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February 2016

Court finds no crime in booing at Spain’s national anthem Judge dismisses complaint filed over incident during King’s Cup soccer match last May

The High Court has dismissed a complaint filed by a citizens’ group calling for an investigation into booing and whistling during the Spanish national anthem before last year’s King’s Cup soccer final, which was held in Barcelona.

Judge Fernando Andreu ruled that there was no crime committed by spectators at Camp Nou, who jeered and whistled while the anthem was playing at the start of the match between Barcelona and Athletic on May 30.

Freedom of expression is one of the strongest

pillars in a democracy JUDGE FERNANDO ANDREU The High Court’s public prosecutor was in favor of an investigation, saying that it was an attack on the monarchy and Spain’s symbols and emblems. Spain’s King Felipe VI was present at the game.

The lawsuit was filed by Manos Limpias, an obscure right-wing labor union that has filed numerous complaints in high-profile public corruption cases, including charges against Princess Cristina for alleged tax fraud in the

Nóos Institute case.

In his ruling, which can be appealed, Judge Andreu explained that a similar incident occurred in 2009 during the King’s Cup final in Valencia, but at the time the High Court prosecutor believed that no crime was committed and the judge also dismissed the case.

“Freedom of expression is one of the strongest pillars in a democracy,” Andreu wrote.

The region in which the game was played, Catalonia, is engaged in a years-long struggle with the central government in Madrid for independence, while the Athletic team finds its home in Bilbao, part of the Basque Country, which has also historically sought to break away from Spain. elpais

Wanted: 1,000 extras for upcoming film shoot in Madrid

Employment agency puts out the call for movie, which will be set in the 1940s

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The temporary employment agency Adecco announced on Friday that it is seeking 1,000 people to work as extras on a film set in the 1940s and 1950s in Madrid. “The shoot will take place during April,” the company stated.

The selection process will be carried out via the Adecco Audiovisual division, which specializes in covering the human resources needs of film, TV and advertising producers. “The 1,000 chosen candidates will get the chance to work on a major national production, which will be filmed in Madrid in April.

The contract will be a temporary one, on occasional days, and the salary will be set in accordance with the corresponding collective agreement.”

If the Adecco job offer follows the collective agreement, that means each extra will be paid a minimum €21.84 per complete working day According to the Union of Actors and Actresses, in Spain extras are expected to work 40 hours a week, and are paid the minimum wage.

If the Adecco job offer follows these conditions, that means each extra will be paid a minimum €21.84 per complete working day.

Anyone who is interested in the job needs to have a valid ID document and a social security number, as well as being able to supply a bank account number.

To avoid a flood of calls or visits to their offices, Adecco have supplied an email address to which applicants can send their information: c.vazquez-casting@adecco. com, with “PELÍCULA ESPAÑOLA AÑOS 4050” in the subject line.

Anyone who wants to try their luck should include their full name, two current photos (one of their face, and one full-body) their phone number and the city of residence. elpais

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Plays, comedies and musicals in English and Spanish for 400th anniversary of Cervantes’ and Shakespeare’s deaths

A SERIES of one-off shows at a Madrid theatre in Spanish and in English will be held over the next few weeks to mark the 400th anniversary of the deaths of British playwright William Shakespeare and author of the epic Don Quijote, Miguel de Cervantes.

Parlon Theatre Company will perform The Royal Flush, entirely in English, at the Teatros de Canal theatre halls (pictured) in the capital tomorrow (Sunday, February 21), a musical comedy for teenagers combining Shakespeare’s The taming of the shrew and Cervantes’ novella The Illustrious SculleryMaid.

Between now and Sunday, March 13, the theatre company Sexpeare will perform Rinconete y Cortadillo at the same venue, a comedy which centres on the picaresque or ‘loveable rogue’ literary genre which prevailed around Cervantes’ time, and rewrites the last few pages of the novella of the same name – here, the characters defy the author and attempt to hold him accountable for publishing a fleeting episode of their lives behind their backs.

Shakespeare’s Love’s labours lost, by the Siglo de Oro (‘golden age’) Foundation in conjunction with the Globe Theatre in London where the author’s plays were originally performed in the 16th century, is described as a ‘burlesque, extravagant and intellectual comedy’ and will be staged at the Teatros de Canal between April 28 and May 15.

The international children’s and youth performing arts festival, Teatralia 2016, will

bring a new, parallel version of Don Quijote to the stage based upon the hapless wannabe knight’s friendship with his trusty, longsuffering friend Sancho Panza in Quijote, el vértigo de Sancho.

Next, from May 26 to 28 inclusive, the Contemporary Legend Theatre presents a totally unique rework of King Lear – as a Chinese opera, directed and starred in by the sole actor Wu Hsing-Kuo who plays 10 different characters.

Using traditional Chinese costumes, musical instruments and operatic moves, the oriental King Lear is split into three acts.

Finally, on June 14, 16 and 18, anyone who is familiar with The Tempest and Romeo and Juliet and wants to practise their Spanish should head to the Teatros de Canal, where its in-house theatre company and that of the Royal Theatre will perform Dos delirios sobre Shakespeare based upon a script by José Sanchís Sinisterra and music by Alfredo Aracil.

They describe the off-the-wall double bill as ‘a new way of interpreting two of the Bard’s key works’, in which they ‘pan out in a much different way to how Shakespeare intended’.

All performances are in either the ‘black room’ (Sala Negra) or ‘green room’ (Sala Verde). thinkspain.com

Coffee, lemons, mouthwash and energy drinks do not mask breathalysing and drug test results, warn traffic authorities MORE than one in five drivers in Spain believes they can mask drink and drug test results with ‘foolproof’ methods that will mean they do not get caught.

They believed drinking coffee or sucking lemons would hide the results, and coffee would ‘sober them up’.

Many thought drinking enough water or energy beverages such as Red Bull, swilling mouthwash or even making themselves sweat profusely would alter the results of a breathalysing or saliva test, used to read alcohol levels and detect the presence of drugs respectively.

Products are even on sale via the black market which claim to hide drug and alcohol intake during roadside tests, but research has shown they do not have any effect.

Out of the carefully-chosen sample of 1,205 drivers aged 18 to 60, a total of 22% believed they could pull the wool over police officers’ eyes using these ‘tricks’ after taking drugs – rising to 27% of the 18-25 age-group – and 30% thought they would work for a breathalysing test.

Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) says there is no way of rigging the results, because it is scientifically and medically impossible.

The breath measured comes from the numerous air sacs on the end of each of a network of tiny tubes called bronchioles within the lungs, through which oxygen is inhaled and carbon dioxide exhaled, having travelled through the blood stream and organs.

Another three in 10 motorists in Spain thought cocaine and heroin would not show up on a drug test, believing these to be only designed to detect cannabis, and a similar number thought a small amount of any drug would not be picked up by the tests.

In fact, even just one puff of a joint will be detected – and test results will show up positive up to six hours after consumption. thinkspain.com

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February 2016

Gold Medalist Believes She Contracted Zika in Rio

Spanish Olympic gold medalist Marina Alabau says she got Zika while training in Brazil in December, suffering painful symptoms in an experience that the wind surfer said won’t stop her from competing in the Games in August.

In a phone interview with The Associated Press, Alabau described symptoms that her doctor said were in line with Zika, a virus that the World Health Organization has deemed an “international health emergency.” She is currently competing at the RS: X World Championship in Israel.

Despite some very difficult days after getting Zika, the 30-year-old Alabau nevertheless has urged her fellow athletes not to worry.

“There is too much alarm surrounding this. I had the virus and it wasn’t that bad. I didn’t even go to the hospital,” she said.

Alabau said that while training in Rio de Janeiro on one December day, she came down with a fever. It would pass within 24 hours, but other symptoms soon followed.

“Then my whole body turned red and everything itched. Two days later, my joints started aching,” she said. “First it was in the fingers, then my wrists and finally my ankles. It was then that I decided to return to Spain because I was a little worried.”

Dr. Bruce Aylward, the World Health Organization’s executive director for outbreaks and health emergencies, said Friday the mosquito population is expected to drop off around when Rio hosts the Games, because it will be winter in the Southern Hemisphere. He told a news conference in Geneva that Rio’s Olympic venues are in a relatively confined area, making it easier to control the mosquitoes. read more http://abcnews.go.com/

ort

Spanish PM Rajoy tells David Cameron he expects to face new elections in June

The admission was picked up Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has admitted he expects to face fresh elections during a conversation with David Cameron which was accidentally picked up by a microphone.

Mr Rajoy was overheard in in Brussels telling the British Prime Minister that he believed Spain would hold the elections in June, just six months after a ballot which has caused stalemate in a fragmented parliament.

Unaware that their conversation was being recorded on the sidelines of this week’s summit of EU leaders, Mr Rajoy told his UK counterpart that the negotiations between Spanish political parties would almost certainly fail to produce a governing majority.

“We have an investiture debate in March and I don’t think it will be successful. The most likely outcome is that we will have a new election on June 26”, Mr Rajoy said.

“Around the same date as our European referendum?”

Mr Cameron replied. “The same day!” Mr Rajoy laughed, although UK elections are always held on Thursdays and not Sundays as in Spain.

Mr Rajoy’s open-mic gaffe shows that he does not believe that his main political rival, the Socialist

by a microphone left on during this party’s P e d r o Sánchez, will manage to cobble together a majority in time to be approved

by Spain’s parliament in the first week of M a r c h .

It also indicates that the conservative leader, whose Popular Party (PP) won December’s elections but fell well short of a majority, has no faith in his own proposal of a three-way coalition government with the Socialists and the centreright Ciudadanos party.

Mr Rajoy was chosen by Spain’s King Felipe in January to present himself for investiture and a second term in power, but he took the surprising step of turning down the royal appointment because he did not believe he would gain majority support in parliament.

“This doesn’t man Rajoy won’t try to lead a government if Sánchez fails”, said the PP’s parliamentary spokesman, Rafael Hernando, when asked to explain the prime minister’s comments.

week’s summit of EU leaders

“We’re going to have a go”.

Having been nominated by the king, Mr Sánchez is negotiating with both Ciudadanos and the Left-wing anti-austerity Podemos party. Both new parties have said they cannot be in same deal, however. Ciudadanos objects to both Podemos’s demands for hikes in taxation to finance a massive boost in social spending and its stance in favour of a referendum in Catalonia.

The other option for Mr Sánchez is to ditch Ciudadanos, make a deal with Podemos and gain support from Basque and Catalan nationalists. The Socialist leader has said he will not negotiate with Catalan parties in favour in independence. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

India caste unrest: ‘Ten million without water’ in Delhi

More than 10 million people in India’s capital are without water despite the army regaining control of its key water source after protests, officials say.

Keshav Chandra, head of Delhi’s water board, told the BBC it would take “three to four days” before normal supplies resumed to affected areas.

Jat community protesters demanding more government jobs seized the Munak canal, the city’s main water source on Friday.

Sixteen people have been killed and hundreds hurt in three days of riots.

Defiant India protesters stand ground in Haryana The Munak canal supplies around three-fifths of water to Delhi’s 16 million residents.

been seen as upper caste.

They are mainly based in Haryana and seven other states in northern India.

Comprising 27% of the voters in Haryana and dominating a third of the 90 state assembly seats, they are a politically influential community. Seven of the 10 chief ministers in Haryana have been Jats.

The Jats are currently listed as upper caste but the demonstrators have been demanding inclusion in caste quotas for jobs and education opportunities that have been available to lower castes since 1991.

In March 2014 the Congress-led national government said it would recategorise Jats as Other Backward Castes (OBC), opening the way to government job quotas.

But India’s Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that the Jats were not a backward community.

Schools in the city were also closed after supplies from the canal were sabotaged during the protests.

As jobs have dried up in the private sector and farming incomes have declined, the community has demanded the reinstatement of their backward caste status to enable them to secure government jobs.

The army took control of parts of the canal on Monday morning, but repairs are expected to take time.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted that the army was “trying to assess in how much time water would reach Delhi and whether any damage had been done to the canal”.

The BBC’s Sanjoy Majumder who is near Delhi’s border with neighbouring Haryana state, said protesters who have set up road blocks are refusing to budge.

Protesters went on the rampage despite a curfew and the deployment of the army, which is reported to have opened fire on them in the districts of Rohtak and Jhajjar.

Mr Chandra said that prior warnings meant that people had managed to save water, and tankers had been despatched to affected areas of the city, but that this would not be enough to make up for the shortfall.

“We don’t trust them. Let’s get something in writing. Let them spell it out,” one demonstrator who refused to be named told the BBC. Why are the Jats angry?

The land-owning Jat community is relatively affluent and has traditionally

Haryana state minister Ram Bilas Sharma said the situation was returning to normal, traffic had resumed on national highways and that railway lines between Delhi and the cities of Jaipur and Chandigarh had reopened.

Mr Sharma also confirmed that the government would introduce a bill on reservations and quotas for the Jat community in the next assembly session, although he did not say when that would be.

Bbc.com

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February 2016

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Bankia to refund shareholders who responded to flotation offer in 2011

BANKIA has agreed to refund the amount paid for its shares to small investors, with 1% interest.

The State-owned entity, a fusion of Caja Madrid, Bancaja and other entities bailed out by European funds floated its shares on the stock market for the first time in July 2011, but has recently been found guilty of mis-selling by the Supreme Court.

A judge found that the information Bankia gave about its financial situation in its share advertising brochures was incorrect, making the bank appear far healthier in economic terms than it really was.

Chief Executive Officer José Sevilla says anyone who bought shares can apply for a refund plus interest at 1%, whether or not they have since sold these on.

Those who have sold will be able to claim the difference between what they paid initially and the proceeds of the sale.

Bankia shares went up to 80 cents on the stock market yesterday morning following a 4.7% increase – but this is still far short of the €3.75 they were sold at in 2011.

The bank had put aside €400 million to cover legal costs - €300m for court fees and €100m for paying interest on top, but by refunding the shares it will end the legal action and no longer have to pay this amount out.

José Sevilla says Bankia will be cutting its losses by reimbursing investors.

The entity earned just under €1.86 billion through its flotation, and the

contingency of €1.84bn it set aside last year and €780m the year before is expected to be enough to pay everyone back. Between July 2011 and March 2012, a total of €255m of the original €1.86bn had been sold on by shareholders.

It is expected to cost between €1.4bn and €1.5bn to refund investors. The bank will need to spend between €300,000 and €500,000 in an advertising campaign to advise shareholders of their right to a reimbursement, and expects around 200,000 people will take them up on it.

Only those who responded to the initial share offer at the time of flotation will be entitled to money back, not those who purchased shares afterwards, nor those who have already received a favourable settlement after suing Bankia.

As at the end of 2015, Bankia had received 76,546 claims in the sum of €830m, and the courts had issued 13,478 final verdicts to a value of €82m.

Former directors of Bankia who invested in shares on a personal basis will not get their money back either. Bankia is 64% owned by the Spanish State via its Ordered Banking Restructure Fund (FROB) after it received a European Union bailout in 2012.

Spain called for a 'rescue' fund of €10bn, but says it did not need to spend all this to save Bankia from going under. Experts do not believe Bankia will ever be able to pay back the EU cash it received thinkspain

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Biggest-ever national counterfeit cash racket busted

SPAIN'S largest counterfeit banknote factory has been raided and a countrywide racket broken up in the province of Toledo, just south of Madrid.

Two men have been arrested after a villa in the town of Bargas was searched, with every room set up as a different part of the production line – one for printing, one for cutting and copying the hologram, and one for drying the printed notes.

They had enough equipment to allow them to print up to €2 million in €50 notes, and €195,000 were confiscated during the police raid.

Technical similarities between this and another forgery factory in the same area, uncovered a year ago, led to a full police inquiry, and a printing firm – whose owner has now absconded – was found to have been helping out in exchange for commission.

Forged notes produced by the criminal organisation have been found in several provinces, making this the largest-ever counterfeit money production operation in Spain's history. They mainly

targeted ONCE sellers – lotteryticket vendors in aid of the national blind association who, as a prerequisite for the job, must be disabled.

The suspects bought lottery tickets with fake €50 notes, typically for €1 each, and then kept the change.

Police say they were originally based in the Toledo-province town of Talavera de la Reina – famous for its 'adopted daughter', actress Gwynneth Paltrow, who learnt her now-fluent Spanish during the first of many stays there – but they later moved to a villa in a remote country area.

One of the arrested men was caught leaving the property with a huge bin-bag, found to be full of draft print notes and banknotes which had not printed out properly.

The operation was carried out by the National Police judicial units and the police chief headquarters in Catalunya, as well as offices in Talavera de la Reina, the forgery investigation team at the Bank of Spain, and the EU-wide anticounterfeit department of Europol.

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February 2016

Day of Andalucía in Spain

The Day of Andalucía (Día de Andalucía), also known as Andalucía Day, marks the anniversary of a referendum held on February 28, 1980. A large majority of voters supported this referendum for Andalucía to become an autonomous community in Spain.

February 28. Public life is generally quiet and many businesses and other organizations are closed. Many stores are closed but some bakers and food stores may be open. Public transport services generally run to a reduced schedule but there may be no services in rural areas.

If February 28 falls on a Sunday, regional or local authorities may move the public holiday to a different date.

If February 28 falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many businesses and organizations are also closed on Monday, February 27, or Friday, February 29 or March 1. The Day of Andalucía is not a public holiday in the rest of Spain on February 28.

Background

The autonomous community of Andalucía shares international land borders with Portugal

and Gibraltar. Within Spain, it borders the autonomous communities of Castile-La Mancha, Extremadura and Murcia. People in Andalucía voted for the region to become an autonomous community of Spain on February 28, 1980.

However, the Spanish Parliament only accepted Andalucía as an historic nationality in 2006.

Symbols

Andalucía's flag is widely displayed on the Day of Andalucía. It consists of three equal horizontal bars. The top and lower bars are dark green and the middle bar is white.

Andalucía's coat of arms is at the center of the flag. Andalucía's coat of arms consists of an image of the mythical Greek hero Heracles between two columns. The columns represent the Pillars of Heracles. These are the rocks on either side of the Straits of Gibraltar. http://www.timeanddate.com/

What Do People Do?

Many people spend the day quietly with family or close friends. However, some people organize or attend private parties with traditional music, dancing, food and drink. Some municipalities hold communal meals with traditional foods, drinks and entertainment. Local politicians may present people with certificates or medals for service to the community.

Public Life The Day of Andalucía is a public holiday in the autonomous community of Andalucía on

Pound hits lowest level against dollar since 2009 on Brexit fears T h e pound hit its lowest l e v e l against the dollar in almost seven years on concerns about a possible UK exit f r o m t h e European

Union.

At one stage it was down as much as 2.4% at $1.4058, its lowest level since March 2009, before later recovering.

The move follows London Mayor Boris Johnson joining the campaign to leave the EU after Prime Minister David Cameron set a June referendum date.

The steep fall adds to losses made by the pound over recent months.

At 16:00 GMT the pound was

trading at $1.4135, down 1.4% from the previous close.

'Uncertainty'

160.075 yen, its lowest since late 2013. "I don't think investors are saying Brexit is good or bad, but it's the uncertainty," said Simon Smith, chief economist at FxPro. The pound has already dropped more than 17% against the dollar in the last 18 months, partly due to the outlook for UK interest rates.

Whereas the US raised rates last year, Bank of England governor Mark Carney has ruled out such a rise for now.

As a result sterling is seen as less attractive for investors, continuing to fall from the $1.7165 peak seen on 1 July, 2014.

A weak pound helps exporters by making British goods cheaper on international markets.

It also makes the UK a better value destination for tourists.

However, a weaker pound makes imports more expensive, possibly hurting consumers and businesses that rely on foreign goods.

So far this year, fears of a British exit from the EU - dubbed 'Brexit' - have already pushed the pound down by more than 4% against the US dollar.

Analysts said that was likely to continue to direct sentiment until the vote.

"Today's weakness appears to reflect an increased probability of Brexit after political reaction to the new deal on EU membership was more split than the PM would have hoped," said Sam Hill, senior UK economist at RBC Capital Markets.

If the pound finishes at its lows for the day, it will be the biggest oneday loss since the Bank of England cut interest rates to 0.5% in 2009 and started its economic stimulus programme known as quantitative Credit risks easing. ratings agency Against the euro, the pound is Meanwhile, down 1% to €1.2802. Against the Moody's said: "The economic costs yen, the pound has slumped to of a decision to leave the EU would

outweigh the economic benefits."

Investment would suffer due to political uncertainty and exports would decline unless a new trade deal was struck with the EU, the credit agency said.

Moody's said it would consider downgrading the UK's credit rating - which affects how expensive it is for the government to borrow money - if the country voted to leave the EU. However, another credit agency Fitch said Brexit would be "only moderately negative" if trade deals were secured.

David Cameron announced on Saturday that the EU referendum would be held on 23 June after he came back from Brussels with a renegotiation of Britain's EU membership.

The intervention by Boris Johnson is being seen as a significant blow to Mr Cameron's campaign to remain in the EU. Several other senior Conservatives - including Justice Secretary Michael Gove - have already said they would join the Out campaign http://www.bbc.com/

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Survival of the R ojales Pantomime group

Spain holds six officials of ICBC for 'money laundering'

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Sleeping Beauty is looking for you!

We are holding an open meeting at The Cultural Centre in QUESADA Friday 26th February at 6pm (18.00hours) If you are interested in any capacity of production be it on stage or behind the scenes then come and join us in our discussion.

We are looking for Actors’ Dancers, Singers and Back stage hands or anyone interested in helping in our production of the pantomime “Sleeping Beauty”. in January 2017. Something to look forward to after Christmas.

We rehearse in Quesada Cultural Centre and perform in Los Montesinos. Rehearsal times and days will be discussed and arranged at this meeting. (Rehearsals start in September with auditions in June/July.) We really do need some new people to join us, no experience is necessary just a willingness to help in any way. Anyone of age is welcome. We really need you if we are to survive and produce this Pantomime. It would be such a shame to fold after all the hard work done over the last 8 years.

We will need a young Woman/Girl to take the part of Sleeping Beauty. Also a dance school with children between the ages of 8-12 to help us with scenes of goblins and fairies. We are a fun group enjoying being on stage. Money raised goes to The Needy of Los Montesinos and Rojales also S.A.T. animal rescue charity.

Contact Christine 678212034 if you require more information or just come along. (And why not bring a friend!)

See us on our web site

Rojalespantomime.com

This is the very best beach in Europe.

And here's why...

It's official: Spain is home to the best beach in Europe.

Playa de Ses Illetes on the smallest Balearic Island of Formentera has been crowned the best beach on the continent by review website TripAdvisor.

The slip of white sand on the picturesque island, which lies close to Ibiza, has wowed visitors from all over the world, but what makes it the very best beach in Europe?

Here's what TripAdvisor commenters had to say...

Beautiful "Beautiful colours, the water is so clear that it looks like the boats are floating on air. It is just like the Caribbean, tranquil and full of beautiful nature."

Impressive “With the islands on the horizon and its waters looking like they came straight out of a movie, this beach is unique. This is one of the best beaches in the world.”

Pretty “Very white, soft sand. The beach is almost identical to those of the Caribbean!”

“It’s a natural park of great value.

Formed of white, soft sand, you can walk down a marvellous isle with the most beautiful sea on both sides.”

Paradise “Paradise right on your doorstep.

White sand, calm and clear seas and not very far away from the best bars and restaurants on the island.”

“A fantasic place to visit... you find yourself surrounded by the sea. The sun set is simply magnificent.”

Paradise “There is no need to go to the Caribbean... You don’t even have to worry about the sharks... All the different colours of blues imaginable and white sands... It’s paradise!” thelocal.es

Six officials of Chinese megabank ICBC havebeen placed in detention

by Spanish authorities on suspicion of laundering tens of millions of euros, judicial sources said on Saturday.

They were detained overnight and while three of them can be freed if they post bail of €100,000 ($111,000) each, the others will remain in custody for the time being, the Madrid appeals court said.

The suspects were arrested on Wednesday at the bank's central Madrid branch as part of a probe into the suspected laundering of at least €40 million. They were questioned from Friday afternoon through to early Saturday.

The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is accused of allowing traders to move money earned through smuggling and tax fraud out of the country, to China, "in a way that appeared legal", Spanish police said in a statement. Spanish prosecutors said the employees were

being sought for "economic crimes" but did not elaborate. The raid was a follow-up to an operation last year that targeted Madrid-based Chinese syndicates suspected of importing huge amounts of goods from China without declaring them, to avoid duties and taxes. The groups allegedly deposited the proceeds in ICBC accounts, with the lender accused of sending the funds to China without checking their origin as required by law.

ICBC is the world's largest bank by market capitalisation. It entered the Spanish market in January 2011 with the inauguration of its branch in Madrid.

A year later it opened a second branch in Barcelona. The Chinese lender's foreign operations accounted for about 10 percent of its total assets at the end of last year. thelocal.es

Kalamazoo shootings: six dead in Michigan after ‘random’ attacks

A man has been arrested in Michigan over the “random” killings of at least six people at multiple locations in and around the city of Kalamazoo. Two people were injured in the shootings, including a 14-yearold girl. Police arrested Jason Dalton around 12.40am on Sunday without “confrontation” and nearly seven hours after the shooting rampage began.

Police said Dalton, 45, was cooperative and his demeanor was “even-tempered”. A semi-automatic handgun was recovered from his vehicle, dark-colored Chevy HHR, a description of which was obtained through CCTV footage at a car dealership and restaurant where two of the three shootings took place.

“This is just the most awful thing I can think of having happening, and to have to stand here and talk about these kinds of things is just a terrible thing,” Kalamazoo county prosecuting attorney Jeff Getting told reporters at a press conference early on Sunday.

“There is no continuing threat to the safety of this community … we have no reason to believe there was more than one person involved in any of these incidents.” In early reports, police mistakenly said that seven people had been killed. They later

revised the count to six. The 14-yearold girl was initially included in the count, but Getting clarified that she was “seriously, gravely injured”.

Later on Sunday, Michigan governor Rick Snyder released a statement in which he said: “The victims and their families – and the entire Kalamazoo area – should be in everyone’s thoughts today.” Snyder also praised members of the community and law enforcement officials who he said “quickly came together”. “Their actions resulted in the suspect being caught before he was able to harm anyone else through these senseless and apparently random acts of violence,” he said. The victims appear to have been randomly targeted, police said, but few details were offered early on Sunday, as next of kin were still being contacted.

According to police, Dalton had no known criminal record and a motive for the shooting spree was not known.

Police described “ugly” scenes after the shootings, which a spokesman said were carried out by “a guy going around randomly killing innocent people”. http://www.theguardian.com/

10

February 2016

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trees; and the Parque Nuevo, built when the port was extended in 1924, with palms and ornamental plants.

The two parts are separated by a pillared fountain called La Fuente de los Peces, on calle Real.

JARDIN BOTANICO DE ALBARDINAL, RODALQUILAR This botanical garden, situated inside the Cabo de Gata natural park, has plants from all the main geographical regions of Almeria province, from desert to coast to mountain. Its name comes from the plant albardin, which is like esparto, a very tough grass used for weaving baskets and other products. In the garden's nine hectares you can find "useful plants", palms, cacti, and plants from many landscapes in Spain, including semi-arid (Tabernas Desert) and arid (dunes and beaches), as well as endangered species. Look out for the Jujube (red date).

Both native and foreign species are well represented.

JARDÍN BOTÁNICO LA UMBRÍA DE LA VIRGEN, MARÍA This garden, in the hill town of Maria, forms part of the little-known Parque Natural Sierra de María-Los Vélez. It is divided into two main sections: the lower part has fruit trees, vegetables, cereals, aromatic and medicinal plants; in the higher area, you will find native mountain plants, which you can see by taking three different paths around the 40-hectare zone. Four specialised areas show plants which grow in certain types of soil: saladar (tidal marsh; succulents), aljezar (chalky soil; only gipsofitos), blanquizar (pale, alkaline soil; lightcoloured plants with thick skins) and roquedo (poor, thin soil; water-holding plants with special seeds).

PARQUE PERIURBANO CASTALA, BERJA This forested park is situated on the southern slopes of the Sierra de Gador, in the western part of Almeria province. It is an old nursery belonging to the State Forestry. The trees are mostly Aleppo pines, and the park offers views to the Albufera de Adra Nature Reserve. Other plants include broom, esparto grass, rosemary and buckthorn. http://www.andalucia.com/

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LOOK GOOD FEEL GREAT Tel: 950 121 936 - sales@soltimes.com

getting them. It's also tempting to keep cold or dry air. It will trap moisture and seal cracks licking dry or cracked lips. But this will against infection. only dry your lips more, as the saliva Avoid lip balms in pots – repeatedly dipping your evaporates and the repeated licking or finger into the balm can introduce germs. wetting "washes" the natural grease off Covering your lips with a scarf when you're outside the skin. during the winter can also help prevent dry lips.

How to treat dry or sore lips http://www.nhs.uk/ The best thing to do if you have dry or sore lips is to regularly apply a lip balm containing petroleum or beeswax. You may need to try a few different products before you find one that works for you.

For example, you may be sensitive to fragranced products, in which case non-fragranced lip balms are available.

If you're going to be spending time outdoors in the sun, choose a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to help protect your lips.

Lip balm acts as a shield to protect your lips against the sun, wind and

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More moisture is lost through the lips than through any other part of the face or body. When the lips lose moisture, the skin covering them can become tight and start to split.

Do you suffer from mobility problems, breathlessness/pain or falls/stumbles?

Do you need help washing / dressing or supervision?

You could be entitled to extra income by claiming UK sickness / disability benefits while living in Spain

What not to do It's very tempting to pick and bite off flakes of dried skin, but this will only make your lips bleed and heal more slowly. Irritating the skin around your mouth may also trigger a cold sore if you're prone to

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Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer as ‘Stopped’ (again a Bytes, Your Only Stop for solutions to Your natural and normal part of computer problems. I had an email from a the workings of Windows friend who asked for my opinion – usually, OS) she suggests you be passed this isn’t a wise thing to do as I will tell over to the ‘Microsoft Technician’ who will what I think! In this case the opinion repair them! was related to a telephone call they had As you will see in the video they use received about downloading dangerous a common piece of remote assistance software! IT WAS A SCAM! software, that you have to download and Thankfully my friend told them the “Sod install (cheek! Expecting you to help them Off” and hung up! The scam was a variant take your money), to again access to your of the ‘Nigerian Money Transfer’ scam, computer at which point they can see where they ‘engineer’ you into allowing what you can see! them access to your computer, ‘prove’ that They then open up a browser and you have this or that wrong with it, before instruct Segura to enter in his personal offering to ‘fix’ it (at an extortionate price) information, including banking information for you. What follows is them making a and make a PayPal payment of $299. huge mistake by cold calling a member of Segura purposefully enters in wrong the ‘Malwarebytes’ Tech Team. banking details knowing it will be rejected.

A senior security researcher from He didn’t expect it to turn nasty at the end Malwarebytes called Jerome Segura when the scammers became spiteful, took played along with a Microsoft technical control of Segura’s computer and deletes support scammer, documenting the whole all of the documents from his (virtual) episode in a video, to showcase the social computer. engineering that takes place. This video The scammer then looks for more ways can be found on ‘YouTube.co.uk’ when you to corrupt the system, heading to device look for ‘Fake Microsoft Support Call’. manager to delete the Ethernet adapter The scam involves people in Indian driver. Before deleting, he posts “bye call centres ringing up and saying that they are representatives from Microsoft asshole” (sic) in the TeamViewer chat log.

Segura asks the operator who was technical support. They then tell the victim that their computer is running deleting the files on his computer, and slowly because of viruses or because they why the technician called him an asshole. need an additional piece of software -- at A male voice replies that the “technician is always correct. If he is saying that you are a cost, of course.

As a precaution, Jerome started a ‘Virtual something then you must be. He cannot Machine’ which is a Virtual Computer be wrong.”

So 2 simple rules to beat the Scammers: inside a real computer – minimises 1. If you didn’t call for assistance, Tell potential damage, when he initially received the call. He was directed to start them you hadn’t called them and that you his computer (already done) and type in are hanging up.

2. Hang Up – don’t listen to a word they various commands to ‘prove’ what they were saying was true. The caller involved say!

To arrange an appointment for another him in every way possible to draw him into the scam (Social Engineering) while time or place use the Phone number or ‘proving’ step by step that what she was Email address below, Skype (Look for the saying was true! After the preamble, name “saiminja”), Viber or Whatsapp for where you are shown programs that are free advice concerning your computer. a necessary part For further information or advice on of Windows OS, as viruses, and further computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk shown files marked

LEGAL CORNER WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic, please e-mail info@daviessolicitors.com - www.daviessolicitors.com

75: NOT GETTING ANY YOUNGER AND GOING BACK TO ENGLAND. 7 POINTS TO CONSIDER. Question: My mother and father need to move back to the UK due to very bad health, with my mother moving into a home immediately on her return. They own a house and a bank account in Mojacar.

Have you got any recommendations of things I should be thinking about from a legal point of while I am in Spain to help them organise their return.

Answer: I would at least address the following matters: 1. Make sure their Spanish wills are in good order. Even if they are, it may be time to reconsider the clauses. If for example one of your parents is very ill it may not be convenient for the other partner to name him /her beneficiary.

2. Locate the title deeds to the property and their NIE numbers.

3. Make sure Internet banking is set up on their Spanish bank account.

4. Your parents may wish to consider signing a power of attorney for you to deal with their Spanish assets.

5. If they are resident and over 65 they are entitled to sell the property free of capital gains tax.

6. When you get back to England start working on an enduring power of attorney to be used in the UK. 7.Meet their solicitor and/or financial advisor in Spain before you leave.

Very important: The above are the essential things that come to mind but there could be more. A chat with your solicitors with all documentation available is recommendable.

Michael Davies. Abogado.

Michael Davies is a Spanish Abogado and has been practicing law in Almería since 1993. He is member of the Law societies of Almería and Madrid and has offices in Mojacar and Almeria High Street.

February 2016

LIBERTY SEGUROS INSURANCE, THE EXPATS NO.1 CHOICE Of the many thousands of expatriates living either temporarily or permanently in Spain, Liberty Seguros is the favourite of many who are seeking professional insurance at a sensible price.

Currently, Liberty Seguros have around 175,000 expatriate clients just like you serviced by over 300 brokers and agents who speak your language.

It’s so pleasant to have a face-toface chat with a dedicated expert about all your insurance needs rather than an impersonal, over the telephone chat, with someone you’ll probably never meet.

As Iván Ortego, Expatriate’s Experience Director at Liberty Seguros explains: “We endeavor to provide the best insurance cover at the best price, so that our customers are covered for as many eventualities as possible. Like every insurer, there is some small print as the saying goes, but we like to keep this to a bare minimum to ensure our customers have not had the ‘wool pulled over their eyes’ so to speak, and to be as transparent as possible. Our brokers/agents can explain this type of detail at the time of contracting the policy in their offices” Liberty Seguros not only covers your main insurance needs for car and home, but also provides Life cover, Marine, Commercial (office and industrial), Pet, Leisure, like Golf and other pastimes and Sports, Personal and Public Liability too.

Our advertising campaign sums up our philosophy: Better Care, Better Cover, Better Insurance from the market leader.

To contract insurance from Liberty Seguros, you can telephone 902 255 258 for an instant quote and the name of your nearest broker/agent or visit www. libertyexpatriates.es Alternatively, if you know where your nearest broker is, go along and be sure of a great reception and all the help you need.

pause for thought

Well here I am in sunny Lancashire, assisting in child-care during half term, when I suddenly notice an unopened email, lurking away several pages down in my somewhat overcrowded inbox. On opening, I discover a final reminder (I’m sure I’ve never seen any previous reminders) to renew House Insurance, leaving me nearly 2000 miles from home at a time when burglaries seem to be at epidemic proportions and hurricane force gales have been wreaking havoc all around and I’ve let the Insurance lapse?!

I’m sure we’ve all experienced that horrible sinking feeling when suddenly faced with confirmation of having got something wrong. And do I feel it now? Together with more than a little panic!

But isn’t that so typical of life. As a Christian I’m conscious that I commit sins of omission (failing to do something I should have done, like that outlined above) probably more often than I commit those of commission (doing those things that I ought not to have done, in the words of the general confession), but can take comfort from the fact that, as the Bible tells us ‘the blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, cleanses us from all sin’. If only I could believe the Insurance Company and the local association of burglars were that understanding! But that’s one

of the joys of being a Christian. We all make mistakes. And we most of us suffer from feelings of remorse or guilt. Other people may hold grudges or harbour grievances, but I know that God, the only one who, in the long term really matters, is only too willing to forgive and forget. He sent His Son, Jesus to live, to suffer and to die on the cross in my place, so that even the worst sins I commit can be forgiven. So the apostle Paul could write, “If God’s on our side, who else do we need to worry about?” What a comfort that is; though I must admit I’m quite grateful too for online payment facilities.

Details of a number of English Language Churches are given in Sol Noticeboard for any who wish to Worship, but further information about the Anglican Church and details of forthcoming events may be seen on the web site www.mojacarchurch.org Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida and may be contacted at djburr@ avired.com

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February 2016

Holidaymakers urged to book now as demand for Spain and Portugal soars

New figures show a 32 per cent increase in reservations for Portugal, while Spain has seen a 27 per cent rise Holiday bookings to Portugal and Spain are soaring as British tourists shun destinations like Turkey and Tunisia.

New figures show a massive 32 per cent increase in reservations for Portugal, and Spain has seen a 27 per cent rise, with destinations like Cyprus and Malta also doing well. The statistics have prompted travel group ABTA to issue a warning to holiday makers to book early this year or risk missing out.

Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive said: “The significant increase in summer holiday bookings to western Mediterranean destinations is also being mirrored in other Northern European markets. “So it makes it more important than ever that customers book early to obtain the best value and ensure they get the holiday of their choice.”

Bob Atkinson, a travel expert for price comparison site TravelSupermarket, said Spain was their “most

PRESIDENTIAL COINCIDENCES

By Tony Matthews

With the 2016 American Presidential election campaign hotting-up – the serious voting takes place in early November –here are ten amazing coincidences relating to two former Presidents, Abraham Lincoln and J.F. Kennedy.

1. Both Presidents were elected to the House of Representatives in ‘46: Lincoln gained office in 1846 and Kennedy in 1946.

2. The number 7: The surnames of Lincoln and Kennedy each contain seven letters.

3. Both Presidents were elected to the Presidency in ‘60 and inaugurated in ‘61: Lincoln won the 1860 election and was inaugurated on 4 March, 1861.

Kennedy won in 1960 and was inaugurated on 20 January, 1961.

4. Both defeated an incumbent vice-President for the Presidency: Lincoln defeated John C. Breckenridge and Kennedy beatRichard Nixon.

5. Southern Democrats with same name: Both Lincoln’s and Kennedy’s vice-Presidents and subsequent successors were both Southern Democrats with the same name of Johnson…

Andrew and Lyndon B. respectively.

6. The Johnsons were born in ‘08: Andrew Johnson was born on 29 December, 1808 and Lyndon B. on 27 August 27, 1908 7. Lincoln and Kennedy were shot in the back of the head.

Sadly both Presidents were fatally killed in the presence of their wives.

8. Both Presidents were killed on same day of the week.

Both assassinations took place on a Friday.

9. The Ford connection: Lincoln was shot inside Ford’s Theatre, Washington D.C. and Kennedy was murdered in Dallas, Texas while sitting in a Lincoln motor car, made by Ford!

10. The men responsible for the two murders never faced trials.

John Wilkes Booth (Lincoln) and Lee Harvey Oswald (Kennedy) were killed before going for trial by jury.

Other odd facts: • Lincoln’s secretary was named Kennedy who advised him not to go to the theatre.

• Kennedy’s secretary, named Lincoln, told JFK not to travel to Dallas where he was killed.

• Lincoln and Kennedy were both left-handed.

searched for destination” at the moment. The increase in bookings to Portugal and Spain is being driven partly by a drop in business to traditionally popular destinations like Tunisia and Egypt, following terrorist incidents and changes to Foreign Office travel advice.

Turkey in particular has seen reservations drop by 50 per cent following a bomb blast in Istanbul in January this year, which saw ten people killed in a busy tourist area.

Travel firm Mark Warner has now cancelled its entire Turkish programme for 2016, saying: “We have enjoyed a long and happy history of offering holidays to Turkey and hope to return in the future.”

And this week London tour operator Elixir Holidays, which specialises in Turkey, announced it was going under.

Airlines keen to cater to nervous holidaymakers seeking out supposedly safer destinations are now diverting flights to high-demand areas. Thomas Cook this week revealed it has switched 400,000 seats from Turkey to Spain and tour operator Thompson has also sharply increased capacity to Spain to cope with the demand. Monarch airlines said the eight flights a week they previously had going to Sharm-el-Sheikh, in Egypt, had all now been diverted to Spain following the ban of all UK airlines

to the site which saw 38 people gunned down on a beach last year.

And this influx of tourists to western E u r o p e a n destinations has seen prices go up too. With demand so strong and a limited number of hotels on offer, room rates are rising.

Spanish hotel chain Meliá is charging 20 per cent more for an all-inclusive week at its Benidorm property than for its package at its Sharm-el-Sheikh hotel. A spokesperson for ABTA told the Telegraph: “The travel industry works on supply and demand so if the demand is high, prices tend to rise.

“Conversely, there has been a drop off with places like Turkey and Egypt. Those places which have seen a drop off in business will of course lower their prices to attract customers.”

A Thomas Cook spokesperson the reason selling prices were higher than average in their most recent financial results was partly due to a “shift in customer demand for more expensive destinations such as Spain and the western Mediterranean due to the closure of popular, value destinations such as Tunisia”.

Meanwhile, newly published figures from the Office of National Statistics show UK residents are taking more holidays than ever.

The Travel and Tourism report showed Britons made 13.4million visits abroad in the three months to December 2015 compared with the same period a year earlier. This increase of 10 per cent was described as “massive” by an ABTA spokesperson. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

Spain holds six officials of ICBC for 'money laundering'

Six officials of Chinese megabank ICBC havebeen placed in detention by Spanish authorities on suspicion of laundering tens of millions of euros, judicial sources said on Saturday.

They were detained overnight and while three of them can be freed if they post bail of €100,000 ($111,000) each, the others will remain in custody for the time being, the Madrid appeals court said.

The suspects were arrested on Wednesday at the bank's central

Madrid branch as part of a probe into the suspected laundering of at least €40 million.

They were questioned from Friday afternoon through to early Saturday.

The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is accused of allowing traders to move money earned through smuggling and tax fraud out of the country, to China, "in a way that appeared legal", Spanish police said in a statement.

Spanish prosecutors said the employees were being sought

for "economic crimes" but did not elaborate.

The raid was a follow-up to an operation last year that targeted Madrid-based Chinese syndicates suspected of importing huge amounts of goods from China without declaring them, to avoid duties and taxes.

The groups allegedly deposited the proceeds in ICBC accounts, with the lender accused of sending the funds to China without checking their origin as required by law.

ICBC is the world's largest bank by market capitalisation.

It entered the Spanish market in January 2011 with the inauguration of its branch in Madrid.

A year later it opened a second branch in Barcelona.

The Chinese lender's foreign operations accounted for about 10 percent of its total assets at the end of last year. www.thelocal.es

www.soltimes.com

BARCELONA: Tourist rental licence moratorium encouraging speculation The combination of more than A recent article in the Spanish

daily El Mundo reported that tourist rental licences in Barcelona deliver big yields, generating speculative pressure on prices.

“One of the factors that is increasing the value of properties in cities like Barcelona are licences for tourist accommodation,” explains the article published this February, reporting claims made by the investment and wealth management firm Laborde Marcet.

seven million tourists visiting Barcelona each year, and a moratorium on new short-term rental licences introduced by the municipal government in 2014, have created a “great demand for tourist apartments, especially in central neighbourhoods.” The ban on new licences required to rent legally to tourists has “pushed up the price of permits.” There are currently around 7,000 licences granted for the whole city.

SOLTIMES PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

THE BEST PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT ON THE COSTAS!!!!

“The availability of a tourist licence delivers yields of between 120% and 125%,” says Miquel Laborde, quoted in the article, which also argues that the moratorium has triggered

speculation driving up property prices. However, it is not clear what kind of yield the article is referring to. www.spanishpropertyinsight.com/

Spanish Home Sales Climbed 8.6% in 2015, Say Notaries According to figures published this week by Spain’s General Council of Notaries, a total of 401,236 property transactions were carried out in 2015, representing an increase of 8.6% over the figures for 2014. The increase in transactions is made up of sales of apartments (+7.8%), single family dwellings (+11.9%) and other real estate transactions (+4.6%).

There was also an increase in the average price of the homes sold in Spain last year, which stood at 1,277 euros/m2, equivalent to an increase of 1.9% over the previous year.

The Notaries explained that this price increase is due to both the increase in the price per square metre of apartment type housing (+2.6% year-on-year) and also the single family homes (+1.0% year-on-year). With regard to apartments, the price per square metre of second hand apartments stood at 1,381 euros (+2.4% yearon-year), while the price of new apartments stood at 1,741 euros/ m2 (+7.1% year-on-year). The

latest figures from the Notaries also show that, during 2015, increases were registered in both the number of new mortgage loans and in the average amount of these loans. Specifically, the number of new mortgage loans increased by 11.6% year-on-year, while the average value of these loans amounted to 154,906 euros, representing growth of 12.2% over the previous year.

The number of new mortgage loans destined for the purchase of a home increased by 23.2% yearon-year, while the average amount of these loans stood at 126,796 euros, representing an increase of 7.8% over a year earlier. Moreover, the percentage of home purchases which were financed through a mortgage loan last year increased to 42.4%, and in those cases the average loan amounted to 76.6% of the property value. kyero.com

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BARGAIN FOR BOTH HOUSES ONLY 89,500€ Tel: 697 495 315 or email margwormington@yahoo.co.uk

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February 2016

How to Find Cheap Spanish Properties in 2016 Getting a Bargain in Malaga Malaga may lack the kudos of Marbella or even Torremolinos, but it’s a jewel of a city all the same, with a walkable centre, attractive parks, culture galore, a regenerated harbour and trendy shopping area called Muelle Uno. Most of all, Malaga is a busy commercial centre for Andalusia with nearly 600,000 residents. Few airports in the world have as many UK flights, all year.

Show me a bargain

A chic apartment in a swish part of Malaga doesn’t come cheap. Two-bedroom apartments are between €150,000 and €400,000 while villas on the outskirts start at €350,000. You could find an apartment from €30,000 in an up-and-coming/ bohemian district but like any city, Malaga has its areas to be wary of.

If you can bear turning your back on the Med, inland Malaga has a number of attractive villages such as Alora, Comares and Colmenar, with even substantial village houses well under €50,000 or cottages on the fringes of the village for €125,000.

Top tip

Look at any Spanish property website starting off with our Spanish guide here - and you’ll see city apartments for €15,000. Sure, most will be in unattractive areas, but not all will and for those with the time and energy, make friends with local agents and you might just turn up a diamond in the rough.

Getting a Bargain in Costa del Sol

Most come to the Costa del Sol for the bling, not the bargains, and prices here were the first to start rising in 2014. It has everything – winter sun, the world’s best beaches and tourist infrastructure, plus that slightly wild Andalusian culture on the doorstep.

Resort towns like Nerja, Torremolinos, Fuengirola, Marbella, Puerto Banus and Estepona are an international melting pot so you’ll be sharing the golf course and fish restaurants with Russians and Chinese as well as the northern Europeans (and the Spanish of course, they love it here too).

Show me a bargain

How does €80,000 for a two-bedroom resort property in Estepona grab you? Or €120,000 for a three-bed townhouse in Alto de los Monteros near Marbella? All were available within a few minutes of looking, so don’t assume you can’t

afford this costa.

Two of the most affiordable areas are Manilva, close to Malaga, where you’ll find nice villas from €220,000 and Nerja in the east, where you can find townhouses for just under €200,000 and smaller villas for just over.

Top tip Just as a car that costs £500 will get you there as fast one for £50,000, so there are plenty of cheap options where the sun shines just as brightly. Consider fractional ownership or park homes from just €15,000.

Getting a Bargain in the Canary Islands The choice of winter sun destinations gets shorter with each bit of unrest in North Africa and people are looking again at the seven islands of the Canaries. They have good transport links to the UK, year-round warmth, reasonable prices, rental potential and a strong expat community.

Each island is different so you can match the island to your interests, personality and budget.

Even party-loving, cheap-and-cheerful, Britfriendly Tenerife has its surprises, including banana plantations, hiking and climbing, while dozy little La Gomera looks like a chunk of South America towed north.

Show me a bargain Lanzarote has fewer properties and tends to be more expensive, so we’ll ignore that one for now. On Tenerife you’ll find plenty of one-beds and studios for €50,000. On Fuerteventura, the average two-bed apartment goes for €120,000 while in Gran Canaria you can get a good sized villa with sea views for that price.

Top tip Spanish estate agents charge more than in Britain – five per cent is not uncommon – which is why you see so many properties advertised privately on local newspapers, and indeed on this website. With a good lawyer and notary on your side, it could be a big saving to go it alone.

That said, the advantages of an experienced agent can outweigh the worry and difficulty of trying to do it yourself from distance. aplaceinthesun

Home Rental Prices Fell by 0.4% Y-o-Y in January The average price of rental housing in Spain fell by

0.4% in January, compared to the same month of 2015, according to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data published by the National Statistics Institute.

El Mundo reported that, with the January data, the price of rental housing has now accumulated 34 consecutive months of declines, and now stands one tenth below the general CPI (-0.3%). In addition, rental housing registered the same price decline in October, November and December 2015.

Rents fell in all regions except for Galicia (+0.3%), the Balearic Islands (+0.1%), Catalonia (+0.1%), and the autonomous city of Melilla (+0.5%), while they remained stable in Murcia and Navarra (0.0%).

The most significant declines in home rental prices were recorded in: La Rioja (-2%); Castilla y León (-0.9%); Castilla-La Mancha (-0.9%); Madrid (-0.8%); Extremadura (-0.8%); Asturias (-0.7%) and Valencia (-0.7%).

The regions of Andalucía and Aragón registered the same rate of decline as the national average (-0.4%), while in Cantabria the decline was -0.3% and the Canary Islands, the Basque Country and Ceuta all recorded declines in rental prices of -0.2%. kyero.com

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Financial market turmoil driving private investors towards property Low interest rates and financial market turmoil is driving private investors towards property, explains Rosa Salvador in the Spanish daily La Vanguardia, reporting a new study by the Tecnocasa franchise chain of estate agents, published in collaboration with Catalonia’s Pompeu Fabra University (UPF).

Where do small investors turn when interest rates on savings are almost zero, and global turmoil makes financial markets look like a minefield? The perennial favourite asset class for private investors the world over – property.

Small investors like pensioners are now responsible for one in four Spanish property purchases says the report by the UPF using Tecnocasa data based on 7,443 home sales handled by the company last year. 25% of their sales involved an investor, and 27% of those investors were over the age of 55.

This is a relatively new trend for Spain, explains Salvador, in a recent La Vanguardia article. Professional investors like funds and family offices have always included property in their portfolios, but small investors used to stick to savings accounts and pension plans based on Government bonds. “They are elderly people, who have their life’s savings in the bank, typically around €120,000, earning practically zero interest,” says Lázaro Cubero, head of research at Tecnocasa, quoted in the article.

Small-time investors are well placed to understand their local property market, and can see that house prices are down by more than 55% in many areas. “They are after small flats with 2 bedrooms, generally speaking in a building without a lift as they are the cheapest; properties that don’t need much work and can be rented out quickly,” explains Salvador.

“They are looking for cheap flats, which don’t appeal to people looking to buy primary homes who want to invest in better quality,” says Paolo Boarini, head of the Tecnocasa Group. In a city like Barcelona there is a wide choice of cheap flats for investment costing €120,000 or less in working-class districts like Hospitalet de Llobregat, whilst in provincial cities like Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon, similar flats cost between €70,000 and €80,000, says Boarini.

Private investors with the most limited budgets go for parking spaces, which in some areas cost as little as €15,000. “These are investments that require a lot of management, as rental client churn is high, but they tend to be people with time on their hands who can deal directly with their clients, and even collect the rent,” explains Cubero.

Salvador writes that private investors may even have an advantage over institutional operations when it comes to risk assessment in Catalonia, where legal uncertainty makes it difficult to evict nonpayers. “Many large investors have halted their investment in residential assets for this reason,” says José García-Montalvo, leading the research team at the UPF. Private investors operate locally, and are in a better position to choose their tenants based on personal knowledge, he says.

HIGH DEMAND Smalltime investors are responding to growing demand for rental housing in Spain, say Tecnocasa. 34% of clients are

Licences for Home Reforms Continue to Grow

According to data collated by the Spanish Government’s Ministry of Public Works, in the period from January to November 2015, the number of building permits authorised for the reform or restoration of homes in Spain amounted to a total of 23,534 permits, which represents an increase of a little more than 13.2% compared to the figures registered during the same period of the previous year, when there were a total of 20,814 licences granted.

El Mundo reported that these figures, which confirm the growth trend during the first 11 months of 2015, comes after four years

of declines registered up until 2014, when the number of building permits authorised marked a record low in the Ministry’s comparable statistics.

The Ministry’s data also shows that the number of building permits for home extensions have continued on their downward trend, registering a decline of 7% in 2015, with 1,310 permits granted, compared to 2014, when the number of permits issued for this type of work reached a total of 1,412. kyero.com

looking for a home to rent, rising to 48% in Barcelona’s L’Hospitalet de Llobregat district, and 44% in Valencia City. Gross rental yields are 6% in Barcelona and 7.7% in Madrid (on average), with higher yields for 2-bed flats, claim Tecnocasa.

However, there is a problem. “It’s not a very transparent market,” concedes Cubero.

CHEAPER TO BUY THAN RENT With property prices down 55% or more from the 2007 peak, and Euribor interest rates nudging into negative territory, reducing average mortgage repayments by almost two thirds (from €976 per month in 2007 to €358 per

month now, according to Tecnocasa data), it’s cheaper to buy than rent if you can get a mortgage. The problem is that “banks have practically stopped giving mortgages to people with temporary work contracts,” says Boarini. That shuts most young adults out of the market; just 2.6% of buyers have temporary work contracts, and just 3% of buyers are under the age of 25, all according to Tecnocasa. They have no option but to rent if they want to fly the nest, driving up demand and rental prices by 6% in Barcelona ,and 4.6% in Madrid last year. http://www.spanishpropertyinsight. com/

Finstar Financial Group snaps up 51 % stake in Viventor.

Peer-to-peer investing platform Viventor has announced a strategic partnership with Finstar Financial Group, an international private equity investment holding. According to the platform, the agreement strengthens its competitive position within the European market - Finstar has a strong track record in the financial technology and consumer finance space in Europe.

Viventor is Prestamos Prima’s newest product. Prestamos Prima – a Barcelona-based platform - has been operating in the European nonbank lending and alternative finance market since 2012. The company has gradually developed its portfolio, both in terms of loan volume and product diversity and is aiming at international expansion in 2016, having already established a leading position in the Spanish market.

Andris Rozenbahs, COO of Viventor, commented: “Offering short-term consumer loans on Viventor is a big step forward for us as a company. A considerable number of our investors have expressed their desire to diversify their portfolios across different loan types, seeking higher returns. [...] We believe offering short-term loans is a great way of satisfying the demand of our investors.”

Viventor’s loans are secured by a 60day Buyback Guarantee and are 100% pre-funded. Investors choose from a range of low-risk loans secured by real estate mortgages – historically yielding

modest returns – or a variety of newly added short-term consumer loans, with no underlying assets, which have comparatively higher levels of risk and therefore generate higher returns, up to 15% per annum.

Founded in 1996, Finstar Financial Group claims to have significant experience in launching startup projects and in restructuring and expanding of companies in selected industries. The Group has assets of more than $2 billion under management.

Nicholas Jordan, CEO of Finstar Financial Group, added: “We are excited about our partnership with a peer-to-peer lending platform such as Prestamos Prima’s Viventor.

Finstar is always looking for innovative products in the fintech space and Prestamos Prima is a leader in the European market. We are delighted to work with the talented management team to strengthen Viventor, assist with rapid expansion of other projects and the further diversification of its portfolio.”

Compared to its peers such as Italy, Spain boasts one of the largest Alternative finance markets in continental Europe. But it’s also very much at the start of its journey and it’s not comparable with North European countries, especially the UK. According to AltFi Data, Spain contributes for the 0.35% to the European peer-to-peer lending total lending volume, including the UK, whereas 2.28% excluding the UK. http://www.altfi.com/

Spanish Platform Forges Strategic Partnership With Finstar Financial Group

SOL Y MAR

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sM040

LIMARIA

Elevated Views

New Listing 175,000€

Impressive detached villa with elevated views across the valley.

Beautiful walled mature garden with BBQ area.

Finished to a very high standard with many extras including pellet central heating, built in damp proofing, swimming pool, screened gazebo eating area and a generous plot size of 936m2.

Walking distance to local bar and restaurant and only 15 mins drive to Albox.

Must be viewed to appreciate.

SM042

SM044

ARBOLEAS

February 2016

Tel: 950 064 584 609 199 394 Beautiful setting

NEW LISTING 139,000€

Beautiful Country Home set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

This property is in a semi rural location set against a beautiful mountain back drop yet only 10 minutes from the town of Arboleas. It features a stunning garden setting with fantastic views , decking area with Jacuzzi, bbq area, plot size of 600m2 and also land to the front of the property, an additional 400m2 with a garage.

The house is in immaculate order, ready to move into.

SM034

COUNTRY HOME

COUNTRY CORTIJO - FANTASTIC PRICE

ALMANZORA

100,000€

Spacious 3 bed 4 bathroom detached traditional cortijo with much charm and character and many original features. Most attractive and desirable location as short drive to the nearest village and just off main access road.

This large property offers scope for minor renovation hence the fantastic price.

This home comes with many extras including 4 outbuildings, garage and a new fitted kitchen. Set in a small hamlet of country houses in a setting yet so close to amenities.

A short drive to the traditional village of Almanzora with all amenities you would require including bars, cafes, medical centre and banks.

Only 10 mins drive to the nearest main market town of Albox.

CLOSE TO ALBOX

149,950€

Main property is a detached villa with 2 large bedrooms. Large master bedroom with ensuite with bath and separate shower. The second bedroom is large and has sufficient space for two double beds if desired. Partial air con. Large fitted kitchen / diner, lounge has inset log burner with a traditional brick fireplace surround.

Adjacent to the main entrance is a large patio area with plenty of room for alfresco living and dining from here there are views over the extensive garden and the above ground pool. Next to the pool is a separate annexe that could have various uses including store, studio or guest accommodation. Further down the garden there is a 4 berth caravan in good order, perfect for overspill of summer guests.

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Avenida 28 de Febrero Nº 44, Albox Email: info@solymarspain.com │ www.solymarspain.com sM041

PARTALOA

new listing

169,950€

Large detached 4 bed villa with extensive grounds and log cabin, in a quiet location.

Ample parking. Large walled patio with fixed BBQ, great views of distant mountain range. Large enclosed porch forms summer living room and dining. Large lounge with pellet burner, doors to the covered porch. Fully furnished kitchen. 4 double bedrooms two with fitted wardrobes. A/C & CH radiators in most rooms. Good quality log cabin with lounge/kitchen, bathroom, double bedroom and loft space could provide sleeping for another two. Outside is a porch overlooking the pool and country views. The pool is set in its own private walled patio with country views. Fully walled garden has many aspects affording a variety of views and peaceful spots where you can enjoy life in Spain.

sM043

CELA

Two houses in one

260,000€

Very large and attractive 256m2 house on the edge of Cela.

Presently set out as two separate properties on individual floors with shared garden and large pool. Each floor have 4 bedrooms, large lounge with wood burner, kitchen, 2 bathrooms, individual patio etc. Large well managed garden has separate alfresco bbq and dining area with fantastic views, store room, raised planting areas and a large unusual and very attractive pool. Completely enclosed and walled property.

Ample parking space. Ideal for extended family, B&B or rental possibilities.

Short easy walk to the natural spring water pool of Cela and bars / restaurants.

RENTAL SECTION rsm019

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY

ARBOLEAS NEW LISTINGs FROM 300€ PCM RENTAL 1 to 3 bed terraced houses in immaculate order with balconies / terraces just off the main road heading towards Arboleas, short drive to the town and walking distance to local bars, cafes and supermarkets.

The houses are set back from the main road with a mature garden setting, tranquil location yet so close to amenities.

Available furnished, ideal for long term let.

rsM015

LAS POCIcAS

STUNNING COUNTRY HOME

550€ PCM RENTAL

Well presented and newly refurbished semi detached country home with 3 bedrooms and one bathroom. This house is in a beautiful semi rural setting in a small hamlet of homes with views of the mountain backdrop. Features 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1000m2 of fully fenced land, large roof terrace with stunning views and swimming pool. This home is available immediately for long term let, furnished to a very high standard in immaculate order. Combines country living with access to amenities. Located 5 minute drive to Las Pocicas with a medical centre, shop & swimming pool. Only 15 minutes drive to the busy market town of Albox.

WE URGENTLY REQUIRE LEGAL PROPERTIES FROM COAST TO COUNTRY WE ARE LOOKING FOR ALL TYPES OF PROPERTIES FOR RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES. CLIENTS WAITING CALL US 950 064 584

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February 2016

Property taxes for non-residents The followinginformation explains the taxes that

non-residents are obliged to pay to the Spanish tax authorities as a consequence of owning property in Spain.

Income tax for non-residents who do not rent out their property (standard declaration) Spanish name: Impuesto de la renta de no residentes, declaración ordinaria (IRNR) Description: You pay this version of income tax in Spain if the following conditions apply: 1) You do not reside in Spain, 2) You own property in Spain, 3) The property is exclusively for personal use and you do not rent it out, 4) You have no other source of taxable income in Spain. Although you do not earn an income from the property, in the eyes of the Spanish tax authorities you still derive a benefit from owning a property in Spain and therefore have to pay an imputed income tax.

Tax base and rate Tax base: 2% of the cadastral value of the property (found on the IBI receipt), or 1.1% if the cadastral value has been revised since 1st January 1994. Tax rate: 24% (temporarily increased to 24.75% for 2012 &2013). It used to be 25% in 2006 and before.

Form: Use general section 210-A and indicating income type 02.

Dates: Presented before the 30th June each year.

For example you have from 1st January to 30th June 2006 to declare tax on income during 2005.

Example: Cadastral value of property = 200,000 Base = 2,200 Euros Tax = 24% x 2,200 Euros = 528 Euros (or 24.75% x €2,200 = €544.50 in 2012 & 2013) Wealth tax for non-residents (Patrimonio) Spanish name: Impuesto sobre el Patrimonio (Patrimonio) This tax was eliminated as from 01/01/2008, then reintroduced in September 2011 for the years 20011 & 2012, then extended to 2013, with several important changes and other issues that are explained in depth in the section on the Spanish Patrimonio wealth tax Description: Everyone who owns property in Spain (residents and nonresidents alike) has to pay an annual wealth tax based on the net value of their assets in Spain after permitted deductions, such as mortgages. This tax is collected by regional governments.

Tax base and rate The tax is based on the net value of you property (less mortgage, if any) or another value deemed appropriate by the tax authorities, with a tax-free allowance of €700,000. The tax rate works on a sliding scale with marginal rates starting at 0.2% and rising to 2.5%.

Form: 714 Dates: Presented in June for previous calendar year.

Example: Depends upon the autonomous region where your property is located. No wealth-tax to pay in most regions if the net value of your property does not exceed €700,000 Income tax for non-residents who do not rent out their properties, combined with the wealth tax Spanish name: Impuesto de la renta de no residentes, y Patrimonio (IRNR y Patrimonio) Note: See changes to the ‘patrimonio’ wealth tax above. Until the wealth tax situation is clarified it is hard to say if this form will be brought back.

But it is likely that, for most non-residents, the form 210 (see above ‘Declaración ordinaria Impuesto sobre la Renta de no Residentes’) will suffice for 2011 and 2012.

Description: Under certain conditions nonresidents can pay the two taxes mentioned above (IRNR and Patrimonio) in the same declaration

and using the same form. Therefore this is not an extra tax, just a more convenient way of paying the two taxes previously mentioned. To present these taxes together in the same form you have to meet the following conditions: 1) You do not reside in Spain 2) you only own one property in Spain, and 3) this property is exclusively for personal use and is not rented out.

Tax base and rate: The value of the tax is the sum of the two taxes as explained above.

Form: 214 Dates: Presented any time during the following calendar year, deadline 31 December. So you present in 2013 for taxes in 2012.

Example: N/A Income tax for non-residents who rent out their property Spanish name: Impuesto de la renta de no residentes, declaración ordinaria (IRNR) Description: If you 1) do not reside in Spain 2) own property in Spain and 3) rent out your property, you have to pay income tax on the rent instead of the imputed tax described above. (If you rent out your property to a Spanish company the company will deduct tax at source and pay it to the tax authorities. Under these circumstances a nonresident is not obliged to present the forms 210 or 215.) (reference) Tax base and rate: The tax base is the net rent, deductions of expenses allowed (since 01/01/2010), and the Tax rate: 24% (temporarily increased to 24.75% for 2012 &2013). It used to be 25% in 2006 and before.

Form: 210 (use general section 210-A and indicating income type 01) or 215 Dates: 210 = Monthly, one month after rent is due 215 = Quarterly, in the first 20 days of the month following the end of the quarter.

Example: Annual net rental income of 20,000 Tax @24% = €4,800 (@24.75% in 2012/2013 = €4,950) Municipal property tax Spanish name: Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles (IBI) Description: This tax is the Spanish equivalent of the rates and is collected by local government.

Tax base and rate: The tax base is the cadastral value of the property and the rate varies from 0.405% to 1.166% depending upon the region. http://www.spanishpropertyinsight.com/

London property seen as a safe haven by China, Middle East buyers

Chinese and Middle East investors are currently the dominant buyers of London residential real estate, while Russian investors are renting, according to Knight Frank.

The safe haven appeal of prime central London property continues to underpin demand, despite economic volatility centered on China and other geopolitical concerns around the world, according to a Knight Frank 'Super-Prime London Insight' January report.

Investors in the Middle East are also looking to diversify their holdings and London is seen as an important market, said Andrew Hay, global head of residential at Knight Frank.

"They're looking to invest in a wide range of assets, a wide range of territories, and U.K. property market (both commercial and residential) is a very good sector for them, along with Germany, United States and other locations," Hay toldAsia Squawk Box. According to Knight Frank's January report, new super-prime developments in Kensington and Mayfair are some of the best residential schemes in London. Super-prime property refers to real estate valued above $14.32 million.

The two areas have seen some eye-popping transactions. The highest price so far for a property in Knightsbridge is $11,460 per square feet and $5,730 per square feet in Mayfair, an exclusive part of West London, reported Knight Frank.

Overall in London, new-build super-prime property segment has grown from a fifth of total super-prime property transactions in 2012 to onethird in 2015, the report showed.

Hay told CNBC that while Russian investors are still prominent in the London property market, “they’re not buying, they’re renting.”

“I think [the Russians] are biding their time, waiting to see how things pan out back home while they taking a cautious approach,” said Lord Hay, referring to the oil-related economic downturn faced in Russia, Western economic sanctions and the fall of the ruble.

Hay reckons that investors’ demand is concentrated in fewer property markets.

Read more on http://www.cnbc.com/

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y t r e p o pr r e d n fi ANOTHER WORLD PROPERTIES S.L.

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End Large Ground Floor Apartment Open Plan Living Room / Dining Room, Kitchen, Utility Room and Back Terrace, 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Facing the Communal Gardens, Front Terrace, Furnished and Modern, White Goods, Communal Pool, Off Road Parking, Can Take Over Existing Mortgage Close to Shops and Bus Routes Price €69,999 a Bargain!

Buy any of these properties and Receive ONE YEARS FREE property Ref: GKRS087 management and a WELCOME GIFT Formentera Del Segura for your new home in Spain Contact Ena Cummings for more info or to view call into our office Calle San Jaime Bajo 5 Benijofar.

Tel: 636 942 204 ● www.goldenkeysproperty.com

Choice Rentals Alicante Dream Homes, your Inland Property Specialists For your dream Spanish Villas, Country Fincas, Alicante country houses, Murcia Villas and Costa Blanca property Contact: -

Spain tel: (+34) 645 746 176 or UK tel: 020 3695 8977 Email: alicantedreamhomes@gmail.com Apartado 256, Pinoso, 03650 Spain

Almeria Property

Agency Sales & Lettings - Inmobiliaria Visit us to see what the Almeria property market has to offer Office: 850 993 099 Mobile: 628 872 334 Email: info@almeriapropertyagency.com

www.almeriapropertyagency.com

We are looking for all types of properties in Guadamar, El Raso & surrounding areas for long term & holiday lets call Heidi on 645 140 718

Email: info@choicerentals.es

Choice Rentals... helping you make the right Choice!

Are you looking for an agent you can trust to rent or sell your property?

Please contact us on info@opgroupspain.com or call: 966 729 653

OP

GroupSpain

J Galvez Renero S.L

Urgently require properties for sale in the Mazarron area.

Email jgalvezrenero@gmail.com or telephone 968 153 707 For A No Obligation Valuation & Competitive Rates

RENTALS? Short and long term lets available, in & around Camposol.

More properties also needed.

For more info, contact Tracey Tel: 0034 699 107 072 Email: camposolvillas4rent@yahoo.co.uk Web: camposolvillas4rent.co.uk Now Located in the Villa Quest Office

do you own a property related business?

Call us to advertise

950 121 936

24

February 2016

Packing tips

property services

and keep them away from the rest of your stuff.

Think ahead Unless you travel light, you won't be able to unpack everything Before you start in the first day, so it's worth deciding what you might need easy You don't need to leave everything to the day before the move. access to soon after you cross the threshold of your new home.

Consider what you don't need to take with you, what will Pack an 'essentials' box for the first night in your new home need careful packing, and that you are covered for potential and carry it with you. Instant access to coffee, tea, snacks, cups breakages. and a kettle may be welcome soon after you arrive. As will Make a priority packing list plates, utensils and a kitchen cloth.

Take some time to sift through your belongings and have a Prepare an overnight bag for everyone in the family, and make clear-out. You can make up a box for charity and if you've time, sure that there is enough toilet paper and toiletries for everyone. hold a car boot sale or log onto an online auction, then put the Other useful items that should be kept close to hand are a proceeds of your sold goods towards some re-decorating or a torch, a first-aid kit including pain relievers, pencil and paper, new carpet. and re-closable plastic bags, along with a small tool kit.

Calculate how many boxes If possible, finish any laundry well before you move to avoid you will need and get these packing damp clothes. Keep a separate box/bag for dirty well in advance. Find boxes in washing. a variety of sizes. Think about what else will be useful, such Make sure the boxes containing items you need the least are as strong tape, bubble wrap, loaded up first. and self-seal bags for keeping Sensible packing nuts and bolts together. Save Spend some time considering how you are going to pack your old newspapers for lining possessions. Books are easy but heavy, valuables need careful boxes. wrapping and will take time, and some furniture may need to Don't completely fill large be dismantled. boxes, as they will be too Start early. Packing always takes longer than anticipated, heavy to move. particularly when you start reminiscing over old photographs Use sturdy packing boxes, stored in the attic or you realise that you need to dismantle the particularly for heavier items, wardrobe to get it downstairs. or your belongings may Begin at the top of the house and move downwards. If you end up strewn all over the have an attic, it's a good idea to sort it out first. pavement. Boxes made from corrugated cardboard are Always pack heavy items in small boxes. It will make stronger than regular ones. transporting them easier. Also, keep the weight of all boxes to You can usually find these at a minimum to avoid any back injuries. supermarkets, off-licences or Pack one room at a time, clearly labelling each box with large retail stores, but make details of its contents and the room to which it belongs. Clearly label boxes that contain breakables and also those that are loadsure that they are clean.

Check that your contents bearing and can be stacked in the van. insurance will cover damage Keep all boxes for each room together. This will save time and breakages during the unpacking. move.

It may sound obvious but pack heavier items on the bottom of Put all hazardous materials, the box and lighter items on top. such as paint, bleach and Wrap items individually and place in a box that's been lined aerosols, into a separate box with several layers of newspaper and a sheet of bubble wrap.

Any breakables should also be wrapped in bubble wrap. Use clean tissue or wrapping paper for the first layer to prevent newspaper print leaving Prompt and reliable service, marks. Pillows and blankets no job too small. are also useful for wrapping valuables and protecting Full bathrooms or just makeovers furniture prone to dents and and handyman service. scratches.

24 hour call out Pack important documents together, such as birth and Boilers: 80 litre fully installed from 160â‚Ź marriage certificates, and Call David on 634 286 590 keep them in a safe place. http://www.bbc.co.uk/

DAVID THE PLUMBER

We will move it!!

Pets, boats, caravans, trailers Full and part loads. Full roof-rack for long loads 3 long wheel-based vans/twice per month Travelling to South/North UK Based in Mar Menor, Murcia

Spain-UK-Spain Tel: (0044) 7783 222 251 / (0034) 634 360 846

Email: wewillmoveit@hotmail.co.uk

COAST 2 COAST

REMOVALS Over 25 years experience Regular trips SPAIN-UK-SPAIN

Call NOW for a 617 500 876 competitive quote 0044 7722 77 9062 Pets also carried - Fully Insured

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Paul

The Plumber Call Paul for a FREE no

General Plumbing Obligation Quote on: 634 326 804 Bathrooms Kitchens Find us on Water Heaters Facebook /paul_theplumber Tiling

Email: paultheplumber@hotmail.co.uk

NICK THE TILER Call Nick for all your tiling & laminate floor requirements.

Tel.. 605 305 405 NEW BUSINESS? 2 WAYS TO ADVERTISE CALL 950 121 936 OR EMAIL YOUR ADVERT TO blancasales@soltimes.com

viewpoint The Great Alquerian Snow Storm Glow in the Dark Unusual weather conditions more occurred from the overindulgence in

John MacDonald (El Sordo) www.caratacus.eu

www.soltimes.com

are well known in Alqueria. A temperature inversion occurs seemingly at random. South-east Spain can broil in forty degree heat while Alqueria can be down to a dismal fifteen degrees centigrade. A strange green and worryingly sticky mist can spring from nowhere and almost suffocate the Pueblo. Unusual odours are no stranger to the Village while the poor drainage is legend.

This time however it is snow.

Alqueria is located in an area of the Iberian Peninsular that never sees snow. In fact if it even rains people stay away from work and eat Mijas. On this day however Snowflakes the size of Alquerian banknotes, and probably of greater value started falling and fell for four days and four nights.

Even with this fresh white covering Alqueria was still a dirty grey, nothing it seems could improve the cosmetics of the Village Republic. Normally if snow fell in the region people would travel miles to look, play and freeze in the stuff. The horror of visiting Alqueria however far outweighed the novelty value of snow, much to the disgust of the residents who were quite prepared to exploit this natural phenomenon.

Alqueria came to a complete stop, what is remarkable however is that people noticed, high powered inertia being the norm in the Village. Certainly car accidents occurred due to the weather but then many

Remitroot liquor. The animals of Alqueria tentatively tested the substance with hesitant paws before retiring to the safely of warm baskets. The snow also confused Loco Paco, but as his IQ was reckoned to be lower than that of the local animal population it was expected. Viewed from neighbouring villages Alqueria was totally obscured, this was seen as a definite plus. Estate agents were out in force extolling the wonders of the landscape to perspective buyers and many wished the veil of snowflakes could somehow be made permanent.

The Remitroot crop of Alqueria, which is the mainstay of the Village undergoes a remarkable transformation when its roots go below two degrees centigrade. The wine produced from its berries becomes more potent and produces an hallucinogenic effect. Many ‘witches’ were burned during the middle ages after drinking the Remitroot vintage following cold Winters. The value of this ‘Cryo Vintage’ as it has become known is tenfold to that of a normal year. Many cases of the wine are smuggled to the hippy communities of Órgiva and the sourrounding areas resulting in wild Remitroot induced ‘happenings’.

This particular vintage is also delivered to the British House of Commons where it is much savoured by MPs, this of course explains a great deal.

We are bombarded from all sides with advice on how to remain healthy – just about anything you care to mention is in turn bad for you, and then a bit later on, it’s good for you!

Take butter, for instance; it used to be good for you, then suddenly simply looking at a piece of butter would turn your arteries into sludge canals. Now I understand the latest thinking is that butter is much better for you than low-fat spreads, so bring back the butter!

On the whole I’m not overly bothered. I accept that there are some things that are more likely than others to bring about my premature demise, such as stepping in front of a bus. Yet the experts are very fond of telling us that if we do this, that or the other then we will live for 6 months longer than if we don’t do this, that or the other. How do they know? Have we each got a secret Use By date, known only by ‘them?’ Now that is a worrying thought!

However, there is now another threat to my longevity – rays, which can increase my risk of getting cancer.

Since being diagnosed with cancer in November I have become aware of the number and variety of rays available on the market – I had no idea there were so many different sorts of rays!

I have had the usual common or garden X-rays almost as many times as I’ve had square meals. I’ve had mammograms – is each mammogram one ray, or does each breast count as a separate dose of rays?

I’ve had ultrasound scans, which

25

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk not only count as rays, but involve copious amounts of squidgy gel, necessary so that the rays can penetrate right through me, and probably out the other side.

I’ve had rays to take pictures, complete with sound and action, of my lungs and heart. These proved that I have the right number of each, and that they are all doing the job for which they are designed.

I’ve emerged nearly deafened from an MRI scan, and I’ve had a TAC scan – I’ve no idea what that was for, but the machine looked very bespoke, and very expensive.

But my piece de resistance is a couple of gamma-ray scans, which come complete with serious looking warnings about radioactive contamination. Probably I now glow in the dark!

I’m really worried about all these rays – I hope they don’t give me cancer!

puzzle pages

26

February 2016

jimmy carr

wwe live

new order

Formed in 1980 the Manchester band have regrouped & are touring the UK

Funny Business Tour, TVs Funnyman is on the road in another side splitting tour.

Watch your favorite stars in action in the UK. John Cena, Big Show & Sheamus

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THESE plus MANY OTHER EVENTS AT WWW.SOLTIMES.COM

sol picture quiz!

3

3. In what same degree subject did they both commence studies?.............................

4. Where did William propose to Kate?.........

5. Where in the UK is William currently stationed?...................................................

6. What RAF rank does William currently hold?...........................................................

7. Kate, if and when she becomes Queen will be Queen Catherine the what?...............

8. What Premier League Football Club does William support?.........................................

Rugby Union between Wales and which other test side?...........................................

Answers

CRYPTIC crossword

6. Flght Lieutenant 7. Sixth 8. Aston Villa 9. Westminster Abbey 10. South Africa

CROSSWORD

1. Kate by 6 months 2. St Andrews 3. History of Art 4. Mount Kenya, Kenya 5. Angelsey, RAF Valley

SOLUTIONS

wordsearch answer

HITTER KILL KNEE PADS LIBERO MATCH OFFENCE PASS PLAYERS POINTS QUICK HIT RALLY REFEREE ROTATION SAVE SCORE SERVE SETS

SETTER SHANK SHOT SIDELINES SIDE OUT SKY BALL SLIDE SPIKING SPORT SUBSTITUTION TANDEM TEAMS TOPSPIN TRAJECTORY VERTICAL JUMP WEAK SIDE WIPE

standard SUDOKU

10. The Prince William Cup is contested in

easy SUDOKU

place in London?..........................................

APPROACH ASSIST ATTACK BLOCKING BUMP CAPTAIN COACH COURT DEFENCE DOUBLE HIT DUMP FAULT FLOATER FOOTWORK FORMATIONS FOUL GAME

VOLLEYBALL WAS ORIGINALLY CALLED MINTONETTE

9. Where did the wedding ceremony take

Answers

squiggle SUDOKU

both attend?................................................

soltimes sport Quiz

6. Greg Norman 7. The Yips 8. Mark Spitz 9. The right 10. Greg Lemond

Volleyball

Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining 39 letters spell a secret message.

1. Which team reached the Super Bowl in four consecutive years (1991-94 ) and lost them all?...........................................

2. In which sport did Irina Rodnina win 23 World, Olympic and European gold medals?......

3. The 20th of 22 children, unable to walk until 11, she won three sprint golds in the Rome Olympics. Who?..............

4. Which Scottish golfer topped the European order of merit in 1993, 1994 and 1995?...............

5. Kapil Dev held the world record for Test match wickets: with 404, 414, 424, 434 or 444?

6. Who lost an apparently unassailable lead to Nick Faldo in the last round of the 1996 US Masters? ................................

7. In golf, what is the informal name given to nervous tension that destroys concentration and spoils performance especially when putting?..........

8. Which swimmer won 7 gold medals at the 1972 Olympic games?....................................

9. A southpaw boxer leads with which hand and off which foot?

10. Who became the 1st nonEuropean to win the Tour de France cycle race?.....................

1. The Buffalo Bills 2. Ice Skating 3. Wilma Rudolph 4. Colin Montgomerie 5. 434

2. Which University did William and Kate

1

wordsearch

1. Who is elder, William or Kate?..................

4

2

Answers

soltimes Quiz

IDENTIFY THEse FAMOUS actors

1. Brandon Lee 2. Jimmy Smits 3. Jack Lemon 4. Jeff Bridges

on this day 25th February

1797 – Colonel William Tate and his force of 1000–1500 soldiers surrender after the Last invasion of Britain.

1919 – Oregon places a one cent per U.S. gallon tax on gasoline, becoming the first U.S. state to levy a gasoline tax.

1968 – Vietnam War: One hundred thirty-five unarmed citizens of Hà My village in South Vietnam’s Quảng Nam Province are killed and buried en masse

by South Korean troops in what would come to be known as the Hà My massacre.

1992 – Khojaly massacre: About 613 civilians are killed by Armenian armed forces during the conflict in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan.

www.soltimes.com

puzzle pages

27

UK Motorhomes Wanted

Contact Karl on 0044 7976 662395

email: carlskitt@live.com

across

STANDARD CROSSWORD

1 Dolphin (8) 5 Slaps (6) 9 Shot up abruptly (8) 10 Capital of Canada (6) 12 Scavenging (9) 13 Barf (5) 14 Shadow (archaic) (4) 16 Purposes (7) 19 Romantic (7) 21 Passport (4) 24 Coops (5) 25 Global (9) 27 Not senior (6) 28 Marrow squash plant (8) 29 Messy (6) 30 Insincere praise (8)

Down

1 Examine (6) 2 Amply (6) 3 Classical music theatre (5) 4 Appearing (7) 6 Incites (9) 7 Disputant (8) 8 Most intelligent (8) 11 Tangelo (4) 15 Intersection (9) 17 Wolverine (8) 18 Supposedly, a policeman’s favorite (8) 20 Seeded (4) 21 Realistic (7) 22 Manly (6) 23 Prove true or correct (6) 26 An old gold coin (5)

SUDOKU PUZZLES

easy

squiggle

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS

7 She’s following a famous sporting competition (5) 8 Selling vessel in meeting without European leader (9) 10 Has transformation when getting married outside and cleaned (6) 11 Gun-holders lets horse nearly run free (8) 12 Keep up primary train, lacking final car (8) 13 Starts to trade illegally - doubtless you’ll clean up! (4) 15 Business interest (7) 17 More annoyed with new earring (7) 20 This could produce strikes (4) 22 Something small from animal? Funny clue! (8) 25 Art of self-defence gives king small change on inside-half-full (4,2) 26 Flying cyclone? (9) 27 Turn red as British leader’s luxuriant (5)

Down 1 It’ll help you get to the next level! (9) 2 Making me chain Chinese leader to garage worker (8) 3 Airline object to cleaning (7) 4 Framework could come before key (8) 5 Shanghai’s first well-known gallery delays opening, it’s said (6) 6 Debut attempt after 10 doesn’t start (5) 9 Thought of an estimate? (4) 14 Food angle of sea creature (9) 16 Look into her cares, perhaps (8) 18 Put money in trust not very long ago (8) 19 Think of a drink in topless fruit (7) 21 If you are one of twelve people in court, you might be hurt (6) 23 In jail, I keep the same (4) 24 Less negative? (5)

famous birthdays on this day

standard

1964 – Lee Evans, English comedian and actor 1967 – Ed Balls, English politician, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer 1973 – Julio Iglesias, Jr., Spanish singer and actor 1984 – Craig MackailSmith, Scottish footballer 1986 – Jameela Jamil, English television presenter, radio presenter and model

soltimes famous quote

28

February 2016

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Crispy Courgette Chips

Straight, curly, skinny, chunky, wedges: how do you prefer your chips? Here are some of our favourite recipes you can cook at home from http://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/.

Paprika And Chilli Sweet Potato Chips Ser ve this sweet potato chips recipe with spiced crumbed fish, lime and coriander guacamole salad and chocolate and raspberr y cheesecake pots for a casual feast for friends, ready in under an hour.

Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/ Ingredients gas 6. Cut the potatoes into thick Ser ves 4 wedges and transfer to a large, shallow 4 (about 800g) large sweet roasting tin along with the red onion. potatoes Drizzle with the oil and sprinkle with the 2 red onions, cut into wedges chilli, paprika and salt. Toss together to coat, and spread out in a single layer so 2 tbsp olive oil they cook evenly.

Large pinch of chilli flakes Bake the sweet potato and onion for 1 tsp sweet paprika 30-35 minutes until golden and cooked ½ tsp sea salt through. Serve with the fish.

Ruby’s

URBANISATION EL RASO, CAMPO DE GUARDAMAR, JUST OFF THE CV895 LEMON TREE ROAD, 03140

TEL 622 434 912

Opening times 10am till Late Tuesday - Sunday

Menu Del Dia 12.30pm - 4pm Tuesday - Friday 4 Course 7.95€ Full Main Menu 6pm - 9pm Sunday Lunch Available 2pm - 7pm 3 Course 9.95€ / 2 Course 7.95€ Happy Hour 4pm - 6pm Wednesday is quiz night with Nick Marshall with our great 5€ meal deals for quiz players PLUS Karaoke with guest singers Last person standing, winner takes all

GREAT FUN NIGHT OUT

You may find the humble courget te going up in your estimation when you tr y this quick and easy snack that also makes a great side dish to grilled sea bass.

Ingredients - Ser ves 4 225g courget tes 1½ tbsp plain flour

Vegetable oil, for deep fr ying 2 tbsp finely grated Grana Padano cheese

Slice the courgettes into 3mm thick x 7cm long chips. Put the flour in a bowl and beat in 50ml water to make a smooth, thick batter the consistency of soured cream.

Half-fill a deep saucepan with oil. Place over a high heat until it reaches 180C (or until a cube of bread turns brown in 1 minute). Drop half the courgette chips into the batter and turn to coat. Using a fish slice, lift the courgette chips out of the batter and allow the excess to drip off.

Carefully drop the courgette pieces into the hot oil and cook for about 1-2 minutes, until golden.

Remove from the hot oil with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Toss with the cheese when still hot and add a good grinding of black pepper. Repeat with the remaining courgettes and serve immediately.

F O K TAL OWN T E H T

29

www.soltimes.com

F O K TAL N W O THE T

Open 7 Days a Week 12noon till 10pm

QUESADA FISH & CHIPS

Menu of the Day 12noon till 5pm

Cod or Haddock Chips, Peas, Bread and Butter

€7,00

Sunday Special Fish, Chips & Peas

€6,00

All Day

Takeaway Also Available Quesada Villamartin Plaza

966 719 136

966 764 441

harry’s bar 965 999 973 Open Daily from 9am until late Avd. Costa Azul (at the top) Quesda Buy any 2 main meals and get the cheapest half price. (valid until 13th March 2016.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or set menu)

Call 656 613 356 for Reservations OPENING HOURS: Tuesday-Sunday:12:30 to 10pm

Urbanisation El Raso, just off the Lemon Tree Road, Guardamar

LUNCHES, SNACKS AND EVENING MEALS AVAILABLE DAILY

FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST

Served 10 – 3pm only

3.50€ inc. Tea/Coffee

SUNDAY ROAST from 7.95€ QUIZ NIGHT

With Play Your Cards Right Every Monday from 9pm Special dietary requirements catered for.

Please advise when booking.

SPECIAL DEALS for group parties, clubs & societies

MOTHER’S DAY

Sunday 6th March Fabulous Sunday Lunch

Kitchen Open: Mon – Sat 10am – 3pm & 6pm – 9pm. Sun 10am – 7pm

FOLLOW HARRY’S BAR ON FACEBOOK FOR UPDATES COMPLIMENTARY WINE OFFER Dine with us Tuesday to Friday during February and enjoy a bottle of our superb Synera house wine on us, FREE!

*Offer Valid for the set menu or a minimum 2 courses pp from a la carte menu

Come and enjoy warm hospitality and great food.

Relax in our comfortable and smart surroundings.

Enjoy live music entertainment with us every Saturday 27th February: IT TAKES TWO ● 5th & 12th March: GREG FREEMAN ● 19th March: RANDALL CAIN Make Sundays special with our delicious Sunday Lunch menu 3 course menu, 13.50€, including wine Served from 1pm to 9pm. Our A La Carte menu is also available.

LUNCH AND LIVE MUSIC: Thursday 25th

Enjoy lunch & live music, choose from our Set Menu (15€ for 3 courses) & A La Carte menu plus our Complimentary Wine offer applies too.

Doors open 1pm, perfect for a pre-lunch drink on our rooftop terrace.

Table Reservations

965 077 444

info@laurelandhardys.com

Opening Hours Tuesday-Saturday from 6pm Sunday from 1pm-9pm Monday - Closed

Calle Los Arcos, 21 Ciudad Quesada w:laurelandhardeys.com f: Laurel & Hardy’s, Quesada Elevator available ● Gift Vouchers available

30

February 2016

Why the Spanish love tea, Marmite and Automated farming: good news for food Cathedral City cheddar all about fish and chips and pies. Now security, bad news for job security?

I’ve tried those pies and they are so

Spain is now the fifth-biggest export market for British food products. So what does one of Britain’s top Spanish chefs make of his compatriots’ penchant for British grub?

I’m very pleased that the Spanish are realising that British cuisine is amazing. When I arrived in London 16 years ago, I thought: “Wow! Every single food in the world is here.” I had been living in Madrid, where you had one very good Italian, and everything else was basically Spanish. It wasn’t very diverse – there was no great Indian or Chinese food. The Spanish were very regional: close to their own food and wine and not so open to anything else. I’m happy that Spain now loves Britain as much as Britain has always loved Spain. London is the best city in the world for eating out, and these are both my countries.

Working together is only going to bring more good things to the table.

I grew up in Extremadura in centralwestern Spain, near the Portuguese border. I knew nothing about British food, and my perception was of a cuisine that was not very good. It was

good! The perception may have been wrong, but it is the same as Brits going to Barcelona, eating out on Las Ramblas, and thinking: “Bloody hell, this Spanish food is disgusting.”

Seriously, that is not Spanish food.

The first thing I eat in the morning is a bowl of porridge. I absolutely love Marmite and cannot wait for British asparagus to arrive. It’s the best in the world. I use salt marsh lamb in my restaurants, and British milk and eggs – pretty much everything I source is from here, apart from ingredients such as jamón ibérico and manchego.

Spanish people love quality and strong flavours, so it doesn’t surprise me that they are going for cheddar and Marmite. People in the UK eat and cook better now, and that is having an effect on Spanish people when they come over. They try things and want them back home. So much of the best produce is British.

When I go to Spain to visit family and friends, I always take Marmite, shortbread and my earl grey and camomile tea. My mum loves it, bless her. My friends always ask me to bring them tea and Seville orange marmalade. So we produce the orange in Spain, make the marmalade in Britain, and then I take it back to Spain – how wonderful. Britain and Spain have always had a good cultural relationship, which means we all like a cup of tea. And who doesn’t want a nice piece of shortbread with that? The Guardian.com

Netherlands bans export of kosher and halal meat to ‘minimise’ negative effects on animal welfare

Martijn van Dam, Netherlands’

ensure meat from animals killed

junior minister for economic

“ritually” will be clearly labelled, only

affairs, hopes new measures

available in religious communities

minimising ‘ritual slaughter’ will

and will not be exported.

reduce animal suffering The

Dutch

government

According

to

the

website,

Mr

has

van Dam said he had spoken to

announced plans to ban the export

Jewish and Muslim organisations

of kosher and halal meat in an effort

and

to reduce the amount of animals

agreements to introduce the new

killed through “ritual” slaughter, to

rules.

minimise suffering.

The website Dutch News reports

slaughterhouses

to

make

From next year, any abbottoirs which

wish

to

perform

ritual

Martijn van Dam, junior minister for

slaughter will need to register with

economic affairs, told MPs in a letter:

the relevant authorities.

“I find the current implementation

Since

the

animals

cannot

be

unacceptable. Negative effects on

stunned, eye reflex tests will ensure

animal welfare must be minimised.”

animals are unconscious before they

He said the new rules, which will be in place from January 2017, will

are slaughtered, Dutch News said.Independent.co.uk

New technology is revolutionising modern farming, but this brave new world of robot farms and hi-tech sensors could have consequences for rural livelihoods Around the world, but especially in the developing world, food and farming systems continue to rely on 20th century technology. But this is changing. The same information technologies that brought us the internet and transformations in medicine are now revolutionising farming. It’s a new era for agriculture and it’s taking off in at least two distinct areas.

On the farm, technology is changing the way farmers manage farmland and farm animals – such as the use of satellite driven geopositioning systems and sensors that detect nutrients and water in soil. This technology is enabling tractors, harvesters and planters to make decisions about what to plant, when to fertilise, and how much to irrigate. As this technology progresses, equipment will ultimately be able to tailor decisions on a metre-by-metre basis.

Robots already do much of the harvesting of lettuce and tomatoes in our greenhouses. And it’s even becoming feasible to place fitness trackers on farm animals to monitor their health and welfare. The dairy industry has been at the vanguard of this where robotic milking and computer controlled feeding equipment allow for the careful management of individual animals within a herd.

A similar tech revolution is happening with the genetics of the plants we grow and the animals we raise. Genomic tools are on the cusp of allowing scientists to rapidly and inexpensively evaluate the genetic code of individual plants and animals. This makes it much easier to identify individual plants and animals that are particularly robust or productive.

This knowledge, in combination with traditional breeding, can accelerate how quickly we improve the genetic potential of our crops and livestock. Scientists at UK research institute the John Innes Centre, for example, are attempting to create a strain of barley that would make its own ammonium fertiliser from nitrogen in the soil, something which could save farmers the cost of artificial fertilisers.

Taken together, both farm and genome-scale technologies are boosting the efficiency of modern farming, which is increasingly

important to feed a growing population set to reach almost 10 billion by 2050. But this is just the beginning.

Many experts are looking forward to a future where the Internet of Things (where physical objects such as vehicles, buildings and devices are connected to collect and exchange data) is applied to food and farming to create an Internet of Living Things. In this future, advanced sensors embedded in fields, waterways, irrigation systems and tractors will combine with machine-learning systems, genome-identifying devices and data dashboards to give rise to a generation of smart farming technology that will have the capacity to sense and respond to its environment in a way that maximises production while minimising negative impact.

However, there are problems. In many of the poorer parts of the world, sophisticated agricultural technologies are much less important than education, healthcare, access to capital, sound governance and basic infrastructure. For the HIV positive farmer supporting her family on just one hectare in rural Malawi, satellite driven tractors and high productivity beef germplasm are about as useful as a moondust.

Furthermore, many of these technologies require very little human labour. For example, Japanese company Spread has recently announced that robots will carry out all but one of the tasks required to grow tens of thousands of lettuces each day in its indoor automated farm.

For countries in the industrial world, this growing automation probably means the continued decline of rural life. The issue of labour is even more important for the economies of the global south, where there are fewer urban job opportunities. In those countries, technologies that take labour out of the fields may undermine efforts to reduce poverty and enhance development.

Similar to the fear that Uber and Google cars will make taxi and lorry drivers obsolete, will the same thing happen to farmers? In the brave new world of satellite driven tractors and robotic milking parlours, where will rural communities and cultures fit? And for countries still dependent on agricultural labour, what will people do to survive? The answers to these questions are not simple but the outcome of them will help define global society over the next hundred years.- Guardian.com

www.soltimes.com

Tel: 950 121 936

50+ SOLOS

Is open to ladies and gentlemen over 50 years of age who are on their own and wish to get ‘back into the social scene.’

We meet normally twice a month at different restaurants for lunch and a chat at 1.00-1.30 hrs.. There are no subs or fees, just the cost of the meal. There may be a fun quiz or a raffle. For information and to book please contact Ruth on 966789063

Casa Tom Community Choir:

Casa Tom Community Choir meets every Monday at 2.00pm for 2.30pm.

It is a mixed choir and all levels are welcome. No auditions, no solos.

Make new friends and have a good time. Location: CASA TOM, Avenida JACA 31, San Luis, Torrevieja.

Phone or email Terry for further details. Phone: 647-189-135. Email: casatomsanluis@gmail.com.

COFFEE MATES

If you would like to have a coffee and a friendly chat, please join us at the La Laguna Hotel, Lo Marabu every Friday morning from 11am ANN - 966 717 390 - 666 747 398

Strictly Dance Ballroom and Latin

‘Strictly Dance’ You’ve seen the show now come and join Lyn and Chris to learn how it’s done, they have a wealth of professional experience and can help you to get fit and have fun! Every Monday Night (New from 1 February) is Rock and Roll Night at The Emerald Isle, La Florida, Class 7:30-8:30pm Bop Til You Drop 8:30-10:30pm. Every Tuesday The Club, Quesada 8-10pm Ballroom & Latin Tuition and Social Night, Every Thursday. The Madhouse, Pueblo Principe, 8-10pm (New from 4 February) Ballroom & Latin Tuition and Social Night. Put on too much weight over the festive period? Then come and shed those inches with our Yoganetics Class, Every Thursday The Studio, La Matanza, (Orihuela) 11am12noon. This class is designed for anyone with back neck or hip problems and is a full body stretch class. Singles are more than welcome in our classes and we have new courses commencing every 3 weeks. For more information contact Lyn on 966188430 635584431 or email strictlydancelyn@gmail.com

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION,

Orihuela Costa Branch, covers the area from Punta Prima to San Javier and inland. The branch meets on the 3rd Thursday of every month at the Olympia Restaurant in Mil Palmeras at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. You do not have to be ex military to attend or to join. Everyone is welcome. More information can be found at the branch website - http://branches.britishlegion. org.uk/branches/orihuela-costa

THE ROYAL ASSOCIATION,

NAVAL

Torrevieja Branch, meet at 1700 on the first Wednesday of each month at the Restaurante El Paraiso, Urb. Jardin del Mar 3, (behind Carrefour), Torrevieja.

Contact Paul Edwards, Chairman, 618 644 934 or Margaret Forshaw, Secretary 966 921 996.

- community news -

sales@soltimes.com

Table Tennis Torrevieja.

at La Bamba’s - Ballroom Modern / Latin / Held Tuesdays and Thursdays 13.30 to Argentine Tango / 17.30 at Casa Ventura.

Equipment and coaching provided if Sequence Dancing required.

All standards catered for. If more information required contact Del on 653564831

PASO A PASO DANCE CLUB DATES FOR YOUR DIARY CLASSES

All classes commence with a beginners class for all to join in, followed by imp / int freestyle and practice time €5pp WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE WE NOW HAVE A NEW CLASS AND SOCIAL NIGHT IN THE PLAYA FLAMENCA AREA STARTING 1st FEB Mondays 8pm Hotel Montepiedra Saavedra Fajardo, Dehesa du Campoamor. 03189 Tuesdays 11am Castillo Restaurant, Av San Fulgencio, Urb La Marina.

Thursdays 7pm Los Rosales Restaurant, CV895 aka Lemon Tree Road, Guardamar.

Now for something new for those that love the music and times of the 50s 60s and 70s. Jive Junction Disco and Nostalgia Quiz held every Wednesdays 8pm at the Maymar Restaurante, Behind the Dia supermarket, Polyono Poniente s / n Catral. 03158.

NO CLASS a night for everyone to enjoy €2 entry.

Never Danced-No Partner-No Problem Our Jive Junction Mobile Disco available for private party jive nights, this includes a fun jive class.

More info call Maxine 670711408 Adam 638330342 www.modern-jie-spain.com or find us on facebook.

Pilar Christian Community Church

Calle Canalejas 3. Pilar de la Horadada.

Sunday Service at 11am, and Thursday at 5pm for Prayer and Praise and Worship Home groups meet during the week. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information contact PilarChristian.

CommunityChurch@gmail.com. 966 849 448 - 966 848 806

“Shout” Fire !!

Are you familiar with these two words, then you may have been in or had dealings with a local fire service in the UK. If you have been a firefighter, Wholetime, Retained or Volunteer, or perhaps served in a Fire Control or an Office with a local Fire Authority in the UK, then we are calling “YOU” The Extinguished Fire Fighters Club has been running for some years now in Spain and we would like to ask you to come and join us. We are looking for new members and you would be most welcome.

We hold our meetings on the first Wednesday of the month at the Green Baize club in Quesarda a few miles inland from Torrevieja, just off the AP7. Meetings start at 15.00 hours and are usually well represented by members from various brigades all over the UK. We also hold a social event once a month that is organised by members where you are invited to bring family and friends.

There are no strangers in our club, just people you haven’t met yet but we all have a common link – The Fire Service!!

So if you fancy it just come along or if you need more information just contact us on these internet details, Dave Daniel ( Ex West Sussex ) on davedanie@ gmail.com Keith Haram (Ex Tyne & Wear ) on keithharam@hotmail.com Dave Graham (Ex Tyne & Wear ) on davdgraham@yahoo.co.uk

Los Rosales Restaurant, Guardamar CV895 [near Lemon Tree Sunday Market] Monday - SOCIAL DANCE 8.30pm 10.30pm [SEQUENCE CLASS 7.30pm - 8.30pm] Friday - SOCIAL DANCE 7.30pm 10.30pm Wednesday - New Beginners Class [new beginners starting Wednesday 13th January 2016] 2pm -3pm Intermediate Class 3pm - 4pm Intermediate Plus Class 4pm - 5pm Andrea Murphy [0034] 616 478 157

BADMINT0N AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA

Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs. 10-1pm.

For information ring John McGilvray on 966 786 774 or Mobiles 634 658 506/695 871 707 or e mail carolejohn_3@hotmail.com

TABLE TENNIS AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA

Sports Centre every Monday at 10am Five tables equipment supplied, coaching given if necessary, all standards welcome.

Contact George on 965 326097 or Gordon on 966 848304 or e-mail drewgeorge49@yahoo.com.

COSTA COBRAS RFC

new rugby club based on the beach.

Training juniors Monday and Wednesday 20.00-21.30, seniors 20.00-21.30 For more details contact Garry 692 767 242 or Robert on 697 286 416

I nternational Christian Assembly evangelical church,

Calle Urbano Arregui 23, Torrevieja 03185. Meets every Sunday, 11am, includes Sunday School for children.

Prayer meetings, craft and computer clubs, Bible study groups. Also house groups at La Siesta: Tuesdays, 3pm.

Call 674552754 for details. La Zenia: Wednesdays, 3pm,. call 620318964.

Torrevieja: Thursdays 5.30pm. Call 608283661, and in church building, Tuesdays, 6pm call 617591399 and Thursdays, 5.30pm call 608283661. For other church matters call pastor, Rafael Restrepo, on 966799273 or mobile 660127276.

SPIRITUALIST CENTRE, BENIJOFAR

31

ANGLICAN CHAPLAINCY OF ST PETER & ST PAUL – TORREVIEJA LENT & EASTERTIDE 2016 SERVICES

Fri 4 Mar – Women’s World Day of Prayer 4:00 PM La Siesta – All denominations welcome Sun 6 Mar - Mothering Sunday Church Centre’s normal Service times Wed 16 Mar - ‘Stations of the Cross’ (Sponsored by the Mothers’ Union) 11:00 for 11:30 AM Rojales – ‘Way of the Cross’ (via Calles Algorfa & Daya Nueva) Sun 20 Mar - Palm Sunday Church Centres’ normal Service times with Blessing of Palms, Commemoration of the Lord´s Entrance into Jerusalem and Holy Eucharist Thu 24 Mar - Maundy Thursday 11:00 AM Cristo Resucitado (Centro Ecumenico) (La Zenia) - Holy Eucharist with Reception of Holy Oils from Diocesan Chrism Mass and Recommitment to Priestly and Lay Ministry 7:00 PM La Siesta - Eucharist of the Lord´s Supper and ‘Watch of the Passion’ (until 10:00 PM) Fri 25 Mar - Good Friday 11:00 AM Cristo Resucitado (Centro Ecumenico) (La Zenia) - Ecumenical ‘Stations of the Cross’ 3:00 PM Los Balcones - Celebration of the Passion of the Lord Sat 26 Mar - Holy Saturday 7:00 PM Lago Jardin - The Easter Vigil (followed by Resurrection Party) Please note the time we begin this evening. This service lasts around 1.5 hours.

It is the most important service of the Church´s Year!

Sun 27 Mar - Easter Day Church Centres´ normal Service times.

All services are celebrations of the Holy Eucharist.

Mon 4 Apr The Annunciation of Our Lord (Lady Day) (Transferred from 25 Mar 16) 11:00 AM Lago Jardin – Holy Eucharist FOOTNOTE For more information on the workings of the Chaplaincy - and other planned activities and events – please view their web-site: http://c-of-e-torrevieja. com/ The specific location of the various Church Centres together with their normal Services can be found here: http://c-of-e-torrevieja.com/where.php

Meets at Hamilton´s Bake House, 62 Calle Vicente, Blasco Ibañez, Benijofar 03178.

We hold a Sunday Service at 11.30 a.m., a Tuesday Evening of Mediumship at 7 p.m.

And every Thursday there is an Open Circle where you can develop your skills commencing at 6.30 p.m.

Spiritual healing is available every Sunday and Tuesday URBANISATION EL RASO, CAMPO DE GUARDAMAR, after the service. The Divine JUST OFF THE CV895 LEMON TREE ROAD, 03140 Service with Mediumship, on Sunday, 28th February, will be taken by Marion and Lorraine.

Opening times 10am till Late Tuesday - Sunday Kim Westgate will take the Evening of Mediumship on Tuesday, 1st March. Jillian and Martin will take the Divine Service, with Mediumship, on Sunday, 6th March. Contact Wendy on 965323028. w w w. s p ir i t u a li s t c e nt r e benijofar.com New email is Payments Private Or phoenixchurch23@gmail.com Trade Advertisers, or info@spiritualistcentrebenijofar.com Identificacion Birthdays Or Other Announcements Fiscal G54713789.

Ruby’s

TEL 622 434 912

SolTimes

Have A Drop Off Point Here For

32

February 2016

animal corner

To advertise here call : 950 121 936

Mountain View

Cat hotel Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes

Centrally-heated houses with large individual runs Love and care will be lavished during your cat’s stay My 29 years of experience in animal and veterinary care will give you piece of mind

Pets In Spain Jet

URGENT

Pick up & delivery service offered for coastal areas

Telephone: 966 195 816

Answerphone - we will call back: Mobile 654 155 473

www.mountainviewcathotel.webs.com

APAH

Tyler and his brother Kingsley were rescued

by APAH in January 2013 as small puppies.

Now they are 3 years old and have never known a loving home. They are both lovely dogs and deserve the chance to be part of a loving family.

To arrange to meet the brothers

please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850.

Jet is 13 weeks old and looking for a forever home.

He has been in foster since he was 6 weeks old and is in excellent health. He has had his first vaccination, house trained and good with other dogs, he will be medium size when fully grown. www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.com Call: 645 469 253 www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.info

SOL CLASSIFIEDS AIRPORT PARKING

For sale

ADVERTISE YOUR UNWANTED ITEMS UP TO 300€ FOR FREE EMAIL:SALES@SOLTIMES.COM BY THURSDAY 5PM

pool tables snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts.

Tel: 666 933 726 www.spainpool.com

C AM P I N G GAZ EXPERT BBQ with cover & full bottle of gas 70€Tel: 966 722 299 Mob: 620 135 988, Buyer collects Torrevieja area Brand new white slate shower tray 80 x 70 95€, Wrought iron DB headboard in cream 35€ Headboard - DB size in white with black inset 35€, Pair of bedside cabinets in white 25€ Tel: 966 713 707 Quesada area.

F R I DGE FREEZER w WHIRLPOOL size 170 –60 –60 white no frost fast freeze

option can be seen working ex condition 75€, MICROWAVE white range of settings including defrost good condition working order 25€ Tel: 966 716 646 Quesada.

Decathlon Donn y ’ s e x e rcis e cycle with manual 40€, Gents Raleigh mountain bike Manta ray 21 gears 50€, Ladies Raleigh cycle Aluminium frame 18 gears 50€, Auto massager, stand on with belt 2 speed old but works 12€, Aerobics step on short legs with height

adjustment underneath 12€, Delta ABTech workout with manual 12 euros, White b athroo m c u p b oa r d , top is slightly marked, W 23 1/2”/60cms D 12”/30.5cms H 3 21/ 2 ”/ 8 2c m s 12€, Lovely g l a ss d ropp e d chandelier 5 glass shades bayonet fitting with bulbs.

15€, Arched B athroo m mirror with etching, glass shelf and 2 lights H 29”/75cms W 23 1/2”/60cms 15€ Tel: 968 131 879 Camposol Area

4€ 1 DAY

30€ 10 DAY

60€ 1 MONTH

Annual contracts from 229€

• New Indoor parking too • 100% secure and insured • Cheap car repairs & MOT • Meet & greet valet parking service • Only 2 mins from the terminal (closest airport parking) • 24hr short/long term parking

Tel: 615 374 404 info@europarkingalicante.com www.europarkingalicante.com

alternative power

www.ecocorpshop.com are you getting frustrated at ever increasing electricity bills do you want a clean, reliable energy alternative if so call ecocorp on 671 716 597 or 950 930 187 for a no obligation quotation

GRANDPA is 10-11 years old, 10kgs, almost blind and quite deaf. He is neutered, negative for leish, cat friendly and all his vaccinations are up to date. He has had to have an operation on one eye but he is fully recovered now. The shelter is too cold, wet and frightening for Grandpa so we are urgently looking for a quiet home for him to enjoy his twilight years.

Can anyone take pity on him?.

Contact Santa Clara, Margaret 697 495 315

Duke Duke is a very gentle and to start with shy young man, about 2 years old, neutered.

He is a lovely young man who will be a very close companion.

If you would like to adopt Duke

Please contact K9 or PHONE: 600 84 54 20 for more info

www.k9club.es

Call Jane on: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 330 building

B BETTER B BUILDING COMPANY C

Extensions - Terraces Tiling - Patios - Roofing Brickwork - Plastering Balustrades - Gates - Grills ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

968 030 674 642 321 472

email: betterbuilding@hotmail.com

business opportunity “Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience” If you would like to start earning extra money now! Then the internet is definitely the place to do this. You can earn money whilst relaxing by the pool or even earn whilst you’re sleeping. This is the reality for people that are making money online.

Read why you should be cashing in on today’s booming economy and discover for yourself how you can turn your passion into a large monthly wage,

every single month.

For Free Information Visit

www.howtomakemoneyfrommembershipsites.co.uk

electrician Electrician available for all works Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562 davendonc@aol.com

insurance

asssa medical

insurances Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan

968 153 396 mazarron@asssa.es personals “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive”

ELEGANT slim, sexy, naughty Italian lady available home/house visits. Torrevieja, La Manga, Torre Pacheco & Mazarron, Quesada plus all other areas. Escort available home & house visits.

Tel: 693 357 526 Spanish lady Playa Flamenca near new Carrefour before La Florida. 37 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, prices from 40€. Full discretion. Tel: Ana 865 646 437

33

www.soltimes.com

Call Jane on: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 330 or email: sales@soltimes.com

www.soltimes.com removals

legal

LWB Sprinter van going from south to North of the UK & back

SERVICES WE OFFER ● INHERITANCE ● fiscal representation ●TITLE DEEDS ● CONVEYANCING •SPANISH WILLS

every 2 weeks, based near Murcia

Rainbow

Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044

Satellites

7519 186 355. or email:

for all your TV

van.man@hotmail.co.uk

needs with clients all over

CALL 609 656 056 - 965 352 552

the Murcia

Email: info@costamedconsulting.com www.costamedconsulting.com Office: C/ Gabriel Miro 1, 1D, Pilar de la Horadada

mobile homes

We buy, sell, store, remove all types of mobile homes.

We pay cash and cover all of Spain.

For more information please call Suzi Caley Tel 616 250 727 / 951 063 059 Or email suzicaley@gmail.com pools

All Swimming Pool Reforms, Re-grouts and ReTiling, Pumps Repaired and Replaced, New Roman Steps, New Sand Filters and Sand Changes, New or Repairs to Skimmers, Jets, Hoovers, Bottom Drain, etc... Structural Repairs, Leak Detection Tests.

Fully Legal in Spain 24h ars e servicre Y 0 1 ce r e v O erien E xp Covering all areas from Miraira to Mazarron

Call 634 186 710 or 638 175 699

sat/tv services Cont...

Region. Contact

surveyors

structural

surveys

Mark Paddon BSc Hons. MCIOB. CAAT.

Property buyer’s surveys and expert defects diagnosis

962 807 247 653 733 066

www.surveyorscostablanca.com

upholstery KENT UPHOLSTERY

Matt or Alan on

UK-SPAIN-UK fortnightly service SPAIN: 914 143 164 UK: 01773 513 013 www.britonsremovals.com britonsremovals@ic24.net

686 358 475 or rainbowsats@ gmail.com

sat/tv services

spas

SAT MART

euro spas

FOR ALL YOUR TV NEEDS FULLY LEGAL & PROFESSIONAL QUOTATIONS SPARES & REPAIRS 1.4M HIGH GAIN DISH FULLY INSTALLED HD OFFER OR STANDARD BOX NO MONTHLY PAYMENTS OVER 250 TV & 60 RADIO

299€

FULL SKY TV PACKAGE 150€ PER YEAR HOLIDAY PACKAGE UNLIMITED INTERNET 19€/MONTH. FREE TO TURN ON/OFF SO YOU ONLY PAY FOR THE MONTHS YOU USE PLEASE CALL JOHN / MIKE 693 969 872 MOBILE 965 319 830 LANDLINE WWW.SATELLITETVTORREVIEJA.COM SATMARTINSTALLATIONS@GMAIL.COM

Spas at factory prices.

Used & Ex display models.

Spares & repairs.

Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905 vehicle hire

For all your upholstery needs Homes Sofas/Garden furniture etc Cars Seat repairs inc. soft top Boats Interior/exterior

Foam cut + supplied

Contact Ken: 634 334 776 email: kentuphol@yahoo.com near Lumsden Auctions Formentera www.zenithupholstery.org

wigs

WIG BOUTIQUE Choose from the best human or synthetic hair.

Private fitting room.

Ladies & Gents Professional Service

Head to Toe

Hair, beauty, nails, massage La Zenia 966 773 216

situations vacant

Real Estate Agency Business Opportunity We are looking for partners to create an International Real Estate Agency in Orihuela Costa area, Spanish call tel 686-943-011, 649-201-550 English, French, Italian, German Buscamos, socios para crear Agencia Inmobiliaria Internacional en zona Orihuela Costa. Llamar por Tel: 686 943 011 Espanol, Tel: 649 201 550 Ingles, Frances, Italiano, Aleman Vi søker partnere for å skape internasjonal eiendomsmegling i Orihuela Costa området. spansk samtale tel 686-943-011, 649-201-550 Engelsk, Fransk, Italiensk, Tysk

34

February 2016

motoring section for sale and Wanted Fiat Punto June ‘10 - 3 door hatch 1.3 JTD Multijet 44,000 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C, Multi-spoke alloys PAS, ABS, Cruise Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors High spec model, CD Rear privacy glass City mode, Bluetooth Red

Hyundai i10 2012 5 door hatch 1.0 Classic (68 bhp) 34,000 kms 1 owner Manufacturers warranty!

Full service history A/C, PAS, ABS Electric windows, CD Remote locking Rear head restraints Metallic grey

Ford Focus 2012 - 5 door hatch 1.6 Trend 78,000 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C (Climate), PAS Front fog lights, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Also available in silver!

Metallic blue also Available in silver.

Skoda Fabia Dec ‘05 - 5 foor hatch 1.4 TDi 57,000 kms 2 owners Full service history A/C ABS, CD player Remote locking E.windows/mirrors Multi Airbags, PAS Rear head restraints Metallic silver

Mercedes SL55 Sports cabriolet 2003 - Sports Cabriolet 32,200 kms 2 owners, AMG spec A/C (Full climate) ABS, 5-Spoke Alloys Parking sensors 5-Speed auto Bluetooth Front fog lights Rain/Light sensors Stunning specification Metallic silver

BMW 630I May ‘09 - Cabriolet 3.0 (270 bhp) Auto/Tip 67,624 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C (Climate), Alloys Cruise, Nav, Xenon Wind deflector Memory/heated seats Park sensors, Phone Wind deflector Met champ. Full leather Black power hood

Mercedes B180 CDi Sport 2014 - 5 door hatch 1.5 Sport 6-Speed 46,700 kms, 2 owners Fully serviced A/C (Climate), Alloys PAS, ABS, Cruise E. windows/mirrors Cruise, Isofix, Head Lamp Wash, Bi-Xenon ESP, Parktronic Head lamp wash Met silver Half leather

VW Polo 2006 - 5 door hatch 1.2 (64 bhp) 119,000 kms 2 owners Fully serviced A/C, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix, Nokia Bluetooth Metallic silver

Mercedes SLK 200 Kompressor Cab Aug ‘06 - Cabriolet 1.8 Kompressor 82,000 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C (Climate), Xenon 17” Alloys, Cruise Head lamp wash Auto fold mirrors Rain/Light sensors Reverse camera Navigation, Bluetooth Metallic silver

€5,950

€6,450

€10,750

€5,450

€37,950

€26,950

€19,450

€4,995

€16,950

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

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wanted cars for cash CASH CASH

Do you have a vehicle, boat or motor bike for sale?

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

Alfa Romeo 147 July ‘05 - 5 door hatch 1.9 JTD kms, 1 owner Fully serviced A/C, Multi-spoke alloys PAS, ABS, CD player Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors Remote locking Rear head restraints Met silver, full black leather

€3,750

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

Looking for a car ?

We have a good selection of LHD & RHD vehicles for sale or exchange Quality cars purchased all paperwork legally undertaken

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

Best prices paid Spanish English Anythingconsidered

Telephone 600 726 221 or 965 687 976

www.fwreurocars.com

tel: Tim on 662 211 993

vehicle registration

mechanic

ecu remapping

“RE-PLATE” MATE

Mobile Auto Electrician ENGINE MANAGEMENT DIAGNOSTICS

www.fwreurocars.com 600 726 221 / 965 687 976

GB

E

Don’t take a chance!

Don’t break the Law! Let us take the hassle away from you and re-register your vehicle on to Spanish plates 490€ plus Road Tax plus CO2 emission if applicable WE PROMISE TO BEAT ANY GENUINE QUOTATION For a full service contact:

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

Email:info@replatematecostablanca.com

For re-registration of cars, motorbikes and motor homes contact Graham Shelton Who after re-registering over 1800 vehicles will put you on the right side of the road.

605 319 889 or 966 753 375 www.spanish-number-plates.com info@spanish-number-plates.com

fault Finding & Repairs Engine Diagnostics Aig Bag, ECU, Instrument Cluster, Diagnostic & Repair Air-Conditioning Re-Gas & Repairs

Telephone Al - Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm FULLY MOBILE

638 323 499

ACB Diagnostics andybulletvan@gmail.com

658 109 849 Service parts included from 80€ All brakes with labour from 170€ RHD to LHD light conversions from 100€ Accident repairs free collection or repairs at yours www.acbautorecambioscostablanca.com

are you a mechanic? do you have a motoring business?

Phone Jane 950 121 936

To advertise here in the motoring section & reach over 32,000 readers This size advert for less than 4€ a week

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

CASH

Same day collection

We pay instant cash same day for cars, vans, bikes, quads, caravans, trailers, absolutley anything!

From 1€ to 10,000€

Call Phil: 607 848 332

600 726 221 965 687 976

Phone Jane 950 121 936

To advertise your vehicle in the motoring section & reach over 32,000 readers

BENTLEY TURBO R REVIEW

BODYWORK & CHASSIS The first Turbo Rs are now 25 years old, so despite excellent build quality when new, they will rust if neglected. Rear wheelarches are particularly prone to corrosion if the car hasn’t been cared for. Make sure you examine up inside the arch, as well as down at either end of the sill. Water gets in at both ends, but especially the front. The rear valance can also corrode, and it is well hidden behind the rear bumper, so be thorough with your examination.

Under the car, front outriggers can rot on higher mileage cars, while the rear spring pans should also be checked closely.

ENGINE Pre-1987 carburettor-fed examples are less popular because the complex Solex four-choke unit has a poor reputation for reliability. They can also suffer from hot-starting issues, unknown on fuelinjected models. Either motor should cruise beyond 200,000 miles without requiring major attention, provided that proper service intervals have been respected.

Poor starting, pinking, uneven idling or lack of responsiveness could be anything from a leaking inlet manifold to an engine management fault, the latter more common on post-1994 cars. Take a test drive and keep a close eye on the temperature gauge – steer clear of anything that overheats.

Cooling leaks can quickly become serious, so check carefully for drips or weeping hoses anywhere in the system. Minor oil leaks are par for the course on a 50-year-old engine design, but liberal coatings of oil on the underside should find you walking away. Leaking turbo oil feed pipes are another bad sign – a loss of oil feed will cause the turbo to fail, with potentially catastrophic results, so be on your guard.

Book Review

The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galraith

www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com - www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress.com - naylorcl@hotmail.es

“Her head had bled a little into the snow. The face was crushed and swollen, one eye reduced to a pucker, the other showing as a sliver of dull white distended lids.”

A dramatic opening, the death of a beautiful supermodel in suspicious circumstances, having fallen from her Mayfair penthouse caused a big stir with the paparazzi. Detective Inspector Roy Carver and Detective Sergeant Eric Wardle were on the case. Lula Landy, like the late Princess Diana was one of the most photographed women in the world. It seems that both women were hounded to death by the pressure of celebrity and attention.

Her death dominated the news showing her “flawless face, her lithe and sculpted body” but within three months “The frenzy wore itself into staleness.” Lula was an interesting character, having been adopted by a wealthy white family. She had been investigating her biological roots and had discovered a black half-brother who she had made contact with. She was expelled from school for dabbling in drugs and ran off to London to live rough with addicts. Her on-off boyfriend was an addict, violent at times, a musician called Evan Duffield and she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She had been signed up by Guy Some the fashion designer after winning a modelling contract worth 5 million pounds over 2 years. When she died she had accumulated a fortune of 10 million.

Before her death there had been a row with Duffield and he became chief suspect but at this stage, the conclusion amounted to: “The poor cow jumped. There was no one else there.” No further investigation.

Three months later we meet her adopted half-brother, John Bristow, a lawyer for Landry, May and Patterson. He chooses Cordoran Strike , Private Detective with an equally interesting past who is down on his luck. His military career came to an abrupt end with a serious injury when he lost part of his leg. His long term girlfriend and his turbulent relationship with Charlotte has finally floundered and he has nowhere to sleep other than his office in Denmark Street. His finances have hit rock-bottom and he has acquired a temp called Robin, intelligent and downto-earth who he cannot afford without any paying clients.

Bristow seems to be the lifeline that Strike desperately needs. He chose Strike to reopen the case of Lula because of his connection

Special Offers Visit:

35

950 121 936 - sales@soltimes.com

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with Charlie who was John’s adopted brother who died when he was 9 years of age. Strike and Charlie had been bosom friends for two months prior to Charlie’s fatal accident. “They say my sister killed herself. I don’t believe it.”

Strike is initially sceptical and reluctant to take on the case having decided that the police investigation was thorough and he believed the final verdict of suicide. But he is interested to hear evidence from a neighbour, Tansy Bestigui who overheard a heated argument seconds before Lula died. She was convinced that Lula was pushed over her balcony. The police had dismissed her evidence because she had been taking cocaine.

Strike takes on the case and he is offered twice the going rate which will partly solve his mountainous debts. A string of interviews with all of the characters who had had contact with Lula make it compelling reading and the suspense is kept ticking over until the finale which is likened to an Agatha Christie climax when the murderer is revealed, and all the facts of the case spilled out in thorough detail. Cormoran Strike comes out of this very well. He outwitted the police force and deserves our uttermost respect. By the end of the case his reputation has spread and he has clients coming to his dingy office. Things are looking up.

You’ll have guessed by now that J.K. Rowling was the author.

When she sent her manuscript anonymously to Orion Books it was rejected. The sequel was published recently: “The Silkworm” which I am sure will be as successful. Rowling is certainly a master storyteller and I loved it.

Publisher: Sphere. ISBN: 978-0-7515-4925-6

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Why not consider PX your old, tired system for a new, more efficient one.

36

February 2016

PREVIEW of the 2016 F1 SEASON

by Tony Matthews

The 2016 Formula One season will be the 67th in the history ofthe FIAWorld Championship. Teams and drivers are scheduled to take part in 21Grand Prix races - making for the longest season in the sport's history. The first race will take place in Australia on 20 March and the last, some eight months and virtually 250 days later, in Abu Dhabi on 27 November.

There will be 22 cars starting on the grid in 2016 following the addition of the Haas F1 Team and the calendar has also be expanded with the return of the German Grand Prix and the revival of the European Grand Prix in Azerbaijan.

Lewis Hamilton will start the season as the defending Drivers' Champion for the second year running, after clinching his third World title at the 2015 USA Grand Prix. Andhis team, Mercedes, will once again start the season as the defending Constructors' Champion, having secured its second title in Russia last year.

Well before the first race gets underway in Australia, all participating carswill have completed their respective launches, which began at the start of this month with Renault RS16 in Paris.

In fact, Ferrari chose to launchonline, followed a week or so later

by McLaren MP4-31, also online, and thereafter byRed Bull RB12, Haas, Manor, Williams FW38 and Sauber C35 all in Barcelona.

Pre-season testing has already taken place at the Paul Ricard wet-weather running track while there will be similar tests carried out in Barcelona in late February and early March.

This is the full 2016 F1 calendar, and all races will be covered live on Sky Sports: * 20 March: Melbourne, Australia * 3 April:Bahrain, Bahrain *17 April: Shanghai, China *1 May: Sochi, Russia *15 May: Barcelona, Spain * 29 May: Monte Carlo, Monaco * 12 June: Montreal, Canada * 19 June: Baku, Azerbaijan * 3 July: Spielberg, Austria * 10 July: Silverstone, U.K. * 24 July: Budapest, Hungary * 31 July:Hockenheim, Germany

* 28 August: SpaFrancorchamps, Belgium * 4 September: Monza, Italy *18 September: CircuitPark, Singapore *2 October:Sepang, Malaysia * 9 October:Suzuka, Japan * 23 October: Austin, USA * 30 October: Mexico City, Mexico * 13 November: Sao Paolo, Brazil * 27 November: Abu Dhabi, UAE

NB: The start time of the Baku Grand Prix in June will be scheduled to avoid conflict with the conclusion of the Le Mans 24 Hour race while the start of the GP in Texas in October is subject to agreement with the promoter and the ASN. Driver line-ups: MERCEDES: Lewis Hamilton and NicoRosberg Engine: Mercedes FERRARI: Sebastian Vettel and KimiRaikkonen Engine: Ferrari WILLIAMS: ValtteriBottas and Felipe Massa Development driver: Lance Stroll Engine: Mercedes RED BULL: Daniel Ricciardo and DaniilKvyat Reserve driver: Pierre Gasly Engine: TAG Heuer-branded Renault FORCE INDIA: NicoHulkenberg and Sergio Perez Development drivers: Alfonso Celis and Nikita Mazepin Engine: Mercedes RENAULT: Jolyon Palmerand Kevin Magnussen

Reserve driver: Esteban Ocon Development driver: Carmen Jorda Engine: Renault TORO ROSO: Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Engine: Ferrari (2015 version) SAUBER: Felipe Nasr and Marcus Ericsson Engine: Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button Reserve driver: StoffelVandoorne Engine: Honda MANOR: To be confirmed Engine:Mercedes HAAS: RomainGrosjeanand Esteban Gutierrez Engine: Ferrari Major ins and outs regarding drivers: IN: Renault - Magnussen; Force India - Alfonso Celis OUT: Renault - Pastor Maldonado; Williams Susie Wolff (test driver); McLaren - Kevin Magnussen.

My forecast: Lewis Hamilton to become champion again‌ why not?

Chris Brunt: West Brom player 'disgusted' by coin-throwing incident West Brom winger Chris Brunt says he is "disgusted" and "ashamed" after being struck on the face by a coin thrown by a Baggies supporter.

Brunt had gone over to give his shirt to one of the visiting fans after West Brom lost 3-1 in the FA Cup fifth round at Championship side Reading.

"If people come to football matches and think it is acceptable to throw coins at footballers or anyone else, it is disgusting," Brunt told BBC Sport.

The FA said it would investigate.

"We strongly condemn any such behaviour and will work with both clubs and the authorities to identify those responsible," the governing body said on Twitter.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: "The incident will be dealt with as an assault and we will be working with West Bromwich Albion and Reading to resolve the issue and identify anyone involved."

Meanwhile, the club said it would impose "the severest of sanctions" on the culprit.

The statement released read: "All our true supporters will join the club in condemning the sickening behaviour

of a few individuals at the end of our FA Cup fifth-round tie."

Match report: Reading 3-1 West Brom Northern Ireland international Brunt has been at West Brom since 2007 and has made more than 300 appearance for the side, but was left to remonstrate with his own fans at the final whistle at the Madejski Stadium.

Chris Brunt Brunt had gone over to say thanks to the travelling fans but was struck on the face by a coin "I was walking towards our supporters, and they thought it was OK to throw a coin at their own players. It's absolutely disgusting," he said.

"If someone wants to come forward and say who did it, that is not a problem, they know where I am and I am happy to discuss it like normal human beings.

"I hope the police have got hold of them because never in my life have I seen anything like that. I understand frustrations - we haven't played well in the second half and being 1-0 up you shouldn't be losing 3-1."

He added: "You go over to the fans who have travelled down to say thanks

"I wouldn't like to bring my kids to football matches and see something like that."

for spending their money and a small minority spoil it for them.

"There are some young kids sitting in the front row who have witnessed that and it's not on.

West Brom manager Tony Pulis said the action was "barbaric", adding: "West Brom is a fantastic football club, a famous club, but you can't condone that.

"I think the police have to get involved in this. I don't think you can allow that to go by. That's criminal."

BBC

SOL TIMES

COSTA BLANCA

Sales- : 902 750 190 (EXT: 330) email: blancasales@soltimes.com

COSTA CALIDA/MAR MENOR PAULETTE : 902 750 190 (EXT: 332) email: calidasales@soltimes.com

Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent of political parties, private investment and government. Our policy is to provide readers with a news and information service that is fair, accurate and balanced. Sol Times Calida and Sol Times Blanca are independent publications. Published weekly and produced exclusively in Murcia & Blanca. Sol Times News Group cannot be held responsible for claims made by advertisers, nor can it be held responsible for errors in advertisements caused by poor quality text, photographs or layout instructions. Furthermore, no responsibility can be accepted for any loss or damage resulting caused by any error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of an advertisement. Deposito Legal Sol Times Calida AL 851-2010. Sol Times Blanca AL 852-2010

37

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motoring

motoring

A tiny Welsh start up company is taking on motoring giant Toyota by launching a hydrogen car Riversimple Movement, based in Llandrindod Wells, Powys, has spent 15 years working on the carbon-fibre Rasa

Factfile

A tiny Welsh start-up firm is taking on the giants of the industry with the unveiling of its hydrogen fuel cell car.

Riversimple Movement, based in Llandrindod Wells, Powys, has spent 15 years working on the kooky carbon-fibre Rasa - and now they have a street legal prototype that is ready for a public trial.

Company founder Hugo Spowers said the vehicle was “simple, light and fun in every respect” and said he was not nervous about launching the car.

“I think I have been at it for too long to be nervous,” he said. “The first car we did was a sports car with Morgan called the LIFEcar,

Weight: 0.6 tons thanks to a carbon fibre shell Top speed: 60mph Acceleration: 0-60mph in 10 seconds Range: 300 miles Gears: Forward and reverse only Boot volume: Six cubic feet Length: 12 foot

which we showed in Geneva in 2008.

“We’re all feeling rather full of beans at the moment. A lot of things are falling into place. “The fact other people are doing hydrogen cars is good news for us.” Toyota launched the £66,000 Mirai at the end of 2014.

How it works from the Latin tabula rasa, meaning ‘blank slate’ will not be for sale.

Instead drivers will sign a mobile phone style contract to lease a car, of around £500 a month. ht t p:// w w w . walesonline. co.uk/ ٠ Hydrogen is stored under pressure in a tank in the boot ٠ It enters a chamber where it undergoes a 'catalytic reaction' with oxygen ٠ This reaction, a type of 'reverse electrolysis', generates electricity and water ٠ While the electricity drives motors in each wheel, the water evaporates ٠ The wheel motors recover 50% of energy when braking, which is stored in a super capacitor under the bonnet ٠ The first handbuilt models of the Rasa will each cost £100,000 to build.

But the two-seat Rasa, which takes its name

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England Los Montesinos Moraira Daya Vieja Playa Flamenca refreshments available Spectators welcome – come watch and enjoy

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38

La Zenia Golf Society

A very good turn out on Thursday for our trip to Las Colinas. A small number of guests joined us today and enjoyed our hospitality and Buffet afterwards at Gogarty's.

The course was in great condition again and the weather which started off cloudy soon pick up, ending a very present sunny day. One singles Championship game was played Graham Rickelton winning against Jim Fegan.

We played full handicap stableford, two n/t/p's and the usual two's pot.

Winner with a great score of 38 Pts was Andy Kane, followed closely by Tom Bridges with 37 Pts, Pin winners No 7

BRADLEY BREAKERS

Dave Sharp, No 17 Tim Bridges. Two's pot was shared by four Marie Fegan, Bob Watson, Dave Sharp, Tom Finn.

The raffle was won by John Mackay.

Thank to Gogartys who sponsored the raffle, thanks also to Bliss and her staff who fed and watered our members.

Diary Dates, Tuesday 23rd February at Mar Menor first tee 10-06, Thursday 25 February Presidents Trophy at Roda first tee 10-90. We do now have in stock the society polo shirts, if you would like one reserved please contact me Eric. Please note important date in the future ,on Saturday 28th May we are raising money to purchase a Ambulance for the local area.

Our game of golf will be at Riquelme shot gun start at 9-30. Hoping you can play. We would like this to be a great success, so we are looking for your kind sponsorship on this event.

Please contact Eric or Maurice if you can help this worthy cause for local people. All information is on the notice board outside Gogarty's for our games in the coming weeks, and on the web site which updated every Sunday night, guests are invited to all our games.

Clubs can be hired.

Contac Eric 667196178, Maurice 690268711

965 723 270 607 848 332

February 2016

GREAT NEWS FOR MOTOR HOME OWNERS The freedom of travelling the world in a motor home is a wonderful experience.

So why compromise your vehicle by holding back on its capabilities?

Motor Homes are normally built around a large van chassis and engine. Unfortunately the engines are not set up or tuned for optimum economy or power output for motor homes.

Most manufacturers sell their vehicles all over the world and have to allow for differing conditions within each export market. Conditions such as climate, emissions regulations and fuel quality are all taken into account. They also have to take into account the average expectations of many commercial vehicle fleet buyers, who are quite happy to accept a compromise that copes adequately with average commercial use, not necessarily what is most effective when those same vehicles are converted for use as motorhomes.

The great news is that today the engines on most turbo diesel engines can be tuned to increase the economy and performance without any component changes to the engine at all.

Great Benefits Your vehicle’s throttle response is now sharper, turbo lag and flat spots have been eliminated, gear changes arrive sooner, your whole vehicle feels livelier, as though you had chosen the bigger engine option. These are just some of the benefits you will enjoy with a “Veloc Tuning” remap.

How It is achieved by carefully changing the software within the vehicles “ECU” or “Engine Control Unit”. This is the brain of the engine that controls how the engine runs. How must air and fuel goes into the engine, the timing for the injection of the fuel, also the duration, and turbo boost pressure. All can be adjusted mostly by plugging into the vehicles “OBD” port or “On Board Diagnostics” port under the dashboard of the vehicle.

Some vehicles require the ECU removing to make the tuning modification, and will take a little longer, but the end result is the same.

Using state of the art equipment and the skill and training we have received, we can retune your engine to make these great improvements to save on fuel, and give very useful extra pulling power, also a smoother, happier running engine.

FROM JUST 199€ FOR CARS TO BE REMAPPED, AND FROM 249€ FOR A MOTOR HOME. THE VALUE FOR MONEY IS OUTSTANDING. Vehicles that are still under warranty are not a problem, as the small software changes cannot be detected. In the event of the ECU requiring removal with an under warranty vehicle, we have an alternative solution that works in a different way, that will not affect the warranty. This is in the form of a “DTM” or “Digital Tuning Module” that connects to the engines loom under the bonnet. These high grade units are programmed for every specific vehicle. A big advantage is that they can easily be removed without trace by the owner. They are not quite as effective as a remap of the ECU, but do work for under warranty vehicles very well in most cases. We supply and fit the DTM units on a try before you buy basis.

The cost of the DTM is a little higher than some remapping, however still very good value at just 349€ fitted.

For full tuning details for your motor home or car, check out our “Motor Home” section on our website.

Our tuning service is fully mobile, so will come to you on any Campsite, or your home along the Costas and inland Spain.

We offer a lifetime software guarantee for all tuning work. Also a 30 day money back guarantee if you are not totally happy with the results. Then, in that case the vehicle will be returned to the original manufactures software.

Also we always let you test drive your Motor Home before asking for any payment.

We cover Costa Blanca, Costa Calida, Costa Almeria, and Costa del Sol. Discounts given for groups and friends, if the tuning is done on the same day, and location.

Contact us for a chat and a free quote for your Motor Home Call Paul on M: 600827517 or T: 950104488 paul@veloc-ecu-remapping-spain.com www.veloc-ecu-remapping-spain.com

39

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new fords available

Calle Mallorca, San Javier Call us: 968 146 158 or 618 628 511

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Range Rover Evoque 2015, 2.2TD4, Auto, NEw!

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BMW 428 COUPE

luxury, auto, 2014, 4,700 kms

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Honda Civic 1.6i , 2013 DTEC Sport, 37,000km,

•VW California edition 2.0TDi Auto, 2015, Delivery kms. €POA •toyota fj cruiser 4.0l petrol, auto, 2009, 87,000km.....€poA •Audi Q7 S-line, 3.0 TDI, diesel, 2007, 170,000km..............€19,950

ford s-max

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•Toyota Avensis 2l D4D, 2010, 60,000km..................................€11,950 •Mini Cooper Clubman 1.6D, 2011,166,000km...................... €10,950 •Ford Fiesta 1.25 Duratec, 2015, 4,000km.............................€10,450 •Peugeot 207 SW 1.6HDi, 2007, 89,000km....................................€7,950

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•ford fusion 1.4 newport, 2007, blue, 85,000km...................€5,950

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•Ford Fiesta 1.3 Petrol,2007, 68,000km..................................... €5,450 •Chrysler Sebring 2.0i Cabrio, 2005,152,000km..................... €4,950 •Opel Meriva 1.3CDT1, 2006, 156,000km......................................€4,450 •Chrysler Grand Voyager 3.8 Auto, 2001,166,000 miles. €3,950

Right hand drive vehicles •rolls royce silver spirit, rhd, 51,000 miles..................€13,950 •Vauxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi, 2009 , 53,000miles......................... €5,450

mercedes clc 200

•renault laguna 2.0i, extreme, 2006 ,83,000 miles....€3,450

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•RENAULT SCENIC 1.6 AUTO, 2005 , 90,000KM............................. €5,950

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PEUGEOT 207

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•Fiat Palio Weekend 1.9 TDi, 2002 , 110,000km.................. €2,750

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•chrysler stratus 2.0 auto, 1999, 104,000km.....................€2,950

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•hyundai i30 1.4 Crdi 2013, 5-doors, silver........................... €12,950

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•Ford Focus 1.6 Auto, 2007, 60,000 miles.............................. €3,750 •ReNault Megane 1.6 Petrol, 80,000 miles...................€2,950

Right hand drive - spanish reg •CITROEN DS3, 1.4I, PETROL, 2010, 38,000 miles....................€7,950 •Jaguar X-Type Sovereign Estate, 2.2 Diesel, 2007, 57,000 miles...€6,950 •toyota hilux, 2.5 diesel, 2004, 105,000 miles....................€5,450 •Fiat Bravo 1.4 Petrol, 2009, 15,000miles........................... €4,950 •Mazda Mx5 1.8 Petrol, 2000, 42,000 miles............................... €4,950 •Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi, Auto, 2004, 128,000 miles.......€3,450 •Ford Mondeo 2.0i, 2004 137,000 miles.................................. €2,450 •Vauxhall Astra Estate 1.4 Petrol, 2003, 86,000 miles.. €2,250 •Honda Accord 2.2 VTEC, Auto, 1996, 130,000 miles............€1,950

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€5,450

Citroen xsara 2.0 TDi, Diesel, 2003, 139,000KM.

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40

SOLTIMES february 2016

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vettel has pace in preseason

Sebastian Vettel was fastest in the morning as Formula One returned to action with preseason testing Monday, with the Ferrari driver finishing ahead of defending champion Lewis Hamilton in the first session of 2016.

Hamilton was first out in the new Mercedes but it was Vettel who had the quickest time of 1 minute, 24.939 seconds at the Circuit de Barcelona.

Hamilton was nearly half-a-second slower with 1:25.409, and Valtteri Bottas of Williams was third, more than a second behind Vettel. Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull finished fourth.

Seven other drivers tried out their cars on Monday, the first of four days of testing in Barcelona. Among them was Jenson Button, who is hoping to find a much-improved McLaren after dismal results in 2015. Hamilton’s teammate Nico Rosberg will drive on Tuesday, as will Button’s teammate Fernando Alonso.

Hamilton was the busiest driver in the morning session with 66 laps, 23 more than Bottas and 30 more than Vettel.

Newcomer Haas, the first American-led team in F1 since 1986, faced a mechanical issue in its first F1 run when the front wing of the car driven by Frenchman Romain Grosjean fell off on the main straight. Grosjean returned to the pits without further incidents.

The first day of tests — nearly three months after the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2015 — started on a damp track and under overcast skies, with most teams spending time running installation laps to check for possible problems.

“It’s just important to get a lot of mileage, to sign off all the reliability things, and to build a good understanding about your car and tires,” said Force India driver Nico Hulkenberg, who will start testing on Wednesday. “That’s the most important things in these early days.” afp

Tel 902 750 190

Club de Golf El Paraiso (Rojales) LV39 @ La Manga (South course)

The weather forecast earlier in the week looked rather unpalatable for our visit to La Manga today, this put off 5 or 6 members from making the hour long trip south to play this challenging Championship course.

In fact we didn’t have a single spot of rain but we did have strong cold winds and this did reflect on the scores. While taking a coffee in the club house and preparing ourselves to do battle against the elements (and the course) the general opinion was that 30 Stableford points under these conditions would be enough to win. In fact it was the 31 points of Norwegian member Kai Krog that took 1st place, close behind just a point further back was Danish member Benedicte Kruse, back on 26 points to secure 3rd place was Norwegian lady Gunn Handeland.

Our “2’s” competition didn’t produce a winner so the €19 in the pot will be carried over to our visit to Alicante Golf on the 4th March. The N.T.P.’s this week were not at all easy in fact no one managed to keep the ball on the 2nd green.

Hole 5; Benedicte Kruse was the nearest and on Hole 12 was the only Brit who won a prize, well done Ken Havey, the long par 3 17th was won by German member Gerd Cromm.

There were 3 bottles of Rioja left over for the card draw, but before it commenced Irishman Mike O’Regan said that he could take care of them for us, just the luck of the Irish because his card was the 1st to be drawn. The other winners were, Hermis Woerdemann and the normally inform Sverre Sonesen.

Today’s score will be added into the summer competition where the best 5 cards from 12 will be taken to produce a winner, well maybe not all of today’s will need to be counted! Photo: the lucky bottle winners.

The winner of the summer competition will receive 2 rounds of golf (including buggy) menu del dia on both days, B/B at a local hotel and all of this for 2 people. Where? At the fantastic Club de Golf Las Pinaillas (Albacete) Our next competition is at the challenging course, Alicante Golf on the 4th March.

You can find out more about this legally registered club at www. clubdegolfelparaiso.com or Facebook/clubdegolfelparaiso tweet us @ elparaiso14 or you can call us on 661 524 101

We offer a full upholstery service for the home (sofas, chairs, etc.) and for boats, caravans, motor homes, camper vans and other vehicles, and bars & restaurants.

As well as re-upholstery we make loose covers for all uses including garden furniture, cushions.

We stock a huge range of Fabrics and Vinyls for every use. All of these products are available in a lot of different colours.

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