Roquetas R368 Christmas

roquetas & almerimar

SolTimes issue 368

19 DEC -8 jan

est. 7 yrs

your free weekly newspaper

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Variety Bar

Christmas Menu out Now booking essential see main advert on page 11

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Tel: 645 066 538

Calle Faro, Almerimar At the entrance to the port

SKIING ACCESS FOR EVERYONE!

The Ayuntamiento de Roquetas de Mar in in accord with an agreement by the Diputación de Almería, which has put forward a proposal to Cetursa Sierra Nevada to bring skiing within the reach of all citizens in the 2012/13 season.

This is a scheme to encourage the residents of Roquetas de Mar to make use of the facilities with important discounts. The Delegación de Deporte y Juventud de la Diputación are to make Cetursa aware of the benefits of the campaign, with the municipalities encouraging participation of organized group of more than 25 people as well as individuals.

The Concejal de Deportes, José Juan Rubí, said ‘We are aware of the popularity of skiing in recent years. Many citizens have asked us to organise excursions or seek agreements to reduce costs. Therefore we are seeking ways , in this case through the Council, to offer our citizens an excellent opportunity to practice skiing.’

The price discounts included in this promotion are varied and relate to various services, such as parking, equipment hire, passes and accommodation.

Information on the details of the campaign has been forwarded to the Delegación de Deportes y Tiempo Libre del Ayuntamiento de Roquetas de Mar from the Delegación de Deporte y Juventud de Diputación, and are available on the web: www.deportes.dipalme.org/ Public/.

The campaign will start this week and will be in operation for the duration of the ski season.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! MANHATTAN

Tapas ∙ Raciones ∙ Paellas ∙ Pescado fresco del dia

BAR DE TAPAS Stefan & Michaela invite you to join them at their new Tapas Bar in the Urbanisation of Roquetas De Mar

Speciality: fresh fish

situated opposite the playa Linda Hotel

New insurance office to make you feel protected and informed

Special offers on:

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Avd Playa Serena 7 Tel: 950 326 448

Party the night away into the early hours

christmas eve boxing day variety cabaret all the best of 2012

celebrate christmas in style doors open 9pm

fanny galore & special guests her final show of the year not to be missed doors open 9pm

rack of Lamb available

Menu del dia 8.50€ served friday - wednesday

Enjoy Pierre’s French Cuisine Kitchen open: 12.30 - 3.00, 7.00 - 10.00. Closed Thursdays Plaza Los Jazmines 10, 04740 Roquetas de Mar Opposite Playa Capricho in the car park

Playa de Golf, No4 Playa Serena, Roquetes de Mar

Tel: 950 334 439 Email: lavita@roquetas-de-mar.es

JAKS Wide Range of UK,

Arkrites British Food Store

Continental & Indian Foods & Spices OPENING HOURS:

Mon - fri 10am - 6pm sat & sun 10am - 7pm

Tel: 950 609 419

calle JABEQUE, 42, ALMERIMAR (on the Square near Caja Murcia Bank)

LA BODEGUINA

in Roquetas (near Theos)

Groceries & frozen foods including legs of New Zealand lamb, gammon joints, lambs liver.

Large Selection of Greeting Cards

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Mon - Fri: 10.30am - 5pm

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out of hours please call 950 334 544 In the Urb of Roquetas de Mar, just off Avda de Mediterraneo in the square near La Gamba Toscana & Theos

under new ownership

Re-opening friday 4th Jan. Free Buffet from 7pm

2

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Sport

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

LOCAL NEWS UPDATE

Club de tenis albox restaurante

RAMBLA REPAIRS ON-GOING: 12 OUT OF 15 COMPLETED

The Consejería de Agricultura, Pesca y Medio Ambiente has announced that of the fifteen major works of reparation to the river beds, 12 have been completed.

3 are still ongoing: Rambla de Jucainí and the Ríos Antas and Aguas.

In the Rambla de Jucainí, at Cuevas del Almanzora, in addition to cleaning, the channel is being repaired.

In the Río Antas, at Vera, as well as removal of plant debris, soil and sludge the defences are being renewed.

In the Río Aguas, in Mojácar the channelling is being strengthened.

Completed works include: Cleaning of the Pantano de Cuevas del Almanzora, in Cuevas del Almanzora Cleaning of the upper and lower stretches of the Rambla Cirera - núcleo urbano and the polígono industrial in Cuevas del Almanzora Cleaning of the Rambla de Avellán, Cuevas del Almanzora Construction of a breakwater of 550 m3 and cleaning of the Rambla Úrcal, HuércalOvera Improvement constructions of 32.000 m3 in the Rambla del Cajete, Antas Flood defences in the Rambla Erre, Huércal-Overa Improvement works in the Rambla del Pocico, Lubrín Improvement works to the Rambla de los Caballos, Huércal-Overa Replacement and repositioning of pipework in the Rambla El Marchal, Lubrín Underpinning work at Rulador and repair and repointing walls and the breakwater at Rambla Cirera, Cuevas del Almanzora.

We would like to wish all our customers a Happy Christmas & New Year.

We look forward to seeing you all soon restclubtenisalbox@yahoo.es

Tel 667 671 578

Ask us for our menu

STREET LIGHTING INVESTMENT APPROVED FOR ALMERIA

The Junta de Gobierno Local del Ayuntamiento de Almería has approved an investment of 49,912.50€ for the first phase of the installation of street lighting in the Parque del Andarax, which until now had no lighting.

In the next few weeks a total of 15 units of ‘independent light points’ will be erected.

These lights have a solar panel on top and a battery at the bottom, so they do not require cabling, and will switch on and off automatically.

In addition, the Junta de Gobierno Local has also approved the replacement of the electrical conductors of the street lighting network in different parts of the municipality of Almeria, with an investment of 29,834€.

USE OF MARKET SPACE OPEN TO TENDER

The Junta de Gobierno Local has approved the tender procedure for the use of the current temporary market, located next to the Ronda road, to be basically unchanged.

The annual fee, the basis for the tender, remains at 162,000 euros. However, conditions for the period of the grant have changed to a period of 20 years, extendable in two installments of ten years - the previous conditions specified a period of 50 years.

The Gobierno has received a single offer, which it described as ‘irregular or unacceptable.’

The temporary market is on the Carretera de Ronda, at the hipermercado Híper Olé and Calles Doctor Arquitecto Guillermo Langle and Doctor Martínez Oña.

The building has a floor area of 3.364,49 m2. It is a single floor light construction, designed to give the maximum amount of usable space.

SUPPORT IN PLACE FOR AGRICULTURAL DISEASE MANAGEMENT

The Consejería de Agricultura, Pesca y Medio Ambiente has approved ten support subsidies for seven Agrupaciones de Defensa Sanitaria Ganadera (ADSG) (Livestock Health Protection Groups) in the province of Almería, for a total of almost 638,000 euros.

The ADSG health programs were put in place in 1998 to ensure proper control, prevention and eradication of animal diseases in Andalucia.

The areas benefitting from these subsidies are: Alto Almanzora (12,704 euros), Campo de Dalías (two subsidies for a total of 56,799 euros), Huércal-Overa and Levante Almeriense (160,709 euros), Los Vélez (16,298 euros), Mahimón (two subsidies for a total of 51,249 euros), Níjar Sorbas (9,316 euros) and Rumial (two subsidies amounting to 330,821 euros).

The main purpose of the Agrupaciones de Defensa de Sanitaria Ganadera is to raise the level of health in livestock farming. It is made up of farmers who are recognized by the Consejería de Agricultura, Pesca y Medio Ambiente.

Throughout the Comunidad Autónoma, the Consejería has awarded more than 7.4 million euros to 76 groups. Of this total amount 4,618,188 euros is allocated to the Programas Nacionales de Erradicación de Enfermedades Animales (National Animal Disease Eradication) from European funds and regional financing.

Currently, Andalucia has a total of 81 groups serving the needs of approximately 20,000 farms. These groups work to raise standards of animal health and welfare, food security and farm profitability.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Hallowe’en tragedy: Solicitors ‘surprised there were not lots more deaths’

Solicitors acting for the families of the five young girls who died at the Madrid Arena Hallowe’en party say they are surprised there were not many more victims.

According to a report by ThinkSpain.com, having visited the premises in the company of the courts and the National Police, the lawyers working for Katia Esteban’s and Belén Langdon’s relatives say the venue was ‘totally unsuitable’ for the stated maximum capacity of 10,000 people.

Madrid Arena is primarily a sports stadium, but the city council had agreed for it to be used for a massive party on

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the night of October 31.

The corridors were ‘just like a tunnel’, only three metres wide and with low ceilings - “you bang your head as you walk through them,” said one of the solicitors, Abdón Núñez, working for the Langdons.

“Nobody would believe the Madrid Arena had a licence for 10,000 people.

“It is unacceptable, shameful – words fail me. There are so many issues to clarify and so many individual people who will be liable that this inspection is just the tip of the iceberg.”

He found that only 18 police officers – 12 at the start of the night – and no ambulance staffed by paramedics had been on duty at the party, where initial investigations hinted that the organisers may have doubled the maximum capacity by selling far more tickets than the venue was designed to hold.

According to Alfonso del Álamo, head of the city’s emergency services coordinator, he was not informed that the event was taking place, and neither was the Civil Protection squad, nor the fire brigade.

“We’re talking about five little girls who died, and they are not treating the matter with sufficient importance,” Núñez concludes.

Gerardo Viada, acting for the parents of Katia Esteban stated that: “The city council simply cannot allow a party to take place on the main dance floor, where there could have been up to 15,000 people, when there are only three exit doors – it is totally negligent.”

Two of the exit corridors were taken up by the stage, one was used as a dressing room and two doorways were sealed off.

Felipe Moreno, working for the parents of Rocío Oña, questioned the medical facilities – as well as the absence of a SAMUR ambulance.

Only a very small sickroom was set up, despite the fact that at such parties, there are often cases of alcohol poisoning or revellers suffering fainting fits, minor injuries, falls, or needing treatment for pre-existing chronic conditions such as asthma attacks or epileptic fits.

The only doctor on duty, who had been contracted by the organising company, Diviertt, was former PP councillor

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Simón Viñals – who is medically-trained but did not have any equipment.

He was there on a voluntary basis and is said to be nearly 80 years of age.

In the end, a SAMUR ambulance – having found out about the party at the last minute – went along to Madrid Arena under their own volition and began to treat various cases of alcohol poisoning in the car park, which had been deliberately set aside for massive bring-your-own-bottle street-drinking gatherings.

It was not until one of the revellers called 112 that they were aware of the stampede that the ambulance staff found 17-year-old Belén Langdon and María Teresa Alonso, 20, unconscious.

They managed to re-start the two girls’ pulses and they were taken to hospital, where Belén died two days later and María Teresa lost her life after a month in a coma.

The other three girls – Katia Esteban, Rocío Oña and Cristina Arce, all aged 18 – were in the sick-bay, but only one of them was being resuscitated – the others were unconscious, not breathing and their hearts having stopped, but were waiting their turn to be attended to.

When paramedics saw what was happening, they began working on the other two girls, but were unable to re-start their hearts.

Viñals claims he used a defibrillator on all three, without success, but nothing relating to this was found in the SAMUR ambulance records.

Resuscitating a person after their heart has stopped and they are not breathing takes up to 30 minutes, and if the process is not started within eight, they will not survive.

And according to one of the paramedics, there was no defibrillator on the premises and that Dr Viñals had announced at the time that ‘three dead girls’ had been brought in.

Ambulances have always been on duty at events staged at the Madrid Arena, which have so far included the Masters 1000 international tennis tournament, the Gourmet Fair and the Cirque du Soleil.

But Del Álamo says that even if the best medical precautions had been taken, they would not have saved the girls’ lives as the layout of the Arena was not suitable for a party with so many people.

Virginia López Negrete, from the association Manos Limpias (‘clean hands’), which is behind the public prosecution action for the five girls’ deaths, said: “It must have been terrifying moving along those corridors.”

Further investigations have been adjourned until January.

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Iberia and railway worker strikes cancelled

Javier Bardem’s ‘Bond villain’ role nets him a ‘SAG’ Award nomination

Spanish actor Javier Bardem has been nominated for a 2013 SAG Award for his role in Skyfall, the latest James Bond film.

The new father and husband of Spanishborn Hollywood darling Penélope Cruz has been described as ‘the best Bond villain ever’ for his part in the 23rd film in the 007 series.

Bardem will be up against big names in his third awards nomination, this time for Best Supporting Actor – Robert de Niro is among his rivals for his performance in Silver linings playbook, as is Alan Arkin (Argo), Philip Seymour Hoffman (The Master), and Tommy Lee Jones (Lincoln).

The Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) prize features prestigious nominees including Bradley Cooper (Silver linings playbook), Daniel Day-Lewis (Lincoln), Hugh Jackman (Les Misérables), Denzel Washington (Flight) and John Hawkes (The sessions) for the Best Actor category.

Best Actress Award nominees include Jessica

MOST of the strikes affecting the tourism industry over Christmas have been called off and rescheduled, even though no consensus has yet been reached between companies and unions.

National airline Iberia has agreed not to down tools until at least January 7, cancelling the six-day strike planned for between this coming Friday, December 14 and Friday, December 21.

The various unions representing employees of the carrier, which recently announced 4,500 redundancies as a result of a ‘restructure’, have invited the company to another meeting which will be presided by the Inter-confederal Mediation and Arbitration Service (SIMA).

If Iberia – which merged with British Airways over a year ago – agrees to this, staff will give them a stay of grace as regards strikes, a period which unions say the airline should ‘make the most of’.

In the meantime, employees of the three rail companies RENFE, Adif and FEVE have called off the strikes planned for tomorrow (Thursday) and Friday after unions managed to obtain a commitment from their boards of directors to ensure all jobs would be safe.

Chastain (Zero dark thirty), Marion Cotillard (Rust & bone), Jennifer Lawrence (Silver linings playbook), Helen Mirren (Hitchcock) and Naomi Watts (The impossible), the latter having been directed by Spain’s Juan Antonio Bayona.

Best Supporting Actress nominees are Sally Field (Lincoln), Anne Hathaway – better known for her role as put-upon editorial assistant in The Devil wears Prada – for Les Misérables, Nicole Kidman for The paperboy, and Maggie Smith, who plays a feisty and insular old lady having a hip-replacement in India in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, which also stars Bill Nighy and Dame Judy Dench.

Maggie Smith is also nominated for Best Actress in a TV Drama Series for her role in Downton Abbey.

Best Motion Picture Award nominees are The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Argo, Lincoln, Silver linings playbook, and Les Misérables.

5

Mar Menor pensioners ‘murdered by nephew

The elderly couple found dead in their home in Santiago de la Ribera (Murcia) were shot by their nephew because he refused to give them money, say police investigating the crime.

J.M.R.C., aged 28, who also lives in the Mar Menor town where the tragedy occurred, was arrested last night at 21.00hrs. After initially refusing to cooperate, broke down and confessed to the double murder. He said he had asked his uncle, who was in his 80s, for money, but the pensioner had refused to give him any and would not tell his nephew where he kept his cash. This led to a heated discussion, during which the accused shot his uncle as he sat in his armchair. He then shot dead his aunt, who was lying in bed, ‘so that she would not be left to cope on her own’.

They were both found by their carer; the front door had also been left open.

wages of Mayors’ and councillors’ capped

Mayors salaries will be based upon the number of inhabitants in their towns and will never exceed that of a Secretary of State under any circumstances, says the ministry of tax affairs and public administration.

Using wages of high-level politicians and civil servants at national level, mayors’ maximum pay packets will be worked out on a pro-rata basis in accordance with how many people live in the municipality they lead.

The maximum overall is around 68,000 euros, which is what a Secretary of State would earn, and it is likely that only mayors of large cities will have salaries as high as this.

Until wage tables are properly worked out by the ministry, leaders of cities with a population of over a million will be paid an average Secretary of State’s salary.

The new rule will mean thousands of mayors will see their earnings plummet – particularly those of Madrid and Barcelona, Ana Botella and Xavier Trias respectively, who currently take home over

100,000 euros a year.

Mayors of provincial capitals will probably find their salaries are between approximately 50,000 and 59,000 euros – similar to that of an Assistant Secretary of State for the latter and a DirectorGeneral of a provincial or borough council (Diputación) department for the former.

Those who govern in smaller towns or villages will receive a pro-rata of a Director-General’s wage in relation to population numbers.

Councillors will see their own salaries capped in proportion to that of the mayor and numbers will be reduced by between 20 and 30 per cent depending upon the size of the town, village or city and its budget.

The central government aims to clarify responsibilities in local councils to ensure that as few as possible have councillors with only one specialism and that there is limited duplication of tasks.

6

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Woman commits suicide on the eve of her eviction

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A 60-year-old woman has been found dead after throwing herself out of the window of her flat when she knew she was about to be evicted.

Emergency services say she was found on the pavement with massive head injuries and was thought to have died instantly in the impact.

She had lived in the apartment in Padilla del Duero, a hamlet belonging to the town of Peñafiel (Valladolid province) with her husband for over 20 years.

Her husband was retired and the victim, identified only by her initials of M.M.A., was in receipt of a pension after retiring early due to health problems, which included depression.

The deceased had already attempted suicide last summer, but her family managed to stop her.

Neighbours say they got along very well with the couple, who have one daughter and two teenage grandchildren, and

that theirs appeared to be a very close marriage in which the husband cared diligently for his wife.

This is the latest in a series of suicides as a result of threatened evictions, some involving home repossessions by banks.

A man of 53 in Burjassot (Valencia) tried to kill himself by jumping out of a window when the mortgage lenders repossessed his flat, but survived.

In Granada, a man in his early 50s hanged himself and a woman of around the same age in the Basque Country threw herself from a third-floor window when the banks foreclosed on their mortgages.

Another man in the province of Toledo killed himself when his siblings evicted him from his mother’s home, where he had been living after the owner had moved out because of differences of opinion with her son.

supreme court: claim ‘Dole’ abroad for up to 90 days without losing entitlement

The Supreme Court has ruled that anyone claiming dole money in Spain can be out of the country for up to 90 days without losing their entitlement to continue to receive their money on their return, although they will not be paid whilst they are abroad.

A woman signed on the dole had been ordered to pay back nearly 15,370 euros in benefits after she went to the Ukraine for three weeks, where her father-in-law, who had been suffering from angina, is living. After the high court of justice in Madrid upheld the job centre’s request for a refund, she appealed and won.

According to Spanish law, moving one’s residence abroad automatically extinguishes any dole money entitlement, but trips of up to two weeks a year are permitted as a maximum provided the claimant notifies the authorities.

But the Supreme Court’s verdict states that a claimant may be abroad for less than 90 days a year in keeping with foreign affairs laws which stipulates that this is the period of time that determines the country of permanent residence.

The judge said the woman’s dole money should have been suspended for the three weeks she was away, but not stopped altogether.

Although this verdict is now binding, one female magistrate dissented, saying the 90-day rule was ‘discrimination’ against native Spanish people.

She said Spaniards ‘do not have an economic and family infrastructure in another country’ which ‘allows them to ‘nip off at whim’ and ‘avoid their obligation to be available’ for employment on the job market in Spain.

Brit arrested for threatening flatmate into selling him hash A British man has been arrested in Valencia for threatening his flatmate into selling him marijuana. The 34-year-old lives in the port area of the city and his housemate was growing hash plants, police heard. They have confiscated all nine of these, together with a bag containing a gram of the drug.

After the man reported having been threatened, he later told police he had been followed all day throughout the city by various people.

Both men were arrested and police seized 450 euros in cash from the plantgrower, believed to have been the proceeds of his dealing.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

KOALA FURNITURE is a friendly shop where you can find all that you need for your home we have all the best quality mattresses + memory foam mattresses, Combining them with a solid base , electric base or divan to storage it depending what you need. With a huge

selection of fantastic leather and fabric range of sofas with electric recliners, manual recliners or fix, in response to your needs.

All the options for garden furniture make with sinthetic wicker, aluminium, mosaic or wood. We would like to invite you to

9th Year on El Real!

Specialists in Folding, Sliding & Glass Curtain Systems Insect Screening for any area Guttering Installed or DIY Parque Ind El Real, Calle El Garcel 11, Antas, Exit 534 E15 Autovia Tel: 950 459 060 M. 638 063 196 / 649 482 677

info@lifestyle-enclosures.com Find www.lifestyle-enclosures.com us on

our warehouse and to surprise yourself for our welcome and our special offers. Tel 950 392 307 www.koalafurniture.es Hispavan: Visit us at the Hispavan Showroom to see our range of Motorhomes and Caravans for sale or if you have a vehicle to sell, let us help. Importing your UK vehicle or Spanish Transfers, we can do all paperwork correctly and hassle free. Specializing in Motorhome and Caravan insurances.

Also incorporating The Official Dealership for luxury Caldera Spas.

For all information ring 950047033 - 687845730 TYRE KING is the place to come for all your tyre needs.

Competitive prices, expertise and experience, but also service and honesty are at the core of this family run business. Now in its 3rd year they have invested in a state of the art wheel alignment

system that can now track the majority of vehicles including 4x4´s. Advice is always given honestly and freely, if you would like your tyres and tyre pressures checked, please call in: Poligono Industrial El Real, Calle El Garcel F19 No2, Antas 04628, Tel 950 459 253 Hours: Mon - Fri : 09.30 - 17.30 Integral Auto Car Wash & Shop is a new business opened on the Industrial Estate. Full Car Wash Valet Cleaned Inside And Out Only 18 euros . Hand Washing, Internal Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, Waxing & Polishing, Engine Cleaning, Headlight Restoration, Xenon Lights and Navigation.

Second Hand Cars For Sale.

Collection & Delivery Service Available.

Integral Auto Pol Ind El Real de Antas C/ Ventevacio Nave 12 Tel 950 459 304

NEW HOME FROM HOME’S amazing cost price sale is coming to an end on Christmas Eve as building works start on Boxing Day. We still have in stock black 3 & 2 seater recliner leather sofas for less than €1,000.00 for the pair.

Top quality upholstered 3 seater sofa’s, a 2 seater sofa, a dining table for just €99.00, book shelves, coffee tables from €49.00, TV units, wall units and much more. Single mattress’s and bases, 1 double & 1 king size base, headboards, chests of drawers with matching mirrors and bedside units, bedside lamps with shades, eco bulbs & bedding. Many pictures at half the price of cost price. A small amount of garden furniture left in stock. Ex display shower screen for less than €100.00 previously priced at €441.00.

Bathroom fittings, kitchen equipment, lights, ceiling fans,

curtain poles & decorative ends, ex display items and office furniture including fire extinguishers. Business owners are welcome to come and make us an offer. Everything must go, don’t miss out on this amazing bargain sale.

L I F E S T Y L E ENCLOSURES EUROPE S.L. were formed back in 2005 they are the area’s leading installer of Specialist Folding or Sliding Glass & Glass Curtain Systems, Fly Free Enclosures and All Types of Insect Screening. Since then, many more Lifestyle enhancing products have been added to their range including Toldos, Awnings & Flo Plast Rainwater Systems, they offer several colours and styles of guttering for DIY or a full installation service is also available.

Call in to have a chat with Lifestyles friendly staff or Tel 950 459 060

new home from home Quality Home Furnishings

From single items to the full package available

P&R Direct

Tel: 665 25 86 80

Specialists in fitted carpets and rugs

We would like to wish all our customers past, present & future, a

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year

come and visit us in our new shop. new lines in stock include: home accessories and handbags etc from bonitas Mon & Sat 10am - 2pm, Tues - Fri 10am - 4pm

Massive Stock Clearance Sale

still on the Poligono industrial El Real turn left at roundabout, opp the Snooker Hall and every saturday at arboleas market

due to business refurb

Pop in and Pick up a

christmas present From our vast range from 1€

from Almeria Junction 534A From Murcia Junction 534

 to Vera

we are here

We supply and fit

€1499 €1499



exit 534 Cepsa Petrol Station

murcia

Pol Ind El Real de Antas, C/ Interior, Nave 9, 04628 Antas (Almeria) Mon-Sat 10am to 2pm Tel: 950 459 017 Fax: 950 459 018 Contact Marie or Dave 634 319 656 9am - 8pm

To Cartagena

Almeria

www. homefromhomespain.com info@homefromhomespain.com



vertical & venetian blinds, shower & bath screens

stockists of Neater Heaters

Tel: 637 259 033

www.ironartfactoryoutlet.com El Real Industrial estate

Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm

Closed 24

th

Dec to 1

st

Sat 10am - 2pm

January inclusive

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

SPONSOREDBY newhomefromhome THE FULL SWING & FERRETERIA EL REAL: The Full Swing has had a new delivery of Snooker & Pool equipment as well as Golf, but meanwhile over Christmas we are having a change around. The bowling section has gone and the sports department as a whole will be .

Late Jan / early Feb we are opening a new section of children’s clothing imported from the UK. There is so much demand in the area for good quality yet reasonably priced children’s clothing not only from the British community but also the Spanish. From baby to 8/10years old, we hope to supply a wide range of different garments for both boys, girls and babes.

P & R: Pam and Bob would like to invite you to our new, now carpeted showroom.

We have over 30 years experience in the carpet and flooring business and pride ourselves on both our knowledge and service. Come and browse through are huge selection of samples, all types of carpeting to suit any budget. Not forgetting our stock of carpets and rugs. Coming soon an extensive range of English bedding and linens and handcrafted greetings cards that will compliment the lines that we already have, which include Home Accessories and Handbags, Scarves and Costume Jewellery.

Hoping everyone has a great Xmas and an even better New Year.

Iron Art: There are some bargains to have so come on down in the next couple of days for that last Christmas present, or why shiver away when you can have a cosy Neater Heater.

Got those unexpected guests coming and need a nice Dining Suite or Patio Suite, plenty to choose from and immediate delivery available. Iron Art will

be closed 24 December to 1 January 2013 inclusive, reopening again on Wednesday 2 January, watch out for New Year deals coming up! Continuing in the New Year will be their Fayre on Wednesday 30 January, 10am-2pm, interested stall holders please contact 637 259 033. There will be a free raffle, drinks and nibbles. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone.

ANDINAS RACING ADVENTURE : Are you looking for something exciting to do in the new year?

Live the adventure yourself by driving a POLARIS BUGGY. ANDINAS RACING POLARIS are the official dealer for the province of Almería. They have the full range of the brand and offer the possibility of testing these vehicles or rent them for your excursions

in the area and, in some cases, to participate in some of the motor competitions that take place in the Peninsula.

For participating in the Championship Off Road Rally Spain there is a financial program to teams who register Polaris brand vehicles. 10 years ago, Polaris took by surprise the road sector with the launch of its first RANGER. Its worth for work and easy driving revolutionized the field of Side by Side making a big step forward.

With a new design, softer direction, comfort and load capacity range RANGER and RANGER RZR is the most complete and impressive of gotten so far. Come along to our showroom on the industrial estate in Antas El Real Tel 645 984 122 www. andinasracing.es

Motorhomes for sale & wanted urgently

Motorhome & caravan Insurance arranged Motorhomes & caravan repairs & spares All vehicle imports, ITV & matriculations

Tel: 950 047 033 or 687 845 730

info@hispavan.com

www.hispavan.com

Adventure a ggys meerriia Allm In Bu ooff A t s e t s s t a u a E o E R Foorr tthhee F

Live the the adventure adventure yourself yourself Live Driving a a Polaris Polaris Buggy Buggy Driving www.andinasracing.es andinas.racing@gmail.com

Tel: 645 984 122

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Taller DAYDO

The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of the lowest price forgotten opening hours: Mon to Fri 9am-2pm & 4pm-7pm & Sat 9am-1pm - Poligono El Real de Antas, Calle Lugerici Viejo, 04628 Antas

REPAIR - SERVICE BUY - SALES t IMPORT Mos es ITV / PRE ITV HOMOLOGATION l AIRCONDITIONING c Vehi iced SERVICE for all Types rv

COUPON

Present this co upon in our office & we wi ll re-gas your Car air-condi tioning

fo

r 38€ Se € 5 8 ITV/PRE-ITV - Homologation - EXHAUST from Get your car le

gal

Complete Import Service Homologation / ITV / Headlights & All Paperwork

SPANISH PLATES E 0000 XXX

CLUTCH - ENGINE - SUSPENSION TRANSMISSION - TOWBARS etc...

All Work Guaranteed Diagnostic Service, Emision Test (Petrol Cars) Paint & Bodywork Done By Experienced Sub-contractor

Tel & Fax 950 459 116 - Mob 607 373 298

EMAIL: tallerdaydo@hotmail.com

Full Car Wash Valet Cleaned Inside and Out

Special Price 18€

Second Hand Cars For Sale Collection & Delivery Service Available Hand Washing - Internal Cleaning - Upholstery Cleaning Waxing & Polish - Engine Cleaning - Headlight Restoration Xenon Lights - Navigation

10

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

ALMERIMAR & surrounding area adra

A total of 42 arc lights now illuminate Adra’s main streets and the surrounding barriadas.

The Alcalde of Adra, Enrique Hernando, accompanied by all the Concejales of the Ayuntamiento, and the Presidenta de la Asociación de Comerciantes, Empresarios y CCA de Adra, MªCarmen González, officially switched on the lights for the Fiestas de Navidad in the Plaza Puerta del Mar. The ceremony, with a musical accompaniment by the Coro Ilusión de Adra and the choir of students of the Ceip Pedro Mena de Adra, took place during the Mercadillo Navideño.

Afterwards the Government team took the opportunity to visit the 20 stands set up in the Plaza.

Upholstery

• We Upholster Chairs, Sofas and Wing Chairs • 30 years of experience • Large fabric selection • Free pick up & delivery • In home free estimates

Tel: 692 17 60 69

The Charity Shop Calle Galera No6, Almerimar

Almerimar

For the first time Almerimar has staged its own Christmas program,with a calendar of innovative events that includes an evening of International Carols sung in different languages, to be held on 21 December.

The Presidente of the Junta Local de Almerimar, Inocencio Gabriel Manzano, explained that ‘Almerimar is a nucleus in which people of different nationalities live together, especially German and English, and which, therefore, becomes a unique setting to enjoy the rich culture and language of other countries.’

The event, which will run from nine at night in the marquee in the Plaza Batel also includes tasting Christmas sweets and drinks typical of different nationalities.

Additionally the Programación de Navidad includes other activities such as family games, a tambourine school, a ‘solidarity marathon,’ other sporting events, musical concerts, and even a farewell party for the old year, which will take place on December 30.

Most significantly this year Almerimar will be staging it very own Cabalgata de Reyes, on the 5th January, starting at the Torre del Puerto and going through the port docks to end in the Carpa Real, in the Plaza Batel.

El Ejido Bowls Club

Monday and Thursday - 5pm to 7pm Ring Alison on 677 317 920 to book or for further information

what’s on Wednesday

Sol Times Distributed

Thursday

(Behind Bar Ankara)

8:30pm - OPEN MIC NIGHT & JAM SESSION - MACGOWANS

Monday-Saturday 10am-2pm

Friday Golf 28 december - macGowans - live music with groovy phil - 9pm

now open

In Association with Animales de Berja & Ursamarina

MacGowan’s Bar & Restaurant

Friday 28th DecEMBER

Live Music with Groovy Phil 9pm Guinness, Murphy’s Cider, Heineken, Large Selection of Spirits

New Year’s eve menu 3 courses €15.90

Live entertainment

booking essential Calle Varadero Almerimar 04711 (Almeria) Tlf. 950 609 546

Ankara

Est 2005 r a B e f a C Ray & Kay welcome you...

to their small and friendly cafe bar for breakfast, lunch & drinks

boxing day 2012 quiz - followed by fun darts from 7.30pm

Open: Mon - Sat 10.30am - Close

Open: Sunday 2pm - 10pm

Tapas served daily 12 noon - 5.30pm (except Sunday)

Sky Sports / ESPN for all sports Tel 610 900 320 Darsena 3, Almerimar - next to pharmacy

Friday

Saturday

stumble inn - 3pm-5pm free 100€ cash draw followed by live entertainment free buffet at 4pm

Sunday

10am – 1pm: Almerimar Walking Club - Meet at Mercadona

Monday

11am – 1pm: Ladies Coffee Morning - Yachting Golf Restaurant 5pm – 7pm: Jeu de Boules - East Beach

Tuesday

Tuesday Golf -----------------------------------------------------------IF YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR WEEKLY EVENTS TO BE PUBLISHED HERE - FREE OF CHARGE SEND THE DETAILS TO EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM

The Asociacion de Animals de Berja Christmas Tombola held at the Stumble Inn on Saturday 8th December 2012 raised a whopping 603 euros.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Martin and his family for the very generous donation. Also to pass our thanks to all customers and staff who contributed via the weekly football card and loose change collection from the Bar. Finally to all those who came to the event and lent their support to the Animal Charity.

The good news is that during the event homes were found for three of the puppies in our care. Currently we have six puppies, two kittens and six adult dogs and a guinea pig who require homes. If you can offer help, either fostering or adoption please contact us by phone 950 497 193 or come into the Charity Shop in Almerimar.

Friday Golf Society Almerimar Friday Golf – 14 December

It is getting close to Christmas and a lot of our regulars are on their way to their home countries so we were down to 20 players this week. The weather wasn’t too kind to us as it was a bit windy.

Also the tees were well back as they were being set up for the BSM competition the following day.

Neverthess we all had a good day.

We played a Yellow Ball competition with two hidden holes. The scores were a little lower than normal for this type of competition due to the weather and tee positions.

The winners with 115 points were Robbie MacMillan, Karen Parker, Jürgen Neuhäuser and Nina Taylor. Last place and chocolates went to Lawrence Perkins, Amanda Haase Jones, Elaine MacMillan and Paul Thomas with a score of 90. So it was first and last for the MacMillans.

Lawrence Perkins got a double dose of chocolates as he won nearest the pin with a distance of 1.10m. Sadly he missed the putt.

It was the turn of Herbert Piest for sorting out the bottles and doing the prize giving this week.

You can see the full results at: www.fridaygolfsociety.es.

If you would like to take part in the friendly Friday competitions at Almerimar you can put your name up on the entry list by the pro-shop or contact info@ fridaygolfsociety.es

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

The Team at YES Yachting España would like to wish you a very

And a Happy New Year Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo Frohe Weihnachten und ein Frohes Neues Jahr Felice natale ed un buon anno nuovo Joyeux Noël et Bon Aneé Pretigge Kerstdag & Gelukigge Nieuwjaar

WE ARE SEEKING NEW LISTINGS AND WOULD BE DELIGHTED TO HEAR FROM YOU!

YACHT BROKERAGE BOAT CARE & MAINTENANCE YACHT INSURANCE Documentation, Matriculation TAX & VAT Puerto Deportivo de Almerimar Dársena 1 - No. 42, 04711 Almerimar (Almería)

Tel.: (+34) 950 497 825 Fax: (+34) 950 607 713

info@yesyachting.com www.yesyachting.com

11

12

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

lo ok g o o d feel grea T

Find your signature scent Ms Confident

In a nutshell? You’re bright, determined and gregarious. Nothing fazes you - at least, not for very long. And if you see something you want, you’re damn well going to make sure you get it. Your wardrobe is full of: Designer labels and show-stopping shoes.

Your style icons? Karren Brady, Angelina Jolie, Michelle Obama. Your signature scent is: Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum - a fruity fragrance with woody depths, inspired by modern women. From £28.33 (40ml EDT)

Ms Glamorous

In a nutshell? You know what you like. You know what suits you best. And you’d never slavishly follow fashion - just as you’d never go

to the cinema to see the latest blockbuster when there’s a classic movie on TV. What’s in your handbag? A red lipstick, an old-fashioned powder compact and satin gloves. Your style icon? Marilyn Monroe, of course. Your best friend? Diamonds - naturally. Your signature scent is: Chanel No.5 - the celebrated classic bouquet of oh-so-feminine flowers. From £54.50 (40ml Eau Première Spray)

Ms Unforgettable

In a nutshell? You’re an attention-seeker - but in the nicest possible way. You’re charismatic, captivating - and always leave a lasting impression on everyone you meet.

Your wardrobe is full of: Animal prints, skinny jeans, plunging necklines.Your ideal job?

EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM Can’t choose which fragrance to wear?

It’s time to match your perfume to your personality and find your perfect partner

Supermodel - or failing that, a Bond girl.

Your signature scent is: Roberto Cavalli - the iconic Italian designer’s balsamic floral scent.

From £34.50 (30ml EDP)

Ms Sexy

In a nutshell? You’re sometimes prickly, often passionate and always poised to seduce.

People may find you incredibly intense and maybe just a tiny bit intimidating - but that’s also part of what makes you irresistible.

Your style icons? Dita Von Teese, Madonna, Nigella Lawson.

Your favourite book? ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ although you did find it a little tame at times.

Your signature scent is: Agent Provocateur Pétale Noir - a deep floral fragrance with a hint of oriental mystique. From £35.50 (30ml EDP)

Ms Cheeky and Fun

In a nutshell? You’re giggly, mischievous and inquisitive, but you’d never push things too far. You’re always out to enjoy yourself - and people love having you around.

Your favourite films? ‘Bridesmaids’, ‘Room With A View’, ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’.

Your signature scent is: Vivienne Westwood Cheeky Alice - a fresh, floral fragrance with

Come visit our studio & shop for our limited-edition holiday products and to enter our Christmas raffle!

STUDIO & SHOP HOURS MON, TUE, WED, FRI, SAT : 10AM - 2PM WED, THUR, FRI, SAT : 5.30 - 8.30PM

www.naturalmentemediterraneo.com

TEL: 655 299 494

Find us at the entrance to Garrucha opposite Hotel Tikar

new owners

sian & frank would like to welcome customers old & new

Part Time

Gelish nails Only 15€ istmas r h c a set or have t vouchers

gif Soak Off - only 5€ av a i l a b l e fabulous christmas offers Luxury one-hour facial only 29€ FULL SET OF GEL NAILS only 25€ Fingers + Toes for ONLY 25€

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 5pm Saturday 9.30am - 3pm. No siesta

Call for an appointment

950 633 086

Prices are subject to change without notification. Please confirm on booking. We reserve the right to withdraw offers at any time.

Ms Romantic In a nutshell? You’re wistful and oh-sofeminine. You also know how to turn on your womanly charms to get what you want.

Your wardrobe is full of: Chiffon, velvet and lace.

Your top city? Paris. In the springtime.

Your signature scent is: Anna Sui Fairy Dance Secret Wish - a deliciously radiant and romantic scent with rose at its heart. From £24.99 (30ml EDT).

look good, feel good

with our full range of treatments including:

Jenny like Jenny would would like wish all all of totowish of her her customers old and customers new a very Merry Christmas old and new & Happy New a very Year Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Not sure what to buy for a Christmas present?

Why not buy one of our gift vouchers? starting from only 20€

645 560 367

Must have minimum of 10 years Experience + good people skills

In a nutshell? You’re sensual, sentimental and seductive. You never take anything at face value and have a tendency to over-analyse and re-examine. But you’re a true and trusting friend, who people feel proud to know.

Your favourite authors? Zadie Smith, Salman Rushdie, Proust.

Your signature scent is: Stella McCartney L.I.L.Y. - a sensual scent with top notes of truffle and a heart of lily of the valley. From £43.50 (30ml EDP)

Formerly J.D. Hair Design

telephone

Stylist Required

Ms Deep & Meaningful

Hair&Beauty

Affordable prices

Fully Qualified

Calle Malaga - Albox (100m from Mercadona)

JAX

top notes of lily of the valley. From £31.50 (30ml EDT)

Albox Rambla

Mirador Toni’s Bar

El Cordobes

JAX

Osteopath Naturopath Enrique Arias, N.D, D.O

Tel. 629 289 385

for info and appointments

Health Care For Adults and Children • Emergency Home Visits • English • Spanish • French • German • 20 Year’s Serving the community

UK Registered - Treating

Sciatica - Back Pain - Sports Injuries Digestive and Cardiovascular Disorders Headaches - Arthritis - Skin Conditions Centro Cueva Del Lobo Paseo Mediterraneo 10, Mojacar Beach Centro Medico Indalo C/ Manuel Azaña, Almeria

Ms Chic In a nutshell? You’re vivacious, clued-up and bang-on-trend. You make it your business to know what’s hot and what’s not - and friends rely on you to keep them up to date.

What’s in your handbag? iPad mini, Smythson’s notebook and a style magazine.

Your style icon? Kate Moss - when she’s smiling.

Your signature scent is: Marc Jacobs Dot - a delicious blend of red berries, succulent dragonfruit and sweet honeysuckle in an award-winning bottle. From £30.83 (30ml EDP)

Ms Unique In a nutshell? You know all too well that you’re one of a kind. And you’re determined to be noticed and remembered for your own look, your own style and your own personality.

Your favourite novel? It’s the one you’re writing yourself, actually...

Your signature scent is: a DIY fragrance you’ve mixed yourself to reflect your personality and tastes. You can craft your own bespoke scent from 18 gorgeous blends at The Perfume Studio, price £40.

Ms Weird & Wonderful In a nutshell? You make it your mission in life to stand out from the crowd and you’re not afraid to experiment. Your biggest nightmare would be for everything and everyone to stay the same.

Your wardrobe is full of: One-off frocks and impossible-to-walk-in shoes.

Your signature scent is: Lady Gaga Fame - the firstever black eau de parfum.

It sprays clear and becomes invisible when airborne.

From £24.50 (30ml EDP)

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Time-saving Tips For Party Hair!

Wake up to perfect hair

Sleeping on a silk pillowcase makes your fresh-from-the-salon hair last longer (not to mention it’s said to be anti-ageing too).

Making waves

Transform curly or wavy hair with a styling cream; it’ll turn dull, frizzy hair into glamorous party hair with curl definition and shine.

Quick change

Great hair is about a good cut and glossy colour, but it’s also about clever styling ideas and haircare know-how – especially when it comes to glamorous evening events.

Here, we share our top tips from hair experts (with the emphasis on speed and ease) that are guaranteed to have you party perfect (but there’s still time to book at your local salon too!

parting gives width to the top part of the head, which softens a pointed face or a heavy jaw; a centre partings work for most face shapes, apart from very long.

Trade secret If you have only 10 minutes to get ready but your hair is looking greasy, try this tip. Tie your hair back, but leave a triangular section at the front of the hair. Wash the section as quickly as you can, blowdry as normal, then blend with the rest of the hair…no one will ever know!!!

Fake it If you’re having a bad hair day or don’t have time to go to the hairdresser before a big occasion, simply tie or clip your own hair back, pop on a hairpiece and you’re ready to go!

FAALAAS AAS

Use large-barrelled curling tongs to create loose, sexy waves as an alternative for straight hair. Just take your hair in sections and wind your hair upwards around the tongs, holding for a few seconds and releasing.

Add volume When you want volume, rollers are hard to beat.

Wind heated rollers into dry hair or use hairspray with Velcro rollers and apply some heat from your hairdryer. After taking the rollers out, just use your fingers to rake through your hair.

Solutions for thin hair If your hair is thin, invest in styling products designed to bulk it up, making hair look thicker, but without stiffness or stickiness. We

25 The Post Shop, Albox, Stall 71 Los Llanos market

TEL: EL: 634 3117 4922

Play with your parting

Home Accessories Scented candles, tea lights and holders Dried, silk & foam flowers Giftware Bathware Beautiful home accessories Stockists of Landon Tyler products

Regardless of the length or style of your hair, moving your parting, permanently or just for one night, can give you a whole new look. A side

centro óptico

Graduated Lenses

kim clark benefits consultancy

■ if you suffer from... ■ or you need...

• mobility problems •h elp with washing/ dressing • pain/breathlessness • supervision • falls/stumbles rule changes mean that you could now be entitled to extra income by claiming UK Sickness/Disability Benefits while living in Spain For advice or to book a consultation call 950 169 729 or 663 297 568 www.ukbenefitsinspain.com kimos28@hotmail.com

Try a chignon Comb a styling spray through your hair and pull it into a ponytail at the nape of the neck.

Twist your hair around an elastic making a figureof-eight shape to create a neat bun, and fasten it with grips. For a softer look, pull some strands of hair forward…very sophisticated!

hair & beauty

A CHRISTMAS WISH

GIFT VOUCHERS FROM DONNA’S HAIR & BEAUTY

Learn to speed-dry Save drying your hair before a big event with the right technique! The trick is to section your hair with clips and dry one section at a time, rather than trying to blow-dry the whole lot at once.Use a round brush for a little root lift and soft, sexy volume Eh voila – you may go to the ball!

for all your Hair and Beauty needs for the Party season call now for an appointment Donna, Liza, Heidi and staff would like to wish all

their customer’s a very Merry Christmas Mon: 9.30am-3pm Tue-Fri: 9.30am-5pm Sat: 10am-2pm

950 930 167 or 628 669 456 located opposite Pricebusters

elax evive

ejuvenate retreat elax El Cucador

Holistic Massage Melissa 626 144 680

Beauty Therapy

elissa, who is UK fully-qualified with over M 10 years experience, offers a range of relaxing massage treatments: from a simple Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage to Hot Stone treatments.

Reflexolgy with therapist Melissa

UK

qualified

1 hour session or discounts for a course of 6 sessions. 626 144 680

Only €18.90

Hard of Hearing?

Come and have a free test!!

All accessories and various models available

1 pair

Get Your Eyes Tested For FREE

€56

2 pairs:

€93

28€ Single Vision 96 € Varifocal

30% discount 30% discount off all for OAPs

Designer Sunglasses

Melissa 626 144 680 Sandra 661 858 949 Our UK fully-qualified therapists are available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9am to 1.30pm to pamper you… We offer a full range of Facials plus Waxing, Tinting, Manicure, Pedicure or a set of Gelish Nails from 15€! sandra

Christmas Offers with Sandra

Luxury Treatments

Home parties available - view our range with your friends in the comfort of your own home

Avda Pio XII, s/n 04800 - Tel: 950 121 991

A Months Supply of One-Day Lenses

recommend Paul Mitchell Thicken Up styling liquid www.paulmitchell.com, Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion, www.aveda. co.uk and Kerastase Mousse Nutri-Sculpt w w w.kera s t a se.co.uk.

You may also benefit from using a shampoo and conditioner for fine hair.

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Christmas Beauty & Holistic Treatments with Melissa

RELAX PACKAGE 25€

Hot Stone Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage & Express Facial

REJUVENATE PACKAGE 38€ Reflexology & Luxury Pedicure

REVIVE PACKAGE 65€ Holistic Total Body Care, Luxury Pedicure & Manicure

Gift Vouchers Now Available

Package 1 Delux Elemis Facial & Delux Pedicure 44€ Package 2 Kaeso Facial & Gel Polish 30€ Package 3 Mini Facial & File Polish (Toes) 18€ Shiatsu Therapy – Wendy

o you suffer with: Back/Neck problems, Stress/ D Insomnia, Headache/Migraine?

Shiatsu will help. Shiatsu therapy is very much hands-on, which promotes normal healing for general wellbeing. The recipient is treated fullyclothed. Wendy, fully-qualified in the UK, is available from 3pm.

We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of La Vida Cucador, with its own entrance, plus disabled access and good parking

If you are a fully-qualified therapist and want to know more about us or to book a room, email retreatcucador@gmail.com Become a friend on Facebook & see our monthly Special Offers!

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

s a m t Chris

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5 mins from Arboleas, Zurgena, Antas, Huercal Overa and 15 mins from mojacar, vera & albox

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Mon - Sun 10am - 6pm

We are 3.5 kms on the right, from the exit of 543 of the E15 / A7 motorway. Direction La Concepcion You can’t miss us and you shouldn’t!!

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

The FINAL Countdown To Christmas!

Ice your cake…

There are two main types of icing: royal, which dries very hard and white, and fondant, which is softer and can be coloured and shaped.

Royal icing is usually applied flat with the decorations piped on after, or you can spoon it over a cake and fork it so that it looks like snow – this is great if you’re short of time as you can just add a couple of shopbought figures and you’re done.

Fondant icing can be bought ready-rolled and pre-coloured.

Just get the kids involved and let them model figures or roll it out and stamp out shapes for a real quick fix.

Last-minute gif shopping…

t

rse than a There’s nothing wo presents last-minute dash for al gif ts fin so try and buy any idea od go NOW! It’s also a ric ne ge to pick up some x bo a presents, such as e ttl bo of chocolates or are of champagne, to sp an if nt any embarrassme a ng ari be unexpected guest s. gif t arrive

Christmas Eve…

Write a time-plan…

y people The Christmas dinner throws man ly no real into a cooking quandary but it’s ply sim different from a roast dinner, it t. righ ngs comes down to getting the timi the on To make sure you get everything w when table at the same time and kno menu, to start cooking each dish on the simply is write yourself a time-plan. This you time a list that reminds you at what to n dow should do everything, counting e. tabl the the time you’d like the dinner on

Assemble presents...Putting together anything under pressure is difficult so don’t leave the assembly of anything large or complicated until Christmas Day. Put the kids to bed, get out the tool kit and get building. Put the instructions or the front of pack to one side so that when the little darlings dismantle it you can put it back together again and again and again…Do your last-minute shopping… If there’s anything else you need to buy, today’s your last chance to get it! Get wrapping…If you haven’t done it already now’s the time to get the last of those Christmas presents wrapped...Prepare vegetables…Prepare your vegetables in advance and keep in the fridge overnight. The stuffing can also be made and the bird stuffed and basted ready for the oven in the morning... Set the kitchen timer…If the bird’s a big one it will need to go in the oven early so set the kitchen timer to remind you when... Lay the table and prepare a tray for Santa…Remind the kids that Santa likes a tipple and Rudolf likes a carrot, and let them help preparing the goodies. (Don’t forget to make sure they are gone in the morning!)

Solutions

Defrost the turkey…

r frozen Depending on the size of you ove it rem to d nee turkey you may days of ple cou a zer from the free give to day big the of in advance Once : TIP w. tha to e it enough tim the ove rem to et forg ’t defrosted don st roa you ore bef ets gibl plastic bag of for k stoc e mak to ets it. Keep the gibl the gravy.

Shop for your ca mer

as…

Buy DVDs, CDs and extra memory. Chec k that you have spare camera batteries an d, if you have a camcord er, make sure the batteries and any sp are power packs are fully charged. TIP: If you haven’t used your camera since yo ur summer holiday it’s time to check the batteries still work.

Don’t forget the batteries…

Check exactly what type of batteries each of your gifts requires and buy a set for each toy. TIP: A battery charger could save you a lot of money over the lifetime of a toy so think about investing!

If you have a problem We have the solution

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get glasses…

To get glasses looking fantastic, hold a clean glass over a freshly boiled steaming kettle and then polish the steam off with a clean, dry tea-towel.

15

Testimonals can be provided

Call Mike or Lynda Tel: 646 341 575 email: enquiries@solutions.org.es Part of www.solutions.org.es

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

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LEGAL CORNER WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR

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

BEING A RESIDENT OF SPAIN OR NOT CAN MAKE A CONSIDERABLE DIFFERENCE TO CAPITAL GAINS TAX NASTY SURPRISE: HAVING WHAT EVERYONE CALLS ‘THE RESIDENCE CERTIFICATE’ IS NOT PROOF OF TAX RESIDENCY AND IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WILL BE TREATED AS A NON-RESIDENT AND 3% OF THE SALES PRICE WILL BE HELD BACK WHEN YOU SELL YOUR PROPERTY...

Q. I have sold my house. I was under the impression that I was a resident and that the 3% retention for non-residents would not be applicable, but the notary said that my residence certificate was not proof of residency and that he had to treat me as a nonresident which means that 3% of the sales price was retained and paid into the tax office . How can the resident certificate not be proof of residency?

A. What the notary is saying is correct. It is a common nasty surprise at the notary lately suffered by sellers that are not getting the correct advice prior to selling . The new resident certificates without a photograph, issued by the police, do not state you are a tax resident of Spain - what it says is that you are a resident of Europe.

To be able to be treated as a tax resident of Spain at the moment of sale, you need to provide the notary with a certificate issued by the tax office in Spain stating that they consider you a tax resident of Spain. This needs to be requested in advance of going to the notary by your solicitor or yourself to avoid the 3% retention. Some notaries will also accept as proof of residency your Spanish tax returns.

free to view

tv & tv

guide

game

zone

Space Invaders Pac Man Simon Crosswords

If you are thinking of selling, it is important to find out from the tax office well in advance if your status is that of a resident or non resident, and the certificate issued by them needs to be taken to the notary the day of signature.

P.S. If you are a non resident, do not forget it is obligatory to file a non-resident tax returns, and that the tax man has created a task force to go after those that have not been paying (and they are sending out letters since November 2011).

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.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Fill your home with wonderful aromas this festive season!

Cut a 6” square out of cotton Christmas print fabric. Place a vanilla bean, 2 whole nutmeg, 10 whole cloves and 4 cinnamon sticks in the centre of the fabric. Gather the fabric up to enclose the spices and tie with one end of a 2’ long gold ribbon. Tie the other end of the ribbon to a doorknob. Whenever the door is opened or closed, scent will be released into the room.

Stud oranges, or pomegranates with whole cloves and then display them in a pretty glass bowl.

Cover the outside of a large coffee tin or other large tin with wrapping paper. Tie a ribbon around it. Fill it with spruce or pine boughs. Place the tin on the floor.

Remember to water the branches regularly to keep fresh. You can even decorate the boughs with Christmas ornaments, lights, ribbon, popcorn strings, etc.

Fill a small decorative bowl with spices: whole cloves, whole nutmeg, vanilla bean, cinnamon sticks and strips of orange peel. Tie a ribbon around the bowl or place a bow inside the bowl and place it on a shelf or coffee table.

17

T he S ce nt o f Ch ri stma s

Place a collection of assorted scented candles on a serving platter. Choose candles of different heights and diameters. They can all be the same colour or you can vary the colour. Once the candles are arranged, tie a ribbon around them. If you light the candles, be careful not to catch the ribbon on fire.

Simmer spices in a pot of water on the stove; use whole nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves and vanilla bean.

Throw a handful of spices directly into the fire; use whole nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves and vanilla beans.

Hang very spicy Christmas cookies on your tree. Or, create a spicy cookie garland to hang over a doorway, on a mantle or anywhere else it fits. To create a garland, roll your cookie dough, cut out shapes. Place shapes on baking tray and using a toothpick, poke two large holes at the top of the cookie (the holes should be side-by-side). When the cookies are cooled, string ribbon from the back of the cookie through one hole and then push it through the other hole, proceed to string all the cookies on the ribbon and then hang your garland. Cookies don’t even need to be iced to be decorative!

Make your own Christmas potpourri by mixing together, in a large jar (not plastic): 2 cups small cones, 1/2 cup dried berries and/or rose petals, 2 cups small sprigs of real evergreen (any will do, but cedar holds the scent well), 1/2 cup eucalyptus leaves, 1/2 cup coarse salt (fixative for fragrance), 3 drops essential oil – pine or eucalyptus.

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The cost of dying has got a lot more expensive – Or has it??

From 1st September the rate of IVA (vat) charged by Funeral Directors rose from 8% to 21% so an average funeral cost here in Spain will be in the region of 4840 €.

With an Iberian Funeral Plan you fix the cost of the funeral at today’s price and it is fixed forever, irrespective of how much funeral expenses rise in the future.

With guaranteed Plan prices starting from just 2995 €. Do you need to look elsewhere for total peace of mind?

Just look at the facts: • Iberian have the best plans and plan benefits at the best prices • Iberian plans are the only genuine interest free plans if you wish to pay by instalments • Iberian do not charge you an additional administration fee • Iberian do not have any deferred or final settlement payments at the end of the instalment term • Iberian Funeral Plans are fully transferrable to the UK • Iberian Funeral Plans cover you throughout the EU and can assist worldwide

With prices starting at just 2995 € and IVA FREE, less does equal more. Therefore it makes so much sense to protect your loved ones by investing in a guaranteed funeral plan from Iberian.

Visit www.iberianfuneralplans.com or simply contact our offices on 952595691 (Malaga) or 965993498 (Benijpfar-Alicante) Also located in The UK, Portugal, Canary Islands and Balearics

18

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

O

Deborah Cubel Fisher

Bedar, 04288 (next to Miramar Restaurant) Tel: 950 469 624 or 687 938 466 Email: info@olivehouse-es.com www.olivehouse-es.com Monday - Friday 10am - 3.30pm

Olive

Sales office now open in Bedar

OLV579

Bedar

...it’s all in the detail

OLV486

Bedar

This immaculate 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom Villa is located in a prime position in the popular village of El Pinar, less than 10 minutes from Bedar village and 15 minutes to the beautiful beaches of Mojacar.

A unique opportunity to buy a very large townhouse in the centre of Bedar with incredible views towards the coast of Mojacar. This property could be split into two dwellings or run as a B & B.

169,950€

335,000€

OLV556

OLV316

Mojacar

Lubrin

Announcing the new Wills and Inheritance process office now open in Translations / Interpreter Corvera: Purchase / Sale private contracts C/ Actor Francisco NIE’s, Residencia, Medical Cards....

Rabal, 3 Bj X Corvera (Murcia) Land property and Catastro registration 30153 Vehicle registration / driving licenses Please telephone: Conveyancing / Notorial documents 629 412 446 Mortgages Payment of taxes (local rates, rubbish collection, vehicle, tax returns for residents and non residents and refund of the capital gains tax).

Special offer

Wills €125 per person - Including Notary Fee

Yearly contract €145 Including VAT 18% Yearly tax returns (no increase if more than one owner, or more than one property) Legal and fiscal advice FREE throughout the year Free assistance / advice for any visitors staying at your property

This very well appointed 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom property is surrounded by countryside yet only minutes from the beaches of Mojacar and all it’s amenities.

299,950€

This property is located in one of the beautiful valleys within walking distance to the popular town of Lubrin. The 2 bedroom semi detached property is in need of renovation and comes with 1,500m2 of flat land.

25,000€

property guide....

Urgently required

farmhouses & equestrian properties For Sale

clients waiting to view info@icasaspain.com

Free visit from a technician / architect to offer independent expertise on matter such as: putting in insurance claims, confirmation of the legality of an extension / building work, free estimate for any work to be carried out If you introduce another client to us you will not be charged your next annual fee Vera Advisors, S.L. C/ del Mar, 33 - Local 11 Vera 04620 (Almeria) Tel: 950 39 06 21 Fax: 950 39 02 12 email: dcasesores@notin.net

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT LONG/SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATHROOM, pENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN VERA PLAYA - ALL MOD CONS, BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING FANTASTIC VIEWS

cALL 663 977 230 or EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com

Almería Estate Agent Vision Vision Investment Investment Property Property Almeria Almeria

info@vipalmeria.com • www.vipalmeria.com

Paseo del Mediterráneo, 22b Mojacar Playa 04638, Beside the Red Cross on the Beach front.

Spanish Office: (+34) 950472524 / 950102006 Fax / Tel: (+34) 950 950 231

O

Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466 C/Llanos, Bedar (Next to the Miramar Restaurant)

Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm

www.olivehouse-es.com

OLV525

Olive

Uleila del Campo

Fabulous opportunity to purchase a Cortijo / ruin for complete restoration, set within rolling countryside with 4 hectares of land.

59,995€

Apartment For Sale on golf course

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, kitchen with white goods, Nice views of golf course parking, Mojacar approx 7 mins

now only

€39,950

T: 664 291 793 jescott29@hotmail.co.uk

Many can do it well...

Some can do it very well... but only a few do it like us... always with the customer in mind Camposol Business centre sector a, camposol mazarron

A country house in the Cantoria area

www.anotherworld-properties.com sales@anotherworldproperties.net

TEL: 968 592 679

€65,500 £53,055 • Semi Detached • 2 Beds • 2 Baths • Patio & Garden Area • 5 mins from village • Realistically priced

MORE PROPERTIES LIKE THIS NEEDED! Paul: 693 969 800 www.almeriapropertyfinder.com info@almeriapropertyfinder.com

...CALL 902 750 190 OR 950 121 936 ~ EMAIL: SALES@SOLTIMES.COM

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

property group Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

www.veritashomes.co.uk info@veritashomes.co.uk You can find us on mojacar playa

€75,000

Mojacar playa

€80,000

Mojacar playa

€90,000

Mojacar playa garrucha

€80,000 €95,000

2 bed / 2 bath east facing Apartment with terrace & underground parking place. Air con.

Fully fitted kitchen. Communal pool. Ref. 1123

1 bed / 1 bath fully furnished Apartment with amazing sea views and private garage.

Terrace of 36 m². Ref. 1398

2 bed /2 bath Apartment in walking distance to promenade. Terrace with sea views: 18 m².

Communal pools & tennis court. Ref. 1070

4 bed / 2 bath large penthouse Apartment with 4 terrace in La Marina near harbour, beach & promenade. Ref. 1059

la alfoquia

Mojácar Playa

near antas

Mojacar Playa

€99,950

3 bed / 2 bath nice semi detached Townhouse with private plot of 107 m². Car port.

Communal pool. Ref. 1051

mojacar playa reduced

€115,000

€100,000

€109,950

€110,000

3 bed / 2 bath south Apartment with sea views near beach. Terrace: 19 m². Underground private parking place. Ref. 1291

3 bed / 1 bath charming renovated House with garage in the village of Jauro. Plot 558 m².

Terrace & store room. Ref. 1082

2 bed / 1 bath Penthouse sea facing Apartment on first line community with pool. Large terrace with views. Ref. 1083

mojacar playa reduced

arboleas

mojacar playa

€135,000

€149,950

€165,000

2 bed / 2 bath sea facing Apartment within 2 minutes walk to the beach. 2 terraces.

Communal Pool. Ref. 1018

2 bed / 1 bath semi-detached Villa on plot of 246 m². Living dining room with fireplace.

Roof solarium with sea views. Ref. 1052

3 bed / 2 bath Villa with pool in Los Huevanillas on walled plot of 637 m². Large fully fitted kitchen. Ref. 1503

2 bed / 2 bath Townhouse. Private underground garage, terrace & solarium. Small complex with pool near the beach. Ref 1009

Mojacar Playa reduced

mojacar playa reduced

mojacar playa reduced

Mojacar Playa

€190,000

€195,000

€199,950

3 bed / 2 bath spacious Townhouse with private garage within 200 m to beach. Small gated community with pool. Ref 1483

3 bed / 2 bath linked Villa with Plot of 100 m² within walking distance to commercial centre.

Communal pool. Ref 1044

3 bed / 3 bath nice Villa with garage in La Parata close to the club. Plot 400 m². Terrace, solarium & utility area. Ref 1010

vera

mojacar playa

vera

€299,000

4 bed / 2 bath Villa with independent garage, solarium and pool a few minutes to town. Plot 5,000 m². Build 202 m². Ref 1017

€299,999

4 bed / 3 bath Villa with pool & underground garage on plot of 390 m² on quiet area. Sea views. Central heating. Ref 1117

€210,000

3 bed / 2 bath spacious Townhouse with private garage within 200 m to sea. Communal pool & landscaped gardens. Ref 1333

€360,000

3 bed / 3 bath immaculate Villa with garage, pool & landscaped gardens a few minutes to amenities. Plot: 10,000 m². Ref 1029

Please visit our office or refer to our website for more “bargains”. Vendors: If you are seriously considering selling your property please visit our office to discuss effective ways of achieving your goal.

As per decree 218/2005 the “Documento de Información Abreviada” (D.I.A) for any property sold

by Veritas Homes is available at our office.

19

20

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Decoratin

Property management Sales & Rentals

Roquetas de Mar, Aguadulce Almerimar, Vicar, La Envia Golf

You’ve chosen your perfect Ch

For all your property needs Services include Key Holding, Maintenance, Furniture Packs, Cleaning & Laundry, Weekly Apartment & Post-box Checks Golf Discounts and Golf Packages Available Rental Properties required for long or short lets in Roquetas de Mar Call or e-mail us for further information.

Keep Your Tree Fresh and Green

Cut the stump of the tree with a fresh cut and absorb several quarts of water right from the star level several times a day for the first week. You ca you Christmas tree in a stand that has a large wate

Putting Lights and Decorations on When decorating your Christmas tree, put lights on first, then garlands, then the orna

Work From the Inside Out

Start arranging Christmas tree lights on the branches near the base of the tree. Weave along the branches “inside,” then move to the outer edges of the branches.

Placement of Ornaments

Don’t hang all your ornament on the tips of the branches. Place ornaments and decorations ‘inside’ your tree to add depth and interest.

Basic Ornaments for Fill

Start by arranging the “filler ornaments” evenly spaced around the tree. This would in basic solid colour balls, available in a wide range of colours to easily coordinate and en your decorating scheme. You’ll need about 20 “filler ornaments” for every 2 feet Christmas tree.

Special Ornaments Mix one-of-a-kind special ornaments between the basic ornaments. Plan to use at least 10 special themed ornaments for every 2 feet of tree. As your collection grows, put the special ornaments closer together.

Add A Personal Touch

Mobile: (0034) 663 426 921

info@enviapropertyservices.com

Here are some ideas for setting up your tree,

www.enviapropertyservices.com

Even ordinary glass balls can be dressed up with ribbons, bows, or glitter to make them one-of-a-kind.

Ribbons and Bows A simple coloured Christmas tree ornament will look dressed up with a pretty bow of satin, velvet, grosgrain or sheer ribbon. Or tie a bow of raffia on the top of decorations. Use a touch of glue to secure the bow to the ornament.

Use What You Already Have

1 bedroom apartments in the urbanisation of Roquetas De Mar

from €48.000

Encrusted With Jewels Collect beads or crystals from vintage jewellery or craft stores and decorate a plain tree ornament.

Great apartments available at La Envia Golf from €52,000 in the urbanisation of Roquetas de Mar from €48,000 and in Almerimar from €69,000

Get the Children Involved Plan a project day for your children. Purchase wooden cutouts, ribbon, glue, glitter, cording, coloured paper and rubber stamps. Let your children create their own decorations and hang the pieces with other ornaments… …or decorate a whole small tree and place it in the child’s room. Be sure to put the date on the ornaments you’ll want to keep from year to year.

Property rentals available and property management services also arranged.

One way car hire services to and from all Spanish and UK locations.

Make Your Own Garland

e

l b a il a v a s n io s s e s s o p e bank r

Avenida Playa Serena 63, 04740, Roquetas De Mar, Almeria Tel: (0034) 950 33 66 26 Fax: (0034) 950 336 660 Mob:(0034) 670 810 948 / 670 784 470

E-mail: info@almerialiving.com Web-site: www.almerialiving.com

You don’t have to use traditional ornaments on the tree. Look around the house for doll house furniture, tiny teddy bears, clothes for dolls, seed pods with ribbon loops. Using wire, cord or ribbon, attach the items to the branches of your Christmas tree. Tie everything together with a garland that unifies your theme.

Use floral vines, satin or velvet ribbon, popcorn and cranberries, or decorative cording to create an effective but simple garland. Collect small pine cones or seed pods and string them together!

sol times would like to wish all of our readers and local businesses a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New year

www.soltimes.com

ng the tree

Christmas tree, but now what? lighting it, keeping it fresh, and decorating it.

set it in water immediately. A fresh-cut tree will rt. So it’s important to check and refill the water an cut down on frequency later. Be sure to place er reservoir and keep it filled.

the Tree ments.

e strings of lights

d other

nclude nhance of

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

21

The Little Fairy on the Top of the Christmas Tree!

One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule. Then Mrs. Claus told Santa that her Mom was coming to visit; this stressed Santa even more.

When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out at heaven knows where.

More stress.

Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys.

So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of coffee and a shot of whiskey. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had hid the liquor and there was nothing to drink.

In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the coffeepot and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made of. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa cussed on his way to the door. He opened the door and there was a little fairy with a great big Christmas tree.

The fairy said, very cheerfully, “Merry Christmas Santa. Isn’t it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn’t it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?

Thus began the tradition of the little fairy on top of the tree….

Monday to Friday

teeing off

between 10am & 12noon

green fee 3 per p5€ erso n meal & drink La Envia Golf wish their customers a Merry Christmas & Happy new Year

to book a tee time call

950 55 96 46

or email:reservas@laenviagolf.com www.laenviagolf.com

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SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

OPEN for business

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Enclosures / Conservatories Convert your patio area into a sunroom or a mosquito free area with glass or mesh

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electric underfloor heating life time warranty

Santander absorbs Banesto and Banif and shuts branches

According to a report by the BBC, Banco Santander is to absorb two Spanish banks, Banesto and Banif, closing 700 branches in the process. It owns 90% of Banesto and will buy out the minority shareholders with Santander shares at a 25% premium. It already owns all of Banif.

The three banks have 4,664 branches in Spain between them. All the remaining branches will be branded as Santander.

Santander predicted that the merger would save it 520m euros ($684m; £422m) a year in three years’ time.

It said that the merger was part of the restructuring of the Spanish financial system.

Santander did not say how many jobs would go, but said job cuts would be implemented gradually through transfers around the group, natural turnover and voluntary redundancy.

It added that the proportion of Spanish bank branches owned by the group would increase by 2015 despite the closures, because other banks were also cutting back their networks.

Santander said the total number of bank branches in Spain was expected to fall to 30,000 by the end of 2015, down from 46,000 in 2008.

The decline in the eurozone’s manufacturing sector has eased, a closely watched survey indicates, in a rare spot of good news for the region, according to a report by the BBC Business reporter.

Markit’s eurozone manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 46.3 in December from 46.2 in November. A reading below 50 indicates contraction.

The research firm said the rate of decline in manufacturing “showed signs of moderating”.

But the service sector dropped to its weakest levels since July.

Including services and manufacturing, the eurozone PMI composite output index was at 47.3, up from 46.5 in November.

“The eurozone downturn showed further signs of easing in December, adding to hopes that the outlook for next year is brightening,” said Chris Williamson, chief economist at Markit.

“A return to growth is looking like an increasing possibility in the first half of next year, barring any surprises, if the recent improvements in the survey data can be sustained.

The turnaround is being led by Germany.”

Total output from Germany rose for the first time in eight months “though the increase was only very modest as an upturn in the service sector was offset by a faster decline in manufacturing production”, the survey said.

Output fell for the 10th month in a row in France. Earlier on Friday, Fitch kept the French government’s top AAA credit rating, making it the only major ratings agency left to say the country deserves to be among the world’s most creditworthy borrowers.

In the eurozone, only Germany still has an AAA rating from all three major ratings agencies.

Markit said that eurozone confidence remained lower than at any time since before the 2008-09 financial crisis.

Separately, a survey showed China’s huge manufacturing sector expanded in December at its fastest pace in 14 months as new orders and employment rose, The HSBC PMI for December rose to 50.9, the highest level since October 2011. It was the fifth straight month of Latest business news : www.bbc.co.uk gains.

Eurozone manufacturing sees ‘signs of moderating’

Upholstery

• We Upholster Chairs, Sofas and Wing Chairs • 30 years of experience • Large fabric selection • Free pick up & delivery • In home free estimates

Tel: 692 17 60 69

qualified electrician

TNT

POOL SHOP

Mix & Match

any 2 Tubs Of either Multi, Shock or Chlorine tablets for just 36€

winteriseRS available still only 15€

we will be closed from Mon 24/12/12 and will reopen Mon 7th Jan 2013

FIND US In Longo’s Courtyard

Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696

Bugs

AWNINGS - FLY SCREENS - INTERNAL BLINDS

Mosquito Screens & Blinds

• Pull down / Sliding Blinds replacement windows & doors & Screens, Windows & Patios Aluminuim & UPVC fitted • Vertical Blinds & made to measure • Security Grills Supplying & fitting windows • Awnings & doors for 25 years

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domestic & commercial supplied & fitted many colours & styles all areas covered free quotations signwriting service FOR COMMERCIAL

All areas covered ~ speedy Response Call now for your no-obligation quote

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Tel: 600 049 515 Get The Best For Less

Email: solshaders@live.co.uk

HIRE A HUSBAND

Professional, reliable, handy man available... ...for all the jobs he doesn’t get round to, including Van Removals, Painting Exterior/Interior, Small Plumbing Jobs, Shelves, Garden Clearance, All Outside Work - Walls, Stone Cladding, Rendering etc... Property Maintenance Good hourly/daily rate - 7 yrs in the area.

Call Jim 677 557 190 Evenings 950 930 596 References available & Pics of work completed

Lulu’s

Peluqueria Canina

professional dog grooming parlour

We would like to wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Nail Clipping and Anal Glands - Only 5€ each!

We are closed from 25th December to 2nd January Open Christmas Eve, Book early to avoid dissapointment closed mondays - you can still call 697 569 750 for appointments Open 10.30am - 6pm Tuesday - Friday Avda LePanto, 20, 04800, Albox, next door to Eurowise

Tel: 950 952 940 . 697 569 750

elite plant hire construction & drainage

• general builders • walls • jcb 3cx hire • paving • patios • extensions • roofing • cladding references available call lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

23

Farmers bombard ministry of agriculture FOR GREAT winter with half a tonne of tomatoes ADVERTISING RATES

Farmers pelted the ministry of agriculture building with 500 kilos of tomatoes and several crates of peppers and cucumbers yesterday in protest over ‘illegal’ imports of fruit and vegetables from Morocco.

Tomatoes from the north African country are coming into Spain without any proper control, claim members of the farming association COAG. And they are undercutting Spanish prices by such a degree that the agricultural sector in Spain cannot compete.

Moroccan tomatoes are selling at 46 cents a kilo, whereas in Spain, it costs 50 cents a kilo just to produce them and to match the import prices, national farmers would have to sell their produce at a loss.

Peppers and cucumbers are also affected, but to a lesser degree.

The agricultural workers

CALL 950 121 936

also left huge boxes of sand outside the ministry to symbolise the ‘desertification’ of their fields, with fruit and vegetables left to rot as they could not afford to harvest them.

A spokesman for COAG says Spain’s ministry of agriculture ‘has to learn that its job is to look out for Spanish farmers, not Moroccan farmers’ and says that the government is turning its back on the potential ruin that could be faced by up to 200,000 producers.

They also condemned the ‘authoritative and dictatorial attitude’ of the ministry after they received a letter telling them they were not permitted to attend the Spanish-Moroccan Committee meeting yesterday, during which representatives of both countries and their farming associations, cooperatives, and Spanish exporters would be chosen.

David

665 517 643

Steve

610 905 173 valleyconstruction2008@gmail.com

Satellite TV Systems 1.2m Dish Cable, Bracket, LNB installed €150 Satellite Re-alignment Inc, SD Freesat Box €220

Internet Via Satellite Console Repairs General Electrical Email: enquiries@mbitalmanzora.es Electronic Repairs

Telephone: 646 341 575

City & Guilds & ACS qualifications, CORGI registered with 10 years experience

Chris: 637 82 97 87 / 618 06 20 80 Gas & Oil Fired Central Heating - Gas Appliances Plumbing - Servicing - Repairs - Installations FREE QUOTATIONS & ADVICE

LOGS FOR SALE

FREE KINDLING WITH EVERY LOAD - Grade a Olive - No Roots - Best Prices Available

Fully Legal & Experienced Builders All Building Work Undertaken No Job Too Big or Small!!

Phone or email for a no obligation quote

Tel: 687 314 775

Log-on-Tommy

James & Son Removals / Storage

Stacking service available Free Kindling with every full load

Same Day Delivery & Stacking Service Available

UK, France & Spain personal shopping from the UK

now incorporating “Sammy Sweep”

Small Cut Olive Logs No Roots For The Smaller Fire

619 070 839

(Argos, Screwfix, Wickes etc)

Pet Transportation & Competitive Rates 950 529 731 / 627 968 434

OFFICIAL HITS AGENTS IN ALBOX

WE HAVE THE FULL RANGE OF HITS PHONES & SIM CARDS IN STOCK Contact us now on: Tel: 950 064 584 | Mob: 654 590 258 Email: info@solymarspain.com | Web: www.solymarspain.com We also offer all major mobile top ups from our office

Nick Howe Chief Technician

+34 699 909 737 Established for over 10 years Office: +950 528 334 E-Mail: solosat@gmail.com

Clean Team British Plasterer Brighten up your Walls!

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Services Quality Cleaning at an Affordable Price 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed Regular or One-Off Service No Job Too Big or Too Small All Areas Covered F E R NOW PROVIDING GARDENING SERVICES SP E C IA L O F GET READY FOR CHRISTMAS CLEAN ONE-OFF DEEP

Tel: 950 930 652 Mob: 634 332 502 E-mail: cleanteam.es@gmail.com

• 8 years in Spain with 25 years experience • Quality work guaranteed • References available

Tel: 634 327 201 / 661 129 028 Email: atpspain@gmail.com www.paulmorrison.es S.M.S.BUILDING MAINTENANCE

All Building Work Undertaken Garages, Patios, Boundary Walls,Renovations, Cladding, Enclosures, Painting & Decorating (from 50€ per room including paint) Also All Exterior Painting and Damp Proofing

( No job Too Small)

GUARANTEED TO BEAT ANY QUOTE For free estimate or advice please call

Steve on 950930536 or 634306690

Email : Steven561@btinternet.com

Stunning Prints & GIANT posters A3 x 9 100’s to choose from or email your own photos...

Ideal Christmas Presents Tel: 634 388 243

newallprints@hotmail.com

24

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Sale and Rental Properties Urgently Required

Please check our website for more unbelievable offers or call

Tel: (0034) 616 760 409 or Tel: (0034) 950 091 137

www.indalorealestate.com Email: info@indalorealestate.com Legal properties urgently required in the Albox, Arboleas, Huercal Overa,Los Gallardos and Mojacar areas ARBOLEAS.................€95,000 MOJACAR...................€105,000 ARBOLEAS .............. €129,000 ARBOLEAS.................€138,000

• Good size Finca split in to 2 Apartments • Walking distance to amenities • Swimming pool and great views • Both apartments have 2 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge/diner. Total of 3 bathrooms.

• Garden and separate 700m2 plot • Casita, car-port and terraces REF: A1687

• Reduced – fully furnished apartment • Walking distance to amenities • 2 double bedrooms and family bathroom • Good size lounge/diner • Fully fitted kitchen with white goods • Large terrace area with sea views • Swimming pools and tennis court REF: A1679

• Excellent 2/3 bed Villa • Lounge/diner and conservatory • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • Fully fitted kitchen • 650m² mature garden with 8x4m swimming pool • Central heating, air-con, fly-screens and ceiling fans • 2/3 minute drive from Arboleas REF: A1610

• 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms • 31m² lounge/diner with a feature gas fire • Fully fitted kitchen with white goods • 15m² conservatory with retractable glass doors

• 8x4m swimming pool and 24m² workshop

• Central heating; air-con; fly-screens, satellite TV etc.

• Walking distance to amenities

Ref: A1683

ARBOLEAS...............€145,000 ARBOLEAS.................€149,950 NR ARBOLEAS...........€149,995 ARBOLEAS.................€164,950

• 3 bed Villa plus 31m² 1 bed Annexe • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • 15m² fully fitted kitchen • Lounge and separate dining room • c. 600m² walled and gated plot • Swimming pool and 24.5m² garage • Large fly-free covered terrace REF: A1682

• Located within walking distance of amenities • High quality villa with many extras • 3 double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • Good size lounge/diner with fire-place • Fully fitted kitchen • Covered terrace and swimming pool REF:A1571

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK Arboleas

• 3 bed villa with every extra possible • Garage; air-con and central heating • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • Split level feature lounge/diner with fire-place • 109m2 build with 690m2 landscaped garden • 8x4m swimming pool; conservatory Ref: A1673 • Oak fitted wardrobes

• Luxurious 3 bed Villa • Good size lounge/diner • Beautiful conservatory/sunroom • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • Fully fitted kitchen • 128m² build; 626m² garden with pool • 2/3 minute drive from Arboleas

REF: A1616

• 3 bed Villa with stunning views • Within walking distance of amenities • Fantastic conservatory/sunroom • Good size lounge/diner • Family bathroom and ensuite to bed 1 • Fully fitted kitchen and utility room • 8x4m swimming pool

€169,000

Ref: A1686

long term rental properties VILLARICOS.........€495/month NR CUCADOR ......€495/month NR ARBOLEAS......€545/month NR ARBOLEAS......€550/month

• Furnished, fantastic 3 bed Apartment • Fully fitted kitchen with white goods • Good size lounge/diner with balcony • Family bathroom and ensuite to master bedroom • Communal swimming pool and parking • Walking distance to all amenities REF: R242

• Fully furnished, 3 bed, 3 bath Villa • Fully fitted kitchen with appliances • Good size lounge/diner with log-burner • 8x4m swimming pool • Air-con, ceiling fans, satellite TV • Roof-top solarium; peaceful location REF:R307

• Furnished Villa with great views • 4 beds, 2 baths • Fully fitted kitchen & utility room • Good size lounge/diner with fire-place • 10x5m swimming pool REF: R302 • Garage, car port, covered terrace

• Fully furnished 3 bed, 2 bath Villa • 3-4 minute drive from Arboleas • Fully equipped kitchen • Lounge/diner with fire-place • Swimming pool and off-road parking • Covered terrace and bbq area

REF: R286

ARBOLEAS............€575/month NR ARBOLEAS......€625/month TURRE...................€600/month NR ZURGENA........€695/month

• Fully furnished, large 3 bed, 2 bath Villa • Fully fitted kitchen & dining room • Good size lounge • Swimming pool and great views • Casita and roof-top solarium • Walking distance to bars/restaurants REF: R271

• Beautifully furnished Villa with Annexe • 4 beds, 3 baths in total • Fully fitted kitchen & utility room • Good size lounge/diner with log-burner • Swimming pool and great views REF: R301 • Garage and lots of extras

• Fully furnished 3 bed, 2 bath Villa • Walking distance to all amenities • Fully equipped kitchen • Lounge/diner with fire-place • Swimming pool and off-road parking • Air con/satellite TV

REF: R244

• Unfurnished, 4 bed, 3 bath Villa • Fully fitted kitchen with appliances • Good size lounge/diner with fire-place • Air con; internet available • Peaceful location with fantastic views REF: R290 • Bespoke swimming pool with bar

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

25

THE person BEHIND MÁSMÓV!L

- THE MOBILE PHONE OPERATOR FOR SMART EXPATS

CAMBRIDGE 800

CONSULTANTS REWARDED FOR THEIR EXCELLENT WORK, ENTHUSIASM AND SUPPORT The staff and a number of CAMBRIDGE 800 consultants from Spain were flown over to attend the annual Cambridge Weight Plan, UK Conference, in November, which was held to celebrate the successes of dieters and Consultants alike.

The theme this year was ‘’YOUR TIME TO SHINE’’ in the spirit of the Olympic Torch. As ever Cambridge rewarded slimmers who had lost significant amounts of weight in the face of adversity and Consultants who had gone above and beyond the call of duty to support their customers.

Not only did Cambridge throw a great party, but there were many interviews with slimmers with both before and after photos and it was difficult to hold back the tears when they told their story about the monumental challenges they had managed to overcome, and how their life had changed for the better after they had lost their weight and had managed to maintain it.

Every customer and Consultant is a winner in the eyes of Cambridge and the party after the Conference was a well deserved reward to all those who had made life changes to themselves or someone else.

The consistent comments from all the customers of Cambridge, was that without the vital support of their CAMBRIDGE Consultants this would not have been possible. If you would like to get in contact with your local CAMBRIDGE 800 Consultant in Spain and find out how you can get your life and health back on track, take the first step and call now: 952 586 324 or 952 475 954 Email admin@cambridge800.es www.cambridge800.es www.facebook/cambridge800 Photo Captions: Some of the members of the Spanish team: Gilly Speleers Spain Consultant, Torrevieja, Alicante, Lynda Gibson Spain Consultant, Orihuela Costa, Alicante, Sarah Hawes, Directora Cambridge 800 Spain, Ann Bridges Spain Consultant, Mojacar, Almeria, Lauren Shakespeare Spain joint Consultant with mum Lynda Gibson. At the front: Vicky Anderson, Support Administrator for Cambridge 800 Spain.

Lauren Shakespeare Spain joint Consultant with mum Lynda Gibson, Lynda Gibson Spain Consultant, Orihuela Costa, Alicante, Gilly Speleers Spain Consultant, Torrevieja, Alicante, Vicky Anderson, Support Administrator for Cambridge 800 Spain, Sarah Hawes, Directora Cambridge 800 Spain.

When Norwegian born Christian (Chris) Nyborg, cofounder of MÁSMÓV!L, set up his Spanish Mobile Phone Operating company back in 2006, he set out to compete with Spain’s three big mobile phone providers: Movistar, Vodafone and Orange.

MÁSMÓV!L has since become ‘’the best value for money mobile phone operator for both calls and Internet in Spain’’ with customer service in Spanish, English, German- and the ‘’Scandinavian language’’.

Tell us a bit more about yourself Chris?

I have had a senior position with Swedish mobile phone and network manufacturer Ericsson for many years and quickly learned that mobile telephony in Spain was extremely expensive compared to other European countries and that customer service was average and often not very satisfactory at all.

I used my experience and extended knowledge of the Spanish market, together with a vision to improve customer service and offer clients the best possible mobile phone and Internet rates, to make my dream become a reality and develop what is now known as MÁSMÓV!L, a mobile phone operator with more than 115.000 satisfied customers in Spain.

How was MÁSMÓV!L first established?

My business partner Meinrad (Meini) Spenger and I came up with a business plan for this concept back in 2005. Less than a year later the EU ordered the three main Spanish mobile operators to rent out their mobile network to other operators in order to create competition within the market and we managed to come to an agreement with one of the major mobile phone operators – Orange.

Today MÁSMÓV!L has distributors all over the country and employs over 100 people.

Meini has become the CEO, whilst I am responsible for the International Business Division, focusing on Northern Europeans residing in Spain.

You had a vision, but how did you finance it all?

The capital was provided through two main sources: ‘North Zone Ventures’ whose most impressive investment project is Spotify, and ‘Schibsted ASA’, a Norwegian Media Group with operations in over 20 countries, with more than 8.500 employees.

It is safe to say that investors like these stand for long-term quality and they would not be involved in MÁSMÓV!L unless they fully believed in its potential and what it stands for.

How did you get people to switch to MÁSMÓV!L? The Spanish are generally conservative and sceptical of new mobile phone operators but over time we have gained people’s trust and they now recommend us to friends and acquaintances. Customer growth increases each month and we currently have more than 115.000 satisfied customers. A recent survey showed that 91,5 % of our clients would recommend MÁSMÓV!L to friends and family.

Plus there is no risk in trying MÁSMÓV!L, since there are no long-term contracts and no penalties and you may leave whenever you want. We stand for total transparency without the small print and you may log on to your personal Internet account at all times for an overview of costs, balance, dialled numbers etc. or contact our friendly staff in your own language for any queries.

Why is MÁSMÓV!L for Smart Expats?

We call our customers “smart buyers”; people who are price-conscious and not afraid to switch mobile operator. They can cut their mobile telephone bill in half for national calls, and save more than 80% on international calls and as we use the Orange Network the quality remains the same. For example calls to UK and German landlines are just 4 cents per minute!

They may put their mobile number and Internet ‘on hold’ when travelling back home, that way they only pay when they are here and avoid expensive roaming prices! They can get Internet from the moment they arrive back in Spain without the need to install ADSL and there are no fixed Internet charges.

Also, the USB modem is ‘unlocked’ and may be used with other branded SIM cards back home if preferred.

Do I need a Spanish bank account to get started?

There is no need for a Spanish bank account. One can pay by Credit card; Pay as you go; Direct Debit and even by Automatic Top-up which, of course, is ideal if you want to manage your kid’s spending limits and control exactly how much you’re paying too!

How can I change to MÁSMÓV!L in the simplest possible way?

advertising feature

Go to our website www.masmovil.es, visit one of our distributors or phone the free number: 1473 and remember, we speak English, Spanish, German and the ‘’Scandinavian language’’!

advertising feature

MEET CHRIS!

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

coffee break STANDARD CROSSWORD

Down 1 Made from the residue of grapes (4) 2 Marks against a person for misconduct (8) 3 Requested earnestly (6) 4 Academic (7) 5 The ability to see (8) 6 A natural cavity in a bone (6) 7 Shaft on which a wheel rotates (4) 14 Pertaining to Scandinavia (5) 16 Foot joint (5) 18 In an advanced stage of pregnancy (8) 20 Unnerve (8) 21 TV show (7) 23 Pharynx (6) 25 Elevated open grasslands (6) 27 Pocketbook (4) 29 Pleasant (4)

11 Mathematical symbol for musical drama and hill (8) 12 Tool for dances at a first wedding (6) 13/27 Place in Shanghai - a ‘Dragon Inn’ collapses with Juliet inside (7,4) 14 At a consistent rate, it delays reconstruction (8) 16 Business opening, in a way, is in a foreign country (6) 18 Official allows China’s leader to enter, then meditates (8) 22 Brought in Eastern daughter after near disruption (6) 24 Doctor is without new ‘King’ beverages (6) 25 Envelops western music from Eminem? (5) 26 Victor’s headless, but not on the outside! (5) 27 See 13 29 Steal from, or return to, Britain (3) 30 Complicated section of animal (3)

Down 1 Truthful part of rich one’s testimony? (6) 2 Smells bad, and sings without words! (4) 3 Land for a rest? (3) 4 Existed, as after first war (3) 5 What you’re hoping to do with Shanghai’s first love, perhaps (5) 6 Give out children (5) 7 Profited from dealing crookedly? Not likely at first!

(6) 8 Puts forward southern guest’s adaptation, taking German capital (8)

HARD SUDOKU

Very Hard!

CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across 2 Not using a machine, down Shanghai’s development, missing nothing (11) 9 Identified setter in new commercial (5) 10 Spattering remains in second quiet fish (9) 12 Funny ape with Jeans from an Asian country! (8) 15 Cab thanks football team (4) 16 Strangely sad without initially difficult sums (4) 17 Scope of Iran, generally (5) 18 Reportedly hurry a country (6) 19 Killer-whale comes up to a ship, not down (6) 20 Time concealed river inside musical interval (5) 21 Moved swiftly (through the air?) (4) 23 A good editor is old! (4) 25 Squirmed with funny g-girl getting married outside (8) 28 Vessel to hold the Queen?

(9) 30 Left to possess Chinese leader’s first buffoon! (5) 31 Sid came back, attempted to surround but passed around (11)

SUDOKU PUZZLE

Sudoku is a placement puzzle. Enter the numbers 1 to 9 in each row and column of a grid, made up of 3 x 3 subgrids. The catch is that each row, column and grid must contain only one instance of each number or letter.

Across 8 A support or foundation (4) 9 Scratchy (5) 10 Following (4) 11 A long tiresome piece of writing (6) 12 Saw (8) 13 Badge (8) 15 A device used to keep instruments steady regardless of motion (6) 17 Braids (7) 19 Marked with linear discolorations (7) 22 Gaelic (6) 24 Critiqued (8) 26 Longing (8) 28 Showing affection (6) 30 Goddess of healing (Babylonian mythology) (4) 31 Browned slices of bread (5) 32 Tick ____ (4)

Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.

Calvin Coolidge

STANDARD SUDOKU

26

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

your help is urgently needed as Christmas & New Year at... puppy rescue kennels to close La Cucador

VidaRestaurant,Venue&Bar

Puppy Rescue have been told in the last week that they have to leave their kennels by the end of December this year. The company with who they have a contract with is selling their business and their new plans do not include Puppy Rescue.

LUNCHTIME CHRISTMAS PARTY From 20-22 December

At present Puppy Rescue have 41 dogs in their kennels, the majority of which have been there since they were six months old. Whilst they may be able to send 10 -15 to homes in Holland in January, as part of our ongoing effort to find suitable homes the future remains very uncertain for the others

9.95€ includes 3 course meal & glass of wine Served: 12:30 - 4pm

evening christmas party From 20-22 December

Over the past year only 5 dogs have been rehomed from the kennels. People love cute puppies and offer them homes, but will not take the adults they grow into. There is an urgent need to find a solution for these dogs; whether they find permanent homes or foster homes is not important, they just need somewhere to go by January.

4 course meal & glass of wine 15€ or two courses 10.95€ Served: 6:30-9pm

All are immunised and neutered. If no solution is found for these dogs some may have to be destroyed. This is totally against the ethics of Puppy Recsue our ethics but where can they go?

There are some dogs that cannot go to Holland; they have six with Leishmania, who have all had their treatment, and there are several who cannot go because they are too nervous. It could be that in a foster home, with love and socialization, these nervous dogs will become able to travel to Holland.

For the sake and lives of these dogs, is there anyone who could offer one or more, either a permanent or temporary home. Please get in touch. If you could foster a dog, expenses would be paid. Or if you know of any kennels we could rent or provide any solution we need to hear from you. Email: info@ puppyrescueinspain.org or telephone our helpline: 690 143 140

Space is still available for

CHRISTMAS LUNCH Fri 21st Dec

667 919 025 Café Bar

Kriss Kelly

Mon 24th Dec

Abbie Lou inc FREE Buffet

LA ALFOQUIA, ZURGENA

WEDNESDAY NIGHT CURRY 2 Courses €6 NEW WINTER WARMER MENU from €4

Fri 28th Dec

Twilight Shadows

Mon 31st Dec

Abbie Lou, Disco to take new Sunday FISH, CHIPS & you into the New Year, nu me h PEAS for €5 nc lu FREE Entry, FREE Available Buffet and Cava at only € every day Midnight Open Monday - Friday 8am til late Saturday & Sunday 9am til late

5

Bay ay b bistro istro B

Paseo del Meditteraneo Along from Meditteraneo restaurant

NEW YEARS EVE PARTY PRESENTS KING OF SWING

TONY JUSTICE & TRUE SCOTTISH PIPER

Plus Hot & Cold Buffet, Cava & Grapes Last Few Places For Christmas Lunch Available

Tel:Tel: 950 450 199761 / 628391 761 391 628

Christmas Eve with JC 60’s, 70’s & 80’s Music Tickets 6€

includes Chicken & Chips or Chilli & Rice 1€ donation from each ticket sale to Vera Orphanage

Christmas Day 6 Course Lunch with LIVE MUSIC

with Kris Kelly Call or email for menu details & bookings: ONLY A FEW TABLES LEFT!

quiz Night STARTS AGAIN MONDAY 7TH JANUARY 2013

Christmas jackpot bingo SUNDAY 23RD DECEMBER WITH GED 7:30 - 8PM

new year’s EVE SOLD OUT!

NEW YEAR’S day

TRADITIONAL ROAST lunch

BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN

two courses FROM 10.95€ served 12.30-5pm

Rob, Chrissie & all the team at La Vida, would like to wish customers, old and new, a very Merry Christmas & a New Year filled with happiness and good times yet to be had!

Open Every Day ~ 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com

We are here

Albox Arboleas Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

27

28

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

CHRISTMAS MENU...

Mesón de

Irene

#

Unmissable offer!

Port and Stilton Pate

Free Bottle

of La Mancha Red or white wine per couple to take away with any of our night menus

Valid only with this voucher Mon - Sat: 19.00 - 22.00

STOP ‘N’ SHOP IN YOUR...

Super Corner

ENGLISH SUPERMARKET ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS AND MORE IN ONE SUPERSTORE!!

TURRE, NEXT TO MESON DEL POBRE OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 9:30-6PM & SUNDAY 9:30 - 1:30PM

Ingredients 50g unsalted butter; 6 spring onions, finely chopped; 50ml port; 1tbsp finely grated lemon zest; 125g Stilton,

INGREDIENTS

crumbled; 1 small bunch flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped For the cranberry chutney: 250g fresh cranberries; 65g golden caster sugar; 1tsp

450g peeled chestnuts 1 large onion, finely chopped 110g smoked streaky bacon, finely chopped The liver from the turkey, chopped small 225g best-quality pork sausagemeat or finely minced pure pork 4 tbsp chopped parsley 1 dtsp chopped thyme ¼ tsp ground mace 25g butter; Seasoning

each allspice and paprika; Melba toasts or crispbreads For the port wine jelly: 2-3 leaves of gelatine; 150ml (1/4pt) port

For the pâté, melt butter in a saucepan, gently sweat spring onions until soft. Add port and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and stir well. Remove from heat and blend thoroughly in a processor. Season with freshly ground black pepper then divide between 4 small ramekins. Cover and chill.

Make the chutney by placing all ingredients in a small saucepan with 3tbsp water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to medium and stir. Cook gently for 8-10 minutes or until cranberries have softened.

Remove from heat. When cool, transfer to a small serving bowl and set aside.

Make the jelly seal for the pâté by placing the gelatine leaves in a bowl of cold water; leave to soften for 12-15 minutes. Heat the port in a small saucepan until boiling, then remove from the heat. Remove softened gelatine from the water and squeeze out any excess before adding to the port. Stir to dissolve and allow to cool, then pour over the prepared pâté to seal. Return to the fridge and chill until set.

Serve with the chutney and thin Melba toasts or crispbreads.

Chestnut Stuffing

Melt the butter in a large fryingpan and cook the onion, bacon and chopped turkey liver for ten minutes or so, until the onion looks transparent and everything is tinged gold at the edges. Now tip the contents of the pan into a large mixing bowl and add all the remaining ingredients. Season and mix very thoroughly.

NOTE if you like your stuffing firm, so that it cuts in slices, add a beaten egg to bind it. if, like me, you prefer it crumbly, leave the egg out.

The new delhi Indian Restaurant fine indian cuisine

Banquet Menu 4 Courses €10 Mon, Tue, Wed Chef Special Menu 6 Courses €12.95 Thurs & Fri New Years EVE Special menu 4 Courses only €10

Open 7 Days a week Including Christmas (Closed Christmas Day)

Wishing all our customers YEAR CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW

MERRY

Avda America, opposite Pricebusters, Albox

Tel: 950 431 705 Mob: 639 231 507

Great Food at FRANKIE’S bar Sky Sports and ESPN HD Sports Great Prices sunday 23 December Tel: 633 684 855 Christmas Lunch

Traditional Takeaway Fish & Chips

Hotel Street, Vera Playa

rd

Opening Hours 12:30-9pm Tues-Sat Opposite Iceland Car Park,Vera

Tel: 667 333 361 www.thechippyvera.com

Saturday Night Meal Deals

2 x Cod or Haddock & Chips Only 10€

2 x Pie & Chips Only 7€

2 x Sausage or Savaloy or Chicken Nuggets or Fish Cakes & Chips - only 5€ More offers Available: Please Come In & See Us for Details

Hugo Formerly of Cafe Bar International La Alfoquia, Plaza Santa Ana (Opposite the Old Station)

3 courses €15 per person

Open Everyday 9.30am - 11pm (except Monday) Kitchen open 9.30am - 4pm, 7 - 11pm

now showing all champions league & la liga games

Sunday Lunch

Served 2 - 6pm

Choose from Beef, Pork or Chicken with all the trimmings!

Kentucky

Fried Chicken eat in or take away

From €4,95

Pizzas

Eat in or Take Away Tuesday - Sunday from 7pm

now serving GuiNness & strongbow

FREE

traditional paella (min2 people)

christmas eve New years eve disco party disco party with

steve king free buffet 9.30 - late

with

steve king free buffet

cava & grapes at midnight

Tel: 662 47 48 61

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Traditional Roast Turkey

INGREDIENTS

6.5kg turkey, oven-ready (fresh or defrosted in the fridge for at least 3 days); 75g butter, softened; 225g very fat streaky bacon; 1 quantity of stuffing; Seasoning You will need: Extra-wide strong turkey foil and a small skewer or cocktail sticks.

For a 6.5kg (14lb 5oz) turkey - TIP: It’s only dangerous to put turkey stuffing inside the body cavity if either the turkey or the stuffing is not defrosted properly, because the heat will not penetrate it quickly enough. If both are at room temperature it is perfectly safe.

METHOD

7.45AM Preheat the oven to 220°C/gas mark 7. First stuff the turkey with your chosen stuffing.

Loosen the skin with your hands and pack the stuffing into the neck end, pushing it up between the flesh and the skin towards the breast (not too tightly, because it will expand during the cooking).

Press it in gently to make a nicely rounded end, then tuck the neck flap under the bird’s back and secure with a small skewer or some cocktail sticks. Don’t expect to get all the stuffing in this end - put the rest into the body cavity.

Now arrange two large sheets of foil across your roasting tin, one widthways and the other lengthways (no need to butter them).

Lay the turkey on its back in the centre, then rub it generously all over with the butter, making sure the thigh bones are particularly well covered.

Next season the bird all over and lay the bacon over the breast with the rashers overlapping each other. I always put some over the legs as well.

Now wrap the turkey loosely in the foil. The parcel must be firmly sealed but roomy enough to provide an air space around most of the upper part of the bird. So bring one piece of foil up and fold both ends over to make a pleat along the length of the breastbone. Then bring the other piece up

Mini Christmas Puds INGREDIENTS

200g mincemeat; 60g self-raising flour; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp ground mixed spice; 1 medium egg ~ 25g butter; 40ml black treacle; 55ml Irish stout; 1 tbsp dark rum; 40g Bramley apple, peeled, cored and finely diced; 10g roasted chopped hazelnuts; 75g currants; zest of ½ an orange & ½ a lemon; Four 175ml mini non-stick pudding basins ~ a small shallow roasting tin, some baking parchment and foil

at both ends and crimp and fold to make a neat parcel.

8.15AM Place the turkey in the preheated oven, where it will cook at the initial high temperature for 40 minutes. Once it is in, you can peel the potatoes ready for roasting and keep them covered with cold water in a saucepan.

Now begin making the bread sauce (see link to recipe below).

8.55AM Lower the oven temperature to 170°C/gas mark 3.

11.45AM Now is the time to finish off the bread sauce. Remove the onion, bay leaf and peppercorns, and keep the onion on one side. Stir the breadcrumbs into the milk and add half of the butter.

Leave the saucepan on a very low heat, stirring now and then, until the crumbs have swollen and thickened the sauce - approximately 15 minutes.

Now replace the clove-studded onion and again leave the pan in a warm place till the sauce is needed.

Just before serving, remove the onion and spices and squeeze it between two saucers to extract all the juice. Reheat gently, then beat the cream and taste to check the seasoning.

Pour into a warm serving jug and dot the remaining butter on top and keep warm until needed.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. Sift the flour, baking powder & mixed spice into a medium mixing bowl, then add the egg and butter. Measure the treacle into a glass measuring jug, add the stout and rum and mix these together. Next pour this mixture into the bowl & whisk everything thoroughly together. Add the apple, nuts, currants, mincemeat & grated orange and lemon zests. Then mix everything together very thoroughly, and divide the mixture among the 4 well-buttered pudding basins.

Top each with a small circle of buttered baking parchment, followed by an 18cm (7in) square of foil large enough to fold under the edges of the basins, making a pleat all the way round to seal.

Now place the basins in the tin and pour in 2.5cm (1in) of boiling water from the kettle, then place the tin in the oven and leave to cook for 45-50 minutes, or until the puddings are springy and firm to the touch in the centre.

Then remove them from the oven, remove the foil and baking parchment and let them stand for 10 minutes before carefully running a small knife around each one to turn them out on to warm serving plates.

Traditional Takeaway Fish & Chips

Opening Hours 12:30-9pm Tues-Sat Opposite Iceland Car Park,Vera

Tel: 667 333 361 www.thechippyvera.com Eat in or Take-Away

No more sitting in your cars to eat...

The Chippy now has tables & Chairs

Saturday Night Meal Deals 2 x Cod or Haddock & Chips Only 10€

2 x Pie & Chips Only 7€

2 x Sausage or Savaloy or Chicken Nuggets or Fish Cakes & Chips - only 5€

Merry Christmas to all our customers Wishing all our customers a happy christmas & new year

G reat Fo od at Grea t Prices Tel: 633 684 855

Hugo Formerly of Cafe Bar International La Alfoquia, Plaza Santa Ana (Opposite the Old Station)

Open Everyday 9.30am - 11pm (except Monday) Kitchen open 9.30am - 4pm, 7 - 11pm

now showing all champions league & la liga games

Sunday Lunch

Served 2 - 6pm

Choose from Beef, Pork or Chicken with all the trimmings!

Kentucky

Eat in or Take Away Tuesday - Sunday from 7pm

now serving GuiNness & strongbow

FREE

traditional paella (min2 people)

NEW YEARS EVE

FOR AN EVENING FILLED WITH FUN AND LAUGHTER & FREE HOT BUFFET - DOORS OPEN 6PM FIREWORK DISPLAY AT MIDNIGHT

BY OUR OWN PYROTECHNICIAN MR DEREK WALLER! THIS WILL BE THE LAST TIME YOU WILL SEE THE GRAPEVINE AS IT IS!!!

WE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 1ST - 4TH JANUARY

GRAND RE-OPENING - 5TH JANUARY NEW YEAR, NEW NAME, NEW LOOK YOU WONT WANT TO MISS IT!!!

FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CALL PAUL on 634 332 178 ITV CENTRE

Tel: 634 332 178

From €4,95

Pizzas

Fried Chicken eat in or take away

COME AND JOIN US ON

← Albox

29

Fines →

Grape Vine 1km → Piedra Amarilla →

30

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Burty’s BAR Playa Serena, roquetas de mar

Call 679 156 715 mon - thurs from 11am fri and sun 11am - 6pm. Closed saturday

e huge sunny terrac and spacious bar 2.15pm prompt every thursday quiz followed by bingo

Christmas Opening Hours

Xmas Eve – 11am – 8pm Xmas Daytime Party with free nibbles “Start Your Festivities Here!”

Xmas Day – 1pm – Close. Limited space available for lunch. All welcome for a drink.

Boxing Day – 11am – 8pm. Cold Meats, potatoes, salads, pickles etc plus choice of dessert 12.50€ per person Thursday 27th December -11am – 6pm Quiz







15.95 €

 a e b  rt pa of it



Saturday 29th December, Sunday 30th December, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day – closed

tuesday bingo 2.30pm

Sarah w ishes all of h er custom ers a very Me christmas carol service rry Xma s and a Ha ppy New with christmas tapas Year Thursday 20th december 11.30am

anglican church

spanish lessons - all levels - now tuesday at 12noon 5€ sunday lunch special €5.95 booking essential

RENDEZVOUS BISTRO & TAPAS BAR

TAPAS (selection changed daily) Served from 12.30pm - 4pm BISTRO MENU - served each evening from 7.30pm (reservations recommended). Menu Changed Weekly.

Meat, Fish and Vegetarian options available (all served with a choice of potatoes and fresh vegetables).

The very popular STEAKS (fillet, entrecote or fore rib available - 24 hours notice required).

Colin thanks everyone for their support over the past year and wishes them a very Happy Christmas & New Year Come and enjoy the smaller place with the BIG ambiance and good music!

Situated in the little Plaza opposite Hotel Playa Luna in Roquetas Urbanisation.

Telephone Colin for Reservations on

671 386 267

Closed Thursday & Sunday Evenings



Friday 28th December – 11am – 6pm



Tel: 659 683 447 www.newyorknewyork.es

OPPOSITE THE PLAYA LUNA HOTEL

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

ROQUETAS DE MAR Christmas Fiesta 2012 On 16th December the 2012 Christmas Fiesta organised by the Asociación de Vecinos Urbanización de Roquetas De Mar y Playa Serena was held in Roquetas De Mar. There was a full day of activities with a Christmas Market, workshops, a tomblola and all day entertainment with Children’s animation, exercise classes, salsa and live music. It was a very successful and beautifully sunny day, attended by large numbers of residents and visitors.

Mini Hollywood

Tabernas, Carretera National 340km, Desierto de Tabernas, Almeria Open 12:00 - 18:00 TEL: 950 365 236 / 950 362 884

A simulated Wild West town

There are daily shows of Wild West scenes, some outside depicting shoot-outs and a hanging (not a real one!) some inside with dancing and bar scenes.

There is a museum, a photo gallery with costumes available for customers to wear for their souvenir photos shoot, restaurants, a train for transport around the quite extensive zoo, there is a big swimming pool and a playground for the children.

DANCE CLASSES GOING STRONG!

Property management Sales & Rentals Roquetas de Mar, Aguadulce Almerimar, Vicar, La Envia Golf

Bar Southern....................................

Every Thursday Bingo 3pm Last Saturday of the month - Jackpot Money Quiz 8pm 1st Friday of Month: Ladies Do Lunch! from 2pm (Menu del Dia 7€) Burtys Bar........................................

Tuesday - 12 noon Spanish Lessons & 2:30pm Bingo Thursdays - Quiz 2:15pm followed by BINGO Bar Spinnaker...................................

Tuesday - Bingo 3pm Wednesday - Steak 7.50€, Quiz 9.30pm Friday - Fish and Chips all day 5€ Saturday - Curry Meal with small wine 7.50€ Sunday - Sunday Roast 1pm - 6pm Chaplins pub.....................................

Opening Hours: Open 1pm til’ close Tuesday to Sunday Wednesday: Rib Night Friday: Chip Shop Day - Fish’n’Chips etc served from 1pm, Quiz Night Sunday - Sunday Lunch served until 8pm TEL: 950 335 022 lady lay..............................................

Tuesday Night - Curry Night Revita Natural Health and Relaxation centre..........................

Calle Tortola 4, Roquetas De Mar Tel 950 333 048 Tai Chi - Tuesday & Thursday 10am Yoga - Sunday 9pm Belly Dancing - Wednesday Y Da wakes.........................................

Monday 8:30pm Bingo CLOSED 24th DECEMBER to 2nd MARCH FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY

Services include Key Holding, Maintenance, Furniture Packs, Cleaning & Laundry, Apartment & Post-box Checks

Mobile: (0034) 663 426 921

info@enviapropertyservices.com

www.enviapropertyservices.com

Cristina - Erika Diez Mentzel ABOGADA - LAWYER Conveyance - Litigation Inheritance - Divorce Wills - Mortagage Matters Non Resident Taxes

C/ Pombal, 11 - Las Marinas 04740 ROQUETAS DE MAR, (ALMERIA)

Tel: 950 33 68 61 Fax: 950 33 68 62 email: cristina@diez-mentzelabogados.com www.diez-mentzelabogados.com

estampa apas T

Ta

Bar

closed 24th & 25th December y outdoor n n u Open boxing day with s s u io c Spa free buffet ating 24 e s e c a r r New Years Eve-closed te New Years Day SKY TV open from 12 noon sky sports now being shown

Open 10am - late (Closed Tuesday) FREE WI-FI Next door to Zurimar 678 202 160

La Grappa

Authentic Italian Restaurant

• Pizzas • Fresh Pastas • Fresh Fish • Argentinian BBQ’d Food On The Terrace

BBQ

Open 12 - 4pm 7 - 12.30am Av. Playa Serena, 37 Roquetas de Mar

950 334 188 609 337 316

EVERY DAY

Dental Clinic

The Latin And Ballroom classes held at Playa Serena Golf Course are going strong. There are two classes a week, on a Tuesday morning 10.30am to 11.30am and from 4th October the Thursday evening class will move to the slightly earlier time of 6pm to 7pm. If you are interested in Strictly Come Dancing or you have always wanted to learn, come along and have a go. You can be sure of a very warm welcome and have great fun in the process, all for just 4 euros per person per class.

On Tuesday 13th November at 2pm there will be a Lunch Dance with proceeds going to the Poppy Appeal. So if you would like to learn for this event or just brush up on what you already know come along to class. Paul and Caroline will be there to guide through the whole process.

Look forward to seeing you soon...

Email: pacarjohnson@gmail.com 618483791

YOUR NEWS & YOUR VIEWS... SEND TO EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM

31

to reserve your table

On-site Dental Laboratory Dr med. dent Hubert Hillenbrand 20 years experience

950 32 64 52

Edificio Porto Mar Avda Mariano Hemandes 48 Roquetas de Mar, German & English Spoken

www.almeria-dentista-zahnarzt.com

near Hotel Zoraida Garden

Martinez-echevarria perez ferrero

law offices

all legal services professionally undertaken, since 1983 Offices in 11 Countries, Largest Firm of Lawyers in Andulucia Tel: +34 950 268 438

fax: +34 950 261 398

New Mojacar Office, Parque Comercial, Local 52

Surgery - Festive Opening Hours December 2012:

Monday 24th: 10.00 – 13.00 Tuesday 25th: 10.00 – 13.00 Wednesday 26th – Friday 28th 09.00 – 13.30 16.30 – 20.00 Saturday 29th: 10.00 – 13.00 Sunday 30th: 10.00 – 13.00 Monday 31st: 10.00 – 13.00

January 2013:

Tuesday 1st: 10.00 – 13.00 Wednesday 2nd – Friday 4th: 09.00 – 13.30 16.30 – 20.00 Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th: 10.00 – 13.00 Monday 7th: 10.00 – 13.00

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

SEND your birthday & ANNIVERSARY GREETINGS TO EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM & WE’LL PRINT THEM FREE OF CHARGE!

32

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

SOL CLASSIFIEDS www.AAparking.es Tel: 639 081 067

Cheap

gardening

construction

potty finca services

Airport Parking

Alicante Almeria Murcia New Servicing / Repairs

Mat Murray 647 841 750 matmurrayes@gmail.com

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L.

established in spain for 14 years

City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

not a jack of all trades

For all your installation or service MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L offers requirements including our latest info@md-aircon.com telephone 950 432 110 / 607 364 917

607 364 917 or 950 432 110 email: info@md-aircon.com

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

alternative energy Solar Wind Power Solutions.

Always offers on Solar panels, Over 15 years installation ex p e r i e n c e Call Phil for competitive prices 636 261 240 email:info@ s un e r g ya l m e r i a . com www.sunergy almeria.com

Everything for

the visiting baby Car seats,high chairs, stair gates, cots etc

Tel: 950 436 581 or 666 375 688 expectingababy@hotmail.co.uk blinds INTERNAL & EXTERNAL BLINDS SHADING SPAIN, WITH...

Call Justin at Sol Shaders for a free no obligation quote Tel: 627 907 207 www.solshaders.net Email: solshaders@live.co.uk

beauty

avon

cosmetics

claire

Tel: 691 987 454 avonfromclaire@ yahoo.es

business opportunity To rent. Small Bar/Restaurant on the beach, Roquetas Marina. Includes all fixtures and fittings. 1,000€ per month plus IVA. Tel: 663 426 921

chimney sweep SAMMY SWEEP Chimney Sweep Service available covering all areas call paul on 619 070 839

computers Steve Hayes Informatica

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc.

Sales & Repairs on-site callout / tuition.

Consumables Albox, Almeria

Tel: 950 120 900

fully legal

Constructions

Martinez moreno cb (Rambla de Oria) All types of building work undertaken inc plumbing & electrics

strimming of overgrown gardens & hedge cutting spanish registered. logs available ring john on 616 855 294 or 950 163 930

Baths & Drains • CCTV Surveys • Drain Tracing • Turbine Root Cutting • Blocked Cesspits



950 091 109 or 648 768 587

Cleaning of Septic Tanks • Emptying of Septic Tanks & Cesspits, with high pressure cleaning Only • Small unblockages of 100€ pipes & drainage Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks

Contact: 675 838 808

Drainage Solutions

• Emergency Drain Cleaning • High Pressure Water Jetting • CCTV Surveys • Drainage Repairs • Location of Cesspits • Qualified Engineer • Expert Reports

Established 7 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966 electrical

Knowles & Abbott no.1 for electrics and plumbing.

Re-wires, free to air UK satellite systems

950 137 208 638 010 691

for sale

For more articles for sale visit www.soltimes.com under the business directories section Yamaha ERB070 4 string bass plus Yamaha practice amp, strap and gig bag. Immaculate condition with very little use from new. Never gigged this is a quality instrument

Current list price in excess of 300€.

Accept 170€. 693 753 327 Saliente 3 & 2 seater settees (good condition) tan leather base,tan/ brown fleck seats,back and

heating neater heater See our main ad on the news pages Carlos (Saliente) plumbing & heating services. If it involves water, we can help! www.carlossaliente.com Tel: 968 969 962

house clearances

cash payment waiting for tel: 609 421 734 (Spanish) all your unwanted goods, also business stock tel: 696 052 044 (English) liquidations carried out

c a rl o s s a li e nt e & plumbing heating for solar drainage pool heating, solar hot water installations and repairs. call 950 930 900 or 968 LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING 969 962, email • Installation of fibreglass septic tanks carlos.saliente@ • Blocked Toilets, Sinks, gmail.com

baby hire

professional tree felling & pruning, including all types of palm trees

Air-con

MD S.L

Classified box from 9€. lineage only 45 cents per word Deadline 5pm Friday Contact Paulette on 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332

construction

Airport services

Airport services Airport, social & shopping run.

Telelephone 663 429 521

trade Businesses can advertise in the classified section

Call Cash & Carry Clearances Tel: 618 725 567 or 619 773 582

cashandcarry54@yahoo.co.uk

THE HOUSE CLEARING SPECIALIST

Immediate Cash. Quick decision. * We cover all areas * We turn up, give cash & carry * We buy almost anything – The Highest Cash Prices Paid **ONLY serious & immediate sellers should call please**

Tel: 679 207 545 or 636 411 540

hobby/craft

Now exhibiting at Los Llanos market, Arboleas every Saturday Tel: 950 120 077 Mob: 625 435 050 / 615 396 056 iron/metal works

metal works

Gates, rejas, fabriction welding reliable service Telephone

950 069 208 or 638 449 944 adwelds@yahoo.com

iron/metal works T & T Metals For all quality metal works, including gates, railings, rejas, staircases, gazebos & chainlink fencing - Tel: 950 431 738

The Metal works Grills, railings, gates of all types, security/sliding/ roller, rejas, concertina doors etc.

Tel: Keith Wood on

638 900 949 locksmith

Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours.

Locked Out? Locks fitted/ upgraded house safes. Arboleas & surrounding area.

Special weekend rates. Tel: 697 243 181

arm cushions.

299€. Los Lobos area Tel: 950 396 820 Mob: 646 009 453 (Buyer Collects) 2 semi industrial Fagor tumble dryers, only used for 3 months. Paid 2,500€ each. Will accept 250€ each or nearest offer.

Telephone 666 717 742 B r a ss st a n d a r d lamp,3 armed with bulbs & glass shades, 30. Los Lobos area Tel: 950 396 820 Mob: 646 009 453 Philips Flat Screen T.V. HD ready 26” as new can be seen working.

85€ ovno. Los Lobos area Tel: 950 396 820 Mob: 646 009 453.

LANEY RICHTER rb8 300 watt bass combo amplifierBrand new. An award winning amplifier, new 460€, this one for sale at 300€.

Genuine reason for sale. 693 753 327 Saliente.

Elaine’s Wools quality UK wool & accessories. Come & view my display legal W e stfi e l d Also available at Camposol, Mazarron Need help with NIE / Residencias, Les Paul Electric Call 667 273 889 elaines wools@gmail. Cadastre, Property Conveyancing, Guitar, Sunburst com New Building Declarations, Notary, colour, VGC. with Wills etc Telephone: 646 844 708 interpretor / translator hard back case, www.4way connections.webs.com Strap, Lead, Practice 10 watt logs amp, plus effaects load of small or big Need a Translator?... box. 250€ Tel: 950 Olive logs, no roots €160 479 662 / 648 078 Legal Contracts load of mixed Olive 051.

General Documents some roots €140 Reports & Certificates christmas Notary / Court Appearances load of eucalyptus, and many more shopping no roots €150

Tlf. 646 844 708

www.4wayconnections.webs.com

insurance

“we have grea offers on lifet insurance”

glenn & jayne Formerly of Knights Insurance, C / Malaga, Albox ... are now exclusive agents for Liberty Seguros

same people - same great service - differeent name

Tel: 950 121 943

infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com

all loads 2 tonnes Arboleas & surrounding areas

Call Lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

Phil Delivers

Logs

gravel & all building materials

Albox & Surrounding areas

tel: 634 328 779

50% off selected boxes or Christmas cards Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 20% off Tom Smith Crackers Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 20% off Selected Christmas Trees Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487 C hristm a s Foods & Chocolates Home Sweet Home Tel: 950 479 487

www.soltimes.com legal cont...

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic in our regular space on pg 16, please email info@daviessolicitors.com NUMBER PLATES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

personal

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

VERA PLAYA YOUNG PRETTY GIRLS

with barbie bodies 90-60-90 french, brunettes & columbians

24 HOURS • STRIPTEASE tEL: 687 891 515

“RE-PLATE” Spanish • blonde slim • curvy MATE GB

24 hours english spoken

E

Don’t take a chance!

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

634 612 828 pets section palomino kennels exclusive boarding kennels/cattery tel: 950 067 051 good home needed for big mixed breed dog. very good with children. excellent guard dog. 10 years old. please ring 666 717 742 for more details woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery

opticians

arboleas Small friendly kennels, 24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, welcome to view

Optica Albox All your optical needs, eye tests, hearing tests, contact lenses Tel: 950 121 991

Tracy Mobile 650 211 952

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

ministry approved

No need for kennels or cattery, Pet sitting in your own home, Arboleas & surrounding areas.

Call Vanessa on 637 061 482 Not just cats & dogs, All other types of pets considered

friendly mare painter & decorator painter / decorator

over 25 years experience

give your property or business a fresh look this christmas

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

9 years old 14.3hh/1.50m

500€

telephone 678 838 547

Tel Alan: 950 450 174 or 600 268 176

commercial & major retail painter’s expert quality workmanship

visit our website for more info tntpainters@live.co.uk www.tntpaintersltd.co.uk

Hi my name is Slim I was abandoned at The Dog Hotel and never collected. I’m a really friendly boy who gets on with other dogs. I would make you the most loyal companion. D.O.B 01/07/2010 Why not come and meet me at The Dog House.or e-mail thedoghse@hotmail.com

DAVE’S TRANSPORT

WITH SOLTIMES For just 10€ per week!

7.5 Ton, Lorry Part loads, Self load/Unload Minimal rates, Owner Driver Spain/uk/Local Storage available, based “Los Gallardos” &”hertfordshire” Call now 0034 620 049 524 (Es) 00 44 794 3135 214 (UK) woodnco@hotmail.com

3 bed villa for sale phone now for details

Your property will appear as shown above and be seen by almost

55,000 Sol Times readers!

Call Paulette TODAY on 950 121 936

OR 902 750 190 Ext 332

Apartment to rent

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

in Los Menchones near Zurgena ground floor, 1 bed, lounge, Satelitte TV, diningroom, suit couple or single 175€+ bills per month Telephone

950 449 074 or 634 368 071 plasterer British plasterer All work guaranteed Tel Paul 634 327 201

plumbing

gas fast

• 35 years experience • Guaranteed to beat any quote • Quality work guaranteed

removals

SELL YOUR PROPERTY FAST

LOVING OWNER REQUIRED Young female Gas boiler & pointer. Beautiful nature, great with plumbing repairs. dogs &people.

Tel: 618 062 080 Quiet, loving and or 637 829 787 devoted. Lost or abandoned but we Knowles & can´t keep her (2 dogs already).

Abbott Free if you will no.1 for plumbing love her.

Free delivery. & electric. CH, Tlf: Glenn on solar hot water and 657 484074 or glennryan@ water deposits. hotmail.co.uk

painting & decorating

now covering mainland spain

property for rent & SALE

Telephone 950 137 197 or 606 807 797

CARLOS SALIENTE

Plumbing and Heating offer machined boiler decals for gas water heaters for just €65 – aguafuerte is not the answer!

Call 950 930 900 or 968 To meet Slim call Paul on 626766073 969 962, email españolas enlace: Veronica 608858318 carlos.saliente@gmail.com

33

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

for sale plot of land of 800m & villa 125m 2

2

brick built up to & inc roof Wonderful location & exceptional views yet 5 mins to town with all amenities.

Fully legal with escritora must be viewed

Bargain price 65,000€ To view or for more details

609 199 394

Arboleas. First floor flat overlooking the rambla. Four bedrooms, lift access nice views, central location, part furnished. 300€ pcm long term preferred.

Available immediately 609 199 394

for SALE massive detatched cortijo with 50m2 workshop 20mins from mojacar

This is a unique spanish country cortijo with 4 beds, 2 bath, Open plan living areas, kitchen & dining room as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool. Mountain views. possible B& B

Build 256 m², Terrace 100m², Plot 1200 m²

Telephone 649 186 107 email for more info at thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

only €160,000

property for rent

villa in arboleas

4 beds, 2 baths & garage

250€ p/month plus bills

Telephone

630 471 422

634 337 185

SPAIN UK SPAIN Removals

Friendly Reliable Service Fully Legal Special deals from UK - Spain Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884 marmenorremovals@hotmail.com

UK - SPAIN - UK From a parcel to a small house move

Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled monthly door to door service

uk@fmtransport.co.uk www.fmtransport.co.uk +44 (0) 1582 499 836 +44 (0) 7977 754 389 satellite/television

A1 Sky Television Systems Satellite TV installations, alignment of dishes etc.

Also Spanish “freeview” systems supplied & installed

Tel Dave: 628 607 778

watch tv for free go to

www.soltimes.com for all the latest

programmes solar power system

www.ecocorp.eu at ecocorp we do not just sell you a system we deliver, intall & guarantee everything for up to 10 years

Swimming Pool Heating

titanuim swimming pool heat pump For pools approx 8m by 4m 2495€ INC Installation This unit uses only 1.7kw input power!

Solar Power Systems

off grid systems for homes with no electricity 3kw systems from 6495€ 5kw systems from 7495€ 7kw systems from 8995€

Tel: 671 716 597

34

COLOUR PAGE AL SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

V

La

Cucador

idaRestaurant&Venue

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Piece of Ca k e

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk

viewpoint

they come.

On this occasion we had exhausted small-talk, and I had settled to people-watching.

My attention was caught by a tall, distinguished looking gentleman, who was pacing the room with an anxious air and many glances towards the door.

I slipped into Sherlock Homes mode and assessed his appearance: I came to the conclusion, based on his deep tan, dark eyes and snow-white ponytail, which obviously at one time had been dark, that he was Spanish, though unusually tall for a Spaniard from Andalucia.

He was impeccably, though casually dressed, and carried himself easily, and with a grace that spoke of years of fitness and physical awareness.

I trawled through my mental list of possible occupations, and decided that he had been in the entertainment business, possibly as a flamenco dancer. This, I thought, would account for the trim physique, the grace of movement and the dress sense, not to mention the pony-tail

Mission Incapable

– only a Spaniard, I reasoned, could wear a pony-tail with such dignity.

I was deep in conjecture when he approached me and said ‘Do you have a mobile phone? My interpreter hasn’t turned up, and I need to phone her.’

Right, so much for the Spaniard bit!

His interpreter was not forthcoming, so Pete piped up; ‘Jos will help, she’s really good.’ Oh, the rose-tinted glasses that he wears, bless him!

Thus it was that I accompanied a tall non-Spaniard, who was not and never had been, a flamenco dancer, in to see a Spanish specialist.

We walked in and took our seats.

I was doing a swan act – calm and serene on the surface, but out of sight the brain cells were paddling like mad!

The specialist rose to shake our hands. ‘Good morning’ he said, with a broad and friendly smile.

Piece of cake, this interpreting – just as long as the specialist speaks English!

Eventually, we decided to continue our search on foot, so finding a narrow track we drove for several My friend Jim and I had Unfortunately we had minutes deep into the met student nurses in one forgotten that emblazoned woods. of the prominent watering along the side of the Ford We turned the engine off holes in town during the were the words ‘The and waited a few minutes autumn of 1968 and had Lincoln Greens Show listening intently for enjoyed their company Group’, the band for sounds that would indicate through to December whom my mate played we were not alone. But – something of a record in rhythm guitar and sang the night was still, with lead vocals. But you can’t no sign of another human longevity for us.

As Christmas approached think of everything and being in the vicinity and we promised to find them fair do’s, we only had four so grabbing our torches the best Christmas tree GCE ‘O’ Levels between and bow-saw we renewed our search for the elusive they had ever seen, and us.

We prepared for our Christmas tree. what was more, it would cost them nothing. We mission in the girls flat Almost immediately we had envisaged some by donning our fishing wandered into a small worthwhile brownie points gear – camouflaged jacket clearing and there before being awarded accordingly and trousers bought at the us as if by divine command local Millets stores - and stood the object of our - heh heh heeeh!

We planned to launch black wellies. We smeared assignment – the perfect our faces with burnt cork specimen. a raid on Burghfield and topped the ensemble It was the right height, Common a few miles from off with dark woolly hats had a flawless triangular town, and to bring home pulled down low. profile and on closer our prize in Jim’s old We were ready to rock inspection possessed a full Ford 5cwt Thames Trader.

The common was awash and roll and we looked the complement of healthy branches – the girls were with fir trees of different part.

Three hours after going to be sooo grateful. denominations, including We were about to get to Norway spruce, which reaching the common and was our tree of choice, and wishing that we’d had the work, when a voice boomed would present no problems foresight to bring along out of the darkness, “Shine a flask of something hot, that torch over here cacker we reasoned.

A report in the local we were still looking for a monger”.

Both of us swung round rag, stated that wardens suitable tree amongst what were on patrol in the area appeared to be a forest of and as instructed shone our to deter gypsy gangs from stunted and disfigured torches on a lone figure standing at the edge of taking large numbers of examples of coniferous growth – Burghfield the clearing. It wasn’t his trees, but we felt that a Common at night gnarled face that had our small van like ours would go unnoticed and just to resembled the set from immediate attention, nor was it the build of the man be sure, we slopped mud Curse of Frankenstein.

It didn’t help that no – well over six feet tall and over the number plate sooner had we parked almost as wide – but the in an attempt to remain up than an assortment double barreled shotgun incognito. of vehicles cruised past pointing right at us. menacingly. There was no “What you think you way to distinguish whether doin’?’” he growled. they were wardens, wouldIt was no good telling be Christmas tree robbers him we were picking like us, or just members mushrooms. It was obvious of the public looking for a what we were about, so I place to indulge in a bit of told him. “Looking for a festive nooky.

Christmas tree for

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com our girlfriends.”

As if sharing the blame with the nurses somehow mitigated the crime.

“Not here you not” he said, “Now git off you pair of gishnuts for I pepper yer backsides!”

And we did – quickly without bothering to ask what a ‘gishnut’ was.

As we were driving home I asked my friend, “Who the hell talks like that?”

But I knew the answer as soon as the question was asked – and so did Jim. Our tormentor wasn’t a warden, but a Gypsy. We had been out manoeuvred by a rival Christmas tree bandit!

Dirty and dishevelled, and me with damp underwear from the sight of that 12 bore, we were a pathetic sight as we shuffled treeless up the stairs to the girls flat.

“How do you feel?” I asked Jim as we waited at the door.

“Like a knob” he mumbled.

I nodded . . . So did I!

35

Alqu e r i a Now Rodriquez had absolute sovereignty over Alqueria he set about making his stupidity absolute.

With Antonio Poyato securely locked away in the castle dungeon he controlled Alqueria’s only source of wealth.

The Remitroot crop. It has been known as Remitroot since Roman times and sold internationally under that name.

It has become a cult beverage with Remitroot Wine singularly the best known high potency fermented beverage.

With inspired insight, well Rodriquez thought it was inspired he renamed it Rodroot100. Why 100 no one seemed to know. This single act of idiocy reduced the sale of the root and it derivatives by eighty percent. Rodriquez of course blamed the drop in sales on others, after all it could not possibly be his fault.

He had taken to wearing his gaudy over-medalled uniform night and day. The impressive row of medals clinked as he strutted about the village. Just what his medals represented and who awarded them is a mystery. One was made of cardboard covered in tin-foil and another inscribed ‘Second place, under 12 Alicante Junior Golf Tournament’. Rodriquez even carried a sword, a replica scimitar bought from ebay.

Manuela looked down from her vantage point outside Matas’s cave. The lights of Alqueria twinkled in the early evening. She and Matas comprised the Maquis. The resistance movement bent on undermining Rodriquez and restoring the rightful government of Alqueria. The first aim was to sabotage the Remitroot crop, however Rodriquez had managed that pretty well on his own.

Direct action was now called for and Manuela prepared for a sortie into the village.

With a smoothed-bore Mauser slung over her shoulder she mounted Matas’s old and faithful pony. She sat erect and bareback, hair flowing in the breeze, if ever an animal smiled it was surely that old nag.

As she entered Alqueria she saw Rodriquez swaggering about the village square. A purple mist rose as her hatred for the man came to the fore. She charged, stopping a metre or so from him.

Her pony reared, legs kicking in free-air, a good trick Manuela thought. The sight of Manuela at her most belligerent, hair flying, eyes flashing and nostrils flared is awe inspiring. Now armed as well it was too much for Rodriquez. He dropped his scimitar and had a bowel movement.

With Rodriquez trembling in an untidy heap it was a simple matter to release Poyato and Gruntmore from their confinement in the castle’s dungeon. The Maquis’s numbers were now doubled and Matas’s cave became very cramped. Manuela, however was overjoyed to be hemmed in by the three men, even if one was a geriatric. She eyed them with a proprietorial stare and thought to herself, ‘It will soon be Christmas’.

John MacDonald (El Sordo) www.caratacus.eu

Pete and I, along with a representative cross-section of humanity, were sitting patiently waiting to see the specialist in Huercal-Overa hospital. We had given Nursie the piece of paper that sanctioned our presence, and now we had to wait until called.

On these occasions I find there is not a lot to occupy my mind other than ‘What is he/she going to say?’ and ‘Can I remember the Spanish for it?’ which only gets me into smaller and smaller and tighter and tighter circles, and generally very wound up, so I people-watch.

I like people. I find them fascinating and endlessly interesting. I can watch them for hours; I like to weave stories around them, who they are, what they do and from where

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

T h e M a quis

www.carsupermarket.es

36

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Happy Christmas

braben’s blog....

Duck - for Christmas!

– don’t be scared

Christmas is not complete without a tree; not just any tree but a proper Christmas tree though choosing one on a warm sunny day felt very weird last weekend. When I first moved to Spain it was almost impossible to find a decent tree, one year in desperation I ended up buying two of those tiny ones with their pots wrapped in tacky gold tin foil that businesses put outside their doors.

Another year I dragged a tree all the way back from Sotogrande near Gibraltar (well put it in the boot of the car) as the larger ex-pat population in the area means shops and garden centres are jam packed with traditional British decorations that are all made in China. Apart from the two little ones I mentioned that I planted in pots in afterwards, I have never managed to get a proper tree to survive.

As I child however, I fondly recall my granddad standing proudly next to a huge Norway spruce in his garden which he had planted after a Christmas back in the 1950s.

Americans have the highest number of guns per 100 inhabitants (88.7) in the world; they also have the highest number of deaths per year by firearms in the world (17,000). Factor in the 60,000 people that get injured every year by guns and the statistics make even grimmer reading.

The weekend saw a dreadful school massacre in the US with 20 children and 6 teachers shot dead. A depressed young man, as if in his own video game, used 5 guns and ammunition legally held by his mother to kill as many innocents as possible before turning the gun on himself. I wonder how he got access to the guns as he used one to kill his mum with. This disturbed kid guarantees his actions will be remembered for a long time for the most unsavoury reasons.

Within hours US media described the attack as the second worst ever. Will this sensationalist style of news reporting encourage the next crazy to go one better? Soon afterwards I read of a mother whose 2 young children were worried about going to school in case a ‘bad man’ hurt them. A difficult choice for a parent to make with two options, to reassure them that these things happen very rarely and everything will be fine as the teachers will look after them. Or, let them stay at home. It’s awful that these terrible things happen but to put things into perspective there are around 130,000 schools in the United States looking after over 60 million children. There have been 16 other people murdered in schools by guns in 2012.

In 2012 American school children and their teachers faced a 1in1.4 million chance of being murdered at school. At the same time they were twice as likely to drown in the bath, 4 times more likely to choke to death whilst eating and a massive 18,000 times more likely of being killed in a transport accident instead of being shot by a crazed gun man. Finally on a cheerful note if we survive the Mayan prophecy regarding the 21st there is still a 1in10,000 chance a 100m wide asteroid will hit earth next year. Happy Christmas everyone – don’t be scared!

Stephen Amore has lived in Almeria since July 2006 and owns Findmeahome estate agency. Writing on a variety of topics close to his heart such as environmental issues, animal welfare, food and drink, music and travel, as well as commenting on the absurdities of living in Spain! email: stephen@findmeahome.es - www.facebook.com/stephen.amore

The Beano Annual. The Guinness Book of Records. The Crackerjack box set.

What does it mean? Christmas! Well almost Christmas and you know what that means? Presents to buy. Now I don’t want this column to be a self help thing but, I have great news for everyone, the answer to the what to buy nightmare! You thought that Harry Potter and Sooty’s Revenge-or whatever it was called-was a godsend, well I can beat that. “Tractors of Eastern Europe”.

Now come on, be honest, it’s fantastic isn’t it? I can tell, you are… tractored.

Can you imagine the look on your loved one’s face when, on Christmas morning, they carefully remove the wrapping paper to reveal such a sought after gift? There, between the glossy pages, are treasures of Eastern European tractor history; the Czechoslovak Zetor, the Polish Ursus, amongst others. They can learn all about engine capacity, torque expectations and pulling power.

Can’t you see it? Christmas Day will start, as Sam Goldwyn the Hollywood Producer said, with a bang and work upwards!

But it gets better. Let me bring you another golden Christmas morning moment. In these high technology days, when alarm clocks cajole you to leave your warm bed with warm messages, when your car talks to you with warnings of low fuel or impending speed traps, why should your pet escape progress? It can’t. A talking litter tray! Yes, you are reminded when your cat’s litter tray is, how shall we say, abundant! If you ignore the first warning, the voice continues, like Tiny Tim on heat, until you finally empty it. Unfortunately what it doesn’t do is nominate a litter tray changer, perhaps that will be a new party game-no, maybe not.

I think we can safely predict that this Christmas has the potential to be the best and most memorable ever.

Conversation over lunch will never flag as the whole is married family compare the merits of those Eastern European Graham to Helen and has agricultural machines everyone has been reading about, a daughter, Alice. with those of the rest of Europe. Any brief silences- and He lives part of the year near Albox, really, would you anticipate any-would be filled by the but works in Qatar, litter tray informing you that it needs emptying as a teaching. If you wish matter of urgency, accompanied by the plaintiff howls of to contact Graham regarding this your cat, desperate to relieve itself yet unable to use the article email: tray, either because it is full, or, more likely, because that helenandg@yahoo. co.uk disembodied voice has got it petrified. Perfect!

REVIEW it...

Shifting Shadows by Betty Woodcock

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Matt and Lorna appear to be a happily married couple, both professional with three young children but this is where any normality ends.

Matt is ambitious and hopeful for promotion before he secretively discovers that he is on the redundancy list after the company is facing an economic downturn and it needs to shed a third of its workforce. He describes it as a “freefall to hell.” He sees a job advertised in Yorkshire and convinces Lorna that he must apply even if it means relocation from their Kent home, a big upheaval for all the family. Matt describes the opportunity as a “miracle” and a “Godsend.” Well-needed.

“I was right to get out before the bomb of redundancy dropped, before the shock waves spread.”

Protest marches and strikes ensue but fortunately, Matt has successfully secured a deputy managerial position at Grafton engineering.

Settling into a new job became problematic for Matt. Open hostility and resentment of this southerner invading their territory are evident. Duggie, the boss, warns him that Frank the book-keeper is “up to summat.” He sure is but he is not the only one. The plot thickens.

Embezzlement, an arson attack and a break-in are some of the delights that poor Matt has to deal with without losing his head. Rather like being thrown in the deep-end when you can’t swim! And that’s not all.

Simultaneously, the family move into a huge house and early on in the story we are conscious of Matt’s paranoia over the noises, slamming of doors, footsteps and the sound of a child sobbing. There is something “menacing” and “brooding” about their new home.

“Goosepimples skittered along my arm” and there always seemed to be a constant “stale fetid air.” The cellar is likened to a “medieval dungeon” with “rusted manacles on the walls.”

Plenty of omens, images of darkness, shadows and a chill in the air transporting us into the world of the supernatural.

From then on we have moments of melodrama and sinister occurrences especially with 3 year old Tracy’s “self-absorbed behaviour” with the malevolent spectre, Seth the boy and the “fend” which results in her wailing screams and dangerous behaviour when the spirits use her body as a medium and she tries to strangle her baby brother, Martin.

Psychologically, Matt hits rock bottom and tries to fight to keep his family safe and retain his sanity which is in dispute amidst one catastrophe after another. He comes into constant conflict with Lorna who is sceptical about the existence of any ghosts. The tension is excellent and there are climaxes that will rock your comfort zone.

The exorcisms and the revelation of a secret, hidden room housing the dead body of a child holding a prayer book are terrifyingly gruesome images of the supernatural. At this point Betty Woodcock plunges us into the realms of horror.

“I felt like a Kamikaze pilot bent on self-destruction.” Life was tough on poor Matt.

What will become of Matt and Lorna? Their children? Will they survive? You’ll have to read it for yourself to find out won’t you?

Available on ekindle from Amazon.co.uk/es

Carol Naylor - writing exclusively for the Sol Times Naylorcl@hotmail.es & w w w.carolnaylor.blogspot.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2012

Road Test: skoda citigo

37

of Volkswagen and SEAT, both of which have cars based on the same platform. Then there’s the Ford Ka, an excellent car in its own right. Does the Citigo have what it takes to stand out and appeal in a way its competition can’t?”

I say yes it does. My time with the Citigo, both in town and on the motorway, has been an absolute pleasure. My only criticism is that the driver’s seat could do with a little more padding. I heartily recommend visiting your local Skoda dealer and seeing it for yourselves.

specification £7,630 - £10,575 Economy: 68mpg Top speed: 107mph 0-60mph: 13.9secs Cylinders: 3 Power: 74bhp Valves: 6 Fuel tank: 35 litres (7.35 gallons) [500 miles to a tank] Watch the video at: www.testdrives.biz

The Skoda Citigo arrives after I reluctantly return a Maserati GranTurismo and a Volvo XC90. Driving two cars in one week is tough in terms of writing about them, which is not for the faint-hearted, I can tell you.

You might expect the little £10,500 Skoda to be a bit of a culture shock for me after living the life of Riley. Not so.

Left in a car park for me to collect, it is pitch black, and so it is handy to be able to press the unlock button on the remote key fob and to see the lights flashing in the distance. This is despite the fact that it is at the bottom of the long car park and I am at the top.

Once inside this compact city car, I am impressed with the simple layout of the dashboard yet surprised to find such luxuries as heated front seats as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz.

Four adults will easily fit inside. This little Czech instantly endears itself and perhaps surprisingly it doesn’t feel that I’m driving a budget offering.

I’m testing the threedoor model.

The driver’s seat is manually adjusted. Its five-speed manual gearbox is a little woolly but it does the job well enough. Overall the interior reflects that of larger Skodas and it

feels well put together.

The whole point of this car, which I am told can be yours for just £59 a month, is super efficiency. It can return over 80mpg, which makes it one of the most economical vehicles on the roads today. Oh the government isn’t going to like this one bit. You see it means that you can fill up its tiddly 35 litre tank for around £40 and travel over 500 miles.

And we’re not talking about driving at some ridiculously slow pace to realise these returns either. It’s such a breath of fresh air compared to some hybrid vehicles, for instance, that claim over 50mpg but require you to drive at 50mph or less to achieve! This of course is not a hybrid. It’s just a petrol engine fitted

with a reliable engine stop/start. Until this Skoda was introduced I was reasonably happy with my diesel Ford Fiesta that returns over 40mpg.

Parkers, the car experts, writes: “Based heavily on the architecture of the Volkswagen up!, all the ingredients are present to make it a capable car that appeals to a broad spectrum of society. It makes an ideal first car, due to its extremely low running costs, while it also

Advanced motorist Tim Saunders is the former Business and Motoring Editor of the Bournemouth Daily Echo.

His regular test reports appear in numerous newspapers, magazines and websites throughout the UK, Ireland & Gibraltar - and now here in Spain! For more information contact Tim on: timasaunders@tiscali.co.uk

STEVE HAYES INFORMATICA

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works for a young family since there are several clever touches which improve practicality.

The more mature driver may consider downsizing to a Citigo as their needs change and the requirement for a larger car just isn’t there anymore.

Even fleet drivers may be interested since company car tax bills are extremely small.

However, by entering the super-small car market Skoda is going toe-to-toe with the likes

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38

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

computing sport

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

Forum Golf Society.......................

corner christmas special

It was a cold crisp morning when I looked out of my bedroom window.

It was one of those picture postcard type of winter mornings. The snow had fallen during the night creating a sparkling white duvet laid smooth with a mother’s loving hand. 6 years old and I had slept in! It was Christmas day, and daylight. In my short life I had never slept passed 4 on a Christmas morning as I was always just too excited!

I knew that downstairs there was going to be a stack of presents, delivered by Santa, especially for me. I hoped to find a half eaten mince pie and empty milk glass to let me know Santa had enjoyed my little gift in return. This morning, as I made my way across the landing, down the stairs and into Aladdin’s cave of treasures, there was no noise in the house, not even the sound of my creeping.

I sat quietly watching the light on the Xmas tree twinkle, finished off the mince pie and looked at all the presents. The grandfather clock in the hall had just chimed 7 and still no sign of my parents. So what is a 6 year old to do? I opened my first present. It was the Vtech laptop that I had asked for. The batteries went in and the fun began. Although the toy was a much slower than the adverts suggested, I was so happy to have gotten one, I really didn’t care. After all, for an eternity I was first an astronaut and then a racing driver. The clock chimed 8 and then quarter past so I looked for the next present to open. As the paper ripped under my fingers and fluttered away I saw the Xbox that I had begged my parents to get me. It was soon connected to the TV with the skill that only a 6 year old has. Time, again, lost all meaning for me as I played happily.

After beating all the games that came with it easily – don’t kids do that? I spotted a strange shape in the corner of the room. It could only be one thing! It was the grown-up bicycle that Santa had promised in his reply from the north pole! I looked outside, saw the snow and felt disappointed as I wouldn’t be able to rid it today. “Tomorrow is another day.” the sound of my Dad’s voice rang in my ears whenever he saw my disappointment over something. I love my Dad and my Mum! What is that almost hidden behind the tree? Carefully pulling it around the tree that we had spent hours putting it up and making it beautiful for Santa and our friends who were coming around today, and then with equal care, opened the present. It was the sledge that I would get, if it snowed. It snow was here and I had my sledge!

I raced back up to my room and put on my warmest pullover and trousers that I keep for wet days, over my pyjama’s, not forgetting the thick woollen socks ready for the wellies downstairs in the kitchen. In there I put them on along with my favourite winter coat. I played for ever, never feeling the cold. Running up the hill and sledging down it, laughing and squealing at the simple pleasure of it all.

From inside the house the clock again chimed, but now it was 10 o’clock. Mum and Dad were not out watching me play as they always do! It was time to wake them so they can enjoy Christmas too. I ran into the kitchen dragging my playmate with me. Up the stairs I went and just before I got to their door I stopped! My legs and arms heavy, drained of strength, as darkness crept over me like a sea fog rolling in.

Everything went black!

From the viscous darkness a soft voice, hardened with fear, echoed, “Quick, junior is on the landing.”, A second voice, calmer but stronger, replied “Don’t panic darling, he is a little run down. Today is going to be a big day for him – his first Christmas! Maybe I should have plugged him in last night, while he slept in his bed. After all he is the most realistic advanced cybernetic device ever built to be the perfect replacement for the son we lost!”. “We should let him charge for 10 minutes and then tell him he slipped on the damp floor but he is OK now.”

There you go, a happy ending! Will technology ever get this far?

Have a Merry Christmas Everyone!

For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on: canducomputing@ hotmail.co.uk

SOL TIMES COSTA ALMERIA

angling news with beachcomber john Boat Fishing: ‘Mike the watch’, ‘Chef Jeremy’ and I fished with ‘Orca Steve’ and the plan was to troll to Villaricos and fish there for the morning. Trolling produced a take for me but it stayed on only ten seconds or so, a small tuna I guessed.

Shortly after Mike got hit and landed a very large channel mackerel. Not good for 1.1/2 hours trolling but something we are getting used to. There were no signs of the promises of Maui Maui that have been caught around Villaricos over the summer and autumn.

For the next three hours I ‘butterfly jigged’ which gave me some much needed exercise with others jigging using various methods to little avail, apart from a few painted combers taking jigs not much smaller than themselves. After trying different depths from 25 feet to 100 feet we trolled back to Garrucha with no action.

There we drifted over the trigger beds opposite the Repsol garage but apart from weavers, pickerels, doradas and small red snappers we had no success.

The following day Steve was out fishing with ‘Blue Sea Matt’, mate Nick and ‘Garrucha Bob’ on what was the start of Bob’s birthday bash. They fished the same area as the previous day opposite the Garrucha four star hotels where there was plenty of activity on the fish sonar. They again drifted in the light off shore wind catching bogues, pickerels, small red snappers, cleaver wrasse and weavers. Birthday boy Bob landed a nice red snapper and Steve struck into a decent trigger and landed it. The fishing stayed brisk until early afternoon although it was small stuff they caught and mostly returned. They returned to port still trying to guess Bob’s birthday age; he still didn’t let on insisting he was only 32! Maybe he

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was referring to the amount of fish he caught. (Bob must have had a tough life Steve!)

See photo of Bob with a red snapper.

‘Captain Cuba’ had a day out with a few mates without any great success but Solas and son Uggy from Lithuania enjoyed catching a few fish.

Shore Fishing: ‘London Bill’ did reasonably well with catches of mackerel and a 4.1/2lb tuna (of some description) spinning from the rocks of Garrucha and Macenas. Also a nice palomete weighing 5.1/2lb off Macenas Beach, again spinning, popping actually with a 170g wedge made from white kitchen chopping board material.

Coarse Fishing.: ‘Puentes Ray’ fished his namesake lake on Wednesday; conditions there are getting worse every week he says. Very strong winds and high water levels together with much colder weather seems to have put the fish right off the feed.

He tried fishing on his usual side of the lake but the water was up by about 6 feet so he couldn’t get a decent swim so went across to the other side. The conditions there were much calmer but bites were hard to come by.

Ray was joined on the lake by ‘Casa Verde Barry’ and Birds nest Phil’. In the end Barry caught a nice mirror about 5lb on the pole and Phil and Ray blanked. Phil stuck to the feeder for the session and Ray tried the feeder and float but it was not to be.

Mercia competition matches were won with 9lbs and 27lbs.

The Albox fishing club meets every two weeks or so at Bar Wassy. For details of the next meeting tel Sid 634 313 650.

New license information: There is now a loophole for those wanting coarse, beach and boat fishing licenses for Andalucia who don’t have NIE documents, see me for more details.

For further information on any of the above or to find out about beach, boat or coarse fishing licenses, see me at the Beachcomber Bar Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or tel 950 473 099.

Tight lines, John.

Forum Golf Society´s penultimate event of 2012 was an Individual atableford competition played at the Championship Indiana Course at Desert Springs on 14th December, and an absolutely perfect day for golf on a beautifully presented course saw a very worthy winner in Andrew Markham with a score of 40 points.

This was well clear of the rest of the field, but with just 4 points separating the next 10 players the competition for the minor places was decided on countback with Mick Murphy second, Terry Moore third & Geoff Hebb fourth after all three scored

level par totals of 36 points

Phil Miles was fifth and Kevin Bircher sixth, both scoring 35 points, with the nearest the pin prizes going to Mick Murphy, Bill Nicol, Kevin Bircher, John Smith & Adrian Ball Forum´s upcoming fixtures are December 28th Prize Pairs 2 Man Scramble at Aguilon January 11th Stableford at Valle del Este January 24th Double Par Medal at Aguilon For further information, contact Phil Elam on 666 847840 / philjelam@ yahoo.co.uk, or see w w w. f o r u m g o l f s o c i e t y. webs.com

Compiled by AFM

sport shorts

• The Duchess of Cambridge said ‘congratulations’ to Bradley Wiggins who was voted BBC ‘Sports Personality of the Year’. Jessica Ennis came second and Andy Murray third. Paralympic swimmer Josef Craig was named as the Young Sports Star of the Year; the 2012 ‘Team of the Year’ award went jointly to GB’s Summer and Paralympic teams while coach of the Year was cycling mastermind Dave Brailsford. And Seb Coe was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

• Every Christmas there are plenty of football crackers and this weekend it’s Chelsea-Aston Villa, Manchester City-Reading, Swansea-Manchester United, West Ham-Everton, WBA-Norwich and Wigan-Arsenal in the Premiership, Crystal PalaceHuddersfield, Leeds-Middlesbrough, LeicesterCardiff and Millwall-Barnsley in the Championship and Coventry-Preston, Swindon-Tranmere and Torquay-Exeter in Leagues 1 & 2.

•O n Boxing Day, there’s a London showdown between Arsenal and West Ham, Manchester United take on Newcastle and Manchester City travel to Sunderland. The top two, Cardiff and Crystal Palace, meet in the Championship, Brighton entertain Millwall while Hull play Leicester. And there are full FL programmes too.

• L ast weekend, Chelsea won the 2012 World Club Cup by beating Corinthians… Manchester United defeated Sunderland to retain their six-point PL lead over rivals City who won at Newcastle… QPR gained their first win of the season (v Fulham)…

Liverpool lost at home to Aston Villa… Spurs and Norwich pipped Swansea and Wigan respectively… and lowly Peterborough ended Cardiff’s 10-match winning home run.

• Earlier this week Chelsea visited Leeds United for the last of the League Cup quarter-finals.

•E ngland drew the fourth and final cricket Test in Nagpur, to clinch their first series win in India since 1984-85.

•B oxer Amir Khan is back on track after beating Carlos Molina in the light welterweight class.

• GB’s swimmers won six medals in the world short course championships in Istanbul. Hannah Miley collected two).

•F ormer England and Liverpool player and manager, Phil Taylor, has died, aged 95.

• L ionel Messi is still scoring goals – he’s now on 90 for 2012, and 77 have been with his left foot.

•A nd did you know that three weeks ago, on 5th December, jockey Luke Morris had 12 rides in less than seven hours - four at Lingfield and eight at Kempton Park.

And to all Soltimes readers everywhere, have a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous sporting New Year.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

Valle Del Este Golf Society

This Weeks Report Is All About The Other Side Of The Valle Del Este Golf Society And The Effort That Was Put Into Raising Money For Charity.

On The 10th Nov 64 Golfers Played At Valle Del Este To Raise Money For Asprodalba A Total Of 1550 Euros Was Raised, Thanks To The Efforts Of The Committee And Members.

Our Thanks Go To Our Sponsers And There Are Many Who Sponsered Tee Boxes And Donated Prizes.

Thanks Also To The Visiting Teams From Media, Corte Grande And Visitors Who Turned Up Especially For The Event. The Winning Teams

On The Day Were 1st Bob Mearing, Mark Newall,Steve Gilmore & Tony Redstone.

2nd Sue Hull, Dick Hull, Ann Miles & Phil Miles. 3rd Bill Churchill, Mick Colston,Steve Wright & Paul Henshaw.

Sponser For The Event Were Valle Del Este Hotel & Golf, Full Swing, James & Son, Sunshine Fairways, Sophia Wellness Centre, Costa Coches, A&A Auctions, La Dulce Casa, Colin The Card, Pools & Piscinas, Torre Bahia, R&S Golf, Costal Properties, Carniceria Barnet, Hotel Restaurante Overa, And All The Members Who Sponsered Tee Boxes. Thanks To All And Enjoy Your Golf At Valle Del Este.

Albox Darts League.......................

Highlights Tino from Pablos 180 Dave Babb from Cafe-Bar Oasis 180 Results for Week 11 Division 1 Tue 11 Dec El Cordobes 6 v 2 Pablos Tue 11 Dec Carrillos Bar 3 v 5 Cafe-Bar Oasis Tue 11 Dec Bar Flora 3 v 5 Corner Bar Tue 11 Dec La Cinta 1 8 v 0 Bar El Frax Results for Week 11 Division 2 Tue 11 Dec Tercera Edad 6 v 2 Trinidad Tue 11 Dec El Molino 7 v 1 El Local Tue 11 Dec Catalan 3 v 5 La Cinta 2 Andy Martin Secretary to Albox & District Darts League Mobile 622 905 951 For On-line results go to http://www. alboxinfo.com/albox-darts.php

sport cortijo grande ............................... Badgers Golf Society Wednesday and a unique date 12 12 12 and we had the result to match 33 33 33 in first second and third Martin Oliver Mike Picken Cathal Higgins . Countback on back nine to decide the winner. We had 2 ball sweep winners Captain John Park and Martin Oliver Sunday 16th and we had a two s fest with 7 of our players getting a two. This is the most I can remember in 20 years at Cortijo Grande. Yes we have been playing here a long time and we are a golf club not a society. Where we run

Enjoy your golf at Cortijo Grande visitors and new members welcome MP

Thursday 13th December and the 19th Hole Golf Society played The Desert Springs course. The weather was perfect as was the course with immaculate greens and near perfect fairways, it should have been the day for some really good scores, but this game called golf never follows the rules of logic.

With the winner only scoring 32 points it really makes one ponder on exactly how we can get a decent score at this venue.

Problems again for both Nick Pogson and Ron (The Rocket) Curtis on the first Tee with both having to take two balls to make progress, although in Nick’s case this was only as far as the ladies tee again. They both took the allowed time to go into the deep undergrowth to find their first balls only to emerge without them but looking like a couple of David Bellamy•s searching for the Lesser Spotted Thingamabobs in some distant jungle.

Also, after a very difficult round, it was noted that the most violent fourball group by far was Brian (Dee) Lowden, Terry Curtis, Nick Pogson and Rocket Ron. Brian managed to drive down untold number of tees into the ground using his Driver as a pile driver following poor tee shots, Whilst Nick, after carefully watching Brian, is now becoming quite adept at the rarely conquered art of

On Wednesday 12th Dec Badgers visited Valle de Este Golf for their weekly competition. The course was in great condition and with the sun shining a good day was had by all. Winner on the day and playing his home course was George Crichton with 36 pts, runner-up spot went to Mark Newhall with 33pts and Dave Wright coming in 3rd with 28pts. Nearest the pins went to George Crichton, Andy Mucha and Dave Wright Saturday 15th Dec Badgers were at Macenas. Top player of the day was Dave Wright, taking the honours for the second week running with

39pts from Tony Randall in 2nd with 35pts Badgers are at Macenas on Wednesday 19th, and then at again at Macenas on Saturday 22nd Dec Badgers Golf are holding a Boxing Day competition at Macenas Golf, with visitors welcome to join. To enter, please contact Richard at Badgers on 950478525.

Guests are welcome to join the society on both Wed and Sat comps and can book in either at Badgers Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or by phone on 950 478 525

Pit Stop Tel: 950 124 828 pitstop-oria@live.co.uk

TYRES • SERVICING • REPAIRS Part Worn Tyres from 20€ New Tyres from

30€

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...includes fitting, balancing & IVA

15€

tracking wit or morhe 2 n t yres ew

• Petrol up to 2L from 85€

Fr Cour tesee with a fy Car ull se (by arra r v i c e ng

Lazer Tracking only

Fixed Price Servicing

• Diesel up to 2L from 95€

ement o nly)

ALL MAKES AND MODELS

FREE Safety / ITV check with every service URGENTLY REQUIRED SPANISH VEHICLES FOR CASH 2001 Chrysler Neon, A/C, alloys, low mileage, VGC….............................€2,200 1998 Renault Scenic, 1.9 Diesel, A/C VGC...............................................€1995 1995 Citroen ZX, 1.9d..................................................................................€1495 1999 Fiat Punto , Diesel, A/C, Low kms.......................................................€1495 Nissan Patrol, 2.8 Diesel, SWB, New ITV...........................................only €1295 Trailer Tent, 8 man, Suncamp, Awning, kitchenette......................................€450 Trailer, 4’ x8’, new tyres..................................................................................€150

ALL THE ABOVE VEHICLES ARE SPANISH PLATED AND LHD

2004 Peugeot 307cc convertible, A/C, 60k miles, Spanish reg, Alloys......€4995

Find us on the Partaloa to Oria road (A399) 1km outside of Oria on the right. Carretera Autonomica A-399 c / Paraje el Puente sin 04810. Oria, Almeria

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 950 124 828

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○Panel Beating ○Paint Spraying ○Bumper Repair ○Windscreens ○Plastic & Fibreglass Repairs CARS ~ MOTORBIKES ~ MOTORHOMES

Call Mark on: 607 324 623 or 607 324 624

timber yard

old AA Auctions

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Twos: one only Brian Everitt 8th Wednesday December 12Individual Stableford A little wind to keep the players on their toes,but a pleasant day to play golf which proved ideal for the runaway winner of our competition 1st Colm O´Keeffe 43pts 2nd Phil Miles 36pts 3rd Derrick Stephenson 34pts Twos: Derrick Stephenson 4th and Bill Gibb 8th Guests and visitors are welcome to join us on a Mon,Wed and Friday For information contact 634641199

club throwing.

Ron and Terry restrained themselves and took cover for safety behind the Buggies.

Our winner playing off his new handicap of two was Mark Danson with Terry (Mr. Consistency) Caddick following him in with 31 points –earning him a new handicap of 14. Mark also won the nearest the pin on the 17th hole and scored a couple of Twos just to round his day off.

Well Done Mark you really are an inspiration to all us high handicappers.

Results.

1st Mark Danson 32 points (02) 2nd Terry Caddick 31 points (15) 3rd Brian Lowden 28 points (10) After three countbacks!!!!

Twos; Hole 8 Richard Aird Hole 8 Mark Danson Hole 17 Graham Clough Hole 17 Mark Danson Nearest The Pin: Hole 17th Mark Danson The 19th hole G/S is now arranging weekly games at various courses in the area, our home course, which we play fortnightly, is Aguilon.

If you are interested in joining the 19th hole give the secretary a ring on 610 340 653. Or email gs19thhole@ hotmail.co.uk

Valle de Este......................................

►

It is the time of the year when a lot of members return to the U.K. to spend Christmas with their families, so our pre Christmas lunch and raffle was well attend and we also had a presentation from J.J. our course director which outlined

this club as you would a club in UK no silly rules regarding winners and handicaps run as per the rules of golf. So if you want to join us you will be made welcome. Our winner with 37 points Brian Harwood in second with 35 Neil halliday and in third with 34 Mike Picken. The sweep winners were John Park Greg Ward John Wardley David Hardy Cathal Higgins John Hill Peter Jackson

19th Hole Golf Society.

Cucador..............................................

AGUILON GOLF MEMBERS the REPORT................................... plans for 3rd Phil Miles 92-17= 75 changes in the course set up to be undertaken next year with the emphasis on making it more user friendly which was well received by one and all.

RESULTS We dn e s day December 5-Monthly Medal The last medal of the year was played again in very windy conditions making scoring very difficult.

1st Mike Hooker 94-22= 72 2nd Les Raufer 98-24= 74

39

WE ARE HERE

CASA CONCHILLA

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ALBOX BAZA ROAD

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40 SOLTIMES DECEMBER 2012

...remember to say you saw it in the SOL TIMES

27

th

December

Lady Lay

Restaurant Bar

The original Sunday roast Tapas and still the best roast in town.

Homemade yorkies, roast potatoes, fresh vegetables. All meats carved to order.

Sunday roast now served with

6 vegetables still €6.50

(from 12.30pm - 3pm & 7pm - 8.30pm)

welcomed by ernard & Ralf B

full day of celebration with tony justice singing “the rat pack” in the evening Open 12noon till late wed - Mon (closed Tuesday) Avenida Playa Serena 224, 04740 Roquetas de Mar, Almeria 617 051 947

b ar

pool table

darts board

24th December open 7.30pm with a free buffet 25th December – fully booked 26th December Special Boxing Day tapa selection including cold meats, pickles, chutneys & jacket potatoes.

All at 50C each tapa. Open 12 noon – 5pm (closed evening) 27th December – closed 28th/29th/30th DECEMBER usual opening hours Bob,Clive, Clive,Val, Val,Lesley Lesley& &Malcolm Malcolm Bob, 31st December wouldlike liketo towish wishall allour our would New Year’s Eve customersaavery veryHappy HappyChristmas Christmas customers few places available

&aaprosperous prosperous& &healthy healthyNew NewYear Year &

C/Sierra Nevada, 23, Roquetas de Mar tel: 950 333 771 or 634 526 508 reservations RecommendeD

what’s on at Y Da Wakes this christmas

saturday 22nd December Christmas Raffle & Music Night with Brian & Paco FREE BUFFET 9PM TIL LATE

sunday 23rd December

ALL LIVE SPORTS COVERAGE

2 for 1

Christmas Bingo starts 8.30pm

Santa’s Sack Sausage Rolls & Mince Pies

all day every day on Local Spirits & Mixers, Wine and San Miguel Bottles

meals from 3€

all day breakfast FROM 3.60€

Full menu now being served til late

Closed from 24th December to 2nd March for Annual Holidays opening hours: Monday, Tuesday Wednesday Friday 11am - 3pm and 6.30pm - late Saturday 11am - late. Sunday 12 noon - 7pm. Closed Thursday.

Avenida Playa Serena 142, Roquetas de Mar 04740 Tel: 634 322 644

BEACH-FRONT BAR Near to Zoraida Garden Hotel 950 325 867 Tues/Fri selected meals from 4.50€

Tubo and Tapa €2

Sunday Lunch 1pm - 6pm

from €4.50

www.barspinnaker.co.uk

Few spaces still available for

Christmas Lunch & New Year’s Eve call for details

Wednesday Special

Tuesday

Bingo 3pm Fillet Steak, chips or jacket pot & salad 7.50€ (with starter or dessert 10€) Quiz 9pm

Friday

Fish, chips & peas with bread & butter 5€

Saturday Curry

Onion Bhajee, Chicken Curry, Naan bread €7.50

Open Monday: 10:30 - 5.00 , Tuesday: 10.30 - Late , Wednesday: 10.30 - Late , Thursday: Closed , Friday: 10.30 - 5.00 , Saturday: 10.30 - Late , Sunday: 10.30 - 7.00

ALL SPORTS AND SOAPS SHOWN

Property management Sales & Rentals

CHAPLINS pub

Roquetas de Mar, Aguadulce Almerimar, Vicar, La Envia Golf

27 CALLE SIERRA NEVADA, 200M FROM HOTEL PLAYA ZUL ROQUETAS

For all your property needs Services include Key Holding, Merry Maintenance, Furniture Packs, Christmas & Cleaning & Laundry, Happy new Year to all Weekly Apartment & Post-box Checks Golf Discounts and Golf Packages Available

Rental Properties required for long or short lets in Roquetas de Mar Call or e-mail us for further information.

Mobile: (0034) 663 426 921

info@enviapropertyservices.com

trip advisor

Bar Spinnaker

Yvonne, Dave & John Welcome you to

Y.Da.Wakes Bingo Monday 8.30pm

recommende d on

www.enviapropertyservices.com

live football / outside tv / air con / free WI-FI

HOMEMADE FOOD DAILY

Jon & Debbie would like to wish all of their customers a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year and WEDNESDAY Thank you for your valued support RIBS 5.95€ Christmas Opening

Thursday 20th:

hristmas Party & buffet C all welcome Friday 21st: Closed Saturday 22nd: Open from 1pm Sunday 23rd: Open from 1pm Christmas Eve: Closed Christmas Day: Closed Boxing Day: Open from 1pm “On the house” cold meats & pickles Sunday 30th: Open from 1pm Monday 31st: New Year’s Eve Party - sold out Tuesday 1st Jan: Closed Wednesday 2nd: Normal service - open from 1pm

Tel: 950 335 022

FRIDAY FISH’N’CHIPS 3.95€ BEST IN TOWN SUNDAY sunday roasts 5.95€ regular, 2.95€ meduim, served 5pm - 8pm

Booking Advisable Wed, Fri & sun

Mob: 618 824 368

Open:1pm until close tuesday till sunday “open as advertised”

902 750 190

lunchtime & early evening menu €3.95

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10 anniversary th