Calida 388

SOLTIMES

Property Supplement

Go to pages 17-24 to pull out & keep our useful Property Supplement To advertise in this section Telephone 902 750 190

ISSUE 388

COSTA calida

29 jul - 04 aug

SolTimes CK ME UP’est. SINCE 2005 YOUR ESSENTIAL WEEKLY ‘PI

your free weekly newspaper

www.soltimes.com

LWB Sprinter van Going from south to North of the UK & back every 2 weeks, based near Murcia Airport

Tel: 610 846 260 0044 7519 186 355 or email:

van.man@hotmail.co.uk

r u o y r e t f a k o o l let us home this summer page 11

Established since 1976

Worldwide Removals Secure Storage • Local Moves • Spain to UK • Worldwide • Single Items • Depots in Basildon, UK and Rafal, Spain

Sales@digbyremovals.co.uk Spain (0034) 676 582 333 UK (0044) 1268 728 855 Pool Construction

Call now for a Quote

LEAK DETECTION Repairs

680 308 588

Maintenance

From 39€

OCEAN POOLS oceanpools@outlook.es

SATELLITE SERVICES Latest 1.4. HD Systems from €375

All sizes of dishes supplied and installed All work fully guaranteed

Tel: Bob on 689 291 753

Cheap

Sky packages available

new iptv available Only low internet speed required for this great

The English Funeral Director Over 25 years’ Professional Service

Funerals - Funeral Plans - Funeral Insurance

For more information, call Tony Smith on 650

631 719 (24 hours)

www.EnglishFuneralDirector.com

yourndly, frie able reli vice se r

EUROZONE REMOVALS EUROPE COVERED

LOCAL, NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL REMOVALS

HOUSE CLEARANCES AND PET TRANSPORTATION FROM 1 BOX - TO A FULL HOUSE STORAGE FACILITIES AVAILABLE VERY COMPETITIVE RATES REGULAR TRIPS TO AND FROM UK

find us on facebook

SPAIN 0034 662 569 138 UK 0044 7786 945 300

eurozoneremovals@gmail.com www.eurozoneremovals.webs.com

2

Filmmaker Ridley Scott to bring life of “El Chapo” to the big screen

The spectacular prison escape by Mexican drug lord Joaquín El Chapo Guzmán Lorea has not only made headlines around the world, but has also provided inspiration for a number of songs and narcocorrido ballads, which have exploded across the internet in celebration of his daring jailbreak.

Now Hollywood producer and director Ridley Scott wants to bring the story of Mexico’s most notorious drug cartel leader to the big screen.

The story covers 2004 to 2014, and details the underworld drug operations that take place over a decade In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter published Thursday, Scott, who directed classics such as Alien and Blade Runner, said that he and his Scott Free Films production company have acquired the rights to Don Winslow’s latest best-selling novel The Cartel, which came out in June.

The novel is a fictionalized account

Sub-Saharan Africans sail into Santa Pola

A SMALL motorboat carrying four sub-Saharan Africans attempting to enter Spain via the back door has been intercepted off the coast of Santa Pola (Alicante province).

Coastguard rescuers were alerted at around 16.15hrs that a craft of just 3.5 metres in length (11'5”) with its motor on the outside had made the dangerous crossing over the open waters from northern Africa and was about to dock on the southern Costa Blanca.

The boat did in fact touch dry land, reaching the beach near the esplanade and the Tabarca island viewpoint, about El Chapo and the powerful Sinaloa meaning the occupants are now officially cartel he controls, and also includes a 'immigrants' and cannot be sent straight portrayal of Guzmán’s first jailbreak back. from a Jalisco prison in 2001, when he They will be kept in a high-security migrant residential centre, where they purportedly hid inside a laundry cart.

Winslow spent a decade researching El will not be allowed off the premises, Chapo and the Sinaloa cartel. However, until their individual cases are examined in his book, the author doesn’t mention and they are either granted refugee Guzmán by name but instead focuses status or deported. the plot on two friends, Art Keller Guardia Civil officers are combing the and Adán Berrera, who choose very different paths: Art joins the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) while Adán becomes a cartel leader.

The story covers a period from 2004 to 2014 and details the underworld drug operations that take place over a decade.

Some reviewers have compared The Cartel to Mario Puzo’s The Godfather.

But instead of New York and Italy – where most of the The Godfather’s plot takes place – Winslow’s novel is set on the US-Mexican border.

Read more on: elpais

Mobile phone sale scam warning

POLICE in Spain have warned of a series of fraudulent 'sales' of mobile phones via a website purporting to offer very competitive prices So far, 16 'customers', or victims, have been traced across Spain, five of whom were from the capital city of the northern wine region of La Rioja, Logroño.

They say once payment was made to the alleged sellers, no goods were ever

July 2015

received.

When buyers tried to contact them by telephone or email to find out what had happened to the phones they had ordered, they received no response.

Different payment methods were set up, and the conartists behind the website pocketed the money.

Officers say the website is www. smphonedeals.com, and are taking the necessary steps to block it.

Source: thinkspain.com

area for other possible passengers who may have bailed out and swum for it when they saw authorities had spotted them.

In the last two weeks, further boatloads of would-be immigrants from Africa have reached Cabo de Palos (Murcia) and Torrevieja (Alicante province), just a few kilometres from Santa Pola.

Tens of thousands of African migrants have lost their lives in the Mediterranean this year when trying to reach Europe illegally, often paying mafia-style organisations their life savings for a place on an unseaworthy craft.

Italy and Greece are sinking under the weight of illegal migrants who have made the crossing in desperation, knowing the risks they face on the open water are nothing compared with what they are fleeing from, but Spain also bears extreme migration pressure as it is the only European country which borders Africa by land.

Around 40,000 refugees from Syria and Eritrea, and another 20,000 from mostly African countries, are currently waiting to see if they will be granted asylum and the European Union wants to give set quotas of them to each member State.

Spain has agreed to take 1,300 Syrian and Eritrean war refugees and 1,449 from elsewhere over two years, instead of the 4,288 and 1,549 respectively the country was asked to take by the EU. Source: thinkspain

TOP QUALITY ARTIFICIAL GRASS Installed by Qualified Professionals

PP hangs King Felipe’s portrait in Barcelona City Council chamber A day after new mayor Ada Colau, of the leftist bloc BComú, ordered a bust of former King Juan Carlos I taken down from the chamber in front of television cameras, members of the conservative Popular Party (PP) walked in with a portrait of the current monarch, Felipe VI, and placed it in the exact same spot where the bust once rested.

“After yesterday’s mockery of the monarchy, we’ve placed this image here in order to comply with the law.

Colau no longer has the excuse that she doesn’t have a portrait handy,” said Alberto Fernández Díaz, the PP leader in the Catalan capital.

We feel this is a lack of respect towards the citizens of Barcelona.This is a common space. And this a republican

talking to you.”

Jaume Collboni, Catalan Socialist Party (PSC) Under a 1986 law, all council chambers must display an image of the reigning monarch, whether it’s a painting, a photograph or a bust. When the bronze likeness of Juan Carlos was removed on Thursday afternoon, municipal sources told EL PAÍS that they had no image of King Felipe VI to replace it.

The new picture did not last long in its place, however. Just a few seconds later, an employee took it down.

Mayor Colau said she was “taking note” of the message, but added that “the portrait should have been placed there a year ago,” when Felipe VI became the new king of Spain.

Read more on elpais.com

Onto existing ground, terraces, pool surrounds etc.

8 Year manufacturers Warranty For a FREE, no obligation, inspection & quotation

Call NEIL SMITH on 693 496 510 or 968 543 077 mands24@googlemail.com

WWW.ARTIFICIALGRASS.PRO

3

www.soltimes.com

French farmers block Spanish and German borders in foreign food protest

French farmers blocked roads from Spain and Germany on Sunday to stop foreign products entering the country, the latest protest against a fall in food prices that has brought them to the brink of bankruptcy.

Farmers in the north-eastern Alsace region used tractors to obstruct six routes from Germany in a bid to stop trucks crossing the Rhine carrying agricultural goods, in a blockage that is expected to last until at least Monday afternoon.

“We let the cars and everything that comes from France pass,” Franck Sander, president of the local branch of the powerful FDSEA union said, adding that more than a thousand agricultural workers were taking part in the roadblocks.

A dozen trucks have been forced to turn back at the border since the blockage started at about 10pm (8pm GMT) on Sunday night, according to a union official.

Meanwhile, about 100 farmers ransacked dozens of trucks from Spain on a highway in the south-western Haute-Garonne region, threatening to unload any meat or fruit destined for the French market.

They used 10 tractors to block the A645 motorway, not far from the Spanish border, causing traffic jams that stretched

up to four kilometres (2.5 miles), Guillaume Darrouy, secretary general of the Young Farmers of Haute-Garonne, told AFP. The action comes after a week that has seen farmers block cities, roads and tourist sites across France in protest at falling food prices, which they blame on foreign competition, as well as supermarkets and distributors.

Farmers have dumped manure in cities, blocked access roads and motorways and hindered tourists from reaching Mont St-Michel in northern France, one of the country’s most visited sites.

Fearful of France’s powerful agricultural lobby, the government on Wednesday unveiled an emergency package worth €600m ($660m) in tax relief and loan guarantees, but the aid has done little to stop the unrest.

“The measures announced by the government ... none of them deal with the distortion of competition” with farmers from other countries, said Sander, saying French farmers face higher labour costs and quality standards.

A combination of factors, including changing dietary habits, slowing Chinese demand and a Russian embargo on western products over Ukraine, has pushed down prices for staples like beef, pork and milk.

Paris has estimated that about 10% of farms in France – approximately 22,000 operations – are on the brink of bankruptcy with a combined debt of €1bn.

Source: http://www.theguardian.com/

Solar electric systems Solar hot water systems Buy direct - no middle men no sales people - no subcontractors

Quality European products Guarantees backed by 10 years of training in Spain Complete solar systems from only 1500€ including installation 10% price beater promise we will beat any other like for like price

4

Two years on from train crash - 'no justice Relatives of some of the 79 people killed in a highspeed train crash in northwest Spain marked its second anniversary on Friday angrily demanding Spanish leaders answer for the tragedy.

• Confirmed: Human error caused horror train crash (04 Jun 14) • Crash driver was on phone to train conductor (31 Jul 13) • 'I don't know why I didn't brake': Train crash driver (31 Jul 13)

ort

July 2015

After two years of judicial investigation, only one person -- the train’s driver -- has been charged over the crash on the outskirts of the pilgrimage city of Santiago de Compostela on July 24, 2013.

The Alvia-type train tore off the tracks and ploughed into a siding while hurtling round a bend at 179 kilometres per hour (110 mph) -- more than twice the speed limit for that stretch of track.

As Spain mourned its worst rail disaster since 1944, courts in the northwestern Galicia region launched an investigation amid allegations of faults in the railway's automatic speed-control systems.

The driver, Francisco Jose Garzon Amo, faces 79 counts of reckless homicide over the accident.

An association representing victims of the accident

puts the full death toll at 81.

The courts have questioned various officials from the state railway company Adif but have dropped charges against all of them.

Dozens of protesters rallied on Friday on the square in front of Santiago de Compostela's grand cathedral -a destination for Roman Catholic pilgrims from around the world.

The association behind the rally said in an online statement that victims had suffered "humiliation and deceit" by the government and authorities which they said were "causing them even more pain".

"They are trying to bury the truth," said Arturo Dominguez, a spokesman for the victims' association.

"This was a foreseeable accident, so the driver is not the only one guilty," he told reporters.

The protesters demanded a parliamentary commission be set up to investigate the causes of the crash.

The association in an online statement said victims had suffered "humiliation and deceit" by the government and authorities which they said was "causing them even more pain".

A judge has brought charges against the driver Garzon but is still investigating the case and has yet to rule on whether he will face trial.

"Tommy forever. I will never forget you, my son," wrote Tomas Lopez, who lost his 21-year-old son Tomas in the crash, on his Facebook page on Friday.

On a day like this, a big hug to you and all the victims of the Alvia tragedy." thelocal

Dozens injured in France when bus roof is torn off after trying to pass under low bridge

SIX passengers were seriously injured early yesterday in a spectacular accident in northern France when the top of a bus was shorn off while trying to pass under a low bridge. Frederic Fevre, the public prosecutor in the northern city of Lille, said six people were in grave condition after the bus from Spain carrying 58 passengers attempted to drive under a bridge prohibited to vehicles exceeding 2.6 metres in height. Twenty-eight other passengers, mostly Spanish students aged 18 to 29, were slightly injured aboard the bus servicing the Bilbao-Amsterdam route when the accident occurred outside Lille.

“Most people were sleeping... (and) nobody understood what was happening,” said a passenger from Spain’s Basque region identifying herself as Carlota.

“All of a sudden, the roof of the tunnel was right there,” she said gesturing with her hand just above her head.

According to witnesses, the most severely injured passengers were located at the rear of the bus, towards which the debris of the roof was thrust as the vehicle ploughed into the bridge.

Fevre said the 59-year old driver of the bus when the accident occurred had a good record, and assured authorities he had followed instructions provided by his GPS. The driver was held for questioning Sunday.

Authorities said testing for alcohol or drugs had come up negative, Passengers who did not require hospitalisation were being put up in a local sports centre, waiting for repatriation to Spain.

“They’re resting, we know stress is exhausting.

They are together (and) have called their families...

Their return (home) is being organised,” said Francois Ducrocq, a psychiatrist working with an emergency aid team assisting the victims http://www.news.com.au/

5

www.soltimes.com

1695â‚Ź

6

July 2015

CLEAR AS MUD Have you spent hours pouring over other funeral plan websites?

Tired of not getting all the answers you need?

Fed up with no clear cut prices and terms and conditions?

LET US HELP Iberian Funeral Plans offer straight forward, no hidden extras plans that are IVA (VAT) free and the chance to pay in INTEREST FREE instalments over a period of 60 months.

Furthermore we guarantee that, once you have taken out a plan, the price will not increase, no matter how long you live.

For a no obligation chat or visit call: 965 993 498 • 951 203 994 • 952 595 691 or visit www.iberianfuneralplans.com Prices starting from 3,390€ Iberian Funeral Plans is a fully licensed and registered company in Spain, Portugal and the U.K. www.iberianfuneralplans.com

7

www.soltimes.com

Shakira and Piqué buy €5m mansion in Barcelona

COLOMBIAN-BORN pop-rocker Shakira and her partner, Barça FC midfielder Gerard Piqué have just bought a €5-million mansion in the Pedralbes area of Barcelona – coincidentally, the very same upmarket district where the Infanta Cristina and Iñaki Urdangarín have just sold their own to pay court bail bonds.

Ears pricked up across Spain when it was revealed that the country’s celebrity Catalunya-based couple had just got the keys to their 1,500-squaremetre villa surrounded by acres of private gardens in the same month that King Felipe VI’s younger sister and her husband, formerly the Duke and Duchess of Palma, had found a buyer for their own Pedralbes mansion.

But the two sale-and-purchase operations are completely separate and are, indeed, coincidence: élite estate agency Coldwell Banker Prestige

Barcelona says Shakira and Piqué had shown interest in their new house ‘years ago’.

And Coldwell also handled the sale of the Infanta’s house, which is within close walking distance of the PiquéMebarak pad on the Avenida Pearson.

According to the estate agency, Shakira’s and Gerard’s new home has three storeys, seven bedrooms, two kitchens, a gym, and a swimming pool with a waterfall.

It is very private, given that it is surrounded by gardens and dense trees, but from the first and second floor affords stunning panoramic views of Barcelona city.

Said to be ‘one of the best homes’ in the city, the couple managed to get it for less than the asking price because they were ready to make a quick purchase. thinkspain.com

koal a furniture s.l

SOFAS - MATTRESSES - GARDEN FURNITURE - RECLINER SOFAS LEATHER SOFAS - PACKAGES

FURNITURE

monday to friday 10:00am to 19:00 saturday 10:00am - 14:00 POL.IND.EL REAL, C/VENTE VACIO E-14, 04628 ANTAS - ALMERIA

TEL: 950 392 307 MOVIL: 627 215 345 facebook.com/koalaFURNITURE

8

Spanish punk outfit Sudor rocks Second Empire

Four swift clicks of the drumsticks and an urgent count-off of "1-2-3-4!" to commence another blistering live punk-rock tune - common enough. It's certainly been heard for decades in the band-practice rooms and house-party performance spaces of West Philadelphia. But in crisp, Castilian Spanish? Such was the case Tuesday, when Spain's superfast power trio Sudor (Sweat) blazed through a 20-minute set at Second Empire, providing a dizzying display of topshelf modern Euro-punk.

July 2015

the nation's four-decade fascist regime under (still dead) dictator Francisco Franco.

A highlight Tuesday was the tune "Noches en Plaza de Castilla." It related the habitual behavioral pattern of Madrid police in rousting individuals with little provocation, taking them on long cop-car rides, and dropping them off far from home up in the Spanish capital's northernmost area.

Sudor's performance chops are difficult to convey on a page, such is their blinding speed and focus. Exploding with the politically charged opener "Chicos del Régimen" ("Regime Boys") from 2011's Ganas de Vomitar LP (Urge To Vomit), the Spaniards then drew from their (best-yet) new album Enamorado de Sudor, of the Castilla-La Mancha region, is the second highly regarded Spanish la Muerte Juvenil (Enamored of Juvenile Death) for the rest of their thoroughly hard-core trio this year to play the shifting West Philadelphia underground invigorating tocada or "gig." It was all supremely enjoyable, even with all the punk-plus circuit, following Barcelona's Suicidas, which played a memorable summer sweat generated. local gig in April. That performance was spearheaded by Suicidas' charismatic Read more at http://www.philly.com singer-guitarist Caro, a Chilean woman whose way with melody amid furious tempos came across in her southern South American-accented Spanish vocals (think the Italianate lilt and slur of Argentine speech and song, sped up.)

Ascendant Philly quartet Chondria opened Tuesday for Sudor. The group's four women have developed a distinct sound of heavy bottom-end - bass and tom-toms throbbing - with a jangle-slash dual-guitar attack. Their 10-minute set offered live takes of their five-song demo, now up on Bandcamp (bit. ly/1HRTMFG), including the mountingly frenetic opener "Agita."

Is this the purrfect new place for pets?

The Spanish town which has voted to give cats and dogs the same rights as humans

Next month, Chondria will be opening for more Spanish-speaking international touring bands when Mexico City's Cadenaxo and Colombia's Lupus visit Philadelphia after playing the Latino Punk Fest at the Acheron in Brooklyn.

The town of Trigueros del Valle is situated in the Castilla y León province Trigueros del Valle has a small population of just 330 residents The new act effectively forbids the holding of bullfighting matches

Hailing from Toledo, Sudor's singer-guitarist Héctor, bassist Cuellar, and pacesetting drummer Koke (mononyms only) have grown ever tighter and quicker over a decade together. Their lightning-strike style makes the Ramones seem downright lead-footed and even surpasses the speed of prime Bad Brains.

Animal lovers have rejoiced at the news that a landmark step has been taken by the residents of a small Spanish town to recognise cats and dogs as ‘non-human residents’

Early on, the trio were positively influenced by the pioneering Spanish hardcore band Eskorbuto (Scurvy), an iconoclastic Basque punk outfit from Bilbao that ran for 19 years, starting in 1980. (Sudor still covers its tunes at times.)

Like Spain's other punk bands, Sudor has expressed in its songs ample domestic discontent, including protest over police-state practices, arguably lingering after

FREE FLOW 622 434 912

Pest Control Services • Cockroach Extermination • Drain Rat Extermination

Drainage Services

• LeakyTaps • Toilet Siphon Units • Low Water Pressure • Boiler Repair & Replacements • Blocked Pipes & Toilets

We also offer:

• CCTV Camera Inspection Services •B locked drains cleared with our high-pressure jetting service

Please contact us if you have other issues not listed

It may only have a population of 330 residents but the town of Trigueros del Valle has taken the extraordinary decision after the town’s people unanimously voted in favour of the unusual act.

Located in the Castilla y León province of Valladolid in Spain, Trigueros del Valle is better known for its impressive castle than its love of animals.

However for the town’s Socialist mayor, Pedro Pérez Espinosa, the new status for the town’s animals is the right move.

Following the results, the mayor stressed his responsibility to represent and respect the wishes of the town’s people as well as its feline and canine compadres The mayor said: ‘Dogs and cats have been living among us for over a 1,000 years.The mayor must represent not just the human residents but must also be here for the others.’

In what will be a landmark move for animal rights in Spain, few details on the new rule has emerged, with questions remaining over how the act will affect the rights for owners to put down seriously ill pets.

The main reason behind the animal rights vote in Trigueros appears to be designed for tackling bullfighting rather than the rights of popular pets like cats and dogs.

other blood sports would effectively be banned in the town of Trigueros del Valle.

The traditional sport of bullfighting has come under heavy scrutiny in recent years, with Catalonia becoming the first region in mainland Spain to vote in favour of banning bullfighting in 2010.

Whilst lovers of bullfighting continue to insist the corrida is a historic part of Spain’s heritage, other provinces have followed Catalonia’s example.

The major exception has been Madrid, where some government members have been trying to get the sport tax breaks.

It is not the first time a place has hit the headlines for giving animals ‘nonhuman’ residential status.

In 2013, reports emerged suggesting that India had declared dolphins and whales as ‘non-human persons’, effecting giving them rights.

The excitement came after the Indian government declared: ‘Dolphins should be ‘seen as ‘non-human persons and as such should have their own specific rights and is morally unacceptable to keep them captive for entertainment purpose.’

Under the new act, the town has banned ‘any action that causes the mutilation or death of a non-human resident’.

Although the law did not give dolphins and whales the same rights as humans, it did result in banning the use of dolphins and whales in entertainment shows at water parks.

The brutal sport of bullfighting and

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk

9

www.soltimes.com

loaded card system operated meter will save you money by making your tenants pay for their electricity. It is so simple to use.

Secondary Electricity Meters for Rental Properties. Install one now before the summer season!

A secondary electricity meter is a separate meter that is compatible with the existing meter in any property but uses a “pre paid credit” system. This means that a property owner can totally control the electricity usage of all, or some electrical appliances within a property. The cost of electricity in Spain has increased dramatically over the last 2 years and these meters are an absolute “must have” for any property that is rented out either on a full time or a part time basis.

A secondary electricity meter will save you money from the very first day of installation. The return on your investment can be as little as 6 weeks in peak season.

This neat little device can sit next to your electricity meter and can be used for the” whole house” supply or just for the air conditioning, depending on the way in which the electricity circuits were installed. No mess, no fuss and an installation completed in just a couple of hours.

The system, however is flexible. It may be that as a landlord or owner you are happy to give for example €50 worth of electricity per week included in the rent but any more is paid for?

The Owners “override facility” allows flexibility for friends by offering an “allowance”. or an owner to “bypass” the system.

To find out more contact Teresa at Camposol Heating & Maintenance (CHM) on 968 199 184 or email us at camposolheating@gmaill. com or visit our office inside Holmes & Pegg Estate Agency on Sector B Camposol.

The Problem

Whether rentals occur during the busy summer season or during the winter season the issue is the same.

If 6 people are sharing a property for a week and they are all using televisions, radios, hairdryers, iPads, laptops, mobiles, washing machines and dishwashers you will see the electricity consumption soar!

The summer scenario is that you rent out your property to summer holidaymakers. They turn up, open all the windows, turn on the air conditioning and then head for the beach! During the winter, many properties may only have air conditioning for both heating and cooling or electric radiators. Your electricity meter is spinning like a top and at the end of the 2 month period you end up with a huge electricity bill which barely covers the rent. So what do you do?

The Solution

Install a secondary electricity meter in your property. This pre-

Welcome GO SATELLITE!

g Getting British TV here in Spain can be a confusing and daunting task and findin about us GO SATELLITE was set up 10 years ago by husband and wife team Ian and Deborah. Ian has more than 20 years experience, having spent 10 years with SKY In Home Services in the UK, where he worked on the specialist heights team as well as SKY´S Prestigious VIP Team which caters for the “stars”, therefore the quality of his workmanship is extremely high!

After leaving SKY, Ian set up his own business in the UK and ran this very successfully for 5 years before moving to Spain.

SERVICES WE OFFER We are here to help!!!! We can arrange Installation of TV direct from the satellite with no monthly subscription. We are able to make repairs to existing satellite systems, potentially saving you from additional costs. We are

a reliable and informative company is vital.

suppliers of Sky and humax receivers direct from the UK. You will find we are the cheapest on the Costa Blanca.

Ask us about Sky cards and subscriptions as well as Al Jazeera cards for bars enabling viewing of Premier League Football matches.

WHERE ARE WE? GO SATELLITE is based in Ciudad Quesada and covers most of the Costa Blanca.

WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT? Ian said “Being a small company has its advantages. We offer a personal service and get to know all our customers by name. It’s important to us that people fully understand and are happy with the service we are providing. We realise that the technology involved can be confusing but we are happy to spend time with our customers to ensure that they get the best system for their needs”.

CUSTOMER SERVICE Any concerns or queries are dealt with in a clear and professional manner and clients can call Ian at any point if they have any queries. This ensures that all of their customers have complete peace of mind throughout the lifetime of the service. Added to that is the fact that GO SATELLITE is a fully legal, Spanish registered business that provides individual, company and community installations with a free no obligation site survey.

Go Satellite is going from strength to strength!

SATISFIED CUSTOMERS! Over the past 8 years the company has installed hundreds of satellite TV systems for individuals, companies and

349€

USUAL PRICE 399€

communities. The Go Satellite system uses highest quality Portuguese-manufactured dishes and requires NO monthly payments. Packages are available to suit everybody´s requirements and budget. GO SATELLITE offer expertise, reassurance and a proven track record, which can be backed up by many a satisfied customer.

OTHER SERVICES Go Satellite not only provide television but are also able to provide internet and telephone services. Packages are available to suit all with a switch on/off service available for non residents.

COME AND MEET US! We have an office in the Business Centre Calle Los Arcos No7 Ciudad Quesada, so you can now come and meet us and we will endeavour to help you with all of your TV queries.

DISH ISSUES? Here at Go Satellite, we use only Top Quality Portugese dishes and Invacom LNB’s. Sky Packages are also available. If you do not have room or do not wish to have a dish, give us a call as we have a solution!

At Go Satellite, we will endeavour, to provide TV for everyone.

So, if you are fed up of missing your favourite programs or you have lost your TV signal and do not want to lose out any more, then call on 965 725 670 or call into our office to find out more about GO SATELLITE and its services. Alternatively check out the website:www.freetvspain.com

1.4 metre dish with HD receiver

one off payment

Come and visit us in our office based at: Calle Los Arcos No 7, Ciudad Quesada Open: Monday – Friday

Tel: 965 725 670 www.freetvspain.com all major credit & debit cards accepted

10

July 2015 A new life beckons us out to the sun, A change of life, new dreams to create , A life of work completed and done – But it takes some guts to emigrate!

image: http://i.huffpost.com/

Time to leave England in all its greenery, Its health and safety, its nanny-state, To find a home in Spanish scenery – But it takes some guts to emigrate !

All will be different, all will be new – There’ll be Spanish verbs to conjugate!

But we’ll travel our lives with a different view Though it still takes guts to emigrate!

We’re not getting younger and time flies fast, We don’t have the time to ponder and waite; Its time to look forward, turn our backs on the past – Would it really take guts to emigrate ?

Escape from congestion, the crowds and the rush And rules and regulations which just irritate!

Freedom from the pace and the chase and the crush – It almost sounds tempting to emigrate!

We won’t see our families and friends quite so much But when they all visit it will be well worth the waite: The quality time when they do get in touch Makes it very worthwhile to emigrate!

Yes we’ll miss some things when we reminisce But they’ll fade and abate as we integrate; And the six month showers we’ll never miss!

So enjoy! Just do it! Just emigrate!

Life’s thread can snap in the blink of an eye.

Are we ready to inflate the mortality rate Or sit on park benches just waiting to die?

So just live in nowtime and emigrate!

And enjoy a new life on a different shore, Place your great adventure on the hands of fate.

Ships are safe in harbours but they’re built to exploreBe at peace with the decision to emigrate!

The Region of Murcia offers thousands of possibilities for every option, and beaches are not an exception. Here you have infinite ways of living and enjoying the Costa Cálida; with this objective, we have prepared for you a selection of beaches so that you can choose where to go depending on your taste, your needs or how you feel like spending the day: with children, playing sports, going to a nudist beach or to a wonderful virgin setting. Golden sand beaches, natural settings, localities with a rugged coastline, no-name coves and shores, accessible and busy popular ones. Everything for everyone. ÁGUILAS: Playa de La Colonia - La Colonia Beach Urban beach, open to the south, partially protected from the easterly wind thanks to the Castle promontory, where it was born. It extends to the breakwater, where the Poniente beach ends. The old fishmonger’s, the Poniente port and the balnearios used to be there. It is surrounded by gardens, palms, recreational areas, children’s and sports games.

David Upton

CARTAGENA: Playa Cala Cortina - Cortina Cove easterly Urban beach, open to the south, partially protected from the extends to wind thanks to the Castle promontory, where it was born. It ger’s, the breakwater, where the Poniente beach ends. The old fishmon ded by the Poniente port and the balnearios used to be there. It is surroun gardens, palms, recreational areas, children’s and sports games.

LA MANGA DEL MAR MENOR: Cala del Pino - Pino Cove There you will find a golden sand, urban beach, surrounded by vegetation.

Accessible for disabled and those with reduced mobility. You will spend a wonderful day at its picnic area or its big pine forest. It also has a kiosk, children’s play area, restaurant, foot-washing station, access walkways, toilets open first aid and life guard station open during peak summer season from 11am to 7pm.

Source: http://www.murciaturistica.es/

MAZARRÓN: Playa del Castellar - Castellar Beach With a wide range of services and the Q for tourist Quality, as well as children's play area, daily activities during July and August, toilets and changing rooms, chiringuito, hotel and restaurant. It is 1170m long and has an approximate width of 26m; it has shallow waters and coarse golden sand. Civil Protection lifeguard.

11

www.soltimes.com

http://dandizettemagazine.com/

let us look after your home this summer Use the Color Wheel for Decorating Guidance If you've ever found yourself unsure of how to choose colors for outdoor fabric and furniture, try this simple trick: Use the color wheel. It's a surefire, age-old way to determine what colors work best with each other. One color wheel rule is to choose complementary colors, or those directly across from each other. Here, that makes for a bold color statement with orange and turquoise; bright white umbrellas and accents in the patterning keeps the collection from feeling overwhelming.

Mimic the Look of the Indoor -- Outside As we continue to expand our living spaces into the outdoors, one of the benefits has been a wider availability of indoorlike furniture and fabrics. Case in point: The wickerlike sofa and chair grouping in this cozy covered porch area. The outdoor fireplace offers an organizing focal point, but the low-slung proportions of the furniture supply a unique profile.

Although bright white might seem like an unusual outdoor furniture choice, heavy-duty slipcovers and washable fabrics make these cushions easy to wear and wash. In keeping with the slightly exaggerated profile of the furniture, side and coffee tables supply a stocky yet streamlined silhouette, too.

Choose Contrasting Patterns for Visual Interest

different areas in an outdoor space. But left to themselves, they can overpower even a very large area. One decorating trick is to make sure to balance bright hues with equal amounts of light, neutral, or white pieces.

Here, airy window treatments (used to establish a border for the space and shut out sunlight) offer just a hint of color, while white walls and ceiling and neutral flooring offer good counterpoints to the fun collection of fuchsia, orange, yellow, turquoise, and green in the seating area.

Maintain a One-Color Palette Many gardens offer a riotous blend of color and texture; in those spaces it’s often good decorating practice to provide a soothing stop-over for the eye and mind with furniture and fabrics. Case in point: this comfortable seating arrangement, just off an expansive outdoor kitchen. Weathered-teak chairs and toned-down red cushions blend into the background so the decorative screening and interplay of textures—stone, wood, grass, plants, pond—can take center stage.

Focus on Ornamentation and Accents If you’ve already got outdoor furniture that you’re happy with, a quick way to update the look is to add focal-point accents or ornaments. They’re typically much more affordable than furniture, and with smart shopping, you can change your outdoor space’s style nearly every season. Towering candelabras or vases—both shown here—are great for adding height and texture to dining or side tables. Distinctive fabrics, including simple linen table runners, can supply color or pattern, and throw pillows help you

For some homeowners, their indoor and outdoor spaces are less an exercise in one particular style than they are a reflection of their distinct personality and quirks—and that goes for decks, patios, and porches. For example, furniture sets and single color schemes used to be de rigueur, but today’s homeowners embrace more eclecticism and Soft Furnishings & Re-Upholstery whimsy.

Take this traditional front porch: Cottage-style pillows in a floral print accent • 39 years experience in soft furnishings & re-upholstery the chairs, while further • We make completely new FIBRE FILLED INNERS FOR accent comes from a CUSHIONS or RE-PLUMP EXISTING ONES. traditional striped pattern underfoot. Knickknacks • FOAM (All densities) superior quality cut to any shape & size pick up a few of the • BESPOKE CURTAINS AND BLINDS all made to measure tones—here, robin’s • All types of RE-UPHOLSTERY egg blue—but vintage • EXQUISITELY MADE LOOSE COVERS tailor-made to fit as good cast-offs—containers, as upholstered furniture indoor and out a table—round out the comfy space.

• Hundreds of fabrics to choose from

change your color scheme from year to year

Accent Adjacent Colors with Neutrals Colors that sit next to each other on the color wheel are adjacent, and those pairings are excellent for creating an instant decorating scheme for your outdoor spaces. To create a laid-back style that still showcases deft color interplay, consider tones that are lighter, such as this mix of greens and blues. Black is also a good accent and grounding color for these outdoor spaces, providing a solid focal point with the rug and visual variety with patterned pillows. http://www.bhg.com/

The Mosquito Screen & Window Co

Serving the Coast and Inland for over 10 Years

Fabric Flair

Balance Bright with Light

Bold-color pieces are wonderful for establishing a focal point or defining

Opening Hours Mon-Fri 10am to 4:30pm Sat - 10am to 1:30pm All our work is professionally made in our premises in The Interior Centre 1 Calle Portugal Las maromas Pol. Ind Estate. Almoradi 03160 Contact Kim & Rick on: 625 716 063 Email: fabricflair.kb@gmail.com fabricflair.kb@gmail.com

Manufacturers & Installers of Insect Screens, Aluminium & UPVC Windows & Doors Tel: 966 716 329 or Spanish Mob: 722 763 055 email: the.mosquito.screen.company@gmail.com

Find us at Moncayo Market on Saturdays & we are pleased to announce we are now at Lemon Tree Market on Sundays

12

or email sales@soltimes.com to Advertise in this section

Contact 950 121 936

home & garden

July 2015

Having terrace but only has small and narrow space, don’t worry! Now, there is a way to make it breezy.

Green plant can make the air fresh; you can plant it in pot or another place that possible. Installing side light to give beautiful lighting in night, BBQ grill is important tools when you want to roast something, so you can put in terrace. You can also put outdoor dining table and black chairs to enjoy your barbeque or just spending your time. It’s the first design of awesome terrace for your marvelous house.

Create a new cozy terrace

If you have storey-house and your balcony or your terrace has small space, you can put green plant in black pot for your terrace. For your balcony you can put one chair and small round coffee table, this storey house has black railing and also single hung window is designed for base floor. Next, luxurious terrace present lounge chair and table under white parasol, while for another space it’s designed with glassy laminate floor also equipped with padded sofa and stylish round coffee table on gray rug. This gorgeous terrace is cozy place for you, with elegant design that can reflect your calm personality.

Kitchen area in small space focuses on compact kitchen sets include wall cabinet electric stove and also sink and faucet.

This kitchen has perfect design because it doesn’t decrease the space. This kitchen area has glass roof, so sunlight can enter perfectly. This roof has sloping or usually we call slopping ceiling. Classic chandelier and table lamp illuminate chic bedroom there are snazzy bed, vintage wooden bedside.

Moreover, there is mirror decoration above padded bed; this bedroom is designed with dark hardwood floor. Therefore, cozy small space and narrow section terrace design, which may be, can help you to create your own breezy terrace. http://www.naturallivingmag.com/.

alarmas Repair & Install Good, Fast, Low Cost

600 993 667 www.mr-securityallinone.com Lostermansronny@hotmail.com

HOUSE CLEARANCE BAR CLEARANCE

1 HR COLLECTION CASH WAITING TEL 669 723 709 www.auctionlosmontesinos.com

Reforms Architectural Service & Plans Painting Construction & Maintenance Decorating Interior Design Legally registered family business Quality workmanship guaranteed Tiling, Flagging, Electrics, Plumbing, Aluminuim, Swimming pools, teddybearbuilders@yahoo.com Key-holding & Maintenance

680 851 376

616 214 713

13

www.soltimes.com

LOOK GOOD FEEL GREAT

Tel: 950 121 936 - sales@soltimes.com

How to Heal Cracked Feet Cracked feet, also known as heel fissures, are a oils that it contains. It also helps heal toenail common problem for people of all ages, mostly fungus. caused by lack of moisture. Other causes include, Apply some mentholated rub on clean, dry feet standing for long hours, using harsh soaps, cold before going to bed. weather, continuous exposure to water, being Put on a pair of socks and leave it on overnight. overweight, and wearing improper footwear.

The next morning, remove your socks and wash Conditions like eczema, psoriasis, thyroid disease and diabetes can also contribute to this problem. your feet with warm water.

Repeat daily for a few days until the rough skin Some of the signs and symptoms of cracked feet are red or flaky patches, peeling skin, itchiness, peels off. bleeding from the cracks and pain.

4. Paraffin Wax Cracked feet look unattractive and, in some You can also use paraffin wax to remove the cases can lead to infection and extreme pain. dead, dry skin and cure cracked feet. It will also The problem can be taken care of with some work as a natural emollient to soften the skin and simple home remedies. retain the natural oils on the skin.

Here are the top 6 ways to heal cracked feet.

Heat some paraffin wax in a microwave or double-boiler and add an equal amount of 1. Scrubbing mustard oil or coconut oil to it.

Scrubbing the hard, dead skin away helps a Apply this thick creamy paste on the cracks and great deal in getting rid of cracked feet. Before put on a pair of socks. scrubbing, soak your feet in warm soapy water to help soften the skin and make it easier to scrub.

Leave it on overnight and wash your feet Before going to bed, mix some liquid soap in a thoroughly in the morning. foot tub filled with warm water.

Follow this remedy daily for one or two weeks.

Soak your feet in this warm soapy water for 5. Glycerin about 20 minutes.

Due to its moisturizing and humectant Use a pumice stone to gently scrub off the properties, glycerin works as a great remedy to loosened dead skin cells. get rid of cracked feet.

Rinse off your feet with clean water and pat dry Make a mixture of with a soft towel. equal parts of glycerin Apply some foot cream or moisturizer and wear and lemon juice. You can also add some a pair of clean cotton socks overnight. rose water.

Follow this remedy daily until your cracked feet Apply it on your feet. are healed completely.

Leave it on for 20 2. Coconut Oil minutes and wash it off Coconut oil is another incredible remedy for dry, with water. cracked feet. It helps moisturize your feet and Follow this remedy also fights fungal and bacterial infections, thanks daily for about two to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. weeks.

Before going to sleep, soak your feet in warm 6. Epsom Salt water and scrub with a loofah.

Dry your feet thoroughly and then apply coconut oil at the generously on your feet. country club Put on a pair of clean, cotton socks for the night.

The next morning, remove the socks and wash your feet.

Modern & Traditional Gents Hairdressing Do this daily for several days until you are satisfied with the results.

Opening Times: You can also use olive Mon-Fri 10am- 5pm oil in the same way.

3. Mentholated OUT OF HOURS BY REQUEST Rub Drive through Quesada Arches up main street, take left fork at Parque This is another popular Acuatico sign. Continue to Consum sign and turn right onto Avenida home remedy for Costa Azul, continue uphill and take right turn onto Calle Toledo. cracked heels because of the many essential Country Club / Barber is 200mtrs on right - Look for Childrens Play Area.

quesada Cuts from

5â‚Ź

Call Darren The Barber Tel: 616 592 887

Epsom facilitates the process of healing cracked feet as it promotes circulation. Plus, the magnesium in Epsom salt promotes skin health and draws out toxins.

Add one-half cup of Epsom salt in a foot tub filled with warm water.

Soak your feet in it for 10 minutes. Gently rub your feet with a pumice stone for a few minutes.

Put your feet back in the Epsom salt soak for another 10 minutes.

Finally, dry your feet thoroughly and apply a moisturizer or petroleum jelly.

Repeat daily for two or three days. http://www.top10homeremedies.com/

Kim Clar k benefits consultancy 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 / disabililty benefits while living in Spain

For advice or to book a consultation call 950 169 729 or 663 297 568 or visit www.ukbenefitsinspain.com

14

July 2015

braben’s blog... that you let some other Windows 10 upgrading – Pro’s and Con’s

Just in time for the imminent mug upgrade first and birth of the latest member of the Microsoft then wait for the post family I have a list of the pro’s and con’s release bugs to be of upgrading and suggestions on what to ironed out before you do in either case. Please bear in mind that do it – after all, you everything I write here is subjective. What do have 12 months in I consider a ‘con’ maybe considered a ‘pro’ which to evaluate and by someone else and vice versa. Where do cogitate on your own I start?

The most important questions are reasons for upgrading.

5. It does a “Clean” install. That is one should you update to windows 10 and what where EVERYTHING IS DELETED and you are the benefits of doing so?

1. The benefit of upgrading to windows 10 will lose anything that you have on there. is that you will get the latest, greatest (at Sorry for the Capitals, but it is an important least a mile ahead of windows 8.x) Operating point!

System from the Microsoft stable.

6. There have been reports of Windows 2. From the 29th of July, for 12 months, failing to complete the install and unable the upgrade from windows 7 and 8.x is to return you to your previous version, but FREE (My absolute favourite word)!! these are few!

3. So far, it does appear to be stable (I’m 7. When Win10 tried to do an update it usually really good at making Windows ‘fall failed because you need 2Gb of Ram or over’ but must admit to being frustrated at more. More smaller netbooks, webbooks having a few problems – So if I can’t break the unfinished test version, you won’t be and older laptops have less than that and, call me tight but, I won’t invest in more able to damage the finished version)!

4. Even now it does seem to be a little memory for a OS I may never want or use!

Here are my suggestions whether you quicker than windows 8.x although it is still choose to upgrade as soon as it comes out, slower than 7. See note above!

5. The ‘human / software interface’ (the bit upgrade near the end of the 12 months or you look at) is a combination of the Windows tell them to kiss you A$$3. What you need Metro (tiles) and the more familiar and much to do today is go to this website more preferred ‘Start Button and Menu http://download.easeus.com/free/tb_free.

Interface’. This allows for the interactive exe tiles giving news, weather, financial or other and download this free backup program, ‘live’ updated information, while letting you and install it. Next get a large external Disk and I get on with our normal everyday work! drive (AppInformatica are doing some good The reason I won’t be installing it just yet deals right now – near Mercadona in Albox) on all my computers is: 1. Although it is a free upgrade, Once and back up your complete system and then installed, you can’t use the in-build factory back up your personal pictures, documents, restore facilities to recover your old Windows etc. IF you don’t like Windows 10 or realise that you might have had, if you decide you that you have made a huge mistake, you can use the same program to recover don’t like it after all!

2. After the 12 month period of ‘grace’ the everything that you have saved and you can price goes up to 100€(ish) for each copy continue with your favourite Windows OS! that you will be wanting and that might add It is my hope that these thoughts will have up quite quickly! been some help to those wondering what 3. You will be offered the ‘Home’ version to do. As always I am easy to get hold of as your upgrade and to ‘upgrade’ to the ‘Pro’ to deal with any computer issues you might version will incurred more charges! This isn’t have at a terrific price for what you get in a problem, merely a note worth considering. return (modesty not withstanding).

4. Just because it is a free upgrade, For further information or advice on DON’T feel pressured computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or into upgrading. I am canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk going to suggest

extreme weekends

Are you looking for something different to do in your leisure t i m e ?

There are times when we all feel our lives have become somewhat humdrum, even those of us who enjoy leisure activities that could be perceived by others as extremely dangerous, get a little bored with them.

I’ve been involved in extreme sports for some time now. I am, I think, the first person in the world to play extreme Cluedo. This involves playing Cluedo, with a group of other brave souls, without the light on. You can’t get much more extreme than that, what with all those candlesticks and other such lethal weapons knocking about. Bungee Jumping? Ha! But if you’re not up to extreme Cluedo, and not many are, to satisfy your quest for that special event with a difference, I’ve got a few suggestions for you that the family may like to consider.

First of all, if you happen to be in Nederland, Colorado in March, you may well happen upon a festival known as “Frozen Dead Guys Days”.

This celebrates the, rather chilly, death of a Norwegian called Grandpa Bredo who was cryogenically frozen after his death in the late 1990s, in the hope that a cure would be

found for his heart disease.

Well, no cure has yet come along but in lieu of this the locals descend on the town every year to enjoy some rather strange events such as coffin racing, throwing the frozen salmon, brain freeze contests and beer drinking competitions. They also take a tour of the shed where Bredo is still kept in a frozen state. Well, of course!

Apparently this has been rated as one of the top 100 small town festivals in America. I can’t wait.

If that doesn’t do it there are two more possibilities.

First, in Japan, there is a competition to see which baby can cry-that’s naki in Japanese- loudest. To make sure they cry there are sumo wrestlers wearing scary masks on hand to encourage some serious bawling. To be honest, I think I’d be naki-ing before the babies.

Then, back in Colorado-is there something about this state we should know-they celebrate Mike the Headless Chicken Day. Mike supposedly survived 18 months without a head. Apparently, after that he went into politics.

So, let’s be brave and get out there-or be unthinkably extreme and watch Come Dine With Me-without anesthetic.

Now that’s bravery!

Graham is married to Helen and has a daughter, Alice. He lives part of the year near Albox, but works in Qatar, teaching. If you wish to contact Graham regarding this article email: helenandg@yahoo.co.uk

curiosity may kill the cat ‘Man make fire’ is a favourite saying of mine when lighting the barbecue.

800,000 years ago early humans mastered the art of making fire by rubbing sticks together and cracking flints together. This kept them warm; they could cook and protect themselves from animal attacks.

Modern day humans were very nearly not around today as 200,000 years ago a deadly ice age wiped out most of the world’s population. Remains found in South Africa at a site dubbed the Garden of Eden, is where it’s believed the few remaining humans survived the cold. Then around 170,000 years ago our ancestors first wore clothes to keep warm and started to spread widely across the planet.

Humans remained as hunter gatherers, killing game, catching fish, finding honey and eating whatever plants, fruit and nuts that were in season to survive. Then around 11,000 years ago man started to plant wheat, in South America 10,000 years ago potatoes were first cultivated. From maybe 8000 years ago animals were first kept. So food was available all year round and enabled populations to remain and thrive in one place, hence the earliest known buildings originate from 11,000 years ago.

These advances and inventions enabled humans to reproduce and survive to the present day; fire, clothing, tool making, agriculture and construction. The great Life of Brian sketch ‘What did the Romans do for us?’ hilariously sums up other innovations by man. It can be found on YouTube if a reminder is needed. Then along came the wheel, glass, gun powder, steam and the industrial revolution.

Coal was then supplanted by oil as the provider of power and pollutant of choice.

Before World War Two, the Manhattan project started as Albert Einstein and others had warned President Roosevelt that the Germans were trying to create

an atomic bomb. Some of the world’s greatest minds spent six years and the equivalent in today’s money of US $25bn creating the atomic bomb. On July 16th 1945 ‘The Gadget’ was tested in New Mexico. Present at the test Robert Oppenheimer said ‘I am become death- the destroyer of worlds!’ words spoken by Krishna from the Bhagavad Gita; a Hindu scripture. Another scientist Isidor Rabi said that he felt man had now become a grave threat to the world. The scientists tried in vain to stop the project after the test yet two weeks later the only two atomic weapons ever to be used in conflict detonated in Japan, killing and injuring over 200,000 people. To this day people still are afflicted by diseases such as leukaemia.

Since 1939 there have been over 60 military nuclear accidents and about 40 involving civilian nuclear power; 3 mile Island, Fukushima and Chernobyl are easily remembered plus of course Palomares in Almeria where 3 warheads fell from the sky in 1956 when the bomber carrying them broke up over the sea. People and creatures across the planet have died or suffer defects and debilitating illnesses to this day from these so called scientific advancements.

The Large Hadron Collider in Cern, Switzerland, is a huge machine scientists are using to look for the meaning of life which is of course 42! Recently a learned professor talked about his excitement of maybe opening extra dimensions and finding different galaxies and stars. What on earth are these people playing at, forget Dolly the sheep these mad scientists may create a black hole and we could all disappear into it in a flash. Surely world peace, cures for illnesses and malnutrition are better ways to spend time and money!

Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to http://findmeahomeinspain.wordpress.com as the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too!

Findmeahome are always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact Stephen for a valuation: stephen@findmeahome.es Telephone: 636 266 641

www.soltimes.com

15

16

The birth of Benidorm

As record numbers of Brits flock to its beaches, nostalgic photos show the resort was just as packed in the 1960s and 70s... you just can't see the sunburn • • • •

Britain in April 1966 was particularly cold and wet - and the fashionable Med beach proved a popular destination Cheap package holidays had started to take off, with advent of modern jet airliners making air travel cost-effective Thousands were pictured this week packing out Levante Beach at Benidorm, on the east coast of Spain It comes as families continue to seek value-for-money holidays in the wake of the Tunisia terror attacks last month

July 2015

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THESE plus MANY OTHER EVENTS AT

WWW.SOLTIMES.COM

Hickstead is proud to present BOOMERANG, a brand new two-day music event at the world-renowned Hickstead International Arena on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th September 2015.

The scene is Benidorm, crammed with deck-chairs, parasols and British tourists, lapping up the Spanish sun.

But unlike earlier this week - when thousands flocked to the seaside resort for a budget break in the wake of the Tunisia terror attacks - these pictures are from the 60s and 70s.

Britain in April 1966 was particularly cold and wet, and the fashionable Mediterranean beach proved a popular destination.

Cheap package holidays had started to take off during the 1960s, with the advent of modern jet airliners making air travel more cost-effective.

The skyline was noticeably different back then too - far fewer high-rise apartment blocks and hotels, but all that would soon change when Alicante airport opened in 1967, and the resort revolution gathered apace...

Fast forward to the present day and huge crowds of British tourists

are packing out the beaches in Spain in the wake of the mass shooting in June.

Sunbathers have been pictured cramming on to the Levante and Poniente beaches on what is the first week of the British summer holidays.

It comes as it was revealed Spain has set a new record for visitors, with 29.2million descending on the country in the six months to June - 4.2 per cent more than the same period in 2014.

Earlier this month, the Daily Mail revealed how 300,000 Britons who had been planning to visit Tunisia have been left to look for alternatives, after the Government advised against travelling there following the recent terror attack.

It also reported that last-minute bookings to Greece were down because of the country’s debt crisis.

Spain’s renewed popularity has come despite the Foreign Office raising the country’s terrorism

threat level to ‘high’ earlier this month.

Some 15million Britons visited Spain and its islands last year, up from 11million in 2010.

Spain’s popularity peaked in the 1970s when 17million Britons visited each year – but it has since faced competition from more exotic destinations.

Benidorm – which inspired an ITV sitcom of the same name – saw its reputation plummet after the high-rise hotel boom of the 1970s and the influx of Club 18-30 British tourists.

But the city has now applied to the UN to be declared a World Heritage Site, alongside the Grand Canyon and the Great Wall of China.

And officials on the holiday resort of Magaluf have brought in bans on drinking in the street and public nudity, hoping to rid the resort of its reputation for drunkenness and debauchery. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

Back together again; Simply Red mark their 30th anniversary with a world tour, the UK leg features 14 dates including two hotly anticipated shows at London’s O2 Arena December 17th and 18th 2015.

For the 2015 QBE Internationals: England v France (15 August) and England v Ireland (5 September) the RFU and England Rugby 2015 are working with TfL and Richmond Council to trial some of the additional transport measures that will be put in place for the 10 matches at Twickenham Stadium during Rugby World Cup 2015.

17

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

THE ONLY PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT ON THE COSTAS!!!!

LOOKING TO BUY OR RENT? FIND YOUR DREAM HOME INSIDE! Blackstone Said to Buy $858 Million of Spain Property Loans

The debt is linked to newly completed residential units as well as land and homes under development, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the deal is not yet complete. The sale of the portfolio, known as Tourmalet, is expected to close at the end of the week, the people said.

Spanish banks are seeking to sell

off bad real estate debt that has weighed on their balance sheets since the financial crisis sparked a property crash. Lenders foreclosed on more than 70,000 homes in 2014 with Andalusia, Catalonia and Valencia hit the hardest, according to data from the National Statistics Institute.

The assets backing the CaixaBank debt comprise 88 percent residential property, 9 percent of land and 3 percent commercial property, according to a sales document obtained by Bloomberg News. The assets are mainly based in Andalusia, Madrid, Castille La Mancha and Catalonia, according to the document.

Spokesmen for Blackstone and CaixaBank declined to comment on the deal. http://www.bloomberg.com/

The latest report from the Spanish Ministry of Public Works, on the 2014 new housing stock, indicates that the number of unsold new homes in Spain amounted to a total of 535,734 properties at the end of 2014. This represents a decline of almost 5% over 2013, when the number of unsold new builds was 563,908, and is the lowest figure since 2007, when the housing surplus stood at a total of 413,642 homes. Moreover, it is far from the highest figure registered in 2009 when the stock of unsold new homes stood at 649,780, or a year later, when the excess stock amounted to 642,793 properties.

According to these latest statistics, since 2010 the excess housing stock has now accumulated five consecutive years of declines, with the increase in purchases and, more significantly, the collapse of residential construction resulting in this absorption.

Valencia is the region with the biggest housing surplus, amounting to 18.3% of the total (98,087 homes), followed by Andalucía with 15.9% (85,081 properties) and Catalonia with 15.4% of the total (82,753 homes), while Madrid is situated below

the average with 7.7% of the total and 41,540 new unsold homes.

Thus, three regions together accounted for 49.64% of Spain’s excess housing stock total in 2014: Valencia, Andalucía and Catalonia.

In the general overview, the percentage of unsold new housing stock over the total national housing stock represents 2.1%.

All regions registered declines in the excess housing stock figures, except the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, while the greatest declines were registered in the regions of Extremadura, Cantabria and Navarra, all with over 20%.

In terms of provinces, El Mundo reported that the accumulated housing surplus fell by more than 10% in Guadalajara, Málaga, Lugo, Huelva, and Huesca, while in Vizcaya, Ceuta and Melilla, it increased by more than 5%. keyero.com

image: http://www.girasolhomes.co.uk/

Run by billionaire Stephen Schwarzman, Blackstone has become the largest private equity real estate investor, more than tripling its money in Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. Blackstone Group LP is buying a portfolio of bad loans with a nominal value of 790 million euros ($858 million) from Spanish lender CaixaBank SA, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.

Surplus of New Homes at Lowest Level Since 2007

18

July 2015

Fixed Contracts Rise 18.1% Y-o-Y to June

WorkersAccording to a recent report prepared by human resources group, Randstad, the number of temporary work contracts which were converted to indefinite contracts in the six months to the end of June amounted to a total of 237,570, representing an increase of 18.1% over the same period in 2014, and is the highest number of contract conversions in a first half of a year since 2011.

After analysing the number of conversions of temporary contracts to fixed contracts in Spain during the first six month periods of the last six years, Randstad indicated that the lowest number of conversions were recorded in the first half of 2013, when only 197,769 temporary contracts were converted to indefinite. Since then, the number of contract conversions has increased year by year during each first six month period, to exceed 237,000 at the end of June this year.

Europa Press reported that, according to Randstad, up until the end of June the number of contract conversions increased in all regions, except for Cantabria, where they registered a decline of 8% compared with the same period in 2014.

The regions which recorded the

Home Sales Up, Prices Down Home Mortgages Fell by 30.9% in SeptemberOnce again the General Council of Notaries have reported both an increase in the number of home sales in Spain, and a further decline in prices. Specifically, the number of

in price of apartments (-2.2%) as well as the decline in the price per square metre of individual family dwellings (-2.3%). The price per square metre of second hand apartments stood at 1,339 euros (-0.4%) while the price of

housing transactions increased by 8.4% in May, compared to the same month of 2014, to a total of 33,504 transactions, while the average cost of these transactions fell by 2.5%, to 1,226 euros per square metre.

new apartments stood at 1,505 euros per square metre (-10%). According to the Notaries’ data, since the peak levels reached in 2007, prices have now accumulated a decline of 35%.

greatest increases in contract conversions – exceeding 28% in all of them – were Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León and La Rioja, while also above the national average growth (18.1%) were Aragón, the Basque Country and Madrid.

A total of 131,515 of the contracts converted into indefinite-term contracts until June were for men, representing an increase of 21.1%, while 106,055 conversions were for women, with an increase of 14.5% over the first half of 2014.

Randstad’s report also highlighted the fact that these contract conversions increased in all economic sectors in the first half of the year, especially in agriculture and construction, with increases of 32.1% and 29.9%, respectively, to 5,904 and 15,581 contract conversions, and that 2015 has been the first year in which the number of contract conversions has grown in the construction sector, following seven consecutive years of declines.

Moreover, industry recorded an increase in temporary to fixed contract conversions of 29%, to a total of 33,128 conversions, while in the services sector these increased by 15%, reaching a total of 182,957. keyero.com

“Despite the oscillations of the monthly figures – 1.9% in April -, the figures reflect a recovery in sales,” stressed the Notaries.

By type of dwelling, the sale of apartments showed a year-on-year increase of 8.1% (free 8.8%). This increase is due solely to the rise in sales of second hand apartments (14.5%), as the sale of new apartments registered a decline of 21.5% year-on-year. Moreover, sales of individual family homes recorded growth of 9.6%.

In terms of average price, El Mundo reported that the 2.5% decline is due to both the drop

26% of Spaniards Interested in Buying a Second Home

FincaAccording to a recent study conducted by Casaktua.com, more than one quarter of Spain’s population (26%) would be interested in acquiring a second home. Some 60% of those surveyed would prefer homes situated inland while 40% would prefer a home on the coast.

In response to this potential demand, the banking real estate portal has launched a campaign directed towards all those who are interested in buying a substantial second home, with garden, patio or terrace, in which to enjoy the summer holidays.

The campaign is made up of close to 1,000 homes, and includes villas and penthouses with an average

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

size of 138 square metres, located throughout Spain, both inland and on the coast.

Casaktua.com are offering this portfolio of properties with an average price of around 92,000 euros, which translates into monthly mortgage payments of 350 euros on average.

El Mundo reported that the regions with the greatest number of homes available within this promotion are Andalucia, with 266 dwellings, Valencia (123), Castilla-La Mancha (104), Catalonia (77) and Murcia (76). keyero.com

detatched cortijo reduced

bargain

€125,000

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, pENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS

cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment

20 mins from mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views.

649 186 107

or email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

“Thus, the figures from the sector are still indicating a stabilisation of the Spanish real estate market”, stated the organisation.

The mortgage market for the acquisition of housing also registered an upturn in May, with the number of new mortgage loans authorised for the purchase of a home rising by 25.4%, to a total of 14,213 signatures, with an average loan value amounting to 119,797 euros, which is 6% more than in May 2014.

The percentage of home purchases which were financed through a mortgage stood at 42.4%, with the loans representing 77.9% of the property value on average. keyero.com

19 Contact us now on

www.soltimes.com

SOL Y MAR

950 064 584 609 199 394

Office : Avenida 28 de Febrero, 44, Albox

Email: info@solymarspain.com

Many more properties on our website: www.solymarspain.com Taberno cortijo sM002 - 144,000€

locaiba villa sol510 - 229,000€

CHARMING ALMANZORA VILLA sol150 - only 119,000€

Beautiful Villa on 3200m2 plot great views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, (1 en-suite) covered terrace, garage, fireplace, A/C.

This is beautiful 3 bed villa. located in a tranquil setting. 3 mins outside the traditional village of Almanzora. Fantastic mountain views from your Jacuzzi & private terrace.

ALMANZORA CORTIJO SOL 072 - ONLY 75,000€

sorbas town house sM003 - 85,000€

Lovely property has 2 double beds one with a walk in wardrobe and 1 bathroom in the main house and a casita with 1 bed & bath to the rear of the property.

Town House 4 bedrooms 2 Bathrooms Plunge pool, tastefully refurbished

3-4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms room for pool, elevated side of valley good views, 176 m2 build

almanzora - villa sM008 - 125,000€

cantoria villa sM004 - 160,000€

Arroyo Albanchez CORTIJO sM007 - 116,000€

Detached Villa with 2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms, 7x4 fenced pool. Pretty garden, fully enclosed with parking. Quiet area close to town.

Villa 3 Bed, 2 Bath, enclosed covered terrace, jacuzzi, fully fenced, quiet location near town.

Cortijo, 2 beds, 1 Bath in main house Plus 1 Bed Apartment with Bathroom 240m2 build Solar in addition A/c throughout 10x3 Pool

baza - townhouse sm001 - 95,000€

oria - villa sol 054 - 94,950 €

cerricos - detatched sm011 - 225,000€

fully refurbished 4 bed detached townhouse, elevated views of town & surrounding countryside. underbuild garage, storage space useable caves beyond.

Immaculate villa,1430m2 plot, fantastic views of Oria & surrounding countryside. Modern kitchen, white goods, lounge/diner, 3 beds, 1 with en-suite & a family bath.

extensive 6 bed detached home ,with pool , set in fantastic grounds with spectacular views potential for b&b , recently rewired and replumbed

WE URGENTLY REQUIRE PROPERTIES BETWEEN ALBOX & THE COAST FOR OUR GROWING SALES PORTFOLIO. ALMOST ALL OUR RENTAL PROPERTIES ARE OCCUPIED AND WE HAVE MORE CLIENTES TO SATISFY! CALL US 950 064 584

urgently required two villa for holiday rental required august only min 3 bedroom with own pool close to albox town premium rates availiable

LA PIEDRA AMARILLA MAR778 - RENTAL ONLY 550 PCM

almanzora - cortijo MAR989 - RENTAL ONLY 450 PCM

Ideally located just 10 minutes drive to the large town of Albox, this detached villa is finished to a high standard and is exceptionally well

Traditional detatched cortijo with own pool and private terrace. set in an idylic, secluded location yet close to amenities.

20

July 2015

property group

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk

Mojácar playa

€75,000

2 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Penthouse with sea views, terrace of 13 m² and solarium of 57 m². Air con. Opportunity!

Ref. 1633

Palomares

Mojácar Playa

DUE TO INCREASE IN SALES WE URGENTLY NEED PROPERTIES IN MOJÁCAR, GARRUCHA, VERA AND TURRE. FREE VALUATION. NO FEES FOR ADVERTISING.

€100,000 Mojácar playa

Nice 2 bed / 2 bath PenthouseApartment with roof solarium, underground parking place & store room. Communal pool.

Ref.1035

€110,000 Huerta Nueva

3 bed / 1 bath southeast facing Apartment with sea views and walking distance to beach, promenade and amenities. Ref.1562

€188,000 Mojácar Playa

Reduced! 3 bed / 2 bath detached Villa near beach, amenities & promenade. Air con & fire place. Car port . Partial sea views. Ref.1560

Opening hours.

Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 6.00pm Saturday 10.00 am to 1.30pm

3 bed / 2 bath light-filled and spacious Townhouse with underground garage within 2 min walk to beach. Sea views.

Air con Ref.1511

€175,000

Nice 3 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool on plot of 400 m² less than 5 min drive to amenities. Terraces, car port & gardens.

Ref. 1636

€220,000 Macenas

3 bed / 2 bath semi-detached Townhouse with garage near commercial center & beach. Central heating & air con.

Ref.1632

€99,000

Ready to move into! 2 bed / 1 bath top floor Apartment with terrace & private parking in Pueblo Salinas. Ref.1597

€119,950 Agua Nueva

Immaculate 3 bed / 3 bath Townhouse on plot of 165 m². Well kept community with pool near amenities. Roof solarium. Ref.1641

€200,000 Mojácar Playa

Vera playa

€260,000

3 bed / 3 bath luxury fully furnished Townhouse with private garden of 110 m², terraces & solarium. Communal pool. Ref.1638

21

www.soltimes.com INMOBILIARIA ALMANZORA based in Plaza Nueva in the heart of Albox town centre are Albox’s longest serving Estate Agent and building company.

Established in Albox since 1990,the friendly team at Inmobiliaria Almanzora has the right blend of experience combined with excellent customer service to help make the dream of purchasing a place in the sun a reality.

Casa Graciela IA1534 Rambla de Oria

As a family run company that has been based in the province of Almeria all their lives,the bi-lingual team has an in depth knowledge of the Almanzora Valley and all it has to offer.

Two bedroom house in the popular Rambla de Oria area.

A real bargain.

With a huge range of properties to choose from, Inmobiliaria Almanzora have a property that suits your lifestyle and budget.Starting from a town house to a luxurious villa and homes in between there are properties in all areas of the Almanzora Valley and beyond making it possible to re-locate to the area of your choice.

97,000€

Casa Verde IA1749

The construction arm of the company has been building high quality homes in the area for almost 20 years and are recognised as a respected property developer building popular urbanisations with a reputation for excellence using the best quality materials.

Inmobiliaria Almanzora will work with you to help build your dream property to your own specification using the best materials and highly skilled tradesmen that know the Spanish building trade inside out.

Inmobiliaria Almanzora are always on the lookout for new properties to add to their portfolio.All vendors are offered a free paperwork check in order to check the property status before they are put on sale.Inmobiliaria Almanzora also offer rental properties and require further rental properties for waiting clients.

So call into the office based in Albox in the square with the donkey statue and see what Inmobiliaria Almanzora can do for you .

Visit the website www.inmobiliara-almanzora.com e-mail info@inmobiliaria-almanzora.com.

Tel 950 120 406 Mobile Juan 661917765 Steve 637251238 Office hours in August 9am- 2 pm. Monday to Friday.

Albox

Casa Bobi IA 1486

Cerro Gordo

Great property in the peaceful hamlet of Cerro Gordo.

115,000€

Villa Dalton IA 1502

Albox

Lovely home in a great location.

Close to Albox town centre.

Stunning property in a natural setting near to Albox.

125,000€

299.000€

Plaza Nueva, 9 Albox (Almería)

Tel: 950 120 406

info@inmobiliaria-almanzora.com www.inmobiliaria-almanzora.com

www.immo-carlos.com email: info@immo-carlos.com Address: La Plaza Nueva, No 10, Albox (Opposite the Donkey Statue)

Office: 950 102 191 • Carlos: 648 505 938 • Gavin: 671 293 942

110.000€

Zurgena, Lovely villa with 3 bed, 2 bath.

Big plot & stunning views.

169,950€

Partaloa, Spacious villa with 3 bed, 2 bath and a totally private pool!!

El Chopo, Beautiful villa with 3 bed, 2 bath.

157,500€

174,950€

Wonderful views!!

Cantoria, Spacious villa with 3 bed 2 bath.

Walking distance to the town.

159,950€

Cerro Gordo, Fantastic villa with 3 bed, 2 bath, pool & beautiful views.

Limaria, High quality villa with 3 bed, 2 bath

175,000€

& beautiful garden.

Properties Urgently needed in all areas

COMPLETE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CARE CARE COMPLETE MOJACAR PLAYA

RENTALS - SALES -MANAGEMENT - MAINTENANCE

We urgently need more properties for sale & rental for waiting clients

Ref. FM/RW – Lovely 2 bedroom/1 bath, furnished duplex, solarium, 3 pools, a/c, near shops, bars and beach (400m).

VERA PLAYA reduced €79,950

Ref: PB/RH -Fantastic 4 beds triplex, sea views, private gardens, 4/5 pools/gardens next to beach, solarium, private parking, basement, a/c, furn VERAPLAYA €179,950

O

22

Olive

July 2015

Bedar, 04288 (next to Miramar Restaurant)

Tel: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466 Email: info@olivehouse-es.com

www.olivehouse-es.com

Monday - Friday 10am - 3.30pm

Sales office now open in Bedar

OLV974

alfaix

Lovely authentic Spanish cortijo in a beautiful setting less than 20 minutes to the coast. There is a large plot surrounding the property and some pretty planting with a covered front terrace and an abundance of pretty flowers.

This is a great property with the addition of the land being classed as “urban” meaning building would be allowed.

...it’s all in the detail

OLV512

This unique property is situated just over 1km from the beautiful village of Uleila de Campo and consists of a beautiful new Cortijo style house, stunning mature gardens and more than 700 Olive trees set in over 40,000m2 of land.

180,000 Euros

OLV985

Ref: AL/SR - Lovely 3 bed, 2 bath, apartment, sea views, pool, air con., 300 m to Mojacar Playa beach & promenade.

Bedar (El Pinar)

Uleila del Campo

349.950 Euros

Cucador

OLV982

Ref: GV/EB Perfectly located, furn, 1 bed 1st floor apart, a/c, pool, UKTV, parking, 50 metres from beach

NEW MOJACAR PLAYA €99,950 MOJACAR reduced €69,950 Paseo del Mediterraneo 19, Mojacar Playa, Almeria (near the Hotel Best Indalo) Tel: 950 478 612 / 610 808 631 

info@almeriaholidays.com

www.almeriaholidays.com

Focusing on smaller area to give our clients a better service.

This fabulous, characterful 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom property is in the centre of El Pinar village, hidden away down a private drive in a quiet location. There is a lovely secluded courtyard and plenty of outside space with sea views.

195,000 Euros New

This beautifully finished, immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom villa is located in the peaceful hamlet of Llanos de Peral under 10 minutes from the popular villages of Alfoquia and Zurgena and under 30 minutes from the coast.

169,950 Euros

Voss Homes would like to thank our property owners and buyers for their loyalty and support.

THE HUERCAL-OVERA AREAS NO 1 TOP SELLING ESTATE AGENT. THE HUERCAL-OVERA AREAS NO 1 TOP

SOLD JULY HUERCAL-OVERA

SOLD JULY HUERCAL-OVERA

SOLD JULY HUERCAL-OVERA

SELLING ESTATE AGENT.

Please call 0034 950 616 827 / 0034 678 002 006 / 0034 667 891 741 or email: info@vosshomesspain.com

www.vosshomesspain.com

Office: 155a Carrerera Estacion, Huecal-Overa. 1km off the A7 motorway at exit 553. 100metres from Lidl.

23

www.soltimes.com

San Sebastián It’s said that nothing is impossible. This is wrong. It’s impossible to lay eyes on San Sebastián (Basque: Donostia) and not fall madly in love. This stunning city is cool, svelte and flirtatious by night, charming and well mannered by day. It's a city that loves to indulge, and with Michelin stars apparently falling from the heavens onto its resturants and a pintxo (tapas) culture almost unmatched anywhere else in Spain, San Sebastián frequently tops lists of the world's best places to eat. But just as good as the food is the summer fun in the sun.

Then there’s Playa de Gros (also known as Playa de la Zurriola), with its surfers and sultry beachgoers. As the sun falls on another sweltering summer’s day, you’ll sit back with a drink and an artistic pintxo and realise that, yes, you too are in love with San Sebastián.

For its setting, form and attitude, Playa de la Concha is the equal of any city beach in Europe.

South of the Parte Vieja is the commercial and shopping district, the Centro Romántico,

Beach - there are two main beaches, one on either side of the river.

La Concha, on the west side is the larger, is protected from the sea and has an island and boats in the bay.

Ondarreta is in the same bay as La Concha, but split by El pico del Loro (a rocky outcropping). La Concha and Ondarreta has umbrellas, tents and lounge chairs for €15 per day; free WC, showers and changing rooms. A team of fully-equipped life-guards are there during the daytime.

La Zurriola to the east of the old town and river is a surf beach, clearly better if you want waves or beach sports.

Surfing - surfboards and bodyboards can be rented on Zurriola beach. You'll probably want to spring for a wetsuit as well. The surf shop also offers surf lessons (around €65 per person for five one-hour lessons in a small group) [20].

Hiking For a short easy hike visit the statue of Christ on top of the mountain between the beaches. It takes around an hour to walk up at a leisurely pace. There's a bar on the way up if you need to stop for refreshments or admire the view.

To reach the bar: find a library; from there find directions upstairs to a Castle; follow the stairs along green hedge.

The park officially closes at 9pm in summer (in reality, gates close bit later), and the bar closes before sunset in summer time--and definitely before park is closed.

For a longer hike, head up the hill from Zurriola by taking Zemoria St up from the east end of the Zurriola, and following the long stairway at the end of Zemoria St up to the hiking path which is toward the left. From there, follow the trail marked by the red & white markings to Pasaia/ San Pedro. Initially, the trail is marked by red, white, and green stripes, but the green trail diverts halfway in. The full hike from San Sebastian to Pasaia/San Pedro is approximately 5.5 miles one-way and should take around 2.5 hours.

Tennis and squash: There is a single tennis court (roofed), and two open-air squash courts--both between the El pico del Loro beach and bottom of Mount Igeldo.

Tourist Land Train - a tourist land train leaves from the Calle Zubieta in front of La Concha Beach.

Aquarium - by the Paseo de Kaiko, at the far right of La Concha Beach [21].

Kayak - kayaks can be hired on Ondarreta beach, for about €7 per hour.

Water skiing in the La Concha bay Amusement Park - an aging amusement park with quaint rides can be found at the top of Mount Igeldo, at the West end of La Concha bay. A funicular (cable-car) will take you up and down the mountain (approx €1.40 each way; operates 10am-9pm). If you use your own transport to get up (including walking) you'll have to pay a €2.20 per person toll at the top. As well as the rides, the top of the mountain provides a great view of the town. http://wikitravel.org/

San Sebastián has four main centres of action.

The lively Parte Vieja (old town) lies across the neck of Monte Urgull, the bay’s eastern headland, and is where the most popular pintxo bars and many of the cheap lodgings are to be found.

its handsome grid of late-19th-century buildings extending from behind Playa de la Concha to the banks of Río Urumea. On the east side of the river is the district of Gros, a pleasant enclave that, with its relaxed ambience and the surfing beach of Playa de Gros, makes a cheerful alternative to the honeypots on the west side of the river. Right at the opposite, western end, of the city is Playa de Ondarreta (essentially a continuation of Playa de la Concha), a very upmarket district known as a millionaires' belt on account of its lavish holiday homes.

Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/spain

San Sebastían Hotels Most Expensive in Spain According to a recent survey carried out by online hotel comparison website, Trivago, among the 2 million or more daily visitors to the site, the cheapest cities for hotel stays, at European level, are Warsaw, with an average price of 62 euros per night in June, representing an increase of 2% over the same month of last year, followed closely by Bucharest, with an average price of 70 euros per night (+4%).

The most expensive cities, according to the survey, are Geneva, with an average price of 284 euros (+23% over June 2014), followed by London (263 euros, +11%) and Venice (250 euros, +17%).

Hotel stays in Lisbon registered an average price of 114 euros per night, representing a rise of 11% over the previous year, while the Greek capital, Athens, recorded the greatest increase in the average price per night, of 51%, to reach 143 euros.

In Spain the average price of hotels stood at 118 euros per night, compared with 107 euros in the same month a year earlier, representing an increase of 10% per night, with the cheapest cities being Lleida (58 euros), and Murcia and Zaragoza (both with 60 euros on average).

The report indicated that the average price per night in a standard double room remained stable in San Sebastían – the most expensive city according to the survey – at 189 euros, and also in Pamplona (143 euros), while prices increased by 33% in Cáceres, to 88 euros, followed by Santa Cruz (+27%) and Toledo (+22%), both with an average cost of 82 euros.

Moreover, prices in Madrid increased by 21% to an average of 99 euros; in Valencia they rose by 19% to 89 euros; and in Murcia – one of the cheapest cities in which to stay – prices also increased by 19%, reaching an average price of 60 euros per night.

El Economista reported that also among the most expensive cities in Spain stood Palma, with an average price of 164 euros (+6%), followed by Barcelona (160 euros, +15%), and Cadiz, with an average price of 144 euros, while in contrast, the average prices for hotel stays in Badajoz, Tarragona and Segovia fell by 10%, 9% and 8%, respectively, over the same month of the previous year. keyero.com

24

July 2015

Tel: 96 678 50 86 - 24 hrs mobile: 607 811 958 Torrevieja, La Siesta/San Luis area

David Clark

UK - SPAIN - UK From A Parcel To A Small House Move, Professional, Friendly & Caring, Fully Insured, Scheduled Monthly Door To Door Service, Removal Van

allsortedcs@hotmail.com http://fmtransport.myfreesites.net +34 617 319 651 +44 (0) 7754 246237 +44 (0) 7922 175346 UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

FOR BUSINESS

generics capabilities and a world-class late-stage pipeline that will accelerate our ability to build an exceptional portfolio of products – both in generics and speciality as well as the intersection of the two,” Erez Vigodman, president and CEO of Teva, said in a statement.

Brent Saunders, CEO and president of Allergan, said the sale would help his company enhance its “global-branded pharmaceutical business and strengthen our financial position”.

Teva’s leadership has been saying for months it

Teva buys Allergan's generic drug business for $40.5bn

Israel’s Teva is purchasing Dublin-based Allergan PLC’s generic pharmaceuticals business for $40.5bn (£26.1bn), in what analysts are calling the largest ever acquisition by an Israeli company.

Statements from both companies say the deal will see Allergan receive $33.75bn in cash and shares of Teva valued on Monday at $6.75bn. In light of the acquisition, Teva said it was withdrawing its $40bnplus takeover offer for pharmaceuticals company Mylan.

Word of the acquisition saw Teva shares rise 13% in pre-opening trading on the Nasdaq. Trading in Teva shares on the Tel Aviv stock exchange halted over the news of the sale.

The Israeli pharmaceuticals company is the world’s largest generic drugmaker. It said in a statement the acquisition would provide patients with more access to affordable medicines.

“Through our acquisition of Allergan generics, we will establish a strong foundation for longterm, sustainable growth, anchored by leading

believes some of the biggest generic drug companies should combine in order to save money and become more efficient.

A big deal like this would allow the drugmaker to improve its profitability by cutting jobs and other overlapping costs from the combined businesses.

It also would increase its leverage in negotiating drug prices with insurers and other payers, which is increasingly important in key markets such as the United States, where insurers, employers and other payers are pushing to hold down rising costs that have outpaced inflation for years.

Generic drugs are less expensive than branded drugs, but the prices of some generics have soared due to a lack of competition or shortages brought on by manufacturing problems.

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

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

Tel.. 605 305 405

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

coast2coasttransport@hotmail.com www.coast2coastremovals.com

G.T.AUTOS LOS DOLSES S.L

THE ONE STOP CAR CENTRE

WANTED

BEST PRICES PAID CARS FOR CASH

Call Spencer on 637 090 665 MECHANIC WORKSHOP PHONE JAMES on 672 532 758

Est. 2006

CURTAIN & BEDDING STORE

large selection - great quality - great prices MON - SAT 10-2

SARAH TURLEY

T: 966 848 980 or 642 308 654 C/C Los Dolses, Villamartin

Next to the card shop near the canal.

www.readymadecurtainoutlet.com

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

DAVID THE PLUMBER Prompt and reliable service, no job too small.

Full bathrooms or just makeovers and handyman service.

24 hour call out Boilers: 80 litre fully installed from 160€

Call David on 634 286 590

NEW BUSINESS? 2 WAYS TO ADVERTISE RING 950 121 936 OR EMAIL YOUR ADVERT TO blancasales@soltimes.com

John MacDonald (El Sordo) www.caratacus.eu

www.soltimes.com

The Alquerian Table

As the people of Alqueria are unique so is its cuisine. The climatic conditions, singular soil type and strange consistency of the water in the Río Verde combine to produce the most unusual foodstuffs in all Spain. Alquerian cuisine is based around Remitroot, local truffles and the freshwater fish from the Río Verde. The term freshwater is used advisedly.

Fermented Remitroot berries and Río Verde water provide the basis for the local wine. Antonio Poyato, who brews the wine applied for Denominación de Origen certification, however the regulatory body returned his sample with a note simply saying ‘Not bloody likely’. Distilled Remitroot has recently attracted the attention of the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission.

Alqueria Pudding is a traditional meal enjoyed on festive occasions particularly weddings. The basis is again Remitroot, but pulped into a dough. Not unlike suet, the puddings can contain a variety of fillings. Because the dough is an aggressive aphrodisiac, very few are completely consumed. It is advisable to check with one’s doctor before eating one. It might also be polite to check with one’s partner.

Alquerian Truffles may not be as sought after as the Motovun Forest variety but they are distinctive. Black with variable blue markings they have a pungent aroma slightly reminiscent of the drainage problems associated with Egyptian port towns. A top French chef described them as having the consistency of Balsa Wood and the taste of hydrocortisone skin cream. Highly trained Mongolian Gerbils locate the delicacy on the southern slopes

viewpoint

of the Sierra Alhamilla beneath fallen and rotting foliage.

The Río Verde begins life as a sparkling stream high in the Sierra. By the time it flows past Alqueria it is a slow moving malodorous green watery stew containing only the most resilient of life. Strange catfish and freshwater Lampreys lurk in its murky depths the only edible fish is the Alquerian Trout. Considered a separate species owing to its survival in the River, a task few other Salmoninae varieties have managed. Distinguished from other trout by large dilated eyes and a confused expression they need careful preparation.

Nestor Clacketo ate one only partially cooked and it had the most terrible side-effects. He was in such a state of mental disorientation he entered and was welcomed into politics. A Sturgeon reputedly caught in the Río Verde is on display over the bar of La Casa Devante.

It is in fact a rather badly preserved pike.

The cardboard spines stapled to its back and markings fashioned with a black felttip pen fool few.

Alqueria’s food and drink are perhaps only for the educated palate, acquired tastes, not for the faint hearted. If one is tempted to enjoy a repast of local delicacies, an open mind and good medical insurance are recommended.

Rear-Ended

I am aware that the passing years have turned my body into less of a temple and more of a sofa cushion.

Nowadays the spring in my step is more of a ponderous lurch, hills have become steeper and miles longer, objects that fall on the floor have to remain there until enough of them have accumulated to make the effort of bending down to retrieve them worthwhile, and rising from a seated position is an action to be planned, not undertaken on a whim.

But I am nothing if not an optimist, so in an effort to halt this physical decline I joined a Pilates class.

Pilates, I decided, with its slow and precise movements would give my fading muscles the workout they needed.

The experience was akin to thinking that you only had a loose floorboard, but finding instead that the whole house is riddled with dry rot – every part of my body seemed somehow to have gone into rag doll mode – except my tongue, which remains pretty fit!

Obviously once a week was not going to make a noticeable difference to my general doughyness, so I determined to practice at home. I procured a Core Ball, a splendid silver affair with a jaunty outlook on life and a quite disturbing amount of bounce.

My guru Michelle fixed me with a firm eye, to make sure that I was listening properly, and warned me of the dangers of using it on a slippery floor. As I had already fallen off it twice during class I took her advice seriously – I bought myself a mat

25

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk decorated with entirely unsuitable cartoon animals, and which claimed to be non-slip.

I placed the mat on the tiled floor of the living room, placed BB (Big Ball) on top, explained to him what was supposed to happen, and then placed myself gingerly on top of him.

We bounced together for a time in total harmony, so I moved on to the next exercise, where I had to move out forwards until BB was underneath my lower back. All was well, with my abdominals as impressively engaged as my flabby form would allow.

At this point and without warning BB and the mat squirted backwards, leaving me suddenly unsupported and at the mercy of gravity. I spontaneously precipitated on to the tiled floor with a mighty thud right on my tailbone – Don’t you dare laugh, it is NOT FUNNY! And no, the bruise is not on public display!

puzzle pages

26

Answers

wordsearch Summer

soltimes general knowledge Quiz

4. Players from which country have been cautioned a record 345 times in Football World Cup matches? (as of 2006).........................................

5. Which seven English players have missed penalties after extra time in Football World Cup matches? .......................................

6. Why did the best side of the decade, the Austrian ‘wunder’ team, withdraw from the 1938 Football World Cup?........................

7. The American Bert Patenaude was the first player to do what in a Football World Cup match?.............

8. Which German player appeared in five consecutive Football World Cup tournaments?..........................

GOLF GREEN GRASS HAT HIKING HOLIDAYS HOT ICE CREAM JULY JUNE MOSQUITOES NO SCHOOL PICNIC ROLLER BLADES SANDALS SKATEBOARD

wordsearch answer

SOCCER SOLSTICE SPRINKLERS SUNBURN SUNGLASSES SUNSCREEN SUNSHINE SUNTAN SWEAT SWIMMING U V RAYS WASPS WATER FIGHTS WATERMELON

standard SUDOKU

9. In a Football World Cup match, who was The youngest player to score a goal for England (1998).......

10. What would have happened in the 1966 World Cup Final between England and West Germany had the score remained 2-2 after extra time ?..................................................

Answers

squiggle SUDOKU

ANTS AUGUST BARBECUE BASEBALL BEACH BEES BICYCLE BLUE SKY BOATING BREEZE CAMPING FISHING FLIES FLOWERS GARDENING

easy SUDOKU

CRYPTIC crossword

(Pink Floyd), Bat out of Hell (Meatloaf), Eagles Greatest Hits, Saturday Night Fever (various artists), Rumours (Fleetwood Mac).

8. Extreme cold 9. Hellen 10. Pinocchio

CROSSWORD

1. Paris 2. ABBA 3. Zorro 4. Vatican, San Marino and Lesotho 5. Marmite 6. A wine lover or wine connoisseur 7. Back in Black (AC/DC), Dark Side of the Moon

SOLUTIONS

2. Which Football World Cup was the first to be broadcast in colour?..

3. Which two countries have been runners-up in two consecutive Football World Cup tournaments?...

SUMMER VACATION

Answers

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

The remaining letters spell an additional summer item.

Gerrard and Carragher 6. German ‘annexation’ 7. c. Score a hattrick 8. Lothar Matthaus (1982-1998) 9. Michael Owen 18 years 190 days 10. Flip of a coin

1. Which European capital was once called Lutetia by the Romans?................

2. Festfolk, which translated means ‘party people’ or ‘engaged couples’, was the original name of which band?...........

3. What is the very well-known Spanish word for ‘fox’?........................................

4. Name the three countries in the world that are completely surrounded by one country. One point for each correct answer..................................................

5. Everyone in the UK knows the French word for a large covered earthenware pot. What is the word?...........................

6. What is an oenophile (or enophile)?...

7. Six of the 10 best-selling albums of all time were first released between the years 1973 and 1980. Can you name the six albums?............................................

8. What is used when performing cryosurgery?..........................................

9. What is the Greek root for ‘Greek’?

(Six letters)............................................

10. The beautiful ‘Blue Fairy’ grants wishes in which popular film?................

soltimes sports Quiz

1. Which African country was the first to compete in a Football World Cup?..............................................

1. Eygpt (1934) 2. Mexico 1970 3. Holland (1974 and 1978) and West Germany (1982 and 1986) 4. Argentina 5. Pearce, Waddle, Batty, Ince, Lampard,

sol name the COUNTRY FROM THE OUTLINE picture quiz!

1. Ukraine 2. Ethiopia 3. Bolivia 4. Scotland

on this day 30th JUly

762 – Baghdad is founded by caliph Al-Mansur.

1419 – First Defenestration of Prague: a crowd of radical Hussites kill seven members of the Prague city council.

1626 – An earthquake in Naples, Italy, kills about 10,000 people.

1733 – The first Masonic Grand Lodge in the future United States is constituted in Massachusetts.

1962 – The Trans-Canada Highway, the largest national highway in the world, is officially opened.

2006 – The world’s longest running music show Top of the Pops is broadcast for the last time on BBC Two. The show had aired for 42 years.

July 2015

puzzle pages

www.soltimes.com

the ashes

Watch England take on the Aussies in the 5th Test at the Oval.

27

jimmy carr

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.

GET YOUR TICKETS TO THESE plus MANY OTHER EVENTS AT WWW.SOLTIMES.COM Down 1. Tennis stroke (3) 2. Long narrative poem (4) 3. Detain (5) 4. Forbidding (4) 5. Consume (3) 7. Illness (7) 8. Part of a square-rigger (7) 9. Edging of small loops (5) 10. Higher up (5) 13. Musical instrument (5) 14. Heron (5) 16. Male title (3) 17. Church bench (3) 21. Cite (5) 24. Fur (4) 25. Woody plant (4) 28. Possesses (3) 29. Make a mistake (3) ACROSS

STANDARD CROSSWORD

across 1. Shelf (5) 6. Musical drama (5) 7. Competence (7) 9. Friend (3) 11. Rotating disk (3) 12. Simian (3) 15. Wading bird (4) 17. Snob (4) 18. Risible (5) 19. Conifer (5) 20. Finished (4) 22. Ebb (4) 23. Number (3) 24. Place (3) 26. Decay (3) 27. Proposition (7) 30. Change (5) 31. Bullock (5)

Down

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

1 First place team is right out for animals!

(8) 5 Head of state has party in tree? Not very often! (6) 9 Grows girl in 500 cuts (8) 10 Filter a melody (6) 12 Ways of plane-stopping? (5) 13 Decorations, or handles with books inside (9) 14 Drink company for opening charge (6) 16 Most remote south-west town sends two English leaders to the end, with maiden in between! (7) 19 Partner hospital and university with southern music group (7) 21 Poems sheltered in “Mount Simple” (6) 23 Drape tent around, having a particular repeated design (9) 25 What may be thrown in for drying? (5) 26 Use me up - ply with inner love (6) 27 New zinc site subjects (8) 28 Hit second vehicle (6) 29 American tram-cars for putting shopping in? (8)

easy

SUDOKU PUZZLES standard

1 Held duplicate partly returning some water (6) 2 Creators of New Testament version, perhaps (9) 3 Finally, not quite reference book (5) 4 Blow up doll nearly coming up with soft entry into British river (7) 6 Roughy calculated stormy tides sheltering friend (9) 7 Haggard, northern part of hospital is over (5) 8 Attend to clergyman (8) 11 Joint first kid is born (4) 15 Skeleton of animal, with innards of newt, found in item of cutlery (9) 17 The Spanish “Stitch” in this place, or in another place (9) 18 Man with mostly short parts of book (8) 20 Absent without leave after party’s over (4) 21 Pass away in messy drum - it’s more grubby (7) 22 Shuts top of castle and is defeated (6) 24 In fact, a perfect wick (5) 25 Test pilot? (5)

squiggle

soltimes Minion moment

28

July 2015

All recipes found on: www.bbcgoodfood.com/

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Light and luscious dishes, best enjoyed al fresco

Slow-roast tomato Tatin Make a savoury tarte tatin with sweet and sour-slow cooked tomatoes on a crisp puff pastry base method Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Melt the butter with a splash of olive oil in your widest frying pan. Add the tomatoes, skinside down, in a single layer (you can do this in 2 batches if they won’t all fit) and cook over a low heat until they release their juices.

Lift out with a slotted spoon and rearrange in a tart tin (roughly 23cm), skin-side down

Ingredients 25g butter splash of good olive oil 800g medium and small mixed tomatoes, halved across the middle and seeds roughly scooped out 1 tbsp light soft brown sugar 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or oregano, plus extra to serve 375g block all-butter puff pastry plain flour, for dusting

– cram them in as they will shrink a little and you don’t want any gaps. Add the sugar and vinegar to the pan, and cook until the pan juices are reduced and syrupy. Drizzle over the tomatoes in the tin, then scatter with the oregano or thyme and season.

Roll the pastry out on a lightly floured surface to a good 2526cm round. Lay on top of the tomatoes, and tuck the edges down. Use a fork to prick holes all over the pastry – this will help the steam to escape.

Sit the tart tin on a flat baking tray and bake for 30 mins or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let the tart sit for 10 mins, then run a knife round the edge to release the pastry. Carefully flip the tart over onto a serving plate or board

and

scatter

with more herbs to serve.

8 Healthy Summer Foods to Add to Your Diet

Find out which healthy foods to add to your diet this summer.

It’s summer—that amazing time of year when fresh produce abounds. As a dietitian and nutrition editor I love that there’s an abundance of fresh, delicious and healthy choices. Better yet: many of summer’s fruits and vegetables are brimming with secret health benefits. Here are some of my favorites and why they’re a particularly good choice in the summer—as reported on in EatingWell Magazine.

1. Corn

Nothing says summer like fresh sweet corn.

And did you know that two antioxidants—lutein and zeaxanthin—in corn may act like natural sunglasses, helping to form macular pigment that filters out some of the sun’s damaging rays? It’s true. The same antioxidants may also help lower your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration—the leading cause of blindness in people over the age of 60 (though much of the damage occurs decades earlier).

2. Iced Coffee

An iced pick-me-up is a great way to start your summer mornings. Better yet: drinking a single cup of coffee daily may lower your risk of developing skin cancer. In one study of more than 93,000 women, published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention, those who drank one cup of caffeinated coffee a day reduced their risk of developing nonmelanoma skin cancer by about 10 percent. And the more they drank—up to about 6 cups or so per day—the lower their risk. Decaf didn’t seem to offer the same protection

3. Tart Cherries

They deliver a host of health benefits. You may have heard that drinking tart cherry juice can help you get a better night’s sleep and quell post-workout pain (read more about that here). But did you know that compounds in tart cherries may also help you slim down and get leaner? When scientists at the University of Michigan Health System put rats on a high-fat diet supplemented with either a tart-cherry powder (equal to 1% of the weight of their total diet) or the same number of calories from carbohydrate, those that got the cherry powder gained less weight and body fat. Why? The anthocyanins in tart cherries activate a molecule that helps rev up fat burning and decrease fat storage.

4. Tomatoes

There’s no question that sunscreen should be your first line of defense against the blazing summer sun. But eating tomatoes could give you a little extra protection: consuming more lycopene—the carotenoid that makes tomatoes red—may protect your skin from sunburn. In one study, participants who were exposed to UV light had almost 50 percent less skin reddening after they ate 2 1/2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or drank about 1 2/3 cups of carrot juice daily), in addition to their regular diet, for 10 to 12 weeks. Supplements, however, weren’t as effective: in the same study, those who received a lycopene supplement or synthetic lycopene weren’t significantly protected against sunburn.

29

www.soltimes.com

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Herbed chicken, peach & feta salad

5. Watermelon

Staying hydrated keeps your memory sharp and your mood stable. It also helps keep your body cool (by sweating) during hot summer months.

The good news is that you don’t just have to drink water. You can eat it, too: in addition to delivering skinprotecting lycopene, watermelon is 92 percent water (hence the name).

Another boon? Research shows that eating foods that are full of water helps keep you satisfied on fewer calories. (Interestingly enough, drinking water alongside foods doesn’t have the same effect.)

6. Raspberries

Raspberries are a great source of fiber—some of it soluble in the form of pectin, which helps lower cholesterol. One cup of raspberries has 8 grams of fiber—and a study in the Journal of Nutrition suggests that eating more fiber may help prevent weight gain or even promote weight loss. Over the course of a two-year study, researchers found that when study participants boosted their fiber by 8 grams for every 1,000 calories, they lost about 4 1/2 pounds. Try it for yourself. If you’re consuming 2,000 calories per day, aim to increase your fiber by 16 grams

7. Iced Tea

Sure, a tall glass of iced tea on a hot day is refreshing, but did you know it might also do your body good? Studies show if you drink tea regularly, you may lower your risk of Alzheimer’s and diabetes, plus have healthier teeth and gums and stronger bones. How? Tea is rich in a class of antioxidants called flavonoids. Regardless of the variety—black, green, oolong, white or herbal—maximize the power of tea’s flavonoids by drinking it freshly brewed. If you want to keep a batch of cold tea in your refrigerator, “add a little lemon juice,” recommends Jeffrey Blumberg, Ph.D., director of the Antioxidants Research Laboratory at the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University in Boston. The citric acid and vitamin C in that squeeze of lemon—or lime, or orange—help preserve the flavonoids.

8. Blueberries

Fresh blueberries straight from the berry patch are a special treat!

Turns out the antioxidants in them may help ward off muscle fatigue by mopping up the additional free radicals that muscles produce during exercise, according to recent research out of New Zealand. http://www.eatingwell.com/

Dill, mint and basil really bring this bulghar wheat dish to life- use a ready-cooked chicken to save time and add the herbs and dressing at the last minute method with a fork and let cool.

Roughly chop the herbs just Pour the boiling-hot stock over the bulghar in a large bowl. Cover before serving, then toss into with cling film and set aside for the bulghar. Spread over a large 15-20 mins until the stock has platter, then top with the chicken, been totally absorbed and the peaches, pecans and feta. Roughly toss everything together a little. grains are tender.

Drizzle over the dressing to serve.

Meanwhile, slice or tear the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and cut each peach into 12 wedges.

Whisk the dressing ingredients together with some seasoning.

When the bulghar looks dry and has swollen up in the bowl, remove the cling film. Fluff it up

pimms

A true taste of summer, serve this fruity punch with fresh mint leaves, cucumber, orange and strawberries

T

Ingredients 200ml vegetable stock, made with freshly boiled water 125g bulghar wheat meat from a roughly 900g ready-roasted smoked or unsmoked whole chicken (about 550g ready-roasted chicken breasts), not too fridge-cold 2 ripe yellow-fleshed peaches 25g pack mint 25g pack dill handful basil (optional) 50g toasted pecan halves, some left whole 100g feta cheese, crumbled For the dressing zest and juice 2 limes (about 4 tbsp juice) 1 tsp rice vinegar (or use white wine vinegar and a pinch of sugar) 3 tbsp mild olive oil 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tsp golden caster sugar 1 heaped tsp wholegrain mustard

I C P A NA O R EXC I NEW TING MEN U

W R NE T E D EN UN GEM A N MA

ALGORFA NOW SERVING Genuine Home Cooked ENGLISH FOOD A la Carte Menu English Tapas Selection available Ingredients 200ml Pimm's No. 1 600ml lemonade mint sprigs, sliced cucumber, sliced orange and strawberries, to serve method Fill a jug with ice and pour over the Pimm’s and lemonade. Give it a good stir then add the mint, cucumber and fruit.

POPULAR RELAXING BAR AREA Enjoy our Tuesday Curry Night Drink & Curry

only 7.95€ Open: Mondays 5pm til late Tuesdays - Saturdays 12noon - 3pm & 5pm til late Tel: 645 179 443 C/Mayor, 16 (20mts from the square)

30

July 2015

Is fast food killing off Spain’s famed Mediterranean diet?

Younger Spaniards are shifting away from their parents’ traditional eating habits The profusion of fast food restaurants in historical city centers along the Mediterranean – where the most popular menu item is often a dish of spaghetti swimming in a pool of industrially produced carbonara sauce – is just one of the signs that a slow but inexorable change is underway: the end of the Mediterranean diet.

This dietary change conceals a social transformation that goes far beyond food. The Mediterranean diet, once a way of life as much as a way of eating, has morphed into something that looks more like a medical recommendation than a reflection of social mores.

A June report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM) notes that the region is shifting away from its traditional diet, and warns that the effects of this shift go beyond nutrition.

“The abandonment of traditional habits and the emergence of new lifestyles associated with socio-economic changes pose important threats to the preservation and transmission of the Mediterranean diet to future generations,” reads the report Mediterranean Food Consumption Patterns.

One of the white paper’s key messages is that “it is urgent to preserve the cultural heritage of the Mediterranean diet

as an outstanding resource for sustainable development as it contributes to promoting local production and consumption, encouraging sustainable agriculture and safeguarding landscapes.”

A surge in ready-to-eat food Stall owners at the Antón Martín food market, in downtown Madrid, have already noticed the transformation.

“People don’t cook as much as they used to, and you can tell that young people buy a lot of ready meals,” explains Lorenzo, who has spent the last 16 years working at a butcher’s stall. “We sell a lot more steaks than meat for stews.”

“It’s not just the crisis that’s influencing in the decline. The problem is also a lack of knowledge: you need to know how to cook fish and vegetables, or how to shop for fresh food... All of this is a very important part of the Mediterranean diet,” says Serra-Majem, who co-authored the FAO study.

The gradual disappearance of traditional recipes – visibly happening with pulses, for instance – consumers who increasingly buy their groceries at supermarkets rather than traditional markets, and the rise of convenience food in a world where nobody has the time to cook, all underscore the profound social transition underway.

Fewer fresh products consumed in 2014 The trend is mostly cultural, making its effects difficult to capture statistically. Yet the Agriculture Ministry’s 2014 report Food Consumption shows a decline in all products associated with the Mediterranean diet.

The study, which closely analyzes Spaniards’ eating habits, says that “the volume of fresh products that were consumed fell more (-3.3%) than other food types (-1.7%) even though the former experienced bigger price drops than the average drop for all food types.”

Between 2013 and 2014, consumers bought 3.1% fewer potatoes and fresh vegetables, and 6% fewer tomatoes.

In the case of pulses, perhaps the dietary element that is disappearing the fastest from people’s tables, the drop was 6.1%. http://elpais.com/

Lots of vegetables, little meat

The Mediterranean diet as a nutritional concept was born after World War II and based on research by the US doctor Ancel Keys, whose Seven Countries Study found a much lower incidence of cardio-vascular disease in southern Mediterranean countries than in northern Europe or North America. This was basically a poor man’s diet, featuring lots of vegetables and little meat, and was eaten by people who worked hard in the fields. It also reflected the food shortages of Europe’s postwar era.

According to the Mediterranean Diet Foundation, its foundations are “olive oil, an abundance of foods of vegetable origin (fruit, vegetables, pulses and nuts), bread and food made from cereals (pasta, rice); seasonal products that have undergone little or no processing; dairy products (mostly cheese and yogurt), moderate amounts of red meat, if possible as part of stews; a lot of fish; water and wine but only with meals, and daily physical activity.”

Unesco, which designated the Mediterranean diet an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity item after being petitioned by Cyprus, Croatia, Spain, Greece, Italy, Morocco and Portugal, defines it as a kind of diet that “emphasizes values of hospitality, neighborhoods, intercultural dialogue and creativity, and a way of life guided by respect for diversity.”

www.soltimes.com

Tel: 950 121 936

age concern

Summer’s here and Age Concern have had a busy first half of the year. Each month sees several new clients needing our support which means we need more volunteers to lend a helping hand, be a friendly face to visit someone who may not see anyone else all day. If you can spare a few hours of your time doing something we can all do (make a cup of tea, sit down and have a chat, provide a bit of company for someone) please contact the numbers below for further information.

- community news -

sales@soltimes

learn to paint

Every Mon, Fri - Using watercolour, pastels or acrylics these are small classes on Monday and Friday afternoons at Playa Paraiso, La Manga. For further information contact Bee Tel: 968 564 416 or 670 353 738

Roman Catholic Church , Saladillo

welcome events

31

Wednesday August 19th. - Dance outside again at Mariano’s with Terry J and our own Christine, in aid of Age Concern. €8 THURSDAY October 1st. - Dance the night away to one of the top acts on the Costas, Andy McBride & Co, fantastic Rod Stewart & Faces. First time in this area and NOT to be missed. €10 Wednesday December 9th. - Book now for Christmas Party at Mariano’s. Truly excellent night with Ricky Lavazza and Time Warp. €12 A Romantic Weekend Trip to Benalmadena, leaving February 12th 2016 for 3 nights half board with wine and water at the 4* Hotel Mac Puerto Marina. Price includes coach travel and day trips plus The Ricky Lavazza Valentine show. €170 NEW Welcome Cruise March 6th 2016. - 10 nights aboard Norwegian Epic, fully inclusive including drinks package from Barcelona calling at Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Tangier and Malaga. Price also includes Insurance, Coach travel, Taxes and overnight stay in Valencia. More info call Rosemary.

For more information on all these, call Rosemary on 620 105 179

Holy Mass There will be no Mass in Latin on the following 3 Sundays ie 2nd, 9th and 16th of August.

The Latin Mass will resume on Sunday 23rd of August, We need people to fill committee posts – Vice at the usual time of 4.30 PM. President, Press Officer & Secretary. None of these Further Information please call Father Octavio 676 219 445 jobs are demanding but, if you prefer administrative work, there may be a place for you!

St. Nicholas Ecumenical Church We hold services each week at 10.30am on All the services we provide are becoming very Camposol, Mazarron. Everyone is welcome to join popular – see our forecast of events for details. us. For further details, call Rev. Maureen Kent 968 Please note – our Advice & Information service at 970 637 Camposol Cultural Centre will be closed during the Talks & Workshops month of August.

MABS Murcia North East - Sew’n’So’s - Sewing Group Lifeline 634 344 589 Advice & Information 634 310 Every Mon Fortuna 216.

Taking place every other Monday at Urb. Las A parkinsons Support Group Wednesday 29th July - Menu-del-dia at Restaurante Kalendas from 14:00. For further information email: On Tuesdays at 11am At bobbie jo·s, los montisinos mabsmurciane@gmail.com For a chat and a cup of tea For further information Siena, Mazarrón town 10€ contact wally Williamson On 966 770 871 Wednesday 19th August - Welcome dance for Age Ex-Servicemen’s Association Concern at Mariano’s, Camposol. 2 acts. Tickets Mazarrón District (Founded 1 May 2006) Archaeological Museum from the Welcome meeting 1st Saturday of the EVENTS - 2015 Every Day, Open from 10:30-14:00 and 17:00-20:00. month, Mariano’s or tel 620 105 179. 8€ Entrance, Wednesday 12th August - 7.30pm for 8pm, Closed Monday mornings. At C/ Conde de Aranda.

Restaurant Pekin 5, Puerto de Mazarron, Evening 5€ Food (optional).

Tel: 968 493 287. Entry: Individual €1.20 Groups Meal (Near Mercadona) Wednesday 2nd September - ‘Talking Shop’ social at Wednesday 16th September - 7.30pm for 8pm, €0.60 Restaurante La Meson, Isla Plana, Evening Meal Camposol Cultural Centre, 1.30pm Wednesday 14th October - 1.30pm for 2pm, Viggos Wednesday 9th September - Black & White Ball Puerto de Mazarron, Lunchtime meal SORRY, SOLD OUT! Tickets from: Camposol Cultural Membership and enquiries, Ian 629818611 Centre Wed/Thu 10am to 1pm, Friday 12.30 to 2pm. or esamd_espana@yahoo.co.uk Telephone: 634 310 215 Other areas: 634 336 484.

Luz del Sol

new properties s.l.

mazarron lions

The lions Club meets 1st Monday of every month at 4 pm upstairs in the Trevi bar Camposol Sector B all are welcome Contact Nigel 605 111 205 mazarronlions@gmail.com If you are interested in joining the Lions please contact Nigel barker or Visit us at our stall every Friday outside Oscars camposol B 11 to 3 pm Tel 696 827 525

CHURCH OF ENGLAND COSTA CALIDA & ALMERIA Priest: Reverend Pauline Williams 950

956 166 / 687 250 860

MARKET DAYS IN THE AREA Monday - San Pedro del Pinatar Tuesday - Los Alcazares / Alhama de Murcia

Wednesday - Santiago de la Ribeira / Fuente Alamo / Totana

Thursday - San Javier / Camposol

Wish your Friends or Loved Ones Happy birthday, Anniversary or just send them a special message

Send details to

production@soltimes.com The Mar Menor is a huge (135 square kilometres) salt-water lagoon, separated from the Mediterranean by the 24 kilometre long La Manga del Mar Menor (The Strip).

The average depth of the Mar Menor is four metres and at its maximum it is seven metres which means that the seabed slopes very gradually and you have to get several hundred metres in before the water is of any depth.

Friday - Isla Plana (Summer only) Saturday - Mazarron Pueblo / Aguilas Sunday - Puerto de Mazarron / Mar

The Mar Menor’s salinity provides buoyancy so it is, supposedly, one of the safest places to swim in the world. The mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic effects and because of this the area has a significant spa tourism industry.

Menor / Cabo de Palos

The sludge in the salt pans is also credited

Sector A / Lorca

Call us on 968 199 068 www.luzdelsol.co.uk

Centro Comercial #34, Sector A, Urb. Camposol, Mazarron 30875, Spain

SolTimes

Have A Drop Off Point Here For Payments Private Or Trade Advertisers, Birthdays Or Other Announcements

with beneficial effects on the health, so there are often dozens of mud people wallowing in it at any one time.

Playa Paraiso beach on a summer weekend The beach at Playa Paraiso is very popular, partly because it has road access right onto the beach. On summer weekends it will be packed with Spanish families, who move most of their house onto the beach.

The sea is very shallow, with netted off areas to exclude watersports, fishing and jellyfish.

The jellyfish are mainly harmless and much reduced in numbers from previous years, apart from the summer of 2006 when they were back with a vengeance. Playa Honda beach During the week the beach is quiet.

32

SOL CLASSIFIEDS

SOLTIMES 950 121 936 www.soltimes.com see us online everyday Advertise all your unwanted items for sale Any single item up to 300€ is

free of charge deadline thursday 5pm

Monday to Friday Between 10am & 5pm

or EMAIL us Send your advert or lineage to

sales@soltimes.com

DEADLINES All adverts Friday at 5pm prior to publication

alternative power

www.ecocorpshop.com are you getting frustrated at ever increasing electricity bills do you want a clean, reliable energy alternative

made payable to

MATHEWS mEDIA s.l

for sale

pool tables snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts.

Tel: 666 933 726 www.spainpool.com 14 Glasses Engraved Very Fine Crystal: 5 Champagne & 4 Wine.

20€. Tel: 610 910 978. (Near ITV Torrevieja)

sunlife solar solutions

Fender American Stratocaster Neck. Year 95 with maple board and original tuners in good condition.

150€. No offers.

sl registered company 100% legal installations we will beat any like for like genuine written quotation

Folding wooden chairs, ideal for extra guests, 5€ each Tel: 690 772 178 (San Fulgencio)

for a no obligation quotation

The finest solar installations on the costa blanca

tel: 965 271717

solar directa

slash your energy bills with a solar system from

solar directa

Advertise all your unwanted items for sale in this section

Any single item up to 300€ is free of charge email: blancasales@soltimes.com

kitchens

P A Speaker, Thomann 350 watt 15 in speaker with tweeter, and stand.

New condition, unused. Bargain.

80€Tel: 966 789 612 or 629 975 378

Jumbo ascending parachute for towing behind a boat (one or two person model) new in valise, less than half price 300€ ono. Tel: 606 075 644.

2 x electric built in under ovens, one white, one light grey (with timer), both ex. Con. can deliver reasonable distance. 50€ each ono. Tel: 606 075 644.

just new doors or a complete new kitchen 968 184 235 email: info@kitchenplus1.com www. kitchenplus1.com

personals “Readers of a sensitive disposition may find some of the ads in this section offensive”

tel keith on 659 315 130

4 x childrens bikes, modern mountain bike style, age range from 3 to 6 years approx. 50€ the lot. or separate. Tel: 606 075 644

new Carrefour before La Florida. 37

artificial grass

Microwave with grill. 20€ Tel: 606 075 644..

years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic

top quality artificial grass

Table tennis table, folding upright with wheels. 20€ Tel: 606 075 644

services, massage, sexy lingerie,

DJ cased Denon twin CD player.

80€ Tel: 966 716 314 - Quesada.

Ana 865 646 437

installed by qualified professionals

call neil on 693 496 510 mands24@googlemail.com www.artificialgrass.pro

“Internet Millionaire Reveals Secrets Of Making £1,000 A Week & More Without Any Previous Experience”

transfer & Cheques

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

if so call ecocorp on 671 716 597 or 950 930 187

business opportunity

PAYMENT VISA ,Paypal, bank

July 2015

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

Spanish lady Playa Flamenca near

prices from 40€. Full discretion. Tel:

electricians

ELEGANT slim, sexy, naughty italian

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

Torrevieja, La Manga, Torre Pacheco

insurance

asssa medical

lady available home/house visits. & Mazarron, Quesada plus all other areas.

Escort available home &

house visits. Tel: 693 357 526

pets

insurances Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan, 968 153 396

mazarron@asssa.es jewellery

GOLD WANTED English jeweller wishes to buy broken or unwanted Gold jewellery, silver and coins

IMMEDIATE CASH PAYMENT Call Peter

664 890 990

Member of the National Association of Goldsmiths

This little boy is now 9 weeks and available for adoption. He was found 4 weeks ago after being abandoned in San Fulgencio.

He is very sociable and has a jet black brother who is also available for adoption plus many more kittens in need of homes.

For More Information Please call 645 469 253 info@petsinspain.info www.petsinspain.com

33

www.soltimes.com

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

www.soltimes.com property for sale / rent

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

removals

De Lima’s

removals Local, National & international REMOVALS & STORAGE Quality Second hand furniture showroom

2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, pENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com Vera Playa Apartment

detatched cortijo reduced

bargain

263 Paseo del Mediterraneo Mojacar Playa, Next to Sal Marina Hotel Mon-Fri: 10am-3pm sat 10am-2pm Tel: 950 615 364 Call Marc on 647 006 183 or Brian on 674 280 268 or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz

www.delimas.biz

fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS

James & Son Removals / Storage

UK, France & Spain 20mins from mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views. €125,000 649 186 107 oremail thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

personalshoppingfromtheUK (Argos,Screwfix,Wickesetc) Pet Transportation & Competitive Rates

0034 627 968 434 0044 7874 638 330 Email: jsinternational@mail.com

want to know whats in the news?

go online: www. SOLTIMES.com

motoring section LWB Sprinter van going from south to North of the UK & back every 2 weeks, based near Murcia Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 186 355. or email: van.man@ hotmail.co.uk

spas euro spas Spas at factory prices.

Used & Ex display models.

Spares & repairs.

Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905

sat/tv services Rainbow Satellites for all your TV needs with clients all over the Murcia Region. Contact Matt or Alan on 686 358 475 or rainbowsats@ gmail.com

situations vacant

SOLTIMES newspaper group

Require a Sales Manager for the Quesada area.

You will have proven sales ability, can work to sales deadlines. You will be dealing with current advertising businesses but have the confidence to build new business. You must have a computer to work from a distance, own car and driving licence.

High commission package and bonus, contract and mobile phone and expenses. Full training at our head office in Albox Almeria will be required. This is an exciting opportunity. If you have what we are looking for,

Call Paulette on 950 121 936 or email your CV to sales@soltimes.com

for sale

Looking for a car

We have a good selection of LHD & RHD vehicles for sale or exchange Quality cars purchased all paperwork legally undertaken Telephone 600 726 221 or 965 687 976 www.fwreurocars.com

Do you have vehicle, boat or motor bike for sale

This size advert is only 10€

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

y

Phone Paulette on 950 121 936

Vehicles registration

“RE-PLATE” MATE GB

wanted

CASH CASH CASH Same day collection

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 1000 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

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

wanted cars for cash

Best prices paid Spanish English Anythingconsidered

tel: Tim on 662 211 993

P

34

July 2015

animal corner

To advertise here call : 950 121 936

Dogs on the beach

yes or no?

It’s an idyllic picture for some.

Letting their dog run on the beach and in and out of the waves.

For others it’s a nightmare; dog excrement and children playing in the sand just don’t mix. Surely there must be a compromise here?

That’s what some town halls are currently looking for. In Torrevieja the debate is focused around the area of La Mata. The beach in question is rocky and perhaps not the first choice for sunbathing.

However, as there are no beaches currently in the Torrevieja area for dogs, this could be paradise found for some owners and their pets.

The proposal has caused a lot of controversy, including the launch of a petition against the new initiative. If the proposal is successful, it will be up to the dog owners to make it work. Either that or those dog owners that are responsible will have to make up for those who aren’t.

Can you take your dog on the beach?

Beaches where dogs are allowed are seen as a big attraction for those intent on enjoying their holiday with their best friend.

However, it can be difficult for pet owners to work out where they are allowed to take them. Each town hall will have its own rules and it’s the responsibility of the pet owner

to find out what they are. Most regions will have some dog-friendly beaches.

As you might expect, if you get the law wrong, then you can be subject to fines. These vary from anything around €100 to €3,000, depending again on the town hall and your crime. The town halls are responsible for keeping their beaches clean and apply the rules about pet ownership.

Beaches tend to fall into one of these categories: · Accessible to dogs all year round (very few beaches) · Accessible during low peak periods from October to February (some beaches) · Accessible outside of the bathing season from October to May (some beaches)

manage to reach the beach there are still rules to follow. Dog owners in Spain must make sure that their pet doesn’t annoy the other bathers and in some regions you may need proof of dog vaccination and ownership.

Of course, you must be prepared for those little packages and have sanitary bags to collect the excrement.

Make sure it’s enjoyable for both of you. Your pet will need shade and water, just like you, if it’s the height of summer. Avoid the beach between the hours of midday and 4.00pm as dogs can suffer from heatstroke and sunburn too. Your dog’s ears and nose can be particularly susceptible and should ideally be treated with special sunscreen just for dogs.

Keep a close eye on your pet, dogs can wander off if they lose your attention for too long and remember not all dogs like swimming in the sea; don’t necessarily expect yours to be swimming with dolphins.

Remember if the sand is too hot for your feet it’s likely to be too hot for your dog as well.

Watch out for jellyfish, they aren’t just a pest for people. Avoid your dog drinking the sea water and wash him down with freshwater after bathing in the sea. When you get home pay particular attention to ears and eyes and make sure that all sand and sea water is removed. If your pet has recently had an operation it is not advisable to take them to the beach at all.

Keep an eye on what your dog is eating. There can be all sorts of left overs on the beach including decaying fish and seafood; not to be recommended!

Well worth it This might seem like a long list of dos and don’ts. However, a day on the beach with your dog can be well worth it if you make sure that you’ve got your facts straight and your dog prepared.

No matter how well you look after your dog at the beach and follow the rules, there will always be some people who don’t want to share their space with animals. Just make sure they’re left to their own devices and you enjoy the time with yours. www.onthepulse.es

Red squirrel does

Saturday Nut Fever

Meet the red squirrel whose hero is clearly Saturday Night Fever’s

· Accessible during non-bathing hours from 7.00pm to 10.00am (some beaches) · Never accessible (many beaches) There does seem to be a trend in the number of dog-friendly beaches increasing. In 2014, 26 beaches were recorded on the Infograph of HomeAway.

In 2015 this number had increased to 64. Of the different regions in Spain it seems as though Valencia and Alicante are the most permissive provinces.

J o h n Travolta, as he shows off the film star’s famous pose.

Red squirrel d o e s Saturday Nut Fever

Don’t behave badly on the beach If you d o

Residencia Canina Lezsonjas, Poligono 13, Parcela 110, Salinas, ALICANTE E-Mail: lezsonja@yahoo.co.uk www.lezsonjaskennels.com LezSonja’s Kennels are fully licensed and insured

Telephone: English: 677 343 653 | Español: 606 584 826

Mountain View

Cat hotel Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes

This red squirrel could be reaching for his nuts, but we think he’s showing off (Photo: Caters)

Telephone: 966 195 816

He was snapped by wildlife photographer Marek Paluch, who captured the fuzzy squirrel near Opole, Poland, demonstrating just what a mover and a shaker he is.

www.mountainviewcathotel.webs.com

Read more: http:// metro.co.uk

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

Pick up & delivery service offered for coastal areas Answerphone - we will call back: Mobile 654 155 473

www.soltimes.com

TV DRAMA

A Song for Jenny. T.V. Drama. Based on the memoirs of Julie Nicholson

“I am no bird and no net ensnares me. I am a free human being with an independent will.”

Jane Eyre was Jenny Nicholson’s heroine so it was fitting that quotations from Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel and Shakespeare should be printed on the funeral pall of this beautiful 24 year old whose life was tragically destroyed in 2005.

The drama was based on Julie Nicholson’s memoirs bearing the same title, written in 2010 as a tribute to all of the 52 victims as well as her eldest daughter Jenny who was killed in the Edgware Road suicide bombing incident ten years ago on the 7th July 2005, a day permanently etched in the dark recesses of the Nicholson’s memories.

Adapted by Frank McGuiness, it’s a deeply emotional journey in an attempt to come to terms with the tragic loss of such a young life for a family that would be permanently traumatised by it. “Our family is a different shape now, but in some ways I hope we’re stronger.” Sadly the Nicholsons divorced; the pain made Julie grow apart from husband Greg. Julie, who was ordained a vicar of St Aidan and St George’s church in Bristol felt compelled into resigning from her post when she simply lost her faith, unable to reconcile her grief and anger.

Some light relief from the daunting revelations of doom and gloom are shown in two of the flashbacks not the third. The first two show the close bond between Jenny, her first-born ,a gifted musician and her zest for life and her mother Julie. In the initial flashback, the three siblings are squabbling over who gets to sit in the middle of the sofa for a family photo. It is lighthearted, with Lizzie and Jenny fighting for dominance. When the photo is taken Jenny emerges the victor and the squabble is over as soon as it begins. We then see three happy siblings, a bittersweet memory for the family after the 7th July 2005.

The scene in which Julie is on the point of being ordained focuses on Julia and Jenny. Julie is wearing her cassock, a little fearful of the commitment she is about to make to the church. Jenny enters the vestry to see how she is, to wish her luck and to tell her how proud she feels. Julie feels the heat and discloses to her daughter in an impish way that she is wearing some sexy red lingerie underneath,

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

Special Offers Visit:

nothing else. Jenny is delighted at this and shares this happy moment which will soon be destroyed forever.

Death is established at the start with Julie conducting a funeral service for one of her parishioners where the service is halted momentarily by the son of the deceased having to answer his phone to say that his father is being buried there and then. The son’s expressions become the butt of a joke with the Nicholson family when they are having dinner together after the funeral. Giggling, mockery and facetious chatter soon changes when Julie adds a sombre note: “Sometimes this job will break your heart.” We don’t need to be reminded that this would happen very soon.

Julie goes on holiday with her parents, aunt and uncle to Anglesey, Wales whilst her two younger children and husband remain at home in Bristol. Jenny lived with her boyfriend James.

Seeing the beautiful scenery of Wales with the early morning mist and cloud with her Uncle Jimmie singing in her ears: “It’s gonna be a lovely day,” creates an illusory scene in our minds. After breakfast this illusion is soon shattered when Lizzie phones Julie, extremely upset to ask if she has heard about the explosions in London.

She tells her mother to switch on the t.v. so that she can see for herself. This tragic event dominated the news.

Described as a major incident which closed down the London network, it was thought to be a power surge and seemed likely that two trains had collided.

You can see the tension in the faces of the family because Jenny worked in London near the area where the bombs had exploded. Julie’s father is the first to verbalise his thoughts-it was a bomb not a power surge. A statement from the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Ian Blair referred to the bombings as an “indiscriminate attempt to slaughter irrespective of any considerations for age, for caste, for religion or whatever.” The actual footage is shown.

When Julie can’t make any contact with her daughter she decides to go to London to find her. Her vow to protect Jenny, to love her and keep her from harm are forefront in her mind as she sets off on her quest. When all of the injured have been identified she has to come to terms with the worst possible scenario that her daughter has been murdered. She gives a DNA sample and the forensics are

35

able to identify Jenny from her dental records.

Against the advice of the professionals, Julie visits what remains of her daughter in the mortuary, a deeply disturbing scene to shoot or watch. The only recognisable feature of Jenny is the arm and the hand which Julie anoints with oil, a posthumous last rites to see her into the next world. The bomb destroyed Jenny and for the mother, Julie, this must have been heart-breaking. Watching Emma Watson break down and the liaison officer in the background sobbing her heart out it was impossible not to be touched by this scene.

One lighter moment amidst this bleakness was the generous spirit of the taxi driver who misconstrued Julie’s purpose in visiting London. He assumed she’d had a good shopping spree. When he realised the truth, he drove Julie through London to Reading and would not taken any money from her: “You must think the world’s a pretty bleak place now. I just wanted you to know there’s still some good people in it.”

The third flashback shows Jenny on the morning of the suicide bombing. Ironically, a fault on the Piccadilly line, her normal route, forced her to divert and a poignant scene is shown in the carriage where she is reading C.S.Lewis and we catch a glimpse of the suicide bomber’s haversack, containing the bomb minutes before it detonated.

Jenny’s siblings and cousins were her pall-bearers in a formidable service with black and gold. Julie did try to understand why Mohammad Sidique Khan (from Dewsbury) had committed this atrocity but when it’s your own kin as close as Jenny was to Julie then is it possible?

“Faith is not like a shopping bag to pick up and put down.”

This indescribable grief is like a wound that you carry around inside of you and it doesn’t heal. “Symbolically, your first-born defines your position in the universe.”

Superb acting. Moving and disturbing. At the Bafta screening, Emily Watson wept. I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t be moved by this powerful drama, I certainly was. A fitting tribute to all those victims.

www.ecocorpshop.com

Oil is a child of the fossil fuel age and prices will trend upwards.

Solar is a child of the electronics age and prices will trend downwards.

Solar Power system to run in conjunction with your home electricity, reduce your

6995€

monthly bills from including battery bank.

Solar swimming pool filtration pump kit. Run your swimming pool on solar from

2295€

Auto-consumo solar power kits, supplement your electricity bills from

5995€ Call Ecocorp on

671 716 597 or 950 930 187 for a no obligation quotation

Solar swimming pool heating, extend your swim season or heat your pool all year round.

Solar power system servicing and updating, fault finding and diagnostics

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

La Meseta, Bedar, Almeria

WWW.ECOCORPSHOP.COM

36

July 2015

motoring

So what’s all the fuss about?

The Slingshot isn’t the first or only three-wheel vehicle available in the United States. You’ve been able to buy a Campagna T-Rex or Morgan 3 Wheeler for years. But those are lowvolume efforts. Polaris is a leisure and utility vehicle giant, selling tens of thousands of ATVs, side-by-sides, snowmobiles and motorcycles – under its Victory and Indian brands – each year, so it’s got the manufacturing might to put together a pretty serious machine and build a lot of them.

Still, making an actual car costs an enormous amount of money in safety testing alone, which is why you don’t see too many startup automakers. It’s also why cars are so bloated these days, what with all the airbags, rollover protection, side impact intrusion bars, etc. By going the three-wheel route, the Slingshot is exempt from all of that, which means it can be stripped down to the bare necessities.

In this case, those are a 2.4-liter four-cylinder automobile engine sourced from General Motors, rack and pinon steering and a 5-speed manual transmission that sends power through a belt drive to a single rear wheel riding on a motorcycle-style swing-arm suspension.

All of it is connected to a steel space frame covered in angular, stealth fighter-style composite bodywork. It weighs a scant 1,700 pounds or so – less than any car on the road today, about 600 pounds lighter than the latest Mazda MX-5 Miata. The furnishings are the same grade as a Polaris Ranger side-byside’s, right down to the waterproof seats and dashboard, but the two-seater has a lot of room for its passengers. There are lockable compartments behind the seats that are large enough for helmets or backpacks, a big glove compartment and even cup holders. This is a made-in-America product, after all.

A six-speaker audio system is available with AM/FM, Bluetooth and, since there’s no roof, a weather channel. I can’t say I ever turned on the radio in the day I spent turning heads and soaking up the sun in the Slingshot, but the Google Maps lady sounded loud and clear.

So did the engine when I fired it up. The exhaust is under the hood, just on the other side of the passenger’s footwell. It delivers a visceral treat that’s been so refined out of most sports cars that

they’ve started adding digital backing tracks to make up for it. No need for that here. It runs on 91 octane, and there’s no official fuel economy rating, but figure on getting anywhere from 25-35 mpg.

Although it’s primarily positioned as a safer, easier-to-operate alternative to a high-end motorcycle, the $21,999 Slingshot drives just like a car at normal speeds. A car with no doors that you can reach out of and file your nails on the pavement from.

The 173 horsepower engine has no trouble rocketing you down the road, or spinning that rear tire. The Slingshot comes standard with traction and stability control, but there’s plenty of leeway before it stops the fun, and you don’t have to go too fast to start having it. The base model doesn’t even come with a windscreen, and the deflector that’s available leaves plenty of wind in your hair and elsewhere. A full-face helmet is recommended since you’re sitting so low, and your first encounter with flying debris is all the explanation you need.

I took it for a short trip on the interstate, just to see what that was like, and the semis made me feel like I was in Princess Leia’s transport ship in the opening scene from Star Wars. But their wakes didn’t push it around too much. It was very stable and rode pretty well at high speeds.

Still, windy country lanes are its element, and puttering along at 35-40 mph is a joy. The only drawback there is that the front end is as wide as a pickup truck’s, so be sure to share the road. If the one you’re on happens to be empty, and you start getting a little frisky, you’ll discover that the Slingshot behaves less like a car and more like, well, something else as you approach its limits.

It leans differently in the curves, understeering when you enter one, kicking the tail around if you get hard on the gas and then combining the two in a bizarre powerslide if you stay on it. It’s thrilling and unique, but whether you’re trading in a car or motorcycle for one, I suggest working your way up to it. The brakes take some getting used to, too. The pedal needs a good

push, and even then they feel a little weak. It could use either more rubber on the road, or bigger discs. But if they catch you off guard and you end up in a ditch, the Slingshot has rollover bars and seatbelts, so you can’t fall off of it. That kind of margin of error is its greatest selling point when compared to its motorcycle brethren. Cars still have it beat on “the keeping bumpers out of your face” criteria, but where’s the fun in that?

Nothing with four wheels can compete with the elemental, riding-around commando experience of the Slingshot. The last new car I drove that came close was the Lotus Elise, and that’s not on sale in the U.S. anymore because it can’t meet the latest safety regulations.

Polaris doesn’t release exact sales figures, but, based on a January recall that affected 1,896 vehicles, it’s probably already sold more Slingshots than Lotus did Elises in the seven years they were on the market, and the Miata is in its sights. If only they can build enough. One dealer told me he’s sold 30 so far this year and could’ve moved twice that if he could get his hands on them. Order one today and you’ll be lucky to get it before the fall.

Sorry, the Slingshot doesn’t have a heater, but it is setting the three-wheel segment on fire, and redefining it as it does. http://www.foxnews.com/

Torrevieja Cornered by Rampant Tigers

With ten minutes to go on Friday night, Torrevieja led Hull U21’s by two goals to one, with goals from Cesar and Juanfran, the second from the penalty spot. Hull won a corner on their right, dinked it into the near post where Lofts cleverly flicked it home, unmarked. After all the hard work that had gone into getting themselves ahead having gone behind in the first minute of the second half, it was a kick in the teeth for the team. The kick in the teeth became a full on sledgehammer as the game entered it’s final minute. Burguillos needlessly gave away a free kick just to the left of Torrevieja’s penalty area, climbing all over his man. The ball was swung in by the left boot of Tymon and Bowen rose to power home the winning header. The “travelling” support of Hull, plentiful in number and noise, rose to acknowledge their young side showing the right commitment to not giving up, despite the challenge of the heat and slightly curious refereeing.

Three matches into pre-season and a worrying pattern is starting to develop for CD Torrevieja. 50% of the eight goals conceded have come from corners or set-pieces in wide areas, and if Pedreno has not scribbled down “defending corners” as the main area for training in the week then something has gone terribly wrong.

Torrevieja were fantastic for the opening half an hour. Brani, in his return to the club, started at right back and spent most of the first half causing the Hull left back many problems. Rivas and Cavas started well in the middle of defence, until injury forced Rivas to be replaced by Croatian debutant Matheus.

Despite occasionally being caught for pace, Cavas again marshaled the back four superbly and gave Torrevieja the platform from which to pour forward.

Eddy started in a new position, playing the slightly deeper midfield role alongside Burguillos and the attacking quartet of Lewis, Luis Carlos, Rafa Gomez and Cesar drifted and switched shape at will.

Lewis nearly opened the scoring after 13 minutes, rounding the ‘keeper but finding the angle too tight to get a convincing shot away. He was in the action

again after half an hour, but this time for being on the end of a very clumsy challenge by Hull’s right back Clackstone, one of the game’s more understandable yellow cards. There were more bookings than chances in a competitive first 45 minutes. Although the refereeing was at best curious, Hull allowed this to unsettle them and at least four cards were dished out for dissent. However, this allowed the Hull support to settle in and get fully behind their team, the game feeling like an away fixture for the home side.

The standard fare for a pre-season fixture is a broken second half, where the game just peters out as many substitutions get made. This match broke that rule. After just thirty seconds Hull had the lead, Annan finding space on the left of the area and shooting past Miguel, who had barely finished doing up his gloves. They nearly doubled the lead shortly after, Adrian Banderas getting caught in midfield and Miguel bailing him out with a smart stop with his legs. Then the spectators were treated to the pass of the game.

Rafa Gomez, captain for the day and somewhat on the edge of the game to this point, hit a first time 40 yard pass from left to right, completely splitting the Hull defence and finding Cesar in a way that he did not even have to break stride. Cesar collected, took two touches and rifled home the equalizing goal in clinical fashion. Credit to the Hull support, they appreciated the moment of class and applauded generously.

Generous applause soon became further analysis of the referee. Torrevieja worked a clever corner to the

edge of the area, where Juanfran bulleted a shot goal-wards. The ball hit a raised Hull arm and the referee did not hesitate to point to the spot. Juanfran, in classic playground “I won it so I am taking it fashion” stepped up and put it high to the ‘keepers left. The terrier like striker had another chance five minutes later, a chance that would have meant victory, but was hit straight at the chest of the ‘keeper and the moment had passed.

Hull saw this as their chance to get back in it, and with the temperature now a little cooler and the fans back in fine voice following the replenishment of refreshment at the bar, they surged forward to turn the game round in the final ten minutes.

It was a fine match, and there were many positives on show from the Torrevieja perspective. Centre back Matheus looked equally adept on the right and left of the two, Eddy was Pirlo-esque in his midfield display and everytime Luis Carlos gets the ball you feel something good might happen. Considering that likely first choices Vicente, Martin, Jorge and Carrasco were rested, the players on show certainly enhanced their claims to a shirt.

Speaking of shirts, the new Adidas CD Torrevieja kits for the 2015/16 season are now on sale in the club shop or online at www.tiendacdtorrevieja.tictail.com.

Available in S, M, L & XL in three styles, the only cost 25€.

Torrevieja are back in action on Friday 7th August at 8pm, when they entertain Hercules at El Vicente Garcia.

37

www.soltimes.com

COSTA COBRAS RFC ENTER THE SAN JUAN BEACH 7’S AT THE WEEKEND

On Saturday, 1 August, Costa Cobras RFC will be entering their third tournament within 5 weeks in the 18th San Juan beach 7’s tournament in Alicante, which for a club that was set up at the end of January is pretty good going. We have a variety of different nationalities playing for us, so we are a truly international based team, so come along and join in, regardless of experience or age, all are welcome.

After the San Juan beach 7’s on 1 August we will be playing in the Murcia beach 5’s on 8 August, so if anybody would like to come and join in they are more than welcome to do so, the more the merrier, and join this up and coming new rugby club, Costa Cobras RFC

The club is continuing to train on the beach throughout the summer and have had a number of new junior players join in the training and become members of the club, from U10’s to U16’s, so a good result for the club.

During the summer months training is continuing on Guardamar beach on Monday and Wednesday at 20.00, so anybody who wants to come along and take part is more than welcome.

If anybody knows of any town halls in the area of Guardamar to Cuidad Quesada or around there, that want to have a rugby club based there, we are looking for a base to train, hold rugby tournaments, matches, have touring teams come over and play in the league, please contact us on 692 767 242.

All ages, gender and nationalities are welcome, from beginners to experienced players, the more the merrier, as we are based on the true traditional ethics of the sport. So come along and join the newest rugby club on the Costa Blanca.

Also team bonding after training in the nearest bar for a drink and chat, just how rugby should be. Training still takes place on Monday and Wednesday from 20.0021.30 at Guardamar beach in front of the restaurants.

For more information about the club contact myself, Dutch, on 692 767 242. Also I am back down at Zoco market on Sunday again from 09.00-13.30, so come on down and find more out about the club and rugby in the area.

Torrevieja CC 120 for 6 Sporting Alfas 2nd 87 for 10

Sporting Alfas travelled down the N332 to meet Torrevieja in an attempt to strengthen their chance of being league champions.

Having won the toss they put Torrevieja in to bat.

After 10 overs, and an unpredictable wicket, Torrevieja had reached 34 without loss. Alfas changed the bowling and Basrat Ali came on to take a wicket with his first ball, Grant Meekins going for 7. Runs then

became difficult to come by with Basrat Ali taking 3 wickets for 11 runs and Andy Dell taking 1 for 5. For Torrevieja Chris Darwen scored 34 not out, Kieren Wood 25, Mike Wareing 16 and captain Leigh Blann 13 enabling a total of 120 of their allocated 40 overs.

Torrevieja then came on to field and their enthusiasm resulted in Alfas losing their first wicket with only 4 runs on the board. No-one

really got going with the bat , only Wadjit Abdul (18 )and captain Mark Perman ( 29 not out ) reaching double figures.

With some excellent fielding and again the unpredictable wicket, Alfas were all out for 87. Pick of the bowlers, Ciaran Guichard ( 4 for 21) Hasan Ullah ( 3 for 10 ) and Michael Wareing ( 1 for 9 ) .Torrevieja 24 points, Alfas 4 points should move Torrevieja up the table.

open monday - friday 9am - 6pm • saturday 9am - 1pm Guardamar Quesada 9 calle Los Arcos 332 Just along from Pick’n’pay

965 701 106

966 726 641

air conditioning regas & diagnostics from 25€

• over 3000 new & part worn tyres in stock • tyres from 10€ fitted • 20% off parts • 30% off labour charges • engine & gearbox replacement or recondition • pre itv • clutches, batteries

965 728 369

€

Repuestos el descuento

GUARANTEED CHEAP PRICE

we will beat any written quote by at least 10% including the cheapest quote

discount Car Spare Parts For all Makes & Models In Stock or On Demand

trade & Delivery Available

Quesada Golf Society Last Wednesday the Society played what many consider to be the best golf course on the southern Costa Blanca, Las Colinas. The course was as usual in excellent condition. The extras provided, free pyramid of golf balls on the driving range, free tees, free chilled bottle of water and a free half after the game do make a difference. The popularity of the course was reflected in the good turn-out of 30 golfers contesting two divisions in an individual stableford competition.

It was extremely hot and plenty of ice cold drinks during the round was the order of the day. One incident worthy of mention. David Bartam , after driving off on No4, played a lovely 2nd shot with an iron. We all watched the ball disappear down the fairway but didn't notice at first, that his iron had left his hands and travelled about 30 metres, left, into the trees. The expression

on his face was a picture.

He did find and recover his golf club. In first place in the Gold Division was young buck, Ryan Rogers who played to his handicap of 8 with 36 stableford points. In 2nd place was the old campaigner “Iron” Brian Smith with 31 points and in third place Lord Ian Fogerty with 30 points.

In the Silver Division the winner was wee Scottish lassie Angela Carroll with 30 points. In 2nd place with 28 points was young Trevor Hobbs who pipped 3rd placed Chris Nield on C/B. Trevor claims he would have scored more if he had had a less talkative playing partner than “chatterbox” Darryll Wright and I wouldn´t disagree with him. The Best Guest was Eddie Downing. The “Nearest the Pin” winners were Diddy Dave Winchcombe, Darryll Wright, Ryan Rogers, Tony Patterson and Les Pancott. 2 players got 2´s on the day, Les Pancott and Sue Smith

and took away 50€ each from the 2´s pot which is now depleted but still has a few euro´s left in it. High handicapper Les Pancott in scoring a two on the par 3 5th hole, which is stroke index scored 5,points yes 5 stableford points which certainly helped boost his points tally but not quite enough for a “podium” finish in the Silver Division.

The weary golfers returned to the Quesada Country Club for the presentations and a well earned cool drink or two and a hot and cold buffet kindly laid on by mine hosts.

The next game is an individual stableford at Altorreal on Wednesday 5 August.

Anyone in the Quesada area looking to join a very friendly golf society and play golf once a fortnight at a wide variety of courses at very reasonable cost, should contact the Membership Secretary Les Pancott on 966 716 723.

38

July 2015

Torrevieja Swimming Club

This Sunday over 400 swimmers gathered on the beach at the Puerto de La Torre, Pilar de la Horadada for the “XI Travesia Puerto de La Torre” . Races were divided into 4 different distances to cater for all age ranges from 8yrs to Masters over 50 yrs. Club Natacion Torrevieja had 24 swimmers registered for the competition and on the day had three trophy winners.

In the youngest category Pedro Gomez Martinez came 9th in the 200m race with a time of 5:01;40 and in the 500m race for the Benjamin and Alevin categories (9-11yrs) the first of the clubs swimmers to finish was Densel Fusha , placed 14th with a time of 8:39;10 closely followed by team mate Georgy Fusha. For the girls first in was Amy Connolly being placed 10th in the Alevin 500m race with a time of 10:17;00, closely followed by team mate Vilja Bilstad in 12th place. The clubs only swimmer in the 800m Unica race was Skye Burns who was placed 6th in the girls race with a time of 15:31;10.

In the main race of the day the 1500m travesia there were over 250 participants. Every swimmer had to fight for their place as the start was a frenzy of bodies, all 250 swimmers leaving at the same time . First to finish from Club Natacion Torrevieja was Zoe

Connolly with a time of 18:21;80 and being place 6th in her Infantil category (13-14yrs). Team mates Piroska and Elian followed shortly after and then Yuriy Lymar in the Absoluto category (19-24yrs).

Yuriy won 3rd place in this category with a time of 19:00;60.

In the Masters categories both Beryl Altabas and Vicki Connolly came 1st and 3rd respectively.

Beth winning first place in the Masters II (50+) with a time of 25:34;90 and Vicki third place in the Masters I category (2549yrs) with a time of 21:10:40.

The Masters team now travel to Zaragoza on Thursday this week for the Summer Spanish National Championships.

T.M.G.S. at Villamartin 22/7/15

Wow! What a day’s golf, sizzling temperatures along with some sizzling scores. It was thought that by bringing our tee time forward to a 9am start that we would miss the searing heat of the afternoon sun, that we did, but we didn’t expect close to 100% humidity, even before we teed off our shirts were soaked, I didn’t realised that the human body could hold so much water, or maybe was it cerveza?

Any way 33 members and guests turned up to battle, not only the heat, but also a golf course whose condition just gets better and better. The fairways and greens were in excellent condition and I believe that this contributed to some amazing scoring. Last week at La Marquesa, guest Ria Wouters impressed us with her 48 points, after losing 6 full shots from her handicap she again returned the best score of the day, this time it was just a measly 43 points! This was 5 points ahead of 2nd place, Dave Richards and 8 points ahead of her husband Patrick, who said that she can’t have any more lessons.

You could hear the comments in the clubhouse; I’m glad that she hasn’t become a member yet.

Also last week you might have noticed that a number of Scandinavians were in the prizes, well the “Vikings” were at it again this week, did you know that the word “Viking” comes from an old Norse language, it means “Pirate raiding”, no surprise there then. So in the Silver category “Viking” Per Skarnes took 3rd place with level par 36 points, 2nd place had to be decided on Lower handicap, so our Treasurer, Alex Goslan came in 2nd which left another “Viking” Carsten Landaas taking home 1st prize with

both players returning 38 points.

It was nice to see Mick Kennedy in the frame of the Gold category with 3rd place on 34 pts. again this category was raided by the ever present “Viking” Hans Arvesen with 34 pts. on lower handicap, but the real raid came from ship’s Captain Ole Rong with 41 pts. and would you believe it, he blobbed the 18th?, yes of course he is another “Viking”, but as in days gone by all good things come to an end, in this case Hans has to return to the water works department in Norway, his summer pirate raids over for another year and Ole will be setting sale tomorrow for the oil terminals in the North sea, the rest of us are going to miss you guys, one says with one’s tongue in cheek.

Ups, in all of the excitement about the raiding pirates I almost forgot to finish, the N.T.P.’s this week went to, Ria Wouters Hole 6, no surprise there then, hole 9 Les Wilton, Hole 13 was for our Gold Category and Joe Dean took it by default as his wife Shelia was a good 2 meters closer but unfortunately for her she is in the Silver category, so can’t take it, the closest on hole 17 was local member Ian Parkinson.

On the 5th of August we will be celebrating our 3rd anniversary at Campoamor, so if you fancy a game just call the Secretary on 661 524 101 or visit our website www.tmgs.org you can also follow us on Facebook/tmgsgolf or via our twitter account @tmgsgolf.

CONGRATULATIONS PETANCA medals to the following teams:- Division A

For more information regarding Torrevieja Swimming Club please contact Rosa 665 454 126, President Felipe on 609 418 776 or Vicki 669 637 015 or by email on info@clubnataciontorrevieja. com

What a fabulous, friendly and fiercely fought summer it has been for The Summer Sunshine Petanca League.

It all ended with a great presentation afternoon when the winners and runner ups of the 2 divisions were given their well earned trophies and medals. The presentation took place in The Centro Civico in Playa Flamenca where all but 2 teams were represented. 103 people attended and boy.. were they a noisy bunch at times, a real party spirit - which was brilliant.

Geoff provided the music which was in keeping with our age and also he was clever in choosing tracks appropriate to the teams collecting their rewards. Well done and a big thank you Geoff.

Maria - the fabulous flamenco dancer entertained us with superb routines.

Simon Morton, from Sunshine Radio, together with the chairperson of the league, Jacqui Lopez, presented the trophies and

1st Rocajuna, 2nd Laguna Rosa. Division B 1st Dominoes McCoys, 2nd Guardamar terrifically well done all.

All great leagues need sponsors and our thanks go to Dominoes Bar and Sunshine Radio who have generously sponsored us, as without sponsors most clubs and leagues would struggle, so a Huge Thank You to them.

There was a very boozy themed raffle which raised 120 euros for funds and another 60 euros was donated to The Pink Ladies from the entry fee.

Thanks also go to the committee, bars and clubs who have hosted various meeting over the season.

Attention now has turned to the Winter league which runs from October through to March. If there are any teams interested in playing in this league please contact Brenda via email on sunshine.radio. petanca@gmail.com

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

39

www.soltimes.com

new fords available

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

www.specialistvehicles.com

bmw 320

2.0 diesel 2012, 55,000kms

€32,950

BMW M5 touring

5.0V10 petrol 2007,110,000 kms

€27,950

mercedes clc 200

1.8CDi (Diesel) 2008, 89,000 kms

€15,750

• ferrari f430, challenge car, 4.3l, v8, 2008, 7,000kms ..... .....................................................................................................€89,950 • Porsche Cayenne, 4.8S Auto, 2008, Petrol, 102,000km........ ............................................................................................................€POA • toyota fj cruiser 4.0l petrol, auto, 2009, 87,000km...€poA • audi a3 sportback estate, 2.0 tdi, 2011, auto, diesel, 48,0 00km.......................................................................................................... .€16,950 • pEUGEOT 5008 PREMIUM ESTATE 1.6HDI, 2011 DIESEL, 104,000KM...................................................................................€14,950 • KIA SPORTAGE, 2.0 CRDI DIESEL, 2006 158,000KM.............€POA • Ford Focus Estate 1.6 2007, PETROL, 139,000KM.......................€5,950

Mini Cooper S Auto

• toyota aygo 1.0l 2009, petrol 91,000KM.....................................€5,950

€13,950

• Kia rio 1.4 petrol, 2004, 4 door.........................................€2,950

peugeot 3008

• kawasaki eliminator 125cc, 2007, 1,400kms..€1,500

2S (Petrol) 2006,47,000 kms

1.6hdi 2011 auto 119,000km

€12,950

Renault Fluence

1.5DCi, 2011 55,000kms

€11,950

Seat Leon Copa 2011, 1.6 TDi 95,000kms

€11,450

Peugeot 308 sw 2013, 1.6 HDi 127,000kms

€9,950

• CITROEN BERLINGO 1.9 DIESEL, 2004, 248,000km.......................€3,450

motorcycles

Right hand drive vehicles

ford ka titanium

2015, alloys 2,800kms €9,950

renault clio

2011, petrol, 31,000kms

€8,950

Ford Mondeo 2007, Diesel, 171,000kms

€7,950

Kia Carens

2.0CRDi (Diesel) 2005 90,000 kms auto

€poa

ford focus estate

75,000 kms, 2006 1.8TDCi (Diesel)

• rolls royce silver spirit, rhd, 51,000 miles..................€13,950

€6,950

• 2011 Fiat Doblo Van, RHD, 39,000 miles...............................€6,950

vw golf 1.9 tdi

• KIA SEDONA 2005, 2.9 TD, DIESEL, 113,000 MILeS..................€4,250 • renault laguna 2.0i, extreme, 83,000 miles 2006....€3,450 • toyota corolla 1.6 auto, 2000, 80,000 miles.....................€1,950

Right hand drive - spanish reg

2006 186,000km

€6,450

fiat palio

• LEXUS RX400 HYBRID, AUTO, 2009, 54,000 MILES............€16,950

1.9 2002

• 2005 Audi TT Coupe 3.2 Quattro, Auto 43,000 miles.....€7,950

103,000kms

• toyota hilux, 2.5 diesel, 2004, 105,000km.........................€5,450

€3,450

• honda civic, 2003, auto, leahter interior, silver, 106,000 miles..................................................................................€3,950 • mercedes 220 cdi estate auto,.....................................€3,950 • ford ka, 2004, 63,000 miles...............................................€1,950

~ RHD / LHD Taken in Part Exchange / purchased for cash

~ Full procurement service

KIA RIO

1.4 petrol 2004 103,000kms

€2,950

Visit our website Over 40 cars in group stock

www.specialistvehicles.com

N-332 km carretera, Call us: 968 146 18 158 or 618 628 511

pilar de la horadada

●Re-registration service available ●no obligation test drives ●we bring the vehicle to you

40

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES July 2015

Tel 902 750 190

Sucina Golf Society Tuesday, 21st July 2015

33 players turned out for our annual event of competing for the ´Franc y Louise´ Cup (our society home base in Sucina), which was held at Hacienda Riquelme.

Again this month, another very hot & humid day, with nearly all players opting for a buggy. An individual stableford competition with additional team prizes, choosing ´best 2 scores to count¨

Secretary).

Everything went well for Steve on the day - scissors will be out by our Handicap Secretary! On the whole some good scores were returned, despite the heat of the day.

The course was in excellent condition but the bunkers could have been better. Our Captain experiencing several of them! Bucket & spade for you then Dave!

Presentation of the prizes was held back at our home base in Sucina, and there was a good turn out of Members to congratulate the Winners on the day, plus enjoying the sandwiches laid on for the players

by Maureen Harris. Very much appreciated by all.

Winner of the F & L Cup & Division One - Steve James with 44 points Division 2 - Geoff Hallett (on count back)34 points and Division 3 - Gary Smith (on count back)- 35 points.

Winning team ( 3-ball) - Morgan James, Ray Banks & Phil Watson with 79 points Winning Team (4-ball) John Storey, Gary Smith, Ron McKinley & John Lester with 94 points Nearest the pins went to: Hole 5 - Steve James, Hole 7 - Graeme Wilson, Hole 15 - Stan Allen and Hole 17 - Ron McKinley Our next meeting is at La Torre on Tuesday 18th August. Format is a Texas Scramble.

Steve James picked up the trophy for winning the F & L Cup with a fantastic 44 points ( Steve can be seen receiving his trophy from our Captain & Handicap

La Zenia Golf Society

We drove down to La Serena on Thursday, and well done to all the players who played in some very hot weather.

A long time since we played La Serena and we were not disappointed with the course which was in excellent condition all the way round.

There were some consistent high scores that came in, on one card the four were very consistent, a close run card 35 pt's to 37 pt's.

Brian Airey played out of his skin and came in with an impressive score of 46 pt's. A new handicap waiting for him on his return in September.

We played full handicap stableford, two ntp's and usual two's pot.

Results were pins. No 9 Steve Thomas, No17 Ray Pryce.The Two's pot was not won again a second roll over to next week. Brian Airey won the day won the day with 46 pt's. Steve Thomas won the raffle.

Thanks to James who sponsored the raffle, also thanks to his staff at Gogarty's for their great hospitality. On the web site you can check your correct handicap, please check before playing as it as been noticed that some players have been playing off the wrong handicap.

We have ordered some of the pink Nike golf shirts at a cost of €30 if any body interested contact Mo or Me with your size.

THE 2018 WORLD CUP IN RUSSIA with Tony Matthews

Last Saturday, in St Petersburg, Russia, the draw was made for the qualifying groups of the 2018 World Cup, and there are some terrific battles ahead, especially in Europe including England v Scotland, Netherlands v France, Northern Ireland against the 2014 winners Germany, The Republic of Ireland v Wales and Spain v Italy.

When asked about the games against Scotland and his country’s chances, England boss Roy Hodgson said: “They will be two tough games, obviously, but I might not be in the job in 2018.”

The full draw is: EUROPE Group A Netherlands, France, Sweden, Bulgaria, Belarus, Luxembourg Group B Portugal, Switzerland, Hungary, Faroe Islands, Latvia, Andorra Group C Germany, Czech Republic, Northern Ireland, Norway,

Azerbaijan, San Marino Group D Wales, Austria, Serbia, Republic of Ireland, Moldova, Georgia Group E Romania, Denmark, Poland, Montenegro, Armenia, Kazakhstan Group F England, Slovakia, Scotland, Slovenia, Lithuania, Malta Group G Spain, Italy, Albania, Israel, FYR Macedonia, Liechtenstein Group H Belgium, Bosnia-Hercegovina, Greece, Estonia, Cyprus Group I Croatia, Iceland, Ukraine, Turkey, Finland Nine group winners qualify. Eight runner’s-up with the best record against the teams first, third, fourth and fifth in their groups proceed to play-offs. Russia automatically qualify as hosts.

Africa Round one Two-legged ties, to be played between 5-13 October 2015.

Somalia v Niger, South Sudan v Mauritania, Gambia v Namibia, Sao Tome e Principe v Ethiopia, Chad v Sierra Leone, Comoros v Lesotho, Dijibouti v Swaziland, Eritrea v Botswana, Seychelles v Burundi, Liberia v Guinea-Bissau, Central African Republic v Madagascar, Mauritius v Kenya, Tanzania v Malawi

Round two Two-legged ties, played 9-17 November 2015.

Somalia/Niger v Cameroon, South Sudan/Mauritania v Tunisia, Gambia/Namibia v Guinea, Sao Tome e Principe/ Ethiopia v Congo, Chad/Sierra Leone v Egypt, Comoros/Lesotho v Ghana, Djibouti/Swaziland v Nigeria, Eritrea/Botswana v Mali, Seychelles/Burundi v Congo DR, Liberia/Guinea-Bissau v Ivory Coast, Central African Republic/ Madagascar v Senegal, Mauritius/ Kenya v Cape Verde, Tanzania/ Malawi v Algeria, Sudan v Zambia, Libya v Rwanda, Morocco v Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique v Gabon, Benin v Burkina Faso, Togo v Uganda, Angola v South Africa The 20 winners from the second round will go into a third round comprising five groups of four.

The winners of each group qualify for the World Cup. Concacaf Third round Two-legged ties, played from 31 August-8 September.

Curacao v El Salvador, Canada v Belize, Grenada v Haiti, Jamaica v Nicaragua, St Vincent & Grenadines v Aruba, Antigua & Barbuda v Guatemala Group A Honduras, Mexico, Curacao/El Salvador, Canada/Belize Group B Panama, Costa Rica, Grenada/ Haiti, Jamaica/Nicaragua

The Albacete in September as now been cancelled.

Diary Dates Thursday 30th July at Roda Presidents Trophy, first tee 9-28. Saturday 1st August at Mar Menor first tee 9-57, All meeting times are 1 and 1/2 hours before tee time at Gogarty's. Guest's are invited to all our games, clubs can be hired.

All information on the notice board outside Gogarty's.

At the moment while Maurice is away please contact me ( Eric ) Contact numbers Eric 667 196 178, Maurice 690268711 Eric Lucas, secretary

Group C Trinidad & Tobago, USA, St Vincent & Grenadines/Aruba, Antigua & Barbuda/Guatemala The top two teams from each group will play in a six-team minileague. The top three qualify and the fourth goes into an intercontinental play-off.

Oceania Round one (group stage) American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga Round two (group stage) Group A Winner of round one between American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa and Tonga. Plus Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia, Tahiti Group B New Zealand, Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomon Islands The top three teams in Group A and Group B progress to round three. That will comprise of two groups of three, with the top team in each progressing to a two-legged play-off. The winners of that qualify for the intercontinental play-off.

South America Group stage Colombia, Chile, Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Peru, Uruguay Top four automatically qualify.

Fifth place goes into a play-off.