ISSUE 643 • 29th June - 5th July 2018
EST 2005
United as one Photo credit Animali/Shutterstock
By Jimmy Grayling ANIMAL charities in Almeria have joined forces to form a new federation. The new group, dubbed ANIMALI, will work together to crack down on the shocking number of abandonment and cruelty cases blighting the province. It comes in the face of administrative obstacles and a lack of resources at the local level, leading 15 local groups staf fed largely by volunteers to
Chinese takeaway
FELINE UNWANTED: Animal abandonment is rife in Almeria. team up in the hope of sparking change and influencing policy with their larger collective voice.
Blackout ENVIRONMENTAL group Ecologists In Action has handed every coastal municipality in Almeria except Nijar and Balanegra a black flag award. The green organisation says that a lack of effective waste management including agricultural spills, unregulated dumping and insuf ficient sewage treatment, especially in the Poniente Almeriense’s ‘sea of plastic’ has destroyed wetlands and polluted once-pristine marine habitats. And two areas - Ribera de la Algaida near Roquetas de Mar and the beaches surrounding the industrial zone in Carboneras - have been listed among the 48 most polluted coastal stretches in Spain, far exceeding European Union regulations, according to the group’s report.
The federation currently includes Adopt a Friend, Dupont Alondra, Alma Felina, ALMA-Almeria La Manada, APA New Life, APSA Animal Protection Society of Albox, Helping Animals Almanzora, PROMAR, Puppy RescueRescue of Puppies and Saving Lives, plus those in the processing phase: Almeria Animal Defense, Animals in Trouble, Kat Squad, Paws-Pata and Sevenlives. Among the group’s main aims is sterilising
feral cats and improving public education regarding animal welfare. In a statement ANIMALI confirmed that several private individuals have also signed up as members, adding: “We welcome all those who have a passion to improve animal rights. “The Animalist Federation of Almeria - ANIMALI - needs a strong and united animal rights movement by and for the animals that need and await us.”
INVESTIGATORS have held 121 suspects in connection with a major drugs and prostitution racket across Almeria, Castilla–La Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Madrid and Extremadura. The arrests took place as armed Guardia Civil and National Police officers raided 88 addresses in the wake of a lengthy probe into the gang’s activities. Most of the alleged members are Chinese and the mob is accused of smuggling cannabis and designer drugs to the UK, Belgium and Italy in addition to sexual exploitation, forgery, extortion and robbery with violence. During the investigation detectives found the cabal were exporting an average of 500 kilos of cannabis per week and had raked in at least €140 million through the plot. But the organisation was divided into six cells, with splinter groups separately responsible for selling synthetic drugs bought in the Netherlands within Spain, acting as loan sharks extorting Chinese businesses, selling counterfeit fashion products, robbery and pimping illegally registered women, respectively. More than 40,000 cannabis plants, almost two tonnes of prepared buds, guns, 16 luxury cars and €275,000 in cash was seized during the swoops.
News
29th June - 5th July 2018 Photo credit Guardia Civil
2 NEWS BITES
Town hall’s bright ideas CUEVAS DE ALMANZORA Council has pledged to improve energy efficiency and reduce night-time light pollution in Villaricos, with state-of-the-art LED streetlights currently being installed along the seafront paseo.
No panic BEACHGOERS in Vera were puzzled after life guards, medics and Local Police officers simulated the rescue and resuscitation of a bather, including the use of a life boat and rapid response vehicle.
Nuke probe CAMPAIGN group Ecologists in Action urged Spain’s new Foreign Affairs minister Josep Borell to declassify a 2015 US government document discussing the level of radioactivity at Palomares, where a B-52 bomber carrying nuclear weapons crashed in 1966.
TURTLE POWER: One of the animals is released.
Flipping magic TWO loggerhead sea turtles rescued in Almeria have returned home. The Guardia Civil assisted non-profit marine animal group Equinac with their release, with the aquatic reptiles released from their boat ‘Cabo de Gata.’ And officers received a special plaque from the conservation charity in recognition of their work to help protect marine wildlife. The loggerhead, Caretta caretta, is among the largest species of sea turtle
and can exceed 1.2 metres in length, but it is considered threatened, particularly by industrial fishing activities and the increasing amount of plastic polluting the oceans. The two individuals released after recovering from injuries sustained by fishing nets were named Kika and Monster. Residents are advised not to touch or move sea turtles found stranded on local beaches, and instead call 062 so that qualified rescuers can be notified.
Motorway madness A 67-YEAR-OLD motorist who caused three accidents after driving 13 kilometres along the A-7 motor way in the wrong direction has been charged in the wake of a police probe. The dramatic incident saw three people injured, with two hospitalised, as three vehicles crashed after swerving to avoid the pensioner from El Ejido. Investigators said his unregistered vehicle was decrepit and had ‘special characteristics’ due to its old age. A lorry driver reported the situation after spotting the man driving slowly towards Malaga on the Almeria-bound side of the road near Balanegra, but traffic officers were unable to find him. Detectives were handed the model of his vehicle, resulting in 112 matches in the area. But one of them had the same morning been for an ITV inspection in Balanegra, leading to the owner’s arrest. He has been charged on one count of negligent driving and three of fleeing an accident scene, and stands to lose his licence if found guilty.
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News
29th June - 5th July 2018
AFTER a cracking turnout for their first event, Mojacar Runners have organised another five-kilometre jog and walk along the
seafront paseo. It will again star t at the Best Indalo Hotel, and interested parties should contact organiser Kevin Rowe on
ironmankev08@gmail.com. Do bring water and a towel as it will be hot, and runners of all nationalities are welcome.
Photo credit Next Stop Almeria/Kevin Rowe
Mojacar Runners go again ALL SMILES: The first event saw a good turnout.
A fine mess CARBONERAS Council has launched an awareness campaign to encourage dog owners to pick up their pets’ mess. Four local schools have already been visited by police officers who distributed informative flyers advising the youngsters on how to clean up when walking their furry friends. Chief Jesus Ridao, accompanied by officer Eva Rueda Fernandez, also ex-
plained the psychological benefits of pet ownership while outlining the responsibilities. The children were told to pass on the information to their parents. Urban services councillor Pedro Jose Venzal added: “This initiative has started in schools but will be extended to squares, parks and beaches to inform all residents and holidaymakers the importance of fulfill-
ing this and other rules of coexistence, especially during the summer season when the population of Carboneras triples, making collaboration even more important.” He continued: “The council is making an extra special effort to ensure that squares, parks, beaches and streets are in the best possible condition, with no excrement or other filth.” The town hall has also installed special dispensers with bags for the collection and disposal of dog waste along the seafront paseo and in public spaces throughout the municipality. The Local Police force is also set to distribute more than 2,000 packets of the bags to local dog owners.
News
29th June - 5th July 2018
A MEETING was held at the Mojacar’s Centro de Usos Multiples, on the topic which is of great concern to many, Brexit. Those present included Mayor Rosmari Cano, Lucas Mayo, Mojacar’s Councillor for Foreigners, British Consul Charmaine Arbouin, BREXPATS’ Vice President Richard Hill, Ignacio Pellicer Molla the Legal Advisor from Pellicer & Heredia, Michael Davies from Davies Abogado and, Javier Duran, from the Almeria Extranjero Office. A number of BREXPATS organisers and representatives (who all give their time voluntarily) were also there, including Helen Meehan, Aida Cabrera Morris, Helen Killen and Des and Pamela Daly. Following introductions and a welcome by Richard Hill, the mayor gave an opening speech, thanking BREXPATS for holding this very important meeting in Mojacar, stressing the important of the British people to the town. The first part of the meeting covered registration, with Javier Duran on hand to answer questions, with confirmation that residencia is required for people who reside continually for three months or more in Spain. Some queries were clarified on NIE and the padron as well as eligibility for medical cover and resi-
Photo credit Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
Brexit meeting
PANEL: The experts present on the day. dencia requirements when applying. It was stressed that the NIE number is necessary for legal transactions such as buying a house or a car and can be obtained by anybody, but it does not grant any resident rights. As individual cases vary so much, Lucas Mayo advised those who need more advice he is available every Thursday morning at Mojacar Town Hall. Charmaine Arbouin then went on to explain the role of the Consulate and how important she feels it is to get out and about to answer queries at events such as this, especially following the Brexit Vote in June 2016. She stressed the most important thing you can do as an expatriate living in Spain is to make sure you are fully legally registered (padron, NIE, residencia, fiscal) as well as changing your UK driving licence for a Spanish one. She strongly advised that
if anyone is not registered yet, to do it sooner rather than later to avoid problems post-Brexit. In the case of Mojacar, it would appear only around 700 British people have residencia, although many more are on the padron. She confirmed that UK state pensions will remain index-linked, but the contentious issue of voting rights and standing as a councillor here is still under discussion. However, it was emphasised in anticipation of the outcome you make sure you are on the voting register at the town hall. Richard Hill talked about BREXPATS in Spain, their ethos and campaigns they have on behalf of UK citizens living in Spain. He repeated the importance of maintaining the right to vote and to take steps to be fully registered. He advised everyone to keep updated from www.gov.uk or BREX PATS.es.
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29th June - 5th July 2018
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SHAKE AND BLAKE: Blake Lively.
ON HIS BIKE: Bruce during the event.
A BRITISH pensioner who owns a home in Locaiba, near Albox, has completed a 54-mile bicycle ride to raise money for the British Heart Foundation. Bruce Raggett, 70, rode from London to Brighton alongside son-in-law Andre Tomkins, 52, and best
friend Sharon Camm, 54, from Windsor in Berkshire. They completed the route in five hours 15 minutes and raised £750. Around 15,000 people entered the event and Bruce said: “It was great fun and we met some great people.”
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News
29th June - 5th July 2018
FUEL STOP: Cuevas de Almanzora.
Seven bikes, seven days, 700 miles Bikers growing old disgracefully, part 5 By Mark Porter TIME was getting on and as the weather had turned cloudy, we decided that the swimming trunks and beach towel (we only had one!) would have to stay bungee strapped on the bikes for now. The thought of the waiting Javier at the hotel with his promise of open fire cooked chicken and chips with fresh vegetables and the cold bottles of beer was a-callin’. So it was onwards to Seron, with a fuel stop at Cuevas del Almanzora. Except for Herr Panzer that is. His bike holds 35 litres of fuel, double what ours did so he smugly sat this one out, playing with his plethora of buttons and
switches. Like I said, smug. I had got the routine by now down to a ‘T’ during fuel stops. We would line up the bikes on one pump, I’d get my pad and paper out and scribble everyone’s tally and stand by the till while each paid their bill. It was so efficient that at our usual Repsol morning fill up station in Purchena, the lady by the end of the week had a pen and paper handy for me! I think we have started something as she told us that before she used to panic when a group of motorcyclists came to fill up as any discrepancies in the total would come out of her pay. The one thing I did on the first day upon arriving
in Seron, was to make it clear to them that I had to stick to the speed limits (ahem) especially in built up areas as I have a Spanish registered bike. I would get the book thrown at me if I got stopped with the ensuing lecture on how I should know better being a “local”. So I suggested it might be prudent if they did as well. After all, a fine and a possibly impounded bike would spoil the trip. With that in mind, as we got onto the open road after Cuevas, I signalled them to pass. And some did and some were happy to stick with me at a respectable, but not too slow a speed. By the time we got to the by-pass just after Cucador, I was left almost standing still. Flashes of colours flashed by. I think the temptation of the empty road was too much to resist. As I gathered up the rest at the end of the bypass, two were still missing. We assumed they’d already headed for Seron as one had the annoying rap singing GPS.
NEWS
29th June - 5th July 2018
Art attack ZURGENA Town Hall has gratefully received a huge amount of valuable arts and crafts bits and pieces on behalf of local schools and the town’s Craft Club. These were donated by John and Shelagh Copeland of Cucador after John recently shut his Ar ts and Crafts shop, Serendipity, in Albox. He donated leftover stock which amounted to a goodly value, with the intention of it being used by the schools and villagers. Mayor Luis Dias Garcia, Deputy Mayor Lola Antas and Councillor Jim Simpson received the items and the mayor said: “Thank you ver y
GRATEFULLY RECEIVED: The town hall officials flanked by John and Shelagh. much, this donation will be very much enjoyed by
the children and residents in the future.”
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Ed. 643
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MEMBERS of the Mojacar Royal British Legion branch are to join thousands on a pilgrimage of Remembrance to a First World War battlefield that culminates in a parade and ceremony in Ypres as part of the end of the First World War centenary commemorations this August. The Royal British Legion event, known as Great Pilgrimage 90 (GP90), takes place from August 5-9 and will be one of the largest in the charity’s history. GP90 will mark 90 years since the original Royal British Legion Pilgrimage in 1928, which saw 11,000
100 years on First World War veterans and war widows visit the battlefields of the Somme in France and Ypres in Belgium, a decade after the conflict ended. Local Legion members Michael and Christine Coote will represent the Mojacar Branch and the local community at the
event, as Standard Bearer and wreath layer. The pair will tour some of the same battlefields and cemeteries visited by those in 1928, before marching along the original route through Ypres, to the Menin Gate on August 8 bearing their branch standard and a wreath. They will join more than 2,200 other Legion representatives and dignitaries, including civic and military guests from the UK, Commonwealth and northern Europe. Andrew Richardson, Chairman of the Mojacar Branch of the Royal British
Legion, said: “Great Pilgrimage 90 is a unique opportunity for the Legion community to come together and bear our Standards along the same route in Ypres taken 90 years earlier by the veterans and widows of the First World War. “The Mojacar Branch looks forward to proudly representing Mojacar at the event.” As local champions of Remembrance, Mojacar RBL is looking to work in partnership with their community to bring their unique Remembrance message to the Menin Gate on their wreath, where it will be displayed in an installation for viewing by the general public until end of August. The parade will start at midday and they encourage the public to make the trip to Ypres for August 8 . www.britishlegion.org.uk /branches/mojacar or secretary Christine White.
29th June - 5th July 2018
Weekender Feature Pages 16 - 17
Aloe vera
Roast chicken
Page 14
Page 18 - 19
Pearly whites Page 20 - 21
Aguilon Golf Page 30
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Feature
29th June - 5th July 2018
Pause to love your neighbour A FEW days ago I received a phone call from a lady who introduced herself as a solicitor, commissioned by one of the English County Councils to locate relatives of one, Edna Crossfield. Presuming this to be a scam, I stated I’d never heard of this person, and was in process of hanging up when she asked to speak to my wife, naming her mother and maternal grandfather (both long deceased) as grounds for this request. The subsequent conversation was quite traumatic as my wife learned unknown details of family history that showed Edna as being a second cousin of which she had never been aware. And this lady had lived much of her life alone, eventually spending her final years in a council-run Home. Amazingly the council were prepared to spend part of their very tight budget in tracing relatives to inform them of the passing of family members. If only they’d done this while she was alive when perhaps she could have enjoyed occasional company of family, rather than being alone. How
guilty this left us feeling. And how often we’ve said “if only we’d known.” But of course we didn’t know, and there was no way we could have known without detailed research into family history. Yet the sense of failure remains and I’m glad to know God understands. That wonderful confession in the old prayer book covers such omissions beautifully in the words “We have left undone those things which we ought to have done; And we have done those things which we ought not to have done; And there is no health in us.” We perhaps tend to be most aware of the wrong we’ve actually done or said, as covered in the second phrase of that confession, yet so often our greatest failings are, as in our lack of contact with our unknown cousin, in the good we’ve failed to do. So, the kind word I should have said, the help I failed to offer and the charitable donation I never got round to making. What a difference we could have made to those around us if only we really loved our neighbours as ourselves!
Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida (further details available at www.mojacarchurch.org) and may be contacted at djburr@avired.com
Will she? Won’t she? I SUPPOSE I must have a ver y low tolerance of G-forces, because I faint on rollercoasters - this is alarming for all concerned, especially me! I know from unfortunate experience that participation in even the mildest of rides has me slumped in an insensible heap even before the ride has fully got going, so I have resigned myself to nonparticipation. We, that is, Pete’s niece plus her family, took a day out at Oasys, or Cowboy Land, as they call it. We stood and sweltered in the broiling midday sun for the obligatory photo complete with hat and gun, then wandered in and out of the various houses depicting life as it was in the Old West before vacuum cleaners were invented, and arrived at the
By Jos Biggs
Virtual Reality house - how can they have had a Vir tual Reality house when electricity was still a dream? Nevertheless the male members of the party lost no time in parting with €3, and duly got strapped in and beheadsetted. The ride appeared on a screen above each par ticipant while we more sensible females stood and watched the ride buck and twist in virtual 3-D. As I watched a thought tentatively entered my mind, looked around in that almost vacant space, shyly put up its hand and asked the question What would the G-force be like in a stationary (!) chair? Should I try it and find out? What if it all goes wrong? Or am I too old for that sort of rubbish?
josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk
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Lifestyle
29th June - 5th July 2018
Home invaders
Give it a lift IF you don’t move heavy objects on a day to day basis, chances are on the odd occasion when you have to, such as moving house or buying furniture, you will be doing it wrong. People who make a living out of carrying and lifting things, such as furniture removers, have a few rules they follow to avoid injury. Take your time, think about where you are going before moving something. Measure spaces before trying to get something through that doorway or up those stairs. Use your legs for lifting, never your back. Bend your knees, keep your back straight and then lift. Never lift things above chest height unless you have to. This is dangerous and likely to lead to strains. Think about what equipment you can use to make the job easier. Again, the less lifting you do regularly, the less kit you are likely to have around that can help you. Trolleys, carts and straps (for grip) all help you get the job done. Think of yourself as well - gloves, hard hat, back braces and so on can all help. Don’t do what you don’t think you’re capable of. Better to get a professional in other than damage the item you are moving - or yourself.
ALOE, ALOE: Grow your own.
Growing medicinal plants at home SOME plants are for looking at and some are for eating. There is a third type which is those with some medicinal qualities. Here are a few you should be able to grow in a small garden or window box. Aloe Vera is good for
sunburn, so a good plant to have around for the Spanish summer. Grows best in direct sunlight. Peppermint can help with stomach upsets - and makes your garden smell good. Ginseng has been promoted by many as a ‘super
food.’ It is supposed to be good for overall health and in particular the immune system. Many infuse it in tea. Marigold helps relieve bee stings and other insect bites. This thrives in any soil. Before planting think of what common ailments you have that maybe you would want to find a more natural solution for. Of course, you should always consult your doctor if you have any serious illness, but for minor ailments some plants are a great alternative to more conventional treatments.
ANTS can be a common visitor to homes and gardens in Spain and once one turns up it is usually followed by a host of friends all wanting to move in with you. While there are plenty of products on the market to get rid of the pests, there are also sworn-by natural remedies from the kitchen or garden which can be used to keep them out. To make your own home-made ant spray, mix equal amounts of vinegar and water and spray on all affected areas. You can also try putting lavender branches, mint, cinnamon powder, ground parsley, ground cloves, garlic or cucumber peel down in the areas you have seen ants. All of these are said to work as they have strong aromas which the insects loathe, so they will go elsewhere.
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Property
29th June - 5th July 2018
Cut-price beach buys LEADING Spanish banks have slashed the prices of thousands of properties they have put on the market, with many located on Spain’s coasts. The majority of the roughly 18,600 homes are located in the Valencia and Andalucia regions, as well as in the Balearic and Canary Islands. Discounts reportedly reach up to 60 per cent on market prices in some cases. Sareb have almost 4,500 properties up for grabs on the Costas and in Spain’s islands including some starting at €240,000. Santander has put more than 1,100 houses on the market with prices ranging from
€100,000 to more than €1 million for the most expensive. BBVA’s offering numbers some 2,800 properties with some discounted by up to 60 per cent. Price reductions are set to be in place until t h e e n d o f t h e y e a r. Caixabank has some 4,200 up for sale through Servihabitat, its property sales arm. Discounts reach up to
40 per cent and some houses start at €74,000. Bankia has some 3,000 holiday homes available with 2,000 of those on the coast. There are proper ties in Murcia in their range starting from €59,000. Sabadell has some 4,000 homes to choose from, with new and second-hand properties located in Valencia, Andalucia and Cataluña.
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Lucky dip! A
RGUABLY the best place in Almeria to swim in the sea, the small town of Las Negras has plenty to offer both above and below the
water. Located in the Cabo de Gata-NĂjar natural park, there are several recommended spots, all with crystalline water ideal for snorkelling. The village beach itself is ideal for families with plenty of room at 850 metres long plus lifeguard service, restaurants and parking. A 10-minute walk brings more adventurous beachgoers to Cala del Cuervo, surrounded by a natural barrier of underwater rocks dubbed Las Esperillas which support a rich variety of wildlife and with spectacular views of the Cerro Negro sea cliffs. But for true tranquillity, follow the footpath over the cliff itself to Cala Hernandez, a tiny isolated cove which is normally deserted, or Cala San Pedro with its fine white sand, accessible only by boat or via a 60minute trek. Be warned though, a peaceful ‘hippy’ community inhabits the latter year-round.
29th June - 5th July 2018
PHOTO CREDIT SHU
TTERSTOCK/W IKIMEDIA
CRYSTAL WATERS: Las Negras beach. ISOLATED BEAUTY: Cala San Pedro.
SNORKELLING TREASURE: Cala del Cuervo.
PEACEFUL: Cala Hernandez.
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Food & Drink
29th June - 5th July 2018
SUMMER has arrived, and the heat is upon us. Standing for hours in a hot kitchen is not my kind of fun. What I prefer to do where possible, is prepare something in the morning and leave it in the fridge until it is time to cook. There are a number of dishes that can be planned this way, and chicken is one of the family favourites. Now I have to tell you, I do like gadgets. My kitchen is quite small but if there is space for a new gadget, I have to at least try and fit them in somewhere! Last week’ s new gadget however, didn’t take up any extra space at all, it replaced something I had broken for the fourth time, bone scissors being the victim! One pair broke the first time I used them, and I put it down to being a Chinese shop buy, and then I spotted the real McCoy in our local agricultural shop. For just €14, which was less than the previous four put
Spatchcock OLIVE TREE FARM was set up about four years ago with the intention of achieving a level of self sufficiency. We have poultry for meat and eggs, goats for milk, rabbits and small pigs for meat and harvest our 70 olive trees each year for oil. We also grow a variety of fruits and vegetables.
ROAST CHICKEN: Place together, I had to get them. Have you ever attempted to ‘Spatchcock’ a chicken? After turning the chicken upside down so the breast is on the cutting board, you simply place the blades of the scissors just to the side of the parson’s nose and snip along the side of the back bone, working all the way along to the opposite
Food & Drink
29th June - 5th July 2018
ked roast chicken
e over vegetables for more flavour. end. Then repeat this on the other side of the back bone until you end up with an inch-wide long strip. You can now turn the chicken back over breast side up and it opens out, which means it lies flatter when you cook it and the juices from the meat add more flavour when you have vegetables
placed beneath the bird. So here is what I did for supper, all in one roasting dish. Spatchcocked Roast Chicken cooked over potatoes, peppers and onions Serves 6 Ingredients 1 whole chicken 1 medium sized unpeeled
potato per person thin sliced 1 green, red, and yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced One onion finely sliced 1 chicken stock cube White wine Salt and black pepper 75g of softened butter 1 tablespoon olive oil Parsley finely chopped 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped A good pinch of mixed dried herbs Method In a bowl add the butter, olive oil, parsley, garlic, mixed herbs, salt and pepper. Mix together until combined and set aside. After removing the back bone of the chicken, work your fingers carefully underneath the skin to loosen it. Get as far under it as you can without tearing the skin
on the breast and thighs. Rub the butter mix directly onto the flesh of the bird. Work your way under all the skin saving a little bit of the mix and set to one side. Layer your sliced potatoes in a roasting tin along with the peppers and onion. Pour over a good splosh of white wine and sprinkle over the stock cube, salt and black pepper, and sprinkle over a pinch of mixed herbs. Lie the chicken, spread out over the top of the potatoes and peppers and rub the remaining butter mixture over the outer layer of the skin. Roast covered for the first hour with tin foil in a preheated oven at 200deg C. After about an hour, remove the tin foil and return to the oven for half an hour or so until the chicken is golden, and the juices run clear. Place the roasting tin under the grill for a few minutes to brown it off a little.
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Health & beauty
29th June - 5th July 2018
Summer tick list EARLY summer can see the tick population at its highest rate due to breeding patterns. With your shoes being ditched and your sandals donned you might be making yourself more susceptible to picking up one of these little critters. A tick in itself is harmless but if it is infected it can cause you to develop Lyme disease. This causes you to have flu-like symptoms such as chills, fever, headache and joint pains. If untreated with antibiotics, a range of other symptoms occur which are similar to those experienced in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Dr Paul McKeon of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) in Ireland, says “people travel all over the world and can be bitten by an infected tick, return home sick and not be diagnosed with Lyme disease,” says Dr Lambert.
BUGS ATTACK:
Pea
The critters can attach themselves to your bare skin.
This is because many of the symptoms can be caused by a whole range of triggers and medical professionals often don’t consider that the patient might be developing Lyme disease. Although the risk is low in Spain, Lyme disease does occur, particularly in the northern regions. In southern Spain, an atypical form of Lyme disease occurs, caused by a related Borrelia organism. During the summer it might not be that suitable to wear a long-sleeved top with long trousers tucked into socks, so be sure to spray yourself with insect repellent that contains Deet and spray your clothing or gear with permethrin.
A RECENT study suggests that a diet high in carbs could mean that a woman begins her menopause earlier in life. The study carried out by the University of Leeds found that a diet rich in pasta and rice was linked to hitting the menopause 18 months earlier than the UK average of 51 years. The study of 914 women in the UK also found that women who ate more oily fish, peas, lentils and beans may actually start their menopause 18 months later in life. Scientists believe that the antioxidants contained in legumes may mean that women menstruate for longer. With the omega-3 fatty acids which are contained in oily fish having the same affect. Carbs, on the other hand, can play a role in boosting oestrogen levels. This could
IF you’ve just treated your teeth and had them whitened for the summer, you will want to be sure to keep them in glistening condition. So have a think about the reasons why your teeth become discoloured and eliminate them from your lifestyle. It’s important to maintain a good level of oral hygiene. Cleaning your teeth removes debris from food which can cause stains. Brushing will also reduce tar tar and the build-up of plaque. Nicotine and tar in cigarettes are a major cause for discolouring your teeth. So if you want to
The change
LATE STARTER: Research found that oily fish and peas could mean that a woman has a higher number of menstruations over her lifetime and cause her egg supply to run out earlier. The research which was published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health is important be-
cause women who go through the menopause early are at increased risk of osteoporosis and heart disease. Conversely, women who go through it later have an increased risk of breast, womb and ovarian can-
Health & beauty
29th June - 5th July 2018
Weekender 21
arly whites BITE ME: Care for your teeth. stay white for longer, stub out those cigarettes. Visit your dentist regularly. The dentist will check for cavities and decay and can give you a quick scale and polish to remove tartar. They can also advise if it’s suitable for you to have a further teeth whitening procedure.
of life
You may be accustomed to using a straw with your cocktails but using a straw for all drinks will prevent stain-causing beverages from coming into contact with your teeth. This is particularly true of highly acidic drinks such as orange juice, which can af fect the quality of the
enamel and make you more prone to tooth discoloration. In general, try to reduce the amount of wine, tea, coffee and sodas you drink as these all cause discoloration. Also, eat less berries, pomegranates, sweets, tomato sauce and curries
as these too are the main culprits. Taking these little steps and cutting down on these items as much as possible will prolong the life of your newly whitened teeth. If you do eat or drink any of them, be sure to thoroughly clean your teeth afterwards.
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d delay the menopause. cers. However, scientists stressed that women should not change their diet as a result of the research. They highlighted that other factors such as genetics may influence when the menopause begins.
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22
Weekender
Leisure
29th June - 5th July 2018
LET’S start with some not so easy reading. It was announced that Sophie Gradon died last week. Many of you might not know who she was. Sophie was a model, she was Miss Newcastle in 2008 and Miss Great Britain in 2009. She raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity and was horribly bullied on social media. Sophie was a contestant on Love Island in 2106. I hope that the current crop of Islanders manage to do half of the good work Sophie did in her all too short life. God Bless Sophie. So, on a lighter note, how is everyone coping with the World Cup coverage? I was in Ronda on Monday night and to secure a table at our favourite restaurant had to agree to a table by an enormous TV which belted out the Spain v Morocco match. I enjoyed the game, others seemed less than impressed. The coverage has dominated schedules and is going to do so for a little while yet. At least for now, those of us in Spain can have double loyalty - wait, that is probably not what some fans think. It’s kind of what I think. Feel free to write in, c/o Leapy. I’m really enjoying the programmes celebrating the 70th anniversary of the NHS. For me, one of the best has to be How the NHS Changed our World (BBC2 weekdays this week/BBC iPlayer). Tuesday saw Dr Hilary Jones (the man never looks any older) meeting staff and patients at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. It really brought home how advancements in areas such as paediatrics are largely
PHOTO CREDIT SHUTTERSTOCK/BBC
TV Critic Summer time and the viewing is (mostly) easy
INSPIRATIONAL: The late Sophie Gradon. down to the NHS and how these probably wouldn’t have gone forward in the same way without it. Other shows visit Moorfields in London, the John Radcliffe and the final show shines the spotlight on pioneer-
AGELESS: Dr Hilary Jones on How the NHS Changed our World.
ing work in Tyneside in the genetics field. I’m not sharing my thoughts on generics (see thoughts on football above) but I am enjoying the run. I wonder if a future series could help us understand just why Dr Hi-
lary doesn’t age... My weekend viewing included a trip to Tyneside with Shaun Keaeny as my guide to The Great Exhibition of the North (BBC iPlayer). Now, I don’t know if any of you caught the chatter about a Professor telling, I think, Radio 4 listeners that ‘Manchester and Birmingham were not in the north, but parts of Wales are,’ but I assure you as a native Geordie I’m not sharing my views on where the north begins and ends (see thoughts on football above). Shaun gave viewers a summary of the summer-long celebration on the beautiful banks of the River Tyne, including giant water sculptures, Stephenson’s Rocket and some northern people singing. Well, I think they were northern and not from <edited out, see thoughts on football> anyhow, if you can find it on catch up, it’s a nice watch. Looking forward, if the action from Russia isn’t your thing, Managing England: The Impossible Job (BBC2, Saturday) probably isn’t either, so you might want to sail with Titanic on Channel 4 , Saturday evening or join Channel 5 for some Dirty Dancing on Sunday night. Next week sees some of the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage pushed to BBC2, yes to allow the main channel to show the football, but there is plenty of coverage of the tennis - and just to balance the sport out a little bit, the brilliant Ackley Bridge continues on Channel 4, Tuesday evening. Happy Viewing.
PETS
29th June - 5th July 2018
Weekender 23
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MEET MILO: Could you look after this cat? Very personalised service. We were uncomfortable leaving our cats in a cattery and HouseSit Match provided the solution. Ruth Dowse, Cat owner How we work. All new members register to join our online HouseSitMatch network. On registration we ID check every new member to ensure we know who you are and in addition housesitters and pet-sitters are police checked by us. We charge for membership to ensure that there is a commitment from both parties and we can afford to manage our network on-
line professionally. How you benefit as a home and pet owner Our membership offers you a secure network to help you find suitable sitters. We don’t reveal your contact details or your address. You post an advert ahead of your travel dates, we publish the advert then house-sitters apply. You can view their profiles and chat with them before you accept your choice of applicant. If you join as a premium member we can also help you at each stage. How do you join? Register online at www.Housesit match.com.
Do you need a house or pet-sitter? Get in touch. House-sitting can be a win-win for both parties, free house and pet-sitting, and the experienced and checked sitters get free accommodation! Register as either house-sitter or homeowner with a 20 per cent discount using coupon code P2020 – an exclusive offer for readers. To find a house pet-sitter go to www.HousesitMatch.com To find a house or pet-sitter go to www.HouseSitMatch.com call Lamia on 00 44 (0) 777 214 2742 or email admin@housesitmatch.com
Comfortable summer safety SUMMER has officially arrived, so long hot days on the open road might be on the agenda. However, if you take your pet with you, you’ll want to keep your loved one safe and comfortable. So, take these few suggestions on board for your travels. Use a tote bag if you want to carry your pet and save its delicate feet from walking on the hot pavement or sand. Your little loved one will love the thrill. Don’t break your back, however, and only carry small lighter pets. If you decide to use public transport, place your pet in a pet carrier. These offer your precious pet a breathable enclosed space within which they can catch 40 winks without bothering people. On the other hand, if you’re heading off in your car then installing an adjustable seat belt will offer you and your pet safety when you’re behind the wheel. In the event that you come to a sudden stop, your pooch won’t be thrown forward upon impact, hurting himself and possibly you and your other passengers. And don’t forget, to keep your pet cool in the sun by putting a cooling gel collar around its neck. Keep it in the freezer when not in use and the gel will retain its coolness when the temperature soars.
24
Weekender
Puzzles
29th June - 5th July 2018
Wordsearch Disney Princesses
Boggled How many English words can you find in the Boggled grid, according to the following rules? The letters must be adjoining in a ‘chain’. They can be adjacent horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Words must contain at least four letters and may include singular and plural or other derived forms. No letter may be used more than once within a single word, unless it appears twice. No vulgarities or proper nouns are permitted.
TARGET:
POCAHONTAS
TIANA
ARIEL
JASMINE
AURORA
MERIDA
MULAN
ELSA
BELLE
ANNA
CINDERELLA
VANELLOPE
SNOW WHITE
RAPUNZEL
TINKERBELL
Quick
Across 1 Bone of the upper arm (7) 5 Annoyed (5) 8 Monarch's domain (5) 9 Occurring at the beginning (7) 10 Enduring (7) 11 Took without the owner's consent (5) 12 Make somebody laugh (5) 14 Luxurious (5) 19 Not tense or taut (5) 21 Embarrassing mistake (7) 23 Having or showing profound knowledge (7) 24 Not in a state of sleep (5) 25 Encircle as a military tactic (5) 26 Boring (7)
Down 1 Obstacle (6) 2 Complains (5) 3 Stays behind (7) 4 Unwilling to spend (6) 5 Strips of potato fried in deep fat (5) 6 Indicating evil intent or suggesting tragic developments (7) 7 Precious metal (6) 13 Ascertain dimensions (7) 15 Large, spotted African/Asian cat (7) 16 Appraise (6) 17 Not being in a specified place (6) 18 Welcomes warmly (6) 20 Bladed instrument for cutting or spreading (5) 22 Large musical instrument (5)
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
• Average: 25
• Very good: 50
• Good: 35
• Excellent: 65
dehisce dyer erotic erotica erns eons front fronted fronts froth froths fore foyer font fonts foist foisted hero heron herons heroic hayed hiya hits hies hied hist history aces aced ions ices iced city cite cites cited jets jest ceca deity deist decay decayed
SCORING: • 4 letters: 1 point • 5 letters: 2 points • 6 letters: 3 points • 7 letters: 4 points • 8 or more letters: 11 points
Cryptic
Across 1 Wild rats sit for painters (7) 5 Young girls lose their heads, the idiots! (5) 8 Quietly stood up for ordinary writing (5) 9 Told how the family is connected (7) 10 The last word in a team entry (4) 11 Ode Simon composed for a pub game (8) 13 Some scraps or relics are a light brown colour (6) 15 Fortune derived from some rich ancestors (6) 18 Hardy players press clothes (4-4) 19 Team get a new goalpost initially (4) 22 He has no illusions about a record (7) 23 Boast, having new part of tooth (5) 24 Singer John gets left in school (5) 25 Right, put your clothes on again (7)
Down 1 A paper's mistake crops up (7) 2 Treasure discovered in a controversial place (5) 3 Leave it in the last etching (4) 4 Vicar’s address is in Lesser Mongolia (6) 5 Nobody left, that's OK (3,5) 6 It's in writing what newts do when confused (3,4) 7 "Yes", said Spanish Des, "we have teams" (5) 12 The ruling is in code, strangely (8) 14 Begin again to take it easy by drawing (7) 16 Internet search aids for motors (7) 17 Braggart discards small, straw hat (6) 18 Cut up five in anxiety (5) 20 Only an advance, say (5) 21 Compound discovered about 101 AD (4)
Puzzles
29th June - 5th July 2018
IRREGULAR SUDOKU
Kakuro
1. What was the title of the 2004 sequel of the romantic comedy film Bridget Jones Diary, released in 2001? 2. What was the title of the 2008 sequel of the superhero film Batman Begins, released in 2005? 3. What was the title of the 2006 sequel of the adventure fantasy film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, released in 2003? 4. What was the title of the 2004 sequel of the action spy film The Bourne Identity, released in 2002? 5. What was the title of the 1965 sequel of the
spaghetti western film A Fistful of Dollars, released in 1964? 6. What was the title of the 2001 sequel of the psychological thriller film The Silence of the Lambs, released in 1991? 7. What was the title of the 1973 sequel of the police/crime thriller film Dirty Harry, released in 1971? 8. What was the title of the 1989 sequel of the fantasy-adventure film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, released in 1984?
Answers
SOLTIMES STAR QUIZ : SEQUELS
1. BRIDGET JONES: THE EDGE OF REASON, 2. THE DARK KNIGHT, 3. PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: THE DEAD MAN’S CHEST, 4. THE BOURNE SUPREMACY, 5. FOR A FEW DOLLARS MORE, 6. HANNIBAL, 7. MAGNUM FORCE, 8. INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE.
SUDOKU
Weekender 25
Fill all the empty squares using the numbers 1 to 9, so that the sum of each horizontal block equals the ‘clue’ on its left, and the sum of each vertical block equals the clue on its top. No number may be used in the same block more than once.
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
CrosswordSolutions from last week Quick
Cryptic
Sudoku
Irregular Sudoku
26
Weekender
Feature
29th June - 5th July 2018
What a job that was by Sandy Shore TABLE talk can always be relied upon to inspire thought provoking questions; my date with dinner was no exception. Facing the sunset of our lives we four companions discussed what careers we might choose for ourselves if instead of our original birthdates we were born in 2000. This of course would make us 18-year-olds. Most trade and career options available in the 1960s are the stuff of history. The British Merchant Navy once provided for 338,000 officers and ratings. British seamen are now at the point of extinction. Perhaps the British armed forces can offer a choice of career but not really. The number employed by Britain’s military complex is a shadow of what it once was. When I joined the mercantile navy in 1960 there were 521,000 serving officers and men in the British armed forces. Latest figures reveal the combined numbers of those in service are 153,000. Massive cuts constantly take place so forget the armed forces as a career.
JOBS PLUMMET: The Merchant Navy employs less people than 50 years ago. What about life as a publican or bar staff? It is a case of ‘last orders please’ since one third of Britain’s pubs have closed since the 1970s, leaving just 50,000 and the rest closing down at the rate of 20 each day. Many of our classmates became apprentices to one trade or another. Sadly, apprenticeships are now as rare as hen’s
teeth. Many trades have since disappeared or have changed into something quite else; plastic being to blame. It is easier to get into university now but many graduate in disciplines for which there isn’t demand. The medical professions seem to have a long and healthy life but how many will be relevant by 2030 or 2040?
Medical science has made huge advances so it is likely that this generation will be able to grow new teeth or organs, or self-repair their eyes when age takes its toll. It is bye-bye for those engaged in dentistry and ophthalmology. An entertaining thought is to enter the world of show business. Not so fast, a jazzpianist friend who once backed household name groups is back in the UK after failing as a busker on the Costa Blanca. Translators are now playing second fiddle to free automatic translation services. A Russian friend favourably remarked on my perfect grasp of her mother tongue. Google Translate took the credit. We already have the means to socially converse bilingually; we simply need to bring the price down to affordability. Our musicologist schoolteacher was at a loss as to what career she would choose as were my other two companions. When I said I would run it past the readers of Sol Times, there was general agreement that we ask the audience. So, what do you think?
Behind THE MUSIC It’s all in the label V L James vljamesinfo@gmail.com Facebook: @vljamesinfo WHEN I was at school in the late 70’s and early 80’s it was quite common for people to have favourite record labels. HAVE They were dedicated followers of labels such as Two Tone, Trojan and Stiff. I knew someone who bought every Two Tone release. He knew what he liked! Stiff Records signed major label rejects such as Ian Dury, Elvis Costello, Madness and The Damned to name but a few. Famed for their sometimes outrageous marketing and stunts, Stiff kept the charts filled for a few glorious years. Stiff and the other independents usually gave their artists complete artistic freedom. Despite selling millions of records the
A STIFF ONE: A t-shirt from the 1970s.
best labels would eventually and inevitably close. They were generally run by enthusiastic music fans and the business side was often neglected. Tony Wilson’s Factory Records were innovative and creative but Wilson neglected to sign his artists to legal contracts. This would cost him millions in the end. However, he didn’t care, he wasn’t in it to keep his accountant happy! The best art is never made for financial gain!
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Classifieds
29th June - 5th July 2018
COSTA Almeria and Costa Calida. Mojacar Eucharist Sunday 11am, at San Pascual. Aljambra Chapel, Albox, Eucharist, second and last Thursday of each month, 11am. Evensong, second Sunday of each month 6pm. Llanos Del Peral, Cucador, Eucharist or morning worship, Sunday 11am. Church Wardens: Pam Carter 667 947 573. Janet Smith 671 451 838. For more information go to their website at www.mojacarchurc h.org
HEALTH & BEAUTY GIRASOL HEALTH FOOD SHOP, Calle Malaga, Albox. For all your dietary needs, health foods, organic foods, supplements, super food powders, organic eggs and veggie box scheme. Est 2006. Tel 639 089 170
HOME MAINTENANCE MARKS Home Maintenance services. Painting General Maintenance. Kitchen Unit Renovation. References available. 634 908 475 (259695)
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CHURCH SERVICES
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MOTOR INSURANCE. For the most competitive quotes in English call Linea Directa on 902 123 309, you could save as much as 30% and you can transfer your existing no claims bonus. Call Linea Directa on 902 123 309 for motor insurance with a human voice in English from Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and save money now! (200726)
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Services BABY EQUIPMENT HIRE
DRAINAGE
REMOVALS & STORAGE
29th June - 5th July 2018
BUILDERS
REMOVALS/STORAGE
29
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Sport
29th June - 5th July 2018
Aguilon Golf update
Vaughan 14th Friday June 22 - Top Banana - La Envia An annual event which included societies from Almeria, Granada and Mur-
LOCAL HEROES: The Mojacar team photo.
Junior footy triumph THE junior category in this year’s national Levante Cup was recently held in Mojacar, with 32 football teams from all over Spain taking part, including eight outfits from the first division. For the first time, the Mojacar team managed to go through to the last 16 with two well-de-
ser ved victories, but their defeat against first division finalists Deportivo de la Coruña put an end to the Mojaquero team’s prospects. The local heroes ended up in ninth place, a measure of their solid work and the great progress they are making against the best
teams at national level. It was also a fantastic experience for all these youngsters, giving them a motivational boost to keep up their training and be a par t of the pool of local players that will undoubtedly continue to enter tain football fans in the future.
a scorching hot day, played good consistent golf to again emerge victorious. Wednesday June 27 - Individual Stableford It looks like summer is really here and on a very warm day it proved to be difficult putting on the recently ‘hollow tined’ greens, although the leader board did not reflect that fact, with some amazing scoring. 1st Louis Long 41 pts 2nd Dave Simpson 39 pts on VICTORIOUS: The Aguilon bag the top a card play off banana. 3rd Dave Sharp 39 pts Two’s: Louis Long 3rd, Chris Tyler x two cia. The format includes a team’s best six scores and two worst scores to count in 3rd and 8th, Ian Jenner 8th, Les Raufer, Dave Simpson, Derrick Stephenson, an eight-player aggregate total. Aguilon’s team of 12 arrived at the Dave Wilson 12th. aguilonmembersclub.com course as defending champions and on
On the mend AS the Spanish team prepare for their World Cup last-16 match against hosts Russia on Sunday, former Liverpool, Newcastle and Spain Under 21 star Jose Enrique has revealed that he has had a brain tumour. The world was alerted to this news when he placed a message on Instagram saying ‘Sorry I haven’t been around much, it has been the toughest few weeks of my life. ‘Within the space of one month I have found out the news that I have a rare brain tumour and had surgery to have it removed, I am now in recovery and so thankful. Life is too precious.’ Messages of suppor t have flooded in from fans and fellow professionals
Photo credit amyjaine/Twitter
WINNER: Andy Killen.
Photo credit Ayuntamiento de Mojacar
WITH the course in perfect condition, it is the time of year for the greens to be ‘hollow tined,’ meaning sandy conditions for a couple of weeks. It is a small price to pay as there will be good greens for the rest of the year! Monday June 18 - Individual Stableford As stated above, the work on the greens was due to start, so the comp day was moved forward. Scoring was yet again very good, with a four-way play off for second place and most of the field in excess of 30 points. 1st Andy Killen 39 pts 2nd Sue Parminter-Phillips 37 pts on a card play off 3rd Chris Baker 37 pts on a card play off Two’s: Phil Miles 3rd, Andy Killen 8th, Chris Baker, Ann Miles 12th, Roy Bishop, Louis Long, Paul Mailly, Eddie
SUCCESSFUL OPERATION: Jose Enrique and partner Amy-Jaine. since the news broke and with the suppor t of his partner Amy- Jaine, the couple hope the discov-
ery of this tumour when they were in the UK was early enough to ensure his speedy recovery.
Motoring
29th June - 5th July 2018
Dacia Duster is cheap and cheerful THERE’S no mistaking the new Dacia Duster for its predecessor, despite it being based on the same platform and sharing all but the same dimensions. This speaks volumes of how thorough and wide-reaching the changes have been in developing the second-generation Duster. In fact, you’re more likely to confuse it with a Jeep Renegade than an MK1, especially if you stare too hard at its square tail lights. The new model shares not
one single exterior panel with its predecessor, and its designers have pushed a range of new features. These include the grille, headlights, sills and window line upwards and downwards to emphasise its chunky proportions, giving it a rugged feel. It’s worked too, the Duster is now a handsome SUV and is looking to muscle into the market. W h a t h a s n ’t c h a n g e d i s t h e starting price, which at €11,300 is aggressively competitive.
DUSTED DOWN: The new Dacia Duster is a major improvement.
In addition to the new bodywork there is a completely overhauled interior with a much higher quality feel to it. The plastics are still of the hard variety, but they fit together better than before and the facia has piano key buttons and rotary heating controls. Interior storage is generous, there is room for five adults and the new front seats are larger with more features. With increased sound insulat i o n t h r o u g h o u t t h e c a r, a n d thicker glass in the front windows, the new Duster is significantly quieter than before but, overall, should make a noise in sales.
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Volkswagen T-Roc stamps its authority VOLKSWAGEN has finally moved into the SUV market of higher-riding medium family cars with its VW T-Roc. The manufacturer loves to begin the names of its larger cars with a ‘T’ - Toureg, Touran, and Tiguan, but the T-Roc is the smallest. However, it is going to expand in the next few years, first with a rumoured 300bhp R version, and then a convertible in 2020. It might be worth imagining the five-seater hatchback as a Golf on stilts to get a good idea of its size. VW expects the small SUV market to grow from 6.4 million to 10.6 million in the next decade, and that 80 per cent of the T-Rocs they shift will be petrol. There are five engines available, two fourcylinder petrols, a 1.5L and 2L as well as a 2L diesel. The big petrol engine with the auto box will sprint to 62mph in 7.2 seconds, but the smaller and lighter models handel better. The T-Roc is available in 25 colours and the modern design includes a roof spoiler, bulletshaped LED running lights and aggressively raked C-pillar. Boot space comes near top of the class with 445 litres, which almost trebles with the seats down.