RTN South Edition 852 by Round Town News

Your English Newspaper

www.roundtownnews.com

Find us!

#RTNSouthEdition852 (ALICANTE AIRPORT - PUERTO DE MAZARRON) Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

TEMPERS FLARE OVER GAS ANGRY EXPATS say signing up for natural gas has been a costly mistake as bills have soared since making the switch from bottles of butane.

Read the full story on page 7

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

From the Editor’s desk...

Hola!

LIVING IN Spain can present its challenges but most expats love their new home and try to get involved and integrate. However, there are stumbling blocks and once again utility bills have people getting hot under the collar. This time it´s natural gas which is no laughing matter. Readers complain that making the switch to a mains supply has hit them where it hurts – in the wallet. Back in the UK, consumers have grown used to competition and hopping between companies to get the best deal; sadly in Spain customers continue to be at the mercy of the pricing policy of giants which can send bills soaring. Together with the end of subsidies, it´s a double whammy. Every story printed in the paper about the cost of living and customer service seems to result in a huge postbag arriving at RTN Towers. The postman might not enjoy it but we do like to see that we are reflecting the views and experiences of you guys. Believe me, it´s a tonic for the troops. Meanwhile, after a wonderfully mild winter, spring is happening all around and it is easy to remember why we moved here in the first place. Almond blossom brightens up the scenery and those comical pink cotton buds on legs also known as flamingos didn´t even bother migrating south, so it´s all as pretty as a picture. And things are changing for the good. Spain doesn´t have the best record over animal rights but it was good to see the locals are picking up the sword to fight for a threatened animal charity – launched by expats but now integrated in a community that realises its value.

Enjoy the read! JT GOT A STORY?

Call Jack Troughton, 661 403 016, for Costa Blanca North and 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 given to letters dealing with local issues.

#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 Michaela Smith DISTRIBUTION: Damien Forman Ian Tilley iDs Logística REPORTERS: 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

DEADLINES

Adverts, copy changes, classiﬁeds and editorial copy: Tuesday 5pm for following Friday’s edition. RTN does not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers, either in advertisements or advertorials, nor can it be held responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, or the non-appearance of advertisements or advertorials. This publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors as a result of poor quality artwork or logos supplied by advertisers and no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advertisement or advertorial. Every effort will be made to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of articles and advertisements in this publication, however the publisher does not accept responsibility for claims or opinions in the same. The publisher does not accept responsibility for opinions expressed by readers in the ‘Mailbox’ section of this newspaper. Reproduction of any part of this newspaper without the consent of the publishers is prohibited.E:&O.E.

We reserve the right to amend or shorten letters. (RTN accepts no responsibility for readers comments). Email rtnmail@roundtownnews.com

TO GET YOUR PAPER

If you any difficulty in getting Round Town News each week please call 902 118 999 or visit our website www.roundtownnews.com for the distribution list.

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,

www.roundtownnews.com

Environmentalists seek to clean up the River Segura

S.L.

Alcala del Jucar

DAYTRIPS & FIESTAS Benidorm Day

27€

8€

Do as you please

Winter Special

Every Sunday from 6th March

Mondays & Wednesdays

Mondays

Jalon Valley

Cartagena & Train to Mar Menor

Guadalest & Algar Waterfalls

14€

Village only14€ 24€ + lunch&wine

Every Monday

Every Tuesday from 1st March

Every Friday from 4th March

Aguilas Carnival

The Manfreds

Dressing the Virgin

Only 35€ coach/show

Saturday 13th February 2016

1 night only at Benidorm Palace Sunday 6th March 2016

Only 17€ Valencia

Valencia Fallas

Orihuela Medieval Market

Thursday 17th March Disney on Ice Valencia

23€

Almond blossom time

Only 13€

by IAN ASKEW THE FRIENDS of the Wetlands of Southern Alicante are calling for action to prevent continuous discharges aﬀecting the mouth of the River Segura, which begins at Santiago Pontones in the province of Jaén, passes through Calasparra, Cieza, Murcia, Beniaján, Orihuela, and Rojales, before ﬂowing into the Mediterranean near Guardamar del Segura, in the province of Alicante. The Friends of the Wetlands of Southern Alicante (AHSA) organized a march earlier this week alongside the mouth of the Segura to demand the cessation of discharges. To celebrate World Wetlands Day they organized a walk along the route of the river to the sea. Fifty people gathered in Guardamar del Segura, where they asked the Hydrographic Confederation of Segura (CHS) to provide

more funds for the full recovery of the waterway, since human activities are causing the river to collect tons of discharges per annum, which collect in the ﬁnal stretch. The problem goes back more than twenty years, and, now, the Ministry of the Environment has just put in place a barrage so that ﬂoating garbage does not reach the sea. This is not the best way, according AHSA, to tackle the issue. The association is seeking the same level of investment as has been made at the source of the river. Calasparra has started a reclamation project which has been allocated “loads of money, while at the mouth of the river, no-one seems to care, despite it being a protected environment” said spokesman for the environmental group, Sergio Arroyo. All they are asking is that current legislation is enforced, “because the Water Act prohibits any discharge into a river bed.”

Air traffic soundproofing PLANS HAVE been announced that will see more houses near the Alicante-Elche airport receive soundprooﬁng from the increasing air traﬃc noise.

Aena, management company for the Alicante-Elche airport, has approved a further 401 properties that are now eligible for their acoustic insulation plan, which has already been applied to 3,119 other homes. The company reported that they are constantly conducting acoustic measurements and, to date, have already identiﬁed the need for completion of corrective measures in 2,987 homes in Alicante and Elche. Sound insulation has already happened in 2,117 homes, with a further 495 properties currently being soundproofed.

#NEWSBITES SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS PLAGUE OF CATERPILLARS SAN MIGUEL neighborhood association has asked the Parks Department to control the outbreak of processionary caterpillars in the area. The neighborhood group says that “the plague of caterpillars is seriously aﬀecting the health of the trees,”’ and has asked the Department of Parks and Gardens in San Miguel de Salinas to deal with the outbreak in the green zone at the junction of Calles Góngora and Murillo, and in the First of May district. The association is seeking a fast and eﬀective control of these pests which can also be dangerous to animals.

Alicante City

11€

inc lunch & wine

+ lunch & wine

Signage in the zone of the mouth of the Segura

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Only 17€ Night of fire

Only 11€

Only 51€

Saturday 19th March

Saturday 9th April

Sunday 17th April

OVERNIGHT EXCURSIONS 2016

Benidorm Specials

4*HOTEL FULL BOARD Feb, March & April from 99€

Granada Special

4* CITY HOTEL B&B From102€

Monday to Wednesday

3 days Feb 24 - 26, March 28-30

Valencia Special

Madrid City

3* CITY HOTEL B&B

105€

3* CITY CENTRE HOTEL

145€ B&B

3 days Mar 1 - 3 & Apr 20 - 22

3 Days Mar 2 - 4

Almuñecar

Benacazon, Sevilla, Gibraltar & Jerez

Inc Gibraltar, Mijas & Nerja

4* HOTEL FB + WW

299€

7 Days March 6 - 12 Cuenca Region inc excursions

4* Hotel HB + WW

275€

& Tio Pepe Bode Inc Equestrian School 5 Days March 7 - 11 Sevilla, Córdoba & Ecija

3* Country Hotel FB + WW Inc Excursions

3* COUNTRY HOTEL HB + WW

Only 145€

205€

3 Days March 13 - 15 & March 30 April 1

4 Days April 1 - 4, May 16 - 19

Baños de Encima + Cordoba

Segovia & Salamanca

3* Family Hotel HB+WW Only 140€

Inc excursions to Avila & Madrid

3* CITY HOTEL BB

199€

3 Days April 4 - 6

4 Days 18 - 21 April

Peñiscola + exc to Morella

Madrid City & Escorial

4* Seafront Hotel HB + WW only 199€ 4 Days April 25 - 28 Córdoba Patio Fair

3* City Hotel B&B only 155€ 3 days May 4 - 6 & 11- 13

Antequerra inc Ronda & Malaga

Inc Valley of the Fallen 3* CITY CENTRE HOTEL

225€ B&B

4 Days 2 - 5 May

Zaragoza + Excursions 4* City Hotel B&B

Only 236€ Bodega Visit

4 Days May 16 - 19

MSC Mediterranean Cruise

8 days 7 nights all inclusive

3* City hotel HB + WW

199€

from 896€ inc port taxes + insurance Visiting Marseille, Genoa, Rome, Palermo & Malta

4 days 24- 27 May

8 days 23 - 30 June & 15 - 22 Sept

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

IS Jihadist cell too close to home Suspect being arrested. Inset: apartment in Alicante where arrests were made

by CAROLINE TYSZKA NATIONAL POLICE in Spain have arrested seven people suspected of being linked to the Islamic State, including raids in Valencia and Alicante. In an ongoing investigation launched in 2014, special oﬃcers had been monitoring what they called “foreign structures” of IS on Spanish soil. The suspects were arrested following numerous dawn raids in the cities of Alicante, Valencia and Ceuta (the Spanish North African enclave) over the weekend. Police stated that all the suspects are believed to be either members of IS or other jihadist groups, and had provided logistical support for terrorist activities in Iraq and Syria, including supplying women for militants in the two countries. Spain’s acting Interior Minister, Jorge Fernández Díaz, said they were “believed to be part of a jihadist group that sent weapons in shipping containers, disguised as humanitarian aid, amongst other things.” Four of the detainees are Spanish nationals but of Jordanian, Moroccan and Syrian origin. One was a Syrian citizen and another a Moroccan citizen. Police detailed some of the evidence discovered during the search of the properties, which included cash and electronic equipment. Spain’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement, saying, “the head of the cell directed a network of ﬁrms, which enabled him to send the logistical material in sealed containers from Spanish ports to the terrorist groups operating in Syria and Iraq, without raising suspicion. Sunday morning’s arrests brought the total number of detentions, since the start of 2015, in Spain of alleged jihadists to 82. The suspects were taken to Madrid for a private court hearing before they were remanded in custody.

#NEWSBITES

ALICANTE TRAM CARRIES 10 MILLION PASSENGERS THE ALICANTE tram system carried over 10 million passengers in 2015, a 1.36% increase on the previous year.

Figures for last year’s Alicante tram service show that the most popular station was Luceros, which saw nearly 1.7 million customers. Second, with just over one million passengers, was the Mercado and, in third place, was Marq, with 385,754 customers. Benidorm was the fourth most popular station, recording 276,062 passengers, with Crueta in ﬁfth place and Denia in sixth, with just under 50,000 users.

Like us on Facebook! Round Town News

Train collision in Germany TEN PEOPLE have died and many more seriously injured in a train crash that happened in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Germany.

At 6.48am on 9th February, two trains crashed head on, near Bad Aibling, in the southern German state of Bavaria, leaving several dead and further passengers in a critical condition, as rescue workers rushed to what has been described as an “inaccessible region.” Several carriages were overturned after the two trains, carrying 150 passengers, collided on a single track line about 60 km south east of Munich. “This is the biggest accident we have had in years in this region, and we have many emergency doctors, ambulances and helicopters on the scene,” said Mr Sonntag, a police spokesperson, when interviewed at the scene. Rescue helicopters airlifted the seriously injured to local hospitals, whilst rescue workers continued into the night to save those still trapped within the wreckage. The trains were carrying mainly commuters, as local carnival holidays meant that many schoolchildren, who would normally have been on board, were at home. An investigation has now been launched into what caused the head on collision,

with the black boxes having been recovered from the wreckage. The accident spot was on a curve in the track, leading accident investigators to surmise that the drivers “did not have eye contact, and neither had braked before they crashed into each other.” Both drivers were amongst the dead. The accident investigation will focus partly on the cab signalling system, which both trains had. The system is meant to prevent collisions by triggering an alarm if two trains are on the same stretch of track, and was introduced across the German rail network after two trains crashed in Saxony Anhalt in January 2011, killing 10. Other areas that accident investigators are set to examine will be if there had been any technical breakages on the track or vandalism that may have contributed to the incident. Klaus-Dieter Josel, a representative of Germany’s national train operator, Deutsche Bahn, said there had never been any problems on the 37 km stretch of track. Routine checks carried out last week had found no cause for concern. German chancellor, Angela Merkel, and Bavaria’s Prime Minister, Horst Seehofer, both “oﬀered their sympathy and expressions of sadness, and also thanked the rescue teams”.

Scene of the accident where 10 people died and many more were injured

Doctors begin 24 hour strike JUNIOR DOCTORS in the UK walked out for their second 24 hours strike on Wednesday, as thousands of patients had their operations cancelled.

Talks, between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government, have broken down, seeing junior doctors across the country downing their white coats and picking up placards in protest over weekend working. It is estimated that 3,000 patients had their operations cancelled, as the doctors only oﬀered emergency cover. The talks had been going well, with the arbitration organisation, ACAS, managing to get both parties to reach agreements on most of the issues, although there were still problems over whether Saturday should be treated as a normal working day. Dr Anne Rainsberry, national incident director for NHS England, said: “The NHS did everything possible to minimise the impact of this regrettable strike, which will delay care for thousands of patients at a time of year when service pressures across the health service are already at their highest. A poll, conducted by one of the leading national tabloids in the UK, found that nine out of ten doctors felt they would have to resign, should the current contract terms be imposed, with the government responding by saying medicine was an “attractive career.” This was the second 24 hour protest within a month by the junior doctors, something not seen in more than 40 years in the NHS. Leaked ﬁgures for the NHS show that applications by young doctors to continue their career within the NHS have fallen to an all-time low, as many seek employment in the private sector.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Pozo Estrecho and La Aljorra protect themselves against thieves

#NEWSBITES

by IAN ASKEW

FOLLOWING LAST week’s protests by residents in the villages of Pozo Estrecho and La Aljorra, in the Campo de Cartagena, about the inability of the police to deal with the recent crime wave in the area, as reported in RTN, residents of the villages hardest hit by the latest wave of robberies have begun to install perimeter alarms as a deterrent. Pedro Antonio Vera does not want to be the next householder to lose his most precious possessions to a gang of thieves in his home, so, like many of his neighbours in Pozo Estrecho and La Aljorra, he is taking steps to protect his home from the latest wave of robberies by masked assailants. In the villages of El Albujón and La Palma, residents are contemplating taking similar action. In many of the homes in these villages, householders already have alarm systems within their homes as a deterrent, but, now, they are going further, and are opting to install additional, outdoor surveillance systems. The perimeter alarms are placed on the outside of the houses, thus creating an invisible wireless barrier, causing an alarm to be triggered should someone approach. Installation of these systems has grown like wildﬁre in these villages in recent weeks. The manager of one of the alarm companies, Securemur, Alberto Adrián Fernández, said “Since the thefts began in Pozo Estrecho, La Aljorra, La Palma and El Albujón, and also in other districts of Torre Pacheco, we have been installing seven or eight systems a week. It is a type of alarm system placed around the perimeter of a house, and is set oﬀ only when a person approaches, not an animal.” The cost of installing an outer barrier of this type can be around 200€.

LANDSLIDE PREVENTION WORK WORK HAS begun on the N340 in Orihuela to prevent landslides.

Perimeter alarms being installed in Pozo Estrecho

When something triggers a warning to the installation company, they in turn call the owner and the police. Regional president of the Coordinating Body of Farmers and Ranchers (COAG) in Cartagena, Vicente Carrión, explained that local farmers were the ﬁrst to put security systems in place, especially in barns and irrigation facilities. That dissuaded the thieves, and led to entire ﬁelds being protected, reaching a point where two or three alarms were being triggered every day. This, in turn, may have has led the thieves to change their tactics and focus on private houses.

The second phase of an ongoing project, to protect road users and conserve the natural habitat, began on Tuesday with the tunnel area being the main focus of works. Workers from the conservation area, attached to the Provincial Directorate of Roads, under the Ministry of Public Works, began installing metal nets to the rocks, as the land at the foothills of the sierra has begun to sag, with the pines dying and shrubs not able to hold the droughtstricken soil. This phase will focus on the tunnel that runs along the N340 in Orihuela. The road will be closed for an area of 300 metres- which will cause some traﬃc days, and work will only take place during the mornings. The installation of the nets is a specialist task, with mountaineers required to ﬁx them along the slopes of the mountain.

Providing information for the UK and Spain since 1998

www.UKandSpain.com

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Tempers flare over gas

ANGRY EXPATS say signing up for natural gas has been a costly mistake as bills have soared since making the switch from bottles of butane. RTN was told the mains supply from energy giant Gas Natural Fenosa was clean, convenient…and expensive – despite promises bills would be slashed. Tony Dean, who lives in Quesada, said he took the plunge when pipes were being laid in the street outside his home and a representative of the installation company cold-called. “He asked if I was interested. I said yes and invited him in for a chat. My first question was ´how much is it?´. He said ´25% less than a bottle of gas´,” Tony explained. “I said OK, fine, go ahead. It was 350€ to install; the engineers came down and picked up the pipe they had laid in the road.” The Deans were connected on 19th August last year. The first bill arrived after a month and was for 32.10€; two months later the second bill was for 59.14€. Tony said there were items on the bills he did not understand but the cost of the service was far higher than buying a bottle of gas, which for cooking could last up to three months. “We are talking about 92€ for three months as opposed to 14€ - it is only for cooking and suddenly I am paying a hell of a lot more. The consumption of gas on the second bill is 30€ plus all the other items,” he said. “It works out far more expensive than bottles. I did not expect to pay more than 90€ for three months´ supply of gas when I can buy it for 14€.” And he said a friend – who speaks fluent Spanish – also had natural gas installed and he has had central heating put in. “He had the great big bottles of butane before and people said he would be sorry and it would cost a lot more. UPSET “He is quite upset because it does! If my bill was 5€ a month more I could accept it. The guy who sold it said it was nothing to do with him but he should have known. “Personally I think it is a con. A scam – whatever you want to call it.” Tony said the company lacked transparency. He has sent emails but Gas Natural Fenosa had not responded. He said he spoke Spanish but found it difficult when dealing with a complex issue on the telephone and there was no one at the company´s customer service department who could speak English – despite other large companies like Iberdrola and Telefonica employing English speakers. And Tony said unless he could get some satisfactory explanation he will return to bottled gas. “Natural gas is much cleaner and convenient. It does have its advantages but it is expensive. “If someone could explain the situation it would be fine but to ignore me and my emails in Spanish is not on. I think they are hiding behind the issue and problems. I bet they are getting a lot of complaints.” This week Gas Natural Fenosa said it was unable to comment on the case or the issue of its prices. The energy company reported profits of over 1.5 billion Euros for 2015 – an increase of 2.7% - and supplies gas and electricity to more than 23 million customers across the world. Based in Barcelona, its shareholders include La Caixa and Repsol, and it has become the third largest distributor of gas and electricity on the Iberian Peninsula. In Spain, Gas Natural Fenosa serves more than 1,000 municipalities in nine autonomous regions – and has more than five million customers.

#NEWSBITES SPAIN LODGES PROTEST WITH FRANCE ON LORRY ATTACK THE SECRETARY General of Agriculture and Food, Carlos Cabanas, has conﬁrmed that the Spanish Ambassador in Paris has lodged an oﬃcial letter of protest with the French Government.

The Spanish Government is protesting the attack, last week, on a lorry from Lorca, in Murcia, carrying fruit and vegetables. The complaint to the French Government states that. it is “unacceptable” that these incidents occur on Spanish lorries in transit within Europe. “We demand that the French government allow the free movement of goods, in accordance with European Commission law. This includes the transit of Spanish products within the EU.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Baby swept away by waves A BABY was swept away by a wave earlier in the week in Navia, Asturias.

Rescue workers have continued to search for the body of a 20 month old baby who was swept away by a giant wave on Monday afternoon, when he was with his father and grandfather on the Frejulfe beach in Navia. Ground search teams from Asturias Fire and Civil Guard joined the rest of the ground operation, in which a total of 50 people were involved, to help in the search for the body of the young baby, but the sea swell has hampered the recovery operation. The storms, that struck the coast on Monday, swept baby Hugo from his grandfather’s arms as they were walking along the sand. The family had only arrived in Asturias from Peru a few weeks earlier ,with the parents having to be treated at a local hospital for shock. A family member said “they are broken. The child, their only child, was their whole life.” Many locals gathered along the coastline to see the search and oﬀer any assistance, with one family friend saying “we must have Hugo back to give the family a decent burial.” The beach area is renowned for being dangerous, with six drownings being recorded in recent years.

President of Asturias, Javier Fernández, visited the area to oﬀer his personal condolences to the family. He wanted to have a few words of remembrance for the family of little Hugo and also explained that “air assets had to be withdrawn temporarily because of the weather conditions and strong winds.” The parents, and grandfather, were released from the local hospital in Jarrio and returned to their home in El Espín, a town in Coaña which is only separated from Navia by a bridge that runs across the estuary. The three are being comforted by family while they wait for news from the rescue services.

Rescue workers have continued to search for the body

NEWS BITES MADRID’S METRO providers have agreed that dogs can travel on the underground rail

CANINE system, provided they are muzzled. regional premier, Cristina Cifuentes, made the announcement on Tuesday, following PASSENGERS Madrid’s on from many dog owners campaigning for the change. The restrictions were lifted as from Wednesday, meaning that dogs could travel for free but with certain restrictions; one animal per ALLOWED person, muzzled and on a tight lead, no more than 50 cm in length and only during oﬀ-peak except for weekends, bank holidays and the months of July or August. A further condition ON MADRID hours is that dogs must travel only in the last carriage. Whilst some travellers welcomed the idea, others were concerned that the welfare of the dog was not being considered, as the underground METRO system can become very congested, and may cause the animal unnecessary distress.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Storm Imogen smashing into Britain by CAROLINE TYSZKA BRITAINS NINTH storm of the winter, Imogen, caused severe disruptions, particularly at rush hour on Monday morning. Winds were recorded at 96mph, with the situation changing by the hour. As large parts of Britain were hit by the fierce gusts and torrential rain, some transport links were closed, and thousands of homes have been left without power. The Highways England agency announced that the Severn Bridge, on the M48, had been closed to all vehicles, and part of the A35 bypass, at Dorchester, had also been shut due to flooding. Gary Webb, from the Highways England Agency, advised travellers not to travel unless it was absolutely necessary Late on Sunday evening, the Port of Dover was closed for two hours, but disruption for P & O Ferries also caused more travel chaos. Brittany Ferries said they experienced “significant” disruption on their Spanish service. Train services suffered speed restrictions which were enforced in many

Top clubs in Costa cup

ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP leaders Leicester City will join La Liga giants and local Costa Blanca sides in a new youth international football tournament.

The coast being battered by collosal waves

areas, as winds of up to 96mph were recorded at The Needles, oﬀ the Isle of Wight, early Monday morning. One couple taking pictures had a lucky escape when they were hit by a gigantic wave and swept 50ft along the seafront. Luckily, Royal National Lifeboat Institution volunteers witnessed the scene, and were immediately able to assist. The woman was taken to hospital,

where she was treated for a broken arm and head injuries, having landed in a boat in the quay, whilst her partner was saved by some railings which prevented him from falling into the harbour. The pair had been photographing the wild weather at South Quay in Newquay, just after 4pm yesterday, when they were knocked over by the colossal wave.

Teulada Moraira Town Hall is staging the ﬁrst ‘Mi Balon International Cup’ this Easter and Leicester will be joined by the likes of Valencia CF, Atletico Madrid and Levante UD. And on Wednesday, Teulada Moraira Mayor Carlos Linares welcomed staﬀ from Leicester City including Gareth Gennings, Director of the club’s Academy and Under 21 and Under 19 coach Inigo Idiaquez, a former player with Spanish sides Real Sociedad and Rayo Vallecano. They were joined on a tour of the sports facilities of both Teulada and Moraira by Celso Alcazar, director of the council’s own football school, and Agustin Macias, organiser of the competition scheduled to take place between 24th and 27th March. The visitors from Leicester praised the quality of the facilities and the timing of the competition; during the Easter holidays.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Liberty Seguros insurance, the expats no.1 choice OF THE many thousands of expatriates living either temporarily or permanently in Spain, Liberty Seguros is the favourite of many who are seeking professional insurance at a sensible price. Currently, Liberty Seguros have around 175,000 expatriate clients just like you serviced by over 300 brokers and agents who speak your language. It’s so pleasant to have a face-to-face chat with a dedicated expert about all your insurance needs rather than an impersonal, over the telephone chat, with someone you’ll probably never meet.

As Iván Ortego, Expatriate’s Experience Director at Liberty Seguros explains: “We endeavor to provide the best insurance cover at the best price, so that our customers are covered for as many eventualities as possible. Like every insurer, there is some small print as the saying goes, but we like to keep this to a bare minimum to ensure our customers have not had the ‘wool pulled over their eyes’ so to speak, and to be as transparent as possible. Our brokers/agents can explain this type of detail at the time of contracting the policy in their oﬃces” Liberty Seguros not only covers your main insurance needs for car and home, but also provides Life cover, Marine, Commercial (oﬃce and industrial), Pet, Leisure, like Golf and other pastimes and Sports, Personal and Public Liability too. Our advertising campaign sums up our philosophy: Better Care, Better Cover, Better Insurance from the market leader. To contract insurance from Liberty Seguros, you can telephone 902 255 258 for an instant quote and the name of your nearest broker/agent or visit www. libertyexpatriates.es Alternatively, if you know where your nearest broker is, go along and be sure of a great reception and all the help you need.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Tensions rise in the Far East by CAROLINE TYSZKA

NORTH KOREA launched a rocket at the weekend, despite being warned of the repercussions of such an event. As North Korea announced to UN agencies last week that it planned to launch an “earth observation satellite” later this month, Japan put its military on alert, viewing the move as hostile and an excuse to do a long-range missile test. Other nations in the region, such as China, also raised concerns, and asked the regime to exercise restraint, whilst South Korea was more forceful in their response, saying that their neighbours would pay a “severe price” if the launch went ahead. Japan’s Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, condemned the plan, and said “this is a serious provocation. We will shoot down the missile if it crosses into our airspace.” John Kirby, US State Department spokesman, said that the UN needed to “send the North Koreans a swift and ﬁrm message.” In response to this, North Korea said that “it is our sovereign right to have a space programme and launch rockets.” Despite all the international condemnation, North Korea went ahead with the launch only days after the announcement.

The rocket blasted off from the Sohae launch facility at 9am on Sunday, entering orbit nine minutes and 46 seconds after lift-off. Two days later, on Tuesday, South Korea released images of debris believed to be from the long range rocket. Approximately 270 objects were recovered from the sea and taken for analysis. Preliminary findings indicate that the first stage rocket was fitted with a self-destruct device. North Koreans celebrated the launch with an official fireworks display Monday night in Pyongyang, as state television reported “We hope that the future of our space technology keeps growing and shines like these fireworks in the sky.” Yoon Dong Hyun, vice director of the Ministry of the People’s Armed Forces, vowed that the country would continue developing its aerospace technology in the face of international sanctions. Efforts by other countries to block such an advance were “nothing more than a puppy barking towards the moon,” he said. Members of the UN Security Council held an emergency meeting on Sunday, following the launch, to discuss further sanctions that could be imposed.

Debris found by South Korea

#NEWSBITES

ASYLUM ATTACK PLOT

POLISH FAR-RIGHT activists have been arrested in Sweden allegedly planning an attack on asylum seekers at a centre south of Stockholm. The 14-strong group – said to be part of the “far-right scene” - were held by police following a tip-oﬀ. Aged between 20 and 35, some live permanently in Sweden, others were visiting and three were arrested on a demonstration against refugees just two weeks ago. Sweden opened its doors to Syrian refugees in 2013 but last November tightened border control worried about “unsustainable” numbers of migrants arriving. There has been heightened tension over migration with attacks on people thought to have an ‘immigrant background’. Around 163,000 people applied for asylum in 2015; along with German, Sweden has been a prime destination for refugees and migrants. However, the government is preparing to deport up to 80,000 whose asylum applications have failed.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

#NEWS BITES Wartime sweethearts reunite MERCADONA’S by CAROLINE TYSZKA

VALENTINES DAY for wartime sweethearts, Norwood Thomas and Joyce Morris, will be extra special as they are reunited after 7 decades of being apart. American WWII veteran Norwood Thomas, aged 93, was just 21 years old when he met a 17 year old British girl called Joyce. The couple met in London, just before D-Day, and dated for a few months, before Mr Thomas was posted to Normandy. Following the war, Norwood returned to America, but the couple continued to write to each other, until Joyce misunderstood one of the letters, and believed he had fallen for someone else. Both sweethearts then married other people, and had children, with Joyce moving to Australia with her new husband, to whom she was married for 30 years, whilst Norwood’s wife died in 2001. After the discovery of his name in an article about D-Day in a newspaper in Virginia, the two made contact and spoke on Skype, with the help of their children, and then Mr Thomas’s local newspaper started a campaign to send him from his home in Virginia Beach to Australia, to meet his long-lost sweetheart again. Readers, seeing the story, were quick to donate, and Air New Zealand donated ﬁrst class airfares for Mr Thomas and his son Steve, who lives

Andy Murray becomes a dad

sweethearts

NEW FLEET

THE POPULAR supermarket chain, Mercadona, has revealed its new ﬂeet of vehicles, which will save costs and also help the environment.

with his father and looks after him. Now, 72 years later, the couple have been reunited. Ms Morris, who is now 88 and struggling with failing eyesight, laughed, adding: “We’re going to have a wonderful fortnight.”

KIM SEARS, the wife of British tennis star Andy Murray, gave birth to a baby girl on Sunday night, in a well-kept secret, until being officially announced on Tuesday morning. Murray, who had just returned from his finals match in the Australian Open tournament only a few days before, had paid tribute to his wife in his speech, having lost to Novak Djokovic, saying,“to my wife Kim. She’s going to be watching back home just now. You’ve been a legend the last two weeks. Thanks for all your support and I’ll be on the next flight home.” Before rushing to catch a flight back to London, Andy said “she’s been amazing, handled everything unbelievably well. I have to thank her for allowing me to play and stay here, with everything that was going on.” Murray and Sears, who are both 28, got married in the world number two’s home town of Dunblane, in Scotland, in April last year.

The mega-trucks, purchased by the Valencian supermarket leader’s transport providers, Acotral and Disfrimur, are now operating from their Málaga and Murcia distribution centres. New rules came into force recently, which allowed the larger vehicles within Spain, as the length and weight allowance has been increased, to help reduce transportation costs. This means that “Mega-Trucks”, as they are known, can be up to 25.25 metres in length, and allowed to be up to 60 tonnes in weight. They are one of the ﬁrst companies in Spain to take advantage of the new regulations.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Legion salutes Poppy Appeal success BIG-HEARTED PEOPLE recognised the sacrifice of others to help raise a mammoth 171,543.43€ for the Royal British Legion in Spain’s 2015 Poppy Appeal. The total was officially announced this week, with the “incredible” amount being donated “in spite of the difficult financial times in which we live”. And a spokeswoman for the charity told RTN: “Once again, the Royal British Legion in Spain is indebted to the wonderful generosity, not only of our expat community, but to all nationalities who contributed to the 2015 appeal. “Our grateful thanks goes to all the Branch members, friends, local businesses, churches, consulates and embassies, as well as the many clubs and individuals who have contributed to this amount.” At the Legion’s annual conference there was a presentation of awards; including the Recruiting Award to Pinoso Branch, and the Poppy Award – for the highest amount per member raised for the appeal – went to Gran Alacant and La Marina Branch, for efforts that averaged out at over 345€ per member. Welfare caseworker scrolls were also handed to two members of Orihuela Costa and District Branch for their work over and above what would normally be expected. In the coming months, the work of the charity and how the money is spent on welfare will be made public through a series of articles in the press. Pictured is Robert Hargrave, the District Poppy Appeal co-ordinator, revealing the 2015 appeal total. Anyone wanting to know more about the Legion or finding their nearest Branch can contact the Secretary by calling 648 860 251 or by email to secretary.rbl.dns@gmail.com.

And for all welfare enquiries, call 676 451 780. More information is also available on the website www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north.

#NEWSBITES

CARNIVAL FUN ACROSS THE REGION

CARNIVAL TIME across the region saw towns full of children and adults dressed in an explosion of colour and imagination at the weekend. In Alicante, thousands took to the streets to celebrate the annual Carnival event and parade to the percussion music of the batucada, with Vikings, sheep, the mask and many more original costumes swaying down the city’s streets. In Benidorm, over 2,000 attended the children’s parade which was held in the morning and included a bit of fun time on inﬂatables supplied by the town hall, as well as some games and a snack. In the evening, it was the turn of the adults to don their costumes, with 800 taking part in the main parade. In La Nucia 150 children participated on Friday at Children’s Carnival organized by the Penya ‘Els Socarrats. The party was held in the Social Hall “The Cirer”, with snacks and prizes for the best costumes. Children in Callosa d’en Sarria celebrated for the ﬁrst time in many years with their own parade, and similar events took place in other towns, including Alfaz del Pi.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

San Fulgencio

Waste contract questioned OPPOSITION GROUPS in San Fulgencio have asked for a legal opinion on the validity of the contract for refuse collection and waste disposal services for the town. It was alleged the formal agreement with Ginssa ended in March 2012 – but the town hall has continued to use the company’s services, paying 2.8 million Euros. And opposition politicians claim that some services making up the original 10-year agreement have vanished - yet despite this, payments to the company have twice been increased; in 2013 and again last year. It was said that in 2011, the PP run town hall acknowledged the contract with Ginssa was about to expire. In February 2012, the company was asked to continue as an emergency measure, as allowed in local authority regulations. And further, it was said that in May 2013, Mayor Carlos Ramirez blamed “technical

diﬃculties” for the situation. The mayor maintains the law permitted extensions to contracts where necessary and the position in San Fulgencio was the same as with many other local authorities. Opponents say requests for a resolution have been ignored – despite a “duty” of councils to secure the best deal possible for tax payers through a tender process. PSOE Councillor Joe Pilkington said: “The mayor’s default response to any criticism seems to be that other municipalities do the same; a curious argument and completely irrelevant. We in the opposition are not interested in what happens in other Town Halls, only in San Fulgencio. “We do not deny that it is legal for a Mayor to make temporary provision to maintain services in an emergency – but this situation has continued for 46 months! That’s almost as long as the First World War.”

NEWS BITES

MURCIA HOUSE SALES UP LAST YEAR THE REGION ended the year with a 12.6% increase in house sales, compared with the national average of 11.1%. Murcia recorded a total of 11,072 transactions in 2015, representing the seventh largest percentage increase for communities. The majority of transactions were made on pre-existing properties. The ﬁgures, published this week by the National Statistics Institute (INE), show that, during 2015, in the region, 980 homes were sold per 100,000 people, and the total number of ﬁncas sold was 48,880, 2% up from the previous year, although less than the national increase of 4.6%.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Martínez-Caché allows dykes to be removed in Los Urrutias

industrial estate

Refuse licence denied by CAROLINE TYSZKA TORREVIEJA COUNCIL has denied an application for a waste plant at the Casa Grande industrial estate. Councillors met this week to review the application for having a waste transfer plant built at one of the local industrial estates. Fanny Serrano, councillor for planning and activities, announced, at a press conference on Wednesday morning, that the application had been rejected. Citing the ﬁndings of the reports which included at least ten technical and legal deﬁciencies, the councillor said that “neither the waste plan of the Government, nor the zonal plan

of the region, developing guidelines when managing waste from municipalities, include this area as suitable for this type of activity.” Many local businesses had complained about the proposed location, and the amount of heavy vehicles that would pass through, had the plans been approved. Complaints that the new plant would have been within two kilometres of residential properties were also received by the council. The report also stated that the ground was not suitable for such activity, and the roads leading towards the proposed area were not of the minimum width for such heavy vehicles.

CARTAGENA’S COUNCILLOR for the Environment, Adela Martínez-Caché, has granted permission to the Coastal Authority for the removal. During March, of four of the five rock dykes that contribute to the accumulation of mud and seaweed on the beaches of the Mar Menor resort, Los Urrutias. The head of the Coastal Authority, Andrés Martínez Muñoz, had made the request to the Agency for Socio Economic Promotion of the Environment (Oisma) for authorization to perform the works during the first 30-days of the breeding period for marine species such as fartet, also known as Spanish toothcarp, which breeds in the Mar Menor, and is currently under threat of extinction. “As it is just for one month, the Department sees no problem in granting permission, providing the work is done with the corresponding corrective measures, so as not to affect the species” said a spokeswoman for the Council. The director of the Association of Naturalists for the South East (ANS), Pedro García, also confirmed that his organization has not placed any objection to the works being carried out during March.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

New weather stations for air quality by IAN ASKEW CARTAGENA CITY Council will arrange for the placement of three weather stations in the townships of Pozo Estrecho, El Algar and Cabo de Palos, to improve weather forecasting and make better predictions of air quality. Cartagena’s councillor for the environment, Francisco Calderón, held a working meeting on Tuesday with representatives of the Meteorological Centre of Guadalupe to address the implementation of meteorological stations in various locations in the municipality. The objectives of these facilities are the measurement and recording of meteorological variables and the development of more detailed weather forecasts, together with a more comprehensive monitoring of air quality. In this regard, the council has established that the most suitable locations will be the three small towns of Pozo Estrecho, El Algar and Cabo de Palos. The Department of Environment will coordinate the monitoring process, in collaboration with the departments of Public Safety and Innovation, and the Policía Local, the Civil Protection Service, and the Municipal Institute of Coastal Services (IMSEL). The Meteorological Centre of Guadalupe is the regional branch of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). It has been in operation since 1984, carrying out important work in the forecasting and monitoring of adverse weather events, while providing support for environmental policy, climate change and sustainable development.

#NEWSBITES

TIMETABLE SET FOR RECOVERY OF PHOENICIAN BOAT IN MAZARRÓN LAST NOVEMBER, the Advisory Commission of ‘Barco Mazarrón 2’, the second of the two Phoenician boats discovered in the waters oﬀ Mazarrón, including representatives of the Coastal Authority, the Community and the town of Mazarrón, agreed to the removal of the Phoenician wreck for its treatment, conservation and enhancement. It has now been decided that the project will go ahead after the completion of the relevant studies and reports, during the course of 2017. The Commission advised that the future museum, which will house the boat, once brought to the surface, will be located in the area closest possible to the place of the boat’s discovery. The whole process will form a research project that will improve the scientiﬁc and technical knowledge of shipbuilding, in antiquity, in the area of the Western Mediterranean. Their intention is that the public exhibition of the hull, once the process of conservation and restoration has taken place, will portray, as closely as possible, the boat at the time of its discovery.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Beach safety and first aid by drone! by IAN ASKEW TORREVIEJA COUNCIL’S Department of Beaches, Innovation and Safety, under the direction of Javier Manzanares, is considering using a drone at one of Torrevieja’s coastal beaches in conjunction with current surveillance and rescue systems. Manzanares claimed that this would be a pioneering system in beach safety and hopes that it can become operational as soon as possible, although, obviously, the appropriate licences would need to be obtained. The drone would provide aerial images of the beach in question, but would not perform any recording. For example, said the councillor, in the case of a person drowning, this device would enable a faster response than by any other means, and, controlled from the ground, would have the ability to deploy, alongside the person who may be in distress, a series of small ﬂoatation devices, or life preservers, to render assistance prior to the arrival of conventional land-based rescue equipment and personnel. The ﬁrst experimental phase of this service would take place on one of the beaches of La Mata. Javier Manzanares also announced that the lifeguard service for Torrevieja’s bathing beaches is being re-vamped, in time for the start of the season at Easter. One major change to the service is an extension of the hours of the presence of lifeguards on the beaches, currently between 11am and 7pm, to the new hours between 10am and 8pm, as widely requested by users. He also announced plans to improve beach access for the disabled. This summer, he hopes to have installed, on the beaches of Cura and Los Locos, new platforms that allow full access to the very edge of the beach. This requires the installation of a series concrete based walkways with non-slip surfaces, with a minimum width of 1.50 metres to allow for amphibious chairs and wheelchairs.

Torrevieja beach last summer

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

TV show seeks hopeful hoteliers A BRITISH television company is on the search for couples and families who are in the process of becoming hoteliers. Twofour, part of the ITV Studios, is planning on producing a brand new documentary series, similar in style to the Channel 4 series “Grand Designs.” Katherine Healy, Twofour researcher, has been contacting local media outlets throughout the Costa Blanca, asking for anyone who thinks they may be interested to contact her for further discussions. Requirements for applicants are that the project is no more than 50 percent completed, and that the deadline for opening, as a going concern, be during the summer months of this year. The programme will not only follow the progress of the renovations, and all the difﬁculties that may come along with building regulations etc., but also focus on the human element, following the families and individuals, as they go through the transition. Twofour is the company behind such popular television shows as “The Jump” hosted by Davina McCall, “The Hotel Inspector” presented by Alex Polizzi, “The Housing Enforcers,” and “Our School.” The company was named “Indie of the Year” at the 2014 Broadcast Awards. Katherine says that anyone interested can either call her on 0044 1752 727643 or send their details to her via email at katherine. healy@twofour.co.uk.

Altea tree planting DESPITE THE strong winds this weekend, many people attended the celebration of the day of the tree and wetlands, in Altea. The day of commemoration started with a talk, given by an expert in the ﬁeld of the environment, and also by a biologist, at the youth centre in the town, where 60 people attended. Following the discussion, a short documentary called “the river does not laugh” highlighted the importance of climate change and the need to protect our water. Later, adults and children, including the Mayor of Altea, Jaime Llinares, met at the Algar River area, where the day concluded with the tree planting. In addition, the council gave seedlings to the 100 girls and boys who attended, with instructions on how to care for them throughout the year, so that they could be planted next year by the river.

#NEWS BITES

WALKING FOOTBALL CHARITY TOURNAMENT

THE PLAYA Flamenca Walking Football Tournament will take place on Friday 4th March, from 10am to 5pm, at the Playa Flamenca Sports Centre (CDM) 8 teams are participating, from England, Los Montesinos, Moraira, Daya Vieja, and Playa Flamenca. Refreshments will be available, and spectators are welcome. Go along, watch and enjoy. The proceeds will go to Elche Children’s Home. For further details, call -Terry Sawkins, on 965 31 92 79.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Cartagena’s old cathedral soon to be open to the public by IAN ASKEW THE DIOCESE has invested 40,000€ in the partial restoration of the old cathedral in Cartagena, to enable the building to be opened to the public. After initial confusion in January, between the city of Cartagena and the diocese, over documentation for granting the municipal works license, work is finally underway. The restorers have been hired by the diocese to start work, both inside and outside the old cathedral, to strengthen the stability of the various building elements. According to forecasts by church officials, this phase should last about a month, so, if no unforeseen problems arise, Santa María Cathedral should be open to visitors for at least four days at the end of March, to coincide with Easter. The works are part of a project specified by the Council’s Department of Culture to meet the Heritage Act, which

requires that buildings classiﬁed as ‘being of cultural interest’ (BIC) are open to the public at least four days per month. Also, the city council’s intention is that, in the future, the old cathedral should form part of the guided tours organized by the Museo del Teatro Romano, the Roman Theatre Museum, as part of the ongoing development of tourism in the city. Back in December, the Councillor for Culture, Noelia Arroyo, after complaints about the permanent closure of the property, called for the diocese to submit a programme for the opening of the cathedral to the public. The plan currently allows for a review of all the walls and pillars that support the building. Technicians will then analyze the structure and remove those parts that are loose, to prevent possible collapses. At the same time, Arroyo has asked the Minister of Culture, Iñigo Méndez de Vigo, for his support to fund a new project, namely the complete restoration of the cathedral.

workmen in the cathedral, seen from the Roman Theatre Museum

NEWS BITES

HUMANISTS OF MURCIA AGM

THE FOURTH AGM of the Humanists of Murcia took place in Bar Puente, La Majada, following the last ‘easy rambling’ walk, which had followed a meandering course around the pueblo. About 30 people attended the meeting, with no voting needed, as the committee remains unchanged. The annual subscription remains at an aﬀordable 5€ per annum, and the walking groups, and discussion groups, will continue as before. For more information on the Humanists of Murcia, and any of their programmes go to http://humanists.bolnuevo.com/.

Memoria de Arena photographic exhibition THEY SAY that memory is made from our emotions. In Guardamar, the first images of our environment come from the hand of Mira, the locally famous engineer of a century ago. These are evocative and suggestive images that have the power to take us back. Now, the Asociación Foto Amigos de Guardamar has decided to continue the work of this magnificent photographer, with a clear vision to discover the signs of our time: some depicting the same landscape as centuries ago, others more recent scenes. They are emotional images, perhaps because they are part of ourselves. We have all seen them for ourselves at some time, and yet we have not been able to understand their significance. These images are part of our memory, yet, at the same time, have the ability to bring us face to face with the emotions behind those memories. You can see this intriguing exhibition of photographs, depicting the dunes and pine forest of Guardamar, at the Casa de Cultura, Carrer Colón 60, Guardamar del Segura, from 19th February until 5th April 2016.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Golden Leaves Expat Services sponsors leading Costa Blanca lifestyle show Golden Leaves Expat Services, the ground breaking initiative from Golden Leaves International Limited today announced its sponsorship of Pet Idol 2016, the latest exciting addition to the annual Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show in Costa Blanca. The leading show of its kind for the expat community is also one of the most popular events in Costa Blanca providing inspiration, information, fun and feature attractions as well as opportunities to meet with celebrities. Pet Idol 2016 provides animal lovers with the opportunity to put their furry friends in the limelight and be voted favourite Costa Blanca pet, with the winner receiving a year’s pet insurance courtesy of Golden Leaves Expat Services. Pet Idol 2016 will also be raising much needed awareness for the work of the animal charity APASA. Barry Floyd, Managing Director at Golden Leaves International Limited explains why Golden Leaves Expat Services was keen to support the show. “For pet owners everywhere, their pets are more than just animals. In many ways they are family, loved by old and young alike and as such, deserve the

same loving care as any other family member. Pet insurance is the most cost effective way of ensuring that your beloved pet will receive the care it needs, when it needs it, which is why pet insurance is one of the many valued services that we provide for the expatriate community.” He continues, “For this reason we are delighted to sponsor Pet Idol 2016 as well as showing our support for the important work of the APASA. We would encourage all pet owners to enter the competition and wish everyone the very best of luck. While there can only be one winner of Pet Idol 2016, we would of course be more than happy to discuss anyone’s pet insurance requirements with them either at the show or at our new offices.” The Homes Garden & Lifestyle Show will be held at the Denia Marriott Hotel, La Sella Gold & Spa Resort, Jesus Pobre on 11th-12th March, 2016. For more information about GL Expat Services’ portfolio Call 8000 98309, visit glexpatservices.com or pop in and see their team at their new offices in Javea, in the Arenal at Avenida De La Pla 123-125, Edifico Caribe, Locale1 Javea 03730 Alicante.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

News from afar

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

A spider named Johnny SCIENTISTS HAVE named a new species of giant black tarantula discovered in the California desert after country music legend Johnny Cash.

The dark colour of the tarantula struck a chord with researchers – the singer was known as the ‘Man in Black’ because of his choice of wearing dark clothing on stage. And the name is even more fitting as the spider was discovered near Folsom Prison; where Cash – who died in 2003 – famously performed free concerts for inmates and inspired his famous hit song Folsom Prison Blues. It may not be as famous around the globe as its namesake but it walked the line into the world’s press after being named Aphonopelma johnnycashi. It is just one of 14 new species of tarantula discovered in the United States; all members of the Aphonopelma family. Dr Chris Hamilton, from the Florida Museum of Natural History, who named the spider, said: “We often hear how new species are being discovered from remote corners of the Earth, but what is remarkable is that these spiders are in our own backyard.” His team has spent almost a decade combing the land for tarantulas in locations ranging from scorching deserts to frigid mountains across the American South-West and examined nearly 3,000 specimens. They identified 29 species of tarantulas in the most comprehensive study ever undertaken – 14 are new to science. Some were no bigger than a small coin but others, like Aphonopelma johnnycashi, have a leg span of six inches...or more. And while the US tarantulas may be fearsome looking, their bite – although venomous and painful – is not considered painful. Dr Hamilton stressed they were harmless. “They are teddy bears with eight legs.”

Violence erupts in Hong Kong

NEW YEAR celebrations in Hong Kong were marred by violence as police were attacked as they cleared unlicensed food stalls in Kowloon. More than 90 people were arrested and 61 people were injured as officers attempted to move the street food vendors who had set up stalls at a busy junction for the Lunar New Year holiday celebrations. Angry protesters hurled bricks and bottles at police and security forces responded with baton charges and pepper spray; even firing two warning shots into the air. The clashes took place as crowds gathered to defend the food vendors – street food is seen as a traditional part of life in the former British colony. Officials usually turn a blind eye to the hawkers’ lack of permits but this year it was decided to stage a crackdown. Police blamed “radical elements” for the violence and accused demonstrators of bringing “self-made weapons and shields” to attack officers. However, tensions have been running high. Protesters – many want greater autonomy for Hong Kong – believe its identity, culture, and traditions are under threat. The worst unrest since the pro-democracy protests of 2014 was widely featured on social media where it was tagged #fishballrevolution.

Friday, February 5 - Thursday, February 11 2016

The road to hell

Chris Ashley

Writer & Broadcaster

Just as Generalissimo Franco was about to shuffle of his Fascist Coil in 1975, I reckon he issued an edict that proposed “All Spanish Males When Driving Can Do What They Like, To Whom They Like, When Or Where They Like.’

Which would explain their loony tunes motoring habits should a woman driver have the temerity to overtake the aforementioned Butch Boy Racer. He will go to the ends of the Earth to snatch back the lead, making Lewis Hamilton look like he’s ‘Driving Miss Daisy.’ Another quirk is driving out of a side street with the swiftness of a Nike denial, causing you to brake violently, and then proceeds at half the speed of smell in front of you. When an opportunity to overtake occurs, Señor Loco dons the lead boot & puts the pedal to the metal. It’s almost like he wants to get all his life threatening accidents over in one fell swoop. Talking of which, we went to a funereal in the UK for a distant Great Aunt. She was 103 years old when she popped her clogs (ironically she was of Dutch lineage). At the wake a fellow asked me “How did she die?” How did she die? 103 years old – how did she die? So I said, whimsically, “She was endeavouring to jump 14 double decker buses on her Harley, almost pulled it off too, just clipped bus 14.” The chap sighed and said “It’s the way she’d want to go.” and wandered off in search of a vol-au-vent. My Spanish coffin dodging amigo, Juan Nitestand, on principal refuses to pay motorway tolls. We needed to drive from Alicante to Gibraltar - some 380 miles which should take – what? 5½ - 6 hours? Because he refused to kowtow to the authorities and pay the tariff, we drove on the secondary roads through villages where they didn’t even know Franco had died, let alone Elvis. We went so far into The Sierra Nevada we needed a Sherpa to get us out. It took 2 days & 6 times the money to get to the Rock, which one senior resident summed up thus - “Gibraltar is 7 sq. km of rock, with 30,000 drunks clinging onto it.” Cheers M’dears!

Sponsored by www.rightmoveinsurance.com offering you discounted insurance & superb service.

Friday, February 5 - Thursday, February 11 2016

IF AS non tax residents in Spain (but tax resident in a country of the European Union)you paid inheritance or gift tax in Spain before the change in the Inheritance and Gift Tax Spanish Rules which took place on the 01.01.2015 THEN IT is probable you paid taxes as per Spain’s national tax scale, and you were not able to benefit for the tax benefits of the different Spanish regions, like: Community of Valencia Inheritance tax, etc. As we have explained in many other articles, this situation (prior to 01/01/2015) was a clear discrimination against EU citizens who were not tax resident in Spain, since often they paid many more taxes than tax residents. The Court of Justice of the European Union (ECJ) in its judgment of 3 September 2014, declared that the Spanish tax laws were discriminatory, and finally Spain changed the rules into a non-discriminatory system, in their Law dated 26/2014. Therefore from 01/01/2015 the citizens residing in the European Union or the European Economic Area may benefit from regional regulations (Valencia, Catalonia, Madrid, etc.) and their corresponding tax advantages in Inheritance and Gift tax. Therefore, if in the last 4 years, you have paid inheritance or gift tax in Spain as non resident ( but being resident in a European Union Country), and you received the gift or estate from your ascendants: father, mother, grandfather, etc., descendants: children , grandchildren, etc., or spouses, you could be able to claim for the majority of the tax to be paid back.. We have had the opportunity to help many clients to claim back inheritance and gift or donations tax paid, and 100% of our claims have been accepted, all of our clients whose cases have already reached a definitive decision, obtained the return of the unduly paid tax, plus interests. Also, in order to help affected people to claim for their rights, we only charge if the claim is accepted and the clients get the overpaid tax back. Therefore, if you or someone you know, has paid inheritance tax in Spain over the last 4 years, contact us without commitment, and we will confirm whether you can claim back the tax paid, all at no cost to you, 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

If you have paid inheritance or gift tax in Spain during the last four years you could get your money back

Carlos Baos

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Savings returns hit rock bottom and markets seem to be on a downward spiral

MONEY

LAST WEEK, the Bank’s Governor Mark Carney announced that a further cut in interest rates should not be ruled out WITH INTEREST rates held at 0.5 per cent for the 83rd consecutive month, it’s great news for UK small businesses and those in the UK with mortgages, but – as always – not such good news for savers.

Christina Brady

Regional Manager of Blacktower Costa Blanca

Those who get their income from interest paid on their hard-earned savings have seen no pay rise for seven years – that’s seven years. Share dividends are being slashed, top cash savings rates axed , NS&I rates slashed, all when prices of goods haven’t decreased to the same degree, which means seeing your pennies dwindle in bank accounts with pitiful low or nonexistent interest rates. Now there is talk of negative interest rates, something already happening in Japan and in some parts of Europe where you have to pay to open a deposit account. The idea behind all this is that people will stop saving and spend, spend, spend thereby boasting world economies and growth. This is all well and good but some of us cannot afford to spend, spend, spend , either because you are retired and rely on saving/investment returns to boost your income, or you are nearing retirement age and want to have as much money saved as possible so you can enjoy your retirement when it comes. On top of this the World Stock Markets are so volatile no one knows where it will end at the moment. What may you ask can be done? Who can I turn to for honest, professional advice? Blacktower Financial Management has been established for 30 years and have worked with clients through the good and the bad times, offering sound advice. We have products that can to a certain extent smooth out the volatility for clients and offer consistent returns and for those of you interested in wealth preservation we work with one of the oldest and most respected Swiss Banks Lombard Odier who specialise in helping high net worth individuals manage their wealth. I am here to help you find the right solution to make your money work for YOU, to arrange an independent, professional and impartial consultation please contact me by email christina.brady@blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330 .

Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

THIS ARTICLE will discuss the essential issues involved in buying or renting property in Spain. Please pay attention to the following questions.

Even if the seller or real estate agent assures you that everything is correct, look for an independent legal advice for your complete tranquility. Even when it is not a mortgage, and the measures of square meters have been already given to you, do measure them by yourself or let a qualiﬁed expert do it for you. Make sure that all the additions to the original construction are legal, such as a terrace, swimming pool, basement, barbecue, etc. Do not allow anyone to sell you a property with unpermitted constructions, because they can be demolished without you being able to avoid it. Any seller will be glad to have his/her property reviewed by an independent lawyer, who will check all the documents proving that everything is correct.

We all realize the presence of unpermitted constructions when unaware buyers end up having problems with unpaid taxes, illegal land titles or having difficulties in obtaining municipal services or non-existent permits for such additions. You may face the following problems when buying a property: Lack of bank guarantee for down payment (buying an off-plan property). Problems with sales contract and cadastre (unpermitted actions, different measures that do not match the actual meters from the house and land, etc.). Lack of project and license of the house. Lack of 10-year Structural Insurance Certificate. Lack of License of Fist Occupation. Undervalued property. Lack of license for Electrical and Plumbing. Problems with infrastructure.

If you are planning to buy or sell a property, contact Berger & Dozet by calling 966 236 587 or email info@bergerdozet.com for an appointment.

Lack of other certiﬁcates. We recommend you to hire an independent lawyer who will work only for you and for your own interests. The right moment to hire such a lawyer is before you commit any payment. The tax implications when buying property are very important, and it is good to keep them in mind before signing any document. If you buy an apartment or villa, or decide to rent a luxury villa or just to buy property oﬀ plan, do not forget to protect your money properly with the help of the independent advice of your lawyer. If you plan to buy or sell a property, please contact us at 966 236 587 or email us at info@bergerdozet.com and our secretary will organize an appointment with a solicitor for you to explain everything more carefully.

FEATURE

Tips to consider when buying property

Alejandro Rosenberger

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

#life&leisure

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

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

Homes, Gardens & Lifestyle Show This year’s Homes, Gardens & Lifestyle Show is truly exceptional, with free tapas, free cava cocktails, free advice/ consultations, free eye tests, plus free prizes, including an 8 day Mediterranean Cruise! Read the full story on page 37.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #gardening

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

Hedges and fences

Dick Handscombe Holistic gardener and author

HAVING SPENT the last couple of days trimming the hedges around the garden I thought that a column about hedges and fences would perhaps be of interest. ORIGINALLY I had no hedges but just a wall on two sides and woven wire fences on the other two sides. The two sides with wire fencing created the boundary from my plot cleared of dead fruit trees and two thick pine tree copses. One of the walled sides of the plot was alongside an earth track which would eventually be tarmacked with pedestrian pavements on both sides. The second wall separated the plot from abandoned agricultural terraces then and for some years later was grazed daily by a couple of flocks of sheep. The rear fence was on top of the edge of a metre high terrace so it would be difficult to grow a hedge to screen me from persons walking dogs through the edge of the copse and the house that I expected to be eventually built. In fact it took ten years for this to happen with the economic problems of the early 90’s. The solution was to laboriously dig out a fifty centimetre trench in the rocks topping the wall, line the sides with black plastic sheeting to retain moisture, fill the bottom twenty centimetres with goat manure and then fill in with soil and plant oleanders. These were trimmed to one and half metres to allow me to see into the copse until it was felled and the neighbouring house was built and then raised to three metres for privacy. A young carob tree that I had inherited on the boundary had now grown high enough to block out part of the house to roof level so this was pruned to create an ever widening fan shape to eventually block out most of the house. The sheep fields were built on after fifteen years so a tall thick mixed hedge of oleander, jasmine, olive acacia and wild pistachio trees was planted to block out the new buildings and create a wind break from westerly winds. When one of the acacias died pink trumpet vine bignonias ,yellow winter jasmines and honeysuckles were grown to cover the trunk and branches and create a thick screen with flowers for much of

the year. A tall cypressus hedge was grown inside the second woven wire fence. Initially trimmed to two metres this had to be raised to four metres when the owner of a new house raised up the old terracing to the level of the road in front of the property, as is allowed in Spain, and could therefore walk along the top of my carefully clipped hedge. The second wall was initially used as a support for a purple ﬂowering bougainvillea, a grape vine, a fan mango, a banana plant and edible passion fruit vine.

The latter four were lost during the heavy frost of March 2005 and were replaced by the easily controllable campsis and capensis bignonias, a tall orange lantana, and a fan apricot tree. These give good colour for nine months of the year and rise above the height of the wall to create extra privacy. As a result of these actions the garden is now an enclosed glade within the urbanisation that replaced the previously productive historic agricultural terraces built and cared for by monastery workers for many centuries.

Email auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com

life&leisure #aunty virus

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

Home Premium Hi Aunty V, I’ve upgraded to Windows 10 from Win 7 Home Premium.

When I’m back in England I use an EE 6GB mobile sim, valid for 90 days, subject to usage. With win 7, I could close down all updates etc. and update when visiting my daughters, or use a hotspot,so I never used all the 6GB, allowance.Now I’m beginning to think that it was a mistake to upgrade as, with Win 10, I cannot find out how to switch off all the auto updates etc. Any advice would be very much appreciated. Kind regards Robert Aunty says: You are correct.Windows 10 does not have the option to disable updates, like its predecessors.The only way I can see is to stop the Windows Update service and make sure that it doesn’t start again. Type “services” in the Windows 10 search box and click ‘View Local Services’. Scroll down to Windows Update and double-click the service. Set the startup type to ‘Disabled’. If the service is already running, click ‘Stop’. After the service has stopped, click ‘OK’. If you now click ‘Check for Updates’ in the Windows Update app, you should see a reassuring error message: ‘There were some problems installing updates’. If you want to later enable Automatic Updates again, you have to remember to go through this process and set the type of the Windows Update service to ‘Automatic’ or ‘Manual’ and then start the service. Response: Once again, I have to thank you for solving another of my problems

How to connect

Dear Aunty, I want to use my iPad5 to connect to my Samsung smart tv via hdmi cable in order to watch tv. I read your article with interest, hoping it would help me. Not to be. Can you advise me what process I need to follow to connect my iPad to my tv. I have, at great expense, purchased a cable (lightning cable?) in the hope this will work. I look forward to your reply, Cynthia Aunty says: As you already have the “lightening cable”, simply connect one end to your Ipad (only one end of this cable will connect to your Ipad!) Then, connect a HDMI cable to the other end of the lightening cable, and the other end of the HDMI cable to a HDMI input on your TV.Select the correct HDMI input on your TV.Turn on your Ipad / Iphone etc., and the TV picture will mirror the Ipad screen.There should be no need to change any settings or download any apps or software. This Youtube video shows you how to do it and how simple it is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1TbZCNjk4o.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Sara Bell life&leis re ask Sara u  by

Life Coach

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

She’s changed her mind

MY WIFE and I have been talking about moving to Spain for several years. We are due to retire this year, and can ﬁnally see a light at the end of the tunnel. However, my wife is having second thoughts. This revelation is causing many arguments, because I thought it was her dream too. We haven’t much to stay in the UK for, and the children are all grown and live in other parts of the country, so we don’t see them much as it is. What can I do? It could just be cold feet. It can be a big thing, especially for women, to sell up, leave the family and move to another country. You could suggest that you spend some time renting in Spain, may be two or three months to see how she likes it. And invite the family over for a lovely holiday. Whilst some people who emigrate miss their family too much, others say it’s the best thing they have ever done. At least give it a try. Not to try is not to know.

I have done bad things WHEN I was younger I got into trouble and went to prison. I used to think I was a bad person, and sometimes still do because of my past, even though I have paid my debt to society. I never told my family that I suﬀered mental and physical abuse from one family member, who is no longer around. I feel guilty about the hurt I caused others when I committed crimes. I would give anything to turn back the clock. Nobody is born bad. The fact that you say you suﬀered abuse could certainly be the reason why your life took the direction it did. We are all born with potential, and we owe it to ourselves to realise that potential, to become who we should be. We are all much more than the sum result of our actions. You say you feel bad about the hurt you have caused others? May be think about doing some voluntary work. Giving is more satisfying than taking.

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, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure Homes, Gardens & Lifestyle Show

11th & 12th March at the Denia Marriott BRIM-FULL with feature attractions, The Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show has two whole days full of inspiration, information and fun! This year’s Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show is truly exceptional, with free tapas, free cava cocktails, free advice/consultations, free eye tests, plus free prizes, including an 8 day Mediterranean Cruise. All this, and much, much more, is on offer to ensure a fantastic day out for anyone here on the Costa Blanca. The place to be is the Denia Marriott Hotel, Jesus Pobre, near Javea on 11th and 12th March. Show Sponsors BLU So Easy! will welcome you with a stylish BLU cava cocktail from the cava fountain in the main lobby, by the Jazz and Blues Bar, where some magic awaits you, as Yanni the Street Magician, courtesy of Round Town News, sponsors of our new magic experience, will be performing memorable magic. Not only that, there is also an 8 day Mediterranean Cruise to be won in RTN’s free to enter draw. As if by magic, the winner could be setting sail in 2016! For more about this, see next week’s RTN. By popular demand, the Costa’s Cook Off is back! Sponsored by Cambridge 800, this cooking competition has 4 local chefs creating culinary dishes, for the audience to decide the best dish! How would you like to win 250€, courtesy of Infinity International FX, in ‘crack the safe and win the currency in the casino’. Female Focus have a TV to be won, or you could win TOTAL FM’s totally cool, summer party package (food, wine, cava,

an entertainer and some garden decoration for up to 20 people for a garden party), The CBN & The Post also have some great give-aways. We are pushing the boat out with more features than ever before, including the new ‘Legal Suite’ sponsored by Pellicer & Heredia, your legal questions answered, and the opportunity to win a ‘Free Will’, besides many other prizes! There’s a brand new ‘Tapas Trail’, so just follow the show route map to find participating stands and receive your free tapa! For all the animal lovers out there, there’s ‘PET IDOL 2016’, the cutest pet photograph competition, sponsored by Golden Leaves EX-Pat Services. To enter, send you pet photos (cat, dog or other furry or feathered pet) to office@ gmpromotions.es with your pet’s name! The winning photo will receive a year’s free pet insurance (cat or dog). Don’t miss the ever-popular Art Gallery in the Ballroom Foyer. Also back by popular demand, UK TV’s antiques expert, Mark Stacey, will be on hand to value antiques and collectables. Bring them along, and also taske part in his Antiques quiz, in the Casino, to win an antique! (No, not Mark!). As if all that weren’t enough, Celeb Syd Little, from Little & Large fame, will be cooking up some comedy and cuisine, with our very own Masterchef semifinalist, Danny Bowler, in the show-case kitchens on both days. It’s a new year, so you may be on the lookout for new ideas for your Homes, Gardens and Lifestyle. The Spring Show will boast hundreds of products and services, all for you to see, touch, taste, try and buy. For a truly informative, fun-packed two days, there is only one place to be! See you at The Homes Gardens & Lifestyle Show! Just a few stands are still available now, so to book your stand at the event of the year, email gina@gmpromotions.es, call 695 39 98 41 or see www.gmpromotions.es for regular updates. Also, see Facebook Homes Gardens and Lifestyle Show.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #horoscopes

Kenny Corris kennycorris@hotmail.com 686 361 594

 Be on guard and one step ahead this week because there are things going on that you need to be a part of. You can no longer view objectively from a distance and it’s all about trust and dedication as others may not have your true interests at heart. Your astute interpretation of recent events is safely backed by the Mars sextile of Jupiter midweek. Don’t worry that somebody has chosen to take offence; you know very well that what was said had to be said, and the truth can be just an excuse for taking umbrage. Venus enters into Aquarian energies and rewards you with the green light that you have been waiting for, as a project opens up, at last, and your tender loving care is sought after. Mercury enters into Aquarian energies this week, bringing open and distinct channels of communication and putting love back on the menu. This is a time for working within with your innermost self, with subtle energies to enable a positive result. In a week where there are some wonderful surprises too, a new you is there in the balance. Bite your tongue because you will be surrounded by others who are losing their temper this week, and you have to keep yours, at all costs. As warring Mars takes on lucky Jupiter there is bound to be some conflict somewhere along the line. So too soon there should be a happy and resolving ending to something that has been a thorn in your side. The Sun illuminates Kora, who serves to call time on something that, through poor leadership, is veering out of control. In hindsight you should never have got involved, but then it certainly wasn’t you who moved the goalposts. With alternatives definitely on the horizon now, not all is lost and you are able to just walk away when the right time comes. Mercury dictates somewhat this week, but it is to save you from making a mistake. You need to see things from every aspect, and it is time to take a break away and to be able to look back; since at the moment you are too close for comfort. A break from routine coupled with viewing things from another angle is what you need to help with a decision. With romantic Venus in cahoots with a soothing Aquarius your balance is assured and you are well within your comfort zone. There is an inkling, however, that you are poised to make strides, and this connects with an offer that seems almost too good to be true right now. Take away any pressure, but do weigh up the pro’s along with the con’s! A new friendship starts when you help a stranger this week. Your practical and down to earth energies often have a positive and inspiring effect on others, and this week is no exception. The Mars sextile with Jupiter brings you the reward of someone who will play a part in your life; someone who respects you and is out there on your wavelength. Jupiter urges you to focus on something very close to home, which, for some reason, you may have turned a blind eye to. Here, however, things will not get better by themselves and indeed they may get a lot worse. It is unusual for you not to want to confront things face on, but you have reasons, and actions do speak louder than words ever could. It is a thoroughly stubborn streak that brings you to examine every possibility to get what you want right now. It is a step forward that you are finally thinking of yourself for a change, and after much compromise you know now what you want to achieve. Your fourth house shows clearly the open door to your new home, and a new life too. With significant actions taking place this week between Mercury and Venus it seems as if you have achieved a new understanding in a relationship issue. Venus sends love and forgiveness and Mercury provides the necessary mechanics to reinstate the broken down communication that realises you both had too much to lose! Money needs to be kept in check since it would appear that there have been some recent necessary drains on your finances. A financial corner develops with Kora in quincunx with Mars, but resolve is just around the corner as the Sun steps in to sextile midweek. Check bills and bring in economies to help to balance up the books meanwhile.

If It’s Your Birthday This Week

All across the Cosmos there are changes afoot, and to stay on track you have to be one step ahead. Put your best foot forward because for you in this Astrological Year there is work to be done!

Haunts

PEOPLE ASK me, usually with trepidation, if I have ever seen a ghost; and I have to reply that I have seen many in my time. I often feel that people do not fully understand what a ghost actually is, so let’s make it quite clear once and for all what actually is a ghost. Every dead person should make their transition to the Spirit World when the time comes to relinquish life on this Earth. Though the body remains and has to buried or cremated, the soul of the departed makes the start on a journey that sees them being openly received by the Spirit World. In this, the most spiritual of holding stations, a number of different opportunities are on offer, and so the soul moves on any which way by absolute choice. A ghost however is the saddest remnant of the end of a life on Earth. Ghosts do not accept, for whatever reason, that they are dead, and so they inhabit the Earth Plane, even though it is a location for only the living. A small percentage, it is thought, do not know that they are dead, and they need a firm but loving helping hand to get them to move on to where they should be, which sadly is never where they are. Depending on the timescale there are therefore ghosts who have inhabited this Earth for hundreds of years. Ghosts are not necessarily new, and they sadly fade from their natural colouring as they become greyer with age, so much so that ancient ghost specimens can be virtually transparent with the passing of time. They also live now as they did way back when, and so newly constructed houses and roads do not exist for them. They can walk through any wall or door providing that they weren’t built in their lifetime and they sadly are cooped up in making the same journeys or haunts, as they are called, in perpetuity with no remission or remorse. This, of course is not living here on Earth but it is a pathetic existence, only possibly compensated by the odd shriek received from being located by someone from the actual living World. They do not co-exist with this living World since they do not exist....they are dead and should be encouraged to move on out. They may be very happy where they are, but ghosts are unhappy as they know that they don’t have a right to be where they are. The undead have no rights whatsoever. They may bring in tourists into staying in haunted hotel rooms or be allowed to wander freely in Baronial Irish Castles. They are a fascination for many but they are an abomination as the ghosts have no tenure, no rights and no abode. Here on the Costa Blanca we have our fair share of ghosts. I am very often called out to sense presences and to issue marching orders to those who need to sling their hook. My own house had its fair share but they didn’t remain around for very long after I took up occupation. My very first client experienced with me a gunshot, and as we ran out of the room we started to smell the cordite. On our return into the room we couldn’t see our shoes, as a fine mist obscured the entire floor. Ghosts gone....and never to return again. I asked that they would have a safe passage to wherever they needed to be, suggesting, as I always have, that here had to be somewhere better and that their souls be sent to the Spirit World. Nothing is quite as sad as somebody not being in the right time in the right place, but ghosts do not have a body, in any sense of the word, to start with. Many people find it easy to just get on with their ghosts as they haunt the homes of the living; but it is a total compromise. Harmony is truly restored when the ghosts, the undead, are located and helped onwards to better the quality of life for the sakes of both the living and the dead. Haunting stuff!

Kenny‛s Postbag

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

KENNY, I have kept the ashes of my husband in the house for the last three years. Initially I didn’t want to be parted from his remains but recently someone told me that it is unfair not to scatter him and thus allow him his freedom on this Earth. Hilda R. Hilda. I am so glad that you brought this up. There is no speciﬁc spiritual rule as to what is supposed to be done with the small quantity of human remains. I can understand that you have kept the ashes in the home you once shared with your living husband, but if there is a special place you could scatter him; and it feels the right thing to do....go for it. A good idea would be to release the ashes in your garden, if you have one. It gives him freedom to return to the earth and it’s still on your doorstep.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #puzzles /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Sudoku Last weeks crossword answers can be found on page 56.

Across 7. Shares (6) 8. Visitor (6) 10. Uniform (7) 11. Concise (5) 12. Small bay (4) 13. Tell-tale (5) 17. Memento (5) 18. Daybreak (4) 22. Perfect (5) 23. Eager desire for wealth (7) 24. Stress (6) 25. Bog (6)

Doodle box

Quick Crossword

Down 1. Largest bird (7) 2. Pardon (7) 3. Aptitude (5) 4. Warlike (7) 5. Vigilant (5) 6. Command (5) 9. Head (9) 14. Effective (7) 15. Main city (7) 16. Vehement (7) 19. Essential (5) 20. Educate (5) 21. Truck (5)

Cryptic Crossword

Across 7. It breaks up these endless taxes (6) 8. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m more confused by this biographical sketch (6) 10. Stop the Spanish officer (7) 11. See 9 Down 12. We turn and hesitate but became a pitcher (4) 13. A practice that attracts a considerable amount of interest (5) 17 & 4 Down. Inexperienced zoo attendants become groundsmen! (5-7) 18 & 1 Down. William, a persevering type, is in the advertising business (4-7) 22. An inclination after tea to go for a walk (5) 23. Come home after everybody else, but live longer (7) 24. A number of notes we hear producing harmony (6) 25. Physical strength for which there could be a thousand different clues (6) Down 1. See 18 Across 2. Describing any flower deliberately sought after (7) 3. A deceptive movement is not easily distinguished, one hears (5) 4. See 17 Across 5 & 6 Down. What tennis-players wear when invited to the Palace! (5-5) 6. See 5 Down 9 & 11 Across. What French capitalists use when facing the wall? (7,2,5) 14. Material per yard as arranged (7) 15. Monetary affairs can get mixed up in legal penalty (7) 16. To be sycophantic is not so sharp! (7) 19. Illegally acquire southern bird (5) 20. Be inclined to favour a caprice (5) 21. Overweight porter (5)

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #whats on /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

hospice PALS call it a day MABS fundraiser by patricia thompson

AFTER 15 YEARS, and fundraising some 250,000€, PALS committee have decided to call it a day. and will not be organising any more events. The final event was the annual PALS New Years Day swim at the Bahia Beach in Puerto de Mazarrón, which raised 1,273€. This was the 14th time the swim has occurred and again the weather was kind to the 16 swimmers who braved the waves in front of a crowd of 350. The event was attended by Cruz Roja and, indeed, two of the swimmers were from that organisation, which PALS have been proud to support, and the CAFÉ ambulance was prominent, in case of any unforeseen accident. PALS are now drawing to a close, but the swim will go on, with PALS current committee members organising and deciding the disposal of funds raised. Meetings are currently in hand to decide the destination of the current funds but rest assured they will be for local use in the Mazarrón area. PALS will publish the final purchase(s) and will then publish consolidated accounts for the whole period of PALS existence. In addition to the donations made to 112, Cruz Roja and the Saluds to include

emergency tents, inshore rescue craft, defibrillators and other lifesaving equipment, PALS helped kick-start FAST and Forget me Not, and have represented the cause of the Mazarrón ex-pats to the British Council and Ambassadors, and , have maintained cordial contact with the various administrations at the ayuntamiento. PALS were at the forefront of the need to provide a medical centre on Camposol (The only such medical centre on any urbanisation in Spain), and were also re-

sponsible for the installation of a kitchen at the Cultural Centre on Camposol, sold hundreds of Tell the Doctor Books and were instrumental in organising the CAFÉ fund for the ambulance used by Cruz Roja locally. PALS achieved all this with the support, and having the confidence of, many people, who have enjoyed their trips, cruises, dances and events. PALS wish to express their thanks to all and also thank those who were on the various PALS committees throughout the years.

MABS RECENTLY opened a hospice suite at a 24/7 residential care home for cancer patients in the Murcia region. The suite is a fabulous home from home so that the patient will still have all their home comforts, as well as 24/7 medical care, it even has a separate bed for a family member or friend to stay with them. MABS has spent a long time planning the facility and acquiring a suitable hospice suite. It is available for both respite and end of life care, enabling cancer patients to have the dignity they deserve. All of this costs an awful lot of money every month, so MABS have decided to hold a hospice fundraiser where everything raised on the night will go directly towards the running costs of the hospice. This will be a Dinner Dance at Casa Club La Serena, in Los Alcázares, who have created a superb menu. Music is by The Geckos. There will be a photo booth for some crazy photos, plus a great raffle. The cost will be 22.50€, with all proceeds going to the hospice. Tickets are available from the MABS shop in San Javier, or you can email the event organiser mabsdonnawalsh@gmail.com or send a message via the Facebook page. www.facebook.com/mabsmurciamarmenor. This is sure to be a fantastic night, and rooms will be available at the hotel next door. Ask for information.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

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

Worlds largest & newest cruise ship comes to the Mediterranean: Enjoy an 8 day cruise on board the Harmony of the Seas. Harmony of the Seas

EXPERIENCE HARMONY of the Seas®— the third of its kind to join the ground-breaking Oasis class of ships. Harmony of the Seas® will feature the cruise line’s seven distinct neighbourhoods for which Oasis class is known, and will offer the most amazing collection of experiences, amenities and activities at sea. Guests can test their mettle on the ship’s three multi-story waterslides all of which twist and turn over Central Park, then let imaginations soar. Harmony will also feature a new Bionic Bar on the Royal Promenade, first introduced aboard Quantum of the Seas® and featuring robot bartenders. Interior accommodations also will be outfitted with Royal Caribbean’s exclusive Virtual Balconies which offer beautiful views in every stateroom. Additionally, guests onboard will enjoy RFID technology with Royal WOWBands that provide them access to their staterooms as well as make onboard purchases and reservations. Like her sisters, Harmony will also feature the fastest internet connection at sea.

Shows & Nightlife

Let’s hear a round of applause for an unrivalled entertainment line-up—an amazing array of shows and performers, included with your cruise fare. Picture Broadway shows just steps from your stateroom. Memorable moments with Shrek, Po and other DreamWorks friends. World-class performers that WOW on stage, ice, and in the water. And when the sun goes down, the night heats up with energetic parades, live music, comedy shows and much more.

Things to do

Our ships boast a sea of vacation possibilities for every guest. Like the chance to learn Italian, salsa dancing, or the recipe for a perfect martini. To conquer the rock climbing wall and ice skate on the equator. Or slow things down with a hot stone massage and duty-free designer shopping. See, do and learn more at sea than you ever thought possible.

Vitality SPA & Fitness Center

Nurture mind, body and spirit with a personalised service that anticipates your every need. Restful features designed for your total enjoyment help you achieve zen moments in the Vitality Spa. State-of-the-art equipment in our Vitality Fitness Centres keeps you in shape while you’re on the high seas. Everything you need for a peaceful, rejuvenating journey is waiting for you onboard.

Size:

Year of construction: 2016 - Guest capacity: 5,402 (maximum capacity) - Crew: 2,100 – Tonnage: 225.000 t – Cruise speed: 23 knots.

Sailing Dates:

17TH July – 25TH September – 16TH October PICK UP POINTS ALONG THE COSTA BLANCA COAST

Itinerary DAY 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

PORT Barcelona, Spain Palma De Mallorca, Spain Marseille, France Florence/Pisa , La Spezia Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Naples, Capri, Italy Cruising Barcelona, Spain

ARRIVE DEPART 18:00 08:00 16:00 09:00 18:00 08:30 20:30 07:00 20:00 07:00 20:00 05:00

ACTIVITY EMBARK DOCKED DOCKED DOCKED DOCKED DOCKED CRUISING DISEMBARK

Cruise oﬀered by Gandia Tours, from 1130€* per person in inside cabin (double occupancy), for other category prices & information, contact us on 96 610 68 72.

*prices include transport to/from barcelona, taxes and tips

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #events ////////////////////////////////////

HELP helping the needy

by PATRICIA THOMSPON HELP MURCIA Mar Menor held a charity lunch on Thursday 4th February at Galindas restaurant, La Puebla, near Torre Pacheco. This was the second year that the charity has held this event and this year it was bigger and better than ever. Once again, each guest was asked to donate 5kg. of non-perishable food to help families in need in the village. A total of 92 people attended the lunch from HELP M.M.M., NOSMO, HELP Friendship group and representatives from the local Caritas group. A massive 700kg of food was donated which will help feed more than 50 families in the village. Janneke Chambers, a resident of La Puebla and member of HELP, explained that these people have no work, are unable to claim any money from the State, and receive very little help from the Government. “This donation of food will go some way to ease their plight for a short time” she said. Rosalía Sanz gave a short speech of acceptance, on behalf of Caritas, to express their gratitude for the donation, and then presented Doreen Sykes, head fundraiser of HELP, with a statuette, as a memento of the day. If you can spare a few hours once a week to help raise funds to continue the work of helping the poor and needy in the Murcia area, or for further information about HELP M.M.M., contact their office in Los Alcázares on 968 57 00 59.

Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity Quiz Night REFLECTIONS BAR, San Luis, will be hosting a Grand Charity Quiz Night on behalf of Paul Cunningham Nurses Charity, on Saturday 20th February at 7.30pm, and the master of the questions will be quiz master Mike. There will be many different rounds of

quizzing, including music, general knowledge and a picture round. Tickets will be 7.50€, which includes dinner of lasagne, chips and salad. A vegetarian option is also available. To book your table please telephone 688 38 74 90. A charity raffle will also be held during the evening. Go along and join the fun and laughter.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

#tv&showbiz goss

by Peter Taylor

 IN 2000 Tulisa Contostavlos joined rappers Dappy and Fazer and formed N-Dubz. They eventually got a record deal and put out their first single ‘You Better Not Waste My Time’ in 2006. Their music bundled along until 2011 when Tulisa got a judges job on the X Factory, and week by week, month by month she proved to be quite a handful. Her removal from the show was followed by sex tape rumours, supplying drugs, and drink driving issues, but Tulisa now says “that couple of rubbish years are behind me” as she prepares to return to recording. Is the world ready for Tulisa’s return?

WE ALL have our fav sweet, for me its Kit Kat; just mentioning it has produced a note to self to stock up. But I Digress. Last week 20 year old student Saima Ahmad contacted Nestlé demanding they give her a lifetime supply of Kit Kats after she purchased a pack of eight that didn’t contain the wafer portion of the chocolate treat. She only did! “No one else in the industry has that unique concept of mixing the wafer with the chocolate … if I wanted purely chocolate, I´d have purchased a Galaxy,” said law student Saima. Yes, she´s a law student … cool! COME DINE with Me Ćhampion of Champions´ is well under-way on Channel 4, but is here today after I found out how surprised people were when they first saw the face of narrator Dave Lamb, the únseen´ voice of the show. As always social media got involved with Lauren Macpherson posting “Watching Come Dine Champion of Champions has really troubled me; Dave Lamb just doesn’t look like I imagined, and now my brain has broken!” I started watching the show seven years ago Lauren and I know what you mean! … The face doesn´t fit the voice does it!

CINDY CRAWFORD, who turns 50 next Saturday told Rhapsody Magazine “it’s time to retire, I’m sure I’ll have my picture taken for 10 more years, but not as a model anymore.” Strong purposeful words to which she added “I can’t keep reinventing myself, I shouldn’t have to keep proving myself, I don’t want to,” again pretty much in your face stuﬀ. On her 14 year old daughter Kaia Cindy said “They are all taking pictures of themselves, or having their friends take pictures for their social media, Kaia would be modelling even if she weren’t modelling … all the girls are modelling!” ??????

JEFF LYNNE was one of the founder members of Birmingham band The Move in the 60´s, but it was only when he formed the Electric Light Orchestra and they did their ﬁrst gig at The Greyhound Pub in Croydon in 1972 we found out how good he was. ELO had 7 top ten albums from ´76 – ´86, two of which made No 1. I saw them live three times and was spellbound by their mix of rock and classical music, and now I must cancel all other engagements come June as ELO are to perform live on the Legends Stage at Glastonbury in the summer. Super Hurrah!

Is it your time to go mad in Mexico? BLACK COMEDY Ánalyze This´ came out in 1999 starring Robert Di Niro, whom, up to that point was solely known for his roles as a real mean dude. He has since gone on to prove comedy is something he excels at. His latest film ‘Dirty Grandpa´ was released last month, but todays main story is not about Di Niro , but is about a MTV show due to hit the small screen in the summer called ´Spring Break With Grandad.´ What the TV show is connected to is the plotline of the movie where Di Niro´s character, army veteran Dick, takes on grandson Jason (Zac Efron) in all the man stuff that normally goes on between two young guys trying to impress the ladies, including lots of muscle flexing and drinking for America. Spring Break with Grandad begins with eight ‘twenty-somethings’ arriving at beach party capital of the world Cancun with their grandparents in tow, then their parents parents take centre stage as they set about trying to re-live their wild partying days. MTV are making all sorts of claims as to what will be on offer for the various happy family groups, with the promo doc reading “we´ll be treated to crazy, cute and definitely cringe-worthy events, as we witness the grandparents and their grandkids spending four weeks together in a luxurious Mexican villa!” Are they out of their minds? … Grandparents and 20 somethings in tight together for a month! For sure it will end in tears. The filming is being done by Handsome Productions and executive producer Sharon Stansfield said “Spring Break is the perfect backdrop for a big reality series, who knows Cupid may even strike for grandad,” before adding “if you fancy a slice of this pie, MTV are now casting the show.” Well then … Whatýa waiting for!

THE REAL Housewives of Atlanta is an American reality television series that premiered on October 7, 2008, and it’s gone on to be a ´must see´ show for lovers of the banal in all its wondrous glory. Along the way there´s been a dozen different ladies presenting the show including Kim Zolciak Biermann who is here today on the back of her having hit the headlines last week because she had her ass frozen … that’s right misses, had her ass.. Apparently the bum freezer is part of a spa treatment she´s having … exciting stuff innit! You want banal … you got banal!

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

tv listings 12th February - 18th February 2016

Youtube videos of the week

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

I have my good friend Nick in Folkestone to thank for this ﬁrst vid to take you to chucklesville ´Dogs and Bathtubs´ followed by an equally worthy item in the shape of ´Movie Middle Finger´ that highlights that very expressive part of your hand that gets the job done when words are unnecessary.

BBC1

BBC2

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 The Housing Enforcers 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 12:45 Emergency Rescue Down Under 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 A Question of Sport 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Dickensian 22:00 Shetland 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:35 The Graham Norton Show 24:25 Would I Lie to You? 24:55 The Apprentice USA

07:15 The Housing Enforcers 08:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 08:45 Emergency Rescue Down Under 09:15 MasterChef: The Professionals 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 BBC News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Coast 14:05 The Pallisers 15:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 16:00 A Place to Call Home 16:45 The Best Dishes Ever 17:15 Nature’s Great Events 18:15 Flog It! 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great American Railroad Journeys 20:00 Sea Cities 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 What to Buy and Why 22:00 Earth’s Greatest Spectacles 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 Artsnight 24:30 Weather 24:35 Rudolf Nureyev - Dance to Freedom

SATURDAY 13th February

BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Mary Berry’s Foolproof Cooking 13:00 BBC News; Weather 13:10 Football Focus 13:50 Saturday Sportsday 14:00 Bargain Hunt 15:00 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 17:30 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 19:55 BBC News 20:05 BBC Regional News and Weather 20:15 The Voice UK 21:30 The National Lottery: Win Your Wish List 22:20 Casualty 23:10 BBC News; Weather 23:30 Match of the Day 24:55 Meet the Parents

BBC2

07:20 Battle Cry 09:45 The Desperados 11:10 Homes Under the Hammer 12:10 Natural World 13:00 James Martin: Home Comforts 13:45 Rick Stein’s India 14:45 The Best Dishes Ever 15:15 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Flog It! 17:30 Final Score 18:30 Earth’s Greatest Spectacles 19:30 Back in Time for the Weekend 20:30 Henry VII: Winter King 21:30 Dad’s Army 22:00 The Real Marigold Hotel 23:00 Live at the Apollo 23:45 Insert Name Here 24:15 There Will Be Blood

ITV1 07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 The Martin Lewis Money Show 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Mr Selfridge 23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:45 Birds of a Feather 24:15 Evil under the Sun

ITV1

CHANNEL 4 07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 The King of Queens 08:35 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Frasier 11:30 Undercover Boss USA 12:30 Four in a Bed 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:35 Four in a Bed 14:10 Four in a Bed 14:40 Four in a Bed 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Come Dine Champion of Champions 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast 22:00 First Dates 23:00 The Last Leg 24:05 Virtually Famous 24:55 Rude Tube

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Childrens TV 07:15 The King of Queens 09:10 Nerds & Monsters 07:35 Frostgun Invitational 09:30 Jessie 08:30 Tenerife Blue Trail 10:05 The Tom & Jerry Show 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:25 Columbo: It’s All in 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond the Game 10:00 The Morning Line 12:15 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:00 Frasier 13:20 ITV News and Weather 11:30 Frasier 13:24 ITV Regional Weather 12:00 The Big Bang Theory 13:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 12:30 The Big Bang Theory 14:30 Judge Rinder 13:00 The Big Bang Theory 15:30 Tipping Point 13:30 Marvel’s Agents 16:30 Doc Martin of SHIELD 17:30 The Martin Lewis 14:30 Channel 4 Racing Money Show 17:00 Come Dine with Me 18:00 The Chase 17:25 Come Dine with Me 19:00 ITV News 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:15 ITV News and Weather 18:25 Come Dine with Me 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 19:00 Come Dine with Me 20:00 Ninja Warrior UK 19:30 Channel 4 News 21:00 Take Me Out 20:00 Great Canal Journeys 22:20 The Jonathan Ross Show 21:00 Penelope Keith’s 23:20 ITV News and Weather Hidden Villages 23:34 ITV Regional Weather 22:00 Escape Plan 23:35 Twins 24:20 Predator

CHANNEL 5

ITV2

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuﬀ 12:10 Cowboy Builders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Beneﬁts 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Justice for Natalee Holloway 18:00 5 News at 6 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Funniest Fails, Falls & Flops 20:30 That’s So 21:30 Bankrupt & Broke: When Celebs Go Bust 23:00 Lip Sync Battle UK 23:30 The Best of Bad TV

07:00 Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:20 Dinner Date 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 09:05 Emmerdale 09:35 Emmerdale 10:05 You’ve Been Framed! 10:35 Catchphrase 11:20 Dinner Date 12:20 Royal Pains 13:10 Emmerdale 13:45 Emmerdale 14:15 You’ve Been Framed! 14:45 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:45 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 18:50 Take Me Out 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 The Bourne Identity 24:20 Take Me Out

07:00 07:50 08:35 09:05 09:35 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 24:30

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Childrens TV 09:30 Wanda and the Alien 09:45 Toby’s Travelling Circus 09:55 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 10:30 The Saturday Show 12:30 Funniest Fails, Falls & Flops 13:00 Police Interceptors 14:00 Now That’s Funny! 15:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 16:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 17:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 18:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 19:55 5 News Weekend 20:00 World War II in Colour 21:00 Nazi Quest for the Holy Grail 22:00 Football League Tonight 23:00 Football League Tonight 23:30 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:25 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

ITV2

07:00 Emmerdale 09:35 Coronation Street 12:00 Ninja Warrior UK 13:00 Scorpion 14:05 You’ve Been Framed! 14:35 You’ve Been Framed! 15:35 Beethoven 17:25 Catchphrase 18:10 Despicable Me 20:05 The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor 22:20 Take Me Out - The Gossip 23:20 Secret Dates 24:20 Ibiza Weekender

07:00 07:25 07:45 08:05 08:35 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:30 14:30 16:05 16:35 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 24:15

“ Quote of the week

Lily Allen has challenged The Brits for their lack of grime artists nominations saying “the music industry’s annual jolly is characterised by pushing the likes of M People, Sting and (mercy me) Jimmy Nail to the front, it´s the awards ceremony Alan Partridge would approve of.” Love you Lily.

Despicable Me 18.10

“

FRIDAY 12th February

Made in Chelsea Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement New Girl New Girl Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Bridesmaids The Big Bang Theory

Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother Baby Daddy Baby Daddy Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey The Goldbergs How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother Brooklyn Nine-Nine The Goldbergs The Jump The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Magic Mike Gogglebox

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

sunday 14th February BBC1

BBC2

07:00 Breakfast 08:35 Match of the Day 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 The Big Questions 12:00 Sunday Politics London 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:10 Weather for the Week Ahead 14:15 Homes Under the Hammer 15:15 The Truth About 16:15 Escape to the Country 17:15 Songs of Praise 17:50 Pointless Celebrities 18:35 Nature’s Miracle Orphans 19:35 BBC News 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Call the Midwife 22:00 British Academy Film Awards 24:00 BBC News 24:20 BBC Regional News and Weather 24:30 While You Were Sleeping

07:00 The A to Z of TV Gardening 07:45 The A to Z of TV Gardening 08:30 The Secret History of the British Garden 09:30 Countryfile 10:30 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12:00 James Martin: Home Comforts 12:45 The Best Dishes Ever 13:15 MOTD2 Extra 14:00 Coast 14:30 84 Charing Cross Road 16:00 The Importance of Being Earnest 17:30 Cats v Dogs: Which Is Best? 18:30 Flog It! 19:15 Ski Sunday 20:00 Six Nations Highlights 21:00 Greece with Simon Reeve 22:00 Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth 23:00 Match of the Day 2 24:10 Tron Legacy

ITV1

07:00 Childrens TV 08:30 Scrambled! 08:35 Mr Bean: The Animated Series 08:50 Horrid Henry 09:10 Nerds & Monsters 09:30 Bear Grylls Survival School 10:05 The Tom & Jerry Show 10:25 Columbo: Murder with Too Many Notes 12:15 The Jeremy Kyle Show 13:20 ITV News and Weather 13:29 ITV Regional Weather 13:30 Off Their Rockers 14:00 Live Six Nations Rugby Union 17:30 Big Box Little Box 18:00 Ninja Warrior UK 19:00 ITV News Central 19:15 ITV News and Weather 19:35 Planet’s Got Talent 20:05 Beowulf: Return to the Shieldlands 21:00 Vera 23:00 ITV News and Weather 23:14 ITV Regional Weather 23:15 Rookies 24:15 Premiership Rugby Union

CHANNEL 4

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:15 How I Met Your Mother 07:40 The King of Queens 08:05 The King of Queens 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:30 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces 14:30 Location, Location, Location 15:35 The Harry Hill Movie 17:20 Bear’s Wild Weekend 18:20 Channel 4 News 18:40 Mr Popper’s Penguins 20:30 The Jump 22:00 Deutschland 83 23:45 Predator 2

07:00 Childrens TV 08:35 Little Princess 08:50 Pip Ahoy! 09:00 Blaze and the Monster Machines 09:25 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:45 Wanda and the Alien 10:00 Toby’s Travelling Circus 10:15 Jelly Jamm 10:25 LazyTown 10:50 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 11:25 Football League Tonight 12:20 Football League Tonight 12:45 Police Interceptors 13:45 Mr Holland’s Opus 16:20 HouseSitter 18:20 What a Girl Wants 20:25 5 News Weekend 20:30 Jumper 22:00 Homefront 24:05 Revolver

07:00 The Hot Desk 07:10 Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:35 Emmerdale 10:20 Coronation Street 12:55 Take Me Out 14:05 Take Me Out The Gossip 15:10 The Perfect Man 17:15 Legally Blonde 19:10 Catchphrase 20:15 Along Came Polly 22:00 Ibiza Weekender 23:00 Love Fix 24:00 Forgetting Sarah Marshall

07:00 Rules of Engagement 07:25 Baby Daddy 07:45 Baby Daddy 08:05 Melissa & Joey 08:35 Melissa & Joey 09:00 The Goldbergs 09:30 The Goldbergs 10:00 The Goldbergs 10:30 The Goldbergs 11:00 Hollyoaks 13:30 Couples Come Dine with Me 14:30 Couples Come Dine with Me 15:30 Furry Vengeance 17:20 Rude(ish) Tube 17:30 The Big Bang Theory 18:00 The Big Bang Theory 18:30 The Big Bang Theory 19:00 The Big Bang Theory 19:30 The Big Bang Theory 20:00 The Big Bang Theory 20:30 The Big Bang Theory 21:00 The Big Bang Theory 21:30 The Big Bang Theory 22:00 Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD 23:00 Tattoo Fixers 24:00 Rude Tube

monday 15th February BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 The Housing Enforcers 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 12:45 Claimed and Shamed 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Inside Out London 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 The Not So Secret Life of the Manic Depressive: 10 Years On 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:45 Tracey Ullman’s Show 24:15 Have I Got Old News for You

BBC2

07:15 The Housing Enforcers 08:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 08:45 Emergency Rescue Down Under 09:15 Close Calls: On Camera 09:45 Now You See It 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 Coast 12:05 The Taming of the Shrew 14:05 The Pallisers 15:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 16:00 A Place to Call Home 16:45 The Best Dishes Ever 17:15 Frozen Planet 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great American Railroad Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth 22:00 American Crime Story 23:00 Mock the Week 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 Greece with Simon Reeve

ITV1

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Masterpiece with Alan Titchmarsh 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Griff’s Great Britain 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Benidorm 23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:45 The Jonathan Ross Show 24:50 Car Crash Britain: Caught on Camera

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 The King of Queens 08:35 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Car SOS 12:00 Undercover Boss USA 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 The Supervet 14:05 The Supervet 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Come Dine Champion of Champions 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Dispatches 21:30 Supershoppers 22:00 Royal Navy School 23:00 Crashing 23:35 Tattoo Fixers 24:35 Bodyshockers

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Builders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 A Woman Betrayed 18:00 5 News at 6 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 FIA World Rally Championship Highlights 21:00 Ice Road Truckers 22:00 The X-Files 23:00 Gotham 24:00 Trespass

itv2

07:00 Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:20 Dinner Date 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 09:05 Emmerdale 09:35 Coronation Street 10:05 Coronation Street 10:35 Catchphrase 11:20 Dinner Date 12:20 Royal Pains 13:10 Emmerdale 13:45 Coronation Street 14:15 Coronation Street 14:45 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:45 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 18:50 Take Me Out 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 20:30 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 The Bourne Supremacy 24:10 Plebs 24:40 Plebs

07:00 07:50 08:35 09:05 09:35 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 23:05 24:10 24:40

Made in Chelsea Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement Rules of Engagement New Girl New Girl Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks Battleship Rude Tube The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory

tuesday 16th February BBC1

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 The Housing Enforcers 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 12:45 Claimed and Shamed 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Happy Valley 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:45 My Baby, Psychosis and Me 24:45 Animals Unexpected

BBC2

07:15 The Housing Enforcers 08:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 08:45 Claimed and Shamed 09:15 Emergency Rescue Down Under 09:45 Great British Railway Journeys 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 The Restless Breed 13:20 The Super League Show 14:05 The Pallisers 15:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 16:00 A Place to Call Home 16:45 The Best Dishes Ever 17:15 Frozen Planet 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great American Railroad Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 Back in Time for the Weekend 22:00 Chinese New Year: The Biggest Celebration on Earth 23:00 Phone Shop Idol 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 The Story of China

ITV1

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Masterpiece with Alan Titchmarsh 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 The Kyle Files 21:00 It’s Not Rocket Science 22:00 Car Crash Britain: Caught on Camera 23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:40 School Swap - The Class Divide 24:45 Double Decker Driving School

CHANNEL 4

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 The King of Queens 08:35 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Car SOS 12:00 Undercover Boss USA 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 The Supervet 14:05 The Supervet 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Come Dine Champion of Champions 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 The Secret Life of the Zoo 22:00 The Supervet 23:00 First Dates 24:00 Britain’s Weirdest Council Houses

CHANNEL 5

07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Builders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Lost Letter Mystery 18:00 5 News at 6 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 The Dog Rescuers with Alan Davies 21:00 Bargain-Loving Brits in the Sun 22:00 The Great British Benefits Handout 23:00 Killers Behind Bars: The Untold Story 24:00 The X-Files

itv2

07:00 07:50 08:35 09:05 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 23:00 23:50 24:55

Made in Chelsea Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement New Girl Melissa & Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks The Big Bang Theory The Goldbergs The Goldbergs Tattoo Fixers Virtually Famous Gogglebox The Big Bang Theory

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

wednesday 17th February BBC1

BBC2

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 The Housing Enforcers 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 12:45 Claimed and Shamed 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 19:55 Party Political Broadcast 20:00 The One Show 21:00 The Great Sport Relief Bake Off 22:00 DIY SOS 23:00 BBC News at Ten 23:45 Life After Suicide 24:45 Film 2016

07:15 The Housing Enforcers 08:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 08:45 Claimed and Shamed 09:15 Great British Menu 09:45 Mary Berry’s Foolproof Cooking 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 Coast 12:10 Pride and Prejudice 14:05 The Pallisers 15:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 16:00 A Place to Call Home 16:45 The Best Dishes Ever 17:15 Frozen Planet 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great American Railroad Journeys 20:00 The Great Interior Design Challenge 21:00 The Â£100K House: Tricks of the Trade 22:00 One Child 23:00 The Great Chinese Crash? With Robert Peston 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 Russell Howard’s Good News

ITV1 07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Masterpiece with Alan Titchmarsh 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:25 Party Political Broadcast 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:45 UEFA Champions League Highlights 24:45 The Kyle Files

CHANNEL 4 07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 The King of Queens 08:35 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Car SOS 12:00 Undercover Boss USA 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 The Supervet 14:05 The Supervet 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Come Dine Champion of Champions 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Posh Pawn 22:00 24 Hours in A&E 23:00 Bodyshockers 24:05 Royal Navy School

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Paw Patrol 09:50 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Toot the Tiny Tugboat 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Builders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Magic beyond Words: the JK Rowling Story 18:00 5 News at 6 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 21:00 GPs: Behind Closed Doors 22:00 Violent Child, Desperate Parents 23:00 The Boy with Giant Hands 24:00 10,000 BC

07:00 Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:20 Dinner Date 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 09:05 Emmerdale 09:35 The Cube 10:35 Catchphrase 11:20 Dinner Date 12:20 Royal Pains 13:10 Emmerdale 13:45 You’ve Been Framed! 14:45 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:45 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 18:50 Take Me Out 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 White House Down 24:50 The Keith Lemon Sketch Show

07:00 07:50 08:35 09:05 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 23:00 24:00 24:30

Made in Chelsea Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement New Girl Melissa & Joey Charmed Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The 100 Supernatural The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory

Thursday 18th February BBC1 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 The Housing Enforcers 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 12:45 Claimed and Shamed 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News at Two and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News at Seven and Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Dickensian 21:30 Room 101 22:00 Death in Paradise 23:00 BBC News at Eleven 23:45 Question Time 24:45 Professor Green: Suicide and Me

BBC2 07:15 The Housing Enforcers 08:00 Wanted Down Under Revisited 08:45 Claimed and Shamed 09:15 The Great Interior Design Challenge 10:15 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 Coast 12:10 The Wind and the Lion 14:05 The Pallisers 15:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 16:00 A Place to Call Home 16:45 The Best Dishes Ever 17:15 Frozen Planet 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great American Railroad Journeys 20:00 Sea Cities 21:00 Big Dreams Small Spaces 22:00 The Story of China 23:00 The Clare Balding Show 23:30 Newsnight 24:10 Weather 24:15 American Crime Story

ITV1 07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV Lunchtime News 14:55 ITV News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Masterpiece with Alan Titchmarsh 16:59 ITV Regional Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 ITV News 19:30 ITV Evening News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Birds of a Feather 22:00 Jericho 23:00 ITV News at Eleven 23:30 ITV News 23:45 UEFA Europa League Highlights 24:45 Car Crash Britain: Caught on Camera

CHANNEL 4 07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 08:10 The King of Queens 08:35 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 10:30 Frasier 11:00 Car SOS 12:00 Undercover Boss USA 13:00 Channel 4 News Summary 13:05 The Supervet 14:05 The Supervet 15:10 Deal or No Deal 16:10 Countdown 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Come Dine Champion of Champions 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 21:00 Location, Location, Location 22:00 Keeping Up with the Khans 23:00 Inside the Ku Klux Klan 24:05 24 Hours in A&E

CHANNEL 5

itv2

07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 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 The Wright Stuff 12:10 Cowboy Builders 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Imaginary Friend 18:00 5 News at 6 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News Tonight 20:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild 21:00 Flood Chaos: Winter Road Rescue 22:00 Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons 23:00 Whitney and Bobby: Addicted to Love

07:00 Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:20 Dinner Date 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 09:05 Emmerdale 09:35 Coronation Street 10:05 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 10:35 Catchphrase 11:20 Dinner Date 12:20 Royal Pains 13:10 Emmerdale 13:45 Coronation Street 14:15 You’ve Been Framed! 14:45 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 15:40 The Jeremy Kyle Show 16:45 The Jeremy Kyle Show 17:50 The Jeremy Kyle Show 18:50 Take Me Out 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 21:30 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Scorpion 23:00 The Keith Lemon Sketch Show 23:30 Delivery Man

07:00 07:50 08:35 09:05 10:00 11:00 12:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 22:30 23:00 24:00 24:30

Made in Chelsea Charmed Hollyoaks Rules of Engagement New Girl Melissa & Joey Charmed How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Melissa & Joey Melissa & Joey How I Met Your Mother How I Met Your Mother New Girl New Girl The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Hollyoaks The Goldbergs The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Brooklyn Nine-Nine Brooklyn Nine-Nine Gogglebox The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

xxx

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #advertising feature

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

Young Entrepreneur: Exciting Times For Fonefix.es Whilst Spanish life is generally easier going than that in other parts of Europe, making a living can be a real struggle, and young people in particular really have to strive to get ahead. Therefore, it is great to hear about success stories such as that of young Entrepreneur, Tom Burnet- Brown. Tom relocated to Torrevieja with his family when he was 16 years old, completing his formal education at El Limonar International School, Villamartin. With the Spanish economy still in turmoil, the ambitious youngster was faced with few openings, and realized that it was down to him to make his own way up the competitive Costa Blanca career ladder. It soon became apparent that he had a flair for information technology, and could find his way around a smart phone, tablet or computer like the back of his hand. Indeed, investigating malfunctions and instigating repairs was as fascinating as operating a fully functional machine. And thus Tom found his niche, launching his own dynamic business “Fonefix.es”. Fonefix went from strength to strength, and Tom welcomed a wave of new and repeat business, the majority of which generated through recommendation alone. He soon outgrew the tiny workspace in his bedroom, and began operating out of a back office in Ciudad Quesada. However, with clients flooding in, he has recently branched out into a larger office, located within the Commercial Centre, Calle Los Arcos, Ciudad Quesada, with a customer service desk and enhanced, fully equipped workshop. Now age 23, Tom has attended various courses to expand his skills and is currently studying to attain his “Apple Care Technician” Certification. He said that “I am really proud of how far I’ve come in a short space of time. It was tough at times and I had to devote long hours to developing my skills. But looking around at the office now, and listening to the great feedback I am receiving from clients, I am really pleased with my achievements!” Tom has lots of exciting ideas for Fonefix.es and is already negotiating plans to open a second shop later in the year. He will also be taking time out from his work to take part in the Torrevieja Half Marathon on 28th February, when he will helping to raise funds for Easy Horse Care Charity.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #Spanish

Basic Spanish for everyday needs by Jane Cronin

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

Past simple:

Happy birthday Ann Short text and comments

“¿Qué hiciste ayer?” “What did you do yesterday?” Well, it would be extraordinary if any of us had a day which allowed us to use all the verbs we’ve learnt in the past simple, but I will do my best.

“Ayer me desperté a las siete como siempre. Era un día de trabajo y tuve que levantarme para llevar a mis hijos al instituto. No pude despertar a la menor enseguida porque dormía muy profundamente y no quiso levantarse. Mi otra hija se levantó con más facilidad y se fue a la cocina para desayunar. Yo me duché, me vestí y desayuné también y después fuimos en coche al instituto, llegando justo a tiempo. Al volver a casa leí mi correo electrónico y los titulares de los periódicos en Internet. Hablé con dos o tres personas por teléfono y tomé un té con leche al estilo inglés. Después de varias otras tareas domesticas y profesionales, como poner la lavadora y preparar fotocopias, cogí mis cosas y me fui a trabajar en Torrevieja. Después del trabajo comí también en Torrevieja y me relajé un poco. Por la tarde hice las compras y al volver a casa guardé todo en la cocina. Mi hija me llamó para decirme donde estaba y luego me senté otra vez con el ordenador a trabajar. Más tarde salí para hacer algunos recados y después de cenar en casa vi mi programa favorito en la tele. Me acosté sobre las doce y me dormí enseguida.” Well I managed to get quite a few verbs in, but tried to

keep it simple and fairly natural at the same time which is actually not very easy. If you read through the text carefully and look at the verbs in detail, as well as just getting the general meaning, you may notice one or two things of interest. Firstly, in real life we tend to mix the two past tenses (remember we did the past continuous tense before) and these two time concepts inter-relate. For example: “No pude despertar a la menor enseguida porque dormía muy profundamente”. Here there is a prolonged activity of sleeping interrupted by my single action to trying (and not being able) to wake her up – hence two different verb tenses are used. Another example is: “Mi hija me llamó para decirme donde estaba”, she was in a place for some period of time and phoned me on one occasion to tell me. Another thing which is part of natural speech, and which I explained right at the beginning of these articles, is that we very often revert to using verbs in the infinitive; that is in their base form without making any ending changes. This happens far more often than most Spanish courses will have to believe. In fact I have just counted twelve examples of infinitive verbs in this text, and I was actually making a conscious effort to avoid them and use past tenses. I think they might be some more food for thought for you there. I will provide a translation and more comments next week. See you then.

U3A VALL del Pop presented member Ann Williams with flowers and a card to mark her forthcoming 80th birthday.

Ann will be celebrating her big day at the Citrus Bar in Orba with family and friends on Monday (15th February) and it was the nearest U3A meeting to the date. Originally from Staffordshire, where she worked as a school secretary; Ann moved to Spain in 1990 to live in Parcent. Sadly her husband died in 2006 but she continues to enjoy the Spanish way of life. She worked in the Red Cross charity Shop in Parcent when it opened in 1992, and as well as U3A, she enjoys Tai Chi, line-dancing, swimming, knitting, and card-making.

Crossword Solutions for Last Week Cryptic solutions Across: 1 Cower; 4 Learned; 8 Upright; 9 Noted; 10 Test; 11 Bearably; 13 Cord; 14 Race; 16 Assisted; 17 Brag; 20 Talon; 21 Silence; 22 Redhead; 23 Press. Down: 1 Court disaster; 2 Words; 3 Rage; 4 Letter; 5 Abnormal; 6 Notable; 7 Daddylong-legs; 12 Presence; 13 Castled; 15 Ceased; 18 Range; 19 Clap. Quick solutions Across: 1 Tread; 4 Crammed; 8 Breathe; 9 Jests; 10 Eats; 11 Delusion; 13 Bare; 14 Knee; 16 Normally; 17 Late; 20 Adieu; 21 Matelot; 22 Nursery; 23 Bated. Down: 1 Table Mountain; 2 Erect; 3 Duty; 4 Clever; 5 Adjourns; 6 Massive; 7 Disinterested; 12 Creature; 13 Barrier; 15 Clumsy; 18 Allot; 19 Stub.

Suduko Answer

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #architects

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

Going towards a more ecological home The human race has been trying to be ecological since they started to shelter themselves using any local materials available at the time. In Spain there are large differences between homes at north where temperature can plunge to a freezing -20Cº (-4º Fahrenheit) to temperatures in Seville for example where we can see luminous street sign displaying a scorching 50ºC (122º Fahrenheit) during midsummer. Houses on those regions differed tremendously in their constructions, forms and their orientations. At north windows of houses are installed with an orientation towards South in order to get light and heat. In the south regions windows tend to be smaller as there is more sun light and also most façades are painted white intending to reflect the heat and obtain a fresher interior environment during the sizzling summers. New materials and technologies. The difference between this form of construction and the current methods is that now there are new materials and technologies so that building can go one step further and be designed with little environmental impact. The latest approved regulations point towards this direction. One of them is the revision of the European directive (200291EC) on energy efficiency of buildings. The directive makes obligatory to meet minimum requirements for energy efficiency and supply accreditation with a certificate with validity not exceeding more than 10 years. This certificate was explained in my last week article for CBN. Homes built from 2019 onwards must be energetically selfsufficient. It will be required that all buildings that may commence construction from 2019 must be energetically self-sufficient and may not emit any harmful gases into the atmosphere. This

measure is expected to reduce to zero the energy expenditure of the new homes and reduce total domestic energy consumption. I personally think that this challenge will be very difficult to be achieved if not impossible although I hope to be wrong. It has been shown that the method that houses is built influences noticeable the way it increase or decrease the use of energy in Europe. The EU already verified that new houses consume between three and five liters of fuel in heating per square meter of built floor area per year, that consumption rockets up on old homes with poor or none existing insulation to 25 liters of fuel per year. The new Spanish Building Regulations “El Código Técnico de la Edificación” (CTE) adopted in 2007 replaced the previous regulations on thermal insulation, dated back to 1979, when energy saving was not as a serious problem as it is now and the consumer was not so demanding on environmental quality of housing. Triples the requirements for acoustic insulation. The new regulations on noise insulation compared to the previous, triples the requirements for acoustic insulation in new housing projects. But that is not the only change. The greatest novelty of the CTE is defined as a series of demands that the architect must fulfill covering all the elements in the construction, from the foundations to the roof. In many cases, these changes materialize in issues that are not always perceived by the user, as it is the case of thermal insulation in walls. Another outstanding issue in the new code affects ventilation. As we all know houses have been ventilated since immemorial times by opening the windows. However, now the way of life has changed and building materials have also changed. Windows can be hermetically closed and it is no longer an exception that a home could remain closed for days, weeks and even months, without allowing a any air getting in, which affects the amount of pollutants and pathogens bacteria that are accumulated indoors.

Ventilate whether you like it or not. To ensure ventilation of buildings, the CTE forces new homes to incorporate a system of permanent ventilation that allows air circulation even though the home is closed. Other requirements are based on a greater thermal insulation, the obligation to take advantage of solar photovoltaic panels and in the fulfillment of minimum energy efficiency requirements. The CTE does not say how to do it exactly, what it does it establishes the conditions which are required for new houses regarding temperature comfort, moisture, sound insulation, or ventilation, among others, so it is in the hands of the architect to study each case, taking into account the location, the climate and other environmental facts, and providing the solutions to meet those requirements. However, only new projects with building licenses that have been applied for after 2007 must comply with these standards. It is expected that new buildings consume between 30 and 40 less energy and reduce CO2 emissions, between 40 and 55%. These savings can be higher in the future. Proof of this is the European directive that aims to build self-sufficient buildings from the energy point of view. An example of this is a project, developed by a consortium of construction and technological companies together with several universities, and with the support of several Regional Governments, the European Union and the Ministry of Education and Science are proposing that new buildings should save more than 80 and 90% on conventional energy by the usage of passive solar systems based on bioclimatic architectural design and the use of solar energy systems together with the use of biomass energy. To demonstrate this, it is possible that five pilot buildings are built in different Spanish towns with very different climates such as Asturias, Soria, Madrid and Almeria. Something I look forward seeing.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #Food  by

Dani Bowler

Owner Vintage Cafe, Albir & MasterChef semi finalist

Black pudding sticks with caramelised apple purée dip RECENTLY I have been a huge fan of black pudding, as I find it goes with many ingredients, especially sweet. For those who follow my recipes you might remember I used black pudding with apple and scallops” This recipe is really simple and goes down a treat as finger food, or even a starter! Filo pastry 200g black pudding (morcilla de cebolla) 1/2 onion (finally diced) 1 Egg yolk Vegetable oil 2 apples 4 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons honey 3 knobs butter Olive oil “Black pudding sticks” In a pan on a medium heat fry your onions till soft

and brown, take the skins off the black pudding and add the black pudding mix to a bowl, add the onions, season well and mix with your hands! Whisk the egg yolk ready to seal the filo pastry. Pre heat your deep fat frier or a use a pan to shallow fry in vegetable oil. Lay out the filo pastry and using two sheets add a spoon full of the mixture and roll to any size you would like your sticks using the egg yolk to seal the edge. Fry for about 20 seconds on each side, dry using kitchen paper. “Caramelised apple puree dip” Place the apples into a pan with a drizzle of olive oil, knob of butter, and cook till soft and start to brown set aside. In the same pan now add the honey and brown sugar, when the sugar Starts to devolve and starts caramelising then add your apple mix back to the pan and mix well. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until a smooth purée. Place into the fridge to chill until ready to serve.

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, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

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

When a cold becomes a chest infection AT THIS time of year common colds are at a peak and unfortunately some will turn into chest infections, some of which can be serious, or for some life threatening. The main types of chest infection are bronchitis and pneumonia. Most bronchitis cases are caused by viruses, whereas most pneumonia cases are due to bacteria. These types of infections are usually spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This propels tiny droplets of fluid containing the virus or bacteria into the air, where they can be breathed in by others. Infections can also be spread to others if you cough or sneeze onto your hand, an object or a surface, and someone else touches it before touching their mouth or nose. Some people are at a higher risk of chest infection including: Babies and very young children Elderly people People who smoke People who are very overweight Pregnant women People with long-term health conditions, such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) People with a weakened immune system – this could be due to a recent illness, chemotherapy or a health condition, such as an undiagnosed HIV infection In addition to general symptoms of infection (headache, aches & pains, lethargy etc.) specific symptoms of a chest infection can include: A persistent cough Coughing up blood Wheezing

A high temperature (fever) A rapid heartbeat Chest pain or tightness Feeling confused and disorientated Coughing up yellow or green phlegm (thick mucus), Breathlessness or rapid and shallow breathing

Many chest infections aren’t serious and get better within a few days or weeks and you may not need to see your GP. While you recover at home, you can improve your symptoms by: Getting plenty of rest Drinking lots of fluid to prevent dehydration and to thin the mucus in your lungs, making it easier to cough up Treating headaches, fever and aches and pains with painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen Drinking a warm drink of honey and lemon to relieve a sore throat caused by persistent coughing Avoid cough medicines, as there’s little evidence they work, and coughing actually helps you clear the infection more quickly by getting rid of the phlegm from your lungs. You should see your GP if: You think a child under five has a chest infection You are 65 or over You have a long-term health condition You have a persistent fever You feel very unwell or your symptoms are severe You are pregnant Your symptoms last longer than two weeks You feel confused, disorientated or drowsy You have chest pain or difficulty breathing You cough up blood or blood-stained phlegm Your skin or lips develop a blue tinge (cyanosis)

You are very overweight and have difficulty breathing You have a weakened immune system Your GP should be able to diagnose you based on your symptoms and clinical examination. Sometimes further tests such as a chest X-ray, breathing tests and testing phlegm or blood samples may be necessary.

VACCINATIONS If you are at an increased risk of chest infections, your GP may recommend being vaccinated against flu and pneumococcal infections. These vaccinations should help reduce your chances of getting chest infections in the future. Most chest infections get better on their own but some can be very serious. If in doubt see your Family Doctor.

This article was written by the Family Medical Centre, Albir. Please call 96 686 5072 for more information or to make an appointment.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #road test

Tim Saunders Independent unbiased car reviewer

Kia Venga I LIKE surprises.

When I took delivery of the Kia Venga, the mini MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle), I don’t mind revealing that I was just a little bit disappointed by its small size. In fact I thought I was going to have to re-evaluate what we took on holiday and leave much of our luggage for our trip to Cornwall, at home. I quickly realised, however, that Kia has produced a compact car that is indeed a surprise. It is no wonder that the manufacturer has come up with “the power to surprise” as its all important marketing strap line. The Venga is perhaps taller than its rivals, and uses space more cleverly because it has a deep boot that easily accommodates all the Saunders family paraphernalia. I like the fact that the rear seats slide back and forth, allowing more or less legroom as the need arises. It is a strange name for a car though, and I have absolutely no idea what it means. Nevertheless, even two year old daughter Heidi can remember it, so it’s clearly a good one. It’s a long journey from Hampshire to Cornwall, some 250 miles, taking over five hours, if you’re lucky. In fact, on the return journey, it takes closer to eight, thanks to some horrendous road-works on the A30 in Cornwall, where the road is being widened into a dual carriageway. Apparently this will run into 2017. Then as we make our way into Dorset, there is gridlock due to the sheer volume of traffic. It seems that all the money poured into new roads for the Olympics in this part of the world has had absolutely no effect whatsoever. Working from home now, I am stunned at the amount of traffic on Britain’s roads. The Venga,

though, copes admirably throughout this demanding road test. It cruises on the motorway with little road noise and its air-conditioning keeps us all cool during some of the hottest temperatures of the summer. The 1.4 diesel SR7 model tested is equipped with a six speed manual gearbox and, in third gear, is surprisingly punchy. However, at times, Cornwall’s hills really do prove a challenge for this little car, resulting in my having to change into ﬁrst to conquer them. Leave it in second and there is just not enough momentum to carry you forward, but use the gears correctly and it pleases. When in a gear that the Venga does not like, there is a protest of rattling plastic from the steering column. It’s pretty frugal, returning over 40mpg over the course of the trip. Bearing in mind this is a car that costs under £15,000 new, expectations cannot be too high, but, although the interior is perhaps bland and plasticky, it is nevertheless comfortable, and I can report that I do not have back or neck ache when we arrive in Cornwall. That cannot be said of some vehicles costing four times this amount. You cannot help noticing the lack of a sat-nav but, frankly, we don’t miss it, because you cannot rely on them anyway. There are four electric windows and electrically adjustable wing mirrors. The wing mirrors themselves can be manually folded, which is especially helpful when unloading in a particularly tight spot in St

Mawes. The roads here are so narrow that when you drop oﬀ or collect, tailbacks quickly form. It’s a nightmare, but, thankfully, folk in this part of the world are used to queuing and there is no beeping of horns whatsoever, even when it takes us 10 minutes to all get in the car! Externally, the little Venga is an attractive looking ca,r and there is even a chrome grille, which is a very nice touch. Overall, this car should appeal to the budget conscious young family in need of a versatile vehicle. I would certainly consider it. FACTS AT A GLANCE Kia Venga 1.4CRDi SR7 Top speed: 104mph 0-60mph: 14secs Economy: around 40mpg 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

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #sports

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

Cartagena rugby round up:

Sponsored by Car Broker Spain by PATRICIA THOMPSON LAST WEEKEND was very important for the world of rugby. Not only did it see the start of the 6 nations championship, but, also, the Spanish Schools National County Finals took place at MĂŠrida, near Portugal. Under 18s and under 16s, from all over Spain, have been training vigorously, ready to hopefully be chosen for their county. The weekend saw mixed results for the local Murcia county teams. The Murcia under 16s were completely outclassed in their first match, which was against the Balearics. They then went

into the second match fully fired up for a win, but, despite playing some incredible running rugby, they still lost. Sunday was finals day, when all teams played against the equivalent ranked team in the opposite pool. Murciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s under 16s were determined to win, and did win, comfortably, to finish 5th in the country; an excellent result for this newly formed team.

La Siesta Golf Society

ON 30TH JANUARY, La Siesta Golf Society held their Championship Day and annual dinner and dance, at Campoamor Golf Club. 30 members played a stableford competition and the clear winner, and new Club Champion for 2016, was the new Vice Captain, Michael O,Regan, with 38 points. In the evening, 60 members and wives attended a black tie dinner and dance, and the new Captain, Harry Pearson, presented Michael with his Championship trophy. It was a wonderful evening with brilliant food and great entertainment by the singer Andy Jones. If you would like to play with La Siesta golf Society, or would like further information, please contact Harry Pearson, on 646 41 61 82.

Ironically the results were mirrored by the under 18s, who also lost 2 and won 1. They also finished 5th in the country. A great weekend overall, with some fantastic rugby, and some good team-building. If you want to get involved in Spanish rugby, male or female, young or old, call Peter on 660 17 03 55.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

SPANISH 7.995€

UK GOING HOME CARS

7.995€

6.495€

2 TO CHOOSE FROM

ONE OWNER

HONDA CR-V 2006 4X4 DIESEL FSH

FORD FOCUS ESTATE 2009 1.6 LTR DIESEL

11,995€

ONE OWNER

TOYOTA AURIS 2011 1.4 LTR DIESEL FSH

5,250€

MOTORHOMES

POA€

12,995€

HYUNDAI I20 2010 1.2 LTR PETROL

7,995€

HYUNDAI I10 2010 1.1 LTR PETROL

5,995€

POA€

BMW Z3 CONVERTIBLE 1998 RHD, SPANISH PLATES

CITROEN C3 2007 1.4 LTR DIESEL

MAZDA BONGO 1996 RHD BRITISH PLATES

5,995€

RHD SPANISH PLATES

ONE OWNER

PEUGEOT 308 2012 1.6 HDI DIESEL FSH

MERCEDES BENZ C180 B/E CGI 2011 LONG MOT

MERCEDES BENZ 450 SLC 1980 AUTO PETROL

AUTOMATICS

AUTO DIESEL

RENAULT MEGANE GRAND TOURER ESTATE 2007

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

life&leisure #sports

UK Rugby - RBS 6 Nations roundup by PATRICIA THOMPSON

LAST WEEKEND saw the start of the 6 Nations rugby. England are favourites to win even though they have a new head coach and captain. The Official betting odds are: England 13/8, Wales 11/4, Ireland 7/2, France 6/1, Scotland 14/1, Italy 500/1. The first game of the competition saw France play Italy in a thrilling opening match. As Italy are ranked outsiders at 500/1 for winning the 6 nations, France, at 6/1. was expected to walk all over Italy. The problem was, no one told Italy, who led for most of the match until, finally, losing by only 2 points, in an actionpacked match. The next match in the opening weekend was Scotland v England. This is also called the Calcutta cup which, incidentally, is one of the oldest sporting competitions. England are favourites to win the 6 nations competition

Las Salinas winter petanca league

whilst Scotland are 5th favourites. However, with a new coach, could England be back on form? The best way to sum it up was said by the England captain after the match, ‘job done, just’. England led throughout, but Scotland kept fighting back to show it was not going to be a walk over. The final score was 9-15. Day 2 had Wales, 2nd favourites, play Ireland, 3rd favourites. This was most certainly a game of 2 halves, with Ireland dominating the first 30 minutes. Then, Wales came back with an incredible show of strength and determination, to finish the game with a draw. After the opening weekend, England top the table on point difference, followed by France. Then it’s Wales and Ireland joint 3rd, followed by Italy and finally Scotland Next weekend will see the second round of matches: France v Ireland, Wales v Scotland and Italy v England

THE LEAGUE is now into week 10. In division 1 there were good wins for Rocajuna, Buccaneers and Lakeside Lakers, and a very surprising win for Los Bandidos over the league leaders, Amigos Belgas 1, 8-0. In division 2, Blagul 1 won a hard-fought match against El Mirador Hawks, 5-3. Second placed Lakeside Mosquitoes had a good, away win against El Mirador Eagles. Amigos Belgas 2

moved up the table with a home win against Danish Dynamite, 5-3. XPS and Corsairs drew 4-4. Division 3 leaders, Pumas, won 7-1. Second place Amigos Belgas 3 had a good away win at Danish Friends 7-1. El Mirador Kestrels remain 3rd with a 7-1 win over Torre Bears 1. Peacocks Red drew 4-4 with Buddies. In Division 5, the leaders, Dominos McCoys, won 6-2 over 2nd placed Guardamar, while 3rd placed San Miguel

Vega Baja Premier Golf League

THE FOURTH fixture of the season took place at Saurines de la Torre Golf Resort The league leaders, El Valle G.S. took on second place La Manga North G.S. while the other La Manga team, Residents Golf Association two points above bottom took on the holders of that position Rockets G.S. The results were, La Manga North, ½ (139 points) v El Valle G S, 3½ (154 points), Rockets G S, ½ (130 points) v La Manga RGA, 3½ (144 points). Bonus points went to El Valle G S and La Manga RGA. The highest pairing scores came from El Valle G.S., Danny Totten/Kevin Grenier with 43 points. El Valle now have a commanding lead, and it seems that El Valle will be in the Singles Matchplay Final in May for the VBPGL Trophy. The penultimate round matches of the season for the South Division are on Friday 4th March at Altorreal Golf, First Tee time 9.28am. This is a change of venue as La Serena cancelled the booking as it clashed with an Evolve Tour professional tournament. To see updated Vega Baja Premier Golf League fixtures, tables, and news visit the website www.vegabajapremiergolfleague.com and Facebook. For more information on the Vega Baja Premier Golf League, contact the Secretary, Ivie Davies 669 21 14 10 or golfdavies@gmail.com.

Velocity Racing Spain THE 2016 SEASON is about to begin, and Velocity’s Open Day will be on 5th March with racing at 7pm. All drivers should register by the 18th Feb-

ruary. Future ﬁxtures will be held the ﬁrst Saturday of each month, with the last meeting of the year being 3rd December. For further details please contact Martin on 674 25 61 47.

Tigers beat Florentillies 6-2. Division 6 leaders, Rocajuna Lions, beat the Falcons 8-0, and 2nd placed Blagul 2 lost to Daya Vieja red necks 5-3. The league held a mixed triples competition for the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th divisions, which was won by Amigos Belgas 3. The proceeds will be given to charity of the year, AECC. Thanks go to sponsors Casas Manuel, Dominos bar, Redital orange mobile.

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Classifieds

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Book your advert now 902 118 999 (ext 2) email: classifieds@roundtownnews.com

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

PRISTINE POOLS PROFESSIONAL, CONSCIENTIOUS POOL REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE SERVICE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS

• Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired with a proven guaranteed success rate • Structural leaks investigated and repaired • Replacement pumps, ﬁlters, salt systems, Ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed • Refurbishments & upgrades undertaken • Weekly maintenance contracts

British Trained & Qualified in the UK Pool Industry with over 18 years experience. Legal & established for over 10 years in Spain. Extensive references. All work guaranteed.

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

Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida

Chris Young transport UK-SPAIN-IRELAND All european destinations

Removals with the personal touch.

Full/part loads. Parcels, flat packs, luggage, door to door service, short/long term storage. Competitive rates, PETS CARRIED WITH CARE.

965 696 750 | 0044 (0) 744 791 8589 chrisyounge73979@aol.com

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

arranged in other vehicles. Tel UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960130537 IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A DOG OR PUPPY please join our Facebook group. We have many dogs, large, small, scruffs and pedigree! Just go to Facebook and search Costa Blanca Dog Homing. Even if you cannot offer a home, rescues are always needing foster homes, and just sharing the dog posts really helps us to help them.

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

A1 SPECIALIST CLEANING Carpets, Upholstery, 15 years experience 965 058 177 / 697 511 071 marc@barnaclebills.co.uk www.britishbusinesspageinspain.es

DOG SITTING HOME FROM HOME Secure garden,Costa Blanca North 637 160 545 K9, PET ONLY TRANSPORTATION We only use fully fitted out ex police vehicles to transport your pet. DEFRA Registered, Fully legal.Specialist in Animal only Transportation. Owners welcome to travel with there pets k9transportation@hotmail.com UK: (00)442380 668 000 SPAIN: 671 797 151 PET TRAVEL UK Family pet transporters Spain/UK. Travel with your pets for free. All air conditioned vehicles (no vans) www.pettraveluk.co.uk. Removals also

FRANCHISE OPPORTUNITY Own your own lingerie, clothing and swimwear boutique. Prices from 10,000 Euros including stock and shop fittings. Full help and support given throughout. Established company with over 10 years trading in Spain. Call Peter on 660 170 355 without obligation. MR FIXIT FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, GENERAL & Appliance Repairs. No Callout Charge. 698 320 434

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

LOOKING FOR REGULAR WORK Honest, reliable man with very clean 19m Iveco van. Tel Pego 653215922

LA BAMBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Ballroom Modern / Latin / Argentine Tango / Sequence Dancing Los Rosales Restaurant, Guardamar CV895 [near Lemon Tree Sunday Market] Monday - SOCIAL DANCE 8.30pm - 10.30pm [SEQUENCE CLASS 7.30pm - 8.30pm] Friday - SOCIAL DANCE 7.30pm - 10.30pm Wednesday - New Beginners Class [new beginners starting Wednesday 13th January 2016] 2pm -3pm Intermediate Class 3pm - 4pm Intermediate Plus Class 4pm - 5pm Andrea Murphy [0034] 616 478 157 TAPPY TOES DANCE CLASS FOR BABIES from 18 months, at 4kwatro in Albir, 11am, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information. LADIES DANCEFIT WITH L.A DANCE at 4kwatro in Albir, Mondays at 7.30pm, call Louise on 655 781 068 for more information

REPAIRS Washing machines, Dishwashers & Dryers. Also Boilers and any electrical problems. 24hours. Cheap prices Tel 604 273 387

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

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

MR FIXIT For all your electrical, Plumbing, General & Appliance & Boiler Repairs. No call out charge. 698 320 434

WANTED I BUY ANY CAR Van, Caravan, 4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600 781 873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com

WWW.PESTSRUSSPAIN.COM Cockroaches, Rats, Termites, Mold, Pine caterpillars, wasps etc... 620 874 657 Quote RTN for discount

PROBLEMS WITH INSECTS? Cockroaches, woodworm, rats & mice. Call 604 270 676 All insects

POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired. Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, conscientious service to the highest standards. Refurbishments and upgrades undertaken. Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems, ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed. All work guaranteed. British trained in the UK pool industry with over 18 years experience. 10 years served on the Costa Blanca. Torrevieja and surrounding areas including Costa Calida. Tlf: Pristine Pools on 966 774 199 or 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com NO CALLOUT CHARGE. SEE MAIN ADVERT ON FRONT PAGE OF CLASSIFIEDS

LA COMETA III CALPE Detached villa, 800 sqm set in a tranquil area only 3km from the centre of Calpe.2 bedrooms, air conditioning.Garden and private swimming pool. Sold Fully furnished. WAS 300,000€ REDUCED TO 250,000€ Call: 965831250

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

VAN LEAVING UK TO SPAIN 20th February.Space available. 652 079 071 / 00 44 7552985343 or email keithvanman9@gmail.com SPANISH MOVES Small removals and deliveries. Spain/UK Budget prices. Last minute jobs undertaken. www. spanishmoves.net. Pet transport also arranged in our air conditioned pet/people carriers. Telephone UK 0800 612 4922 or Spain 960130537

I BUY RECORDS LP´S SINGLES AND CD´s ANY STYLE, JAZZ, BLUES, POP, PUNK, ROCK, ETC... TOP CASH PAID. 622 750 117 RECORDS AND CDS WANTED Pop,Rock,Jazz,Blues.Top Cash Paid. 630 665 363

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016 at home. Torrevieja area. Details: headmaster@live.co.uk

MISUKI 42 ASIAN QUALIFIED MASSEUSSE, WONDERFUL ATHLETIC BODY. THE BEST STRONG AND COMPLETE MASSAGE . GREAT STIMULATION. LA ZENIA/CABO ROIG. www.sensualspain.net 672872050 MARY THE SWEETEST POLISH FRIEND IS BACK IN CABO ROIG. WONDERFUL BODY, KISSES, FANTASIES, UNFORGOTABLE ATTENTION. CABO ROIG OPPOSITE HEALTH CENTER/BAR MED. 8TH MAR ST. APART. 66. www.sensualspain.net 672 872 050 SIRLEY 30 CURVOUSOUS BODY, NATURAL BIG BREAST, QUALIFIED MASSEUSSE DEEP STRONG OR RELAXING MASSAGE. TECHNICS TO DELAY EYACULATION, PROSTATE STIMULATION. 15TH TURQUESA ST.(SPANISH FLAG). OPPOSITE ZENIA BOULEVARD. www.sensualspain.net 656 314 941. LADIES ENJOY A SENSUAL SPANKING and so much more, it’s FREE ! The Headmaster visits you

CINDY 40 THE HORNIEST VENEZUELAN WOMAN FOR ALL YOUR FANTASIES. ANAL. WONDERFULL BODY, EROTIC LENGERIE. 600 784 461 \\\\ 607 735 745. www.sensualspain.net GENERIC VIAGRA Blue Pill Spain supplies all your generic Viagra at the best prices. Buy Super Kamagra, Kamagra, Kamagra Polo, Super PForce, Aurogra, Tadalafil/Cialis or weight loss pill Sibutril. email bluepillspain@gmail.com or call 660 332 803. Nationwide Delivery Service SOPHIE ESCORT Slim elegant naughty lady. Hotel/home visit available. Tel: 693 357 526 CASA ANGELA TORREVIEJA Luxury Private Chalet, parking. Drinks invitation. Feeling alone? Just want some company? Exotic girls from South America. Call us, come and enjoy! Also Escort Service. Full discretion. Street: Avenida Asociacion Vistimas del Terrorismo. 609 573 468 or 639 832 118

Friday, February 12 - Thursday, February 18 2016

Cartagena Rugby round up LAST WEEKEND was very important for the world of rugby.

Read the full story on page 60.