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SPOKESWOMAN for the PP in Madrid city council Esperanza Aguirre has hit out at the acting treasury minister for his having leaked top politicians’ tax return details. She says her party colleague Cristóbal Montoro would have been expected to resign ‘if this was an AngloSaxon country’.

She added: “In England, he wouldn’t be a minister any longer because of my case and that of Aznar.” Former president of Spain José María Aznar (PP) intends to take legal action through the State prosecution service after Montoro released an alleged ‘complementary’ tax declaration he had made. These additional declarations are generally made when a person wishes to, or has been ordered to, report assets or income they had not done so with previously.

Aznar has hotly denied any suggestions that he has not always complied religiously with his tax obligations.

Esperanza Aguirre’s tax return from her first year away from the front line of politics, during the regional and local election campaigns, was among those published without her permission.

“In certain cases, what has actually changed is the tax office’s criteria relating to individuals who choose to pay tax through companies in respect of certain activities, such as writing books or articles as a contributor to the press,” Sra Aguirre explained.

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“And in my case, an accountant advised me not to pay my taxes through a company because of this change in criteria, as it could land me in trouble if I got caught. “If I had ignored the accountant and paid my taxes through a company, I would have saved myself €50,000.” Now she has stepped down from her role as PP party leader in Madrid following corruption allegations surrounding some of her close colleagues, Aguirre has heavily criticised some of the acting central government’s top figureheads, including president Mariano Rajoy.

When she quit her role, Aguirre stressed she had never been involved in any corruption herself, but as party leader, felt it was her duty to resign.

“I may not be personally responsible, but I’m politically responsible because it happened in my party,” she said at the time. http://www.thinkspain.com

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SPANISH TOWN LETS ITS NATIVES APPLY FOR PORTUGUESE CITIZENSHIP: OLIVENZA, THE ‘GAZA STRIP OF SPAIN’

AROUND 3.4% of the Spanish town of Olivenza’s population have Portuguese nationality, even though they have never set foot in the country and have no known family members with Portuguese blood.

Olivenza is, in fact, the only municipality in Spain which allows residents to obtain Portuguese citizenship merely through living in it.

Based in the province of Badajoz in the land-locked western region of Extremadura, the town centre of Olivenza is less than 15 kilometres from the river Guadiana which

does in fact have a sizeable stake in the town it calls ‘Olivença’ – in spirit, or in culture, at least.

Of its 1 2 , 0 9 0 inhabitants, over 400 are Portuguese nationals – and many of these have never left Olivenza in their lives, neither have the last few generations of their families.

Until the 1960s, Portuguese was the official language of Olivenza, and Spanish was not taught in schools until the 1940s – nowadays, although Spanish has taken over completely, native inhabitants aged around 60 or above are bilingual and frequently resort to Portuguese first.

Buildings, local cuisine, festivals and other traditions take a strong influence from Portugal, with Portuguese food served alongside Spanish food in bars,

nearly 200 years after the remainder of the structure was built.

But the González Santana local history museum features splendid and lifelike recreations of everyday activities of the people of Olivenza in the early years of the 20th century.

The Olivenza/Olivença tug-of-war has been ongoing for so long that even the CIA has started to refer to the border town as ‘the Gaza strip of Spain’.

It first became officially ‘disputed territory’ seven years after being handed over to Spain by way of the Treaty of Badajoz.

The then Prince João, who would later become King João VI, published in Rio de Janeiro – which was the capital of Brazil and of Portugal in

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the early 19th century - a manifesto repudiating the treaty.

Since both Spain and Portugal joined the European Union and borders became less of an ‘iron curtain’, the issue has not been quite so passionate and has been rendered little more than anecdotal.

Residents, though, are less bothered about proclaiming ownership one way or another.

Whichever passport they hold, Olivenza’s inhabitants say they are proud to be both Spanish and Portuguese and consider it a privilege to belong to two countries, without having to emigrate or even move towns, and with both their ‘native’ nations a couple of kilometres apart. thinkspain.com

FUND RAISING DAY In aid of the AMPA Romualdo Ballestar School 7th of May from 11am to 6pm The Abbey Tavern, Carrer de Escorpio, Urb. La Florida, Orihuela Costa

There will be a market selling everything that has been donated, including clothes, books, toys, bric a brac and many more items.

All items for sale have been donated by parents, their friends and families.

Come along and enjoy the fun, there will be an auction, bingo, music, singers, dancers, karaoke, a magician and much more.

constitutes the border between Spain and Portugal, and the municipality’s various tied hamlets sit right on the banks.

Although Portugal is walking distance from much of Olivenza, it has been owned by Spain for 215 years since the Franco-Spanish armed forces seized it during the War of the Oranges.

But Portugal has wanted it back ever since.

This said, the more western country

restaurants and shops.

Olivenza’s historic monuments are both Spanish and Portuguese depending upon when they were built – its iconic 14th century castle, Mediaeval citadel and Alcázar or Moorish fortress, and parish churches were constructed in Olivenza’s Portuguese era, with the Homage Tower on the castle having been built

by King Alfonso IV of Portugal, son of Lord Dinis, and restored by order of King João II of Portugal in 1488,

The exact programme will be available on Facebook: Ampa Romualdo Ballester on Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/ampa_romualdo_b or by visiting our website https://ampacpromualdoballester.wordpress.com/ actividades/activities-aktivitäten/

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WARNING SIGNS TO STOP TOURISTS CLIMBING SEGOVIA AQUEDUCT

CITY authorities in Segovia have had to put signs up to warn visitors and residents not to keep climbing the famous aqueduct.

The temptation is too much for some locals and tourists, who are frequently seen scrambling up the lower arches or trying to walk along the edges of them.

ort

A second, smaller sign warns members of

April 2016

the public that the Roman aqueduct – one of Spain's most iconic and best-known monuments, is a protected heritage site and any damage caused to it is considered a criminal offence.

The 'no-climbing' sign is much larger and more prominent, and is written in Spanish, French and English. thinkspain

MEDIA RELEASE: Friday March 22, 2016

Helping protect animals in the name of love A non-profit equine rescue centre near Alicante has been the fortunate recipient of a significant monetary donation made in the name of love.

When Ciudad Quesada residents Isabel Sanchez and Ivan Lopez began to plan their April 29 wedding, they knew they did not want to give their guests the usual party favour that ends up forgotten in a drawer.

Instead they generously opted to donate €500 to Rojales’ Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre on behalf of each guest – enough to feed 10 rescued horses for a month.

“We like all animals and love nature,” Ivan said. “What was most important to us was that we chose a charity that really looks after their animals and uses their donations well. We appreciate how difficult it must be for the rescue centre to do their work, but believe it is completely necessary work.”

Rescue centre co-founder Sue Weeding said, “We’ve never had a donation related to a wedding before. It’s so lovely to know that a young couple thought of us when planning their wedding day. We hope they have a truly special day.”

The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre relies entirely on donations to fund its important animal welfare work, including the feeding and care of the centre’s more than 90 horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from abuse, neglect and abandonment.

Donations of cash or items for the centre’s network of eight charity

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC'S MOST WANTED HELD BY SPANISH POLICE

Spanish police said on Friday they have arrested the Dominican Republic's most wanted fugitive, alleged drug kingpin Jesus Pascual Cabrera Ruiz who is wanted on charges of money laundering and drug trafficking.

Officers detained Cabrera Ruiz on Thursday at a hotel in the northern city of Logrono in the heart of the Rioja wine region, police said in a statement.

Cabrera Ruiz, the target of a international arrest warrant issued by the Dominican Republic, was carrying false Costa Rican identity documents at the time of his arrest, it added.

Spanish police said he topped the list of the Dominican Republic's most

wanted fugitives and is considered to be "the main drug trafficker and money launderer" in the Caribbean nation.

Dominican Justice Minister Francisco Dominguez said Cabrera Ruiz's crime ring shipped drugs to various countries and was linked to dozens of killings in turf wars, when he presented a list of the country's 17 most wanted felons in September 2015.

Spain's close ties with its former colonies in Latin America have made it the main entry point used by drug smugglers to bring cocaine into Europe. thelocal.es

shops across the Alicante province are gratefully welcomed. A pick-up service is available to collect large donated items such as furniture and each shop also offers a delivery service for large items purchased in-store.

Anyone interested in making a donation, becoming a long-term sponsor, or volunteering at the rescue centre or in the charity shops can call Sue on 652 021 980.

The Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre, located just outside Rojales at Partido Lo Garriga, 59, opens to the public on the first Sunday of every month between 1pm and 4pm.

Free horse tours run throughout the afternoon and refreshments are available in the café.

For more details and directions, please visit www.easyhorsecare.net

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April 2016

TERRIFIED DAD CLAIMS ‘ALIEN’ PHOTOBOMBED HIM IN CHILLING HOLIDAY PICTURE

The “extraterrestrial being” left Andy of Machynlleth, mid-Wales completely baffled and petrified - and has refused to travel by coach since.

A dad-of-two claims he was left terrified after he was photobombed in a holiday snap by what appears to be an ALIEN. Andy Bagnall’s wife Tonia took a snap of the 35-yearold as their National Express coach stopped off at a service station on the way home from a family trip to the Isle of Wight.

But when he uploaded the photos to his computer, he was stunned to spot a strange creature with a large head and startling black eyes lurking behind his right shoulder - looking like a silver “alien” from out of space.

The “extraterrestrial being” left Andy of Machynlleth, mid-Wales completely baffled and petrified - and has refused to travel by coach since.

Car valeter Andy said: “I only noticed the freaky shape over my shoulder in the photo when I uploaded it to my computer.

“There wasn’t anybody on the coach at the time the photo was taken, so I have no idea what could have caused it.

“It looks like an alien is photo-bombing me.”

Andy and his partner Tonia were on their way home when the snap was taken, after spending the Easter holidays visiting family.

The coach stopped at a service station in Oxford and everyone on board got off to go inside, including the driver.

Andy and Tonia stayed near the coach to smoke and decided to take some

photos on their phone.

When they got home, the couple uploaded the photos to their computer and noticed a creepy face staring out of the window.

The “alien” appears in two of the photos and seems to move from one photo to the next.

Andy said: “When I saw the face, it really creeped me out. I called National Express to see if they could explain it, but they couldn’t say what it was.”

Andy says the incident has frightened him - and he hasn’t travelled by coach since.

However, his partner Tonia laughed: “It looks a bit like an alien but it hasn’t freaked me out as much as Andy.”

A National Express spokesperson told themirror.co.uk: “While we can’t confirm the identity of this passenger, it is possible that they were taking advantage of our ‘out of this world’ funfares offering travel between key destinations from just £5.” mirror.co.uk

KING FELIPE FACING FINAL FRUITLESS TALKS WITH SPAIN’S POLITICAL LEADERS

King Felipe VI will on Monday begin the third and last round of talks with Spanish politicians to determine whether there is a last-minute chance to form a government, or whether new elections have to be called.

Efforts by parties to reach governing deals following the inconclusive elections of December 20 have proven fruitless, and the deadline for the dissolution of parliament is May 2.

The Spanish monarch will see eight political leaders on Monday, out of a total of 14 who are penciled in to discuss the political situation with him.

But it is unlikely that the meetings will yield any surprises. The three best-performing groups at the last election – the Popular Party (PP), Socialist Party (PSOE) and Podemos, who will all see Felipe VI on Tuesday – seem unwilling to make any more efforts to craft alliances following the failure of their recent attempts.

The PP, which earned the most seats (123, but far from the 176 required for an overall majority), is politically isolated and has failed to attract a single vote of confidence from the opposition. Its strategy from the beginning has been a passive one: it is simply waiting for a new election that, polls suggest, would bring the PP added representation in parliament.

The PSOE managed an alliance with the emerging group Ciudadanos, but their combined seats are not enough for a majority and other parties refuse to lend their weight to the project. Socialist leaders refuse to associate themselves with the PP and its corrupt image, and balk at the idea of a deal with Podemos, whose program includes greater public spending and a self-determination referendum for Catalonia, among other incompatibilities. It is unclear whether a new vote would benefit the party.

Meanwhile, Podemos and its regional associates also seem more interested in holding new elections and are toying with the idea of running in tandem with the United Left. Podemos leader Pablo Iglesias had initially made overtures to the Socialist Party, but his demand to be made deputy prime minister and to receive several specific ministerial portfolios cooled relations between himself and PSOE chief Pedro Sánchez. Iglesias also refuses to enter into any alliance that includes Spain’s other emerging party, Ciudadanos, even though both started out with a similar message of change against the political establishment.

Ciudadanos has emerged in its supporters’ view as the party that has made the greatest efforts to save voters from a new election by offering to mediate between the PP and PSOE, and by entering into an alliance with the latter. Although the reform party has a weak structure outside the big cities, surveys suggest that it could do well at a new election, which would be held on June 26.

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FINAL PIECE OF TYPE 1 DIABETES PUZZLE SOLVED A complete picture of the areas that the immune system attacks to cause type 1 diabetes has finally been revealed by scientists.

The study, published in the journal Diabetes, discovered the fifth and final critical target at which the immune system errantly takes aim.

The team at the University of Lincoln say the findings could help develop new ways to prevent and treat the disease.

Diabetes UK said the findings were “impressive”.

In type 1 diabetes, the immune system destroys the beta cells that make insulin - the hormone needed to keep blood sugar levels under control.

Studies looking at the unique antibodies made by patients with type 1 showed there were five key targets that the immune system attacked.

But working out exactly what they were has been like identifying someone from their silhouette.

Studies long ago discovered some of the targets, but the final one has proved elusive for two decades.

Dr Michael Christie, who led the research at the University of Lincoln,

told the BBC: “With this new discovery, we have now finished identifying what the immune system is targeting - we have the complete picture.”

The targets are: ٠ Insulin ٠ Glutamate decarboxylase ٠ IA-2 ٠ Zinc transporter-8 ٠ And the final piece of the puzzle, tetraspanin-7 http://www.bbc.com

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April 2016

Amethyst

One of the most popular and beautiful crystals which is easy to find on almost any high street. This lavender to deep purple crystal is not just a lovely ornament or item of jewellery, its attributes are almost endless!

Amethyst is a very powerful crystal with a high spiritual vibration. This crystal blocks and absorbs natural negative energies and psychic attacks then transmutes the energy into love. The darker the colour the more repellent it is towards negative energies. It assists in calming and stimulating and is used frequently in meditation to help tranquil thoughts and deeper understanding.

Amethyst protects against nightmares and insomnia if placed near or under your pillow when sleeping and aids in memory, motivation and the balancing out of emotional high and lows.

Healing attributes: Amethyst cleanses and strengthens the hormones and immune system, cleaning the blood releasing physical and emotional stress. This stone helps to reduce swellings, bruising and hearing disorders as well as diseases of the lungs and digestive tract.

Amethyst can stabilize certain psychiatric conditions but should not be used in cases of schizophrenia or paranoia.

You can place clusters and geodes in your environment as well as jewellery, it is most beneficial to wear on the throat or near the heart. (the lighter colour can aid in calming the throat and heart chakras) The Purple Gem, inside The Dojo, Quesada.

10 HEALING BENEFITS OF THE SUN Atapa Snana is the yogic phrase for the healing science of sun bathing. We live in a modern world that is bombarded with paranoid messages about how dangerous the sun is. We should remember that the ancient yogis and many other cultures knew how to use the sun to heal all kinds of illnesses, and bring about radiant health.

In the West we also have a history of using sunlight therapy that dates back to the ancient Greeks.

It was called heliosis. Today, the name for sunlight therapy is heliotherapy.

We evolved as a human race for millions of years under the warmth and love of the sun. Perhaps drenching ourselves in poisonous sunblock from head to toe is not the answer.

There are many worthwhile alternatives to sunblock.

Sunblock has many draw backs. Most brands are laden with toxic chemicals such as: • Oxybenzone, which is linked to hormone disruption and cell damage that may lead to skin cancer.

• Retinyl palmitate, which has now been proven to be a carcinogen.

• Octyl-methoxycinnamate causes oxidation damage of the skin, which ages your face.

• Butyl-Methdiebenzoylmethane, which releases free radicals into the body.

• Benzophenone 2 (BP2), decreases the function of the thyroid, in a population that is already seriously suffering from hypothyroidism (under active).

Furthermore, sunblock stops the sun’s ultra violet rays from creating Vitamin D in the body, which is essential for many functions such as: • bone health • anti-cancer • supports the immune system • protects against dementia and brain aging • good for loosing excess fat • essential for decreasing symptoms of asthma • strengthens teeth We are making a whole generation Vitamin D deficient with fear of the sun.

Ultra Violet light is just one frequency of light; there are eight others - infrared, and the seven spectrums of visible light. Each one has its own unique healing power!

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HERE ARE 10 BENEFITS OF GETTING A MODERATE AMOUNT OF SUN EXPOSURE:

1. Sunlight and whole foods send breast cancer into remission. The American physician Dr. Zane Kime used sunbathing and nutrition to cure his patients.

Even in terminal cases, Dr. Kime was able to completely reverse the metastasized cancer.

2. The sun’s light kills bad bacteria.

The German solders after WWI knew of the discoveries that had been made in 1903 by the Nobel Prize winner, Niels Finsen. They used sunlight to disinfect and heal wounds.

3.

Sunlight has a beneficial effect on skin disorders, such as psoriasis, acne, eczema and fungal infections of the skin.

4. Sunlight lowers cholesterol. The sun converts high cholesterol in the blood into steroid hormones and the sex hormones we need for reproduction. In the absence of sunlight, the opposite happens; substances convert to cholesterol.

5. The sun’s rays lower blood pressure. Even a single exposure significantly lowers blood pressure in individuals with high blood pressure. On the other hand, pharmaceutical drugs such as Statins have side effects, such as robbing the body of Coenzyme Q10. CoQ10 is essential for cellular and heart energy.

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6. Sunlight penetrates deep into the skin to cleanse the blood and blood vessels. Medical literature published in Europe showed that people with atherosclerosis (hardened arteries) improved with sun exposure.

7. Sunlight increases oxygen content in human blood.

And, it also enhances the body’s capacity to deliver oxygen to the tissues; very similar to the effects of exercise. The sun has a great effect on stamina, fitness and muscular development.

8. Sunlight builds the immune system. The white blood cells, which increase with sun exposure, are called lymphocytes, and these play a major role in defending the body against infections.

9. Regular sunlight exposure increases the growth and height of children, especially babies. Many cultures throughout history have recognized this fact. Studies have shown the amount of sun exposure in the first few months has an effect on how tall the person grows.

10. Sunlight can cure depression.

The noon sunshine can deliver 100,000 lux.

When we sit in offices for the best part of the day, out of the sun, under neon and artificial lights (150-600 lux), we are depriving ourselves of the illumination of nature.

Sunlight deprivation can cause a condition called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression. It is more common in winter months, but also common in people who work long hours in office buildings.

Exposure to the sun should be done SLOWLY! If you are not used to the sun, then your skin will be more sensitive to it. Avoid sunburn by building up your tolerance SLOWLY. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/

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April 2016

YOUR LOCAL TRADESMAN Simple DIY Home Maintenance Tips & Ideas

It’s tempting to disregard the steep price tag and hire a professional contractor for home improvement repairs rather than doing them yourself. Home repairs can seem complex and intimidating to the uninitiated, and fear that your own attempts at fixing that leaky faucet or drafty window will cause further damage may further discourage you from going DIY. However, having a home maintenance plan can make a huge difference in your bank account. And, fortunately, performing proper home maintenance does not require a lot of specialized know-how or training, nor does it require a lot of time or money.

1. Toilets Water leaking from your toilet tank will

not only cost you money when it comes to your utility bill, but it can also cause water damage to your bathroom floor and premature wear of your toilet’s internal workings. To find out whether your toilet tank is leaking, add some red food coloring to the water in the tank.

Come back in about an hour and see if the water in the bowl is pink. If it is, you have a leak.

If you find that your toilet is leaking from the tank to the bowl, the flapper needs to be replaced. To change your toilet’s flapper, first shut off the water supply to your toilet. To do this, simply turn the water valve located directly behind the toilet. Remove the tank lid and flush the toilet in order to empty the tank. Use a towel or sponge to mop out any excess

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water left in the tank. Remove the flush chain from the lever, and then slide the old flapper up off the overflow tube.

Slide the new flapper in place over the overflow tube, reconnect the chain, and turn the water supply back on.

2. Faucets The main cause of leaky faucets is worn out washers. The washers inside of the faucet handles are rubber and tend to wear out quickly. Replace them by turning off the main water supply, unscrewing the leaky handle that controls the flow of water to the spout, removing the old washer, and dropping in the new one.

3. Washing Machine & Dryer It is important to regularly inspect your washing machine water supply hoses for leaks. One of the top reasons for insurance claims is for water damage caused by leaky washing machine supply lines. Inspect washing machine water supply lines at least annually and replace them every three years if they are plastic. If you notice that the metal ends of your water supply lines are discolored or rusty, replace them immediately.

Faulty washing machine drain hoses are as important as water supply lines when it comes to keeping water off of your floor and in your drain where it belongs.

As with supply lines, regularly inspect the ends of your washing machine drain lines for discoloration or rust, and replace them immediately if you find evidence of leaking.

Additionally, check the snugness of the drain lines by using a crescent wrench or a pair of pliers. You should not be able to tighten the line any further if the line is properly tightened. Plastic lines should be replaced every three years.

When it comes to your dryer, it is important to make sure that you regularly clean your lint screen in order to prevent fires. Not only will a clean lint screen prevent fires, but it will also increase the life of the heating element.

Physically remove the lint from the screen between each load of laundry. Also, be sure to remove fabric softener residue by washing the screen with warm water and dish detergent once per week.

4. Water Heater There is nothing more frustrating than turning on the hot water in your shower and instead receiving cold water. Water heaters, like other appliances, need maintenance to increase longevity and reduce the possibility of damage.

Water has sediment suspended in it, and as the water sits in your water heater, these particles will often settle to the bottom of the tank, causing damage

to the floor of your water heater. At least once per year, drain the water from your water heater and clean the inside surface of its floor.

To drain your water heater, first turn off the water supply and power to the water heater. For electric water heaters, turning off the power means that you simply flip the circuit breaker to the “off” position. For gas water heaters, turn the thermostat setting to the pilot position.

Next, connect a water hose to the drain fitting at the bottom of the tank and put the other end in a place, such as your driveway, where the draining hot water won’t cause any damage. A typical garden hose is a direct fit to the drain fitting. Turn on all the hot water faucets in your home and then open the drain valve on the water heater. Turn the water supply back on with the drain valve still open to remove any built up sediment in the bottom of the tank. Then close the drain valve, refill the tank, and turn the power back on.

5. Plumbing In order to keep water flowing freely through your pipes, keep the following things in mind: •Accumulating fats and oils are the main cause for clogs, so never pour fats or other oils down your drains. This includes oils that are not solid at room temperature. If you accidentally spill oils or fats down the drain, run hot water down your drain along with a healthy serving of dishwashing liquid. The soap will emulsify the fat or oil and move it on down the pipe, preventing a clog.

•Get a hair strainer for the bathtub drain. If fats and oils are the main source of clogs in the kitchen, hair is the primary culprit in the bathroom. If you have a strainer, make sure that you remove any accumulated hair from it following each shower. This will reduce the amount of hair that finds its way through the strainer and into your plumbing.

•Skip the Drano. Though the acids it contains can help unclog a drain, they also cause significant damage to your plumbing, including premature leaking.

This can lead to costly repairs later on.

If your bathtub or toilet is completely clogged, use a small drain snake – which you can purchase at any hardware outlet – to pull the offending clog to the surface. If your kitchen sink is clogged, try plunging it before trying to snake the drain. If you cannot remove the clog using a drain snake, call a professional. http://www.moneycrashers.com

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Madrid plans fines of €751 and up for leaving dog droppings on the street But City Hall will allow pet owners to exhange hefty sanctions for weekend community work

TV NEWSLETTER

MAY 2016

Firstly sorry there was no TV news in April …….. I really do not know what happened but all of a sudden we were past publication date and I had not even thought about it !

Madrid Mayor Manuela Carmena has announced a plan to crack down on owners who allow their dogs to foul pavements, parks and other public areas.

“They are going to be surprised at the toughness of the law,” said Carmena earlier this week, adding that careless dog owners will face fines of between €751 and €1,500.

Scoop-the-poop campaigns Other Spanish cities have already adopted similar “scoop-the-poop” measures to tackle careless dog owners.

In the Madrid dormitory town of Brunete, inspectors were sent out to monitor offenders, then mailed the droppings back to dog owners as a warning.

Another town filmed owners who let their dogs foul the pavement, while a third location organized volunteers along the lines of “canine patrols” to inform offenders. The town of Xàtiva, in Valencia, has even gone so far as to create a DNA database of dogs registered in the municipality to identify them through their excrement, with the owner paying both a fine and the cost of the DNA test. Some Catalan towns are following that example.

However, under a new ordinance currently being drafted, the sanctions may be traded in for community service such as “cleaning or sweeping” the streets on weekends.

The mayor said that the city will deploy municipal police officers in two trial

EURO

districts at times of the day when the greatest number of infractions are being committed. She declined to say when and where this would take place.

Explaining that the fine system was actually introduced by the previous Popular Party administration, a City Hall official said that owners unable or unwilling to pay a fine could opt for street cleaning in the capital Saturdays and Sundays, between 9am and 2 pm.

The move is part of a bigger plan by the Carmena administration to raise awareness about the need to keep the city's streets clean.

The city also intends to crack down on litterbugs, with similar fines targeting teenage revelers who leave bottles and rubbish behind after holding socalled botellón drinking parties in the street. They, too, will be able to opt for community service “or any other alternative measure with the aim of making offenders aware of how to behave in public places.”

Calculations would be made along the lines of four hours of work for every €100 of the fine, and up to 28 hours for serious offenses, says City Hall.

By June, the new legislation will also apply to people who do not dispose properly of cigarette butts or wrappers, feed pigeons, sort through trash bins, spray-paint walls or city furniture, and urinate in the street. http://elpais.com

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Things are much the same in the Rainbow Satellites household with all the animals well including the foster dog Lucy who is still looking for that permanent home ……. She really has become a nice dog – good with other dogs and our cat. If a permanent doggy resident is not for you have you considered fostering – lots of dogs need a temporary home and some love and training before going to a permanent home – contact us if you may be interested and we can arrange a chat with the dog organisation we are involved with.

The garden is growing and coming alive as spring really arrives – more constant watering and weeding ! And with not so much rain I wonder how the watering wells will fair in summer……………..

TV NEWS ……… The big story must be the reception – or lack of it ! – On just about all systems. Satellite signals seem to have crept to their low values as the heat turns up …….. Every year they reduce in the hotter air and many reports of lost channels are coming in to us …….The only real answer is a bigger dish with a 1.80m really needed for successful reception and even then some channels can be a problem especially in the further south west areas of the region Internet TV is the way forward but it seems many of the internet providers miscalculated their bandwidth needs and many viewers have been suffering with bad reception ……… the TV services have been working well but are totally dependent on your internet supply ……… but then this is a problem that will be overcome as soon as internet providers satisfy the demand needs.

There are all sorts of ways to get internet TV but beware of some systems unless you are a real computer “geek” – nothing wrong with them but they can be difficult to operate and maintain.There are few easy to use instant channel access systems around but in general will carry a subscription which only need be quite small. Buy a box on the market for euro 100.00 and I am sure it will do all the seller claims but whether you will be able to make it do those things and keep it running really is another matter.

Would you buy your TV set, your washing machine or your computer from the man on the market or from the advert that has just appeared in the latest magazine with no company name, address or owner ?

Where you spend your money is of course up to you but do not expect the established TV install company to be

able to sort out your “impulse” buy that looks a real bargain.

We often get asked why our IPTV systems carry an ongoing subscription and the question I reply with is ……… well who maintains the system long term ? Things will go wrong – especially at weekends and holidays ! – And with a cheap “one off” payment who will maintain that system over the years ? Who will add and delete channels as they come and go and if satellite based who will change the broadcast frequency as they so regularly do change ? One answer is advertising but do you want an advert to pop up in the middle of Coronation Street ? – YES I can hear many of you say ! But you know where I am coming from ……………….!

Ask an established TV installer for some information on IPTV systems before you make the purchase ……….

So you have just purchased a dream property in Spain and there is no UK TV installed ………… which way do you go to get it. As we have said dish based systems really do require a 1.80m dish (HUGE) at a cost close to euro1000.00 with a basic digibox and you must ask the question “how long will it last ?” – I suspect for the life of the current satellite in use – 15 years – but I cannot be sure of that – it would seem that if the powers that be had their way it would be unavailable tomorrow ! Remember that this system is no longer available from around Almeria westwards – the signals are just too weak.

Internet TV has to be the way forward but this is not so straight forward either.

You must have an internet supply that will support TV – this is a whole new game from sending emails and booking airline tickets.

Ask the potential supplier of internet – “will you support IPTV” - before you commit and use an experienced installer to get the TV ……. This is not a market stall digibox sale but a high tech commitment that you will want to work ….. And be easy to use.

That’s it for this month ………… article sponsored by RAINBOW SATELLITES the company for all your TV needs in the Murcia region of southern Spain. Contact Alan for free friendly advise by email rainbowsats@ gmail.com or phone (0034) 686 358 475.

The website www.rainbowsats.org as some good basic information on TV in Spain.

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April 2016

HOME & GARDEN

CONTACT 950 121 936 OR EMAIL SALES@SOLTIMES.COM TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION

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THINGS YOU'RE NOT RECYCLING BUT SHOULD

Paper, plastic and glass are easy -- just toss them in the recycling bin.

A lot of things that cycle through our lives are not as easy to deal with.

Did you know that the EPA estimates that 75 percent of solid waste is recyclable, but only about 30 percent is actually recycled!? Here are some everyday household items that you might not know you can recycle -- and how to properly dispose of them.

1. FOOD SCRAPS We waste 133 billion pounds of food of food over the course of a year, according to the USDA. Think about how often you have leftovers that sit for days (or worse, weeks) in the fridge before they're thrown out into the trash. If your food scraps end up in the landfill, they're compacted down with other trash and no longer exposed to air. So the food never decomposes and remains in the landfill for years and years. Recycle food scraps by composting them at home.

2. USED BATTERIES If the batteries in your television remote or flashlight no longer work, don't throw them away. Batteries often contain heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, cadmium and nickel, which can contaminate the soil and water supply if thrown in regular trash and added to landfills.

For small batteries, you can find recycling bins at many electronics stores or perhaps in your community, if it offers special collection events. Even car batteries can be recycled by taking them to auto supply stores.

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HOME & GARDEN

CONTACT 950 121 936 OR EMAIL SALES@SOLTIMES.COM TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION 3. OLD SMARTPHONES AND COMPUTERS Technology tends to have a shelf life. After a few years, it can completely stop working. Instead of tossing that unusable laptop in the trash or letting it collect dust in the back of the closet, search for electronics stores that offer recycling of old smartphones, laptops, and televisions. You'll need to make sure that all of your personal information is deleted from the electronic item and you'll have to ask about the specifics for dropping your item off at the store before you bring it in. Some types of electronics can't be dropped off at the store for recycling and require a special pickup.

4. COSMETICS Those empty lip balm tubes and blush compacts don't look so pretty in the trash can. Instead, you can participate in a special recycling program offered by Terracycle to ensure that those empty cosmetic bottles don't end up in a landfill. The program is as simple as signing up, boxing the items and shipping them with a Terracycle label. It is only available in the continental United States (sorry, Alaska and Hawaii.)

5. ALUMINUM AND METALS Don't throw that soup can in the trash. According to Waste Management, Inc., Americans dispose of 2.7 million tons of aluminum a year. Steel and tin cans can also be recycled, and that saves an additional Repair & Install 75 percent of energy Good, Fast, Low Cost that would've been used to create steel from raw Based in Quesda Home Improvements materials. So, gather your cans and take them to C/ Los Arcos 17, Local 5, the nearest scrap yard Ciudad Quesada or recycling facility. Some losarcos17@mail.com places will even pay you www.tyco-torrevieja.com for the metal!

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PRINCE SONGS SET TO DOMINATE CHARTS

Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer On most newer handsets, Bytes, Your Only Stop for solutions to Your you can do this by dragging computer problems. My ‘drop-in’ clinic (like down the notification shade the way doctors used to be!) is at Maloans Bar and hitting the little cog-shaped icon in the in Albox (opposite the BP). Call (689892745); upper right. On stock Android devices you’ll Email (canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk); have to pull the shade down twice—once to Skype (Look for the name “saiminja”), Viber access the notification panel, then again to or Whatsapp (use the phone number) for display the Quick Settings area. free advice concerning your computer. Sales In the Settings menu, scroll down to the pitch over and on to the topic for today.

“Backup and reset” option and tap it.

There comes a time in every mobile phone Select the “Factory data reset” option to and android tablet user’s life when he or she enter the Reset menu. needs to factory reset their device. There are You’ll see a warning here to let you know many reasons why you feel that is needs a that this process will erase all data on the real good clear out. Maybe you need to sell android device’s internal storage. Tap the it and want to ensure that nothing personal “Reset” button, which will prompt you to is left on it, or maybe it’s just being wonky input your security PIN, password, or pattern (technical term for ‘Not doing what is wanted if one is enabled. of it’) and you want to start from scratch.

It’ll show you one more notice to warn Thankfully, it only takes a few minutes to do. you that all your data will be deleted. Hit the Before you start the process I feel that a “Erase Everything” button to complete the word of warning is appropriate and it is only process. to do with your stored data (pictures, sound The phone will immediately reboot, and clip (grand kids laughter, etc.)) which might the “erasing” animation will show up. After be erased as well. The surest way to peace a brief period, the phone will reboot itself a of mind is to back up all your stuff (another final time and prompt you to go through the technical term) to a memory chip / external set up process. computer / etc.

While factory resetting your device will Backing up is as simple as copying data completely wipe the internal storage, it’s from on place to another. The reason for worth noting that the SD card may not be the warning is that as part of the restore included in that. This will vary between process you will get the option to erase all devices, but if you plan on selling or otherwise data as well! If you miss this notification then getting rid of the device, it’s recommended EVERYTHING will be wiped and probably not to either remove the SD card completely or be retrievable! format it on the PC first.

If your device is fully functional, then you Contact me with a list of the subjects that should be able to factory reset it from the you would like to learn about in the seminars Settings menu. The process is basically the / short courses that I’m about to start same across all manufacturers, but keep running. If you would like something where in mind that the wording may vary slightly you live, get as many together as you can between android devices. If it isn’t working with a list of things that you want to learn so well then there is a way of resetting it and and we will arrange a time and date. So until getting it working which I will go into if there next week. Hasta Luego! is enough space.

For further information or advice on The first thing you’ll need to do is head into computing,contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk the Settings menu.

The Good the Bad and the Ugly Sergio Leone created the genre of the Spaghetti Western. His Dollar trilogy comprised a Fistful of Dollars (1964), For a few Dollars More (1965) then The Good the Bad and the Ugly (1966).

They were nicknamed spaghettis as they were filmed and directed by Italians. Using locations in Italy, Spain and Germany; the critics hated these films yet now they are rated as some of the finest Western movies ever made.

Too young to see them when first released in cinemas I remember watching them on late night television in the mid 70’s. The lip synching always seemed strange and no wonder as they were filmed in a mixture of Italian and English and dubbed afterwards. The actors were a mix of Europeans and Americans.

Clint Eastwood became a superstar via the Dollar Trilogy. Previously he’d played Rowdy Yates for all 8 series of the TV western series Rawhide. Even though the first 2 films had yet to be released in the US, Eastwood complained before he agreed to do the third; that he was getting less exposure, as the first film had him as the lead. The second had Lee Van Kleef as his co-star and for the third, Van Kleef again and Eli Wallach. Leone agreed to pay Eastwood a huge bag load of dollars ($250K), 10% of American box receipts and a new Ferrari. He plays Blondie

April 2016

Sales of Prince's music have skyrocketed since his death last Thursday, at the age of 57.

The Very Best of Prince and Purple Rain hold the number one and two spot respectively in the US Billboard chart.

The chart is compiled on a Friday, meaning Prince outsold the rest of the market in just 24 hours.

In the UK, two of his albums also entered the Top 40 on Friday. Some of the sales were spurred by the lack of Prince material on streaming services.

The star's catalogue was only available to stream on Tidal, while he relentlessly pursued people who illegally uploaded his material to sites like SoundCloud, Daily Motion and YouTube.

"I have a team of female black lawyers who keep an eye on such transgressions," Prince once said. "And you know they're sharp."

The Official Charts Company in the UK said that, based on early figures, Prince could have the number one single and album in the UK this coming Friday.

Prince died at his Paisley Park home near Minneapolis last week, after reports he was suffering with flu.

He was found in an unresponsive state in a lift on the first floor of his home. Emergency service personnel performed CPR, but were unable to revive him.

"Yes, it's Prince," an unidentified male caller told emergency services, according to a transcript of the 911 call.

The star was pronounced dead at the scene. Details of the post-mortem examination have yet to be released, but his body was released to his family on Friday afternoon and he was cremated on Saturday.

Thousands of fans have flocked to Paisley Park, the First Avenue nightclub, and other sites made famous by Prince since his death, while tributes have come from Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake and President Obama, amongst others.

Eric Clapton said Prince had helped him battle depression and drug addiction in the 1980s, calling him "a light in the darkness".

"I was out on the road in a massive downward spiral with drink and drugs," he wrote on Facebook. "I saw Purple Rain in a cinema in Canada, I had no idea who he was, it was like a bolt of lightning! In the middle of my depression, and the dreadful state of the music culture at that time it gave me hope."

Morrissey wrote: "Prince has influenced the world more than is suspected, and somehow the life of his music is just beginning."

He also said the star was "far more 'royal' than [Queen] Elizabeth II," whose birthday celebrations fell on the same day as Prince's death.

Justin Timberlake added: "He's somewhere within every song I've ever written."

Meanwhile, US comedy show Saturday Night Live dedicated this weekend's edition to the star, playing back his musical appearances and footage of an invitation-only concert he played for the programme's 40th Anniversary.

The NFL also uploaded the star's memorable, rain-drenched SuperBowl concert to YouTube for the first time since it aired in 2004.

Bbc.com

Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to www.findmeahome.eu as the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too! Findmeahome are always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact Stephen for a valuation: info@findmeahome.eu Telephone: 636 266 641

(the good) Lee Van C l e e f graduated from college in 1942; he then served in the US Navy where he excelled as a mine sweeper and sub chaser until the war ended in 1946. A friend persuaded him to take up acting and a talent scout spotted him in an amateur play. He won a part in the play Mister Roberts alongside Henry Fonda and toured America for a year. In 1952 his talent was noticed by film director Stanley Kramer who asked him to be in his upcoming movie High Noon; Kramer asked him to play the part of the Sheriff but wanted him to have plastic surgery to reduce his prominent nose. Van Kleef refused and took another part as Jack Colby; he’s the first character seen in the opening credits of the movie. After an almost fatal car crash in 1958 Van Cleef gave up acting to convalesce. He then took mainly bit parts until 1965 when Sergio Leone cast him alongside Eastwood as the bounty hunter Colonel Mortimer in For a Few Dollars More. Originally Charles Bronson was going to play Angel Eyes in The Good the Bad and the Ugly but he got a part in another cult movie the Dirty Dozen; So Van Cleef got the part (the Bad.) Eli Wallach was the third star, playing Tuco

(the Ugly); Wallach only found out his film nickname when he saw the film for the first time. Wallach had a distinguished film career, starting with Baby Doll (1956) for which he won a BAFTA. Wallach also starred in The Misfits which was Marilyn Monroe’s last film when she was married to Arthur Miller the films screenwriter and Wallach suspected Monroe had got him the part. Wallach auditioned against Frank Sinatra for the role of Maggio in From Here to Eternity; but he turned the part down in favour of doing a Tennessee Williams play. The film won 8 Oscars and Sinatra got best actor, from then on Sinatra always greeted Wallach with the words ‘hello you crazy actor!’ Wallach struck up a lasting friendship with Eastwood on the set of The Good the Bad and the Ugly and as late as 2003 he had a role in Eastwood’s film Mystic River. Wallach was also one of The Magnificent Seven and played Don Altobello in the Godfather III. His last film in 2010 was Oliver Stone’s Wall Street – Money Never Sleeps.

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16

5 Tips To Finding Happiness

April 2016

taking care of yourself; be a little more active each day, eat one extra piece of fruit, be aware of which physical activities make you feel better and make them part of your routine.

Don’t compare

The key to happiness, according to the latest research, is knowing where to look. We’re conditioned from a young age to aim high and seek fulfilment in a better job, fresh achievement and further success – and yet these goals are more likely to make us miserable. If we’re driven, it may hold us back, says Dr Raj Raghunathan at the University of Texas. His research shows that supposedly successful and “intelligent” people don’t make life choices that lead to happiness. He noticed that after a reunion with his PhD class, the more visible their achievements – work promotions, pay rises, fancy holidays and bigger homes – the more unfulfilled and distracted they seemed overall.

As a result he started to research why certain psychological traits – the desire to control, to feel important, needed and wanted – are the very ones that can get in the way of our wellbeing. He identifies five key areas that can have a huge effect on our wellbeing – all of which are within our control.

Don’t pursue happiness It’s a bit of a balancing act but we need to prioritise rather than chase happiness. The difference is crucial.

Many of us believe, in theory, that it’s important and rank it above being intelligent and making money, and yet in reality we sacrifice happiness for other things.

Take steps to increase the odds of feeling happy rather than obsessing about whether or not you feel happy.

First steps Recognise what makes you happy – hanging out with friends, visiting the countryside, getting a good night’s sleep. Whatever it is, make a list and prioritise those things.

Take responsibility Never blame others for your unhappiness. Tell yourself it’s in your own hands, whatever the outcome. We have the power and ability to control our own thoughts and feelings, regardless of what is happening to us externally.

Feeling in control internally is highly liberating and will make you feel happier.

First steps Arguably the most powerful way to take internal control is to have a healthier lifestyle. Start by

If you tether your happiness to feeling superior to others, you’ll be frustrated a lot of the time. Even if you think you’re doing better than your peers, sooner or later someone will overtake you. If not, age will catch up.

Comparisons can be tempting – we use them as a way to try to motivate ourselves; one way to fool ourselves about succeeding is to think, “I’ll be the best in the world, in my class, in my office.” But you’ll find the goalposts will constantly change and, in the end, you can never win.

First steps When you measure yourself against those around you, you’ll be drawn to dwell on your own flaws.

Be aware of this damaging trait and be kinder to yourself – the less you compare, the happier you will be.

Follow the flow Most of us have experienced it, but probably not as much as we’d like; the kind of experience in which you get so absorbed you lose track of time.

Being in the moment also means lacking selfconsciousness; when we’re completely engaged, we don’t care how well or poorly we’re doing.

First steps What we love to do most is what will make us happiest. Look at what you’re good at, particularly what you lose yourself in – whether it’s writing, travelling, cooking, running. Make a list and get it into your routine.

Trust strangers The more we perceive we can trust people we don’t know, the happier we’ll be. The happiest countries and communities are those that feel they can trust the citizens around them. It’s easy to see why. If you can’t trust your taxi driver to give you the right change, or the postman to drop off your mail, you’ll lose sleep and you won’t be happy. It’s one thing to trust friends and family, but having faith in strangers is an indication of how much you’ll trust life in general.

First steps Start by being more open; talk to one stranger each day – in a shop, at work. Focus on the positive aspect of talking to people you don’t know; not the fear that you can’t trust them.- The Guardian

17

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BBVA RESEARCH PREDICTS 3% RISE IN HOUSE PRICES THIS YEAR According to the latest edition of the Real Estate Situation Spain report, published by BBVA Research, employment and household income will stimulate the demand for housing in Spain, and in fact the study estimates that home sales in 2016 will register an increase of around 10%, while building permits for the construction of new homes will grow by 30%, year-on-year.

The change in trend began in 2015, with home sales rising by 8.6% compared to 2014, thanks to the strength of demand and the easier access to credit, and building permits for new housing climbed by 43% compared to 2014. Moreover, in the first month of 2016 alone, home sales transactions increased by 20.4% over the month of December.

With regards to the demand for housing in the medium- and longterm, BBVA Research explained that the improvement in the economy is encouraging less emigration by Spanish nationals and is also an

attraction for the arrival of new immigrants, and pointed out that: “If in the long run, the Spanish economy grew at its potential average GDP, immigration will be the element that mitigates the limitations of an ageing population. Forecasts point to positive migration balances in the short-term, which will be a new incentive for residential demand”.

El País reported that prices are not expected to fall further since, according to the entity, they have left behind their minimum values, and by the end of 2015 had already showed improvements, at the aggregate level, in all of Spain’s regions, both for new and second hand housing. In the regions where the prices began rising earlier, such as Madrid and the Balearic Islands, the increases have already exceeded by more than 10% the minimum values of two years ago. The forecast points to a price rise of around 3% on average in 2016 at the national level.

Mortgage financing is playing an

important role in the recovery of the Spanish housing market. BBVA Research explained that “credit flows to households for home purchases are evolving at a good pace, and the trend shows that this should continue throughout 2016”, and that “financing to developers has already presented positive flows in 2015 and will gradually strengthen in 2016”.

The report highlights that housing investment is expected to grow in 2016, raising its weight in the economy to levels close to 4.5% of the GDP while, according to the BBVA, the improved housing market,

together with the greater dynamism in the land market, will ensure the increase in construction activity.

The only thing that could have any bearing on the investment decisions of households and businesses, say the BBVA, which could ultimately end up affecting both the demand as well as the residential offer, are the existing uncertainties over global growth and those related to economic policies in Spain in the coming years. kyero.com

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April 2016

HOME SALES GREW BY 22.9% IN FEBRUARY, SAY NOTARIES

The Spanish housing market is continuing to gradually recover, according to the latest real estate statistics published on Friday by the General Council of Notaries. In February, housing transactions increased by 22.9% year-on-year, to a total of 34,268 transactions, while average house prices registered a minimal increase of 0.6%, to stand at 1,233 euros per square metre.

The year-on-year increase in home sales is mainly as a result of the growth registered in sales of second hand apartments, which increased by 25.9%, to a total of 23,227 transactions while, in contrast, sales of new homes recorded a decline of 5.1%, to 2,340 transactions.

Sales of single family homes also registered a significant increase year-on-year, of 22.6%, which the Notaries say, in general terms, reflects the underlying path of recovery of the real estate market in Spain.

With regard to the average price per square metre, the Notaries explained that the slight increase registered, of 0.6%, is due to the increase in the price per square metre of single family dwellings, which rose by 3.8% year-on-year, and also to the slight drop in the price per square metre of apartment type dwellings which fell by 0.2% compared to the same month of 2015.

Thus, the value per square metre of the single family homes stood at 1,007 euros, while second hand apartments stood at 1,350 euros (+0.6%) and new apartments had a price per square metre of 1,619 euros (+0.3%).

El Mundo reported that the number of mortgage loans for the purchase of a home increased by 34.7% in February, compared to the same month in 2015, reaching a total of 15,630 new contracts signed, while the average value of these loans increased by 1.9%, to stand at around 119,142 euros. Of the total number of transactions carried out on housing in February, the percentage of these home purchases which were financed by a mortgage loan was 45.6%. In addition, in this type of financed purchase, the average amount of the loan was 78% of the property value. https://news.kyero.com

FOREIGN PROPERTY BUYERS DOMINATE BARCELONA LUXURY MARKET

According to a study by the real estate company, Lucas Fox International Properties, some 83% of the Barcelona luxury homes priced at over 950,000 euros which were sold in 2015 were acquired by foreign buyers, compared with just 17% of purchases which were made by buyers of Spanish nationality.

However, despite Spanish buyers still being a minority, their volume of purchases is gradually gaining ground as, according to the study, in 2014 they only accounted for 11% of the home purchases, six points lower than last year, with most of them investing in primary residences, and in fact the increase in purchases of highend properties by Spanish buyers was one of the most notable tendencies of 2015.

These data contrast with those registered for Madrid, where the ratio of properties purchased

by Spanish and foreign buyers is distributed equally.

Property purchases by Spanish investors are also increasing in Valencia, with transactions by national buyers more than doubling last year, meanwhile in Catalonia, transactions

on the Maresme coast represented 37% of the purchases, while on the Costa Brava they accounted for 29%.

Idealista.com reported that the number of Dutch and American buyers also increased during the last year, although British buyers still played a prominent role, with sales to British buyers increasing by 50% in Barcelona, while in Ibiza, they accounted for over two-thirds of Lucas Fox’s transactions, mainly due to the strong appreciation of the pound against the euro over the last year.

According to data from the Association of Registrars, international buyers are also very interested in the domestic residential market and, in fact, accounted for some 14.38% of the total housing sales in the last three months of 2015, which represents a new record high in percentage terms, and involved some 12,000 transactions in the quarter. The Association’s data shows that this strong foreign demand is made up mostly of British, French and German buyers. kyero.com

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ALGAR WATERFALLS

A visit to the impressive waterfall of L’ Algar at the Costa Blanca

Whenever you think about the Costa Blanca and cities like Benidorm, Calpe, Altea or Alicante, you most certainly think about hot summer vacations.

Lying on the sandy beaches at incredibly high temperatures. But there is much more to the Costa Blanca than flights, hotels, sand and nightlife.

A bit off the coastline, about 10 km from Altea and only 15 km from Benidorm you find the village of Callosa de’n Sarria. Just nearby lies the impressive waterfall of Algar.

The Fuentes del Algar should be on the top of your list for places to visit whilst you are around the area.

Not only do they offer a sharp contrast to the normal days at the beach, but furthermore they show you a different, very quiet and even cool Spain.

On one of our last visits during a hot summer months, the river still had only 18 Celsius.

The Algar riverside is a very nicely maintained area with pathways along the various waterfalls and natural pools.

Most of you might perhaps have experienced various kinds of showers at the different water parks around, but its nothing compared to swimming or diving into an ice cold river on a very hot spanish summer day. (Yes i went into the cold water – watch the video – proof is shown :-)

Landscape around the area Jumping into the cold water of the river Oh yes, its big fun to jump into an ice cold sweet water river.

Well, at least during very hot summer days.

• Driving to Algar from Altea or Calpe drive the N-332 road to Urbanizacion Sierra Altea, where you take the CV-755 which gets you directly to Callosa d’En Sarria (which is just 2 minutes from the waterfall). or if you come from Benidorm take the CV-715 via La Nucia and Polop gets you directly to this lovely place.

• Parking is no problem. Plenty of parking lots when you enter the village of Algar. There are two different entrance to the waterfall area. One at the center of the village and another at the very end. So you can pass through Algar and parking grounds at the second entrance.

• Entrance Fee or better said admission fee is around 3 Euros. Absolutely worth it, as the place is well preserved and even life guards are on duty.

• Clothing: Take your bathing suit and a pair of good shoes would be useful, as the river is full of stones.

• Outside the waterfall area, at the second entrance area, is an additional picnic and barbecue area. Well preserved with a little camping ground.

Of Additional Interest Apart of the beautiful waterfall area, just at the second entrance two museums are located. The Environment Museum and the Water Museum round up this perfect day trip into the beauty of nature.

Together with a little pathway through a garden of aromatic plants, the entire day should be a nice and recharging some energy for the often stressed tourist days and nights around the Costa Blanca.

UK COMMERCIAL PROPERTY MARKET IS HEADING FOR A FALL Real estate investment trusts SHARES in real estate investment trusts, or REITs, have been extremely attractive for income hungry retail investors during the past seven years. However, the property market moves in cycles and there are an increasing number of signs that we have reached the top of the latest one, and that means investors chasing income could suffer painful losses of capital.

The cycle turns REITs own huge portfolios of commercial property, such as shopping centres and offices, and then list shares on the London stock exchange, which allows investors exposure to the sector.

The value of shares in companies such as British Land and Land Securities have enjoyed a strong run since 2009.

Shares in REITs are driven by two factors. Firstly rental income from property has steadily risen as the UK economy recovered and companies need more space. Secondly UK property has become increasingly attractive for overseas investors to store their wealth, and this increase in demand has driven up property prices. However, there are a number of issues undermining this strong run.

Calling the top Mike Prew, managing director at broker Jefferies, is a real estate expert who has been in the vanguard after calling the top of

the market in August last year. His case is compelling.

First up is that demand is drying up. The buying power of petrodollar rich sovereign wealth funds has been seriously undermined by the collapse in oil prices. Closer to home the UK-listed REITs have also had their wings clipped as investors pulled money from the sector in February at the fastest rate since 2008.

In a classic economic perfect storm just as demand fades there is a tsunami of supply that is about to hit the market. In the London market there is 26m sq ft of new office space due for completion within the next four years. That is the staggering equivalent of 40 new Gherkins in four years.

The UK economic recovery that has been behind steadily rising rents is also running out of steam.

The unemployment level is now rising and city bonuses are falling according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics. The technology sector has grown rapidly during the past seven years, but that growth is now beginning to slow, and the financial services sector has been hit hard by the downturn at the banks.

5pc income and surging prices: the charts on commercial property funds Political risks rise Political risk to the property market is also on the rise. The

Brexit vote on June 23 could still go either way, and leaving the EU would undoubtedly be bad for UK property prices. The listed REITs also have the majority of their property in London and the Mayoral elections pose a threat if Labour candidate Sadiq Khan is elected. He has set out a range of policies to curb foreign investment into the London market at the expense of residents.

The dividend income from commercial property has been a major attraction for retail investors. The reliable rental income from property assets allows REITS to pay healthy dividends. However, Mr Prew is concerned about the source of some of those rents. British Land in particular generates rents from Tesco supermarkets, and if the UK grocery sector comes under further pressure it could place dividends under pressure.

Dividend cover is one of the easiest ways to check whether income is vulnerable. A score of two times cover is usually considered safe, but the average for the commercial property sector is currently 1.3 times.

Shares in British Land and Land Securities have fallen 20pc during the past six months but this is not a buying opportunity as they still trade on more than 20 times forecast earnings. Time to sell. http://www.telegraph.co.uk

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SOL Y MAR

TEL: TEL:950 950064 064584 584 609199 199394 394 609

SM047 NEW LISTING 157,500€ LIMARIA

SM046 NEW LISTING 175,000€

April 2016

MOUNTAIN VIEWS

STUNNING HOME

ORIA

Well appointed detached home on the outskirts of Oria , short drive or walk into town Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms , log burner, private swimming pool , aircon and under floor heating as well as many other extras.

In immaculate order and represents good value for money

Detached villa with stunning mountain views in mature garden setting Features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms , 700m2 plot, 8x4 swimming pool and is in excellent order Walking distance to a local bar/cafe and in ideal location as only 15 minute drive to either Albox one way or Huercla Overa the other way. Early viewing advised as popular location.

FANTASTIC VALUE FOR MONEY

DELIGHTFUL COUNTRY VILLA

ALBANCHEZ SM050 ONLY 20 MINS TO ALBOX

87,500€ CUCADOR

Delightful country villa set on a plot of 143m2 in a beautiful country setting.

The property is located just 2 minutes drive from the town of Albanchez which has bars, shops, bank, medical centre etc. The property is in a quiet location and enjoys excellent views of the surrounding countryside. The property comprises of:- 2 double bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen (fully fitted including white goods), and lounge/diner. Outside there is a good sized patio area for outdoor eating and sunbathing and also included in the price is a Jacuzzi.

Viewing is recommended.

SM049

120,000€

Detached 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on 1000m2 of land in prime location in Cucador.

Walking distance to local bar, restaurant and shop. Being sold as is hence fantastic value for money and must be viewed to appreciate.

21

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AVENIDA AVENIDA2828DEDEFEBRERO FEBRERONºNº44,44,ALBOX ALBOX EMAIL: EMAIL:INFO@SOLYMARSPAIN.COM INFO@SOLYMARSPAIN.COMWWW.SOLYMARSPAIN.COM WWW.SOLYMARSPAIN.COM FANTASTIC VALUE FOR MONEY

LOW PRICE

ALMANZORA

SM048

NEW LISTING 47,500€ ALMANZORA

This house is a tardis must be seen to be appreciated Detached traditional cottage set in hamlet of homes, short distance to the busy village of Almanzora with bars, cafe, medical centre, shop and many other amenities Features 2.5 bedrooms, one bathroom , land to the front , large roof terrace and front courtyard.

In good order and fantastic value for money

SM042

100,000€

Spacious 3 bed 4 bathroom detached traditional cortijo with much charm and character and many original features. Most attractive and desirable location as short drive to the nearest village and just off main access road. This large property offers scope for minor renovation hence the fantastic price. This home comes with many extras including 4 outbuildings, garage and a new fitted kitchen. Set in a small hamlet of country houses in a setting yet so close to amenities. A short drive to the traditional village of Almanzora with all amenities you would require including bars, cafes, medical centre and banks.

Only 5 mins drive to the nearest main market town of Albox.

RENTAL SECTION RSM003

ALFOQUIA

WALKING DISTANCE TO ALL AMENITIES

RSM020

450€ PCM RENTAL ARBOLEAS

Attached, end of terrace, corner townhouse in immaculate order available partially furnished and long term.

Features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, upstairs balcony, terrace to the front, off street parking and walking distance to Alfoquia with it’s many cafes, bars, doctor’s surgery and many other amenities.

PRIME LOCATION

400PCM RENTAL

Mid terrace villa with large terrace in a prime location on the outskirts of Arboleas Walking distance to all amenities of Arboleas including bars, shops and supermarkets.

Features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large terrace, garage and log burner.

Available for long term rental, in excellent order and furnished.

Please note this property does not allow pets.

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

22

HOW TO BUY PROPERTY IN SPAIN

This guide sets out essential information for British nationals wanting to buy property in Spain, including advice on legal advice, buying in certain areas, complaints and more. We are unable to provide any guidance on individual property purchases apart from the information and links listed below. See our information on what consulates can and cannot do for British nationals.

It is strongly recommended that you choose an independent lawyer who is specialised in Spanish land law (urbanismo). Independent means that they work on your behalf only and are not also looking after the interests of the agent or developer. The Spanish property conveyancing system is different to the UK system so you should ensure that those involved in the transaction are qualified and experienced in Spain.

Exercise extreme caution if an estate agent, promoter or lawyer urges you to cut corners to save money or time.

A Spanish notary public will be involved in preparing the contract of sale and issuing the public deeds. As the purchaser, you have the right to choose which notary you use. The notary is a public servant who has a duty to provide you with free and impartial legal advice on all aspects of the contract before you sign.

It is a good idea to seek advice from the notary early on. When a date is set for signing the contract, you have three days beforehand to visit the notary and ask any questions you may have about any aspect of the contract. A full list of English-speaking notaries can be found here If you choose to work with a British estate agent, promoter or lawyer, check that they are qualified, reliable and have experience operating in Spain.

Check that they are registered with the Law Society in the UK and specialise in International Transactions. If your lawyer is based in Spain, ask for their registration number and check that they are registered and practising with the local bar association (Colegio de Abogados).

You should also check that your lawyer has professional indemnity insurance and not sign any papers or hand over any money until you have taken independent legal advice. Although the British Embassy cannot recommend a lawyer, we do have lists of local English-speaking lawyers and qualified translators available on our website.

Many Spanish citizens use a ‘Gestor’ to carry out bureaucracy on their behalf. You should note that only a Gestor Administrativo with the GA kite mark is professionally qualified and certified to process paperwork directly with the Spanish administration.

More information can be found on their services here Should you become involved in a property dispute, but do not have sufficient means to meet the costs

of a court case, you can apply for legal aid. More information is available on the European E-Justice Portal . Applications for those resident in Spain should be directed to the local bar association .

Please bear in mind that if you do become involved in a property dispute, you may need to seek a new lawyer with specific expertise in the field of litigation you wish to pursue, e.g. specialist civil lawyers for compensation claims against private parties such as agents, developers or banks, and specialist public body litigants (contencioso administrativo) for claims against local, regional or state authorities.

Taxation The Spanish tax authority is called the Agencia Tributaria . It provides some information on its website in English.

Purchaser’s checklist Before you complete your property purchase you should make sure that: • you have seen the Land Registry extract (nota simple), available from the Colegio de Registradores (translations into English for an additional fee), and checked the following details • the property and land for sale match the details registered and the sellers are the registered owner(s) • there are no debts or charges, such as a mortgage, on the property • there are no legal proceedings initiated against the property for contravention of land planning law • you have checked that planning permissions are in order and the property is a legal build. This is particularly relevant when buying off-plan or direct from a developer. The town hall can inform you whether the building has all licences and permissions and provide details of the type of land. If the property is built on rural land or land that is not classified for construction, additional confirmation should be sought from the regional government as to whether they have authorised the construction • if you are buying an off-plan property, confirm that the property has been certified as finished by a registered architect and registered as a new build in the property register. The registration should also provide details of the developer’s insurance against structural and other defects in the construction. In the case of a private build (the previous owner built their own house and decided to sell before ten years had lapsed) you will need to request these details separately • you have checked the latest town plan to see whether or not the plot you wish to buy has any building restrictions, is in a green zone or includes a public pathway or similar. This can be viewed at to the

April 2016

town planning (urbanismo) department of the local town hall • you have carried out a property survey. Whilst this is not obligatory, it is wise to get a chartered surveyor to check the property • You know the cadastral value of the property and how much purchase tax will be due. Be aware that tax is charged on the council’s valuation of the property as opposed to the amount of the sale. You can check this at the regional government’s online tax agency site using the cadastral reference number

Make sure you have seen the following documents: • a paid-up receipt for the previous owner’s annual property tax (IBI). It is also wise to get a certificate from the town hall proving that there are no unpaid rates from previous years • the Catastral certificate giving the exact boundaries and square metres of your land. The Cadastral record will be linked to the Land Register record by a cadastral reference which will be included in both. You should ensure that the property and land description contained in both records matches • the licence of first occupancy or habitation certificate issued by the town hall. You will need this document to connect to electricity and water companies. Developers cannot force you to complete without this licence.

• receipt to prove all utility bills have been paid by the previous owner • if applicable, a certificate signed by the President of the Community of Property Owners stating that there are no outstanding debts. You should be aware that if you later find that there are such debts outstanding, as the new owner, you assume the debts for the current and previous year (two years in total) • as from 1st June 2013, all homes for sale or to let in Spain are required by law to have an energy efficiency certificate. If you are considering buying a property, the seller is obliged to show you this certificate On completion, the public deed should reflect an accurate description of the property. It is advisable that you register the property in your name with the Land Registry as soon as possible to ensure full protection of your rights. The notary can even send advance notification to the Land Registry electronically once the public deed is signed. https://www.gov.uk/

23

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TOURIST TAX INTRODUCED TO CONSERVE POPULAR SPANISH ISLANDS

The new charge will come into place this summer in a bid to conserve the fraught Spanish officials say the tax will be used to protect islands including Mallorca (pictured) Education Images Tourists planning holidays to Spain this year may be asked to pay a new eco-tax in a bid to conserve some of the country’s most popular islands.

The “green tax” is currently being prepared by government chiefs in Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza as part of a drive to protect the strained Balearic ecosystem.

After July 1 this year, visitors and UK residents living on the islands will be asked to pay a daily fee of around two Euros (around £1.50) per person, depending on season, type of accommodation and the individual’s age.

The tax – which was first announced last year - has been criticised by travel agencies and consumer watchdogs, who say the added fee could cost make a significant difference to families planning holidays on a tight budget this summer.

Fred Isaac, of the Consumer Action website, said: “This will hurt families the most, and they already face inflated prices during school holidays.”

Authorities say the tax will go towards natural heritage, however, as well as

investing money towards protecting the area, which receives more than three million British tourists every year.

Last year Biel Barcelo, vice president of the islands’ coalition government, said the tax will be applied “with or without the help of the Spanish state”, since it is “absolutely necessary” to conserve the Balearic archipelago.

After the initial proposals were received badly last year, it is now planned for the tax to halve in cost after the ninth day of each stay, meaning a family of four with children over the age of 16 will pay up to £70 extra.

In Malta, a charge of 40p per night comes into place from June, but will be capped at five Euros.

Travel operator ABTA said it “had concerns” about the tax, adding it could: ‘have the unintended consequence of driving tourists away from the islands.”

A spokesperson said: “Safeguarding the environment of the islands has to be a high priority but this tax is not the most sensible way to fund these efforts.” http://www.independent.co.uk

RISE IN EXPATS IN MADRID FOR FIRST TIME SINCE BEFORE THE CRISIS

FOREIGN residents are flocking back to Madrid for the first time since 2009 – the non-Spanish headcount has risen by nearly 6,000 in the past year. As yet, the trend has not caught on in the rest of the country, but a rising number of expats in the capital could be a sign that new residents will soon be settling elsewhere in Spain.

A total of 388,120 expats live in Madrid now, compared to 382,450 at the beginning of 2015, representing a rise of 1.5%.

Economic recovery and existing migrants bringing their families to join them are largely behind the increase in the number of foreign residents, and the fact that more jobs tend to be available in the capital.

In other cases, foreigners who returned to their countries of origin with the onset of the crisis are now heading back to Spain.

Science institute CSIC says many of them went 'home' and found social and educational services were not up to the standards of those in Spain.

“What happened, for example, is that Moroccan citizens who had their children in school in Spain returned to Morocco and found enormous differences,” says sub-director of the Demographic Studies Centre

(CED), Andreu Domingo.

Political instability in other countries has also led to a rise in foreign resident numbers in Madrid – Venezuelans have increased more than anyone, going up from 13,772 in January 2015 to 16,438 in January 2016, a hike of 20%.

One property consultant says they are tending to be rich Venezuelans who intend to settle in the Spanish capital and open new businesses – at least five property development projects are under way in the wealthy Salamanca district, funded

by Venezuelan money.

Ukrainians are also on the increase, having expanded in population by 8% from 20,447 to 22,144, largely due to the armed conflict in the country ongoing since April 2014 as the military attempts to gain control over the self-proclaimed independent eastern region.

Foreign resident numbers would be higher still in Madrid had it not been for 17,434 of them acquiring Spanish nationality – albeit fewer than the 19,782 of the year before.

Most of these were Moroccan (2,672 in total), Ecuadorian (2,453), Colombian (2,010) or Peruvian (1,816). thinkspain.com

24

April 2016

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN CONVERTING YOUR LOFT

Expansion

PROPERT Y SERVICES

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Lost storage A loft conversion is the perfect way to make more from your home.

When planning a loft conversion Many are put off loft conversions you need to think practically. because they think they require Where will you house all those planning permission which can items you stored in your loft? Well, take months. But that’s not always for starters it might be a perfect the case. Your local planning office excuse to de-clutter and get rid will be able to tell you whether or of anything you no longer need. not you need consent. The main But consider built in wardrobes things to allow for are fire escapes, and storage in your new loft access and head room. Just space. There will be lots of room remember that whatever you turn in the eaves so why not add some cupboard doors to keep everything your attic into, you should look into neat and tidy? insulation solutions.

If you are using this room as your Your loft could soon be bedroom consider sliding wardrobe transformed into a new master doors. Sliding doors mean you can bedroom, complete with en-suite, a save room and not worry about home office, maybe even a games your wardrobe doors impacting on room. There are so many different the rest of your space. possibilities, choose the best for Rising heat your family’s lifestyle and needs.

Heat rises but you will also want Don’t forget... to let your to make sure that your loft space neighbours know, though. Give is fully insulated. That way you will them the heads up so there is no help to keep it nice and toasty. Also, awkwardness or issues before you how do you want your windows to start. open? Velux windows are one of the most popular ways to add light A blank canvas into your loft space. Plan carefully Once you have decided how you where you want them to go. want to utilise your loft space, the On the way up next step is to create that blank You will need to consider how canvas. Where will the windows your stairs will fit into your room. go? How will you access the How will these be situated on your space? Where will you position the lighting? You need to consider all landing? Where will they enter your new room? You need to think about of these things in order to get the the flow from the first floor up.

There is a lot to consider when adding Prompt and reliable service, a loft conversion to your home. You want no job too small. to make the most from Full bathrooms or just makeovers the space, without and handyman service. impacting too much on the rest of your home.

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VIEWPOINT

THE ROMAN LEGACY income of Alqueria totally relies gets it

Alqueria had yielded to international pressure.

The UNHSHP (United Nations High Commission for Hostile Pongs) demanded that Alqueria sort out its drainage problem. It was not a new problem, it was something that had evolved along with the Village. The problem is so old that Roman effluent often makes an unwelcome appearance along with the even more unwelcome appearance of today’s effluent. The result is a strain of effluent bacteria that is as dysfunctional as present day Alqueria but with the lust for power, glory and empire that so characterised the Romans.

In short it was a danger to public health on an international scale. It is said that on a bad day the smell could make astronauts eyes water in the International Space Station.

The Villages coffers and villager’s ‘piggy banks’ were emptied so the firm of ‘Reeking Pedro, Pong Eliminators Extraordinaire’ could be commissioned to overhaul the drainage system. The work was given the highest priority due to the approach of the ‘Iberian Curry and Guinness Festival’ which was soon to be held in Alqueria.

Contrary to expectations and precedent the work was completed efficiently and on time. Some thought there must be catch. The work was so well carried out that people lost confidence in the system and travelled daily to the public facilities in a neighbouring Spanish village.

The flaw in the scheme was soon realised.

Remitroot, the singular plant which the

amazing properties from various agrarian phenomenon peculiar to the Pueblo. The main one being the bad drainage, this is vital for the ripening of the crop and to give it the enhanced potency for wine making and its outstandingly quality as an aphrodisiac.

The first crop of the season was a disaster. Taking Remitroot the aphrodisiac produced the sex drive of a Giant Panda while Remitroot the wine was distributed at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Sales slumped, income stopped and drunks sobered.

Alqueria was bankrupt.

Alquerian air quality improved and became a delight to breath, although some said without Remitroot Whisky at it full potency breathing was hardly worth the effort. The lights burnt late in the town-hall as an emergency meeting of the Alquerian cabinet discussed the available options to return Alqueria to solvency.

Such ideas as selling Loco Paco for scientific research were mooted but dismissed as not being sufficiently lucrative, besides the people of Alqueria had become strangely attached to Paco.

What plan will be acted upon?

How will the coffers be refilled.

Stay tuned.

25

E-HICCUP

It seemed prudent to renew our EHIC cards, just in case we went abroad to the UK and needed emergency health care, which, given our current state, would not be beyond belief.

Despite printed advice insisting that this can only be done by phone, we opened up Renewing your EHIC on the laptop, thinking that maybe we could prove perceived wisdom wrong.

All seemed very straightforward; At the end of each page we clicked Continue, and continued – until we came to Address in the UK. At this point we realised that Perceived Wisdom was right, and we were wrong!

So we were left with no other option but the phone, with Perceived Wisdom shaking its head and muttering ‘I told you so.’

That was not so straightforward – using the phone never is! By dint of trying all the numbers in all their permutations, we succeeded in getting almost the right department, where we were informed that our call would be monitored and recorded for training purposes.

A disembodied female voice then commenced reading out a list of numbers that we might fancy pressing. The ethereal lady speaking in my ear suggested 2 was what we wanted, and as I didn’t want to give offence to someone I had not even met I pressed 2.

Presumably they thought that we had ultra-short memories; We were told all about monitoring and training all over again, before the well-spoken lady considered it appropriate to break the news that the number had changed. Of course we hadn’t pen

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk and paper to hand, and although she was well-spoken she was not prepared to wait while we got same, so we rang off.

‘Let’s try the computer again.’

Suggested Pete. Alas, in the intervening minutes the rules had not changed, so it was back to the phone.

This was a re-run of before; more monitoring, more training purposes.

The well-spoken lady then started on her list of numbers, but this time we were ready with pen and paper.

Re-dial #3. Dial the new number; Monitoring, training, etc.

Re-dial #4. Monitoring, etc, etc.

Still well-spoken, she suggested we should press 2.

Almost immediately a male voice with a delightful Scottish accent answered, asked our names and numbers, confirmed our address and told us our cards would be with us within 3 weeks.

That took all of 2 minutes. But it had taken upwards of an hour of solid slog to get to that point!

ENCHANTING SPAIN - OUT NOW

LEGAL CORNER

From Santiago de Compostela in the north-west to Granada in the south-east

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

depth of this exuberant country. The Moorish Alhambra, Toledo’s Jewish

WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR

Making a will in Spain when you have children from previous marriages.

Q. I wish to make a Spanish will. My priority is to make my present wife feel safe and secure, but I would like to leave something to my children from my first marriage. If I have to choose it would be my present wife that takes priority but could I achieve safety for all?

A. There are various ways to achieve security for all parties and the system we should choose depends on your particular circumstances, i.e. the size of the estate etc. We would sit down and discuss the pros and cons of the various positions.

A good, inexpensive

system is to use Life Possessions, which is particularly useful when the major part of the estate consists of real estate.

Basically, what we would do in your will in respect of the real estate is as follows: you leave final ownership directly to your children but with a Life Possession in favour of your present wife.

In this way your children will not have any access to the property or to any income produced by it (via rental for example) while your wife is alive, but would become the full owners on her death.

This system is also very advantageous from a tax point of view.

Michael Davies. Abogado.

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

via Madrid in the centre, Enchanting Spain reveals the fascinating breadth and quarter, the Roman amphitheatre at Mérida and Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, the famously unfinished cathedral, each show a different aspect of Spain’s complex history, now intermingled with fabulously contemporary museums and art centres. The major towns sparkle with life, which visitors can share through the vibrant night scene, the delicious food and wine, the flamenco performances and the abundant festivals. The landscape is diverse and dramatic, whether you are discovering the sun-drenched beaches of Andalucía, hiking in the Picos de Europa or taking a trip down the Guadalquivir River.

Enchanting Spain is a portrait in words and images of both the familiar and the unexpected pleasures of this vibrant country.

John MacDonald has written for many Spanish and international publications and has a special interest in Spanish history. He studied journalism, photography and archaeology at the University of Exeter and UCL. He shares his time between the UK and Spain.

Patricia Díaz Pereda studied at the Complutense University of Madrid, and has worked as a television director and for a media publication. She is passionate about her homeland and has written many articles for magazines as well as contributing to Descubrir España, a National Geographic publication on the subject. She lives in Madrid.

ISBN 978-1-909612-70-9 £9.99 paperback

PUZZLE PAGES

26

April 2016

JIMMY CARR

WWE LIVE

NEW ORDER

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

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

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

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

SOL PICTURE QUIZ!

ANSWERS

2. What would be the term to describe a

80’S SONGS

FIND AND CIRCLE ALL OF THE 1980’S SONG TITLES THAT ARE HIDDEN IN THE GRID. THE REMAINING LETTERS SPELL THE TITLE OF A U2 SONG.

dry champagne?.....................................

3. Which country does Sukhindol wine come from?............................................

4. Which red wine is drunk when young and is called ‘nouveau’?.........................

5. Which scientist discovered that yeast causes fermentation?.............................

6. Which white wine grape variety is most widely planted in California?..........

7. Which wine can be ‘fino’ or ‘oloroso’?.

8. Which wine has the varieties Malmsey and Sercial?............................

‘doux’ be medium sweet or medium dry? .....................................................

ANSWERS

10. Medium sweet

5. Louis Pasteur

9. Jilly Goolden

4. Beaujolais

8. Madeira

3. Bulgaria

7. Sherry

2. Brut

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

6. Chardonnay

CROSSWORD

1. 75 centilitres

SOLUTIONS

HEARTLIGHT HELLO HIM HOLD ON JEOPARDY JESSE JUMP KEY LARGO KISS KYRIE LADY LEGS LONGER LOVE BITES LOVE SHACK LUKA MAGIC MANEATER MANIAC MICKEY MR. ROBOTO

WORDSEARCH ANSWER

STANDARD SUDOKU

10. Would a French wine described as

EASY SUDOKU

BBC’s ‘Food and Drink’ programme?.......

ABRACADABRA ALLENTOWN ALONE AMANDA ANGEL BATDANCE BILLIE JEAN CARS CELEBRATION CHERISH COME DANCING CONGA COOL NIGHT CRYING DANGER ZONE DESIRE DRIVE FAITH FIRE LAKE FOOTLOOSE FUNKY TOWN

NASTY NIGHTSHIFT OH SHERRIE PHYSICAL PRIVATE EYES RAPTURE ROSANNA SARA SLEDGEHAMMER SMALL TOWN SUDDENLY SWEET DREAMS TAINTED LOVE TIME UPTOWN GIRL URGENT VALERIE VENUS YOU ARE YOUNG TURKS

I STILL HAVEN’T FOUND WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR

9. Who is the female wine expert on the

ANSWERS

SQUIGGLE SUDOKU

bottle of wine?.......................................

SOLTIMES SPORT QUIZ

5. South Korea, UAE 6. Wimbledon 7. Brazil 8. Real Madrid 9. Brazil 10. Blackpool

1. What is the normal capacity for a

1. Who was the first Scot to make 100 appearances for his country?.........................

2. Who was the first soccer manager to manage all three Birmingham clubs Aston Villa, Birmingham and West Brom?.........................

3. Who was the manager when England won the 1966 World Cup?..........................

4. Who went to Newcastle from Man Utd in the Andy Cole transfer deal?...............

5. Who were Asia’s two representatives in the 1990 World Cup Finals?................

6. Who were the first club last century to win the FA Cup and the FA Amateur Cup?....................................

7. Who were the first country to win the World Cup four times?.................................

8. Who won the European Cup in the first five seasons from 1955 to 1960?..............

9. Who won the World Cup in 1958, 1962, 1970 and 1994?..................................

10. With whom did Alan Ball begin his playing career?.....

1. Kenny Dalglish 2. Ron Saunders 3. Alf Ramsey 4. Keith Gillespie

WORDSEARCH

SOLTIMES WINE QUIZ

NAME THE ARTIST/BAND AND THE ALBUM

1 Pink / I’m Not Dead 2 Red Hot Chili Peppers / Californication 3 Beatles / Abbey Road 4 Pink Floyd / Dark Side of the Moon

ON THIS DAY 27TH APRIL

711 – Islamic conquest of Hispania: Moorish troops led by Tariq ibn Ziyad land at Gibraltar to begin their invasion of the Iberian Peninsula (Al-Andalus).

1840 – Foundation stone for new Palace of Westminster, London, is laid by wife of Sir Charles Barry.

1961 – Sierra Leone is granted its independence from the United Kingdom, with Milton Margai as the first Prime Minister.

1981 – Xerox PARC introduces the computer mouse.

2002 – The last successful telemetry from the NASA space probe Pioneer 10.

2014 – Popes John XXIII and John Paul II are declared saints in the first papal canonization since 1954.

www.soltimes.com

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27

UK Motorhomes Wanted

Contact Karl on 0044 7976 662395

email: carlskitt@live.com

ACROSS

STANDARD CROSSWORD

8 Not sweet (4) 9 Rental agreement (5) 10 Test (4) 11 Name derived from the name of a person (6) 12 TV shows (8) 13 Ridicule (8) 15 Initiate into an office or position (6) 17 Craves (7) 19 Indigenous people (7) 22 Monkey-bread tree (6) 24 Limbo (8) 26 Envenom (8) 28 Take to be true (6) 30 Hike or journey (4) 31 Large serving spoon (5) 32 Current (4)

DOWN

1 Coil or circuit (4) 2 Alloting (8) 3 Graduates (6) 4 Bending or distorting (7) 5 Type of flour (8) 6 Charred (6) 7 Injury (4) 14 Mediterranean herbs (5) 16 System of beliefs (5) 18 In a strong manner (8) 20 Financially committed (8) 21 Twister (7) 23 Hinders (6) 25 Departs (6) 27 Being nothing more than specified (4) 29 Constructed (4)

SUDOKU PUZZLES

EASY

SQUIGGLE

FAMOUS BITHDAYS ON THIS DAY

STANDARD

1969 – Darcey Bussell, English ballerina 1972 – Nigel Barker, English photographer and author

1987 – William Moseley, English actor 1988 – Kris Thackray, English footballer

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

ACROSS 7 “Play it again Sam” - missing soldier in Australia (8) 9 Idiot about, about metal (6) 10 Mark covers over (4) 11 Prefers to take it in around English competitors expected to win (10) 12 Northeast runs about are closer (6) 14 I levered awfully and took over (8) 15 Put money in one gun, one on inquiry (13) 17 Clapping a very quiet US ale design (8) 19 Reginald: “I return in backstreet animals” (6) 21 In favour of s-street organised demonstrators (10) 22 Returning heartless kill of people (4) 23 Move over me and take away (6) 24 Decade of theirs, it smashed (8) DOWN 1 Try out cooked meals with penny inside (6) 2 Leave out of dolomite (4) 3 Distinctive clothes in forums disturbed (8) 4 Genuine deed, turn the French around (6) 5 Giving reviled gin arrangement (10) 6 Almost score new name in English supporter within (8) 8 Unusually determine vast commercial (13) 13 Turn right development (10) 15 I’m left with American casualty who brings things in to the country (8) 16 Is in attic about turn of a syndrome (8) 18 Coat of mogul’s terrain (6) 20 Furled or returning left light (6) 22 Attacks matches (4)

SOLTIMES

LIFE QUOTE

28

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Baked Spani Risott sh o ( S er v e s 4)

Ingredients: 250g/9oz cherry tomatoes 1 red onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves,

RISOTTO

April 2016

Who can resist an oozy creamy risotto? Making risotto is simple, it just requires a little time and a generous serving of cheese and these recipes from BBC Food will help you choose your favourite ingredients.

Easy M ushro Risott om o ( S er v e s 4)

finely chopped 300g/10oz risotto rice

Preheat the oven to 220C/425F/ Gas 7. Place the cherry tomatoes in a roasting tin and sprinkle over the red onion, garlic and olive oil. Roast for 20 minutes until the tomatoes are softened.

fillets, halved 200g/7oz chorizo, thickly sliced 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

Stir in the rice, chicken, chorizo, rosemary, chicken stock, saffron and some salt and pepper, mixing well together. Return to the oven for 20

1 litre/1¾ pints hot chicken stock pinch of saffron strands

minutes.

8 large, raw prawns

Stir in the prawns and return to the oven for a further 10 minutes until

salt and freshly

the rice is tender and the chicken is

ground black

cooked through.

pepper

1 tbsp dried porcini mushrooms 2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 225g/8oz chestnut mushrooms, sliced

2 tbsp olive oil

4 chicken thigh

Ingredients:

Soak the porcini mushrooms in hot water for 10 minutes, then drain well. Heat the oil in a large, heavy based saucepan and add the onion and garlic. Fry over a gentle heat for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the chestnut mushrooms and fry for a further 2-3 minutes, until browned.

Stir in the rice and coat in the oil. Pour in the wine and simmer, stirring, until the liquid has been absorbed. Add a ladleful of the stock and simmer, stirring again, until the liquid has been absorbed. Continue adding the stock in this way, until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is plump and tender.

Roughly chop the soaked porcini mushrooms and stir into the risotto, along with the parsley, butter and salt and pepper. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan.

350g/12oz arborio rice 150ml/¼ pint dry white wine 1.2 litres/2 pints hot vegetable stock 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 25g/1oz butter salt and freshly ground black pepper freshly grated parmesan (or similar vegetarian hard cheese), to serve

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

TEL 622 434 912

Opening times 10am till Late Tuesday - Sunday

Open 7 days a week

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

GREAT FUN NIGHT OUT

12pm-3pm 5pm-Late SET MEAL DEALS For each 2 persons select any 2 starters, any 2 main dishes, 1 vegetable dish, 2 rice or 2 plain naan or one of each Dinner for 2 + Bottle of Wine.......30€ Dinner for 4 + 2 Bottles of Wine..60€ Dinner for 6 + 3 Bottles of Wine..90€ (prawn dishes not included) FREE BOTTLE OF WINE OR 10% DISCOUNT ON TAKEAWAY ORDERS OVER 20€ C/ San Miguel, locale 65, La Finca Golf Commercial Centre, 03169 ALGORFA

Tel: 965 055 436

29

www.soltimes.com

F O K TAL N W O T E H T QUOTE ‘SOL TIMES’ FOR THIS OFFER

PERFECT STEAK EVERYTIME AT THE HOT STONE The Hot Stone, Urbanisation El Raso has become well known now for quality food.

Their signature Argentinian steaks are the most tender and succulent cuts of meat you will find on the Costa Blanca. Each steak is presented to you on an individual hot volcanic rock, heated to optimum temperature. Every piece you cut will be almost instantaneously cooked to your own personal perfection. The pure quality of the meat is realised within the very first bite. Due to the high temperature of the stones, each cut of meat is sealed ensuring that all the flavours and juices get trapped inside, making the steak truly succulent.

This team believe that top quality meat is fundamental in making the dining experience one to remember and have imported the very best cut of Argentinian meat, which is globally renowned as being the most tender and flavoursome, giving you the finest quality meat, without having to go to Argentina! Prices start from only 12.40 for an Argentinian rump steak, including any side order and 3 sauces.

If you are not quite the carnivore, chicken, pork and local seafood dishes are also all available on the stone. Vegetarian options are available. They also serve other house specialities off the stone.

The Hot Stone, El Raso is open Tuesday to Sunday: 12.30pm – 10pm (Menu del Dia 12.30pm-4pm).

For more information or reservations, please call 656 613 356.

BUY 2 MAIN MEALS GET THE CHEAPEST HALF PRICE Valid until 31ST MAY 2016 (not to be used in conjunction with any set menu or other offers)

CALL 656 613 356 FOR RESERVATIONS OPENING HOURS: Tuesday-Sunday:12:30 to 10pm

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

Open 7 Days a Week 12noon till 10pm AllSportsCovered HomemadeFood Cakes & Pastries Karaoke Weekly Clubs Outside summer events from

il 2016 (5 of 7) 73mm high x 111mm wide, Saturday June 18th

Call in Bar for Details

QUESADA FISH & CHIPS

Menu of the Day 12noon till 5pm

Cod or Haddock Chips, Peas, Bread and Butter

€7,00

Sunday Special Fish, Chips & Peas

€6,00

All Day

Takeaway Also Available QUESADA VILLAMARTIN PLAZA

966 719 136

966 764 441

The Oasis Benijófar is a popular bar/bistro in the heart of the town with a sun drenched terrace overlooking the square, where local the scenery and views of the fountains, palm trees and local church add to the experience.

Plaza de la Constitución, Benijófar 03178. Open Daily from 9.30am

Combine & Save on Summer Evening Drinks and Dining* A bucket of 5 ice-cold Mahou cans with large plate of Patatas Bravas €8, or litre of Sangria and small Spanish platter for €12 For lovers of tapas, enjoy the warmer evenings on the Oasis sun-drenched terrace with our range of International tapas starting from just €1.50. Or select three tapas from the deal menu and include a bottle of wine or litre of beer for €12 or, three tapas and litre of Sangria for €14 Tel: 603 169 090 / email: oasisbenijofar@outlook.com / www.oasis-benijofar.es *From 7pm Thurs to Sat until end April. Then Tues to Sat from May until October

It is the best place to enjoy the end of the day sun and al fresco Tapas dining in the evenings. Their ‘Tapas on the Terrace’ menu is now available Thursday to Saturday evenings, extending to Tuesday to Saturday from May onwards. With an exciting range of international tapas dishes to suit all tastes.

Plus there are great meal deals on beer, wine and Sangria for you to enjoy The Oasis is open from 9.30am for breakfast. There is an extensive brunch, lunch and tapas menu plus, a Menu del Dia that includes choice of starters mains and desserts with 3 courses and a drink at just €9.95.

If you haven’t been to the Oasis in Benijófar recently why not pop along and experience the difference.

Plaza de la Constitución, Benijófar, 03178. Tel: 603 169 090.

Find them on Facebook or visit www.oasis-benijofar.es

30

April 2016

FERRAN ADRIÀ INVITES KIDS TO COOK Chef Presents New Book Project in Collaboration with Disney.

“Te cuento en la cocina” is the latest project from famed Spanish chef Ferran Adrià designed to inspire children and their parents to cook and learn about nutition and healthy living.

Author: Adrienne Smith/©ICEX Published by Penguin Random House, Adrià’s new book “Te cuento en la cocina” (I’ll tell you in the kitchen), is a collaboration with Disney that plays off of the popularity of some of this company’s most iconic and beloved figures.

Featuring sixty recipes designed to bring parents and children together in the kitchen, this interacitive book encourages families to learn about why people cook, the origin of gastronomy and what makes products natural – all topics very near and dear to Adrià’s elBullifoundation. The idea behind this is to spark children’s interest in cooking from a broader perspective, as well as to teach them about related cultural and health implications of gastronomy.

SPANISH OIL TRIUMPH IN CANADA

Extra virgin olive oils from Spain won nine distinctions at Olive d’Or, an EVOO competition held in conjunction with SIAL food fair in Canada. Olive d’Or is the Canada’s most important contest for olive oils offering a high visibility to thousands of food professionals.

Knolive Epicure and Parqueoliva Serie Oro were jury favorites. Cladivm and Finca La Torre Hojiblanca won gold medals. Oro Bailén Arbequina, Mueleoliva Picuda,

and Oro Bailén Reserva Familiar Picual received silver medals. El Empiedro and Morellana won bronze. A panel of culinary and olive oil specialists was responsible for judging the oils presented.

Olive oil seminars were also conducted at Spain’s Pavillon in SIAL. http://www.foodswinesfromspain.com

Additionally, the book emphasizes the importance of eating well, with nutritional information and weekly menu suggestions developed hand-in-hand with Madrid’s Hospital Universitario La Paz. On the shelves since April 15th, “Te cuento en la cocina” is also available in an e-book version. http://www.foodswinesfromspain.com/

GREAT STREET FOOD

Experiencing the aromas and tastes of street food in the company of local people in a far-off land is one of travel’s greatest treats. A tour is the best way to explore the delights on offer (and avoid the potential hazards) while tucking into an unfamiliar cuisine.

Street food culture thrives in warm countries, where eating outside is an utter pleasure, so it's no surprise that most tours head for the pavement cafés and street stalls of Vietnam and India, the souks and bazaars of Istanbul and Marrakesh, and the colonial plazas and roadhouses of Ecuador, Mexico and Cuba. Others are to less obvious destinations like the market squares of Crete or the Irrawaddy River Delta in Burma. Here is a selection of the best street foodthemed holidays and culinary adventures currently on offer.

1. A taco tour of Mexico

Chillies, tomatoes, corn and chocolate, which are all indigenous to Mexico may have made their way into cuisines all over the world but they remain key ingredients in the humble street food of their homeland. Many Mexican dishes like tortillas, tacos, tamales, corn on the cob and quesadillas are made to be dipped into zingy salsas, savoury mole chocolate sauce, guacamole and sour cream. The beach shacks on surfer beaches do a brisk trade in mezcal cocktails to wash down the local version of ceviche.

2. On the road in Cuba

Until recently the idea of a food tour of Cuba would have been absurd, then as soon as private enterprise was liberated, the lid came off. Street stalls and paladars - restaurants run by locals in their own homes - proliferated serving delicious and nutritious Cuban classics like seafood enchilado and moros y christianos using homegrown ingredients.

Many places are hard to find so being escorted by

a homegrown foodie like Tanja Buwalda on this small group tour by Esencia is ideal.

3. The temple towns of Tamil Nadu

South Indian dishes like masala dosa and idli - which have become street food favourites all over india - are originally from Tamil Nadu where pilgrims flock to vast temple complexes and feast on fabulous fast food vegetarian thalis of multiple dishes served on banana leaves served at hundreds of street stall cafés. The cuisine turns non-veg in Chettinad where trade and travel have given the local villagers a taste for spicy meatballs and chicken fries, and in Pondicherry a French fusion influence lives on

4. The bazaars of Istanbul

The residents of Istanbul have a passion for cooking and eating outside. The bazaars and streets of the old city host stalls and hole-in-the-wall joints offering mezes of small hot and cold dishes of tantalising tastes served with oven warm fresh bread to scoop up every last morsel, and succulent chargrilled kebabs, slow cooked stews, or grilled fish simply cooked with a brush of oil and a squeeze of lemon. It’s a heady mix of Ottomon and Mediterranean flavours spiced up with pul biber (dried red pepper flakes), lemony ground sumac and dried thyme.

5. From Quito to Cloud Forest in the Andes

Ecuador is emerging as a Latin American culinary

destination to rival Peru. In Quito - the high altitude colonial-era capital - Metropolitan Touring runs an excellent “Live Quito Like A Local” culinary tours of the once dodgy San Roque market neighbourhood, combined with lunch in the stunningly-restored Casa Gangotena. Breakfast on green plantain scrambled with ahiote, snack on shrimp empanadas and avoid the steaming cauldrons of bull’s penis soup before returning to the hotel for an exquisite feast of dishes, such as llama spring rolls, shrimp and coconut milk ceviche and cloud forest yams with aji.

6. Off the beaten track in Central India Joining colourfully turbaned, finely mustachioed men at a village street chai stall to sate a desert thirst with a steaming cup of sweet milky cardamon-and-ginger infused tea is one of the great pleasures of a road journey through central India. Spicy snacks of fresh vegetable samosas, steaming potato bondas and crispy cauliflower pakoras only improve things further.

Curries of aloo ghobi and channa masala served in organic bowls made of dried leaves stapled together with twigs and sweets dripping with rose water have to be consumed on the spot. http://www.telegraph.co.uk

www.soltimes.com

TEL: 950 121 936

MABS MAZARRON EVENTS

REGULAR EVENTS CRAFT GROUP - every other Wednesday from 1.30 at the MABS Information Centre – restarts 9th September after the summer break 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

CHURCH OF ENGLAND COSTA CALIDA & ALMERIA

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

ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

- COMMUNITY NEWS -

CLUB HIPICO MAIPE,CARTAGENA,HAD 65 DRESSAGE RIDERS IN THE RING ON SUNDAY

SALES@SOLTIMES

Riders from Finland, Holland, Belgium, Ireland , USA, England competed on a regional level with the Spanish riders . It was a start of a “LIGA” regional of Federación Hipica Murciana. Liga has 9 faces, one in every member of Federación. Tests are from level 1 to Intermedia I. Elena Carcia Clinton , who is riding in Club Hipico Maipe with her sister, took part on level 1 with pony Randy. She was very nervous the whole morning

before the test. Elena did well and won her sección Every Day, Open from 10:30-14:00 and 17:00-20:00.

Closed Monday mornings. At C/ Conde de Aranda. and took a winners cup home.

Tel: 968 493 287. Entry: Individual €1.20 Groups Next time LIGA goes to San Javier on 8 of May. Look €0.60 out for more on Facebook of Club Hipico Maipe.

TABLE TENNIS AT PILAR DE LA HORADADA

WELCOME EVENTS Sports Centre every Monday at 10am Five tables WELCOME GROUP EVENTS equipment supplied, coaching given if necessary, all standards welcome. Contact George on 965 326097 Wednesday May 18th. - Dance the night away this or Gordon on 966 848304 or e-mail drewgeorge49@ month to the music of the ever popular Woody & yahoo.com.

The Peckers. Book early as always a sell out. €8 15th June. - Ladies Afternoon at The ST. NICHOLAS ECUMENICAL CHURCH Wednesday Club House, Camposol - Fashion show, Stalls, Bingo We hold services each week at 10.30am on plus a Cold Buffet. Dancing to Terry J. €10 Camposol, Mazarron. Everyone is welcome to join Wednesday June 22nd. The Welcome Summer Ball us. For further details, CALL the church on 665 302 at La Cumbre Hotel, Puerto de Mazarron. Start the 019 evening with a champagne reception, followed by a 6 course meal including drinks, and then dance the A PARKINSONS SUPPORT GROUP night away with Rob Sweeney. Rooms are available On Tuesdays at 11am At Bobbie Jo·s, Los Montisinos for €50 if you would like to stay the night or book a For a chat and a cup of tea For further information seat on the coach for €5. This is always a very popular event so book early to avoid disappointment. €30 contact Wally Williamson On 966 770 871 November 3rd. Benalmadena & Gibraltar. Due to ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH popular demand this trip returns for 2016. Staying Saladillo, Mazarron ( close to Camposol) 3 nights at Hotel Mac Puerto Marina on half board inc. wine & water with dinner. A trip to Gibraltar and Mass in English every Saturday at 4.30 pm an evening Ricky Lavazza show included. €200 p.p.

Mass in Latin every Sunday at 4.030pm For further information please contact Father November 9th. We are off to Benidorm Market for Octavio on 676 219 445 or Father Carlos on 628 824 a morning of shopping and then on to the Rich Bich show for an afternoon performance. More time for 555. shopping and dinner before returning home. ONLY €15 TALKS & WORKSHOPS MABS Murcia North East - Sew’n’So’s - Sewing November 24th. Madrid & The Races. Staying 4 Group Every Mon Fortuna. Taking place every other nights at the city centre 4* Tryp Cibeles on B&B. Monday at Urb. Las Kalendas from 14:00. For further Shop on Black Friday for bargains and enjoy a trip information email: mabsmurciane@gmail.com to the horse races on Sunday. Also included a trip to the beautiful Palace of San Lorenzo on Saturday. €350 p.p.

NEW December 23rd. Welcome Christmas at The In 2016 we aim to expand our teams of listeners Helios Hotel Benidorm. Join us for 4 nights on full board including a Gala Christmas Lunch. Don’t be around Spain. lonely or worry about cooking this Christmas. Coach If you are resident in the Mazarrón área and would travel included. €260 p.p. like to hear how you can join us as a Listener or spare For more information or to book your tickets, a few hours a week to help with fundraising / other call Rosemary on 620 105 179 events held in the area please contact our General Manager stephenrbaker@outlook.com to register interest in attending an initial group meeting locally.

EX-SERVICEMEN’S ASSOCIATION www.samaritansinspain.com Mazarrón District (Founded 1 May 2006) Also on Facebook and Twitter. (Volunteer positions are unpaid but certain expenses can be claimed) EVENTS 2016

SAMARITANS IN SPAIN -

MARKET DAYS IN THE AREA

MONDAY - San Pedro del Pinatar TUESDAY - Los Alcazares / Alhama de Murcia WEDNESDAY - Santiago de la Ribeira / Fuente Alamo / Totana THURSDAY - San Javier / Camposol Sector A / Lorca FRIDAY - Isla Plana (Summer only) SATURDAY - Mazarron Pueblo / Aguilas SUNDAY - Puerto de Mazarron / Mar Menor / Cabo de Palos

Friday 6th May - Annual General Meeting - The Clubhouse Rear Room - Camposol “C” - 11.30am Wednesday 11th May - Costa Celbracion Rooms Mazarron Town - 10th Anniversary Dinner Dance with Grand Raffle and Live Entertainment - 7.30pm for 8pm Wednesday 8th June - Spice Villa - Camposol “B” 7.30pm for 8pm Membership and enquiries, Ian 629818611 or esamd.espana@gmail.com

31

HAVE YOU BEEN TO CHATTERS?

Chatters is an informal social group, free of charge and open to all without membership. Just turn up, join in and enjoy. We are sponsored by Help At Home Mar Menor. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month at The Pasty Shack, Rio Nalon, near to the Mercadona in Los Alcazares.

Free refreshments are served between 10.15am & 10.45am before we start the meeting at 11am. This includes a Quiz and Picture Quiz with the opportunity to win modest prizes, after which we always have a different Guest Speaker talking about and answering questions about a range of topics of interest and use to Expats. The Speaker at the next Chatters on Wednesday April 20th will be from Coach Trips sl, aka Dave’s Coaches. He will be telling us about all the places they visit, and which trip would best meet you own particular interests.

Why not come along and join in? Meet old friends and perhaps make new ones? After the meeting several people regularly stay on to enjoy the Pasty Shack’s delicious range of snacks and lunches. Attendance is growing, and more and more attendees are coming regularly, so be sure to put the date in your diary and to arrive early.

Help At Home Mar Menor is a local charity who makes no charge for providing a little temporary help to those in need. We rely solely on fundraising and donations.

Find out more about what we do and upcoming events by following us on Facebook or by visiting - www.helpathome.es

PURSE LOST, FOUND AND RETURNED

“On Sunday 17th April whilst shopping at the Puerto de Mazarron Sunday market I lost my purse. Resigned to the fact that I would never be reunited with it again, after all the stories of pick pockets, etc, imagine my amazement when I was visited at home by the local Police returning the said purse. Apparently a very kind English person stopped the police car in the street and handed it to them with all the contents untouched.

Although there was not a vast amount in there just the fact that there are still honest people in our area is very refreshing. They did not leave their name with the Police so I hope that whoever you are you are reading this and know how very grateful I am for your kindness.

Yours Mrs L Armstrong.”

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

32

April 2016

ANIMAL CORNER

To advertise here call : 950 121 936

PETS IN SPAIN

STUDY REVEALS 'SMALL BRAINED' RAVENS AS CLEVER AS CHIMPS

Benjamin is 1 of 3 puppies abandoned in the campo. He is around 9 weeks old and was covered in ticks and fleas but has now been treated and in good health. He is a very playful little boy and will be medium/ large size when fully grown.

so that they would know

have found that ravens

how to go through the

are as smart as chimps,

hole to reach the treat.

despite

Then they repeated the

having

much

Being called 'bird brain' is normally an insult, but the raven's small brains

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didn't stop them from

Emily is a medium sized dog, who was rescued with her brother when they were tiny puppies.

He was adopted into a loving home, but sadly Emily is still waiting. She is a lovely natured dog, who would be a great companion for someone.

APAH

MOUNTAIN VIEW

To meet Emily, please call

630 422 563 or 616 210 850

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with a hole at each end,

testing animal intelligence,

smaller brains.

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Researchers in Sweden,

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performing just as well as chimps at an intelligence test set by scientists.

Researchers from Lund University

in

Sweden

challenged the animals to

test, but using a seethrough

tube

so

the

animals could see where the food was.

They wanted to see if they'd

still

understand

that they needed to go through the hole to reach it, or if they'd hit against the tube sides instead.

complete the same tricky

They say that their results

task - to get food out of

show that having a small

a tube.

brain doesn't mean that

First, they showed the

an animal will be less

birds

intelligent.-

that

they

were

putting a treat in a tube

BBC News

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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.

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DEADLINES All adverts Friday at 5pm prior to publication

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

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Part exchange Telephone 650 722 905

SITUATIONS VACANT

AGE CONCERN

Require an experienced volunteer driver for Tuesday mornings, 10am - 1:30pm.

You must have a Spanish Driving Licence.

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966 786 887

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Property buyer’s surveys and expert defects diagnosis

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

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34

April 2016

MOTORING SECTION FOR SALE AND WANTED

VEHICLE REGISTRATION

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E

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

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BMW 318D 2008 - 5 door hatch 1.8D, 101,000 kms 2 owners Full service history A/C (Climate), PAS ABS, Cruise Front fog lights E. windows/mirrors, High spec model, CD Remote locking F/R park sensors Head lamp wash Metallic grey

HYUNDAI I20 Aug ‘12 - 5 door hatch 1.2 54,000 kms, 1 owner Full service history A/C (Climate) Isofix PAS ABS E. windows/mirrors CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Metallic silver

KIA PICANTO 2008 - 5 door hatch 1.1 76,000 kms, 2 owners Full service history A/C PAS, ABS Electric windows CD player Remote locking Rear head restraints Awaiting full valet Metallic silver

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

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DO YOU HAVE A VEHICLE, BOAT OR MOTOR BIKE FOR SALE?

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Ferrari is known to produce some of the world’s most exotic and sought after super cars. So how can a Ferrari owner set themselves apart from the next Ferrari owner?

Well, they have to get their hands on the ultra rare models of course. Something that’s limited in production, say with single digit, or barely making it over the double digit serial numbers. For those Ferrari enthusiasts, if they spoke up early enough, they can be the lucky owner of one of ten Ferrari F60 America.

So what is a Ferrari F60 America? First lets quickly sum up what it’s not. It is not the successor to the F50 as there is already an Enzo and LaFerrari. What it is, is a limited edition vehicle produced to celebrate the 60 years that Ferrari has been in the American market hence the name.

The F60 America is a Ferrari roadster following after the F12. The open roof can be closed off with a light fabric top, and to be clear, we are not referring to a power soft top. This is a hand powered fabric top. The F60 wears the classic North American Racing Team livery. Power is delivered is a 6.3L V12 which produces 730hp allowing this prancing horse to sprint to 100kph in 3.1 seconds.

By the time you read this article, all ten examples of this highly exclusive $2.5 million USD Ferrari has been spoken for by their new owners.

ARE YOU A MECHANIC? DO YOU HAVE A MOTORING BUSINESS? Phone Jane 950 121 936

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

Book Review

THE GLASS ROOM BY ANN CLEEVES

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

“I never used to think like that. I never used to worry. Is that what violent death does to the people left behind? It makes us victims too, of our own anxiety.”

D.I. Vera Stanhope is an excellent detective, meticulous and thorough in her investigations but so difficult as a boss. Ask some of the key players in her team: Joe Ashworth, her sergeant or Holly, even Charlie. With them she can be frosty and sarcastic with high and unreasonable expectations. She finds relationships difficult and doesn’t like people who make demands on her time. Vera admits to being more scared of people when they are alive than dead. She detested her late father Hector who seemed to despise Vera just as much as she despised him and informs us that she is haunted by him with mutterings in her head late at night. Her clothes are generally from Oxfam and her furniture is old. She knows she is overweight and lacks vanity in the way she talks about being the size and shape of a “barrage balloon.” In fact she refers to living in squalor when she described her homelife. Her mother died of cancer when she was a child.

She is such a well-developed and interesting character, flawed yes but as a person not as a detective. When she was at her best she was at her “sharpest, most outrageous and clever.” She thrived on solving murders and often went without sleep. Otherwise she binged on food and drink whilst visiting a crime scene, carrying out her investigations. Cleeves deliberately chooses not to stereotype Vera and this is her appeal.

It’s October, we’re in the north-east of England and Vera’s hippy neighbour Jack, 40, one half of her eco-warrior neighbours has entered Vera’s house waiting for her return. He has a problem and seems distressed because Joanna, his partner has disappeared leaving a note to say she needed a bit of space and has gone away for a few days. As a personal favour he asks Vera to investigate.

So this is where it all begins. Vera soon locates Joanna’s whereabouts along the Northumbrian coast near Alnmouth and RAF Boulmer and just in sight of the Farne Islands. It seems that Joanna fancies her chances of being a published writer and has managed to get herself a bursary to attend the Writers’ House run by a former successful writer called Miranda Barton and her son, Alex. Known as a retreat for budding writers, a number of residential courses were organised here. The current one was called Short Cuts. The art of the contemporary crime short story.

She snooped around the house thinking about how to approach this matter of seeking out Joanna, a house which had been set in an isolated location to add the Agatha Christie type suspense. Added to that, there were a number of mysterious guests who all had secret pasts some of which seemed disturbing.

Vera was out of her comfort zone, noting the gloomy air about the place. She felt like a fish out of water, although she referred to herself as a “very fat Alice in a strange Wonderland.” She was anxious in case she was mistaken for a madwoman or an inept burglar. It wouldn’t do her street cred any good, would it? Or her reputation? She was fully aware of her failings: feeling ignorant and out of her depth with arty types or people who talked non-stop about books or pictures or films. She decided to knock on the front door with a story concocted that might sound plausible when she heard this blood-curdling scream: “It seemed hardly human and was without age or gender: loud and piercing and terrifying.” A well-timed entrance and pushing her insecurities to one side, Vera was taken to the

Special Offers Visit:

35

950 121 936 - sales@soltimes.com

www.soltimes.com

crime scene being praised for her swiftness in arriving at the murder scene!

The Glass Room was a favourite haunt of Professor Tony Ferdinand who worked at St Ursula’s in London. A respected man with excellent contacts, he could help new writers to have their works published. He had appeared on The Culture Show and BBC4. This gave him considerable power and massaged his over-inflated ego. When Vera reached the room she found the professor sitting on the floor with an angry and outraged expression still visible on his face, his shirt covered in blood. He had been stabbed to death.

Miranda Barton, host, found him. The prime suspect was Joanna, Vera’s neighbour who had been seen near the professor’s room holding a knife. Had Joanna killed him or has she been set up? Discovering Joanna’s psychiatric history, her bi-polar disorder as well as her assaults on her former husband, attacking him with a knife and her attempt to commit suicide suggests an unhinged person capable of murder.

Equally unnerving is the discovery that Miranda had written this murder scene in her best-seller Cruel Women with chairs and tables and wine glasses in a particular place. Imagine the horror of discovering your piece of fiction becomes a reality.

Vera and her team interview all the writers who are suspects as well as Joanna and many of them had an intense dislike of the victim. Alex Barton tells his mother that he would dance on his grave! Nina Backworth disliked him too. We are told that he “picked on anyone vulnerable.” He was a sexual predator, too brash and too full of himself. So it seems that Vera has her work cut out for proving Joanna’s innocence and finding the real culprit.

“Writers were like parasites, preying on other people’s stress and misery.” Before the murder is solved, there is another gruesome throat slashing, a re-enactment of Nina Backworth’s crime story and Vera and her team have to find the connection between the murders and the possible motive before any further murders are committed.

“Deep down, everyone loved a murder. They loved the drama of it, the frisson of fear. people had been putting together stories of death and the motive for killing since the beginning of time to thrill and to entertain.”

It’s so cleverly written, faultless and an extremely satisfying read and I adore Vera Stanhope’s rudeness and eccentricities.

Publisher: Pan Books. ISBN: 978-0-330-51270-1 REVIEW it by Carol Naylor.

www.ecocorpshop.com

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No Tax On the Sun! (Real Decreto 900/2015 Boe 243 10th October 2015) Now that the government have passed the new laws with regard to solar energy, there is no better time to subsidize your electricity bills. Our systems can be scaled to suit your energy requirements so as you attain the fastest payback. All systems meet EU and Spanish requirements for connecting to the grid and there is NO TAX to pay!

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

36

April 2016

MOTORING

HIT AND RUN DRIVER CAUGHT AND ARRESTED

Officers from the Civil Guard in the Murcia region have arrested the driver of a hit and run incident which had resulted in a cyclist being seriously injured.

The incident took place on Tuesday, the World Day of the Bicycle, when the Guardia Civil were alerted to an incident in the El Raal area of the RM-303 main road by the 112 emergency coordination centre.

Officers attended the scene on the Santomera and Los Ramos road, where a cyclist had been hit by a vehicle which had fled the scene. The cyclist was left in a serious condition in the road by the collision and was attended by emergency medics who transported the injured party to the Murcia hospital for emergency surgery.

Evidence gathered at the scene indicated that a car had invaded the lefthand lane causing the collision, before driving through rural roads to apparently evade capture. The investigators were then able to determine the type of vehicle involved, and then set about a search to

locate it.

Less than 24 hours after the incident, the traffic officers located a suspect vehicle in the Murcia town of Puente Tocinos, which had damage consistent with the incident under investigation. The vehicle had damage to a wing mirror, impact damage to its lefthand side and traces of identifying factors similar to the bicycle.

The officers then identified and located the owner, a male of 33 years of age and resident of Puente Tocinos, and presented their evidence to him. The man eventually confessed responsibility for the incident and was arrested on suspicion of crimes of dereliction of duty relief and having left the scene of a crash without providing assistance, and acting in a reckless manner which caused injury to the cyclist.

The vehicle was seized and taken away for forensic examination before its fate is decided by the courts, whereas the driver was presented to the courts in Murcia.

INFINITI QX SPORT INSPIRATION CONCEPT PREVIEWS NEXT-GEN SUV RANGE

N332 - Driving In Spain

Advice and information about driving in Spain.

ASSISTANCE SOUGHT IN HIT AND RUN CASE

The Guardia Civil in the Murcia region are asking for assistance to identify the driver of a Seat car that ran over a pedestrian earlier this month and failed to stop.

The incident occurred on the RM-F28 road in the Torre Pacheco area on Sunday the 10th of April.

The vehicle being sought in connection with the incident is a Seat Ibiza or Córdoba, aged around 15 years old, which could have sustained damage to the front of the vehicle, especially towards the right-hand side.

Here are SAMPLE images of the two types of vehicle. The colour of the one being sought is not known, these are samples only..

SEATIbiza and Seat Córdoba

Anybody who recognises a vehicle of this type with unexplained damage consistent with a collision, is asked to contact the Guardia Civil on 968 238 562 or 062.

You can also contact the local police or the 112 emergency centre if you have language problems, explaining the details of your findings and suspicions in relation to this case ground clearance of 230mm, which matches the Macan’s maximum height.

Infiniti says this gives the car genuine off-road ability, suggesting future QXs will retain all-terrain drive modes.

Designed by Infiniti’s London, Beijing, and San Diego centres under guidance of the firm’s Japanese HQ, the QX Sport Inspiration is said to mix the trends of three continents and present “progressive yet production-realistic designs”.

This emphasises just how little could change between now and when the QX influences a production-ready model.

Indeed, when the Q60 concept of 2015

Mid-sized SUV could inspire the design of Infiniti’s QX models, including the QX70’s replacement Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration concept Infiniti has revealed its QX Sport Inspiration concept at the Beijing motor show, offering a glimpse of what its nextgeneration QX models could look like.

The QX Sport Inspiration expands the design language first seen on the Q80 concept of 2014 onto a mid-sized SUV body, mixing angular lines with rounded edges and a coupé-like roof.

The roof features full-length panoramic glass with a tint that gets gradually darker towards the rear of the car. Infiniti claims that this effect helps to block out the sun’s heat to manage temperature in the cabin.

Inside there’s a slim, button-free dash, well bolstered seats, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The cabin, which is covered in white and black leather, is more akin to that of a sports car, in a bid to give the QX a driver-centric feel.

Although no drivetrain specifications

have been released, we know the car has several driving modes, adjustable via a dial on the centre console, and gears are changed with metal paddle shifters mounted behind the wheel.

Ahead of the driver is a wide-screen display, while the centre console gets its own touchscreen. There’s also a smaller touchscreen between the front seats to allow rear passengers to control rear climate settings.

To give an idea of its size, the QX concept is about the same height and width as the Porsche Macan, but is 8.1cm shorter thanks to its taught overhangs.

It has a

turned into the Q60 coupé model, very little changed. Rather than inspiring one model, however, Autocar understands that the QX concept will provide a design base for all forthcoming Infiniti SUVs. The QX60 is the most similarly sized model in Infinti’s current range, but that car is not sold in the British market.

The larger QX70 is the next UK-bound SUV model due to be replaced, so that car’s predecessor will likely be the first to bring the QX Sport’s design language to our roads http://www.autocar.co.uk

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37

www.soltimes.com

IT´S A FAMILY AFFAIR FOR EUROGOLF

On Thursday 21st April Eurogolf played a stableford off the plates at La Marquesa and 2 husband and wife teams were in the prizes. The course is in great condition with improvements being made all the time. It started quite blustery but settled down later, but the wind didn´t deter the overall monthly stableford winner Pino Perito scoring an impressive 39 points. The results were as follows Cat.1 (0-15) 1st Pino Perito 39 2nd David Gregson 35 3rd Brian Fenwick 30 Cat 2 (16-24) 1st John Fairhurst 34

2nd Colin Peck 31 3rd Alan Venables 30 Cat 3 (25-31) 1st Phyllis Venables 32 2nd Bruce Gordon 29 3rd Geoff Evans 29 Cat 4 (32+) 1st Franco Gentili 29 2nd Dave Lewis 28 Best front 9 Gill Gordon 16 Best back 9 Stan Low 18 NTP´s 5th and 11th David Gregson 15th N/A 17th Alan Venables Football draw Colin Peck Chris Stanley Jan Shorley, Bill Martin and Pino Perito.

TUESDAY TOFFS On Tuesday 19th April Toffs

Walking Football Comes to San Miguel!

Many of you will have seen and read about the hugely growing popularity of Walking Football for the over 50’s, both in the UK and here on the Costa Blanca.

Well now it’s coming to San Miguel de Salinas.A new Club (San Miguel Strollers) is being formed to play for one hour each week on WEDNESDAY EVENINGS at 7PM at the San Miguel Municipal Stadium, Calle Montesino Blanco, San Miguel de Salinas. This group will be formed and run as a Membership Club from the outset with fees expected to be €5 annual membership and €2 per game – pay when you play.

But to make this happen, the club needs at least 12 players The first (non-playing) get together to gauge interest is 7pm on Wednesday 11th May 2016 at Larocha Café Bar, c/MaisaLLoret, San Miguel de Salinas (near to the stadium).

Anyone interested please email: smstrollers@gmail.com or phone: Ann on 638 840 392 for details.

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played their weekly stableford in extremely strong winds which made the conditions very difficult for the ardent golfers. The results were Cat 1 (0-15) 1st George McCallum 33 2nd Bill Martin 32 3rd Paul Manning 30 Cat 2 (16-24) 1st John Fairhurst 33 2nd Alan Venables 32 3rd Robin Richards 30 Cat 3 (25-31) 1st Jan Shorley 37 2nd Phyllis

Venables 35 3rd Eamon Divine 30 Cat 4 (32+) 1st Mike Gillette 35 2nd Lauraine Walker 34 3rd Dave Lewis 31 Best front 9 Angelique Berndt 21 best back 9 Gordon Bourne 16 NTP´s 5th David Gregson 11th Jan Shorley 15th John Barraclough 17th Gordon Bourne. Overall Toffs winner Jan Shorley 37 points.

Football draw Bob Shorley Lauraine Walker Bev Fairhurst and David Gregson. Congratulations to all the winners.

Also congratulations to the Eurogolf team who won the Northern division of the Vega Baja league and play the winners of the South division El Valle at Lo Romero in May. We wish them good luck.

If you would like to play with one of the most established golf societies on the Costa Blanca who are celebrating their 25th year playing at La Marquesa please visit the website www.eurogolfquesada.co.uk.

T.M.G.S. @ Campoamor 20/4716 (Captain’s Day)

40+ members and a few guests turned up to play on our Captain’s day at Campoamor.

This is also the time of year for our members to renew their membership, and several guests also joined today which has swelled our numbers to over the 100 mark. Upon payment of the membership fee (€20) each member was given a “goody” bag which had inside, their new membership card, a Society golf towel, pitch repairer and casino style ball marker all with the Societies’ logo on them.

As if that was not enough the treasurer had said that there would be no competition fees for today and furthermore he announced that the “tapas” style buffet at the presentation would also be free to the members, it strikes me that the treasurer must have had a meltdown because this far out ways the €20 membership fee! Added to this there were an abundance of prizes to won during the game and at the prize giving ceremony afterwards, everyone did win something from the card draw. Well done to the treasurer, Alex Goslan on keeping the finances in good state.

Directly after the presentation of the prizes to the day’s winners, we continued with the presentation of all Annual Competitions prizes. This was followed by our A.G.M. luckily we don’t have any major problems, so the meeting was a relatively short one.

The existing committee was voted in again without any opposition so they must be doing a good job. Although it had been a long day everyone went home happy and looking forward to our new season.

The golf course is improving week on week and now that the warmer weather has arrived we can look forward to some good golf being played on Campoamor, we will be playing here the 1st Wednesday in every month.

Results; N.T.P. Competition, Hole 4 Chris Oatley, Hole 6 Mick Kennedy, Hole 10 Ove Cederberg, Hole 15, NADA, this was also a special prize from the Captain for the female members, they must have had an

intuition as what it might be because none of them hit the green! Hole 17 Kari Houpalahti, Longest Drive for Ladies on Hole 2, Pearl Sabine.

Longest drive for men, Richard Allen on Hole 13.

There was just €35 in the “2’s” pot and this was shared between M. O’Regan, Trevor Wheeler and Chris Oatley, in the Guests category Mr. O’Halloran won it with 32 points on L/H. Bronze category results; 4th Pearl Sabine 30 points, 3rd Olga Haubner 31 pts. H/H 2nd Sandra Twentyman 31 pts.

Robbie Rea won this category with 37 pts. Silver category; 4th Graham Smith 33 pts. H/H 3rd,Mick Kennedy also 33 pts. 2nd Alan Rickers 38 pts.

Dutchman, Fred Kras returned the best score of the day, a massive 41 pts.

Gold category; 4th Carsten Landaas H/H 34 pts., 3rd Dave Lethaby also 34 pts. 2nd Chris Oatley 37 pts. and Kari Houpalahti won with 40 pts . You will find the full results of our Annual competitions on our website.

Photo: N.T.P. Winners. If you think that this is the Society for you but not sure, please visit our website www. tmgs.org or follow us on Facebook. com/TMGSGOLF or via Twitter @ TMGSGOLF, if you would like to speak to someone just call 661 524 101 to contact our Secretary.

Forthcoming event; 25/5/16 Las Pinaillas (Albacete) includes, bus, golf+ buggy+ comp fee+ presentation meal all for just €60 p/p all you need are your clubs!

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April 2016

MAZARRON FC 0 CD BALA AZUL 0

In a game that neither side could really afford to lose for different reasons, both were probably happy to settle for a point each after an entertaining game in front of a large crowd at the Estadio Municipal.

Bala Azul started well and had the first chance after five minutes when the ball was only half cleared by Mazarron but the shot went wide. Jose and Hafid had a number of good runs down the left for Mazarron and Palote had a couple of shots easily saved but Bala Azul could have taken the lead after 14 minutes.

A through ball found striker Enrique racing clear of the Mazarron defence but goalkeeper Antonio came to the rescue with the first of a number of important saves.

Mazarron's best chance of the first half came when Hafid made another surging run down the left. His cross was controlled by Palote who beat one man before dragging his shot just wide of the far post. A minute later Palote brought the ball out of defence before finding Mounir on the right. The full back's cross was only half cleared to Juanlu who shot just over the bar.

Mazarron started the second half brightly with Palote twice going close and a penalty appeal for handball turned down by the referee. Bala Azul replied with a fierce volley by Robert which was deflected for a corner

by Alfonso and a shot from the left

by Jose Da which went just wide of Antonio's far post.

The visitors thought they had taken the lead after 59 minutes when they forced the ball over the line following a goalmouth scramble but Mazarron were relieved to see the linesman flagging for offside. At the other end Hafid's pass saw Jose racing clear but his shot was tipped over the bar by Gregorio in the Bala goal.

SAN MIGUEL GOLF SOCIETY AT RODA. APRIL 20TH, 2016. THIRD ROUND OF BOGEY’S MEDAL SHIELD

Mazarron's leading scorer Jose was replaced by Silverio after 72 minutes to the puzzlement of the home supporters but they continued to press forward in search of a winning goal. Hafid combined well with Palote whose fierce shot was only half saved by Gregorio but the onrushing Mazarron players were unable to force the ball over the line.

Bala finished the game the stronger and Antonio had to be at his best making three more superb saves in the final minutes to take Mazarron's unbeaten run to seven games and retain fourth position in the battle for the play-offs.

Team: Antonio; Mounir; Enrique; Alberto; Alfonso; Juanlu; Jesus (Cristian); Champi (Gilberto); Hafid (David); Palote; Jose (Silverio).

Man of the Match; Antonio Before the game Los Amigos de Mazarron FC presented a cheque for €4,200 to Jose Rodriguez the President of Mazarron FC, the proceeds of the recent Gala Week activities.

Thirty-eight members made their way to Roda for the next round of the Bogey’s Medal Shield and a format some prefer to sit out. A shame really, as the weather was splendid, although increasingly windy as the round progressed, the course in good condition and the social facilities and ambience great. A tee 10 start always throws a few people, and fluffy fairway, but hard and damp greenside, bunkers, as well as some tricky pin positions and greens that were not nearly as quick and true as the practice area, caused complications.

It always seems, as it did during this visit, that the true front 9 plays harder than the back, and many of the scores reflected this. Whilst interest in the round soon faded for several, some good scoring was achieved, particularly

by Paul Kelsall (71) in Silver and by those heading the Gold category, where the previously unseen society sight of all 4 prize winners only being separated by the count back system was witnessed.

Additional excitement was provided for the day’s third group out by the presence of a snake (of the venomous type) on the 9th (their last) green. Gently eased off the putting surface by use of a wedge, the snake lived to see another day, as, hopefully, will those members traumatised by today’s medal playing experience.

Two matches were played in this season’s SMGS match play competitions,

BRADLEY BREAKERS

Captain Barry Roehrig coming back from 4 down with 7 to play to beat John Drakesmith 2 up in the singles, and formidable doubles duo John Osborne and Darren Hancock being taken to the 19th by Vice-Captain Theo Boelhouwer and ex-Captain Phil de Lacy, where Darren made an Eagle to put the match to rest.

The day’s competition results, by category and in reverse order, were the following: Bronze Category: 4th Alan Gilbert (80 on CB), 3rd Grattan Forber (80 on CB), 2nd Chris Hamblet (78) and 1st Keith Stevenson with a nett 77.

Silver Category: 4th Ivor Turkington (77), 3rd Ken Flaherty (76), 2nd Phil de Lacy (75), and 1st, with the best score of the day, Paul Kelsall with 71.

Gold Category: 4th Tony Smale (72 on CB), 3rd Stephen Locke (72 on CB), 2nd Robin Eastman (72 on CB) and 1st John Osborne, also with 72 and winning the card collector and adjudicator’s countback nightmare.

The Abacus, a bottle of good red plonk, was won by Ron Stenhouse, who at least returned a score and remained for the prize giving, but who would have been pipped by the true winner for cards handed in had they stayed to the end, and not taking in to account, of course, the many non-returns posted Nearest the pins on the par 3’s went to John Osborne (2), Ivan Hanak (7), Mike Jordan (11) and Barry Roehrig (13).

Our thanks go to the staff at Roda golf course for their contribution to an excellent day.

Keep up to date with all SMGS matters by logging on to our website www. smgs.org or simply give Barry Roehrig a call on 966 731 033 to find out more about the society and its weekly golf get-togethers.

Next Wednesday, April 27th, we will be at another Murcian course, La Serena, playing for the Linda Rennie Trophy.

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CAFÉ UNO GOLF SOCIETY.

Today, Thursday 21st April, Café Uno Golf Society played at Alenda golf. 19 Members turned out to play in the individual Stableford, although several match play games were played as well.

The course was in very good condition, and it was nice to play on well tended greens with the cups properly cut. The gusting wind, which recently has been a feature at this course, made some of the play difficult, however this was applicable to all. We decided to play with two categories today, Gold and Silver.

Winners and their scores follow:Gold Category.

1st L.Leitch - 35pts.

Best front nine A.Douglas - 17pts.

Best back nine R.Rogers - 21pts.

Nearest the pin on hole 16 - P.Buckler.

Nearest the pin in 2 on hole 4 R.Rogers.

Silver Category.

1st A.Baines - 29pts.

Best front nine J.Pedersen - 13pts.

Best back nine G.Butterworth 16pts.c/b.

Nearest the pin on hole 16 - N/A. Nearest the pin in 2 on hole 4 A.Baines.

There were no 2’s this week.

Thanks to Café Uno for their hospitality. Next week Thursday 28th April, we are playing at Vistabella, 1st tee is at 08:30am so please be at the club by 07:45am. The following week

TORREVIEJA CC 198 FOR 9.

VALENCIA STAR CC 200 FOR 8

Having travelled all the way down from the city, Valencia Star CC were looking for a good result in what was their first ever game in the East and Central Cricket League. Torrevieja CC were also hoping for a good result from their first league game of the season.

Winning the toss, Torrevieja opted to bat first and although Leigh Blann was punishing the bowlers, the first wicket fell in the third over with 20 runs on the board. Batsmen came and went but no-one seemed to be able to hand around as Leigh was still scoring freely. However, even he fell to some accurate bowling but only after he had mustered 62 runs in only 20 overs.

Ciaran Guichard came in and steadily pushed the score along but with the last man with him at the crease they managed to hold out to complete the

overs. Ciaran finished on 37 not out.

Pick of the Valencian bowlers was Babar who finished with 4 for 24 Valencia commenced their innings slowly and soon lost their first wicket for 11 runs. Then followed a procession of able batsmen who, while not setting the game alight, moved the score along at a steady pace. Sohail (42 ) Zabi (43) Noman (26) and Harjinder (36 not out ) being the main contributors. Valencia reached the target with the loss of 8 wickets in the 35th over. Captain Chris Darwen, Ciaran Guichard and Rahul Maini all took wickets but apart from a couple of disastrous overs, Michael Wareing finished best bowler with 4 for 54. Next game , 30th April , home against Madrid 2nd team. Start 1100 am Further info at torrevieja-cricket. com

SPANGLISH GOLF SOCIETY

(in association with Sapphire Properties and Costa Blanca Green Fee Services) at Bonalba on 20th April 2016.

For this month's meeting the Spanglish Golf Society and a group of 24 players visited the established course at Bonalba taking advantage of the excellent society deal obtained from Costa Blanca Green Fee Services.

Today was the first holding of the Sandie Hall memorial shield and while the storm clouds gathered the weather held fine for what was a super day.

The winners on the day were as follows: Category 1 1st – Ray Muttock – 37 points 2nd – John Evans – 31 points 3rd – Andy Drinkall - 30 points Category 2 1st – Diane Bailey – 34 points 2nd - Roger Clarke – 26 points 3rd – Ian Mcilwain – 25 points Nearest the Pins – Steve Birkett

(2),Andy Drinkall and John Evans Longest drive (18 +) - Jack Fanning Football Card – Denise Hidden Card Draw – Brian Proctor and Mark Bailey After the game we returned to the Spanglish bar, which is located at Dona Pepa, Quesada for a welcome meal prepared by the bar and the prize presentation and we give our thanks for their support.

Our next friendly day fixture is at Vistabella on Wednesday 4th May 2016 and the monthly meeting is at Altorreal on 18th May 2016 and both are already almost fully booked.

If you are interested in joining the society call Paul Cawte on 966731223 or Graham Hall on 664692638 or better still pop into the bar.

Report by Mike Probert of Costa Blanca Green Fee Services on 966 704 752 or 661 345 931 or see us at our web-site at www.costa-blanca-greenfees.com.

on 4th, 5th & 6th April, we are away to Mojacar for our annual golf tour. On Friday the 6th we will return to Café Uno

39

for a buffet and the presentations. I will be sending out the itinerary to those who are going to Mojacar.

ROSSI ROMPS TO 113TH CAREER VICTORY

The Gran Premio Red Bull de España saw Valentino Rossi lead from start to finish, winning from Lorenzo and Marquez with ease.

All weekend the leading three were in a league of their own. Rossi, Lorenzo and Marquez had filled the top three spots of almost every practice session and lined up next to each other on the front row of the grid. The three biggest names in MotoGP™ were alongside each other once more and everything in practice had indicated that there was almost nothing to choose between them. As is typical of the Spanish GP, the grid was packed with mechanics, guests and officials but the riders did their best to block it out and run through their race plans.

Fans were transfixed on the leading four, few noticing the incredible start of Eugene Laverty (Aspar Team MotoGP) who was in eighth as the third lap began and the leading Independent Team rider. Andrea Dovizioso (Ducati Team) chased Aleix Espargaro (Team Suzuki Ecstar) for fifth with Maverick Viñales (Team Suzuki Ecstar) on the tail of his Ducati. Dovizioso’s teammate, Andrea Iannone (Ducati Team) was having a terrible race, dropping like a stone down to 14th in the opening laps.

All of the leaders lapped in the mid 1’40s, Rossi trying to escape as Marquez looked for a way through on Lorenzo. His lead would soon be over half a second, Rossi upped his pace lap after lap and drew out hundredths of a second at each corner. Before long the gap was at a second, Valentino Rossi seemingly doing as his teammate had done so many times before and breaking the field early in the race.

No matter what Lorenzo did he was unable to close in on Rossi nor shake off Marquez.

Disaster struck for Dovizioso on the tenth lap as yet again, through no fault of his own, his race came to an end. The factory Ducati rider was forced to sit up as his Desmosedici GP encountered a terminal issue, forcing him to ride back into the pits and once again make the long walk across the garage to spectate the race.

Rossi and his team had focused on race setting throughout the weekend, ‘The Doctor’s’ work paying off as the gap soon grew to over two seconds

as no one was able to match his lap times. Behind him Lorenzo had his hands full fending off Marquez, the Repsol Honda rider not quite close enough to attack but able to apply ample pressure.

Overtakes were scarce at the front but the battle for seventh place produced some thrilling racing, Pol Espargaro (Monster Yamaha Tech 3) leading the group ahead of Laverty.

Just behind them Andrea Iannone and Cal Crutchlow (LCR Honda) pushed each other hard for 10th position, not what either rider wanted before the race. In front, Pedrosa had Aleix Espargaro to contend with, Pedrosa working hard to hold off the Suzuki man. Since his fifth in Austin, Espargaro has been in some of the best form of his career after a setup breakthrough.

With over half race distance gone, Lorenzo broke Marquez and opened up a one second lead on his fellow Spaniard. Marquez had chosen to run winglets on his Honda which assisted with keeping the front end down but also ran the risk of overheating the front tyre over the race. With ten laps to go, Lorenzo hadn’t just broken Marquez but he also began to close in on Rossi. A gap that was once three seconds quickly dropped to two and that gap continued to fall by a couple of tenths a lap, would it be enough with eight laps remaining?

His chances of victory would fade as Rossi responded to Lorenzo’s increased pace and once again dropped into the low 1’41s. The gap would grow to over three seconds, Lorenzo unable to push any harder and settling to take valuable championship points.

Marquez also continued to drop back, his chances of a home victory long gone as he found himself over five second behind Lorenzo.

For the 113th time in his career and the 87th time in the premier class, Valentino Rossi pulled a wheelie across the line to celebrate victory. After the disappointment of Austin, the result is exactly what ‘The Doctor’ needed.

Behind him Jorge Lorenzo took his 100th premier class podium finish and Marquez was able to keep the lead of the Championship, his lead reduced slightly to 17 points. http://www.motogp.com

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