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Issue 746

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Swine ‘flu protection

by Jack Troughton

Founding president Susan Bultitude

Animal charity’s 15th birthday JAVEA-BASED ANIMAL charity APASA celebrates 15 years of caring for lost and rescued animals next month (February) hoping to again receive royal approval.

Read the full story on page 18.

PEOPLE CAN protect themselves against ‘swine flu’ as the outbreak in Spain reaches epidemic proportions with 60 deaths across the country.

This year’s outbreak of ‘Influenza A’ or H1N1 had reached “borderline” figures – 200 new cases for each 100,000 people – by Monday, at the start of the ‘flu season’.

Dr Vicente Mera, a consultant clinician and specialist in internal medicine at Hospital Clinica Benidorm, said the virus was a mutation of bird flu and had last caused an epidemic in Spain in 2009.

He said the best protection was vaccination and the jab was changed every year because of the virus’ capability to mutate and change.

“It is important to know that flu can kill you,” he told RTN. “It is completely different to a cold or catarrh – the only thing that are shared are the respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose and a headache.

“But flu is much more serious and produces high temperatures, aching of the body, tiredness and weakness, and severe fatigue. It can also cause diarrhoea and nausea – feeling sick.

“And it is essential to tell the difference. If you have a cold the solution is very simple and it is not necessary to see a doctor but if you have the flu, it is better to see a doctor because it can kill.”

RISK People at high risk were pensioners because the immune system is low at that age, people with chronic obstructive respiratory diseases such as asthma, smokers, and people suffering other chronic diseases such as heart or kidney disorders and cancer patients.

Dr Mera said Influenza A was “easy to prevent” and there was no doubt this was through vaccination – a free jab to high risk groups.

He warned that after the 2009 outbreak was not “fortunately” as bad as predicted by the medical world, people had become lethargic about the risks and the vaccination rate had tumbled.

“To get protection for the community – rather than the individual – we need vaccination of around 75% of the population – if you do not get this you put the whole community at high risk. Unfortunately we have not got 75%; we have perhaps 50% or 60%.

Continued on page 4

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

NEWS & VIEWS

from the North & South Costa Blanca and Costa Calida.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Holiday rentals under threat

by Jack Troughton CONTROVERSIAL NEW laws policing the holiday rental industry on the Costa Blanca could hit people offering villa-based breaks.

The crackdown, which is expected to come into force this Spring, could prevent expats and Brits with holiday homes renting them out to tourists.

And holidaymakers – who make a vital contribution to the Costa Blanca economy – may see the cost of a break soar. Instead of paying cheaper rates direct to owners they could be forced to stay in apartments, villas or hotels operated by major firms.

Television programmes such as Channel 4’s Place in the Sun feature Brits looking to buy a second home. In almost every case they are told of the rental potential of the property.

And many people buy with the help of a mortgage and let out the properties for some of the year to help cover bills rather than to pocket a huge profit.

Visitors cut the costs of breaks by renting larger villas and sharing the cost with friends or family. The private rental market has blossomed with the 12 million people who visit Spain every year.

However, recession-hit Spain is desperate to boost revenue into public coffers and it is suspected property owners are not paying millions of Euros in taxes – until now in most parts of Spain anyone can let out their homes as long as they pay taxes and declare

their earnings.

The powerful hotel lobby has also called for the legislative change maintaining the growth of the private rental market is hitting the industry’s business.

LICENCE

It is expected the new laws will mean local councils will have to issue licences but it is feared if regulations are too tough private properties will be removed from the market, slashing the number of beds available to tourists.

Villa and apartment rentals can be policed via online sites used to advertise the properties; town halls can also monitor the use of electricity as the trigger for an investigation.

Catalonia, the Canary and Balearic Islands already have hard-hitting restrictions. In 2013 apartment and villa owners have been hit with fines of up to 20,000€.

One Marina Alta property manager said he reduced his portfolio by 36 beds on the internet when the stories first began about the regulation of the rental industry.

Asking not to be named, he added: “I said to the owners they had to be sure they were paying taxes on their income from rentals in case I was forced to carry the rap.

“I said if the revenue asked me who owned the property I would be obliged to tell them – several said they would stop renting all together.

“One property was put up for sale, another owner stopped renting and a third sorted out his affairs, which is fine.”

Villas line the coast

INDUSTRY The holiday industry along the Marina Alta coast relies on villas and apartments.

There are few large hotels north of Calpe used by package holiday companies.

And he attacked law makers as “not clever people” who did not look at the consequences of regulation if it was over stringent.

“Damaging this important market is an act of insanity because regulation could kill the market.” He said the move would hit the local economy by reducing the number of visitors – and further weaken the housing market as people decided to sell up. “You must keep the cow alive so you can milk it...the cow has to be in a good state of health.”

Another property owner renting to the holiday market – who said he always declared his income - claimed if regulation was too expensive and onerous owners would simply pull out of the market. “And the overall affect will be on employment. We have low unemployment on the coast because of the economic activity of holidaymakers, foreigners coming to Spain,” he said.

“I hope Valencia will not be so stupid as to put in place this ridiculous legislation and make it impossible to have a private rental market. “Surely you are entirely free to rent your property to whoever you like. If it is taxable, that is a secondary issue because you should pay tax.”

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Dr Vicente Mera

continued from front page “Why? Because people became sceptical after the 2009 outbreak was not as bad as doctors predicted.”

The vaccination programme begins every year in September and October and Dr Mera said it was the best time to get a jab. Inoculations are still available but are less effective.

He said transmission of the virus was through respiratory secretions such as saliva through coughing and sneezing.

SALIVA “What can we do? The best thing is to avoid contact – do not share any types of food, glass of drink, smoke the same cigarette or sue the same towel,” he advised. “All these things can be contaminated with saliva.”

He said it was also important to keep hands clean – especially using an antiviral product – such as the many self-drying gels

on the market.

Airports, theatres, gyms, swimming pools, and spas were all places where the virus could be easily spread – especially in areas of high humidity.

“If you suffer from flu or a cold, it is essential to try and not transmit the virus - when you cough or sneeze it is very important to protect the secretion with your hand or a tissue. This is simple,” said the doctor. “Avoid, if possible, public places if you are ill.”

Wearing a mask also protected people from transmitting the virus or catching it, he added – a method more popular in Far Eastern countries like Japan.

Dr Mera said: “In 2009 there were 3,000 deaths – 60 is not high but it is the beginning of the season and all of those were members of one of the high risk groups and it is unlikely to be fatal if you are outside these groups.

“If you are a member of the at risk sectors it is important to get the vaccine or get treatment.”

Cyclists campaign for better parking

CYCLISTS IN Valencia have launched a campaign for better parking facilities in the city.

They claim that the shortage of designated parking for bicycles along with exclusion from existing parking areas proves costly and time consuming. To make their bicycles secure they complain it is necessary to invest in removable lights and saddle as well as an efficient locking system. Cyclists say they are often directed to parking zones which are at high risk of theft and denied admittance to secure car parks. Members of Bike Valencia are lobbying the council for more parking on the street and also pushing for admittance to parking facilities in malls and public buildings.

Alfaz reforms listed school to make a Cultural Centre THE CITY of L’Alfas del Pi has begun refurbishment of the listed building known as ‘Escuelas Viejas’ (Old Schools).

Centrally located in the city, it was opened in 1927 and used as a school for children aged 6 to 14 until the 90s but has been closed ever since. Now the building is being given a makeover on a budget of just over 300,000€, prior to being opened as a Cultural Centre. Mayor Vicente Arques confirmed that the available space will be split into separate sections for uses yet to be determined.

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Expats are “second class citizens”

by Jack Troughton BRITAIN IS treating its expats like “second class citizens” by denying them a vote in their home country’s national elections, says the powerful European Commission.

The United Kingdom is being urged to allow all its citizens the right to vote and overturn current legislation which strips expats of a voice at the ballot box after 15 years. On Wednesday the Commission made a series of recommendations to member states – saying it was acting to defend the rights of EU citizens abroad over their disenfranchisement. And it issued “guidance” to member states which have rules that lead to a loss of voting rights simply because people had exercised their right to free movement with the EU – the UK, Denmark, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta currently maintain such a regime.

The Commission accepted member states were ‘competent’ to determine who had the right to vote in national elections, disenfranchising citizens affected the right to free movement.

It ruled: “Disenfranchisement practices are also at odds with the founding premise of EU citizenship which is meant to give citizens additional rights, rather than depriving them of rights.”

DEMOCRACY EU Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding said on Wednesday: “The right to vote is one of the fundamental rights of citizenship. It is part of the very fabric of democracy. “Depriving citizens of their right to vote once they move to another EU country is effectively tantamount to punishing citizens for having exercised their right to free movement. Such practices risk making them second class citizens.”

She added: “In letters, petitions and citizens’ dialogues, they have made it clear to us just how important this issue is to them.”

Ms Reding said in last year’s EU Citizenship Report, the Commission made a pledge to address the matter.

“Today we are doing our part of the job. We are calling on member states to show greater flexibility and are issuing proportionate guidance to the five countries concerned so that citizens can get back on the electoral roll of their home country.”

She said it was hoped governments would address the “very concrete concerns” because losing the vote was “a big deal for the individuals concerned”.

And the Commission said the main justification for imposing rules of voting was expats no longer had sufficient links with their home country. “This seems outdated in today’s interconnected world.”

Harry Shindler MBE, a 93-year-old member of the campaign group Votes For Expat Brits and who lives in Italy, lost his case at the European Court of Human Rights last year in his fight to regain a vote. However, the former soldier did make an impact in Brussels and his arguments were quoted several times in the Commission’s investigations.

Conservative MP for Thanet North, Sir Roger Gale believes expat UK citizens should have the right to vote.

The euro-sceptic said: “It is not often I agree with the Commission...but in this instance they have got it right.

“In the interests of democracy all UK citizens, wher-

ever they may reside, should have the right to vote in both UK parliamentary elections and in a future EU referendum. In most developed democracies citizens have the right to vote in perpetuity.”

But Justice Secretary Chris Grayling said the Commission’s announcement was just another example of European interference. He said Brussels was attempting to “trump British law and broaden EU competencies.”

The Cabinet Office maintains the issue of who votes in nation al elections was a matter for governments and not the Commission. “The Government’s position has been backed by the courts and the Government is not minded to change it.”

Dukan struck off medical register

DOCTOR PIERRE Dukan has been struck off the French medical register for commercialising his high-protein ‘Dukan Diet’. The four-phase diet is similar to the Atkins regime and is hugely successful worldwide in terms of being effective for weight loss, with celebrity followers such as Penelope Cruz, the Duchess of Cambridge and Katherine Jenkins. However, tests carried out by the Spanish Agency for Food Safety have led to the diet being heavily criticised by the medical fraternity. The agency’s president, Giuseppe Russolillo, said: “It’s a dangerous diet long term, carrying a high health risk. It is clear that high protein diets like this increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and could cause kidney damage.” Dukan, who in fact already resigned from the French Medical Register in May 2013, is defiant and firmly endorses the benefits of sticking to his diet. His book ‘I Don’t Know How to Lose Weight’ has been translated into 26 languages and sold 13 million copies in 56 countries. And the diet is followed by 40 million people.

FEB,

31 11-17 JAN-06OCT FEB2013 2014

Specsavers Opticas helps the world to see SPECSAVERS OPTICAS launched a campaign on 10th October to collect 3,000 pairs of unwanted glasses in just three months, to be given to the Lions Club International and distributed to those in need.

This campaign strove to give the gift of sight to some of the world’s poorest people with the response that a fantastic. 4,436 pairs of glasses have been donated over the three month campaign across all eight stores well over the target!

José Ángel Moral-Tajadura, Specsavers Opticas’ Business Development Manager commented “We would like to say a huge thank you to all the generous people, the media and local organisations that helped support the campaign and donated their unwanted glasses. Every pair will make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

The glasses will be sent to the Lions Club’s recycling plant in Alicante where they are first separated into single vision, bifocals,

varifocals and sunglasses. They are then graded according to prescription strength, cleaned and boxed for distribution.

Lions Club representatives are located across many developing countries including Africa and India. They test the eyes of locals and send requests for the required prescription glasses onto the fulfilment plant. Lions Club International collects around 70,000 pairs of glasses to be re-dispensed every year, with each one being donated and hand selected for specific people in need.

Janette Bennett, president of the Torrevieja Costa Lions Club, commented: “There is always a shortage of glasses in developing countries as they have no medical support, so Specsavers’ donations are absolutely vital. It’s amazing that they have been able to collect over 4,000 pairs in just three months. This will help so many people and we are grateful to the company and the community for donating their glasses to this great cause.”

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Mike Stone from Specsavers Opticas presenting the glasses collected by their Javea and Calpe stores to Beverley Stewart, Bob Sydney and Hugh Stewart from Calpe and Benissa Lions Club

Specsavers Opticas continue to have a strong relationship with the Lions Club and glasses can be donated at any of their eight

stores on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca and Mallorca. To find your nearest store visit www.specsavers.es

Protest march in Belgium slams Spanish abortion law

BELGIAN POLICE have reported that around 2,000 people took part in a demonstration march in front of the European Parliament building on Wednesday protesting against Spain’s new abortion bill passed in December.

Socialist MEPs, liberals, environmentalists and also the European United Left joined the march alongside Spanish and other nationalities, waving banners bearing the message, ‘In support of the Spanish and abortion rights in Europe’, and demanding that the bill be withdrawn. The new law allows abortion to take place only if the mother has been raped or is at risk, which critics believe has placed the Spanish social system firmly back in the Franco era.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Graffiti attack on churches CALPE CHURCHES were this week attacked by vandals armed with spray paint canisters for the second time.

by Jack Troughton THE WALLS of the parish church Our Lady of the Snow and the Ermita San Salvador were liberally coated in black and bright green political slogans and the communist hammer and sickle.

The ruling Partido Popular national government was the target of the messages which included hitting out at the controversial anti-abortion legislation, the church, and claimed: “Terrorism is PP not ETA”.

And as the town hall prepared another clean-up operation, RTN was told it was believed the same person or people were responsible for the graffiti.

An insider revealed: “The police think they know who it is but it is a matter of actually catching them defacing the churches.”

The defaced walls of the Ermita San Salvador

A disappointing attempt for rowing team THE ROWING team that planned an ambitious 75 nautical mile (21km) crossing from Sant Antoni de Portmany, Ibiza, to Benidorm in a felucca last weekend was forced to postpone after just six miles due to bad weather and 2-3 metre waves. The Nautical Club of Benidorm will announce next week the date of the rescheduled attempt at the crossing, predicted to be in the spring. The last time the journey was completed was in 1985.

How cute can it get!

SPANISH PHOTOGRAPHER Pedro Jarque Krebs managed to take an enchanting photograph of a White Tiger cub during a visit to the zoo at Mundopark in Seville. 50-year-old Krebs spent an hour taking candid shots of the cubs at play.

He said: “I was fortunate to visit the park at a time when several tiger cubs had recently been born.

The expression I caught here was a moment that was gone in an instant - I had the great fortune to capture it.” Mundopark is home to 142 different species.

Slavery gang smashed

by Jack Troughton MODERN DAY slavers selling young Nigerian women into the misery of Europe’s sex industry have been jailed after a joint operation by British and Spanish authorities.

The human trafficking gang was smashed after a two year investigation and close cooperation between the UK’s Home Office Immigration Enforcement, Border Force, British Police and Spain’s National Police.

London’s busy Heathrow Airport was used by the criminals as a transport hub to move the women – some under the age of 18 – into mainland Europe for the purposes of prostitution.

The British end of the operation was launched in 2011 after Border Force officers at Heathrow intercepted a number of young women in transit from Nigeria into Europe.

Immigration Enforcement officials based in Madrid liaised with Spanish authorities and provided intelligence linking some of the women to a suspected group of traffickers operating in Spain. They identified 48 potential victims.

RESCUE And in September last year, Spanish police swooped to arrest seven alleged gang members in the cities of Madrid and Lleida – two women were also rescued. These details have just been made public because of legal reasons.

However, two men have been convicted and jailed in the UK as a result of the investigation.

Last March, Odosa Usiobaifo, from Enfield, north Lon-

don, was imprisoned for 14 years for his part in trafficking 14 and 15-year-old girls he put on flights to Spain from London.

David Osawaru, from Benin City, Nigeria, was jailed for nine years last October. He was arrested at Heathrow in May 2012 as he “chaperoned” two women in transit from Lagos to Prague.

The Home Office’s Minister for Security James Brokenshaw said the Government was to introduce a Modern Slavery Bill later this year which would send a strong message to traffickers: “If you are involved in this appalling crime you will be arrested, you will be prosecuted, and you will be locked up.”

PROBLEM He said: “Modern slavery is a global problem and I welcome the news that thanks to the co-operation between British and Spanish authorities that this trafficking network has been stopped.

“We are working closely with international law enforcement agencies to deter individuals falling prey to criminal gangs and disrupt slavery routes coming to the UK.” And Clinton Nield, of the Home Office’s Immigration Enforcement’s Risk and Liaison Overseas Network, said close co-operation with Spain and other law enforcement agencies across the UK and Europe a criminal network which actively “targeted and manipulated vulnerable young women” had successfully been stopped.

He added: “These women were given false promises and forced to travel to Europe where they were forced into prostitution.

“Trafficking is an abhorrent crime and I hope this case sends a clear message to those involved overseas that international borders will not stop us from tracking the down and brining them to justice.”

David Osawaru

Alicante garbage workers back to work

MUNICIPAL WASTE collection workers in Alicante called off their strike over last weekend with a vote resulting in 258 for and 104 against returning to work. The strike, which started Sunday 19th January and lasted a full week, left the streets of the city overflowing with rubbish. It is expected that the backlog of waste will take some time to clear.

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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letter of the week

A nasty surprise THIS HAD never happened to us before and we definitely hope it never happens again. Several weeks ago we got a very nasty surprise when we checked our bank account online: to our horror we saw someone had somehow used our credit card number to steal money from our account.

WE HAD used our credit card only three times all of last year. We even have Internet Security on our computer, yet it was like some crook stuck a gun out of the computer screen and said, “This is a stick up!”

We had to go into our bank and cancel our credit card before more money was stolen from our account. Our Bank printed off a record of money transactions from our account and advised us to go to the Guardia Civil to get a thorough Police report so our Bank could send it to their head office in Madrid.

We were totally knackered, having had no sleep the night before with the shock of knowing someone had somehow gained access to our Credit Card number. We had to wait nearly two hours because several people were ahead of us at the Guardia Civil. We felt really sorry for one British lady because someone had robbed her account through an ATM. Thankfully there was a translator at the Police station and the Police were very helpful. Our Bank told us they are insured for cases like ours.

Yesterday our money was returned to our bank account after waiting 45 days. Getting our money back was a massive relief and definitely a nice way to begin the New Year!

John Brundell, Altea

Second grade rubbish

DURING THE Christmas period I noticed quite a lot of Christian-related goods for sale in the bazaars: yet you try and be a Christian in China! Life is made very difficult for Christians, in fact almost intolerable. That’s why I have stopped buying any more of their second-grade rubbish. Go to the local ferreteria!

L Lupin

Screaming like a pig I HAVE visited Benidorm for years now, mostly as a guest at the Pueblo which is an excellent hotel.

My last visit was in December 2013 and I’m sorry to say it was a very distressing one. Our hotel looked on to the open market but separating them is a piece of waste ground. In the summer you will see the gypsies sleeping rough on this ground which doesn’t bother me but the sight I had to endure this time was five dogs

mauling a wild pig: now I really do know what the saying means ‘screaming like a pig’. And the pigs had many small piglets.

I was wakened by this at 2am and hurried down to the reception to report it. This attack carried on - then the security guy from our hotel threw stones at the dogs to scare them off.

It is now 2014 and I can still hear that pig screaming. I was also told by the night shift worker that five other

people had phoned the reception and he had phoned the police. I never saw any sign of the police.

Can we not do something to protect these pigs from ferocious dogs? Also can we clean up this piece of land?

I do hope someone can either remove those pigs or remove the dogs. I do feel very strongly about this matter and I do read your newspaper every time I come to Spain.

Isabell Duffy

Be vigilant LAST WEEK my husband and I went into a large supermarket to purchase a laptop computer. We found one that has a well-known brand name and within our budget, so we bought it.

Upon arriving back at home we took it from its box and turned it on. To be honest, neither my spouse nor I know much about computers. The computer came straight on there was no downloading from a CD required. Since we are pretty much computer illiterate, we did not even think to download any programs from a CD. Soon we started having issues with the computer freezing and being very sluggish. We finally took it back to the supermarket from whence we had purchased it. Thankfully the supermarket had a fifteen day return policy whereby we could return items and have our money refunded.

This is the same supermarket that often times has different prices on its grocery shelves than at the checkout, and yes, you guessed it, the price differences are always in the supermarket’s favour.

These situations remind me of my A-level Economics class where I learnt the phrase, ‘caveat emptor: let the buyer beware’. When shopping one needs to be vigilant.

Mary Anderson, Ciudad Quesada

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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Swype away your De Q Blues Watts In Britain By

Paul Watts

I TRAVELLED into Brum on the train today and had to smile as almost everyone that stood up to get off at New Street instantly pulled out their phones and started to text. It could be a new medical condition: TDS (text dependency syndrome) – the need to text the wider world of our whereabouts.

There is, of course, an existing medical condition associated with texting and I overheard one passenger talking to her chum about it: “Me flaming thumb is getting worse and my doc says I ought to text less.” She pleaded to her friend, “Well, I mean to say, how can I text less?”

She looked down at her sore thumb and rubbed it. She was referring to the dreaded

ailment known originally as Blackberry Thumb.

Okay, here’s what the experts say: “BlackBerry [or Texter’s] thumb is a neologism that refers to a form of repetitive strain injury (RSI) caused by the frequent use of the thumbs to press buttons on PDAs, Smartphones or other mobile devices. The name of the condition comes from the BlackBerry, a brand of Smartphone that debuted in 1999, although there are numerous other similar eponymous conditions that exist such as ‘Wiiitis’, ‘Nintendinitis’, ‘Playstation thumb’, ‘cell phone thumb’, ‘Smartphone thumb’, ‘Android thumb’, and ‘iPhone thumb’.”

Given all these popular names there must be some technical terminology for it, a nice bit of Latin perhaps.

And, of course, as you guessed there is. Okay, back to our experts: “The medical name for the condition is De Quervain Syndrome and is associated with the tendons connected to the thumb through the wrist. Causes for the condition extend beyond smartphones and gaming consoles to include activities like golf, racket sports, and lifting.” Oh, I wonder if I can get a few sick-days off if I complain of De Quervain Syndrome. “Sorry Boss, but I can’t come in today because I’ve been over-doing the texting a bit and I gotta touch of the De Q’s!” I suppose I shouldn’t joke because symptoms of Texter’s thumb include “aching and throbbing pain in the thumb and wrist and in severe cases… temporary disability of the affected hand - particularly the ability to grip objects.”

Oh gawd, that’s no good to an RTN reporter with his

trusty rubber tipped pencil and jotter, is it? So, why is it that the thumb is affected in this way?

Well, one popular hypothesis is that old thumby doesn’t have the dexterity the other fingers have and is therefore, not well-suited to high speed touch typing. But a bit of old De Q isn’t going to stop us is it? It didn’t stop anyone on my train today. Look at this - the Ergonomic Times reports: “Latest figures… reveal that over 100 million text messages are sent every single day in the UK alone - 3.8 million British mobile phone users suffer from text-related injuries - 38% people suffer from sore wrists and thumbs from texting.”

Now, I don’t know about you but I’d put the bloomin thing down or simply make a call if over-texting was causing me this much pain and grief. Although, help is now at hand (including thumbs) and there is a less stressful way (digitally speaking) of texting. Yup folks and this old fart has just discovered it: the joys of ‘swype-ing’. Swype Wattsie, what’s that? I’ll tell you – it’s an app that helps put away those De Q Blues.

Swype is a faster way to enter text. With Swype, you create a word by Swyping through letters instead of tapping them out. Simples. Find out more at: http://www.swype.com/category/tips/ Me, I can’t wait until voice recognition finally pulls itself into the twenty-first century and cuts out the need to do anything with me thumbs…

Watts in Britain, Swype-ing merrily away

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Photo picked for calendar An early morning shot of a sunrise at Calpe Bay has been chosen as the photograph for January in the 2015 calendar being published by charity Friends of the Children of EMAUS.

by Jack Troughton The charity is asking photographers to submit pictures portraying life on the Costa Blanca each month and the winning entry will be featured in the calendar – and in the pages of RTN. Heather Sewell-Bullock’s atmospheric picture and its wonderful colours were chosen by the judges. Heather lives in Calpe.

Charity President Carole Saunders said: “We chose Heather’s picture because it captured one of the wonderful sunrises and sunsets we have here on the Costa Blanca. It is a real example of a beautiful January morning.

“I hope people will continue to take part and we have been very impressed by the standard of the photos submitted so far.”

Pictures should be sent to info@fcemaus.com and February entrants should be received by Friday 21st February. People can enter up to five pictures for each month and they should be submitted as ‘jpeg’ attachments.

The smart bra

JAPANESE LINGERIE brand ‘Ravijour’ has introduced the prototype of a sensational ‘smart bra’- natty underwear that flashes pink and unfastens all by itself whenever the wearer is near the man of her dreams!

The bra is connected to a mobile via Bluetooth technology, picking up data through a heart rate sensor. When the heart rate accelerates, the front fastening of the bra glows pink before popping open. The wearer is then informed via mobile messaging that her bra is ‘open for business’, as it were…The designers are claiming the bra is a “reliable indication of true love” and guarantee that only passion will pop the clasp, which could prove inconvenient when running to catch the train to work, for instance! The bra is not yet for sale in the shops.

Check us out mate!

By Jack Troughton CHESS PLAYERS in the Jalon Valley have thrown down the gauntlet in a challenge to take on other groups across the chequered board.

The U3A Vall de Pop group is hoping to meet likeminded players in the area ready for an enjoyable tactical battle.

Confident group leader Rod Waspe said: “Bring it on!

We are ready to take on any group, English or Spanish, who are up for the challenge. You don’t have to speak your opponent’s language to enjoy the battle.”

The U3A group is also ready to welcome new members – whether they are experienced or a novice. For more information, or to accept the chess challenge, call Rod on 605 231 331.

Masonic Lodge donates 1,000€ to The Alzheimer’s Day Centre Teulada

by Jack Troughton LAURENCE BAEHR, the Master of Arenal Lodge No 65 in the Province of Valencia, with his wife, Shirley, who prepared all the catering held a fundraiser in his home on 6th January, to support The Alzheimer’s Day Centre in Teulada.

They were overwhelmed by the support they received from Masons, friends and from Moraira Teulada U3A and had to turn people away once 70 tickets had been sold.

Local trio Jazzify donated their services and everyone enjoyed their unique style of music together with non-stop food drink the party was a great success. Local restaurateurs, Abi Satari from Satari’s Restaurant in Moraira and Vicky Sohail from L’Echelote restaurant, Costa Nova, Javea, helped as sous chefs and waiters.

Laurence and Shirley met the board of The Day Centre this week when they presented a donation of 1000€: 500€ from the party and a further generous donation of

500€ from the masons of Arenal Lodge.

The money will go towards essential building work and desperately needed furniture.

The Centre is open Mondays through Saturdays, closed on holidays. For further information about the Teulada Moraira Centre please contact Wilhelmina

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Haggis Galore!

Hardee: willyhardee@gmail.com or call 639 371 625.

Arenal Lodge will be holding a Quiz supper on the 1st March to raise more funds: entry tickets are now available from Bill Russell at billbrenda2@gmail.com and laurencebaehr@mac.com.

Donnie, Linda and Alan at The Racing Toast

Laurence and Shirley Baehr (centre) with members of the Board

BEING MARRIED to a Scotsman can have its advantages, providing that the Scotsman plays the bagpipes and his wee wife happens to like Haggis!

Wendy Macdiarmid met Donnie three years ago and has since attended a number of Burns suppers, this year no less than four!

The Costa Blanca may seem an unlikely location to commemorate the life of famous poet Robbie Burns yet Donnie and Wendy attended the Racing Toast in Playa Flamenca; The Caledonian Club seventh annual Burns supper on Friday 24th and on the 25th a Burns Supper at The El Paraiso in Jalon before finally heading to Rani’s Indian restaurant in Playa Flamenca on 26th. If you have ever wondered what Haggis Curry tastes like then try a Burns supper at Rani’s!

Donnie is available to pipe for charity events and private functions and can be contacted on 619 800 752 or email dmckmacd@hotmail.com

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Animal charity’s 15th birthday JAVEA-BASED ANIMAL charity APASA celebrates 15 years of caring for lost and rescued animals next month (February) hoping to again receive royal approval.

by Jack Troughton Spain’s King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia were informed of the launch of the Asociacion Protectora de Animales de San Antonio in 1999 and said “well done and keep up the good work”.

APASA has again written to Madrid telling them of the milestone and members have finders-crossed they will get a reply.

Currently home to around 260 dogs, the shelter has evolved from just four kennels hosting

Mandy Conway

23 canines – and an open septic tank for waste.

The charity is also the manager of the ‘municipal pound’ and takes in stray dogs brought in by the local police and Guardia Civil – receiving an annual grant from the town hall but still needs to constantly raise funds.

There have been four APASA presidents during its life and RTN met the first and founding president Susan Bultitude and current president Mandy Conway.

Susan said APASA was formed by a small group of people – including vet Jose Luis Genoves Garcia – after they demanded the keys to the pound and said they would run the facility.

“We took turns at being on duty and I went down one night and there was this mother with a litter of puppies trying to protect them from the other dogs,” she said.

“The mother was crying, I was in tears and I telephoned the mayor and demanded the keys and we were given permission to take over the pound.”

Named after San Antonio, the patron saint of animals, its international membership and support has grown and many of its dogs are found new homes abroad.

Susan said it started with just 11,000 pesetas “in the pot” and because there were originally no runs dogs were tied up in the shade of orange trees with buckets of food and water, and some advice from the RSPCA on how to run a dogs’ home.

APASA pound in 1999

“The big improvements were putting in mains drains – the septic was filled in - with fences and gates and more and more kennels. It was all bit by bit,” she said.

“There have been lots of problems and often lots of complaints but it is still an amazing achievement and a real community project.”

Mandy said there had been some awful sights as dogs were brought in covered in blood or just abandoned – some simply flung over the fence. “One of our volunteers came to an event, walked back to her car and found a dog tied to the wing mirror.”

She said they attempted to reunite lost pets with families, saying “thank goodness for microchips”. By law APASA must keep an animal for 21 days to give time for owners to trace them; a tremendous strain on resources.

But by simply abandoning a dog, Mandy said people were “very naughty” and it was much better if someone admitted they could not cope and asked for help – possibly mak-

ing a donation.

“One of the highlights has been the opening of the quarantine kennels last year,” added Mandy. “Also we had proper lighting – solar powered – installed thanks to the town hall.”And one of the worst moments was when dogs were stolen from the pound to be used as fighting dogs.”

The oldest resident is Sawa – who arrived at the shelter 10 years ago. Healthy dogs are never put down as a matter of policy.

“This is their home but we do try and find a real loving home for them,” said Mandy, who was once asked to foster ‘Scruffy’, a dog that had suffered real cruelty, and is still looking after her. “She ripped everything apart when I first got her home but is now there to greet everyone who visits.”

APASA is staging an anniversary dinner dance at Salon Canor on 7th June to mark its anniversary. For more information about the event and the charity visit www.apasa.eu

Buy locally grown British produce from the comfort of home BRITISH EXPATS living around the world now have the option to support the UK economy from afar and have British produce delivered to their doorsteps.

In the last few years online supermarkets have begun offering expats a home delivery service for their favourite foods from the UK. Until last year this service was generally restricted to ambient products such as Bisto Gravy and Marmite.

However, supermarkets such as BritishCornerShop.co.uk (BCS) have now started to export fresh produce to selected European countries.

Jo Parker, procurement manager at BCS says: “Initially our service simply helped Brits abroad enjoy things like a cup of Tetley Tea in the morning, or a bowl of Heinz Tomato Soup for lunch, but now also offer a range of chilled products, giving our customers the opportunity to support not only local producers but also the British economy.

So far eight European countries can order in British fruit, vegetables, meats and cheeses from brands such as John Thorner’s, Bernard Matthews and Covent Garden, as well as local producers like Somerset Camembert.”

In light of the recent struggles of British farmers and local producers highlighted today by Environment Secretary Owen Paterson, there is no better time for services like this to exist.

Whether expats are buying from supermarkets such as British Corner Shop because they miss a proper British bacon sandwich, or whether they do so to support the economy,

both help British-made products get the support they deserve.

Jo added: “Smaller local producers of products such as British cheese are among the hardest hit as they struggle to compete against the larger supermarkets. It’s a real pleasure for us to be able to work with them and give our customers the chance to buy from and support businesses like this.

We’ll continue to add to our fresh range of products and are always open to suggestions from customers should they wish to purchase particular items.”

Don’t miss your chance to win £1,000!

THE CURRENT Expat Survey research programme closes today, 31st January: don’t miss your chance to win £1,000!

It’s not too late to get involved in the largest international research study of those living outside their country of origin. Wherever you have relocated to in the world and whatever you are doing now, if you haven’t already joined in, The Expat Survey still wants to hear from you before the 2013 programme closes at the end of this month.

There are three surveys in the programme – ‘Migration & Lifestyle’, ‘Retail & Finance’ and ‘Travel & Health’. All live links can be found on the homepage at www.theexpatsurvey.com Complete all three parts to be automatically entered into a free prize draw to win £1,000, which you can opt to donate to charity if you wish.

The Expat Survey does not share any personal information with third parties and has no links with Governments. To participate in the programme please visit www.theexpatsurvey.com as soon as possible.

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

From Russia with love

by Jack Troughton RUSSIA’S RUGBY World Cup squad beat an invitation Spanish side 430 but the real winner was sport as the players swapped shirts and commemorative shields in front of an applauding crowd.

The training match – the visitors hope to qualify for next year’s finals in England – was played at Villajoyosa and attracted a host of supporters, including large numbers of British and Russian visitors living on the Costa Blanca.

An unusual contest – the match was divided into four quarters – and refereed by Kingsley Jones the Russia coach, while his colleague Tom Hanks analysed the squad’s performance from the touchline.

During the first 20 minutes the scratch Viator Barbarians – made up of players from La Vila and other national clubs – put up an impressive resistance to the onslaught of the Russians and were unlucky no to score. The period actually ended 0-0.

However, the sheer physical fitness of Russia’s player began to tell and made all the difference as the scoreboard began to tick over in the visitors’ favour as they cruised to victory.

Pictured are members of both squads after the enthralling floodlit encounter.

Cosy lap wanted GENTLE CAT Linda is looking for a warm place to live out the remainder of her nine lives after her loving owner was forced to move into a home. Currently with animal charity SCAN at its El Vergel shelter, she is aged around 15 and has been with her elderly owner since a kitten.

Val Spencer, of the Society for the Care of Animals in Need is appealing for help in re-homing Linda.

She told RTN: “Linda is marvellous considering her age. She plays, is very gentle, but most of all loves to sit on your lap. She misses her home and is unhappy with all the other cats in the shelter.

“Can anyone offer her a home for her remaining years? Maybe people would be prepared to foster her, and of course, we would provide all the necessary food etc.” Anyone who can help Linda is asked to contact Val on 663 739 702 or via val.merv2013@gmail.com

New look for Hondon NEW AND OLD faces have taken up the helm of Hondon Valley Branch of the Royal British Legion following changes to the committee.

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Auction needs a lot more

By Jack Troughton DONATIONS FOR Jalon Valley HELP’s annual auction are flooding in but the charity is still hoping for more to go under the hammer at the Friday 28th February sale.

The cataloguing of items for the auction at El Cid in Benidoleig is about to begin but organisers are appeal for people to have a last look through cupboards, garages and underbuilds that they no longer use and could help raise money. And any suitable items can be taken to either of the HELP Charity Shops in Jalon (96 648 1004) or Alcalali (96 648 2970) and people can ring the shops to arrange delivery and collection.

Viewing at the auction begins at noon on the day and the sale starts at 1pm – the chance to pick up a bargain.

The restaurant’s waitresses will be on hand to take orders for food and drinks.

(from left) Steve Rooke, Chris Wyatt, Wendy Dengate

by Jack Troughton The branch – now in its seventh year – is now chaired by Chris Wyatt who has just completed three years as Chairman of the Legion’s Spain District North and responsibility for 19 individual branches.

And he paid tribute to the work of his

predecessor Dave Stewart and the support of all members over the years.

Vice Chairman is Wendy Dengate – who also fills the calendar with numerous social gatherings – and Steve Rooke will continue as Secretary. The branch meets on the third Tuesday of the month at the Monte Alto Restaurant in Nieves.

Over the last 12 months the branch raised more than 8,000€ for the Poppy Appeal, helping care for ex-servicemen and women and their families in Spain.

For further information call 650 896 923 or email secretary.hondonvalley3577@gmail.com, or visit www.britishlegion.org.uk/ branches/hondon-valley

The auctioneer in action last year

King Juan Carlos to visit Portugal KING JUAN Carlos is to visit Lisbon on 11th February to attend a meeting on European business and technological innovation with the presidents of Portugal and Italy. The King has not been seen in public since the Pascua Militar on 6th January when his confusion and stumbling speech during his address prompted questions as to whether he should consider abdication in favour of Prince Felipe. His Majesty’s overseas itinerary has been reduced this year due to his on-going health issues. He is still recovering from a hip replacement but it is hoped he will be able to walk unaided by April.

Home & Garden

Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com

HOME

GARDEN

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

23

Brought to you by

www.spanishhomefinder.com

Getting rid of garden waste by

Dick Handscombe Holistic gardener and author

MANY GARDENERS have now started on the annual garden cutback and clean up as described in some detail in Chapter 6.9 of ‘Your Garden in Spain’ and all will have the problem of what to do with the prunings, weeds and leaves etc…

Some will be lucky that the local council collects bags of garden rubbish from each house each week and sends this away to a central burning or composting unit.

Others have the possibility of driving a few kilometres to load their garden rubbish into hods or large containers at a green collection points. Others have no legal means of getting rid of garden waste other than obtaining a fire certificate and burning waste on the premises or recycling as much as possible back into the soil to add beneficial substances. This has happened in our village as the two other possibilities mentioned above are no longer legal or are proving too expensive in hard times.

If everyone went the route of burning then once idyllic clean air locations will be polluted as much as large cities and if plastic sacks are burned intentionally or by accident, gases with significant health risks will be released.

SO WHAT GREEN AND LOW COST OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE? Build or buy one or two composters and compost as much kitchen and garden waste as possible. The amount that can be successfully composted can be increased significantly by using a shredding machine which is not expensive these days especially if you buy via eBay. Saw up all branches and use in wood burning fires or stoves. Fine prunings can be dried to provide kindling wood to help light fires.

If you grow spring edible peas, decorative sweet peas or broad beans keep the straightest and partially bushy prunings to use as support sticks. A good source is the pruning of deciduous fruit trees.

Citrus leaves and cuttings take time to rot down but two things can be done: If a neighbour keeps rabbits citrus, and also olive, prunings are tasty treats. So organise that your neighbour can take sacks of your citrus prunings as immediate food or to be dried for later use.

Fairly dry waste material can be wrapped in a few sheets of newspaper in the form of a Christmas cracker or bag

of sweets or chocolates tied with a ribbon or string to be used as firelighters or to be added to a lit fire at any time.

If you have an oleander or myporum hedge build a 40 centimetre wall around the hedge and fill it with shredded waste. This will rot down and act as a mulch to reduce summer watering needs and provide recycled nutrients to keep the hedge healthy.

Fill in low areas of the garden with garden waste, covering each year’s infill with soil until the desired level is achieved.

Lastly make a pile of shredded material, cover it with soil and rocks and create a rockery without having to import soil.

All are practical but if you don’t want the bother build or purchase a small incinerator and use it carefully away from hedges and overhanging trees.

STOP PRESS: Having reviewed the title and cover of the book about the long 950 kilometre walk Clodagh and I made across Spain a few years past the book has been repackaged as ‘Our 52 Day Retirement Adventure Along the Spanish Pyrenees’. It is now available from Amazon Books as a traditional book and as a Kindle e-book.

The Handscombe’s books can be most conveniently purchased from Amazon Books, Santana Books website or 95 248 5838, The Book Depository or The Royal Horticultural Society Bookshop. ©Dick Handscombe www.gardenspain.com

money

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Interest rate rise ‘not on the agenda’ by

Wayne Martin

International Financial Adviser

SPEAKING LAST week, Bank of England governor Mark Carney made this pledge on interest rates after it emerged the unemployment rate had fallen to 7.1%.

THIS IS Just above the 7% mark he said last summer could spark a higher cost of borrowing.

Interviewed on BBC’s ‘Newsnight’, Carney rejected the idea that plunging unemployment was a headache for the Bank: “If our forecast is going to be wrong it’s better to be wrong in that direction,” he said. Fine words but economists have warned that a rise to around 3% in the interest rate would lead to huge increases in mortgage costs and a wave of repossessions, as well as damage business.

The Tories and the Treasury have been looking nervously at the politically unpredictable consequences of repeated small interest rate rises before the general election in May 2015. Whilst people have

become accustomed to low interest rates on repayments a rise in the cost of loans will seriously affect many households that borrowed their way through the recession.

So how does all this affect you? As many ex pats have become aware, the income derived from interest on savings has dwindled to next to nothing and after tax is virtually nonexistent.

I now find that more people are coming to see me to help them find an income from their savings whilst trying to protect their capital as much as possible. Lots of ex pats still have money mouldering away in the banks in the UK earning next to nothing, leaving people worried about what to do for the best.

If you are in this position I urge you to call me and we can discuss how I can help you maximize your income in the most tax

efficient way. This can be done whilst managing your capital to gain growth at the same time. Advice from me is free it does not make sense to not take advantage of this opportunity.

In the current uncertain economic climate I would urge you to speak to a professional financial adviser today and arrange a review of your circumstances. Don’t delay, get in touch today. Look after your wealth and your wealth will look after you.

If you have any questions or need any advice regarding the above you can contact me on 636 361 588 or e-mail wayne.martin@ Bank of England governor Mark Carney blacktowerfm.com

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity.

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is licenced by the UK by the Financial Services Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is

legal

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Spanish Insurance Law by

Carlos Baos

of White & Baos Abogados

English & Spanish Solicitors

CLAIMS AGAINST insurance companies IF YOU have a problem with an insurance company, or if you have suffered medical or professional negligence, or had accident, our firm can assist you claiming against the insurance company for what you are legally entitled to.

Unfortunately it is very common that the insured or injured encounter problems when claiming compensation from their insurance companies, because they usually put all sorts of obstacles and excuses, in an attempt to avoid paying.

Common problems with the insurances companies can include: 1. Some insurers do not explain properly and in detail the wording on their policies. The fine print often hides unclear conditions, which normally are not expressly accepted by the consumer.

These tend to minimize the liability of the

insurer, or to prevent the beneficiaries from being compensated 2. Similarly, in the case of professional and medical negligence, it is common for insurers to refuse to pay compensation, even if negligence is evident, and most professionals have insurance cover. The excuses are varied, from the denial of the existence of negligence, to denying that the damage or injuries are consequences of the negligence, etc 3. In matters of life insurance or accident cover, there is often a refusal to compensate, claiming that the death is a result of a pre-existing disease prior to the policy agreement, or that the injuries or damages already existed before the accident 4. Also in terms of medical or health insurance, insurers sometimes try avoid paying certain expenses , i.e: surgery, claiming that they are not included in the policy

In general, one may encounter all kinds of excuses from the insurers to try and avoid accepting responsibility for damages and compensation payment.

It is therefore essential to double check your insurance policies in detail, not only the individual policy signed, but also the general conditions. If you have any sort of doubt, ask your agent or insurer to clarify it for you in writing. In case of dispute or discrepancy with the insurance company, first of all we should claim amicably , and if it is not possible to reach a solution, go to the courts and tribunals.

If you have a problem with an insurance company, in relation to motor vehicle, life, travel , construction, medical professional insurance policies, etc. our firm can help .

You can follow the Spanish Legal Issues that affect you and consult us by following us on facebook: https://www.facebook. com/WhiteBaosAbogadosLawyers

Carlos Baos (Lawyer) © White & Baos Abogados 2012 - All rights reserved. C/Diana 19, 2º-D, 03700 Dénia (located 1 minute away from the La Via underground car park).

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

The information provided in this article is not intended to be legal advice, but merely conveys general information related to legal issues.

Visit our blog at http://www.white-baos.com/blog/ and Facebook (White-Baos-Abogados-Solicitors)

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Coca-Cola workers call for strike action AROUND 400 Coca-Cola workers have called for an indefinite strike to commence 3rd February following a street meeting to protest against imminent closures and staff redundancies.

Protestors gathered in Alicante’s Plaza de Muntanyeta on Saturday to rally support from local residents, family and friends.

Committee Chairman José Vicente Salinas said the employees “…still have received no acceptable explanation for the decision that has been taken. There appear to be no economic reasons to justify the closures.” The workers have agreed to a civilised ‘part-time’ strike schedule with normal work during the morning followed by protests at the factory gate from 1pm to 3pm, culminating in an organised demonstration on Saturday, to be repeated over three more Saturdays until the deadline for negotiation has been reached.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Start winning and start earning MILTON EXPRESS, originators of the arbitrage scheme that has consistently paid clients a monthly return of over 2%, actually market a sports advisory service that pays significantly higher returns – but with a degree of volatility.

“WIN, LOSE or draw,” says Milton Express director John Murray, “…we’re more than happy to illustrate how effective following our sports betting advices can be. We always, always stress that the sports betting advices pay in the longer term – they’re by definition volatile, unlike our arbitrage facility, but will definitely outperform that return over any sensible protracted period.”

Winning Express will be advertising its monthly results locally on radio stations. Results certainly seem to justify the company’s confidence. Mr Murray explained that since January 2013, anyone following the sports betting advices, placing the bets themselves and adhering to the carefully crafted staking plan, would have seen a 62% increase on their original capital by the end of December: “Sticking to the staking plan is crucial,” adds Mr Murray, “Our advices are proofed to the national UK press and a firm of chartered accountants, so we advocate transparency, but those results and returns are all intrinsically linked to the staking plan explained to everyone who joins Winning Express.”

Winning Express exists to provide its members with tax free returns, along with an earnings opportunity and a sense of enjoyment in simply belonging to a club dedicated to mutual success.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Members will not only benefit from the services themselves: Winning Express offers an outstanding double-edged business opportunity with the potential of earning generous commissions by promoting the services to others.

Members are already earning more than £5,000 per month from introductory commissions. This business can change your life for the better. Appointments can be arranged at the Winning Express office, your own home or a venue to suit.

WINNERS’ CIRCLE Winning Express is offering members the opportunity to enter their most exciting contest yet.

Win a Trip for two people to the Dubia World Cup, horse racing’s premier event, departing London Heathrow on 25th March 2014: 5 nights in the luxurious surroundings of the Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa. The criteria is simple: whoever personally sponsors the most Winning Express members between 1st January and 14th February 2014 will win the prize.

JOIN NOW FOR £99: Register at www.winningexpress.com A fabulous incentive to boost your business in the New Year.

Milton Express, 1st floor, Edif. 2 Centro Zenia, Avda. De Villamartin, s/n Urb. La Zenia, Orihuela Costa:

Congratulations to Joan Mosforth from Sheffield winner of the Carribean Cruise competition, who will soon be enjoying a fantastic holiday onboard The Award Winning ´Epic´, departing from Miami

Tel: 96 599 4815: Located off the N332 at La Zenia roundabout, above Alejandros Restaurant.

All administration duties for Milton Express are carried out by Admin Solutions (UK) Ltd, Suite 22, Sheffield Technology Parks, Cooper Buildings, Arundel Street, Sheffield S1 2NS.

money

by

Suzanne O’Connell Customer Care at Ábaco

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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The Spanish will registry - a bureaucratic success WHEN YOU first buy a Spanish property with your partner, husband, wife or even friend, you have no idea what might happen in the future. In the excitement of making the purchase your thoughts are to the here and now and not the ‘what might be’.

Unfortunately the unthinkable does sometimes happen.

People split up; fall out; meet someone else… The co-owner you are so enraptured with in 2014 could become the bane of your life in a few years’ time.

People become estranged for many different reasons and sadly, they also die. When this happens, there can be confusions about who might inherit the property.

It’s not often that we celebrate bureaucracy in Spain, but this is one time when it really does come into its own. All Spanish wills are registered in the will registry in Madrid (Registro Central de Ultimas Voluntades).

This can appear at first to be another case of bureaucracy gone mad. In fact, it is really beneficial.

Perhaps it’s best if we give you an example.

Mr and Mrs Grant decided, quite amicably, to have a trial separation. They had been married twenty years and had bought their property in Spain five years previously. Perhaps it was the day-to-day proximity following retirement, exacerbated by missing family and friends. Either way, they separated and Mrs Grant continued to live in the Spanish house they had bought together whilst Mr Grant found an apartment to rent a few miles away.

The separation worked well for both of them and moved from a temporary to a permanent arrangement. And then tragedy struck. Mrs Grant died suddenly of a heart attack. It took everyone by surprise, not least Mr Grant.

It’s a sad fact that situations like this can suddenly bring into clear view the importance of those niggly bits of paper work, such as making a Spanish will. Mr and Mrs Grant had made Spanish wills many years before, when they were together. Had Mrs Grant made a new will in the meantime which would mean others would inherit

her half of the property? Her children, by a previous marriage, lived in the UK. Had she made alternative arrangements to leave it to them?

We were approached by Mr Grant, who wished to know whether he was still in line to inherit his wife’s share of the property they had bought together. On production of the death certificate we were able to apply to the wills registry for a certificate stating the date and whereabouts of Mrs Grant’s last will in Spain.

It was quickly established that Mrs Grant had not made another will since they bought the property together. The name of the Notary and the date on the certificate coincided with the will, confirming it as the last one she made.

This ended any doubts within the family about who would inherit the property and helped them all to move forward and deal with their personal grief. This shows just how important it is to make a will and keep it up-to-date if your circumstances change. An endorsement too of having a central will registry.

Ábaco provide fiscal representation to non-resident and resident Spanish property owners. You can contact us for free advice and information by calling our helpline 96 670 3748 or visiting our website www.abacoadvisers.com

Life

Stepping back in time

AMUX members on Cap Sant Antoni

By Jack Troughton THE HISTORY of a ruined hermitage high above Javea was explained to the members of AMUX last weekend by archaeologist Ximo Bolufer, who is director of the town’s museum and president of the association.

The Ermita of Sant Antoni was built in the 14th Century on Cap Sant Antoni, near the

lighthouse, and in use until the start of the 20th Century – some of the original floor tiles are still visible.

Members of the Amics del Museu de Xabia met at the Monastery of Nuestra Senora de los Angeles on La Plana and walked to the site to explore the ruins before returning to Restaurant Amanecer and enjoying lunch.

AMUX is a group of people of all nationalities interested in the history and archaeology of Javea and the Marina Alta.

As well as supporting the activities of the museum, it organises talks and excursions.

Membership cost 10Euros a year, payable at the Museum. For more information, visit http://amuxabia.weebly.com

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West Side Story reaching Torry

By Keith Nicol WEST SIDE Story, the classic Romeo and Juliet inspired musical from Leonard Bernstein and by Stephen Sondheim, reaches Torrevieja in three weeks, thanks to Torrevieja Costa Lions Club. Thanks to their close ties with ‘Footlights Youth Theatre Group. From Calpe, the production comes to Torrevieja’s Teatro Municipal on Saturday 22nd February, with the curtain up at 8.00pm.

Tickets for the show are just 12€ and selling fast and if past productions of such shows as Cats, South Pacific, Guys and Dolls and Fiddler on the Roof are anything to go by, then this will also be a sell out show. This is the third production in collaboration between Footlights Youth Theatre Group, Torrevieja’s Ayuntamiento and Torrevieja Costa Lions Club.

Lion President Janette Bennett said; “funds raised from this production will be donated to Reach Out, who provide much needed support to the homeless and those most in need in Torrevieja.

Theatre patrons will not only see a fine show but they will also be helping those less fortunate in our community. Lions will provide the opportunity for theatregoers to participate in the Prize Draw, with the winner being announced in the auditorium during the interval. There will also be a collection at the end of the performance.”

If you fancy a different style of night out with friends, while at the same time helping the Lions Club to help others, purchase your tickets at the Theatre box office in the Plaza in front of the Teatro Municipal. The Box Office’s opening hours have changed once again and returned to normal, being Tuesday to Friday 11.00am to 1.00pm, or any evening from two hours before a show in the theatre is due to start.

Elvis in Spain

TOP ELVIS tribute artist Paul Larcombe is appearing in Spain for the 5th year running.

Paul won the European Tribute Championships in 2007, the 30th Anniversary of Elvis’ death, which won him the chance to go to Memphis and compete in the World Championships run by EPE (Elvis Presley Enterprises) fronted by Priscilla Presley: he came in the last ten. Paul also appeared on national television and in a TV

poll came 6th, later performing at Graceland. He has performed for the Queen more than once and has made many TV appearances. He was asked to perform in Elvis’ Tupelo home in Mississippi - a great performer with a massive following in the UK. Find out more at www.purepresley.com Paul is appearing at both Marjal campsites on 8th and 15th February: Tel 96 672 7001 and also at a new restaurant in Almoradi the Vieja Posada: Tel 865 671 879. There are a few tickets left but as he has sold out for the last four years you need to book straight away if you want to see this great artist.

JAZZ is back!

At El Pescadito, Mil Palmeras PLEASE NOTE that ‘Live’ Jazz returns on Monday nights at 8.30pm: with Roger Eames (double-bass) and Christine Eames (keyboards) plus guests.

For table reservations call 96 532 0071 or 610 56 27 06: jazz in all styles from Louis to Miles.

Life Showbiz Goss

Welcome to ‘The Bitch Pack’ … apparently!

FRANK SINATRA was famous for many things, one of which being ‘The Rat Pack’, a bunch of famous guys who, led by Frank, lived life in the fast lane and were always fun to read about.

The loose relevance to this group of famous peeps is that there is a gang of young females in the US led by Taylor Swift, she of country and pop music fame, and her clan consists of Selena Gomez, Sarah Hyland and Hailee Steinfeld and now apparently 17-year-old New Zealand singer Lorde, who exploded on the scene a year or so ago. But it might not be so steady a course that Taylor is sailing.

To explain this I need to take you back to an interview young Lorde gave to New Zealand’s Metro Magazine last October in which she said: “Taylor Swift is so flawless and so unattainable, and I don’t think it’s breeding anything good in young girls.’ … So how come Lorde has become part of ‘The Bitch Pack’ is the question that needs answering…

Firstly you need to know that Taylor Swift was unaware she had been ‘dissed’ in the interview, then when Lorde became the first artist from her country to top the US Singles charts with a song called ‘Royals’ Taylor sent a congratulations note to her as well as a huge bouquet of flowers. Lorde then sent a text to Taylor asking her advice on a Xmas prez for her manager and now the two girls are as thick as thieves … apparently.

A wee bit more fuel to this dodgy little fire is that in an interview with Rolling Stone Magazine Lorde said “Taylor is a real teenage voice … there are very few of us.” … TILT!

35

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

by

Peter Taylor

Writer and Broadcaster

Celebrity Clips ‘THROUGH THE Looking Glass’ starring Johnny Depp is deep into the production stages and we now know that Sacha Baron Cohen (Ali G) is close to taking on the role of the baddie called Time in the movie. But its best you don’t hold your breath as he agreed last year to play the part of Freddie Mercury in a biopic of his life but pulled out over artistic differences ... maybe the pants were not tight enough!

A MOVIE that’s more than worthy was released last weekend called ‘Inside Llewyn Davis’ and I have the inside track on one of the street scenes featuring London born Carey Mulligan. The normally mild-mannered young lady had to walk through Washington Square park a hussin’ and a cussin’ and ended up swearing so much and so loudly she had to be told to take it easy … /*•!** it!

THIS CC is not about anybody famous, but is about the business and is an item that involves the FBI, and they are pretty well known if I´m not mistaken. A man wearing ‘Google Glasses’ was arrested in a cinema and interrogated for several hours as the fuzz thought he was copying the film. He was later released and given four free tickets as an apology. ‘Google Glasses’ are a computer on your face.

TALKING ABOUT being released, although this time it’s on bail, Baby Boy Bieber, jetted out from Miami, Florida last week after spending a bit more time in the jug having been caught driving under the ‘affluence of incahol’ (hick!) … again! … and there’s a smiley pic of him waving to fans as he left the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Centre before making his way to the airport ... he’s such a sweetie isn’t he!

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life TV

31st January - 6th February

FRIDAY 31st January BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:10 Father Brown 16:00 Perfection 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 A Question of Sport 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Room 101 22:00 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 The Graham Norton Show 24:25 Football Focus

07:00 Homes Under the Hammer 08:00 Sheriffs Are Coming 08:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:15 Paul Hollywood’s Pies & Puds 10:00 Cold War, Hot Jets 11:00 Question Time 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14:30 Cash in the Attic 15:15 Great British Bake Off 16:15 Coast 17:15 Lost Land of the Tiger 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 An Island Parish 22:00 Natural World 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 Weather

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Britain’s Best Bakery 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 The Martin Lewis Money Show 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Piers Morgan’s Life Stories 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:35 The Americans 24:35 Benidorm

07:25 Countdown 08:10 Will & Grace 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Secret Millionaire USA 12:00 Sarah Beeny’s Selling Houses 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Come Dine with Me 13:35 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Come Dine with Me 14:40 Come Dine with Me 15:10 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 22:00 The Jump 23:00 The Last Leg 23:50 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 24:20 Saw IV

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Milkshake! Show Songs 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:15 The Hotel Inspector 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Ultimate Police Interceptors 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Mentalist 16:15 Angels Fall 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 NewsTalk Live 20:00 Building the London Underground 21:00 Ice Road Truckers 22:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild 23:00 The Siege

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Emmerdale 07:55 You’ve Been Framed!

08:25 You’ve Been Framed!

08:45 Jeremy Kyle Show USA 09:30 Dinner Date 10:30 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 11:30 The Real Housewives of Orange County 12:30 Millionaire Matchmaker 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 You’ve Been Framed!

15:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:05 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:10 The Real Housewives of Orange County 18:05 Millionaire Matchmaker 19:00 Dinner Date 20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 The Bourne Supremacy 24:15 Take Me Out

07:00 Switched 07:25 Ugly Betty 08:10 Charmed 09:00 Glee 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Made in Chelsea 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 Hollyoaks 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Made in Chelsea 17:00 The Jump 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 2 Broke Girls 22:00 Terminator: Salvation 24:15 Rude Tube

SATURDAY 1st February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Food & Drink 13:00 Football Focus 13:45 Sportsday 14:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 14:15 Bargain Hunt 15:00 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 17:30 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 19:55 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 20:10 The Voice UK 21:30 The National Lottery: Who Dares Wins 22:20 Casualty 23:10 BBC News; Weather 23:30 Match of the Day 24:55 The Football League Show

07:00 This Is BBC Two 07:35 Enchanted April 08:40 The Maggie 10:10 Life on Earth 11:05 Life on Earth 12:00 Fred Dibnah’s Made in Britain 12:30 Great British Railway Journeys 13:00 The A to Z of TV Cooking 13:45 The Good Cook 14:15 The Big Bread Experiment 15:15 Anchors Aweigh 17:30 Final Score 18:15 Coast 19:00 Natural World 20:00 Flog It! 21:00 Dad’s Army 21:30 QI XL 22:15 Made in Dagenham 24:00 Live Davis Cup Tennis

07:00 Pat & Stan 07:10 Pat & Stan 07:20 Pat & Stan 07:25 Dino Dan 07:40 Dino Dan 07:50 Canimals 08:00 Canimals 08:05 Canimals 08:10 Om Nom Stories 08:15 Sooty 08:30 Scrambled!

10:25 ITV News 10:30 Dinner Date 11:30 Murder, She Wrote 12:30 ITV News and Weather 12:44 ITV Central Weather 12:45 Crocodile Hunter Diaries 13:40 Charade 15:50 Midsomer Murders 17:50 Johnny English 19:25 ITV News Central 19:35 ITV News and Weather 19:50 Splash!

21:20 Take Me Out 22:35 Jonathan Ross Show 23:35 ITV News and Weather 23:49 ITV Central Weather 23:50 Bloody Sunday

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Trans World Sport 09:00 The Morning Line 10:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:30 Frasier 11:00 The Big Bang Theory 11:30 The Big Bang Theory 12:00 How I Met Your Mother 12:30 How I Met Your Mother 13:00 The Simpsons 13:35 Undercover Boss USA 14:30 Channel 4 Racing 16:55 Come Dine with Me 17:25 Come Dine with Me 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:25 Come Dine with Me 19:00 Come Dine with Me 19:30 Channel 4 News 20:00 Speed with Guy Martin 21:00 Bigfoot Files 22:00 Hostages 23:00 Priest 24:45 28 Weeks Later

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Bert and Ernie’s Great Adventures 08:40 City of Friends 08:55 Little Princess 09:05 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:25 Angelina Ballerina 09:45 Rupert Bear 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:30 LazyTown 11:00 Bewitched 13:00 Blue Streak 14:45 Diagnosis Murder 15:45 Columbo: Make Me a Perfect Murder 17:45 Columbo: a Friend in Deed 19:40 5 News Weekend 19:45 NCIS 20:35 NCIS 21:30 NCIS 23:10 The Contract

07:00 Beauty and the Geek 07:45 The Hot Desk 07:55 Coronation Street 10:20 Emmerdale 13:45 Honey 15:35 Peter Pan 17:45 You’ve Been Framed!

18:15 You’ve Been Framed!

18:45 You’ve Been Framed!

19:50 Miss Congeniality 22:00 Quantum of Solace 24:10 The Magaluf Weekender

07:00 Ugly Betty 07:50 Charmed 08:35 Glee 09:30 The Mindy Project 10:00 How I Met Your Mother 10:30 How I Met Your Mother 11:00 Rules of Engagement 11:30 Rules of Engagement 12:00 Rules of Engagement 12:30 Rules of Engagement 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 The Mindy Project 14:00 The Big Bang Theory 14:30 The Big Bang Theory 15:00 How I Met Your Mother 15:30 How I Met Your Mother 16:00 Rules of Engagement 16:30 Rules of Engagement 17:00 The Jump 18:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 19:00 How I Met Your Mother 19:30 How I Met Your Mother 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 The Tomorrow People 22:00 John Tucker Must Die 23:50 Rude Tube 24:50 The Midnight Beast

SUNDAY 2nd February

Peter Pan 15.35

BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 08:30 Match of the Day 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 The Big Questions 12:00 Sunday Politics 13:15 MOTD2 Extra 14:00 BBC News 14:10 Weather for the Week Ahead 14:15 Bargain Hunt 14:45 The Indian Doctor 15:30 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 18:00 Songs of Praise 18:35 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 19:00 Fake or Fortune?

20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Call the Midwife 22:00 The Musketeers 23:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 23:25 A Tribute to Roger Lloyd Pack 23:35 Only Fools and Horses 24:10 Who Do You Think You Are? USA 24:50 Breaking and Entering

07:00 This Is BBC Two 07:05 The Whip Hand 08:25 I’m All Right Jack 10:10 Countryfile 11:05 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12:35 The A to Z of TV Cooking 13:20 The Good Cook 13:50 The Good Cook 14:20 Funny Girl 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:45 Inspire: The Olympic Journey 18:15 Ski Sunday 19:00 Dan Snow’s History of the Winter Olympics 20:00 Flog It! 21:00 Top Gear 22:00 Dragons’ Den 23:00 The Route Masters: Running London’s Roads 24:00 Live Davis Cup Tennis

07:00 Childrens TV 08:10 Om Nom Stories 08:15 Sooty 08:30 Scrambled!

10:25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11:20 Murder, She Wrote 12:20 ITV News and Weather 12:24 ITV Central Weather 12:25 Inside the National Trust 13:25 Crocodile Hunter Diaries 14:25 Catchphrase 15:10 Splash!

16:40 Goldfinger 18:50 ITV News Central 19:00 ITV News and Weather 19:15 Dancing on Ice 20:45 All Star Family Fortunes 21:30 Dancing on Ice: The Skate Off 22:00 Mr Selfridge 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:14 ITV Central Weather 23:15 Birds of a Feather 23:45 Piers Morgan’s Life Stories 24:45 Anglo-Welsh Cup Rugby Union

07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:25 Frasier 08:55 Frasier 09:25 The Taste 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:30 The Big Bang Theory 14:00 The Big Bang Theory 14:25 How I Met Your Mother 14:55 How I Met Your Mother 15:25 The Simpsons 15:55 The Simpsons 16:30 Eragon 18:30 Deal or No Deal 19:30 Channel 4 News 20:00 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 21:00 Scandimania 22:00 The Jump 23:30 American Football Live

07:00 Childrens TV 09:25 Angelina Ballerina 09:40 Rupert Bear 09:55 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:05 Milkshake! Monkey 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:30 LazyTown 11:00 Power Rangers: Super Samurai 11:35 Power Rangers: Megaforce 12:00 Access 12:10 Building the London Underground 13:10 Ice Road Truckers 14:10 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild 15:10 Police Interceptors 16:10 Dr Dolittle 2 17:50 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory 19:55 5 News 20:00 Arachnophobia 22:00 Drag Me to Hell 23:55 The Matrix

07:00 Beauty and the Geek 08:25 Emmerdale 11:50 Coronation Street 14:20 Take Me Out 15:35 You’ve Been Framed!

16:05 Dennis 17:55 Despicable Me 19:50 The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor 22:00 The Magaluf Weekender 23:00 The Faculty

07:00 Switched 07:25 Ugly Betty 08:10 Charmed 08:55 Rules of Engagement 09:25 Rules of Engagement 09:55 How I Met Your Mother 10:25 How I Met Your Mother 10:55 Hollyoaks 13:30 Revenge 14:30 The Big Bang Theory 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 The Big Bang Theory 16:30 How I Met Your Mother 17:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 18:00 The Tomorrow People 19:00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 The Addams Family 23:00 Rude Tube 24:00 8 Out of 10 Cats

Despicable Me17.55

MONDAY 3rd February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Saints and Scroungers 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 WPC 56 16:00 Perfection 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Inside Out 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 Britain’s Great War 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 Match of the Day 2 24:40 The Graham Norton Show

07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 Sheriffs Are Coming 08:50 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:20 A to Z of TV Cooking 10:05 Ben & James Versus the Arabian Desert 11:05 Britain’s Empty Homes 11:35 Click 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14:30 Cash in the Attic 15:15 Great British Bake Off 16:15 Coast 17:15 Lost Land of the Tiger 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Continental Railway Journeys 20:00 Top Gear 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Food & Drink 22:00 Horizon 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 This World

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Britain’s Best Bakery 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 A Great Welsh Adventure with Griff Rhys Jones 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 DCI Banks 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:35 Mickey Blue Eyes

07:15 The Treacle People 07:25 Countdown 08:10 Will & Grace 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss Canada 12:00 Sarah Beeny’s Selling Houses 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals 13:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Dispatches 21:30 Food Unwrapped 22:00 The Jump 23:30 Three Wives, One Husband 24:30 Random Acts 24:35 There’s Something about Mary

07:00 Childrens TV 09:30 Bert and Ernie’s Great Adventures 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 The Hotel Inspector 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 The Mystery of Natalie Wood 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 NewsTalk Live 20:00 Go Hard or Go Home 21:00 Police Interceptors 22:00 Big Benefits Row 23:00 Helix 24:00 Starship Troopers 3: Marauder

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Coronation Street 07:55 Coronation Street 08:25 You’ve Been Framed!

08:45 Jeremy Kyle Show USA 09:30 Dinner Date 10:30 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 11:30 The Real Housewives of Orange County 12:30 Millionaire Matchmaker 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Coronation Street 14:30 Coronation Street 15:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:10 The Real Housewives of Orange County 18:05 Millionaire Matchmaker 19:00 Dinner Date 20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Mom 22:30 Dads 23:00 The Job Lot 23:30 Plebs 24:00 Fake Reaction 24:50 Two and a Half Men

07:00 Ugly Betty 07:50 Charmed 08:35 Glee 09:25 Rules of Engagement 09:55 Rules of Engagement 10:25 How I Met Your Mother 10:55 Made in Chelsea 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 Hollyoaks 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Made in Chelsea 17:00 The Jump 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 21:30 2 Broke Girls 22:00 Revenge 23:00 The Running Man

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

37

Tuesday 4th February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Saints and Scroungers 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 WPC 56 16:00 Perfection 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Death in Paradise 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 Richard Dimbleby Lecture 24:20 Away from Her

07:00 This Is BBC Two 07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 Sheriffs Are Coming 08:50 Saints and Scroungers 09:20 A to Z of TV Cooking 10:05 Great British Garden Revival 11:05 Britain’s Empty Homes 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14:30 Cash in the Attic 15:15 Great British Bake Off 16:15 Coast 17:15 Lost Land of the Jaguar 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Continental Railway Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 Children’s Emergency Rescue 22:00 Inside the Animal Mind 23:00 House of Fools 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Dragons’ Den

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Britain’s Best Bakery 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 River Monsters 21:00 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

22:00 Births, Deaths and Marriages 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:35 Sports Life Stories 24:35 The Crocodile Hunter Diaries

07:15 The Treacle People 07:25 Countdown 08:10 Will & Grace 08:35 Will & Grace 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss Canada 12:00 Sarah Beeny’s Selling Houses 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals 13:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Location, Location, Location 22:00 The Taste 23:00 Secrets of the Pickpockets 24:00 The Undateables

07:00 Childrens TV 09:30 Milkshake! Monkey 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 The Hotel Inspector 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Ultimate Emergency Bikers 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 The Mystery of Natalie Wood 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 The Big Benefits Row 20:00 The Dog Rescuers 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Gibraltar: Britain in the Sun 22:00 She’s 78, He’s 39: Age Gap Love 23:00 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:00 Body of Proof 24:55 Body of Proof

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Coronation Street 07:55 Coronation Street 08:25 You’ve Been Framed!

08:45 Jeremy Kyle Show USA 09:30 Dinner Date 10:30 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 11:30 The Real Housewives of Orange County 12:30 Millionaire Matchmaker 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Coronation Street 14:30 Coronation Street 15:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:05 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:10 The Real Housewives of Orange County 18:05 Millionaire Matchmaker 19:00 Dinner Date 20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Quantum of Solace 24:10 Tricked

07:00 Ugly Betty 07:50 Charmed 08:35 Glee 09:30 Rules of Engagement 10:00 Rules of Engagement 10:30 How I Met Your Mother 11:00 New Girl 11:30 The Mindy Project 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 Hollyoaks 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 New Girl 16:30 The Mindy Project 17:00 The Jump 18:35 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Percy Jackson & the Lightning Thief 23:20 Rude Tube 24:20 8 Out of 10 Cats 24:50 8 Out of 10 Cats

wednesday 5th February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Saints and Scroungers 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 WPC 56 16:00 Perfection 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 19:55 Party Political Broadcast 20:00 The One Show 21:00 Waterloo Road 22:00 Outnumbered 22:30 Mrs Brown’s Boys 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 A Question of Sport 24:05 Film 2014 24:35 The Matador

07:00 Homes Under the Hammer 08:00 Sheriffs Are Coming 08:45 Saints and Scroungers 09:15 A to Z of TV Cooking 10:00 Nature’s Weirdest Events 11:00 Rip Off Food 11:30 See Hear 12:00 BBC News 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14:30 Cash in the Attic 15:15 Great British Bake Off 16:15 Coast 17:10 Lost Land of the Jaguar 18:10 Flog It! 18:55 Party Political Broadcast 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Continental Railway Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 The Restaurant Man 22:00 Royal Cousins at War 23:00 Inside No 9 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Inside the Animal Mind

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Britain’s Best Bakery 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:25 Party Political Broadcast 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:35 Jonathan Ross Show 24:40 The Cube

07:15 The Treacle People 07:25 Countdown 08:10 Will & Grace 08:35 Will & Grace 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss Canada 12:00 Sarah Beeny’s Selling Houses 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals 13:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Restoration Man 22:00 24 Hours in A&E 23:00 Hunted 24:00 Don’t Look Down

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Mio Mao 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Milkshake! Monkey 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 The Hotel Inspector 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 World’s 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Chinese Food in Minutes 16:20 Prairie Fever 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 NewsTalk Live 20:00 World’s 21:00 Ultimate Emergency Bikers 22:00 NCIS 23:00 Sherlock: The First CSI 24:00 The Big Benefits Row

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Holiday Airport: Palma 08:25 You’ve Been Framed!

08:45 Jeremy Kyle Show USA 09:30 Dinner Date 10:30 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 11:30 The Real Housewives of Orange County 12:30 Millionaire Matchmaker 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 The Cube 15:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:05 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:10 The Real Housewives of Orange County 18:05 Millionaire Matchmaker 19:00 Dinner Date 20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Benidorm 23:00 The Magaluf Weekender 24:05 Fake Reaction 24:50 Two and a Half Men

07:00 Switched 07:25 90210 08:10 Ugly Betty 09:00 Charmed 10:00 Glee 11:00 New Girl 11:30 The Mindy Project 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 Hollyoaks 14:05 How I Met Your Mother 14:35 How I Met Your Mother 15:05 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 New Girl 16:30 The Mindy Project 17:00 Rules of Engagement 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Rude(ish) Tube 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 The Tomorrow People 23:00 Derren Brown: The Great Art Robbery 24:40 The Midnight Beast

thursday 6th February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Saints and Scroungers 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 WPC 56 16:00 Perfection 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Pound Shop Wars 21:30 Inspector George Gently 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 Question Time 24:35 This Week

07:00 This Is BBC Two 07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 Sheriffs Are Coming 08:50 Saints and Scroungers 09:20 A to Z of TV Cooking 10:05 Italy Unpacked 11:05 Rip Off Food 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14:30 Cash in the Attic 15:15 Great British Bake Off 16:15 Coast 17:15 Lost Land of the Jaguar 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Continental Railway Journeys 20:00 Horizon 21:00 Restoration Home One Year On 22:00 Royal Cousins at War 23:00 Charlie Brooker’s Weekly Wipe 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 This World

07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Britain’s Best Bakery 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Birds of a Feather 22:00 Benidorm 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:35 Exposure 24:35 The Lobby

07:25 Countdown 08:10 Will & Grace 08:35 Will & Grace 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss Canada 12:00 Sarah Beeny’s Selling Houses 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Jamie’s 15 Minute Meals 13:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 18:30 Coach Trip 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Supersize vs Superskinny 22:00 Big Ballet 23:00 Bodyshockers 24:05 My Baggy Body

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 09:55 Milkshake! Monkey 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 The Hotel Inspector 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Building the London Underground 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 McBride: The Doctor is Out, Really Out 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 NewsTalk Live 20:00 Winter Road Rescue 21:00 Help! I’m Snowtrapped 22:00 The Hotel Inspector 23:00 Brain Hospital: Saving Lives 24:00 CSI: NY 24:55 Access

07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Coronation Street 07:55 You’ve Been Framed!

08:25 You’ve Been Framed!

08:45 Jeremy Kyle Show USA 09:30 Dinner Date 10:30 The Real Housewives of Atlanta 11:30 The Real Housewives of Orange County 12:30 Millionaire Matchmaker 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Coronation Street 14:30 You’ve Been Framed!

15:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:05 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:10 The Real Housewives of New Jersey 18:30 Dinner Date 19:30 You’ve Been Framed!

20:00 You’ve Been Framed!

20:30 You’ve Been Framed!

21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 The Big Reunion 23:00 Fake Reaction 23:50 Mom 24:15 Dads 24:45 Two and a Half Men

07:00 Rude(ish) Tube 07:25 90210 08:10 Ugly Betty 09:00 Charmed 10:00 Glee 11:00 New Girl 11:30 The Mindy Project 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Rules of Engagement 13:30 Hollyoaks 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 New Girl 16:30 The Mindy Project 17:00 Rules of Engagement 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 How I Met Your Mother 18:30 How I Met Your Mother 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 How I Met Your Mother 21:30 How I Met Your Mother 22:00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 22:30 The Inbetweeners 23:00 The Midnight Beast 23:35 The IT Crowd

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life travel Medieval Maestrazco

SANT MATEU is typical of a small medieval town. Everything radiates off a central square, the Plaza Mayor or, as it is sometimes known locally, the Plaza Angel because of the angel that tops the fountain in the square.

The plaza is one of those lovely arcaded squares with little streets running off from its corners and, thankfully, still has some proper village-type shops and small cafes. The pretty 18th Century Fuente del Ángel, symbolising San Mateo Evangelista, keeps serene watch over the square, but if you want to see the original 14th Century version, minus odd bits and pieces, you will have to visit the Museo HistóricoEtnológico Municipal on Calle Historiado Betí.

Hisóriador Betí was originally the ‘posh’ part of town and has some excellent examples of the architecture of the Maestrazco from the 14th and 15th Centuries, including the Corta Nova, where the local court is now held, and the Museo.

The Museo houses a small collection of local artefacts including the originals of the Fuente del Angel and the Fuente de Santa Maira de Montesa, originally documented in 1365 and named after the Order of Montesa, a soldier-monk order, once as famous as the Knights Templar, and a model of a stately home of the 14th Century.

The tourist office is in the same building, but it really could do better.

Despite having brochures and leaflets for all sorts of places in the area all it could provide for San Mateu, probably one of the most historic towns in the region, was a miserable black and white street map with a few bits of information on the back.

Sant Mateu isn’t short of grand buildings although unfortunately most of them are closed to the public. The sheer gothic magnificence of the 16th Century Palau del Marques de Villores is worth a stroll up Calle Vols for a gander. This building is part of a number that cause me great frustration.

Over the last few years a series of exhibitions called Paisajes Sagrador – Holy Landscapes – has been touring the Valencian Community. Unbelievably vast amounts of money have been spent on restoring churches and historic buildings but, as soon as the exhibition moves on most of the buildings are closed to the public once more. A sheer waste of money, as far as I’m concerned, that such wonderful buildings shouldn’t be kept alive and open to visitors once they are restored.

Fortunately, the Convento de la Monjas Agustinas (16th-18th Century) just up the street from the Palau, like the famed Windmill club in London, never closes.

Just off the Plaza Mayor but nonetheless dominating it and the whole of San Mateu with its majestic presence, is the Iglesia Arciprestal, built by the military order San Jaun del Hospital in the 13th Century (religion could be a pretty war-like affair in those days).

The church corresponds to the type known as de conquista, churches built during the time of the fight to claim lands for Christianity and drive out the Moors. It was extended during the 14th Century when the Order of Montesa took over the town. An urn is said to contain a reliquary of Saint Clement the Martyr (although they are also said to be of an anonymous martyr but he can’t have been that anonymous if they call him Saint Clement).

San Mateu is 135km from Valencia and can be accessed on the CV1.

You can learn more about the delights of inland Valencia with Derek Workman’s ‘Inland Trips from the Costa Blanca’, a series of five e-books, each of four excursions that cover the whole of the Valencian region. For further information and immediate download from Amazon.co.uk, visit www.spainuncovered.net

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life people

39

The Costa Blanca’s Top Hypnotherapist Jonathan Gilchrist

Lose inches the Fast Track Way! GET BACK into shape for this summer with the revolutionary Fast Track Hypnosis Gastoband system and lose those inches. Weight loss using the acclaimed Fast Track Gastroband Programme is designed for people who are fully committed to losing weight without the need for invasive surgery to achieve their goals.

A series of sessions (and a lot of expense) is completed in the one session which comes with all the extras: Hypnotic Gastric Band + Laser Therapy + the Costa Blanca’s Top Hypnotherapist.

For years the weight loss industry has told us how to lose weight by using specific products or systems.

The industry often over-complicates what is actually a very simple truth: to lose weight you must consume fewer calories than before. In other words, you must eat less - plain and simple!

And that’s exactly where Fast Track Hypnosis comes into its own. It dramatically increases the person’s own will and determination to lose weight - much more than conventional Hypnosis.

The Fast Track Hypnosis in under 30 minute

sessions (proven to work on two TV consumer programmes) targets the unconscious part of your mind that drives certain unwanted behaviours and urges. This in turn helps the client to overcome everything that gets in the way to accomplishing their goal and maintaining it!

This system is exclusively designed to guide you into deep relaxation and talk you through the procedure as if it is actually happening. The theory behind it is that it ‘tricks’ the mind into believing the body does not require as much food to feel full - consequently clients will lose weight by changing their eating patterns. Although you are completely aware while under Hypnosis, on a subconscious level your mind can believe that you have actually undergone surgery.

Once you are eating less, the simple end result will be weight loss.

So if you are interested in losing weight, then the Gastroband procedure is for you!

A Gastric Band Hypnosis Visualisation + Professionally Produced Support CD + plus

Guarantee: all this for an amazing 95€!

So the question is…are you ready to lose that excess weight? If the answer is yes then what are you waiting for? Call now!

“I would like to thank you for your help. After visiting your clinic four months ago I have now reduced my weight by 4 stone 8lbs (30kilos).

I don’t think I could have achieved this on my own. I have been recommending you to my friends. I’m so chuffed... it’s made a vast difference to my life. Just wish I had have done it sooner…” Brian.

Jonathan and Alan hold their Fast Track Hypnosis sessions in Cabo Roig, Quesada and Benidorm.

Jonathan holds his Fast Track Hypnosis sessions in Cabo Roig, Quesada and Benidorm. For an appointment, brochure or free-of-charge initial consultation contact Jonathan Gilchrist on 691 784 954: Email: jonathangilchristbh@gmail.com www.jonathangilchristinspain.com www.hypnosiscostablanca.com www.thegastroband.com

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life spanish

Basic Spanish for everyday needs

by Jane Cronin

Me gusta, pero I TRUST that those of you who have been following these articles have been discovering all the new sentences you’ve been able to make, and of course going round practising them!

No doubt you’ve got into all sorts of muddles as well, but that’s a normal part of language learning, so no problem there.

First things first, before we learn anything new, let’s look at the answers to the homework. You had to translate the following sentences into English – so here they are with the answers.

pickle because they think that the “me” bit means “I”. Also they tend to mispronounce it like the English word “me” and they end up saying things like “me quiero” for I like, and “me necesito” for I need. That is totally wrong!!! We use “quiero” on its own for I want and “necesito” on its own for I need. If we wanted to add the word for “I”, this is “yo”. So you just have to accept that ME GUSTA is different from the others, and wait for the full explanation to appear later on. Glad we got that cleared up anyway!

No quiero volver a casa hoy. - I don’t want to return home today. ¿Quieres bailar conmigo? - Do you want to dance with me?

Voy a hablar con mi amigo. - I’m going to speak to my friend. ¿Vas a beber vino? - Are you going to drink wine?

No necesito comer ahora. - I don’t need to eat now. ¿Puedo aprender más? - Can I learn more?

Me gusta (it pleases me = I like) can link to a huge range of verbs just as the other expressions we learn before. So, we can say:

This week we are going to add another “first person” expression to our collection. Here it is: ME GUSTA meaning “I like”.

Now ME GUSTA works slightly differently from the other first person phrases we have learnt so far, because although we translate it as “I like”, it doesn’t strictly mean that literally.

It actually means: “it pleases me”. In a way you don’t even need to know that, but some people get themselves in a

ME GUSTA COCINAR I like cooking ME GUSTA BAILAR I like dancing ME GUSTA TRABAJAR I like working or maybe for most of us that should be: NO ME GUSTA TRABAJAR I don’t like working NO ME GUSTA BEBER I don’t like drinking Well – it takes all sorts.

Another thing that has to be said to help us poor confused English speakers – in English we use the “-ing” form of the verb with “I like” – cooking, dancing, working, drinking, but

in Spanish we don’t do this. If it helps we can think that what we are really saying is: “I like to cook”, “I like to dance” etc. So, after ME GUSTA we always use the infinitives of the verb (the forms ending in –ar, -er, or –ir) and never alter them anything else, despite how much we may be tempted to do so.

Something else we can do now is make even longer sentences with all kinds of things we already now. Here are two more words that can help us to do this: “but” which is PERO, and “also” or “as well” which is TAMBIÉN. Here is an example of the sorts of things we can do: ME GUSTA BAILAR Y ME GUSTA BEBER TAMBIÉN. I like dancing and I like drinking as well.

NECESITO DORMIR PERO VOY A TRABAJAR. I need to sleep but I’m going to work.

I think next lesson we need to widen our range of words as we’re beginning to get a bit limited, but for now here’s a couple of things you can have a go at at home. How would we say in Spanish? I like talking but I need to work.

Can I eat and drink as well?

Answers as ever next week, and lots of new verbs to look forward to! You see, you’re even looking forward to verbs now!

Life books The Dark Tower Vol. VII

Danny Collins - copydjp@gmail.com

THE VOLUME I’m reviewing is the deluxe edition. If you’ve never heard of hardback deluxe it’s used in publishing to describe the bells and whistles of the trade. A hardback deluxe edition will have a silk bookmark ribbon, be fully illustrated by a well-known artist, and feature classic artwork on the sleeve. It will be a first edition. That sounds pricey, agreed, but we’re dealing with Librería Europa in this column where proprietor Gil Gatoff will supply the whole seven volume series off the shelf in paperback. First editions are for collectors but King is worth a read in any setting so give Gil a ring and ensure classic reading at economic prices.

The Dark Tower Vol.VII is the last book in the seven volume series. The original knight/ gunslinger Roland of Gilead is nearing the end of his quest to lift the darkness that pervades the world. He is still accompanied by his faithful companions but they are split by a time warp and must come together for the final assault upon the dark forces led by the series’ villain, The ominous Man in Black who will go on to inhabit the pages of another of King’s epic masterpieces The Stand.

Undaunted Roland approaches the tower and realises that he may have to leave his scattered companions in that last dark walk. King’s The Dark Tower Volumes I - VII mirror Browning’s thirty-four versed poem Childe Roland To The Dark Tower Came and it should be enough that a writer of epics such as King should choose a poem by one of England’s greatest poets on which to construct his saga. To read The Dark Tower is to salute two geniuses who lived in different lifetimes.

We are fortunate that King lives in ours.

Author: Stephen King Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton (Hardback Deluxe) Price: 40€ ISBN: 0 340 82721 1 Stars 1-10: 10. Come on, it’s King!

Suduko Answer

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life people

41

Cupid’s dance for LAPS Legion looks TRUE ROMANTICS can enjoy a St Valentine’s Day celebration dinner and dance and help support animal charity LAPS on 14th February.

by Jack Troughton THE LOCAL Animal Protection Society has organised a night out at ‘Suzy’s’, the Zhong Hua Restaurant in Pego, with a chance to throw a few moves to the easy on the ear sounds of Luigi.

Tickets are 12€ including a three-course meal with a free wine, beer or soft drink – later drinks must be paid for separately – while helping out the LAPS family and its Pego shelter.

To make a reservation or for further information, call Chrissie on 661 199 270 or email Dan Gibbs at danjo_624@hotmail.com or Angela at diamante.bling@ gmail.com

Happy members of the LAPS family

for new recruits

By Jack Troughton A RECRUITMENT drive hopes to attract new faces to the Calpe Branch of the Royal British Legion – a group keen to underline its fun side.

The aim of the Legion is to raise funds for the annual Poppy Appeal and aid the welfare of former servicemen and women and their dependents.

However, Calpe is inviting interested people to go along to one of its very social weekly meetings and check out the benefits of membership for themselves.

The branch meets every Friday at 11am at the Bolero Bar and Restaurant at the end of Carrer de Lleiberg, adjacent to the Playa de la Fossa – ample parking is available. Membership is open to all serving and former members of the Armed Forces and people from a nonservice background are also always welcome.

The branch has a very active social calendar with evening functions already in the diary for Valentine’s Day; St Patrick’s Day; and St George’s Day. These are held at other venues – always boast live music – and members benefit from a discount.

For further information, call Chairman Carl Gullis on 96 649 9282 or Secretary Graham Goude on 608 309 725.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life people

Charity’s pedigree chums

By Benny Davis COSTA BLANCA talent turned out in force to take part in the variety concert ‘Showtime’ and help raise over 1,560€ for the AKIRA dog sanctuary at Benissa.

Six acts were professionally linked by comedian Barry Moon to give a sell-out audience a night to remember at the Espai la Senieta, Moraira, last Friday evening.

Marcia’s Dance Centre opened the show and brought a kaleidoscope of colour to the stage, followed by singer Paul Christie – who first paid tribute to Gene Pitney before magically transforming himself into Roy Orbison.

And keeping the equality of the sexes balanced on stage, Hazel Taylor performed her Dame Shirley Bassey Tribute, belting out

everything from ‘Big Spender’ to the dramatic ‘This is My Life’.

Tony Rivers stepped into the spotlight to play guitar, sing and casually chat about his world tour with Sir Cliff Richards and other stars he has worked with. Tony is still remembered as the voice on the TV theme tune ‘Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads.’

All girl duo Encore performed an enjoyable smooth silky interpretation of some easy listening jazz evergreens before rock ‘n’ roll duo Time Warp bounced on stage with a ‘Happy Days’ wake up and some forties and fifties hits.

AKIRA’s Pauline Curtis thanked sponsors and the audience for their support and animal Marcia’s charity volunteers for helping run the bar and Dance Centre raffle. The show was organised and produced students

by Puregold.fm presenter, Eric Taylor.

Musician plays air guitar

By Jack Troughton THE HANDMADE guitar raffled to raise funds for the Friends of the Children of EMAUS will be played by an aeasyJet pilot.

The prize draw was made last weekend and the winner was Trisha Cook who lives in Sussex and bought tickets for her “guitar mad” son, who is based at Orly in France.

She has yet to hear of her good luck.

The instrument was donated to the charity by Guitarras Francisco Brothers of Jesus Pobre and tickets have been sold since last November – raising 422€ which will help support youngsters cared for by EMAUS. Guitars have been made by the Cholbi family since the 1800s and are constructed from top quality woods

– singer Amy Winehouse had one – sadly stolen after her death - and Hollywood star Tom Hanks is also a proud owner.

Trisha’s prize is likely to meet its new owner in Normandy after being transported in a friend’s caravan or continue its journey back to the UK to be collected and played later.

The draw was made at Vivo! The Gift Shop and Cafe in Javea’s Arenal by Tom Clark, whose wife Lesley organises the annual EMAUs Christmas Fairs.

Life horoscopes With much activity taking place all across the Cosmos you will start to feel that you may just have to make the changes that are necessary sooner rather than later. This comes not from a change of heart, but a renewed set of goals brings the need to express your feelings; and these are backed by a salutatory Pluto and the New Moon inspiration.

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

43

Kenny Corris www.kennycorris.net Mobile: 686 361 594 Tel: 965 878 424

The balance on the scales must be quivering right now because you would be very foolish to turn down the recent offer you have received. You have changed so much and now that you are finally connecting with the inner you; magic can, and will happen, if you let it. You have nothing to lose and absolutely everything to gain by saying, “Yes!”

With Venus, governess of your opposing planet, finally turning Direct at the end of the week there is a need to celebrate in style. You have turned your back on those who are your closest supporters, and now is the time to make amends with a gift of your time and attention. You have a lot to be thankful for, and much to share all around.

Venus Directs at the end of January whilst lucky Jupiter opposes Pluto, bringing a new beginning and endless possibilities. Time is right for facing facts and making plans, especially with travel; which is strongly indicated. Your expertise and dedication are about to be rewarded, but remember that you have to take the first step.

Your intuition begs you to read between the lines right now, especially as things do not seem to be adding up the way they should. Take action if you have to, but don’t just let anyone get away with something you will live to regret.

Jupiter takes on Pluto, and your psychic energies are highly charged this week, do what you have to.

Mercury’s actions with a hesitant Pisces scuppers something that would have been wonderful, but just wasn’t to be in the current scheme of things. What follows is not to be taken as second best but a preferable alternative that will be clear in the future, but hard to get to grips with right now, when trust and commitment are so challenging.

Ceres has a dalliance with Mercury midweek and this can serve to tell you the lay of the land right now; especially since you appear to have stuck your neck out in a specific direction. Subtle changes and the resurrection of a failed project are very much the impetus you need to go it alone for a change. You are inspired and better prepared.

Someone has quite wrongly presumed something that has left you shocked and hurt. The finger of blame cannot be pointed back at you, but where there is an uncertainty it is sure that there is a story to be told. Although a few home truths need to be told all around, all this will serve to clear the air once and for all, and back you.

Mercury’s take on of Pisces allows some dreamy romantic energy to wash over you…. and not before time. The inner you is geared up to make a proposal, but something seems to be holding you back on all levels. Take responsibility for your actions because your sincerity and dedication could work for you either way right now!

The indecisions of late have left you not knowing where you stand, and it’s really time to ascertain what your priorities lie, and with whom. The opportunity has arisen to make a fresh start, and this has to be viewed as moving on, not in any way is it running away. Yes, you need time, but don’t, whatever you do, cut off your nose to spite your face.

The New Moon brings with it the wind of change, and not before time since you have to better know just what to expect in the near future. Making a compromise just isn’t your way of working, but something, somehow has got to give if there is to be a silver lining to the darkest clouds that surround you right now. Promote the peace you seek for all.

Mercury gives you the chance to get those inner feelings out and to tell everyone that you are open for business and ready to roll, once again. Taking responsibility and being decisive when you have been shrouded by doubt for some time, is the way forward and should be your inspiration.

Ceres acts positively to show you the way!

If it’s your birthday this week

Listen to your innermost energies, and then make a decision that both rewards you and opens doors to your talent and your enthusiasm. Tried and tested energies are more than enough to rely on if you feel that the time is right, but, then, only you can say this!!

Angel I HAVE had a number of emails and calls lately, and it seems as if everyone is in agreement that we should be responsible for the animals and plants in this World, and to check that they get the very best of care under the circumstances. If we were to lose Nature, and the urbanisation of the World drives Nature away, then we would be very sorry. Thank you for the stories of rescuing animals and the loving care you readers are giving to those who depend on us for their survival at this time.

Sometime ago I won a prize writing the following short story, and I thought that I

would share it with you all: He stood in front of the grave, his lip quivering in the start of the Autumnal chill, his arms full of white lilies. He was so bereft of his full senses. He took the blame for what had happened, and in overwhelming grief, tears registered, and fell on the gravel beneath his feet. Over and over in his mind he ran the events of that night. The other car had strayed into his path, and he mused that he could have braked harder, swerved quicker, responded more rapidly. He had scooped the lifeless body into his bruised arms and had prayed to turn back time as he went for help. It all happened so fast. He knew in a heartbeat that she would die, and he took the responsibility fully; breaking the news the way he had to and remembering the sheer joy of her life and her vitality. Trying to remember their life together, he recalled

Last weeks crossword answers can be found on page 51.

Quick or Cryptic Crossword

ACROSS 1. Valuation (9) 8. Scull (3) 9. Ban (11) 11. Implore (7) 12. Join (5) 13. Untouched (6) 15. Feel indignant (6) 17. Chop small (5) 18. Ship’s crew (7) 20. Unseemliness (11) 22. Tavern (3) 23. Elastic (9) DOWN 2. Equality (3) 3. Ascend (5) 4. Evasive (6) 5. Spare time (7) 6. Thoughtful (11) 7. Soon (9) 10. Unpaid (11) 11. Obscure (9) 14. Less expensive (7) 16. Transverse (6) 19. Ethical (5) 21. Cask (3)

that they had been through good times, and bad, for richer and poorer, and in sickness and health. They had travelled the World, but he had been so very happy in front of the fire at home, tucked up on the sofa, or walking in the wood on a Sunday afternoon; waiting under a tree for the rain to stop. She had stolen food from his plate, he had laughed about it, and they both had a passion for ice cream and birthday cake, and really cold milk.

Nothing would be the same now, as he left the cemetery he stopped to look at the names on the graves all around. Each bore tribute to a faithful and loving partnership, now ended.

Fighting tears, he walked towards the car.

Tonight he would sleep alone in that big bed, and not wake to her kisses.

He paused to look at the inscription on the medallion he held so tightly in his right hand and it spelt out her name: ANGEL. She

ACROSS 1. See 8 Across 8 & 1 Across. What it holds will be of striking significance (3,2,7) 9. Approaching and proving an attraction not far away (7,4) 11. The performer may point out resemblances, we hear (7) 12. Sounds like money - the whereabouts of this will not be disclosed (5) 13. Stages in the tournament completed by golfers (6) 15. The girl is happy with the beginnings of your speech (6) 17. Special celebration to seek to remove ill-feeling (5) 18. One can get carried along by a book of collected works (7) 20. An opposite piece at the end of the shop-fitting (11) 22. Field supplying endless metal (3) 23. Administrators will revise the means test (9) DOWN 2. Air corps rises a considerable distance away (3) 3. Time-worn tea ceremony (5) 4. Use temporarily, one hears, at an increased price (6) 5. This will provide a typed copy for a variety of clients (7) 6. A word to conjure with! (11) 7. Gives vent to one’s thoughts on trains (9) 10. Is it akin to a mail-van? (8,3) 11. This provides the basis for making deals (4-5) 14. Diversions by five hundred different routes (7) 16. Left one with a Shakespearean heroine (6) 19. One who goes to bed when working (5) 21. Harry Evans will provide the whisky (3)

Sudoku

was the most faithful and wonderful friend he would ever have, and despite what some people said, he knew that she was in Heaven, wagging her tail!

I dedicate this to anyone who has ever lost such a faithful friend, because they will know what it feels like to lose such love. The competition I entered wanted a short story that had a twist in the last sentence. I wrote one that had a twist solely in the very last word.

Over the years I have been told my so many that animals do not have a soul, and I believe very strongly that they survive in the Spirit World. Readings have brought through numerous cats and dogs, even a snake, and this evidence of survival energy proves that not only do our loved pets have a soul, but it is a strong soul calling out to the World, saying thank you for such a wonderful Earthly life; full of tender love, and care.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life health

Michael Burke

RHAD MSHAA of Digital Hearing

Hearing aid CROS systems SOME PEOPLE who experience hearing difficulties are found to have good hearing in one ear and very poor or no hearing at all in the other ear.

SINGLE-SIDED HEARING LOSS IN THIS situation it is of no value to fit a hearing aid to the good ear as it does not need it and it is of no value fitting a hearing aid to the bad ear because it is beyond help.

In these circumstances overall hearing and awareness can be improved by use of a CROS system (contralateral routing of signal).

In such a system two devices are worn: The one in the bad ear is not a hearing aid as such, it is a radio microphone and the one in the good ear does not amplify sound but receives it from the radio microphone in the other ear. Using this system wearers can now hear sounds from both sides equally well through the good ear.

Other people may suffer a degree of hearing loss in the better ear. In this case the device in the better ear is actually a

hearing aid set to rectify that ear’s loss at the same time as receiving the signal from the bad side. An advantage of such a system is that the hearing aid in the better ear can be programmed via a push-button or remote control to act on its own or to act as a CROS system according to the environment that the user is in.

People using these systems benefit from greater 360-degree hearing: however, they take a lot of getting used to – up to six months or more to adapt. With the signal coming into one ear, the wearer will automatically look to that side if a sound is heard (e.g. a car coming) but the sound may be from the other side. It can take a lot of getting used to but once conquered wearers find it of great benefit, as it gives them all-round contact with the world, proving a

feeling of security and confidence.

These systems are not be confused with a device known as a power CROS. A power CROS is worn by someone who has good hearing in one ear but the other ear is so bad that when they attempt to wear an aid of sufficient power to restore hearing in that ear they experience whistling or feedback.

(Feedback happens when the amplified sound

being fed into the ear canal leaks out, is detected by the microphone on the hearing aid and then re-amplified and made even louder.)

With a power CROS the microphone is situated on the other side of the head behind the good ear, far enough away from the bad ear to avoid feedback whilst giving maximum power. However the same sound localisation problems apply, only in reverse.

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

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life health

New Year: new you!

IN THE New Year we often make a conscious effort to decide how we want to improve our lives.

MANY PEOPLE decide to take better care of themselves; eating healthier, losing a little weight or adding exercise to their lives. What is often not considered is adding a natural form of healthcare into their routine. Have you ever made it your New Year’s resolution to visit a Chiropractor?

Chiropractic is a natural form of healthcare that focuses on improved health for the whole body. Chiropractors work with the spine, not just because it’s the source of neck and back pain, but because it houses and protects the spinal cord and the nervous system.

Did you know that every vital life-sustaining process within your body depends on the spinal cord and nervous system?

There are several common ailments which initially make people aware that there is a problem with their spine and/or nervous system.

Most often these symptoms include pain, whether from the low back, neck or in the form of headaches or ‘sciatica’. But the spine and the

nervous system are in control of so much more too - for example energy levels, digestion, blood pressure and the immune system.

To understand a little of the science behind Chiropractic, let us take into consideration its effect on the immune system. When there is interference in the peripheral nerves, the nerve supply to important immune system organs is reduced. This in turn affects the amount of immune regulatory cells being released into the blood circulation and therefore alters immune function. With Chiropractic care, the function of those immune system organs in restored and research has shown that white blood cell release is enhanced. Scientific studies have even shown that there is as much as 200% greater immune competence with patients who receive chiropractic care than those who did not.

It is important to look after the nervous system as it is very delicate. Whilst the brain and the spinal cord (the central nervous system) is

protected by bone, the nerves once they leave this protective housing (the peripheral nervous system) are exposed to mechanical injury or interference through pressure or irritation.

One of the major sources of these problems occurs where the nerves leave the spine due to the misalignment of the vertebrae (the individual bones that make up the spine). Chiropractors are experts in correcting these misalignments, gently adjusting the positions of the vertebrae and thus allowing the body to function optimally. As a result Chiropractic care can give your body a new lease of life, in turn creating a healthier, happier new you.

To book an appointment with one of our chiropractors in either of our clinics in Alicante or Denia: please call 96 520 0005.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Griddled pork with quick pineapple chutney THAT OLD favourite, gammon and pineapple was the inspiration for this recipe. I used pork fillet here but gammon or pork loin would do just as well. A ribbed griddle pan gives a seared pattern to the cooked meat, but you could use an ordinary frying pan instead, or why not cook the meat on the barbecue?

• 1 pork tenderloin (about 350g) cut into 1cm slices • 1 thick slice of fresh pineapple, peeled, cored and diced • 1 small onion, roughly chopped • A 2cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped • ¼ of a small red chilli, thinly sliced (or a pinch of chilli flakes) • 2 tsps honey • 1 tbls balsamic vinegar • Olive oil • Salt and pepper 1.First make the chutney. Heat a little oil in a small saucepan and gently fry the chopped onion and ginger until just soft. Add the chopped pineapple and chilli and cook for a further 3-4 minutes over moderate heat. Add the honey and balsamic vinegar and continue to cook until the mixture begins to go sticky. Add a little water if the chutney is too dry. Set aside.

2. Season the sliced pork with salt and pepper. Heat a little oil in the griddle pan until very hot then add the pork and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Gently re-heat the chutney and spoon over the cooked pork.

Serves 2, Preparation time: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 20 minutes.

If you have a recipe you would like to share email your recipe and if possible a photo to rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

Hondón Valley Branch of The Royal British Legion THE BRANCH Christmas Party was held in Hondón de las Nieves. Following an “American Supper” with tables groaning with food, member Tony Brown entertained everyone with two cameo roles including the “Patagonian Eagle” that had a tendency to moult! much to the hilarity of the audience. Wendy and Tony organised a quick quiz and party games – pass the parcel being particularly popular. During the evening the Poppy Appeal total for 2013 was announced. The Branch had raised 8036.28€ a superb amount and thanks went to all those who had helped raise money for the Charity.

The Branch meets on the third Tuesday of each month at Monte Alto Restaurante, Hondón de las Nieves at 7 p.m. for 7.30 p.m. start. We have a full list of activities for 2014 available on our website: www.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/hondon-valley. Anyone wishing for more information, please contact the Secretary on 650 896 923 or email secretary.hondonvalley3577@gmail.com The photo shows Member of the Committee and members revealing the total.

Life events

Let’s go to the hop THE EXCITED Puerto Rican girls sing West Side Story hit ‘I Feel Pretty’ as they get ready for the big dance at the gym.

by Jack Troughton THE ‘CHICAS’ - members of the New York street gang The Sharks – get glammed up and raring to go for the big night out as they get into the famous routine.

A cast of 25 have been rehearsing for more than six months for the Footlights Youth Theatre’s second production which opens in Calpe on Thursday 13th February.

Pictured in their new party dresses – run up by Judith Haynes – are (left to right) Annie Johnstone, Megan Wilmott, Abigail Tucker and Hannah Glencross.

Performances of West Side Story take place on 13th to 15th February in Calpe’s Casa de Cultura, 22nd February in the Teatro

Municipal Torrevieja, and on 7th March in the auditori, Teulada.

Tickets are 12€, reduced to 8€ for children under 14 at Calpe only, and the show starts at 8pm except on Saturday 15th February when the curtain goes up at 6pm.

Tickets for Calpe can be reserved by calling 652 404 798 or via footlights.boxoffice@gmail.com. The Torrevieja tickets can be purchased at the Teatro box office Tuesday to Friday between 6pm and 8pm; and for Teulada at the Auditori box office Wednesday to Saturday between 11am and 1pm and 6pm to 8pm. Torrevieja and Teulada tickets can also be obtained online at www.instanticket.es

Calling all sweethearts

By Jack Troughton ROMANTIC MEMBERS of the Benidoleig Branch of the Royal British Legion are inviting all sweethearts to join them for a Valentine’s Dinner and Dance on Friday 14th February.

The El Cid Restaurant is hosting the event and entertainment is provided by top duo Apollo and everyone will be made welcome.

The function starts at 7.30pm for 8pm and tickets are 16€ including a three-course meal with wine and water.

Reservations can be made by calling Peter Tomlin on 96 640 8165, Patrick Scully on 96 558 3626, or Josie Creasey 96 558 3199 – they will also have details of menu choices which need to be made in advance.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life going out

Classical talent in Alfaz

Juan Carlos and Veronica in concert

DUO HISPALIS, a classical pairing of cello and guitar, play Casa Sjengarden Cultural in Alfaz del Pi on Sunday 2nd February helping raise funds for the fight against cancer.

By Jack Troughton IT FEATURES Veronica Rubio Gomez on cello and Juan Carlos Lopez Segura on guitar and the concert is from 4.30pm until 6.30pm.

Veronica began learning the cello in her home ‘town’ of Alicante and graduated in 2007 with top honours before taking a masters degree at Valencia University and is a soloist with the San Vicente Symphony Orchestra in Alicante and plays in a number of quartets along the coast.

Juan Carlos was also born in Alicante and at the age of six was performing with flamenco dancers. A member of the Orquesta Barroca Valenciana, he has played concerts across Europe and as far afield as Cuba.

Tickets for the concert – which features music by Gabriel Faure, Manuel de Falla, Piazzola, Debussy and Bocherinni - are 12€, including wine and snacks, and reservations are essential.

Call 96 686 0522 or 606 652 242 or email chris@sjengarden.nl The venue is also the gallery of Dutch sculptor Fredy E Wubben and is at Calle Serra Nevada 6, Urbanisation El Captivator, Alfaz.

Name that tune

By Jack Troughton THE MABS Cancer Support Group is staging a Music Quiz Night on Friday 21st February at the El Cid Restaurant in Benidoleig. There is a chance to win fantastic prizes and a raffle, and the 12€ tickets include a two-course meal and quiz entry – with teams allowed to a maximum size of six people. The evening starts at 7.30pm for 8pm and tickets are available in advance by calling Barbara on 96 558 4010 or Pam on 634 355 528.

Life music

Rob Sweeney Singer/Entertainer ROB SWEENEY is a seasoned performer with a rich and powerful voice which he puts to excellent use, whether singing pop and soul classics or songs from the shows - some of which he’s starred in having studied and performed in musical theatre over the previous few years.

AS A cabaret artist he’s toured extensively throughout UK before moving to Spain. Rob is a class act with a versatile repertoire to suit all audiences and he is available for all Bowls Clubs/Societies, Restaurants/Bars, Golf Clubs, etc. On Sunday 2nd February, he will be appearing in the No Nonsense Bar & BBQ (Ctra. MorairaCalpe) at 3pm. For more info on Rob phone: 96 558 4098: www. robsweeney-singer.tumblr.com

The Not Necessarily The Karmaroos: Duo Folk Club: Calpe THE KARMAROOS are a self-contained duo comprising of vocalist Carol Telford and guitarist Dave Walsh. With their own backing tracks they cover a variety of styles from rock, pop, Motown, dance & slow numbers and they play around the north Costa Blanca area. Recently they have enjoyed taking part in a couple of fund raising events, Save Our Stage at Bar Ca Pep in Orba as well as the Pepa Funday in La Font d’En Carros, alongside other Costa Blanca entertainers. Dave had a misspent youth in the UK, playing in bands in and around Yorkshire. Carol, however, was a late starter only really coming into her own since moving to Spain ten years ago.

FEBRUARY GIGS Saturday 1st, Magnums Bar, Oliva: 9pm Saturday 15th, Rte. Tarbena del Port, Calpe: 8.30pm.

The Karmaroos can be contacted for bookings via Facebook www.facebook.com/thekarmaroos or website http://thekarmaroos.wix.com/karma or via email on thekarmaroos@gmail.com.

THE NOT Necessarily Folk Club has moved to a new venue – El Bolero Bar & Restaurant, Edf. Turmalina, Playa La Fossa in Calpe. Next meeting is on Monday 3rd February and then every two weeks. Meet at 8pm and start singing at 8.30pm. The club caters for anyone of any nationality who likes music. All are welcome to listen, to sing any genre of song, or to play a musical instrument. There is no obligation to perform – just turn up and enjoy the evening. For further information/ directions/map: please contact Sheila or Ron Hopkins on: 96 649 8719 or email: sherons.divein@gmail.com

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Life tech What is an IP Printer problems address? with Aunty Virus

Email auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com

HI AUNTY: Can you please explain to me what is an IP address is and how important it is? I keep getting a window saying that: “Another computer on this network has the same IP address as this computer.

Contact your network administrator for help in resolving this issue. More details are available in the windows events log.” I use only a dongle Wifi in my home and do not share a network. Is it something I should be worried about? Thanks, Ken. Aunty says: An IP address is a number given to a device (PC, laptop, tablet, satellite receiver) that is connected to your network / internet router. Each device on that network is given its own unique IP address.

Conflicts arise when two devices are given the same IP address. A reboot (of both the PC and router you are using) will typically fix the problem, unless both devices have their IP set to a static address.

HI AUNTY: I have purchased a new laptop Windows 8 and I am having trouble trying to connect it to my printer. The printer is a Dell AIO 924 and it does not appear in the list of printers in the printer installer: I do not have the driver disk. Hope you can

Aunty says: There are conflicting stories as to whether this printer is compatible with Windows 8 or not. But I found this advice on the Dell website: 1. Disconnect the printer 2. Restart your computer 3. Download the Vista 32-bit drivers for Windows 8 32-bit or the Vista 64-bit drivers for Windows 8 64-bit. http://www.dell.com/support/drivers/us/en/04/DriverDetails?driverId=R148156 http://www.dell.com/support/drivers/us/en/04/DriverDetails?driverId=R148157 4. Install the Vista drivers in the Vista Compatibility mode (Right click on the drivers file you have downloaded, left click on properties and left click compatibility. Change the compatibility to match the drivers/software that you are trying to install (if the drivers/software is Vista, then try using Vista SP2). Then right click on the drivers, left click run as administrator) 5. You’ll get a message, ‘the printer is not connected’. Connect the printer at this time (powered on).

Response: Hi. Using your advice I have just downloaded the printer driver from Dell, the driver downloaded itself without much help from me and the printer works okay now. Many thanks.

Antivirus programmes DEAR AUNTY: Please could you help me as I have just been given a new laptop for Christmas and my wife has a new Galaxy tablet. The laptop has Windows 8.1 which is telling me I do not need any further antivirus programmes as it is included in Windows.

Can you please let me have your opinion on this? Also, which would be the best free antivirus programme to install on the Galaxy tab? Many thanks, Eric Aunty says: Windows 8 comes with its own Antivirus software - Windows Defender.

But you can always install another should you wish - there are free and subscription ones available, from AVG, Avast, Nortons, Panda, Kaspersky to name a few.

Usually you should not need an antivirus on a tablet, due to how they operate.

However, because more and more people have tablets, and use it to store much personal data, it is a prime target for software ‘nasties’, hackers and malware.

Various software firms provide antivirus software for tablets. AVG, Avast, Nortons all have versions available via the apps store / play store.

Gadget Inspector Investigates:

Binatone Big Button GSM Mobile Phone THIS WEEK the Inspector takes a look at the Binatone SM400 Big Button Unlocked GSM Mobile Phone.

With the advent of the modern smartphone came a small device with enough functionality packed in that it seemed to be more complicated than a Cray supercomputer, and anyone trying to use it needed a degree in Computer Science. That’s all good if you happen to be socially-connected, geo-located and permanently online 24/7…

But what if you came from a generation where a mobile phone was a phone and not much else?

What if you want something that is easy to use with big buttons and a clear display, is loud, has an emergency call function and has a nice handy charger station?

The Binatone Big Button GSM Mobile Phone presses all the right buttons. If your sight is not as good as it once was the large buttons make for easy navigation and dialling and a 2-inch display with large print aids readability. Easy to use menus also cut down on complication.

The mobile phone also features talking numbers so you can hear the numbers that are being dialled, while the torch function with switch is a handy add-on. The Binatone fits neatly into a desktop charger and has an extra-loud speakerphone function. It is also hearing aid-compatible, ensuring no interference or whistling when being used with a hearing aid.

For convenience the mobile phone has three direct-dial memories for easy access to your most often called numbers.

And for peace of mind the Binatone also features an emergency SOS button which stores five important numbers that can be simply and quickly called in an emergency. Once the SOS button is pressed, the stored numbers are called in turn until one of them answers. If the answering number is a mobile phone, a confirmation text is also sent.

The Binatone Big Button Mobile Phone is unlocked (Sim-Free) which means you can install your Sim card from any operator, in any country with compatible dual-band networks (excluding the 3 network in UK) and off you go! The mobile phone also has a built-in camera and a 300-name and number phonebook. It can hold up to 100 SMS text messages, and has a battery life of up to 180 hours on standby and 4 hours of talk time.

The Inspectors Verdict: The Binatone Big Button Mobile Phone is perfect for anyone who would struggle using a conventional mobile/ smartphone and who wants the security of an SOS function should help be needed.

Please note the following is for information and is not intended as an advertisement - visit www.gadget-hound.co.uk/ binatone-big-button-phone to purchase the Binatone SM400 Big Button Unlocked GSM Mobile Phone for 44€. Please note the charger base has a UK plug which will require a Spanish 2-pin adapter. Price quoted includes delivery to Spain and is subject to availability (Euro cost subject to exchange rate at time of purchase).

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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Crossword Solutions for 745 Cryptic solutions Across: 7 Tithes; 8 Memoir; 10 Colonel; 11 Paris; 12 Ewer; 13 Usury; 17 Green; 18 Bill; 22 Tramp; 23 Outlast; 24 Accord; 25 Muscle.

Down: 1 Sticker; 2 Stalked; 3 Feint; 4 Keepers; 5 Court; 6 Dress; 9 Plaster of; 14 Drapery; 15 Finance; 16 Flatter; 19 Steal; 20 Fancy; 21 Stout.

Quick solutions Across: 7 Stocks; 8 Caller; 10 Regular; 11 Terse; 12 Cove; 13 Sneak; 17 Relic; 18 Dawn; 22 Ideal; 23 Avarice; 24 Accent; 25 Morass.

Down: 1 Ostrich; 2 Forgive; 3 Skill; 4 Martial; 5 Alert; 6 Order; 9 Principal; 14 Telling; 15 Capital; 16 Intense; 19 Vital; 20 Teach; 21 Wagon.

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31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Focus on Golf Powered by Campbell Lamont Golf, partnered by BayRadio

A New Year Revolution

JUST A few weeks into 2014 and by now most of those New Year resolutions have been consigned to the archive cupboard in readiness for the next New Year.

UNFORTUNATELY WE will probably also consign the same old excuses along with them.

What about those resolutions you made 12 months ago. How long was it before they fell by the wayside? Did you make the same ones again this year?

If they relate to your golf game then maybe some support is required.

ATTAINABLE GOALS Did you plan to get your handicap down to single figures? If you started from 10 to 12 then that is a good resolution but if you were in the 20s then maybe you were setting your target too high.

So the first piece of advice is to make any objective, one that you can reasonably hope to attain. Otherwise you run the risk of becoming demoralised very early into the process and abandoning your efforts.

You should also have a plan on how you intend to reach your goal.

Moving a handicap down should be seen as a gradual process and one that is sustainable, so think in terms of 10 to 15% and don’t be disheartened when the improvement isn’t instantaneous. If your handicap is 18 this means working on your game to move it down to 17 by the end of June and down to 16 by December.

Accept the fact that practice may not make perfect and you may need some professional help.

One hour spent on the golf simulator in the Campbell Lamont centre in Ondara will demonstrate the areas of your game that may need particular attention. If that is not possible then do at least have an initial session with a professional coach. This first step will ensure that you focus your efforts in the area that is most likely to show improvement and thereby provide encouragement to continue the process.

DEFINABLE Your resolution should be one that can be simply defined and measurable.

Saying in January that you want to play better golf is easy to describe but difficult to measure. So start by specifying and writing down the overall objective and then give some thought to the milestones.

When you have a round that is close to or under your handicap spend a few minutes thinking it through and determining where you made improvements that helped keep your score down. What did you do that was different from previous rounds?

Straighter drives off the tee? More accurate short game? Fewer putts?

So keep the card and attach a few words on what made the difference then hold onto that card and check it before your next round. Reviewing it will fill you with positivity which you can then build on and before long you will be collecting a second card.

Head 2 Head Tony M - I regret not playing golf when I was younger.

Campbell - It is true that the earlier you start playing any sport the better chance you have of being proficient in it.

Tony M - I remember some friends in my senior school in Scotland arriving with bags of clubs and at that time I couldn’t understand the attraction. I was heavily into rock music and swinging a stick at a ball and then walking after it didn’t appeal to me.

Campbell - Well that is a bit of a surprise.

Tony M - What was? That I wasn’t interested in Golf when I was a youngster.

Campbell - No. That you went to a senior school.

Tony M - Hm! I will just take a few minutes to come back with an instant response.

Campbell Burns up the course!!

JANUARY 25TH is a notable date in every golf calendar in the UK and especially so in those of the Ex-Pat community.

Why is that? It is Burns Night and that means bornagain Scotsmen, loads of tartan, generous helpings of haggis and a good supply of Scotch whisky.

That was certainly the case at La Sella on Sunday afternoon when everyone was greeted by a piper in full highland regalia serenading the entire golf course with the perennial refrains of ‘Scotland the Brave’ and the ‘Skye Boat Song’.

Over 100 keen golfers participated in the event which, once again this year, was heavily over-subscribed and they were impatient for the shot gun that announced the 12.30 start.

Weather conditions were perfect and the greenkeepers of La Sella had presented the course in the very best condition, so there could be no excuses for not performing well.

Following some excellent golf, the clubhouse then became the venue for a traditional Burns style dinner.

Accompanied by the piper, Campbell Lamont and Ian Johnston paraded the haggis round the dining tables already festooned with bottles of McCallan Amber.

The age old Robert Burns “Address to the Haggis” was delivered with typical enthusiasm and the rest of the festivities commenced.

It is a strange phenomenon that occurs every year, with each year being more popular than the one before and it is also one that is demonstrably universal as it embraces all nationalities and not merely those with Scots blood.

Who won? Team “Spotty Dog” - Debbie Askew, Rob Park, Keith Baddeley and Mike Wilson won the major competition. They were presented with prizes and applauded by everyone but on a day of such immense camaraderie there were many winners.

Life road test

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

Tim Saunders Independent unbiased car reviewer

Skoda Roomster Scout ROOM IS a necessity for families.

You don’t appreciate this until you become a parent. Thankfully, Skoda realises this and its Roomster, which reminds me of a Pope mobile thanks to the styling at the rear, has bags of space (up to a cavernous 1,780 litres – quite something for a small MPV). Its seats have 20 configurations so that no matter what you’re transporting the optimum amount of room can be utilised. For instance, if bicycles are being carried then perhaps one of the rear seats might be removed but if rubbish is being taken to the tip then the whole lot can be taken out.

Usually I have to make an exploratory trip to every vehicle I test before daring to show it our enormous tandem pushchair but I don’t bother with the Skoda. On lifting the large hatch it fits perfectly with room to spare. In fact there is almost enough room for some shopping… but more about that later...

What I love about Skodas is that they always feel well built and robust. The Roomster Scout is no different. Once behind the wheel you quickly forget its shape. “There’s so much light inside due to the particularly large rear windows,” my wife Caroline notes. They are larger than the square edged front ones, which remind me of those on an old Saab 900 as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz.

There’s a five speed manual gearbox but no engine stop/start and yet the 1.6-litre diesel

engine will return a very respectable 60mpg. Just as well because it has a demanding weekend ahead. On the Saturday we take it to the north of Hampshire to visit some art exhibitions and as ever time is imperative. Quickly I get used to the driving position, which is slightly higher than in a standard car making it good for overtaking and providing an added sense of security.

I forget to put the child locks on the rear doors and as we are making good progress down the outside lane of the accident blighted M3 a red sign depicting the vehicle suddenly appears on the dashboard – Harriett has tried opening her door.

Fortunately I’m able to travel from the outside to the inside lane fairly swiftly to park on the hard shoulder and rectify my mistake. Hot and flustered I am grateful for the air conditioning, which is certainly effective.

The driver’s seat seems comfortable enough but extra padding in the lower lumbar region would be beneficial.

I like the layout of the dash in this Scout version which is fairly simple and easy to navigate. The leather

steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake give a welcome feeling of luxury.

New price: 11,919€ - 19,323€ FACTS AT A GLANCE Top speed: 112mph 0-60mph: 11.5secs Economy: 60.1mpg Power: 105bhp Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz

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

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

Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida

UK-SPAINIRELAND 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) 744 791 8589 email: chrisyounge73979@aol.com

STORAGE FROM 5€ PER WEEK

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YOUR BLINDS IN SPAIN Family run business supplying the best quality products at rock bottom prices. Rose Fabrics, Railux designer Roller blinds, Awnings & Canopies, Venetian Blinds, Pleated Blinds, PVC Blackout fabrics, Rainforest Fabrics, Mosquito Screens. Contact us now for a free no obligation quotation or visit us at Zoco Market every Sunday. Tel: 965 701 984 / 658 338 123. Website: www.yourblindsinspain.com Email: info@yourblindsinspain.com

COSTA BLANCA PET TRANSPORT TO UK DEFRA registered. Excellent rates. www.costablancadoghoming.com or call 965 698 052 APAD (ANIMAL) CHARITY SHOP Calle San Antonio 1, Jalon. Open 9.30/1.00 Mon- Sat. Stock needed - clothes, toys, misc. For more info. Tel: Jane 680717118 ALSTRAYS TRANSPORT SERVICES Monthly cat and dog transports between Spain, France, Germany, Holland, Belgium and the UK. DEFA certificate and license. www.alstrays. com. Tel: 676 653 681

PROTECTAPET Spains leading pet insurance provider. www.protectapet.eu tel: 965 756 371 SMALL DOGS CARED FOR IN OUR OWN HOME So if you need to go away on holiday but don’t want your dog to go into kennels then we will look after them. References available. Tel: 965843781 Mob: 622514980 (Altea area - Costa Blanca North) TRANS-PET We do regular, door-to-door journeys between the Costa Blanca and the UK.Our aim is to provide a professional, caring service for your pets.Boarding facilities for Cats and Dogs. This may be for an overnight stay or of longer durations.Tel:600-552-030/ 965-960-658 www.trans-pet.co.uk

PET TRANSPORT we treat your pet as if they belong to us and that is our promise. Van fully air conditioned we believe we have the best rates so give Joe a call on 966 074 576 or 650 341 087 for a chat or e mail pawspetttransport@gmail.com

BORN IN 2010 someone had cut poor Apollo’s vocal chords before abandoning him. He is a lovely dog and despite his experience, he is very friendly with people and other dogs, but sadly he has been living in the APAH kennels for some time now. Can you offer him a loving home? To meet Apollo please contact Yvonne on 630 422 563.

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

GOLD WANTED English Jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold and Silver jewellery & coins for cash. Call for an appointment. Peter (7 days) 664 890 990. Member of the Nat. ASSN of Goldsmiths

MR FIXIT (No Call Out Charge) 698 320 434

STRUCTURAL SURVEYS Mark Paddon BSc Hons. MCIOB. CAAT. Property buyer’s surveys and expert defects diagnosis.

962807247 - 653733066 www.surveyorscostablanca.com

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

(Altea area) Tel: 965843781 or 622514980

BYTEBACK MICROS computer repairs/upgrades in your home. Qualified technician. Systems custom built.

Whatever your problem call: 965-312-006 or 606-127-424

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TAPPY TOES DANCE CLASS FOR BABIES from 18 months, at 4kwatro in Albir, 11am, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information.

LADIES DANCEFIT WITH L.A DANCE at 4kwatro in Albir, Mondays at 7.30pm, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information LA BAMBA’S - BALLROOM / LATIN / SEQUENCE DANCING Los Rosales Restaurant, Guardamar CV895 [near Lemon Tree Sunday Market] Monday - SOCIAL DANCE 8.30pm 10.30pm [SEQUENCE CLASS 7.30pm - 8.30pm] Friday - SOCIAL DANCE 7.30pm - 10.30pm Wednesday - New Beginners Class [Starting 8th January 2014] 2pm -3pm Intermediate Class 3pm - 4pm Intermediate Plus Class 4pm - 5pm For more information contact Andrea and Brian 616 478 157 FUNKY FREESTYLE DANCE with Louise, every Saturday morning at Villamar Campsite in Albir/Benidorm, come and learn all the moves and routines to your pop idols! Call Louise on 655-781-068 for more information!

office@care4youinspain.com

REPAIRS Washing machines, Dishwashers & Dryers. Also Boilers and any electrical problems. 24hours. Cheap prices Tel 626 805 709 MR FIXIT FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, GENERAL & Appliance Repairs.

No Callout Charge. 698 320 434

colin@artemisfunding.com GENUINELY AMBITIOUS? BUILD AN UNLIMITED INCOME FOR JUST £99 WITH A MONEY BACK GUARANTEE, PHONE SUZANNE ON..... 627371731 ARE YOU AN EXPERIENCED CARER? ? Join our team of carers who work in the UK. Earn from £868 - £1330 for 2 weeks.

Good written/spoken English, British or EU Passport required.

Contact Sandra on 658 965 204 or email s.field@consultuscare.com.

SALES STAFF REQUIRED for fabulous glossy magazine and radio sales combined. Must have experience in sales and have own vehicle. Spanish speaking an advantage. Good commissions and telephone provided. Contact 965 997 222 for interview.

SOS INSURANCE www.sosinsuranceinspain.com Best prices available. CALL US FIRST for all your insurance needs, including best deals on Funeral plans.

Buildings and contents cover from just 98 euros per year. Tel 966787123 / 686116297

MAKE MONEY With the Stem Cell Anti-Aging Company www. lookyoungersecrets.com Tel: 676 520 599 CARE4YOU IN SPAIN is the leading Health Care provider in Costa Blanca and Costa Calida area. We are looking for fully qualified SRN and SEN nurses to work in Torrevieja and surrounding areas. Contact care4you 96 819 8590

NEED MORE MONEY?... Start 2014 by being part of an international sports trading club which has been running successfully here in Spain for over 3 years.

Full and part-time opportunities available. No experience necessary as full training provided.

The business offers “tax free” returns to members which has averaged 5-10% a month since launch in 2011. Also, earn generous commissions in our referral program. OTE £50,000 pa.

Contact Colin Harris today on 00 44 7971 511934 or

DO YOU NEED EXTRA HELP AT HOME? I can help you at home with light duties, cleaning, cooking, housework, shopping etc as a carer. References available. Altea, Benidorm, Alfaz del Pi area. Call Trisha for more information on 622 514 980 or 965 843 781

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014 ADVISORY SERVICE Need advice on making a will, buying or selling property, tax, resident or non resident, starting a business in spain, we can talk you through and give you the best advice and help you settle in spain. (Benidorm and surrounding areas) Tel: 610 634 506

MJB MOBILE WELDERS Gates, grills, hinges etc., repaired or new. No job too small.

Fast service. Low prices. Free Quotes. Call Terry: 966 845 414 / 625 995 470 WANTED I BUY ANY CAR van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781-873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

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

AT MICHAEL’S part exchange on certain beds when you buy a New bed from our New Bed shop in the Arenal. Photos: www.michaels-javea.com AT MICHAEL’S on our website you choose from over 95 different paintings, 64 different mirrors, 23 carpets, etc: www.michaels-javea.com AT MICHAEL’S Several very high quality dining sets and bedroom suites. See more than 950 photos on: www.michaels-javea.com AT MICHAEL’S Washing machines, large 2-door fridge, upright tumble drier. Beer pump from a Pub, Golf clubs & lots more: www.michaels-javea.com

WANT TO DRIVE your LHD car to the UK and sell it when you get there? Call 658 670 777

GOLD WANTED English Jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold and Silver jewellery & coins for cash. Call for an appointment. Peter (7 days) 664 890 990. Member of the Nat. ASSN of Goldsmiths

ADVICE WITH THE SPANISH SYSTEM Whatever you need to integrate into the spanish system, we can help you. NIE, residencia, empadronamiento, car import transfer, driving license transfer, schools, doctors, social security.(Benidorm and surrounding areas) Tel: 619 269 408 email: pammcmurchie@hotmail.com

MR FIXIT For all your electrical, plumbing, general & appliance & boiler repairs. No Call out charge. 698 320 434

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SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE from Oliva Nova to Gandia and inland. Call Paul 678 308 107 POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired.

Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, conscientious service to the highest standards. Refurbishments and upgrades undertaken. Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed. All work guaranteed. British trained in the UK pool industry with over 18 years experience. 10 years served on the Costa Blanca.

Torrevieja and surrounding areas including Costa Calida. Tlf:Pristine Pools on 966-774-199 or 678-080-500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com NO CALLOUT CHARGE. SEE MAIN ADVERT ON FRONT PAGE OF CLASSIFIEDS Why go to the shop? When we come to you saving you time and money!

SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING SERVICE BY POOLTECHSPAIN. We are a fully legal, qualified and registered business who have been operating on the Costa Blanca for 6 years.

We offer a professional, reliable, safe and efficient pool service, inc. re-grouting, pressure testing and leak repairs. Private and community swimming pools undertaken. Call now for more information on 965-725-565 or mobile 676-945-360/ 620-743-048 www.pooltechspain.com

gardens with ample seating areas and large sun terrace off the main bedroom with far reaching mountain views. most furniture and all white goods included. excellent condition with air-con and radiators thoughout. 164,950 euros. tel 96 671 2270

www.moneycorp.com/roundtownnews

FOR SALE LARGE DETACHED VILLA 5 bedrooms, 1 bedroom is en suit, 2 bathrooms, 2 lounges 2 kitchens, 8x4 metre pool, 9km from Gandia beach, 169,000€ 96 250 8052 URBANISATION PANORAMA La Nucia. 2 Bedroom (1 en suite), 1 shower room, large kitchen and hall, large underbuild, 1000m plot, garage/parkiing for 5/6 cars. 130.000€ fully furnished. Call 96 687 3547 or 626 926 540

REPUTABLE MARRIED COUPLE available to house sit July and August any Costa’s own transport References Supplied. mikeandpatw@msn.com phone 96 583 6232

FLAT SHARE OLD TOWN BENIDORM Mature lady has 2 bedroom flat to share in Old Town Benidorm. Double room, shared lounge, shared kitchen. Internet and all bills included. 275€ per month. Suit mature person, male or female. Call 619 236 428 for more information

BENIMAR ROJALES detached 2/3 bedroom- 2 bathroom villa with private 8/4 pool. loungediningroom-separate kitchen with utility area. well established

THE BLUE PILL NOW EVEN BETTER also Kamagra and weekenders. Call Derek 685 207 378 FEMALES AND COUPLES REQUIRED aged 30-70 for adult modelling. No single males.

Good rates. 966 182 714 SOPHIE ESCORT Slim elegant naughty lady. Hotel/home visit available. Tel:693 357 526

SELLING YOUR HOUSE? Sold your house? Moving funds back to the UK? Don’t let your Spanish Bank take up to 1% of your sale price, Talk to MoneyCorp now about how to save up to 4,500€* Moneycorp’s repatriation service can help you drastically reduce or even eliminate Spanish bank fees when sending your property sale proceeds back to the UK. Call Moneycorp +34 902 887 243 and quote RTN to get more out of your money.

ASHLEY- 29 ENGLISH/MIXED RACE- Absolutley stunnning, near Torrevieja Hospital, 665 883 576 GENERIC VIAGRA EXCLUSIVE First time in Spain 120mgs. Also Kamagra 100mgs, Generic Cialis 20mgs, and jellies. Local and Nationwide service. Pay on Delivery. www.costablues.com or phone Colin 680 878 735 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 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:

ROADRUNNER TRANSPORTS & REMOVALS SPAIN-UKSPAIN (Monthly Trips) Van leaving Spain end January and leaving UK early February.

Door to door service. Fully Insured. Tel. 633 933 391 email: spainukremovals1@gmail.com www.roadrunnertransports.com

Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609-573-468 or 639-832-118

ANÚNCIATE TLF:

628 191 897 eduardo@roundtownnews.com

31 JAN-06 FEB 2014

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VAN LEAVING FOR THE UK/ SPAIN EVERY 2 WEEKS great rates please contact Joe on 966 074 576 or 650 341 087 or civic1235@msn.com

JAVEA SKIP HIRE 626 670 038 Moraira, Benissa, Calpe, Denia from S&W TOOL HIRE & FERRETERIA MORAIRA

HOT TUBS, SPAS, JACUZZIS Quality spas at factory Prices.

Also spares, filters and Repairs.

Used and ex-display spas available. We part ex and buy spas, best prices in Spain. Established 12 years Eurospas 650 722 905

I BUY RECORDS LP’S SINGLES AND CD’s ANY STYLE, JAZZ, BLUES, POP, PUNK, ROCK, ETC... TOP CASH PAID. 622 750 117 TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Bric-a-brac into Cash. Anything! Anywhere!

965-319-220/663-012-541

DON’T WORRY ABOUT LOSING YOUR TV CHANNELS Free UK TV, Free Movies, Free Sports, Free Catch-up, Free Adult NO MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION! For more information visit: www.costasmarttv. com or call Tel: 657 766 341