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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Coastal Emergency Centre grinds to a halt
DOES ANYBODY know what’s happening about the building of the Emergency Services Centre at La Zenia, on the Orihuela Costa? p8
No other company can do it better!
Issue 623
Horrors of dog pound by Jack Troughton
RTN NETWORK HAS been attracting thousands of customers for more than 2years p20
ANIMAL LOVERS have made 31 complaints alleging animals are being kept in horrific conditions at a local authority backed shelter on the Costa Blanca. Volunteer workers past and present, people who have previously adopted dogs and cats, and two animal associations have denounced the Sociedad Protectora de Animales y Platas de Benidorm. Allegations of animal cruelty were lodged with SEPRONA last month, the wing of the Guardia Civil which polices the environment and animal welfare. It is understood the shelter is supported by Benidorm Town Hall to the tune of 33,000€, while Villajoyosa provides a further 15,000€.
Don’t forget your health Health insurance is probably something you’ve thought about and maybe even purchased. But how do you know which of the multitude of choices for healthcare is right for you? p34
Caring for your eyes this summer Read more on p44
tennis trouble
Andy Murray says the world’s top tennis players could go on strike as the tournament calendar is too long p62
RESCUE
PCN opens its third shop Paul Cunningham Nurses officially opened their new Charity Shop in La Marina on Wednesday and who better to officially cut the ribbon than RTN’s Managing Director, Geoff Gartland and PCN President, Jennifer Cunningham. Read the full story on page 7.
The shelter is home to some 300 dogs, around 40 cats, and the odd donkey and a horse said to “cry” for food. In past years it has also rescued monkeys and other more exotic animals. RTN was shown photographs of animals covered in ticks, pools of diarrhoea and blood, and animals alleged to be sick and neglected. And there were also pic-
tures of the food given to dogs and cats – left-overs from the resort’s hotels, including chicken carcasses and pieces of ham, and chips, with extras such as pieces of serviette and ketchup sachets. A source close to the police investigation revealed it was thought there was enough evidence to prosecute and copies of statements made to SEPRONA have been handed to Benidorm Town Hall. Matters came to a head in July when volunteers working at the pound discovered the remains of a dead body covered in flies – a full time worker putting it in a plastic bag and dumping it at the rear of the building. BLOOD RTN was told by protesters who asked not to be identified. “He didn’t even pick up the bedding. There was blood all over the place in the cage and other puppies were licking it – when we asked why it was not cleaned, he said he had other priorities. “We later found an open trench at the rear of the pound – there were lots of plastic bags, animal excrement, piles of old food and hundreds of maggots.” Continued on page 3
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
How safe is an investment?
3
by Julie Day READERS CONSIDERING investing a cash sum with a bank are advised to proceed with caution following the experiences of three friends persuaded by employees of Banco Guipuzcuano to indulge in investments that carried the Bank’s ‘guarantee’ that their capital was ‘safe’. In fact they had unknowingly signed purchase agreements for ‘participaciones preferentes’, or ‘preference shares’. These shares in fact do not protect the investor’s capital. On the contrary, such shares are generally marketed as being high profit investments with interest paid every few months but in general the money is inaccessible for five years in a volatile investment where share values can fluctuate dramatically. At present thousands of such investors are seeing shares once valued at 100€ drop to 30€. For many share speculators such investments represent an ‘acceptable risk’. In the case of the three RTN readers that invested in 2006 with the Banco Guipuzcuano (purchased by Banco Sabadell this year), however, the shares were allegedly mis-sold from the outset. Their capital totalling 63,000€ was guaranteed ‘secure’ on a number of occasions by different employees of the bank presenting glossy brochures and promises of healthy profits. To complicate matters still further, the friends are alleging that no ‘terms and conditions’ accompanied their contract - these were not provided until 2009. They also claim that the word ‘share’ was never mentioned in Spanish or English. RTN contacted the Sabadell Bank in Torrevieja. They said “Of course we want to help these people, but there is nothing we can do other than what we have already told them, which is to make an appeal to the CNMV, the Bank of Spain, or make a ‘denuncia’. When the shares were issued they were at a high rate and they were only unhappy with the product when they saw how the value of the shares dropped.” The fact remains, however, that any bank customer might reasonably expect to be appraised of the risks attached to an investment at the point of purchase, and the National Commission of the Market of Values (CNMV) has issued strong warnings related to such products. See www.cnmv.es for more information. Anyone else in the same situation prepared to join a class action is invited to contact RTN. Details will then be forwarded. Continued from front page A diary noting volunteers’ concerns has been kept since last winter but anyone airing views against the Protectora was told they are no longer welcome there. However, former volunteers who worked there years ago have also been traced and made statements. “We have been told we should not take what happens at the pound outside the pound – anything that happens must remain within the organisation – we were not even allowed complaint forms,” RTN was told. “But we have decided to make some noise – in the end we got together: volunteers, exvolunteers, people who have saved animals, and decided to go to SEPRONA.” And as the protest gathered momentum, samples of the food were sent to a laboratory to be analysed – it was found to be laden with bugs, including the deadly E-Coli. “It says in the report that the food is not fit for animal consumption,” said one volunteer. “The food is just thrown down in cages and left in the hot sun.” The volunteers also complain there were dogs suffering lung and ear infections, skin conditions, some with open wounds. They also allege that dogs were being housed in unsuitably sized cages and proper records were not being kept. “There is a whole catalogue of complaints and we will continue to campaign for these poor animals.” Speaking for the shelter’s management, Pilar Lopez Cepeda said police had carried out an inspection and were scheduled to return at the end of the month. Recommended changes and repairs were already being acted on. “We had been accepting food from hotels
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but were told this should not be given to the animals. At the moment this is still given in the mornings but anything left after 15 or 29 minutes is taken away,” she said. “In the evenings we give animals proper pet food.” And Pilar said the shelter had accepted rescued animals from all over the Marina Baja for 40 years and was still hoping to move to new premises. She believes troublemakers are behind the campaign. “At the beginning of August we had to fire three people – these volunteers were a couple and a single guy. “This was because they could not get along with everyone else and they were asked to go.” Pilar said photographs shown to the press could have been taken anywhere in the world. “But when animals first arrive here it is normal that they are sick and upset… it is normal.”
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Ryanair begins to pull out of Alicante by jan Gamm RYANAIR, El Altet’s largest carrier, has announced the imminent cancellation of 57 direct flights from Alicante linking a number of European cities, representing a 40% reduction in service affecting around 2.5 million passengers. The move is the result of Ryanair’s battle with airport authority AENA’s insistence that the airline board passengers via air bridges and not from the ground. Ryanair protests that boarding passengers via air bridges affects their impressive 25 minute turnaround and also their ‘no frills’ service, and would result in pushing up fares. The most significant cancellations will inconvenience 1,000 passengers per week using the Alicante – Zaragoza route. The reduction from 11 to 2 aircraft this winter (5 aircraft based in winter 2010), reduces passenger traffic at El Altet from 4m passengers p.a. to 1.5m. OUTRAGE Outraged passengers have begun a petition to persuade AENA to reverse its decisions concerning the use of air bridges in order to enable the airline to restore service to the routes affected that include Murcia, Logroño, Zaragoza, Pamplona, Santander, Valladolid, Palma, Pisa, Venice, Paris, Poznan, Fez and Marrakesh with more to come. Ryanair will ground 80 of the 300 aircraft that make up its fleet to implement the reduction in service, having a devastating impact on staffing in Alicante, one of its major bases in Europe. SAFETY The row that prompted Ryanair’s drastic decision to cut its service out of El Altet ignited with AENA’s ruling that passengers at El Altet could only be boarded from the ground during the winter season due to passenger safety being compromised by heavy summer ground traffic. Ryanair strongly refutes that passenger safety is the issue and contends that
Ryanair boarding from the ground - “not a safety issue”
AENA’s motives for enforcing the use of air bridges are purely financial. AENA stubbornly claims that tests carried out in May confirm an “unacceptable risk” to passengers boarding from the tarmac in the summer. UNLAWFUL Ryanair’s Head of Communications Stephen McNamara, speaking to RTN exclusively on Tuesday, points out that AENA’s actions are not only impractical but also unlawful. And the airline’s unprecedented trimming of its Alicante service is estimated to represent a staggering €30 million loss in revenue in the area and hundreds of job losses. “AENA should explain why there is no safety issue with Ryanair’s walk on/ walk off procedures at 20 other AENA airports in Spain or at over 140 other EU airports Ryanair flies to,” he said. As the economic climate forces seatbelts tighter, Costa Blanca passengers relying on low-budget flights will be forced to consider more expensive alternatives, while Ryanair remains adamant that passenger safety is in no way compromised and continues to fight AENA through the courts over the air bridge issue.
Peaceful protest stops eviction of mother and her children
23 - 29 Sept 2011
PAH protesters prevent the eviction of Mari Carmen and her children
by julie Day THE LOCAL citizen platform ‘PAH Torrevieja y Vega Baja, Stop Desahuicos’, a non-political group with the sole aim of helping those affected by the threat of eviction due to being unable to make mortgage payments through unemployment and other such circumstances, triumphed on Monday. Their peaceful protest and unity prevented a woman and her children from being evicted from their home. Mari Carmen, a native of Equatorial Guinea, resident in Spain for more than 15 years and working up until 2009, bought her home in Benejúzar with the help of a mortgage for 140,000€. After losing her job because of the economic crisis, the single parent, who receives no economic aid from the father of her children nor from the government, soon became unable to make the monthly mortgage payments of 630€.
AUCTION The bank put her house under auction for 70,000€ but as no buyer came forward, it was sold for 20,000€ - seven times lower than the amount she had paid for it. The group, who are in favour of cancelling the whole debt by giving up the property, gathered outside Mari Carmen’s home at 11am on Monday morning. Their presence impeded her exiting her home and picking up the judicial eviction order, which was being delivered by a judicial official. Two hours later at 1pm, the official left, unable to carry out the task at hand. PAH Torrevieja will now try to open discussion with the bank and arrange for Mari Carmen to receive some kind of social rental help before giving up her home. The group have also been successful in helping others in similar situations in the Torrevieja and Alicante region.
Pupils forced to pay for ‘free’ bus service By Julie Day TORREVIEJA’S NEW department for Education is under fire from opposition party APTCE opposition party due to the withdrawal of free transport affecting some schoolchildren in the expanding municipality. The entitlement falls to children residing more than 3km distant from school and until now local police deemed which children qualified as ‘3km distant’. Now, however, the local council measures the relevant geographic points using a version of Google Maps that traces an imaginary line between school and home yet disregards roundabouts, one-way streets and certain buildings, relegating hundreds of kids to the sector required to pay for their school bus fares. According to APTCE the same children will not only lose their free transport but also their free lunch – privileges that represent a saving of 80€ per month in some primary institutions. In response, the councillor for education, Daniel Plaza, affirmed that although the contract with the Costa Azul bus company ending 9th November prompted an alternative model of subsidy for school transport, needy families will “be given every support,” subsidised by a minimum of 50% and some at 100%. Plaza also accused APTCE of “scare-mongering” on a subject about which they are “illinformed.” He concluded by saying that the doors and offices of all town hall departments are always open to attend to parents’ doubts. Plaza attended a series of meetings with education and transport professionals this week following the decision of the Valencian Government to remove five of the municipality’s school buses as part of a cost-cutting campaign, forcing the town hall to purchase new vehicles to cope with demand: 14 infant and primary schools and five secondary schools were recently built on the outskirts of the city due to space restriction nearer to the town centre.
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
6
A few insurance pitfalls
by
Jennifer Cunningham
WHAT A minefield trying to select an insurance company to go with in Spain. Offers on the UK television re: insurance are endless and it is easy to forget that we live in Spain with different rules and regulations - and prices. People assume that they are dealing with a very experienced and well-known UK company as they use the same name and logo, but I assure that this is NOT true. Price is not the only factor to consider, indeed nasty mistakes can happen when only cost is taken into consideration. For example, third party is often quoted in place of fully comprehensive. Never forget it is the car that is insured in Spain, therefore all the seats need to be insured, though only covering the driver will of course cost less but if the passengers are not covered, should the car be involved with an accident, who pays the passenger’s costs? This could be the start of an ongoing nightmare! ALWAYS, ALWAYS CHECK YOUR POLICY CAREFULLY Waiving excess is another trick, but this will only be for one claim, therefore protected no claims bonus in my opinion is a far better option, however, very few insurers offer this type of bonus. Combine this with home start assistance, choice of garage, worldwide cover and you begin to realise the type of cover that my company is able to offer you. Moving on to house insurance, again, many of the advertisments can be very misleading, some
companies only offer very selective content cover, meaning not all your furniture, beds, clothes etc will be paid out on a claim. Unless optional accident cover is available, landslide and earth tremor damage will not be covered. Earthquakes over a certain Richter scale rating along with excessive winds and rain will be covered by the Spanish consortium. This is a government department which all Spanish insurers pay an amount of your premium each year… Returning to house insurance, unless you are asked for detailed information on security measures, you will find, once again, when an assessor from the insurance company visits your home regarding a claim, the first obvious question will be the security of your home. Insufficent security once again, could be a main reason of not being reimbursed on your claim. Unfortunately, unlike the UK, there is no regulation in Spain regarding misleading advertising or useless verbal promises. With so many desperate people trying to earn a living, I am fully aware there is a great deal of mis-selling. Always select a company that has been established for some years, preferably an SL or SA company. This gives the client far more protection. At the same time checking they enjoy a good reputation for service, honesty and integrity. An example for the type of dangers to look out for is giving your credit card details to a company on a promise of a further discount. This does not make commercial sense and you could find out
Jennifer Cunningham Insurances S.L The Costas leading insurance consultant. If you have a question please email her at: jennifer@jennifercunningham.net Regulated and Authorised by the DGSFP in Spain.
that until your card expires, you will no doubt discover that it will be used each year for renewals without your prior consent. Another difficult situation can be when you have either a holiday home or your permanent home is unoccupied for more than 30 days at a time. Unless you are asked these questions and the information you give is accurate, the policy will become invalid! It would appear that worldwide insurance companies do not enjoy a good reputation. From where I sit, this is very very unfair, but I am used to comments of , “insurance is just a big con and they never seem to pay out “ is often shouted at my staff, when the assessor refuses to pass either the complete claim or only a portion of it. This decision, I can assure you, will always be based on years of experience and your particular policy. Insurance is NOT an extended warranty or a maintenance contract, sometimes wrong insurance can be worse than no insurance. My company, which has been established since 1992 prides itself on best advice, best price, and an accurate valid policy, supported by our own in-house claims departments and local offices, whilst all our policies are in English and always have been. PS: Watch out for out adverts in the next 2 weeks, to find out details of our exciting open day at the Herradura Los Montesinos on October 13th from 10.30 – 5.30pm in conjunction with Paul Cunningham Nurses!
23 - 29 Sept 2011
PCN opens its third shop Torrevieja
works its way towards universal accessibility
by Louise Clarke THE PAUL Cunningham Nurses charity is well into its third year of operation and this week saw the official opening of its third charity shop, located on Avenida Londres 1 in La Marina Urbanisation. More than 50 people attended the event on Wednesday evening including the charity’s president, Jennifer Cunningham, and RTN’s Geoff Gartland, a staunch supporter of PCN since its inception. The new shop is spacious and bright and thanks to the hard work of all the volunteers and Chris Rodley, who manages the new shop as well as the charity’s two other shops in Quesada and Playa Flamenca, the ‘shop’ looks more like a ‘boutique’ with dozens of high class clothes and accessories. Chris explained to RTN the importance of all three shops for much-needed charity funds. He said: “Sadly, due to the economic climate, obtaining income from fundraising events is not as easy as it once was and so we are becoming more reliant on the income that we receive from the charity shops to fund the nurses, all of whom do such a worthwhile and valuable job helping ill and terminally ill people.” VOLUNTEER Unlike the UK, Spain does not have any subsidiaries or tax benefits for charities, so must function like any other business, even though they are classed as ‘non-profit’ organisations. The shops must pay the same rent, taxes and rates as any other business and therefore a percentage of the income from the charity shops has to go on overheads even before funding the nurses; that is why they need more donations and more volunteers to help them get to where they need to be. Chris commented: “We are always looking for reliable volunteers. If there is anyone out there who would like to volunteer all they need to do is just pop into one of the shops and put their name down.” PROUD Jennifer Cunningham, President of the charity named after her son Paul who died of cancer, was delighted to be at the opening of the charity’s third shop. She said: “I am over the
7
Geoff Gartland and Jennifer Cunninham at the opening of the new shop
moon and so very proud of all the volunteers and nurses. It’s a beautiful shop and it certainly looks more like a boutique than a charity shop. I particularly would like to thank Chris who is the manager of all three shops and has been an integral part in the opening of this shop. I would also like to thank everybody who has donated items for the shops and for the donations from fund raising events; without which the charity would not be able to survive.” All three PCN charity shops are open from 10am until 2pm Monday – Saturday.
By Julie Day TORREVIEJA IS leading the way for universal accessibility within the town by starting plans to modify municipal regulations ahead of the legal requirement to do so in January 2019. As a result of social and public demand, councillors for Town Development, Francisco Moreno, and for Accessibility, Tomás Ballester, are working together on a project that they say will guarantee universal accessibility to all public spaces including green areas, beaches, municipal parks and gardens and municipal buildings. The project will also include creating wider
pavements with more ramps for wheelchair users, more disabled parking bays and better access into public buildings. A new Municipal Office for Accessibility will be opened shortly, where it will be possible for residents to offer their suggestions to the team. These will be studied in detail and may even be added to the new regulations. Moreno has claimed that with the help of this project it will be possible to consolidate the project already started, the removal of all architectural barriers within the city centre so that access and enjoyment of the facilities are possible for everyone.
Summer finally over THE SPANISH Meteorological Agency has forecast a widespread drop in temperatures over the whole of Spain this week after a hot, hot, hot summer that is finally over. Rain is expected in the North of the country and in mountainous areas, with some thunderstorms making an appearance over the weekend.
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Coastal Emergency Centre grinds to a halt
The grand ‘works opening’ that took place earlier this year
by Louise Clarke DOES ANYBODY know what’s happening about the building of the Emergency Services Centre at La Zenia, on the Orihuela Costa? This was the question posed to RTN last week by a concerned coastal resident and so, ever eager to please our readers, we endeavoured to find out! Work on the Coastal Emergency Centre started almost a year ago and was the subject of a grand ‘works opening’ earlier this year when the then Mayor of Orihuela, Monica Lorente and the then Valencia Councillor for Security, Serafin Castellano, declared that it would be open by the end of this year. Since then though, we had the municipal elections in May and now work seems to have stopped completely! Our Concerned Resident commented: “At first we thought it might start again after the traditional August holiday break, but it is three weeks into September and whenever you drive past there isn’t a workman in sight, let alone any activity.” They concluded: “Do you know if the new Council are still behind the project and intend to ensure that it is completed? And if they are, when will it be finished?” Good question Concerned Resident, when will this very important piece of coastal infrastructure be completed?
STALEMATE Despite everyone assuming that the cessation of this project is political, RTN can tell you that unfortunately, it appears that this is just another one of those ‘builders gone bust’ stories. Councillor for the Coast, Bob Houliston, explained: “The Emergency Services Centre is a real bad luck story. It is financed with money from Valencia and so responsibility for the contract for carrying out the work is also with the regional government in Valencia. “The contract was duly awarded and work advanced impressively well, but then… the builder went bankrupt!” He continued: “No other builder on the list of those who tendered for the work is interested in taking over the project. The main reason seems to be that the Generalitat will not pay until the work is finished. “A further complication will be that the company which takes over will have to assume responsibility for work they did not carry out themselves. So we have a stalemate. We are trying to find a builder. It is very frustrating - in the case of a project of such importance for Orihuela Costa - and for once it is not a question of money.” So, there you have it Concerned Resident…yet another unfinished building takes pride of place in Orihuela Costa.
23 - 29 Sept 2011
Couple’s perfect day by jack Troughton TWO YEAR’S of planning insured childhood sweethearts Rachel and Gavin Varrall enjoyed a romantic wedding celebration. Rachel, who works for RTN Network’s sales department, arrived at the Andaluz Restaurant, Moraira, in a horse drawn carriage – and after a civic ceremony the same method of transport was used to take them to the picturesque setting of Moraira Castle for the official photographs. Rachel and Gavin were both teenagers when they met in Javea – Rachel a student at the Lady Elizabeth School in Lliber and Gavin attending Xabia International College, their enduring relationship ensuring there was not a dry eye in the restaurant as they both tied the knot. “Because everyone has seen me and Gavin
grow up together it got on top of them and everyone was crying their eyes out,” said Rachel. PARTY She said 50 people flew to Spain especially for the wedding – Gavin’s uncle making a trip from South Africa and others travelling long distances. By the time the party was in full swing there were around 150 guests. “It started off as a simple affair but then went crazy,” she added. It was two years worth of planning. Gavin thought it would be two years of extra freedom – but there was too much work to do. “I wanted a perfect princess day and that’s what we got. It was very special.” And Rachel said her new husband, who runs his own gardening company, GV Gardens, was “much more nervous than I was.”
Elena Lloret Vilera represents Spanish team at World Junior Cycling Championship ATHLETE ELENA Lloret Villajoyosa has been selected, along with three other runners, to represent Spain this week at the World Cycling Championship currently trialing in Copenhagen, Denmark. The councilman of Sports City of Villajoyosa, Pedro Ramis, said: “It’s a matter of pride that a runner reaches these heights of athletic success.” Elena Lloret has been Champion of Spain 2010 and Champion of Spain Cup Cyclo-Cross on two occasions this year, 2011, and was fifth in the championship individual time trial in Spain and online.
Storm warning
Javea beach in 2007
EMERGENCY PLANS are being finalised for predicted heavy rain and a possible ‘Gota Fria’ in the coming weeks. Local authorities in the Marina Alta are carefully studying weather forecasts and co-ordinating operations by professionals and volunteer bodies in the case of torrential downpours. In Javea, Councillor Juan Ortola chaired a meeting and said high September temperatures and a warm sea – the water was said to be around 26 degrees Centigrade – “increased the risk factor of a Gota Fria.” The councillor for the safety of citizens said workers for the Department of environment had already begun cleaning the drains in areas most prone to flooding. “Some had already been cleared but they will be cleaned again following leaves that have fallen in the past few days,” he said. The bed of the River Gorgos and other water courses will also be cleared of plants and debris – wreckage, particularly bamboo, was responsible for blocking the water’s escape during the storm of 2007 – described as the worst in living memory. Mr Ortola said co-ordinated planning was essential and schools and other council centres would be warned to take preventative measures. And pamphlets containing information about recommended action I the case of severe storms is to be distributed around the town. The councillor said he did not want to cause unnecessary “alarm” but wanted the population to know how to act in a difficult situation.
Rachel and Gavin
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‘Clunk click every trip’ sadly Top Conservative lacking on the Costa Blanca comes to the Coast POLICE ON the Costa Blanca are clamping down on the incorrect use of seatbelts and other restraints in vehicles in collaboration with Trafico. Over a week of police checks it was noted that 26% of vehicles did not utilise safety restraints correctly with a total of 302 drivers pulled aside to be either cautioned or booked. Special attention was paid to drivers carrying children requiring child seats and it was found that many children sitting in the front passenger seat did not meet height and weight restrictions. The campaign was deliberately conducted to coincide with the beginning of the school year in early September.
by Louise Clarke
Mike Dolley
LAST FRIDAY, 16th September, Conservatives Abroad welcomed a top Conservative Party Campaigner to the Costa Blanca. Mike Dolley, Deputy Director of Campaigning at Conservative Party HQ in London was here to help to launch a new Conservatives Abroad branch in the Torrevieja/Orihuela Costa area. Mike was on a two day trip to this part of Spain, spending time in the south of the region and then as a guest speaker at a lunch in Benidoleig, with members of the already well-established Javea branch of Conservatives Abroad. During the meeting in Orihuela Costa, Mr Dolley explained how there was an increasing disquiet about British citizens legitimately living, working or studying outside the UK losing their right to vote after living abroad for more 15 years. He said: “There are employees of British Telecom and BAE, for example, working hard for the success of their British companies, and therefore the British economy, and after 15 years we say thanks very much - you can no longer vote for your country. How perverse is that?” VOTE He continued: “I have met those people who have fought for Queen and Country and now cannot vote. You do not have to convince me that we have to stop this disenfranchisement of legitimate passport-holding Brits.” He concluded: “We now have to work together to convince the Government and Parliament to change the law.” In response to the question of ‘how?’ he added: “There is new legislation currently being considered by Mark Harper MP, Minister for Constitutional and Political Reform and we need to convince him. I implore British expatriates to send him an email telling him what they think as well as telling their MP (in the constituency in which you last lived in the UK) that they want to vote for her or him and until they vote to change the law, they can’t vote for them.” Mr Dolley encouraged all present to get their friends, families and neighbours to join the debate and to use modern technology, not only email but Twitter and Facebook, to lobby for a change in the law. Mark Harper’s email address at the Cabinet office is psmarkharper@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk or he can be written to at The Cabinet Office, 70 Whitehall. London SW1A 2AS SYMPATHETIC Conservatives Abroad is the part of the Conservative Party for expats all over the world and there is currently no branch in the southern part of the region. For those sympathetic to the Conservative Party back in the UK that are interested in supporting a new Branch here, express your interest by emailing conservativesabroadspain@gmail.com or call Gerald (who is Secretary of the Javea branch) on 96 619 7239. You can also email him at margaretgeraldhales@gmail.com or visit the Tory website: www.conservatives.com.
Alicante prosecutes 300 for street prostitution in two months POLICE ON a crusade to reduce street prostitution in the city of Alicante have managed to cut the incidence of street soliciting by 80% over the past two months, with a total of 300 people charged and fined. Most of those fined were prostitutes but also some customers were brought to book in the campaign that focused on areas near schools. The ordinance prohibiting street prostitution took effect in February, carrying a penalty of 750€ escalating to fines of up to 1,500€ for acts of prostitution carried out within 200 feet of a school and topping 3,000€ in the case of paid sex in a public area.
Victims of dictatorships attend conference
Part of the conference
by Jan Gamm CHILDREN OF Argentinians and Germans that disappeared during the Spanish Civil War have given their testimonies at a conference entitled ‘Historical Memory, Identity and Trauma’ in the Frax Foundation, Alfas del Pi. The conference was opened by Supreme Court Prosecutor Carlos Castresana and Julian Chaves, Head of Contemporary History at the University of Extremadura. Also attending were Ernesto Espeche, University of Cuyo Argentina, Ricardo Martin de la Guarda of the University of Valladolid, and Glicerio Sanchez of the AU. Speakers relate past experiences in their respective native languages, translated for the benefit of other guests. Not all the attendees are lawyers or health professionals; some are students. Subjects covered are human rights; identity and trauma of children in war; and its reflection in the arts, especially cinema, painting and literature. The conference concluded Saturday 17th September with a final ‘round table’ discussion.
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Fantastic job I WOULD like to make a comment about Torrevieja hospital. I had a heart attack on 23rd April at 7.30am - I didn’t know that I had had an attack as I only had an indigestion type of pain but to be ‘on the safe side’ my husband took me to hospital. After an ECG I went to ICU and during the following days had various tests. They told me I had to have a by-pass, so on 5th May I went to Vinalopo in Elche. The same day I had a quadruple by-pass. In two days I was up and walking. I came home 10th May and in two months I was tap dancing again. Torrevieja and Vinalopo hospitals saved my life. ALL the staff and surgeons were fantastic and so was the aftercare. By the way, I am over 70 and feel like a 30-yearold. Pam Prior
talk tous
Email letters to rtnmail@roundtownnews.com with your full name and address
Email: rtnmail@roundtownnews.com
Who’s kiddin’ who I AM writing a book – it’s entitled ‘Who’s Kiddin’ Who’ and is about women over 40 that come to Spain, dye their hair blonde and get the obligatory tattoo (usually a rose on the ankle or shoulder) then to top it off they squeeze their cellulite-encrusted fat bottoms into clothes designed for a teenager. If they can’t afford facial augmentation, you will spot them wearing huge sunglasses, a cheap cover-up for crows’
feet and baggy-saggy eyes. They usually end up visiting an animal rescue centre for a substitute family member and leave with a handbag-sized mutt. No release date yet but I’m hoping to get ‘The Wurzels’ to play on its ‘launch day’. If you’re a woman in Spain growing old gracefully then you can buy the book then give it to the thousands it reminds you of. Alan, Calpe
It’s nice to be nice
WHEN READING the many ‘conservative’ contributions in the Costa Blanca English press I am struck by the missing link in their thought processes. Whether they are Conservatives, Republican Tea Party nutters, Christian Democrats or just plain bloody fascists they do not have the ability to think of others before themselves, i.e. without selfishness Capitalism cannot exist. According to that great moral philosopher Immanual Kant and his Categorical Imperative; ‘Act in such a way that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, always at the same time as an end and never as a means to an end’. As we say in Liverpool for the hard of thinking “It’s nice to be nice.” Jack Johnson, Villajoyosa
Let’s have some solidarity on this one IN RESPONSE to Noel’s comments recently in his golf column, I have to say he is ‘dead on’. For example, we are a small society of average 16 players. Although our email address shows as ‘Guardamar Golf’ we are actually based in La Marina. We do not and have no intentions of using anyone other than our secretary to book our golf. We have a list of courses that we have built up over the four years that we have been established: our view is that if the course has to pay someone a booking fee then the money has to come from somewhere and when times are hard the green fees may have to be increased to subsidise this extra cost - maybe not all in one go but “poco a poco” as the Spanish say. But as we book our own golf we play at courses where they give our ‘Captain’ a free game - he never gets it but its allocated in turn to our members, giving one of us a free game every now and then…
So, society secretaries, come on! Let’s have some solidarity on this one - advise courses that you want the same deal as these agents - if they won’t play ball, go elsewhere for a better deal but let the course know who is giving you a deal. Eventually some of them will come round to our way of thinking. Well done Noel, for bringing this to everyone’s attention. Re graffiti: I am sure that this is a sore point with us all and in reply to J Kennett’s letter last week would it be possible for one of the RTN reporters to go along to Guardamar Ayunamiento and advise them that Domti are selling a spray paint named ‘Graffit’- it is obvious that there is only one use for this cheap spray paint and that is to give these little artists a product they can afford to make our life a touch more unbearable. I fully agree that these people should be named and shamed along with their parents. Tony Allen, La Marina
Correcting a small detail
I SHOULD like to correct a small detail in Greg Knight’s letter concerning the driving age where he says that at the age of seventy one must undergo a medical examination in order to receive a new licence. That is not so. If an applicant has a clean bill of health; i.e. is able to tick all the right boxes, the licence is issued without question. Only in cases of a medical history is the applicant required to supply a medical report. Happily I am in the former category where the licence is issued for three years. So far I have renewed my licence twice at no cost. Hope this clarifies the procedure. Regards, Jane Burke
Barking dogs are a nightmare! HAVING READ that licences are being considered for dog owners I think they should also do something about the dog owners who think it’s funny to leave their dog barking all day in an apartment. I love living in La Cala De Finestrat but the barking dogs are a nightmare. There is one in my apartment block and it echoes all around the block when it barks and it goes on for hours. I think dogs should be banned from apartments and I think it’s cruel for a dog to be locked up in a hot apartment all day. Can’t be that much of a dog lover if they
do this! I’ve spoken to the concierge and he told the dog owner about the problem: she ignored him. I sent her a polite letter: she ignored that. Even my landlord spoke to her and it still goes on… I’ve had sleepless nights and headaches because of this barking. I just cannot see why this woman allows her dog to make my life a misery. I am now leaving the apartment after 4 months: I can’t stand it anymore. In future I am going to look for a block that doesn’t allow dogs! Mrs Karen Smith
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English only for medical profession in Europe by Jan Gamm IN A row accusing one of the UK’s most popular medical figures of racism, IVF pioneer Lord Winston denies that race discrimination is the issue and warns that foreign nurses are a “threat to safe medical practice” - an interesting point for English-speaking patients in Spain being treated by medical staff unable to communicate in English. In the UK Lord Winston insists that some European nurses put patients in danger through poor communication skills. ‘The Government really does need to recognise that the EU regulations at the moment are a very serious threat to medical practice in Britain. There is a very important aspect of healing that we forget: communicating with the patient and hearing their anxiety is often more important than the drugs they are taking,” said Lord Winston speaking at the Bradford Science Festival. Under strict EU laws, the Nursing and Midwifery Council watchdog is banned from testing nurses coming to the UK from Europe on either their language or clinical skills. Such tests are deemed to restrict the ‘free movement of labour’. The same rules apply to doctors. IMPORTANT Lord Winston continued, “…the solution ultimately is to negotiate better with Europe. We cannot go back on harmonising legislation but we need to make Europe understand that healthcare is more important.” Some patients have complained of being forced to use sign language to foreign nurses struggling to communicate effectively in English. A UK Department of Health spokesman said: ‘This Government is determined to make sure that foreign healthcare professionals are
Lord Winston
not allowed to work in the NHS unless they have proven their medical competence and language skills.” The point was illustrated by the case of a nurse serving a trifle with nuts to a patient with a nut allergy because she did not understand the medical notes provided. The Nursing and Midwifery Council said being bound to the rule “presents a risk to patient safety, with concerns over EU nurses and midwives’ language competence and knowledge of modern nursing standards.” ENGLISH FOR ALL There is some debate as to whether the medical profession in Europe should utilise a common international language for all in the interests of patient safety, as in the air traffic profession where English is a required skill for all Air Traffic Controllers.
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Young but not always reckless ACCORDING TO a recent study by the Mapfre Institute of Road Safety that surveyed 60,000 young drivers that had collectively completed more than 403 million kilometres, not all youngsters are irresponsible behind the wheel. It has been found that 90% of drivers between the age of 18 and 30 have a low risk profile. The report reveals that driving experience and the number of times vehicles are used daily influence losses that occur mainly on urban roads. Sundays generate fewer claims, while Mondays prompt far more accidents. Weekend crashes are fewer but of a more serious nature than weekday bumps. The driver profile deemed the least risk is that of a young man aged 26 with almost 6 years driving experience, making 2.2 trips per day by car each lasting 55 minutes! Most likely to have an accident are those aged 22 years 4 months with little experience on a recently obtained driving license (8 months) completing six journeys daily of 11 miles or less.
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Battle of Britain remembered by Patricia Thompson
THE ROYAL Air Forces Associaton (RAFA) Branch 1359 held a Battle of Britain Service of Commemoration at La Siesta Church on Thursday 15th September, attended by the British Consul, Paul Rodwell and representatives of the Town Hall of Torrevieja, including the Councillor for Foreigners, Rosario Martinez Chazarra and Graham Knight from the Foreigners Office. Also in attendance were members of the Royal Naval Association, Royal Marines Association and the Royal British Legion Branches of Torrevieja and Orihuela Costa, accompanied by their ‘Standards’.
The service was conducted for the first time by the RAFA Branch’s new Chaplain, The Reverend Christopher Scargill, who talked movingly to the congregation about the meaning of the special service and its significance in remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of good over evil. After the service the standards and congregation gathered at the nearby Garden of Remembrance where, after a short prayer and a minutes silence, wreaths were laid by the Chairman of the RAFA Branch, Brian Todd, and representatives of the RBL with special crosses laid by The Paul Rodwell and Rosario Martinez. Consul There followed the laying of memo- laying a rial crosses by individuals. cross
Chain of protests Great Response for Youth Tube Initiative at health centres CLEANING SERVICES workers employed at health centres throughout the Marina Baixa and Marina Alta have organised a chain of protests against non-payment of salaries across the region. Most have not been paid since the beginning of August, with some not receiving any remuneration for their work since March, causing financial hardship and considerable personal distress. The protestors hung banners fashioned from bed sheets across entrances to health centres, with five or six workers joining the protest at each location throughout the area. The Department of Health contracts private cleaning services company Kluh Linaer SL.
By Louise Clarke VIVA TV has been inundated with support for its new youth initiative following its launch last week. RTN reported on the new project for young people in last week’s paper after it had been backed by both the British Consul in Alicante, Paul Rodwell, and the British Embassy in Madrid. The ‘YouthTube’ programme, soon to be on our screens via the local television channel, is also being wholeheartedly supported by RTN and the newspaper will be reporting on some of the young people as they go about making their programmes. Simon Baldock, ‘YouthTube’ co-ordinator at Viva TV, told RTN: “Since the launch of ‘YouthTube’ during the opening of the Viva Media Centre last week, we have been absolutely delighted by the public response to the project. We have been receiving calls and emails from many quarters offering their help and also from lots of young people who want to get involved.” The channel would like all youngsters in the Alicante
province to record their experiences of life here on the Costa Blanca. They can use their mobile phones or any other recording equipment which they have access to and it will then be broadcast on ‘YouthTube’. In the meantime, they would also like some input from young people on the Costa Blanca for the programme’s logo and, through the pages of RTN, are appealing for someone to design the new ‘YouthTube’ logo. If you are a talented young graphic designer, why not get your thinking cap on and design a visually affective logo for the programme? The winning logo will be used in all promotional and marketing material as well as being seen on the telly! RTN will announce the winner in its newspaper the week after the closing date, which is Friday 30th September. RTN will also show some of the runners up entries as well. All entries must be sent via email to YouthTube’s coordinator Simon Baldock at simon@vivatv.es. This email address can also be used for any enquiries about the ‘YouthTube’ project.
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All masked up for charity by Louise Clarke BRITISH CONSUL Paul Rodwell was guest of honour last week at the annual Costa Blanca Samaritans (CBS) Gala Dinner Dance. The event was held at Crystals Restaurant in the La Fuente Commercial Centre in Orihuela Costa and was attended by more than 70 guests, all of whom adorned masks as a special ‘twist’ to the event. Music and entertainment was supplied free of charge by the amazing duo Ameritz, and Darren and Shirley Sheridan from Grange Asphalt Roofing in Leeds kindly supplied the Cava for the Bucks Fizz Reception. The management and staff of Crystals gave all the guests a night to remember and the food was absolutely delicious. CONFIDENTIAL Denise Brown, from CBS, the mastermind
behind the dinner dance, organised everything right to the last detail and was delighted with the feedback received afterwards. She was also very pleased to announce that 860€ was raised as a result of the event, both from ticket sales and from the night’s raffle, prizes of which were supplied by Paul and Kath Brown. The Costa Blanca Samaritans have two call centres open seven nights a week from 8pm until Midnight, providing emotional support to anyone who needs to talk to someone, especially if they are feeling low, depressed, lonely, stressed or experiencing emotional trauma of any kind. They have 50 volunteers manning the phones as well as one drop-in centre based in Calpe, in the north of the region. It is funded completely by donations and also offers a confidential email support service. You talk: they listen. If you need to talk to someone in confidence, please call 902 88 35 35 or visit www.costablancasamaritans.com.
British Consul, Paul Rodwell and some of the masked guests
Eurodisney hiring in Alicante THE UNIVERSITY of Alicante and the Alicante city council is to liaise with Eurodisney to select 400 recruits for work in Eurodisney Paris throughout the coming season. A shortlist of candidates will be selected by November for a final selection to be made in December. Eurodisney is to issue registration information shortly with details of locations and dates for interview. Successful applicants for positions in catering, reception, hotel services, sales, administration and accounting will require fluency in French to Intermediate Level. The positions will be on a temporary basis although a few permanent job opportunities are available.
Torrevieja celebrates ‘Family Day’ this Sunday By Julie Day TORREVIEJA’S DOÑA Sinforosa Park is the location for the celebration of the ‘Día de familia’ initiative this Sunday morning between the hours of 10am and 2pm. The family day, which will consist of recreational, fun and sporting activities for families, has been organised by the town hall department of Social Welfare together with SEAFI, the Specialised Service for the Attention of Families organisation. The aim of the day is to bring family members together whilst having fun and doing something different and it is aimed at families with children between the ages of three and 10. Events will include sack races, ball games, bouncy castles, crazy cars and other traditional family and group activities.
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New gym for Torrevieja
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Wedding of Duchess sells souvenirs in Seville
by Julie Day A BRAND new gymnasium with an investment of 160,000€ has been inaugurated within Torrevieja’s municipal sports facilities, enabling 100 people to train at the same time and accommodating up to 800 users a day. The new gym, open to members of the public and sports clubs alike, is located within the racket sports zone. It covers an area of 440m2, divided into three areas: cardio, strength, and training. It contains 38 new machines and is twice the size of the previous facilities. Mayor of Torrevieja, Eduardo Dolón, who opened the gym last week, congratulated Daniel Plaza, councillor for Sports, on his hard work and tremendous effort in ensuring that the new municipal gym is one of the best in the Valencian Community. For those interested in joining this brand new exercise centre, there is a fee of 15€ per month (45€ each trimester). The municipal gym is open from Monday – Friday from 9am – 1pm and 5pm – 10pm, and on Saturday mornings from 9am – 1pm.
Some of the new equipment
THE FORTHCOMING wedding of the octogenarian Duchess of Alba and 60-year-old Alfonso Diez on Wednesday 5th October has prompted a substantial souvenir trade in the Triana district in the heart of Seville. In true ‘Kate and Wills’ style there are stalls selling t-shirts bearing the legend ‘I Love DQS’, paper masks and badges by the dozen. Two mannequins in a shop doorway inspired a local troubadour to compose a wedding song for the couple and a local bookie is taking bets on wedding rings, outfits and guests invited.
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Get fit for Christmas! by louise Clarke BELIEVE IT or not but Christmas is only 93 days away, which is just over 13 weeks…! (Scary isn’t it?) And with the first Christmas adverts already being screened on the TV our thoughts turn to Christmas parties and events. Now I don’t know about you, but I have had far too many glasses of wine and barbeque food this summer and not nearly enough exercise (four laps of a ten metre pool just doesn’t burn those calories like it should!) Anyway, Jason Scawthorn from JPS Fitness along with the San Miguel de Salinas Town Hall, which has kindly allowed Jason to have access to the running track in the town, have come up with a Keep Fit and Look Great workout programme, which not only takes place away from the restraints of the gym, in the great outdoors, but also gives you the opportunity to gain a few friends and lose a few pounds cheaply. And more importantly before that festive season, when we all need to don those glad rags!
FUN The JPS Fitness ‘Boot Camp’ includes simple cardio training, natural body weight exercises interlaced with resistance training using medicine balls, Bulgarian weight belts, rubber bands and kettle bars (no I’ve not got a clue what they are either!) There will be individual and team work exercises and fitness evaluations every six weeks to ensure that you are getting the best out of the ‘Boot Camp’. Jason is a former British soldier and is also a qualified personal fitness trainer, so he knows what and how much each person can and can’t do. He will tailor make all the activities and exercises to suit each individual and as your fitness levels increase over the weeks, he will, in turn, increase your exercise regime. The camp promises to be a great fun-filled workout in the fresh air and in the company of like-minded people who all want to get fit and lose weight. So what are you waiting for? The camp starts on Monday 3rd October at 9.15am at the San Miguel running track. Put your name down now by calling Jason on 693 596 533 or email him at info@jpsfitness.net. Get that feel good factor and lose the pounds…all at the same time!
Jason
Nothing is sacred in Alicante
THIEVES ARE targeting mourners tending graves in Alicante cemetery, stealing valuables from cars while the bereaved are occupied with their dear departed. In some cases the graves have been stripped of silver photo frames. Many mourners leave handbags and other valuables locked in their cars while they place flowers on graves – ladies taking their handbags to the graveside are also at risk as thieves boldly steal from handbags placed on the ground while mourners’ backs are turned. Funerals are particularly risky as attendees leave their belongings in a line of parked cars during the service. One lady recently lost 700€ in cash intended to be used to pay the funeral director, identification documents, keys and even a supply of Insulin. Residents have written to the mayor demanding increased security at the cemetery.
Help us to help them
EASY HORSE Care Rescue Centre has been overwhelmed by the response of the public after reading about Roma. Unregistered horses, like Roma, who do not have a passport and microchip, are being left to starve to death when no longer wanted by their owners. Upon Roma’s rescue she was not only severely malnourished but also found to have ‘Cancer of the frog’, a large growth on the sole of the foot making it extremely painful for the horse to walk. She has now had the growth removed, enabling her to enjoy her freedom, turned out daily with Captain and Hope - two of our other equine residents hidden away to starve to death in a garage over a year ago. With care, attention and a nutritious diet Roma is getting stronger every day: anybody can make a difference by sponsoring one of our horses for as little as €5 per month - contact us directly. We must continue to campaign for the authorities to enforce the laws that are here for all animal welfare. Our long-term aim as a Rescue Centre is to develop into a bigger organisation so we can do more to help the horses that are constantly referred to us. The EHCRC relies only on charitable donations. We are open to the public all year round every day 1-4pm. On Sundays and Wednesdays we have guided tours, where visitors can meet our horses and donkeys and hear their stories. Visitors can also enjoy a light lunch or light refreshments available in the café garden, and all proceeds go towards the support of the centre. For more information visit our website www.easyhorsecare.net or call Sue on 652 021 980.
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Big Band success by louise Clarke LAST THURSDAY’S latest ‘Big Band Dance Night’ took place at the Hotel Spa Costa Narejos in Los Alcazares and what a great success it was; both for Gil Monks’ Swingtet Big Band and the people who came along to enjoy a fabulous evening of live music. With the band playing their own interpretations of numbers from Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Buddy Rich as well as Rock ‘n’ Roll, a Beatles medley and even some Sambas and Rumbas, there really was a truly varied selection for everyone. Set in the bar area of the fantastic Costa Narejos four star hotel, the 10 piece Swingtet Plus Big Band, comprising Barry Bretton on the keyboard; Geoff Hull on bass guitar; Arthur Buck on the drums; John Atkins and Inge Sunde playing the trumpets; Andy Briant on the trombone; Mike Hutchins on the tenor sax; Gloria Grimshaw on the baritone sax and Bandleader, Gil Monks on the alto sax, attracted more than 150 people; all of whom had a brilliant evening. SWEET Some of the numbers were accompanied by the sweet sounds of Patti Ross, who gave her vocal support to the
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evening on soft ballads and with rocking lyrics which had everyone on their feet! The regular Big Band Dance Nights are held at the hotel in aid of charity and the proceeds of the raffle from this month’s event supported the Help Mar Menor Cancer Support Group. There will be another Dance Night taking place 20th October and it is advisable to book in advance as these nights are certainly not to be missed! Tickets are available now from the Reception at the Hotel Spa Costa Narejos in Los Alcazares or by calling 96 858 3980. TREAT YOURSELF Meanwhile, every Monday evening, also at the Hotel Costa Narejos, until the end of the season in November, the Monks Duo will be performing from 9pm to 11.30pm, with Gil on tenor, flute and clarinet and Barry Bretton on the keyboard. These evenings have proved very popular over the past couple of years for both hotel guests and locals. So, why not treat yourself to an evening’s entertainment in four star surroundings, easy listening to some fabulous music and dancing if you feel like it. To see the Monks Duo admission is free: bar prices are extremely reasonable.
Spanish demonstrators arrested in Paris
ON MONDAY night French police rounded up between 80 and 100 demonstrators gathered in the Boulevard Saint Germain in Paris. Several Spanish nationals were included in those arrested and taken in for questioning. According to the police the protestors were involved in an “unauthorised demonstration” and were “causing an obstruction.” No one was injured during the arrests. On Tuesday, the spokesman in Congress Izquierda Unida, Gaspar Llamazares, demanded an explanation from the French Embassy in Spain regarding the retention of the Spanish ‘indignados’ detained. Meanwhile, according to Twitter, the 15-M movement is organising protests against the French embassy in Madrid and Barcelona.
Patti Ross and Maggie Milne Photo courtesy of Eddie Sammons
Learning curve amongst the vines by Jan Gamm EIGHT HIGH school students of the Andreu Sempere College in Alcoy began harvesting in local vineyards this week as part of a training programme that concentrates on work experience, offering students a choice of careers in the agricultural industry. The programme is under the supervision of the bodega Muro Celler La Muntanya. Students will be trained to ultimately gain qualifications in harvesting and wine production. Professor Rosa Maria Torres will Students be responsible for coordination and supervision snipping in close liaison with professionals within the among the vines workplace.
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No other company can do it better! by Louise Clarke RTN NETWORK HAS been established for more than two years, attracting thousands of customers thanks to its excellent customer service and competitive prices. One of them, Peter Masters, has been so happy with his experience with the telephone and internet company that he took some time out of his busy schedule this week to tell RTN all about it. “I have been with RTN Network since March this year and I am delighted with it!” declared Peter, who lives in San Isidro. “We were using Telefonica for the line rental and then had dial up for our internet with another provider,” he explained, “but the dial-up was a pain in the neck. It was really slow and it became very frustrat-
ing, so we decided to look elsewhere.” Peter and his wife Suzanne took some time (literally given that they were on dial-up) to trawl through the internet and find an alternative provider. It was then that they came across www.roundtownnetwork.com and they haven’t looked back since. PROACTIVE “The unique selling point for my wife and I,” said Peter, “is that with RTN Network, you can suspend your account when you are not in Spain for a period of time, so for us that was ideal as we only spend five or six months of the year here and as far as I am aware there is no other company that can offer that.”
Peter and Suzanne Masters are delighted with RTN Network
Peter also praised RTN Network’s excellent Customer Service. He said: “The fact that I can call and speak to them in English and that they action everything as soon as I ask them to is such a refreshing change to what we are used to, especially here in Spain!” He added: “Rather than being reactive, they are proactive and we often get a courtesy call from them checking that everything is okay and that we are happy with their service. I cannot praise the customer service more; they are attentive as well as patient, especially with a PC dinosaur like me!” EFFICIENT Since moving over to the Network, the Masters have been in regular contact with family and friends in the UK, thanks to their monthly free minutes and slow internet response is now a thing of the past after they upgraded to 3Mbs ADSL with unlimited downloads. Peter commented: “I have done a speed test many a time and it is always on the dot or very close to 3Mbs and we can download photos and files very quickly and efficiently using that speed.” He added: “In my experience, RTN Network really cares about its service and its customers and in this day and age, that is almost unheard of; 99 out of 100 companies I deal with regularly are not proactive and customer service staff often present a ‘couldn’t-care-less’ attitude, but I never get that with RTN Network. I would recommend them to anyone.” FREE UK CALLS If you are fed up with your current telephone and internet provider, why not give RTN Network a call? Their new ‘Ultimate Bundle’ package includes: FREE wireless router worth 50€ + IVA; 1MB + Line Rental + 120 minutes FREE UK Calls for just 39.95€ per month; 3MB + Line Rental + 120 minutes FREE UK Calls for 44.95€ per month or 6MB + Line Rental + 120 minutes FREE UK Calls for 49.95€ per month. As well as FREE Technical support in English, FREE Online Billing, FREE Voicemail; FREE 0843 Friends and family number and FREE Caller ID. Prices also INCLUDE your Monthly Line Rental and Spanish Land Lines cost just 3.3 cents per minute. For more information visit www.roundtownnetwork.com or call them on 966 463 170.
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Beth’s memory lives on by Louise Clarke FRIDAY, 17th SEPTEMBER was a bitter sweet day for La Siesta Church Youth Club in Torrevieja. It was the day that a new camera, in memory of Beth Ingram, grandmother of two of the youngsters, was presented to the club. Beth moved to Spain with her husband John eight years ago and since arriving they have attended La Siesta church and encouraged their grandchildren, Jack and Ellie to go along with them. Jack has been an active member of the Sunday School for many years and was a founder-member of the Youth Club - he has since been joined by his sister. Both Beth and John have been strong supporters of the work with young people. MEMORABLE Tragically, Beth died of cancer just before Christmas and because of her interest in the work of the church with young people, Beth’s sister, Eileen, and the rest of her family were keen
CLARO back in its own office AFTER SHARING a joint CLRCLARO office during the election campaign, CLARO is open for business in its own premises again in the new Asturias Restaurant, Punta Prima, open from 11am to 1pm five days a week from Monday to Friday, offering help, advice and information to residents of Orihuela Costa on administrative issues. The office will also provide a channel for bringing problems to the attention of the Playa Flamenca office of the Town Hall and the Councillor for the Coast, Bob Houliston. The CLARO presence will be downstairs at the entry, although for anyone wishing to raise issues of a personal or private nature there is a separate space for confidential discussion. CLARO will resume issuing periodic newsletters to the Orihuela Costa residents and will reactivate the website www.claro@orihuela-eu
A plague in Girona
by Jan Gamm THE BUILDING of the Provincial Court of Girona, located in the old part of town, has been attacked by a plague of vermin – no, not members of the legal fraternity this time – by rats and fleas in such profusion they are threatening the destruction of vital paperbased trial records. And a number of officials have suffered bites and stings. Early last week a company specialising in pest control attended the court to treat the premises with poison. However, so far the problem does not seem to have abated and has resulted in an adjournment.
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to make a donation to the Youth Club in her memory. After much debate and consideration it was decided to buy a digital camera. This will be used to record memorable moments at the club, to be posted on its Facebook site as a lasting memory. It was also decided that, each week, a young person would be nominated to be in charge of the camera and to take the photos that week. Last Friday, Beth’s husband John went along to the youth club and along with Jack, he presented the camera to Maggie Dew, one of the youth leaders. OVERJOYED John said: “Beth has always been interested in the work of the church with young people and was overjoyed when the family moved to Spain and found that our chosen church also had a youth club. She was proud of the active part that first Jack and then Ellie played in the club and she would be delighted to know that this camera has been given in her memory and will in turn be used to record memories for all members of the Youth Club.”
John, Jack and Maggie
La Siesta Church Youth Club meets in the roundhouse next to La Siesta church each Friday from 6.45pm to 8pm. Further information can be obtained from Maggie Dew on 96 676 2264 or by e-mail to maggieruthdew@hotmail.com
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The Christmas Alphabet... I was going to do the Christmas alphabet, but got stuck at C. so lets spell The Card Place and we will start at C. C is for Card to give and receive especially at Christmas Time for loved ones and friends and perhaps for the boss or your pal round the corner A is for Advent the childrens favourite item which leads up to Christmas with a treat each day to build up the excitement that drives us crazy R is for Rob one of the gaffers who starts Christmas in August believe it or not and Easter in November. Confusing or what. D is for Diaries we buy each year intending to fill with secrets so dear or reminders of appointments galore and bills to pay, oh what a chore
P is for Plenty and choice is the word. Variety and quality from a card to a gift at prices we all can afford L is for Lisa some say the number one boss, keeps Rob right whatever the cause A for Again and after one visit to the card place I am sure you will become a regular visitor and come again to see their huge choice of stock. C is for Calendars & crisps all under one roof and gifts galore so visit today as they have what you need E is normally for End but I know in this case it’s not. From an Express to a Sun get yourself down there and have some fun. Cliff Roberts, Sales & Marketing Director, RTN
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San Miguel fiestas in full swing!
Lorna Bartlett (centre) with her Damas, Leona and Hannah
by Louise Clarke THE MAYOR of San Miguel de Salinas, Angel Saez Huertas, used the coronation of this year’s Fiesta Queens to thank the many British residents of the town for making San Miguel their home. For the first time in its history, the Juvenil Queen and her Damas are from either the UK or Ireland and the Mayor said that it was testament to the town’s positivity to integration that these three young ladies have been so welcomed by everyone as San Miguel’s youthful representatives. The coronation was a traditional ceremony in the town square and following the fireworks to welcome Tamara Garcia Garcia as the Infantil Queen and Lorna Bartlett as the Juvenil Queen, there was dancing and singing into the early hours, courtesy of the fantastic ‘Orquesta Mundial’.
JUST BRASS This weekend sees the first ever San Miguel Fun Run makes its way through the town and its urbanisations. It starts tomorrow morning (Saturday) at 10am. At 7pm the annual carnival starts and with hundreds of San Miguel residents turning up in amazing fancy dress promises to be a great night! And on Thursday, 29th September, it is San Miguel Day and the patron saint will be honoured in a huge parade through the town from 8pm before a huge firework display in the town’s square. The fiestas conclude next weekend with the JB Just Brass Band performing in the Town Square on Friday 30th September from 8pm, the second Tapas Route taking place during Saturday, 1st October and the traditional giant paella and children’s funfair taking place at the Recinta Ferial at the top of the town on Sunday 2nd October.
Quesada Ladies Club QUESADA LADIES Club Annual General Meeting is to be held Tuesday 11th October at 2.30pm in Coopers Bar/Restaurant, for Members only. For further information please call the President: 96 671 7449 or the Secretary: 96 671 8857.
Dolón meets new Semana Santa committee
New mayor meets new Semana Santa committee
By Julie Day MAYOR OF Torrevieja Eduardo Dolón, accompanied by Councillor for Culture Luís María Pizana, received members of the Semana Santa committee headed by new president of the association, Jorge Esteve Martínez, earlier this week. Martínez expressed his excitement at taking up the new position and said that he would work hard towards the greater unity of the group, as well as maintaining the popularity and splendour of the Semana Santa fiestas. Dolón offered his support to the new president, yet also reminded him of the measures of austerity to be taken when planning the Easter events in light of the economic crisis. During the reunion an emotional tribute was paid to José Pedro Aldeguer, former president of the association for a total of nine year, who recently passed away, aged 51.
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Get a warm welcome at Costa Narejos
Lee, the kids and I really enjoyed our stay at the Costa Narejos
by Louise Clarke AFTER HEARING about Hotel Costa Narejos’ free accommodation offer in RTN a couple of weeks ago, I thought that it would be rather rude not to take advantage of it, especially as one of the kids went free and the other was only half price. So, last week, we spent two nights in the four star hotel in Los Alcazares and had an absolute ball! On arrival, we received a very warm welcome from the Reception staff and were pointed in the direction of our family room on the fourth floor. The room was lovely, with a great view overlooking the Mar Menor and the La Manga strip. It was a large, clean room with a small kitchenette area that contained a microwave and a fridge; an ideal place for storage of cool drinks especially in what was a very hot and humid September weekend. The bathroom was also very clean and came fully equipped with clean fluffy towels, a shower/bath, toilet and a bidet; a nice touch was a free welcome pack containing soap, tissues, a comb, shoe cleaner, a sponge and a shower cap, which my eight year old insisted was put there solely for her personal use! SUN On the dining table was an array of guides to the Mar Menor area as well as service directories and other useful information and as you made your way to the large balcony over looking the pool and terrace area, there was a sofa bed opposite a large flat screen TV that showed all the Spanish channels and several satellite channels in English. The room was more like an apartment with two separate bedrooms; one with a double bed and one with a bed so big that all four of
us could have slept in it; it was FAB and I can honestly say that I had the best nights’ sleep in years! The pool, although too cold for us wimpy adults, was the perfect temperature for the kids and they spent many a happy hour swimming and playing. The sun shone on the pool for the majority of the day but as the afternoon progressed it soon disappeared behind the five story hotel block, giving me the opportunity to read my book without squinting! BUFFET The restaurant opened its doors at 7.30pm sharp and what was awaiting us certainly satisfied our greedy appetites. The buffet was exceptional with something to suit every taste. From pasta and soup to salads and rice dishes as well as plenty of meat and fish on offer, you certainly would not go hungry. There was also a large selection of desserts available and after all that, if you felt that you had room, you could go along for seconds! The choice was plentiful for breakfast as well, with the traditional English breakfast as well as a Continental style breakfast available; it certainly fuelled a fun-filled day at the nearby beach, only three minutes walk away. We all had a great break and it was nice to get away, even if it was only 25 minutes down the road. Asked what he enjoyed the most about his stay at the Costa Narejos, which sits on the flight path of San Javier airport, my aviationloving son said; “The planes Mum, definitely the planes!” Typical eh?! If you would like to take advantage of the hotel’s FREE accommodation offer, visit the hotel’s website at www.hotelcostanarejos.com or call 96 858 3980.
The view of the Mar Menor from our balcony
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Good and bad news... Watts In Britain By
Paul Watts
IT’S A kind of, ‘good news, bad news’ week here in the Midlands. The bad news is its party political conference season and we’ve been singled out as a venue for one of them. It is so inconvenient for us worker ants. I mean, the trains and buses are delayed and crowded; and when you finally arrive you can’t move an inch in Birmingham for all the security surrounding the flippin’ Lib-Dem’s conference. Wall-to-wall politicians and their acolytes, hangers-on, fixers and inevitable army of ‘media luvvies’ make the centre of town a ‘no-go’ area. And the hot air being generated by politicians is stifling; most of whom are involved in a huge amount of back-peddling. The long-forgotten election promises that were swept aside in the clamour to gain power with the Tories are now being given the slippery reversal-treatment. “Err, what we really meant was....” Or, “Raise tuition fees, no not us...” I guess the biggest surprise of the conference is that the Lib-Dems want to legalise drugs. Well, that’s one way to get votes. The Metro declared, “The party’s annual conference... voted for reforms to drug laws which could lead to Amsterdam-style cannabis cafes opening across Britain.” Should raise a few bob too. Anyway, that’s our bad news, now on to our Midlands good news.
Old and new Buffs welcome THE COSTA Blanca Lodge of the RAOB meets at 4pm every Wednesday at the Cavalier Bar in San Luis. New and old Buffs are most welcome to attend. Try it, you may find things have changed a bit since you were last in a Lodge - for the better we hope. Contact Ron McGreevy (Secretary) on 96 671 7084 or ronkmcgreevy1953@gmail.com
The good news is... oh, I’ll let the BBC tell you. Cue the velvet tones of Peter Donaldson: “Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is to create up to 750 jobs at a new factory on a site near Wolverhampton. The luxury carmaker is investing £355m to build low-emission engines on a 120-hectare site at a business park near the M54.” Not surprisingly this news has been welcomed by the government (who cheekily want to take credit for it). And by the unions who just two years ago were fighting planned cuts at JLR. Speaking on Radio 4, JLR chief executive Dr Ralf Speth said it was “truly exciting news” and “a major commitment for our company.” Speth added: “We expect the engine manufacturing facility to create up to 750 highly-skilled engineering and manufacturing posts at Jaguar Land Rover, along with hundreds more highly-skilled manufacturing jobs in the supply chain and the wider UK economy.” Quick to get in on the act was Business Secretary Vince Cable. Along with Deputy Head Boy, sorry, PM Nick Clegg, Vincey took a break from the privations of party conferencing to visit the company’s Solihull vehicle production plant. He said the announcement “sends out strong signals to potential inward investors across the world.” He added: “(It) is a huge vote of confidence in our successful automotive sector
in the UK and the skills and expertise in our workforce.” Yeah cheers, Vince. It is, though, despite the politicians’ bluster, a great boost for the area which in times-gone-by was the manufacturing heart of Britain. Not ten miles from the JLR plant in Castle Bromwich, the mighty Spitfire was once produced at the rate of over two hundred a month! PDT’s gig in ADP Anyroad, enough from here, let’s pop over you on the Costa Blanca. I just want to mention the tireless efforts of Alfaz lady Pamela Dawson-Tasker. Over the years Pamela has raised a great deal of money for the Spanish cancer charity AECC and on Saturday night (that’s tomorrow folks) she’s at it once again. Pam, along with the Costa Blanca’s top drummer Chic Gammidge is staging a jazz festival with a special tribute to Eric Delaney at the Casa del Cultura in Alfaz del Pi from 8pm. There is a star line-up that will delight all. Tickets are a mere 10€ from the cafe at the Casa or from the box office (96 686 0735) and in the words of Lennon’s Mr Kite, “a splendid time is guaranteed for all.” So, if you fancy a really great night out, whilst supporting a good cause, why not mosey down to the Casa in ADP tomorrow for eight. It’ll be better than the Lib-Dem conference and that’s for sure! Watts in Britain, so you don’t have to be
ONCE pays out more than €2 million in Cocentaina!
ONE OF the 14 winning tickets sold in Alicante town Cocentaina over the weekend included a grand prize of 6,000€ per month for 25 years, equating to a win of €1.8 million. ONCE seller Salvador Pico said he was delighted that so many of his customers had come into good fortune. He says the winners are locals, some with jobs and some that are unemployed and he is well acquainted with 90% of them, although he discreetly declined to name names - and he Salvador was especially pleased to have sold the grand prize ticket worth €1.8 million. – ‘You The 14 winning tickets were purchased at the Passeig del Comtat, Mercadona, 13 of them have to cashing in a very nice €25,000 with the last picking up the jackpot prize. be in it Salvador is looking forward to selling more lucky winning tickets for ONCE and reminds to win it!’ everyone that you have to be ‘in it to win it!’
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Digital Hearing opens in Quesada by Patricia Thompson MICHAEL BURKE, RHAD MSHAA, is a fully-qualified UK hearing aid dispenser who arrived in Spain in October last year from New Zealand where he had spent the previous three years on contract to a large Kiwi hearing aid dispensing company, working in both north and south islands. Prior to that, he worked with the Scrivens Group in the UK before taking up a post as a Joint Venture Partner with Specsavers Hearcare in Bournemouth. He then opened further branches in Dorchester and Ringwood and on the Isle of Wight. “My wife and I liked the Costa Blanca so much we decided to stay and purchased a house here,” said Mike, “We then went about setting up Digital Hearing based at
the Business Centre in Quesada.’ Whilst a Joint Venture Partner at Specsavers Hearcare, Mike was involved with a team dedicated to constantly driving down the cost of hearing aids to the public whilst maintaining the highest standards of service and ethical practice. Digital Hearing plans to do the same, able to offer standard digital hearing aids of all sizes from the small ‘completely in the canal’ (CIC) aids to the larger, more powerful ‘behind the ear’ models – all for €495 each, with a further discount to anybody purchasing two at the same time. There are also available other ranges of more advanced and premium hearing systems to the highest specifications – all at very competitive prices. All tests are free of charge and completely without obligation; all aids come on a 30-day free trial with a written money-back guarantee. As well as tackling the problems that come with the loss of hearing levels, at Digital Hearing we believe that prevention is better than cure and accordingly we can provide a range of ear protection devices specially designed for musicians, DJs, shooters, motorcyclists, swimmers, or anybody working in an environment where they are exposed to loud noises that could damage their
Michael Butke
hearing or accelerate hearing loss. If you have any concerns about your hearing whatsoever, don’t wait: we can help. Statistically, on average a person waits at least seven years before doing anything about hearing loss (period of denial!) It’s not going to go away; it will probably get worse. You’re not the only one. The sooner you tackle the problem the better. Sometimes it can be something simple like wax. Sometimes it can be a medical condition that can be treated without hearing aids. Sometimes it’s not you - it’s your partner! Find out. Improve your quality of life. You owe it to yourself and those around you. Mike Burke looks forward to seeing you. For more information call Mike on 698 418 642.
All the fun of The Fayre in Benijofar LOOKING FOR something to do on Friday 30th September? There is lots to see and do at The Benijofar Craft Fayre, 10am until 4pm. The Fayre will be in the park area - Plaza Inmaculada de la Conception (behind the Ayuntamiento and just in front of Restaurant Catorce) with more than 40 craft stalls, a bouncy castle and entertainment for all the family! Proceeds will be donated to Paul Cunningham Nurses and The Benijofar Band. Catorce owners Martyn and Paul host lots of events and special nights and have supported PCN since the beginning of the year. The Variety Show Group and The La Marina Tappers performed there in July and are now preparing for a spectacular Christmas Show – more news to follow soon on the PCN website at www.paulcunninghamnurses.com And Catorce in Benijofar has become quite a community meeting place for art classes and dance classes - while you are there take a look at the regular events as there could well be something to suit you! Travelling from the Church Square and traffic lights in Benijofar towards Quesada turn left by The Fireworks Shop and you will see Catorce and the park area on your left. For more information, call Martyn or Paul: 96 684 9030.
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This Christmas save money on your UK shopping trip GOING BACK to the UK this Christmas? Save money and avoid stress by booking your car hire early from Indigo Car Hire. Christmas is an extremely busy time of year for car hire, with availability limited as the Festive season approaches due to sheer volume of demand: as availability decreases, prices can soar. Cherie Walker, Reservations Manager for Indigo Car Hire, tells us: “Leaving your booking until the last minute can result in charges of up to £200 for a small car for one week, or even being told that there is nothing available. I have worked in the car hire industry for over nine years and the same applies every year- car hire at most major airports will be booked up by the beginning of November.” She adds: “To get the best deal, it is advisable to book as early as possible. Also, if customers contact us directly for a quote on 00 44 113 308 2016 or email sales@indigocarhire.co.uk with their requirements we may be able to locate them even better prices than on the website at www.indigocarhire.co.uk. “I would most certainly advise all our clients not to leave it to chance but rather to book their car hire as soon as they have booked their flights and know their dates and times. We deal with lots of suppliers and will make every effort to obtain the best price possible.” Imagine not being able to rent a car to get around while you are in the UK at Christmas! Contact Indigo Car Hire now for a no-obligation quote and excellent customer service. Indigo Car Hire offers a UK, Spanish and Worldwide service with no hidden extras and at competitive rates. Visit their website on www.indigocarhire.co.uk for an instant quotation or ring 0044 (0) 113 308 2016 to speak to a real person. For email enquiries contact sales@indigocarhire.co.uk. Also available: 12 months’ car hire excess insurance for only £49. Need to return your car to a different location? No problema - for a small fee this can be easily arranged. Let Indigo Car Hire take the hassle out of your next car hire - they put their customers first! www.indigocarhire.co.uk
Fourth Annual Worldwide Photo Walk THE FOURTH Annual Worldwide Photo Walk™ will be taking place on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd October, with President of the National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) Scott Kelby. Scott is also the author of computer and technology publications that consistently hit the bestseller lists. The Fourth Annual Worldwide Photo Walk™ is the world’s largest global social photography event in the history of photography, giving photographers from around the world a chance to participate. In 2010, more than 30,000 photographers walked in over 1,000 locations taking 6 million images in just one day: this year’s Photo Walk is anticipated to be bigger still. ONDARA Local photographer Colin Spencer is helping Ondara take part in this worldwide event by organising a Photo Walk at/in Ondara on 1st October at 10am. For more information, visit www.tinyurl. com/ondarawalk where you can also sign up to participate in the Photo Walk. The Photo Walk is free and open to anyone who owns a camera. More Photo Walk details are available at: http:// worldwidephotowalk.com or visit the
Winner 2010 by Rhys South Wharf, VIC Australia
Scott Kelby Worldwide Photo Walk Facebook page. The 2011 Photo Walk is co-sponsored by Adobe. Additional sponsors include Wescott, KelbyTraining.com, NAPP, Peachpit, Mpix, Wacom, Manfrotto, onOne Software, Tamron, Tiffen and B&H. ABOUT NAPP The National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) is a dynamic trade association and the world’s leading resource for Adobe® Photoshop®
and Photoshop® Lightroom® training, news, and education. An award-winning team of Photoshop and photography experts, authors, consultants, and trainers lead the association – keeping its members on the cutting edge of Photoshop, Lightroom, and photography techniques and technology. With 72,000 members in 106 countries, NAPP is the largest digital imaging and graphics association worldwide. Visit http://www.photoshopuser.com for more information.
Puçol mayor owns up to pot plants
A PP mayor in Puçol has admitted that marijuana was grown at his home. The plants were found on the rear terrace of his home after he took office in June. However, the mayor denies that the plants belonged to him or that he smokes marijuana, contend-
ing that he was “minding the plants for a friend that lives in an apartment.” The plants were around three feet in height and were grown in large pots, fully visible from neighbouring homes overlooking the mayor’s terrace.
Spanish lessons by
Jane Cronin
A weekly ‘cut out and keep’ feature helping you to learn basic Spanish for everyday needs
The Letter ‘A’ This is a new series of articles about the Spanish language based around the alphabet. The idea is simple, but hopefully there will be something new in it for everybody, whether you know some Spanish or none at all. Firstly we will look at the sound of each letter, then some useful words which begin with the letter and finally we will find a saying or two also connected to our chosen letter. As you know the letter A is called a vowel, which means it is an uninterrupted sound emitted from the throat. If I asked you to say what the A sound is in English, you would probably either say A as in SAY, or A as in CAT. You probably wouldn’t also include A as in WHAT, CAR, ALL, ANY or MEDICAL. As English speakers, we tend not to notice what strange sound combinations our letters make, but these cause a lot of problems for foreigners learning our language. The Spanish language doesn’t have any of these strange sound and spelling problems. The letter A has one sound and one sound only, and although I can’t write down the sound here, once you’ve heard it once, you’ve got it – for ever. To give you an idea how to make the A sound, open your mouth nice and wide (almost as if you were saying “aaah” for the doctor, but not quite), but then cut that long “aaah” shorter to “ah”. You should end up with a sound that is not so far back and clipped as our A as in CAT, but about the same length! (I told you it’s impossible to write down sounds!) So, now we’ve got that sorted, let’s look at some words beginning with this letter. Did you know that languages belong to families? Well they do, and Spanish and English both belong to the same extended family called Indo-European. In fact we are quite close cousins, as we have Latin as a common ancestor. This means that there are thousands of words in both languages that
are practically identical. Here are a few of them that begin with the letter A: absolutamente (absolutely), abundante (abundant), absurdo (absurd), adulto (adult), agente, (agent), agresivo (aggressive), agricultura (agriculture), aire (air), ambición (ambition), animal (animal). Occasionally some of these relatives part company and mean something different in each language. The Spanish word asistir looks as though it means “assist” – but it doesn’t, it means to “attend”. I suppose we could call these words “estranged cousins”. Most people call them by another term which is “false friends”, but I think I like my description better! Of course, apart from words with similar roots and estranged cousins, there are many common everyday words in Spanish beginning with A. I have set myself the impossible task of choosing just one or two of each letter that I think is particularly useful or interesting. For A I have picked the word for “now” which is “ahora”. This word contains the word for “time” or “hour” which is “hora” so it literally means “at the time”. Please don’t confuse this word with another one you may see written on shop windows namely “ahorra”. This comes from the verb “ahorrar” which means “to save” as in saving money. With the state of things at the moment you might even see “¡ahorra ahora!” which would mean “save now!” The difference between the two words lies in the doubling of the letter R – a topic we will talk about another time. And finally, here’s a Spanish saying beginning with the letter A “Agua pasada no mueve molino”. This means literally: “Water that’s already passed doesn’t move the mill” and it means the same as the English saying “It’s no use crying over spilt milk!” In other words, what’s in the past is gone and forgotten, so let’s look forward to all the new things in our lives!
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business
by
Karla Darocas
Information Technology & Communications
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Volunteering shows the world your social conscience ACCORDING TO a survey by the business social networking website LinkedIn.com, now more than ever volunteer experience is valuable information that could give job hunters and entrepreneurs the boost they need to get promoted or hired. Business managers, entrepreneurs and clients alike are impressed more by someone with a social conscience, according to Nicole Williams (Connections Director at LinkedIn). Volunteer experience is that ‘next level’ in assessing if that person is someone worth hiring or doing business with. American poet, author and naturalist once said this about human nature, “Not only must we be good, but we must also be good for something.” This is such a true statement in the fact that we all must find our roles on this earth and search for our true purpose in order to know what skills and talents we are gifted with. Teens can really get a leg-up by volunteering their time at a local event or with a charity. Not only will they get experience they will be able to try different skills and talents until they find out what they are really good at. Plus, volunteering helps with self-esteem; builds contacts; and looks very good on a resume.
Career-seeking individuals find that volunteering is the best way to make new relationships in this tough job market. A connection in the right place is important when hiring decisions are often made based on WHO you know. Plus, volunteering shows leadership and involvement and in today’s job market both of those qualities are in high demand. Entrepreneurs find that volunteering is about adding a layer of legitimate experience to their portfolio and by meeting new people and building relationships that will lead to clients. People with money trust entrepreneurs who are action-based and volunteering is a great way to show those investors that you are a ‘doer’ and not just a ‘talker’. When you can find a cause that you can commit to, volunteering shows the world that you have a good heart and a social conscience. These are qualities that go a long way in the business world. If given a choice, most people would rather hire - or do business with a person who gives time and value to their community – than a person who does nothing to contribute to the greater social worth. If you are looking for volunteer experience and an event that looks incredible on your resume – why not contact the Women in Business Club on the Costa
Karla Darocas * Business Communications Software Training & Computer Repairs *Helping You to Help Yourself 965 973 234.
Blanca – and volunteer your time in November at their White Ribbon Day 2011 (Javea & Denia). This is an event that is recognised around the world as a day to say NO to violence against women and children. Unlike other events that may not mean anything to an international employer or client, here is an event that stands out on a resume or profile page. Send your name to – Volunteers@WIBC-SPAIN.com
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money
23 - 29 Sept 2011
Don’t forget your health YOU’VE MADE that life changing decision and have moved to Spain, whether it’s for that dream job or you’re retiring in the sun. Health insurance is probably something you’ve thought about and maybe even purchased. But how do you know which of the multitude of choices for healthcare is right for you? Two possibilities are relying on the state system or buying a policy from an international provider who specialises in expat healthcare. The key differences between these options should help guide you into making the best decision for you and your family. 1) Quality – this can vary in state hospitals, going private can make a huge difference 2) Benefits – international private medical insurance gives you access to certain benefits (such as evacuation, health screens and dental treatment) that the state does not provide and without the waiting times. 3) Customer Service – speaking Spanish may be needed in state care, but most private international insurers provide interpretation services or can guide you to an English speaking provider. 4) Place of treatment – international private insurance gives you the opportunity to return to the UK for treatment if you wished. For more information on how international private medical insurance could benefit you, please visit www.axappphealthcare.co.uk/roundtown
Schools desperate for cash for utility bills SCHOOLS IN Alicante have not received a single Euro this year form the government to pay for utilities such as electricity and water. Principals across the region met this week to discuss their mutual difficulties caused by lack of maintenance funds. The costs for electricity and water average at around 800€ - 1,500€ per month per school,
and although the collective head teachers and governors believe supplies will not be cut off, interest charges on non-payment are too steep to consider staying in the red for too much longer. A spokesman said, “It’s outrageous. Funds should be spent on education and not on interest charges against non-payment of bills.”
More doom and gloom for Spain
Christine Lagarde Head of IMF
Amanda Braund Car-reg Costa Blanca 625 864 373 caregcostablanca@hotmail.com www.carregcostablanca.com Angie Daley The Leader Newspaper 686 367 421 - jessang563@hotmail.com Carol King Cristal Glide Glass Curtains 688 666 555 www.cristalglide.es/cristalglide.es@live.com Carolyn Shedden Forget me Not Charity Shop
Cherie Walker Indigo UK and Worldwide Car Hire www. indigocarhire.co.uk /sales@indigocarhire. co.uk Tel: 00 44 113 308 2016 Christine Quinlan Body Harmony. 966 795 103 www.bodyharmonytherapies.co.uk bodyharmony@tinyworld.com Janette Bennett Torrevieja Lions idsbennett@hotmail.co.uk www.torreviejacostalions.org Jean Williamson Dapa.biz www.dapa.biz jean@dapa.biz Karen Dowsing New 2 You New and Used Furniture 965 715 605 www.new2you-furniture.com info@new2you-furniture.com
Lynn Paterson Teeth White Spain 605 309 263 www.teethwhitespain.com teethwhitespain@gmail.com Liesl Cavender Spanish Ink 902 906 200 Ink Cartridge Specialist sales@spanishink.com www.spanishink.com Rosa Perez Ortuño Rosa Helps Interpreter and Translation Services 646 141 903 rosa@rosahelps.com www.rosahelps.com Vicki Riley El Principe Language Centre www.elprincipecentre.com info@elprincipecentre.com Tel: 965 999 047/ 696 102 874 Virginia Mora Lopez Advance Translation Services 629 201 192 www.dapa.biz/advancetranslations.com vivitorrevieja@gmail.com Irene Allan Mayan-Sun 634 065 540 mayan-sun@hotmail.co.uk www. mayan-sun.com Lynda Brettle By Your Side 965 501 550 / 678 407 829 lyndab@ byyourside.es www.byyourside.es Maureen Moss Juice Plus 966 923 113 / 666 479 782 maureenmoss@fastmail.fm www.juiceplus/+mm0530k
ACCORDING TO experts the Spanish economy must achieve 2% growth to stimulate employment and prevent unemployment figures plummeting still further. However, according to the IMF (International Monetary Fund) in its latest report entitled ‘Global Growth Prospects’, the Spanish economy is predicted to level at 1.1% by 2012, 5% less than projected in June, and the country is advised that more austerity measures are required to reach stability in the medium term. The IMF also forecast a 19.7% unemployment rate for Spain for 2012 compared to 20.7% in 2011. Further gloomy predictions by the IMF include the warning that the world economy is in “a dangerous new phase” due to the delay in recovery of US consumption and the serious financial turmoil in the Eurozone.
Tel: 96 558 7633 M obile 618204731
•QROPS Pension Transfers •Inheritance Tax Planning •Retirement Planning •Life Assurance
•Mortgages •Currency Exchange •Funeral Plans
Baskerville Advisers S.L. CIF B-63/137.020; Correduria de Seguros; No. de registro RDGS J2306; Seguro responsabilidad civil AIG Europe No. 0131900503.1330; Registro Mercantil de Barcelona, Tomo 35489, Folio 170, Seccion 8, Hoja B-269534
legal
23 - 29 Sept 2011
35
To buy, or what to buy, that is the question… by
Carlos Baos
of White & Baos Abogados English & Spanish Solicitors
MY WIFE and I are interested in purchasing a Villa (offplan) in the Costa Blanca. The land is owned by the developer who has given us options to choose from for the construction of our Villa. He has advised us that instead of signing a purchase agreement for the house, it is better to first sign a purchase agreement for the plot and build the house afterwards to secure the land prior to construction. Although this will mean paying a bit more on the VAT we believe it is worth it. Do you agree this is the best option? Dear Reader, in Spain there is a huge difference between your legal position and rights when purchasing a finished house compared to purchasing a piece of land and before building on it. Purchasing a completed or off-plan villa, you are considered to be the purchaser-consumer and the developer (vendor) legally becomes the promoter. However, if you buy and register the plot in your name and build the house afterwards, you will be owners of a plot and ‘self-promoters’ for the construction: the developer-seller becomes the builder or constructor. The responsibilities of a purchaser-consumer are totally different from those of promoters / self-promoters. It is true that if you first sign a purchase Deed for the land and build afterwards you will have the ‘guarantee’ of not losing all your money if the promoter disappears. However, we believe
your investments can be better utilised with an off-plan purchase. As always, we remind you that each case must be individually analysed to be able to advise accordingly. In general it is preferable to buy an off-plan property rather than buy the land and build afterwards for the following reasons: 1) Tax savings on the VAT: from a fiscal tax point of view our option is cheaper: • If you purchase a complete package (land & house) off-plan it is considered a new property purchase and the taxes to be paid are 8% VAT (although from 20-08-2011 to 31-12-2011 it will only be 4%). • If you first buy the land and build afterwards, tax payable is 18% on the land purchase and 8% for the construction. 2) RISKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Risks inherent to the development of the Villa are not considered in your option. • If you purchase a complete package (land & house) off-plan you are considered the ‘final consumer’ - not responsible for obtaining building permits, the first occupancy license, compliance with Town Hall regulations or for any construction problems arising during or after construction: your only responsibility is to pay the builder. • As the legal owner of the plot you will be considered to be the promoter for the construction works and liable to third parties for the Town Hall regulations, building permits and first occupancy license, etc. You will also be responsible for any possible construction defects such as cracks, dampness etc upon re-sale. This is clearly pointed out in article 17.3 of the LOE Building Law Order (Ley de Ordenación de la Edificación) which states: “…..in any case the promoter will be jointly and severally liable as well as the other agents involved in the construction for any property damages due to building defects in front of the purchasers.”
3) CONSIDERATION FOR THE CONSUMER AND PROTECTION BY THE LAW 57/1968: • If you purchase the land & the off-plan villa at the same time you are considered the purchaser-consumer, protected, amongst others, by the Law 57/1968 that forces the seller / promoter to have an insurance policy or bank guarantee for all the funds he receives from the purchaser, as well as interest accrued on the funds, until he hands over the completed property with a first occupancy licence. Therefore if you receive adequate legal advice, your investment will be guaranteed should the developer default. • If you buy the land first and build afterwards, you will not have this guarantee as you are the promoter - although you could, in principle, sue the person responsible (being other than yourself). Although there are other aspects to be taken into consideration, such as the ease of obtaining bank finance for either option, we believe it is better, cheaper and more secure to buy off-plan from the promoter (with all due guarantees). Please note it is essential in either case to receive appropriate expert legal advice in the negotiation and drafting of contracts to ensure the adequate protection of your interests. Should any reader find himself or herself in this situation, or similar, please do not hesitate to contact us for appropriate advice. The information provided in this article is not intended as legal advice but merely conveys general information related to legal issues. Visit and comment on our blog at http://www.whitebaos.com/blog/ and facebook (White-Baos-AbogadosSolicitors): your comments in this respect would be greatly appreciated.
Carlos Baos (Lawyer) © White & Baos Abogados 2011 - All rights reserved. C/Diana 19, 2º-D, 03700 Dénia (located 1 minute away from the La Via underground car park). Tel: 966 426 185. Send your questions to spanishlawyer@roundtownnews.com or info@white-baos.com. This article is available in English and Spanish at www.white-baos.com
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money
23 - 29 20114 2010 Feb 26 Sept - March
Why a Pre-paid Funeral plan? THERE IS one guarantee in life: that we will all die. 150 years from now the earth will be filled with all new people. That’s a lot of funerals! The funeral industry has huge potential for profit in the next 50 years with a rapidly aging baby-boomer generation. The question remains: are prepaid funerals worth it? In the last several years, Annette Bowen has helped many people arrange funerals both before and after death. Here she considers some of the advantages and disadvantages of the prepaid funeral. ADVANTAGES OF A PREPAID FUNERAL Not over spending - It’s difficult to think rationally while making so many decisions within days of losing someone and being frugal is often the furthest thing on someone’s mind in the aftermath of death. Yet if you have been sensible all your life, is it right for your estate to be ‘caught up in the moment’ of funeral spending? It’s simply easier to make those difficult decisions while
not under so much stress and relieve the burden and guilt placed upon your family. Peace of mind – For many people, prepaying a funeral is a gift to their family. Having the funeral fully paid for and prearranged is once less thing the family needs to worry about in the midst of their grief and shock. Easy to get - Buying life insurance over a certain age and with health issues is a challenge. Prepaid funeral plans don’t require a health screening or age limit to qualify. Acceptance is guaranteed. DISADVANTAGES OF A PREPAID FUNERAL All Companies are NOT the same – You MUST ensure: Your funds are held in a trust that is managed by a recognized Financial Institution and regulated by the FSA and that the only beneficiary is the funeral director in payment of your funeral. Your provider is a member of the FPA (Funeral Planning Authority). Your plan automatically covers you in the UK regardless of whether you have a fixed residence there or not. Your family will not receive an invoice for any charges, especially the IVA, when the plan is used.
by
Suzanne O’Connell
Annette Bowen from Spectrum IFA
To find out more on who we as Independent Financial Advisors recommend or for information on any other of Spectrum’s range
of products call Annette Bowen on 634 349 710 / 965 587 104 or email annette.bowen@spectrum-ifa.com
What you need to know about the Wealth Tax
YOU’VE PROBABLY already heard by now. The Wealth tax is back. Sounds like a logical kind of tax to have. After all, a poverty or poor tax Customer Care would hardly indicate a way out of recession. at Ábaco And that is what this is all about - that and a looming General Election.
To provide a little bit of background, the Wealth tax or ‘patrimonio’ is a low-rate tax that is applied to your assets. It takes into account the value of any property you hold in Spain according to whichever is the higher value – the rateable (catastral) value or the value declared in the title deeds. The rate that you are taxed at depends upon a sliding scale. The more your assets are, the higher the rate. The new rate hasn’t been confirmed yet, however, in 2007 for assets between 167,000€ and 334,000€ the rate was 0.3% whereas between 5 and 10 million it was 2.1%. I wonder how many RTN readers come into the 2.1% bracket? Individuals are taxed separately on their half of the assets and liabilities such as mortgages are taken into account. The first wealth tax was suspended in 2008 shortly after the election. It was blamed for unfairly penalising the middle classes when the really rich could still find ways round paying it. Its reappearance is unsurprising given the current economic climate. But you don’t want to know its history. You want to know how it will affect you. If you are a resident and own over 700,000€ worldwide then you will be eligible for the wealth tax. This amount includes any property or other assets you own including savings in a bank account, stocks and shares, jewellery or even works of art. You can deduct from this any liabilities you might have such as a mortgage or loans. In other
words, it kicks in according to what you are worth in total. The good news is that even if your price tag is over 700,000€ you have an allowance on your main home of 300,000€ so this reduces the total amount you have to pay. It also helps that this allowance is by individual – meaning a threshold of 600,000€ per couple. If you are a non-resident then it will only affect you if you own a house in Spain that is worth more than 700,000€. It only includes assets here: anything you own in the UK is exempt. Unfortunately as this is your second home there is no allowance and you will have to pay wealth tax on the full amount. There are more twists in the tale. Although central government has made the decision to reintroduce it, it is the regional governments that will apply it. This means that there will be differences depending upon where your house is located. Perhaps rather than the wealth tax it should be called the ‘here today gone tomorrow’ tax seeing as its reintroduction is another temporary measure for the next two years. After that? Who knows? If you are lucky enough to be eligible for Wealth tax you need a fiscal representative. However, even if you’re out of the three-quarters of a millionaire bracket, it is beneficial to have a representative to help keep your property taxes in order, however big or small they might be. You might have missed out on this tax this time but it’s not just the wealthy in the view finder. With a general election approaching we can expect any victorious government to set their sights on those avoiding their obligations. If you would like a FREE, no obligation tax consultation with one of Ábaco’s friendly team of advisers call the ÁbacoConnect Help-line 96 670 3748 www.abacoconnect.com
If you would like a FREE, no obligation tax consultation and help with completing your annual tax declaration contact one of Ábaco’s friendly team on ÁbacoConnect Help-line 966 703 748 | www.abacoconnect.com
23 - 29 Sept 2011
Home Garden
Brought to you by
www.spanishhomefinder.com
You have 5 minutes to sell your house: GO! THERE IS an old saying - ‘you should never judge a book by its cover’. Unfortunately, in an age of instant messaging and even faster download speeds the intrinsic truth of that old adage seems to be slipping ever further away. We make instant decisions on a diet of sound-bites and live TV streams packaged in technology neatly prefixed with the letter ‘I’. It seems the world spins too fast at times for cool consideration. This is also true in the property market. In a busi-
ness where you’d think cool consideration of all the facts would be vital you find that first impressions dominate. A recent survey suggested that on average a buyer spends only 17 minutes on the decision whether to buy the property or not. In my experience 17 minutes is rather generous. I suggest that it takes only 5 minutes for someone to decide not to buy your property. I sold my house in England in less than 5 minutes. As soon as the couple walked into the kitchen and the wife said ‘I could see myself living here’ I knew I had sold my property. 30 minutes after the couple left they made an offer - it was that quick. The buying process is not just about cold, calculated financial numbers. A buyer buys from the heart more than from the wallet. With thousands of properties for sale in Denia and Javea the competition to win hearts and wallets is fierce. In today’s market, buyers viewing properties for sale are making instant judgments, fair or not, because perceptions speak louder than facts. Besides, if your property
By Guest Writer Michael Rushe of Javea Estates
Restored tower inaugurated The ‘Generalife Gardens’ in Granada are recognised as being among the top five of Europe’s most impressive and popular public gardens. This week the Minister for Culture Angeles Gonzalez-Sinde inaugurated the recently restored ‘Silla del Moro’ (The ‘Moor’s Chair), an ancient watch tower designed to protect the gardens and the Royal Canal. Works to restore the tower were funded at around 800,000€. The Silla del Moro overlooks the Alhambra and the city.
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hasn’t grabbed them in 5 minutes they can easily go and look somewhere else. So how can you give your property that ‘5 minute appeal?’ Choose an estate agent who is supportive and is able to give sound advice, an estate agent who understands what their clients want and who won’t throw any old Tom, Dick or Harry at your property in the hope that someone will stick. Professional photography showing your property at its best presented on a dynamic website linked to the biggest property websites in Europe will give your property the edge in attracting buyers to view your property. ‘Kerb appeal’, an idea bludgeoned almost to extinction during the boom times when any old wreck sold even with an overgrown garden with a dead cat in it, is making a comeback. ‘First impressions are lasting impressions’ and if your property doesn’t instantly attract the buyer you’ll almost certainly lose the sale. If your property can’t pull the heart strings in 5 minutes it has little hope of pulling the purse strings.
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
by
Clodagh & Dick Handscombe Practical gardeners and authors
Autumn tasks
PARCENT AUTUMN CHARITY FAIR Just had an email to say that the Parcent Autumn Charity Fair organised for tomorrow and Sunday is cancelled. A pity for the charities that would have benefited. it was also to have been a launch of our new book Living Well from Our Mediterranean Garden which was printed this week. A number of suppliers of useful garden products had given us products to give to visitors to our stand, especially those that purchase books for their own use or presents. We will now make these products available at autumn talks. Those readers who were hoping to pick up comfrey or stevia plants please contact us on yourgardeninspain@hotmail.com Also programme organisers who would like an autumn or winter talk.
ROSE CUTTINGS When you tidy up the rose bushes to stimulate autumn and Christmas flowerings use the longest prunings as cuttings for propagating new plants. To help the cuttings root slit the base of the cuttings and slide in two grains of sweet corn. Then sink the cuttings thirds into the ground, preferably where you would like a new plant.
OWN VEGETABLE CROPS FOR CHRISTMAS Now is the time to clean up the vegetable plot, or start a new one, to sow or plant plantlets for Christmas winter and early Sparing crops. After the Fair we will be starting lettuces, Swiss chard, broccoli, carrots, parsnips, leeks, onions, radishes, broad beans, peas, parsley, etc… Our book Growing Healthy Vegetables in Spain includes a longer list.
PLANTING HEDGES Once we have had some autumn rains it will be a good time to plant hedging plants. To get them off to a good start dig a 40 cm wide by 40 cm deep trench and mix well-rotted manure and TerraCottem soil improver into the bottom of the trench before planting. If you have never seen TerraCottem we hope to have some samples at the Parcent Fair along with comfrey cuttings and a few sweet-leaved stevia plants.
FLOWERS FOR CHRISTMAS The deadheading and light pruning of many plants will stimulate flowers for Christmas. For us the main colour will be lantanas, bougainvilleas, bignonias, tulbagias roses and with luck the first of the winter bulbs. Delay your major garden cutback until the New Year: this is one of the big differences between gardening in Spain and Northern Europe where the big cutback is normally done in the autumn.
HARVESTING MANDARINS Although you have already seen gangs of pickers harvesting greenish mandarins, don’t be tempted: it is far better to let them turn orange on the tree and then test the fruit on the south side of the tree until they are to your taste. Then gradually harvest in the sequence of south, west, east and north-facing sides over a couple of months. Other Autumn changes and tasks are listed in our books.
WINTER WINDOW BOXES As summer annuals die back change them for winter flowering violas, pansies, chrysanthemums, heathers, herbs etc. Sections 4.4 and 4.5 of Apartment Gardening Mediterranean Style include more practical ideas for windowsills, balconies and terraces.
Clodagh and Dick’s instructive books are available to help you achieve a great garden from scratch or improve an existing garden. You will find them in bookshops including Bookworld, Carrefor and Humpty Dumpty. For convenience many internet bookshops stock them including Santana Books, Amazon UK, Bookworld and The Royal Horticultural Society. © Clodagh and Dick Handscombe www.gardeninginspain.com
Home & Garden
Bougainvillea
23 - 29 Sept 2011
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Turning clever squirrels into Happy Bunnies! IN AUGUST, Richard and Tony from Neater Heater advised our readers to think ahead and prepare now for the winter, which will soon be upon us. They used the analogy of wise squirrels preparing for the oncoming cold weather by collecting nuts and berries throughout the summer months. Therefore, when their fellow woodland creatures have to sleep all through the winter to avoid starvation, the clever squirrels have the luxury of midwinter breaks, midnight snacks, and not missing Christmas. Happy Days! Neater Heaters are made in Norway, a country already the grip of winter for over a month. Even in the UK people have had their heating on since early September. Tony says “We urge people not to be caught out by the late arrival of winter in Spain, but to plan ahead. We have stocks aplenty at the moment. But if last year is anything to go by, once our stocks are gone we will be at the back of a long queue to get them replenished.” “We can’t stress enough the need for our potential customers to get their orders in soon to avoid disappointment when the cold weather arrives, particularly if they have guests staying for Christmas. “Many people have already taken us up on the
advice to prepare early for winter. This has enabled us to not only fit their heaters in plenty of time but to order replacement stock. This is good news all round. If enough of our potential customers plan ahead like the clever squirrel they will all be very happy bunnies, snug and warm in their homes when Jack Frost inevitably decides to pay a visit to Spain.” Neater Heaters can be viewed and purchased through one of our distributors:
Neater Heater – turning clever squirrels into happy bunnies!
COSTA BLANCA NORTH Pego/Oliva/Denia: Calicomfort: Tel. 687 694 038 Pedreguer: Suzy´S Pre-Owned Furniture, Poligono Industrial: Tel 678 049 050. Gata De Gorgos: Iron Art Factory Outlet: Tel 680 491 740 Moraira: Neater Heater Shop: Tel 96 505 0699 / 634 312 171 Calpe: Imprint, Avda Gabriel Miró: Tel. 96 587 4451 La Nucia: Labels and Tables. Tel. 96 687 6153 COSTA BLANCA SOUTH / COSTA CALIDA Gran Alacant: Suzie Screwz Ferreteria. Tel. 96 618 3002
Quesada: For home inspections call Colin Tel: 636 537 338 Torrevieja: S J & A. Tel. 96 631 9253 Playa Flamenca: Buster´S Bar. Tel. 96 532 5120 Los Alcazares: For home inspections call Edmund. Tel. 96 676 5552 Mazarron: Camposol B. La Red Solutions (Mapfre). Tel. 96 819 9025 The Electrical Shop (Euronics) Blue Lagoon
Tel. 966 188 169 Vincent Real Estate (Hazel) Benijofar Tel. 966 712 440 Neater Heater: Sole Spanish suppliers of BEHA Heaters. Contact us on: 634 312 171 Email: info@neaterheater.es Website: www.neaterheater.es
Orihuela’s energysaving plans By Julie Day THE DEPARTMENT of Infrastructure and Town Hall Services in Orihuela is trying to come up with new ideas on how to save money and energy. At the beginning of this week an energy-saving test was carried out involving street lighting, which if successful will be implemented across the municipal. The plan consisted of only switching on two out of every three street lamps and took place at 2am on Monday night in Calle Obispo Rocamora, one of Orihuela’s main streets. A regulatory device was installed to monitor how much energy was saved, and the results will help to decide whether it is worth implementing this measure in other areas. Street visibility and public safety are also being studied and will be taken into consideration when or if any changes are to be made.
Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Protecting your valuables
THE VECINOS Colaborando recently publicised that a thief had been apprehended on the Orihuela Costa in possession of a large amount of property stolen from holidaymakers on the beaches or vehicles parked nearby. The items were being held at the Guardia Civil Cuartel at Torre de la Horadada and victims were asked to visit to see if their property had been recovered. Today the Guardia Civil are still in possession of a large amount of this recovered property and victims are advised to visit the Cuartel. Unfortunately, some victims were not able to positively identity their property as the property had not been marked with an ultra violet pen or a record had not been made of the serial number of their electrical goods. It would help the Guardia Civil to return stolen or found property to their owners if all electrical items were marked with an ultra violet pen, obtained from Amazon via the internet and no doubt elsewhere. Items should be marked with the person’s DNI / NIE number. The Guardia Civil and Policia Local are in possession of lamps to read such markings. It is also strongly recommended that a note is kept of all such items with their description, serial numbers and values and placed in a safe place. A form for doing this is provided on the Orihuela Costa Neighbourhood Watch website www.orihuelacostavc.com Click on ‘Library of all Documents’, search for No 26 13A1 and click on the link. It is also suggested that photographs are taken of valuable item e.g. jewellery, watches, etc. The Guardia Civil are in possession of a number of mobile phones which cannot be returned to victims as serial numbers are not known. To find the serial number of a mobile phone, press the keys in the following order: * # 0 6 # (Star, hash 0 6 hash) and it will be displayed. If mobile phones are recovered by the Police and the serial number is recorded on the denuncia the Guardia Civil will contact the victim even he or she has returned to the home country. It is very important to retain the details of your property in a safe place as producing these in the event of theft can mean the difference between recovering your stolen property or not. Please do it now before it is too late.
Home & Garden
Garden Club of Vega Baja September meeting THE SEPTEMBER meeting of the garden club started with a DVD of the gardens ‘de l’Albarda’ for those members who had not been able to go on the coach trip in May. Richard Gay gave his 10 minute chat about work in the veg garden and answered members’ questions. Val Duckworth then continued her talk about propagation, this time concentrating on ‘leaf and root’ explaining the best time and the correct way to achieve good results. Sadly, Val and Andrew Duckworth have to step down as chairman and treasurer of the garden club due to Andrew’s ill health. As it is AGM next month, the club are looking for people to help. It is going to need several people to fill the jobs done by this hardworking pair as between them they had done most of the organising and running of the club for the last four years. If you feel that you can give a little of your time, here is a list of the positions: - Chairman/Club Leader - Administation Secretary (books the speakers for 9 meetings per year and the Christmas Party on the 10th) - Treasurer - Membership Secretary and an assistant (takes names at the door)
Richard answers questions about vegetable growing
- Social Secretary (organises lunches and social events, 1 or 2 per year) - Coach Trip Organiser (1 or 2 per year) - Technical Officer (to look after and set up the PA system)
The World’s a stage IN THE depressed Spanish property market home staging is an expanding business with services split between the rental market and property sales. Home staging has been around for some time but now a ‘virtual’ arrangement now available that offers an online staging service for 40€ per room! Property owners struggling to sell may now interact with professionals stagers via webcam to transform problem areas in their homes to attract buyers. Personal consultations with a report are available at 199€ and some stagers are even offering services in the form of gift vouchers!
Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com
23 - 29 Sept 2011
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The new FLATPAXABIA showroom opens in Benitachell OPENING NIGHT for Flatpaxabia was well attended, with lots of interested visitors viewing the IKEA furniture on display, leafing through the latest IKEA catalogue, and testing the IKEA bed, sofa and chairs for comfort! Since 2007 this local family-run business has been making our lives easier by going to IKEA so we don’t have to. Thousands of satisfied customers later Flatpaxabia (borne out by genuine testimonials on their website) are sticking to what they do well: They shop – they deliver – they assemble! The front part of the new showroom is shared with Vista Awnings & Blinds and also with Lotus Home Styling who have decorated the whole showroom with perfection. This trio of businesses offers a Mecca of inspiration and ideas and is the perfect place to visit for unpressured and unrushed browsing to receive advice and find the perfect furniture and accessories for your home. You can find the new Showroom at Carretera de Moraira 16 (2nd parade of shops on the right as you turn from Benitachell to Moraira), with lots of easy parking nearby. Or you can call Bob and Rosanne at FLATPAXABIA on 902 881 121 or 96 579 4090, email info@flatpaxabia.com or order via www.flatpaxabia.com. Visitors having a good look at the furniture Lots to inspire in the showroom
Bob and Rosanne (centre) were delighted to welcome so many people to the opening of the showroom
Brought to you by spanishhomefinder.com
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Virus issues
Computing with aunty virus
Desktop failed Is it safe to install Tom via email asks: I WONDER if you can help me? I have a fairly old desktop computer which has just failed on me, it completely locked up and despite pressing everything I could find, nothing happened. Eventually I got a message on the screen “boot failure: system halted.” This happened once before and when I switched off and back on again all was okay, but this time nothing. Any advice would be much appreciated. Aunty Says: Hi Tom. If you’re a little lucky this could be some kind of data corruption or rootkit virus messing with part of the Windows boot or system files, but sadly it’s also quite possible this is a total hard disk failure. The best case scenario is a disk check and/or Windows repair from the original CD will have you back up and running, but worst case is you will have lost everything. If you have any valuable stuff on the disk then it may be best to call in the experts as it may be retrievable, if you don’t have any personal data then try the repair option. Give Phil at Enet Computers a call on 687 362 844 and he will advise you your best way forward.
Expat Shield?
Dee via email asks: HI AUNTY, I always read your column when we are here in Spain and wondered if you could help us? Do you know if we can hide the fact that we are outside the UK so we can access live football and BBC iPlayer when we are abroad. I looked on Google and there appeared several free options,
one was Expat Shield. Do you think it would be safe to install, or is there any other you could recommend? Aunty Says: I can’t personally recommend any of these UK based proxy services but there are plenty out there to choose from. A lot of them offer free trials so maybe check a few out. One thing I will suggest is to use a different browser solely for the purpose of connecting to any proxy service as they often change some of your internet connection settings that can have detrimental effects on your browsing speeds. For example if you use Internet Explorer for your day-to-day internet surfing then download and use Firefox (or Chrome or Safari) to connect to the proxy servers.
John from Moraira asks: HI AUNTY. I purchased a HP Desktop last April with Windows 7 and I have McAfee installed, which I trust resolves any virus issues. A situation has arisen lately in that when I turn my computer on, or come back to it after an absence, a message is shown which says “Over quota Notice You are over quota please reconfigure to use less space.” The Windows Help and Support has not been very helpful nor has it pointed me in the right direction. I have run a defrag and also a registry sweep with Ccleaner, but all to no avail. I am off to the UK early tomorrow for joint birthday celebrations with our family, but I do receive by email your weekly article. Aunty Says: I’ve seen this a few times John and it’s most likely either; McAfee has set a limit on how much of your computer’s hard disk you are allowed to use, or it is one of these many online backup programs that come bundled with new computers. You can check and turn off any limit set on your hard disk by clicking on ‘start’ ‘computer’. Right click on your drive and select ‘properties’ and click on the ‘quota’ tab. Uncheck ‘enable quota management’ and you should be okay. If this doesn’t fix the problem let me know and I’ll advise further.
Unable to get a signal Peter from 3m underground in a cave house in the Baza area of Granada asks: WE HAVE just spent a week in Albir where the hotel was supposed to have WiFi and the staff told me the Hotel was paying for 1Mb from Iberbanda. Three times I tried to get a signal but there was not even enough to get a signal then twice it was 0.25mb and one time I was able to speak with our daughter in Holland normally. We were intending to move to Albir but it is beginning to look that we are more up to date in the campo with internet at 3.5mb to 3.8mb with HABLAND than they are in Albir. Will you please tell me if this situation is normal? Regards
Aunty Says: Internet speeds can vary greatly from one town to the next Peter, even connections in the same street can differ depending on the copper line quality and the distance to the exchange they are connected to. It is possible (and quite common practice) that the hotel has deliberately limited the DSL bandwidth into zones to safeguard against over usage. As you have mentioned you were having trouble getting a decent signal, this suggests that this particular problem was maybe WiFi-related (local and between your computer and the hotel’s wireless router) which is not going to give an accurate indication of their ADSL line speed to the outside world.
That’s all for this week, email me on auntyvirus@roundtownnews.com and I will do my best to sort you out
23 - 29 Sept 2011
43
GADGET INSPECTOR
Gadget Inspector investigates the case of: Domestic Madness THIS WEEK the Inspector is pushing the edges of sanity with a pair of truly bonkers domestic gadgets. Previously in this column we´ve made excursions into, and beyond, the boundaries of what could be called the conventional gadget world. We´ve looked at the outrageously expensive and the just plain outrageous. This week, we’re going to explore a new playground of gadget bonkerstrosity – mad versions of what would otherwise be fairly mundane domestic fare. Ta-daa! Fanfare for the first of our escapees from the gadget asylum – the Lukaz Jemiol designed Electrolux Cleaner. You might expect that the prize for the world’s most expensive vacuum cleaner would be held by a Dyson or some other technologically advanced brand. How wrong you´d be. According to the Guinness Book Of World Records this particular accolade is held by what would otherwise have been a fairly ordinary Electrolux cleaner. Polish designer Lukaz Jemiol adorned this poor little sucker with 3,730 Swarovski crystals and a price tag of €14,000. This certainly will not help it´s cleaning ability, but you will have exclusivity, as it is one of a kind. And in these days of Swarovski crystals adorning anything that moves, (and a few things that don´t), you can bet you´ll have one of the madder conversions. Not sure if the flowers are a feature, or just a result of accidentally vacuuming the garden. Quite who’s cleaning up here
though is open to question… Wearing the second gadget straight jacket today is the Electrolux Kitchen Laptop concept. Please note the word concept here, they haven´t put this into production yet – but designer Dragan Trenchevski sees this portable cook top as a boon to travellers and campers. Could be related to our friend Lukaz above… Basically it’s an induction powered hotplate attached to a laptop, with a removable cutting board sandwiched between the screen and burner. It has a 3G connection for the internet and high power battery pack. Of course, the induction plate will use up a battery charge in no time, probably setting a new world record for going flat the fastest. God only knows what happens if you close the lid after cooking something - probably melted screen sandwich. Presumably you would need to connect a wireless keyboard and mouse to use it. Don´t forget and try typing on the induction plate, otherwise casualty will be opening a whole new chapter on laptop burn accidents, right next to the one on vacuum-related ones. The Inspector´s Verdict: These two truly bonkers gadgets have to be contenders for a sectioning order to the Gadget Asylum. It´s probably just as well nobody has managed to encase Facebook with Swarovski crystals – well, not yet anyway. Must go, the men in white coats are here…
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health
23 - 29 Sept 2011 2010 8-14 JANUARY
Caring for your eyes this summer By Colin Evans: Specsavers Opticas, Torrevieja EXPERTS SAY that teenagers and young adults in their 20s and 30s exposed to sunlight for around five hours per day with no hat or sunglasses double their chances of developing early age-related macular degeneration and other problems. Even reflections from sand, snow, pavements, and water can all damage the eye without even looking up or leaving the shade, so sunglasses should always be worn outside. It is recommended that we wear sunglasses even on cloudy days, especially in a country like Spain where the sunlight is stronger all year round. Sun damage is purely caused by UV, not brightness itself, so even when it’s cloudy the rays still affect you. Children under ten should be protected as much as possible from sunlight damage to the eyes. Children’s eyes
are not able to block as much UV as adults and unfortunately the eyes never fully recover from the exposure. Sunglasses and a hat will give the best protection and there are some special children’s glasses on the market which are high protection and don’t easily fall off. Children and adults with lighter coloured eyes are more at risk of sun damage to the eyes, so should take extra care. THE DANGERS OF SUN DAMAGE Exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can lead to the following common eye problems: Cataracts Macular degeneration Eyelid skin cancer Pinguecula - small, yellowish, slightly raised lesions that form on the surface of the white part of the eye. They can cause irritation, a feeling that there is something in the eye, and dry eyes. Pterygium - scar tissue that can grow over the surface of the eye and impair the vision. BUYING THE RIGHT SUNGLASSES When buying sunglasses, make sure they offer the right level of protection for your eyes. Look for UVA and UVB protection of 99% or higher. This does not necessarily come with an expensive designer pair, so be sure to ask when buying. Yellow tinted glasses also protect the eyes from blue light rays which may also cause damage. Big sunglasses or the wrap-around style are the best as they offer protection around the sides of the eyes as well as the front. Be especially careful with children’s glasses as they are often more of a toy and do not protect the eye at all.
HELP Murcia Mar Menor HELP MURCIA Mar Menor holds a car boot at the Autocine, Los Alcazares every Sunday, selling clothes, furniture and bric a brac. If anyone has any donations for the stall please contact Janice or Bernard on 650 737 383 or bring them along on a Sunday morning. The stall is on the left hand side near the exit. And HELP is always looking for volunteers to help on the stall or to help store everything away after the event at around 1pm. The HELP office is holding coffee mornings at its office at Calle Penelope 11, Los Narejos, Urbanizacion Oasis, Los Alcazares just behind the Deutsch Bank, on 22nd September, 20th October and 17th November between 10.30am and 1pm. Come along and have a look at what we do.
Specsavers can provide advice on sun damage to the eyes, and offers a large range of 100% UV block sunglasses so you can be sure you are purchasing the correct protection for you and your family. Specsavers have three stores on the Costa Blanca: in Torrevieja, Calpe and Jávea. For more information visit www.specsavers.es
Close shave for MABS! Photo by Robin Bayliss: Malcolm Vickery with Val and Suzy G
WHEN MABS volunteer Val Vickery was told she would need intensive chemotherapy as part of her treatment for breast cancer, she knew she would lose her hair. Husband Malcolm decided to have his head shaved to keep her company. Arches owner Ali joined in, followed by daughter Sam, offering to have her beautiful long blonde hair cut off, traded in for an impressive 400€ on the night. Suzy G joined the sell-out crowd at The Arches last Thursday that watched Malcolm and Sam lose their locks. Hairdresser Joanne, from Ascension Estetica in Los Alcázares, shaved Malcolm’s head before Sam then bravely stepped forward. Mum Ali made the first cut into the long, blonde tresses. “This is quite an emotional moment for both of us” said Ali “because Sam has had long hair ever since she was a baby”. 13-year-old George, hairdresser Joanne’s son, was next for the chop, leaving a tuft at the front! Suzy G rounded up the evening with her inimitable style and everyone danced into the late hours. A grateful MABS raised more than 1,200€ on the night, with sponsorship money still coming in. “It’s been a fantastic night,” remarked Malcolm, “and we’d like to thank everyone for their support.” Malcolm and Val were given matching caps by MABS sponsors, Iceland Overseas. MABS Mazarrón offers help and support to local people of all nationalities diagnosed with or are being treated for cancer. For confidential help or support call our HELPLINE 620 422 410 or visit: www.mabsmurcia.com
Help 4 Heroes in the Park THE PARK Bar and Restaurant in Via Park II, Playa Flamenca, is hosting a fund raiser in support of Help 4 Heroes on Sunday, 25th September from 11am. The day’s attractions will include plenty to amuse the kids with a bouncy castle and a variety of stalls will be selling a range of goodies. Refreshments will be available all day and a packed programme of artists will provide entertainment from 2pm. Official Help 4 Heroes t-shirts and wristbands will be available for purchase: a real family fun-filled day! For more information, call restaurant owner Tracy Rainford on 634 336 059.
23 - 29 Sept 2011
45
FREE screening for people who have problems with anxiety, stress, panic attacks or phobias! by
Mark Phoenix Murphy Dhp MIAPH MNRAH
INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist Mark Phoenix Murphy, Adv.Dhp MIAPH MNRAH, will be conducting free screenings at his award winning clinics, located at Villamartin, Moraira, Albir, Garrucha and Camposol for people with anxiety problems. The screening will usually take about 30 minutes. Participants will be able to talk with him privately and confidentially regarding their symptoms, in a relaxed and safe place in a registered clinic. Once again Mark is enthusiastic about his participation in this programme and says “Research tells us that more than 70% of people with anxiety disorders go untreated… usually because they don’t know where to go and they don’t know that effective treatment is available. By providing free screenings we can educate the community about the treatments that are available.” Thousands of people in the UK and Spain suffer from anxiety disorders at some point in their lives. Symptoms include nervousness; restlessness; sleeplessness; excessive worry; fatigue; feelings of panic; irritability; difficulty concentrating; racing heart; tension and fear of a particular object or situation;
and intrusive, unwanted thoughts. Many people with these problems respond to short-term hypnotherapy treatment. “Therapy doesn’t take years!” …“In fact, we typically see excellent results in 12 sessions or less” says Mark who has been treating anxiety disorders for many years and has trained to the highest level to keep up-to-date with the latest techniques. Interestingly quite a few people who attend these free screenings are having or have already had some kind of treatment, but feel they are not satisfied with their progress or are looking for a second opinion. “The screening can be used to educate people about alternative treatment approaches, so if they have tried one particular approach and have not seen good results, they should know that other options are available”. Why would anyone chose to go through their life, continually fighting to get control over individual symptoms (weight, smoking, phobias, depression etc) when they can permanently resolve them in just a few sessions? Please be advised that this is no quick fix method: this is long lasting and is aimed at getting to the root cause and
Happy 1st Birthday HAH Mar Menor HAH CELEBRATES its first anniversary this month with a party at the Novo Carthago Restaurant in Estrella de Mar, Los Urrutias, on Wednesday 28th September at 8pm. There are only a few tickets left for this popular venue’s Super Savoury Buffet and Mr Entertainment, Tony Lincoln, will be on hand to make the party go with a swing. Tickets are 5€ (a non-fund-raising event) from Lesley: 96 813 4978. Over the past year, HAH has helped and advised more than 100 clients aged 6 to 96 and with varying problems. Some are still being cared for, and more ask for help on almost a daily basis. HAH founder Lesley Eburne said: “Lynda,
our own Nurse Practitioner, has had phenomenal success with so many clients, and our Carers make an amazing support team. Over the past three months our volunteers have averaged between 200-400 hours per month, and all this help is offered FREE to clients. Our fund–raisers have worked so hard to ensure that sufficient funds are available to pay for our Nurse, the volunteer’s expenses and running costs.” To check out more events, visit www.helpathome.es or local press. To volunteer, please call Angela on 634 344 040: for other information and tickets, call Lesley on 96 813 4978 or email helpathomespain@gmail.com
finally dealing with it, rather than simply covering it up. Mark is registered with the Spanish authorities as a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist, which is a legal requirement in Spain and he also has a Spanish Governing body and he is permanently based in Spain.
Please book as soon as possible as appointments are filling very quickly. Phoenix Hypnotherapy Clinics are the only place in The Costa Blanca / Calida / Almeria where you can get the official Hypno-Band™ weight loss programme. Call Mark today on 654 202 996 or visit www.HypnoSpain.com
Helpcare enhanced membership benefits Free enhanced care programme for members of the Association, in partnership with CARE 4 YOU Nursing Care in the home immediately following discharge from hospital. End of Life Care For details of the HELPCARE Programme and eligibility please contact the San Miguel office at Calle Lope de Vega 46, tel: 966 723 733 It should be noted that the intention of the HELPCARE Programme is to supplement the services available from the Spanish Health Services and not replace them.
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Ask
My mailbox is never short of your letters, and many of you are seeing the need to work closer with Angels. In a difficult, highly charged and changing World it is becoming easier to send a message to one of these very special workers. This is due to openness in general in Spiritual matters, and a strong call for help in a problematic area of our daily lives. Angels always have been and always will be agents of God. They have for centuries upheld the wants, needs and desires of us mere mortals. Each Angel has a specific task, and a brief to pass requests to another Angel who will help, until the problem is dealt with, and everybody is happy; is the inspiring energy and brief of the Angel choirs. If you are reading this, then you were delivered safely into this World, and for that you can thank the Angel on duty the day of your birth. It was decided that you should live, and Angel power has been around you since your first scream was heard on this Earth. Whether you believe that or not is up to you, but belief helps to keep things in context, and richly supports those who are entrusted to help us all along the way. The power given to them is installed to help make our journey easier, to obliterate fear and to work together with us, catching us when we fall, and dusting us down when things go wrong, showing openly solutions, new ways of getting what we want and a clearer way forward. Angels have always connected with the Earth. They have tested our fate and our destiny, and always want the very best for us, even if we are oblivious to their actions and strategies, or appear to be disbelieving or none caring. Mankind has had to learn by error, yet the Angels have always known our truths, our aspirations and our shortcomings too. It is the Archangels that regularly attend here on Earth. They are the big guys with the powerful wings and the knowledge of human life. Despite their intimate knowledge of many of our failures they are unstoppable when it comes to human misery and reversing impossible situations. They can, and do, work with magic borne of the love they feel inside,
Kenny’s diary Readings at Bistro Maya: Monday September 26th and Wednesday September 28th from 16.30 onwards. For information and advanced bookings for mini readings please contact Els and her team on: 966 868 213 Thursday October 27th: Demonstration of Clairvoyance at the Alfaz Spiritual Foundation, at the Forum Mare Nostrum in Alfaz del Pi: 18.30. All very welcome to attend this service! Readings in your area: Please make contact if you want to organise readings in your locality, or organise a psychic event for your favourite charity. Some dates available for September/ October/November.
horoscopes by Kenny Corris and they are good at their job above all, answering only to God, and serving Man. Angels are networking the Planet and are ready and waiting to help you to make a difference in any aspect of your life. They do not exist to compromise situations or detract from the central issues, but they are prepared to help you see the missing elements and to allow you to see a clearer, more precise way forward. An Angel saves and prospers, guides and entrusts whilst opening the doors to a new direction, supported utterly by their love and devotion. Calling on an Angel is very easy, but it takes on board a conscious vibration, so it needs faith, and direction. Begging is never the correct format, and the answer to, “Please can I have?” can be a simple, “No”. If you are clever, ask for what you deserve to have, then there is no question and you will get it. If you do not have the consciousness to ask, however you will not realise just what it is you really want, anyway. Be precise. Then your destiny has to be examined and tested, and if your request does not alter your spiritual destination, it becomes yours. Many will not elevate themselves enough to ask, and failure to believe in what is possible will bring a negative result and just waste everyone’s time. I always light a candle, and this helps to illuminate the connection that your specific Angel has already set up between them and you. The pathway to belief and rich rewards is there and waiting, and only you can possibly hold you back. Take a bold step into consciousness, be brave and let yourself go. Have faith in a Universal process that is set up to work for you, if you will work with it. There is nothing to fear, everything to gain and nothing whatsoever to lose in this need to communicate. The Angels will be there with you all the way, supporting you and backing you all the way to the depths of your innermost soul, and beyond, and back, safely towards the Earthly life you deserve, and whatever that entails, above all! So,ask!
Love & Light... Kenny Corris
postbag Email your letters to me at: kennycorris@roundtownnews.com Kenny, we were brought up Christians, and told that contacting the dead was wicked. Not only did it disturb them in their sleep, but that it was Black Magic. I know things have changed, but what is the Christian view of Spiritualism? Betty.M. Betty many people combine the energies of Christianity and Spiritualism, as they go hand in hand. They are the two officially registered religions of the UK. I have been making contact for so many years I think that I would have been stopped by now if what I do is wicked. As for disturbing those who sleep, I do not. I gently call on behalf of my clients and if you saw the relief of those who come through, it is because they can’t or won’t sleep in the Spirit World, until they are sure that their loved ones are safe and well, and protected. Many Christians embrace the actions of the great love that unites the living and the dead. Many Spiritualists embrace the energies of the Christian principles; and as you so rightly say, Betty, thankfully times have changed! There is only one God, and many ways to work with him! May God bless you!
contact kenny Appointments: 96 587 8424 Mobile: 686 361 594 Web: www.kennycorris.net Forum: www.kennycorris.net/forum Email: kennycorris@hotmail.com Please contact me for inclusion in my healing list!
Mars plays cards close to the chest of a proud and resilient Leo. Being centre stage may be the very best place for you right now because this is a chance to show others just what you are really capable of, and you the right direction for your unseen talents. This week may seem to be a series of distractions, but there is a reason for everything, and you are about to find out for yourself. Actions with Mercury go against the grain this week as you are so nicely tucked up with Lucky Jupiter. Across the Cosmos the message is that communications are open and ready if you are ready to pass on anything that you feel holds you back. This is a time for gut wrenching emotional turmoil, but with a brief to clearing things and promoting the inner you to all who care about you. Being asked to take sides isn’t easy because your loyalties are where they should be, right down the middle. Luckily after moves with Libra coming to a head you are inspired to take things to a much higher level by belief in yourself, while something to look forward to out there in the distance sees you taking strides in a positive way to ensure that a sea of calm transpires. Tried and tested is the best way, but be sure that on this occasion you haven’t taken the wrong end of the stick. There is something unknown that is about to be revealed that shows you have been closest to the truth all along, but then your highly developed psychic energy is never too far away. Take an opportunity that allows you to work with your innermost self. Mars gently stirs your emotions and motivates you by appearing to be working against you this week. It is all part of the game, and you must play it to win to succeed. Others have recently judged you unfairly, and their criticism has done much to galvanise you into taking action in the defensive. This has served to test your limits, and your patience and calm attitude have surely not gone unnoticed. Strange, you are waiting for something to happen and when it does it seems to take your out of control. The recent events are a blessing in disguise and there is no need for a smokescreen if you value the experience gained, and value your own judgments. Loosen up, don’t be so hard on yourself and trust your boundless capabilities to show you just how far you have come already. Exalted as you are with the Sun entering, this is a time to better know just what it is that you want right now. Emotionally you are sending mixed messages, and your equilibrium is keeping you afloat, when things don’t have to be so close to the wire. You have a host of ideas, but these really are becoming mere dreams because of your failure to commit to that which you so richly deserve. Temper, temper because peace will find a way of arbitrating your next steps and freeing you from old bonds. The next steps must be those of freedom and you have to take control before you submit to the wants and needs of others who do not really have your interests at heart; and maybe never had. Emotionally you are safe, and the future is not only rosy, it’s around the corner at last. With Jupiter in Taurus and a need to move on you are planning a temporary escape. Whilst you, above all, do not need a carrot dangling to motivate yourself, it is time for some pastures new, and the fresh air, to put a distance between you and recent events; which need to be seen from a distance to get into context. Tread carefully and you could make someone very happy in the running. Here we go round the mulberry bush, as Pluto shakes rather then stirs things you would probably rather forget. When all is said and done you do not need this cross examination, but Pluto does hit hard at inner conscience and fundamentals. If you feel the need to fight, and I hope that you do, then twist this all around, not for any reason except that you can, and you will be rewarded. Enter Venus and Saturn in cahoots. Shaking the foundations and showing you a whole host of alternatives, there will be a method in your madness and all that resounds this week. Others have ruled out your defensives and choose to connect with your inspiring energies, but they do not see the birth of your innermost needs, psychic energies and your need for freedom, and all this brings. Finances must be very carefully examined as all elements of thrift are sought to make a difference to the balance of the budget. Someone isn’t paying their way, and there are economies that have to be made all along the line if things are to be brought to full account. There is a way out, and with temerity and a better understanding you will avoid unnecessary financial actions by acting now.
If it’s your birthday this week... Look to take strides and to ignore the warnings others have brought to your door just lately. They do not have your motivation and your need to survive. Show them by your determination, and know that the Cosmos supports your efforts all along the way!
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23 - 29 Sept 2011 09 - 15 Sept 2011
Word Ladders The key rule is that you must only change one letter at a time as you move from one rung to another, and the word you make must be a proper word! Therefore you may move from BATH --> BATS but not from BATH --> CASH because that changes two letters in one go which is not allowed.
Sudoku
Cryptic Crossword ACROSS 1. A pen, or its holder (6-6) 7. A point in favour of New Guinea, initially (5) 8. A self-made counterfeiter may be so described (5) 9. I will be briefly unwell (3) 10. Receptacle used on certain orders (9) 11. They are outside or is it just speculation? (6) 12. Enough furniture for 501 vehicles (6) 15. Promote a murderer and cause uproar (5,4) 17. Fellow in command (3) 18. Unlikely to be outwitted or feel pain (5) 19. Put your foot down! (5) 21. Deeply sad tendency in an audience (12)
DOWN 1. A money-lender may, but it won’t appear in his books! (4,8) 2. I personally go East to begin with (3) 3. They carry on among wits (6) 4. Result of a big blow to the economy? (9) 5. She’s found in excellent surroundings (5) 6. Showing pre-arranged loathing (12) 7. It naturally beats peas and beans (5) 10. Craftsman who may have to take a plane (9) 13. Directed me to help out (5) 14. Actors show they have star potential! (6) 16. I am on time for the picture (5) 20. One is confused for a long time (3)
Wordwheel
Quick Crossword ACROSS 1. Prodigality (12) 7. Navy (5) 8. Grieve (5) 9. Dog (3) 10. Meddle (9) 11. Powerful (6) 12. Blunt (6) 15. Forbearance (9) 17. Useless (3) 18. Ancient (5) 19. Deduce (5) 21. Unending (12)
DOWN 1. Freeing (12) 2. Wonder (3) 3. Shrewd (6) 4. Excellent (9) 5. Induce (5) 6. Autonomy (12) 7. Leading (5) 10. Lack of knowledge (9) 13. Beneath (5) 14. Weak (6) 16. Burdened (5) 20. Jollity (3)
Answers & Winners Last week’s Crossword and Suduko answers found on page 53/54. Winner for 622 - David Evans, Villajoyosa
Win a meal for 2! The Planet Bar in Parcent (North Costa Blanca) (Fish & Chip Supper for two)
by answering the Cryptic Crossword correctly.
Answers by email to: production@roundtownnews.com *This must be used no later than 3 weeks of notification
Euromillions Draw Friday 16th September
2 8 17 39 42
3
10
One Belgian ticket won 15,000,000€ jackpot prize
Tuesday 20th September
9 19 25 36 38
No ticket won jackpot prize
7
11
48
23 - 29 Sept 2011
music scene
Clara Luna & Javier Moreno perform new project
C
Vibes From The Costas by
Tony Poole
from www.vibesfromthecostas. blogspot.com
LARA LUNA is gradually becoming an indispensable voice on the Spanish jazz scene. The inquiring singer has collaborated with Madridian bassist player Javier Moreno to perform a new project at Jazzazza on 24th September. Born in Barcelona in 1980, Clara began her musical career playing classical piano, studying at the Conservatori Municipal de Música de Barcelona. Soon after, she discovered the world of jazz and her best instrument - her voice. She had the opportunity to work with Bobby McFerrin at the Barcelona Jazz Festival in 2002 and Joan Albert Amargós at the Mediterranian Music Festival in 2005. She sings for the Jazz Musicians Workshop Orchestra, participating in the recordings of Cris Juanico’s ‘Sa Lluna Vola’m’ (2006) and ‘Tot De Mi’ (2008). She is a member of the Girona Jazz Project, covering the repertoire of work by Vicens Martin and Perico Sambeat and the leader of the Lunar Project with an album titled ‘Supernova’ on New Mood Jazz released in 2007, consisting of her own compositions. Together with guitarist and singer Albert Vila, Clara performs jazz standards, Bossa Nova, pop and soul. She also performs a tribute to the legendary songwriter Cole Porter entitled ‘Mmm ... Cole Porter!’ with pianist Jose Alberto Medina, Rai Ferrer on bass, and Xavi Maureta on drums. Javier Moreno, currently living in New York City, recorded his first CD as a leader in 2010, which features a very open range of sound textures and moods,
headed by a strong rhythmic presence that paints a Mediterranean landscape of colours. This new album titled ‘Brisa’ was released earlier this year. Javier has lived and performed in the Netherlands, France and Spain, performing at international jazz festivals as well as other music venues; creating music projects like the duo with the accordion player Didier Ithursarry in Paris. He has had the opportunity to play as a sideman as well as a leader with internationally renowned jazz artists George Garzone, Mat Maneri, Craig Taborn, Gerald Cleaver, Rez Abassi, Tony Malaby, Ralph Lalama, Badal Roy, William Parker, Tony Moreno and Jerry Gonzalez. On the Spanish music scene, he has performed with the celebrated artists Javier Ruibal, Federico Lechner, and Justin Tchatchoua and from the flamenco scene he collaborated with Carmen Linares and Agustín Carbonell ‘El Bola’. He holds a BA from The Royal Conservatory in The Hague, Netherlands and a MM from the New York University. Pianist Albert Bover and drummer Xavi Maureta complete the line-up for the new collaboration with singer Clara Luna. Jazzazza is five kilometres south of the city of Murcia in the suburb of Aljezares at Ramon y Canal 4. Since opening its doors in late 2004 they have presented various cultural activities including book presentations; a children’s theatre; poetry; film club and piano jazz. For ticket information and further details about Jazzazza visit www.jazzazza.com
More festival and concert information at www.vibesfromthecostas.blogspot.com Email news and views to vibes@roundtownnews.com Keep the ViBES ALiVE!
From Fame 2 Freedom: Yazz visits Torrevieja YASMIN DE Fernandez (nee Evans) (award-winning singer of the late 1980s with hits including ‘The Only Way is UP’) and her Worship Team are to visit Torrevieja Christian Fellowship (TCF), at Avenida de las Valencianas 68, (opposite Maxi Dia on the old Alicante Road) in Torrevieja on Saturday, 8th October at 7pm. Yazz will be singing songs from her latest gospel album and talking about the way her life has been transformed since becoming a Christian. Her visit coincides with the release of her second Christian Album ‘This is Love’: “The combination of my new-found freedom as an artist in faith and meeting new hearts, found me pouring out ideas, melodies and grooves – the results of which is this latest album.” This is Yazz’s first visit to this part of Spain. Roy Davies, Pastor of TCF added, “We are thrilled to host the ‘From Fame2 Freedom’ event with Yazz at TCF. What a great opportunity to meet Yazz and her support team and understand the difference that faith in God can make in a person’s life.” Tickets at 5€ are available by ringing the Church on 96 670 0391 or the Secretary on 96 678 8771, or drop into the church Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday between 9am and 1pm, or Sunday between 10am and 1.30pm. For more information visit www.yazzmusic.co.uk
- 29 Sept Feb 2623- March 4 2011 2010
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Jukebox Promotions presents Chas Hodges on the Costa Blanca C
HAS HODGES’ mother Daisy supported her family by playing piano in clubs and pubs around North London. At 12, with his mother’s encouragement, Chas learned to play guitar and later joined The Horseshoe Skiffle group. When Jerry Lee Lewis played at The Edmonton Regal in 1958, Chas was inspired to become a piano player: rock’n’roll was taking over and Chas wanted to be part of it! In 1959 Chas bought a Hofner bass guitar and began playing in various local rock’n’roll bands, turning professional at 16. One of his first paying gigs was the summer season at Butlins, Filey with Billy Gray & the Stormers in 1960. Chas rose to fame as part of duo Chas and Dave. Their ‘rockney’ style was a hit from the start - the single ‘Gertcha’ was used as the music behind a notable television commercial for Courage Bitter. Their top hit ‘Rabbit’ came from the Cockney rhyming slang ‘rabbit and pork’ - ‘talk’. ‘Snooker Loopy’, released as a single in May 1986, entered the UK Singles Chart reaching number 6. Chas and Dave were offered the chance to record the theme song for the sitcom Only Fools and Horses but turned it down as they were in Australia at the time due to the success of ‘Ain’t No Pleasing You’. However their song ‘Margate’ was used in a feature-length episode of the comedy, entitled ‘The Jolly Boys Outing’. And the act has produced nine best-selling albums. When it was announced in September 2009 that the pair would no longer be working together as Dave Peacock
planned to retire from the band following the recent death of his wife, with a final tour planned for early 2011, Chas decided to go solo. Chas is as popular today as ever among supporters of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club owing to singles he has released as ‘Chas and Dave’, including ‘Glory Glory Tottenham Hotspur’, ‘Hot Shot Tottenham’, ‘When the Year Ends in One’, ‘Spurs Medley’ and ‘Ossie’s Dream’ also known as ‘Spurs are on their way to Wembley’. He’s performed with Gene Vincent, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles and now Chas Hodges will be playing here on the Costa Blanca. Jukebox Promotions presents Chas Hodges at three handpicked venues, to thrill audiences with classic Chas & Dave hits and new tracks, plus songs and stories of life ‘before and after Dave’ THE SHOWS Sunday 25th & Monday 26th September The Rendezvous in Campoamor Tuesday 27th September Asturias, N332, Punta Prima Wednesday 28th September The Club, Quesada. Tickets at 12€ are available from any of the venues or by calling 695 135 134 - Places are limited so book early.
Blast from the past for ICA Church HERE’S A blast from the past - remember the Electric Light Orchestra, and hit songs like ‘Mr Blue Sky’, ‘All Over the World’ and ‘Don’t Walk Away?’ Dave Morgan, now known as Dave Scott-Morgan, ELO’s guitarist, is performing in concert free (yes free) in Torrevieja next month, alongside with other supporting artists in a concert organised by the English-speaking International Christian Assembly church, at the Teatro Auditorio Municipal, Friday, 14th October at 7.30pm: all are welcome. A retiring collection will help boost church funds, and for more information you can view on line at www.icetorrevieja.org or call 96 679 9273.
Out & About 22ND SEPTEMBER Lorna Michelle, The Black Bull, El Chapperel Chris Johnson, Quesada Country Club, Quesada Patti Ross, Inter Club, Gran Alicant 23RD SEPTEMBER JJ Soulman, JP’S Restaurant, Mil Palmeras Richie, Cagneys, La Marina Lucinda, Harrys Bar, Quesada Matt Blackwood, Bar Imanyo, Daya Nueva 24TH SEPTEMBER Brian Cavaganagh (U2 tribute) Mr Smiths, Quesada Chris Johnson, Bar Imanyo, Daya Nueva Connor, Rojales Steak House, Rojales Richie, Fogon Restaurant, Hondon de la frailes 25TH SEPTEMBER JJ Soulman, Cheers Bar, Villamartin Magic Supreme, Rocajuna, Punta Prima
It Takes Two ‘IT TAKES Two’ namely Paul and Linda, have been singing together now for some seven years. Prior to moving permanently to Spain four and a half years ago, they were both in fulltime employment in the UK but enjoyed being semiprofessional at weekends performing in an assortment of venues. Linda was previously part of a female trio called ‘Without the Boys’ and worked the club circuit
until she decided to leave to pursue entertaining the masses with husband Paul. Whilst in Spain they have performed in many bars and restaurants here on the Costa Blanca entertaining clients with their outstanding selection of music from the 90s down to the 50s (including early rat-pack) from ballads to up-tempo rock & roll. They can entertain at any venue for any occasion: bars, restaurants, private parties and hotels. They are
Scandal
a versatile and entertaining vocal duo that captures the attention of audiences who just want to get up on the dance floor to ‘strut their stuff!’
THIS FABULOUS duo from Scotland has the expertise, repertoire and personality to please any audience. Jeannie and Kenny have been a sensational act both here and in West Yorkshire, delighting audiences at venues large and small. Both play keyboards and take lead vocals. Kenny plays a tenor and alto saxophone, plus clarinet - but not all at the same time!! His rendition of every sax player’s favourite - ‘Baker Street’, going onto one of the most popular of all clarinet pieces - Acker Bilks ‘Stranger on the shore’, gives you an idea of this man’s talents and skill. This well-rehearsed duo has as much fun as they give pleasure to audiences at functions and restaurants. Their repertoire of over 400 songs ranges from a little bit of country, rock and roll, ballads, easy listening songs right up to many songs that have made the charts in recent years.
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tv Friday
23 - 29 23 Sept - 292011 Sept 2011
07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Helicopter Heroes 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 To Build or Not to Build 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Celebrity MasterChef 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Natural Born Hunters 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 Dick & Dom Go Wild 17:30 Barney’s Latin America 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Nigel Slater’s Simple Cooking 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Celebrity MasterChef 22:00 Outnumbered 22:30 Would I Lie to You? 23:00 BBC News 23:35 Come Fly with Me 24:05 Mrs Brown’s Boys 24:35 National Lottery Friday Night Draws
07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Koala Brothers 10:15 Driver Dan’s Story Train 10:35 Raa Raa the Noisy Lion 10:45 Nuzzle & Scratch 11:05 Get Squiggling! 11:20 Zingzillas 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 13:30 GMT with George Alagiah 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:15 Animal 24:7 16:00 The Weakest Link 16:45 Real Rescues 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Reel History of Britain 20:00 Highlands on Film 20:30 Coast 21:30 Gardeners’ World 22:00 Digging for Britain 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 24:00 The Review Show 24:50 Later... with Jools Holland
07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:15 Live Rugby World Cup 12:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Granada Weather 17:00 Midsomer Murders 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Love Your Garden 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 DCI Banks 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Four of a Kind 24:35 Rugby World Cup Highlights
07:15 The Hoobs 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Supernanny USA 10:55 Supersize vs Superskinny 11:55 A Place by the Sea 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:35 River Cottage Bites 13:55 Channel 4 Racing 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:30 4thought.tv 20:35 Father Ted: Comedy Classic 21:00 Come Dine with Me 22:00 The Million Pound Drop Live 23:30 8 Out of 10 Cats 24:05 My Funniest Year
07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 The Wright Stuff Extra with Gabby Logan 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:10 Family Recipe 16:15 Ice Dreams 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Pawn Stars 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 Big Brother 23:00 The Bachelor 24:00 Big Brother 24:30 Big Brother’s Bit on the Side
06:00 BBC News 06:30 Our World 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Nigel Slater’s Simple Cooking 13:00 BBC News; Regional News 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Cycling 15:00 Formula 1 17:30 Final Score 18:10 BBC News; Regional News 18:30 Epic Win 19:10 Celebrity MasterChef 20:10 Doctor Who 20:55 The National Lottery: Secret Fortune 21:45 Casualty 22:35 Live at the Apollo 23:05 BBC News 23:25 Match of the Day 24:50 The Football League Show
07:00 Childrens TV 08:55 Dennis & Gnasher 09:05 Hounded 09:35 Splatalot 10:00 Live ‘n’ Deadly 11:00 Who Let the Dogs Out? 11:25 League of Super Evil 11:40 Wolverine and the X-Men 12:00 Eliot Kid 12:15 Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab 12:40 MOTD Kickabout 13:00 Homes Under the Hammer 13:30 Rampage 15:05 Krakatoa, East of Java 17:10 Escape to the Country 18:10 Match of the Day Live 20:15 Flog It! 20:45 Dad’s Army 21:15 The 1951 Festival of Britain: Brave New World 22:15 QI XL 23:00 Calendar Girls 24:45 Calendar Girls: 10 Years On
06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Live Rugby World Cup 10:10 Live Rugby World Cup 13:00 ITV News 13:05 Coronation Street 15:50 The X Factor 16:50 People Do the Funniest Things Abroad 17:35 Rugby World Cup Highlights 18:35 Granada News 18:45 ITV News 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 20:00 All Star Family Fortunes 21:00 The X Factor 22:30 The Jonathan Ross Show 23:30 American Gangster 24:30 ITV News 24:45 American Gangster
07:20 Sali Mali 07:25 Treacle People 07:35 The Film Show 08:05 MSA Formula Ford Championship 08:30 The Grid 08:55 The Morning Line 09:55 Example & Wretch 32’s Beat Stacking 50 10:55 Smallville 11:50 The Simpsons 12:20 Made in Chelsea 13:25 Big Bang Theory 14:25 Road to London 2012: That Paralympic Show 14:55 Channel 4 Racing 17:10 Come Dine with Me 18:10 Come Dine with Me 19:10 Come Dine with Me 19:40 Channel 4 News 20:10 4thought.tv 20:15 Dambusters: Building the Bouncing Bomb 22:15 Million Pound Drop Live 23:50 8 Out of 10 Cats Uncut 24:40 Rude Tube
07:00 Childrens TV 09:20 Angelina Ballerina 09:40 Rupert Bear 09:55 Olivia 10:15 Mr Men Show 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:45 Animal Families 11:00 Inside Hollywood 11:10 Pawn Stars 11:40 The Gadget Show 12:40 Big Brother 13:40 Big Brother 14:10 Royal Navy: Submarine Mission 15:05 The Bridge at Remagen 17:25 The Stand at Apache River 19:00 Zulu Dawn 21:10 5 News Weekend 21:15 NCIS 22:15 Big Brother 23:15 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 24:10 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
07:00 Emmerdale
06:00 BBC News 06:30 The Record Europe 07:00 Breakfast 08:35 Match of the Day 10:00 Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Sunday Morning Live 12:00 The Politics Show 13:10 Formula 1 16:30 A Question of Sport 17:00 Deadly 60 on a Mission 17:30 Planet Dinosaur 18:00 Songs of Praise 18:35 BBC News; Regional News 19:00 Nature’s Miracle Babies 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 Spooks 23:00 BBC News; Regional News 23:25 My Favourite Joke 23:55 Outnumbered 24:25 Ask Rhod Gilbert
07:00 Little Robots 07:10 Guess with Jess 07:20 The Pingu Show 07:35 Little Charley Bear 07:45 Rastamouse 08:00 Roar 08:30 Eliot Kid 08:45 Athletics 11:45 Something for the Weekend 13:15 The Great British Bake Off 14:15 EastEnders 16:10 Cycling 18:00 Rugby League 19:00 Dragons’ Den: How to Win in the Den 20:00 Top Gear 21:00 A South American Journey with Jonathan Dimbleby 22:00 Fry’s Planet Word 23:00 Match of the Day 2 23:50 Mock the Week 24:20 New Jack City
06:30 Live Rugby
07:35 Treacle People 07:45 The Hoobs
09:00 Live Rugby
08:10 UK School
World Cup
Games 2011
11:55 ITV News
09:00 One Tree Hill
12:00 Thunderbirds
09:45 Battlefront
13:40 The X Factor
10:00 Hollyoaks
15:10 Midsomer
12:30 Ibiza Rocks
Murders
12:50 Big Bang Theory
16:45 Downton Abbey
13:25 Big Bang Theory
18:15 Rugby World
14:00 One Fine Day
Cup Highlights
16:05 The Simpsons
19:00 Granada News
16:40 The Simpsons
19:15 ITV News
17:15 Deal or No Deal
19:30 Holding Out
18:15 Best of British
for a Hero
19:15 Channel 4 News
20:30 The X Factor
19:45 4thought.tv
22:00 Downton Abbey
19:50 X-Men Origins:
23:15 That Sunday
Wolverine
Night Show
22:00 Fighting on
23:45 ITV News
the Frontline
24:00 Missing Millions
23:00 Predator
07:00 Childrens TV 08:05 The Save-Ums! 08:20 Noddy in Toyland 08:40 Hana’s Helpline 08:50 Little Princess 09:05 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:25 Angelina Ballerina 09:40 Rupert Bear 09:55 Olivia 10:15 Mr Men Show 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:45 Animal Families 11:00 Meerkat Manor 11:20 The Beat Goes On 12:20 Big Brother 13:20 The Bachelor 14:20 Agent Cody Banks 2: Destination London 16:10 The Princess Bride 18:05 Mrs Doubtfire 20:30 5 News Weekend 20:35 Warship 22:00 Big Brother 23:00 From Hell
07:00 Coronation Street
World Cup
tv Saturday
tv Sunday
07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Emmerdale 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Gossip Girl 09:10 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of New York City 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Emmerdale 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of New York City 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:30 Take Me Out 21:00 You’ve Been Framed! 22:00 The X Factor USA 24:00 TOWIE: Reem All About It
07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Make It or Break It 08:35 90210 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:25 Gilmore Girls 11:20 Make It or Break It 12:15 90210 13:10 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Samantha Who? 17:00 Glee 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:25 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Jo Frost: Extreme Parental Guidance 22:00 Supersize vs Superskinny 23:00 Embarrassing Bodies 24:05 Wife Swap USA
10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House? 11:30 Jungle Book 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:30 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:10 Location, Location, Location 17:40 Relocation, Relocation 18:45 A Place by the Sea 19:55 Come Dine with Me 21:00 Grand Designs 22:00 Crash 24:10 Heroes of Comedy
Father Ted: Comedy Classic Channel 4, 20.35
09:25 Minute to Win It 10:20 The X Factor USA 12:10 The X Factor USA 14:00 TOWIE: Reem All About It 15:00 The Thief Lord 17:10 The Xtra Factor 18:15 Apollo 13 21:00 Superhuman 22:00 Grimefighters 22:30 The Xtra Factor 23:30 Celebrity Juice 24:15 TOWIE: Reem All About It
07:00 Switched Up! 07:50 Supernanny USA 08:40 Supernanny USA 09:30 Wife Swap USA 10:30 How to Look Good Naked 11:00 Supernanny USA 11:55 Supernanny USA 12:55 Wife Swap USA 13:55 How to Look Good Naked 14:25 Hollyoaks 17:00 Made in Chelsea 18:00 Samantha Who? 18:30 Samantha Who? 19:00 Samantha Who? 19:25 One Tree Hill 20:20 Big Bang Theory 20:50 Perfect Couples 21:15 How I Met Your Mother 21:45 Happy Endings 22:15 The Wedding Date 23:55 Cleveland Show
10:00 A Place in the Sun 10:30 Time Team 11:30 Time Team 12:35 Time Team 13:40 Clash of the Titans 15:35 3 Minute Wonder 15:40 3 Minute Wonder 15:45 3 Minute Wonder 15:50 Grand Designs 16:55 Grand Designs 17:55 Grand Designs 19:00 Grand Designs 20:05 Grand Designs 21:10 The World Sheep Dog Trials 22:15 The Story of Film: An Odyssey 23:40 Crash
The Wedding Date E4, 22.15
09:30 Emmerdale 12:30 Coronation Street 15:30 71 Degrees North 16:30 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 17:00 The X Factor 18:30 The Xtra Factor 19:30 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 20:00 Biggest Loser 21:00 Help! I Caught It Abroad 22:00 The Xtra Factor 23:15 The Only Way Is Essex 24:00 American Pie 2
07:00 Switched 07:25 Switched 07:50 Supernanny USA 08:35 Supernanny USA 09:30 How to Look Good Naked 10:35 How to Look Good Naked 11:35 Supersize vs Superskinny 12:40 Supernanny USA 13:30 Supernanny USA 14:30 Supersize vs Superskinny 15:30 Garfield 17:00 Beauty and the Geek 18:00 Smallville 18:55 Picture Perfect 21:00 The Devil Wears Prada 23:10 The Inbetweeners 23:40 The IT Crowd 24:15 Campus
Downton Abbey ITV1, 22.00
10:00 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 11:00 Scrapheap Challenge 12:05 Scrapheap Challenge 13:05 Scrapheap Challenge 14:10 Scrapheap Challenge 15:20 3 Minute Wonder 15:25 Four in a Bed 15:55 Four in a Bed 16:30 Four in a Bed 17:05 Four in a Bed 17:40 Four in a Bed 18:10 Come Dine with Me 19:15 Come Dine with Me 20:25 Come Dine with Me 20:55 River Cottage 22:00 Heston’s Mission Impossible 23:00 Brighton Bomb 24:10 Curb Your Enthusiasm 24:50 Black Books
23 - 29 Sept 2011 8 - 14 JulY 2011
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23 - 29 14 20Sept may2011 2010
07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Helicopter Heroes 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 To Build or Not to Build 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Celebrity MasterChef 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Natural Born Hunters 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 Dick & Dom Go Wild 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Bang Goes the Theory 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Panorama 22:00 The Queen’s Palaces 23:00 BBC News 23:35 A Question of Sport 24:05 Spooks
07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Koala Brothers 10:15 Driver Dan’s Story Train 10:30 Raa Raa the Noisy Lion 10:40 Nuzzle & Scratch 11:00 Get Squiggling! 11:15 Zingzillas 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 Daily Politics Conference Special 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Reel History of Britain 20:00 Coast 21:00 University Challenge 21:30 Home Cooking Made Easy 22:00 Dragons’ Den 23:00 Have I Got News for You 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Today at Conference 24:50 Fry’s Planet Word
07:00 Daybreak 08:15 Live Rugby World Cup 10:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 15:59 Granada Weather 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 17:00 There’s No Taste Like Home 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Little England 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Doc Martin 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 Exposure: Gaddafi and the IRA 24:35 Rugby World Cup Highlights
07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Supernanny USA 10:55 Supersize vs Superskinny 11:55 A Place by the Sea 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:35 Secret Supper Club 14:05 Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Dispatches 22:00 Embarrassing Bodies 23:00 Rude Tube 24:05 Fresh Meat 24:55 4thought.tv
07:00 Childrens TV 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:10 Family Recipe 16:15 Love Takes Wing 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Pawn Stars 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 Jack the Ripper: The Definitive Story 23:00 Big Brother 24:00 Big Brother’s Bit on the Side
07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Helicopter Heroes 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 To Build or Not to Build 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Celebrity MasterChef 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Natural Born Hunters 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 Hotel Trubble 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Holby City 22:00 The Body Farm 23:00 BBC News 23:35 Hedge Wars 24:15 What’s the Point of Religion? 24:45 The Best of Times
07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Koala Brothers 10:15 Driver Dan’s Story Train 10:35 Raa Raa the Noisy Lion 10:45 Nuzzle & Scratch 11:05 Get Squiggling! 11:20 Zingzillas 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 New Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics Conference Special 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:40 Coast 15:00 Daily Politics Conference Special 17:00 Escape to the Country 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Reel History of Britain 20:00 Dragons’ Den 21:00 Great British Bake Off 22:00 Hairy Bikers Meals on Wheels 23:00 Later Live... with Jools Holland 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Today at Conference
07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 15:59 Granada Weather 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 17:00 There’s No Taste Like Home 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Mayday Mayday 21:00 Missing Millions 22:00 71 Degrees North 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 DCI Banks 24:35 Rugby World Cup Highlights
07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Supernanny USA 10:55 Supersize vs Superskinny 11:55 A Place by the Sea 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:40 River Cottage Bites 13:55 Shane 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow: Get the Look for Less 22:00 Seven Dwarves 23:00 Shameless 24:45 True Blood
07:00 Childrens TV 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 Chinese Food in Minutes 16:20 Falling in Love with the Girl Next Door 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Real Food Family Cook Off 21:00 Superior Interiors with Kelly Hoppen 22:00 CSI: Miami 23:00 Big Brother 24:00 The Woods
07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Gossip Girl 09:10 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of New York City 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of New York City 17:40 Loose Women 18:45 The Only Way Is Essex 19:30 The X Factor 21:00 Minute to Win It 22:00 Tomorrow Never Dies 24:25 Celebrity Juice
07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Helicopter Heroes 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 To Build or Not to Build 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Celebrity MasterChef 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Natural Born Hunters 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 Hotel Trubble 17:30 Serious Explorers 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 19:55 Party Political Broadcast 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Waterloo Road 21:30 Planet Dinosaur 22:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 23:00 BBC News 23:35 National Lottery Wednesday Night Draws 23:45 Ask Rhod Gilbert 24:20 Outrageous Fortune
07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Koala Brothers 10:15 Driver Dan’s Story Train 10:35 Raa Raa the Noisy Lion 10:45 Nuzzle & Scratch 11:05 Get Squiggling! 11:20 Zingzillas 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics Conference Special 14:00 See Hear 14:30 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 18:55 Party Political Broadcast 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Reel History of Britain 20:00 Escape to the Country 21:00 Natural World 22:00 Dragons’ Den: How to Win in the Den 23:00 Shooting Stars 23:30 Newsnight 24:20 Today at Conference 24:50 Toughest Place to Be a...
07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 15:59 Granada Weather 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 17:00 There’s No Taste Like Home 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 19:50 Party Political Broadcast 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Live UEFA Champions League 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 UEFA Champions League 24:35 Rugby World Cup Highlights
07:10 The Hoobs 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Supernanny USA 10:55 Supersize vs Superskinny 11:55 A Place by the Sea 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:35 Channel 4 Presents 13:40 Magnificent Seven 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Location, Location, Location 22:00 Grand Designs 23:00 Fresh Meat 23:55 Shameless
07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: NY 16:10 Cries in the Dark 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Ultimate Emergency Bikers 22:00 Law & Order: Criminal Intent 23:00 Big Brother 24:00 Banged Up Abroad
07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:15 Gossip Girl 09:10 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of New York City 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of New York City 17:40 Loose Women 18:45 You’ve Been Framed! 19:45 All Star Family Fortunes 20:50 Miss Congeniality 2: Armed & Fabulous 23:00 The Only Way Is Essex 23:45 Ocean’s Twelve
tv Tuesday
tv Wednesday
07:00 Coronation Street 07:25 Coronation Street 07:50 Emmerdale 08:15 Gossip Girl 09:10 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of New York City 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Coronation Street 13:30 Coronation Street 14:00 Emmerdale 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of New York City 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 19:30 You’ve Been Framed! 20:30 The X Factor 22:00 Hell’s Kitchen USA 23:00 Tomorrow Never Dies
07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Make It or Break It 08:35 90210 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:25 Gilmore Girls 11:20 Make It or Break It 12:15 90210 13:10 Greek 14:10 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:40 Gilmore Girls 16:40 Glee 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:05 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Big Bang Theory 21:30 My Name Is Earl 22:00 One Tree Hill 23:00 Made in Chelsea 24:05 Misfits
10:00 Deal or No Deal 10:55 How Clean Is Your House? 11:30 Malta Story 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:55 Grand Designs 22:00 Three in a Bed 23:00 Country House Rescue 24:10 The Daily Show Global Edition 24:40 Unreported World
Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170
07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Make It or Break It 08:35 90210 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:25 Gilmore Girls 11:20 Make It or Break It 12:20 90210 13:10 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Glee 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:25 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:30 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Made in Chelsea 22:00 Smallville 23:00 Cleveland Show 23:35 Cleveland Show 24:05 Ricky Gervais Show 24:40 Shameless
10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 20,000 Leagues under the Sea 13:25 3 Minute Wonder 13:30 3 Minute Wonder 13:35 Deal or No Deal 14:35 The Good Wife 15:35 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:05 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:55 Grand Designs 22:00 Come Dine with Me 23:00 True Stories 24:20 Britain’s Worst Weather
Emergency with The Body Farm Angela Griffin BBC1, Sky1 22.00 21.00
07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Greek 08:35 90210 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:20 Gilmore Girls 11:15 Privileged 12:10 90210 13:05 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 14:35 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Glee 17:35 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 18:35 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Jumper 22:45 Rude Tube 2011 24:50 Big Bang Theory
Emergency with Shooting Stars Angela Griffin BBC2, Sky1 23.00 21.00
10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House? 11:30 Green for Danger 13:20 3 Minute Wonder 13:25 3 Minute Wonder 13:30 Deal or No Deal 14:30 The Good Wife 15:30 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:05 Coach Trip 16:40 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:55 Grand Designs 22:00 Time Team 23:00 Time Team 24:10 Attila and the Empire of the Huns
tv Thursday 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Helicopter Heroes 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News 12:00 To Build or Not to Build 12:45 Cash in the Attic 13:13 BBC News 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News 14:30 Regional News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Celebrity MasterChef 16:00 BBC News 16:05 Natural Born Hunters 16:35 Wingin’ It 17:00 Copycats 17:30 Richard Hammond’s Blast Lab 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Watchdog 22:00 Outnumbered 22:30 Would I Lie to You? 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News 23:35 Question Time 24:35 This Week
07:00 Childrens TV 10:05 Koala Brothers 10:15 Driver Dan’s Story Train 10:35 Raa Raa the Noisy Lion 10:45 Nuzzle & Scratch 11:05 Get Squiggling! 11:20 Zingzillas 11:45 Waybuloo 12:05 In the Night Garden 12:35 Pink Panther Show 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Diagnosis Murder 14:45 To Buy or Not to Buy 15:15 The Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Antiques Road Trip 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Reel History of Britain 20:00 If Walls Could Talk: The History of the Home 21:00 The Marvellous Mrs Beeton, with Sophie Dahl 22:00 Shirley 23:10 Mock the Week 23:40 Newsnight 24:25 Weather 24:30 Today at Conference
23 - 29 Sept 2011
07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News 14:55 Granada News 15:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 15:59 Granada Weather 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 17:00 There’s No Taste Like Home 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Granada Reports 19:30 ITV News 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Billy Connolly’s Route 66 23:00 ITV News at Ten 23:30 Granada News 23:35 The Jonathan Ross Show 24:35 71 Degrees North
CRossword SOLUTIONS 622 CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS Across: 4 Artisan; 8 Erupts; 9 Aground; 10 Remote; 11 Trains; 12 Autocrat; 18 Distinct; 20 Menace; 21 Toledo; 22 Bedtime; 23 Weasel; 24 Dessert. Down: 1 Retreat; 2 Summits; 3 Static; 5 Regattas; 6 Isobar; 7 Awning; 13 Redeemer; 14 Incense; 15 Strolls; 16 Secede; 17 Cactus; 19 Trowel.
07:20 Sali Mali 07:25 Treacle People 07:35 The Hoobs 08:00 Freshly Squeezed 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 10:00 Supernanny USA 10:55 Supersize vs Superskinny 11:55 A Place by the Sea 13:00 Channel 4 News 13:05 Four in a Bed 13:35 Four in a Bed 14:05 Rio Grande 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Coach Trip 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 19:55 4thought.tv 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Channel 4 Presents 21:00 Country House Rescue 22:00 Educating Essex 23:00 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA 24:05 Seven Dwarves
07:00 Childrens TV 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with Gabby 13:05 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 16:10 Loving Evangeline 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:25 OK! TV 20:00 5 News at 7 20:30 Live UEFA Europa League Football 23:10 Big Brother 24:15 Big Brother’s Bit on the Side
QUICK SOLUTIONS Across: 4 Gateway; 8 Earned; 9 Affront; 10 Outlay; 11 Uproar; 12 Vicarage; 18 Interval; 20 Regale; 21 Fondle; 22 General; 23 Pistol; 24 Feather. Down: 1 Revolve; 2 Protect; 3 Repair; 5 Affluent; 6 Errors; 7 Annual; 13 Alienate; 14 Avidity; 15 Elderly; 16 Severe; 17 Patent; 19 Exotic. Wordwheel: RESIDENCE
07:00 Emmerdale 07:25 Nanny 911 08:15 Gossip Girl 09:10 Judge Judy 10:25 Real Housewives of New York City 11:30 Judge Judy 13:00 Emmerdale 13:30 Nanny 911 14:30 Jeremy Kyle Show 15:35 Jeremy Kyle Show 16:40 Real Housewives of New York City 17:40 Loose Women 18:40 Judge Judy 20:00 Minute to Win It 21:00 The X Factor USA 23:00 Celebrity Juice 23:45 You, Me and Dupree
07:00 One Tree Hill 07:50 Greek 08:35 90210 09:25 One Tree Hill 10:25 Gilmore Girls 11:20 Privileged 12:10 90210 13:05 Greek 14:05 Scrubs 15:05 Hollyoaks 15:35 Gilmore Girls 16:35 Glee 17:30 Rules of Engagement 18:00 Scrubs 19:00 Big Bang Theory 19:30 Big Bang Theory 20:00 Hollyoaks 20:35 How I Met Your Mother 21:00 Big Bang Theory 21:30 Perfect Couples 22:00 How I Met Your Mother 22:30 Happy Endings 23:00 The Inbetweeners 23:35 Show and Tell 24:25 Chris Moyles’ Quiz Night
Watch New Season TV for Free with the RTN Network 966 463 170
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10:00 Deal or No Deal 11:00 How Clean Is Your House? 11:30 The House on 92nd Street 13:20 3 Minute Wonder 13:25 3 Minute Wonder 13:30 Deal or No Deal 14:30 The Good Wife 15:30 Come Dine with Me Down Under 16:00 Coach Trip 16:35 Location, Location, Location 17:10 Location, Location, Location 17:40 A Place in the Sun: Home or Away 18:45 Relocation, Relocation 19:50 Come Dine with Me 20:55 Grand Designs 22:00 24 Hours in A&E 23:10 The Closer 24:00 The Killing
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23 - 29 20114 2010 Feb 26 Sept - March
A porno tale too far
Showbiz Goss by
Peter Taylor
Writer and Broadcaster
T
HE NINTH series of Grand Designs began last Wednesday on Ch4 under the oddest of banners with critics suggesting the show was ‘pornographic’. Okay, now I’ve your attention let me explain: The ‘p’ word comes from the observation by many that the long-lingering shots of particular architectural shapes on these old buildings for people to slobber over is pure unadulterated pornography. Just before you earmark the show as ‘one not to miss´ next week let me indulge YOU a tad more. I recall watching the first series of the programme in 2002 and thinking, ‘not bad, but likely to run out of steam after two series at the most’. And here we are on series nine. I agree that Grand Designs is pornographic but not in the slobbery way mentioned above but because it is a trillion miles out of touch with the world we all now live in, as you are treated to groups of well-set people schlapping shed loads of cash on the table in the pursuit of some ill placed dream. I am aware that this kind of thing goes on and always will, but I don’t need it filling my down time in front of the oneeyed lounge monster.
One thing then another I brought an item to this page a couple of weeks ago about Macho Man ex Australian cricketer Shane Warne and his apparent use of makeup; something at the time that was flatly denied by
Book Review by
Danny Collins
A Vladi good story So very often the world of Showbiz as we know it is infiltrated by various other well known individuals from other worlds, such as sport and of course politics. And based on this scenario I give you a certain Vladimir Putin, a Russian man, whom, as far as I can see, lives in both of these worlds. I see it this way because last week, Vladi straddled a 3-wheeled Harley Davidson and roared into the Black Sea port city of Novorossiisk clad in black leather from head to toe and boasting he was with his brothers at a huge bikers rally in the town. Surprised and possibly even shocked by what you have just read? There’s more - a lot more… Our intrepid hero then got up onto the main stage, banged on about some political faff for just the right amount of time to avoid the yawning getting uncontrollable before announcing the main attraction of the evening called ‘The Night of the Wolves’ and this time Mr Russia was photographed shaking hands with the leader of the pack, Alex Zaldostranov, a man better known by the nickname of ‘The Surgeon’, possibly called this because he cuts all the others up when they’re out riding … ahem… Top Russian News Agency ITAR-TASS called it ‘an International Bike Show with a Patriotic Direction’ … Ladies and Gentlemen I give you … Vladimir Putin.
his current girlfriend the lovely Elizabeth Hurley. You´re way ahead of me already aren’t you Yes, Liz has now told us that Shane not only wears makeup, but that his bathroom cabinet is full of his own collection with everything from ruby red lippy to whatever it is you ladies use to make your eyes glow in the dark. What’s interesting is that I am led to believe by someone I know who lived in Australia that it’s fairly common for straight men to ‘take ages to get ready n’ stuff’, but the fact that Ms Hurley said one thing and then another a week or two later suggests that ‘Shana’ could well have gone into the face painting business for the more regular reasons. Bless you Shane … you can bowl me over anytime you fancy big boy!
The Redbreast
JO NESBØ is Norwegian and his text has been translated effortlessly copy@dannyjpcollins.com and flawlessly by a man named Dob Bartlett. I say flawlessly because it reads like an English whodunit written in a very personal style that found me at one with the hero, Inspector Harry Hole, as he suffers professional embarrassment – he shoots a US Secret Service agent who’s where he shouldn’t be during a state visit – and gets little sympathy from his bosses as he struggles to convince them that a rare high-calibre rifle smuggled into the country is of a type favoured by assassins. Woven into the plot is the background of Norway’s dubious role in World War II when over 100,000 Norwegians joined the Waffen SS and fought for Nazi Germany. It’s a seldom discussed debate that touches a raw spot in a country where right-wing politics are still to the fore and Nesbø treats the subject with delicacy, speaking through his well-drawn characters but nonetheless getting the point across. An old defector who served on the Eastern Front hides behind a mysterious personality who may have died from a Russian bullet or may still be alive, plotting his revenge on
Suduko Answer
those who deserted his country when Europe’s heart was torn out between National Socialism and the Soviets. I found the plot and background intriguing and was gripped to the last page when all was revealed. As for Harry Hole, he manages to solve the case, catch the assassin, and sort his life out – and the US agent survived: a recommended read. Author: Jo Nesbø Publisher: Vintage (paperback) Price: 10.20€ ISBN: 978 0 099 47854 6
23 - 29 Sept 2011
Sacha Baron Cohen filming in Spain
SACHA BARON Cohen is causing a stir in Spain earlier this week while shooting his latest film ‘The Dictator’ that includes Middle Eastern desert scenes – in Fuerteventura. The 39-year-old star of ‘Borat’ dressed Valentino-style and riding a magnificent black horse, galloped across sands depicting the desert wastelands of Iraq, later joined by Sir Ben Kingsley for further scenes in military uniform.
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Can’t cook, can cook SEEMS I spend a lot of time convincing people who say that they can’t cook, that actually they can. Also a lot of time is spent with those who purport to be food experts who actually can’t cook at all. Knowing how to cook properly with any kind of ease is not an automatic God given talent, and neither incidentally is giving birth, and yet having trouble with either brings gasps of surprise from those around you, together with the usual “Oh! Didn’t you know”? Or in my case: “You are so lucky you can cook.” My own mother was a terrible cook so where I learnt the art remains a mystery. Although ‘terrible’ is probably the wrong word considering what she had to work with. As we lived on a nursery surrounded by farmland we had free access to as much milk as we wanted and as many eggs as we could be bothered to collect and brother, could we be bothered. Meals would consist mainly of any dish which included eggs and milk: not so much “What do you want for dinner?” more - “Guess what we’re having tonight?” together with: “How do you want them?” (mixed that is…) Fried; boiled (both soft and hard); poached; scrambled; in omelettes; quiches; custard tarts and even pancakes… just when you thought there was nothing else possible, along would come a real eye
opener of a new creation. For me alone, school meals were fantastic even though our school also had a terrible reputation. With two sittings to accommodate us all, half of us waited outside whilst others ate until the first batch of bemused children began to emerge from the dining hall still unsure of what they had just managed to eat. Some even thought that it would be a good idea to have another look at lunch and, for the benefit of us all I assume, chucked most of it back up quite close to the entrance and us waiting to go in. Never-the-less, nothing could keep me away from the only place certain not to serve eggs boiled, fried or omelettes for lunch although there was one scary moment when I heard the cooks were practicing egg custard but thankfully that turned out only to be a rumour. Yet my favourite meal was, and still is, eggs: Duck or Hens, and shallow fried in a mixture of good olive oil and butter served with mashed potatoes and tinned peas. Sounds simple but let me explain. My mother made the best mashed potatoes in the world ever. No lumps, slathered in butter and with the top of the milk from the farm’s dairy, served piping hot. Two fresh eggs - and I mean really fresh, as in free range – picked-myself-from-the-
hay-barn-on-the-way-home-from-school fresh, which were then simply fried. Well that may sound simple but believe me it takes considerable skill and attention to fry the perfect egg. If you see anyone taking care over producing the perfect fried egg you know there is a good chance that that person will take care with everything else they produce. As far as the tinned peas are concerned, living on a nursery which produces and sells lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers, anything other than salad was a bonus. Let’s be honest, the colour and texture of tinned peas with the perfect balance of sweet and sourness, and the little drizzle of extra pea juice to add to your mash and it’s a wonder they are not on many more menus. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to find some free range eggs…
Edwin Cheeseman is a practical food consultant. If you have a question about food email cheeseman@roundtownnews.com
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
motoring
by
Brian Deller
Author of Motoring in Spain
HI BRIAN, I hope you might be interested in my experience. I relocated to Spain six years ago using a plastic UK drivers licence that expired in March this year; having had 35 years to get ready to renew, I overlooked it until July this year. I arrived at age 70 in Junea and decided not to lie about having a UK address and get a free replacement from Swansea. I went to a local gestor on 11th July and he advised that he could not say how long I would have to wait for the new licence as the ‘system’ could take 3/4 months. I paid a fee of 120€ to get my application in quickly, made a date for the test (in Benissa on 26th July), paid 50€ to include the ‘mug shot’ and returned all the documentation to the gestor. I was not aware that the medical certificate is valid for 3 months only – I was aware, however, that the new licence is valid for two years only. Here we are in mid-September and no Spanish licence has appeared...I hope it will arrive before the medical certificate expires... My main concern is that I am driving without a valid licence, and worried how this might affect my insurance cover? I would be grateful to have your opinion on this. I have your two earlier editions, and these have provided useful information, although not on the question I raise here. The total cost to date is 170€ which is outrageous. Please have the system investigated! Best wishes, Paul in Spain.
As you do not have a valid licence you are indeed breaking the law and if stopped at the roadside you would be penalised and not allowed to proceed in your car unless accompanied by another driver licensed and insured to drive it. Your insurance company would not be able to legally help you as the ‘no licence’ is a problem they cannot overcome. As you are retired I would get a friend to take you to Trafico with the relevant documents as in my book and obtain a new Spanish driving licence ASAP. The three month medical validity is to allow Trafico adequate time to process the new replacement licence. If you had had a Spanish licence as I have, you would have been given an A4 sheet with the number of years validity before the next medical plus your old licence (Spanish) so you can then continue until the new licence card is received from Trafico. Having a Spanish licence, that is how it worked for me when I took my last medical in May this year. I am 73 and it has been extended for three years: I received the new card from Trafico after three weeks. I changed my UK licence (an old paper one issued in 1970 as I lived in South Africa from 1976 until 1999 when we came here) for a Spanish one in 2001 when it was Spanish law in contravention of the EU Directives on the subject. See www.spainvia.com/ drivelicenceletter.htm for more information. Incidentally, your existing licence classifications can be renewed without taking a test for up to three years after it expires but obviously you cannot
drive until the renewal is done. After four years, new driving tests are required. You would be amazed how many expats let their licences expire here. Spanish licence-holders receive avisos (reminders). Good luck. DEAR BRIAN, My husband died earlier this year, and I have recently received ‘my inheritances’ (re-written deeds of the house etc.) I need to change the registration papers of the car into my name. Should I expect to pay the 4% tax that is charged when a car is bought? Hope that you can advise me. Many thanks Marjory Norris Dear Marjorie, I am very sorry to hear of your sad loss. There should be no charge for the name change, certainly no tax to pay. Complete a Form TASA 9.050 and send it in with a copy of the death certificate and any relevant pages in the will showing the car is for you to inherit from your husband. The form can be downloaded at (this address will take you directly to the correct form) http://www.dgt.es/was6/portal/contenidos/ documentos/oficina_virtual/conductores/hojas_ informativas/9.050-Castellano.pdf You can complete the details on the screen before you print out the form x 2; one for Trafico, one to keep. If your Spanish is not so good, get a friend or someone at the Foreigner’s Dept. at the local Ayuntamiento to help.
There is much more detailed information on all motoring subjects in my book. Brian Juan (John) Deller, Malaga, author, ‘Motoring in Spain’ www.spainvia.com. Tel: 666 888 870 Brian Deller, author, book Motoring in Spain, ISBN No 978 84 611 9278 6. Shops’ addresses in my web site at: www.spainvia.com/bookshopslist.htm
23 - 29 Sept 2011
2011 CITROEN C1 1.4Hdi manual 5 door , Air con in bright Rally red 0Km
Was 11,300 NOW €10,100
2011 CITROEN NEW C3 1.4hdi seduction With Zenith screen, Climate, Cruise, Alloys OKM
Was 17,800 NOW €14,800
2011 CITROEN C4 GRAND PICASSO 110Hdi Seven seat, cruise , climate Only 5 kms
Was 27,548 NOW € 21,900
2010 CITROEN C4 PICASSO 1.6 Hdi CMP automatic, 9785 kms in Nocciola Like New
Was 27,248 NOW € 21,800
2007 CITROEN C4 Grand Picasso 1.6 Hdi CMP 110 in deep blue metallic 103,000 kms seven seats, alloys (P)
€12,000
2005 CITROEN BERLINGO 2.0 Hdi Multispace in silver 94,000kms recent tyres, services and timing belt
€6,800
2003 CITROEN C3 1.4i SX Air conditioning CD radio Good €4,800
condition with 135,000kms in Blue
2002 CITROEN BERLINGO 1.6i SX in silver metallic and aircon only 56,000kms well maintained
€2,500
2001 CITROEN SAXO 1.4i sx with air conditioning silver €2,300
metallic good runabout
2008 BMW 320d SE 163Hp Full Business pack Satnav, Xenon, Piel 54,000km Beautiful condition
€22,500
2006 BMW 320d LUX 163HP Full lux pack electric pack and €15,500
new Tyres, full history
2004 RENAULT MEGANE SCENIC 1.9Dci Privledge full option pack with 108,000kms and Service history
€6,800
2002 TOYOTA AVENSIS 2.0 D4D in silver metallic, air con €2,700
Excellent service history 123,000 kms
1999 VW GOLF GTI 150hp turbo recaro interior in silver metallic with BBS alloy wheels
(P)
€2,000
1996 MERCEDES Clase C 220 Cdi Silver metallic with full option pack 158,000kms Very well looked after(P)
€4,000
WANTED two post car ramp prefer three phase collection and dismantling no problem cash waiting, tel 620738023
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Classified Ads 58
23 - 29 Sept 2011
All Major Credit Cards Accepted - 0.31e per word + IVA
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EMAIL: classifieds@roundtownnews.com | WEBSITE: www.roundtownnews.co.uk | Fax: 96 585 60 54 | Or see our list of classified agents on page 2
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• Professional pool maintenance & cleaning • Replacement pumps, filters, salt systems Ph regulators and accessories supplied and installed • Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired • Structural leaks investigated and repaired • Refurbishments & upgrades undertaken British Trained with over 15 years experience. Extensive references. All work guaranteed Tel: 96 677 4199 or 678 080 500 www.pristineswimmingpools.com Torrevieja and surrounding areas plus Costa Calida
23 - 29 Sept 2011
TAI CHI CLASSES BENITACHELL ARTS CENTRE starts Wednesday 5th October. Beginners/Improvers Short Form. Wednesday 1000am – 11-00am Long Form. Wednesday 11-15am – 1215pm. For more information Call Julia 619 613 236
EXCEL AIR CONDITIONING. See main ad on page 13.Tel/Fax (Head Office) 966-897-772. Mobiles:-680-154-432/676-265675. Email excelairconditioning@ hotmail.com. All credit/debit cards accepted. SERVICE AIR David Higton: (Tel) 966-865-883 (Mob) 629308-505 (Email) cool@serviceair.biz
GATA CHARITY SHOP Description: House Clearances, furniture, bric a brac, beds, etc. High prices paid for quality items. We buy, Sell and Exchange just about anything at the GATA CHARITY SHOP in aid of SPAIN, the Society for the Protection of Animals in Need. Collection and Delivery service available. Tel 665653998 or 965756215. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - COSTA BLANCA Confidential Helplines South - 625-912-078 North - 648-169-045 www.aa-costablanca.org
GOLD WANTED English Jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery & coins for cash. Call for an appointment. Peter (7 days) 664 890 990.
BAR SPAIN TORREVIEJA Freehold or lease,
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PC SOLUTIONS 4U For all your PC needs. Reliable & friendly service. Call Fred 634638664
fully equipped Tlf: 0044-191-252-1976 for details. BAR SPAIN TORREVIEJA Freehold or lease, fully equipped Tlf: 0044-191-252-1976 for details MARKET PITCHES TO RENT FOR 6 MONTHS Marina Baixa area. For health reasons. High income. For more info tel: 634 523 922 10 COLD DRINK/SNACK VENDING MACHINES with sites,€44,900.excellent cash income, no overhead, work from home, work only one day per week, €31,000 nett yearly. 25 pringle vending machines with sites €14,900.€250 per week guaranteed.965-326-442/ 659-696-455 SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Long established company, own product range. First class training & support. Telephone 606586587
LARSON 180 SEI BOWRIDER. Volvo 4.3 EFi 225 hp. Excellent condition, many extras. + wakeboard tower.SSR registered, Snipe roller coaster trailer. 15,000 euros ONO Tel 636244846 SAILBOARD F2 DISCOVERY begginer/intermediate, new unused, 3.6 rig, board and sail bag, cost 1350pounds Bargain 500€ NO OFFERS, Tlf: 965770301 Javea PET TRANSPORT we treat your pet as if they belong to us and that is our promise. van fully air conditioned we believe we have the best rates so give joe a call on 966074576 or 650341087 for a chat or e mail pawspettransport@ hotmail.com SMALL DOGS CARED FOR IN OUR OWN HOME So if you need to go away on holiday but don’t want your dog to go into kennels then we will look after them. References available. Tel: 965843781 Mob: 622514980 TRANS-PET We do regular, doorto-door journeys between the Costa Blanca and the UK.Our aim is to provide a professional, caring service for your pets.Boarding facilities for Cats and Dogs. This may be for an overnight stay or of longer durations. Tel:600-552-030/965-960-658 www.trans-pet.co.uk
MERCURIO CONSTRUCTION ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS FROM SMALL REPAIRS TO NEW HOUSES. COVERING ALL COASTAL AREAS OF THE COSTA BLANCA. www.conpro.com.es TEL: 669.669.339
MOBILE/PARK HOMES from 17.000€, Fully furnished ready to move into, A/C, Tel, Eng TV, on permanent site, Bar/Res, Pool, Tennis, Gym, Shop, walking distance to San Javier, 5 mins to beach, Airport, Hospital by car. (also bungalows for rent and caravan plots short term or permanent stays) NEXT OPEN DAY WEDS 5TH OCT ALL WELCOME Tlf Carol 968-192425 mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain. com
CARERS WANTED To work in England 3 weeks on 3 weeks off email CV to 24hourhomecareservices@ googlemail.com ASSISTANT CHEF AND BAR PERSON REQUIRED at Miguels Bar Restaurant in Jalon. Tel: 966 480 337/689 686 565 GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY For a good cook and average handyman. Small apartment in La Manga, in a chalet situated in the front line of Mar Menor, to let in exchange for light services. Judy and Bob please contact Ernesto. For full details telephone – 968 564 022 24 HOUR HOMECARE SERVICES LTD Wanted companions, carers to work in England as live-in carers. 3 weeks on, 3 weeks off. If you are caring, a good listener and cook contact Karen Jones on (0044) 01929 472 810 or mobile (0044) 07500 836688 email: 24hourhomecareservices@ googlemail.com or download application form from www.24ho urhomecareservices.com WORKING HOLIDAYS FOR EXPATS Join our team of selfemployed live-in cares in the U.K. We require live-in cares to provide housekeeping and personal care for our elderly clients in their own homes particularly during the autumn and winter months. Flexible bookings of 2-4 weeks to suit your personal situation. Experienced nurses or carers welcome, also those with no previous experience, our inhouse training is available. British/EU passport/references/ drivers/good spoken English essential. This progressive friendly company was established in 1962 and is a market leader in U.K. live-in care for the elderly, CONSULTUS CARE AND NURSING LTD. Call our local consultant Sandra Field on 658 965 204 or email s.field@ consultuscare.com or visit our website www.consultuscare.com.
WE GROW OUR OWN REAL GRASS FOR LAWNS IN SPAIN We also produce, sell and supply our own lawncare products for villa owners, golf and tennis clubs. Call for advice and information. Trade enquiries very welcome. Tel 965731811 www.lawnsinspain.com
Advertise your classifieds today! Call 902118999 NOW!
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
CLASSIC KITCHENS 20 years on the Costa Blanca. Free quote and design call Adrian on 966865684 or 676699700
BENIDORM: YOGA CLASSES IN ENGLISH Mon & Wed 11:1512:15. Prana Centro de Yoga, C/Alameda nº32. Viniyoga style: the yoga adapts to the person, not the person to the yoga. Specialist knowledge for breast cancer recuperation. Rachel 667.997.532
WEIGHT WATCHERS Call our Free English call centre now to find your nearest meeting. 900-818-794
BALLROOM/LATIN/SEQUENCE DANCING WITH LA BAMBA’S. At La Rustika [Los Arcos] Restaurant, Avenida Balaeres 34, Torrevieja. Saturday - Social Dance 7.30pm - 10pm Starting 5th September - Monday - New Beginners Class - 10am - 11.30am Monday - Intermediate Class - 11.30am - 1pm Tuesday - Popular Sequence class 7.30pm - 8.30pm followed by Social Dance 8.30pm - 10.30pm [not 2nd Tuesday of month]. At Casa Ventura, San Luis, Torrevieja Starting 8th September - Thursday - Beginners class 7.30pm - 9.30pm. Got more information contact Andrea 616 478 157.
CITROEN ZX 1.9 DIESEL Hatch. RHD Spanish reg. ITV Feb 2013. 750€ ONO Tlf: 966797338 or 660606884 WE CAN IMPORT all of your KIT CARS and also RHD Vans and Trucks. Call Marcelo; 609-600-993 FORD FOCUS ZETEC 1999, 85,000 miles, A/C, ABS, traction control, Spanish registered, RHD, Tax due June 2012, ITV July 2012. 1500€ ONO. TLF: 672920349 BARGIN 1997 Reg Mitsubishi Carisma 1.6 on spanish plates. 118000 miles only ITV till Jan 2012, Tax till May 2012 Offers in the region of 750€ Buyer to pay transfer costs Ring 966715100/665352957 RENAULT CLIO 1.9 DIESEL FOR SALE (JÁVEA) Year: 1999. 180,000km. Extremely reliable. Passed ITV end Aug. Full service and oil change end July. 5-door, roofrack, a/c. Dark green. Some scratches. Only two lady owners. Excellent car, only for sale due to owner leaving Spain for work. €2,000 including transfer of name. Call 696 534 228. HEADLIGHTS4U.COM Left hand drive headlights supplied and fitted. All makes. Also air conditioning rechargeTel:-966-877-145 or 618592-396 BUMPERS, WINGS AND MIRRORS All body panels for all cars supplied. Tel:-966-877-145 or 618-592-396 WANTED Scrap cars, vans, lorries, plant and caravans. Turn your scrap into cash. From Valencia to Alicante. Free collection. Tel: 689929-395 WANTED I buy any car, van,Caravan,4x4 Etc.British, Spanish. Immediate cash 600-781873 ibuyanycar@hotmail.com FORD FIESTA A.4 TDCI, 2005 75,000km. Four door, white, reliable, economical and nippy. Excellent condition and two year ITV, 4,799€. Phone 661-403-016. JAVEA AREA
lady will pamper you with satisfying erotic massage and more. very discrete apartment visit me or i visit you. call 603 352 507 TORREVIEJA TRANS SOFIA stunning blonde, huge breasts, sculptural body, espaciality erotic massage, very femanine and sexy www.hisparelax.com/sofia TLF:671-424-456 DAVID TORREVIEJA 24 years old, gym body, very sexy and hot, come see for yourself! for men and couples, call me 678179616 ELEGANT SEXY SLIM Lady escort available. Home, Hotel, Villa. Region Calpe to Torrevieja. La Manga. Mazzaron. Tel 693 357 526 GENERIC VIAGRA safe and effective, live a full love life again, call Ron 966-499-204 MAY-EROTIC FROM INDONESIA 38 petite attractive full service, will spoil you with a sensual relaxing massage. No withheld numbers. Call:-698-896-034. TORREVIEJA CHINESE SUPER SEXY Young and beautiful. Calle Orihuela Nº60, 2º1
WANTED INSTANT CASH PAID Antique and modern jewellery, vintage watches bought sold part exchanged, insurance valuations. Jewellery & watch repairs. Alexanders, Javea Port seafron near Bar Esquina. Established since 2003. Tel:965-792-595
EASILY MAINTAINED DETACHED, 2 BED VILLA in La Alberca, Polop de la Marina. 240m2 flat plot with decorative paving for easy maintenance. Lots of extras, security system, AC/CH, American Kitchen, Purpose build BBQ, Private parking, Solarium, 360º views of mountains and Mediterranean, Community Pool and Gardens. Ideal holiday home or for retirees.145,000€. For more info, contact Lynn on 966881-048/691-202-307 or email foundation@rtnnewsgroup.com for photos.
MICK WITH HIS VAN Removals Collections Deliveries. For a reliable effective service. Hourly rate or quote. Call Mick anytime 600-247-535 SPAIN2UK2SPAIN MAN AND VAN departing Costa Blanca for UK via France. Regular Trips. Full or part loads. Exc rates Tel Christine 965571837/638261341 email chriscurran490@gmail.com VAN LEAVING FOR THE UK/SPAIN EVERY 2 WEEKS great rates please contact joe on 966074576 or 650341087 or civic1235@msn.com MAN & LWB SPRINTER VAN going to UK- Spain twice a month. Tel: 610-846260 or 0044-7519-186-355 email:van.man@hotmail.co.uk
QUALIFIED TRANSLATOR Bi-lingual Spanish-English and high level French and German. Confidential and reliable accompaniment service. Competitive rates. Torrevieja and surroundings. Virginia 629201192. INTERPRETER English interpreter provides aid and assistance for visits to hospitals/schools/tax offices/police stations etc. Friendly and reliable, available in Benidorm and surrounding areas. Call 600 809 698
NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER needed urgently for private tuition in Benidorm. Call 637708491. BRITISH GRADUATE TEACHER offers Primary/Secondary English Mathmatics. Telephone Margaret Johnson B.Ed. 965350-516 Mob: 616-660-687 COMPUTER TUTOR Software training, ebusiness education, website publishing, photography, videography and more DIY tips and tricks for all of your business and personal needs. Karla Darocas - certified instructor since 1990. Tel: 96 597 3234 info@KarlaDarocas.com Referrences - www.KarlaDarocas.com
SKYSUPPLIES Sky+HD and Humax 320/500/1000GB Digiboxs. Whitecards,spare remotes, LNBs, Realignments. 1.9m Dish Wanted. Good prices, advice and backup, Phone 966194013 or 600899096. SKYSUPPLIES Sky+HD and Humax 320/500/1000GB Digiboxs. Whitecards,spare remotes, LNBs, Realignments. 1.9m Dish Wanted. Good prices, advice and backup, Phone 966194013 or 600899096.
Register your property for FREE at www.rapidpropertysales. com and when we sell your property we will charge you absolutely nothing! The average time it takes us to sell a property is 8 weeks. Register now at www. rapidpropertysales.com – you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
MR FIXIT: FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL, plumbing, general & appliance repairs. San Pedro - La Marina. 698 320 434 POOL, SNOOKER TABLES Also Table Tennis and Darts. Will beat any price!. Tlf:-666-933-726. www.spainpool.com
BMW X5 4X4 3.0I AUTO TIPTRONIC LHD 09/2004, 1 owner, 118,000 KM, Full BMW History, Climate, 19” Alloys, Full sports pack, Metallic black, Full grey leather sport interior, Good price! 16,750€ Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www. fwreurocars.com FIAT PUNTO 1.2 5 DOOR 2004 LHD 73,000 KM, fully serviced, Aircon, CD, Silver, Bargain. 3,750€. Tel Frank 600726221/965687976 www.fwreurocars.com 1997 MERCEDES CONVERTIBLE 300SL AUTOMATIC 95,000KM. METALLIC BLUE, BEIGE LEATHER INTERIOR, 9,500€. TEL 628402241
MOBILE/PARK HOMES on Camping Pueblo in San Javier from 15.000€ Tlf Carol 968-192425 mob 626-055-622 www. mobilehomesmarmenorspain.com
SNR DE RODA GOLF LOS ALCAZARES Homley luxury modern furnished 2 bed apartment. TV A/C pool, TV. Internet available. 395€ + bills. Tel: 648-013-068 1 BED PART FURNISHED bungalows on Camping Pueblo in San Javier with lots of ameneties Tlf Carol 968-192-425 mobile 626055-622 ALTEA/ALTEA LA VELLA COUNTRY HOUSE Refurbished Apartment, First Floor. 2 bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, kitchen, diner, 40m2 terrace, private pool, parking and gardens. Sea and mountain views. F/F, Air Con/CH.475€ pcm plus Water, gas and Electric. Available 01.10.11. Tlf:966-881-048 or 691-202-307
PET INSURANCE Protectapet: Looking for Pet Insurance? Spains Leading Pet Insurance Provider. www.protectapet.eu 965 756 724 S.O.S. INSURANCE Car-HomeHealth-Comercial. Funeral Plans and Insurance. Tlf:-966-787123/622-275-561/686-116-297
PERGOLA 5MX3M Never erected. High quality solid timber, Treated. Ideal for Garden or Carport. €385 Will Delivery Free. 622-791-907 or si.whitworth@gmail.com WHEELCHAIR Light, Foldable, hardly used! 150€. Electric Mobility Scooter, SUNRISE MEDICAL 40km range 499€. Both like new! Tlf:-627-019-403
SWIMMING POOL MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING SERVICE BY POOLTECHSPAIN. We are a fully legal, qualified and registered business who have been operating on the Costa Blanca for 6 years. We offer a professional, reliable, safe and efficient pool service, inc. re-grouting, pressure testing and leak repairs. Private and community swimming pools undertaken. Call now for more information on 965-725-565 or mobile 676-945-360/ 620-743-048 www.pooltechspain.com
SPANISH LADY PLAYA FLAMENCA near new Carrefour before La Florida. 35 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, economical prices from 40€. Full discretion. Call Ana 680-735-412 FELLAS! Do you have a problem getting up in the morning, or at any other time? If so you need THE DIAMOND SHAPED BLUE PILL, Quesada and surrounding area. ring Derek 685-207-378 ARE YOU MALE, FEMALE OR A COUPLE? Need some Sexy FUN? Contact me soonest. 63 year old Dom/Sub switch. Available for fun with Males, Dom and Sub and Cross Dressers, Females Dominatrix and Submissive. Couples including Same Sex Couples. “Anything Goes” Can sometimes accomodate. Home Visits no extra Charge/Low Fees. Call me now on 655-058-554 ALANI : FROM HAWAII 39 sensual attractive warm friendly
POOL LEAK REPAIR SPECIALIST’S Pipe leaks pressure tested, detected and repaired. Structural leaks investigated and repaired. Professional, consciencious 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 15 years experience. 8 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
CRYSTAL CLEAR SATELLITE AND INTERNET TV for all your digital and TV requirements. No Annual Fees on Sky Cards. Steve:660-186-505/Ros:-965-584-097. www.ccsattv.com info@ccsattv.com
STOP LIMESCALE Use an electronic water descaler. The answer to limescale and hard water problems. Reduces existing scale and prevents further build up. No chemicals, salt, alteration to plumbing needed. DIY installation. Price €249,- 6 months money back guarantee. Contact Stefan Martens 634360917 – www.smartsun.es
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23 - 29 Sept 2011
Andy Kay With Andy Kay
The Final Whistle
RTN Golf Club update
Owen’s back Dennis Jordan NORTH REGION
BACK IN 2006, England was knocked out of the World Cup by Portugal. England, as is usual, went out on penalties despite a man of the match performance by Owen Hargreaves. Hargreaves had gone to the World Cup despite howls of protest from some supporters and sections of the media but he was outstanding in that game and went on to be named as England player of the year and England Player of the World Cup in two official FA polls. The following year he joined Manchester United but his career there was blighted by injury and he only played 27 times for the club in four years before being let go. So it was incredibly heartening to see Hargreaves turning out for Manchester City this week in the Carling Club. The 30-yearold put in an impressive debut against holders Birmingham City and scored in the 2 – 0 victory. The City manager Roberto Mancini insists that Hargreaves is still good enough for England and should he get anywhere close to his form in 2006 that may well be a possibility. But for now, I suspect all football fans, even the ones at United, hope that Hargreaves manages to stay injury free to enjoy the latter years of his career. KENNY BURNED BY CITY Nottingham Forest icon Kenny Burns has been dropped from his job at a match day host at the City Ground as the club has taken offence to his local newspaper column. Burns has been mildly critical of the club of late, and as a result, was given an ultimatum by club chief executive Mark Arthur to choose between his journalism career or City job. Boy, do these people have short memories. Burns, an uncompromising and tough centre half, played 137 times for the club and was instrumental in them winning the European Cup in 1979 and again in 1980. You’d think he’d earned the right to make his voice heard, even with his current City connections. I was lucky enough to meet Kenny at a charity golf day some years ago and he was great fun. At the same function, Ian Darke, the ESPN football commentator, came out with a favourite line of mine when he declared that during one game “Kenny came into the dressing room at half time with a very badly gashed leg. And do you know what, we never did find out who it belonged to.”
Mike Probert COSTA BLANCA REGION
Murcia Golf Hound Murcia Region
GOLF COURSES are busy at the moment, which of course Golf Course RTN Price Comments is great news - most of the special offers have finished but prices with the RTN Discount Card are really good. Any of- Alenda €45 Single Green fee fers that come through after sanding or ‘hollow tining’ will Alicante Golf €53 Single Green fee inc Buggy be shown here the week before, as some of the courses Bonalba €42 Single Green fee change their dates. €44 Single Green fee Work at Bonalba has been very well received with excellent Don Cayo feedback from the players: they are still finishing off the El Plantio €46 Single Green fee practice putting area but it hasn’t stopped golfers enjoyFont del Llop €40 Single Green fee ing a great game of golf and of course the revamped bar / €38 Single Green fee inc Buggy restaurant is very comfortable - great for counting up the Villaitana Par 62 all-important scores. Next hollow tining will be next spring Villa Aitana Par 72 €44 Single Green fee now - the course is in great condition. Don Cayo is hopefully opening its fourth hole 1st October. For more information email Dennis at All is finished except the water in the lake, making it the dennis@roundtownnews.com or direct to www.benidormgolf.com on 630 714 373. first and only water feature on this course.
AS THE high summer temperatures are a thing of the past and flight and car hire prices reduce, October is seen by local courses as a honey trap to attract tourist golfers to the area but there are a few autumn deals available before then. Fortunately the hollow tining period is coming to a close and this week work will be undertaken at La Finca, Saurines and Villamartin The 4 player and 2 buggy deal at La Finca (€164) lasts until 07/10/11 but the hollow tining work is on during this time period also. Excellent deals are still available at Altorreal and Vistabella.
WE ARE now seeing the arrival of groups from the UK and Ireland as well as the return of the over-wintering Scandinavians on our golf courses. The arrival of the golf high season puts a lot of pressure on the courses to commercialise and yet maintain a quality product at the same time. We would all agree that Greens come under huge amount of pressure both from pitch marks and also from footwear. It was interesting to see Justin Rose win last week in Illinois in the pouring rain wearing the new AdiSTREET sneaker. We have also seen Fred Couples win in his ECCO Streets and Ryan Moore perform brilliantly in hi TRUE Linkswear. Tiger also appeared recently in his new Nike golf sneakers. The point of all this is – well - did any of them slip? No, thought not, so let’s hope that the move to spikeless shoes does two things: first the greens will sustain less damage around the Pin when under pressure, making for a better putting surface and secondly golfers will realise that a balanced swing is just that - a balanced swing. Slipping is usually a symptom of a poor swing regardless of what you have on your feet. MurciaGolf.co now has a new office in Villamartin, opposite the golf course, where we will happily talk you through the best offers in the Region.
Golf Course
RTN Price
Comments
Vistabella
€56
2 PL and 1 Buggy (weekend pm)
Altorreal
€55
2 PL and 1 Buggy
Las Colinas
€90
2 PL and Buggy (from3pm)
La Peraleja
€76
2 PL and 1 Buggy
Olagolf Courses
€90
2 PL and 1 Buggy
La Tercia
€65
2 PL and 1 Buggy
For more information contact Mike at mike@roundtownnews.com or direct at Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931.
Golf Course
RTN Price
Comments
La Envia
€33
Single Green fee
Alborán
€35
Single Green fee
Cortijo Grande
€29
Single Green fee
Almerimar
€42
Single Green fee
Aguilon
€40
Single Green fee
Desert Springs
€60
Single Green fee
Valle del Este
€90
Single Green fee
La Manga Club
€35
Single Green fee
For more information contact the Hound on Facebook, twitter: murciagolf@roundtownnews.com or 651 045 700.
TENNIS TROUBLE Andy Murray says the world’s top tennis players could go on strike as the tournament calendar is too long. He has a point. The ATP schedule this year started on 2nd January and will end on 28th November having consisted of 74 tournaments, if you include the Davis Cup. So here’s a good test as to the merits of the current ATP calendar...put your thinking caps on and tell me who won the Exxon Mobil event in Doha, the BMW Open in Munich, the Estoril Open in Portugal and the Gerry Weber Open in Halle? I bet you haven’t a clue!
ANYONE FOR FOOTBALL? Aged between 20 to 40 ? Torrevieja area Call Doug on 628 789 335
The greedy season
Noel’s world of golf By Noel Eastwell Teaching Professional Campo de Golf El Plantio 639 730 891
THE SEASON when our local golf clubs begin to take advantage is upon us again. Price rises will come in for the month of October at a lot of courses and also in November for the really popular establishments. This outright greed should be fought against in my opinion. When golf courses increase prices to local people just because they are busy is out of order and just downright greed: they are taking advantage of golfers who for the rest of the year keep them in business. I have said many times that local golfers provide the ‘bread and butter income’ to the golf industry in our part of Spain. Local golfers should refuse to pay these higher prices and support the golf courses where they pay the same price all year except for the summer period when the prices should come down due to the excessive heat. Some will say that I am claiming here that we can have our cake and eat it and that cannot work. I believe we can - we are the ones that are here all the time, taking the clubs through good and bad times. We therefore deserve much more respect than we see at some of our golf clubs. Our golf societies should be making certain that when they negotiate their deals for their members for the year that they pay only one price for every visit through all seasons except summer. That is something I think they have a duty to provide to their members - a stable price that is affordable to as many as possible. Holiday golfers will in the main be provided with all inclusive prices for golf and accommodation and that is usually at prices negotiated over one year in advance with the tour operators. That’s fine by me, they know the prices they will be pay-
ing and will have accepted them well in advance of arriving in Spain. The prices we locals will be paying through ‘High Season’ are often kept secret for as long as possible. It is high time this practice changed and we were treated with the respect we deserve. I urge all local golfers to play their golf only where they are given the respect of valuable and loyal customers from course owners. Maybe then they will learn to look after the people who really pay the bills. WIN A ROUND OF GOLF FOR 2 INCLUDING BUGGY AT THE BEAUTIFUL EL PLANTIO RESORT IN ALICANTE To enter this competition, simply answer the question below correctly. Every correct answer will be entered into a draw at the end of the month and the winner of this fantastic prize worth over €180 will be picked at random at the end of each month. Send your entries by email to golf@roundtownnews.com. The decision of the editor of RTN will be final in making the winning selection. QUESTION FOR 23RD SEPTEMBER 2011 Where is Lee Westwood’s home town? A. Worksop B. Worsley C. Walsall All answers must be received no later than 5pm on 30th September 2011 to be entered into September’s draw, to be made on 30th September. The winner will be announced in RTN on 7th October 2011. NOEL EASTWELL GOLF ACADEMY AT EL PLANTIO Top quality coaching at reduced rates for RTN Golf Club members, contact Noel on 639 730 891.
Any questions you have for Noel should be sent to golf@roundtownnews.com
Sailing Association Mar Menor Prize Giving
AT THE SAMM monthly meeting at Las Claras (Los Narejos), on Wednesday 14th September, the prizes for The Spring Race Series were presented by Commodore Mike Phillips. The Winner was the Catamaran ‘Hamoor’ with the Winner’s Cup presented to Mike Harding, one of the skippers, and
Graham Wharrad representing the crews. The 2nd Prize went to The Miracle, skippered in each race by John Clarke and crewed by Doreen Squires. 3rd Prize was presented to The Laser 2000, one of the Shoestring Boats. The cup was handed to Vernon O’Byrne, one of the helmsmen from the Shoestring Group. In the case of the Catamaran and the Laser 2000 there were various helmsmen and crew competing in each race. The race schedule for the Autumn Series is as follows:Sunday 4th and 18th September; 2nd, 16th and 30th October; and 13th November. The SAMM MABS Sponsorship Charity Race is on 25th September. If you would like to come and join the racing please see the SAMM website for more information: www.sailingmarmenor.com or contact Jack Moss at jack.moss@sailingmarmenor.com
23 - 29 Sept 2011
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Fishing Maggots End by
David Hoare
968 199 279
For further details ring Alan Roscoe 968 570 876 or email: anglerstogether@hotmail.co.uk THIS WEEK’S match was the first of the team matches in a series of four matches between Rods and Reels and Abbey Anglers. The overall winning team will be decided on weight. The venue for the match was the now infamous Embalse de Ojos, Blanca. There was an exceptionally good turnout with 22 anglers all filled with dread as this place can be a nightmare. For once the fishing by this lakes standard was good, with big fish coming within the first hour (That hardly ever happens). In saying that we still had five dry nets: the venue never fails to let some anglers down. Doug Hornblow, although winning this week, never went in for a dip, but did manage to break his pole again! He has since returned to Wales to dry off and repair the damage of the last few weeks. TOP RODS ON THE DAY 1st Doug (Welsh Goldminer) Hornblow, fishing the pole using hemp with 13.24 kilos 2nd Ian (Irish Wizard) Dalzell, fishing the pole and feeder using pellet with 9.34 kilos 3rd Lenny (Ex Cultural Attache) Bolton, fishing the pole using pellet with 9.16 kilos TEAM RESULTS Abbey Anglers with 39.68 kilos Rods and Reels with 28.02 kilos PLEASE NOTE The club’s AGM and prize giving presentation will be held 25th September at Cagney & Lacy’s bar at La Marina, commencing at 10am. This will be followed by a buffet supplied by the club. Subscriptions are also due from 1st August and to be paid prior to commencement of the AGM. Subs to be paid to Derek Swann and they are 25€. ABBEY ANGLING RESULTS supplied by Terry Screen This was the first match of our Winter League on 13th September, fished at the River Segura at ‘Nancy’s’ also known as ‘Sweet Water’ which is a play on words as the water smells just the opposite. The water itself must be in good condition as the fish seem really healthy, although there are still some dead fish coming down the irrigation channel. This is a very popular venue for pleasure anglers, probably because of the easy access and is home to some large Carp and lots of Mullet: one Mullet was caught at the match weighing in at 3kgs. First place this week was a tie with both Stan (The Man) Roberts and Lennie (The Cultural Attache) Bolton with 10.960kg on pellet and paste 3rd Dave (Yours Truly) Hoare
with 9.940kg on pole and pellet. We also need to remind all Members that the renewal of their Murcian Federation permit and the fee of 35€ is due by the end of October, along with copies of your appropriate fishing licences and either NIE number or Passport also your Murcian Federation Insurance card or private pesca insurance policy. There are still a number of vacancies available in the club and anyone interested in joining this match fishing club require Murcian and Valencian fishing licences and also a Murcian Federation permit and insurance. Murcian licences can be obtained from San Pedro Town Hall, requiring copies of your insurance, NIE number or passport, and a Valencian licence can be obtained with the same paperwork from the Ayuntamiento in Torrievieja facing the church in the square, it is the street to the right and approx 20yds up on the right from a tobacco shop on the corner. All details are available via www.abbeyangling.com or from the Match Secretary Terry Screen on 96 532 8368. Anglers Together WE HAVE been having a lot of enquiries about licenses from anglers who are passing the ‘magic age of 65’ and therefore pensioners! Licenses are still required and are free providing you have a Spanish Pensionista card, otherwise you will have to pay the normal fees. Licenses are available from either Town Halls or the Caja Rural Bank if in Valencia region. In Murcia you will also require insurance. Make sure you take photocopies of all relevant documents to obtain your license, i.e. passport photopage, NIE and insurance. Anglers Together was formed to introduce and encourage anglers of all abilities to meet up and get together to fish, either sea or freshwater. Firm friendships have been formed during the time the group has been active and information on fishing venues and licenses required are available at the meetings or by regular emailed newsletters. Meetings are held in two locations each month. Anyone with an interest in fishing (sea or freshwater) is welcome to come along to a meeting. MEETINGS Friday 7th October at 12pm at Mary’s Bar, Campoverde (near Pilar de la Horadada); Saturday 8th October at 12pm at The New Royal Bar and Restaurant at El Alamillo: opposite the sea-front between Isla Plana and Puerto de Mazarron.