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30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Torrevieja tourism’s new app by Keith Nicol

LPE President Fina Sala was delighted to receive the donation

Issue 798

THE TOURISM experience for visitors to Torrevieja just went up a notch as this week at Fitur, the Tourism Department launched a new mobile application. At launch, available languages are Spanish and English, but in a few weeks, coinciding with its availability for IOs systems, it will also be available in German, French and Russian. The Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon, along with Deputy Provincial Tourism, Joaquín Albaladejo, and the Councillor for Tourism, Luis María Pizana, presented the new application this week on the Valencia Stand at FITUR. It’s a free and easy download via Play Store or your downloader of choice by searching for Tourism Torrevieja Informedia. Eduardo Dolon explained; “the current trend of tourist destinations goes through the necessary investment in improving their advocacy and communication technology. This new app takes a step in that direction, expanding the possibilities of interacting with users using new tools (mobile

applications), which complement the existing web page.” The Mayor also remarked on the influence that new technologies have on the tourism industry and in recent times have made smartphones and tablets the new tools of promotion of tourist destinations, making this an indispensable tool in travel planning with the ability to experience optimization on arrival. The official mobile application of Tourism Torrevieja is available now for the Android system, and shortly for IOS. The app is a free download, is very intuitive for the user and allows one to plan and acquire information about the city, including relevant information on tourism and leisure. The app has two main functions: it helps the user perform tasks such as locating a restaurant, a hotel, sports areas, cultural and leisure spaces or free parking spaces, and secondly, provides information about Torrevieja, including places to visit, a calendar of events, sporting and cultural activities. Continued on page 8

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

NEWS & VIEWS

from the North & South Costa Blanca and Costa Calida. Oficina Charral, Emilio Ortuño 6, Floor 4, Office 1, Benidorm, Alicante 03501 • Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm

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British Consulate listens to Citizens

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Paulino, Will, Lloyd, SarahJane and Jeff met with British Residents on Monday

by Keith Nicol AS PART of a new initiative to discover more about the concerns of British Resident’s living in Spain, the British Consulate is undertaking a number of meetings with local citizens. On Monday, as part of his visit to the Alicante Consular District this week, Consular Regional Director for Southern Europe, Will Middleton, was joined by the new British Consul, Sarah-Jane Morris and Vice Consul Lloyd Milen, on their first visit to local focus groups in the Alicante region. The trio visited San Fulgencio’s La Marina Community Centre where they met with Councillors Jeff Wiszniewski and Paulino Herrero. Unfortunately the Mayor could not attend, and made his apologies, as the trio were running late and the Mayor had another engagement. Members of the Press were invited to attend just the opening of the event, which was attended by 20 local residents. However, without any sort of set agenda, the first three residents brought up subjects that were both general and subjective in nature and not within the power or influence of the British Consul, before the Press left the meeting and the focus group continued their meeting in private. A press release from the British Consul will soon be available with an overview of the week’s

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

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activities and meetings. The previous Wednesday, a very successful meeting was held in Torrevieja, attended by British Vice Consul Lloyd Milen. Although this was also cut short due to time constraints, he met with representatives from local groups, associations and clubs, who put forward various suggestions and highlighted their issues and concerns about living in Spain. The new British Consul Sarah-Jane Morris oversees the Alicante region, although she is based in Madrid. She is responsible for one of the busiest British Consulates in the world, supporting more than two million British visitors to the region annually as well as having one of the largest expatriate communities in the world, with almost 200,000 registered on local municipality pardons. Sarah-Jane Morris said: “Next month, we will meet with the Mayors and representatives from the region’s Top Ten most populated, British Expatriate cities,” as they step up their efforts to find out more about the resident population. Leading that list is Torrevieja with an estimated 12,000 or more British residents, although the Spanish Statistics office places the actual number of homeowners in the city at more than 80,000. It’s hoped that ‘The Top Ten’ meeting will be attended by British Ambassador Simon Manley and a team of top Consulate staff.

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30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Take action over winter fuel payment

David Cameron promises to “protect pensioners”

by Jack Troughton

by Keith Nicol

PENSIONERS, FAMILIES and friends must unite and take direct action to prevent the UK Government ending the Winter Fuel Payment to the elderly living overseas. The plan is to flood Members of Parliament with calls to save the payment to all British citizens living in Europe and to support an Early Day Motion tabled by veteran Sir Roger Gale MP. Known as a ‘prayer’ it is the only way to halt a Statutory Instrument laid by the Department of Work and Pensions which will end the allowance - £200 annually for pensioners, rising to £300 for those aged 80 and above – living in Spain, France, Greece, Cyprus, Portugal, Malta and Gibraltar. These countries have failed the controversial ‘temperature test’ announced by Secretary of State Iain Duncan Smith based on average temperatures in South West England – the warmest part of the UK. Unless halted, the Statutory Instrument will come into force on 9th February – and MPs must sign Sir Roger’s motion to succeed. However, the DWP has come under fire by juggling the figures - extending ‘winter’ from three to five months and including Spain’s North African enclaves and the Canary Islands in the statistics – while figures for France include her Caribbean dependencies. Expats will feel they are again suffering discrimination – on Tuesday Prime Minister David Cameron pledged to protect the benefits of Britain’s elderly if the Tories win the May general election. PROTECT Speaking at the start of the 100-day countdown to the poll, Mr Cameron said: “It would not be fair to target pensioners. It is right to protect pensioners and give people dignity and security in old age, as this government has done.” He said there were no “huge savings” to be made by axing the benefits and while the system had to live within its means, the socalled ‘triple lock’ insure pensions would always rise by earnings, prices or 2.5%. In stark contrast, Mr Duncan Smith has stated that paying the winter fuel allowance to people in “warm countries” was “absurd and offensive” and has pressed to end the benefit to the seven countries next winter. Introduced in the UK in 1997/98, the Government of the day decreed it was not payable to expats but in a groundbreaking case,

the EU ruled this was illegal and is already examining the proposed change – saying on the face of it, it is again discriminatory and against treaty rules. In 2013, Britain spent £22 million on winter fuel payments to expats - £8.7 million to pensioners in Spain. However, pensioners living abroad are believed to actually save the Government around £2.5 billion annually by living abroad. Sir Roger said he and many Members of Parliament did not usually sign Early Day Motions which were usually seen as “parliamentary graffiti” but for “inexplicable reasons” it was the only way “prayers” against a Statutory Instrument could be placed on the order paper of the house. He said he had put down a motion relating to the fuel allowance and as many signatures of MPs as possible needed to be added to it – and urged people to write to their current MP or last MP and indicate the personal effect of losing the payment, the discrimination involved, and the “inequities” of how the temperature test was applied. DISCRIMINATION Costa Blanca residents Gerald and Margaret Hales have written to their MP outlining “an issue of discrimination” complaining expats were being “dumped”. They wrote: “It has nothing to do with the weather. It appears to be designed to save an incredibly small amount of money by attacking a group of elderly pensioners, some of whom are old and poor. “These people are vulnerable, they cannot defend themselves, and they are safe to push around. No one really knows why the Secretary of State decided to pick on these people by such a despicable act, especially with such venom.” Margaret told RTN Sir Roger had gained special permission to table the motion and it needed Her Majesty the Queen to overturn the Statutory Instrument. “In order to do that, Parliament has to make a prayer. “We also need to get our sons and daughters, friends, and next door neighbours, to join the protest and say pensioners are unfairly being picked on. The Winter Fuel Payment is not a lot of money but it is of great comfort to pensioners.” To find the email address of an MP, type ‘They Work For You.com’ into Google or go to www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/mps/ and urge the politicians to sign EDM 695 (SOCIAL SECURITY S.I.2014, No.3270

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

STDs on the rise in Spain by Keith Nicol THE NUMBER of reported cases of Syphilis in Spain has risen substantially in the past six years, from around four infections per 100,000 population in 2006 to 7.8 in 2012 with a total of 3,641 case, according to an annual report prepared by the Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Most affected are men aged between 25 and 34 years. The Balearics with 13.7 per 100,000 per capita have the highest number of cases followed by Catalonia and Madrid with around 10 to 11 cases per 100,000. Also, Chlamydia cases have increasedâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; going from 101 cases in 2007 to an alarming 799 in 2012.

Fight between two Indians ends in a death AN INDIAN man has allegedly been stabbed to death by his work colleague outside his home in the Calvary area of Torrevieja. The incident occurred at 9pm on Wednesday when the 40-year-old victim answered the door to his colleague, also an Indian national. They argued and subsequently began a physical fight leading to the home owner being attacked with a knife. The motive for the stabbing is as yet unknown. Ambulance staff tried to save the manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life but he was eventually pronounced dead at the scene. The man suspected of perpetrating the attack was eventually apprehended 2km away near Avenida de la Mancha. He was taken to hospital for treatment after police discovered he had sustained injuries in the fight. This is the first murder to occur in the region this year.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

NATO training mission ends in tragedy by Jan Gamm SPAIN’S DEFENCE ministry has confirmed that 11 people died on Monday after a Greek F-16 jet crashed at the Southern Spanish military base Los Llanos near Albacete during a NATO training mission. 21 others were injured when the plane crashed into other parked aircraft causing an explosion. Nine of those who died were French: the two pilots were Greek. Air Spain Military Force spokesman Captain Joseph Guerreira said that the crash site would take some time Plane to clear due to toxic hydrazine fuel fumes. Crash

New licensing laws from this month

DRIVERS ARE reminded that new licensing laws that came in from 19th January 2015 mean that residents must be in possession of a Spanish driving license in order to be legal on Spanish roads. The new law requires that residents of more than six months could be banned from driving if they cannot present a valid Spanish license or at least evidence of having applied for one. For more information please visit the official Trafico website at www.dgt.es

Rajoy congratulates Tsipras FOLLOWING THE outcome of the Greek elections that put the far left in power, Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has sent a carefully worded telegram of congratulations to the Greek Premier Alexis Tsipras, saying: “I wish to congratulate you... I hope the election result leads to the forming of a stable government committed to the programme of European integration that Greece and Spain share.” Both the PP and the PSOE parties are emphatic that the Greek economy ‘bears no resemblance to that of Spain’.

Providing information for the UK and Spain since 1998

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30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

Rajoy denies involvement in PP slush fund – again

Prison scandal goes to court FOUR PRISON officers at Brieva Prison in Avila are facing a court enquiry this Friday after they were accused of forcing inmates into sexual activities and being involved in smuggling drugs and alcohol which were then used to bribe prisoners. The court action follows a string of complaints by the families of seven prisoners, who are mostly foreign.

SPANISH PRIME Minister Mariano Rajoy has again strongly denied accusations made by former PP treasurer Luis Barcenas, who was released on bail last week after his family raised 200,000 euros in bail security.

Gagging Law protestors take to the streets

Barcenas out on bail

by Jan Gamm BARCENAS ALLEGES that Rajoy knew about the existence of a secret party slush fund and even received underthe-table payments. Rajoy insists

that he knew nothing about any slush fund, did not receive money from it, and furthermore is sick of the subject, telling Telecinco, “I can assure you that neither I nor the party leaders that I know had even the faintest idea about

this slush fund.” Ahead of the 2015 elections Rajoy also stressed that the government was “working on measures to clamp down on corruption” to “ensure that these things don’t happen again in the future.”

THOUSANDS OF people in 20 Spanish cities protested on Sunday against the ‘gagging law’, carrying banners bearing the slogan ‘you will not shut us up’ and wearing gags across their mouths. In the capital demonstrators marched to the National Court yelling that the new laws “converts fundamental rights to crimes against the state.” The Law for Citizen Safety, already approved in Congress and dubbed ‘the Gagging Law’, comes into force in March and will criminalise ‘escraches’ or ‘noisy demonstrations’… sit-ins and any other street action against the government will be illegal, punishable with fines of up to 600,000€. It will also be illegal to film or record the activities of police and other public authorities.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

Fitur 2015 opens in Madrid by Keith Nicol SPAIN’S LARGEST Tourism Fair opened their doors on Wednesday, and stays open until Sunday February 1st. Torrevieja have a major presence and visit under the “umbrella” of the Board Costa Blanca, using Fitur to announce a number of projects and provide special demonstrations. They presented their ‘offerings’ yesterday, Thursday at 11am. Spanish King Philip VI accompanied by his wife Queen Letizia, opened the event and in his speech talked about the excellent results achieved last year by the Spanish tourism, as he welcomed the public, exhibitors, press and industry professionals to the thirty-fifth edition of Fitur. The monarch stressed the importance of the feria and of the “remarkable growth” of Fitur and Spanish tourism in recent years. He added that he felt proud to “see how Spain’s tourism remains an undeniable power, growing, innovating, improving attractiveness and image and becoming more competitive in a world market.” The Costa Blanca Tourism Board promotes the region at this, the International Tourism Fair of Madrid

(FITUR 2015), and other International exhibitions throughout the year, to present the tourist offer of the 141 municipalities in the province. On opening day, the Deputy for Tourism Joaquín Albaladejo, was involved ina a number of culturally diverse professional meetings, workshops and presentations of the destination with the aim of promoting the area for its sun and beaches, interior, sports, dining and entertainment in the province of Alicante. Valencia’s Minister of Tourism, Maximo Buch, highlighted not only the growth of foreign tourism to Spain but also the revival of domestic demand. Minister of Development, Ana Pastor noted: “not only does Spain offer the best in tourist information but we have plans to continue growing. We are planning on reaching 75 million international tourists by 2020: On Thursday, Torrevieja offered a rice cooking demonstration and promoted the National Champions that will be taking place in the city this year. Among other activities they also announced the launch of a new Tourist App and a program to open up the Salt Industry as a tourist destination.

King Felipe VI of Spain opened the 35th edition of Fitur

Torrevieja’s new mobile app was presented at Fitur and is live

Continued from front page THERE IS information on What to do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay, Where to park, Cultural Outings and Parking spaces, Beaches, Cultural Spaces, Sports. Also noteworthy is the geolocation of the places listed, with distances from point to point. The development of this app was made by the local company Informedia, at a cost of 5,800€. Content will be updated through the existing website for Tourism Torrevieja: www.turismodetorrevieja.com, whose content is managed by the staff of the Municipal Bureau of Tourism Torrevieja.

Costa Blanca temperatures go crazy

Making the best of the temperatures

TEMPERATURES ON the Costa Blanca and further South are seeing a crazy range of temperatures ranging from 6º to 22º in the course of just one day as the Azores anticyclone brings a return of Spring weather. But make the best of it as this mad but welcome phenomenon is to continue only until Sunday.

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Doctors urge Calpol makers to ditch the flavour THE INFANT suspension medication Calpol is under fire from doctors because of its sweet flavour which makes it so palatable. by Jan Gamm Medical experts are urging manufacturers Johnson & Johnson to make it a little less tasty and change its appearance in order to help discourage overdose. Calpol is a sugar-free paracetemol-based medication that is pink in

colour and tastes like strawberries - 12 million bottles are sold every year in the UK. It is not readily available in Spain although many British Mums bring it into the country regularly and keep it as a medicine cabinet ‘standby’. Irresponsible parents have been known to use it as a regular nightly sleep inducer, yet

No more heavy lorries for Spain’s B roads THE DEVELOPMENT Ministry has plans to keep heavy goods vehicles off Spain’s busy B roads by subsiding motorway tolls. The government is to pay 50% of the costs of motorway tolls while banning such vehicles from a total of 1,350km of single lane roads currently frequented simply because they are ‘free’. Minister for Public Works Ana Pastor, with the cooperation of the DGT intends to bring the measures in starting in the second quarter of this year. The intention is to limit the wear on B roads and also reduce the number of fatalities where heavy good vehicles are involved. The move is said to have met with the approval of the haulage sector.

overdoses of Calpol can cause severe liver damage. In the UK an average of five children per day are hospitalised due to Calpol overdose. The Spanish equivalent to Calpol is Apiretal, with a flavour that is not as popular with kids as the strawberry-flavoured Calpol. Dalsy is also given, an ibuprofen-based medication.

It is not readily available in Spain

Infanta selling her Barcelona villa for knock down price THE INFANTA Cristina and her husband Iñaki Urdangarín, Duke of Palma, are selling their Barcelona mansion in upmarket Pedralbes to pay off their civil liabilities in connection with charges of money-laundering and public fund embezzlement. The property was embargoed by Judge José Castro in order to guarantee payment of the €6.1 million fine which could be imposed upon the couple. The property was put up for sale for €8 million but so far only €6 million has been offered – it seems a buyer’s market affects even royalty…

Fresh start for PCN by Jack Troughton

THE FUTURE of charity Paul Cunningham Nurses and its free hospice home care for people in the south of the region has been secured through an agreement with a commercial company. Complex regulations in Spain have become too much of a burden for the charity – it will now work with the Angels Nursing Group, a private nursing company expanding into the Costa Blanca from Almeria and the Costa Del Sol. However, PCN founder Jennifer Cunningham told RTN this week the free hospice care offered by the charity would continue. “There will be absolutely no change for the people using us and all the money we raise will go to help the hospice patients.” PCN was founded eight years ago in memory of Jennifer’s son Paul, who passed away in 1994. “He lived in a hospice for some months and that inspired me to offer this care in the home.” Fund raising, donations and the proceeds of three “very successful” charity shops in La Marina, Playa Flamenca, and Quesada, have funded the nursing service. But Jennifer said it was extremely expensive – qualified nurses had to be legal in Spain, their medical bags had to be constantly refilled, and specialised nursing equipment had to be provided. Employment law was a major headache. In Spain charities are not allowed to employ people and a public ‘SL’ company was opened to stay legal. Jennifer added: “But I realised I would not be able to sustain a charity offering free hospice care in the home unless I thought very differently. The PCN board had meeting regarding this and it was decided to approach various nursing homes and nursing service companies.”

group, signing a contract this week to become a ‘satellite’ of the family run company. “What I was absolutely determined to achieve was exactly the same service but importantly with us as a satellite – we also offer private nursing services and that’s what they do.” Existing PCN nurses will transfer to the Angels and the charity’s carnation logo will be incorporated into the uniforms. And Jennifer said the company also offered a pendant alarm button service and this would now be offered free to PCN hospice patients – allowing a 24 hour call out service. She said PCN would also be selling these to the general public and a donation would be made to the charity for each one sold. “One of the Angels Nursing Group targets is to have a care home with a hospice ward – which will now become the Paul Cunningham Hospice Ward.” Jennifer added: “I was very distressed over how things were going and the thought we might lose the charity. I think with the help of the Angels we will be able to expand PCN’s services.”

SATELLITE She had met Lee Wakeman, managing director of Angels Nursing Group, some years ago and opened discussions with the

Jennifer Cunningham

Barbie takes a nose dive ONE OF the world’s most popular toys of all time for little girls, the iconic Barbie, has seemingly gone out of style. Toy giant Mattel has removed its CEO Bryan Stockton after only a three-year tenure, replacing him with Christopher Sinclair in a frantic bid to rescue the popularity of its number one all-time best seller after dismal sales were recorded for a fifth consecutive quarter. Sales of Barbie dolls fell 21 per cent in Mattel’s third quarter.

The search for Cervantes FORENSIC EXPERTS commenced excavating graves on Saturday in the tiny chapel of the Convent of the Barefoot Trinitarians in Madrid, hoping to uncover the final resting place of Spain’s most famous author - and writer of Don Quixote – the literary giant Miguel de Cervantes. He was buried in 1616 in the ‘Barrio de las Letras’ (the ‘literary quarter’) but no one knows exactly where. Two scientists studied images obtained from within a wall niche by using an endoscope camera carefully

inserted through a tiny hole. Project leader Almudena Garcia Rubio said that if they don’t find Cervantes’ remains in the crypt, there are four other possible locations at the convent yet to be explored. The mission is to find the bones of a person with very specific characteristics: a man of 69, with only six teeth and an atrophied hand with traces of lead (Cervantes’ left forearm and hand were injured at the Battle of Lepanto). A coffin, yet to be examined, has been found with the initials ‘MC’ inlaid in iron.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

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30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

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letter of the week

One eye on the ballot box THE LOCAL papers are awash with statements from pensioners who like ourselves feel frustrated at the decision by Duncan Smith and his cronies to remove our fuel allowance. Normally we shrug our shoulders and think there is nothing we can do as we don’t have any voting rights. However we do have an army of family and friends in the UK who over the next few months will be visiting the Ballot Box and for many, including our grandchildren, it will be for the first time. We have sent an email to all our contacts in the UK and have asked them to contact their local MP. While many will have their own way of asking the questions, we have suggested the following as a template letter: Dear MP, I am currently considering which party to support at the General Election in May. I am having some difficulty understanding why I should support a party who has decided to withdraw a benefit to my friends/ family who are pensioners and decided to live abroad. I refer of course to the decision to remove the winter fuel allowance, when there are more obvious cases of misuse of the system, I would be pleased to receive your reply. If we all do this it should give cause for concern, as most MPs do have one eye on the ballot box. Keith and Judy Braddock, Murcia

Overcharging bank I WOULD like to warn all customers of a Spanish bank, particularly pensioners who bank with them, that they should check their annual fees for credit and debit cards; In our case each year they overcharge and it is only when I bring it to their attention that I get a refund. In August this year they charged us 40€ for one credit card when it should only be 10€. In September they charged 40€ for two debit cards when it should only be 20€. I asked at the bank why the system could not be amended and was told that it was not possible - so if I don’t check it would go unnoticed. I am sure that there

are pensioners who just don’t check and you can imagine the extra money they are making. In fact in the last couple of months they have overcharged us by more than €70. They charged interest of over 20€ on goods bought in August and paid in full in September and agreed it was taken incorrectly but I still have not had this money back. I wrote to the manager of the head office in Murcia and sent it recorded delivery and have not even had an acknowledgment, plus two copy emails also sent. I just want this message to be a warning to others. B Brady

Pretty short-sighted RE THE letter from Bernie saying motorhome visitors should be made to pay a fee just for being here with a motorhome: this seems pretty short-sighted. All visitors coming here spend money and thus support our economy and provide much needed employment. Who cares if they park on a part of a remote public beach, and get their water free - the real cost of which is a pittance… In addition they buy food, drinks, use restaurants, bars etc., and they also buy petrol/diesel, which is taxed. As for what do they do with their waste tanks? Well as the writer says he/she is a motorhomer, she knows one can go to a camp ground and empty the tanks for a small fee, which is probably what most owners would do. Elaine Gonzales

Try Earplugs! WITH REFERENCE to speaking to the Mayor about an ‘antisocial display’, may I suggest you try a pair of earplugs? Failing that, try moving to an apartment a few floors up. Children have been playing in the streets for hundreds of years in a Spanish village which should not be considered an ‘elderly retirement home’. Terry White, Vergel

by Keith Nicol

by Jan Gamm

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Torrevieja new wireless services by Keith Nicol WIFI SERVICE around Torrevieja’s public areas and zones will soon be expanded throughout the municipality. At present, wifi exists in several civic and cultural centres including the Library, ‘Virgen del Carmen’ Cultural Centre and Tourist Office. This week, Torrevieja’s Councillor for Innovation and Information, Joaquín Albaladejo, announced the imminent installation and commissioning of a pilot network system in Torrevieja municipal. Albaladejo said; “in order to complement existing channels for citizen participation and facilitate access for citizens to the many municipal services offered through ‘eGovernment’, the City of Torrevieja is installing a set of zones that will enable wireless access to Internet portals. The service will offer present and future applications, primarily aimed at responding to functional needs for Citizen Participation, Public Safety and Civil Protection, as well as portals and applications associations and citizens’ organizations.” The ‘wifi’ service, in the first phase, will be a pilot project whose duration is set

at one year. Subsequently, in its second phase, the system will be fully open, ie, there will be a network of free Internet access. The wifi service will be installed on Constitution Square, Paseo Vista Alegre, Plaza de Oriente, Plaza de Encarnacion Puchol (La Mata) and the area of the Sports City near the Palacio de los Deportes “Infanta Cristina”. Also during four summer months, wifi service will be offered on the beaches. This service has been awarded to the local television company Costa Blanca SL for 17,990€.

Joaquín Albaladejo, Councillor for Innovation and Information

Promoting Benidorm in the UK THE STRENGTH of sterling is good news for Benidorm – and the Tourism Foundation are seeking to increase the number of British holiday makers coming to the resort. The 2015 advertising budget for the Foundation has increased from 100,000€ to 400,000€, with over half being spent on an ambitious promotional drive in the UK. A number of campaigns will commence from February, concentrating in Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle and Liverpool – on buses, bus shelters and awnings. They have also collaborated with a major chain of cafés, printing 175,000 glasses with the slogan “I´d love to be in Benidorm right now”. Following success last year to win a holiday to Benidorm, this year they have collaborated with supermarket chain Morrisons. They will be running a competition in their free in store magazine, which has a circulation of 1.4 million copies in addition to their website and newsletter. Another advertising campaign will be run in Ireland this month, in the ´Irish Independent´ newspaper, including a holiday competition in addition to inclusion in ´National Geographic Traveller´ magazine in the March, May and June editions.

Press awards night THE ANNUAL Torrevieja Press awards night was held last Thursday evening.

Torrevieja’s Media handed out their Awards to the local projects, parters and politicians

by Keith Nicol The evening brings together representatives from the Spanish and International media, including photographers, writers, journalists, broadcasters and politicians. It’s a night when local politicians set aside their politics and enjoy a night of friendship with the local media. Thursday’s event took place two days before the celebration of the Patron Saint of Journalists; San Francisco de Sales. The dinner was held at the Bar-Restaurant “La Gaviota” and attended by almost all local Spanish media outlets, along with the Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon, accompanied by the provincial deputy, Joaquín Albaladejo and councillors, Agustina Esteve, Rosario Martínez, Lola Sanchez, Carmen Gómez, Mamem Mateo, Luis María Pizana, Francisco Moreno, Inmaculada Montesinos and Jose Antonio Sanchez along with Eduardo Gil who took home the award for being the most helpful person with the media.

The short Award Ceremony for the Year 2014, was presented by Francisco Reyes, with the first award going to the project “Lend me your eyes” and the Reading Club “Ambigú” that is directed and coordinated by Fernando Guardiola and Carmen Muñoz with the award collected by Isabel Restrepo, voluntary founder of Project. The ‘Media Partner of the Year’ was awarded to photographer, Antonio García while in the world of politics, the “Rascasa” award went to Domingo Soler Torregrosa. The evening was closed by the Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolon Sanchez, who asked for all of Torrevieja’s politicians to learn from the press at the time and to have respect and kindness toward others and said he regretted that the opposition parties had not shown up to celebrate this evening with the Press, that happened just once a year, when the journalists themselves come promptly to each of their press conferences, although he also passed on the apologizes from Ángel Sáez who is recovering from an accident.

Nadal out of the Australian Open SPANISH TENNIS ace Rafael Nadal followed Roger Federer out of the Australian Open on Tuesday, losing in straight sets to Tomas Berdych, despite beating him in an incredible 17 previous encounters. Nadal was seriously under par, out-classed by Berdych at Melbourne Park by 6-2 6-0 7-6 (7-5).

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Alimentos Solidarios takes stock by Keith Nicol DURING 2014 the Asociación Alimentos Solidarios, Torrevieja charity kitchen for the needy, served a total of 50,176 menus to local beneficiaries. Located on the corner of Calle Apollo and San Pascual, every weekday a team of volunteer chefs prepares meals for needy families and individuals and put together special packages to help them through the weekends, holidays and Red Days, Monday through Friday, except in August, serving upwards of 380 menus daily. In addition to this, throughout the year, beneficiaries who have dependent children, receive special weekend supplies of biscuit packets totalling 18,883, plus 22,854 units of juices and pastries and Breakfasts for children numbering 22,854 units. To this number they also have a special for Christmas and Christmas Eve, when they supplied 467 goodwill packages, each containing 35 kilos of food per person, which included staples, plus pre-cooked meals typical of the season, as well as toiletries and cleaning supplies. The total weight of these packages is around 15,000 kilos, delivered to families of one to seven members, with an emphasis on those single parents without support and

A few of Alimentos Solidarios volunteers

sometimes the homeless. Asociación Alimentos Solidarios wants to thank all those individuals, groups, clubs, schools and associations from all segments and corners of the city of Torrevieja and surrounding areas, who provide support, particularly during the holiday campaign when their facilities received more than 10,000 kilos of food of all kinds, as well as numerous financial donations together with a yearly grant from the City Council of Torrevieja, that enables the functioning

of their social catering program. Alimentos SolidariosTorrevieja is currently composed of 87 volunteers who cover all the operational tasks including cooking, kitchen management, cleaning, collection and storage, office and administration, event management and logistics. The Board of Directors of the association believes that without the selfless work of all volunteers it would not be possible to provide any of the services that are so valuable for the community.

Lions support ALPE FOLLOWING THE support given to ALPE Torrevieja in recent months, where the aim is to provide and furnish a much needed sensory room for the students, the Torrevieja Costa Lions Club embarked on their annual festive season fund raising, with the guarantee that every cent raised would go towards the ALPE project. ALPE Torrevieja is an educational and social facility for disabled and handicapped children and young adults. With the help of very generous friends and members of the public who donated at each of the events, the Lions raised 2,800.00 euros. Lion President Iain Bennett accompanied by Lions Peter and Polly Long were delighted when they were invited to attend a celebration get together at ALPE entitled “ Te de la Amistad” along with representatives of other local NGOs’ on Tuesday. During the celebration tea everyone was shown a presentation of the latest work undertaken by the staff and students of ALPE. All present were given a conducted tour of the ALPE project to view work in progress. The Lions were impressed by the progress being made and that previous Lions donations had been spent very wisely with all sorts of gadgetry being purchased. Work however is very much in progress and more funds are needed to bring the facility to a reality. Lion President Iain was pleased to inform all present that the Lions were to present their festive funds to ALPE in a bid to drive the project forward.

LPE President Fina Sala was delighted to receive the donation

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

The Opening of Els Poblets Office by

Jennifer Cunningham

WHAT AN interesting year this is already turning out to be. Even though we have strong competition from some quarters of the industry, my company is holding its own rather well and I feel confident enough to open another office in Els Poblets on Monday 2nd February 2015. Knowing the area fairly well, and recently rediscovering Denia, I have found that there was little on offer ex pats’ insurance requirements. The insurances that I represent both have special divisions, with policies and service, tailor made for ex pats. Therefore I am hoping that when people discover Jennifer Cunningham Consultants are now in their area, they will become one of our loyal clients. The office is in the centre of Els Poblets, by the side of the bridge over the riverbed, opposite Sabadell Bank. There are various places to park and Gavin and Silke will be there to welcome you, offering the good old fashioned service that often seems to be missing. The office is open from 9am to 6pm weekdays, and the telephone number is 96 647 5562. Along with my other offices, we will be offering general insurance by an excellent insurance company Liberty Seguros, as well as the very honest Spanish health insurance company ASSSA, along with funeral plans. Also, under our Ex Pat logo, offer financial services by fully regulated consultants, and Life insurance which the premium is often 50% cheaper than the banks can offer. Also, as a separate company, but as part as my enterprise, we can now offer properties to rent and buy. Many of our clients are appreciative of the service that we offer

and love the fact that they can do everything under one roof, including the Claims and Renewals Departments. We are also able to offer our policies in German, Dutch, Spanish, French and of course English. For the first 50 customers who take out a new policy at the Els Poblets office, there will be a useful welcome gift. Gavin and Silke look forward to welcoming you. On my Sound Advice programme, on the last Thursday of the month on Bay Radio at 1pm, I have mentioned the need to obtain a Spanish driving licence from 19th January 2015. If the police discover you do not have or have not applied for a Spanish Driving Licence, this requirement will be reinforced by the issuing of denuncias and fines: those who have been a resident for more than two years may find their licence is taken away and they will be unable to drive. You will need to make an appointment at Trafico in your province and take with you passport, residencia, and padron that has been renewed in the last three months, driving licence, passport style photographs and completed form Modulo 267, a written statement that you have not been banned from driving by law in another country, plus confirmation that you do not hold any other driving licence or permit, plus the paperwork for the basic medical. If you are over 70, you will require a full medical. Please note that the old style paper licences are not standard EU issue and need to be changed without delay for a driving licence card with a photograph. This applies whether you are going to change your licence to a Spanish one or not.

Although the cut off date was January 19th 2015, I think you will discover that to do the change-over will not be easy and may take a long time, but it is important to get your application in as soon as possible to keep the police happy and away from your wallet, because this is another easy way for the police to increase their income. I am always staggered when I hear a client is thinking of going to a UK insurance company to insure their house or car in Spain. The car insurance would only be valid for a short period of time, approximately three months, no automatic grua service will be available, and any claims will be a nightmare as they are outside the Spanish system and will take months to be resolved. I also have to smile when my staff are told by clients, that their house insurance offers up to £5 million as public liability, when the maximum you will get from any court in Spain will be 300,000€. So basically, you are wasting your money when you take this type of insurance. I wonder why people would even think of doing this when they live in another country – make it easier on yourself and your family but doing it the Spanish way. If you discover within the next few months that your health insurance company has changed to another company, and the services that you were used to, including the doctors, may not still be available to you, or maybe the premium has increased to an uncomfortable level, then please do not hesitate to contact Mandy in the Javea office on 96 646 1690, who will be delighted to give you advice on alternative policies.

by Patricia Thompson

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Red Cross opens its doors JAVEA RED Cross is showcasing its valuable work within the communities in the area and welcoming visitors to its headquarters – tucked away in one of the historic buildings of the Old Town.

Jose Luis Domenach receives the charity cheque

by Jack Troughton This week members of Blu, Grant A Wish, and the Original Charity Shop and Library were amongst groups given a tour of the building and a presentation by Red Cross staff and volunteers to underline the depth of support provided to individuals and families. And an unexpected highlight was a 5,000€ donation from the Original Charity Shop to Red Cross President Jose Luis Domenach. The money will go towards buying a new specially adapted minibus with wheelchair access and an electric lift. It will replace the existing vehicle, which is due to be retired, but still provides a valuable service transport for the elderly, frail and disabled – enabling them to keep appointments at doctors and hospitals. The charity also monitors emergency buttons used by older people living alone. The visitors were also able to see how food parcels are made up and distributed to those in the area still suffering hardship as a result

of the ongoing economic downturn. ASSIST It was also explained how the Red Cross helped unemployed people with job applications and writing a new CV, and assisted the children of families in need with homework and a welcome evening snack. In Javea the Red Cross is also responsible for a team of lifeguards on the town’s beaches in the summer season and provides crew for the rescue boats. The open door policy has been organised with the help of Red Cross supporter Sandy Tsalikidis Edwards, who would be happy to welcome other individuals and groups to the building. She hopes when people see the “tireless efforts” of the team they will be encouraged to help fund the services provided by the Red Cross with a donation. To contact Sandy, call 626 681 720, email ambulanciaparajavea@live.com, or go to www.facebook.com/ambulancia.javea

Thanks for the memory SOCIAL SERVICES in Benitachell have organised a ‘memory workshop’ for people aged over 50 offering techniques and tips to improve both attention and memory in everyday life. The course is free and will be taught by qualified staff and registration is open. The classes begin on Thursday 5th February from 9.30am to 11am and continue every Thursday. Scientists believe mental activity and exercise of the memory is an important way of helping people – especially the elderly - with their everyday lives. Space on the course is limited and to book a place call Benitachell’s Department of Social Services on 96 649 3369 ext 130, or email serveissocials@elpoblenoudebenitatxell.org

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

Visit the Salt Mines from June

IF YOU have ever passed by the Salt works in Torrevieja and wonder how they manage to produce those impressive salt pyramids, from June 2015 you will be able to find out. by Keith Nicol On Wednesday at Fitur, Spain’s largest tourism fair, Torrevieja Mayor, Eduardo Dolon, accompanied by the Deputy Provincial Tourism, Joaquín Albaladejo and the Director General of the Grupo Salinas, Emilio Diaz Caneja, presented information about a new tourist offering, tours of the Salinas de Torrevieja. The presentation ceremony was also attended by the Vice President of the Generalitat Valenciana, José Ciscar, Councillor for the Environment, Francisco Moreno, and the Councillor for Torrevieja Tourism, Luis María Pizana. The new tourist attraction will allow an average of 30,000 people to visit the site each year, discover more about the salt industry: the production and exploitation of salt, the conservation of biodiversity and to see first hand how salt is produced for different marketplaces. The tourist attraction will open in June of this year 2015, having already passed all the required approvals by the Generalitat Valenciana. Eduardo Dolon noted that; “These guided visits to the salt industry will be a qualitative leap for Tourism Torrevieja, in addition to an extensive schedule of tours to make it a success with visitors.” El Grupo Salinas already has a tourist site of this kind in the south of France, in Aigues-

Torrevieja’s Salt facility opens their visitor doors in June 2015

Mortes (Dead Waters), which welcomed more than 126,000 tourists in 2014. The City Council and Grupo Salinas have designed a specific route: Departure will be made by a small train from the Paseo de la Libertad,, and head straight to the heart of the salt lakes, where visitors can see various items such as:. the Mountains of salt, Old Chemical Complex, the crystallizers, the

stacker or the unmistakable Rosa Laguna On tour, you can learn all about the production of salt and at the Salt Industry Interpretation Centre you can also find a retail space that will offer a range of specific products related all the salt. The salt tours can be taken every day of the week from June to October with services every ninety minutes: in June, September, October: 10::00,am 11:30am, 1:00pm, 4:00pm,

5:30pm and 7:00pm. During July and August tours will be offered at 5:00pm, 6:30pm and 8:00. This period could be extended in time depending on demand and environmental conditions. The scheme is well under way as they have already begun to develop various promotional tools such as, the logo, signage and website: http://www.visitasalinasdetorrevieja. com, to be operational in February 2015.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

home and garden

Maximising spring colour

Dick Handscombe Holistic gardener and author

ALTHOUGH MANY of us have cold wintery weather, especially at night, let’s look forward to the Spring when we can achieve a simultaneous explosion of colour from trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs. Spring in Spanish gardens is essentially the period from March to the end of May and often starts seriously with the flowering of the Judas or Love tree with its bright blood-coloured flowers oozing out of the branches before any leaves appear. There have been earlier spring-like signs such as the flowering of almonds and daffodils. But these only raise false hopes of warmer Spring weather as cold snowy weather often comes after the almond blossom of late December to February. Establishing a Spring garden takes several years so what should we consider planting once the frosts are past - or soon if you have never had a frost. FLOWERING TREES Early spring flowering: Reliable white and pink blossoms include fruit trees such as deciduous Pears, Quince, Cherry and Apricots. But watch out - Apricots are normally the first to flower and often suffer damage from late wintry storms. March/April is also the main season for orange blossom. Plant a few, or even just one, evergreen Orange, Mandarin and Lemon tree in the garden and the spring air will be filled with the sweet scent of the profuse hatch of white flowers. Plant a ‘Luna’, ‘Four Seasons’ or ‘Eureka’ lemon and you can achieve a similar effect every six or eight weeks of the year, but on a smaller scale. Late spring flowering: As the temperatures warm up, more spectacular trees such as the Callistemon (Bottle Brush tree), Oleander, Jacaranda, Magnolia, Schinus (Mock Pepper Tree),the spring flowering

Mimosa, Philadelphus ( Mock Orange), Viburnum, the miniature and full size waxy red flowered Pomegranate and showy Tamarisk start to flower.

rockery or as specimens in terrace pots some are sure to be in flower. Others will have already finished flowering or will follow on later.

SHRUBS Camellias of all colours, yellow Brooms, low growing Purple Lantanas and Plumbago are amongst the earliest to flower. Followed by Bougainvillas, Solanums, Wisteria, Honeysuckle, Hibiscus, the taller red, orange and yellow Lantanas, Rock Roses and of course Roses if you have a suitable soil rich in humus and water retaining. Although only white or whitish pink one has to plant a Jasmine for the exotic scent.

BULBS, CORMS AND RHIZOMES Bulbs and Rhizomes planted in pots, containers and corners of the garden can be attractive ingredients in the Spring display. If you have gaps in the garden, or are spending the winter laying out a new garden and improving the soil, March and April are good times to plant: roots will have time to establish before hotter days in early summer. For those with gardens the book ‘Your Garden on Spain, From Planning to Planting and Maintenance’ can be an essential guide. If you are limited to the windowsills, balconies and terraces ‘Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style’ can speed your conversion of dead spaces into enviable outdoor living spaces: Both available from Amazon Books and other internet shops.

PERENNIALS A bed of perennials or plants mixed in with shrubs can give a very colourful long-lasting display. Try planting the elegant Bird of Paradise flower (Strelitzia), Echium with its impressive leaves and spires of blue or white flowers, purple red and yellow Margaritas, brilliant coloured Rudbeckias, Valerian with continuous pink flowerings, Acanthus, and of course Geraniums. But do ensure that you spray them against the dreaded Geranium Moth the day you purchase them and then every ten days. At the front of beds, around ponds, on the top of walls or in rockeries add low growing plants such as the vividly coloured Gazanias, Mesembryanthemums and Pinks for a carpet of flowers. If you want something tall and spectacular plant a few Agaves Attenuate and wait patiently for them to flower. It will take a few years but will be worth the wait. In the herb garden Rosemary, Thyme, Sage and Rue will probably be in flower. If you have succulents on a

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

legal

Carlos Baos

from White & Baos Abogados Solicitors Lawyers

Challenging or contesting a Spanish Will WE ARE pleased to report a new successful result challenging a Spanish will. Spanish Law could apply when a foreigner is domiciled in Spain, or has all his real estate assets Spain, etc. This could be your case! As we have mentioned in previous articles, currently (until the European Regulation 650/2012 is applicable from 17th of August 2015 which could change the scenario), it may be possible for children, spouses or ascendants to contest a Spanish Will, (depending on the individual circumstances) when they have not been appointed beneficiaries in the Spanish Will, iF the national law of the deceased understands that Spanish Law should be the applicable law to the succession and therefore must govern the inheritance. In a new case, similar to another won in court last year by our firm, we have been able to agree with the spouse appointed on the Will as the sole beneficiary, that part of the estate should be awarded to the deceased’s children, as we understood that the applicable law to the succession was the Spanish Inheritance Law and therefore, the children were entitled to 2/3 of the assets of the Estate by law, independent to the wording of the Spanish Will and the wish of the deceased. As explained in previous articles, in Spain it is understood that the applicable law to an

inheritance is the national law of the deceased. In this case, the deceased was English, and the law in England & Wales states that in relation to moveable assets, the law of the country of domicile of the deceased should apply (in this case that was Spain), and in relation to immoveable assets (Land or buildings), the law of the country where the property is located should apply ( in this case that was also Spain). As the deceased was domiciled in Spain, and all his real estate assets were situated in Spain, the English Law “understood” the Spanish Law to be the applicable one for the succession. This legal renvoi is only normally accepted by Spanish Courts if the principles of universality and unity of the inheritance are respected, which in this case they were, with Spanish law being the only law to govern all the assets of the deceased. Fortunately, knowledge of the international law and court precedents by the parties involved in the case allowed us to reach an agreement without the need of going to court. In any legal dispute regarding a Will or an inheritance of a non Spanish National ( British, Irish, German,

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

French, Belgian, etc.) , it is essential to check if the national law of the deceased and or testator / testatrix understands that Spanish Law applies. If you want to contest, challenge or dispute a Spanish Will, or you want to make sure that your Will could not be contested or challenged, we can assist you, contact us.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

money

Volatility is back

Christina Brady

Regional Manager of Blacktower Costa Blanca

ALL THE signs are that we are in for a bumpy ride in 2015 in respect to the financial markets. With Europe leading the way with three events in the last few weeks that made the markets react. FIRSTLY THERE was the surprise move by the Swiss to stop holding down the value of the Swiss Frank against the Euro. The main reason was it was just becoming too expensive, it would have cost them $100 billion this month alone and they saw problems ahead with the value of the Euro if QE started. Next the ECB decided to start QE a Euro1.1 trillion stimulus program to try to get banks and financial institutions to lend out more money to individuals and companies who in turn will buy goods kick starting inflation. Whether this will work or not has to be seen, usually banks just use the money to shore up their balance sheets. The average man on the street sees no change in the cost of borrowing. Then to top it all off we had the Greek election, which was won by Syriza, an anti austerity party, not a surprise for most of us, but a huge kick in the butt for the world’s elite, that’s the 1% of the

world’s population that have more wealth than the other 99% put together. This doesn’t necessarily mean that Greece will exit the Euro or leave the Eurozone, but what is does mean is there is a huge risk of contagion, Italy, France, pain and other countries all have anti austerity parties and with the majority of their population fed but with being bully and taxed to the hilt by the ECB it’s time for a big change. What all the above do mean is trouble for the Eurozone, remember the UK is part of the Eurozone. The UK depends on the Eurozone to buy its exports, if they become too expensive growth in the UK will slow down and unemployment will go up. For expats living in Spain it will mean that your Sterling income will go further, with the real possibility of the

exchange rate going as high as 1.45. All in all 2015 is going to a very volatile year across Europe with repercussions across the world if things are not dealt with on a timely manner instead of the usual procrastination. If you would like to look at the investment options available that can offer some protection against the effects of volatility please contact me by email christina.brady@blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330.

The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is licenced by the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licenced in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) Licence No: 00805B and registered with the DGS in Spain.

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

currency & wealth

Book now for the ‘Currency and Wealth Clinic’ By Jack Troughton PROFESSIONALS FROM foreign exchange specialist Moneycorp and independent financial experts Blacktower are running the new and unique ‘Currency and Wealth Clinic. Friendly face-to-face meetings offer people advice on how to keep more of their cash when moving money around the world or planning key investments. Readers are invited to make an appointment at a string of venues to sit down and have a chat about both important areas – helping ensure everyone can get the best deal possible. Moneycorp has 35 years of experience and has been RTN’s recommended foreign exchange provider for nearly six years. It has helped people save thousands of Euros in charges and fees during that time. The Blacktower Financial Management Group has been established over 25 years with offices in the UK and across Europe. It offers independent financial advice and tailor made solutions to meet any individual’s needs and requirements. The Currency and Wealth Clinics

are being held weekly from February, initially in Javea, Moraira, Benidorm, Albir, Gandia and Oliva, Jalon, Calpe, and El Campello. It is the perfect opportunity to have a free financial health check. Moneycorp offers an efficient foreign exchange service for one-off payments, while many expats benefit from the specialist regular payment plan when bringing Euros into Spain from Sterling. There is also ‘Moneycorp Online’ – an opportunity for clients to move money at times that suit them without the need to contact a dealer. And Moneycorp is particularly hoping to meet people who have sold or have property up for sale – whether they are waiting to sell or nearing completion – because the company offers a specialised repatriation service which can increase the funds clients receive. These savings are usually made through the competitive sates offered by the specialist against typical bank fees and charges. CHOICE People looking to make new investments or wishing to confirm they have made the best choice over existing arrangements can freely discuss the alternatives with

Christina Brady and Kevin Wright

Blacktower. Blacktower specialises in free, impartial, independent advice to expats on all wealth management issues, savings, investments, and pensions. Moneycorp’s Kevin Wright said: “The clinics are not financial seminars, where many people just go along for the coffee and biscuits, and they are not hard sell; it is all about quality expert advice on an individual basis.” He said if people could not make

a particular clinic in their area, they could still call and ask for an appointment “and we will go and see them.” And Christina Brady, Blacktower’s Regional Manager, added: “There is absolutely no pressure, it’s all about advice and putting people’s minds at ease – we are working together to help them. “I want people to come along and ask questions and to see if I can solve problems. This is all a friendly face to face conversation about

their specific needs and no one else’s...everything is specifically tailored around them.” The Currency and Wealth Clinic will be held on Thursdays between 10am and 2pm on the following dates: Javea on 19th February; Moraira on 26th February; Albir on 5th March; Jalon on 12th March; Calpe on 29th March; Gandia and Oliva on 26th March; El Campello on 16th April; and Benidorm on 23rd April. Appointments are essential, to reserve a place call 658 892 330.

Life

Priscilla in Madrid TAKE A fabulous three-day break in Spain’s fascinating capital for a pocketfriendly 150€ per person (Single supplement 60€) with Gandia Tours: 10th April. ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ at the Nuevo Alcala Theatre

The first day we travel toward Madrid across the plains of La Mancha, through Albacete and Cuenca with a number of stops on the way, arriving at the Ganivet Hotel, Puerto Toledo, in the afternoon: this 3-Star hotel in the heart of Madrid with its classic yet contemporary décor is both comfortable and convenient for the city’s best sights and attractions – and breakfast is included. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT For those who fancy an evening or entertainment, there is an optional excursion to the Nuevo Alcala Theatre on Day One to see ‘Priscilla: Queen of the Desert’ at 65€ per person. Priscilla is the musical story of three friends

who cross the desert in Australia aboard a tired old bus dubbed ‘Priscilla’, in search of love and adventure. It’s a spectacularly colourful show by a cast of 40, with a great disco score and magnificent costumes. Day Two sightseeing starts with breakfast and a tour of the city – or you can see the sights with an official guide (not included). There is so much to see in Madrid – the Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s famous central square; the 18th Century Fuente de la Cibeles by Rodriguez; the shady Paseo de la Castellana lined with historic palaces and modern architecture; the splendid Puerta de Alcalá – the old city gate at the Plaza de la Independencia…and of course the nearby Parque del Retiro. The afternoon offers free time and the opportunity to

visit the world renowned Prado Museum. (Entrance is not included. The normal entry price is 14€ – over 65s can go in for half price. Or an official guide is included at 23€). The Prado is a popular stop and great value for money. There is plenty to see – don’t miss Velasquez’ ‘Las Meninas’ and Goya’s ‘The Third of May’. And take a look at the excellent gift shop! Day Three of this exhilarating tour starts with breakfast before returning to the Costa Blanca with various stops en route. If you have never visited Spain’s outstanding capital, now is your chance to see it in style! For more information call 966 106 872 or visit www.gandiatours.com

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

travel

Aguilas Carnival THE AGUILAS carnival is acknowledged as one of the biggest and best of the carnivals held in Spain before the more serious Easter processions. THE WORD ‘Carnival’ is derived from the word ‘carnal’, suggesting the revealing of more flesh than would be usual. This festival is thought to have started in the late 19th Century, and like all other carnivals in Spain was stopped during the Franco era in deference to the strong moral nature of the regime. Later, as the country returned to democracy, most of these carnivals were reinstated. In Aguilas a number of mythical creatures play a role in their 14-day festival. ‘Musla’ is the spirit of festival, coming to prominence in the days leading up to the main processions. ‘Cuaresma’ then sweeps in to try to spoil the party. Cuaresma is a miserable soul whose whole being is against fun, music and partying, seeking to dampen the fervour of the carnival events. She is overcome by Don Carnal, a fun-loving creature who sends Cuarisma to flight and allows the fun to proceed. Finally we have ‘Hussona’, a sort of contradiction of a creature who is part animal, part human - part civilized, part savage… Through Hussona, things return to normal after the main procession on the last night. This brilliant procession fills the streets on the last night with thousands of scantily clad people in bright, sparkling costumes accompanied by bright lights and lively music. The mood in the town on the last night is all about an exuberant outpouring of fun before the beginning of lent and a return to the more sober matters of life. If you would like to join in the fun of the last night processions, David’s Coachtrips are running coaches to the evening celebration. You can reserve your places by online at www.coachtripsonline.com or by calling (0034) 96 678 5910. The return journey is only 12€. The date is Saturday, 21st February

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

television

30th January - 5th February

friday 30th January BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 BBC Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 The Link 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 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 The Musketeers 23:00 BBC News 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:35 The Graham Norton Show 24:25 Bluestone 42

BBC2

07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 Saints and Scroungers 08:50 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:20 Channel Patrol 10:05 Big Allotment Challenge 11:05 Food & Drink 11:35 The Travel Show 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Great Britons 15:00 Churchill: The Nation’s Farewell 16:00 Young Winston 18:15 Antiques Roadshow 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Antiques Road Trip 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 Food & Drink 22:00 Big Allotment Challenge 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 Weather 24:05 The Road

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Good Morning Britain 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 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tipping Point 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Mel & Sue 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 Benidorm 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:40 Shaun of the Dead

07:00 Countdown 07:45 According to Jim 08:10 The King of Queens 09:00 Frasier 10:05 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:05 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 Car SOS 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Three in a Bed 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 The Simpsons 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown 23:00 The Last Leg 24:05 Catastrophe

07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Traders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS: Los Angeles 16:15 Deadly Sibling Rivalry 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Race to the Pole 21:00 Ice Road Truckers 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side 24:30 Celebrity Big Brother: Live from the House

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 You’ve Been Framed! 07:45 Emmerdale 08:15 Emmerdale 08:45 You’ve Been Framed! 09:15 The Cube 10:15 Psych 11:10 The Chase 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:15 Emmerdale 13:40 Emmerdale 14:15 You’ve Been Framed! 14:45 Psych 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 I Am Legend 24:05 Take Me Out

07:00 Happy Endings 07:20 Charmed 08:00 Made in Chelsea 09:00 Hollyoaks 09:30 New Girl 10:00 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Charmed 13:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Rude(ish) Tube 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Rules of Engagement 17:00 New Girl 17:30 Suburgatory 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 Rude(ish) Tube 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 Marry Me 22:00 Hot Tub Time Machine 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory

saturday 31st January BBC1 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 James Martin: Home Comforts 13:00 BBC News; Weather 13:10 Football Focus 13:50 Saturday Sportsday 14:00 Bargain Hunt 15:00 Escape to the Country 16:00 Homes Under the Hammer 17:00 Final Score 18:20 Pointless Celebrities 19:10 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 19:30 Now You See It 20:00 The Voice UK 21:30 The National Lottery: Win Your Wish List 22:20 Casualty 23:10 BBC News; Weather 23:30 Match of the Day

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:45 Bitter Victory 09:25 Live Tennis 12:30 Animal Park 13:00 James Martin: Home Comforts 13:45 Hollywood Greats 14:25 Lust for Life 16:25 Hidalgo 18:30 The Great British Sewing Bee 19:30 Flog It! 20:30 Attenborough’s Paradise Birds 21:30 Dad’s Army 22:00 The Secret World of Lewis Carroll 23:00 QI 23:30 Ginger & Rosa 24:55 The Tempest

07:00 Childrens TV 09:50 Hulk and the Agents of Smash 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 12:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 13:30 ITV News and Weather 13:34 ITV Central Weather 13:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 14:40 The Undriveables 15:10 Who’s Doing the Dishes? 16:10 Doc Martin 17:10 Big Star’s Little Star 18:10 ITV News Central 18:20 ITV News and Weather 18:30 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 Harry Hill’s Stars in Their Eyes 20:30 Planet’s Got Talent 21:05 Take Me Out 22:20 Jonathan Ross Show 23:25 ITV News and Weather 23:34 ITV Central Weather 23:35 The Shawshank Redemption

07:00 Trans World Sport 08:00 Killarney Adventure Race 08:25 Itera Expedition Race 08:55 The Morning Line 10:00 The King of Queens 10:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:30 Frasier 12:00 Frasier 12:30 The Big Bang Theory 13:00 The Big Bang Theory 13:25 Speed with Guy Martin 14:30 Channel 4 Racing 17:00 Come Dine with Me 18:00 The Big Bang Theory 18:30 The Simpsons 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Channel 4 News 20:00 The Restoration Man 21:00 The World’s Weirdest Weather 22:00 Ted 24:10 Your Highness

07:00 Childrens TV 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:30 LazyTown 11:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 11:35 Access 11:45 Ice Road Truckers 12:45 Ice Road Truckers 13:40 Ice Road Truckers 14:40 Ice Road Truckers 15:40 Columbo: a Friend in Deed 17:35 Columbo: a Deadly State of Mind 19:10 NCIS 20:00 NCIS 20:55 NCIS 21:50 5 News Weekend 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 23:55 Law & Order 24:50 Criminals: Caught on Camera

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 Emmerdale 10:10 Coronation Street 12:40 The Hot Desk 12:50 The Cube 13:55 Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco 15:40 Honey 17:35 ET the Extra-Terrestrial 19:50 The Mummy Returns 22:20 Take Me Out - The Gossip 23:05 Keith Lemon: the Film 24:55 Celebrity Juice

07:00 The Tomorrow People 07:40 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 08:30 Suburgatory 09:00 Charmed 11:00 Made in Chelsea 12:00 2 Broke Girls 12:30 New Girl 13:30 Melissa & Joey 14:00 Melissa & Joey 14:30 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 How I Met Your Mother 15:30 Bad(ish) Robots 16:00 Bad(ish) Robots 16:30 Rude(ish) Tube 17:00 Rude(ish) Tube 17:30 Troy 18:35 The 100 19:35 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 Terminator: Salvation 24:15 The Inbetweeners 24:50 The Inbetweeners

Keith Lemon: the Film 23:05

sunday 1st February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

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 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 Eat Well for Less? 17:00 Your Home in Their Hands 18:00 Songs of Praise 18:35 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 19:00 Animals in Love 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Call the Midwife 22:00 Last Tango in Halifax 23:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 23:30 Match of the Day 2 24:30 The Apprentice USA

07:00 Football League Show 08:20 Countryfile 09:15 Live Tennis 13:00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 14:30 James Martin: Home Comforts 15:00 Food & Drink 15:30 Talking Pictures 16:00 Ivanhoe 17:45 Flog It! Trade Secrets 18:15 Ski Sunday 19:00 This World 20:00 The Motorway: Life in the Fast Lane 21:00 Top Gear 22:00 Dragons’ Den 23:00 True Grit 24:45 New Jack City

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Nerds & Monsters 08:50 Ultimate Spider-Man 09:30 Horrid Henry 09:50 Deadtime Stories 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 12:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 13:30 ITV News and Weather 13:39 ITV Central Weather 13:40 Harry Hill’s Stars in Their Eyes 14:40 Off Their Rockers 15:10 Mel & Sue 16:15 Tipping Point 17:15 The Spy Who Loved Me 19:35 ITV News Central 19:45 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Get Your Act Together 21:15 All Star Family Fortunes 22:00 Mr Selfridge 23:00 ITV News and Weather 23:14 ITV Central Weather 23:15 Perspectives 24:15 LV= Cup Rugby Union

07:20 NFL: Rush Zone 07:45 How I Met Your Mother 08:10 How I Met Your Mother 08:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:30 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 14:30 The Big Bang Theory 15:00 The Simpsons 15:30 The Simpsons 16:00 Penelope 17:50 Channel 4 News 18:20 Mr Popper’s Penguins 20:00 The Jump 21:00 The Hotel 22:00 Our Guy in India 23:05 The Simpsons 23:30 American Football Live

07:00 Childrens TV 09:30 Wanda and the Alien 09:45 Zack and Quack 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:30 LazyTown 11:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 11:35 Access 11:40 Robson’s Extreme Fishing Challenge 12:40 Robson’s Extreme Fishing Challenge 13:35 Robson’s Extreme Fishing Challenge 14:35 A Little Princess 16:25 Hoodwinked 17:55 Made of Honor 19:50 Hellboy II: the Golden Army 21:55 5 News Weekend 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Justice

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:35 Emmerdale 10:25 Coronation Street 12:55 Take Me Out 14:10 Take Me Out - The Gossip 14:55 You’ve Been Framed! 15:25 Scorpion 16:15 Stormbreaker 18:05 Despicable Me 19:55 Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde 22:00 The Matrix 24:40 Tricked

07:00 Made in Chelsea 07:55 2 Broke Girls 08:20 Bad(ish) Robots 08:55 Troy 10:00 How I Met Your Mother 10:30 How I Met Your Mother 11:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Revenge 14:30 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 15:30 The 100 16:30 Melissa & Joey 17:00 Melissa & Joey 17:30 The Big Bang Theory 18:00 The Big Bang Theory 18:30 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 19:00 Marry Me 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 Drillbit Taylor 23:05 The Big Bang Theory 23:35 The Inbetweeners 24:05 The Inbetweeners 24:40 The Cleveland Show

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 11:55 ITV News 11:59 ITV Central Weather 12:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tipping Point 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Mel & Sue 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Richard Wilson on the Road 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Broadchurch 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:40 Jonathan Ross Show

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:00 Frasier 10:05 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:05 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 Car SOS 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Three in a Bed 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Deal or No Deal 17:00 Shipping Wars UK 17:45 Couples Come Dine with Me 18:30 The Simpsons 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Jump 22:00 The Undateables 23:00 Catastrophe 23:35 Bodyshockers 24:40 24 Hours in A&E

07:00 Childrens TV 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Traders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Angels Fall 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Criminals: Caught on Camera 20:30 Car Crash TV 21:00 Celebrity Big Brother 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 10,000 BC 24:00 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 You’ve Been Framed! 07:45 Emmerdale 08:15 Coronation Street 08:45 Coronation Street 09:15 The Cube 10:15 Psych 11:10 The Chase 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:15 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:15 Coronation Street 14:45 Psych 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Through the Keyhole 23:00 Death Race

07:00 Hollyoaks 07:25 Charmed 08:10 Made in Chelsea 09:05 Rude(ish) Tube 09:35 Happy Endings 10:00 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Charmed 13:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Rude(ish) Tube 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 15:00 The Big Bang Theory 16:00 Rules of Engagement 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 The Jump: On the Piste 21:00 New Girl 21:30 New Girl 22:00 Revenge 23:00 Rude Tube 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:35 The Big Bang Theory

monday 2nd February BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 The Link 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 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 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:45 Football Focus 24:30 Waterloo Road

BBC2

08:50 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:20 Channel Patrol 10:05 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip 11:05 Great British Railway Journeys 11:35 Click 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Coast 14:15 The War Lords 14:45 The Road to War 15:40 Mountain 16:40 Open All Hours 17:10 To the Manor Born 17:35 Hi-de-Hi! 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Antiques Map of Britain 20:00 Top Gear 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Only Connect 22:00 A Cook Abroad 23:00 Backchat with Jack Whitehall and His Dad 23:30 Newsnight

Despicable Me 18:05

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

tuesday 3rd February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 The Link 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 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 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:45 Count Arthur Strong 24:15 Gareth Thomas: Game Changer

08:05 Saints and Scroungers 08:50 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:20 Channel Patrol 10:05 Kate Humble Into the Volcano 11:05 Great British Railway Journeys 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Coast 14:20 The War Lords 14:50 The Road to War 15:40 Mountain 16:40 Open All Hours 17:10 To the Manor Born 17:40 Hi-de-Hi! 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great Antiques Map of Britain 20:00 Antiques Road Trip 21:00 Alex Polizzi: The Fixer 22:00 Inside the Commons 23:00 Rory Bremner’s Coalition Report 23:30 Newsnight 24:15 Weather 24:20 Dragons’ Den

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 11:55 ITV News 11:59 ITV Central Weather 12:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tipping Point 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Mel & Sue 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Deirdre and Me: A Tribute 21:00 Bad Builders - Bang to Rights 22:00 Paul O’Grady’s Animal Orphans 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:40 Benidorm 24:10 Carry On Jack

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:00 Frasier 09:35 Frasier 10:05 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:05 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 Car SOS 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Three in a Bed 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Deal or No Deal 17:00 Shipping Wars UK 17:45 Couples Come Dine with Me 18:30 The Simpsons 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Jump 22:00 24 Hours in Police Custody 23:00 Ramsay’s Hotel Hell 23:55 The Mega Brothel

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Traders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Undercover Bridesmaid 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Benefits 21:00 Benidorm ER 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 10,000 BC 24:00 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 You’ve Been Framed! 07:45 Emmerdale 08:15 Coronation Street 08:45 Coronation Street 09:15 The Cube 10:15 Psych 11:10 The Chase 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:15 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:15 Coronation Street 14:45 Psych 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 20:30 The Mummy Returns 23:00 Cockroaches 23:35 Plebs 24:05 Plebs 24:35 Two and a Half Men

07:00 Hollyoaks 07:25 Charmed 08:05 Made in Chelsea 09:05 Rude(ish) Tube 10:00 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Charmed 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Rude(ish) Tube 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 Rules of Engagement 16:30 Rules of Engagement 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 The Jump: On the Piste 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 22:00 The 100 23:00 Supernatural 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory

wednesday 4th February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 The Link 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Match of the Day Live 23:00 BBC News 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:45 A Question of Sport 24:15 Film 2015 24:45 Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil

07:00 Homes Under the Hammer 08:00 Saints and Scroungers 08:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:15 Wanted Down Under 10:00 Life Story 11:00 Great British Railway Journeys 11:30 See Hear 12:00 BBC News 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Coast 14:20 The War Lords 14:50 The Road to War 15:40 Mountain 16:40 Open All Hours 17:10 To the Manor Born 17:40 Hi-de-Hi! 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 The Great Antiques Map of Britain 20:00 Antiques Road Trip 21:00 Alaska - Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 22:00 Wolf Hall 23:00 Up the Women 23:30 Newsnight 24:15 Weather 24:20 Inside the Commons

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 11:55 ITV News 11:59 ITV Central Weather 12:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tipping Point 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Mel & Sue 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 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 23:40 Bring Back Borstal 24:35 I Never Knew That About Britain

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Traders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Another Man’s Wife 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Cowboy Builders 21:00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Age Gap Love 24:00 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 You’ve Been Framed! 07:45 Emmerdale 08:15 You’ve Been Framed! 09:15 The Cube 10:15 Psych 11:10 The Chase 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:15 Emmerdale 13:40 You’ve Been Framed! 14:45 Psych 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 20:55 Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde 23:00 Little Man

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde 20:55

07:00 Hollyoaks 07:25 My Fair Wedding 08:10 Made in Chelsea 09:10 Rude(ish) Tube 09:35 Rude(ish) Tube 10:05 Rules of Engagement 10:35 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Charmed 12:00 Charmed 13:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Rude(ish) Tube 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 Rules of Engagement 16:30 Rules of Engagement 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 The Jump: On the Piste 21:00 Mission: Impossible 23:15 The Big Bang Theory 23:45 The Big Bang Theory 24:15 2 Broke Girls 24:45 Marry Me

thursday 5th February BBC1

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Saints and Scroungers 12:45 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 The Link 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Eat Well for Less? 22:00 Death in Paradise 23:00 BBC News 23:25 BBC Regional News 23:45 Question Time 24:45 This Week

08:05 Saints and Scroungers 08:50 Helicopter Heroes Down Under 09:20 Wanted Down Under 10:05 Six Puppies and Us 11:05 Great British Railway Journeys 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Coast 14:25 The War Lords 14:55 The Road to War 15:45 Mountain 16:45 Open All Hours 17:15 To the Manor Born 17:45 Hi-de-Hi! 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 The Great Antiques Map of Britain 20:00 Antiques Road Trip 21:00 Great British Sewing Bee 22:00 Modern Times 23:00 Charlie Brooker’s Weekly Wipe 23:30 Newsnight 24:15 Weather 24:20 A Cook Abroad

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 11:55 ITV News 11:59 ITV Central Weather 12:00 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 ITV News Central 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tipping Point 16:59 ITV Central Weather 17:00 Mel & Sue 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News Central 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Kyle Files 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Birds of a Feather 22:00 Car Crash Britain 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 ITV News Central 23:40 Kylie: Kiss Me Once 24:50 Ade at Sea

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 3rd Rock from the Sun 08:35 3rd Rock from the Sun 09:05 Frasier 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:35 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:05 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 Car SOS 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Come Dine with Me 14:05 Three in a Bed 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Deal or No Deal 17:00 Shipping Wars UK 17:45 Couples Come Dine with Me 18:30 The Simpsons 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Jump 22:00 Cucumber 23:00 Married Behind Bars 24:05 24 Hours in Police Custody

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Traders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Seduced by Lies 18:00 5 News 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 The Classic Car Show 21:00 Secrets Of 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Botched Up Bodies 24:00 Celebrity Big Brother’s Bit on the Side

07:00 Life’s Funniest Moments 07:25 You’ve Been Framed! 07:45 Emmerdale 08:15 Coronation Street 08:45 You’ve Been Framed! 09:15 The Cube 10:15 Psych 11:10 The Chase 12:15 All Star Family Fortunes 13:15 Emmerdale 13:40 Coronation Street 14:15 Deirdre and Me: A Tribute 14:45 Psych 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Scorpion 23:00 The Keith Lemon Sketch Show 23:30 Reality Bites 24:30 Cockroaches 24:50 Two and a Half Men

07:00 Hollyoaks 07:25 My Fair Wedding 08:10 Made in Chelsea 09:05 Rude(ish) Tube 10:05 Rules of Engagement 11:00 Charmed 13:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Rude(ish) Tube 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 Rules of Engagement 16:30 Rules of Engagement 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 The Jump: On the Piste 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 2 Broke Girls 22:00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 22:30 Marry Me 23:00 Banana 23:35 The Inbetweeners 24:00 The Big Bang Theory 24:30 The Big Bang Theory

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

showbiz goss

Come on Kyle … Give us a smile!

by Peter

Taylor

Writer and Broadcaster

of “ Quote the Week

“

Scottish spinster Jessie Gallan said on her 109th birthday “My secret of long life is staying away from men … they’re more trouble than they’re worth!” hey hey!

THE MAIN feature today may well descend into all-out attack mode, as one of the players in the story is Jeremy Kyle, the other being the mercurial Tom Jones. I say this as my research into Kyle´s long running TV show is really quite frightening. Like Judge Alan Berg, who in 2007 said in the Manchester Evening News “I have had the misfortune of watching The Jeremy Kyle Show, and it seems to me the purpose of this programme is to affect a morbid and depressing display of dysfunctional Elizabeth Hurley is people whose lives are in turmoil!” Right on brudder!! I watched At one point US female vocal group about to perhaps surprise the programme a while back and was astonished at how he TLC produced two multiplatinum ala few, as we will soon plays God Almighty to the troubled folks on the show, but down bums, but despite this big payday they see her playing Queen the years he´s countered several accusations of him exploiting the filed for bankruptcy in 1996. They Helena, a fictional vulnerable by saying he´s intent on helping to solve their personal plan to release their first album in modern-day queen problems, yeah … whilst at the same time keeping the ratings 13 years and are asking their consort of the United up mate! Told you it might go like this diddle-I. Meanwhile fans to pay the recording Kingdom in a new US TV back at the Kyle / Jones story. Last week JK was at the costs. Neil Young did a show’ The Royals.´ The Manchester´s Media City and had decided to have some similar thing and alprogramme has been quiet time backstage in one of the dressing rooms though it sounds a bit produced by US network when suddenly he heard a voice booming out in the iffy, the girls get to E!, and will include her corridor. According to The Sun he then burst open make their record, bed-hopping, partying the door to remonstrate with whoever had dared and the fans get offspring using lines like to disturb Jeremy Kyle and it was boyo himself close up and friend‘You can’t mess with me, stood standing there in all his mighty presence. We ly with them. I’m the princess.’ Oh dear are then informed that JK had a foul look on his face Win Win Huh? oh dear! and was clearly about to have a right go, information that might well have come from our Thomas. We then Grateful Dead formed in California in 1965 and got an actual quote from Tom who apparently pointed at Kyle very quickly got themselves a huge following that and said “Who the f*** is that?” … Alrighty!!! became known as the Deadheads. Their farewell Movie making brothers Joel and Ethen Coen have either written or produced 24 films since concert was at Chicago’s Soldier Field, and twenty 1984, and have won 15 major awards along the way. Last week they were ecstatic when years on to the day the four surviving members plan told they are to be the co-presidents of this year’s Cannes Film Festival. “Being presidents is to go back there and start up a series of farewell concerts. even more of an honour as we’ve never been presidents of anything before,” they said. The If you’re of a mind, and have a computer, check out their festival will run from 13-24 May. music, you´ll love it!

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

ask Sara

by Sara

Bell

Life Coach

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

Workaholic husband

My husband works too much. He constantly stays late at the office, his life is very stressful and I am starting to worry about his health. He says he wants to be successful and for us to have everything we‘ve ever dreamed of having. He doesn’t need to work so hard, and could delegate the workload, but won’t. I want him to be home more. The children are growing up without really knowing him, and I don’t feel I have a husband any more. I believe that success is measured by how happy you are in life. Living life well doesn’t necessarily mean you have to live life lavishly. We all have a living to earn, but compromise is the key here. Make concessions and lower expectations and the pressure will be lifted. Remind your husband that if he doesn’t spend more time with his family, he might not have a family to come home to. And remember, memories live longer than dreams.

Want to be loved I am 45 and prefer to date guys in their 20‘s. None of them seem to want a serious long-term relationship. I tend to fall in love very easily and give my all, but as soon as I do that, I don’t see them for dust. I feel used, unloved and despondent. If you are dating younger men in their 20’s, they won’t want the same things in life as you do. You are looking to settle down and probably get married, while they possibly just want fun. If you are serious about wanting a lasting relationship, I would suggest you look at Guys your own age. It seems important to you that you find someone who is fun loving and young at heart. Not everyone over the age of 40 wants to settle down with their pipe and slippers. I would suggest a social club for singles in your own Town, but also would encourage you to drop the toy boys because their treatment of you isn’t doing your self esteem any good.

Write to Sara in confidence at agonyaunt@roundtownnews.com Sara is available for private consultations Telephone 633 614 476.

Shape your body and face without surgery IF SOMEONE said there was a machine that could melt fat, contour bodies, tighten loose skin, lift faces and diminish wrinkles, how would you respond? You’d be scanning the sky for flying pigs, right! But this awesome machine does exist and it’s the answer to so many beauty problems that it’s almost easier to tell you what it doesn’t do. It’s brilliant for banishing bingo wings, reducing waistlines, trimming thighs and booting out belly fat, bra flab and man boobs. It’ll even take fat out of knees. Wherever you have a problem with hard-to-shift fat or loose skin, Exilis Elite radiofrequency can help. Its skin tightening setting is fantastic for faces, too. It can get rid of your turkey neck, firm your jawline and lift eyes – all while smoothing lines and wrinkles. No wonder the Exilis Elite is winning tons of awards and taking medical aesthetics world by storm. But, the best thing about Exilis Elite is that it has now arrived at Medcare Aesthetics in Benijofar and Alfaz del Pi, and you can get a free consultation by calling 966 860 258. Want to know more? Visit www.medcarespain.com

30 JANJANUARY - 5 Feb 2015 2010 8-14

health

Prevention of varicose veins

PREVENTION OF varicose veins is especially important when you have a family history of varicose veins, or risk factors that can lead to suspicion of their appearance. The following recommendations could prevent its occurrence, especially if there are risk factors that cannot be avoided such as heredity, gender or pregnancy. KEYS TO PREVENTING VARICOSE VEINS: Weight: Excess weight overweight should be avoided, so prevalent in developed societies, to prevent the appearance of varicose veins. So watch your diet. Constipation: It is necessary to control

constipation. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes and cereals is best, to promote bowel movement. These foods contain fibre that captures and makes water softer and a bulky stool, which facilitates intestinal transit. If this is not enough you can use natural supplements such as flaxseed, rich in fibre, or a mild laxative. If constipation persists, consult your doctor. Exercise: physical exercise regularly, especially walking. The mobilisation of leg muscles help push blood back to the heart, preventing a build-up which may dilate the veins. It is also good exercise to go up and down stairs instead of using the elevator. Cycling and swimming are also good exercises for the legs. Here we present some specific exercises to control varices. FOOTWEAR Avoid flat or exceptionally high heels and tight shoes that hinder the movement of the feet. Well fitted and comfortable shoes are recommended, with a sensible heel. CLOTHING Do not use tight clothes then compressing certain areas, making venous return difficult.

POSTURE Avoid standing still or sitting for a long time with legs crossed. If your work requires that it is essential to do so, take short walks periodically, change the position of your legs often and, when possible, put your feet up. It is advisable to sleep with legs slightly raised. Also avoid sitting with legs dangling. TEMPERATURE Avoid high temperatures, especially affecting the lower limbs, and braziers or heaters aimed at the legs, but also exposure to sun dry sauna or hot baths. MASSAGE It is beneficial and enjoyable to receive a daily massage from ankle to thigh with legs raised SCRATCHING Though varicose veins often cause itching, do not scratch, especially when the skin is weakened, as it can break a varicose vein or cause an injury that could easily become infected and will be difficult to heal. If the skin becomes dry use a prescribed moisturiser or cream. HYGIENE In the case of ulcers daily cleaning of the infected area is recommended to avoid the risk of infections. Clean the area with saline and apply ointments containing antibiotics and healing substances. Of course, these measures should be established by a physician.

This article was written by UQAP. Please visit us in either our Altea (650 409 877) or Los Montesinos (966 721 687/650 409 877) clinics.

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

health

What is hypnosis and what can it do? IN MY years of being a hypnotherapist, the one question that I am asked by countless people is, ‘what actually is hypnosis?

By Jonathan Gilchrist: Costa Blanca’s Top Hypnotherapist To which I always respond, ‘it’s a bit different to what you think!’ Hypnosis itself is only a state of relaxation, but it’s while a person is in that relaxed state that the mind becomes suggestible and it is that suggestible state that is used to help a person to stop smoking, lose weight, overcome their phobia, help with anxiety and confidence, alcoholism, stress, nail biting.. The list goes on! Sounds interesting doesn’t it? Check out my website and read a lot more about what

hypnosis can do! Are you someone who needs help with any of these problems? Would you like to overcome them? Well, it’s as simple as picking up your phone and giving me a call! Jonathan holds weekly clinics in Cabo Roig, Quesada, Benidorm & Calpe For a free of charge consultation, an appointment, a brochure contact Jonathan on 691 784 954 or email jonathangilchristbh@gmail.com Or visit the website jonathangilchristinspain.com

WHO or Dr Hans Christian Madsen D.C , a chiropract for 32 years. Member of (Over 22 years experience with lasers) A practic Chiro pean Euro and ish Span sh, the Dani Association. WHAT ul or stiff Treatments for those who suffer from painf RIES, INJU AL SPIN , joints, ARTHRITIS damaged (Sciatica, disc -related) SPORTS INJURIES, itions, cond ul painf r tendons, muscles and othe -related back and ITUS TINN ed -relat including neck PAINFUL FEET. WHERE Calle Federico Garcia Lorca, No. 90 L8 ge) 03178, Benijofar (opposite the Citroen Gara WHEN Mon - Thurs: 10.00 - 13.30 & 15.00 - 18.00 Friday: 10.00 - 13.30 TEL: 966 185 242 693 371 616/617 info@chiropractor-benijofar.es

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

tech

with Aunty Virus

Email auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com

Laptop won’t boot up HI AUNTY, My Acer Aspire laptop running win 7 will not boot up. When I last switched it on it told me it was configuring updates. However, it never finished the task. It just kept re-cycling switching itself off and on again, each time trying to configure the updates. The only thing I could do was to switch it off and now it won’t reboot. I have tried to get it to work in safe mode but all I get is the flashing underscore and no options. Also tried to load the default configuration but again I only got as far as the flashing underscore. Any help would be appreciated. Jim. Aunty says: It sounds like the system has an issue with one of the updates...or a corrupt file. There are one or two options available to you. You may have a recovery option to “repair windows” - which will repair windows to a working version, but that does not touch any of your files. It may be possible to find some recovery utility - Hirons Boot Disk - that allows you

to gain access to your PC and run some third party recovery tools which may help restore the system. Worst case scenario: a new install of W7, which will probably remove your personal files... It is a bit complicated to diagnose and solve without seeing the system and via email, and so it may be best to seek a local PC guru or shop to help you recovery your system.

Deleting information HELLO AUNTY: Please can you give me some advice? I want to delete all the information on my external hard drive and then reload it with new information. My question is can this be done and if so how? I know how to put my new information on but not sure to delete all old information. I’ve been doing a massive clean up on my computer, deleting files, photos etc., hence wanting to clean up the hard drive. Regards Allen. Aunty says: The simplest way would be to open Explorer and select all the folders on that external drive and “delete”. You can then load up your new data and folders onto that drive. However, delete may not erase all folders and information, as some can be hidden or protected. Also when you delete files and then empty the Recycle Bin, you don’t actually erase the information, you just delete the reference to it so the operating system can’t find it. All the data is still there and, unless it’s overwritten, can be easily recovered using file recovery software. Formatting the drive can erase and remove most data from the drive. Data destruction software, like Darik’s Boot And Nuke (DBA), truly does erase the data. Each data destruction program can permanently overwrite the information on the drive. This is ideal should you are planning on recycling or disposing of your hard drive or computer. Obviously, before you do any of these, make sure you have backed up any information on that drive that you wish to keep. And make sure if formatting or destroying, you are doing so on the correct drive!

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

Horoscopes Mars sextiles with Pluto, and it is time for some plain talking followed by action to bring about the response that is needed right now. You were right to lose your temper and to make a bold statement that truly tells things the way that they are. In time there are many who will better understand your reaction; but right now they need to look to themselves and get their house in order before they judge you. Venus has many suitors this week with actions between three different planets all on the go. There comes first a squaring of Saturn followed by a conjunction of Neptune, and then a sextile of Ceres. Neptune conditions wealth, whilst Ceres governs time and motion, and all this is overseen by the wisdom and positive energies of Saturn. Whatever you desire this is a time to go forward in whatever you do. Mercury is bathed in the constant energy of the Sun, exalted in Aquarius and ready for action. If you had any doubts about the future then they won’t last for long as solution is there to couple with your determination, and hard grit does the rest. The task ahead is something rather deep in planning and may well benefit from a bit of tweaking before the finished result is one you really do aspire to. The Moon’s phase brings new life into something that has suffered much in the form of delays and tender soul searching. This is a surely a time to remove the clutter around you. Known to hoard, it is a time to remove some things from your life since what is left you can enjoy and love, even more. Pruning down your life together with the expectancy of others there comes a time when all is done and dusted. The Sun warms up with Aquarius in exaltation but turns to conjuncting with Mercury, hard working planet of communication and technology mid week. You have a brief to make somethiing happen, and waiting for the right time is part of the process that brings success and new ventures to boot. Someone hasn’t played fair, but rather then just get the hump, find a new way to play on. Mercury takes on Saturn as there seems to be a game of wits in progress. You have been asked to take sides, but as you have an interest in both sides involved this would not be the best of things to do. If you can just walk away with your head held high it would be the very best thing to do since if you had known this was going to happen you wouldn’t have got involved in the first place, let’s admit it! Venus and Saturn combine two opposing energies as they embrace briefly at the beginning of the week. Love has a deep place in your heart and it shows in the great way you have balanced your energies, as well as yourself. the way ahead brings you into unchartered territory, and though this could mould the future into what you truly seek, now is not the time to rock the boat. Anger lurks within especially with Mars and Pluto in cahoots. Fixed and defiant energies of Mars gets absolutely nowhere with the suspicious and exposing energies of Pluto. Able to see the absolute truth for just what it is, Pluto has a way of changing things for change sake, and knows no boundaries. Mars is relentless, and so between the two the message is, “Do not give up, and beg to differ!” Jupiter, ever watchful and guiding, faces Mars in a mid week shoot out. Jupiter with luck and fortune will be the winner and yet Mars never forgets and never forgives. The hollow feeling that you have is that you are torn between, and if there is a matter pressing please wait and bide your time before giving a decision, which should be based on your true feelings, and not the pressure of others. Time was when you would have taken criticism with a pinch of salt. but just now you know that you are in the right place at the right time and not about to be swayed by a mere whim brought about by others, who have a vested interest in themselves. Having to say no to somebody this week makes you feel very bad, but, under the circumstances it is the only thing to do, as no is the right answer. Basking in exaltation this week the Sun drifts through on a cloud of Aquarian energy and perspective. You are very sure that what you want is to put the best foot forward, but please be reminded that there are some things that cannot change, and yet you are free to see things from another angle, if you so wish. A challenge this week may find you asking questions you never thought would be asked. Neptune is fixed in actions with Venus and combined with the current Aquarian energies forms a positive tryst of love and devotion. This is the time to look within and to learn much about the inner you. A time to make decisions based on trust and to strengthen commitments with those whom you love and care for. Peace and devotion will always rule your heart, and steer you ever onwards.

If It’s Your Birthday This Week

Sudoku

Coupled with Aquarian energy of now, planet Uranus is the factor that gives you a second chance in the year ahead.The Cosmos is testing you but you’ll know when the time is right!

Kenny Corris For Readings, Consultations and Castings email: kennycorris@hotmail.com / www.kennycorris.net Mobile: 686 361 594 / Tel: 965 878 424

Empty seat

I love the Theatre and I always will. Living here on the Costa Blanca I do not get the chance to see shows in the frequency that I would like; but when I escape on a trip and there is a Theatre near me, and a seat is available, you will find me there. Recently I took a friend of mine to see a show on Broadway, and she was so happy that it was good sears for Kinky Boots, as she had heard all about it and wanted to see the show. As I looked around at a packed theatre I could see that there was a packed house and that every seat was taken, all except one seat, the empty one next to me, on my right. I thought that I had a spare seat to comfortably house one of the four layers of clothing I was wearing, to ward off the bitter subzero temperatures outside on the coldest of nights......but ten minutes before curtain up a grey haired lady approached from the right hand side, alone, and intent on claiming her seat before the start of the performance. This she did, but as she sat down I began to feel her energies, and I felt her loneliness, her fear, and her mourning of a departed husband. In these situations I generally have to be content with saying nothing because many could be offended, and because I have seen what interference and distress that an unwarranted message can bring. I also didn’t want her to fear, or to think I was crazy, or bring sadness in anyway, especially just immediately before a comedy musical. As usual my guide whispered into my ear and told me that I was clear to go ahead, and assured me that it was the right thing to do....I didn’t want to be silent, not with this woman. Somehow we got talking, especially as the seats were so close together that we were virtually touching each other anyway. I struck up the conversation and eased my way into what I wanted to say,

Kenny‛s Postbag

and we warmed together almost at once. I explained that my silence was hurting me, and I began to give my message to her, interrupting it to smile as we watched the first act. The show was sheer entertainment, but in the interval I was able to continue my reading, passing the information on to Betty from her husband. It turned out that she was not alone but travelling with a group of women from her home in Detroit, Michigan. They just couldn’t get seats together as the show was a sell out. She had chosen to come and sit next to me, and she was glad of that. After the show she scribbled her name and address and number down, and we have since emailed. Betty said her mini reading in Manhattan that night enlightened her and brought evidence that her beloved Bob was alive in Spirit and able to connect through me. Betty said that she wasn’t going to go on the trip to New York. The girlfriends booked her a ticket. When they mentioned the Theatre she had said she was too tired doing the eight hour shopping day on the streets of Manhattan, and the same girlfriends bought her a ticket for the show anyway. When they got to the Theatre, she was the one who volunteered to sit where she did, next to me. She asked me if fate intervened, and I had to agree that the hand of fate guided her to me that night. It was the sixth month anniversary of the passing of Bob too. Spirit always finds a way. This is not the only time that I have found myself drawn to someone in a host of different and sometimes obscure public places, wanting to help them make that loving connection to those waiting on the other side. Sadly though my professional ethics force me to often just walk away saying nothing. When I gave Betty’s hand a squeeze in the foyer as we parted she had tears in her eyes. “That was the way Bob always squeezed my hand... that way..always!” she said. I left with tears in my eyes too, and went off into the dark cold Manhattan night with my collar raised against the wind, but with a warm comforting glow within.

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

Kenny, why do you talk of Spirit in the singular? I always say that there are Spirits around me...what’s the difference, if any? Carol L. Great question Carol. I use Spirit in the singular for very good reason. All those who have entered or about to enter or whom reside in the Spirit World are referred to as Spirit. Any other entity, such as something from the dark side, for example, is referred to in the word Spirits...inferring that includes with it the energies outside of the Spirit World. I stick to the singular, and always will, but I have to tell many that Spirits has a connotation and may infer the wrong type of energy and are often corrected by me, though no offence is made or intended, it is better this way!

Last weeks crossword answers can be found on page 49.

Quick or Cryptic Crossword

ACROSS 1. Indiscriminate (11) 9. Dived (7) 10. Earlier (5) 11. Musical drama (5) 12. White ant (7) 13. Agreement (6) 15. Exhausted (6) 18. Disregard (7) 20. Evade (5) 22. Characteristic (5) 23. Mohammedan (7) 24. Warlike (11) DOWN 2. Awaken (5) 3. Nomad (7) 4. Tranquil (6) 5. Superior (5) 6. Turn to use (7) 7. Chance (11) 8. Impiety (11) 14. Etch (7) 16. Violinist (7) 17. Cord (6) 19. Praise (5) 21. Devil (5)

ACROSS 1. As lately burnt by students? (8,3) 9. Look at the old boy kick off at tennis! (7) 10. Does it tell one when to keep a look-out? (5) 11. More of a complex tradition (5) 12. It falls at the end of the action (7) 13. She puts an end to progress (6) 15. It’s little Susan making material (6) 18. How policemen operate? (2,5) 20. She features in the declaration (5) 22. Nothing in firm to save (5) 23. The actors played first and made a move on the chess-board (7) 24. Very angrily took food to excess (11) DOWN 2. Piece let in dress of with-it group? (5) 3. Is the foregoing neither lady’s (7) 4. Sound oil from the Mediterranean (6) 5. Wrote about a feature of a church, perhaps (5) 6. Crying raggedly? (2,5) 7. Leave the darkness to be revealed (4,2,5) 8. Come into different ownership and get fresh workers (6,5) 14. Curb the chorus (7) 16. One of the teeth in which a cutting remark might be thrown back? (7) 17. Stormy spot for drinkers? (3-3) 19. See the wrinkle in Bridget’s brow (5) 21. Assign everybody to return (5)

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30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

people

Studio 32 New Season Starts By Keith Nicol THROUGHOUT JANUARY, Show Director Susan Wilson and Stage Manager Linda Myers have been busy holding a number of workshops. The workshops included a range of topics including stage craft, acting skills, dancing and team building. Now becoming a popular part of Studios 32’s development, the workshops are open to anyone who is interested in theatre music and dance and following their recent success will be repeated prior to each new production. With auditions being held this week for the principle roles for Oklahoma, a singing workshop is planned for 15th February. Things are well underway with the production of

Oklahoma in June, but you can still come along and join us, as we will always find places for people who want to join our chorus, particularly men! So if you want to give it a go, be part of a successful team and have some fun come along to rehearsals at Casa Ventura, San Luis on a Wednesday between 3.30pm and 6.30pm,or on Sunday’s between 11am and 2.30pm. Looking ahead, at the recent AGM, Studio 32 were able to announce that the pantomime for 2015 will be Dick Whittington, written by the TLC writing team from London, who enjoyed so much success with Cinderella in 2014. To keep up to date with Studio32 productions and events visit the web site www.studiothirtytwo.org.

Studio 32 members practicing their stagecraft

Velvetones are back - with the Spangles!

(Photo by Kristoff)

THE VELVETONES are back in rehearsal following their Christmas break and enjoyed a fun session with The Spangles, from Los Alcazares, near the Mar Menor. It was amazing to hear so many voices blending together on the risers as some of the songs are known by both choirs. After the physical warm up, then the vocal warm up and two hours harmonising - the ladies were ready for their Tapas lunch and a good catch up on all the gossip! If you would like to be part of a fun hobby singing in 4-part harmony, come to rehearsals at El Paraiso, behind Carrefour and McDonalds in Torrevieja, every Wednesday from 9.45am until 12.30pm – guests are always welcome! For more information call Ena 96 570 7598, Lorraine 663 751 773 or June 96 532 7446: or visit www.velvetones.org.

stop press:

We are relocating premises March - watch this space for further details

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

spanish

Basic Spanish for everyday needs by Jane Cronin

Summary and e – i U3A news root-changing verbs HELLO AGAIN! We are at present on a journey through the various ways that verbs are formed in the present tense. BEFORE WE continue on our way I would like to have a brief recap so that we can see exactly how far we’ve come and how far we have to go! With regard to the present tense (this works differently in other tenses) we can divide our verbs into three groups. I call these groups “standard”, “root-changing” and “irregular”. In parallel, as it were, we also have another three groups to be aware of, namely verbs that end in –ar, -er or –ir. These three groups are relevant in all verb tenses and formations. In previous articles we have looked at the ending changes of our “standard” verbs and seen how they differ between the –ar, -er and –ir groups. At this point we also looked at how each verb divides into root and ending, the root containing the essential meaning (walk, run etc.) and the ending indicating who performs the action. At the same time we also mentioned the fact that in some cases there is a difference in the “first person singular” form of certain verbs. These differences occur in both “standard” and “rootchanging” verbs and do not influence the way the rest of the verb is considered. They are also usually very common and therefore easy to remember. We then moved to our second category which is “rootchanging” verbs and discovered that within this group there are three different types of root changes (there seem to be

an awful lot of “threes”, but I don’t think there’s any mystical reason for this). The most common group is the root change “E to IE” and we looked at a few examples of this. The second group is “O to UE” and that is what we looked at last week. In both cases we went through changes to –ar, -er and –ir verbs. This means that we now need to look at our third group of root-changing verbs, which is “E to I”. Once we have done that we only have the irregular verbs left and, as I am sure I’ve already told you, there are only four of them (ser, estar, ir and haber) and they may well be already quite familiar to you. The difference between the “E to I” group of root-changing verbs and the other two is that they only occur in the “-ir” group. Here are some the most common ones – decir (to say, to tell), pedir (to ask for, to order), medir (to measure), seguir (to follow, to continue), repetir (to repeat). So, as we have already seen the rules for root-changing verbs in some detail, here is one example of the E to I verbs for you to contemplate for a few days. Pedir – to ask for/order PIDO PEDIMOS PIDES PEDÍS PIDE PIDEN Don’t worry, there’ll be more next week!

Crossword Solutions for Last Week Cryptic Solutions Suduko Answer Across: 1 Outbreak; 5 Crow; 9 Mend; 10 Penchant; 11 Put on; 12 Elusive; 13 Clamorousness; 18 Partisan; 19 Mare; 20 Improve; 21 Anger; 22 East; 23 Redolent. Down: 2 Unequal; 3 Bedroom; 4 An eye for an eye; 6 Realise; 7 Withers; 8 Scouts; 13 Capsize; 14 Apropos; 15 Orison; 16 Nominal; 17 Surgeon. Quick Solutions Across: 1 Bankrupt; 5 Aped; 9 Gain; 10 Scissors; 11 Merry; 12 Useless; 13 Predetermined; 18 Critical; 19 Sled; 20 Inertia; 21 Banal; 22 Gate; 23 Meditate. Down: 2 Amateur; 3 Kindred; 4 Picture palace; 6 Protean; 7 Disused; 8 Esteem; 13 Picking; 14 Evident; 15 Exists; 16 Instant; 17 Elegant.

THE NEW YEAR began with a very well received illustrated talk followed by questions with gardening expert Dick Handscombe. He shared various greenfingered tips including advice to plant garlic to eradicate bugs and pests. The next monthly meeting is on 19th February, to follow the St. Valentine’s Dinner and Dance on 14th February at the Tennis Club, Calpe. More information about the dinner/dance can be obtained by contacting Tina Wallis at tinamaria19@gmail.com. The travel group meets on 9th February for their monthly meeting - a number of members signed up to the various trips offered earlier this month and the trip to Baharonda and Elda on 6th March is proving popular, as is the eight day cruise in October. Team leaders Ellen and Penny are finding out the latest costs and availability as further bookings have been requested. The U3A choir has received additional member interest with a positive outlook for the 14th March Concert with a Swedish Choir at the Casa de Cultura. The February meeting will be at the SH Ifach Hotel at 10am for 10.30am.

Dick Handscombe

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

whats on

Youth programming Winter 2015 THE NEW Winter 2015 calendar of events for Torrevieja’s youth is now available. By Keith Nicol Torrevieja’s Councillor for Youth, Rosario Martínez Chazarra said that the Winter programme contains a total of 21 activities specifically designed for the city’s younger population. The winter programme contains a number of recreation and leisure activities such as the snow trip with the Instituto Valenciano de la Juventud (IVAJ), hiking trails with Torrevieja Mountaineering and Climbing Group, a family day of ‘Multiaventura’ in Lo Rufete Park, climbing initiation, a day of comedy film in the “Virgen del Carmen” Cultural Center, in collaboration with the Youth Association La Comarca, and the observation of a partial solar eclipse with the team from the Mastral Project and Astroingeo Association. Regarding training activities, for the fourth consecutive year, the Department of Youth and Development has organized the Youth Expo 2015, offering information and resources for those in education, looking for further education or

employment opportunities. This year’s Expo will be held on 24th and 25th March in the Foyer of the International Music Auditorium. Courses on offer include learning ‘Office’ and about cloud technologies with Google Docs and Google Drive plus training for entrepreneurs in collaboration with the Local Development Agency (ADL) of Torrevieja. On the fun side, there is a Computer Gaming session and other leisure activities. One of the most popular and successful initiatives offered by the CIAJ is Ii the area of languages, with the centre continuing their informal English Conversation sessions with the assistance of native English speaking volunteers plus Valencian conversation. New volunteers for the English conversation sessions are always welcome. More information and registration takes place on the premises of the Centre for Information and Youth, located at Paseo Juan Aparicio 5, phone 965 714 072 (they speak English), through their social networks on Facebook or web: www.ciaj.es . Some of the native English speaking volunteers at the CIAJ

people

Carnival’s Drag Queen Contest By Keith Nicol ONE OF the most fun and certainly ‘camp’ evenings in Torrevieja’s cultural calendar took place on Saturday evening. The VII National Drag Queen Contest was once again a sold out event and offered another evening of fun and laughter for both the audience and those on stage in the Municipal Theatre. Saturday’s show had more participants, thirteen, than in any other year since its inception in 2009. The winner of the closely fought and creative contest was Drag Drag Steinbur of Tarragona with Sirius and Cobatillas chosen first and second respectively bridesmaids. Among the feathers, sequins and outrageously high, platform shoes, the show was again presented by Lady G with he unique brand of wit and humour between the contestants. For almost three hours non-stop performances were given by the thirteen participants, who made the night a fun and unforgettable evening. The thirteen participants were: Lulu Dreams from Madrid: Empire from Daya Nueva: Drag Sirius Cobatillas from Murcia: Carlota Coy from Jumilla; Drag Marvelux from Benalmádena (Málaga): Drag Adriana from Alcora (Castellón): Lolita Lepika from Valladolid: Drag Divax from Castellon: Sahamtha Phalos from Jumilla: Drag Fenhydra from Villaluenga de la Sagra (Toledo): the contest winner Drag Debu from Torremolinos (Málaga), with fantasy “Chunesse Emotion”: Líbula from Luxe Bargas Toledo and Drag Steunburg from Tarragona. The winners will all be present at both Carnival Parades: on Sunday February 8th at 4.30pm and the larger night-time The VII Drag Queen contest was yet another sold out and parade on St. Valentine’s night, February 14th. fun event on Saturday night

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

‘Ello, Ello, It’s Christmas CAMPOVERDE THEATRE Group played to packed audiences when they performed their latest supper show ‘Ello, Ello, It’s Christmas at the Lo Monte Hotel on the weekend of 17th January. The audience were laughing heartily from the opening lines to the final song. When every well-known character appeared on stage loud cheers were heard from the audience who enjoyed every moment of this show. At the end of the performance the audience were calling for more. The play, written and directed by Vida Nelson, was very funny, and whilst incorporating many of the well know catch phrases from the show also gave a new story line to this comedy classic. There were excellent performances from all cast members of this long established and talented company. It is very hard to single out individual performances as all the cast played their roles excellent and fully in keeping with the television original. However special mention must go to Colin Nelson gave a great performance as Rene, with many people saying that he even looked very like him too and Mark Lord was excellent as Herr Flick. Everyone commented on the excellence of the performance and how witty the script was. Now Campoverde Theatre Group are getting ready for their next production, a variety show entitled “ Let Us Entertain You!”. New members are always welcome and the group would particularly like more men into the company. If you can sing, dance, act or take on any of the back stage roles come along to the rehearsals at the Community Centre, Blue Lagoon on Monday 9th February or phone 626 772 256 for more details.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

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

It hasn’t all been tartan and bagpipes!

Head 2 Head

There were other golfing stories around. By Tony Myles IN A week when you would have been hard pressed to avoid bumping into a tartan clad golfer and the hills were alive with the sound of Scotland the Brave there were a few other golf stories worth mentioning. WOODS MAKES IT ONTO THE PGA TOUR. Well done to a young lady who has the benefit and the disadvantage of being Tiger Woods’ niece. Cheyenne Woods will be competing on the PGA tour this year thanks to a qualifying round just last week. Unlike many other Q Schools qualifiers she will be the focus of much media attention purely because of her uncle. Comparisons will be made and

her game will be scrutinised in great detail. For a young player that can be quite daunting but the upside is that her market worth will provide significant compensation as a result. It will also mean that there will be an increased interest in the female side of the game and that in itself is an excellent result. MAN STEALS RANGE GOLF BALLS If after you have been to the driving range you find that you have a range ball left in your bag then the chances are that you will either deliver it back to the range on a subsequent visit or it will forever remain in your tool shed or garage. You are never going to use it during a round of golf. So why would anyone want to actually steal some? Moreover what would you do with them?

They are created to fly less distance off the tee than even the cheapest manufacturers product. They also bear the distinct logo “Range Ball” or something very similar. So the mystery is why did Nathan Brown of Maryland Missouri sneak into his local driving range under the cover of darkness and steal 42,000? No that is not a misprint, he actually stole 42,000 range balls!! How bad must your golf be in order for you to feel motivated to steal that many range balls? The additional aspect of the mystery is that although he has admitted the crime he hasn’t relinquished the balls and so far no one knows where they are? There must a punch line to that story that isn’t rude but I can’t think of one! Always a pleasure to hear from you tony@bayradio.fm

Tony M - It has been a very sociable week hasn’t it. Campbell - Absolutely - Always a pleasure to socialise with our friends in various Captains Day events and of course we have had one of the highlights of the golfing calendar. Tony M - That’s right. I won €3 for nearest the pin. Campbell - Well spectacular though that may have been I was actually referring to our Burns Day. Tony M - Of course that was also quite significant. I was thinking maybe we should subtitle it Exorcist Day. Campbell - I know I am going to regret asking, but why? Tony M - Well during the Burns Supper did you see that way those spirits disappeared?

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

sport

The Copa de Escocia ‘Scottish Cup’ Singles Stableford FROST ON the fairways and greens greeted the ‘brave hearts’ of Pego Golf Society this week at Oliva, with a 45-minute delayed start at 8.45am, yet 47 players turned up for the first ‘Major’ of the year. Four guests were present - Wolfgang Schuster, George Smith, Barry Carter and Peter Jackson, all warmly welcomed by Captain Brendan Young. The Guest Prize was won by George Smith with 34 points playing off 23 Handicap. In the main event eight prizes were won as follows: 1st Steve Crossan playing off 16.5, 40 points 2nd Nigel Siddall playing off 14.2 37 points 3rd Jan Baker playing off 27.7 36 Points 4th John Evans playing off 17.7 35 Points 5th Martin Gates playing off 5.8 34 Points 6th Danny Herron playing off 11.4 33 Points 7th Bill Pike playing off 18.2 33 Points 8th Roger Brown playing off 17.4 33 Points Congratulations to Steve Crossan with a magnificent round of golf, and to all our winners, considering that Oliva Nova hasthe stint meter on the greens increased dramatically and nearly every flag was only a couple of meters from the edge of the green. Nearest the pin at Hole No 5 with their second shot was Jim

Gillies with 3.57 meters, and Nearest the Hole at Hole 16 was Barry Levett with 3.2 meters. There were three two’s in the prize list and they were by Barry Levett, Steve Patton (again) and Danny Herron (again). There were 145 Balls in the water, compared to last week’s

88, and again no winner, so it is a triple roll over for next week. If any guest would like to play with Pego Golf Society next Tuesday 3rd February, it is a Stableford Singles. Please enter via www.pegogolfsociety.com or email to Donna Green at pegohandicapsec@gmail.com

Torrevieja’s youngest team Las Salinas Petanca league AFTER MANY years of asking, Torrevieja finally has a pre-Benjamin, football squad for those under eight. On Saturday January 17th, the boys and girls of Deportivo Torrevieja Pre-Benjamin squad, attended a fun day of coexistence for the start of the new under-eightyear-old League, held in San Fulgencio. The new football squad consists of a total of 30 children born in 2008, and will play a weekly game against other teams in the region with their next match being at home to the Elche CF.

Roda Golf

RODA GOLF played their January Individual Stableford with a great turn out in three divisions. A very cold start turned to a nice warm day but the golfers’ main enemy was the wind which kept the scores down a few points - apart from one, which was Fred Beel, who achieved a great 39pts. In the top Division Bob Gallard pipped Dave Archer into first place on count back both on 33pts and in third was Ken McKee on 30pts. Second Division was won by Barry Geary with 33pts one in front of Mick Hardy in second place on 32pts. Dave Farrington was third on 29pts. The third Division was won by Fred Beel with 39pts followed by John Hillier on 37pts: well played gentlemen. Third was Jo Flanagan on 34pts. The Society’s next game is at Mar Menor Golf on 2nd February with the first tee at 10.15am.

IN THE 1st division there were good wins for Buccaneers and Amigos Belgas 1. Buccaneers go to the top of the league with Amigos Belgas 1 second. Could next week be the title decider with the Buccaneers at home to Amigos Belgas 1? Into division 2 there more good wins for Los Bandidos, Lakeside Hellcats and Breeze Bar Cannons, keeping them in 1st, 2nd, 3rd places respectively. In division 3, good wins for Amigos Belgas 2, Torre bears 1 and Blagul 1. Amigos Beglas 2 are looking a good bet for promotion. In division 4, Amigos Belgas 3, Pumas and Torre Bears 2 all had convincing wins, with El Raso Bandidts winning away at San Miguel Tigers. In division 5, Guardamar look certain champions, but who will go up with them? Falcons went 2nd with a good away win closely followed by Dominoes McCoys. Into division 6, Rocajuna Lions won away and go top of the division. Blagul 2 stay 2nd although they had a free week. Once again a big thank you to all our sponsors, Casas Manuel, Rapid Repairs, Dominos Bar EDP Electric.

30 JAN - 5 FEB 2015

road test

Toyota Auris Tourer Hybrid HYBRIDS ARE all very well but they’re generally smaller than traditional cars and therefore less user-friendly. WELL, AT least that used to be the case with the likes of the Honda CR-Z. The largest was a hatchback, either a Toyota Prius or the more luxurious Lexus CT200h. No estates. Well, not until Toyota launched the new Auris Hybrid Tourer, which provides the environmentally conscious with a well sized, capable vehicle and also performance. Things have really moved on since I drove a hybrid a

year ago. My first acquaintance with the striking island blue estate is at night. It’s always more of a challenge to drive a car you’re unfamiliar with when it’s dark, for obvious reasons. A click of the keyfob and I’m inside. The delivery driver was fairly short by all accounts as my knees are around my neck as I sit in the driver’s seat. It’s easy to adjust. In common with other hybrids I am instantly struck by a feeling of fear as I rummage around for the ignition and even though I push the button start on the right of the steering wheel, there is an unnerving silence. The automatic box does not look very substantial but on engaging the reverse function it quietly moves backwards. There is an electric parking brake and a traditional one; the first car I have come across with two. The dashboard looks a bit boxy especially where the sat nav is located; it looks like an afterthought. Over time the driver does become more used to it, though. It’s a large car, not dissimilar to

the Ford Focus estate in terms of styling. Head on, it’s attractive and the front looks striking and well designed. The large panoramic glass roof that stretches from the front to the back of the vehicle has an electric cover and this, in common with those found in Peugeots, is a winning formula. It makes the cabin much lighter when the sun does decide to show its face. With my growing family we’re having to make use of every bit of space our Victorian terrace house has to offer and so I have cleared the loft to make way for a more imaginative use of this space; office come bedroom. Needless to say I have a great deal of rubbish to take to the tip including old bits of wood and plasterboard and a vacuum cleaner. The cavernous boot swallows it all with ease and a roof box from roofcarriers. co.uk is also a great help. Although I have to push down two of the rear seats to make way for this large load, it is so easy to do; you simply pull a lever on the right of the boot. Removing the security cover in the boot does prove a little more awkward. FACTS AT A GLANCE: Toyota Auris Touring Sports Excel Hybrid 1.8 CVT T&G New price: 29,520€ Top speed: 112mph 0-60mph: 10.9secs Economy: 49mpg CO2 emissions: 92 g/km For more information about roof boxes visit: www.roofcarriers.co.uk Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz

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30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015 www.pettraveluk.co.uk. Removals also arranged in other vehicles. Tel UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960130537

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

BORN IN OCTOBER 2012, MARTHA and her 7 brothers were found as puppies in a cardboard box. She is still living in the APAH kennels waiting for her first loving home. To meet her, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850. PET TRAVEL UK Family pet transporters Spain/UK. Travel with your pets for free. All air conditioned vehicles (no vans)

ences.637160545 COSTA BLANCA PET TRANSPORT TO UK DEFRA registered. Excellent rates. www. costablancadoghoming.com or call 965 698 052

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

DONCHIMENEA Chimney Sweep North Costa Blanca,Denia,Calpe and Inland. Telephone or Whatsapp: 647 897 710 www.donchimenea.com or email: donchimenea@yahoo.co.uk

RESTAURANT/PATISSERIE In port of Mazarron,Wonderful location.Beach,Mountains,Marina 170 covers,Upstairs BBQ

REFLECTIONS BUILDING SERVICES All aspects of Building work including Roofing. Tel: 648 453 365 HOUSE RENOVATIONS British Builders.15 years in Spain.Fully Liscensed.Small jobs to Total Refurbishments.For FREE quote call us. 628 402 241

Phone: 650 811 841 For more details BAR FOR SALE Bar Cafe For Sale in Cabo Roig Close

MINI DIGGER AND DUMPER WITH DRIVER Covering North Costa Blanca Telephone: 648 052 911

to weekly Street market Large Fully fitted Kitchen, Established business, sunny terrrace with sea views.Rent paid until July 2015.40,000 € Tel 618472794 VENDING MACHINE ROUTE on the Costa Blanca 30,000euros NET P.A. No overhead all cash income.49,000 euros . 20 Pringle Vending Machines NET.

HOUSE SITTING, PET SITTING Daily or longer.Your home or mine.Key holding service.Refer-

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

300€ P.W . 19,900€ Call:0044 2392 160 657 FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY Own your own lingerie, clothing and swimwear boutique. Prices from 10,000 Euros including stock and shop fittings. Full help and support given throughout. Established company with over 10 years trading in Spain. Call Peter on

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 [new beginners welcome every Wednesday] 2pm -3pm Intermediate Class 3pm - 4pm Intermediate Plus Class 4pm - 5pm For more information contact Andrea and Brian 616 478 157

660 170 355 without obligation. MR FIXIT FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, GENERAL & Appliance Repairs. No Callout Charge. 698 320 434

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015 WANTED I BUY ANY CAR van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781-873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

GANDIA PROPERTY FOR SALE Two,3 bedroom villas,pool,ca sita,1042sq mtrs walled,gated plot,garden,near Gandia. Separate deeds,120,000€ each. Phone 603324796.

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

WEWILLBUYANYCAR.ES We will buy any car on the Costa Blanca Spain! Free online Car valuation Tel: 666 126 662

SOS INSURANCE IN SPAIN

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

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

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

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

SOUTH FACING AMIGA BUNGALOW Quiet area San Luis. 2 Bedroom,1 Bthroom,Large Kitchen,well appointed.Fully furnished.Well worth viewing. 60,000€Contact: 664 574 574 SPACIOUS VILLA LA NUCIA Close to Elians British School.4 Bedrooms,3 Bathrooms.Private pool,Lush Gradens,Parking 220,000 Tel: 966 897 515 SENIJA NR BENISSA Old style village house,part renovated,1 small shower room,modern fully fitted kitchen and open lounge. Courtyard. House 240square metres BARGAIN 70,000€ Call:627 074 045 SENIJA NR BENISSA Fully renovated village house with modern airy feel.3 bedrooms en suite shower room and full family bathroom.. Garden and street parking.165,000€ reduced for quick sale Call: 627 074 045 VILLOTEL,BENITACHEL,MO RAIRA 3 Bedroom,2 Bathroom Detatched Villa,including self contained 1 bedroom apartment. A/C Hot and Cold.Wood burning stove,Satelite TV.Glazed Nia. South facing,Mountain and Valley views.Garage and parking for 2 or 3 cars.Room for own pool but has communal pool.Private Sale 198,000€ Call:966 495 111 LOS ALCAZARES Urb.La Dorado 3 Bedrooms,2 Bathrooms, Lounge,Kitchen,Fully A/C.2 Patios.10 minutes to Beach,Shops and Airport. 125,000€ 968 583 695 FOR SALE TORREVIEJA LA TORRETA 2 Double bungalow,North/South facing.3/4 bedrooms,2 Bathrooms,Large Kitchen 80,000€ 965 715 100

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

PROPERTY FOR SALE 3 Bedroom Semi Detached cosy bungalow. 90 m2 with 214m of garden. Sea and Mountain views. 8 years old,well maintained. Near to amenities. Alarm system installed. 190,000€ no offers. La Nucia Tel 662430087 GANDIA PROPERTY FOR SALE Two,3 bedroom villas,pool ,casita,1042sq mtrs walled,gated plot,garden,near Gandia. Separate deeds,120,000€ each. Phone 603324796.

FORMENTERA ALICANTE 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Apartment,Great views,Swimming Pool 300€ per month Call: 693 956 707

jobs undertaken. www.spanishmoves.net. Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Telephone UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960130537

VAN LEAVING FROM UK TO SPAIN 1ST FEBRUARY returning Spain to UK 11th February.

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SENIJA NR BENISSA,VILLAGE HOUSE Totally renovated with a modern airy feel.3 bedrooms en suite and full family bathroom.Garden and street parking 495€+ utilities per month Call: 627 074 045 VERDEMAR 2 VILLAMARTIN 2 Bedroom house for rent.Fully equipped.Small garden front and back and rooftop solarium.Tv system included 350€ per month plus electricity and water.Call 965696367 Mobile 666327982 VILLAMARTIN 3 BEDROOM VILLA Fully Furnished with modern furniture.English owned Long Term Let Min 5 years available.Large Roof Terrace and communal pool.Quiet complex in Lomas Del Golf 495€ pcm plus bills.Contact:602 423 324 For Viewings

Space available. 679 042 805 / 0044(0)7552 985 343 or email keithmarion9@yahoo.co.uk

GLOBAL 4 REMOVALS Worldwide tailor made removal service and solutions.FREE packing. FREE quotations.UK & Ireland, Spain , Australia , NZ , USA Canada. 965 997 263 / 618 342 447 global4removals@yahoo.com SPANISH MOVES Small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK Budget prices. Last minute

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GENERIC VIAGRA EXCLUSIVE First time in Spain 120mgs. Also Kamagra 100mgs, Generic Cialis 20mgs, and jellies. Local and Nationwide service. Pay on Delivery. colin@ costablue.co.uk or phone Colin 680 878 735 CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA Luxury Private Chalet, parking. Drinks invitation. Feeling alone? Just want some company? Exotic girls from South America. Call us, come and enjoy! Also Escort Service. Full discretion. Street: Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609-573-468 or 639-832-118

30 JAN - 5 Feb 2015

I BUY RECORDS LP´S SINGLES AND CD´s ANY STYLE, JAZZ, BLUES, POP, PUNK, ROCK, ETC... TOP CASH PAID. 622 750 117 RECORDS AND CDS WANTED Pop,Rock,Jazz,Blues.Top Cash Paid. 630665363 TURN YOUR UNWANTED FURNITURE Electrical, Household Goods and Bric-a-brac into Cash. Anything! Anywhere! 965-319-220/663-012-541

EXPRESS IT COMMUNICAIN NEED OF A TRANSLATOR?? Doctors and Hospital appointments,Social Security,NIE Application visits. General translations.10€per hour .Altea to Villa Joyosa . Call:647 143 945

TIONS The computer shop set in the heart of albir.Repairs,Virus removal,Sales and Advice.Design and Print.C/Rupert Chapi 4,Playa De Albir. Call: 966 865 486

DIRECT WINDOWS All aspects of Double Glazing and Window repairs. Tel: 648 453 365

Private Security