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#RTNSouthxmasEdition844-845 Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

#MerryChristmas from everyone at rtn!

RTN would like to wish all of its readers and advertisers on the Costa Blanca and the Costa Calida a very Merry Christmas. Our next edition will be out on Thursday 31st December 2015.

SPAIN VOTES

by JACK TROUGHTON

SPAIN GOES to the polls on Sunday in a general election that pits two new challengers against the established parties of the conservative Partido Popular and the socialists of PSOE.

Harleys go ‘Ho ho ho’!

REINDEER WERE redundant on Sunday as gleaming Harley Davidson motorcycles transported Santa – scores of him – to deliver presents to excited children.

The Costa Blanca Espana Biker Group was out in force on its annual Toy Run.

It is the first time in the country’s restored democracy following the Franco dictatorship that new kids on the block have been seen as serious alternatives in government.

Since the late seventies, the PP or PSOE have enjoyed power in Madrid, the ruling party forming a temporary alliance with one of the smaller parties in Spain if it did not command an overall majority.

However, the long and painful economic crisis and the bitter taste of corruption have sparked calls for political and institutional reform – and have witnessed the rise of Podemos and Ciudadanos. See page 4.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

From the Editor’s desk...

Hola!

SPAIN HAS had to put the serious Christmas party celebrations on ice until the small matter of the general election is done and dusted on Sunday – an intriguing affair this year, even if us expats are mere spectators on polling day.

The result is tipped to leave the need for a coalition government in Madrid but even if the polls are wrong again, it is certainly an intriguing contest – especially with the rise of new parties seen as serious contenders.

Meanwhile, the Christmas season is in full swing and the British community is once again showing just how generous we all can be by thinking of others at such an important time of year; making sure that families – and especially children – don´t miss out and can join in with a celebration whether it is on Christmas Day itself or at Three Kings.

Here at RTN Towers, we are about to pull up the drawbridge and enjoy a long winter´s nap with the next edition available on the morning of 31st December – New Year´s Eve. Meanwhile there are presents to open, turkey to eat and the dreaded Brussels sprouts to tackle.

RTN Managing Director Daniel Wilkinson hopes all our readers and advertisers enjoy a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas – once they have settled down after those all-important parties! “Everyone at RTN would like to wish all our readers and clients a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year,” he said.

Merry Christmas! JT GOT A STORY?

Call Jack Troughton, 661 403 016, for Costa Blanca North Keith Nicol, 609 417 385, for Costa Blanca South & Ian Askew, 628 580 367 for Costa Calida

TO AIR YOUR VIEWS Letters on any subject are welcomed by the Editor for publication and must arrive by 12 noon on Monday for consideration for the following Friday’s edition. Priority will be

#RTNHQ Oficina Charral, Emilio Ortuño 6, Floor 4, Office 1 & 2, Benidorm, Alicante 03501 TEL: 902 118 999 EMAIL: rtnmail@ roundtownnews.com

PUBLISHER: Mia Media S.L MANAGING DIRECTOR: Daniel Wilkinson EDITOR: Jack Troughton AGENCIES: Santos T. Morales ACCOUNTS: Sam Holliday PRODUCTION: Daniel S. Thomas Rebecca T. Tyszka Alice Hillier GENERAL MANAGER SOUTH & CALIDA: Peter Clarke SALES: Kath Poole Colin Rich Eduardo Piana Laura Showell Alan Palmer Michaela Smith DISTRIBUTION: Damien Forman Ian Tilley iDs Logística REPORTERS: Keith Nicol Caroline Tyszka Ian Askew CARTOONIST: Carter McKeague COLUMNISTS: Peter Taylor Sara Bell Chris Ashley Carlos Baos Blacktower F.M Aunty Virus Dick Handscombe Kenny Corris Jane Cronin Tim Saunders

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Edita : Mia Media SL, Servicios De Impresion S.A.- Deposito Legal : South A-853-1999 North: A-134-2004 Oficina Charral, Emilio Ortuno 6, 41, Benidorm. Alicante. Distribution: iDs Logística. info@idssl.es,

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Cartagena amphitheatre to be excavated and restored

by IAN ASKEW

CARTAGENA TOWN Hall played host on Wednesday December 16th to a gathering of international experts, including specialists in Roman architecture, Roman amphitheatres and funding issues, in an attempt to re-launch the project to excavate and restore the Roman amphitheatre in Cartagena, on the site of the old bull ring.

The meeting was organised by the scientific director of the excavation, Carmen Berrocál, who is also coordinator of Municipal Archaeological Heritage, and José Pérez. The meeting, which began early in the morning with a detailed site visit, was attended by a number of experts, the director of the Institute of Historical Heritage of the Ministry of Culture, Alfonso Muñoz, and technical experts from regional and local government. According Berrocál, this is an opportunity to find out what has taken place with other arenas, not only in Spain, as in Segóbriga, Tarragona and Valencia, but also in other countries. One specialist had travelled from Switzerland, to present his significant expertise in the subject matter. The objective was to share experiences and develop a draft plan for the future, which will be refined over the course of time.

The experts who gathered in Cartagena were impressed by the condition of the amphitheatre site which, out of the dozen or so remaining in Spain, is one of the four still with theatre and amphitheatre structures. However, the Cartagena monument is the only one that has not been excavated. Berrocál also announced that the intention is that, from day one, the excavation site should be on display, with information provided about the progress of the dig, to enable members of the public to see how it is progressing.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015 S.L.

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walls of the old bullring

#NEWSBITES THREE ORGAN TRANSPLANTS IN MURCIA HELP TO ACHIEVE A NEW NATIONAL RECORD ARRIXACA HOSPITAL in Murcia carried out three liver and kidney transplants on Monday 14th December, helping the Spanish health service to beat its own record for one day’s transplant operations.

The National Transplant Organization (ONT) has said that, throughout the country, 21 kidney transplants, 9 liver transplants, 5 lung (three double-lung) transplants, 2 heart transplants and one combined pancreas-kidney transplant were carried out on the day. Furthermore, the two heart transplants and two of the liver transplants were performed on patients who could have died immediately had they not received the organs.

All this required the co-ordination of hospitals, and emergency services, across eleven autonomous communities, and with the collaboration of twelve airports.

The director of the ONT, Rafael Matesanz, described the new record as “ a sign that the system is in good shape, with no less than 15 donors in Spain, and with the participation of 11 regions and 29 hospitals”.

He continued, “we should congratulate the whole of Spanish society, which continues to show its generosity, and, of course, our national health system, which coordinated all these hospitals so it all worked perfectly according to plan.”

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

New kids on the block Albert Rivera and Pablo Iglesias

Continued from front page POLLS LEADING up the election paint a picture that all four are enjoying broadly similar levels of support.

The Spanish system actually favours a two-party system but it means the winner is likely to seek a friend to govern over the next four years.

BATTLE The polling stations open for business on Sunday at 9am and close at 8pm. Already turn out is being tipped to be as high as 80%; such is the focus on this battle of the ballot box.

It is the 12th election of the modern democracy. Spaniards – expats do not have a vote – are choosing 350 members of congress and 208 senators.

And 50 provinces across Spain make up the basic electoral district; the political battleground that would be a constituency in the UK, and seats are allocated on the strength of support for the parties.

The seats are shared out more proportionally in larger provinces but in smaller districts the first two parties gain a larger amount to the cost of those following in their wake; a possible stumbling ground for Podemos and Ciudadanos as both enjoy a larger following in cities and it remains a system that overall strengthens the position of the first two runners home.

The PP is led by Mariano Rajoy. The 60-year-old hopes to lead the party to victory on the basis of the country’s fledgling economic recovery, which has taken the lead over Eurozone neighbours. The opposition has reached unity in one respect; it paints the leader and the party as symbolic of institutionalised corruption – while Mr Rajoy is keen to present a case for stability against the new and untried parties.

PUNCH Pedro Sanchez, 43, was elected to lead PSOE last year and had the task of pumping new life into a party that was left punch drunk after being soundly beaten in 2011. The social-

ists have apparently lost support to the new guys but Mr Sanchez portrays the party as the sole credible alternative to the PP but it still carries the millstone of perceived mishandling of the crisis.

Charismatic Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias, a university lecturer, emerged in 2014 as a hit with disgruntled voters and rode a wave of popularity in the European elections in May last year but the movement has since slowed.

The 37-year-old leader appears at ease in front of the cameras and has attacked corruption promising a ‘new way’ – the party’s more radical proposals have been replaced with more mainstream ideas.

Ciudadanos was a regional party in Catalonia but went national with a mix of progressive social politics and pro-market economic policies. At 36, leader Albert Rivera is the youngest candidate for the Premier’s chair but has nearly 10 years experience in the Catalan parliament – representing those who do not support a break away and independence. The party cuts across the left-right divide and calls for greater transparency and a new look democracy based on skill, productivity and knowledge.

Smaller parties still likely to pick up seats include UPyD, Union, Progress and Democracy; the United Left; Catalonia’s Democracia i Libertat; and the Basque National Party.

Polls have predicted the PP to carry the day again but without an absolute majority; requiring it to seek a buddy in both houses. But polls can be notoriously wrong – remember Britain’s last general election which returned the Conservatives with a small majority after a long-predicted forecast of another dose of coalition politics.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Full moon for Christmas

FOR THE first time in thirty eight years there will be a full moon on Christmas Day.

Just before dawn breaks on Christmas morning, the rare occurrence of the full moon will be at its biggest size, specifically at 6:11am, which is sure to make for a beautiful family moment before opening up all the presents under the tree.

The last time the full moon appeared on 25th December was in 1977, and the next time it will appear the same, NASA says, will be 25th December 2034, peaking at 3.54am.

Readers who have been moved by the tear-jerking Christmas advert of a little girl communicating with a lonely man on the moon during the holidays can take some solace that the unlikely friends will get to talk a bit longer this year.

Cocaine gang strikes out

Bogus pallets

COCAINE TRAFFICKERS were arrested in the co-ordinated ‘strikes’ of an international police operation as 1.5 tonnes of the drug was smuggled into Valencia in a shipping container.

Officers arrested 11 suspects in the UK, Valencia, and Dubai, as a plot to import the drug from Columbia and sell it within Europe after it was treated at a “industrialsized” drug laboratory in Chiva – a town due east of Spain’s third largest city. The drugs would be worth around 50 million euros on the streets.

The shipping container appeared to be loaded with sacks of charcoal on wooden pallets. However, forensic tests revealed the pallets were made of compressed cocaine powder disguised as wood and some of the stacks contained cocaine made to look life charcoal.

And acting on intelligence from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), officers of Spain’s National Police searched the shipping container after it entered the Port of Valencia on 30th November.

On 1st December, six men from Liverpool were arrested in the UK and Dubai. NCA officers apprehended a 44-year-old at Liverpool Airport, together with a 54year-old and a 50-year-old in the rooftop

car park of Belle Vale Shopping Centre in Liverpool. Merseyside Police also detained a fourth suspect, a 46-year-old, at an address in Knowsley Village.

LUXURY The anti-narcotics unit of Dubai Police swooped on the same day to arrest a 39-year-old and a 38-year-old in a luxury apartment.

Another five men - two Columbians, two Peruvians, and a Spaniard – were arrested on 3rd December by Spain’s National Police at premises on an industrial unit in Chiva following the delivery of a dummy consignment of charcoal; the alleged drug laboratory.

Greg McKenna, the NCA’s Regional Head of Operations, said: “We believe the company was a front for an industrial-sized lab where cocaine was extracted from pallets and charcoal and repackaged for onward distribution across Europe.

“The seizure of cocaine, the shutting down of the lab and the 11 arrests will have disrupted criminal activity across the whole of Europe.”

The four men arrested in Liverpool have been bailed pending further inquiries; the pair arrested in Dubai and the five apprehended in Spain are still in custody.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Mar Menor area gets over 130,000€ to repair storm damage

by IAN ASKEW THE WEATHER, during the months of September and October, caused serious damage to certain areas of the Community as well as in Alicante, Girona and Las Palmas.

Last Friday, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s proposal for emergency works amounting to 688,000€ to repair damage caused by the storms in September and October 2015 in the provinces of Girona, Alicante, Murcia, and on the island of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, was finally approved. Strong winds and rainstorms in those months, along the Mediterranean coast and the Canary Islands, caused serious damage in different places along the coast, which needed to be repaired urgently, according to sources within the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment.

In the case of this region, 132,000€ is being allocated to repair damage and loss of sand on the beaches of Los Nietos, Islas Menores and Mar de Cristal, in the municipality of Cartagena. Additionally, 148,000€ of the budget will be used to repair damage in Alicante, in the municipality of El Campello.

Damage caused by rain in Mar de Cristal

Freemasons support Cruz Roja FREEMASONS FROM the Caledonia Lodge No 68 in Ciudad Quesada presented a pallet-load of foodstuffs to Cruz Roja in Torrevieja, to help them continue with community work.

As one of the oldest lodges in Spain, Caledonia Lodge No 68 has been supporting the work of Cruz Roja for many years. Torrevieja is now the regional headquarters of Cruz Roja, covering an area from the city to Pilar de la Horadada along the coast, where they place up to 80 lifeguards every summer, and inland to such towns as Rojales, San Miguel and Los Montesinos.

Although the Red Cross has more than 100 volunteers to help them with its work, the charity always welcome new volunteers, especially those who can speak Spanish and any other European language, with English and German being the most in demand.

Cruz Roja received a charter to operate in the region in April 1977 and are one of the most established along the coast. The masons are well known for their charity work and this year Caledonia Lodge has already made donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, Reach Out and the Debra Charity, which was also visited on Tuesday. The Lodge has around 40 members and always welcomes former masons from the UK or elsewhere, and those who would like to get involved and find out more about its work in the community. The Caledonia Lodge meets in Ciudad Quesada and, to become involved in the fundraising efforts, or for more information about freemasonry, contact Harry Palmer at palmers.quesada@yahoo.co.uk or sec68@ glpvalencia.com or, alternatively, call 966 71 23 26.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Expat drug baron’s crimes revealed GUARDIA CIVIL have released detailed information relating to the largest drug trafficking organisation in Europe.

Robert Dawes, aged 44 and originally from Nottingham, was arrested at his Costa del Sol home in November of this year, charged with being the head of one of Europe’s largest criminal gangs.

Whilst the operation was ongoing, little information had been available as to the enormity of the gang’s criminal activity, and Mr Dawes involvement with the organisation.

The British father of three ran his illegal business from his luxury Spanish villa in Benalmádena on the Costa del Sol, having left Nottingham ten years previously.

In an operation involving an international task force, called “Operation Halbert IV”, and coordinated by Europol, Guardia Civil officers worked jointly with the French Judicial Police (OCRTIS), and the British Agency Against Crime (NCA) to trace the drug trafficking which had connections in Portugal, France, Belgium, Holland, Italy, Germany, Turkey, the UK, UAE, Pakistan, Venezuela, Ecuador and Mexico.

The arrest came about after eight years’ work to finally link Dawes with the Italian mafia, and South American drug cartels, as well several other international groups.

Since his arrest back in November, he has been extradited to France, where he was wanted in connection with the discovery of 1.3 tonnes of cocaine in a Paris airport back in 2013. However, Dawes is also being investigated in The Netherlands for several murders that occurred between 2014 and 2015.

A statement released by the Guardia Civil said “Robert Dawes is accused of heading up the largest organisation in Europe for drug trafficking, money laundering and multiple murders.”

The criminal organisation imported furniture from China, and fruit containers from South America, which were filled with vast quantities of cocaine and then sent to the UK. In the raid, at the luxury villa, back in November, police seized a large number of firearms, cash, mobile phones, and a vast quantity of cocaine.

#NEWS BITES

FINAL DAY FOR BOOK GRANT LA NUCIA has already received 400 applications for book grants as today, Friday 18th, is the final deadline for submissions.

The grant applications, for free or reduced books for the 2015/16 school year, have been flooding into La Nucia town hall since 1st December, as parents hope to get a refund on books already purchased.

The form, available online at www.lanucia.es, or from the town hall and the two satellite offices, must be handed in with the proof of purchase of books (receipt) by the end of today.

The luxury villa

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

We want an Emergency Centre

by KEITH NICOL

ALMOST 150 people turned out on Saturday, 12th December to protest the non-completion of the Emergency Services Centre in Orihuela Costa.

The rally took place in front of the skeleton of the building where the foundation stone was laid in 2010 and the partly completed building has stood for years as a symbol of the neglect and abandonment of Orihuela Costa.

C.L.A.R.O. took the initiative to organise this protest inviting other political parties and representatives of associations and social groups. Many attended, including the Councillor for Coordination of Orihuela Costa and several spoke at the rally. The intention was to hold a broadly based protest to express anger at the delay in securing essential emergency services in Orihuela Costa, an area with a resident population greater than Orihuela city, which increases from some 35,000 to over 200,000 in the summer months and to which must be added the thousands of daily visitors to the Zenia Boulevard Commercial Centre. C.L.A.R.O. Spokesperson Bob said: “We all need the sure and reliable essential services of police, fire and ambulance which, in a heavily populated area, can only be organised adequately if locally based.” The protesters were told of several regrettable recent instances where ambulances have either not arrived at all or after delays of 40 minutes. In one case, a well known member of Torrevieja Los Costaleros collapsed while playing sport at the CDM. It took the ambulance more than 45 minutes to arrive on scene and although the paramedics tried to revive the gentleman, they were unable to do so.

Bob continued: “The consequences of these delays have been traumatic for those involved and, in this recent case; fatal. Ambulances can come from as far away as Orihuela; 45 minutes by road. In principle, there should be an ambulance stationed in Cabo Roig, but it is very often not there, and the night service was withdrawn years ago. The fire brigade serving Orihuela Costa is based in Torrevieja and it too is subject to delays, since the fire crews are not familiar with the sprawling geography of ever expanding Orihuela Costa, and often cannot find their destination. Disgracefully, there is no 24-hour local police station in Orihuela Costa and after 3pm ,when the Playa Flamenca office of the Town Hall closes its doors,

#NEWSBITES

BE PREPARED JUST LIKE ROSELL HOSPITAL

ROSELL HOSPITAL, in Cartagena, has 34 beds standing by in case of another flu epidemic this winter.

Almost 150 people protested

the police service is provided by a patrol car with a mobile telephone number.” C.L.AR.O. President, Paul Piccio, said: “If the ratio of local police to population was respected in Orihuela Costa, the number of local police should be doubled in number. The local police do a good job in Orihuela Costa but they are undermanned.”

The large turnout vindicated C.L.A.R.O’s decision to organise this protest. The facts about Orihuela Costa’s deficient essential emergency services, and, in particular, the spate of recent examples of ambulances arriving late or not at all, are causing increasing concern. Paul added: “It is shameful that 5 years after laying the foundation stone of a modern integrated emergency services centre, which would include a 24 hour local police station, a national police presence, an ambulance service, a fire service, the Red Cross and neighbourhood watch, work on completion of the building has been paralysed. Political differences between Orihuela and the regional government in Valencia, which has provided the budget for the centre, and is in charge of the project, are largely to blame, but the fact that these political differences should have resulted in such a huge delay in providing essential services shows how little Orihuela Costa counts in the minds of the relevant authorities. Until Orihuela Costa raises its political voice, this neglect will continue.”

To conclude the rally, the largest seen for many years in Orihuela Costa, C.L.A.R.O’s President Paul Piccio, voiced the outrage felt at this shameful neglect and demanded that the Mayor of Orihuela make urgent representations to Valencia to ensure that the project is put out to tender again and completed urgently.”

The manager of Health Area 2 has confirmed the contingency plan to avoid having to set up beds in the hallways this winter. Rosell Hospital has 34 beds available to accommodate patients and “avoid the overflow problems resulting from a possible flu outbreak either late this year or early next year,” said José Sedes, Health Area 2 manager, during a press conference. Sedes, who was appointed only a few months ago, has established the in-patient unit in the Medical Centre in Paseo Alfonso XIII. “Currently we have 605 beds in Santa Lucía Hospital, of which some are unoccupied. We also have the pre-admission unit (UPI), part of A&E, with another 30 beds. To this we would add the Rosell beds, if necessary,” he said.

In his view, the current situation represents a big improvement over last year when “after the Christmas holidays we experienced a major flu outbreak” which, he acknowledged, created problems at Santa Lucía. With these new measures, including the extra beds at Rosell, Sedes said that although it is never possible to guarantee that there will be no beds in the corridors in the event of an epidemic causing an influx of patients admitted via A&E, this way, the situation can be tackled promptly. This is quite apart from the Ministry of Health’s plan to reactivate Rosell in 2016, which includes the creation of 54 hospital beds during the coming year.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Christmas drink driving campaign begins THE ANNUAL Christmas drink driving campaign started on Tuesday in Spain with Tráfico (DGT) highlighting the dangers of excessive alcohol when driving a vehicle.

This year’s drink driving campaign will see around 25,000 checks per day throughout the country as Tráfico officers try to educate drivers who may not even realise that they are over the legal limit.

Just one glass of wine for women and two for men is enough to give a positive reading, information that may shock many, as you often hear people saying “oh I can have two glasses of wine. It will be fine.”

Limits for alcohol in the system are lower here in Spain than they are in the UK and, according to the Instituto

9

Gag law reaches European Court A GROUP of lawyers and journalists have filed a lawsuit with the European Court against the “gag law” in Spain.

Nacional de Toxicología, 47% of road deaths show signs of alcohol or drugs in the blood.

María Seguí Gómez, director general of Tráfico, said “there is good support for the campaign, although the figures are not improving as well as we had hoped, considering fines have increased from 500€ to 1000€ overall, though there has been a clear reduction in the last ten years of those testing positive when breathalysed.”

The campaign, which will run until 21st December, coincides with the period when most Christmas parties, for work or with friends, occur, so drivers are urged to be responsible, and use public transport, if they are going to drink.

The “law protection of public security” which came into effect on July 1st this year could be in trouble as the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is set to consider an official complaint made by many of those affected by the changes.

The new law, instigated by the PP government in Spain, is accused of creating a “police state” where freedom of information and protests are impeded and outlawed in certain circumstances. An example of the gag law, where the group of journalists and lawyers argue that human rights are being breached, is where a person cannot publish a picture of police activity on social media without fear of being prosecuted or fined. Fines can be as high as 600,000€ depending on the severity of the breach but, as protesters continue to campaign against the law, all opposing political parties have now promised to overturn it if they take power after the elections this weekend. With journalists unable to take pictures of police officers on the street and being denounced for being members of certain media organisations, the group argues that the law is completely disproportionate and has no legitimate standing.

Although the hearing will take place after the elections, the group has taken the issue to the European Court in case there is no repeal made by a newly elected government.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Simply having a wonderful Christmas time

by CAROLINE TYSZKA

FATHER CHRISTMAS was armed with sack loads of pressies on Tuesday as 50 happy youngsters from the Preventorio de Gandia jetted into Javea for a day to remember.

Bursting with excitement and overflowing with energy, the guests descended on the town’s football ground to simply enjoy themselves.

It was the ninth year Bay Radio has organised the festive feast and once again big-hearted listeners across the Costa Blanca responded by donating toys and goodies to stuff into plastic sacks for Santa – or Papa Noel as he is better known to this audience – to hand out.

Before the presents, the kids get to let off some steam – the bouncy castle was well and truly bounced, a long queue of youngsters dressed up to enter the Photopod and have a photographic keepsake, little ‘uns’ had their faces painted, and Javea Mayor Jose Chulvi demonstrated a deft touch on the football field.

Once the children are sat down and the pop, chocolate, cakes and bocadillos are served, Father Christmas – aka businessman Clive Webster – performs his annual duty, calling the guests one by one to collect their loot. Incredibly, some sacks are larger than their recipient. There were also some rousing Christmas songs in Spanish, Valenciano, and even English by way of saying thanks to everyone concerned in make a special day extra special.

Sylvia Barnish, in charge of operations for the ninth time, told RTN: “I love this day, I really do. There is always such a terrific atmosphere.

ENJOY “There are some parents helping out who are crying because of the plight of all these kids – but I say forget all that just for this one day and enjoy it.”

Katie Dell, of Albir-based financial advisors Pennick Blackwell, was visiting the party for the first time after helping the company organise ‘Operation Christmas Smile’ – asking the community to add a kid to their present list and sending out the names and genders of the Gandia youngsters.

She said they collected gifts at Albir Christmas Fair and at the company offices. “People were very generous, we collected 250 gifts and a 50€ donation.”

Katie added: “I love the fact there are all these fun activities going on at the party. It’s not just come along, eat, get a present and go home; they are actually having fun all day.

“And because I have been dishing out names and ages of the kids I feel I know them...I’m sure the people who donated feel the same – next year we will do even better.”

And Karen from Photopod Spain said: “It is absolutely fantastic to see all these children having a brilliant time.

“I have never seen so many happy smiling children having such a wonderful time in one place before – it is absolutely perfect.”

Jose Chulvi, Sylvia Barnish as Snow White, and Santa

Thanks Santa!

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

New UK passport design by caroline tyszka THE NEW UK passport design is now in production at the Home Office printers.

The latest design, which was launched back on 3rd November 2015, is now being issued for new passport applications at HM Passport Office.

A new passport is launched every five years, as the government department works tirelessly to stay one step ahead of the criminals who attempt to forge and copy documents.

The UK passport, which has an international reputation as a trusted and secure travel document, features the most advanced technology and security measures that are

Local police help UK colleague

available, and this design is said to be the most secure that the UK has ever issued.

In the latest design British cultural icons, such as William Shakespeare, Charles Babbage, Ada Lovelace, and Anish Kapoor, as well as landmark structures like the Angel of the North, and the Titanic, Belfast, are featured, representing all four countries in the UK. Additional security features include advances in the use of security printing using UV and infrared light, inks and watermarks, and the use of a single sheet of paper for the personal details page and the page adjoining the back cover, to prevent the passport from being tampered with.

POLICE OFFICERS who run a Facebook page called “N332” have asked for the expat community’s help for a fellow police officer in the UK. Local police officers here in Spain received a request from Karen Jones back in Lincoln, UK, to help make her husband Mark’s Christmas just that little bit more special.

Mark Jones, known locally as Jonesey, was a serving police dog handler and instructor for the British Transport Police for 32 years until September, when he was knocked off his bicycle by a car and suffered a devastating brain injury as well as multiple physical injuries.

Karen said “I am on a mission to get as many people as possible to send Mark a Christmas card, partly because he will find it funny but also to show that people are thinking of him. It is a terrible time to be in hospital and it will be a long road as he struggles to speak and has mood swings. This would just make his day.”

The local Spanish officers would love it if as many expats as possible could send messages from Spain to show support for their colleague.

Mrs Jones said anyone can send well-wishes and Christmas cards to Mark at Ashby Ward, Lincoln County Hospital, Greetwell Road, Lincoln, LN2 5QY, England, and wished everyone a happy Christmas and safe 2016.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Kabul funerals

by CAROLINE TYSZKA

THE BODIES of the two Spanish policemen killed in Kabul, following an attack near the Spanish Embassy, were flown home on Tuesday.

A car bomb that exploded near the Spanish Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, late last Friday evening, caused serious damage to buildings and the loss of several lives including DeputyInspector Jorge GarcíaTudela and Isidro GabinoSanmartín Hernández, who were guarding the compound at the time.

The battle between security forces and Taliban members continued after the bombing for over an hour, killing twelve in total, including four Afghan police officers.

The plane sent to collect the bodies of the Spanish police officers departed from Madrid at 2pm on Monday, and was back in the capital with the bodies around 9am on Tuesday morning.

The funerals took place later on Tuesday with many family members standing alongside the King and Queen, Don Felipe VI, and Doña Letizia, and Mariano Rajoy the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister, Jorge Fernández Diaz. were among those in attendance.

Members of all political parties, and police around the country, held a minute’s silence at numerous locations to reflect on the loss of life in Kabul, as the family of one of the victims, Jorge Tudela, asked that his name not be used for political gain.

The families of the two officers will receive compensation of 250,000€ under a victims of terrorism law passed in 2011 and they will both also be decorated with the Gold Medal for Police Merit, the highest award possible within the police force, which is given in case of death, mutilation or serious injury.

minutes silence

Hoax bomb threat at Madrid A BRAZILIAN TAM airlines passenger plane departing from Madrid was forced to return following reports that there was a bomb on board.

The TAM airlines plane, destined for São Paulo in South America, left Madrid at 10.21pm on Monday evening and was experiencing a normal flight.

Two hours into the journey, as the Boeing 777 was crossing Moroccan territory, police warned the pilot that they had received a jihad threat to blow up the aircraft.

The pilot was ordered to return to MadridBarajas airport and was escorted by a Spanish Armed Forces fighter jet until it landed safely at 1.30am on Tuesday morning.

A spokeswoman for Spain’s AENA airport authority said that the plane had returned to Madrid airport early Tuesday morning.

She said some 300 passengers were evacuated and taken to hotels.

AENA said police inspected the aircraft and found no bomb.

#NEWSBITES

CHRISTMAS FUN IN LA NUCIA

LAST WEEKEND La Nucia town hosted their Christmas fayre where visitors could shop for special gifts and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

More than 5,000 people visited La Nucia over the weekend, not only to buy presents but also to visit Father Christmas and listen to the carol singers.

Both days were packed with entertainment for the family as the local school choirs from San Rafael and Muixara sang carols, and local dance groups performed for the crowds.

Those taking part in the activities were asked to make a donation toweards local charities.

Calendar Girls 2016

GO INTO any local bookshop or general store and you’ll probably still be able to purchase that most useful of Christmas presents; a 2016 calendar, and, while the vast majority of local calendars feature beautiful photography from the region; fiestas, beaches, nature, gastronomy and sunshine, one calendar is slightly more provocative, and features a bevy of beach attired girls.

The team from the Cucaracha Club broke all the local filmmaking rules and produced the first international crowd-funded film made on the Costa Blanca, so it comes as no surprise that they wanted to keep their profile high and do something a little bit different with the calendar too, as part of their continued fund raising efforts.

This year, the typically glamorous Pirelli Calendar went all PC under the lens of legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz, using personalities ranging in age from 19 to Yoko Ono who is 82. It’s ‘drab’ and has not been wildly well-received by those privileged few who are lucky enough to receive one. On the other hand, The Cucaracha Club Calendar for 2016 fits the missing gap left by Pirelli perfectly, and so, ladies, if you are looking for a fun gift for your partner next Friday, this could be just the thing to stick in his stocking.

The calendar was photographed by Jorge Herrera from La Marina-Village, and shot on La Marina beach and costs just 5€. It’s available from: Venture Fleet, Bar Spangles, Kennedy’s Supermarket and La Campana in Los Montesinos: Da Vinci’s, Luz de Luna Reflections Bar and Bar Kenz in San Luis: The Card Shop, Benimar: The Post Room, Benijófar and The Bog Road, at Aquamarina in Cabo Roig and also at the Old School Disco at Reflections, San Luis Lakeside, Torrevieja, while supplies of this limited edition calendar are available.

Actor and cameraman, Clive Gray, said: “I was accosted and berated going into a shop the other day by someone claiming that the calendar is nothing more than pornography and that she would rip them all up if she could. It’s lewd and suggestive and in totally bad taste. After having my hair blow dried for five minutes, I asked her if she considered the WI posing nude for their calendar was pornography, but didn’t really get an answer to that. All the models in the calendar were more than happy for these pictures, and more, to be taken for the calendar, with full knowledge they would be seen by the public at large, including parents. Nobody was tricked into doing anything they didn’t want to do and everything was explained to the models before and during the shoot to make sure they were OK. They all had the option not to have specific photos taken if they felt uncomfortable.”

Actress Julie Cartledge, who also posed for the calendar, added: “We have some very beautiful women in the film and the calendar was just intended to showcase them and show off some of their other, normally hidden, talents.”

In the infamous words of the late, great Kenny Everett’s alter ego Cupid Stunt, it’s: “All in the best possible taste,” and besides, it’s fun and will make a great Christmas present.

The team from the Cucaracha Club

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Full voice for Christmas

by KEITH NICOL

THOUSANDS OF voices singing Christmas carols and songs filled the air in front of Torrevieja’s Inmaculada Church on Friday, as Torrevejenses celebrated another Carols in the Square.

Led by MC Bill Singleton, looking splendid in his red jacket, with music supplied by the Phoenix Concert Band under the baton of Julie Schofield, more than a dozen choirs, made up from local schools, associations and performance groups, led the singing for more than an hour and half, prior to the International Mass held in the church at 7.30pm.

While the expat foreign community were out in force, the evening started with Spanish music from the students of Torrevieja’s Choir from the Municipal School, and the Youth Choir Francisco Vallejos. Thousands of torrevejenses of different nationalities, but mainly of British and Scandinavian origin, made the thirteenth edition of the Carols in the Square one to remember. Unlike previous years when almost the entire government team would join together and sing on the steps of the Square, the mayor showed up for just a

photo opportunity while councillors Pablo Samper, Alejandro Blanco, Fanny Serrano, Carmen Morate and others picked their spot but did not sing together. Councillors Rosario Martínez and Carmen Gómez joined forces with the former directors of the Foreign Residents Office Graham Knight and Jean Paul Murelo by forming a quartet and helping to lead the singing of a couple of Spanish melodies.

The concert’s music was provided by the Phoenix Concert Band, directed by Julie Schofield, which is mainly composed of British musicians, retirees and residents of Torrevieja, while the ‘choir’ was composed of more than one hundred ‘coralistas’ of various nationalities. Some of the groups taking part included Rascals, U3A, TRAC, Torry Army, Los Costaleros, Torrevieja Barbershop Singers, Dymantes, and Velvetones, along with the Torrevieja Municipal Choir School, under the direction of Selena Cansino and youth choral Francisco Vallejos, led by Galiana Seliverstova.

The Plaza of the Constitution has brought together hundreds of foreign residents of Torrevieja and surrounding towns, many of them dressed in their Santa Claus hats, celebrating in the largest gathering of expatriates in the region with

this unique concert of carols. After the concert, hundreds of people made their way inside the Immaculate Conception Church for the ninth International Mass.

#NEWSBITES

SANTA AT FINCA SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS

LAST SUNDAY 13th December, Finca San Miguel de Salinas organized a Christmas party, and a nice mix of Spanish, German and English folk found their way to the finca to see the animals.

There was a big paella, homemade cakes, hot dogs, mulled wine, background music, Santa, and a raffle with nice prizes, all on a very sunny afternoon.

Everyone at Finca San Miguel de Salinas wishes all their visitors and supporters a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The finca’s open-doors day is always on the last Saturday of the month, and, for directions, please email nicosolm@hotmail.com. For more information see www.happyanimalesspanien. com or become a member of the FB group finca san miguel de salinas

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Be happy and integrate BRITISH EXPATS in Spain believe integration is the key to a happy and contented life living in the sun, a new survey reveals.

More than half of people responding to the British Embassy questionnaire over how they have adjusted to their new life say they speak Spanish regularly with friends and neighbours and enjoy Spanish food, use the Spanish healthcare system and employ local tradesmen and women.

And asked to describe their lives in their adopted country, they most commonly use the word ‘happy’ – followed by ‘relaxed’ and ‘content’.

However, some Brits admit they just ‘get by’ without learning Spanish, registering on the ‘padron’, and failing to make Spanish friends or even keep up with the new or politics – all things that appear to help others make the most of living in the country.

The online survey attracted nearly 1,600 responses to the embassy’s ‘integrometer’ designed to measure levels of integration. There are nearly 300,000 Brits registered on their local town hall’s ‘padron’ in Spain – more live here for all or part of the year – and most live in the regions of Valencia and Andalucía.

RESULT British Ambassador Simon Manley said: “It’s great to see so many Brits saying they are happy and content in Spain as a result of their efforts to integrate into

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NEWS BITES

FOOD BANK DONATION

VOLUNTEERS FROM Benitachell Charity Shop have donated 1,250€ to the town hall’s social services department to help stock the food bank.

The money will be used to buy fresh food for needy families living in the municipality who rely on the food bank; helping provide a healthy diet.

And Jacinta Pastor, Councillor for Social Services, thanked the charity shop team for its support of those in need.

Ambassador Simon Manley

local life. I would definitely urge others to follow their example.

“If you are settling here, the first and most important thing to do is to register on the padron. That way you can access the health and social services you may need now or in the future.”

He added: “If you fail to register, then you can’t expect support from the Spanish system later. Some of the most tragic cases that we see in our consulates are the consequences having moved to Spain – often years earlier – but not signing up on the

padron or integrating into their local Spanish communities.”

Nine out of 10 people who responded said they were signed on the padron – implying one in 10 has yet to do so. More than half have a Spanish will and over 50% have a Spanish driving licence.

And two thirds are registered for healthcare with another 13% having private insurance but an “alarming” 16% admitted they had failed to provide for health cover in Spain – leaving them at serious risk of difficulties in the event of an accident or illness.

Jacinta Pastor (centre) receives the donation

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Chris’s Corner SO HERE we are once again, jolly holly time – without the winter fuel allowance. “Bah humbug!

by

Chris Ashley

Writer & Broadcaster

Iain Duncan Smith, hope your personal plumbing pops.” Still Noddy Holder will be feeling festive, he trousers around £750,000. a year for ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ not bad for 3.45 minutes work – now that is a pension pot to keep you warm. Number 2 of Santa’s Sizzling Songs –Pogue’s ‘Fairytale of New York’ coins in £400.000. per annum– enough to fix Shane MacGowan’s dental dilemma. Number 3 on the Yuletide Top 10 – Mariah Carey & ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ (kerching!) £350.000. - enough to buy some more plastic bits Mimi dear–but as for good taste? - Hmmm!

If I’m coming over Grinchlike, it’s just that at this time of year us achingly cool D.J.’s like moi (what? WHAT!) are on a Maoist re-education programme to passively play Christmas songs we normally wouldn’t touch with a selfie stick. We’re perceived as miserable old gits if we ignore festive number ones by the likes of Benny Hill ‘71-St. Winifred’s School Choir ‘80 - Mr Blobby ‘93 – in preference (mine) to - Pet Sounds - The Who Live At Leeds - Elvis Is Back.

But enough of this Scroogery, ‘tis the season of joy, unless you support Manchester United/Chelsea who both look about as joyfully organised as a yard full of ewes. Which brings us nicely to the chaos that is the School Nativity Play – small children & pushy parents – deep joy.

As a 7-8 year old at our school – The Norman Bates Primary – I was the biggest by far, also the hairiest, smelliest, noisiest & scruffiest, so in our nativity I got to play..........…..... .......the stable. The pride of Rotherham, the brilliant raconteur Gervase Phinn (unlike La Bush’s Heathcliff, a name that rarely echoes irritatingly around the Yorkshire Dales.) has worked in the UK educational system in various guises for many years. He tells a lovely tale which occurred when he was a school inspector. With the great & the good he went to the nativity at a local school. As the dignitaries were trooping into the assembly hall – the cast were straggling out. Gervase asked Joseph “Where are you going, what about the play?” The urchin,with a wee green candle exuding from his nostril, sniffed “It’s off – the Virgin Mary’s got nits.”

Let me take this opportunity to wish you - a nit-less - FELIZ NAVIDAD!

Sponsored by www.rightmoveinsurance.com with 50€ cash back on new motor/home policies.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Time to EnjoyTorrevieja

by KEITH NICOL LAST NIGHT, Thursday, December 17th, just as we went to print, Torrevieja opened a new website focused on information, culture and entertainment.

The new website is: www.EnjoyTorrevieja.com, and the team behind the project officially presented it at the Real Club Nautico of Torrevieja.

The group say that EnjoyTorrevieja.com ‘is a new project that will combine information with entertainment and cultural spaces.’ The web platform aims to be a crossroads of the most active and creative content providers in Torrevieja, with the emphasis on how to make the most of your time in the City of Salt. On this site, the creators and local entrepreneurs can showcase their skills and talents in areas designed for that purpose. Currently, EnjoyTorrevieja.com features stories by various writers, humorous commentaries and three spaces for video format.

EnjoyTorrevieja is formed by a team of sixteen people: Gabriel Samper, coordinator and founder; María del Carmen García as manager of content; Concha Montijano, Jorge Salazar and Andrea Berná journalists; Miguel Buendía, on radio and cultural spaces; Antonio Sáez in nature; Berenice Valero environment; José Luis Aguilera in veterinary; Marta García in canine beauty and hygiene; Daniel Soler in Enlightenment; Juanjo Fuster in gastronomy; José Luis Navarro Vallejo and Antonio Suárez in literary creation; Vanessa Ruíz in legal consulting and Miguel Ángel López in picture and sound. EnjoyTorrevieja is characterized by its young and very well prepared team, ready to give the best entertainment, information and culture.

However, for the moment, at least, it’s primarily in Spanish.

Some Instagram fans will know of the coordinator and founder of EnjoyTorrevieja, Gabriel Samper, through his founding of the mobile photography conference, Mobile World (Mowo.

Monte Mentals mince it up THE FINAL walking football session of 2015 for the Monte Mentals took place on Tuesday.

Instagramer and founder of EnjoyTorrevieja Gabrial Samper

The Mowo event started in 2012 and was led by Samper, who is one of the most followed Spanish ‘instagrammers’ on the network, under the name: Kainxs.

More than 20 players, supporters and WAGS enjoyed the unusually hot December sunshine and then a short social gathering put together by the Monte Mentals’ coordinator Stan Dibble. One and all enjoyed downing a glass of mulled wine and a traditional mince pie as their goodbye nod to 2015. With many players returning to the UK and other parts of Europe to be with family and friends over the festive period, the players take a break until after the new year, returning to action at 10am on Tuesday January 5th, prior to the Three Kings parades that take place later that evening.

The Monte Mentals are just one of the growing number of local walking football teams, set up for the over 50’s as a spot of fitness and fun, to keep those who can, active, into their later years. Other teams have been set up in Playa Flamenca, Lo Crispín, Dream Hills, Torrevieja, Benidorm, further north heading towards Denia, and to the south in Mazarrón, to name but a few. Stan would like to invite all club organisers to drop him their contact emails with the aim of playing each other, organising tournaments and fun events, and inviting teams from the UK who wish to visit and enjoy a few rays of winter sunshine while playing a few games of football. Those who would like more information, or organisers, can contact Stan at: MonteStan@gmail.com.

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Festive news around the world

by CAROLINE TYSZKA

SWEDEN – A Christmas album of carols has been released in Sweden with the performances entirely by goats, yes goats! Entitled “All I Want For Christmas is a Goat”, the album features eight classic carols such as “O Holy Night,” “O Come All Ye Faithful” and a cheery “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.” Created by the Swedish branch of ActionAid, a charitable organization dedicated to fighting global poverty, they describe the goat CD as the year’s “most important Christmas album” as it highlights the positive impact that goats can have within communities living in poverty.

UK – ASCOT Racecourse has launched a new range of seasonal clothing which may be considered rather unusual.

Similar to a human’s “onesie” the festive range is for horses, and one in particular, Daffy the Shetland pony seems delighted with his “foursie.” Jackie Rowberry, Animal Trainer at Animal Dramatics, who owns Daffy, said: “In winter I always worry about Daffy getting chilly as he likes to spend so much time out of his stable. He’s loved all the attention and is quite the envy among his stable buddies!”

Wayne’s lights

Daffy in his onesie

All I want for Christmas is a Goat

USA – With 21,240 lights decorating his home, Wayne Allen, from Pennsylvania, is clearly a big Christmas fan, with people from the surrounding areas driving past to see the annual displays which Wayne has been doing since the early 1970s. Not everyone is happy though, as local police are complaining that the hundreds driving past are causing major traffic problems for them. Bah humbugs!

Christmas tree in France

ISRAEL – This year, Christmas trees will be allowed in hotels throughout Israel as the country’s Chief Rabbinate announced new rules following a protest from the “Freedom of Religion for Israel” organisation. A spokesperson for the group said “it will finally give the numerous Jewish and non-Jewish groups the freedom and respect which has previously been denied to them.”

Christmas tree in Bethlehem

RUSSIA – Despite a frosty atmosphere between Russia and France, the Christmas spirit still lives on, as Russia donated a tree to Notre Dame cathedral in France following an appeal for help. Struggling financially, the cathedral had appealed to all foreign embassies in Paris to see if anyone could help. Surprisingly, Russia donated a tree, showing that, despite the strained relations, Christmas is truly a time for giving.

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Star Wars: The force awakens

by KEITH NICOL

IT’S GOING to be a blockbuster. Even three poorly received additions to the original three Star Wars films could not upset the franchise, and thousands of people in the USA and the UK have already been impressed by the newest offering: Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the seventh film in the series.

You don’t have to be in a galaxy far, far away, to go and see the film, as it’s showing in English, with Spanish subtitles, at the Cines IMF in Torrevieja. It opens tonight and will be playing every night at 6pm for at least a couple of weeks, in Sala 4. If you want to see it in Spanish, you can also watch it in 3D too.

Many of us on the Costa Blanca will remember being enthralled by the groundbreaking films from our teenage years and, thankfully, many of the original cast have been reunited for episode seven, to bring the series right up to date, and open the door for the films to continue for many years to come. Christmas has come a week early for Star Wars fans, as Han Solo and Chewie are back on the Falcon for the real Episode Four. Directed by JJ Abrams, the film evokes the spirit of the original trilogy, which ended with Return of the Jedi in 1983 and the new film takes up the story 30 years later.

The new film is a Sci-Fi comedy adventure that brings a

sense of humour back into the series, leaving the audience continually grinning for the full 135 minutes. New audiences will discover new heroes while an older audience will feel comfortable in the company of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Han Solo, the Millennium Falcon, Princess Leia, lightsabre contests, and even a new version of R2D2.

The new English language culture and film association ‘Admit One Club’ is also just about ready to go into full operation in the new year. The new membership cards have been produced, while the wheeling and dealing regarding benefits and promotions continues to take place. You do not have to join the club to attend any films and anyone can receive weekly updates about V.O.S.E. Films, Original Version with Spanish Subtitles, without the need for headphones, simply by sending an email to: film@admitone.club with ‘Opt In’ in the subject line. Membership is just 20€, 30€ for couples, and 5€ for under 18s and holders of student cards. You can sign up today, Friday, from 4pm to 5.30pm at Cafetería Carlos, on Avda. de la Mancha, Aguas Nuevas, Torrevieja, prior to the screening of Star Wars this evening. For more information go to Facebook and search for Admit One Torrevieja Culture and Film Club.

So kids: why not spoil your parents and take them to see ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ as an inexpensive Christmas

Star Wars opens tonight in Torrevieja at 6.00pm

present? Mondays and Wednesdays admission is 5€; other nights 7€. For more information about the film see: www. starwars.com/the-force-awakens. You can pre-book seats for any screening at the ticketing window or online by following the links at www.cinesimf.com. Find out how to win cinema tickets in the next issue of RTN.

#NEWS BITES

A Christmas star is born

16 MEMBERS of La Marina Golf Society met at Las Colinas Golf Club for their final competition of 2015.

After some early rain, the afternoon turned sunny, and the course was immaculate. How they keep it in such good condition is a mystery as rarely do you see a green-keeper! A new star, Lynn Young, dominated the day, sharing the 2’s pot, winning 2 ‘nearest the pins’ and completing her brilliant day by winning the Silver section with 33 points. Winner of the Gold section was Secretary Alan Craig, with 37 points and Alan and Mike Davies won the other ‘nearest the pins’.

The first meeting of the New Year will be for the Royal Marines Trophy at Bon Alba, 10am on the first tee. Any prospective new members can contact Alan Craig on 634 34 77 88 and the society is introducing new CONGU handicap adjustments, allowing men to play off 36 maximum and ladies off 45 maximum

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

k #rtnemail of the wee

A Christmas Wish DEAR SANTA, I have been good all year. I have paid my SUMA bill. and I clean up around my house. including sweeping the streets and weeding the roads and kerb sides. I do not get paid for this. This year. for Christmas. can I have a road sweeper to do this from San Fulgencio council? If you can ask your elves to do some weeding, that would be very helpful and kind too.

If this is not possible then, perhaps, they could hang some lights and baubles from the weeds to make the urbanisation of La Marina more festive?

If your reindeers do poo on the already messy pavements, please clean up after them and dispose of it properly. You will have quite a speedy journey around the urbanisation this year, as most of the traffic calming strips have been ripped up and not replaced.

Thank you, Happy Christmas, a resident of La Marina.

Is this acceptable?

DEAR SIR, I am writing to you from the municipal rubbish tip known as ‘La Siesta’.

I was so pleased to hear that money was to be spent on the area, but I just wonder where all the money has gone. Who has benefited? Is this acceptable?

Fred de Jong, Calle Bach, La Siesta

An important warning DEAR EDITOR, if your circumstances change you will be notified by letter from the International Pensions Service. If your new address is not registered with them, the Post Office will return your letter to them which they will file, and suspend your pension, until you contact them. This has happened to me after a pension increase. I received my pension at the new rate on the 28th September which meant my next pension should have been 28th October but there was nothing. After a lot of phone calls I received the above information. I have still not received any money; my bank will not lend me any money because I own my own house and have no mortgage and have always paid cash for goods in stores, which means my credit rating is zero. The result of this is that I am reduced to begging a beer from friends and trying to borrow a few euros for food. I have no money to pay bills and getting further in debt, all because of a wrong address.

The moral of this tale is: re-remortgage your house and always use a credit card.

I hope any expat reading this ensures that IPS has the right address as I would not like to see other people suffer the way I have. It is degrading to think I have 230.000€ assets and am destitute.

David Reid, Benidorm

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

AS IN the case of the sale of preferred shares, and other products sold by banks to their customers, today we would like to speak about another toxic product, marketed by a Spanish bank: Mandatory Subordinate Bonds Convertible into Banco Popular Shares (BO POPULAR CAPITAL).

These bonds issued by Banco Popular, are an extremely complex investment product, which has been especially harmful to customers who acquired them from Banco Popular. They were generally acquired in 2009, and in 2012 its duration was extended until last November of 2015, when it has been exchanged for shares of this bank. In fact, after reading the prospectus of the product it is very difficult to understand what it is about, even if the reader had some investment culture.

As in the rest of selling toxic banking products, the people affected can legally claim for the nullity of the contract or alternatively compensation for damages in cases where the Bank did not inform the investors properly, and sufficiently in advance about the product - investment, the product features, risks, possible negative and positive consequences, etc.

If you have been affected by these Bonds of Banco Popular or any other investment of this type, you should know that for the purposes of determining what your legal possibilities of claiming successfully are, it should be considered and documented: .- The information and documentation provided by the Bank on the product. .-It is essential to check whether this information given by the bank, was delivered in good time and in advance, before contracting the investment. .-It should be checked if the Bank conducted a convenience and aptitude test to the Investor, and on what terms it was made. .-It is important to determine the knowledge and experience of the consumer-investor in investments, determine what sort of products have been contracted previously.

There are many court cases regarding these bonds of

Banco Popular, the vast majority of it ruling in favor of the investors, as the Judgment 295/2015 of the Provincial Court of Palma de Mallorca, Court Decision 195/2015 of Section number 12 of the Court Provincial de Madrid, etc.

If you are affected by any “toxic” investment recommended by your bank, if you have problems with your investments, preferred shares, subordinated

bonds, etc., please contact our office, we will make a preliminary study of your matter, without any obligation or cost, and inform you about the possibilities of claiming, risks, etc.

Therefore, if you bought Mandatory Subordinate Bonds Convertible into Banco Popular Shares (BO POPULAR CAPITAL)or any other toxic product investment, please contact us.

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

LEGAL & FINANCE

Subordinate Bonds of Banco Popular and other toxic investments. What should be considered?

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by

Carlos Baos

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Golden Leaves Spanish office gets the mayoral seal of approval!

FEATURE

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Golden Leaves International has now officially opened its doors to all expatriates living in Spain who are looking to secure, from one single source, all of their vital products and services necessary for living a comfortable life in the country, bringing total peace of mind.

Although already open to the public for quite a few months, the new and strategically located premises situated at Avenida De La Pla 123- 125, Edificio Carnibe, Locale 1, Javea, were officially declared open by the Javea mayor, Jose Chulvi, during a premier ceremony that took place recently at that address on Tuesday the 24th of November 2015.

Operating under the umbrella of Golden Leaves Expat Services, a premier service division of Golden Leaves International, the new offices are designed to serve as a ‘one stop shop’ for expatriates in Spain looking to get their hands on various products and services ranging from Private Health Insurance, Money and Wealth Management, Legal Services and Funeral Plans, right through to general insurance products.

There to witness and share in proceedings were senior executives of Golden Leaves, leading members of the press from well-known publications such as Round Town News, Buzz, Female Focus and Euro Weekly News, existing Golden Leaves customers, along with representatives of many other leading local businesses.

The day was not totally reserved for ceremonial activities, as those dignitaries present, along with welcome members of the public were also treated to an enjoyable wine tasting, tapas food and relaxing background music, expertly provided by well known musician Adam Daniels. This relaxed environment allowed new customers to discuss their needs with expert members of the Golden Leaves Expat Services team and have those needs met with specifically chosen products and services as provided by this new “hassle free” one stop shop.

Commenting on the day’s proceedings, Steve Rowland, Chairman of Golden Leaves said, “Although we have been selling funeral plans in Spain since 1995, we have been reborn to offer a helping hand with all services in all areas of public life.” He went on to say, “This office represents the rebirth of Golden Leaves in Spain and is the first of many we have planned.”

Shaking hands at the opening of To find out more about this newly opened office and all of its products and the new office services on offer, visit www.glexpatservices.com or call 8000 98309 to discover why one call does it all.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

33

34

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

#life&leisure

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

35



Torrevieja’s Spartan: Jason Scawthorn

by KEITH NICOL “YES I knew I had reached the finish line.”

So said a tired and muddy Jason Scawthorn after navigating 25 obstacles over a thirteen kilometre course on a former army training and obstacle course in Paterna,

Valencia, on November 28th, in a time of 2 hours 11 mins.

Jason said: “My racing buddy Poncho Rodríguez and myself would like to say a big thankyou

to all who helped on the day, and a very big thankyou to the Samaritans for all their help.

On the day, over 5,200 people took part in the toughest obstacle race on the planet.”

Read the full story on page 66.

36

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #gardening



Sweet peas for spring colour.

MANY READERS who grew sweet peas in the UK may not realise that they grow spectacularly well in Spain and that November and December are the best months to plant them in Spain.

by

Dick Handscombe Holistic gardener and author

Sweet peas, ‘lathyrus odoratus’ are amongst the most useful of Spring annuals.

They can be grown within mixed beds, up walls or fences, in large pots supported by canes, intertwined into later flowering climbers as well as on dedicated cane frames in the flower garden or around the orchard or vegetable plot. They can also be fitted into your programme of crop rotation on the vegetable plot where they have four benefits - colourful flowers for cutting, the attraction of beneficial insects, a wind break for young vegetable seedlings and the building up of nitrogen in the soil for follow on crops such as lettuce and spinach. Dwarf varieties can be grown in pots or window boxes and at the front of mixed flower beds.

The ten success factors are as follows.

1. Decide on the types of sweet pea that you plan to plant. The normal climbing varieties that climb to a height of around two metres or the dwarf bush varieties. Also whether you plan to grow the popular annual varieties or try to grow some of the everlasting types. There are dozens of varieties of annual sweet peas now available in all shades of single or mixed colours – white, pink, blue, purple, red, cream, mauve etc. Don’t be surprised if you create a new mixed colour cross pollinated variety by cross pollination within a few years of growing plants from your own retained seed.

2. Purchase good seeds to start with. You will then be able to collect your own seed each year and will be soon passing the excess onto friends. Unfortunately the choice of seeds available in garden centres in Spain is limited. So consider buying from UK seed catalogues including the specialists Robert Bolton and Son. 3. Plant directly in the ground or in pots. They are very frost hardy.

4. Sweet peas do best in a rich well drained soil, so prepare for planting as follows.

In the open ground. Rake a shallow trench and work in well rotted compost or manures to the top twenty centimetres of soil.

In pots. Prepare a potting mix comprising 60% rich soil, 30% peat substitute and 10% coarse sand. At same time prepare the beds for planting out plantlets as ‘a’.

Before planting seeds soak them in water overnight. Some varieties germinate faster if the seeds are filed. Read and follow the instructions on the packets carefully.

Plant seeds two to three centimetres deep in the garden and pots/boxes. Sow seeds in the garden in rows or patches. Sow in a trench or in holes placed ten to fifteen centimetres apart. Sow three seeds in each hole. Sow seeds three to five centimetres apart in pots and seed boxes to enable seedlings to be separated from each other when planting out.

5. Give the seeds protection as soon as they are sown.

Cover outside seed beds with netting to protect from birds, especially pigeons.

Place mouse traps in the greenhouse or cold frame and near outdoor rows to prevent losses from hibernating field mice that come out to collect food on a warm day.

Snails and slugs find young sweet pea plants a delicacy so place a proprietary killer or comfrey leaves around the seed beds and pots to give protection as soon as seeds start to germinate.

6. Keep the soil damp at all times but not waterlogged.

7. Feed the young plants and maturing plants fortnightly with an organic fertilizer or a mixed comfrey/nettle feed if preparing your own organic feeds.

8. When seedlings have three sets of leaves, nip off the top of the plants including the top pair of leaves. This will stimulate lateral shoots and bushy plants.

9. Watch out for aphids at all times and treat immediately with a soap and water spray.

10. Once flowers form cut regularly and deadhead uncut flower heads. This will stimulate a long repeat flowering season.

#rtnxmas&newyeartvguide newyeartvguide

January

38

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Soap Guide for week commencing 19th December

Emmerdale (ITV)

Aaron is desperate to buy Diane’s share of the pub, mainly to stop Robert getting his hands on it. So, in theory, he should be pleased when Gordon turns up in the village this week and offers to give him the money, but instead he’s angry that his dad is trying to buy his affections.

Desperate to get the cash some other way, Aaron agrees to act as lookout while Ross robs a warehouse, but he could need Gordon’s help after all when the robbery hits the news, along with an incriminating image from the scene of the crime.

Elsewhere, Ashley realises he can’t face his illness without Laurel, but Harriet is hurt to see the couple reunited.

Belle plots revenge after spotting Zak and Joanie kissing, leaving her dad afraid she might share the news with the rest of the Dingles over Christmas dinner.

Lachlan sees a chance to make some money out of David, Vanessa is nervous about little Johnny’s homecoming, and Pollard’s plans to spend Christmas stewing on his own are ruined by Cheryl the dog.

And there’s a Christmas treat for soap fans as a guest checks into the B&B, played by guest star Liz Dawn (aka Vera Duckworth).

Coronation Street (ITV)

Hollyoaks There doesn’t seem to be much chance of Leela and Cameron calling a Christmas truce, as she tells him he’ll never see his daughter again.

However, she’s more forgiving towards Ziggy, as when he calls round to her new flat, they are so busy reminiscing, he forgets the purpose of the visit was to drop off Peri’s present.

When he returns with the gift, he discovers that there’s a gas leak in Leela’s flat, and she’s locked inside. Can Ziggy get her out in time, and is he right to suspect that Cameron was somehow involved?

Elsewhere, Porsche is baffled to learn that Derek has left her a considerable inheritance. Sadly the money doesn’t buy her happiness, and she ends up in a fight with Reenie, which the cops have to break it up. As her mum faces the prospect of going back to jail, Porsche softens and offers her a way out…

Ste is arrested, seemingly ruining any chances he had of reconciling with Harry, but Tony isn’t taking any chances as he tries to convince John Paul his ex still loves him.

Over at the Lovedays, Zack is hurt when Theresa breaks up with him, so Lisa comforts him with a kiss and admits she isn’t really his sister.

Robert plans to propose to Tracey on Christmas Day, but she’s distracted by Rob, who tells her he could be released from jail on a technicality and wants to pick up where they left off. She’s thrown by his words and initially claims she will wait for him, little realising he is planning to inform Robert about her duplicity. Rob also puts pressure on Johnny, pushing him to breaking point.

Meanwhile, Nick urges David to make it up with Kylie, but matters go from bad to worse between the pair.

However, she makes a big gesture that may just make him realise they could have a future together. Kevin and Anna grow closer, and end up spending December 25 together at Tim and Sally’s. Plus, Tyrone’s winter wonderland goes down a treat with an ailing Hope – but will his surprise for her mother please Fiz?

EastEnders (BBC1)

It’s going to be a dramatic Christmas for Stacey as she braces herself to tell the truth about the baby’s parentage, only for Kush to change his mind after Shabnam receives some upsetting news.

However, when Stacey then goes into labour during Lily’s nativity play, it seems one resident might just have noted the date, done a quick bit of mental arithmetic, and successfully put two and two together…

The feud between the Mitchells and the Hubbards continues to escalate, as Vincent comes up with a dangerous revenge plot, and Ronnie is forced to decide where her loyalties lie. Meanwhile, Sharon is furious when Bobby turns his anger issues on Dennis, and when Kathy then tells her exactly how Jane came to fall down the stairs, she drops a bombshell that could tear the Beales apart.

So, with at least three families at war, just who will get caught in the crossfire and end up celebrating their last Christmas on the Square? Over at the Vic, Linda schemes to reunite Mick and Shirley while Dean sulks at home. Billy attempts to pop the question to Honey, Dot scatters Jim’s ashes, and Kat pays a surprise visit.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

39

#tvlistings 18th December - 1st January

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

friday 18th December BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 10.15 Operation Meet the Street 11.00 Homes Under the Hammer 12.00 Oxford Street Revealed 12.45 Family Finders 13.15 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News at One 14.30 BBC Regional News 14.45 Doctors 15.15 Doctor Blake Mysteries 16.10 Escape to the Country 16.40 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 17.25 Flog It! 18.15 Pointless 19.00 BBC News 19.30 BBC Regional News 20.00 The One Show 20.30 A Question of Sport 21.00 EastEnders 21.30 Citizen Khan 22.00 Have I Got News for You 22.30 Peter Kay’s Car Share 23.00 BBC News at Ten 23.25 BBC Regional News Lottery Update 23.35 Graham Norton Show 0.20 Josh

BBC2

08.00 Oxford Street Revealed 08.45 Family Finders 09.15 An Island Parish: Falklands 09.45 Great British Menu 10.15 Victoria Derbyshire 12.00 BBC News 13.00 Daily Politics 14.00 Britain’s First Photo Album 14.30 Great British Bake Off 15.30 Great British Bake Off: The Final 16.30 The Great Antiques Map of Britain 17.00 The World’s Most Photographed 17.30 Wogan: The Best Of 18.15 Bargain Hunt 19.00 Strictly Come Dancing - It Takes Two 20.00 Tom Kerridge Cooks Christmas 20.30 Mary Berry’s Absolute Christmas Favourites 21.00 Mastermind 21.30 An Island Parish: Falklands 22.00 Alex Polizzi: Hire Our Heroes 23.00 The Clare Balding Sports Show

saturday 19th December

BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 11.00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12.30 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 13.00 BBC News; Weather 13.10 Football Focus 13.55 Sports Personality The Final 12 14.55 The Muppets 16.30 The Hunt 17.30 Final Score 18.25 BBC News 18.35 BBC Regional News 18.45 Pointless Celebrities 19.35 Strictly Come Dancing Grand Final 21.00 Casualty 21.50 National Lottery Live 22.00 Strictly Come Dancing: The Results 23.10 BBC News 23.30 Match of the Day; National Lottery Update 0.55 The Apprentice

BBC2

07.00 Race to Super Bowl 50 07.50 Homes Under the Hammer 08.45 Africa’s Fishing Leopards: Natural World 09.45 Underdog 11.00 Bridge to Terabithia 12.30 Escape to the Country 13.00 Best Christmas Bakes Ever 13.45 The Bishop’s Wife 15.30 Splash!

17.10 Flog It! 18.00 Dad’s Army 19.35 The Perfect Morecambe & Wise Christmas Special 20.05 Japan: Earth’s Enchanted Islands 21.05 Porridge 21.50 Rudolf Nureyev - Dance to Freedom 23.20 QI XL 0.05 The Rise of James Brown: Mr Dynamite

ITV1

07.00 Good Morning Britain 09.30 Lorraine 10.25 The Jeremy Kyle Show for Text Santa 11.30 This Morning 13.30 Loose Women 14.30 ITV Lunchtime News 14.55 ITV News Local News 15.00 Judge Rinder for Text Santa 16.00 1000 Heartbeats for Text Santa 17.00 Tipping Point for Text Santa 18.00 The Chase for Text Santa 19.00 ITV News Local News 19.30 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Coronation Street 21.00 Text Santa Christmas Jumper Day 0.05 ITV News 0.45 ITV News Local News 0.55 Text Santa 2015: The Best Bits

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07.00 Countdown 07.45 3rd Rock from the Sun 08.35 Everybody Loves Raymond 10.00 Frasier 11.00 Undercover Boss USA 12.00 Jamie’s Best Ever Christmas 13.00 Channel 4 News 13.05 Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas 14.05 Celebrity Come Dine with Me: Christmas Special 15.10 Deal or No Deal 16.10 Countdown 17.00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18.00 Couples Come Dine with Me 19.00 The Simpsons 19.30 Hollyoaks 20.00 Channel 4 News 20.30 TFI Friday Christmas Special 22.00 Gogglebox 23.00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man 0.05 First Dates: The Proposal

07.00 Childrens TV 10.15 Christmas with The Wright Stuff 12.40 The Perfect Holiday 14.30 5 News Lunchtime 14.35 Neighbours 15.05 Mrs Miracle 2: Miracle in Manhattan 16.50 Help for Christmas 18.30 5 News 19.00 Neighbours 19.30 5 News Tonight 20.00 Ultimate Strongman Masters World Championship 21.00 Ice Road Truckers 22.00 Con Air 0.15 Christmas Crimes: Caught on Camera

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07.25 Childrens TV 09.30 Thunderbirds Are Go 10.00 Jessie 10.25 Murder, She Wrote 11.20 The Jeremy Kyle Show 12.20 ITV News and Weather 12.30 The Mirror Crack’d 14.35 Celebrity Squares 15.15 Doc Martin 16.15 Midsomer Murders 18.10 ITV News Local News 18.20 ITV News and Weather 18.35 Keep It in the Family Christmas Special 19.35 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey 22.45 Jonathan Ross Show 23.50 ITV News 0.05 Notting Hill

07.15 Great Ethiopian Run 2015

07.00 The Hot Desk: Kelly Clarkson 07.10 Emmerdale 09.55 Coronation Street 12.20 Scorpion 13.15 Funniest Ever You’ve Been Framed!

14.15 Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium 16.10 Santa Baby 18.00 Merry Christmas Mr Bean 18.35 Ella Enchanted 20.25 Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas 22.00 The Bourne Supremacy 0.10 Celebrity Juice: Bestest Bits 2015 Part 1 01.10 Through the Christmas Keyhole

07.00 Melissa & Joey

Special

07.00 Childrens TV 08.10 Paw Patrol 08.25 Little Princess 08.35 Pip Ahoy!

08.50 Blaze and the Monster Machines 09.10 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09.25 Wanda and the Alien 09.45 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09.55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 10.30 The Saturday Show 12.30 A Country Christmas Story 14.20 This Christmas 16.30 Angel at Christmas 18.10 A Boyfriend for Christmas 19.55 Crackers About Christmas 20.55 Michael Buble’s Christmas Songbook 21.55 5 News Weekend 22.00 Football League Tonight 23.30 Britain’s Favourite Abba Songs 0.55 Abba: Live in Concert

19.35 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

08.10 Survival of the Fittest 08.35 Snowman Triathlon 09.00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10.00 The Morning Line 11.00 The Big Bang Theory 13.00 The Simpsons 14.30 Channel 4 Racing 17.00 Channel 4 News 17.10 The Simpsons 18.10 Arthur Christmas 20.00 World’s Weirdest Weather 21.00 Star Trek 23.30 Watchmen 02.30 TFI Friday Christmas

15.05 Mrs Miracle 2: Miracle in Manhattan

07.00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07.25 Psych 08.10 Emmerdale 09.10 Coronation Street 09.40 The Cube 10.40 Psych 11.35 Catchphrase 12.15 Take Me Out Celebrity Christmas Special 13.30 Emmerdale 14.30 Coronation Street 15.00 Catchphrase 15.40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 19.00 Judge Rinder 20.00 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

21.00 Two and a Half Men 22.00 The Bourne Identity 0.25 The Nutty Professor

07.00 Rude(ish) Tube 07.45 Charmed 09.30 10.00 11.00 12.00

Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Melissa & Joey Charmed

14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 Melissa & Joey

17.00 The Big Bang Theory 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 21.00 22.00 23.50

A to Z The Big Bang Theory Taken The Big Bang Theory

0.50 Bodyshockers: Nips, Tucks and Tattoos

07.25 How I Met Your Mother 08.05 Baby Daddy 09.00 The Goldbergs 10.00 Made in Chelsea 11.00 Couples Come Dine with Me 13.00 The Goldbergs 14.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events 18.00 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Inbetweeners Movie 0.00 The Inbetweeners Top 10 Moments 01.00 The Inbetweeners

sunday 20th December BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 08.35 Match of the Day 10.00 Andrew Marr Show 11.00 Fern Britton Meets Baroness Brady 12.00 Homes Under the Hammer 13.00 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News; Weather 14.15 Rise of the Guardians 15.40 Merry Madagascar 16.05 Toy Story 3 17.45 The Christmas Big Sing 18.25 BBC News 18.40 BBC Regional News 18.50 Countryfile: Cornish Coastal Christmas 19.50 Sports Personality of the Year 2015 22.00 The Apprentice 0.00 BBC News 0.20 BBC Regional News 0.30 Have I Got a Bit More News for You

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

07.15 Big Dreams Small Spaces 08.15 Countryfile 09.15 An Island Parish: Falklands 09.45 Natural World: Beavers Behaving Badly 10.45 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12.15 Simply Nigella: Christmas Special 13.15 MOTD2 Extra 14.00 Hi-de-Hi! 14.45 Equestrian: Olympia 17.30 Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em 18.20 Flog It! 19.25 The Good Life 19.50 Christmas University Challenge 20.20 To The Manor Born: 25th Anniversary Special 21.20 Safe Haven 23.10 Live at the Apollo Christmas Special 2015 23.55 Family Guy 0.15 The Javone Prince Show 0.45 Country Strife: Abz on the Farm

07.00 Childrens TV 09.30 Lego DC Comics: Batman Be-Leaguered 10.00 Jessie 10.25 FIA Formula E Championship 11.20 The Jeremy Kyle Show 12.20 ITV News 12.25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 13.30 The Unforgettable Dick Emery 14.00 Doc Martin 16.00 Midsomer Murders 18.00 Tipping Point for Text Santa 19.00 ITV News Local News 19.15 ITV News and Weather 19.30 Jekyll and Hyde 20.30 The Sound of Music Live!

23.05 ITV News 23.20 Love Actually

07.20 The King of Queens

07.00 Childrens TV 09.05 Blaze and the Monster Machines 09.30 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09.45 Wanda and the Alien 09.55 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.10 Jelly Jamm 10.30 LazyTown 10.55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 11.30 Football League Tonight 13.00 Surf’s Up 14.35 The Christmas Switch 16.20 Christmas in the City 18.05 Pinocchio 19.50 5 News Weekend 19.55 Hellboy II: The Golden Army 22.00 War of the Worlds 0.20 Britain’s Favourite Christmas Songs

07.00 The Hot Desk: Ed Sheeran 07.10 Christmas Bonkers Guinness World Records 07.35 Emmerdale 10.20 Coronation Street 12.45 Keep It in the Family Christmas Special 13.50 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

14.20 Peter Pan 16.30 Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure 18.20 Catchphrase Christmas Special 19.25 The X Factor Winner’s Story 2015 20.30 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

22.00 The Bourne Ultimatum 0.15 Celebrity Juice: Christmas Special 01.00 Release the Hounds: Jingle Hell II

07.00 Melissa & Joey 07.20 How I Met Your Mother 08.05 Baby Daddy 09.00 Melissa & Joey 09.55 Made in Chelsea 11.00 Hollyoaks 13.30 Couples Come Dine with Me 15.35 The Big Bang Theory 19.25 The Twilight Saga: New Moon 22.00 The Inbetweeners 2 0.00 The Inbetweeners Go Global

08.35 Everybody Loves Raymond

09.30 Frasier

10.30 Sunday Brunch

13.30 The Big Bang Theory 14.25 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale

16.15 The Addams Family 18.10 Channel 4 News 18.30 Ice Age:

A Mammoth Christmas 19.00 Home Alone

21.00 Bear Goes Wild with Barack Obama

22.00 Homeland

23.00 Gogglebox

0.00 Four Christmases

Quote of the week 01.40 Airplane!

On the news that Kanye West and Kim Kardashian are calling their new baby ´Saint, ´ top reaction from Instagram user Sean Nolan “Kim and Kanye have now got to call their next sprog Greavsie!”

22.00 The Inbetweeners 2

40

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

MONDAY 21st December BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 10.15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11.00 Homes Under the Hammer 12.00 Oxford Street Revealed 12.45 Close Calls: On Camera 13.15 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News at One 14.30 BBC Regional News 14.45 Raiders of the Lost Ark 16.35 The Madagascar Penguins in a Christmas Caper 16.50 Shrek 2 18.15 Pointless 19.00 BBC News at Six 19.30 BBC Regional News 20.00 Cue the Queen: Celebrating the Christmas Speech 21.00 EastEnders 21.30 Miranda 22.00 The John Bishop Christmas Show 23.00 BBC News 23.30 BBC Regional News 23.40 Match of the Day 2 0.40 Citizen Khan

BBC2

08.20 Oxford Street Revealed 09.05 Family Finders 09.35 This Wild Life 10.35 Flight of the Navigator 12.00 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 13.00 The Great Pottery Throw Down 14.00 Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em 14.45 The Polar Bear Family and Me 15.45 Coast 16.45 Perry and Croft: Made in Britain 17.15 Alaska - Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 18.15 The Great British Bake Off Christmas Masterclass 19.15 Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger!

21.00 Christmas University Challenge 21.30 Only Connect 22.00 Gorilla Family and Me 23.00 Mock the Week Christmas Special 23.35 Russell Howard’s Good News 0.05 The Javone Prince Show

TUESDAY 22nd December

BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 10.15 Wanted Down Under Revisited 11.00 Homes Under the Hammer 12.00 Oxford Street Revealed 12.45 Close Calls: On Camera 13.15 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News at One 14.30 BBC Regional News 14.45 Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom 16.35 Puss in Boots: The Three Diablos 16.50 Shrek the Third 18.15 Pointless 19.00 BBC News 19.30 BBC Regional News 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 EastEnders 21.00 Holby City 22.00 Luther 23.00 BBC News 23.25 BBC Regional News and National Lottery Update 23.35 Take That on Tour 0.35 Mrs Brown’s Boys

BBC2

08.35 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 09.20 This Wild Life 09.50 Simply Nigella 10.20 Tintin and the Mystery of the Golden Fleece 12.00 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 13.00 Great Pottery Throw Down 14.00 Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em 14.45 Polar Bear Family and Me 15.45 Coast 16.45 Perry and Croft: Made in Britain 17.15 Alaska - Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 18.15 Money for Nothing 19.00 Eggheads 19.30 Back in Time for Christmas 20.30 Christmas University Challenge 21.00 MasterChef: The Professionals 22.00 We’re Doomed!

The Dad’s Army Story 23.00 QI Christmas 23.30 Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa 0.55 The Javone Prince Show

CHANNEL 4

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07.00 Childrens TV 08.00 Good Morning Britain 09.30 Lorraine 10.25 Rebound 11.25 Pick Me! 12.30 Big Star’s Little Star 13.30 Off Their Rockers 14.00 Celebrity Squares 14.45 ITV Lunchtime News 15.10 ITV News Local News 15.15 Judge Rinder for Text Santa 16.20 Liar Liar 18.00 The Chase 19.00 ITV News Local News 19.30 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Lonely This Christmas: Tonight 21.00 Midsomer Murders 23.00 ITV News at Ten 23.30 ITV News Local News 23.40 Jonathan Ross Show 0.45 Mickey Blue Eyes

07.20 How I Met Your Mother 07.45 Everybody Loves Raymond 08.35 Frasier 09.55 The Big Bang Theory 11.20 Space Chimps 12.55 The Simpsons 13.25 Five Children and It 15.10 Deal or No Deal Double Trouble: Christmas Leftovers 16.10 Countdown 17.00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18.00 Come Dine with Me Christmas Special 19.00 The Simpsons 19.30 Hollyoaks 20.00 Channel 4 News 21.00 How the Rich Live Longer 22.00 The Supervet at Christmas 23.00 That’s So Last Century 0.00 Children Who Beat Ebola 01.00 Rewind the Christmas Hits

07.00 Childrens TV 10.15 World’s Strongest Man 2015 11.15 Ice Road Truckers 12.20 The Flight Before Christmas 13.50 The Elf That Rescued Christmas 15.20 The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey 17.05 The Secret Garden 19.00 A Primary School Nativity 19.55 World’s Strongest Man 2015 21.00 The Dog Rescuers at Christmas with Alan Davies 22.00 Michael Buble’s Christmas 2015 23.00 Greatest Ever Christmas Movies

07.00 The Hot Desk: Little Mix 07.10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07.30 You’ve Been Framed!

07.55 Emmerdale 08.20 Coronation Street 09.20 The Cube Celebrity Special 10.15 1000 Heartbeats for Text Santa 11.20 Beethoven’s 2nd 13.10 Emmerdale 13.40 Coronation Street 14.40 All Star Family Fortunes Christmas Special 15.40 Jeremy Kyle: Festive Fallouts 19.00 You’ve Been Framed!

19.30 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

20.50 Take Me Out Celebrity Christmas Special 22.00 Love Actually 0.45 Celebrity Juice: Christmas Special

07.00 The Mindy Project 07.20 Little Wolf’s Book of Badness 07.50 Charmed 09.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Famous Fred 10.35 How I Met Your Mother 11.00 Melissa & Joey 12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 Melissa & Joey 17.00 Brooklyn Nine-Nine 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Tattoo Fixers 23.00 Tripped 23.55 The Big Bang Theory 0.55 Rude Tube Christmas Cracker 2014

07.35 Everybody Loves Raymond 08.25 Frasier 09.50 The Big Bang Theory 10.50 Magic in the Water 12.50 White Christmas 15.10 Deal or No Deal 16.10 Countdown 17.00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18.00 Come Dine with Me 19.00 The Simpsons 19.30 Hollyoaks 20.00 Channel 4 News 21.00 Food Unwrapped at Christmas 22.00 The Rich Kids of Instagram: Cutting Edge 23.00 Fargo 0.10 Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance

WEDNESDAY 23rd December BBC1

07.00 Breakfast 10.15 David Suchet: In the Footsteps of St Paul 11.15 Cue the Queen: Celebrating the Christmas Speech 12.15 Eat Well for Less at Christmas?

13.15 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News at One 14.30 BBC Regional News 14.45 Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade 16.40 Donkey’s Caroling Xmas-Tacular 16.50 Shrek Forever After 18.15 Pointless 19.00 BBC News 19.30 BBC Regional News 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 A Question Of Sport Christmas Special 21.00 EastEnders 21.30 Snow Chick: A Penguin’s Tale 22.30 Boomers 23.00 BBC News at Ten 23.25 BBC Regional News and National Lottery Update 23.35 Peter Kay’s Car Share 0.05 Mrs Brown’s Boys 0.35 Meet the Fockers

BBC2

07.55 Oxford Street Revealed 08.40 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 09.25 This Wild Life 09.55 Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip 10.25 Short Circuit 12.00 Equestrian: Olympia 2015 Highlights 13.00 Great Pottery Throw Down 14.00 Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads?

14.45 Polar Bear Family and Me 15.45 Coast 16.45 Perry and Croft: Made in Britain 17.15 Alaska - Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 18.15 Money for Nothing 19.00 Back in Time for Christmas 20.00 Gorilla Family and Me 21.00 Christmas University Challenge 21.30 MasterChef: The Professionals 22.30 Christmas Shopping Fever 2015: John Lewis and the Retail Race 23.30 Goodness Gracious Me Special 0.00 TOTP2: Christmas 2015

ITV1

07.00 08.00 09.30 10.25 11.25 12.24 12.25 13.10 13.35 13.45 15.25 18.00 19.00 19.30 20.00 20.30 21.00 22.00 23.00 23.30 23.45

07.00 Breakfast 10.00 David Suchet: In the Footsteps of St Paul 11.00 On Angel Wings 11.30 The Santa Clause 13.00 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News at One 14.10 BBC Regional News 14.20 Snow Chick: A Penguin’s Tale 15.20 A Christmas Carol 16.50 Finding Nemo 18.20 Harry Hill in Professor Branestawm Returns 19.20 BBC News 19.30 BBC Regional News 19.40 Celebrity Mastermind 20.10 Pointless Celebrities Christmas Special 21.00 Would I Lie to You? At Christmas 21.30 EastEnders 22.05 Peter Kay: 20 Years of Funny 23.05 Walliams and Friend 23.45 Not Going Out 0.30 BBC News; Weather 0.45 Midnight Mass from St George’s Cathedral, Southwark

BBC2

07.20 Homes Under the Hammer 08.20 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 09.05 This Wild Life 09.35 Sign Zone: Great British Menu 10.05 Bedknobs and Broomsticks 12.00 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 13.00 Natural World 14.00 Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit 15.45 Perry and Croft: Made in Britain 16.15 The Snow Wolf Family and Me 18.15 Carols from King’s 19.30 To the Manor Born 20.00 Dad’s Army 20.30 Christmas University Challenge 21.00 MasterChef: The Professionals 22.00 The Great History Quiz: The Tudors 23.00 The Scandalous Lady W 0.30 Dial M for Murder

07.00 Childrens TV 08.05 Little Princess 08.20 Bob the Builder 08.35 Thomas & Friends 08.45 Noddy in Toyland 09.00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09.15 Peppa Pig 09.35 Paw Patrol 09.50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10.05 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.20 Mr Men 10.35 A Monster Christmas 11.35 James and the Giant Peach 13.05 Jack and the Beanstalk 14.50 The Borrowers 16.30 The Family Man 19.00 Kids’ Hospital at Christmas: Revisited 19.55 World’s Strongest Man 2015 21.00 Chris Tarrant on the Polar Express 22.00 All New Shocking Moments in Pop 2 01.00 The Last Hours of Amy Winehouse

21.00 The Dog Rescuers at Christmas with Alan Davies

CHANNEL 5

07.00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 07.20 You’ve Been Framed!

07.50 Emmerdale 08.20 Coronation Street 08.50 The Corrie Years 09.20 The Cube Celebrity Special: McFly 10.20 The X Factor Winner’s Story 2015 11.20 Beethoven 13.10 Emmerdale 13.40 Coronation Street 14.10 You’ve Been Framed!

14.40 All Star Family Fortunes Christmas Special 15.40 Jeremy Kyle: Festive Fallouts 19.00 Judge Rinder for Text Santa 20.00 You’ve Been Framed!

20.30 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

21.00 Two and a Half Men 22.00 The Holiday 0.45 Celebrity Juice: Christmas Special

ITV2

07.00 Christmas Bonkers Guinness World Records 07.20 You’ve Been Framed!

07.50 Emmerdale 08.20 The X Factor Winner’s Story 2015 09.20 The Cube Gold Medallist Special 10.20 I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Coming Out 11.20 The Flintstones 13.10 Emmerdale 13.40 You’ve Been Framed!

Top 100 Kids 14.40 All Star Family Fortunes Christmas Special 15.40 Jeremy Kyle: Festive Fallouts 19.00 Catchphrase Christmas Special 20.00 Uncle Buck 22.00 Pampered Pooches: Hollywood 23.00 Celebrity Juice: Bestest Bits 2015 Part 2 0.05 The Bourne Identity

E4

07.00 The Mindy Project 07.20 The Bear 07.50 Charmed 09.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Little Wolf’s Book of Badness 10.35 How I Met Your Mother 11.00 Melissa & Joey 12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 Melissa & Joey 17.00 The Big Bang Theory 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Made in Chelsea: Christmas 23.00 Scream Queens 0.00 Gogglebox

E4

07.25 Small Animal Hospital 08.10 Everybody Loves Raymond 08.35 The Rugrats Movie 10.00 The Big Bang Theory 11.30 Space Chimps 2: Zartog Strikes Back 13.00 The Simpsons 13.30 Aliens in the Attic 15.10 Deal or No Deal 16.10 Countdown 17.00 Posh Pawnbrokers 18.00 Celebrity Come Dine with Me 19.00 The Simpsons 19.30 Hollyoaks 20.00 Channel 4 News 20.30 Toy Story OF TERROR! 21.00 Posh Pawn at Christmas 22.00 24 Hours in A&E 23.00 Toast of London 23.30 Father Ted Christmas Special 0.35 Father Ted

07.00 Childrens TV 08.05 Little Princess 08.20 Bob the Builder 08.35 Thomas & Friends 08.45 Noddy in Toyland 08.55 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09.15 Peppa Pig 09.35 Paw Patrol 09.50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10.00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.15 Mr Men 10.30 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.40 Angel at Christmas 12.20 Fly Away Home 14.30 World’s Strongest Man 2015 15.30 The Glenn Miller Story 17.50 Clash of the Titans 20.00 World’s Strongest Man 2015 21.00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 22.00 Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Away! Christmas Special 23.00 Christmas with Britain’s Biggest Family 0.00 On Benefits: Cashing in for Christmas

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

07.00 Childrens TV 08.00 Good Morning Britain 09.30 Lorraine 10.25 Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas 11.25 Pick Me! 12.25 Back to the Future Part II 14.30 ITV Lunchtime News 14.45 Small Soldiers 16.50 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 18.40 All Star Mr & Mrs 19.45 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 21.00 Coronation Street 21.30 Abba Christmas Party 22.45 Through the Christmas Keyhole 23.45 ITV News 0.00 Christmas Carols on ITV

07.15 Small Animal Hospital 08.00 The Big Bang Theory 08.40 The Snowman 09.05 Father Christmas 09.35 The Simpsons 10.10 Animals United 11.55 Horton Hears a Who! 13.30 Stuart Little 15.10 Channel 4 News 15.15 It’s a Wonderful Life 17.55 The Snowman 18.25 The Snowman and the Snowdog 19.00 Hollyoaks 20.00 Jamie’s Night Before Christmas 21.00 My Crazy Christmas Lights 22.00 8 Out of 10 Cats Christmas Special 23.00 Rude Tube Christmas Cracker 0.00 Gogglebox

07.00 Childrens TV 08.55 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09.05 Milkshake! Bop Box 09.10 Peppa Pig 09.20 Wanda and the Alien 09.30 Paw Patrol 09.50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10.00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.10 Mr Men 10.30 The Real Face of Santa Claus 11.30 Gone with the Wind 15.45 The Dam Busters 18.15 5 News 18.20 Scrooge - A Christmas Carol 20.00 Christmas Makes You Laugh Out Loud 20.55 Frank Sinatra & Gene Kelly: Ol’ Blues Eyes Is Back 21.25 Happy Holidays with Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby 21.55 The Morecambe and Wise Christmas Show 23.00 Christmas with the Double Acts 0.00 Morecambe & Wise Live! 1973

07.00 The Hot Desk: Nick Jonas 07.10 1000 Heartbeats for Text Santa 08.00 Emmerdale 08.30 Coronation Street 09.00 Keep It in the Family Christmas Special 10.00 Santa Baby 11.55 Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure 13.45 Emmerdale 14.15 Coronation Street 14.45 Merry Christmas Mr Bean 15.20 You’ve Been Framed!

16.20 All Star Family Fortunes Christmas Special 17.20 Catchphrase Christmas Special 18.25 The Polar Express 20.25 Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas 22.00 Casino Royale 0.55 Celebrity Juice Christmas Special

07.00 How I Met Your Mother 07.20 Ivor the Invisible 07.50 Charmed 09.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Lost and Found 10.35 The Bear 11.10 How I Met Your Mother 12.05 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - A is for...

Anything Can Happen Thursday 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - B is for...

Bazinga!

17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - C is for...

Camping 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - D is for...

Driving 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Taken 23.50 The Big Bang Theory 0.50 Rude Tube

Childrens TV Good Morning Britain Lorraine Rebound Pick Me! ITV Local Weather Catchphrase ITV Lunchtime News ITV News Local News Bean The Sound of Music Live!

The Chase for Text Santa ITV News Local News ITV Evening News Emmerdale Coronation Street All Star Mr & Mrs Prey ITV News at Ten ITV News Local News Bridget Jones’s Diary

CHRISTMAS EVE 24th December

BBC1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

ITV1

07.00 Childrens TV 08.00 Good Morning Britain 09.30 Lorraine 10.25 Rebound 11.20 Pick Me! 12.20 Big Star’s Little Star 13.25 Tipping Point 14.30 ITV Lunchtime News 14.55 ITV News Local News 15.00 1000 Heartbeats for Text Santa 16.00 Midsomer Murders: Ghosts of Christmas Past 18.00 The Chase 19.00 ITV News Local News 19.30 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Coronation Street 21.00 The Making of The Sound of Music Live 21.30 Coronation Street 22.00 Bafta Celebrates Downton Abbey 23.00 ITV News at Ten 23.30 ITV News Local News 23.40 Music and Lyrics

07.00 The Mindy Project 07.20 Famous Fred 07.45 Charmed 09.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Ivor the Invisible

10.35 How I Met Your Mother 11.05 Melissa & Joey

12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 Melissa & Joey 17.00 Baby Daddy

18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks

21.00 The Twilight Saga:

Eclipse

23.25 Supernatural 0.25 The Big Bang Theory

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30

41

Harry Hill in Professor Branestawm Returns

by Sarah Morgan LAST CHRISTMAS Eve, the BBC provided us with a little early present - an adaptation of The Incredible Adventures of Professor Branestawm.

“In recent years BBC One has produced some truly wonderful adaptations which have been huge hits with our audience and I have no doubt that Charlie Higson’s take on Professor Branestawm, starring the brilliant Harry Hill, will prove to be just as magical and popular,” said BBC One controller Charlotte Moore at the time.

Clearly it lived up to all expectations because Higson, Hill and the Beeb have teamed up once again for another Christmas Eve spectacular, and they seem pretty pleased about it too.

“As a budding schoolboy scientist and inventor myself I loved the Professor Branestawm books as a kid, I was fascinated by Heath Robinson’s wonderful illustrations too,” says Hill. “I’m thrilled to be back playing the original nutty professor, and this time he’s even nuttier than last time.”

“I loved Norman Hunter’s Professor Branestawm books when I was a kid, and I loved reading them to my own kids, who found them as funny as I did,” adds Higson.

“These were the books that inspired me to write comedy of my own, and I’ve always wanted to adapt them for the screen. To bring Heath Robinson’s brilliant illustrations to life and share Norman Hunter’s amazing inventiveness with a wider audience is a dream come true for me.

“It’s very exciting to be making another Branestawn film. It’s great to get the cast back together and have fun in this crazy world.”

This time around our eccentric hero is still dabbling with weird and wonderful gadgets at his home in Great Pagwell, but despite having one of the nation’s most incredible brains, when it comes to dealing with bills, he’s at the bottom of the class - and in terrible debt.

The professor’s young pal, Connie, suggests that he should enter the town’s competition to find the best inventor, which has a prize of almost two thousands pounds - which is enough cash to get him out of the red. The only problem is that Professor Algebrain, the self-professed greatest inventor in the world, is also taking part.

Can Branestawm outwit him and land the prize himself, or is disappointment awaiting around the corner?

Former League of Gentleman member Steve Pemberton joins the cast as the professor’s number one competitor, while Diane Rigg also makes an appearance as Lady Pagwell who, following her death, leaves the money needed to fund the competition.

Perhaps of most interest will be the sight of Matt Berry playing the wonderfully named character Professor Algebrain - he’s an actor of rare comedic quality, so it will be good to see him in action. It will be particularly intriguing to see him in a family project aimed squarely at children after years of more near-the-knuckle fare.

Returning to the cast alongside Hill are Vicki Pepperdine, Madeline Holliday, Simon Day, Sophie Thompson, David Mitchell and Adrian Scarborough.

Christmas Eve BBC1, 6.20pm

42

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30

Downton Abbey - The Finale Christmas Day ITV1, 9.45pm

by Sarah Morgan AS THE saying goes, all good things must come to an end. And that’s certainly the case for Downton Abbey this Christmas.

After five years, 51 episodes and six seasons, it all draws to a close tonight - yes, we’ll be saying a fond farewell to the Crawley family, their friends, relatives and staff. For the drama’s creator and writer Julian Fellowes, the show’s production has been a whirlwind of excitement that has surpassed all his expectations.

“The first series was the great adventure,” he remembers. “We made a show that we believed was good and thought would find an audience, but we didn’t have any idea what was coming.

“As it continued airing, it picked up more and more viewers and references to the show started appearing in the newspapers, in Coronation Street, or someone would be talking about Downton Abbey in relation to butlering or the sale of tweed. That was a rather extraordinary moment: to realise you’d written a show that was reaching parts that other shows don’t reach was very exciting.”

He adds: “There are also certain storylines that stand out for me. I loved the romance between Matthew and Mary in the second series, when she was winning him back and more recently, I loved Violet’s past being revealed.”

Mary is in the thick of things during this final episode, which sees her trying to build bridges with Edith, after cruelly ruining her life by telling Bertie about Marigold’s true parentage. Edith’s past, meanwhile, continues to haunt her, despite the fact she feels she no longer has anything to lose.

Mary did, of course, tie the knot with Henry Talbot in the season six finale, and while he seems to have got the hang of being a husband and stepfather, settling into life at Downton proves to be more difficult.

Below stairs, Carson faces some personal challenges, which prove that even he is not invulnerable to change.

Some filming took part at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, which provides the setting for Brancaster, the home of lovable Bertie Pelham, the new Marquess of Hexham. Fans will be pleased to see the character return - but will he change his mind about Edith’s indiscretion? Patricia Hodge joins the cast as his formidable mother.

Also appearing will be Lily James and Matt Barber as Lady Rose and Atticus Aldridge, while Peter Egan returns as Lady Rose’s father, Shrimpie.

We’ve also been promised love, loss, happiness and heartbreak from this last-ever episode, which culminates in a gathering at the Abbey for family and servants as they see in 1926 on New Year’s Eve. It’s been reported that Fellowes is working on a new period drama series called The Gilded Age, which will be set in late-19th century New York and may feature younger versions of the Crawley family, including Robert, Violet and Cora. He’s also rumoured to be writing a movie version of Downton.

“These characters have served me well and I think the actors have made a terrific go of it and the entire association has been a happy one,” says Fellowes. “Of course, I’ll look back on it as a happy and successful job, as I’m sure everyone involved with Downton Abbey will.”

www.roundtownnews.com

43

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December

christmas DAY 25th December BBC1 7.00 Breakfast 10.00 Shrek the Halls 10.20 Clangers 10.35 Danger Mouse: The Snowman Cometh 11.00 Christmas Day Service Live from Bath Abbey 12.00 The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause 13.25 Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted 14.50 BBC News; Weather 15.00 Top of the Pops Christmas 16.00 The Queen’s Christmas Broadcast 2015 16.10 Brave 17.35 BBC News; Weather 17.45 Stick Man 18.15 Doctor Who 19.15 Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special 2015 20.30 Call the Midwife 21.45 EastEnders 22.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Special 23.25 Michael McIntyre’s Big Christmas Show 0.25 BBC News; Weather 0.40 Love Came Down at Christmas; National Lottery Update.

0.45 Comedy Bloopers 1.15 Not Going Out 2.00 Surviving Christmas 3.25 Weather for the Week Ahead 3.30 BBC News

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

E4

7.00 The Road to El Dorado 8.20 Galapagos - Islands of Change: Natural World 9.20 Herbie Rides Again 10.45 The Cat in the Hat 12.00 Carols from King’s 13.15 Climbed Every Mountain - The Story Behind The Sound of Music 14.15 The Good Life 14.45 Frankenweenie 16.05 Tim Rice - A Life in Song 17.35 Romeo & Juliet 19.20 Sign Zone: The Queen’s Christmas Broadcast 2015 19.30 World’s Sneakiest Animals 20.30 Dad’s Army 21.00 The Two Ronnies: Christmas Show 21.50 Darcey’s Ballet Heroes 22.50 QI 23.20 We’re Doomed!: The Dad’s Army Story 0.20 Gambit 1.40 The Trouble with Harry 3.20 This Is BBC Two

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.10 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.50 Oddbods 8.00 Dino Dan 8.15 Horrid Henry 8.45 Christmas: Chowder 9.10 Almost Naked Animals 9.25 Weekend at Christmas 10.25 Santa Claus: The Movie 12.30 Happy Feet 14.35 Text Santa: One More Time 15.45 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather 16.00 The Queen 16.10 Cameraman to the Queen 17.10 Countrywise Winter Wonderland 18.00 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs at Christmas 19.00 ITV Evening News 19.15 You’ve Been Framed!

With Bells On 19.45 Emmerdale 20.45 Coronation Street 21.45 Downton Abbey - The Finale 23.45 Our Cilla 0.45 ITV News; Weather 1.00 Dr No 2.50 Murder, She Wrote 3.45 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 4.25 ITV Nightscreen

7.45 Prep & Landing

7.00 Childrens TV

7.00 Christmas Bonkers Guinness World Records 7.25 Emmerdale 8.25 Coronation Street 8.55 Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas 9.55 You’ve Been Framed at Christmas!

10.50 You’ve Been Framed!

11.15 Catchphrase Christmas Special 12.15 Merry Christmas Mr Bean 12.50 Mr Bean 13.25 Emmerdale 14.25 Coronation Street 15.00 The Polar Express 16.55 ET: The ExtraTerrestrial 19.15 The Lost World: Jurassic Park 21.45 Quantum of Solace 23.55 The Bourne Supremacy 2.05 Celebrity Juice: Bestest Bits 2015 Part 2 3.00 Release the Hounds: Famous and Freaked 3.55 Tricked: Top 30 4.45 Educating Joey Essex: Africa 5.35 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records: Bonkingly Big Hits 6.25 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 6.50 ITV2 Nightscreen

7.45 Prep & Landing 8.05 Prep & Landing: Naughty v Nice 8.30 The Bear 9.00 A Turtle’s Tale: Sammy’s Adventures 10.40 The Simpsons 12.15 Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 12.40 Toy Story Toons 13.10 Father Christmas 13.40 The Snowman 14.15 The Snowman and the Snowdog 14.45 The Muppet Christmas Carol 16.25 Channel 4 News 16.35 Alternative Christmas Message 16.45 Scrooged 18.45 Home Alone 2: Lost in New York 21.00 Gogglesprogs 22.00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man Christmas Special 0.00 8 Out of 10 Cats Christmas Special 1.05 Very British Problems at Christmas 2.05 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 3.50 Friday Night Dinner 4.15 Gadget Man 5.10 Benchmark 5.55 Grand Designs Australia 6.50 Close

The Cat in the Hat 10.45

8.05 Prep & Landing: Naughty v Nice 8.30 The Bear

9.00 A Turtle’s Tale:

9.10 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.20 Peppa Pig

Sammy’s Adventures

9.35 Paw Patrol

12.15 Ice Age:

10.15 Toot the Tiny Tugboat

10.40 The Simpsons

10.00 Bananas in Pyjamas

A Mammoth Christmas

10.25 Mr Men

12.40 Toy Story Toons

13.10 Father Christmas 13.40 The Snowman

10.35 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.50 Andre Rieu’s

14.15 The Snowman

Christmas Spectacular

14.45 The Muppet

14.05 Seven Brides for

and the Snowdog Christmas Carol

16.25 Channel 4 News 16.35 Alternative

Christmas Message

11.50 Scrooge Seven Brothers 16.10 The Wizard of Oz 18.10 Michael Buble’s

16.45 Scrooged

Christmas 2015

Lost in New York

Christmas Songs

18.45 Home Alone 2: 21.00 Gogglesprogs 22.00 Alan Carr:

Chatty Man Christmas Special

19.05 Britain’s Favourite 21.50 Chas & Dave’s Xmas Knees Up! 22.40 Britain’s Favourite

0.00 8 Out of 10 Cats

Abba Songs

1.05 Very British Problems

An All-Star Grammy Concert

Christmas Special at Christmas

2.05 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 3.50 Friday Night Dinner 4.15 Gadget Man

0.05 Sinatra 100: 2.25 Abba: Live in Concert 3.35 SuperCasino 5.00 Christmas with Britain’s

5.10 Benchmark

Biggest Family

6.50 Close

6.35 House Doctor

5.55 Grand Designs Australia

5.45 House Doctor

Alan Carr: Chatty Man Christmas Special 22.00

44

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #puzzles

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Last weeks crossword answers can be found on page 60.

Sudoku

Doodle box

ACROSS 7. Understanding (13) 8. Glue (8) 9. Merit (4) 10. Cat food (6) 12. Severe test (6) 14. US inventor (6) 16. Annual (6) 18. Suffer (4) 20. Store-house (8) 22. Public notice (13) DOWN 1. Section of an orchestra (8) 2. Oration (6) 3. Fairy (4) 4. Rite (8) 5. Climb (6) 6. Indigent (4) 11. Inviolability (8) 13. Magnetic (8) 15. Reconnoitre (6) 17. Adopt (6) 19. Whirlpool (4) 21. Comfort (4)

Quick Crossword

Cryptic Crossword ACROSS 7. Sound way of communicating (2,4,2,5) 8. Travelling companion? (8) 9. Boats wrecked by a wind (4) 10. Cultivated Scandinavians (6) 12. Naughty ladies men dream of (6) 14. Key member of the office staff (6) 16. Decorate without a central point and it becomes gaudy (6) 18. It needs a nut to swallow in haste (4) 20. Not for heavy drinkers? (5,3) 22. Fagin’s pupils were members of it! (8,5) DOWN 1. At the roadside, incidentally (2,3,3) 2. Drop it, perhaps, being apathetic (6) 3. Thought I’d get an early start (4) 4. Expressing willingness to make some sacrifice (8) 5. Fashion that is going out (6) 6. Game unsuitable for women (4) 11. Agreeing upon, and paying, one’s debts? (8) 13. Upright but lacking energy (8) 15. Eventually observing the correct rhythm (2,4) 17. What a snake may do to make one nervous (6) 19. It’s yours and mine in due course (4) 21. An original Christmas gift (4)

www.roundtownnews.com

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

45

BOXING DAY 26th December BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 11.00 Christmas Saturday Kitchen 12.30 James Martin - Home Comforts at Christmas 13.15 BBC News; Weather 13.25 Football Focus 14.00 Comic Relief 2015: Thanks a Billion!

15.00 Wallace & Gromit: A Grand Day Out 15.25 A Grand Night In: The Story of Aardman 16.25 Puss in Boots 17.45 The Croods 19.10 Shaun the Sheep: The Farmer’s Llamas 19.40 BBC News 20.00 Dickensian 20.30 EastEnders 21.00 Still Open All Hours 21.30 Dickensian 22.00 And Then There Were None 23.00 BBC News and Weather 23.20 The National Lottery Live 23.30 Match of the Day; National Lottery Update.

BBC2

7.00 Race to Super Bowl 50 7.50 Flog It! 8.35 Tom Thumb 10.05 Hotel for Dogs 11.35 Ten Pieces II 12.35 G-Force 14.00 Attenborough’s Big Birds: Natural World 15.00 Attenborough’s Paradise Birds 16.00 Bedtime Stories 17.30 Final Score 18.30 Don’t Panic!

The Dad’s Army Story 19.20 We’re Doomed!: The Dad’s Army Story 20.20 Dad’s Army 21.00 Top Gear: From A to Z 22.00 A Gert Lush Christmas 23.00 Abz on the Christmas Farm 23.30 Backchat End of Year Show 2015 0.15 Kinky Boots

ITV1

7.00 CITV: Fort Boyard Ultimate Challenge.

7.25 Pat & Stan 7.35 Dino Dan: Trek’s Adventures 7.50 Dino Dan 8.00 Signed Stories: Share a Story 8.05 Oddbods 8.10 Sooty 8.25 Super 4 8.40 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 9.00 The Aquabats! Super Show!

9.30 Thunderbirds Are Go 10.00 The Tom & Jerry Show 10.25 Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas 11.25 You’ve Been Framed!

11.55 Back to the Future Part III 14.05 ITV News and Weather 14.20 Jurassic Park 16.40 Midsomer Murders 18.40 ITV News and Weather 19.00 The Nation’s Favourite Disney Song 20.00 Surprise Surprise 21.00 Peter & Wendy 23.05 The Jonathan Ross Show Christmas Special 0.10 ITV News; Weather

CHANNEL 4

7.15 Ramona and Beezus 9.00 The Morning Line 10.00 The Big Bang Theory 11.25 The Simpsons 12.25 Fantastic Mr Fox 14.10 Channel 4 Racing 16.30 Home Alone 3 18.25 Channel 4 News 18.35 The Secret Life of Children at Christmas 19.30 Britain’s Favourite Children’s Books with David Walliams 21.00 Inside Lego at Christmas 22.00 The Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2015 0.05 Rude Tube Christmas Cracker

Home Alone 3 16.30

CHANNEL 5

7.00 Childrens TV 8.15 Make Way for Noddy 8.25 Paw Patrol 8.40 Little Princess 8.50 Pip Ahoy!

9.05 Blaze and the Monster Machines 9.25 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.45 Wanda and the Alien 9.55 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.10 The Saturday Show 12.10 The Dog Rescuers at Christmas with Alan Davies 13.10 The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe 16.15 Diana 18.05 One Chance 20.05 Christmas Makes You Laugh Out Loud 21.05 Chas & Dave’s Xmas Knees Up! 22.00 Football League Tonight: Boxing Day Special 23.30 Most Shocking Christmas TV Moments

ITV2

7.00 Emmerdale 10.00 Coronation Street 12.55 Space Jam 14.40 Happy Feet 16.45 Emmerdale 17.50 Coronation Street 18.55 You’ve Been Framed!

With Bells On 19.25 Minion Madness 19.40 Despicable Me 21.30 Skyfall 0.20 The Bourne Ultimatum 2.35 Unseen Celebrity Juice Tit Bits 3.15 Release the Hounds 4.10 Reality Bites 4.45 Viral Tap 5.20 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 6.10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 6.35 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records

E4

7.00 Made in Chelsea Christmas 8.00 Olive, the Other Reindeer 8.45 Famous Fred 9.20 Ivor the Invisible 9.55 Father Christmas 10.30 Prep & Landing 10.55 Prep & Landing: Naughty v Nice 11.25 Frozen at Christmas 12.30 Animals United 14.20 Rude(ish) Tube Shorts 14.30 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - I is for... Ice Cream 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - J is for...

Justice League of America 17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - K is for... Knocking 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - L is for...

Laundry Day 18.00 The Big Bang Theory 18.30 The Snowman 19.05 The Snowman and the Snowdog 19.35 The Twilight Saga: Eclipse 22.00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 0.20 Gogglebox

And Then There Were None

by Rachael Popow IT’S BEEN a remarkable year for Aidan Turner.

Although the actor had picked up fans for his performances in Being Human and The Hobbit movies, it was in 2015 that he did a bit of a shirtless scything in the BBC’s new adaptation of Poldark - and in the process became the biggest period drama pin-up since Colin Firth went for a dip in Pride & Prejudice. So, how to do you follow up a hit like Poldark? Well, for Turner, the answer seems to be by taking on a very different role in this all-star version of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None.

For a start, the chance to work with the likes of Charles Dance, Anna Maxwell Martin, Miranda Richardson and Sam Neill was too good to pass up. Turner says: “I was on set with all these amazing actors who I have revered and looked up to for years. It was exciting, these are people I really wanted to work with.” He adds: “It’s a genre I haven’t really done before so everything appealed to me for this one. It is a rite of passage for British actors to be in an Agatha Christie adaptation and this is the quintessential Christie story, albeit a really dark one.”

That darkness has helped to make Christie’s book the best-selling crime novel of all time, with an astounding 100 million copies sold worldwide.

But if you’re unfamiliar with the plot, it focuses on a group of strangers who have all been invited to stay on an isolated rock off the Devon coast at the request of a Mr and Mrs UN Owen. However, it turns out the guests do have something in common - they each have a guilty conscience.

And before long they are being picked off one by one in a manner very similar to the nursery rhyme 10 Little Soldier Boys that hangs in every room of the houseÉ Turner plays Philip Lombardi, an Irish mercenary and all-round nasty piece of work.

The actor says: “He’s totally shady. He’s kind of amoral as well and has a complete disregard for humanity. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do, I wouldn’t put anything past him. He’s a nasty kind of guy and you get the impression he’s done some horrible things in his life and he’s not really regretful of any of themÉ “Coming from someone like Ross Poldark to Philip Lombard is like going to the other side of the spectrum with characters really. So it was a nice change to play somebody who doesn’t really care about anyone but himself. “ In fact, it seems the only thing the two characters have in common is that they give fans a chance to see Turner in period costume - and he’s clearly a fan of vintage style.

He says: “We’ve got it wrong now, wearing jeans and boots and all the rest of it, all this low-waisted stuff and t-shirts, somewhere along the way I think we’ve got it slightly wrong. There were these high-waisted pants I was wearing for a lot of the show and they’re really comfortable and quite flattering!”

SUNDAY 27th December

BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 8.40 Match of the Day 10.15 Flushed Away 11.35 Megamind 13.00 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News Weather 14.15 Songs of Praise 14.50 Mary Poppins 17.05 Oz the Great and Powerful 19.05 BBC News 19.20 BBC Regional News 19.30 Countryfile Compilation: The Farming Year 20.30 Dickensian 21.00 Still Open All Hours 21.30 Dickensian 22.00 And Then There Were None 23.00 BBC News 23.15 BBC Regional News 23.25 Catherine Tate’s Nan 0.00 Miranda Hart - My What I Call Live Show

BBC2

7.20 Big Dreams Small Spaces 8.20 Countryfile: Cornish Coastal Christmas 9.15 A Man for All Seasons 11.15 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12.45 The Hairy Bikers and Lorraine Pascale: Cooking the Nation’s Favourite Food 13.45 The Secret Life of Mary Poppins: A Culture Show Special 14.45 The Cockleshell Heroes 16.20 The Heroes of Telemark 18.25 Porridge 19.10 Deep Impact 21.00 Dragons’ Den 22.00 Gorilla Family and Me 23.00 U2: Innocence and Experience Live in Paris

Boxing Day, BBC1, 10pm

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

7.00 Childrens TV 8.40 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 9.00 The Aquabats!

Super Show!

9.25 Weekend at Christmas 10.25 Countrywise 10.55 Celebrity Squares 11.40 Superman 14.30 ITV News and Weather; Weather 14.45 Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium 16.35 Midsomer Murders 18.30 ITV News Local News 18.45 ITV News and Weather 19.00 You’ve Been Framed!

With Bells On 19.30 Jekyll and Hyde 21.30 Harry Price: Ghost Hunter 23.30 ITV News and Weather 23.45 Through the Christmas Keyhole 0.45 Premiership Rugby Union

7.05 Flicka 2

7.00 Childrens TV 8.15 Make Way for Noddy 8.30 Paw Patrol 8.40 Little Princess 8.55 Pip Ahoy!

9.10 Blaze and the Monster Machines 9.40 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.55 Wanda and the Alien 10.10 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.25 Jelly Jamm 10.35 LazyTown 11.00 Mr Men 11.15 Football League Tonight: Boxing Day Special 12.45 Cromwell 15.25 The Searchers 17.45 Escape to Victory 20.00 World’s Strongest Man 2015 20.55 5 News Weekend 21.00 On Benefits: Cashing in for Christmas 22.00 Most Shocking Celebrity Moments 2015 0.55 The Last Hours of Robin Williams

7.00 The Hot Desk: Alesha Dixon 7.10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 7.30 Emmerdale 10.45 Coronation Street 13.50 Catchphrase Celebrity Special 14.50 You’ve Been Framed: Top 100 Animals 15.50 Beethoven 17.35 The Lost World: Jurassic Park 20.05 Uncle Buck 22.00 Bridget Jones’s Diary 0.00 Scary Movie V

7.00 Olive, the Other Reindeer 7.50 Little Wolf’s Book of Badness 8.20 Famous Fred 8.50 Ivor the Invisible 9.20 Father Christmas 9.55 The Snowman 10.30 The Snowman and the Snowdog 11.00 Hollyoaks 13.30 Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules 15.35 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - M is for... Magic 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - N is for... Nose 17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - O is for...

Ornithophobia 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - P is for... Prom 18.00 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2 0.20 Tattoo Fixers

8.40 Paws

10.20 Sunday Brunch 13.20 The Simpsons

14.10 Channel 4 Racing 16.35 Hugo

18.55 Channel 4 News

19.00 Celebrity Fifteen to One Christmas Special

20.00 Million Pound Motors 21.00 Walking the Himalayas

22.00 Homeland

23.00 8 Out of 10 Cats

Does Countdown Christmas Special 0.00 The Inbetweeners 2

Uncle Buck 20.05

46

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

MONDAY 28th December BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 10.00 Bee Movie 11.20 Old Jack’s Boat Special: Storm in a Teacup 12.00 Bolt 13.30 Bargain Hunt 14.10 BBC News; Weather 14.25 BBC Regional News and Weather 14.30 Father Brown 15.20 Cool Runnings 16.55 The Gruffalo 17.25 Madagascar 18.45 Pointless 19.30 BBC News 19.45 BBC Regional News and Weather 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 Wallace & Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death 21.00 EastEnders 21.30 Miranda 22.05 And Then There Were None 23.05 BBC News 23.20 BBC Regional News and Weather 23.30 Match of the Day

BBC2

7.15 Homes Under the Hammer 8.15 Escape to the Continent 8.45 This Wild Life 9.45 Ivanhoe 11.30 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 12.30 The Great Pottery Throw Down 13.30 Les Dawson Talking Comedy 14.00 The Bear Family and Me 15.00 Coast 16.00 Atlantic: The Wildest Ocean on Earth 17.00 Flog It! 17.30 Final Score 18.30 The Clare Balding Show 19.00 What Women Want 21.00 Christmas University Challenge 21.30 Only Connect 22.00 Behind the Candelabra 23.50 Two Doors Down 0.50 Dragons’ Den

ITV1

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.15 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.35 Super 4 8.00 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 9.00 The Tom & Jerry Show 9.25 Almost Naked Animals 9.55 Horrid Henry 10.25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11.30 Judge Rinder 12.30 Who’s Doing the Dishes?

13.30 Catchphrase 14.15 ITV Lunchtime News 14.30 Our Cilla 15.30 Surprise Surprise 16.30 Midsomer Murders 18.30 Hedgehog Hotel 19.25 ITV News Local News 19.45 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Coronation Street 21.00 Countrywise 21.30 Coronation Street 22.00 John Bishop’s Gorilla Adventure 23.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather 23.15 The Holiday

CHANNEL 4

7.10 Small Animal Hospital 7.50 See Spot Run 9.35 The Big Bang Theory 11.05 Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer 12.50 The Simpsons 14.15 Marmaduke 15.55 Stuart Little 2 17.25 Mirror Mirror 19.30 Channel 4 News 19.35 Hollyoaks 20.05 A Frozen Christmas 21.00 The World’s Most Expensive Food 22.00 Gogglebox 2015 23.35 Tattoo Fixers 0.40 David Blaine: Real or Magic

Stuart Little 2 15.55

CHANNEL 5

7.00 Childrens TV 8.30 Thomas & Friends 8.45 Noddy in Toyland 8.55 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.10 Peppa Pig 9.25 Paw Patrol 9.45 Bananas in Pyjamas 9.55 Milkshake! Bop Box 10.00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.10 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10.20 Wanda and the Alien 10.35 Mr Men 10.50 World’s Strongest Man 2015 11.50 An American in Paris 14.00 Anchors Aweigh 16.55 High Society 19.00 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 19.55 World’s Strongest Man 2015 20.50 5 News Tonight 21.00 Building the Ice Hotel; 5 News Update.

22.00 The Frank Sinatra Story 23.00 Frank Sinatra Live in New York 0.00 Frank Sinatra & Gene Kelly: Ol’ Blues Eyes Is Back 0.35 Happy Holidays with Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby

ITV2

7.00 The Hot Desk: Fleur East 7.10 Emmerdale 8.00 Coronation Street 9.00 Britain’s Got More Talent: Alesha’s Top Ten Moments 10.00 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 11.00 Arthur and the Great Adventure 13.10 Beethoven’s 2nd 15.00 The Flintstones 16.45 The Nation’s Favourite Disney Song 17.45 Catchphrase Celebrity Couples Special 18.45 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey 22.00 Casino Royale 0.55 Celebrity Juice: Bestest Bits 2015 Part 1

Youtube Video of the week

E4

7.00 Rude(ish) Tube 7.45 Charmed 9.30 Hollyoaks 10.35 Bad(ish) Robots 11.00 Troy 11.35 Rude(ish) Tube 12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - Q is for...

Quizzing 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - R is for...

Rock, Paper, Scissors, Lizard, Spock 17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - S is for...

Soft Kitty 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - T is for...

Tiara 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 Toy Story OF TERROR! 21.00 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Made in Chelsea: New Year 23.00 Scream Queens 0.00 The Big Bang Theory

A fun trio for you today starting with the outrageous Borat (Sacha Baron Cohen) on USTV ´BORAT premieres the New Trailer for “The Brothers Grimsby´ then a dog you might start following Dog vs. Orange : Cute Dog Maymo and finally one more Xmas ad that’s well worth seeing Vision Direct Christmas Advert 2015 – A Pug’s Christmas

TUESDAY 29th December

BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 8.30 Match of the Day 10.00 Shark Tale 11.20 Cars 2 13.00 Bargain Hunt 13.45 BBC News 14.00 BBC Regional News and Weather 14.10 Father Brown 15.00 National Treasure 17.00 The Gruffalo’s Child 17.25 Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa 18.45 Pointless 19.30 BBC News 19.45 BBC Regional News 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 EastEnders 21.00 Holby City 22.00 David Beckham: For the Love of the Game 23.15 BBC News 23.30 BBC Regional News National Lottery Update 23.40 Peter Kay’s Car Share 0.10 Mrs Brown’s Boys 0.40 Boomers

BBC2

7.15 Homes Under the Hammer 8.15 Escape to the Continent 8.45 This Wild Life 9.15 An Island Parish: Falklands 9.45 Show Boat 11.30 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 12.30 The Great Pottery Throw Down 13.30 Peter Sellers Talking Comedy 14.00 The Bear Family and Me 15.00 Coast 16.00 Atlantic: The Wildest Ocean on Earth 17.00 Flog It! 17.55 Super-Powered Owls: Natural World 18.55 Finding Neverland 20.30 Christmas University Challenge 21.00 Gareth Malone’s Great Choir Reunion 22.00 A Life on Screen Stephen Fry 23.00 QI 23.30 Albert Nobbs

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

E4

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.15 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.40 Super 4 8.00 Good Morning Britain 9.30 Lorraine 10.25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11.30 Who’s Doing the Dishes?

12.30 Pick Me! 13.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather 13.35 ITV News Local News; Weather 13.45 Evan Almighty 15.30 Midsomer Murders 17.30 The Queen 19.30 ITV News Local News; Weather 19.45 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 The Amazing SpiderMan 23.10 ITV News; Weather 23.24 ITV Local Weather 23.25 American Pie

7.05 Small Animal Hospital

7.00 Childrens TV 8.35 Noddy in Toyland 8.50 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.05 Peppa Pig 9.25 Paw Patrol 9.35 Bananas in Pyjamas 9.50 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.05 World’s Strongest Man 2015 11.05 Football League Tonight 12.35 Ice Road Truckers 13.30 Carry On Nurse 15.15 The Dam Busters 17.40 What the Dambusters Did Next 19.10 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 20.00 World’s Strongest Man 2015; 5 News Update.

21.00 Help! I’m Snowtrapped; 5 News Update.

22.00 Flowers in the Attic 23.45 Erin Brockovich

7.00 The Hot Desk: Nick Jonas 7.10 The Cube Celebrity Special: McFly 7.55 Emmerdale 8.25 Coronation Street 9.20 Britain’s Got More Talent: Amanda’s Top Ten Moments 10.25 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 11.25 The Little Vampire 13.20 Emmerdale 13.55 Coronation Street 14.55 Jeremy Kyle: DNA Bombshells 18.10 Catchphrase Celebrity Special 19.10 You’ve Been Framed: Top 100 Animals 20.15 Liar Liar 22.00 The Shawshank Redemption 0.55 Celebrity Juice: Bestest Bits 2015 Part 2

7.00 Bad(ish) Robots 7.20 Troy 7.45 Charmed 9.35 Hollyoaks 10.05 Rude(ish) Tube 10.30 Bad(ish) Robots 11.00 Troy 11.30 Lost and Found 12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - U is for...

Underpants 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - V is for...

Valentines 17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - W is for...

Weddings 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: Access All Areas 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 20.30 Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 21.00 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 Tattoo Fixers 23.00 Tripped 23.50 The Big Bang Theory 0.50 Gogglebox

7.45 Dr Dolittle: Million Dollar Mutts

9.15 The Big Bang Theory 10.40 The Simpsons 11.40 Captain Ron

13.40 New in Town 15.30 Coraline

17.35 Gulliver’s Travels 19.10 Channel 4 News 19.30 Hollyoaks

20.00 Inside Lego at Christmas

21.00 The Supervet at Christmas

22.00 8 Out of 10

Cats End of Year Special

23.00 The Big Fat Quiz of the Year 2015

1.05 Kingdom of Heaven

WEDNESDAY 30th December BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 10.00 The Princess and the Frog 11.30 Chicken Run 12.50 Bargain Hunt 13.50 BBC News 14.05 BBC Regional News and Weather 14.10 Father Brown 15.00 National Treasure: Book of Secrets 16.55 Room on the Broom 17.20 Monsters, Inc 18.45 Pointless 19.30 BBC News 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 A Question of Sport: Festive Fun 21.00 Antiques Roadshow 22.00 Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough 23.00 BBC News 23.15 BBC Regional News and Weather and National Lottery Update.

23.25 Catherine Tate’s Nan 23.55 Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Special 0.35 Comic Relief 2015: Thanks a Billion!

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

7.20 Homes Under the Hammer 8.20 This Wild Life 8.50 Terry and Mason’s Great Food Trip 9.20 Waterloo 11.30 The Hairy Bikers’ Northern Exposure 12.30 The Great Pottery Throw Down 13.30 The Two Ronnies Talking Comedy 14.00 The Bear Family and Me 15.00 Coast 16.00 Atlantic: The Wildest Ocean on Earth 17.00 Flog It! 17.50 Natural World: Attenborough’s Fabulous Frogs 18.50 Alice in Wonderland 20.30 Christmas University Challenge 21.00 Top Gear: From A to Z 22.00 Charlie Brooker 2015 Wipe 23.00 A Gert Lush Christmas 0.00 Mock the Week Christmas Special 0.30 Backchat End of Year Show 2015

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.15 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.40 Super 4 8.00 Good Morning Britain 9.30 Lorraine 10.25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11.30 Judge Rinder 12.30 Who’s Doing the Dishes?

13.30 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory 15.20 ITV Lunchtime News 15.35 Midsomer Murders 17.30 Dinosaur Britain 18.30 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs at Christmas 19.30 ITV News Local News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Coronation Street 21.00 Big Star’s Little Star 22.00 All New It’ll Be Alright on the Night 23.00 ITV News at Ten; Weather 23.14 ITV Local Weather 23.15 American Pie 2

7.00 Everybody Loves Raymond

7.25 Small Animal Hospital 8.10 The Love Bug

10.15 The Big Bang Theory 11.10 The Simpsons 11.40 The Phantom 13.40 Chalet Girl

15.35 Freaky Friday

17.35 Sunshine on Leith 19.20 Channel 4 News 19.30 Hollyoaks

20.00 Gogglesprogs

21.00 What Britain Bought in 2015

22.00 24 Hours in A&E

23.00 The Millionaire Party Planner

0.05 Fast & Furious 5

CHANNEL 5

7.00 Childrens TV 8.30 Thomas & Friends 8.45 Noddy in Toyland 9.00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.15 Peppa Pig 9.35 Paw Patrol 9.50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10.00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.15 Wanda and the Alien 10.25 World’s Strongest Man 2015 11.25 Carry On Constable 13.10 Carry On Spying 14.55 Annie Get Your Gun 17.05 Calamity Jane 19.10 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild 20.00 World’s Strongest Man 2015; 5 News Update.

21.00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Snow; 5 News Update.

22.00 Stephen King’s Big Driver 23.50 Stephen King’s Needful Things

ITV2

7.00 The Hot Desk: Ella Henderson 7.10 You’ve Been Framed!

With Bells On 7.35 The Cube 8.25 Emmerdale 8.50 Britain’s Got More Talent: Simon’s Top Ten Moments 9.50 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 10.55 Horrid Henry: The Movie 12.50 You’ve Been Framed!

Top 100 Kids 13.50 Emmerdale 14.20 Jeremy Kyle: DNA Bombshells 17.40 Catchphrase Celebrity Special 18.45 The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey 22.00 Luke Kempner’s Impression of 2015 23.00 Celebrity Juice: Bestest of the Unseenest Bits 0.00 Scary Movie V

E4

7.00 Bad(ish) Robots 7.20 Troy 7.45 Charmed 9.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Rude(ish) Tube 10.30 Bad(ish) Robots 11.00 Troy 11.30 Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 12.00 Charmed 14.00 How I Met Your Mother 15.00 The Big Bang Theory 16.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - X is for...

Chromosome 16.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - Y is for...

Yelling 17.00 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z - Z is for...

Zazzles the Cat 17.30 The Big Bang Theory: It All Started with a Big Bang 18.00 How I Met Your Mother 19.00 The Big Bang Theory 20.00 Hollyoaks 21.00 Johnny English Reborn 23.05 Supernatural

www.roundtownnews.com

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Soap Guide

47

for week commencing 26th December

Coronation Street

JOHNNY CAN’T take any more of Rob’s blackmail scheme, so decides to tell Carla all about his secret himself. She’s disgusted and heads to the nearest casino to help her forget her woes.

While there she bumps into Robert, who’s still reeling from Tracey’s duplicity, and before you know it, they’re retiring to a hotel room for a night of passion. Once it’s over, Carla is full of remorse and warns Robert not to say anything to Nick. Johnny hopes she won’t tell Aidan and Kate about his secret either, and she promises to keep mum – if he leaves the factory and moves away.

Aidan is more interested in Eva anyway, and the pair finally consumate their relationship, although she regrets doing so when it transpires that he had a bet with Kate about how long it would take for him to seduce her.

Plus, Emily jets off to Peru, where she will be reunited with her nephew Spider.

Hollyoaks LINDSEY IS determined to spend some quality time with Joe, but the arrival of a familiar face spoils her chances of getting his undivided attention.

Kim is so worried about her sister’s mood that she hides her ‘kill kit’, but Lindsey soon finds it again, ready to target her next victim.

After telling Zack the truth about her identity, ‘Lisa’ prepares to leave Hollyoaks, but she is forced to stay when Jade collapses. Zack is surprisingly supportive, but does that mean he could have feelings for her too?

Patrick’s plan to frame Maxine looks set to go awry when Sienna volunteers to be the one to help him die, and little Minnie unearths an incriminating message on his laptop.

Alfie goes in search of his real parents, with little to go on except half of a castanet that was left his baby basket. So, when he spots Tony with the other half, does that mean he’s found his dad?

Ellie sets her sights on a brooding stranger, and Peri wonders where Lockie has got to. Darren fears for Nancy’s health after finding some cancer leaflets at the Osbornes’, and Esther lets Grace know how she feels.

EastEnders

AS THE fallout from Christmas day continues, lives are hanging in the balance – while Dean is just having a tantrum because his dinner hasn’t gone to plan.

He’s still in a bad mood later in the week as Mick celebrates his stag night, so Shirley decides to go check on her youngest son, and is shocked to find him attacking Roxy.

As she rushes to Roxy’s aid, it seems Shirley may have finally seen Dean in his true colours, and as Mick and Linda’s wedding day dawns, it looks like the Carters have banished him from the family all together.

However, Dean isn’t about to just walk away, and his desire for revenge puts Mick and Shirley in danger.

Elsewhere, Kat informs Martin and Lily that Alfie is in Spain, only for her husband to unexpectedly turn up, asking why she left the country.

Billy moves on from his first failed attempt to propose to Honey by planning to pop the question again, while Denise has second thoughts about going out on a date.

Emmerdale

AARON MAY have been given an alibi for Christmas, but it’s not fooling the police, who realise his story doesn’t quite add up.

However, Ross is the one with the most to lose as DS Hart turns up at his door with a search warrant regarding the robbery at the warehouse – and she finds evidence that also puts him at the scene of Robert’s shooting.

He swears to Debbie that he had nothing to do with it, and she believes him – until Robert forces Andy to make an admission. As the situation comes to a head, what will Robert and Debbie do with their new information?

Elsewhere, Zak tries to build bridges with Belle, while Kerry is shocked to learn that Cain has made a threat.

Paddy is touched when Tess gives him a Christmas present, and reciprocates by buying her a bracelet, unaware he’s been spotted shopping for jewellery.

Bernice is stressed over her New Year’s party at Home Farm, Chas is delighted when she gets another excuse to see Gordon, and David is hopeful that Pollard is finally finding a way to let Val go.

48

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Jools’ Annual Hootenanny 2015 WHEN YOU think of New Year’s Eve what’s the first thing that springs to mind? Fireworks? Auld Land Syne? Binge drinking?

For many who choose to stay at home on the big night, Jools Holland’s Annual Hootenanny is as much a part of New Year’s Eve as those things.

Let’s face it, can you think of a better way of celebrating the NYE countdown with the beloved bandleader and his celebrity pals?

However, for those of you who don’t already know, there’s some bad news. Jools’ Hootenanny doesn’t actually take place on New Year’s Eve at all.

Despite what Jools’ said (with tongue firmly in cheek) to the Daily Mail back in 2010, it’s a pre-recorded show that is filmed a week before the big night.

“I wish people wouldn’t say this,” he said.

“You’re like that bloke who’s always going around saying there’s no God and no Father Christmas.

“We don’t want to know about all that, thank you very much.

The Hootenanny is on and we’re all going to enjoy it.

“Once the show begins, everybody in that room lives for the moment as if it were New Year’s Eve. “That is why a lot of people seem to inadvertently get overserved with drinks. “Perhaps they do what they do on New Year’s Eve, which is to overdo it a bit. I hope the people watching at home are going to overdo it as well.’

For millions of us, Holland is as much a part of New Year’s Eve as Big Ben, and Jools thinks he knows why.

“You can’t drink and drive, cabs charge a lot of money, pubs aren’t what they were, so it’s got harder and harder to go out on New Year’s Eve,” he explains.

“So people stay in and they’ll have us on the TV, not glued to every moment, but as something that enhances the party. Some people are on their own, and we cheer them up, which is great.”

So sometime, possibly last week, the pianist’s 23rd New Year’s Eve musical extravaganza was filmed, and as usual, he and his acclaimed Rhythm and Blues Orchestra were joined by a galaxy of ‘merry’ stars to perform a mixture of new

tracks and timeless classics.

Among the performers this year are veterans such as Tom Jones, Paul Weller, Jeff Beck, Ruby Turner, Arthur ‘Gaps’ Hendrickson and Pauline Black, as well as relative newcomers including Hozier, Jess Glynne, James Bay, Beth Hart, Future Islands, KT Tunstall and Rhiannon Giddens.

One of the regular events of the evening is the spot where Holland asks his good friend, actor and comedian Rowland Rivron, his predictions for the year ahead, as well his New Year’s resolutions.

And as usual, the show will feature a traditional Hogmanay party atmosphere with guests drawn from across the world of showbiz, and the artists themselves getting involved alongside a variety of musical acts.

And to keep viewers in the spirit of the night there is also is a countdown to Big Ben at midnight, followed by a traditional rendition of Auld Lang Syne, with the pipes and drums of the 1st Battalion Scots Guards.

Well it is New Year’s Eve after all, isn’t it?

NEW YEARS EVE 31st December BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 10.00 Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings 11.05 CBeebies Alice in Wonderland 11.55 The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn 13.30 Bargain Hunt 14.00 BBC News; Weather 14.20 Harry Hill in Professor Branestawm Returns 15.20 Wallace & Gromit: The Wrong Trousers 15.50 Up 17.15 Stick Man 17.45 Take That on Tour 18.45 Pointless 19.30 BBC News; Weather 19.50 BBC Regional News 20.00 Celebrity Mastermind 20.30 Roald Dahl’s Esio Trot 22.00 BBC News; Weather 22.15 Mrs Brown’s Boys D’Movie 23.45 The Graham Norton Show 0.30 Bryan Adams Rocks Big Ben Live

BBC2

ITV1

CHANNEL 4

7.00 Homes Under the Hammer 8.00 Flog It! 8.45 This Wild Life 9.15 Great British Menu 9.45 Father of the Bride 11.15 Natural World: A Bear with a Bounty 12.15 Custer of the West 14.30 Ice Station Zebra 16.50 World’s Sneakiest Animals 17.50 Christmas Shopping Fever 2015: John Lewis and the Retail Race 18.50 The Odd Life of Timothy Green 20.30 Christmas University Challenge 21.00 Gareth Malone’s Great Choir Reunion 22.00 The Sapphires 23.40 Live at the Apollo Christmas Special 2015 0.10 Jools’ Annual Hootenanny 2015

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.15 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.40 Super 4 8.00 Good Morning Britain 9.30 Lorraine 10.25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11.30 Judge Rinder 12.30 Who’s Doing the Dishes?

13.30 ITV Lunchtime News; Weather 13.40 Dragonheart 15.30 Dinosaur Britain 16.30 The Chase 17.30 Downton Abbey The Finale 19.30 ITV News Local News 19.45 ITV Evening News; Weather 20.00 Emmerdale 21.00 Coronation Street 21.30 Panda Babies 22.35 Birds of a Feather 23.05 Piers Meets Cilla Black 0.05 The Nation’s Favourite Bond Song 0.55 ITV News and Weather and New Year’s Songs

7.40 Explorers 9.40 The Big Bang Theory 10.35 The Simpsons 12.05 Imagine That 14.10 The Rocketeer 16.20 Honey, I Shrunk the Kids 18.20 Channel 4 News 18.35 Hollyoaks 19.35 Celebrity Couples Come Dine with Me 20.30 TFI New Year’s Eve 22.00 Alan Carr’s New Year Specstacular 0.10 8 Out of 10 Cats End of Year Special

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids 16.20

CHANNEL 5

7.00 Childrens TV 8.30 Noddy in Toyland 8.45 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 8.55 Peppa Pig 9.10 Paw Patrol 9.25 Bananas in Pyjamas 9.45 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.00 World’s Strongest Man 2015 10.50 Carry On Teacher 12.30 Sinatra 100: An AllStar Grammy Concert 14.50 One Chance 16.55 The Wizard of Oz 19.00 Loch Lomond: A Year in the Wild; 5 News Update.

19.55 World’s Strongest Man 2015; 5 News Update.

21.00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Winter Wonderland 22.00 Britain’s Best Loved Double Acts 0.55 Most Shocking Christmas TV Moments

ITV2

7.00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records: Bonkingly Big Hits 7.30 The X Factor Winner’s Story 2015 8.40 Emmerdale 9.05 Coronation Street 9.30 Britain’s Got More Talent: David’s Top Ten Moments 10.25 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 11.25 Arthur and the Great Adventure 13.30 Emmerdale 14.00 Coronation Street 14.30 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17.45 Catchphrase Celebrity Special 18.45 Luke Kempner’s Impression of 2015 19.45 ET: The Extra-Terrestrial 22.00 Quantum of Solace 0.15 Celebrity Juice: Bestest of the Unseenest Bits

E4

7.00 Bad(ish) Robots 7.20 Troy 7.45 Charmed 9.30 Hollyoaks 10.00 Rude(ish) Tube 10.30 Bad(ish) Robots 11.00 Troy 11.30 How I Met Your Mother 12.30 Casper 14.30 The Big Bang Theory: Big Bang A to Z 21.00 Gogglesprogs 22.00 Gogglebox: Celebrity Special for SU2C 23.25 Gogglebox 2014

www.roundtownnews.com

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

#tv&showbiz goss

by Peter Taylor

 1987 movie ´Dirty Dancing´ has earned over $250 million worldwide, and was the first film to sell more than a million copies on home video. Possibly in the wake of all the success of dancing based TV shows, ABC are to make a series of TV programmes called Dirty Dancing , and Allison Shearmur and Eleanor Bergstein, who wrote the original screenplay, are the executive producers. ABC said “we´ve been looking for talent quite some time, but Patrick Swayze’s role has yet to be filled!” And Jennifer Grey´s role! … Who´s gonna play Baby? Suddenly this seems like a bad idea.

THE 2016 Grammy Awards ceremony comes up on Monday February 15 at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles, California, and although two months away, talk of the event has already gathered quite some momentum. It’s to do with the two really big awards, Record of the Year, and Pop Solo Performance of the Year. What’s making the tale extra juicy is that best friends Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran are up for the first one, and their other best friend Ellie Goulding joins them for the second!

I don’t care what you say … it’s gonna end in tears!

LIONEL RITCHIE stormed the Pyramid Stage this summer at Glastonbury on the ‘legends slot’ on the Sunday afternoon. Speaking to the Daily Star last week Lionel admitted how much he loved being part of the Glasto line-up and how he would love to return next year. He´s hoping his good friend Diana Ross gets an invite then he can join her onstage to sing their massively successful 1981 single ´Endless Love´ … I can hear you all oo-ing and aw-ing at the thought. “Knowing Diana, she would love it,” he said.

Get booking them booker person!

ITV to give us all our (Ann) Summers in one!

IN 1970 a shop opened in Marble Arch London, then inside shortly after there were 6 of them, and bringing you bang up to date there are now 140 Ann Summers high street stores scattered around the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands as well as here in Spain. It’s rare that a new shop opening makes the BBC TV News, but that it did, and not surprisingly the explosion of interest began that very evening. In their financial year, 2007-2008, they had an annual turnover of £117.3 million, not bad for a company who were labelled as a disgrace, and heading for the scrapheap!

Ann Summers changed the entire aspect of ´that kind of shop´ with raincoats and dark glasses not needed, and now they´re about to write an exciting new chapter in the company´s affairs. ITV is creating a six-part drama series that will delve into what happened when Jacqueline Gold took over the company and overhauled the shop’s seedy reputation and created the legendary Ann Summers parties 30 years ago. Perhaps some of you attended a couple o´ six of them! It was a brilliant strategic move, and an equally clever move by ITV Drama, get the cast and production team right and it’s a sure fire winner. The show is to be called ´Brief Encounter, ´ and will be based on Jacqueline Gold’s memoir ´Good Vibrations, ´ following four women who started selling lingerie and sex toys in people’s homes via parties. Executive Producer Arabella McGuigan said Brief Encounters is gutsy, emotional, warm and surprising.” I run with the word ´surprising´, as I fancy you might be surprised by the effect this up-coming drama has on you … it really was a time of emotional revolution, and the Ann Summers shops were right in the thick of things. Filming begins in the New Year. EASY!

JESS SMITH is a first year dance education student who garnered the support of all her college friends to give her the confidence to state on Facebook “I’ve recently celebrated my 19th birthday and after a lot of thought, I’ve decided it’s time to tell everyone,” What? What Jess! “I used to hide it, but after a lot of encouragement from my friends I’ve gained the confidence to come out with it,” What? Wha … “I am the Sun from Teletubbies! “ NO! “there´s been quite a few people pretending to be ’the Sun,’ but only I can tell you the real story.” Well bless my soul!

JEREMY CLARKSON is a person I eternally try to avoid as he´s such an idiot, but there´s the odd occasion when, as pathetic as he´s been before, he manages to take another giant leap towards the dizzy heights of super-assdom! He´s got to be an attention seeker as a man in his position could easily smother such stories, but not our Jeremy. Story 1- Want Range Rover with no miles on the clock.

Story 2- Want gravy delivered by helicopter. On the Range Rover Clarkson said “I just want to look at it,” and on the gravy “the shop was too far away!” Hate Him

ADAM FRANKLIN, 47 year-old frontman of Oxford band Swervedriver, told the NME that he ‘decked’ 36 year-old Libertines lead singer Pete Doherty after he ´provoked him´ at a bash in China a couple of months ago.

Franklin said: ‘He can’t have been in the room for more than a minute or two before some kerfuffle broke out, you’ll have to ask him what that it was about, although, good luck getting anything out of him, as he surely won’t f*****g remember! It seems Docherty took a swing at Franklin, missed, and Adam gave him a-dam good punch.

Shot Sir!

www.roundtownnews.com

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

51

new years day 1st january BBC1

7.00 Breakfast 10.00 Turbo 11.25 Monsters vs Aliens 12.55 Top of the Pops New Year 13.55 The Archbishop of Canterbury’s New Year Message 14.00 BBC News at One; Weather 14.10 BBC Regional News and Weather 14.15 The Sound of Music 17.05 Shaun the Sheep: The Farmer’s Llamas 17.30 Wreck-It Ralph 19.05 BBC News 19.20 BBC Regional News Programmes 19.30 EastEnders 20.00 Billionaire Boy 21.00 EastEnders 21.30 Dickensian 22.00 Sherlock 23.30 Mrs Brown’s Boys New Year Special 0.10 BBC News; Weather 0.25 BBC Regional News and Weather; National Lottery

BBC2 7.35 Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas 8.50 Natural World: Honey Badgers - Masters of Mayhem 9.50 Viva Las Vegas 11.15 Darcey’s Ballet Heroes 12.15 New Year’s Day Vienna Concert 2016 13.45 Little Women 15.40 The Eagle Has Landed 17.50 Gorilla Family and Me 18.50 The Archbishop of Canterbury’s New Year Message 18.55 The Terminal 21.00 Christmas University Challenge 2015 21.30 The Many Faces of Ronnie Corbett 22.30 The One Ronnie 23.20 Catch Me If You Can

ITV1

7.00 CITV: Dino Dan. 7.10 Dino Dan 7.25 Sooty 7.40 Super 4 8.00 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 9.00 Oddbods 9.05 A Grizzly New Year Tale 9.35 Almost Naked Animals 10.10 Horrid Henry 10.25 Dickinson’s Real Deal 11.30 Judge Rinder 12.30 Who’s Doing the Dishes?

13.25 Celebrity Squares 14.10 ITV Lunchtime News 14.25 Dr No 16.35 Midsomer Murders 18.35 Wild River with Ray Mears 19.40 ITV Evening News 20.00 Emmerdale 20.30 Coronation Street 21.00 Gino’s Italian Escape - Islands in the Sun 21.30 Coronation Street 22.00 The Big Quiz Coronation Street v Emmerdale 23.00 ITV News; Weather 23.15 The Jonathan Ross Show Christmas Special

CHANNEL 4

8.30 The Big Bang Theory 9.20 Planet 51 11.10 The Simpsons 12.15 Inspector Gadget 13.55 Channel 4 Racing 16.35 The Golden Compass 18.50 Channel 4 News 19.00 Tangled 21.00 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 22.00 A Good Day to Die Hard 0.00 Rude Tube: Welcome to 2016

A Good Day to Die Hard 22.00

CHANNEL 5

7.00 Childrens TV 8.30 Thomas & Friends 8.45 Noddy in Toyland 8.55 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 9.10 Peppa Pig 9.25 Paw Patrol 9.40 Milkshake! Bop Box 9.50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10.05 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10.20 Milkshake! Monkey 10.25 Wanda and the Alien 10.35 Thomas & Friends: Sodor’s Legend of the Lost Treasure 11.50 Carry On Cabby 13.35 Harry and the Hendersons 15.45 Dracula: Dead and Loving It 17.30 Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes 20.00 World’s Strongest Man Final 2015; 5 News Update.

21.00 Christmas with the Double Acts; 5 News Update.

22.00 An Audience with Ken Dodd

itv2

7.00 The Hot Desk: Fleur East 7.10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 7.35 The Almost Impossible Gameshow 8.20 Emmerdale 9.25 Coronation Street 9.55 Mr Bean 10.30 Space Jam 12.15 Richie Rich 14.10 Emmerdale 15.15 Coronation Street 15.45 Happy Feet 17.55 The Nation’s Favourite Disney Song 18.50 Minion Madness 19.05 Despicable Me 21.00 Skyfall 23.55 Celebrity Juice: The Special Special 0.55 Release the Hounds: Famous and Freaked

E4

7.00 Bad(ish) Robots 7.25 Troy 7.45 Charmed 9.30 The Goldbergs 10.00 How I Met Your Mother 10.30 Bad(ish) Robots 11.00 Troy 11.30 Animals United 13.25 The Big Bang Theory: Access All Areas 14.00 The Big Bang Theory: It All Started with a Big Bang 21.30 The Big Bang Theory 22.00 The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 0.15 The Big Bang Theory

Sherlock

by Rachael Popow Back in 2010, when it was announced that Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss were bringing us a new adaptation of Sherlock Holmes that would transplant the action to modern-day London, a lot of viewers wondered how it could possibly work.

However, Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous sleuth and Martin Freeman as his sidekick Dr John Watson, was a massive success with critics and audiences alike.

In fact, it was so popular that now it’s Moffat and Gatiss’ decision to take the stories back to their Victorian roots and set this special edition in 1895 that is causing controversy among fans.

Cumberbatch admits he initially shared some of the viewers’ misgivings. He says: “I thought it was madness. I thought they’d finally lost the plot, jumped the shark, all the other clichés of television gone mad with itself. Then they expanded

the idea and pitched it to me properly and I think it’s fantastic. Absolutely brilliant.”

And he’s hoping that viewers will eventually come round to the idea as well. “I don’t really know how the fans are going to react to it. I think that’s one of the joys of doing it like this.

“You know, we can’t disguise the fact that we’re filming it and often filming it in cities or public places where people are going to take snapshots of us dressed in Victorian kit. We haven’t disappointed fans in the past it seems, so hopefully this won’t. I hope they enjoy it.”

It probably helps that Sherlock remains one of the most memorable characters in fiction, whatever era he is in. Cumberbatch certainly isn’t taking the credit for the show’s phenomenal international success, saying: “I think the enduring appeal of Sherlock Holmes has always been global, actually - I don’t think this is a phenomenon tied in with our success.

I think it’s to do with Conan Doyle’s extraordinary invention,

which has a universal appeal to all nationalities.

“This is a man who’s an outsider, who’s intelligent, who doesn’t tolerate mediocrity, who is incredibly efficient, but also has his weaknesses and comeuppances. I think the ability to turn the mundane, average and normal into a pop-up world of potential adventure, which is what I’ve always been saying about him both on and off the page in our version and in the original books, is that you never know where it’s going to lead. There’s an endless amount of potential adventure.”

In this edition, the adventure begins when Thomas Ricoletti spots his wife in her old wedding gown – which is strange, because a few hours earlier, she took her own life.

As the ‘ghost’ prowls the streets, apparently in search of revenge, it’s up to Holmes, Watson and their friends (yes, Una Stubbs, Rupert Graves and Gatiss are back as Mrs Hudson, Inspector Lestrade and Mycroft Holmes respectively) to get to the bottom of the mystery.

New Years Day, BBC1 10pm

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

Friday, December 18

life&leisure #horoscopes

- Thursday, December 30 2015

53

Kenny Corris kennycorris@hotmail.com 686 361 594

 Interesting actions between Venus and Uranus help you to push the boundaries at the last minute at this holiday time.

Though the pace may have to speed up before you get the chance to slow down you are about to be able to realise what a positive energy you are sending, and what wonderful results you are continuing to get in every direction possible.

Venus sextiles lucky Planet Jupiter, and with Mercury ensconced in Pluto the time is right to make your move. All the blessings of good fortune, love, stability and constancy are out there with a view to helping you onwards. You, and you alone have to take that first tentative step but rest assured this time around there will be no going back!

Mercury brushes up to Mars in opposition which allows you to finally get your message out without the fear of not being heard out. This year you have rung the changes and have benefitted from your frankness and honesty and now there comes a highly suitable time to show those who are supposed to love you that you are not to be messed with.

Moody Moon energies see a great clearing in your life as you remove some of that held- on- to emotional trauma.

This holiday season sees you taking the helm and hopefully sticking to your guns at the same time. You may have started but it is questionable that you will finish. Remember that People will never know what you don’t do!

The Sun enters into Uranus, Planet of Invention and Opportunity and this action heralds a distinct change in your present circumstances. With additional responsibilities and promotion out there on the horizon you can look forward to showing others just what you can do when you try, and be appreciated too, for a job worth doing done well.

Love ventures into your life this holiday season as Venus sextiles Jupiter and Mercury dallies with Mars. Just for once you seem to be looking at positivity rather than looking for negative angles in your complicated love life. This is because you have, at last found someone who could matter to you and who knows how to love your heart and your soul.

You may have that sinking feeling that makes you wonder that you have done the right thing; but nobody else was brave enough to say the truth. Transparency was just what was needed and you cannot regret telling some home truths. Blame your current feelings on a Cosmic Corner that develops between Mercury and Pluto as Venus sextiles.

The Mercury take on of Mars allows you to take control, especially as it would seem that the ball is in your court right now. In opposition to Kora all the backing of Mars is there and yours for the taking, as the Cosmos waits patiently for a shift. Time is of the essence, and if it feels right then go do what you know you can to ease the conflict.

Both Venus and the Sun sextile at this poignant time of the year. This is a reflection of love from the past, and could connect with the rituals of the Christmas period and the pure joy of the season too. With your trusty Jupiter squaring on the Sun the energies of love and light are a true comfort to you as you begin to leave behind a difficult year.

Aware of subtle changes around you your psychic energies come forward to allow you to focus on a situation that begs to veer out of control. Firstly remove any blame because nobody could have done better than you did, and then work with your innermost self. The Sun sextiles Neptune and brings rich rewards to those who deserve them.

Uranus sextiles Ceres and you have to seize the moment as it is time to move on now. Whilst you have played out scenarios now it is time when actions will speak much louder than words ever could and you have no excuse or motive to want to stay anyway. When a door closes then another opens, but it is you who has to walk through it!!

A recent action has left you wondering why you ever got involved the way that you did; but then it wasn’t you who moved the goalposts, and you are an all or nothing person anyway. The correct response would be to just walk away with your head held high, but you have something up your sleeve that could just save the day. The Sun enters just after Christmas weekend, bringing light, relief and yet more hope.

If It’s Your Birthday This Week

This is a major time to make a contract or to sign on the dotted line and comfort now comes from giving yourself, at last, the pat on the back you know that you truly deserve. Now focus on what comes next.......the worst is behind you now!

O Christmas Tree!

THIS IS a very special time of the year and I am delighted to get to send out a message of love and hope to all my readers once more, through the wonderful media backing of the Round Town News.

Whatever has happened to Christmas over the years we have to accept that it brightens up the coldest winter and prepares us for the end of another year. If we can look back and take that inevitable walk along Memory Lane we can focus on the happy times that we have had with friends and family and I hope, sincerely, that you too are able to enjoy those nostalgic memories of the past. Each Christmas to me is special because I was never a part of a large family, but I do have the recall of the happy times associated with this time of year. For me, as life moved on, I was able to make a very large family of my own around the many friends that I have taken into my heart in this World.

Yes, and I thrive on those happy memories of the past, as they are now a strong part of my immediate present and helping me to form the future as I can see it and just how I desire it. Poignant memories of Christmas bring me to never be able to forget that my Mother died one Christmas Morning. This could very well have brought me to the depths of sadness, but I have never ever allowed this; and my dear departed Mother loved Christmas and all the trimmings, bless her! I have to love it for her also, and I do.

As I write today the Christmas Tree has just been delivered and the fresh scent of pine is already fragrancing my sitting room. It will be decorated and illuminated and it will reflect everything that this entire year has meant to me. There will be glitter, and of course a fairy! My house has over a hundred angels and just one of them will find their way onto the top of this year’s tree, in charge. As the decorations come out each one has a memory of where bought and is treasured, and each will find a space on the dark green spruce branches. Every house, at this time of the year, has a gremlin, however, that tangles up the fairy lights during the year so that they have to be untwisted and hopefully tweaked back into active service once more. The lights on the tree for me are the light of the World at this time, shining bright to illuminate all the good that there is in the World. I know that it is easier to fix onto the recent appalling terrorism and the fear that it is bringing, but for me lighting the tree sends out the message that I want to send and it is a message of unity, of peace and of love. Each decoration will take its place randomly and will represent my challenging but wonderful year. As the tree is trimmed, a message is sent out to those people who have needed special help from me throughout the year, as indeed I ask for them to continue to seek the guidance that they need, the spiritual connection, maybe, that they should make. My tree is a tribute to the wonderful work that I am enabled to do through my own Spiritual energy, in both Light and Love. It shines and twinkles for my Mother to show her the way back to my home, and I look at it and feel that she is all around me, celebrating! It shines out to the World hopefully too, sending out a seasonal message of true goodwill and sheer love.

In these difficult times we need to heal the World. Put love into your heart and peace and resolution onto the menu this Christmas, please! Have the happiest of times making the memories for the future this Christmastide. Let your light shine and may your tinsel twinkle! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. See you in January!

Love and Light, Kenny xx

Kenny‛s Postbag

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

KENNY, THERE is a sadness always around Christmas, and now that I have two wonderful Grandsons I can enjoy it through them. thankfully. Still with all that is going on in the World I cant help but to wonder what they will face in the future? I sound a very weak woman but I am not. Betty H. Betty, I do not think that caring about the future of your Grandkids makes you weak in anyway whatsoever. It brings out your sensitivity, your love, your concern and your devotion. I too wonder when World changes will occur, and I am concerned what they will bring as they come. I think we have to live for now, far from the dreams the past brings and avoiding any part of a future unless we can change it. Today is what matters. Enjoy a wonderful Christmas, both for yourself and all who you love!

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #people ////////////////////////////////////

Age Concern’s Christmas Fayre

by KEITH NICOL

AGE CONCERN held their Christmas Fair on Saturday 5th December, with the usual stalls, and was very well attended. Association Chairperson Maureen Payne said: “The total raised was 3,076€, for which we are very grateful to all those who attended.

We’d like to thank all the volunteers who helped and to all those who contributed prizes for the Prize Raffle. We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.” Age Concern is one of the oldest and most established of associations in Torrevieja, having opened their doors back in 1988. The branch now has more than a hundred volunteers who help with all matters of running the association, from meeting and greeting, making coffee and tea, handing out library books, running the charity shops to attending to the basic needs of local pensioners and the ill, and to ensure none of them feel alone. They have a well stocked library of English and foreign language books, they offer language courses in both Spanish and English and hold different classes on popular pastimes. Age Concern’s Maureen Payne said: “We can’t turn back the clock. We are all getting older every day and with more than 10,000 British Citizens on the Torrevieja census alone, and the majority of those with an elderly profile, Age Concern is a must for the community. Many of these residents have very limited contract with their children or other relatives who remain in the United Kingdom where the concept of family help is much more relaxed than in Spain. We are always looking for volunteers to perform home visits and regularly give some of those who can’t get out and about, some social contact.”

Maureen added: “Age Concern in Torrevieja is run by volunteers. If you want to do some-

thing worthwhile and are prepared to make a commitment of one session a week to the charity we would like to hear from you on 966 786 887. If once a week is too much, you might consider going on our reserve lists to cover times of sickness and holidays. The charity is based in Torrevieja at The Centre, C/ Paganini s/n, Urb. La Siesta, 03184 Torrevieja.”

The Centre is open Mondays to Fridays from 10.00am to 1.30pm. Visitors are always welcome to drop in for advice and information, and to discuss matters in confidence, for coffee and a chat with the volunteers and other visitors, to choose a book, have a go at the jigsaw or to volunteer your services. Maureen said: “We do not ask for payment for any advice, information or assistance given. The Centre is also the base for LIFELINE, our welfare section. The LIFELINE volunteers make home visits to carry out indepth assessments; advise on where to obtain nursing care; match volunteers to beneficiaries for long term support; give advice on care aids; give information about residential care homes; organise a monthly Luncheon Club for beneficiaries and through the Residential Home Visiting Team (RHVT) visit English-speaking residents of residential homes.

Age Concern Costa Blanca Sur also have two Charity Shops that are open from 10.00am to 2.00pm, Monday to Friday. Their two shops are situated at: the corner of Calle Concordia and Calle Patricia Zammit in Torrevieja plus on Avda. Del Mar, Los Montesinos, opposite the Gama Supermarket. Maureen concluded: “We are always grateful for good quality donated items ie. clothing, bric-a–brac, books etc. for sale at our Charity Shops. Monies raised in the Charity Shops are used to support the work of the charity.” More information from: http://acespana.org.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

55

life&leisure #aunty virus ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Email auntyvirus@ roundtownnews.com

Windows 10

Hi Aunty, I´ve not had to write to you for a while, as most of my problems have been solved by reading your advice in RTN. However, for the last two weeks, since the Windows 10 major update, every time I log ontoLive TV, to watch TV, the first thing I get is Spanish advertising, which would not be so bad, but I cannot shut it down, and it is mostly for BBV. (You could not pay me enough to use them!)

Using Chrome, with AD blocker, and a scan on defender and malwarebytes, shows no problems.

Any thoughts? Regards, Tony.

Response: I suppose it depends how you are watching your Live TV.There are many providers that do this online, so I am not too sure which of them you will be using.

It may be that the provider is inserting the adverts into the streams, and so you have to watch them and cannot skip them.Adblockers will not work on this, as they will not see the inserted items as adverts they are meant to block. You might try using a different provider, and see whether the adverts disappear.

Do i need antivirus?

Good day Aunty.

I am running Windows Defender &Malwarebytes on my desktop. Is it necessary to have Avast Anti-Virus also?

Regards,Barrie

Response: You may find that Defender is already doing a good job, so why run two antivirus programs at the same time? Running multiple antivirus programs will simply slow things down, as both programs will be scanning files at the same time each time you open a file.There is also the possibility that they can conflict and cause problems with one another.

Reply: Many thanks. You have confirmed what I thought.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #travel 

Barcelona City by train TRAVEL BY train to this large, lively, exciting coastal city.

VISIT ALL the exciting places you have heard about! See Antoni Gaudi’s thought-provoking buildings.

His masterpiece of course is the “unfinished cathedral” which was started in the late 19th century as a tribute to the coming 20th century, and still remains unfinished in the 21st century.

What a stunning piece of architecture it is. Marvel at the wonderful Camp Nou football stadium, home of the mighty Barcelona football club, as well as a whole range of other sporting teams, basketball, volleyball, baseball, and so on. Then, on the outskirts, you find the university parks centred round the old Royal Palace, and, also, the mountain of the Jews (Montjuic), with a castle overlooking the bay. Cable cars sweep across from there to the port and beyond.

Sagrada Familia, the unfinished cathedra

l

The 1992 Olympics were held in Barcelona, and the city still benefits from the superb facilities built for that event. In the marina, hundreds of small yachts bob up and down in the wash created by passing mini-cruisers packed with happy sightseers. In the nearby “Ramblas” clearly the best known street in Spain, passers-by are entertained by an incredible variety of performers, busking for an income. They range from the highly talented to the outright zany. Flower vendors and artists compete with the entertainers for the many thousands of euros, which change hands every day in this street. In the square in front of the original theatre, you’ll find “classy” buskers, mostly music students earning a crust, playing some genuinely beautiful music on the ‘cello, violin, and harp, amongst other instruments.

Camp Nou

Antoni Gaudi’s thought-provoking buildings

Barcelona buzzes night and day and, in this city, you’ll never run out of things to see. Like no other city, it is simply fabulous.

This superb low cost excursion makes all this available to you at a really affordable price, because, once again, David’s Coachtrips SL has come up with a great package, which includes 4 days B&B in a 4* Barcelona City hotel, train, plus transfers by coach and a city tour, all for the really fabulous price of 295€.

Dates are 7th to 10th March 2016.

Call (0034) 966 78 59 10 to reserve your place, or visit the web site www. coachtripsonline.com.

Las Ramblas

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #rtnmasterchef  by

Dani Bowler

Owner Vintage Cafe, Albir & MasterChef semi finalist

“Apricot and chestnut stuffing” THIS APRICOT & chestnut stuffing is a real beauty for your turkey this Christmas with great combination of flavor and taste and one recipe very similar to one I’m currently using at the Vintage Cafe for my Christmas menu!

Fry the chopped onion in the butter until soft and golden, about 5-6 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Put the onions in a bowl with the chopped apricots, sausage meat, lemon zest and juice, chestnuts, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg yolks and plenty of seasoning.

Mix well using your hands to knead the ingredients together. Use to stuff the turkey or cook in a separate baking tray.

1 large onion, peeled and chopped & diced 25g butter 125g Dried apricots, roughly chopped 450g sausage meat Grated zest and 2 tablespoons lemon juice 225g cooked chestnuts, roughly chopped 50g fresh brown bread crumbs Handful Chopped Fresh Parsley 2 egg yolks A pinch of salt Pinch of black pepper

Sponsored by Vintage Cafe Albir. For bookings and info call: +34 865 60 93 45 Kitchen open 13h-16h 18,30h-22h Avenida del Albir, 68 (next to Europa Sol) info@danibowler.com

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #events

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It’s Panto Time Again IT’S THAT time of year again when all the theatre groups put on their annual winter pantomime. Throughout the UK, theatres will be staging their fun-filled winter spectacles, the highlight of the year for many families and, for many children, a first introduction to live theatre.

Here on the Costa Blanca, we continue this typically British tradition, and all the wellloved stories from our youth are presented in new and unusual forms.

Campoverde Theatre Group is no exception and, after a year’s break, are again pleased to bring to you another original pantomime. This time, it is a re-telling of that well-known story of the Owl and the Pussycat, who went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat. However, in true panto tradition, the story also contains the dame and her nitwit of a son, the unschooled

crew of the Green Pea, and her captain, plus the usual baddies. In fact, The Owl and the Pussycat has everything you would expect from traditional British pantomime. Go along and join Campoverde Theatre Group for a colourful and laughter-filled evening and enjoy their presentation of the love affair between the owl and the pussycat.

The Owl and the Pussycat will be staged at The Casa de Cultura, San Miguel de Salinas on Friday 5th, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th of February 2016. Reserve your tickets at Bargain Books in San Miguel, or contact the ticket line: ctgticketline@gmail.com, Telephone Graham on 629 25 86 97, or drop into the Blue Lagoon Community Centre (Mondays and Wednesdays 2-4pm). This production will sell out fast, so book soon to avoid disappointment.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #Spanish

Basic Spanish for everyday needs

by Jane Cronin



Past simple –er and –ir verbs LAST WEEK we talked about regular “–ar” verbs in the past simple tense and finished off with a short text.

The idea was to encourage you to say similar things about yourself, but as I generally don’t trust students an inch I suspect you probably put the article aside with all good intentions and forgot about it.

Here is the text again, and just in case you’re out of it completely, I will be kind to you and write the translation below.

“Ayer me levanté a las siete y media. Me duché y después desayuné té y cereales. Llevé a mis hijas al instituto y empecé a trabajar. Trabajé muchas horas, pero entre clase y clase tomé un café. Por la tarde paseé por el centro de San Pedro y cené en casa. Me acosté temprano para ir a trabajar al día siguiente”. ¿Y tú? ¿A qué hora te levantaste?

Yesterday I got up at half past seven. I had a shower and then I had tea and cereal for breakfast. I took my daughters to secondary school and started work. I worked a lot of hours but between classes I had a coffee. In the afternoon I went for a walk in the centre of San Pedro and had dinner at home.

I went to bed early in order to go to work the following day.

And you? What time did you get up?

Some of that text might seem a little stilted, but basically you can see that I’ve managed to give a fair account of the day limiting my vocabulary to the verbs that we have already studied. As I mentioned at the end of the last article, that is a skill in itself and one that we should work at developing.

There’s never any point in not saying something just because you haven’t got the right word – just find another way of saying the same, or something similar.

Anyway, enough of this pep talking, let’s get on with the task in hand, which is to learn about regular “-er” and “-ir” verbs. Well, this tense does have its difficulties one but piece of good news is that these two groups have the same endings which are as follows: í imos íste isteis ió ieron So here are two common examples. Notice that the different in pronunciation between these two particular verbs is in the root vowel “e” and “i” – the rest sounds identical. It’s up to you whether you want to say “I lived there three years” or “I drank there three years”.

Beber: to drink bebí bebiste bebió bebimos bebisteis bebieron

I drank you drank he/she drank we drank you drank (plural) they drank

Vivir: to live viví viviste vivió vivimos vivisteis vivieron

I lived you lived he/she lived we lived you lived (plu) they lived

Charity giveaway for Velvetones Christmas show A GREAT time was had by all the ladies singing and the sell out audience! 600€ was given between AFA and ALPE charities this year!

The Velvetones want to recruit more singers and social members to add to this fun hobby and give more to charity next year, so why not go along and join them for a tea or coffee at their rehearsals every Wednesday morning at El Paraiso, behind Carrefour Torrevieja. Visit the website www.velvetonesharmonytorrevieja.com or call Ena on 965 70 79 58. (Photo by Kristoff)

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

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

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

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

Suduko Answer

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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life&leisure #animals



Facts and myths explained: The Shark

by GIL FINNIGAN

SHARK ANATOMY: Sharks are fish ranging from 17cm (the small dwarf lantern shark) to up to 14 meters (The whale shark).

Their bones are made of cartilaginous tissue for flexibility.

They have five to seven gill slits on the side of the head.

Most sharks have six fins: a pair of pectoral fins, a pair of pelvic fins, two dorsal fins, an anal fin and a caudal fin. The tail of a shark consists of the caudal peduncle and the caudal fin, which provide the main source of thrust for the shark. The shape of the caudal fin reflects the shark’s lifestyle, and can be broadly divided into five categories: Fast-swimming sharks of open waters, such as the mackerel sharks, have crescent-shaped tails with upper and lower parts of almost equal size. The high aspect ratio of the tail serves to enhance swimming power and efficiency.

The whale shark and basking shark also have this type of tail, although they are generally more sedate animals than the other examples.

“Typical sharks”, such as requiem sharks, have tails with the upper part longer than the lower. The upper part is turned upwards at a moderate angle relative to the body, which balances cruising efficiency with turning ability. The thresher sharks have an extreme example of this tail in which the upper part has evolved into a weapon for stunning prey.

Bottom-dwelling sharks such as cat sharks and carpet sharks have tails with long upper parts and virtually no lower.

Dogfish sharks also have tails with longer upper than lower parts. Angel sharks have unique tails among sharks. Their caudal fins are reverse heterocercal, with the lower part larger than the upper.

Shark teeth are embedded in the gums rather than directly affixed to the jaw, and are constantly replaced throughout life. Multiple rows of replacement teeth grow in a groove on the inside of the jaw and steadily move forward in compari-

The Blacktip Reef Shark

son to a conveyor belt; some sharks lose 30,000 or more teeth in their lifetime. Tooth shape depends on the shark’s diet: those that feed on molluscs and crustaceans have dense and flattened teeth used for crushing, those that feed on fish have needle-like teeth for gripping, and those that feed on larger prey such as mammals have pointed lower teeth for gripping and triangular upper teeth with serrated edges for cutting. The teeth of plankton-feeders such as the basking shark are small and non-functional.

Shark of the week

THE BLACK TIP REEF SHARK: The Blacktip Reef Shark, also known as the Carcharhinus Limbatus, gets its name from the pointed snout and black tips on its fins (especially its dorsal fin). These are considered one of the most beautiful sharks in the Ocean and are seen often by divers since this species prefers shallow waters.

They can grow up to 2.9 meters (9.5ft) in length, but is usually closer to 1.6 meters (5ft). They weigh about 130 kilograms (286 pounds) as adults.

The Blacktip Reef Shark is found in warm, shallow water near coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean Sea with depths

of up to 80 meters (262 feet). This is a tropical and subtropical fish. It’s mostly found in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and the Western and Eastern Pacific. Their preferred water temperature is from 15C to 24C (59F to 75F), so most of the time they stay in shallow waters and near the surface, with a maximum depth of 70 meters (229 feet). These are athletic and energetic hunters. They have a spectacular technique in which they catapult their body out of the water and rotate themselves before falling back into the water. It’s unclear why exactly they do this, but it’s often associated with hunting. They love to hunt for small fish like sardines and herrings, groupers, rays, and smaller sharks.

The Blacktip Reef Shark population has remained about even in recent years, even with commercial and game fishing. Their body parts are often used for fish fin soup and are harvested for shark oil, liver, and their flesh is considered a delicacy in many cultures. Since their reproductive rate is slower than most sharks, it’s a species of concern.

The attack rate on humans is exceedingly low, but since they often swim in the same areas as people, conflicts have happened. There are no known fatal attacks on humans without provocation. It’s important to note that these sharks are easily spooked. When threatened, they form an S-Shape with their bodies and roll from side to side.

Tiger Shark teeth

Calypso GORGEOUS COLOURING- born 26.12.14 - a magnificent looking boy.Calypso is a medium size dog. He is gentle and loves other dogs he is good with cats. Plays, chases and loves a cuddle. Pet passport. 96 587 8284 info@doggieangells.org

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leis ure #health /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Statins and cholesterol A number of people over 50 years of age are prescribed statins. Some are unsure of what they do and if they should keep taking them.

Most people know it is linked to their cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance known as a lipid which we need for normal body function. It is made mainly in the liver but can be found in some foods. Having high lipids in your blood is detrimental to a person’s health.

Cholesterol is circulated in your blood by proteins. High Density lipo protein (HDL) referred to as the good cholesterol. It carries cholesterol away from the cells back to the liver. The liver will break it down and excrete it. High levels of HDL are good.

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) carries cholesterol to the cells that need it. If there is too much cholesterol for the cells to cope with, it will build up in the artery walls. LDL is known as the bad cholesterol. High levels are not good.

A raised LDL level can cause narrowing or hardening of the arteries, this can lead to coronary vascular disease (CVD). This may be a situation that statins are prescribed. A full blood lipid profile will measure LDL, HDL and triglycerides. This blood test as well as looking at liver function test is needed before statins are prescribed.

CVD is the most common cause of death in the UK. With CVD the blood supply to the heart is reduced, this can lead to angina a sharp chest pain. If the blood supply to the heart is blocked then a heart attack can occur. If blood supply to brain is blocked then a stroke can occur.

A person will be prescribed statins if they have been diag-

nosed with CVD.Statins are recommended for people with a high cholesterol level or have personal, family medical risk factors. Even if a person is in good health statins may be prescribed if they are a high risk for CVD. High risk patients for whom it is advised to be be on statins All adults with a history of CVD angina acute myocardial infarction, stroke, trans ischaemic attacks (TIA ) often referred to as mini strokes peripheral arterial disease familial hypercholesterolaemia. An inherited condition which causes very high cholesterol levels chronic Kidney disease all adults with type 1 Diabetes over the age of 40 or have had diabetes for over 10 years Statins are a tablet taken once a day ideally taken at night time as this is when cholesterol is being produced. They work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that makes LDL and raises HDL cholesterol levels. They are normally taken for life as stopping will increase LDL cholesterol levels and the benefit will be lost. Statins cannot be prescribed to people with severe liver disease.

Lifestyle changes that can also reduce cholesterol levels reduce foods with saturated fat: meat pies, sausages, butter, lard, cream, hard cheeses, cakes and biscuits increase exercise reduce sugar intake

lose weight to get to a healthy Body mass index measurement

stop smoking As with all medications statins do have side effects. The most common ones are listed below and it is important to discuss these with your doctor: nosebleeds sore throat runny or blocked nose headache feeling sick digestive system problems, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, indigestion muscle and joint pain raised blood sugar can increase risk of developing diabetes Statins should not be used in pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding.

Statins are one of the most researched and tested drugs in use. if you have been advised to start statins, lifestyle changes are a good place to start. Also have an informed discussion with your doctor. This means the decision is a joint one and that you are aware of your CVD risk. Also the possible side effects and any drug interactions that may be relevant to you.

Article supplied by Carmel O’Toole at the Family Medical Centre, Albir. Please call 96 686 5072 for more information or to make an appointment.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure ask Sara

by Sara

Bell

Life Coach

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Lonely this Christmas

I am a woman in her 70s. My friend that I used to spend Christmas Day with, recently passed away. I am finding the prospect of being alone this year very upsetting - not only do I miss my friend, and am grieving for her loss, I can‘t seem to find any enthusiasm for the festive season. She left a cat, who I have taken in, so it’ll just be me and the moggy, and beans on toast this year.

I am so sorry you have lost your friend. There’s no need to be alone at Christmas, or at any other time. There are lots of friendship groups in the area, and you could think about going along to one of those. I am sending you some information. You might not realise, but there are a lot of people in your position, who are facing Christmas alone, and by going along to these groups you would also be helping others. One of the best ways to be happy, is to make other people happy.

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.

Christmas on a budget

I have recently retired and having to manage on my pension. My family have always been big gift givers, but this year I simply don’t have the spare cash, and now have to manage on a budget. I have to do something otherwise I will end up in debt. Any ideas?

Talk things through with your family. I don’t imagine any of them will want you to struggle.

Rather than buying individual presents for everyone, you could suggest a secret santa, whereby everyone’s names are put in a hat, and each person then draws one name, and buys a gift for that person. Also, if funds allow, you could invite your family round for a lovely home cooked Christmas dinner. Roast chicken and vegetables is an inexpensive meal. Bake a pie for dessert, and ask that guests kindly bring a bottle with them. Christmas should be more about spending quality time together rather than big gift giving.

That’s what matters the most!

Write to Sara in confidence. A pseudonym will be used if you wish. Sara reads all letters and can give a personal reply. Email your question to agonyaunt@roundtownnews.com or Sara is available for private consultations, telephone 650 054 467.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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life&leisure #charity



British furniture retailer DFS comes to Spain

BRITAIN’S LEADING sofa expert, DFS has opened a store on Spanish soil.

Following in the footsteps of many UK ex-pats, the sofa retailer has set up home in San Javier near Murcia on the Costa Calida.

DFS has taken over an existing furniture retail business, housed in the exact same spot, but has bought with it over 45 years of furniture expertise. They’ve combined their knowledge and passion for furniture with the local experienceof the previous retailers’ management team to bring quality and stylish furniture to the Spanish market.

The store will now offer a large range of furniture so if you’re looking for full furniture package solutions, to kit out your whole home, or one off pieces then DFS could be the best place to start.

So what’s the DFS difference?

Many of DFS’s extensive range of sofas are designed by their own design team and made in their three UK factories and two woodmills by local craftspeople. There’s hundreds of ranges, colours and fabrics to choose from and all come with a 10 year free guarantee on frame and frames springs.

DFS also has its own specialist delivery teams covering the Murcia and Alicante region who’ll install your furniture for you. They can also provide quotes to deliver anywhere in mainland Spain.

DFS Chief Executive Ian Filby says “We’re delighted to have an official home in Spain. We’ve been helping ex-pats and holiday home owners to create homes in Spain for a while now so it’s great to finally have a showroom for people to visit.

“Our offer is simple: great quality furniture at excellent value for money. We’re also able to offer people with a UK residence our award winning interest free credit, as we understand how spreading the cost of furnishing a new home can help makes things that little more ‘comfortable’.”

Pop in and visit the store at Ctra de San Pedro Pinatar 81, 30730 San Javier, Murcia, Spain or visit the website www.dfs.co.uk/spain For directions and festive opening times call 0034-968-334-194

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure people 

Torrevieja’s Spartan: Jason Scawthorn

Continued from page 35 THE SPARTANS’ Race is held in different locations, on various occasions, all over the world.

You can participate in a number of different categories depending on age and experience. The participants had glorious weather all day and Jason added: “I personally think we were blessed on this day. Poncho ran for the AECC and I ran on behalf of the Samaritans Costa Blanca.

Unlike pure marathon running, or even Triathlon, it’s somewhat different getting into shape for the Spartan Race. And although Jason is known for keeping himself in great shape as a personal trainer at Fit4All in Torrevieja, even he said it took him eight months of training to prepare for this event. Over the months, Jason would run on most days, interlaced with WODs (workouts of the day). He continued: “Being a personal trainer, people expect the Spartan race to be easy for you, but the Spartan race finds your weak spots and it lets you know.

So the training had to change; the life style had to change; I had to change. Running on sand, picking up rocks along the beach, and not just pebbles but heavy rocks, flipping the giant

tractor tyres outside the gym, climbing ropes and generally looking crazy, was all part of my Spartan race training.”

Basically, the Spartan race is a cross country obstacle course.

There are different race categories available: Junior, Sprint, Super, Beast and Hurricane. Jason even got the family involved; “My two boys entered the Junior Spartan race on the day. They absolutely loved it. My good friend ‘Klaud KW’ has completed all three races now; the sprint, super and beast.

She now is going for the Trifeca.’

It’s a tough race for anyone, but extra kudos must go to David Casinos who was the first blind person to run the Reebok Spartan Race, the best steeplechase in the world. In the words of Outside magazine: “David Casinos added to his list of achievements to become the first blind Spartan.”

Jason noted: “On all the Spartan promotion they say “You know when you have reached the finish line”. The question is, have I reached the finish line? The answer has to be no: my next challenge is the Beast; 25 km or more with 50 obstacles. I am also trying to see if we can bring Spartan racing to Torrevieja.”

If you fancy your chances, or are looking for a challenge as

part of your new year’s resolutions, Jason says: “I’m looking for my team for next year. Call me. Every day is Spartan day at FIT4ALL Punta Prima.”

Jason rose to this challenge partly to raise awareness of the Samaritans In Spain, who are based just across the N332 from Fit4All in Punta Marina. Lynda Brettle, CEO Samaritans in Spain, added: “On behalf of all of us at Samaritans in Spain, a huge ‘thank you’ for all your hard work and effort at the Spartan run. Not only was it an amazing personal achievement for you and all your supporters at Fit4All but it was tremendously helpful in raising awareness of the service we provide to English speakers. We really appreciate the help of all your sponsors and your kind donation; it will cover at least two months of costs for the Freefone 900 52 51 00. Fantastic.

Best wishes to you all.”

For more information on what to expect from the Spartan race, drop in and see Jason Scawthorn, visit his Facebook page and check out Spartan warrior: www.ptinthesun.com.

By the way, don’t think of yourself as too old for this, as Jason is 45 and proud of it.

Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure people  Torry Army’s social Christmas

THE RUN Up to Christmas has been a busy one for the International Supporters group of CD Torrevieja.

After taking part in last week’s floral processions, on Friday it was a double helping for some Torry Army members starting at 10.30am with a Walking Football session at the Sports City, followed by an enjoyable Christmas lunch at the Marine Bar. Having not quite had their fill of Christmas cheer, on Wednesday evening they held their annual dinner dance at Casa Ventura, San Luis, with live music from a band of superb musicians “Timeless”.

And, from dancing shoes to football boots, the walking football action will return to the Sports City in the new year. For those not akin to the game, it was popularised by a banking commercial, and is possibly the fastest growing sport in terms of popularity, in Europe. It is a game for

the over 50´s who want to try and prolong their playing careers and bring back fond memories of how it used to be but at “walking” pace. It’s also a great way to work off the Christmas pudding. The Torry Army want to offer the opportunity to any budding old age footballers or exfootballers to enjoy taking part in “walking football” in the prime of their life.

The games take place at 10.30am am on Fridays at Torrevieja Sports City on one of the football pitches which are opposite the CD Torrevieja football ground and adjacent to the international indoor swimming pool/sports arena. Participation costs 2€.

Everyone is welcome, including the ladies.

For more information on the Torry Army, visit their office in San Luis any weekday morning between 10am and noon, or ring chairperson Pat Stewart on 966 78 63 52.

More information is available on their website: www.fctorrevieja.net.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #people 

Specsavers raises nearly 800€ for Rowing for Cancer

SPECSAVERS IN Torrevieja and Guardamar have been supporting Dave and Mitch Bull’s Rowing for Cancer Challenge, by providing glasses and polo shirts to the team, fundraising in store and holding a homemade cake sale.

Due to the amazing support of the team from Sunshine FM who broadcast live from their event, the Pink Ladies, and all the local residents,who donated, baked cakes and came along on the day, Specsavers Opticas have raised 775.15€ to date, and are still collecting in store.

Despite their best efforts, Dave and Mitch Bull were stopped at Algorfa by their health and safety team as night fell and it was too dangerous to continue. However, this is not the end of the challenge as the boys will be completing the remaining 18km of the journey from Algorfa to Guardamar on 16th December.

Totals have yet to be calculated, but organizers estimate that around 2,500€ has been raised so far for cancer charity AECC, and the fundraising is continuing. If you wish to donate, Specsavers in Torrevieja and Guardamar are still collecting donations in store. Visit www.specsavers.es to find your nearest store and donate. To find out more about Dave and Mitch’s Rowing for Cancer challenge visit their Facebook page “Rowing for Cancer”.

Carols of hope at the Anchor

Around 2500 has been raised so far for AECC

CHRISTMAS WAS celebrated by the sea at the Albir Anchor on Monday with the singing of 12 carols.

Organised by Albir Church of England, many of the congregation attended along with representatives of Alfaz del Pi town hall. At one point a crowd of some 120 people gathered; many people stopping to listen to a couple of the festive songs before moving on.

Albir is one of seven churches on the Costa Blanca. For more information, visit the website www.costablanca-anglicanchaplaincy.org.

The Albir Church celebrates Holy Communion every Sunday in a service at 9.45 in the Norwegian Seaman’s Church on Carrer Mart, and there is also a service of Holy Communion every Thursday at the Forum Mare Nostrum, in Alfaz at 11 am. For more information please contact the local church warden Hazel Layt on 96 689 5306 or 659 018 400.

Carols at the TCF IT WAS yet another packed house at the Torrevieja Christian Fellowship on Wednesday, December 9th, for their seventh annual Carol service. Pastor Roy said: “This event is sponsored by the English-speaking Churches of Torrevieja and District and raises money for local charities. This year, the music was once more provided by the excellent ‘Phoenix Concert Band’ and the theme for the evening was based on a sketch written by the Rev. Andrew Rea of the Anglican chaplaincy. The chosen charity was ‘AECC’ (Contra el Cáncer) and 700€ was presented to Sra. Manoli Flores. Thanks to everyone who attended, and who gave generously toward this worthy cause. Roll on next year.”

The theme for this year’s Carol Service at TCF, Torrevieja Christian Fellowship, was: “The cradle that rocked the world.” With the words projected onto the screen, the

My little silver book ALEC’S NEW book for the Anglican Church in Spain.

La Manga Club resident Alec Winwood’s humorous new book for youngsters. “My little Silver book, Sparkling fun” is a wonderful stocking-filler for 10-year-olds and up. Indeed, grown-ups find it entertaining too. This little gem is five euros and all profit goes to the Anglican Chaplaincy in Torrevieja. To receive a copy by mail in time for Christmas, send a cheque without delay on a Spanish bank for six euros (incl P&P) to CapellaniaAnglicane de Torrevieja, c/o Box 6 La Manga Club, Cartagena. Include your name and address clearly written in block capitals.

A full house at the TCF

entire audience could sing and clap along to the music, played superbly by the Phoenix Concert Band under the direction of Julie Schofield. Pastor Roy added: “It was a great time of carol-singing and other musical events, all followed by mince pies.”

To keep you in the Christmas mood while you finish your Christmas shopping, just nip along to Zenia Boulevard tomorrow, Saturday 19th December at 6.30pm to join in the fun and singing as the TCF Singers take to the stage with their ‘Songs for Christmas’ event. Pastor Roy said: “Thank you to all those who attended our carol service. You might want to attend the boulevard event. We have been there six times over the past year and three times with the ‘Elvis Gospel Tribute’, singing gospel songs recorded by ‘The King’.” It sounds like a fun night of Christmas cheer.

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

Big FM Christmas LOCAL COMMUNITY Radio Station Big FM held their second Christmas party on Friday night, as a thank you to their team of presenters, sponsors and the advertisers who support them.

It was a busy week for station manager Richie Sparks and the team, as the station has just moved to new studios, and with improved frequency reach, can now be heard throughout the Vega Baja area.

The venue was the newly re-opened Fountain Bar in Dolores- who laid on a terrific spread for all those attending, with music and dancing well into the night.

Station Manager, Richie Sparks, said: “It’s hard to believe how far we have come over the last twelve months. The presenters and staff are much more than just that. We are all family and, most of all, we love what we do. We had a fantastic time at the Big FM Christmas party last night. Many thanks to the Fountain Bar in Dolores, which was packed to the rafters, Thank you to everyone who turned up. You are all important to me and the station. Onward and upwards for 2016.”

Des Stoneham added: “We had a fantastic time. Thank you for organizing it. It was a bit rough this morning though for the Big FM crew.” Ian Merridan added: “It was really great to see the Big FM family. Thanks to all, especially Richie Sparks,” Debbie Lowe thought it was a fabulous night and Bryn Gould also said: “It was a great night. Ta very much Richie.” Presenter Kelly, Princess Breaker, said “Thanks for a great night,” and fellow presenter Tony Lowe concluded: “What a night we all had with the crew at our Big Fm party at the Fountain Bar. A big thank you to Dave and Arron, and all the staff, for great food and drink. Merry Christmas and a Happy NewYear to one and all.” Arron Rodgers, from the Fountain Bar, responded: “Really pleased you all enjoyed it.” More information about Big FM can be found at: www.bigfm.org and you can tune in at 89.9fm and 99.8fm.

Fundraiser for Torrevieja stroke support X-KLUSIV RESTAURANT in Benimar, (Calle Agata 2, Tel 633 02 72 51) are holding a raffle to raise funds for Torrevieja stroke support with a beautiful hamper.

Raffle tickets are 1 strip for 2€ and 3 strips for 5€, and the draw will take place on 6th January. Sasha, who with partner Shane, has just opened the X-KLUSIV Restaurant, lost her grandma to a stroke earlier this year, and they have very kindly offered to do this to raise much needed funds for the stroke group.

Gifts a plenty thanks to the Full Monte SUNDAY’S DERBY game between the two Los Montesinos teams conjured up more than a win for the CD Montesinos by three goals to one over their TD rivals.

With Christmas just around the corner, the season of giving was also evident as the CD Montesinos supporters club, The Full Monte, showed another side to their support for the team and the town, as they presented gifts to players, management and staff of CD Torrevieja, plus a local charity.

Prior to kick off, the mayor of Montesinos, José Butrón, received food parcels for the local Caritas charity from the Full Monte committee which were gratefully appreciated. This presentation has been appreciatively received by the mayor and the Caritas charity since the formation of the Full Monte

supporters club.

Man of the match went to Mario, sponsored by the Monte Mentals Walking Football team, under the direction of Stan Dibble. Another annual tradition is the presentation of Christmas hampers to the players, groundsman, and club officials, after the match, by the team’s supporters club, the Full Monte. This gesture was much appreciated by all the players and a special word of thanks went to the Full Monte from the team.

This weekend, CD Montesinos are away to Deportivo Orihuela. To find out more details of kick off times, details about the team’s exploits, and the Full Monte, please visit: www. cdmontesinos.com, check out their Facebook Page or email: thefullmonte2011@hotmail.com.

The Big FM crew

New sea exhibition

IF YOU are interested in knowing more about what the Mediterranean leaves behind in its wake, without any fish or marine life entering the picture, then a new exhibition at the Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre is well worth a visit.

Luz Martínez Martínez’s exhibition is on view until January 24th, 2016, in an exhibition that will leave no one indifferent.

On Saturday the Exhibition Hall of the Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre hosted a performance called Dance and Light, by Arantxa Blanco. The choreographer and actress, ended her short performance with audience participation to open the protest exhibition under the title “What the sea gives us ... what the sea brings us” that consists of a series of photographs by Luz Martínez Martínez, showing us the way we treat the sea as a source of food and the natural shaping of our environment.

Luz is a young artist, committed to nature, and has a degree in Audiovisual Studies, having spent more than ten years of her life participating in art fairs, plus national and international competitions. Admission to the exhibition is free, and you can visit during the centre’s opening hours.

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life&leisure #people 

New help for Parkinson’s HELP OF Denia and the Marina Alta is to buy a ‘MOTOmed’ to assist those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

by JACK TROUGHTON THE PIECE of kit – similar to a traditional exercise bike – will be kept at la Pedrera Hospital in Denia where a medically trained team will be on hand to supervise its use.

The equipment will be available to HELP’s Parkinson’s Group, the self-help group which meets on the last Monday of the month at the HELP Centre in La Xara and stages social activities as well as keeping members informed of new innovations relating to the condition.

HELP PRESIDENT Candida Wright announced the

intention to buy the MOTOmed at the Parkinson’s Group and Luncheon Club Christmas lunch at Monroe’s Restaurant.

The party was organised by Pat Lee Patton, HELP’s Parkinson’s Group coordinator, and enjoyed by some 60 people – Santa also arrived to hand out gifts to the guests.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the group can call Pat on 634 301 677 for more information.

To discover more about HELP or to become a volunteer, visit the website www.helpofdenia.com or the Facebook page HelpDAMA.

Santa at the party

Chanukah on the beach ON THE last night of Chanukah, Sunday December 13th, the Menorah was lit at Playa Flamenca beach.

In spite of safety concerns from certain members of the Community, over 70 people turned up. It was good to see so many people from other countries and religions, helping to allay fears and concerns that Jewish people are “different” in some way. We have always invited members of Orihuela Costa council to attend, and, this year, the Councillor for the Coast, Sofía Álvarez, not only lit the Menorah, but also said a few words, saying how happy she was to be included in the celebrations. After the lighting, a traditional Chanukah song, Moa Tzur, was sung, very loudly and heartily, and then wine and doughnuts were served to all present. There then followed some Israeli dancing. There were also 5 policemen present, who were delighted to help eat the doughnuts!

Festive fun in Jalon CAROLS IN the Square in Jalon was once again a crowded, noisy and entertaining way of spreading some festive cheer last Friday night.

The annual party was again organised by Jalon Valley HELP and Father Christmas in his grotto under the decorated Christmas tree was inundated with youngsters and a big favourite – and not only because his Elf Helped had a big bag of chocolates. Singing was led by the Casual Choir of U3A Vall del Pop and pupils from nine local schools sang a selection of ‘villancicos’ – Spanish carols – which were widely appreciated; especially the one sung to the tune of ‘Jingle Bells’. And after the singing, the Orba School of Music played a selection of tunes before the music finished with a rousing rendition of ‘Auld Lang Syne’; which appeared to confirm to the Spanish section of the audience that the British are more than a little eccentric.

HELP President Elaine Horton presented cheques to 14 schools in the Jalon Valley, the Orba Valley and the Vall de Laguart; to AMEDEM, a mental health charity based in Pedregeur; and to the Spanish cancer charity AECC. Elaine also thanked everyone for supporting the event, the town hall for its assistance, and all the charity volunteers who made the evening a success – including team members serving the mince pies and wine.

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Tim Saunders Independent unbiased car reviewer



Nissan Juke EYE-CATCHING design at an attractive price - that’s the combination on offer from Nissan with its Juke, the increasingly fashionable compact sports utility vehicle.

THERE’S NO denying it, it’s a great design (as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz) that from a distance looks like a three-door but thanks to cleverly concealed rear door handles it is actually a five door. It represents extremely good value for money, too.

It seems to appeal to all generations, too, from the young girl who cycles past and tells her dad how she likes it through to the middle aged man who simply stands and stares. And the gentleman of senior years I spot driving his in Weymouth…

Arguably the brown finish of the test vehicle lends itself to the design and my wife and I feel that cream leather upholstery would complement this particularly well. As it is the black

cloth seats are comfortable even over a fairly long journey that we take from Hampshire to Dorset.

The raised ride height is always a welcome bonus for me because it gives greater command of the road. It also allows the driver to spot parking spaces that others do not in packed car parks. I find the 1.5 diesel unit pleasantly poky at speeds under 60mph with third gear being very receptive between 30mph and 60mph. Over that speed and it proves slower than expected and at times struggles to hold its own while in the outside lane of the motorway.

Hills slow it up a bit requiring a change down to fourth gear but it is only a 1.5 litre and a diesel and so overall it does a good job and with hard driving will return over 40mpg. The best recorded was around 47mpg. Perhaps surprisingly the Juke holds the road and feels like it’s on rails when cornering, meaning that it can be driven with gusto even round bends.

Rather than simply being an attractive head-turner it is also

pleasingly a ‘driver’s car’, helped by the fairly hard suspension.

The n-tec model tested also comes fitted with cruise control which is useful for motorway cruising. Bear in mind that the test takes place just after the UK has been badly battered by storms and the Juke copes with the floods admirably. Just down the road from my parents in law there is an enormous flood that has previously shut the road but the Juke makes light work of it. Reversing the Juke is made easier by the camera display on the dashboard.

FACTS AT A GLANCE: New price: 21,000€.

Top speed: 109mph.

0-60mph: 11.2secs Economy: up to 47mpg (urban) Watch the video at www.testdrives.biz

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

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2012 C3 PICASSO 1.5 VTi CMP seduction 17.900 km Blue color

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2010 C3 PICASSO 1.6 HDi 110 cv SX 47341 km Silver color

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2008 KIA PICANTO 1.1i 39.000 km Silver color

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2006 C4 1.6i Collection 69.603 km Silver color

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2006 TOYOTA YARIS 1.3vvti sol 87cv 109.100 km Silver color(P)

5.250€ FCZ

2006 FORD KA 1.3i 87.500 km Silver color.(P)

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2004 KIA SORENTO 2.5 CRDi 137.439 km Silver color

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2003 CITROEN XSARA 1.6i Automatico 114.700 km Blue silver color

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2003 CITROEN C5 2.0i 16v Exclusive Automatic 187.350 km Red color

3.200€ HJW

2002 CITROEN C3 1.4i SX Plus 160.600 km Silver color

3.000€ CBY

2000 MCC SMART 0.6 Gasolina 55cv 125.300 km Yellow color(P)

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life&leisure #people 

Humanists of Murcia walking and talking

by PATRICIA THOMPSON

THE DECEMBER walk led out of Jarravía just above the railway line from Águilas to Lorca.

The railway had been a British project in the nineteenth century, and the line has not long reopened following the ‘gota fría’ of 2013. The path wound round a hill past an electric sub-station, lots of pylons, many not connected, and a sewerage works (complete with bad smell).

A 303 bullet was found, and the military experts present reckoned it dated back to a Civil War massacre when the nationalists shot 15 captured republican soldiers, in retaliation for the bombing of Águilas by Italian planes, when 200 people had been killed. Lunch was in Mesón Pepa, enjoyed by most, after some confused order-taking by a smiling camarera. The next (proper) walk will be in January 2016 and will be to the Blue Lagoon.

The December talk combined discussion with a farewell party for leader Paul Jauregui, who, with his wife Rose, is heading back to the UK. Finding a definition of humanism was found to be as difficult as in the time of Socrates and throughout the 18th Century Enlightenment Period, when many were tortured and killed for their beliefs. Five atheist bloggers have been murdered in Bangladesh this year.

Trevor Jordan was welcomed as the new leader, and Paul and Rose then drove off into the sunset with tears in their eyes.

For more information about the Humanists of Murcia go to their web site, www.humanists. bolnuevo.com.

Pueblo Bravo Petanca Club Christmas Ball PUEBLO BRAVO Petanca Club held its Christmas Ball at the The Club, Quesada, last Friday night and over 70 members and guests enjoyed an excellent Christmas meal.

The after-dinner entertainment was provided by Richie C, and the dance floor was full, with many of the diners dancing to burn off the calories after their turkey and Christmas pudding. During the evening, a raffle was held for Help at Home Costa Blanca (Quesada group), and Jacky Jones was there with two of the helpers Hazel and Diane, to accept the 205€ raised by the petanca club. Help at Home are a group of caring members of the local community whose sole aim is to help those people who are finding it difficult to manage. The Quesada group, like other charities, is always in need of funds, and also in need of helpers so, if anyone feels they can give some of their time to help, they should contact Help at Home Costa Blanca (Quesada group) on 693 02 70 26 to speak to Joan or Jacky.

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4,000€ raised for Toy Run CHRISTMAS DRAWS proved to be a cracker as a fund raiser to get Santa on the road with sacks of presents for Costa Blanca youngsters.

Two raffles raised a total of 4,000€ for the Costa Blanca Espana Harley Davidson Group’s annual ‘Toy Run’ – which supplies gifts for children cared for by EMAUS and Alfaz del Pi’s social services. The bikers raised 3,000€ with their own lottery and members of Benitachell Bowls Club helped swell the Toy Run coffers with their own 1,000€ draw.

Winners of the Harley bikers’ draw were Liz Stovold, Sara Yates, Wyn and Bill from Orba, and Ted and Betty Gibbons. At Benitachell Bowls Club, Anne Doherty, Carol Hendrick, Laura Biberger and Stacey Wesson scooped prizes. The charity Make A Smile helped to buy individual gifts for all children involved and the Harley Davidson club took the opportunity to picture the scene as the cheques were handed over. The photo shows (from left to right) Jan Edmonson and Gemma Broad of main sponsor Telitec; prize sponsors Thamar from Casa del Vino and Neil from Quick Save, both Javea; Marisa Diaz, Babs Heilmerink and Peter Emmett from the biker group; Jenny Hawker and Jak Logan from the bowls club; and Tony Grande from Make A Smile.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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STRICTLY SOCIAL CLUB Why not come and join us for an afternoon of entertainment, fun, quizzes and games.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

life&leisure #sports

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A Full Monte encounter

by ANDY JEFFERS

IN THE past, the all Los Montesinos football encounter has always thrown up controversy but this meeting didn’t live up to the expectations of the die-hard followers of both sides.

Prior to kick off, the mayor of Los Montesinos, José Butrón received food parcels for the local Caritas from the Full Monte committee which were gratefully appreciated.

On the pitch, Monte started with 3 influential players, Carlos, Pley and Wallace, resting on the bench, with manager Roberto thinking his side were in for an easy ride. This was not the case.

TD Montesinos are not the whipping boys they used to be and seemed well organised, as Monte probed down both wings, and crosses by M&A and Marcos failed to reach a colleague in the box.

Coming up against a large physical side, several Monte players got clattered, and the ref rightly issued three yellow cards to stamp out the harsh challenges.

A great shot by O’Rourke brought out a fine save by the TD keeper and minutes later he produced a fantastic stop to deny Macán. A rare mistake by defender Mario saw the TD Number 10 strike the Monte post with López left helpless. Half time 0-0.

It was as if the first half had not ended as the second period got under way

Imanyo Golf Society “Ted Adams Trophy”, 9th December at Roda FOR THE first time Imanyo Golf Society played for the Ted Adams Trophy at La Roda, their first visit to the course, with Ted and Ann Adams sponsoring the day.

with the same negative style of long balls played from the back looking for Macán and M&A. Then, after 55mins, TD stunned the Monte faithful when they put together a clever six pass move and their centre forward unleashed a 30 yard thunderbolt past López to give TD the lead. This was the first time they have ever led in this fixture, and the eccentric celebrations from the opposition said it all.

Roberto, immediately sensing a possible embarrassment, sent on Carlos for M&A to give some pace up front and, on 65 mins, a Marcos corner was met by the head of O’Rourke to equalise 1-1. Wallace and Pley, the rested players, were the key to unlocking TD’s stubborn

defence. Monte were now on top and, on 78 mins, Dimitry fed Carlos, who ran and crossed to Wallace to score 2-1.

Seven mins later, Carlos got in on the act when he cheekily chipped the TD keeper to make it 3-1.

The well contested match was marred near the final whistle when the TD 14 was red carded for a disgusting challenge on Dario, but the bragging rights went to the red side of town, and the final score was CD Montesinos 3 TD Montesinos 1. Man of the match went to Mario, sponsored by the Monte Mentals. Next week Monte are away to Deportivo Orihuela. More information from www.cdmotesinos.com. Attendance was 182.

They played full handicap stableford with a blind draw at the end on four holes to double points.

Winner of the ”Ted Adams Trophy” was Neil Adams, Ted and Ann’s son, who had travelled from the UK especially to play in the competition, with 39 points. Runner up was Brian Court with 35 points, and the Endeavour award went to Phil Minty Ward. Three nearest the pins were won, hole 5 in 3 shots Alan Ralph, hole 8 in 2 shots Brian Court, and hole 16 in 2 shots by Alan Byrne. he football card was won

by Neil Adams with Blackpool winning 20€ and raising 20€ for this year’s charity, Caritas Daya Nueva.

The society sends their thanks to Antonio, Norma and staff at Imanyo Bar for the fantastic food and great hospitality.

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Rugby La Vila beat Sitges RC LAST SATURDAY, the first team travelled to Barcelona to play Sitges RC.

They returned with a fantastic victory of 48-0.

Tries were from Ryan Thompson (2), Matías Jara (2) Álvaro Gil, Rodrigo Lacoste and Javi Carrión, who was returning after the Dubai International Sevens, where he was playing for Spain in the International Invitation Competition Next Saturday is another away game for the first team who will travel to Zaragoza to play Fenix RC. at 5.30pm.

There will be plenty of rugby at home this Saturday, as, from 10am to 1pm, there is a provincial tournament for under 12s, under 10s, under 8s and under 6s, involving teams from all over Alicante. At 1pm the under 18s will play Tatami from Valencia, and, at 4pm, the second team will play

Pego Golf Society “Texas Scramble”

Denia Rugby Club. There is free entrance for all games, and the club bar will be open all day.

The first team’s next home game will be after Christmas, on Sunday 10th January, at 12.30pm, against Valencia RC. Don’t miss it!

La Vila Rugby Club is situated at Carretera El Pantano, Villajoyosa. Just take the motorway AP-7 exit 66 (Villajoyosa). At the first roundabout head for the mountain. It is about 1 km from the Motorway exit 66.

Alternatively, take the Villajoyosa by-pass, and take the middle exit, at the first roundabout bear right towards the motorway entrance and at the second roundabout bear left towards the mountain.

If you are interested in joining La Vila contact Jason Craig on 659 67 47 68 or Ignacio Davila 608 06 82 08 or email oficina@rugbylavila.net.

THE FINAL game of the season took place on a day with a top temperature of 25 degrees, no wind, and a golf course to die for, Oliva Nova.

The day’s two guests were Richard Morris, and Oliva Nova’s resident professional Paul Tolley.

The results were: 1st, the team of Malcolm Wise (6.4), Alan Barwick (16.7), and David Blakeley with a score of 58.8; 2nd, the team of Mike Cureden, Graham Haslam, and Ken Miller with a score of 59.8; and 3rd, the team of Shaun O’Gorman, Roger Miller, Dave Collins and Peter Cornes with 61.6. Congratulations go to one member, Ken Miller, who holed out in one at the 16th hole, which, of course, cost him a round of drinks for the whole society afterwards. Nearest the pin at hole No 3 was Roger Brown at 1.52 metres, and nearest the hole at hole 16 was, of course, Ken Miller with his hole in one. There were 75 balls in the water today, and nobody guessed the final number, so it carries over until next year. Pego Golf Society is now closing down for Christmas and New Year, and will re-open on the 5th January, with the ‘Captain’s Drive In’. The society wishes all RTN readers a very merry Christmas, and, of course, a happy and prosperous New Year.

Two wins in a row for CD Torrevieja

CD TORREVIEJA won again on Sunday, by 3-1, against a physical UD Rayo Ibense team.

It was more of the same from Torrevieja, who started the game firing on all cylinders, had the majority of play, created a couple of chances, but once again allowed the opposition to score with just five minutes to go, as a sensation of déjà vu spread through the Nelson Mandela Stadium.

Thankfully, the entry of Sánchez for the second half gave Torry greater discretion in midfield and, especially, the service given to Lewis, who became the team’s star of the show, scoring twice. The equalizer came in the 54th minute, when Lewis found himself in front of goal, and turned in a low cross from Luis Carlos. Just five minutes later, Lewis took a shot from outside the box, after great play by Sánchez, who left several opponents in his wake. In minute 76 Rubén Suárez hit the right corner of the net following a long ball from Higón.

This was the first meeting in third division of both clubs, who last played against each other in the first regional 1994-1995 season, when the visitors were called Rayo Ibense Football Club.

This was also the first time this season that Torrevieja have fought back to win after going a goal behind. The win lifts Torrevieja into 15th place, but just three points above the relegation zone, and ten points from the play offs. The final game of 2015 takes place on Saturday at 4.30pm, against FC Jove Español who presently are in 17th position, out of the division’s 20 teams. More information at: www.clubdeportivotorrevieja.com and the Torry Army supporters’ club website: www.fctorrevieja.net.

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Friday, December 18 - Thursday, December 30 2015

A Full Monte encounter

IN THE past, the all Los Montesinos football encounter has always thrown up controversy but this meeting didn’t live up to the expectations Read the full story on page 86. of the die-hard followers of both sides.