 775 or email: parafarmaciaarchiduque@hotmail.com

10% OFF

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Understanding physiotherapy Oi Oi Boys! by

Joan McLellan

M.C.S.P S.R.P Grad Dip

Many people think of Physiotherapy in connection with sport injuries or physical problems caused by an accident. In fact Physiotherapy can be used to treat a vast range of differing ailments. I trained as a Physio at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle which ran courses alongside the University. These days things are so different; nowadays students concentrate on cramming in all the theory before even touching a patient. Whereas I was fortunate to have hands-on practise from the beginning, and because my training took place in a teaching hospital we combined clinical work with study. During the 3yrs it takes to qualify, the course covers anatomy, physiology, psychology, pathology, electrotherapy, exercisetherapy and more. I qualified in 1974 as an English Chartered Physiotherapist which means that I became a Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (M.C.S.P.) which is the governing board of Physio. There are many types of short courses for Physical Therapy and unfortunately this title often gets referred to as a Physiotherapist so a quick word of advice….a full ¨Chartered¨ Physio is someone who has achieved and completed a 3 year university course. Physio covers many aspects of health as we have to study all the body systems. While working in the

Physio can be used to treat a vast range of differing ailments

NHS in the UK these skills are used more so than in private practice, as basically in private practice you are limited to what cases come through the door. Sports injuries orthopaedic and arthritic problems are the most common. I originally came to Spain over 20 years ago and worked first in Benidorm where there was the only practice that existed with a Spanish Rheumatologist whose wife was a Scottish G.P. But I found it impossible at that time to have my qualifications made legal to work here because Physiotherapy was a relatively new profession. So I returned to the UK

and then came back once Spain was in the EC. By then the English Doctor, Bernard Willis had set up practice in Javea, so it was a natural progression that I contacted him, and I worked there until he retired. These days I have surgeries at the L’Ancora Tennis Club in Javea, at the Clinica Britannia in Calpe, and at The English Medical Clinic in Albir. And of course I do home visits whenever necessary. If anyone has a specific problem and needs advice I will try my best to help. You can contact me by email on joan.mclellan@gmail.com or telephone 609 954 237.

This article has been written by Joan McLellan a physiotherapist since 1974. For more information call 609 954 237 or email joan.mclellan@gmail.com

BRAVE FELLOWS will be stripping down to their underwear (don’t worry it’s all very decent!) if enough money is bid at the Fund Raising Day for Leukaemia research at Quo Vadis in Javea this Saturday, next to Javea Karting. The ‘Half Monty’ will be the final lot in a fun auction that contains some great prizes, ranging from a Christmas Hamper from Iceland to a full car check up at The Garage, Javea. A clown will be entertaining the children and Father Christmas will be making a festive visit. And if that’s not enough, there is crazy golf on hand too. Gina Gatoli-King will also be selling signed copies of her newly published book, “Oi Oi Saveloy!” - a story about her son Kenan and his battle against Leukaemia, diagnosed shortly after they came to live in Spain from England. “It’s a story about family,” says Gina, “and how cancer affects everyone involved. The fund raising day is all about family too and we hope in bringing everyone together in the build up to Christmas, we can have a bit of fun and raise money for leukaemia research too.” Co organiser Sandy Spurling added, “We had to do a lot of persuading to get the guys to agree to do the ‘Half Monty’. None of them has ever done anything like this before and they’re all very nervous. But they’ve been practising hard and we hope to raise enough money for them to show off their dancing steps.” The money raised from the auction will be donated to Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. Now that is something to take your hat off for! Quo Vadis, 13.00, Saturday 11th December (next to Javea Karting)

Home of the 3 day detox

tv Friday 10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Real Rescues 12:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Missing 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Horrible Histories 16:35 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 16:50 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Sorry, I’ve Got No Head 17:30 MI High 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 A Question of Sport 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 QI 22:00 Strictly Come Dancing 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 The Graham Norton Show 24:20 The National Lottery Friday Night Draws 24:30 Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights

09:30 LazyTown 09:55 Big Barn Farm 10:05 Buzz and Tell 10:10 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:25 The Large Family 10:40 Toddworld 10:50 Pingu 11:00 Waybuloo 11:20 Clifford’s Puppy Days 11:30 Pablo the Little Red Fox 11:35 3rd & Bird 11:50 Wibbly Pig 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Animal Park 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 Live Snooker: UK Championship 17:30 Pointless 18:15 The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Off 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 20:30 Match of the Day Live 23:00 The Stephen K Amos Show 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 The Review Show 24:50 Snooker: UK Championship

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 House Gift 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Countrywise Kitchen 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Coronation Street: The Big 50 23:30 ITV News and Weather 24:00 Granada News and Weather 24:05 Taking Lives

Campoverde Theatre Group

EVERYONE IS working hard with rehearsals for our forthcoming pantomime ‘Bluebeard’, to be held on 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th February at the Olympia Restaurant, Mil Palmeras. Tickets will go on sale on 3rd January and may be bought at the Panaderia, Campoverde on Tuesday and Thursday 12.00 2.00, by phoning Colin on 966 774 127 or by calling at the Olympia Restaurant on rehearsal days, Mon-

day and Wednesday from 13.30 to 16.00. Seats will be numbered so don’t be disappointed - get your friends to book at the same time so that you will be sitting together. This promises to be a wonderful production under our new Musical Director, Huw Jones, Pat Thielman the Producer and Vida Nelson, choreographer. Don’t miss out! Get your tickets ordered early: Adults €8 and children €5.

07:30 Planet Cook 07:50 Yo Gabba Gabba 08:15 Freshly Squeezed 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:35 Frasier 10:05 According to Jim 10:35 Friends 11:05 One Tree Hill 12:00 Smallville 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Iron Chef UK 14:05 Channel 4 Racing 16:25 Countdown 17:10 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Four in a Bed 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:25 4thought.tv 20:30 Unreported World 21:00 Come Dine with Me 22:00 The Event 23:00 Peep Show 23:30 Robert’s Web 24:05 Frankie Boyle’s Tramadol Nights 24:40 The Morgana Show

09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Hana’s Helpline 09:50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Milkshake! Music Box 10:15 The Wright Stuff 11:45 Trisha Goddard 12:45 House Doctor 13:40 Five News 13:45 Man-Eating Leopards: Austin Stevens’ Adventures 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Home and Away 15:50 Animal Rescue Squad 16:05 Angel in the Family 18:00 Five News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 Live from Studio Five 20:00 Five News at 7 20:30 Fifth Gear 21:00 White Van Man 22:00 The Mentalist 23:00 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 23:55 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

07:00 X-Weighted 08:00 Brainiac: Science Abuse 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 11:00 Bones 12:00 The Filth Files 12:30 Adoption Diaries 13:00 X-Weighted 14:00 Road Wars 15:00 Stargate Atlantis 16:00 Stargate Atlantis 17:00 Bones 18:00 WWE Superstars 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 Modern Family 21:00 Best of Oops TV 22:00 Ross Kemp on Gangs 23:00 House 24:00 Stargate Universe

01:30 Close 08:30 Luge 09:00 World Touring Car Championship 10:00 Snooker: UK Championship 10:55 Olympic Magazine 11:00 Biathlon 11:30 Live Biathlon 12:45 Curling 14:00 Biathlon 14:30 Live Biathlon 15:45 Live Snooker: UK Championship 17:35 Eurogoals Flash 17:45 Wintersports: Breaking the Ice 18:00 Live Ski Jumping 19:00 Biathlon 20:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 23:00 Ski Jumping 23:45 Freeride Spirit Show 24:00 Curling

07:30 Home Shopping 08:00 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 Maury 10:55 Celebs 24/7 11:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 12:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Miami 15:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 Cougar Town 20:00 CSI: Miami 21:00 Criminal Minds 22:00 Medium 23:00 CSI: Crime S cene Investigation 24:00 Criminal Minds

The street of joy

The TV Round Up by

Alex Trelinski

Broadcaster and freelance journalist

IT’S A belated 50th birthday greeting to one of the great British TV institutions, namely ‘Coronation Street’. At the time of writing, I have no idea who passed on to soap heaven as a result of the tram crash, but it’s very clear that there’ll be many weeks of material for the writers to feast on after that moment of disaster. Only one programme has a longer lifespan and that’s ‘The Sky at Night’ presented by Sir Patrick Moore, which hit the BBC screens back in 1957. It’s sad though that ITV missed a trick or two by not running a selection of old episodes to mark Corrie’s birthday, barring the very first outing on Monday night, which has been screened a number of times over the years. Amazingly, every single episode exists in the archives, and surely one of the ITV digital channels could have run a short season to remind us of the shows’ past brilliance. Perhaps it was deliberate decision, as I suspect that many of us would have preferred the old stories and characters which had a far greater degree of realism. Don’t get me wrong - I love Corrie, but it does occasionally stretch credibility beyond belief, especially with the various storylines involving John Stape, from kidnapping Rosie Webster to the current farcical Colin Fishwick cover-up. The old days of the Ogdens, Annie Walker, Ena Sharples, Len Fairclough, and Elsie Tanner just stuck to good old story-telling, with just the right balance of drama and humour. I have a number of old episodes on DVD, and you can’t help being hooked straight away, despite the grainy black and white images. It’s also inevitable that with five episodes a week, as opposed to two, the standards are going to be lower, as ITV need to milk their cash cow. After a battle for Granada TV to make the show in the first place, Tony Warren saw his creation become the number one show on British TV within a year, and it has pretty much held that position over the last half-century. It really was that ground-breaking in showing northern life to the whole country, and with some strong female characters to boot. It was a seismic change in TV drama, moving away from a comfortable middleclass drawing room setting in the Home Counties to something completely different. It’s success was

My personal favourite Elsie Tanner!

such that only once did it find itself pegged back by a rival show screened at the same time on the BBC, and that was back in the sixties with a new comedy about a couple of rag and bone men, called ‘Steptoe and Son’! Picking a favourite Corrie character is not easy but it has to be Elsie Tanner, played by Pat Phoenix. She epitomised the grit of the show and what it was trying to do, and her verbal tongue-lashings against the other female characters have stayed a long time in the memory; I especially loved her showdowns with the hair-netted Ena Sharples. Pat’s character was also not far away from the kind of person that she really was. It was an inspired piece of casting in a TV project that got it absolutely right from the very first transmission back in December 1960. It was a big gamble by Granada, but sadly the kind of gamble that TV companies are scared to do in prime-time these days with new drama.

tv Saturday 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Nigella Kitchen 13:00 BBC News; Regional News 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Inside Sport: The Marion Jones Story 14:30 Live Snooker: UK Championship 17:30 Final Score 18:10 BBC News; Regional News 18:30 The Impressions Show with Culshaw and Stephenson 19:00 Strictly Come Dancing 20:00 Total Wipeout - Celebrity Special 21:00 The National Lottery Saturday Night Draws 21:15 Casualty 22:05 The Armstrong & Miller Show 22:35 BBC News 23:00 Match of the Day 24:20 The Football League Show

08:40 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 09:00 MI High 09:30 Mission: 2110 10:00 Ingenious 11:00 Little Howard’s Big Question 11:20 Sam & Mark’s Guide to Dodging Disaster 11:50 Dennis and Gnasher 12:00 Roy 12:30 Big Performance 13:00 The Cut 13:30 The Season 14:30 The 5:19 Show 14:50 Revealed 15:05 Revealed 15:20 The Sky at Night 15:40 The Big Circus 17:30 Live Snooker: UK Championship 18:30 Dad’s Army 19:00 Making Scotland’s Landscape 20:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 22:30 Have I Got a Bit More News for You 23:15 QI XL 24:00 The Trip 24:30 Dara O Briain: Live at the Theatre Royal

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

08:25 Toonattik 10:25 Cool Stuff Collective 10:50 Planet Sketch 11:00 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 11:30 The Crocodile Hunter Diaries 12:30 This Morning: Saturday 13:30 News and Weather 13:34 Granada Weather 13:35 You’ve Been Framed! 14:05 Best Ever Worst Dance Moments 15:05 Step Up 17:00 Liar Liar 18:35 Granada News and Weather 18:45 ITV News and Weather 19:00 This Is JLS 20:00 The X Factor 22:00 Take Me Out 23:00 Bridget Jones: the Edge of Reason 24:00 ITV News 24:15 Bridget Jones: the Edge of Reason

08:55 The Morning Line 09:55 One Tree Hill 10:50 Ugly Betty 11:40 Koko Pop 12:15 Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader: T4 Movie Special 12:40 Friends 13:10 Friends 13:45 Beyonce: I Am - World Tour 14:45 Channel 4 Racing 16:55 Come Dine with Me 17:25 Come Dine with Me 19:25 The Political Slot 19:30 Channel 4 News 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Perfect Christmas 21:00 Kirstie and Phil’s Perfect Christmas 22:00 Meet the Spartans 23:40 The Beach

08:30 Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs 08:40 Make Way for Noddy 08:55 Mist: Sheepdog Tales 09:05 Little Princess 09:20 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:35 Play! 09:45 Castle Farm 09:55 Olivia 10:10 The Mr Men Show 10:30 George Shrinks 11:00 Your Sport 11:10 The Gadget Show 12:10 All I Want for Christmas 13:55 The Angel of Pennsylvania Avenue 15:55 Avalanche Express 17:35 Five News 17:40 Airport 20:15 NCIS 21:00 NCIS 22:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 23:00 CSI: NY 23:55 CSI: NY 24:50 Cops in Crisis

06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 The Fluffy Club 08:25 Toonattik 10:25 Monk 10:30 The X Factor 12:30 This Morning: Sunday 13:30 News and Weather 13:34 Granada Weather 17:15 Midsomer Murders 19:15 Granada News and Weather 19:30 ITV News and Weather 19:45 All Star Family Fortunes 20:30 The X Factor 22:30 Piers Meets Elton: A Life Stories Special 23:45 ITV News and Weather 24:00 Music and Lyrics

07:10 Sali Mali 07:15 Planet Cook 07:35 Yo Gabba Gabba 08:00 Survival of the Fittest 08:30 Freesports on 4 08:55 World B-Boy Series 09:55 Hollyoaks 12:35 Friends 13:05 Friends 13:40 Ugly Betty 14:40 The Simpsons 15:15 The Simpsons 15:50 Volcano 17:50 Deal or No Deal 18:40 Elf 20:30 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Celebrity Come Dine with Me Christmas Special 22:00 Any Human Heart 23:25 Desperate Housewives 24:25 8 Out of 10 Cats

08:30 Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs 08:45 Make Way for Noddy 08:55 Mist: Sheepdog Tales 09:05 Little Princess 09:20 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:40 Family! 09:45 Castle Farm 10:00 Olivia 10:15 Mr Men Show 10:30 George Shrinks 11:00 iCarly 11:35 True Jackson, VP 12:10 Your Sport 12:25 Street Market Chefs 12:55 Cats and Dogs 14:30 Blizzard 16:30 Snow White 18:15 Five News 18:20 Force 10 from Navarone 20:50 Jet Li’s The One 22:30 Dirty Dancing 24:35 Fools Rush In

08:00 Vet Adventures 09:00 Malcolm in the Middle 09:30 Malcolm in the Middle 10:00 Wayne Rooney’s Street Striker 11:00 Soccer AM 13:00 Best of Oops TV 14:00 Malcolm n the Middle 14:30 Malcolm in the Middle 15:00 Oops TV 16:00 Fat Families: Second Helpings 17:00 Modern Family 17:30 Modern Family 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Futurama 19:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Futurama 22:00 UK Border Force 23:00 Road Wars 24:00 Fringe

02:00 Close 08:35 Ski Jumping 09:15 Biathlon 10:00 Wintersports: Breaking the Ice 10:15 Live Alpine Skiing 10:45 Live Biathlon 11:30 Live Alpine Skiing 12:45 Live CrossCountry Skiing 13:30 Live Alpine Skiing 14:00 Live Biathlon 15:30 Live CrossCountry Skiing 16:00 Live Ski Jumping 17:40 Wintersports Weekend 17:45 Live Curling 19:00 Snooker: UK Championship 20:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 23:00 Curling 24:30 Luge

08:25 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air 11:00 My Wife and Kids 11:30 My Wife and Kids 12:00 Will & Grace 12:30 Will & Grace 13:00 The Beckhams’ Crazy 2010 14:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 The Addams Family 19:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 21:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 22:00 Criminal Minds 23:00 Criminal Minds 24:00 Criminal Minds

Fat Families Sky 1, 16.00

tv Sunday 07:00 Breakfast 08:35 Match of the Day 10:00 Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Fern Britton Meets Jesse Jackson 12:00 Country Tracks 13:00 The Politics Show 14:00 Wild Weather: The South West 14:20 EastEnders 16:15 Drop Zone 17:15 Points of View 17:30 Songs of Praise 18:05 BBC News; Regional News 18:30 Jimmy’s Food Factory 19:00 Countryfile 20:00 Strictly Come Dancing 20:30 Antiques Roadshow 21:30 Inspector George Gently 23:00 BBC News; Regional News 23:25 The Impressions Show with Culshaw and Stephenson 23:55 Match of the Day 2

07:25 Penelope 07:30 Guess with Jess 07:40 Postman Pat 08:00 Arthur 08:15 Muddle Earth 08:25 Sportsround 08:40 Bear Behaving Badly 09:00 Scoop 09:25 Hotel Trubble 09:55 Diddy Dick & Dom 10:00 Deadly 60 10:30 Horrible Histories 11:00 Something for the Weekend 12:30 Escape to the Country 13:00 Triple Cross 15:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship 18:20 The Three Musketeers 20:00 Johnny Kingdom’s Year with the Birds 20:30 Dad’s Army 21:00 Live Snooker: UK Championship

07:00 Hour of Power 08:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 09:00 Vet Adventures 10:00 Oops TV 11:00 Oops TV 12:00 WWE: Experience 13:00 Oops TV 14:00 Futurama 14:30 Futurama 15:00 Real Filth Fighters 15:30 Medical Emergency 16:00 Fat Families: Second Helpings 17:00 Modern Family 17:30 Modern Family 18:00 The Simpsons 18:30 Must Be the Music: Winner’s Story 19:30 The Middle 20:00 Raising Hope 20:30 Raising Hope 21:00 The Simpsons 21:30 Modern Family 22:00 Bones 23:00 House 24:00 Cold Case

01:00 Live Luge 02:00 Close 08:30 Ski Jumping 09:15 Live Alpine Skiing 10:15 Live Alpine Skiing 11:00 Live Biathlon 12:30 Live Alpine Skiing 13:15 Live Alpine Skiing 14:00 Ski Jumping 15:45 Live Cross-Country Skiing 16:25 Wintersports Weekend 16:30 Live Snooker: UK Championship 18:00 Biathlon 18:45 Biathlon 19:30 Snooker: UK Championship 20:30 Live Snooker: UK Championship 23:30 FIA Gala 2010 24:30 Ski Jumping

Ugly Betty Channel 4 13.40

08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air 11:00 My Wife and Kids 12:00 Will & Grace 13:00 Cougar Town 14:00 George Michael Live in London 15:50 Celebs 24/7 16:00 The Addams Family 18:00 Little Man: Looking for Love 19:00 Robbie Williams’ Crazy 2010 20:00 Four Weddings 21:00 Nikita 22:00 Criminal Minds 23:00 CSI: Miami 24:00 Criminal Minds

tv Monday

48 40

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010 Feb 26 - March 4 2010

07:00 X-Weighted 08:00 Brainiac: Science Abuse 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 11:00 Bones 12:00 The Filth Files 12:30 The Real A&E 13:00 X-Weighted 14:00 Road Wars 15:00 Stargate Atlantis 16:00 Stargate Atlantis 17:00 Bones 18:00 Malcolm in the Middle 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 Modern Family 21:00 Best of Oops TV 22:00 UK Border Force 23:00 NCIS: Los Angeles 24:00 Cold Case

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Real Rescues 12:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Horrible Histories 16:30 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 16:50 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Hotel Trubble 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Inside Out 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Baby P: In His Mother’s Words Panorama 22:00 Accused 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 A Question of Sport 24:05 Sports Personality of the Year

09:30 LazyTown 09:55 Big Barn Farm 10:05 Buzz and Tell 10:10 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:25 The Large Family 10:40 Toddworld 10:50 Pingu 11:00 Waybuloo 11:20 Clifford’s Puppy Days 11:30 Pablo the Little Red Fox 11:35 3rd & Bird 11:50 Wibbly Pig 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Animal Park 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Due South 14:45 Film 2010 with Claudia Winkleman 15:15 Ready Steady Cook 16:00 Murder, She Wrote 16:45 Flog It! Ten of the Best 17:30 Pointless 18:15 The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Off 19:00 Celebrity Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 This World: Pakistan’s Flood Doctor 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Miranda 22:00 Ian Hislop’s Age of the Do-Gooders 23:00 Grumpy Old Men

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 House Gift 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Countrywise Kitchen 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 The Savoy 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 Young Adam

08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Smallville 10:00 One Tree Hill 10:55 Friends 11:25 Friends 11:55 Glee 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader: T4 Movie Special 13:30 Iron Chef UK 14:35 Hills of Home 16:25 Countdown 17:10 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Four in a Bed 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Heston’s Christmas Feast 22:00 River Cottage Christmas Fayre 23:00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man 24:05 Peep Show 24:40 The Simpsons

09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Hana’s Helpline 09:50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Castle Farm 10:15 The Wright Stuff 11:45 Trisha Goddard 12:45 Five News 12:50 CSI: NY 13:45 CSI: NY 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Home and Away 15:50 Your Sport 15:55 Meals in Moments 16:05 A Christmas Visitor 18:00 Five News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 Live from Studio Five 20:00 Five News at 7 20:30 How Do They Do It? 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 Extreme Fishing with Robson Green 23:00 Sudden Impact

Watch New Season TV for Free with Europa call 902 050 999

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Real Rescues 12:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Horrible Histories 16:30 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 16:50 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Deadly 60 17:30 Blue Peter’s Christmas Special 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Crimewatch 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Crimewatch Update 23:45 Imagine 24:35 The Wackness

09:00 Prank Patrol 09:30 LazyTown 09:55 Big Barn Farm 10:05 Buzz and Tell 10:10 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:25 The Large Family 10:40 Toddworld 10:50 Pingu 11:00 Waybuloo 11:20 Clifford’s Puppy Days 11:30 Pablo the Little Red Fox 11:35 3rd & Bird 11:50 Wibbly Pig 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Animal Park 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Due South 14:45 Car Booty 15:15 Ready Steady Cook 16:00 Murder, She Wrote 16:45 Flog It! Ten of the Best 17:30 Pointless 18:15 The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Off 19:00 Celebrity Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Coast 21:00 Decade of Discovery 22:00 Pompeii: Life and Death in a Roman Town 23:00 Miranda 23:30 Newsnight

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 House Gift 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Living in Fear: Tonight 21:00 A Touch of Frost 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 The War You Don’t See

08:15 Freshly Squeezed 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 Smallville 10:00 One Tree Hill 10:55 Friends 11:30 Friends 12:00 Glee 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Iron Chef UK 14:05 Swiss Family Robinson 16:25 Countdown 17:10 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Four in a Bed 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Kirstie’s Homemade Home 22:00 The Family 23:00 Frankie Boyle’s Tramadol Nights 23:35 The Morgana Show 24:10 The Big Bang Theory 24:35 Robert’s Web

08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Hana’s Helpline 09:50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Castle Farm 10:15 The Wright Stuff 11:45 Trisha Goddard 12:45 Five News 12:50 CSI: NY 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Home and Away 15:50 Your Sport 15:55 Meals in Moments 16:10 The Christmas Gift 18:00 Five News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 Live from Studio Five 20:00 Five News at 7 20:30 Street Market Chefs 21:00 Sea Patrol UK 22:00 CSI: Miami 23:00 CSI: NY 24:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

08:00 Brainiac: Science Abuse 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 11:00 Bones 12:00 The Filth Files 12:30 The Real A&E 13:00 X-Weighted 14:00 Road Wars 15:00 Stargate Atlantis 16:00 Stargate Atlantis 17:00 Bones 18:00 Malcolm in the Middle 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 Modern Family 21:00 Futurama 21:30 Futurama 22:00 Fat Families 23:00 Fringe 24:00 Sharpshooter

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Real Rescues 12:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Horrible Histories 16:30 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 16:50 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Little Howard’s Big Christmas Question 17:30 Dani’s House 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Dig 1940 21:00 Jimmy’s Food Factory 21:30 Nigel Slater’s Simple Suppers 22:00 The Apprentice 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 The National Lottery Wednesday Night Draws 23:45 Film 2010 with Claudia Winkleman

09:30 LazyTown 09:55 Big Barn Farm 10:05 Buzz and Tell 10:10 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:25 The Large Family 10:40 Toddworld 10:50 Pingu 11:00 Waybuloo 11:20 Clifford’s Puppy Days 11:30 Pablo the Little Red Fox 11:35 3rd & Bird 11:50 Wibbly Pig 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 See Hear 14:30 Car Booty 15:15 Ready Steady Cook 16:00 Murder, She Wrote 16:45 Flog It! Ten of the Best 17:30 Pointless 18:15 The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Off 19:00 Celebrity Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Escape to the Country 21:00 Edwardian Farm 22:00 Ancient Worlds 23:00 The Apprentice: You’re Fired! 23:30 Newsnight

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News and Weather 15:00 House Gift 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Lakes 21:00 A Touch of Frost 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 Falling Down

08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 According to Jim 09:30 Frasier 10:00 One Tree Hill 10:55 Friends 11:30 Friends 12:00 Glee 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 River Cottage Bites 13:20 Iron Chef UK 14:20 The Love Bug 16:25 Countdown 17:10 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Four in a Bed 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 22:00 Grand Designs 23:00 Hollyoaks 24:05 The Event

08:30 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 09:40 Hana’s Helpline 09:50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Castle Farm 10:15 The Wright Stuff 11:45 Trisha Goddard 12:45 Five News 12:50 CSI: NY 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Home and Away 15:45 Meals in Moments 15:55 Meals in Moments 16:10 Noel 18:00 Five News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 Live from Studio Five 20:00 Five News at 7 20:30 Live UEFA Europa League Football 23:10 Second in Command

08:00 Brainiac: Science Abuse 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 11:00 Bones 12:00 The Filth Files 12:30 Medical Emergency 13:00 Fat Families 14:00 Road Wars 15:00 Stargate: Continuum 16:50 Bite Size Brainiac 17:00 Bones 17:50 Bite Size Brainiac 18:00 Malcolm in the Middle 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 21:30 Raising Hope 22:00 Justin Lee Collins: The Wrestler 23:00 Stargate: the Ark of Truth

tv Tuesday

tv Wednesday

Charmed Living 17.00

09:30 Alpine Skiing 10:00 Biathlon 11:00 Biathlon 11:30 Ski Jumping 12:30 Wintersports: Breaking the Ice 12:45 Alpine Skiing 13:30 Alpine Skiing 14:00 Biathlon 15:00 Ski Jumping 16:00 Snooker: UK Championship 18:00 Eurogoals: One to One 18:15 Eurogoals 18:45 Champions Club 20:00 Ski Jumping 20:45 Snooker: UK Championship 23:00 Champions Club 24:15 Eurogoals: One to One 24:30 Alpine Skiing

09:00 Ski Jumping 10:00 Eurogoals: One to One 10:15 Eurogoals 10:30 Champions Club 12:00 Snooker: UK Championship 13:45 Ski Jumping 15:00 Biathlon 15:45 Biathlon 16:15 Eurogoals 16:45 Champions Club 18:00 Ski Jumping 18:45 Destination Dakar 19:00 Olympic Magazine 19:05 Eurogoals Flash 19:15 Eurogoals 19:45 Snooker: UK Championship 20:45 Boxing 23:00 Freeride Spirit Show 23:15 Rallying 24:15 Ski Jumping

08:00 The Jerry Springer Show 08:25 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 Maury 10:55 Celebs 24/7 11:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Miami 15:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 Cougar Town 20:00 CSI: Miami 21:00 Three Fat Brides, One Thin Dress 22:00 America’s Next Top Model 23:00 Harald Gloockler: Prince of Fashion 24:00 Criminal Minds

07:30 Home Shopping 08:00 The Jerry Springer Show 08:25 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 Maury 10:55 Celebs 24/7 11:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 12:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Miami 15:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 Cougar Town 20:00 CSI: Miami 21:00 America’s Next Top Model 22:00 Four Weddings 23:00 I Am Alex Reid 24:00 Criminal Minds

Ski Jumping Eurosport 13.45

08:30 Swimming 10:30 Ski Jumping 11:30 Biathlon 12:15 Eurogoals 12:45 Champions Club 13:55 Eurogoals: One to One 14:15 Snooker: UK Championship 15:15 Swimming 16:15 World Swimming Championships: Pool Talk 16:30 Live Swimming 18:35 Eurogoals Flash 18:50 Wednesday Selection 18:55 Equestrian 19:55 Riders Club 20:00 European Tour Golf 20:30 Ladies European Tour Golf 20:40 Golf Club 20:45 Yacht Club 20:50 Wednesday Selection 21:05 Live Equestrian 23:15 Snooker: UK Championship

08:00 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 Maury 10:55 Celebs 24/7 11:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 12:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Miami 15:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 19:00 Cougar Town 20:00 CSI: Miami 21:00 Four Weddings 22:00 Cheryl Cole’s Crazy 2010 23:00 Criminal Minds 24:00 Criminal Minds

tv Thursday 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Rip Off Britain 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Real Rescues 12:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Horrible Histories 16:30 What’s New Scooby-Doo? 16:50 Shaun the Sheep 17:00 Deadly 60 17:30 My Life: Toy Soldiers 18:05 Newsround 18:15 Weakest Link 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 The Royal Variety Performance 2010 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 The Apprentice - Why I Fired Them 24:35 This Week

09:00 Prank Patrol 09:30 LazyTown 09:55 Big Barn Farm 10:05 Buzz and Tell 10:10 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:25 The Large Family 10:40 Toddworld 10:50 Pingu 11:00 Waybuloo 11:20 Clifford’s Puppy Days 11:30 Pablo the Little Red Fox 11:35 3rd & Bird 11:50 Wibbly Pig 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Animal Park 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Due South 14:45 Car Booty 15:15 Ready Steady Cook 16:00 Murder, She Wrote 16:45 Flog It! Ten of the Best 17:30 Pointless 18:15 The Hairy Bikers’ Cook Off 19:00 Celebrity Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20:00 Best of the Culture Show 2010 21:00 Nigella Kitchen 21:30 Rick Stein’s Christmas Odyssey 22:00 At Home with the Georgians 23:00 Never Mind t he Buzzcocks 23:30 Newsnight

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

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 House Gift 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Christmas or Bust?: Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Celebrity Grimefighters 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Granada News and Weather 23:35 2 Fast 2 Furious

08:10 Freshly Squeezed 08:40 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:05 According to Jim 09:35 Frasier 10:05 One Tree Hill 11:00 Friends 11:30 Friends 12:00 Glee 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 My Eden 13:10 River Cottage Bites 13:25 Iron Chef UK 14:25 Candleshoe 16:25 Countdown 17:10 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Four in a Bed 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 22:00 The House That Made Me 23:00 Jamie’s Christmas Lock-In 24:05 Alan Carr: Chatty Man

09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:40 Hana’s Helpline 09:50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Castle Farm 10:15 The Wright Stuff 11:45 Trisha Goddard 12:45 Five News 12:50 CSI: NY 13:45 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Home and Away 15:45 Your Sport 15:50 Meals in Moments 16:05 Crazy for Christmas 18:00 Five News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 Live from Studio Five 20:00 Five News at 7 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Demolition: The Super Stadium 22:00 NCIS 23:00 Law & Order: Criminal Intent 23:55 Law & Order 24:55 Cops in Crisis

08:00 Brainiac: Science Abuse 09:00 Oops TV 10:00 It’s Me or the Dog USA 11:00 Bones 12:00 The Filth Files 12:30 Medical Emergency 13:00 Fat Families 14:00 Road Wars 15:00 Stargate: the Ark of Truth 17:00 Bones 18:00 Malcolm in the Middle 18:30 Futurama 19:00 Oops TV 19:30 The Simpsons 20:00 The Simpsons 20:30 The Simpsons 21:00 Modern Family 21:30 The Simpsons 22:00 An Idiot Abroad 23:00 Raising Hope 23:30 A League of Their Own 24:00 NCIS: Los Angeles

08:30 Live Swimming 10:30 Live Biathlon 12:15 Live Alpine Skiing 13:30 Biathlon 14:15 Live Biathlon 16:00 Live Swimming 18:30 World Swimming Championships: Pool Talk 18:45 Eurogoals Flash 18:55 Biathlon 20:00 Fight Club 22:00 Live Equestrian 23:15 Biathlon 24:15 Biathlon

08:00 The Jerry Springer Show 08:50 Celebs 24/7 09:00 Maury 09:55 Celebs 24/7 10:00 Maury 10:55 Celebs 24/7 11:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 12:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 13:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 14:00 CSI: Miami 15:00 Criminal Minds 17:00 Charmed 18:00 Charmed 19:00 Cougar Town 19:30 Cougar Town 20:00 CSI: Miami 21:00 Teens That Tie the Knot 22:00 Nikita 23:00 Chuck 24:00 Criminal Minds

Suduko Answer

CROSSWORD ANSWER 581

Cryptic Across: 3 Impassive; 8 Look; 9 Paralysed; 10 Warden; 11 Revel; 14 Agree; 15 Sift; 16 Ruffs; 18 Poop; 20 Wheel; 21 Manse; 24 Senior; 25 Foresight; 26 Veto; 27 Beats time. Down: 1 Blow-lamps; 2 Court-room; 4 Mean; 5 Aware; 6 Styles; 7 View; 9 Peter; 11 Rifle; 12 Life-lines; 13 Still-room; 17 Sweet; 19 Patent; 22 Shift; 23 Moke; 24 Sham. QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 3 Precision; 8 Real; 9 Overpower; 10 Meagre; 11 Deter; 14 Terse; 15 Name; 16 Ratio; 18 Void; 20 Clasp; 21 Teach; 24 Junior; 25 Indicator; 26 Just; 27 Statement. Down: 1 Primitive; 2 Maladroit; 4 Rove; 5 Curse; 6 Spoken; 7 Open; 9 Order; 11 Ditch; 12 Rapacious; 13 Temperate; 17 Occur; 19 Desist; 22 Charm; 23 Unit; 24 Join.

Wordwheel 9 letter word: Witticism

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10 - 16 dECEMBER 15-21 JANUARY2010 2010

Turban-charged panto by Jack Troughton CARELINE THEATRE is taking a magic carpet ride with New Year pantomime Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. Rehearsals are underway in Alcalali for the group’s annual festive treat opening on 12th January – this show coming packed with Eastern promise. Careline enjoys a sterling reputation for its pantomimes but this show is a little special. Instead of being based on a fairy tale, it is taken from a blood-curdling story from the Arabian Nights. And so to make it a colourful story for all the family, writer Norman Robbins and Director Candy Wright have been busy adapting the story for panto, while keeping all the mystical excitement. It is the story of Ali Baba and how he rises from being a starving seller of sticks to one of the richest merchants in Cairo – complete with

a new home decorated with gold. Along the way, of course, there is a love story, good and bad magicians, a band of 40 villains - and some strange names such as Hanki Panki and Jiggeri Pokeri, not forgetting Tinbad the Tailor. This all goes into the Careline pot with some glorious costumes from Wardrobe Mistress Jan Walker, and an all singing, all dancing show thanks to invaluable contributions from Musical Director Roger Dean and Choreographer Susanna Mace. Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves runs at the Alcalali Theatre from Wednesday 12th January to Sunday 16th January. Tickets are €12 for adults and €10 for children – and there are discounts of 10% for parties of 10 or more adults. Curtain up is at 20.00 every night and there are two 15.00 matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are on sale at Kelly’s of La Xara and by calling the Box Office on 652 294 750.

Christmas Day Services Church of England COSTA BLANCA Anglican Chaplaincy Campello - Los Salesianos - 11.30 Benidorm - La Almudena - 09.45 Calpe - La Merced - 10.30 La Fustera - 12.00 Javea - Midnight Mass - Dec 24th - 23.30 Javea - Christmas Day - 09.45 Denia - 11.45 Fontilles - 09.30 Gandia - 12.00 For full directions to all eight churches please see www.costablanca-anglicanchaplaincy.org

More gold for Ali Baba’s home

Sleep easy with Hannibal

By Jack Troughton MATTRESS SPECIALIST Colchones Hannibal is under new ownership – but rest assured, clients will still enjoy quality service at the best prices. The Gata de Gorgos store now has Bart Munsters at the helm and he has a wealth of experience making sure customers enjoy sweet dreams. And as well as top quality mattresses, Colchones Hannibalstocks bed bases, bed linen, mattress protectors and duvets, the recipe for a perfect night’s sleep. Bart worked at the shop under its old management and is familiar with

the existing client base but has also worked in a number of other stores in the same field, including Mac Night and Dormitienda. His vision for the growth of Colchones Hannibal is to expand to bring in new ranges including the best quality brands available, the best guarantees, fast delivery – and best of all, unbeatable prices. COLLECTION Bart is working closely with Dupen, possibly the best mattress company in Valencia and introducing its new collection of sprung and pocket sprung

mattresses, including a range using foam and gel. “Dupengel is one of the best mattresses and recommended for use in the Costa Blanca because it is extra fresh in summer and in winter it is warm,” he explained. “And all mattresses are exhibited in the shop for anyone to try.” Colchones Hannibal is found at Avenida Marina Alta 184 in Gata – the main N332 road passing through the town. And visit every Friday morning where RTN – Spain’s favourite free newspaper – is available to collect.

Magic circus in town

Aladdin and cast members

by Jack Troughton

T’S THE greatest show on earth and the circus is coming to Benidorm town next week to put some sparkle into Christmas. The show Aladdin and the Magic Circus is taking place in the Big Top at Benidorm Palace and is set to provide some top notch entertainment for all the family. A partnership between Benidorm Palace, Large Than Life Productions and David Climent – who is also the Ring Master – has created a unique pantomime featuring some

of the resort’s hottest talents. Aladdin and the Magic Circus is being staged on Thursday 16th December and Friday 17th December at 18.00 and on Saturday 18th December at both 14.00 and 18.00. Tickets are €12.50 for adults and €8.50 for kids and can be reserved by calling the Box Office on 965 889971. They are also available at Rudy’s music Shop and Abbeys Mini Mart, Alfaz del Pi; Hush, Albir; the Christmas Shop, La Nucia; Round Town Travel in Benidorm and Albir; and the Benidorm Palace Box Office.

Christmas Fun Run

Hats are a must!

SUNDAY, 19TH December a Christmas Run will be held starting at 13.00. Each driver must wear a Christmas hat! After the run there will be a Christmas Party with ‘German Glühwein’ and homemade Christmas cookies. Santa Claus will visit the bar and each lady co driver will receive a ‘Gasolinera Christmas gift’. The route will be as follows: La Fustera – Moraira – Benitachell – Teulada - Benissa –Calpe - La Fustera Xmas party. The Gasolinera Bar is found at Calpe-Moraira, km 2.5: Reservations: 678 664 880 or www.gasolinera-bar.es

Rockin’ around the Christmas tree YOUNGSTERS OF Javea Rock Academy get to strut their stuff on Saturday 18th December in aid of HELP of Denia and the Marina Alta. This year’s Rock Academy Christmas Gig is being staged at the Benitachell Arts Centre and starts at 19.30. The organisers have chosen HELP to receive the proceeds of the raffle and hope to raise awareness of the plight of the elderly and infirm. Last year’s event raised €360 for the EMAUS charity and it is hoped the generosity of parents, guests, and the audience the total will be exceeded for a worthy cause. Tickets are available from the English Bakery, Javea and at the door. Onstage For more information visit at Moraira www.javearockacademy.com or Music Festival call 654 718 393.

ers Newcom e Welcom

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Test time!

Spanish lessons by

Jane Cronin

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

Lesson 137

WELL, CHRISTMAS is on its way, and for most people that means food, presents and celebrations. However, for teachers it means end-of-term EXAMS! Yes, you have been sitting back reading these articles for far too long, nearly three years in fact, without having any more demanded of you that the occasional translation, with all explanations provided. Now it’s teacher’s revenge time, which is what exams are really all about, of course. I still have copies of articles I wrote three years ago, and in fact they are still on my website too. However, I would like you to try and work out the answers to the following questions on your own first. If you need to use a dictionary, do so with caution, because they can take you off on a wrong tack if you’re not sure of what you are looking for, and finally, to confirm your answers you can either wait until next week or have a look at the articles in the RTN articles section on my website. This week I’m covering material that relates to articles one to ten. First of all translate the following ten sentences into Spanish (Two marks per sentence) 1. I’m going to go back. 2. Do you want to play? 3. I want to learn more Spanish. 4. I don’t like working 5. I need to sleep but I’m going to study 6. Can I eat and drink as well? 7. Are you going to be here long? 8. I prefer to be at home. 9. I’m not going to buy a dress, I prefer to buy trousers. 10. I have to take my children to secondary school. There are all sorts of fiendish little tricks in these – otherwise known as things I have told you once but you will probably have forgotten.

However, the important thing is that all of these sentences are constructed according to the same simple formula. Now for something completely different! You have to work out which of these words are masculine and which are feminine. No cheating now! Try and dredge up the answers from the nooks and crannies of your brain, rather than look them up in a dictionary. That way, they are far more likely to stick in your mind in the future as you are creating thought patterns that you can use again. (I thought you’d be impressed by that bit of do-it-yourself psychology – which also happens to be true, by the way.) One mark for each correct answer • MUJER • ESTACIÓN • HOMBRE • PAPEL • VESTIDO • CAMISA • VICTIMA • COMUNIDAD • COCHE • PROBLEMA • PERSONA • RELOJ Here’s a little puzzle for you – how do we say these four things in Spanish? • A PROBLEM • ONE PROBLEM • THE PROBLEM • THE PROBLEMS and now – these four? • A HAND • ONE HAND • THE HAND • THE HANDS (One mark each) Hey, I’m enjoying this, and actually it’s extremely good for you too because it’s making you think, helping you to remember, and as well as revising the big important things, it’s taking us back to lots of small detail as well. Our total mark so far is forty, so for another 10 marks what specific method have I recommended in these articles for committing new vocabulary to memory?

Photography exhibition A PHOTOGRAPHY exhibition is to be held from from 7th until 20th January at El Corte Ingles (home), Ambito Cultural, 5th floor, Av. Federico Soto in Alicante. A selection of the work of Sandra Vázquez will be shown, ranging from portraits of famous Spaniards to landscapes in the Far East. The Exhibition will be open Monday to Friday, 10.00 – 14.00 and 17.00 – 21.00, with information in English as well as Spanish.

10 - 16 DECEMBER 2010

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

Cryptic Crossword

Sudoku ACROSS 1. Objects of ridicule, but not to marksmen (5) 4. Musical swindler? (7) 8. His wife will be late (7) 9. Jargon used in various languages (5) 10. This month in Westminster (4) 11. Not a mind prepared to be masterful (8) 13. Knot sailors try to avoid (4) 14. Desert one’s post, though left in charge? (4) 16. It’s not right having more surplus (4,4) 17. A number with deposit money (4) 20. Often nuisances are a source of boredom (5) 21. Get together about a thousand odd police (7) 22. Confused Danes on board showing melancholy (7) 23. I hurried outside and collected private information (5)

DOWN 1. Where one may hear pins drop? (7,6) 2. Naturally they have their ups and downs (5) 3. Joined four quarters (4) 4. Small pigs making a distant noise (6) 5. Follower lacking in discipline (8) 6. A breach of security (7) 7. A conservative all one’s life? (5,2,3,3) 12. It may make a girl lightheaded (8) 13. Cultured and splendid in crimson (7) 15. Responds by breaking up crates (6) 18. Some material I bid for was not there, it’s said (5) 19. A doctor’s name (4)

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Vigilant (5)

1. Obliging (13)

Wordwheel

Quick Crossword 4. Expand (7)

2. Weird (5)

8. Right (7) 9. Traverse (5)

3. Row (4)

10. Encounter (4)

4. Waver (6)

11. Beat soundly (8)

5. Gregarious (8)

13. Hint (4) 14. Amusing activity (4)

7. Grievously (13)

16. Odd (8)

12. Irregular soldier (8)

17. Motor-cab (4)

13. Hide (7)

20. Perfect (5) 21. Sketch (7)

15. Brigand (6)

22. Chivalrous (7)

18. Nimble (5)

23. Foe (5)

19. Tardy (4)

Win a meal for 2 at the Inn Plaice in Torrevieja (Mon-Thu) or at Nemos (Next to RTN offices in La Nucia) by answering the Cryptic Crossword correctly. Answers by email to: office@roundtownnews.com or Fax: 96 585 60 54

North Winners, meal for 2 at the Nemos. La Nucia’s newest, Bistro and takeaway

Nemos call 682 707 580

6. Thrift (7)

You can play these wordwheels by whatever rules you like. But there is at least one nine letter word hidden in each wordwheel (and thus using every letter in the wordwheel). For many players the fun element and biggest challenge of the wordwheel is to find a nine letter word. Other than that, the rules are up to you - but generally you should restrict yourself to only finding words that contain the central letter, as otherwise you will find huge numbers of words in many puzzles!

EUROMILLIONS DRAW FRIDAY 3RD DECEMBER

8 19 28 32 46 4

No ticket won the 15,000,000 Euros (£12,748,500) jackpot prize

ANSWERS & WINNER Last week’s Crossword and Suduko answers found on page 41. Crossword winner for issue 581: Alan Winters Orihuela Costa

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

music scene Susie Q – Vocal Entertainer Compiled by

Eric Taylor

ET’s Golden Oldies Disco Tel: 965 748 199 659 921 875 or email: etinspain@hotmail.com

USIE Q is a local female vocal entertainer based in Altea. She started her singing career on the Northern pubs/clubs circuit where she supported many stars in cabaret and corporate functions. Her act includes the songs of Whitney Houston, Shania Twain, Diana Ross and The Carpenters as well as songs ideal for dancing. Susie is a performer ideal for private parties, dinner/ dances, Golf Societies, Bowls Clubs, etc. For more details phone 649 240 375.

If there are any music venues or acts that wish GIGS FOR DECEMBER to be featured Friday 10th - Pollo, Alfaz del Pi in this column, Sunday 12th - Bar Eleven (near Castle), please contact Moraira: 13.00 Eric directly. Sunday 12th - Georges Bar, Bonalba: 21.00

Chez Flo Bar, La Fustera ‘Chez Flo For Emaus’ EDDIE AND Sheryl from the Chez Flo Bar, La Fustera, are organising an Christmas Party at the bar on Sunday 12th December to help raise funds for the ‘Emaus’ Charity. This event will incorporate this year’s fund raising presentation (currently €4,500 and rising). Commencing at 20.00, live music will feature MJ Lewis, Jim Rhodes, plus guests. Please support this charity event as all monies raised are for needy children in Benissa/Calpe. Entry at €5 per head includes a hot buffet. Directions: La Fustera is approx 2 kms from Calpe on the Calpe-Moraira coast road. For more information contact the Chez Flo Bar: 965 747 899.

Sunday 19th - So What Bar, Calpe Port, Calpe: 17.00 Friday 31th - Bar Eleven (near Castle), Moraira

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 DECEMBER Saturday 11th - Coll De Rates Restaurant (CV715), Parcent: 13.30 Saturday 11th - Bar Wifi, Camping Los Llanos, El Vergel: 21.00 Saturday 18th - So What International Bar, Calpe Port Thursday 23rd -The Lees Bar, Orba Friday 24th - Metro Gastro Bar, Calpe Saturday 25th - Grand Chino Wok, Ctra Calpe-Moraira, The Bed Centre Sunday 26th - El Paraiso Restaurant, Parcent Friday 31st - Grand Chino Wok, Ctra Calpe-Moraira, The Bed Centre

Johnny & The Cougars – Rock N Roll Band

JOHNNY & THE Cougars are a four piece 50s & 60s Rock’n’Roll Band playing covers of Elvis, Buddy Holly, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, The Rolling Stones, The

Beatles and many more 50s & 60s Greats! They have established themselves with a reputation for providing good entertainment and bringing back some nostalgia.

Focus

M R O D N E B

The

On Saturday 11th December, they will be performing for the Bar 23 Jalon, Xmas Party. For more information phone: 965 581 405.

Every week Nigel Turner, Cumberland Bar, Benidorm will be doing a Focus report on the nightlife of Benidorm and the artists performing there. Should any artist/venue wish to be included :– contact Nigel on 685 550 106, email: ngltur@aol.com, website: www.cumberlandbarbenidorm.com

Tony Scott: Comedian

THIS WEEK I paid a visit to the Stardust Cabaret Club situated on Calle Gerona in the heart of Benidorm’s nightlife to see the comedian Tony Scott. Tony came on stage to a capacity audience and immediately he was interacting with the audience and it was clear to see they were lapping it up. It was a show full of quick fire humour with a dig at the crowd here and there, again very well received. Tony moved to Benidorm around 20 years ago after spells in South Africa, London and Japan. When he started in Benidorm he made the mistake of trying to do an American comedy show which didn’t go down well to say the least. He revamped his act to suit a British audience and that’s when his career really took off. If you’re looking for belly laughs whilst you’re

out and about in Benidorm, pop along and see Tony. Be warned though, no one in the audience is out of reach and may get picked on – all in the name of comedy. For more info visit his website at www.tonyscottcomic.com

Swing out sisters!

Sisters doing it for themselves

by Jack Troughton

UST TWO performances of the hit show ‘The Cameo Oscars’ remain in 2010 and the chance to enjoy a fabulous number from Sister Act. The song ‘I Will Follow Him’ has been described as a highlight of the show – based on hits from blockbuster movies – and one of the best songs Cameo has ever done. And to get a chance to watch the colourful cabaret and enjoy some party dancing book tickets for a party night on 18th December or New Year’s Eve, 31st December. At Restaurante La Brioche, Toscamar, Javea, on Saturday

18th December, tickets are €24 including a four-course meal with wine and the show and can be booked by ringing the Cameo Box Office on 656 483 645 (Monday to Friday between 10.00 and 14.00). There is also a raffle during the evening to raise funds for Friends of the Children of EMAUS and the youngsters cared for in shelters across the region at Christmas. And on New Year’s Eve, Cameo makes a welcome return to Restaurante El Corregidor, Moraira. Tickets are €65 and include a special menu with cava, wine, traditional grapes at midnight – and dancing into the early hours. Make a reservation by calling 966 495 651 or 639 379 738.

Pulling strings By Jack Troughton POPULAR MUSICIAN John Anthony is back by popular demand to entertain diners at Restaurante Casita del Pato, Jalon on Saturday night (11th December). Following the success of his

last appearance at the restaurant in Calle Mayor, John has agreed to repeat the performance of ‘An Evening of Solo Guitar’ – a mix of classical, Flamenco and popular music. Reservations are recommended as seats are limited to around 40 people. To book call 966 481 414.

Cultural Concert

THE CULTURAL Asociación ILUSIÓN-ARTE has announced that on Sunday19th December at 18.00 the Orquesta Sinfonica De La Mediterrania and the Choir Orfeon Cantábile of Alicante will interpret Handel’s Messiah. The concert will take place in the Auditorio of the Hotel Diamante Beach in Calpe. Entrance is €15 (for members €10.00) Further information from Guillermo Sendra, Tel 609 625 595 or Inge Willekens, Tel 656 714 787, email ilusionartecalpe@gmail.com or visit www.ilusion-arte.es

Happy Lunch with Live Music!

Parcent

Christmas shop now open for gifts & cards Christmas Day Lunch, 6 courses& drinks incl. house liquers & spirits 65€ Music with Rob Sweeney Boxing Day Lunch from 1pm 16€ music with The Nomad New Years Eve 6 courses & drinks incl. house liquers & spirits 70€ Music with Double Impact

Tel 96 640 5398 For reservations

John Curtis

ON SATURDAY 11th December from 12.00 until 14.00 there will be a ‘Happy Lunch’ at Gasolinera, Ctra Calpe – Moraira, km2.5.

John Curtis will ‘sing Elvis’ live! Telephone 678 664 880 for more information or to make a reservation. Also visit www.gasolinera-bar.es

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

10 - 16 dECEMBER 8-14 JANUARY2010 2010

Some December tasks for your garden by

Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Practical gardeners and authors

IF YOU have a new or existing garden there is plenty to do on dry days prior to Christmas and the major January winter cut back. In terms of tidying up, a final pre Xmas trim of straggly plants and hedges and sweeping or sucking up fallen leaves can make an immediate difference to the appearance of the garden. Don’t forget to water containers planted up

Early mandarins, tangerines and oranges are now beginning to be really ripe

with winter flowering plants and bulbs. The winter sun and cold winds can soon dry out composts although the days feel chilly. Prune roses and weed around them. Plant one or two garlic segments alongside to control pests in the spring; and mulch around all plants with ten or fifteen centimetres of horse manure. If you are in a frosty area, move tender succulents and other plants into a green house, a gazebo lined with plastic as a temporary winter shelter or a warm window sill. Plants and trees planted in the garden can be covered with bubble wrap or a couple of layers of plant fleece. Almond trees can be pruned to be tidy for the January or February blossoming and the last of the olives can be harvested for pickling or pressing for oil. If you don’t have the 200 kilos required for personal pressings by most local mills, combine your crops with those of friends or neighbours. If you have never attempted to pickle olives before see the recipe in our book ‘Growing Healthy Fruit in Spain’. Early mandarins, tangerines and oranges are now beginning to be really ripe so make the best of them by eating them or processing excesses by drying, freezing, bottling, juicing or making marmalades or sorbets. If you purchased an impregnated sack or box last month for growing health supporting

Weed seedlings are probably appearing on the vegetable plot

oyster or shitake mushrooms you will probably have a second crop this month. Use most fresh, and precook and freeze excesses for adding to omelettes. Weed seedlings are probably appearing on the vegetable plot. Hoe or hand-weed these before they become well established. If you have a row or patch of comfrey take final cutting before they die back and add to your compost heap or mulch around soft fruit canes and plants. Asparagus beds probably now look untidy as last seasons growth is now dying back. Cut them back to ground level and weed well. Then cover with a capping of sea weed from a local beach and manure from local stable of sheep/goat farm or dried and sacked from

Clodagh and Dick’s practical gardening books will be found to be useful for both experienced and new gardeners coming to Spain. They will be found in good bookshops and Carrefour and can also be purchased by mail order from internet book shops such as Santana, Amazon, Royal Horticultural society and Bookworld. © Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com November 2010.

the local agricultural cooperative. If you are sorting out a new garden read Part one of ‘Your Garden in Spain’ before you do anything. It will save you heart aches and money before you dig a first hole! Likewise if you have taken over a long abandoned garden: you may find many plants under the years of spreading blackberries, honeysuckle and morning glory that just need pruning or splitting. Most importantly, the plants you find will have proved that they are ideal for the microclimate and soil of your garden and they have survived by putting down deep roots to a naturally just damp soil level created by rainfall without the need for a watering system.

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010 8-14 JANUARY 2010

Discover the Costa Blanca

Derek Workman continues his series of excursions from his book ‘Inland Trips From the Costa Blanca’ which features 22 detailed trips that lead you to spots you’d never find by yourself.

El Palmar - Valencia

EL PALMAR exists for, and because of, rice – the growing, cooking and eating of it. Well it would, sat as it is at the southern tip of the Albufera, Valencia’s freshwater lake and one of the Spain’s biggest producers of the paella’s main ingredient. Virtually every second building is a café or restaurant but it’s still a pleasing place to wander around, especially if you are building up an appetite. But be warned, if you want to eat there get there early, because it’s so popular that there’s even a coach park. A secondary business in El Palmar (as it is all around the lake) is the boat trips, out into the lagoon. It’s worth taking one for the few euros worth of tranquillity, and don’t fret about your sea legs; fall out almost anywhere on the water and you’ll only end up knee-deep; that’s why the boats have flat bottoms. One of the main quays sits alongside the tall octagonal tower of an old rice drying factory; stand at the centre of the bridge that crosses the canal beside it and nothing disturbs the tranquillity apart from a gentle breeze rippling the surface of the dark green water and your hair. Well, it doesn’t ripple mine, because it’s little more than a stubble, but I can imagine it being pleasant nonetheless – which shows how good a memory I have! At the end of the quay is what looks like an old village washhouse but it’s where the boats are run down a ramp into the water. There’s usually a couple there under repair so you can get an idea of the structure and see why they manoeuvre so well in the shallow water. It’s also the place where old chaps sit in the shade swapping fishing stories. (It’s probably a bit boring swapping rice stories. Can you imagine it, “By gum, I missed a good stalk the other day - half a pan-full if it was a

gram - would have made a great photo to hang on the wall…”) Wander into the main square and you’ll find the pretty little Iglesia el Niño Jesús del Huerto, a dolls house-sized place, gilded and marbled like a child’s confection, but worth joining the ladies and the priest at mass (not another man entered while I was there, obviously more happily employed swapping yarns of fish and rice at the boatshed or in one of the dozens of cafés in the square). The narrow street that runs parallel with the main square, Carrer Jesuset de Huerto (‘Jesus’ and ‘Huerto’ seem to be much liked in El Palmar) is accompanied for much of its length by another canal, with shadowy trees overhanging it and views across the rice fields. Vivid green in June as the plants break free of the sodden earth, by August the crop is highlighted by golden touches, almost ready for it to be harvested in September. It’s a pleasing walk along the Carrer and I always think it’s a great shame that some of the cafes don’t stick a few chairs outside their back door for those quiet souls who care for nothing more than a sit in the sun, cool drink in hand, watching the world and the water go by. As a friend once commented, “The Spanish are uncomfortable in a conversation that doesn’t include at least twelve raised voices.” Just up the street, at number 56, sits an elderly chap at a small workbench at the door of his garage, where he quietly makes models of barracas, the steep-pitched houses peculiar to the area, carefully weaving fine strands of rice stalk to make the thatched roof. Alongside, he has a display of his other objects d’art; boats, agricultural instruments and fishing nets, a historical world in miniature and a far better pastime than fretwork or burning house names onto bits Boat of wood with a poker. If you’d like to see a full-size barraca house there’s one on Calle Vicente Baldon, which looks amazingly at El out of place surrounded by the modern buildings. Palmar

To discover more about Spain, visit www.derekworkman-journalist.com and http://derekworkman.wordpress.com. http://valpaparazzi.wordpress.com are random notes about life in Spain. Derek Workman’s books, Inland Trips from the Costa Blanca and Small Hotels and Inns of Eastern Spain are available from most good books shops or direct from the publisher, Santana Books, www.santanabooks.com or Tel. 952 485 838.

The Red

Christmas Crafts Market

ALERT

•1 beetroot (preferably fresh) •1 Carrot •1 Large Orange •50g of Spinach HAVING A problem concentrating? Or feel your powers of concentration need a boost? Then this is the juice for you and will certainly set your taste buds tingling BEETROOT contains vitamins A, B and C, folate, potassium and manganese. Beetroot is anti-bacterial, antioxidant, tonic, cleansing and a laxative CARROTS contain Beta-carotene, vitamins A, B and C, folic acid, magnesium, potassium, iron and calcium. They help to cleanse the liver and digestive systems. Great antioxidants, anti-cancer, antiseptic, diuretic, immune booster, anti-bacterial, help to lower cholesterol, aids eye and skin problems Oranges contain calcium, folic acid, iron, potassium, thiamine, vitamins B6 and C, anti-oxidants and will lower blood cholesterol Spinach contains beta-carotene, chlorophyll, folic acid, iron, choline, vitamins A, C and E. It is known as anti-cancer, helps memory antioxidant and antianaemia

These recipes are supplied by The Kamala Centre. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us at The Kamala Centre on office@thekamalacentre. com or call us on 965 985 869. If you would like a copy of any of these recipes you can download them at our website www.thekamalacentre.com Andy and Carol, The Kamala Centre www.obsidianretreat.com

STARTING TODAY, 10th December and continuing until Sunday 12th December, there will be an International Christmas Crafts Market in Rojales. The Rojales Town Hall will be inaugurating the now traditional Christmas Crafts Market in the indoor market Rojales and this year, like all the others, you will be able to enjoy the food, drink, and crafts typical of the Spanish, Swedish, English, German and Swiss, laid on by neighbours from Rojales and the surrounding areas. The Christmas Crafts Market will also be offering activities for children and adults. The Town Hall has prepared some special events such as storytelling, Christmas crafts, exhibitions and various draws to raise money for social causes in Rojales. His Majesty King Melchor and Santa will also be visiting the children of the borough.

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10 - 1626 dECEMBER Feb - March 42010 2010

Back up! ALWAYS BACK up your computer work, so they say. Did I? No. And do I regret it? Yes. I lost a lot of work! Now comes the job of working with just what you have left, and not knowing the full impact of what you have lost until you need it. How true of life is that? Often we don’t fully know what we have until we miss it or lose it, or both, of course. We are inclined to take things for granted, and that can bring problems. Nothing is forever, and spiritually there is always a reason for things happening the way they do; even if that means, in my case, having to rewrite an entire seven hour workshop in twenty four hours. An odd click in time would have saved me all I have lost. But then you always think that things can’t happen and they do! When toast and jam accidentally hit the floor the jam is always underneath and in full contact with the floor. It never rains but it pours. And things have a habit of coming along in threes. Playing to our negativities often brings a rebound, whilst relying on the positive can lead to problems. In the end everything should be assigned well and truly to fate, as waiting for resolution, some good luck and crossing your fingers may be all that you have at the time. As we go through life we are participating in a constant learning process. That means that we move one step forward, and sometimes two steps back; and sometimes we know not to step. Premonition is a warning that Spirit effectively uses to grab our attention. We are shown what is about to happen, and maybe, just maybe, we can make a difference. Intuition fuels our psychic centres and tunes our body and mind to achieve the very best results. Next happens what will. We can have shock after shock and then we can adjust and adapt and we can deal with it. Complication comes when the vital processes are ignored and we go against fate and resolve. However bad a situation

gets, we can rock and roll and ride the highest wave if we want to. How often has a problem been solved just to show us the way forward? Solving the problem ourselves is an indication of each our own capability. We develop an affinity with our own need to make magic and subscribe to learning what makes us tick in the process. Yes we will make mistakes, and yes, we will learn from them, often even if we do things our way, even though it is the wrong way. We adapt and we confirm and we become stronger and more powerful. My very clever Mother once called me to the utility room. There were five white shirts, an iron and an ironing board and sixpence. She asked me what I thought this meant, and I told her. My only worry was that I would burn myself learning this ‘hands on’ skill of ironing, and I told my Mother. She told me to be careful. So there it was: collars, cuffs, sides, sleeves. But I soon learnt that ironing a shirt at 08.00 when the school bus left at 08.15 wasn’t the very best idea. One day in a rush to iron my shirt for the day, I burned myself. But I learnt never to do so again. From then on a quiet weekend afternoon saw me ironing and earning my six little pennies, and my Mother was very happy too: she hated ironing! The only downside was yet to come. When in University it became known that I could iron shirts, and you’ve guessed it, what followed was a constant stream of shirts! Presumably the owners of these shirts had Mothers who actually liked ironing. So, we all learn lessons from life, and it all comes right in the end; especially if we can connect with fate, eliminate fear, and just go for it. Each of us live individual lives, something that may not have the backing we need at the time, but then our own very special Spiritual safety and security act as a back up, come what may!

Love & Light... Kenny Corris

Postbag Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com MY FATHER abused me when I was a small child. I think that my mother knew but said nothing and didn’t help me. She died last year, and now I feel very strongly that I should speak to my father; even though he is not in good health. Am I being selfish? Should I just let it go? I need spiritual guidance, Kenny! Qwen. C. de W. This is a difficult one Qwen! You have lived all your life suspecting your father and have said nothing. It sounds as if your mother was frightened and probably repulsed by what happened, but couldn’t deal with it! She probably thought that if she ignored the situation it would go away. For your own sake I would advise you to speak to your father. You probably need to hear him say what he has to, and he will need your forgiveness if you can find it in your heart. It will have to be your decision, but you are the innocent victim in this and the matter is much better out in the open, in my mind! I will support your decision, and know that this is something that you need to get off your chest once and for all!

Kenny’s Diary Readings at Maya Bistro: Monday 13th and Wednesday 15th December from 16.30 to 19.00. Contact Els on: 966 868 213. Christmas Fair at Serendipity Holistic Centre: Arts and Crafts, and Shop, Castalla: from 11.30 to 17.30, Saturday 11th December: Readings available and bookable. Come and see what this wonderful and enterprising new centre has to offer! I look forward to meeting readers personally. Contact: Sarah on 630 142 442. Spiritual Friends Teulada: Demonstration and talk on Wednesday 15th December at 14.30. Contact Jan on: 600 837 054.

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

horoscopes by Kenny Corris See your power base shift to cope with whatever comes your way as you start to take responsibilities best left to your calm control. With hindsight you could have avoided much of the current pressure that is put upon you, but the journey has brought you something rather wonderful and the experience will see you safely through to pastures new. While you’re at it, start to think of your own wants and needs. Start to look at the financial side of things as income and expenditure vie for your attention. Until all concerned dig deeply into their pockets, resolve and repair won’t be happening very fast. Whilst you know that there is no easy way out of all this, facing things all is necessary and sends out powerful signals that would be foolish to ignore as you tighten your belt and emerge leaner and keener. Mercury’s retrograde step takes your planetary leader in to overdrive in the fourth house of Sagittarius. Wit and wisdom may be forming a satisfactory smoke screen, but those who matter will not be fooled by your subterfuge; and will be left wondering if this time you have really lost the plot. Show them what you are really made of and wait patiently for a reaction that helps you make decisions. Planetary influences bring you, at last, the solution that you need to carry on. You may have asked for a sign to help you all along the way, but for this to be effective then you have to participate in a little give and take. Since the current problem is halved by your belief in a trusted friend realise that all may not be exactly what it seems, and that you may be making a rod for your own back. Stubborn pride has ensured your survival, and has shown you a way forward that is both inspiring and guiding. Be prepared for a change of plans midweek when someone comes out of the woodwork to have some unexpected fun, and you finally give in and let your hair down, once and for all. There is a period of hard work ahead, and you know it, so enjoy some healthy rest and relaxation. Mercury retrogrades in Capricorn only to make moves on a wayward and stubborn Sagittarius. It is always good to make hay while the sun shines so use this time wisely, and benefit from being able to take a sideways look at just what is going on. Avoid complications above all, and put your energies into doing what you do best, it isn’t the time for any untoward surprises! Throw caution to the wind and do what you feel is right. Feeling free and open to your next moves is highlighting a need for you to re write the rules with a view to survival, and you are doing it your own unique way. Don’t let anything rain on your parade, and be very sure what you ask for, since it could be yours for the taking. Lighten up! That sense of humour will always see you through. Hold it! Engage your brain before making a decision you may very well live to regret. You have come so far and there is absolutely no shame whatsoever in just walking away if that is seen to be your appropriate action. Nobody has a right to judge you, so eliminate fear and stick to your guns, but do what feels best and tell everyone to watch your space; they haven’t seen anything yet. Actions with Mercury ensure that a previously ignored message gets a fair hearing by those who may not want to hear it, but know that they have to. Time was when you were given the benefit of the doubt, but someone has it in for you, so you continue to prove your worth, with some highly successful results. Now the cat may be out of the bag there comes a need to be just who you are: you! With major upheaval brought about by a warring Mars and an impending retrograde with Mercury, planet Pluto sneaks in at the back door. The overall effect is to push you to making some sweeping changes, to re focus and re adjust the quality of your life, and the rich rewards you are entitled to. All along the line is a strong message egging you on and telling you that all is okay - go for it! The Uranus and Pisces connection is very strong, and this serves to show your highly developed psychic side. Putting this into good use this week may very well reveal the truth, and nothing but it, but are you sure that you want to know what this really means, and its relevance; since the damage has already been done and you are where you are now just to pick up the pieces! Neptune brings you safety, love and protection and you need these three things to enable you to strike out while the iron is hot, and to make some progress for your own sake. You have been guiding others, but the strongest light shines out there in the darkness and it shines for you each and every way. Use your talents to show you alternatives and leave no stone unturned in your search for your inner you.

If it’s your birthday this week... Make sure that you have what you need as ammunition for some initial conflict that is creeping your way. Forewarned is forearmed, and guess what? You are ready! Knock ’em dead!

10 26 - 16- dECEMBER 2010 Feb March 4 2010

Carol service with Torrevieja Crescendo International Choir and ‘Just Brass’

TORREVIEJA CHRISTIAN Fellowship (TCF) Church is again pleased to host the return of the Torrevieja Crescendo International Choir and ‘Just Brass’ on Wednesday, 15th December 2010 at 19.00. Said Pastor Roy Davies, “This year, a number of English-speaking Churches in the Torrevieja and Pilar de la Horadada region have joined forces to stage a united Christmas Carol Service Concert. The Christmas Carol Service last year was first-class and we are delighted that the Torrevieja Crescendo International Choir - led by Chas Smith, Musical Director (MD) and ‘Just Brass’- led by world famous Gordon Higginbottom (MD) - have agreed to return and help us to celebrate this very special season.” The Christmas Carol Service promises to be a lively and enjoyable evening to delight an audience of all ages and nationalities. Chas Smith said, “We are delighted to be asked to return to TCF Church and to be involved in this united Christmas celebration.” Torrevieja Christian Fellowship Church is located at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas 68, (between Iceland and the Needle – opposite Maxi Dia). Entrance is free and a warm welcome awaits… A voluntary collection will be taken and all profits will go to the APANEE Children’s Charity.** For further information, please telephone TCF Church on 966 700 391 or call at the Church Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday between 09.00 and 13.00. **APANEE (Association de Padres de Alumnos con Necesidades Educativas Especiales) is a local children’s charity based in Torrevieja, supporting parents of children with special needs.

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Soul and jazz on the air-waves L

Vibes From The Costas by

Tony Poole

from www.vibesfromthecostas. blogspot.com

OCAL RADIO has always been synonymous with music as well as a useful source to find out about live concerts and what’s on. Here are a few programmes you should listen to before you die. Tony Blackburn presents his ‘Soul and Motown’ show on TKO FM on Saturdays 18:00 - 21:00. He’s a legendary DJ who broadcast on the ‘pirate’ stations Radio Caroline and Radio London in the 60’s and was the first disc jockey to broadcast on BBC Radio 1 in 1967. In 2002 he was the winner of the ITV reality TV programme I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! Unbeknown to the general public, Tony is a huge soul music fan and has an extensive knowledge on the subject. I once heard him say on air, “Given the choice I would play nothing but soul music on all my radio shows.” One of the most dedicated soul fans in the region is Dean Freeman, aka Deano. On his Facebook page he states his religious views are “Put some soul in your life” and political views are “Soul and more Soul”... so you

immediately see where this guy is coming from. “I’ve always loved my music especially soul and jazz-funk,” explains Deano, “My first concert was back in the early 80’s..... Lynx (David Grant and Sketch) at the Dominion Theatre in Tottenham Court Road, later followed by Earth Wind and Fire, Shalamar, Luther Vandross, Alexander O’Neal, Level 42, Imagination, Sister Sledge, The O’Jay’s, Jean Carne, Womack and Womack, and many more too numerous to mention...!” Deano presents his “Superior Rhythm’s Soul Show” every Saturday on Exite Radio, 18:00 21:00, playing soul, jazz, funk and rare groove, 3 hours of cool ‘n’ classy ‘tuneage’. Phil Driver’s ‘Soul Unsigned’ record label provides exposure to independent and unsigned soul, urban/randb, funk, and jazz artists around the world. Phil produces and presents a weekly 1-hour syndicated radio show that is broadcast on numerous radio stations worldwide. It features new releases and promos from artists that might otherwise remain in the shadows of obscurity. The

programme is aired on Exite Radio, 20:00 - 21:00 on Thursdays. Costa Blanca’s solitary jazz programme, “All That Jazz,” is presented by George T. Moore on Sundays, 20:00-22:00, on Exite Radio. George is a highly respected jazz musician, a semi and ex full time professional drummer of traditional New Orleans style drumming. George’s show features two hours of rag time, trad and mainstream jazz. Just before George’s show, Stevie B presents two hours of classic and rare Northern Soul between 18:00 - 20:00. Down south, Valle Radio broadcasts from the Almanzora Valley. 20:00 - 18:00 Saturday - Smooth Jazz with Rod Lucas. 18:00 - 20:00 Saturday - Marcus Hayes Soul Cellar. 14:00 - 16:00 Sunday - Superior Soul Rhythms with Mike Howard. Alicante based radio station, JFK Radio, plays a 24/7 non-stop nochat mix of jazz, funk, soul, lounge and Ibiza groove. Did I miss anyone...? drop me an email. All these programmes are available to listen to on-line from the radio station web sites. Happy listening!

More festival and concert information at www.vibesfromthecostas.blogspot.com plus you can find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tony.poole. Email news and views to vibes@roundtownnews.com Keep the ViBES ALiVE!

Helmet for my Pillow & Year end jazz spectacular! With the Old Breed IF YOU like live music and in particular jazz, Bar Emilio in Llosa de Camacho is putting

Authors: Robert Lecki & EB Sledge THESE ARE another two books for my Christmas review and each or both would make a fitting present to anyone interested in the US Marine Corps and its battles to free the Pacific of Japanese domination in WW II. Each book tells the true tale of a Book young Marine forced to live through Review by the hell of Peleliu, Guadalcanal and Okinawa while serving respectively with the 1st Marine Division. Together copy@dannyjpcollins.com the books formed a background for the epic HBO series The Pacific, shown on B Sky B earlier in 2010. Leckie worked as a journalist before the war and his tale of how warriors are made, fight, and all too often die in the defence of their country is an outstanding achievement. EB Sledge writes with a searing honesty and deep compassion of the cruelty, bravery, and deaths of the men he fought alongside against an enemy of incredible courage who was determined to fight to the last man. Those of us born in the generations since WW II should thank providence that such men existed at a time when a huge darkness threatened the world. I wouldn’t have missed these books at any price and I sincerely recommend them both to readers of this column.

Danny Collins

Publisher: Ebury Press (paperbacks) Price each: €17.55 ISBNs: 978 0 09193 754 6/ 978 0 09193 753 9

All the featured books are available off the shelf or by mail order from Librería Europa, Calle Oscar Esplá 2, 03710 Calpe. Tel: 96 583 58 24; e-mail: libreria.europa.calpe@ gmail.com Take along or send this review for a discount of 5% on your purchases.

on a free concert on Friday, 17th December, featuring some of the most sublime musical talent on the Costa Blanca. The line up for this showcase will be Heio Berens (piano); Pete Guscott (double bass); Dave Butterworth (drums) and special guests Paul Evans (trumpet) and Lolo Garcia (saxaphone). Booking is highly recommended! Food will be available - Telephone Bar Emilio 966 482 409 or 666 810 409. Llosa de Camacho is approx 5kms from Pedreguer on the Alcalali road (CV 720).

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10 2010 14--1620dECEMBER may 2010

Computing

V.P.N

Jim via email asks: Dear Aunty. Once again I turn to you for sage and impartial advice! I have a satellite dish for UK TV but often miss programs due to weak signals and bad weather. Because my internet server is in Spain, I cannot get UK TV through my PC. It appears VPN could be a solution and it is reasonably priced but would appreciate your valuable advice on this. I have a Dell notebook with Vista and my Internet is provided by Awa.sl via a dish as I live a bit inland. Aunty says: Hi Jim. With VPN (Virtual Private Network) you will be receiving you TV over your broadband/DSL (known as streaming) so you will need to make sure you have a reasonable line speed. Go to speedtest. net and email me the results. I’ve noticed watchuktv.co.uk getting some good reviews and they offer a free trial. Mick via email asks: Dear Aunty , I have installed AVG2011. However, I recently received an email which states that many problems have been caused by the AVG program and I should instead install Avast which is also free and outperforms AVG in every way. Aunty says: An email from who Mick?

with aunty virus

Security programs

Trevor via email asks: Hi Aunty, I am getting on a bit and am confused. I have installed for protection Spybot Search and Destroy and Microsoft Security Essentials and have just installed CCleaner from your article. I have been using Spamfighter for free but they now want a fee of €25. I have UK internet banking so security is paramount but there are so many downloads to choose from I am desperately on need of independent advice. Aunty says: Hello Trevor. It does get a bit daunting sometimes as there are hundreds of different programs out there, and as many opinions on which are the best. I can only advise you on what I have found

Lost emails

works for me. In your case I would uninstall Spybot and replace it with MalwareBytes and SuperAntiSpyware. These two will pretty much catch any spyware/malware targeting your computer. Although Microsoft’s Security Essentials has been getting some good reviews I would still have an additional antivirus program just to be sure. AVG2011 still seems to be the most popular, and a fortnightly scan will certainly help. Spamfighter you can uninstall. A quick tip; if you find your computer has slowed down considerably it may be that your antivirus and antispyware programs are constantly scanning your hard drive every time you start Windows. You can switch off ‘scheduled scans’ from each program’s control panel which is easily accessed by double clicking on the desktop icon.

Sue via email asks: Dear Aunty Virus, During my successful attempt to clear a Trojan virus from my computer I deleted my husband’s user account and I had forgotten that we keep all of our stored email there. I did archive all of his files when it asked and have managed to restore the contacts and the file structure we had in the inbox, but there are no messages to be found. I have looked everywhere in Explorer. Where are they hidden please? Aunty says: This can be a bit tricky Sue and would take up the best part of this article trying to explain. I would suggest you spend some time on this site www.ehow. co.uk/outlook-archives/ and see if that

helps. Basically you need to locate your husband’s old .pst files which are in his Outlook folder which may be hidden. Typing *.pst into the search function (F3) will point you in the right direction.

Broken signature Margaret via email asks: Dear Aunty. I have AVG 2011 installed and after scanning it said ‘broken digital signature issued by Sun Microsystems’ although there were no viruses and everything was working okay. However on checking AVG the following day ‘Identity Protection’ was disabled. Are the two things connected and what, if anything, should I do about it? One other thing: when I go to install Adobe Flash player, it comes up that this may disable my anti-virus

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

- could this have any effect on the above? Aunty says: The broken signature error can be ignored, Margaret, but you may want to reinstall Java from sun.com as that’s probably where the error is coming from. Likewise get the latest Flash Player from adobe. com and ignore the antivirus error message. I’m not sure about the AVG Identity Protection error so maybe try switching it back on and see if it remains stable. John via email asks: Hello Aunty. I keep receiving spam email warnings from friends about a virus with the message ‘POSTCARD FROM HALLMARK’. As I use my company’s laptop while I am over here in Spain, I contacted our IT guys back in the UK and they told me it wasn’t a genuine virus and I should just ignore it. Aunty says: They are correct John as this is a long running hoax rumored to be started by one of Hallmark’s competitors. Peter via email asks: Hi Aunty, I hope you can help me. We have somehow had our laptop invaded by a virus by the name of iosys.exe which keeps attacking the system. I have scanned with AVG and SuperAntiSpyware as you advised in the last issue of RTN in the article ‘A Secure Computer’ but neither of the programmes picked the virus up; they only deleted cookies etc. Aunty says: I’m pretty sure Malwarebytes will get rid of this Peter.

motoring

Dogs in the road THE OTHER evening while driving on a main road with a 100 kph limit, two dogs ran out in front of our car by and I hit one, as to try and avoid it could have caused an accident. One escaped Author of okay, I assume, and the Motoring in Spain other hit the front of the car causing, as I have since been quoted, a lot of expensive damage even with my insurance excess being €450. So I have a choice: pay the excess and lose my ‘no claims bonus’ or pay for all the damage - some €2,300. Is there anything legally I can do as the dogs surely should not have been on the highway?

Brian Deller

As you rightly say, the dogs were running free and the owner is legally responsible but to find him/her is the problem. The dog that was killed will or should have an identity electronic chip in it so the owner can be traced and the local police or Guardia

Civil should attend to this. I assume you reported the accident as you need to for any insurance claim, receiving a report number and the police should have taken action to trace and identify the owner (but do not bet on it). If you reported the accident then you can contact the policing authority and ask for the chip details and the owners’ particulars and also the police should have charged the owner. You may need to be insistent with this. Any veterinarian has a scanner to read the chip and the Internet connection to supply the details off the national database. This is one of those events where you need to be aware of all the laws and take action at the time to see that justice is done. Distasteful as it may seem, I would have collected the dog’s carcase (checking, of course, that it is really dead) and placed it in my car-boot

as evidence so it is not lost. I keep a plastic sheet and some old towels in the car boot for such eventualities, having experienced the lack of care where we expats are concerned, as I have personally experienced when I had an accident near Torrevieja several years ago as reported in my book. The Guardia Civil officers were just not interested in my showing them the proof that a woman had been speeding and she said she was late for work, but I carried out the right checks with photos to prove she had caused the accident actions at the time. It saved my no claims bonus as the insurance company realised that I was in the right but the GC, who were phoned for by the other driver, were not interested in investigating the accident scene even though I pointed out to them that it was easy to prove that the Señora was speeding through a busy road junction. So find out who the dogs belong to and institute a claim and any lawyers’ costs

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

should legally be paid by the guilty party; in this case the dog’s owner. Good luck with your investigations and please let us know how you got on when it is resolved. It is worth doing it with the costs involved and any loss of insurance NCB.

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. 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

2005 PEUGEOT 307CC 1.6 16V PTRL €11,995

2008 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI DIESEL €10,995

2006 RENAULT MEGANE 1.5 DCI DIESEL €8,695

2008 CHEVROLET AVEO 1.4 16V 70PS LS PETROL €8,495

2006 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI DIESEL €8,495

2004 OPEL TIGRA CABRIOLET 1.4 16V TWINPORT PETROL €7,995

2008 FORD FIESTA 1.4I FUTURA PETROL 7,995€

Ford Focus Estate (2005) 1.6 TDCi Diesel €7,995

2007 SEAT LEON 1.6 PETROL €11,495

2007 CITROEN XSARA PICASSO 1.6 SX 110 PETROL €8,995

2008 . . . Chevrolet Aveo 1.4 16v 70ps LS Petrol €8,495 2007 . . . Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi Ambiente Diesel €7,995 2005 . . . Ford Focus Estate 1.6 TDCi Diesel €7,995 2006 . . . Suzuki Ignis 1.3 DDIS Diesel €7,695 2006 . . . Citroen C3 1.1 Furio Petrol €6,495 2005 . . . Kia Rio 1.5 LS Petrol €6,295 2000 . . . Mercedes A-Class Auto 1.7 CDi elegance Diesel €5,995 2002 . . . Peugeot 307 Auto 2.0i Petrol €5,995 2002 . . . Ford Focus Estate 1.8 TDDi Trend Diesel €5,695 2005 . . . Hyundai Getz 1.2 Petrol €5,695 2003 . . . Peugeot 206 2.0 GTi Petrol €5,695 2000 . . . Renault Scenic Auto 1.6 Petrol €4,995 2003 . . . Opel Corsa 1.0 Petrol Coming Soon 2004 . . . VW Golf (RHD) 1.6 Match Petrol €4,995 2001 . . . Ford Focus Estate 1.8 TDDi Trend Diesel €4,995

Opel Astra Estate (2005) 2.0 DTi Diesel €7,995

2001 LANDROVER DISCOVERY AUTO 2.5 TD5 DIESEL €7,995

2007 CITROEN C4 1.4I 16V LX 90CV PETROL €8,995

2005 RENAULT SCENIC 1.9 DCI DIESEL €8,995

2002 LANDROVER FREELANDER (RHD) 1.8 16V SERENGETI SE PETROL 5,295€

2004 LANDROVER FREELANDER 2.0 TD4 DIESEL €11,495

2002 RENAULT MEGANE CABRIOLET 1.6 16V PETROL 5,995€

(2004) 2 1999 VW GOLF CABRIOLET 1.6 PETROL €5,995

1999 AUDI TT COUPE 1.8 180 PETROL €7,695

2005 FORD FOCUS 1.6 TDCI DIESEL €7,495

MANY MORE VEHICLES AVAILABLE WITH STOCK CHANGES DAILY – Look at www.autosdirect.es

61 54

10 2010 14--1620dECEMBER may 2010

Used Cars

Fiesta Amb 5dr 1.3 Black Feb07 Fiesta Steel 5dr 1.4TDCI Aquarius Sep05 Fiesta Trend 5dr 1.4 TDCI Ceramic Jan07 Fiesta Futura 5dr 1.4TDCI Silver Feb08 Fiesta Futura 5dr 1.4TDCI Grey Jun08 Focus Trend 5dr 1.6 TDCI Black Feb07 Focus Trend 5dr 1.6TDCI Ceramica Aug07 Focus Titanium 2.0TDCI Grey Jul05 Focus Trend 1.6TDCI Grey Jan08 Focus Trend/Sport Pack Jan10 Choice Fusion Trend 1.6 TDCI Black Jul06 Mondeo Titanium 2.0TDCI Silver Jan10 Citroen C3 1.4 5dr Silver Jan05 Hyundai Atos 1.1 Blue Feb07 Kia Rio 5dr 1.5 CRDI Silver May06 Opel Agila 1.3 CDTI Blue Apr05 Opel Meriva 1.7CDTI Grey Jul06 Toyota Corolla 1.4 Green Dec01 VW Golf 1.6 Silver Mar03

0 Kms

Focus Trend/Sports Pack Silver,Arena or Black Sep10 KA 1.2 Titanium Celeste Oct 10 KA 1.3 TDCI Trend Blue Oct 10 KA 1.3 TDCI Trend Grey Oct 10

€6800 €7000 €8200 €8900 €8900 €10900 €11000 €8500 €12500 €14900 €9000 €23000 €6800 €6000 €7900 €6300 €8200 €3900 €5900 €15900 €10300 €10300 €10300

FORD KA from €10,700

FORD FOCUS from €13,900

FORD KUGA from €23,200

FORD FIESTA from €11,300

Automoviles Crespo

The biggest and the best for choice, price and quality

For more information call Paul direct on 609 234 788

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

The new Audi A6: high tech in the executive class AUDI HAS redesigned its flagship executive class model. The new A6 is set to make its market debut in early 2011. With its light body, sporty chassis and a wide array of new assistance and multimedia systems, the full-sized sedan is packed with innovative solutions in every area of technology. The range of available engines and drivetrains is equally extensive. Much of the body of the new Audi A6 consists of aluminium and high-tech steels, rendering it exceedingly light, stiff and safe. State-of-the art design methods and materials ensure extremely low interior noise

levels. Precision tuning of all components and systematic hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings provide excellent vibrational comfort. Audi offers the A6 with a choice of five powerful, highly efficient engines: two gasoline engines and three TDI units. These powerplants develop between 130 kW (177 hp) and 220 kW (300 hp). All of these engines make use of important technologies from the brand’s modular efficiency platform – the start-stop system, the energy recovery system, and the innovative thermal management concept.

We Buy, Sell & Part Exchange Quality British & Spanish Cars Transfer Documents Completed Competitive Insurance Quotes All cars Fully serviced and valeted

WE ACCEPT ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS

The new Audi A6

The most powerful unit in the range is the 2.0 TDI. In conjunction with a manual transmission, it requires on average just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (48.00 US mpg) and emits just 129 g CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The A6 hybrid will be available from Audi at a later date. Serving up 180 kW (245 hp) of system performance, its 2.0 TFSI plus electric motor will achieve efficient and sporty acceleration with an average fuel consumption of only 6.2 liters per 100 km (37.94 US mpg) (provisional figure). The new Audi A6 welcomes passengers in its interior with an ambiance of airiness and roominess; the sinewy, dynamic quality of the exterior is echoed in the interior lines. The wrap-around inlay defines the cockpit area, beginning at the driver’s door and running in one large arc beneath the root of the windshield, then all the way to the front passenger’s door. Curved elegantly around the driver’s seat, the dash panel with Beautifully its high-precision trim strip rounds out the designed taut-line concept. interior

Find us next to Petrol Station TORREMENDO 10 Minutes inland from San Miguel, Los Montesinos & Junction 751 on the AP7 towards Orihuela. Torremendo turning on CV95 towards San Miguel

€8,995

FORD KA 2006 1.3 LTR PETROL

OPEL ASTRA 2006 1.7 CDTI DIESEL

€5,995

€2,000

DERBI GPR 2005 125 CC

€5,995

one owner

965 368 274

€7,495

one owner

€6,495

25000kms

RENAULT MEGANE HYUNDAI GETZ FORD FOCUS ESTATE GHIA, 2002 1.8 LTR TDCI DIESEL GRAND TOURER ESTATE 2007 1.1 LTR PETROL 2004 2 LTR PETROL FSH

€5,995

HYUNDAI GETZ 2006 1.1 LTR PETROL

€9,995

FORD FOCUS GHIA 2006 1.6 AUTO DIESEL ONE OWNER

Cars S.L.

www.venuscars.com

€3,495

€2,995

€10,995

SMART FORFOUR PEUGEOT PARTNER COMBI 2004 1.3 LTR PETROL 1998 1.9 LTR DIESEL

€2,495

SEAT TOLEDO 1998 PETROL AUTOMATIC

€10,995

MERCEDES BENZ 280 SL 1995 AUTOMATIC

SEAT CORDOBA 2000 1.9 TDI DIESEL

€4,495

PEUGEOT 206 2001 1.4 LTR Petrol

€5,995

18000kms

43000kms

€8,995

€5,250

OPEL CORSA COSMO 2008 1.3 TDCI DIESEL ONE OWNER FSH

37000kms

fsh

CITROEN C3 SX PLUS 1.4 LTR PETROL 2005 ONE OWNER

automatics

CITROEN C3 SX PLUS 2004 1.4 LTR PETROL

BMW 320 I SE 2001 4 DOOR

€6,495

49000kms

fsh

quads & bikes

€6,495

€8,995

Every detail in the interior has been executed with the utmost attention and care, on a par with the finest handcrafted quality. Take, for example, the brilliant aluminiumlook control knobs, which click and engage perfectly. Merely a few tenths of a millimetre wide, the gaps run exactly parallel. The shift gate and the start-stop button feature subtle red backlighting. The optional ambient lighting and lighting package emphasize the lounge atmosphere. The new Audi A6 offers a whole host of functions, all of which can be controlled effortlessly owing to the brand’s logical ergonomics concept. The latest-generation MMI radio operating system is standard; its terminal is situated on the wide centre tunnel, where there is ample space thanks to the electromechanical handbrake. When the system starts up, the central on-board monitor with its high-gloss black frame extends from the instrument panel in an elegant movement; it measures 6.5 or 8 inches in diagonal, depending on the version.

VENUS

Opening hours Mon - Fri 9-6pm (No siesta) Sat 10-1pm

SPANISH REGISTERED CARS LHD €5,995

SUZUKI VITARA 2002 4X4 1.9 LTR DIESEL

FSH

KIA CARENS EX 2006 2 LTR CRDI DIESEL

FORD FOCUS 2003 1.6 LTR PETROL GHIA FSH, ONE OWNER

€6,495

€5,495

Ford Focus Trend 2003 1.8 Ltr TDCi Diesel

See our vehicles on our website www.venuscars.com

one owner

Ford Transit Connect T200 2005 1.8 TDCi Diesel

Classified Ads 56

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Deadline for Classifieds Adverts is Tuesday 5pm prior to publication

Book your advert now 902 118 999 Round Town News

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

EMAIL: classifieds@roundtownnews.com | WEBSITE: www.roundtownnews.co.uk | Fax: 96 585 60 54 | Or see our list of classified agents in this section

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

• 25 Years Experience • Full or Part Loads • Friendly Personal Service • Large Secure Ware house, Fully Insured

• Storage Available 24 Hrs a day • Storage for Long & Short Term • FREE Quotations

es Pric 80 £ m fro ubic c r pe re met

Office: 966 792 751 • Mobile: 691 747 030 • banksremovals@yahoo.com

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

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Experienced mechanic required SERVICE AIR David Higton: (Tel) 966-865883 (Mob) 629-308-505 (Email) cool@serviceair.biz

SMALL FRIENDLY BRITISH KENNELS individual runs, large excercise area. 25 mins Alicante airport. www. parkbark.co.uk 628-244-712

BANKRUPT CLOTHING STOCK Womens,girls & boys clothing. Jeans,Trousers,Skirts Tops All 1euro each.Minimum order 50€. With invoice. Torrevieja, 651-885-200 ZOCO MARKET Permanent market stall for sale, wooden shed 4m x 5m with electrics, currently trading as a butchers. call dave on 620028038

BYTEBACK MICROS computer repairs/upgrades in your home. Qualified technician. Systems custom built. Whatever your problem call: 965-312-006 or 6 06-127-424

DUE TO EXPANSION MILLIE MUNRO SERVICES Requires two experienced Appointment Makers. One for San Miguel office and one other to operate from our Head Office in Benitachell. No cold calling necessary as quality leads will be given.The object is to make appointments for our team of Sales Consultants. Hours/ salary to be negotiated. Tel 966-493-082 or email simon@milliemunro.com PROPERTY TELEMARKETING We are looking for a telemarketing, sales person for our leads - Murcia.Tlf:-646-514-278. Email:-julioadams@atlantia. info BY YOUR SIDE (based in Bonalba/Mutxamel) is looking for male/female part-/fulltime Personal Advisors to reinforce their Costa Blanca team. We offer

20% OFF RRP ON AWNINGS & BLINDS Price match guarantee! ALL types supplied and fitted inc. repairs. For Advice and Free Quotations call 639-561-262 or visit www. vistaawningsandblinds.es

comprehensive professional,

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

personal and leisure services that the UK residents require in their daily life. Excellent opportunity to grow with the company in all their activities. Profile: age 35+, native language English, resident, good connections with the expat community, sales experience is a +.Excellent commissions and growth possibilities. Please send cv to: bys@byyourside.es AVON NEED AGENTS AND LEADERS work hours to suit you. For info Phone Rosh 966-785-520

FULLY QUALIFIED UK ELECTRICIAN with 10 years experience on the CostaBlanca. All jobs undertaken-extra sockets, rewires, fault finding. Tlf:Hugh-690-275-223

WINDSURFERS 2.8 Fanatic, Board, 2 Sails Various sizes, mast & boom, 2 Fins, & all ancillary equipment plus 2 wetsuits. 250€ ONO. Tlf:-609-550-734

JP BUILDING SERVICES Renovations, Roofing, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Tiling, Decorating. Established 35 years. No job too small. Tlf:965-847-284/627-706-405

MOBILE HOME Benimar Landhouse, 11x4mtrs, Large Lounge, Dining, Kitchen,Bathroom, Two Bedrooms, Fully fitted. Sited Fortuna, Murcia. Offers to:653-441-334 MOBILE/PARK HOMES On Camping Pueblo in San Javier, from 15,000€ also bungalows for rent Carol 968-192-425 Mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com CAMPING LOS GALLARDOS Come to Mojacar! Large campsite + mobile home park open all year, great expat community site, all welcome. 950-528-324. www. CampingLosGallardos.com

SOLO SINGER/GUITARIST can travel Country/Blues/ Rock´nRoll. available for pubs/clubs/private parties, musician not karoke Charlie 691-622-804

for busy workshop in San Miguel De Salinas.

The position is Full time with immediate start, undertaking all types of mechanical work in our state of the art workshop. You will be working alongside our existing mechanics to deliver a high standard of work and customer care. Please forward your CV and covering letter to aftersales@autosdirect.es

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

URGENT...... If you care...... Wanted urgently for the UK’s leading live-in care agency - caring, compassionate, personable and articulate individuals to live with and care for our clients in the U.K. for two to four weeks between now and February 2011. Working through Consultus you can expect:

. £420-£600 p.w. + travel (in the U.K.) . (double the daily rate of pay for Bank Holidays) . Self employed status. . Meals and accommodation while on assignment. . In-house training opportunities. . To work when and where in the U.K. you wish

CONSULTUS CARE AND NURSING LTD is a progressive, friendly company established in 1962 and is the market leader in the U.K. for providing quality, private live-in care for the elderly and infirm. For further information please call now our local consultant here in Spain, Sandra Field, on 658 965 204 or email s.field@consultuscare.com Consultus Care and Nursing Ltd www.consultuscare.com

Leaders in live-in home care

SUMMER COVER FOR 8 X 4 POOL as new 100 euros. ring dave movil 650-794-588 (Torrevieja Area) NEW PINE FURNITURE 5+2 Chest 99€ Tlf:-628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE King size bed + under-bed drawers 285€. Tel: 628-499-448. NEW PINE FURNITURE Double Bed and Free Underbed Drawers 270€ Tlf:628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE Treble Robe 150€ Tlf:628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE 2 Drawer Bedside 20€ Tlf:628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE All Furniture is Top Quality from Denmark Tlf:-628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE Gate Leg Table 85€ Tlf:628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE Large Pine Hall Mirror 85€ Tlf:-628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE Double Robe 180€ Tlf:628-499-448 NEW PINE FURNITURE Computer Desk 99€ Tlf:628-499-488 NEW PINE FURNITURE Wine Table. 30€ Tlf:628-499-448 WHEELCHAIR Light, Foldable, Hardly used, like new, 150€. Mobility Scooter 40km range 499€ Tlf:627-019-403

WANTED INSTANT CASH PAID Antique and modern jewellery, vintage watches bought sold part exchanged, insurance valuations. Jewellery & watch repairs. Alexanders, Javea Port seafron near Bar Esquina. Established since 2003. Tel:965-792-595

PRESTIGE NURSING offers Legal, Registered and Professional Home Care on the Costa Blanca. All your home nursing care service needs can be undertaken by our highly trained nursing/ domiciliary team. Call Prestige Nursing on 687-015-517

MOBILITY SCOOTER FOR SALE €350 Jacarilla/ Almoradi area. Tlf:965-350-091 CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEM COMPLETE Large 28k Valiant boiler with instruction,11 large gas bottles,gas distribution board,10 radiators,dismantled, private sale,Javea, 1400euros. Tlf:965-770-594 JVC CAMCORDER Never used!. In case, Ideal present. 60€ Tlf:-663-559-806 Benidorm area

Experienced, Qualified Daytime Chef Required for Quesada Restaurant. Position Commences in the New Year.

Call 637 905 125

KAWASAKI ZX9R NINJA 2001 English, VGC, New rear Tyre, Chain and Sprockets. Very Fast Sports Bike. 2000€ ONO.Tlf:-634-199-506

BALLROOM/LATIN/ SEQUENCE DANCING with LA BAMBA’s. Los Arcos Restaurant, Avenida Baleares, Torrevieja, SOCIAL DANCES: Saturday 7pm10pm & Tuesdays 8pm10.30pm (except second Tuesday of the month) TUITION:- Beginners Monday10.30am. Bienvenido Chinese restaurant, La Zenia: Beginners Wednesday 7.30pm, Improvers Thursday 11.30am, Intermediates Friday 11.00am. Tel: Andrea 616 478 157 DATEMED.ES Great new online dating site for English speaking people on the Costa Blanca. Free membershipsJoin Now! www.datemed.es WEIGHT WATCHERS Call our Free English call centre now to find your nearest meeting. 900-818-794

GOLF CLUB SHARE FOR SALE Individual golf membership share for Altoreal Campo de Golf in Murcia for sale. English call 679-717-171 Español 629827-955.+ KARAOKE MEDIA PLAYER “Brand New” 500GB. 70,000songs, software, songbooks, bar/home use. 275euros Tlf:-654-925-679 POOL, SNOOKER TABLES will beat any price. Tel: 666-933-726

SEAT CORDOBA, 2000, 1.9 TDi ltr diesel, Spanish LHD, white, 4 doors, electric windows, air con, alloys. 2995€ www.vensucars.com 965 368 274 FORD FOCUS GHIA, 2006 1.6 Ltr Auto Diesel, Spanish LHD, pale metallic silver, 5 door hatch, all round elec windows, climate control, 6 CD system, alloys, one owner, FSH, impeccable condition, 34000 KLM 9995€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 PEUGEOT PARTNER COMBI, 1998 1.9 Ltr Diesel, Spanish LHD, Silver, air con, roof rack, power steering very good maintenance record. 3495€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 SUZUKI VITARA, 2002 4X4, Spanish LHD, Burgundy/ Silver, 1.9 Ltr diesel, manual, only 43000 KLM 5995€ www. venuscars.com 965 368 274 RENAULT MEGANE GRAND TOURER ESTATE Privilege,2004 Spanish LHD, Blue, one owner, FSH, climate control, alloys, auto xenon lights,cruise control 7495€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274

ACE AUTOS British & Spanish used car sales

01 RENAULT KANGOO VAN 1.9 DIESEL P/S 97 SEAT CORDOBA A/C P/S E/W LOW KMS 00 NISSAN ALMERA DIESEL 5 DOOR A/C 96 SEAT CORDOBA 1.9 DIESEL 4 DOOR A/C P/S 01 DAEWOO LANOS 5 DOOR A/C P/S CLEAN 97 B.M.W. 318 T.D.S. 4 DOOR A/C ALLOYS C.D. 98 FORD MONDEO GHIA 4 DOOR A/C P/S E/W 98 FORD MONDEO DIESEL A/C E/W ALLOYS 97 DAEWOO LANOS 3 DOOR HATCH A/C P/S 01 HYUNDAI GALLOPER 7 SEATS A/C ALLOYS U.K. CARS 03 HONDA ACCORD 5 DOOR ALLOYS A/C C.D. 01 B.M.W.325i AUTOMATIC 4 DOOR A/C ALLOYS 04 FORD FOCUS 5 DOOR T.D.I. ALLOYS A/C T/T 96 ROVER 416 ESTATE TIDY CAR U.K. RHD RHD (SPANISH) 99 SEAT AROSA 1.1 E/W P/S V/CLEAN

1,950€ 1,650€ 2,450€ 1,950€ 1950€ 2,950€ 1,950€ 2,450€ 1,500€ 3,750€ 4,250€ 3,750€ 4,950€ 950€ 950€

MANY MORE CARS IN STOCK ALL WITH NEW ITV/MOT´S P/X ON MOST CARS. FIND US NEAR NEW MERCADONNA PUEBLE PRINCIPLE,VILLA MARTIN CARS WANTED FOR CASH LHD/RHD

Tel: 620 738 023 10am to 5pm

FIND US NEAR NEW MERCADONA. PUEBLO PRINCIPE, VILLA MARTIN

Cars wanted for cash LHD/RHD

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010 KIA CARENS, EX, 2 LTR CRDI, 2006 champagne, Spanish LHD, elec windows & mirrors, MP3 CD player, parking sensors, cent locking, alloys. Excellent cond only 37000 klms 8995€ www. vensucars.com 965 368 274 OPEL CORSA COSMO, 2008 1.3 Ltr TDCI diesel, Spanish LHD, graphite, half leather interior, one owner, FSH, 18000 klms, climate control, all round elec windows, cd player, alloys 10995€ www.vensucars.com 965 368 HYUNDAI GETZ, 2005 1.1 Ltr petrol, Spanish LHD,5 door hatch, pale blue, full Hyundai service hist, CD player, elec windows, air con, economical, only 48000 klm, excellent condition 6495€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 CITROEN C3 SX PLUS, 2005 1.4 Ltr petrol, Spanish LHD, champagne, Cd player, elec windows, climate control, one owner, only 49000 klm, excellent condition 6495€ www.vensucars.com 965 368 274 FORD FOCUS GHIA, 2003, 1.6 Ltr Petrol, Spanish LHD, crystal metallic blue, 5 door hatchback, one owner, fsh, remote cent locking, elec windows, 6 CD system, climate control 5250€ www. venuscars.com 965 368 274 BMW 328-I 1997 As New Condition. Very Low Kilometers. ITV, Automatic Transfer included. 2000€. Volkswagen Golf GTi 2.0L 16V, 1993. New ITV, 1000€ Transfer Included. Tlf:634-199-506 GOING HOME? RHDVAUXHALL MARIVA 1.6 8v 5door. 07/2004, 2 owners only 28,000 miles, alloys rear privacy glass, cd and more, light blue mot,d & taxed 3,600 600-726-221/965-687-976. www.fwreurocars.com CITROEN C3 1.4 HDI FURIO, 5 door 12/2005, 1 owner, 68.000kms, FHS, aircon, cd etc lovely condition, light met blue 5.950 600-726-221/965-687976. www.fwreurocars.com PEUGEOT 206 SW ESTATE, 2005 2.0 HDI X line, 1 owner, Full peugeot service history,Stunning condition, finished in met sliver with rear privacy glass, aircon, cd and much more, must be seen only 6,250. 600-726-221/965687-976. www.fwreurocars.com MITSUBISHI PAJERO RHD English Plates. 7 seater, 2.8L diesel, 2500€ ONO. Call for more information. Tlf:664-535-755 SKODA FELICIA 1.6 Engish plates 1997, MOT & Tax End July V.G.C Good Runner, €690.00ono. 693-592-230 AUDI S4 ESTATE, QUATTRO, 2004 Auto/ Tiptronic, Spanish car, 139000km, Blue, Navigation, telephone, Recaros, sunroof, new alloys, recent service, CD/HiFi/BOSE System, Xenons, Front/rear park sensors, Excellent condition, 13500Euros, tel:-667-917790 (Javea) PORSCHE BOXSTER-S 2001, RHD manual, UK Private plate, genuine 37000 miles, leather, navigation,

alloys, FSH, electric hood, superb condition, 9750Euros ono, tel:-667-917-790 (Javea) SMART FORFOUR, PASSION, 2004 1.3 ltr petrol, Spanish LHD, 2 toned black & silver, alloys, cd player, air con, electric windows 5995€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 FORD FOCUS GHIA ESTATE, 2002 1.8 ltr TDCI diesel,115 BHP, Spanish LHD, blue, alloys, air con, all round elec windows, 6 CD player, one owner, excellent cond 5995€ www.vensucars. com 965 368 274 FORD KA, COLLECTION, 2006 1.3 Ltr petrol, Spanish LHD, pale blue metallic, FSH, CD player, air con. 5995€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 SEAT TOLEDO, 1998 Petrol Automatic, white, Spanish LHD,air con, all round elc windows, good condition 2495€ www.venuscars.com 965 368 274 AMIGO CARS Huge selection of well cared for second hand cars. Prices from 750€ Call:-965-419-857. Rental Cars from 7.50€ per day. See advert on page 54. Call:-622-684-486 WE BUY any car,van,motorhome,boat, jet ski. Instant decision at good prices. Tel 680 -665-583 WANTED Scrap cars, vans, lorries, plant and caravans. Turn your scrap into cash. Free collection. Tel.689929395 BUMPERS, WINGS AND MIRRORS All body panels for all cars supplied. Tel:966-875-497 or 618-592-396 HEADLIGHTS4U.COM Left hand drive headlights supplied and fitted. All makes. Also air conditioning rechargeTel:-966-875-497 or 618-592-396 MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER 313 CDI LWB Panel Van Year 2007, RHD, 9 months MOT, 12 months Tax, 1 owner from new. Ply-lined, FSH, Excellent condition.Tlf:628-499-448 KIA PREGIO RS 2.7D 2001 Van 6 seats, good condition, 145,000kms, 6 months ITV 3,500€ o.n.o.Tlf:-968-704-284 WANTED I buy any car, van,Caravan,4x4 Etc. British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781-873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

PAINTING AND DECORATOR Exterior/ interior Villa Painting Specialist. Woodwork, iron work, all aspects. For a free friendly, no obligation quote call Kevin Guilfoyle. 965-831209/636-653-516 or Guifoyle. kev66@gmail.com

PORNO DVD´S Gay, Bestial. 6 for €25. BDSM, She-Male 10€ each. Rebecca:636-929-511 FREE SPANKING THERAPY for Ladies. Lose Weight FAST for Xmas. Guardamar to Alcazares. Info:spanktherapy@hotmail.com SEXY COUPLE offer discreet erotic services, can accommodate. tel, 634-167-946 SEXY BUSTY BLONDE tall English busty blonde 30, offers discreet erotic services. can accommodate.tel. 672-826-161 SEXY FUN AND GAMES 63 year old. Sub/Dom Switch. Your place or mine. Available for females, males and couples. Specialising in more mature females and cross dressers. Torrevieja to Benidorm. Low Fees. Tlf:655-058-554 DANI 24, SWEET GERMAN GIRL Offers erotic service. House and Hotel visits or in my apatment. 650-104-534. Torrevieja 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 NEW IN BENIDORM MATURESUSI, 49 discrete, dedicated flute player, made in Switzerland. Offers from sensual massage to full premium service as outcalls or incalls. 7days 10am - 8pm Call 672-836-234 or www.maturesusi.com GENERIC VIAGRA SAFE AND EFFECTIVE 100mg blue pills 24 for 50€ or fast acting oral jellies. Call Ron TTMarketing Tlf:966-499-204 GENERIC VIAGRA 100MG 12 tablets for 30€ or 24 for

50€ also fast acting jellies and weekenders. Free discreet delivery. Quesada & surrounding area. Derek 685-207-378 MODEL FOR NEW XXX WEB SITE We are currently looking for females between the ages of 21 and 99 make 50% for web income on your page call 697-810-298 webmaster@thexxxwifes. co.uk TORREVIEJA CHINESE SUPER SEXY Young and beautiful. Calle Orihuela Nº60, 2º1 CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA Luxury Private Chalet, parking. Drinks invitation. Feeling alone? Just want some company? Exotic girls from South America. Call us, come and enjoy! Also Escort Service. Full discretion. Street: Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609-573-468 or 639-832-118 NEW PLACE! TORREVIEJA Sexy girls from South America. Come and enjoy, economical prices from 40?. NEW ADDRESS Zone Los Locos beach. 639-622-285 GAY MASSAGE by masculine sexy boys nr Benidorm Tel. 646 642 575 Discretion assured. Staff wanted www.gaymassage4u.com

POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired. Structural leaks investigated and repaired. 100’s of private and communal pools successfully repaired on the Costa Blanca. 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. Torrevieja and surrounding areas including Costa Calida. Tel Pristine Pools on 966-774-199 or 678-080-500 Email info@ pristineswimmingpools.com 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 676945-360/ 620-743-048 www. pooltechspain.com

CHEFS KNIVES

FOR SALE Brand new unused WEBER & KOCKMANN 9 piece professional chefs knives set complete with secure carrying case. Unwanted gift 100 euros. Moraire area Phone 966 491 711

LOOKING TO RELOCATE we have new and preowned luxury park homes for sale throughout the uk 12 month occupancy part exchange considered on your spanish or uk home for more information call 0044-1516332321 or email : alan.aitken@hotmail.co.uk MOBILE/PARK HOMES On camping Pueblo in San Javier from 15,000€ Carol 968-192425 Mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com CLASSIC SPANISH OLD TOWN HOUSE CALLOSA. 3 double bedrooms (one en-suite) new kitchen, large living room/diner. Bbq terrace and LOTS more. Recently reformed/fully furnished. 135,000€ Tel:609-177-032.

SPECIAL OFFER Los Altos, Detached Villa, 220 square metre plot, only 113,000€ 669-283-973 Manfred

VILLAMARTIN AREA Middle Town House, 2/3 Bedrooms, Bathroom, Seperate Toilet, Garage, F/F, Fitted Kitchen, 89.000€. Tlf:-996-283-973 Manfred RETIREMENT HOME? Cosy wooden cabin on friendly campsite in sunny Murcia for 20,000€o.n.o Contact 639-575-394/ elibee2110@hotmail.com

APARTMENT TO RENT 2 bed. apartment overlooking La Marquesa golf course, Quesada. Fully furnished, english TV, H & C air con., community pool. Just totally gutted and painted throughout. Available immediately. 375€per month plus elec Tel:-630-771-296 1 BED BUNGALOWS on camping Pueblo in San Javier Carol 968-192-425 Mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com CENTRAL TORREVIEJA 2 Bed 1 Bath, 1st floor apartment, for long let. with lift, separate good sized kitchen with serving hatch to lounge/Diner. Galleria, and large balcony. TV, A/C. 1 min from sea front. Tlf:609-550-734 CLASSIC SPANISH OLD TOWN HOUSE CALLOSA. 3 double bedrooms. Recently reformed and fully furnished. 450€ p.m. Tel:609-177-032. LA CALA, BENIDORM Long term 2 bed 1 bath 12th floor apart. with part sea view. Furnished. 350€pm + services.Tel:-965-837-783 MODERN 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR LONG LET in Lliber Jalon valley. There are stunning views of the mountains and vineyards. It is a 10 minute walk to the supermarket and very good restaurants. No Pets Allowed. Available from end of November - 400 euros per month inc. bills. tel:648-538-192

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Classifieds Agents Now it’s even easier to place a classified advert with the RTN by using our official agents listed below! Cars, Houses, Boats, Computers find them all in the classifieds section. Or maybe you have unwanted items to sell or something to offer? Our classified agents will be happy to help you whatever your needs.

AGENTS NORTH

Round Town Travel 1, Avenida Dr Severo Ochoa, 1, Urb. El Admiral, Local 1, Rincon Benidorm, 03503, Alicante. Lisa 966 811 123 Benidorm Round Town Travel 2, Calle Gerona, 39, Benidorm, 03503, Alicante. (Next to Hotel Ambassador) Kerry/Gemma 966 813 261 Benidorm Round Town Trips, Calle Narcisco Yepes, 4, Local 8, Albir, 03581, Alicante. (Opp. Golf Course, next to Kwik Save) Lee/Jackie 966 867 294 • lee@roundtowntrips.com albir ProminenT, Teulada Industrial Est. Calle Llanterner, 2 alto, 03725, Teulada, Alicante. Marja 965 793 229 • espana@prominent.nu Millie Munro Insurance, Avenida Lepanto, 6, 03726, Benitachell, Alicante. Millie 966 493 082 • millie@milliemunro.com EasyBuy, Avenida del Portet 24, Moraira. 03724 Alicante 965 745 969 Quicksave, Partida Murtar 2/2, Pedreguer, Alicante. Andrew Thomas 966 456 157 • beverleyethomas@yahoo.co.uk ICUK Foods sl, C/Gulliem de Casto, 8 Bajo, Oliva 46780, Valencia 962 839 830 • icukfoodssl@hotmail.com

teulada benitachell moraira pedreguer oliva

AGENTS SOUTH

Bargain Books, Plaza Juan Carlos 1, Nº 2, San Miguel de Salinas, 03193, Alicante. (Opp. Tourist Info) Gaynor/Lee 688 667 389 • leeshaw.evans@gmail.com san miguel Johnsons El Limonar,JCP Commercial Center, Local 31, Los Altos Del Limonar, Torrevieja, 966 785 600 Torrevieja Johnsons Quesada, Ava. Las Naciononies 1a -17, Quesada, 966 717 848 Quesada Johnsons Algorfa, Local 30, Commercial Center La Finca Golf, Algorfa, 966 729 647

Algorfa The Post Room, Centro Comercial 5, Via Park III, Calle Panticosa Nº 2, Los Altos, 03189, Orihuela Costa, Alicante. Aoife/Chris 965 319 665 • aoifesweeney@hotmail.com orihuela Pennys Supermarket, Flamenca Beach Comercial Centre, Unit 123, Playa Flamenca, 03189, Orihuela Costa, Alicante. Peter/Sarah 966 733 257 • bulldogstores@live.com orihuela Print Solutions, Avenida Londres 136, La Marina Urb, San Fulgencio, 03177, Alicante. Jim/Trish 966 790 520 • jim@printsolutionsspain.com SAN FULGENCIO Interpost, Avenida de la Alegria Nº 32, La Marina, 03194, Alicante. Malika/Malcolm 965 419 673 • Inter-post100@live.com

la marina

Villamartin Satellite Centre, Avenida Las Brisas 33, Villamartin, 03189, Alicante. (Near Supervalu, Los Dolses) . Sarah/Heather 966 764 878 • villamartinsatellitecentre@yahoo.co.uk villamartin Best Wishes, Local 30, Comercial Centre Hispania, Avda de la Union 72, San Javier, 30730, Murcia. Kathy 968 192 235 • kaffywalker@hotmail.com murcia Ononix Mar SL, Calle Mayor 30, bajo derecha, Guardamar, 03140, Alicante. Ron/Alicia 965 728 178 aliciamuddle@ononix.com GUARDAMAR

WANTED VILLA FOR LONG LET possible 12 months for mature retired couple not the normal holiday let something more private and personel keen gardeners.Tel no 0796-712-1271. WE ARE CURRENTLY SEEKING PROPERTIES in Javea for holidays and long term rental. Call Now 966-473-015 or 697-432-226 www.javeapropertyservices. com or email liz@ javeapropertyservices.com

MICK WITH HIS VAN Removals Collections Deliveries. For a reliable effective service. Hourly rate or quote. Call Mick anytime 600247-535 LARGE EMPTY VAN with experienced owner, driver returning to UK regularly. Dave: 965-329-610/ 686-767-839 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

BRITISH GRADUATE TEACHER Offers secondary/ primary tuition. English/ Mathematics. Tel:-Margaret Johnson B.Ed. 965-350-516/616-660-687

TRANSLATOR Spanish and English speaking. Available for medical visits etc. Benidorm and surrounding areas. Tel Dawn: 626-337-258.

COMPUTER TUTOR Software training, ebusiness education, website publishing, photography, videography and more DIY tips and tricks for all of your business and personal needs. Karla Darocas - certified instructor since 1990. Tel: 96 597 3234 info@KarlaDarocas. com Referrences www.KarlaDarocas.com

SKYSUPPLIES Sky+/Humax HD/SD Digibox`s, White cards, LNB`s. Faults/realignments. Advice. 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:-965584-097. www.ccsattv.com info@ccsattv.com ALL SATELLITE SYSTEMS Installed, Maintained and Repaired. 10 years experience with Satellites in Spain. All areas covered. Tlf:-Hugh-690275-223 LNB SATELLITES The No 1 Satellite Company covering all the Costa Blanca since 2000. Telephone 965-873-726 or 669686-587 or see our advert on Page 2 every week.

TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Brica-brac into Cash. Anything! Anywhere!965-319-220/618165/877 WE BUY your unwanted houseghold goods, furniture, tools etc. for instant cash. Tlf John:-626-918-833 RECORDS AND CD´S WANTED Top cash paid. Pop, Rock, Blues.Tlf:-630-665-363

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Book an advert on this page and get a FREE premium listing worth 100€ on thebizspain.com. Contact your local representative or call 902 118 999 T’s & C’s apply

Ideal Lights Spain

We manufacture the brightest LED lamps on the market today and have an extensive range for homes, urbanisations and businesses. From spot lights to tubes, flood lighting to GLS lamps and down lights to urbanisation street lighting, our retrofit LED range will save you money. Fact! Phone us now for a free energy saving report and a 10% discount on your first order. Save money and brighten up your life with LED lighting from Ideal Lights Spain

“Energy saving LED lighting solutions”

Tel: 6055 474 67 www.ideallightsspain.com

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

The final whistle La Vila trumps Madrid Kicking the Aussies in the bails

Ray Wilkins

ENJOY IT while it lasts. Sports’ viewing doesn’t get any better than watching England beat Australia in their own back yard. And not only did England beat the Aussies in Adelaide; they absolutely hammered them. If you take the last 3 days of the Brisbane Test into account as well, England has outplayed its hosts for eight days straight. And talk about role reversal: the Australians are in turmoil. The press are on their backs, the selectors don’t seem to know who to pick, too many players are out of form and the captain can’t score any runs. Apart from that, they’re fine! England fans will know from painful experience that these are normally our problems. Not anymore. One match does not a series win make but it looks very tough for the home side to bounce back from here. As for the calls to get Warne, Lee and McGrath out of retirement, that’s just desperation stuff: hilarious. One more thing: as England celebrated their win in Adelaide, the three back up pace bowlers, Tremlett, Bresnan and Shahzad were all out in the middle, getting it some practice ahead of the next match. This is the mentality of the current England camp, ‘…to retain the Ashes and become the best team in the World the beer will have to wait; we’ve got far more important things to do.’ Don’t you just love it! SUNNY QATAR By now you will have read pages and pages on the FIFA decision to award the 2018 and 2022 World Cup’s to Russia and Qatar. I’m sure pretty much all of us agree that FIFA is about as transparent as a lead roof and as for the ExCo members, I wouldn’t trust them to sit the right way up on a toilet. And next month Qatar will host the Asian Cup. Why is being held in January you may ask? Answer: because it’s too hot in July. Indeed, whenever a country from the Middle East gets to put on this competition (Lebanon 2000, UAE in 1996, Qatar 1988) they always avoid the summer months because of the scorching temperatures. Okay, come 2022, Doha officials say they will provide air-conditioned stadiums but you can’t air-condition an entire country! Having worked in Qatar on threeoccasions I can tell you this: as far as the fans are concerned, it will be hugely uncomfortable, sometimes unpleasant and no fun at all. Still, all the FIFA guys will be in the top hotels, air-conditioned limo’s and VIP hospitality so what do they care? RAY WILKINS When Chelsea surprisingly sacked assistant coach Ray Wilkins in November, they said it was because he wasn’t “cost effective.” It’s interesting to note then that since Wilkins was shown the door, Chelsea have played 6 matches, winning just one of them. They’ve lost three, drawn the other two, been knocked off the top of the Premier League and now look very shaky in Europe. If they fail to land a major trophy this season, and the millions of pounds that comes with it, I wonder how ‘cost effective’ it will have been to stab such a loyal, well liked and talented man in the back.

Fishing Maggots End by

David Hoare

968 199 279

LA VILA Rugby Club’s premiership team secured another league win in their game against Alcobendas in Madrid on Sunday. The 18-30 victory was enough to stabilise La Vila’s lead in overall league standings but the valuable bonus point which might have been won unfortunately evaded the team. The game took place in cold, wintry conditions, with intermittent rain and a hard, near-frozen pitch to contend with. The win was satisfying, but the game itself perhaps less so, being played in fits and starts by La Vila. Although the team led in points throughout the game, they did not dominate as much they might have expected. Towards the end of the game, with a score of 13-30 and La Vila looking to earn their bonus point, Alcobendas raised their heads. The team scored in the last ten minutes, earning a defensive bonus point: Final score 18-30. Newly signed Luke Cozens had his debut game for the team at number ten, replacing full back Agustín Gómez in kicking duties. Cozens performed well on the day and proved his consistency in kicking for posts, earning the team no less than 15 points. La Vila’s next game will take place at home against VRAC on Sunday 12th December at 12:30. Be sure not to miss the last home game before Christmas!

Meet our

RTN Golf s t n e g A b u l C All RTN Golf Club members will be aware that we have appointed two local golf agents to provide them with discounted green fees across a wide range of golf course in the Murcia and Alicante regions. Our agent for the South of the region is Mike Probert and our agent for the North of the region is Dennis Jordan, we take this opportunity to introduce them and his company to all of our readers.

Agents Profile

Dennis Jordan NORTH

Region

A keen golfer for many years who has been a member of the Don Cayo International Golf Society for the past 13 years. He has been based in Spain since 1997 having worked for many years in the Tourism Industry in the UK, initially working for the Entertainer and then the Round Town News Paper when it first began publication on the Costa Blanca. Dennis started Benidorm Golf in 1999 offering Taylor Made Golfing Holidays for visitors to the Benidorm area, originally catering for the golfing needs of the major tour operators customers such as Thomson, First Choice, Thomas Cook and Airtours that came to the area but now has evolved into a Golfing Holiday Business in its own right offering a full range of Golf Services including discount green fees to RTN Golf Club Members.

THIS WEEK’S match was the 6th in the Winter Championship series. (This is a series of 11 matches with 8 to count). The venue was the Rio Segura, at the Eden canal stretch. The match was changed from the Rio Segura Murcia due to the river rising and the path being exceptionally muddy, also for any anglers going there, the water under the bridge is making access very difficult if you want to fish further up river. The Eden canal was pushing through and slightly high, but not carrying any debris or muddy water. Even with this, the river fished well on most pegs. Again this week, Stan the Man led the way with another outstanding performance. TOP RODS ON THE DAY 1st Stan (The Man) Roberts, fishing the pole using pellet/maggot with 25.500 kilos 2nd Clive (Golf no more) Cleghorn, fishing the pole using maggot with 8.400 kilos 3rd Stuart (I´m Married again) Taylor, fishing the pole using corn with 7.640 kilos Bill Reade weighed 7.140 kilos, which consisted of two fish, one of which weighed 4.380 kilos (in old money 9lb 6 oz), caught on bread. POINTS TO DATE WITH 5 MATCHES TO GO ARE 1st Dave Hoare with 34 points 2nd Bill Reade with 36 points 3rd Clive Cleghorn with 47 points Still all to fish for… ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS supplied by Terry Screen The match on 30th November was the 5th round of the Winter League and was transferred from the Rio Segura Murcia to the Eden Stretch

Agents Profile

Mike Probert SOUTH

Region

A low handicap golfer, Mike honed his skills at a young age against great golfers such as Lee Westwood, Sandy Lyle and Ian Woosnam while becoming a Staffordshire team captain. He relocated to Spain in 2004 having worked in a senior commercial role for a multi-national company for 30 years and he immediately made an impact here on the Costa’s as a golf columnist in local English language newspapers, in golf magazines, on golf specific web-sites, local radio, specialising in golf psychology, coaching and golf course reviews culminating in being a published author of a book called a Golfing Guide to Murcia’ which is available from amazon. co.uk. In 2007 Mike created his own company, called Costa Blanca Green Fee Services which offers a variety of golf related services to both tourists and residents alike and now provides these services directly to the RTN Golf Club members. Mike believes that the economic crisis has caused the local golf courses to review their price strategy and while the price levels may still not be to all golfers expectations they have reduced significantly and below are just a few of the winter deals available from his company.

due to the heavy rains. When we started fishing there was hardly any flow of water, but after about 30minutes or so the sluice gates were opened, which started the water flowing slowing down the catch rate for those Anglers with no slack water. THE RESULTS WERE 1st Bill (The Master) Reade, fishing the pole using bread with 15.060kg 2nd Stan (The Man) Roberts, fishing the pole using pellet with 10.260kg 3rd Terry (Swing Em) Screen with 4.640kg using the same method All details available from the Match Secretary Terry Screen on 965 328 368 Anglers Together ANGLERS TOGETHER was formed to introduce and encourage anglers of all abilities to meet up and get together to fish, either sea or freshwater. Firm friendships have been formed during the time the group has been active and information on fishing venues and licenses required are available at the meetings or by regular emailed newsletters. Meetings are held in two locations on the second Friday and Saturday of each month. Anyone with an interest in fishing (sea or freshwater) is welcome to come along to a meeting. The next meetings will be held on Friday 10th December at 12.00 at Mary’s Bar in Pinar del Campoverde (north of Pilar de la Horadada) and on Saturday 11th December at 12.00 at Los Galayos Bar, opposite the beach front at Puerto de Mazarron. Come along to a meeting nearest to you. For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 or email anglerstogether@gonuts4free.com

SOUTH Region Golf Course

RTN Price

Comments

Altorreal

€55

Two Green Fees + Buggy (Fridays only)

Hacienda Del Alamo

€89

Two Green Fees + Buggy

La Finca

€42

Single Green fee

Lo Romero

€85

Two Green Fees + Buggy

Polaris World Courses

€90

Two Green Fees + Buggy

Roda

€80

Two Green Fees + Buggy

Vistabella

€72

Two Green Fees + Buggy (Weekends only)

There many more winter deals available and to obtain more information contact Mike at mike@roundtownnews.com or direct at Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931

NORTH Region Golf Course

RTN Price

Comments

Alenda

€45

Single Green fee

Alicante Golf

€46

Single Green fee + Buggy

Bonalba

€42

Single Green fee

Don Cayo

€43

Single Green fee

El Plantio

€45

Single Green fee

Font del Llop

€32

Two Green fees

Villaitana Par 62

€38

Single Green fee + Buggy

Villaitana Par 72

€44

Single Green fee

For more information email Dennis at dennis@roundtownnews.com or direct to benidormgolf.com on 630 714 373.

ANYONE FOR FOOTBALL? Aged between 20 to 40 ? Torrevieja area Call Doug on 628 789 335

It’s not getting much better Noel’s world of golf By Noel Eastwell Teaching Professional Campo de Golf El Plantio 639 730 891

WE ARE all aware that the financial crisis that has gripped The World for the last eighteen months or so continues unabated. We also know that many influential people here in Spain are doing their very best ostrich impressions, burying their heads in the sand and hoping it will go away. Many of our golf course managers and owners have taken this same attitude. Well it’s time to wake up and enter the real world. Pretending the crisis is not affecting golf is just another way of delaying the inevitable; losing one’s business in this case. I do not think for one moment that reducing the price of green fees any further will happen other than for some quiet periods when we will see special offers come along. The cost of living has risen tremendously in Spain over the last few years as the country has milked the good times for all they were worth. This has seen wages rise in all sectors of business including those working in the golf industry and industries related to it. No worker is really going to take a drop in wages when everything they need to live is getting more expensive by the day. A drop in wages is now seen by many as the only way to reduce green fees now as profit margins continue to be squeezed. This situation leaves the golf clubs in a unique situation in Spain; they are going to have to provide service and value for money for a change. That is the only way we are going to see more people play golf. As much as I love the Spanish people they are certainly no World leaders in customer service. Just this week I was told of someone who complained about a service only to be told that, “I was here long before you arrived and I will be here after you have gone.” Now that’s what you would love someone to say to you at a golf club I bet! Unfortunately, the attitude quoted above seems endemic in far too many Spanish people. Attitudes have to change and they have to start changing at the very top if we are to see any progress at all. To change the attitude of many people will take almost a lifetime but if we don’t see change happening soon

in Spain I fear for many small businesses and not just golf related. Value for money is something every person has a right to in everything they purchase and that includes golf. To see changes happening soon, all golfers are going to have to do their bit. When you see things that need to be improved you should tell the managers in a polite but firm way while at the same time reminding them that you are only trying to help. The time to be ignored at the bar or in the professional’s shop or cafeteria is over. Those managers who wish to stay in their jobs must begin to motivate their staff and maybe go on one or two customer service training courses as well so that they can train their staff. WIN A ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 INCLUDING BUGGY AT THE BEAUTIFUL EL PLANTIO RESORT IN ALICANTE To enter this competition, simply answer the question below correctly. Every correct answer will be entered into a draw at the end of the month and the winner of this fantastic prize worth over €180 will be picked at random at the end of each month. Send your entries by email to golf@roundtownnews. com. The decision of the editor of RTN will be final in making the winning selection. QUESTION FOR 10TH DECEMBER 2010 How many Major Championships did Seve Ballesteros win? A. 4 B. 5 C. 6 All answers must be received no later than 17.00 on 31st December 2010 to be entered into December’s draw, to be made on 2nd December. The winner will be announced in RTN on 7th January, 2011. NOEL EASTWELL GOLF ACADEMY AT EL PLANTIO We have special rates available for booking six or more lessons with Noel; an ideal way to give someone special a worthwhile Christmas present: call Noel on 639 730 891.

Any questions you have for Noel should be sent to golf@roundtownnews.com

10 - 16 dECEMBER 2010

Joinourclub! PLAYING GOLF for RTN Golf Club members could not be better as everyone scores a hole in one to enjoy a complete discount package at the best prices possible. Players can get out on 30

Costa Blanca courses and pay the most competitive green fees available. This ‘superb’ deal means a RTN Golf Club member and up to seven guests can all be enjoying spectacular dis-

counts at clubs along the coast. To book a round, all members

have to do is to send their requirements to the two agents, who will deal with requests quickly and efficiently. For the south

email: mike@roundtownnews.com and for the north email:

dennis@roundtownnews.com

To apply for your membership card go to

www.roundtownews.co.uk and click on the Golf club logo on the homepage. Allow 21 days for delivery

FC Torrevieja: Dia del Club

TORRY WILL play against Borriol this Sunday, 12th December at 12.00. It will be a Day of the Club, where everybody, including Season Ticket Holders, pays €10. Children are free. There will also be a large free paella for everybody inside the stadium, after the match. Please go along and support FC Torrevieja.