Calida 400

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 400

COSTA calida

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21 - 27 oct

SolTimes

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page 23 our 400th issue thank you for your support! ! pg 8 -9

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Judges and prosecutors warn new legal reform poses impunity risk Criminal Prosecution Law seeks to reduce inquiry times without granting extra resources Six judge and prosecutor associations have issued an unprecedented statement asking for Spain’s new Criminal Prosecution Law to be placed on hold.

The law, which is due to go into effect on December 5, establishes maximum periods of six to 18 months for all judicial investigations to be completed.

In theory, the limits were introduced in an effort to reduce Spain’s notoriously lengthy legal proceedings and reduce the backlog of cases

October 2015

piling up inside courthouses.

This is a veritable full stop law that will result in impunity for crimes that should be punished” But these officers of the court are warning that the move does not come with an increase in resources, which will make compliance extremely difficult and result in impunity, particularly for white-collar crimes. The changes have been introduced by the ruling Popular Party (PP), which is ensnared in a series of complicated political corruption cases such as Gürtel and Púnica.

Legal experts have also criticized the fact that examining magistrates, who know the details of each case, will lose control over the duration of the proceedings because time extensions will only be granted if the public prosecutor files the request.

“This is a veritable full stop law that will result in impunity for crimes that should be punished,” says the statement, in reference to a piece of 1986 Argentinean legislation that stopped the prosecution of those suspected of political violence during the military dictatorship.

“That is why the signatories of this statement request a stay on the reform, at least until the necessary resources in terms of personnel, equipment and computers are rolled out throughout the national territory to make it possible for the norm to be observed.”

This is the first time that so many different associations from across the ideological spectrum have come together to sign such a statement.

At the same time, over 1,000 prosecutors out of a total of 2,500 have also affixed their names to a letter worded in similar terms.

Once the law goes into effect on December 5, it will affect all ongoing cases as well as future ones.

This means that all criminal cases currently at the inquiry stage in all Spanish courthouses will have to undergo review, on top of the regular workload, and without any additional budgetary outlays, these groups complain. http://elpais.com/

Spain World Blindfold Wine-Tasting champions for third year running

SPAIN has won the World Blindfold WineTasting championship for the third year running, knocking Belgium and Sweden into second and third place.

The competition, held in Châteauneuf-duPape in the south of France was organised by the magazine La revue du vin de France and involved a team having to guess the country, the type of grape and even the region of the wine.

Spain was represented by a team made up of oenologists Philippe Cesco, José Aragunde, Roberto Santana and Alfonso Torrente, who gained 140 points – two points more than Belgium and 25 more than Sweden.

The Spanish team had only met once before to prepare for the contest and, although they were thrilled to win, but were 'disappointed with themselves' for not having successfully identified the Bollinger.

Teams participating came from Andorra, France, Russia, the UK, Poland, Portugal, Québéc in Canada, Finland, South Africa, China, Argentina, Luxembourg, Italy, Japan, Monaco, Switzerland and the USA – which came last with 69 points.

Wines came from New Zealand, Germany, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Spain, South Africa and, naturally, France.

Spain's entry was a 2006 tempranillo grape variety from the wine merchant Quinta Sandoria. thinkspain.com

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Free Wi-Fi for patients and visitors in every Canary Island hospital

ALL nine of the Canary Islands' district hospitals now have free Wi-Fi available to patients, staff and visitors.

Moreno, because 'we are not a telecommunications operator, we are a medical service' meaning the hospitals are limited to how sophisticated their online facilities can be.

A total of 544 connection points have been set up, giving wide coverage which means the entire building is online in all cases.

Until now, the only Wi-Fi was in areas exclusive to personnel.

The internet speed is 'the fastest allowed by law', explains health boss Roberto

Also for legal reasons, in the same way as hotels and holiday resorts, the hospitals have to assign a username and password for all surfers, whether they are patients or visitors. http://www.thinkspain.com/

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4

HUMANISTS OF MURCIA OCTOBER WALK PART ONE

This year, the Humanists of Murcia have introduced an additional walking group to cater for those no longer able or wanting to do the usual monthly 3-hour plus walks.

The new group called, unsurprisingly, Easy Rambling.

ort

The Group held its first walk last month in beautiful sunshine, leaving the Social Centre at La Molata at 11 am.

It was a 2-hour circular walk on wide tracks and no hills with the Condado del Alhama development in the distance. Audrey, who led the walk, did not loose any of the 16 walkers and did not get lost.

be on Saturday, 14 November 2015 and will start from the Bar opposite the Church in La Azohia, meeting at 11am and leaving around 11.20 pm after café. The walk will last 2 hours and go towards Campillo de Adentro. There will be lunch at a nearby restaurant.

There will be Boxing Day Easy Rambling Walk if the numbers demand it.

The normal Walking Group in November will be in the San Juan de Terreros area on 21 November, led by Mike².

October 2015

mabs party in the park

The annual Party in the Park which is organised by MABS to raise funds was a tremendous success. On Sunday 27th September 420 people were treated to an afternoon/evening of superb entertainment and a hog roast. The party was started by MABS fundraising volunteer, Donna Walsh, who welcomed everyone on behalf of MABS and acted as emcee for the event. The weather forecast was changeable with storms forecast for the evening but it held up and was a gloriously sunny day with near perfect temperature. The storms could be seen closing in from inland and thankfully it was all over by the time the rain arrived.

A spectacular line up of acts gave their time freely. First on stage was The December Walk will be on 12 Terry Morgan who had the crowd line The lunch was held at La Valle dancing in no time. Diane Daniels led Restaurante, next to the Petrol December a 3 hour circular walk the line dancers so even complete from the Country Club.

Station on the way into Alhama del novices were able to join in the fun.

Murcia.

For more information, go to www. Gemma Barrett was next up and the dance floor was packed as she The next Easy Rambling Walk will bolnuevo.com/humanists. entertained everyone with soul & motown classics. Multi-talented Paul Allen followed and wowed the crowd, especially the ladies, with his great vocals as well as playing the mouth organ. The fabulous Suzy G was there with her dance show. It was fantastic to welcome Suzy back following her recent trauma and although she’s not singing properly yet her energetic dance show more than made up for it.

Suzy has supported MABS by playing at Party in the Park since 2009! Francis Symons followed Suzy and he had the dance floor packed for his entire set.

He was singing and dancing amongst the crowds and they loved it. Last in we buy the line up was Martin Ross who kept used the dance floor filled to capacity with his set of crowd pleasers. A special spas mention goes to Joseph Hughes, a longest established spa 14 year old pupil at King’s College in dealer in this part of spain Roldan who enthralled the audience with his beautiful voice and great

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choice of songs.

The excellent hog roast was provided

by Campbell’s of Roda and all 420 people were served in 1 hour 15 minutes which is fantastic. The bar was provided by the Mayor of Roda and he arranged for ridiculously cheap prices for the event as well as his staff all working for nothing offering table service. This all helped to make the day so fantastic. A huge thank you was given to Francis Symons who allowed all of the other artists to use his superb sound equipment which meant the event flowed very smoothly indeed. there was also the inevitable raffle which had 20 prizes many of which were donated by local businesses.

There was even a personal appearance by Jimi Harkishin, who plays Dev Alahan in Coronation Street, who was holidaying in the area and when MABS fundraising volunteer and Publicity Officer Donna Walsh bumped into him and explained what the event was he was more than happy to drop by and have his photo taken with his legions of fans.All in all a superb day was had by everyone and €4163.00 was raised to support cancer patients and their families in the region. Events like this can not go ahead without the tireless work of the MABS volunteers who are too many to mention by name and work extremely hard to ensure the events run smoothly.

Cancer does not discriminate and neither do MABS. We help anybody of any nationality affected by cancer.

Helpline 693 275 779. Follow our facebook page to be kept up to date with our events https:// www.facebook.com/ mabsmurciamarmenor The next event is a Singalonga Mamma Mia at Luis Lounge, San Javier. Tickets cost €3 and are available from the shop.

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October 2015

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'Flu jab campaign kicks off and can prevent 45% of hospital admissions

WINTER 'flu jab campaigns have started all over Spain and anyone considered 'at risk' is urged to come forward and make an appointment.

Health experts say having the vaccination can cut winter hospital admissions by 45%, since influenza can create 'major health risks' in chronically-ill patients.

Contrary to popular myth, it does not protect against the common cold, only against the 'flu virus.

Experts say this year's 'flu risk does not appear as though it will be specifically viral, unlike in previous winters when a swine 'flu epidemic looked set to break out.

Health authorities offer vaccinations to the over-60s, anyone who has regular contact with the general public including medical workers, teachers, police officers, firefighters, mayors and anyone working with the elderly, plus those who have chronic or serious health conditions such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes or cancer, and pregnant women.

Medical bosses say preventing 'flu is 'the responsibility of healthcare

professionals, patients and the public at large' since the vaccination is 'the only way of avoiding exposure to 'an illness with potentially serious consequences'.

Those who do not fall into the 'high risk' category do not normally get a vaccination free of charge on the health service, but the jab can be bought over the counter at a pharmacy and either self-administered or given by a nurse at a local health centre by appointment.

Health authorities stress that the 'flu vaccination is effective, has no side-effects and for the sake of one short appointment at the patient's local GP clinic, can save lives and prevent a great deal of unnecessary work and cost for medical services.

Those at risk of catching the virus who do not have the jab are also exposing other people to the perils of infection, meaning it is socially responsible to arrange for it to be administered. thinkspain.com

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October 2015

400 issues and counting… sol times would like to thank all

their advertisers & readers for their continued support throughout our 400 issues

And what a time we’ve had!!!

The team at Sol Times would like to take this opportunity to thank all who make this paper the success that it is… we are a family run paper - set up in 2004 and here in our 11th year we have taken a look over how we have changed since the launch of Sol Times. For the first year of publication we published fortnightly and those of you that have been in the area for some years may remember we then launched our ‘Sol Xtra’ edition – making the Sol Times publication a weekly paper. Over the years we have continued to grow and develop and are now a fantastic team who strive to put out a wonderful paper each and every week. Here at Sol Times we always try togive something back…

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Thank you for your support!!!

Brian Jones & Co Property Maintenance Est 2004 Puerto de Mazarron

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October 2015

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11

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

The Secrets to a Super-Happy Winter Winterize your workout

It can be tough to muster the motivation to make it to the gym when the temperature is below zero. But "exercise can boost your mood, and you need that lift even more during the winter,"says Patricia Laguna, PhD, a professor of kinesiology at California State University, Fullerton.

Hot toddies! Warm woolen mittens! Ice-skating! Taking the time to savor the most amazing things about this season can make you more content, Lyubomirsky says. “When you enjoy rather than dread what’s around you, your optimistic thoughts will start trumping your negative ones,” she explains. Next time your mind starts to drift toward your numb toes and nose, refocus on the positive—you’ll be able to sip tea in front of a crackling fire as soon as you get home.

Anticipate a great escape

Eat your way upbeat Try to resist the call of fatty, sugary comfort fare. Highly refined carbs and sugar can wreak havoc on your blood sugar level, which can leave you feeling cranky, says Elizabeth Somer, RD, author of Eat Your Way to Happiness. Some comfort foods, however, can double as healthy pick-me-ups, especially if they contain mood-boosting nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, good carbohydrates (think whole grains and vegetables), protein, and B vitamins.

There’s not a whole lot to look forward to after all the holiday hubbub. So start hatching a scheme to skip town now.

Planning a trip—or even just thinking about one in the future—can make you happier, according to a study in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life. http://www.health.com/

At studio six

Get your group on Instead of holing up in your house until spring, set aside some time each day for a “buddy moment,” whether that’s grabbing a quick lunch with a co-worker or meeting your sister for a Spinning class. Establishing “get together” routines also helps, Sternberg adds Relish winter’s pleasures

Kim Clar k benefits consultancy Do you suffer from mobility problems, breathlessness/pain or falls/stumbles?

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

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October 2015

home & garden

Soft Furnishings & Re-Upholstery

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• 39 years experience in soft furnishings & re-upholstery • We make completely new FIBRE FILLED INNERS FOR CUSHIONS or RE-PLUMP EXISTING ONES. • FOAM (All densities) superior quality cut to any shape & size • BESPOKE CURTAINS AND BLINDS all made to measure • All types of RE-UPHOLSTERY • EXQUISITELY MADE LOOSE COVERS tailor-made to fit as good as upholstered furniture indoor and out • Hundreds of fabrics to choose from

Contact 950 121 936 or email sales@soltimes.com to Advertise in this section

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A traditional Spanish Garden is a style of garden or designed landscape developed in historic Spain, incorporating principles and elements of garden design from precedents in ancient Persian gardens, Roman gardens and Islamic gardens, and the great Moorish gardens of the Al-Andalus era on the Iberian Peninsula. In the 20th and 21st centuries a 'Spanish Garden,' or new gardens in Spain, have continued, interpreted, abstracted, or departed from these traditional planning and aesthetic motifs.

Traditionally, the paradise garden is interpreted with a central cross axis, in the four cardinal directions, with long ponds or water channels (a rill or stylized qanat) where water reflects and flows, set in a walled courtyard.

The remaining quadrants often had fruit trees and fragrant plants.

Thus, sensory

characteristic experiences

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Ceramic elements and tiles are often used: in water features; for structural, decorative, and seating elements; and as paving; with solid fields, embellishments and accents; and in pottery. A clarity from the symmetrical simplicity often results.

Historical design eras Spain has a long tradition of making gardens.

Significant gardens were made by:

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• Immigrants from the Carthaginian and Roman Empires; for example, the Palmeral of Elche in Alicante • Nobility, Christians in the Spanish Medieval period • Islamic rulers and artisans of Al-Andalus, the Moorish Iberian Peninsula or Spanish territories, especially in present-day Andalusia in Southern Spain; for example, the Alhambra, Generalife in Granada.

• Post-Reconquista Mudéjar design and artisans; for example, the Alcázar of Seville.

• Catholic monarchs during the Spanish Renaissance, Spanish Gothic, and Spanish Baroque periods; for

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example, the Royal Palace of La Granja de San Ildefonso.

• landowning and business dynasties during the Romantic and Modern periods; for example, Park Güell.

Civic projects and expositions; for example, Maria Luisa Park and Plaza de España in Seville.

In 21st century Spain, gardens are designed by garden and landscape designers, horticulturalists, artists, architects, and landscape architects; for example, the Olympic village public outdoor spaces for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics or the public spaces for the Universal Exposition of Seville_Expo_’92.

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are refreshing coolness, humidity, sounds, greenery, and fragrance. This type of garden is compatible with the Spanish climate of sun and heat. Provisions for shade are given with the use of arcades, pergolas, trellising, and garden pavilions.

14

October 2015

braben’s blog...

Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer your password manager Bytes. Finally! There are computer does the dirty work for specialist out there that are starting to you. agree with things that I have been saying For you, I have 2 pieces of advice, with for some years! What has tickled me so much that I am willing to explode with logical explanations. The first is simple, satisfaction?

DON’T allow your browser to hold any of One of the suggestions that I have made your passwords. Browsers are extremely to you, the faithful readership of the SolTimes, is that you should have secure, insecure and store you passwords in a complicated, individual passwords for database file (no encryption used!). The each individual email address and website number of times someone has come to that to are registered with. me wanting to recover a password and The majority of people use very weak been amazed and frightened by the ease passwords and reuse them on different websites. How are you supposed to with which I have recovered it from their use strong, unique passwords on all browser. the websites you use? The solution is a Second piece of advice, DON’T use password manager. Password managers any form of online storage, it is rarely as store your login information for all the secure as they would have you believe! websites you use and help you log into them automatically. They encrypt Especially sensitive information such as your password database with a master your passwords. That leaves you with password – the master password is the a much more limited set of options. For only one you have to remember! the sake of paranoid security :-) lets Don’t Reuse Passwords!

Why? Simply put, if you use one password look at rules that will improve security then someone will, as passwords are stolen for your passwords. 1. Use a program from Google and Microsoft everyday, have that encrypts your password file. 2. Only access to every website, email address decrypting it for the screen and 3. Then and everything that you require to be wiping the used memory when it is closes kept safe! All because you use the same down. 4. Being able to be used directly password for everything!

Web geeks (like me – and proud of from a memory stick if you choose! That it) have hundreds of accounts to keep is a very specific set of rules that WILL track of, while even the average person make your sensitive passwords SAFE. likely has tens of different passwords.

Remembering such strong passwords is What programs will fit into these rules?

When preparing for this article I spent nearly impossible without resorting to some sort of trick. The ideal trick is a hours on the internet trying to find a password manager that generates secure, Password Managers, that better than the random passwords for you and remembers one I use now, AND FAILED! The password them so you don’t have to! A password manager will take a load off your mind, Manager that I use? KEEPASS – It’s free, freeing up brain for doing productive open-source (you can look at the code – if things rather than remembering a long list you really want to) and secure. Try it, I of passwords. suspect that you won’t be disappointed.

How does it work? Instead of typing Meet me at Olivers Bar in Albox on your password into the website, you type your master password into the password Friday´s 1200-1600 for free advice manager, which automatically fills the concerning your computer, or to arrange appropriate login information into the an appointment, or use the Email address website when you ask it to. You don’t or phone number below. have to think about what email address, For further information or advice on username, and computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or password you used canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk for the website –

Yellowstone For those that try their luck at quiz nights; Yellowstone is the answer to the perennial question of which is the oldest National Park in the world? It’s not Hyde Park as a team guessed recently at a weekly quiz. Previously the same team gave the answer ‘Notting Hill’ when asked what the largest wild carnivore in Britain is. They thought they’d heard carnival (it’s the badger.)

I digress; Yellowstone Park sits atop a Super Volcano; this term is used funnily enough for very large volcanoes. There have been three major eruptions over the last two million years; the first was the largest being 2500 times larger than the Mount St. Helens eruption in 1980. The park owes its beauty to the cataclysmic forces that have shaped it. Lakes, rivers and mountain ridges have all been put in place by the forces at work under the earth.

Smaller eruptions have taken place regularly since; just 14,000 years ago a 5km wide crater was formed to enlarge Yellowstone Lake. The area has had all manner of eruptions, from the huge gas explosions which cause the pyroclastic flows that obliterate everything for hundreds of kilometres around, to relatively slow lava flows and steam eruptions. We all know about the geyser Old Faithful, caused by ground water seeping underground, being superheated by the intense heat and exploding upwards.

Underneath Yellowstone the Caldera has been measured as being 80kms long by 20kms wide, going

bored games!

I’ve got an admission to make. We play games at home. We’ve been known to play board games and card games as the sun sinks below the horizon on many occasions. It’s such a pleasant way to spend a family evening and as we watch the sun setting, the rays slowly dissipating across the valley, showering us in a diaspora of gentle dusky light… it’s so much easier to pinch someone’s card!!

But I must say some games make even watching the omnibus edition of “Come Dine With Me” appealing. That’s not something you say every day.

I stumbled across a game which, from what I’ve read, could be worth avoiding at all costs. “Kolejka” is a game about queuing. Nothing else really, just queuing. It’s a Polish game that was developed to teach Poles about life under Communism and the difficulties of buying normal things. They had to queue and then had cards they could produce to jump the queue or liquidate others in that queue. Sounds spellbinding!

In reality it couldn’t have been that bad because it won the coveted Gra Roku Best Game award in 2012.No, I missed that news too; we’re clearly not up to speed on Polish games awards.

Then there’s “Park and Shop: The Shopping Game”. After playing this game, the Polish queue game probably sounds fantastic! “Park and Shop” involves players driving their cars to the shopping mall, getting everything off their shopping list, then returning to their car. So, after pushing and shoving your way through a busy shopping mall all day, you can come home and spend an hour or two playing a game which involves you...pushing and shoving your way through a busy shopping mall!

But it’s not just board games that excel in dullness. New technology, not to be left out, has hit the odd low itself. A game for Nintendo owners was called “Imagine: Babysitter”. In this game-which doesn’t come cheap-players have to pay to do all those things that real babysitters get paid to do, such as trying to stop a tantruming baby screaming.

Tempted? No, I’m not either.

But, I would like to suggest a sequel to the babysitter game. How about, “Imagine: Change The Nappy”! That’d be one to avoid at all costs. It could be released at the same time as another new game by the same people, “Imagine: Spending Money on Rubbish”.

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

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so deep underground as to have a capacity of 4000km3. Scientists have been measuring the ground since 1923 and at first it rose slowly, about 1cm a year then between 2004/8 it suddenly rose up over 20cms. The ground is pushed up as magma and gases fill the magma chamber below. The area constantly has earth tremors with over a thousand a year recorded, sometimes even more. Over four days in January 2010 there were 1620 earth tremors though the largest measured only 3.8M. Just like toppling dominoes the geological fault lines under our feet interconnect. On March 30th 2014 the largest earthquake in 30 years struck Yellowstone measuring 4.3M. Two days later in Chile way to the south a huge 8.2M quake struck the coast causing tidal waves of up to 2 metres. In 1992 a quake in California caused hundreds of mini quakes in the park.

Luckily we can all trust the US Govt; they assure us that although the giant ball of molten rock underneath the bears and salmon is growing; it’s not growing fast enough to be of any concern. In fact after a recent report measured the magma as 2.5 times larger than previously guessed at, the Yellowstone Volcano observatory said the following - though fascinating, the new findings do not imply increased geologic hazards at Yellowstone, and certainly do not

increase the chances of a ‘super eruption’ in the near future.

There’s just a one in 700,000 chance of the volcano erupting in the next year; coincidentally that’s twenty times more likely than winning the UK lottery.

This is just as well; as when it does go off the ash will be three metres deep for up to 250 miles killing 90,000 people instantly. Chicago and San Francisco both 1000 miles away would get a few inches. The highly toxic ash would pollute water and farmland; traffic would come to a halt as the fine dust clogs up air filters. Planes would be grounded for thousands of miles around. No search and rescue could take place with infrastructure at a standstill.

America’s ability to feed itself would cease as it would endure a nuclear winter for at least a year. Globally temperatures would drop for a good few years. We’d all however enjoy wondrous sunsets just as JMW Turner painted from England after the 1815 Mount Tambora eruption in Indonesia.

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15

16

October 2015

ENJOY LIFE IT HAS AN EXPIRATION DATE!

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SOLTIMES PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT

THE ONLY PROPERTY SUPPLEMENT ON THE COSTAS!!!!

Andulucia A

xis between Europe and Africa and meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, this region has been coveted by many different cultures throughout history and prehistory.

The region of Andalusia has a surface area of 87,268 km² and represents 17.3% of Spain. It is, on its own, larger than countries like Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Austria or Switzerland.

The diversity of landscapes and geographical terrain gives rise to an array of environments that go from the heat of the Guadalquivir River valley through to luxuriant mid-mountain areas, volcanic landscapes

such as the Tabernas desert, and the snow-capped peaks of Sierra Nevada.

The Guadalquivir is Andalusia’s most important river and brings life to many areas in its journey across the region.

In barely forty kilometers you can go from Alpine mountain landscapes to tropical areas on the shores of the Mediterranean. The coast of Andalusia stretches for almost 900 kilometres and is home to a large number of cities, towns and beaches that are a delight to visit.

The whole ensemble represents a range of attractions for tourists that goes from impressive monuments in large towns to typical small villages, which have

provided a constant source of inspiration for all kinds of artists.

Andalusia today is a modern region with welldeveloped infrastructure. It offers a warm welcome to visitors and, while conscious of the need to modernise and move forward with the times, it is also careful to take care of its roots and maintain its important cultural heritage and monuments, legacy of the region’s ancestors.

Andalusia is the main holiday destination for Spanish nationals and one of the principal destinations for overseas tourists. Don’t miss it. Andalusia loves you… https://www.andalucia.org

Geographical location

Andalusia is the meeting point of two continents, Africa and Europe, as well as the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. It is located at the south of the Iberian Peninsula and is the southernmost point of Europe. Its northern frontier is marked by the Sierra Morena Mountains, which separate the Castilian plain to the north and the Guadalquivir River basin to the south. To the west, the Guadiana River separates Andalusia from Portugal in the province of Huelva..

To the south, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean wash the shores of Huelva and Cadiz provinces, while the Mediterranean meets the coast in the provinces of Cadiz, Malaga, Granada and Almería. In the east, its frontiers are marked by the Mediterranean coast of Almería and the Levante area of eastern Spain. Covering 87,268 km², Andalusia is Spain’s second largest Autonomous Region The Guadalquivir River has created a fertile valley which shares its name. Along with one of its tributaries, the Genil, it is Andalusia’s fundamental physical axis. From its source in the Sierra de Cazorla Mountains to the East, through to its mouth in the west alongside the marshes of the Doñana National Park, the Guadalquivir is a source of life for the landscapes it crosses.

50% of Andalusia is mountainous terrain and a third of its land area is over 600 metres above sea level. It has an extensive high plateau and 46 peaks reaching over 1,000 metres. Sierra Nevada, in the heart of the Penibética Range is home to the region’s highest peaks – Mulhacén and Veleta, over 3,400 metres.

Communications

The region’s network of main roads and motorways now covers more than 24,000 km.

The rail network also has two high-speed lines: Seville-Cordoba-Madrid, which has been running since 1992, and the recently inaugurated Malaga-Cordoba-Madrid line.

Air traffic in Andalusia has modern, large airports, offering an array of flights to and from the main Spanish and European cities along with many destinations around the world.

Andalusia’s strategic position at the meeting point of Atlantic and Mediterranean make its ports, especially Algeciras, major hubs for international maritime traffic.

Other ports such as Huelva, Cadiz, Malaga and Almería are the base for major transport services, while the Andalusian coast is also home to thirty-seven marinas; Seville also has various river ports. They are all responsible for generating a great deal of commercial and tourism activity.

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House Prices Stable for Tenth Consecutive Quarter

According to the latest quarterly Real Estate Sector Trends report published by the Sociedad de Tasación, the average price of new and used housing in Spain stood at around 1,303 euros per square metre in the third quarter of 2015, which represents a year-on-year decline of just 0.5%, and a decline of 1.4% compared with the previous quarter.

With this data, the average price of housing has accumulated 10 consecutive quarters of stability, with only slight upward and downward variations (in the second quarter of 2013, the average price stood at 1,358 euros per square metre). In this context, the average price has accumulated a decline of 45.7% since the maximum value reached in 2007, when it stood at 2,401 euros per square metre.

The Sociedad de Tasación highlighted such factors impacting the continued growth in the real estate sector, as the increase in the volume of transactions as well as the resumption of construction of new builds, which had been halted for years, and also emphasised the greater fluidity in the granting of mortgages.

Moreover, according to the organisation’s Index of Real Estate Effort, the number of years of full salary required by an average citizen in order to buy an average-sized home stands at 7.4 years in the fourth quarter, remaining stable compared with the previous quarter. Although this figure has remained unchanged compared with the previous quarter, it has dropped by almost half when compared with the 13.7 years’ salary required during the peak of the housing boom, in early 2007.

The Confidence Index produced by the

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October 2015

Average House Prices in Spain Fell by 0.4% in September

Sociedad de Tasación continues to consolidate its upward trend, rising by nearly two points in a quarter, to 51.1 points. This exceeds the neutral 50 points position for the first time and continues with the progressive growth the Index has noted during the last two years, since the minimum recorded in the last quarter of 2012, when it stood at 30.6 points.

El Mundo reported that the improvement during the past 10 quarters seems to confirm the favourable trend in all regions, especially in La Rioja (55.4 points), the Balearic Islands (55.3) and Asturias (53.5), while the only regions where the Index remains below 50 points are Aragón, Castilla y León and Murcia. kyero.com

Spanish Airports Handled Record 21 Million Passengers in September The AENA Spanish airports network recorded the highest volume of passengers for a month of September in its history, with a total of 21.02 million passengers in the month, which represents an increase of 5% over the same month of 2014. This figure also continues the growth trend in passenger traffic, accumulating 23 months of increases Of the total passengers in September, El Pais reported that over 15 million related to

international flights, up 4.4% compared with the same month of last year, while the number of passengers on domestic flights approached 6 million, with an increase of 6.4% year-on-year. In the first nine months of the year, the volume of air traffic passengers increased by 5.2% compared to the same period of 2014, accumulating a total of 161.1 million travellers. kyero.com

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

The IMIE General and Large Markets Index, published by real estate appraisal company, Tinsa, registered a year-on-year fall of 0.4% in September, confirming the price stabilisation trend. It is the slowest rate of decline since the -0.3% recorded in March 2008, which marked the first year-on-year decline since the comparable series began in 2001.

In September, the accumulated decline in the average price of housing in Spain reached 41.9%, since the maximum values recorded.

The Balearic and Canary Islands group and the group which is made up of the smaller towns (Rest of the Municipalities) registered the best year-on-year figures in September, among the five areas analysed by Tinsa, with increases of 0.7% and 0.6%, respectively. The average prices in the Capitals and Large Cities category fell by 0.4% compared to September 2014, and in the Metropolitan Areas group the average prices dropped by 0.6% compared with a year ago.

Looking at this year only, the average price of housing in Spain has fallen by 1.3% between January and September. The groups to register the best data in these nine months were the Capitals and Large Cities and the Mediterranean Coast, with increases of 0.2% and 1.2%, respectively, while the Metropolitan Areas registered a decline of 2.5% to September and the Rest of the Municipalities fell by 3.9%, which is considerably less than the decline of 9% this group registered in the same period of last year.

Moreover, the Balearic and Canary Islands group also registered a significantly lower decline, falling by just 0.7% between January and September 2015, compared to the 3.4% decline recorded in the first nine months of 2014.

The adjustment in housing prices in Spain since 2007 reached an average of 41.9% in September, with the Mediterranean Coast being the area where housing values have most depreciated since their peak (-48.9%), followed by the Capitals and Large Cities (-45.1%), and the Metropolitan Areas (-44.4%), while the areas where average prices have declined least are the Balearic and Canary Islands (-31.6%) and the Rest of the Municipalities (-37.8%). kyero.com

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OLIVE PROPERTIES, BEDAR AREA

Olive

Bedar is an old mining town situated in the Sierra de los Filabres mountains, with a fantastic panoramic view over the fertile valleys towards the beaches of the Costa de Almeria.

This village is known for its Moorish influence and has managed to maintain its tranquility, beauty and peace with narrow, twisting streets and panoramic views towards the coast, which is less than 20 minutes away.

In the past, mining has been the principle industry in the area and has attracted people from all over Europe. There were years of prosperity during these times and many fine buildings from this period remain in the area.

Being an interesting village so close to the coast, Bedar has become an attraction for both artists and painters and the locals are friendly and welcoming. The village boasts good restaurants and bars and there is also a chemist, bank, post office , doctor and bakery.

Although small, this village caters for everyone including a community centre where Spanish classes are held, as well as a popular gym, village band and ceramics and art centre.

There are many reasons to visit this beautiful, unspoilt village and there are many opportunities to buy in one of Andalucia’s most picturesque villages.

Browse our good selection of villas for sale in Bedar.

O

www.soltimes.com

19 Bedar, 04288 (next to Miramar Restaurant)

Tel: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466

Olive

Email: info@olivehouse-es.com

www.olivehouse-es.com

Monday - Friday 10am - 3.30pm

Sales office now open in Bedar

OLV945

Bedar

A rare opportunity to acquire an original 3 bedroom village house situated in a great location with easy access and street parking to the front. The property requires full modernization, however has great potential and just a minute’s walk from all amenities and municipal swimming pool.

59,950 Euros

OLV972

Bedar

Villa Serrania is a charming 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom country villa located just minutes outside the beautiful and picturesque village of Bedar. The property boasts a private pool, various terraces and wonderful views of the countryside and coastline.

...it’s all in the detail

OLV297

bedar

This very large village house is situated in the centre of the village of Bedar. There are four spacious bedrooms, living room and kitchen with several terraces. This is a good sized totally renovated townhouse with lots of character and an excellent location.

OPEN TO OFFERS.

149,950 Euros

bedar

OLV247

This stunning 5 bed villa is situated in an elevated position close to the beautiful white washed village of Bedar, only 15 minutes from the coast of Mojacar.

This property is finished to a very high standard and has many extras and fantastic panoramic views of the entire coastline. It is well worth a viewing.

285,000 Euros

395,000 Euros

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

We are looking for more properties due to an increase in both British and Belgium clients.

We have lots of customers looking! So please contact us if you want to sell.

140.000€

175,000€

Arboleas, Nice villa with 3 bed, 2 bath and a private pool.

Limaria, beautiful villa with 3 bed, 2 bath & a wonderful garden!!

145,000€

175,000€

Albanchez, Beautiful villa with 3 bed, 2 bath, pool & stunning views!!

Arboleas, Stunning villa with 3 bed, 2 bath, pool & nice views.

159,000€

199,000€

Arboleas, Beautiful villa with 2 bed, 2 bath, pool & fantastic views!!

Albanchez, Stunning villa with 3/4 bed, 2 bath & outstanding views!!

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

20

SOL Y MAR Avenida 28 de Febrero Nº 44, Albox

w Ne ting Lis

Tropical oasis arboleas SM023 - poa€

Your own mini Oasis. A secluded detached villa with stunning views across the valley, Featuring; 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, swimming pool, beautiful grounds.

w Ne ting s i L

stunning 360º views Cantoria sM005 - 109,000€

Detached 2 bedrooms, 2 bathroom villa with 360 degree view of the surrounding valley. Features peller heating system, roof terrace and Jacuzzi.

w Ne ting s i L

Immaculate Home near albox sM021 - 169,000€

Detached 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom country villa with 2400m2 of land. Close to Albox and appointed to a high standard.

w Ne ting s Li

idyllic setting taberno sM002 - 144,000€

Traditional restored cortijo in an idyllic setting with fantastic views. Features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and part A/C

w Ne ting Lis

Walking distance Almanzora sM022 - 125,000€

A lovely, detached bright villa in a great location.

Well maintained gardens and room for a swimming pool. Walking distance to the local amenities, must be seen to be appreciated.

r de Un ffer O

Tel: 950 064 584 609 199 394 Email: info@solymarspain.com www.solymarspain.com w Ne ting Lis

two living quarters Almanzora village sM020 - 200,000€

Charming villa in the heart of the village with swimming pool. Features 2 separate living quarters with 2 bedrooms in each.

Former guest house zurgena sol314 - 89,995€

Ideal property for a large family or a great B&B business opportunity. The property consists of 5 large bedrooms 2 with en-suite wet rooms and two family bathrooms.

There is a small courtyard to the rear with a small cave.

close to all amenities cantoria sM004 - 160,000€

Immaculate detached 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms villa. Within walking distance to town. Features above ground pool and tranquil setting.

country cortijo partaloa sol091 - 62,000€

millhouse arboleas sM015 - 165,000€

Former millhouse converted to 2 houses in a tranquil setting, close to the rambla with mountain views. Tastefully refurbished with many original features.

w Ne ting Lis

October 2015

This lovely 3 bed 1 bath attached countryhouse is situated close the beautiful town of Arboleas, and a short drive from the market town of Albox.

rs

fe Of

former B&B Albox Great value for money sol178 - 62,500€

Former Bed & Breakfast, attached villa features 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with large garden.

Only 10 mins to Albox.

w Ne ting s Li

country home nr baza SM014 - 140,000€

Part cave country home, stunning setting, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large plot, partially fenced, stunning views

21

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PROPERTY OF THE WEEK

arboleas sol161 Beautiful detached quality villa (127m2) is located just 10 minutes drive from the town of Albox & features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a private pool & jacuzzi. The walled corner plot is 710m2 & has a carport & garden shed (10m2)

169,950€ WE URGENTLY REQUIRE LEGAL PROPERTIES FROM COAST TO COUNTRY WE ARE LOOKING FOR ALL TYPES OF PROPERTIES FOR RENTAL OPPORTUNITIES. CLIENTS WAITING CALL US 950 064 584 immaculate country cortijo sol726 - 89,995€

SOL Y MAR

COUNTRY SETTING FANTASTIC VIEWS - ORIA MAR620 - 350€ PCM

IMPRESSIVE DETACHED VILLA CLOSE TO CANTORIA MAR801 - 450€ PCM

4 bed, 2 bath immaculate townhouse walking distance to amenities, unfurnished.

Tastefully decorated throughout.

Traditional cortijo with many original features .Featuring 3 beds, 2 baths, log burner, furnished. Short drive to Oria.

3 bed, 2 bath country villa with 2500m2 of land. Features swimming pool.

Only 10 mins drive to Albox.

great VIEWS RAMBLA DE ORIA RSM004 - 325€ PCM

IMACULATE CASITA CLOSE TO ALBOX RSM005 - 350€ pcm

large family home CLOSE TO ALBOX RSM008 - 600€ pcm

3 bed attached cortijo with roof terrace , fully furnished with fantastic views. Only 20 mins to Albox.

Fully furnished 2 bed, 1 bath casita available for 6 month rental.

Close to Albox.

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22

October 2015

Britons buying a fifth of all Spanish property sold to foreigners

New figures indicate moribund prices and a strong pound are making holiday homes in the sun more appealing Britons are buying a fifth of all Spanish property sold to foreigners, as moribund prices and a strong pound make holiday homes in the sun more appealing.

According to new figures released by the Spanish land registry, Britons, more than any other nationality, are taking advantage of a combination of favourable economic factors. The euro has fallen from about 80p to the pound, to a little over 70p in 12 months, making homes in popular areas such as the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca cheaper to buy.

Slow price growth in Spain, coupled with rapidly rising property prices at home – in some instances, by more than 10 per cent a year – mean that Spanish property is making less of a dent in Britons’ wallets. According to the Colegio de Registradores, 19.8 per cent of all property bought by non-Spaniards in the first six months of 2015 went to UK buyers. German and other northern Europeans are stymied by the weak euro, while buyers from further afield – Russians have bought large numbers of Spanish holiday homes in recent years – have been hit by sanctions or weakening domestic economies.

As many as 750,000 Britons live in Spain for at least part of the year. “The British market is by far the most important,” said Marc Pritchard, the Majorca-based sales and marketing director of Taylor Wimpey España, which develops homes in popular coastal areas. “There are several factors at play, but people are starting to realise that after years of the Spanish housing market being depressed, it is beginning to pick up.”

Spain suffered one of the sharpest economic downturns in the eurozone crisis, sending property prices spiralling. Many had ploughed retirement savings into a dream home in the sun, but suddenly found themselves heavily indebted and holding an asset that was worth a fraction of what they paid for it.

But greater confidence of economic stability at home is allowing people, especially those with plenty of cash, to look abroad for what are still bargain prices. “Prices, while rising, are still low,” said Mr Pritchard. “Even in prime locations, properties are still at 2002 levels.”

The most popular destinations are the sun-kissed coastal areas,

property group

with some communities in Alicante and Marbella dominated

by English-speaking residents. The house-moving website, Rightmove, says it is the grey pound that is driving the market.

Britons aged between 55 and 64 are the most active in Spain, making up almost half of all enquiries about holiday homes.

Those aged between 45 and 54 make a third of all requests.

Housers, a Spanish-based crowd-funded investment group, is hoping to raise about £90m to invest in 500 properties, most of them in Madrid, with a view to renting them out. House prices in the Spanish capital have risen by more than 5 per cent this year.

The move is likely to anger social groups who argue that banks have been too quick to foreclose on households who have fallen behind on mortgage repayments. Housers’ first investment, a flat in Madrid, was bought by 49 investors, who each share the €450 (£333) a month rent, and any capital appreciation. www.independent.co.,uk

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This is a 3-bed / 2-bath fully furnished property with views of the golf course, sea and mountains. It has a total area of 277.62 mts² distributed on 3 levels which also includes gardens, terraces and a roof solarium. The property is in good condition and has views from all of the rooms. There is a small garden at the front of the house and a carport for off street parking. It also has an internal courtyard and a private garden at the back of the property that leads to the very well maintained communal gardens of “Las Torres de la Loma” and the communal swimming pool. A short 5 minute walk takes you to the sandy beach of Macenas and a 5 minute drive to the beautiful unspoilt beaches of Manaca. This is the perfect tranquil setting to relax, unwind and enjoy life.

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18 Interesting Facts about Spain

23

You Probably Didn’t Know

Spain is one of the world’s oldest cultures with a rich heritage that has influenced entire continents. It is the birthplace of the Spanish language, Pablo Picasso and Miguel Cervantes, and attracts millions of people every year.

Spain has tons to offer, from chorizos and matadors to flamenco dance and Spanish guitar. On that note, let’s look at some known (and some not so known) facts about Spain.

Fact 1: Although Christopher Columbus was Italian, he set sail for the Indies under the auspices of the Spanish monarchy.

In fact, as per his agreement with the Spanish Catholic Monarchs, he claimed governorship of all lands he found for Spain, a tenth of all revenue from new found lands, and the title of ‘Admiral of the Ocean’. The Spanish monarchs agreed to his terms, but only because they didn’t expect him to return. Needless to say, he did return, only for the Spanish crown to renege on its promises!

Fact 2: The Puerta del Sol (“Gate of the Sun”) plaza in Madrid is the physical center of the country.

It is marked as Km 0 for the Spanish radial road network. Think of it as Hollywood and Empire State Building combined!

Fact 3: Spain has been through a bunch of different names throughout its history.

The North African inhabitants who first crossed the Straits of Gibraltar called it Iberia, which meant land of rivers (‘Iber’ meant river). When the Greeks invaded the peninsula, they called it Hesperia, meaning “land of the setting sun” (since it was then the westernmost point of the European continent).

When the Carthaginians came to the land around 300 BCE, they called it Ispania, which meant “land of the rabbits”. Later, the Romans took over and Latinized the name to Hispania.

Over time, this changed to España.

So essentially, Spain is the “land of rabbits”!

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Fact 4: There is no tooth fairy in Spain.

Instead, the Spanish have a legend called ‘Ratoncito Perez’ who

exchanges children’s teeth for gifts.

Fact 5: There is a Spanish New Year custom called Twelve Grapes.

As per this custom, Spaniards celebrate the New Year by eating one grape with their family for each bell strike of the clock (for a total of 12 grapes – hence the name). This custom was originally popularized by Spanish vine growers as a way to sell their excess grapes!

Fact 6: When you think of olive oil, you probably think of Italy. In reality, Spain produces 45% of all olive oil in the world.

It also accounts for 20% of the world’s olive oil consumption (Italy, of course, comes in first with 30%). In fact, the average Spaniard consumes nearly 14 liters of olive oil each year.

Fact 7: Traditionally, you have two surnames in Spain – the first surname from your father, and the second from your mother.

For example, if your name is Juan Martín Lopez, and your wife’s name is Elena González García, your kids’ surname will be Martín González.

However, as per a new gender equality law, this tradition is now being changed to favor the mother’s last name.

Fact 8: Despite being one of the largest and most powerful countries in the world, Spain did not officially participate in either the First or the Second World War. Although their official status was non-belligerent (which is actually not recognized by international law) during World War II, Spain’s leaders were ideologically aligned with Germany and Italy. Many Spanish citizens were exiled to France to fight against the Axis Powers.

Fact 9: Like the United Kingdom,

Spain is also a constitutional monarchy.

Officially, it is called the Kingdom of Spain and the head of state of is King Juan Carlos I. They also have a prime minister (currently Mariano Rajoy Brey).

Fact 10: With 410 million native speakers, Spanish is the second most popular language in the world.

It is the official language of Spain and (hold your breath) Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, Paraguay, Panama, Mexico, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Ecuador, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Peru, Uruguay, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Equatorial Guinea.

Fact 11: Don Quixote, the famous book written by Spanish author Miguel Cervantes in 1605, was voted the “most meaningful book of all time” in 2002 by a panel of 100 top authors, including Salman Rushdie, Normal Mailer, Doris Lessing and Caroles Fuentes.

Don Quixote tells the tale of the eponymous ‘knight’ and his squire,

Development Index, landing at 23rd position worldwide.

Fact 15: Madrid is the capital city of Spain with a population of 3.2 million.

It was called Ursaria (“land of bears”) by the Romans because of the many bears in the area. During the Arabic occupation of Spain, it was called Magerit, which means “place of abundant water”.

Fact 16: Islamic Moorish armies conquered nearly all of Spain between 711 and 718 CE. Muslim rule persisted in the country for nearly 781 years, t h o u g h often in fragments.

Thanks to its Muslim h er it a g e, Spain today has a markedly unique culture and

Sancho Panza. Both Don Quixote and Sancho Panza are national heroes in Spain. Their statues can be found everywhere. The one at Plaza de Espana in Madrid is especially popular among tourists.

Fact 12: Real Madrid, the Spanish football club based out of Madrid, is the most valuable sports team in the world.

They boast an annual revenues of $650m and a brand value of $3.3 billion. Bitter rivals Barcelona rank third on this list with a value of $2.6 billion.

Fact 13: Spain breeds art.

Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali – two of the most important artists of the 20th century were both Spanish.

Their contemporary, Juan Miro, had an equally profound impact of 20th century art.

Fact 14: With a GDP of $1.3 trillion, Spain is the 13th largest economy in the world.

It also has a very high Human

heritage than its neighbor France.

Fact 17: The island of Ibiza in eastern Spain is one of Europe’s favorite party destinations.

More than 2 million tourists descend upon this island each year to soak in the sun and party at its huge clubs where Tiesto, Swedish House Mafia and David Guetta are regular performers.

Fact 18: 71% of Spain’s population identifies itself as catholic.

However, if you were to ask a Spaniard what the real religion of the country is, you’d get a unanimous answer: football (not ‘soccer’).

Football is more than just a game in the country; it is followed with the fervor of a religion.

As mentioned above, two of the worlds biggest football clubs are Spanish (Real Madrid and Barcelona).

Spain is also the reigning world champions. In fact, the 2010 football world cup final was watched by 15.6 million people in Spain – roughly 86% of the total audience. https://blog.udemy.com

So there you have it – 18 awesome facts about Spain!

24

October 2015

UAE investors said to up interest in Spanish real estate market

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Cerberus buys renewable energy firm Renovalia

New York-based investment fund Cerberus [CBS. UL] has bought Spanish renewable energy company Renovalia in a deal worth 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion) including debt, newspapers reported on Saturday.

Neither Cerberus nor Renovalia were immediately available for comment.

Renovalia pulled a planned stock market flotation in 2010 due to market turmoil and lack of clarity on the government's subsidy plans.

It had planned to list up to 25 percent of the company in a deal valuing the family-owned solar and wind power firm at up to 629 million euros at the time.

Renovalia operates in seven countries and has more than 600 megawatts of power generation in operation and under construction, including 10 wind farms and six solar panel plants. http://uk.reuters.com/

NICK THE TILER

UAE investors are showing increasing interest in the Spanish real estate market as it rebounds from economic troubles, according to Chestertons.

The property agency said housing sales grew by 8 percent in the first half of the year in Spain, with more UAE and Gulf buyers looking to invest.

Brennon Nicholas, head of international sales, Chestertons MENA, said: "Spain is now being viewed as the next hotspot real estate market after top investment destinations like London, Paris and New York.

"Spain was once considered as a troubled economy as investors hesitated for its high unemployment, troubled banking sector and free falling real estate which has now completely changed marking a makeover and a comeback in full swing."

He added: "We have noticed considerable interest from UAE investors who seek their dream overseas property in Spain.

"Owing to weakened oil prices, the Middle Eastern investor base has expanded. A major change in global investment strategies has been observed with the movement spreading across gateway markets to locations in Europe which consists of second tier locations.

"The investor interest now seems to be gradually shifting to other European destinations with Spain being one of their top priorities."

Chestertons recently created a new International Properties arm that will focus on EU-based properties for UAE investors. This new division will also help the Emiratis to explore several new investment opportunities due to the current visa-free-travel status in the Schengen zone.

The company will facilitate UAE investors to buy properties in Spain, Monaco, Cyprus and several other EU countries from its office in Dubai. http://www.arabianbusiness.com/

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Don Miguel El Sabio & the Particle Accelerator seventy-nine percent the

At Alquerian unemployment figure was the highest in the western world. Manuela made passionate pleas for a state sponsored project to get the people back to work. Everyone in the Alquerian establishment took it upon themselves to apply to various international bodies for funding. Purely from a sense of community spirit. None thought of personal gain, at least that’s what they said publicly. The replies soon came in, all starting with the line ‘In the present economic climate …..’ One however, from the United Nations Scientific Development Council guaranteed funding for a project put forward by Don Miguel El Sabio. Alqueria’s only intellectual, well he had mastered joined-up writing.

The Don’s proposal?

Alqueria’s very own particle accelerator.

While Sabio had confidence in his abilities, no-one else did. Most thought it was just an elaborate ploy to defraud the UN of vast quantities of cash. A true Alquerian project. The Government applauded in admiration.

As the Alquerian Treasury Minister counted the cash from the UN, the Don marshalled the unemployed of the village.

He took over the old television studio off the Calle Generalissimo and closed the steel doors behind. What he was doing was of no interest to the rest of the village. They viewed him with suspicion at the best of times and as he was keeping the rebellious youth of Alqueria occupied they thought it best to leave him alone.

He did however seem to be using a great deal of double sided sticky tape and the inners from paper towel rolls which raised

a few eyebrows. However in the eyes of the simple villagers intelligence went hand in hand with eccentricity.

Then the fateful day. Representatives from the UN appeared at the border demanding to see the results of their investment. Rodriquez went into hiding and Manuela put on a false moustache and pretended to be a member of the Women’s Institute on holiday from Britain.

Don Miguel El Sabio stood alone to face his inquisitors. The Don didn’t seem perturbed in the slightest and joyfully led the team to the old studio where he triumphantly swung open the doors.

Lurking in the shadows was a contraption consisting of an old Remitroot barrel connected via verdigris encrusted copper pipes to an old washing machine.

The silence was tangible. To cover their embarrassment the UN team submitted an interim report which simply stated, ‘Valuable and ongoing work.’

Don Miguel El Sabio was elated and moved to the next stage. The acceleration of a particle, but he needed a particle to accelerate. To the Don’s befuddled mind a particle is a particle and so is a Remitroot seed.

How would the particle accelerator effect the Remitroot seed?

What mutations will occur within its kernel?

We await the result of the first experiment.

Strictly 2015 Week 4

The best way that I can describe this weeks show is that it was very topsy turvy. The top dancers had a poor week and the bottom dancers seemed to have a great week! C’est la vie. Let’s hope it’s back to normal next week.

Opening this weeks show were Anita Rani and Gleb with a Samba. Anita is one of the dancers I have been championing and despite the fact that she had the hip action nailed her feet were flat and turned in and on the whole her samba looked heavy. I awarded her a 7 and the judges 27. Next to dance were Daniel O’Donnell and Kristina with an American Smooth. I felt Daniel had a bit of a caning from the judges this week as he danced some basic foxtrot extremely well for the length of time he’s been dancing. OK it was a bit ‘careful’ and he does need to attack his work a bit more but I really enjoyed his performance and gave him a 7 with the judges a measly 23. Kirsty Gallacher and Brendan were next out with their Paso Doble. Firstly what a disgusting piece of music for this dance - this always detracts from any performance for me. Kirsty was lacking the essential core and high hips for this dance which resulted in her performance being plonky and weak and looking as if Brendan was dragging her around the floor. I gave her 4 and the judges 21. Georgia May Foote and Giovanni followed with their performance of a Quickstep. This was a great performance bursting with energy, fast and furious and full of content. I do feel she is just a bit too small to dance ballroom with Giovanni and as a result there was a bit of gapping going on. That said I gave her 8 and the judges 31.

Jeremy Vine and Karen were next with a Jive.

I always enjoy watching Jeremy with his ‘dad’ dancing which he always seems to bring to every performance. But as Jive is one for the ‘wee’ folk, I found Jeremy struggling with his height and control of those extremeties for a second week. I gave him 5 and the judges bottom slot with 20. Kellie Bright and Kevin danced a Foxtrot next. For me this was

Thinking Blonde

‘They’ say that it’s not what you know, it’s who you know that gets you where you are. I think that ‘they’ are right, and I have been working on that premise all my life.

Take the motor car, for instance.

I know how to drive, and I enjoy driving. I find the experience quite relaxing, yet despite all this, I have no idea at all how an internal combustion engine works, nor indeed how any of the bells and whistles which come as standard with the modern motor car function. Just as long as I know a man who does, then I am happy in my ignorance.

I make a slight exception in the case of a puncture. I know how to change a tyre, in theory, but should the occasion arise where I need to put theory into practice, I would first stand helplessly by the side of the road, hoping that a knight in shining armour would come to my rescue. If no knight were currently available for rescue duties, then and only then would I buckle down and change the tyre myself.

I also have an extensive list of excuses, suitable for almost every occasion. These are not necessarily based on a lack of knowledge, more on a lack of desire – there are many occasions in Life where a handy but believable excuse comes in useful, such as: It’s too hot/cold/ windy to push the wheelbarrow full of garden rubbish up to the tip and empty it. There might be an element of truth in the hot/

very disappointing after last weeks performance of their Charleston. It was lumpy and bumpy and lacking that core strength however, I did feel that the choreography was partially to blame.

I awarded her 7 and the judges 32. Jamelia and Tristan were next and danced a Charleston. This was definitely her dance, she s h o w e d great swivels and had some great tricks with super characterisation.

Last week she was in my bottom 2 this week one of the top dancers. I awarded her 8 and the judges 32.

Jay McGuinness and Aliona then performed their Quickstep.

A n o t h e r disappointing performance from my favourite celebrity for this year.

I think the choreography was a little too ambitious with syncopated pivots involved. He made a couple of errors and his frame was moving around quite a lot probably due to the fact that he was turning his head way too much. I gave him 7 and the judges only 25.

Carol Kirkwood and Pasha next danced a Paso Doble to a traditional piece of music - yeah!

This was an improvement on last week but still completely lacking in core which would have improved this dance many times over. Because of this the dance was lacking drive and attack so lost out on characterisation. I gave her 5 and the judges 22. A Waltz was next performed by Ainsley Harriet and Natalie. Ainsley is improving steadily each week and I really enjoyed his smooth elegant performance. I awarded him 6 and the judges 26.

Helen George and Aljaz then danced a Salsa. This was a dance I didn’t expect her to be able to pull off as a ballerina but she proved me totally wrong.

She’s got legs that go on forever and really used them in this dance with a spectacular end lift. I

25

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk cold/windy scenario, but the underlying fact is that I simply don’t want to.

However, I am delighted to tell you that I have now got a totally new excuse, one that will suffice on any number of occasions.

I was sitting in the kitchen, my torso covered in a towel, while Pete smeared my head with a vile witch’s brew known a colourant – he does this for me, because I ‘can’t see the back of my head’ – nobody mention mirrors, please!

During the process he unintentionally smeared my ear with a goodly dollop of dye. My ear is directly connected with my brain, such as it is, so it seems wholly plausible to me that I have now got a functioning amount of dye in my brain.

Fine! Now all difficult decisions requiring deep thought are covered under the umbrella excuse of ‘I can’t do that, I’ve got a blonde brain.’

awarded her 8 and the judges 32. Peter Andre and Janette and their Tango were next. Peter delivered the elements here, speed, sharpness and intensity however, his feet need work. He was very stompy lifting his feet off the floor at every occasion which gave the Tango an up/down look instead of being completely flat. He needed to relax his knees and keep them there. I awarded him 8 and the judges 32. Closing the show this week were Katie Derham and Anton with a Viennese Waltz. This showed the most Viennese Waltz I’ve ever seen performed in Strictly. For me all her chasses were skipped and she was up and down on all her pivots and for that reason I gave her 7. The judges had her in top position on 33 which I felt was way out of order. That said this is only the second time in 12 years that Anton has been in top place on the leader board (aah!)

So with Jeremy and Kirsty in bottom places, the public bottom two were Daniel O’Donnell and Kirsty Gallacher with Daniel leaving the show this week unfortunately due to a number of errors in the dance off. I think had it been a clean performance Kirsty would have left the show instead. Let’s hope that our great dancers are back on form next week. In the meantime come and join in our ‘Strictly’ gossip at one of our classes until then Keep Dancing!By Lyn Aspden of ‘Strictly Dance’ Class Info 635 584 431

puzzle pages

26

October 2015

To advertise in this space Contact our sales advisors on 950 121 936 or email: sales@soltimes.com

1

3

wordsearch

LOOK UP!

Find and circle all of the items that you might see when you look upward.

The remaining 24 letters spell an additional item you might see.

2. Who wrote the play A Day in the Death of Joe Egg?...................................

3. Which egg is described in a familiar phrase as ?good in parts??.....................

4. Which electronic plaything takes its name from the Japanese for ?Loveable Egg??.....................................................

5. Nits is a common name given to the eggs of which creature?..........................

6. Which vegetable is served with eggs Florentine?............................................

7. What part of Julia is described in a poem as ?White and hairless as an egg?

CRYPTIC crossword

6. Spinach 7. Her Dainty Leg 8. I am the walrus 9. Marilyn Monroe 10. Edwina Currie CROSSWORD

1. Meringue 2. Peter Nichols 3. A Curates Egg 4. Tamagotchi 5. Head Lice

SOLUTIONS

wordsearch answer

SATURN SKYDIVER SKYSCRAPER SKYWRITING SMOG SOLAR ECLIPSE STARS

Answers

STREET LIGHT THE SUN TREETOP UNIVERSE VENUS

squiggle SUDOKU

Answers

HOT AIR BALLOON JET EXHAUST JUPITER KITE LIGHTNING MARS MERCURY METEOR SHOWER MOON PLANETS POWER LINES RAINBOW SATELLITE

standard SUDOKU

10. Which British MP lost her job after some inopportune words about eggs?....

easy SUDOKU

9. Whose showbiz marriage to her third husband provoked the headline ?Egghead weds hourglass??...................

AIRPLANE BIG DIPPER BIRDS BLIMP BLUE SKY CHIMNEY SMOKE CLOUDS COMET DRONE FIREWORKS GALAXY HAZE HELICOPTER

UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECT

8. ?I am the egg man? is a line from which song by The Beatles?...................

soltimes sport Quiz

1. Which boxer was found Not Guilty of the attempted murder of Frank Warren?......

2. What sport would you be watching at Flinders Park?...

3. Boca Juniors are from which South American country?..............................

4. In 1981, Susan Brown was the first female competitor in which sporting event?......

5. Which boxer was nicknamed “The Real Deal”?

6. How many laps are there in a single race at a speedway meeting?.............

7. In Judo, the Black belt is the highest, what colour is the second highest?............

8. How many consecutive shots does it take to score a 147 break in snooker?..........

9. Which was the first Asian country to hold a F1 Grand Prix?....................................

10. Who is the only man to captain England whilst playing 3rd. Division football?..............................

6. Four 7. Brown 8. 36 9. Japan 10. Ian Botham

hard?....................................................

2

Answers

soltimes EGG Quiz

1. Which confection consists of egg whites beaten with sugar and baked

4

1. Terry Marsh 2. Tennis 3. Argentina 4. The Boat Race 5. Evander Holyfield

IDENTIFY THEse FAMOUS logos

sol picture quiz!

1. ESA / European space Agency 2. Caritas 3. World Toilet Organization 4. Socialist International

on this day 23rd October

1707 – The first Parliament of Great Britain meets.

1739 – War of Jenkins’ Ear starts: British Prime Minister Robert Walpole, reluctantly declares war on Spain.

1915 – Women’s suffrage: In New York City, 25,00033,000 women march on Fifth Avenue to advocate their right to vote.

2011 – The Libyan National Transition Council deems the Libyan Civil War over.

2012 – After 38 years, the world’s first teletext service (BBC’s Ceefax) ceases broadcast due to Northern Ireland completing the digital switchover.

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UK Motorhomes Wanted

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STANDARD CROSSWORD

1 Deliberate (7) 5 Mesh (7) 9 Out-and-out (9) 10 What chocolate comes from (5) 11 Pins (7) 12 Make bigger (7) 13 Assign (9) 15 Effeminate (5) 17 A South American rodent (5) 19 A finger or toe (9) 22 Laid bare (7) 25 Craftsman (7) 26 Dike (5) 27 Discriminate (9) 28 Probably (2 words) (7) 29 People watching their calories (7)

Down

1 Made broader (7) 2 In an illegal manner (9) 3 Front limb of a horse (7) 4 Make laws (9) 5 French for “Our” (5) 6 These stop football plays (7) 7 Become liable to (5) 8 Food market (7) 14 Disaffected (9) 16 Well-kept (9) 17 Pampered (7) 18 Take one’s clothes off (7) 20 Utmost (7) 21 One of New York’s baseball teams (7) 23 Forever no (5) 24 Dirty (5)

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squiggle

famous birthdays on this day

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Ridiculous bus crashes in a road (6) 5 Contrary to Pope is change (8) 9 One who can sell alcohol to parasitic insects seen elsewhere (8) 10 Headless hunted animal eats everyone - it’s true! (6) 11 Sum it up after I make loan extra (10) 12 Might include redhead girl (4) 13 Dead end in day of French return (8) 16 Girl is reportedly an online animal doctor? (6) 17 Foreign Office returning 13 of an unborn baby (6) 19 Goes back in green, terse part (2-6) 21 Sea pipe? (4) 22 Be concise - I adapted field of knowledge (10) 25 Tear up without a fifty-fifty return for a supporter (6) 26 This way and that, creature surrounds new similar creature (almost) (2,3,3) 27 Grass - teaberry, perhaps (8) 28 Not that clever - returns daughter to empty leisure centre (6) Down

2 Gradually strengthen physique (5) 3 Part of parachute - risk to organs (5) 4 Fire Sid up with girl (7) 5 Love church, and taking in one nymph (7) 6 Herb players, perhaps (7) 7 Most unctuous military forces enter into smut - not posh! (9) 8 One who endures the French animal in rising source (9) 14 Serving to bring to mind England 5-0 Cuba at International - a famous day (9) 15 That which ensnares Brown in green mess left inside (9) 18 Freedom left head of Iraq - Bush starting (with England) to try again (7) 19 Animal, some Australian ones, and almost a flying one (7) 20 “Former mollusc going without”, I cry out (7) 23 Fixed without maiden over (5) 24 Sea feature of river in fuel (5)

standard

Diana Dors, English actress and singer ((1931-1984) soltimes Pelé, Brazilian footballer SImpson quote and actor (1940) Anita Roddick, English “It takes two to lie: one to lie businesswoman and and one to listen” activist, founder of The Homer Simpson. The Body Shop (1942-2007) Simpsons celebrated its 25th Martin Luther King III, American activist (1957) anniversary in December Jake Robinson, English 2014. footballer (1986)

28

October 2015

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Serve yourself up a tasty cocktail with this selection of mixes from www.food.com.

Spooky Cocktails

Witches Brew

Devils Punch

Devil´s Punch

Brain Hemorrhage

Brain Hemorrhage

SERVINGS 12-16

SERVINGS 1

INGREDIENTS 170 g package lime gelatin 475 ml boiling water 710 ml chilled pineapple juice 2000 ml bottle chilled lemon-lime flavored soda or 2000 ml bottle ginger ale 475 ml chilled vodka (optional) DIRECTIONS Pour the gelatin mix into a large bowl.

Slowly stir in the boiling water. Stir at least 2 minutes, until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

Stir in the pineapple juice, the entire 2 liter of soda and the vodka. Let cool to room temperature.

INGREDIENTS 29 g peach schnapps or 29 g strawberry

SERVINGS 1 INGREDIENTS 57 g tequila 29 g orange liqueur 29 g limoncello 29 g sour mix 0.25 ml orange juice DIRECTIONS Pour the ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.Shake well.

Strain into a sour or highball glass.

schnapps 5 ml Baileys Irish Cream or 5 ml Amarula cream liqueur 0.13 ml grenadine DIRECTIONS Pour schnapps into shot glass.

Slowly pour in the Baileys Irish Cream.Do not mix!

After the cream clumps together add grenadine over the brain.

Draculas Blood

Ecto Lime Cooler

Ghostbuster

SERVINGS 1

SERVINGS 1

SERVINGS 1

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS 1 package lemon-lime powdered drink mix 680 g chilled vodka 235 ml water 235 ml sugar Ice/ lemon and lime slice DIRECTIONS Mix together everything in a large pitcher and serve.

INGREDIENTS 28 g peach schnapps 28 g melon liqueur 0.19-0.32 ml irish cream DIRECTIONS Pour the peach schnapps and melon liqueur into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well.

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Add the Irish cream drop by drop into the center of the drink.

2 fluid ounce vodka 1 fluid ounce peach schnapps 3-4 fluid ounce cranberry juice DIRECTIONS Shake ingredients together with ice.

Pour into a tall glass.

29

www.soltimes.com

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

These fun cocktail ideas can be shared with everyone.

Alcohol Free A bit of fun

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Butterbeer

DIRECTIONS Pour whipping cream into stand mixer 30 g whipping cream bowl and start on 30 ml powdered sugar medium speed.

Add the powdered 30 ml sugar sugar one 15 ml butterscotch tablespoon at a time followed by the caramel sauce sugar, vanilla extract and salt.

0.25 ml salt Once the ingredients 6 bottles cream soda are mixed in, SERVINGS 6 increase the speed and whip to a slightly firm consistency. You don’t want super stiff cream since this isn’t for frosting.

Add the butterscotch caramel topping and continue beating to desired consistency. I try to go for something a little stiffer than Cool Whip but looser than frosting.

Spoon 1-2 teaspoons into a cold mug or glass. Pour the chilled cream soda into the glass stirring somewhat slowly with a spoon. You don’t want make the two things one but stirring it will build a better head. Once the head starts to form pretty good, you can stop stirring.

Serve cold and enjoy.

INGREDIENTS

BOO Beverage

FLOATING HANDS: BLOOD DRIPPING GLASSES Water or juice, Pair of clear (Makes approx. 12) 60 ml plastic gloves, Rubber bands or honey or 60 ml corn syrup twist ties Pour water or juice into gloves, adding enough 0.80 ml red food coloring liquid to fill loosely but not so full that fingers will not move.

Mix ingredients together well Fasten closed with rubber to affect the look of blood dip bands or twist ties. the rims of your drink glasses Place on a paper towel lined into the mixture. baking sheet.

Freeze for 3 hours (water) to 6 Turn glasses upright and hours (juice) or until firm. let stand to allow the blood Make more than one pair mixture to drip down the sides if you would like to replace the"hands" when they melt. of the glasses.

Floating Hands Halloween Punch

YODA Soda

SERVINGS 9

SERVINGS 1

INGREDIENTS 75 ml orange juice 475 ml milk 945 ml Orange sherbet 4 medium ripe bananas 475 ml whipped topping 18 miniature chocolate chips DIRECTIONS In four batches, process the orange juice, milk, sherbet and bananas in a blender until smooth. Pour into glasses.

Cut a hole in the corner of a pastry or plastic bag; fill with whipped topping.

Pipe a ghost shape on top of each beverage. Position chocolate chips for eyes.

INGREDIENTS 3limes, juice of or 60 ml lime juice 45 ml sugar 235 ml sparkling water 1 scoop lime sherbet or 1 scoop lime sorbet DIRECTIONS Juice limes to obtain 1/4 cup lime juice (or use 1/4 prepared juice!).

Combine lime juice and sugar--stir to dissolve sugar.

Add sparkling water and stir till mixed.

Taste and add more sugar if desired.

Place sherbet in a tall glass and pour lime mixture over top.

SERVINGS 24 INGREDIENTS 2 (3l approx) bottles of juicy juice punch fruit juice 340g can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed 4 cans carbonated lemon-lime beverage (sprite or 7-up) DIRECTIONS Combine Juicy Juice Punch and lemonade concentrate in a large bowl; slowly stir in soda. Place floating hand in bowl.

30

world's best cities for food Tokyo, Japan

sts the most In the country that boa yo is the city Tok ld, wor the in Michelin stars there, Danielle with the most. Our expert about sushi. just not s "It’ s: say ou etri Dem unagi eel and lets cut k por su kat From ton things all and es cak pan i to okonomiyak ntit y qua ying dizz a to tofu, Tok yo is home g in an array of lisin cia spe ts ran tau res of Japanese cuisine. budgets, from "Best of all, it caters to all taurants to res r ape scr sky ting bus walletJapanese– aya izak al loc atmospheric food is d size astap re style pubs whe sake – with washed down with beer andity seasonal ual an emphasis on high-q ctrum. All in all, ingredients across the spe s." nirvana for foodie

October 2015

London, UK

Bet ween the high-class gourmet hangouts of the rich and famous to the endless pop ups, novelty fare and stre et food that bespeckle the east of the city, London has world cuisine covered. With so ma young talents now seekin ny g make their mark here, exp to ect the city 's restaurants to lead the field in innovation for some time to come.

A further development wor celebrating is that London's th bars are developing at similar pace and diners can expect to on exceptionally sophistica sip ted cocktails before, during or after their meals. Voted the wor ld's best bar for the last three years in a row, Artesian at the Langham hotel is just one spot wor th checking out if you fancy trying something novel.

With all that's on offer, the capital is indisputably one of the world's most exc itin places to eat . As Telegr g aph Travel's London editor John O'Ceallaigh recently wro "London’s culinary dive te: rsit y is unparalleled. It is the only British city to feature in the World’s 50 Best Restau rants awards and the capital’s eth nic diversit y means virtually any national or regional cuisine is readily available here."

Barcelona , Spain

There's more to the Spanish city than its fresh seafoo d and humble, family- run tapas bars, though the y are good. Our Barcelona expert Sally Davis explain s: "Considered for many yea rs to be the best restaurant in the world, the now-closed El Bulli’s influence was farreaching, but nowhere mo re so than in Barcelona, whe re it turned the dining sce ne on its head, and put the city on the map as a seriou s gastronomic hub.

These days its influences can stil l be seen, but Barcelona also has a healthy sprinkling of Michelin stars for less out ré establishments, and there’s plenty on offer at mo re affordable restaurants, too ."

Fez, Morocco

taste of Offering a more unique the tight Morocco than Mar rakech, a, lined alleyways of Fez's medin heads ep she from ing ryth with eve l throng to colour ful piled spices, stil rists. tou with more locals than to eat There are many great places ker y coo e tak to ch whi in and also learn to classes, where you can dishes prepare classic Moroccan (Berber hrir bag p, sou ira har as h suc The riad pancakes) and tagines. a breadPalais Amani, also runs making course. rich and Maison Bleue offers a salads, traditional banquet of a to us, sco cou and s ine tag , in ans sici mu al loc of k rac soundt the evenings.

www.soltimes.com

Tel: 950 121 936

welcome events

Welcome Group Events Wednesday October 21st. - Dance this evening at Mariano’s and enjoy two top acts, the duo Diverse and the lovely Lucinda, a good night for all. €8 Wednesday November 11th. Ladies day out to Benidorm Market and Christmas shopping.

Afternoon show at the Rich Bitch included. €15

- community news MABS MAZARRON EVENTS

sales@soltimes

OCTOBER

Sunday - 25TH OCTOBER – MABS RACE for LIFE – walk, run or skip around the 4km of 8km course.

Entry 10€ for Adults 5€ for Children under 12years includes T-shirts and medals for FINISHERS. Trophies for winners. ****New this year – MABS Race for Life Sheild awarded to winning Team*******

Forms available from – MABS Charity Shop; Wednesday November 18th. Enjoy and dance the MABS Information Centre, TREVI, ALI PALLAIS, night away to the ever popular Woody and The EURONICS,COSTA CAFÉ, BEST WISHES, TEL´s Bar, Peckers at Mariano’s. €8 CAT´s Bar, TROPICANA´s, VISTA Bar, Christmas in Benidorm - Wednesday Tuesday - 27th OCTOBER – Volunteers Meeting – December 23rd. 4 nights full board at The Helios TREVIS Bar, Camposol 11.30 all welcome with Christmas Day Gala Lunch, price includes coach **DON´T FORGET TO VISIT OUR CHARITY SHOP travel. €250 IN TOTANA LOADS OF BARGAINS!!!! ** Thursday December 31st. - New Years Eve Donations always needed and welcome Dance. Three great artists, Rob Sweeney, Dan Davy REGULAR EVENTS and Christine will help you welcome in the New CRAFT GROUP - every other Wednesday from Year with all your friends. Fabulous night to include 1.30 at the MABS Information Centre – restarts 9th excellent buffet and champagne at midnight. €20 September after the summer break 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.

NEW Saville Trip Monday May 2nd 2016 4 nights staying in the heart of the city at the newly refurbished 4* Hotel Melia Sevilla on B&B. Price Includes coach travel, day trip to Tio Pepe Factory, Jerez and hopefully another trip to the Jerez Horse Show. €350 p.p.

For more information or to book your tickets, call Rosemary on 620 105 179

Luz del Sol

new properties s.l.

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

BOOK SALES – every 3rd Friday at Commercial Sector B Event tickets on sale at the book stall between 10.00am and 1pm or from the MABS Information Centre on Sector B Camposol or by Calling 620 582 418

TABLE TENNIS AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA

Sports Centre every Monday at 10am Five tables equipment supplied, coaching given if necessary, all standards welcome. Contact George on 965 326097 or Gordon on 966 848304 or e-mail drewgeorge49@ yahoo.com.

CHURCH OF ENGLAND COSTA CALIDA & ALMERIA

Priest: Reverend Pauline Williams 950 956 166 / 687 250 860

St. Nicholas Ecumenical Church

We hold services each week at 10.30am on Camposol, Mazarron. Everyone is welcome to join us. For further details, call Rev. Maureen Kent 968 970 637

Talks & Workshops

MABS Murcia North East - Sew’n’So’s - Sewing Group Every Mon Fortuna. Taking place every other Monday at Urb. Las Kalendas from 14:00. For further information email: mabsmurciane@gmail.com

Archaeological Museum

Every Day, Open from 10:30-14:00 and 17:00-20:00.

Closed Monday mornings. At C/ Conde de Aranda.

Tel: 968 493 287. Entry: Individual €1.20 Groups €0.60

PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE – How can I find the right one for me?

“Sorry – I can´t help you with that” How many times have you heard that sentence lately?

Maybe you are experiencing problems with your current private medical insurer, medical staff not speaking your language, not fully understanding your EH1C card entitlements, or simply not entitled to it. Are you applying for ‘Residencia’ and need to proof medical insurance?

Whatever your problem, if ASSSA can help – we will!

EXPERIENCE, SERVICE & INTEGRITY Founded in 1935, at ASSSA Health Insurance we are specialists in the field of healthcare caring for the health of thousands of people. Our friendly, multilingual employees are pleased to answer all client queries fully and with complete honesty and many of our clients join us on recommendation from existing ones. After joining ASSSA you are allocated a personal contact that speaks your language and assists with any questions that you may have and will deal directly with you for medical assistance, offering personal empathy, help and support.

Doctors and Hospitals Our policies offer an extensive directory of private clinics, GP´s and Specialists working from some of the best private healthcare hospitals.

We have many English speaking medical professionals associated to ASSSA. Quality insurance We provide flexible levels of HEALTH INSURANCE - depending on the cover level and premium best suited to the client’s requirements from a supplementary

31 insurance to a more fully comprehensive cover. We are pleased to be able to offer lifetime discounts up to 30% for adults and 50% for accompanying children up to 16 years.

We are currently offering an amazing 25% lifetime discount on our FUNERAL INSURANCE premiums – plus, the option to pay in installments at no extra cost. In addition we have discounted our very popular Dental Insurance.

ASSSA offers UNIQUE WRITTEN GUARANTEES when you contract with us: * The age you join is the age you stay: i.e. premiums do not increase simply because you grow older. * Likewise, ASSSA will not give notice to terminate your policy due to age or illness reasons - this guarantee of lifetime cover is also granted from day 1 of the policy.

Many other insurance companies make these promises verbally but if they are not written into the contract, there is no obligation for the company to deliver them.

CHANGE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE NOW Has your private health insurance company drastically increased your premiums?

Are you dissatisfied with the service provided by your current insurer? We can offer easy transfer options.

Contact us for a personal consultation and premium quotation without obligation.

Opening times: Monday to Friday: 9.30 - 13.30, later appointments or home visits can be made by arrangement.

Customer Service Office: MAZARRON: Mrs. Diane Nolan Tel: 968 153 396 mazarron@asssa.es www.asssa.es

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

Contact

MATHEWS mEDIA s.l

pool tables snooker tables, table tennis tables, darts.

659 232 507

www.spainpool.com

martin.freeman@free-sol.com www.free-sol.com

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

sunlife solar solutions

The finest solar installations on the costa blanca

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

tel: 965 271717

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

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

made payable to

electricians

for sale

Tel: 666 933 726

www.howtomakemoneyfrommembershipsites.co.uk

transfer & Cheques

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

Martin

every single month.

PAYMENT VISA ,Paypal, bank

October 2015

LEASE FOR SALE Bar in Puerto Mazarron Large Terrace Area Fully Equipped Kitchen Store Room Was €34,000 Reduced to €29,995 For more information Tel: 634 027 986

Marshall 100 watt combo, lots of features 130€. P A Speaker and stand 350 watt Thomman box 15 in speaker with tweeter, new 70€ Tel: 966 789 612 / 629 975 378 Hitachi Cordless Rotary Hammer Drill. 20mm Dh24dvc.

New, Box Still Security Sealed. 280€ ono. Los Montesinos Tel: 965 073 270 Cast Aluminium Outdoor Street Light. 3 Globes, 6 Positions. New, Still Boxed.

60€ Los Montesinos Tel: 965 073 270 Nintend0 Wii Sports & Wii Sports Resort Pack. 15 Sports.

Built In Wii Motionplus New, Still Boxed 150€ Los Montesinos Tel: 965 073 270 Homedics Shiatsu Heated Massager. Suitable For Most Chairs New, Still Montesinos

Boxed Tel: 965

75€ 073

Los 270

Tevion Digital Dvd Hdd Recorder New, Still Boxed. 60€ Los Montesinos Tel: 965 073 270

JUST ELECTRICS Domestic ● Commercial ● Industrial

Graeme Jackson

Fully Qualified 20+ Years Experience All areas covered Costa Blanca & surrounding areas 24 hour callout. graemejack45@yahoo.co.uk

661 530 372 / 966 184 674 Electrician available for all works Small or large. Call Dave 693 251 562 davendonc@aol.com

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

Spanish lady Playa Flamenca near new Carrefour before La Florida. 37 years, attractive, classy lady, private house, parking. Offers all erotic services, massage, sexy lingerie, prices from 40€. Full discretion. Tel: Ana 865 646 437 ELEGANT slim, sexy, naughty italian lady available home/house visits.

Torrevieja, La Manga, Torre Pacheco & Mazarron, Quesada plus all other areas.

Escort available home & house visits. Tel: 693 357 526

pets

insurance

asssa medical

insurances Asssa Mazarron, Diane Nolan

968 153 396 mazarron@asssa.es

Dino is a 2 year old podenco cross and is such a gentle boy. He weighs around 15 kilos and is great with other dogs.

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

business opportunity Cont.

Business Opportunity

IPTV Spain UK TV Leading the way in UKTV Our systems are the best in the current market DISTRIBUTORS WANTED Due to the expansion in your area We are looking for Distributors / Self Motivated people to work for a fast moving company For more Information Tel: 619 893 214

33

www.soltimes.com

Call Jane 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

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

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

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

Removals / Storage

euro spas Spas at factory prices.

Used & Ex display models.

Spares & repairs.

Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905

LWB Sprinter van going from south to North

UK, France & Spain

of the UK & back

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

based near Murcia

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

for sale ToyotaYarris 2014 - 5 door hatch 1.0 City (70 bhp) 26,000 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Alloys Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix, Bluetooth White

Renault Clio 2014 - 5 door hatch 1.5 DCi Eco2 Authentic 32,000 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C (Climate) PAS, ABS, Alloys Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors MP3, Remote locking Cruise / Limiter Isofix White

Ford Fiesta 2012 - 5 door hatch 1.25 Duratec 49,500 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix, Awaiting full valet Metallic blue

Hyundai i20 2011 - 5 door hatch 1.2 52,000 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C PAS, ABS Electric windows CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix Red

€9,750

€10,750

€8,250

€7,750

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

spas

removals

James & Son

motoring section

sat/tv services

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

Looking for a car

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

600 726 221 965 687 976

www.fwreurocars.com

600 726 221 965 687 976

Selling your car?

SkodaFabia 2014 - 5 door hatch 1.0 Ambition (75 bhp) 25,500 kms 1 owner Full service history A/C, PAS, ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Isofix White Available in White & Blue

Renault Megane 2002 - 5 door hatch 1.4 (98 bhp) 145,000 kms, 3 owners Fully serviced A/C PAS, ABS, Isofix E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Awaiting full valet Metallic burgundy

€7,950

€3,450

www.fwreurocars.com

www.fwreurocars.com

600 726 221 965 687 976

600 726 221 965 687 976

mobile auto electrics

Top prices paid for nice cars. all paperwork professionally undertaken.

Mobile Auto Electrician ENGINE MANAGEMENT DIAGNOSTICS fault Finding & Repairs Engine Diagnostics Air-conditioning Re-gas & repairs

www.fwreurocars.com

638 323 499

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

Telephone 600 726 221 or 965 687 976

Telephone 600 726 221 or 965 687 976

Do you have vehicle, boat or motor bike for sale Tel: 950 121 936

Vehicles registration

wanted

“RE-PLATE” MATE

CASH CASH CASH

every 2 weeks, Airport. Tel: 610 846 260/ 0044 7519 186 355. or email: van.man@ hotmail.co.uk

www.fwreurocars.com

situations vacant

SOLTIMES newspaper group

Require a Sales Executive 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.

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

GB

E

Don’t take a chance!

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

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

Email:info@replatematecostablanca.com

For re-registration of cars, motorbikes and motor homes contact Graham Shelton Who after re-registering over 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

Same day collection

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

From 1€ to 10,000€

Call Phil: 607 848 332

wanted cars for cash

Best prices paid Spanish English Anythingconsidered

tel: Tim on 662 211 993

34

October 2015

animal corner

To advertise here call : 950 121 936 Pooch Perk: More Companies Embracing Pet-Friendly Office Policy Millennials will surpass baby boomers as the largest pet-owning generation in about three years, according to Stifel Equity Research, and they'll make up almost half of the workforce by 2020.

Now companies are looking to attract those younger employees by letting pets into the office.

A 2015 Society for Human Resource Management survey found 8 percent of American workplaces allow employees to bring their furry loved ones to work, and up from 5 percent in 2013.

The same survey found 9 percent of companies such as Google offered pet health insurance to employees, which also marks an increase in recent years.

"Employers are starting to realize that having a millennial bring ... a pet to work, you wind up getting a more focused employee, you get someone more comfortable at the office and a person willing to work longer hours," said Bob Vetere, president and CEO of the American Pet Products Association, a trade group representing about 1,200 manufacturers of pet products.

According to Vetere, the millennial segment (18- to-34-year-olds) tends to look at their pets "as practice families or substitute families and seem to be more verbal in their wants and needs for their pet and for making sure their pet is well tended and well cared for."

At Autodesk, Lizzie Bennett was able to take her Welsh corgi named Jackson to

work at the company's Lake Oswego, Oregon, facility when he needed her most. "He had some knee surgery and needed constant care and medication.

They let me bring him in which was really convenient — and I didn't have to hire a pet sitter or have my parents or friends help me. It's just peace of mind for me."

In Denver, Boa Technology office manager Colleen Antonio brings one of her Labrador retrievers to work "just about every day. Usually it's wonderful because if I'm having a stressful day I can reach over and pet Emma or

APAH

Space for a little one?

Tyler and his brother Kingsley were rescued by APAH as frightened, starving puppies.

Sadly they will be three years old in January and have still never known a loving home.

Medium sized dogs now, they deserve the chance to live in a family.

To arrange to meet the brothers, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850

Cute and gorgeous, fluffy little Corry is one of many of the kittens currently in APAH’s care. They are all colours and personalities, but the one thing they all have in common is the need to start their new lives in a loving home. To arrange to meet APAH’s cats and kittens please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850.

www.apahrescue.org

Mattie. When other people are coming in the office — especially when they're here for an interview which can be stressful for people — my dogs will turn around and welcome them. It sort of calms people down."

Other companies allowing pets at work include Amazon, Etsy, Google, Bissell, Clif Bar and Petco, just to name a few. Some companies have dog owner play groups and offer pooch play areas, pet gates in cubicles, and a few provide free pet training, pet walkers, off-site pet sitters as well as pet pampering services such as

Pets In Spain benji

Benji’s has been in a foster home with us for quite a while, his owner sadly passed away and his owners wife was taken into a care home, Benji is around 5 years old and great with other dogs and cats, he is one of the most gentle dogs we have had and will make a wonderful companion.

645 469 253 - info@petsinspain.info www.petsinspain.com

Mountain View

Cat hotel Hondon de las Nieves/Frailes

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

Pick up & delivery service offered for coastal areas

Telephone: 966 195 816

Answerphone - we will call back: Mobile 654 155 473

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grooming and dog spas. "We know about 30 percent of our dog population comes into the office on any given day," said Lara Hirschfield, who oversees Amazon's dog program and is facilities manager at the Seattle headquarters. "We're really focused on celebrating the dogs. When the Seahawks are playing, I certainly see the dogs in their blues and greens."

More than 2,000 dogs are brought in regularly to Amazon's main campus where about 25,000 employees work. The company also provides doggy treats at all of its reception desks and each of the nearly 30 buildings on the campus has spaces for pet exercise.

"We feel a responsibility to respect and invest in people's lives beyond their workstations," said Keely Wachs, a spokesperson for Clif Bar in Emeryville, California. "Millennials really connect with our purpose-driven approach and appreciate how we invest in their whole lives — whether it's having dogs in the office or paying our people to exercise and volunteer in their communities on company time."

Several executives from "dog friendly" companies said it's tough to get commercial real estate space in major cities, since many buildings have "no pets" policies. Petco — the big pet retailer — was one of those companies, and it searched for a couple years before it found a headquarters site.

About 650 people work at Petco's headquarters in the San Diego area, and on any given day up to 45 percent of the employees will have a dog or cat, or sometimes a habitat where they have fish, reptiles or a bird. "Having a pet stand next to you when you go to a meeting is such a huge icebreaker," said Petco Chief People Officer Charlie Piscitello.

"It eliminates some of the natural human barriers and some discomforts that people have interacting with each other."

At Etsy, roughly 10 percent of the company's Brooklyn, New York, staff have dogs they occasionally bring into the office.

The company's London and Dublin offices also allow pooches in the workplace, along with Etsy's facility in Hudson, New York.

"Millennials make up a lot of our workforce," said Sarah Starpoli, Etsy's manager of culture and engagement. "As the population has increased in our offices, the dogs have grown with us. People want it. People know about it when they come in and are hired."

She recalls a meeting where a dog was seen dragging a pizza across the room. "They will do something funny and make people laugh. It breaks up the day." http://www.nbcnews.com/

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Book Review

Anything for a Quiet Life by Jack Hawkins

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

“This can’t happen to me. But it can, and it did, and it does.”

“So malignant, so cruelly and destructively greedy as it gnaws and destroys; the most dread of all diseases.”

Jack Hawkins’ autobiography was written towards the end of his life and published shortly after his death and my gratitude is that we still have a personal record of a remarkable, understated man who was a brilliant actor, so versatile in the roles he chose and working with other equally famous heartthrobs such as Peter O’Toole, Omar Sharif, John Gielgud and Lawrence Olivier.

The list is endless but oh so admirable.

He was such an ambitious actor intent on reaching the bright lights and the dazzle of Hollywood fame from such an early age and succeeding much to his surprise. His revelations indicate the equal importance he allotted to his family and friends and his memoirs reveal a warm, caring and colourfully interesting man who cared deeply for his family and friends. He also carried much guilt for his failure to become a good husband to Jessica Tandy, his first wife and his daughter, Susan who disappeared from his life. Starcrossed like Romeo and Juliet. He blamed his ambition and perhaps his young age and inexperience also contributed to their demise?

The greatest tragedy was when he eventually lost his battle with cancer after fighting it for so many difficult and frightening years. He was in his prime, his career at its zenith and only 62 years of age when he died.

His inwardly private fears were hidden from the public and he lived in selfdenial easily persuaded by Hollywood to continue filming, to continue floating on this bubble of fame. Undeniably he showed great courage to persevere and behave like a typical trooper although Jack admits it was “cowardice pure and simple” as he experienced his own private hell because he was terrified and haunted by dark and worrying thoughts.

“Even a voiceless life held far more than the silence of death.”

He chose not to write openly about his fear of dying and admitted what was suppressed in the dark recesses of his mind. “An irreversible fact” he called it, something he had feared for five years, something he had covered up and made copious excuses for- his vocal problems. Cancer.

Jack’s career was as diverse as sunshine and rainfall covering the stage, films and t.v. His repertoire covered Gilbert and Sullivan in those early days with The Cenci followed by Oscar Wilde, Shakespeare, Beau Geste, Journey’s End, The Breadwinner, The Cruel Sea, Lawrence of Arabia, Ben Hur, Bridge Over the River Kwai, Mandy and Dr Kildare and many others.

He was acclaimed a star by Hollywood to be “handled with care” because he was seen as “valuable property” which amused Jack. Refreshingly without

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pretentiousness Jack was cynical of the razmataz of Hollywood stardom. He was pragmatic about those demons that could destroy and cites the tragic circumstances surrounding Marilyn Monroe and Judy Garland. The stresses of stardom can become intolerable and lead to tragedy. Sadly it wasn’t this that destroyed such a fine actor as Jack Hawkins.

In 1933 J.C.Bergel critic for the Evening News bemused Jack by referring to him as “the most indubitable of matinee idols.”

“Mr Hawkins looks like training to be the irresistibly breezy, infectiously gay young hero.”

The most dramatic memory of Jack’s childhood was the “clamour” outside which produced excitement and delight with people dancing in the streets. The Cause?

The war of course. Remember, attitudes have changed and today people are sickened by fighting but this was 1914-1918. Jack “delighted in the thrills of war” and he cherished “the thrill of the dash for the safety of the broom cupboard under the stairs” with Zeppelins dangerously hanging overhead.

The church and choir dominated his early life but once he had experienced “the thrill and the smell of the theatre, the thrill of a full house, the brightness of the limelights” amateur operatics and choir seemed dull, flat and uninviting for his ambitions.

Surprisingly there was a time in Jack’s life when the theatre lost its magical world of make believe and he felt lonely, unhappy and restless. So he joined the army, travelled the world and met the love of his life, Doreen Lawrence who he rated as an extremely talented actress and physically attractive. It sounded like love at first sight. They performed to troops in south-east Asia and then after the war, throughout Europe. The nesting instinct came once they both returned to the U.K. A journalist commented on his attraction: “Women fall like a ton of bricks for the strong, silent charms of actor Jack Hawkins.

They have made him the biggest romantic idol in British films since the heyday of James Mason.”

At the end of his autobiography his widow, Doreen Hawkins added an emotional post-script covering the period April-July 1973 describing her heart-ache and the final moments surrounding his battle to stay alive: “I am so cold. We all are. Nick fetched some brandy, and we sipped it between us and comforted ourselves that at least he would not suffer any more, and we would not have to watch his despair and unhappiness. Jack has found his quiet life. Now I have to try and find mine.”

Dramatically ironic but a fitting tribute to a husband and father.

Publisher: Coronet Books, Hodder and Stoughton. ISBN: 0-340-19866-4.

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motoring

October 2015

review

Pick four British motorists at random, seat them in a Vauxhall Astra and at least one should feel instantly at home. Such has been the success of this hatchback in the UK – fuelled by its unpretentious versatility and value for money for 36 years and six model generations now – that a quarter of all licence holders in this country have owned or regularly driven one, says Vauxhall.

The seventh-generation Astra goes on general sale this month. Underneath the revised styling, there’s a great deal that’s brand new about this car, from its platform to its engines, suspension tuning and more besides.

That’s something we haven’t been able to report about every ‘new’ Vauxhall these past few years. Perhaps most enticing, the car is up to 200kg lighter and £2200 cheaper than the outgoing one, depending on which model you’re looking at.

Vauxhall parent General Motors appears to have gathered together all of its latest and greatest technology and thrown it at this car – as you’d imagine it might when replacing a model so crucial to its European fortunes. This is the first Vauxhall or Opel developed on GM’s D2XX platform, announced in 2012.

As you’ll read, that platform has allowed space to be made inside while also eliminating weight and outward size.

GM’s turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine lines up beneath an all-new 1.4-litre Ecotec petrol turbo from the same family. The oil-burners are powered by the 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ ushered into the broader Vauxhall

Vauxhall Astra

range during the past 18 months.

Meanwhile, from active LED matrix headlights, through automatic crash mitigation and avoidance systems, to Vauxhall’s latest IntelliLink infotainment setup, Vauxhall hasn’t held

back on convenience or safety features, either. Stand by to find out what rivals have to fear from this leaner, cheaper, better-equipped Vauxhall, then – and exactly how much more it offers the legions of British drivers whom it’ll ultimately serve.

The styling of the sixthgeneration Astra is quite a hard act to follow, but Vauxhall’s designers have nonetheless succeeded in following it with something fresh, smart and attractive.

The new car’s wider and more impactful front grille and headlight treatment give it the vaguely upmarket air that it’ll need to continue to sell alongside myriad premium-brand rivals.

We’re less convinced by the split C-pillar design, which delivers the impression of a floating roof but looks like more of an afterthought at close quarters. http://www.autocar.co.uk/

in the news

VW scandal: German motoring giant ordered to recall 8.5 million cars

The cost of the scandal could be higher than the £4.8bn set aside by the company Volkswagen is to recall 8.5 million cars in Europe as a result of the diesel emissions scandal. The move followed Germany’s rejection of a VW proposal to let affected owners bring their cars in voluntarily.

News of the mandatory recall, the biggest in Europe, came as Italian police announced they had carried out raids on VW offices. It was also revealed that one of the car firm’s top engineers had been suspended as part of the internal investigation.

The recall followed the rejection of VW’s offer to fix 2.4 million cars sold to customers in Germany by the national motoring watchdog, the Federal Motor Transport Authority.

The watchdog said VW must share technical details of its engine emission fix with authorities by mid-November, and the recall will begin in January, according to a Bloomberg report.

Experts say that, as well as adding to the German carmakers misery, the move will add to the cost of the operation as the company will need to fix the cars more quickly.

VW declined to comment on the recall, saying it will contact individual customers directly. VW has set aside €6.5bn (£4.8bn) to cover the costs of the scandal, but some experts believe the final bill will be significantly higher.

VW shares fell more than 3 per cent after a slight recovery.

They remain down almost 20 per cent since the scandal first broke last month.

Regulators in the US haven’t announced a recall yet, despite the existence of so-called “defeat devices” – software which enabled its diesel cars in the US to turn on full pollution controls only when undergoing laboratory emissions testing, not under normal driving conditions – being first discovered by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

It was also reported that another of the company’s top engineers, Falko Rudolph, was suspended as part of the investigation.

VW’s new chief executive Matthias Mueller told senior executives meeting in Leipzig that the company needed to become “leaner and take decisions more rapidly”.

Promising to streamline the business structure he said: “Our competitors are only waiting for us to fall behind on technology matters because we are so preoccupied with ourselves. But we won’t let that happen.” Mr Mueller took over as chief executive last month when the previous head, Martin Winterkorn, stepped down as a result of the scandal.

He said he believed it would two to three years before VW would “shine again”.

Italian police said they had raided VW offices in Verona as well as Lamborghini offices in Bologna. Reports say investigators are probing an unconnected commercial fraud http://www.independent.co.uk/

Iconic James Bond cars parade through Paris Paris’ most iconic boulevard was the scene for a spectacular exhibition on Sunday when a series of cars that captured the public imagination through their appearances in James Bond drove past stunned bystanders.

Visitors came out in their droves to catch a glimpse of decades of motoring history as Bond’s cars drove up to the Arc de Triomphe, including the latest vehicle to be associated with the fictional British spy, the Aston Martin DB10 For some it brought back watching James Bond films during their childhood, while for other devotees, the car show projected a quintessentially British style of culture.

The car parade comes ahead of the release of the twentyfourth James Bond film, ‘Spectre’, which is scheduled to hit the cinemas in the UK on 26 October and the rest of the world from 6 November.

Spectre will see British actor Daniel Craig return for his fourth performance as Bond.

The car parade comes ahead of the release of the twentyfourth James Bond film, ‘Spectre’, which is scheduled to hit the cinemas in the UK on 26 October and the rest of the world from 6 November.

Spectre will see British actor Daniel Craig return for his fourth performance as Bond. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/

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T.M.G.S. @La Finca 14/10/15

SPORTS SHORTS by Tony Matthews

37

• Last weekend there were PL wins for leaders Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea, WBA, West Ham and Newcastle. Raheem Sterling (3) and Georginio Wijnaldum (4) led the goal rush for Manchester City and Newcastle respectively.

• Jurgen Klupp’s Liverpool drew at Tottenham and Leicester likewise at Southampton; Swansea met Stoke on Monday.

• Brighton, Gillingham, Plymouth and Celtic started the week on top of the Championship, Leagues 1 & 2 and the SPL respectively.

• Joint La Liga leaders Real Madrid and Barcelona both won last Saturday.

Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted twice for Real v. Levante, is now the club’s record marksman with 324 goals in 310 games.

• The Republic of Ireland will play Bosnia & Herzegovina in their twolegged European Championship play-off game next month.

• Chelsea boss José Mourinho has been fined £50,000 by the FA for remarks made after the PL defeat by Southampton earlier this month.

The earlier forecast was for a Little rain today, fortunately for our 50 odd members and guests it came during the night and gave us perfect playing conditions. We found the course to be in great condition, the greens were exceptionally fast and true.

Our thanks go to Salvador, the caddy masters and definitely to the green keeping staff. Irish member, Eamonn Sheridan booked himself into the 1st group along with Joe and Shelia Dean and the ever smiling Vernon Brown; little did he know what was in store for him. As in all of our groups we like a little banter on the golf course, Vernon has escaped from the U.K. for a week because his wife wanted their villa painting, sorry Mrs. Brown but Vernon’s idea of painting obviously is not the same as yours. Did he tell you that HE was doing the painting himself, naughty, naughty Vernon.

Then to top it all he turned up in very stylish pink shorts and polo shirt oh yes and what’s that girly watch doing on your wrist Vernon? Needless to say he didn’t have his best round, never mind Vern, you can always finish the painting!

Ha back to the Eamonn story, he quite enjoyed the comments about Vernon’s attire, that was until we reached the 12th hole, after just making birdie on the previous hole for 4 points Eamonn’s tee shot didn’t reach the ladies tee, and we all know what that means, however his 2nd shot with a wedge left him with a lengthy 5 iron which as you would expect came up short, however he did manage to chip on and sink the putt for an incredible 5! That’s the luck of the Irish.

On other parts of the course the different groups were having their own battles. In the visitors category the Norwegians and Swedes were making a fist of it with P. Eklund scoring 37 points to take 2nd place and R. Zellman returning a point more to take 1st place.

With such a large field we had three categories for our members, the Bronze category returned some fairly regular scores with Swede Las Jernberg taking 1st place on 32

points. Treasurer Alex Goslan was just a point behind him to take 2nd, in 3rd place on 26 points came Tom Jones’s young dolly bird Perl Sabine, Tom is the oldest member of our Society and at 85 years young still plays off of handicap 25 I wonder what is secret is? In the Silver category Dutchman Fred Kras again made the winners circle finishing in 3rd place with 36 points, 2nd place went to Viking Roger Nilsen on 37 points, top of the shop was Englishman Steve Ross on 39 points. Gold category saw a rare appearance of Joe Dean in the frame with his 31 points good enough for 3rd place, but this was even close to the top two, Norbert Spaniol carded a very respectable 36 points of 10 h’cap but way out in front was Spanish member Jesus Lozano with a massive 40 points also 10 handicap and of course a very nice cut. Our next Competition is at La Serena on the 21st October. Photo; Bronze category winners.

So if you fancy playing with this multinational Society please visit our website www.tmgs.org or follow us via Facebook/TMGSGOLF or tweet us @TMGSGOLF we still do use a telephone so you can also call the Secretary on 661 524 101. Club de Golf El Paraiso will be playing at Las Ramblas on the 30th October full information can be found at www. clubdegolfelparaiso.com

BRADLEY BREAKERS

965 723 270 607 848 332

• Last night Arsenal (v Bayern Munich), Chelsea and Barcelona were all involved in the Champions League; tonight it’s Manchester City v Sevilla, CSKA Moscow v Manchester United and PSG v Real Madrid.

• On Sunday, we have the Manchester derby (City-United), a London showdown (West Ham-Chelsea) and the battle of Tyne& Wear (SunderlandNewcastle).

• Howard Kendall, who played for and managed Everton, has died in Southport, aged 69. The youngest footballer at the time to appear in an FA Cup final (17 years, 345 days for PNE v West Ham in 1964) he scored 65 goals in 613 career League appearances: 1963-80. R.I.P. • Rugby’s World Cup semi-finals are New Zealand v South Africa on Saturday and Argentina, last minute victors over unlucky Scotland v Australia on Sunday.

• In Texas, USA on Sunday, Lewis Hamilton, could become F1 World Champion for the third time.

• Also this weekend, Valentino Rossi rides in the Malaysian MotorGP, hoping to better his fourth place finish behind Marc Marquez in Australia last Sunday.

• British Masters winner Matthew Fitzpatrick (21) is the youngest golfer in the world’s top 100.

• England’s cricketers (598-8 dec. & 74-4) almost ‘won’ the first Test against Pakistan (523-8 dec. & 173). Alastair Cook hit 263 in 836 minutes – the longest innings ever by an Englishman and the third longest of all-time behind Pakistan’s Hanif Mohammad (970 minutes in 1958 ) and South African Gary Kirsten (878 in 1998). England spinner Abdil Rashid had record figures for a Test debutant of 0-163 in the first innings but took 5-64 in the second. The second Test starts in Dubai tomorrow.

DID YOU KNOW? The last player to score 4 goals in a game for Newcastle was Alan Shearer (5) v Sheffield Wednesday in 1999. Nottingham Forest was founded 150 years ago this month in The Clinton Arms pub.

38

CARTAGENA FC 2 MAZARRON FC 3

Mazarron made it three wins on the trot and, in doing so, inflicted on Cartagena their first defeat of the season.

Mazarron were soon on the defensive as Cartagena tried to make use of home advantage. With a lot of tall players in the team they caused Mazarron some problems with long balls played into the box.

However, it was Mazarron who took the lead after 9 minutes when Juan Fran rose high to send a header from a left wing free kick over the keeper and into the net.

Mazarron central defender Lorca was injured and replaced by Juan Andreo but they increased their lead after 28 minutes when Alberto made a run down the right and found Jose who fired a strong shot past the Cartagena keeper.

Cartagena were spurred into action and Mazarron had to concede a number of free kicks. From one of these kicks on the right hand side, poor defending allowed a Cartagena forward to force the ball home and reduce the arrears.

Three minutes before half -time Cartagena drew level with a controversial

Los Amigo Golf Society; ‘Open Day’ October 2015

The culmination of a year’s charitable activities and social golf took place at Hacienda del Alamo golf course on Monday 5th October 2015. The ‘Open Day’ took the form of a team Texas Scramble with 17 teams participating.

At precisely 09:38 and 48seconds, the ‘gun’ was fired and 68 finely tuned golfing athletes in prime physical and mental condition entered the fray (who writes this rubbish?).

Hacienda del Alamo was its usual monstrous size and even from the blue tees, second shots were generally miles from the greens (which incidentally were again in wonderful condition). Now in my last article Les Dryden received a somewhat well deserved mention for his exploits. Today I will partly redress the situation. In general Texas Scrambles favour the low handicap golfers as only 10% of combined handicaps are permissible; the handicap gap between a golfer playing off 4 and one off 28 becomes just 2.4 shots! Undaunted by this Les Dryden, Terry Adams, Joe Malone and Terry Rooke all playing off 28 entered a team proudly named The Wazzuks and between them managed NOT to finish last.

Additionally and somewhat impressively they also managed to par the most difficult hole on the course, quite an achievement! This exemplifies the essence of the day, a team participating in the true spirit of our charitable goals.

Now, the responsibilities of a team captain on days like this are many and varied. Mick Drummond found himself needing to employ some of his finest motivational management techniques to his struggling Black Bull team of Graham, Bernie and Dave. “C’mon boys, chip this in and I’ll provide a ‘Tony Gleed’ moment for you all!” Sadly, when executed, every chip was far from ‘dead’ with tricky putts to follow. “Boys, sink one of these and the trousers are

definitely coming down!. No one was within a yard of the hole! After a frustrating round of clumsy chips and missed puts Mike proclaimed, “Well lads, good effort but we’ve really had no luck at all today”.

He certainly wasn’t expecting the response he received, “To be honest Mike, none of us wanted to see any more of your anatomy than we have to!!! Perhaps there is more to these team building and sporting motivational ‘techniques’ than meets the eye Mike!

The day was won by........well, all of those organisations who will benefit from everyone’s enormous generosity, not just on this day but throughout the past 12 months so a huge thank you and well done to everyone that participated. A sincere thank you to our fantastic sponsors particularly Kia cars (Cartagena), Luz del Sol, and TJ Electricals (Euronics Camposol) plus the myriad of other sponsors.

Also huge gratitude goes to the Los Amigos Golf Society committee who organised and delivered a brilliant day. Thanks finally to Hacienda Golf and especially the Spaniard Inn who provided a fantastic venue and BBQ for the winners presentation ceremony with music provided by the fabulous GnT which included our very own Tony Pickworth on drums.

The winning team on the day was The Alamillo Sports Bar (pictured).

For full results visit our website at losamigosgolfsociety.es

October 2015

goal. The referee and linesman’s interpretation of the offside law allowed a scrambled goal to count and half time arrived with the teams level.

For the start of the second half Mounir and Hafid were replaced by Palote and Jesus and Mazarron keeper Antonio was forced into early action. At the other end Jose forced the Cartagena keeper into a good save from a corner.

The game was being played at a fast pace with both sides striving to take control of the game but it was Mazarron who took the initiative forcing a number of corners and free kicks as the pressure started to build on the home team.

With thirty five minutes of the second half gone Mazarron scored their third goal when a move down the centre of the pitch resulted in shots on goal by both Palote and Juanito before the fell to Jose who smashed it into the net for what turned out to be the winning goal.

Team: Antonio; Juan Fran; Mounir (Jesus); Lorca (Juan Andreo); Alberto; Juanlu; Santi; Enrique(Champi); Juanito (Silverio); Jose; Hafid (Palote).

Man of the Jose.

SAMM Yacht Racing Starts at Last

The SAMM Autumn Series of races should have started in September but mechanical problems with the support boat forced a postponement. But, with the co-operation of the MoBo Group who provided their power boat as Committee boat and Ernie foster who loaned his small rib as back up racing eventually started on October 4th.

Nine boats came to the line for the 4 lap morning race in very light winds.

The Catamaran ‘Hamour’ got a great start closely followed by the Sailfish ‘Mistral, then the five dinghies 5 minutes later. First to finish was Shoestring Dos, Tug Wilson and Pat Fleck, and they were also confirmed as winners after corrected times were calculated. 2nd the Faversham 14, Dave Belcher and

3rd the Bosun, Bob James and Robert Grace. Four boats did not finish in the time allowed.

Eight boats started the afternoon 3 lap race but decreasing winds were not kind to the bigger boats and again two DNF’d. The race was shortened to just two laps as the wind virtually died away.

Shoestring Dos was again first to finish but was pushed into second place by the Faversham 14 on corrected times, reversing their positions in the first race.

The Bosun was again third.

Next race day October 18th starting at 10am at the CAR Centre, Los Narejos, ALL welcome.

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€5,450

fiat palio 1.9 2002 103,000kms

€10,950

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

€3,450

Renault Fluence

• Trailer, 1000kg with Sides....................................................... €795

AUDI A4

1.5DCi, 2011 55,000kms

€10,950

Right hand drive - spanish reg • toyota hilux, 2.5 diesel, 2004, 105,000km..........................€5,450 • MAZDA MX5, 1.8 PETROL, 1991, 174,000km............................€poa

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

~ Full procurement service

1.9TDI DIESEL, AUTO, 1997, 319,000KM

€2,450

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

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SOLTIMES october 2015

www.soltimes.com

Tel 902 750 190