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SolTimes issue 375

20-26 FEBruary

est. 7 yrs

your free weekly newspaper

FAIR TRADE FORTNIGHT page 20

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BEWARE SPEEDING PENSIONERS! page 5

P a izz

APPEAL to repossession victims

rt

Italian Restaurant

A PRESSURE group campaigning to change property ownership laws and fighting to save residents from repossession has called for those facing the loss of their homes to stop committing suicide.

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READ THE FULL STORY ON PAGE 3

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Sport

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

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

3

APPEAL to repossession victims

photo: www.elconfidencial.com/

“Don’t commit suicide, join us and fight”:

Julián Jiménez, stated politics and economic powers ‘are pushing lots of people to killing themselves’.

“Taking your own life is the last thing you should do,” he stresses.

Yesterday, the fifth person in under a week killed himself when he was facing eviction – a 55-year-old man from Alicante city, who was found hanging on the day he was due to be thrown out of his home.

In his case, the eviction was due to non-payment of rent, his having run up a debt of 24,000 euros.

Less than 24 hours previously, a retired couple aged 67 and 68 in Calvià (Mallorca) died after taking massive overdoses on the eve of the repossession of their home when they found they could not pay their mortgage.

And on the same day, a 56-year-old man left behind two daughters when he threw himself out of his apartment window in Basauri (Vizcaya province, in the Basque Country) just as his lenders were about to foreclose.

At the weekend, a 36-year-old father in Córdoba committed A PRESSURE group campaigning to change property suicide after finding out that his mortgage lenders were going to ownership laws and fighting to save residents from repossess his home. repossession has called for those facing the loss of Three others, all in their 50s, including a man from Granada who their homes to stop committing suicide. hung himself and a woman from Barakaldo (Vizcaya) who leapt out Stop Desahucios (‘Stop Evictions’) says: “There are many, many of a third-floor window have taken their own lives since October things you can do instead – protesting, getting out on the street to as a result of finding out they were to lose their homes through denounce repossessions, clamouring for your rights and shouting. mortgage non-payment.

Suicide is not something you should resort to in order to solve this Speaking of the most recent victim, the first in the province of social problem.”

Alicante and the eighth in four months, Jiménez said: “It’s a pity we ThinkSpain reports a spokesman for the group’s Alicante branch, didn’t know about his situation, since we have managed to stop in Almería, Juan Carlos Pérez Navas, has a few evictions for non-payment of rent in the past.”

Two off-duty police officers arrested an expressed satisfaction at the choice of Several left-wing political Rogelio Mena as Alcalde of Albox after the assailant who was fleeing after assaulting parties in the city of Alicante an elderly lady in Almería. The Policía resignation of José García. At a meeting have put pressure on the Nacional were alerted by phone to an between the militants and the Consejales mayoress, Sonia Castedo, to

Almería

assault on an elderly lady walking along Carretera de Ronda who had been pushed to the ground, and had her bag snatched. A patrol was dispatched immediately, administered first aid to the victim, and reported that a man in his forties was the perpetrator. The two off-duty officers who were in the nearby Calle Soldado Español noticed a nervous individual hiding among some vehicles and removing objects from a bag and hiding them in his clothing. Aware of the incident that had just occurred the officers identified themselves and contacted the 091 incident room with their information and a request for a police vehicle to transport the prisoner to the station.

When arrested the thief had concealed about his clothing two mobile phones, a jewel case, 4.31Eurosand the bag containing the victim’s documentation.

At the time of his arrest one of the mobile phones that was in the prisoner’s possession had been snatched previously in Plaza Flores from a lady of 77 years of age. The accused has a record of fifteen previous offences of the same type.

Fines

A worker has died in Fines in an accident involving a stone slab.

The worker, aged 33, was killed by a falling piece of stone that was being cut.

The accident occurred on the Polígono Industrial of Fines.

The Guardia Civil called the 112 service to confirm the death of a worker in the stone industry. The Servicios Sanitarios and the Inspección de Trabajo have been informed and are conducting investigations into the accident.

Albox

The Secretario de Organización del PSOE

who form the Grupo Socialista in the Ayuntamiento of Albox all sides gave him their support. Pérez Navas stated that he was sure that Mena ‘is going to do well’ and the people ‘will notice that there will not be a no difficult transition’ in the transfer between the former mayor and Roger because ‘he’s so up to speed on all issues.’

Albox

The Central Sindical, Independiente y de Funcionarios, CSIF Almería, have denounced the Ayuntamiento of Albox, who for two months have delayed the payment of their wages. The union say that the Ayuntamiento has done nothing to relieve the situation.

The union also deplored the lack of a vehicle removal service, out of commission since 1st January. The union considers this service a necessity, for rescuing cars from perilous situations or removing cars that are blocking free access by pedestrians or other vehicles.

CSIF also commented on the unwillingness by some councilors to submit their council cars. The union claim that they are using the cars for private business and vacations, in some cases for 24 hour stretches.

Furthermore, the Policía Local is denied target practice since no budget is set to purchase ammunition.

Finally, the union claims a disconnect between the Ayuntamiento and the Diputación Provincial, which prevents the collection of taxes and fines through a lack of resources such as computers or qualified staff.

However, the union expects that the appointment with the new Alcalde will end all these problems, which are directly affecting residents of the municipality.

set up helpdesks and arbitration services for struggling mortgageholders trying to fight off their banks – something which was approved in a council meeting in November and has not yet been set up.

Esquerra Unida (‘united left’) said it was ‘a terrible shame’ that the epidemic of home repossession had ‘claimed another life’, and called for the central government to establish a moratorium on any mortgage- or rent-related evictions until the planned new legislation was in force, incorporating the People’s Legislative Initiative (PLI) launched by over 1.4 million members of the public.

And spokesman for the Compromís party in Alicante, Tomàs Mestre, called the latest suicide ‘a new victim of bank fraud’, and ‘another example of how the ordinary citizen is having to bear the full weight of the country’s economic troubles’.

Mestre says his party ‘is not going to tolerate a single step in reverse’ in its fight against repossessions and evictions, and that its priority is to ‘rescue the people, not the banks’, alluding to massive EU bail-out funds applied for by Spain to keep ailing financial entities alive – funds that will, ultimately, have to be paid back out of the taxpayer’s pocket.

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4

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Sport

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

www.soltimes.com Pensioners are more likely to get fined for speeding than younger drivers, says a surprise report by the Royal Automobile Club of Spain (RACE) and Liberty Insurance.

More drivers aged 65 and over get killed on the roads because of driving too fast, and people of this age-group much prefer their cars to public transport.

But they tend to leave their vehicles at home when the weather is bad or when they know there will be a lot of traffic on the roads, and avoid driving at night.

In general they were said to become more cautious as drivers with age but also more set in their ways, and inclined to get lost more easily en route.

The 65-75 age-group sees 500 deaths a year on the road as a result of speeding, one of the highest in the country and a long way ahead of the 75-85 age-group, which accounts for 108 fatalities.

Over-65s account for 17 per cent of the population of Spain, 12 per cent of its drivers, and yet 23 per cent of its motor accident deaths.

This said, of the total figure for road traffic fatalities among the 65-and-over age-group, only 14 per cent were drivers – another 25 per cent were passengers, and 55 per cent

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

5

Restaurant worker in custody for allegedly poisoning 14 colleagues

survey indicates Drivers over 65 are ‘speed-merchants’

were pedestrians run over.

According to the research, over two-thirds of drivers over 65 take regular medication and a third of these had no idea whether their drugs had any effect on their driving, and when asked how authorities can help them in their driving once they hit pensionable age, they say they want access to refresher courses to get them familiar with updated road traffic rules and new technology – one in three said they knew little or nothing about how ABS braking, ESP or satellite navigators worked.

They also want to see much clearer road markings and

signs, more widespread street-lighting – in Spain, several motorways connecting major cities have no lighting whatsoever – and awareness campaigns so that other drivers respect middle-aged and elderly motorists more.

Pedestrians want to see more time allowed for crossing roads – as in, for the ‘little green man’ to stay lit for longer – as well as more and better zebra crossings, and a clampdown on people riding bikes on the pavement.

The over-80s in particular said they would much prefer to carry on driving than to have to use public transport.

A kitchen assistant and waiter has been arrested on suspicion of trying to poison his 14 work colleagues and possibly his late boss.

The 55-year-old has worked at a restaurant in Gijón (Asturias) since early 2005, and came under suspicion when fellow employees noticed he and his partner were the only ones who were not suffering unpleasant symptoms that included fever, sweating, splitting headaches and a very fast heartbeat. They said they had been getting these for as many as six or seven years.

When they investigated further, they found a bottle in the kitchen containing a medicine known as Colme – Calcium Cyanamid - which is given to alcoholics to provoke a reaction that makes them very ill if they drink, as part of their

Meteor injures hundreds in Russia...

A meteor crashing to earth in Russia’s Ural mountains injures at least 500 people, as the shockwave blows out windows, Russian officials say.

Pistorius weeps at murder charge...

South African Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius breaks down in court as he is charged with murdering his girlfriend at his home near Pretoria.

detoxifying therapy.

In large quantities and given to the wrong person, it can be very dangerous.

Their suspicions have been further compounded by the fact that the previous boss of the restaurant died suddenly of a heart attack in May 2011.

He did not have a post-mortem and has been cremated, but it is only now that investigators are questioning whether his death had some relation to the alleged poisoning.

The motive seems to be the fact that the accused did not get along with his colleagues and there was often conflict and arguments.

Since his arrest, the accused has refused to comment on the case. (article: www.thinkspain.com)

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6

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

New ‘transparency law’ to stem political corruption Severe penalties for politicians who fail to comply

Sport Spain is set to launch a new ‘anticorruption’ law in an attempt to prevent scandals such as the gürtel case or the bárcenas slush-fund allegations.

According to the Global Right to Information Rating, 93 countries in the world have transparency laws in place, but Spain is not one of these.

A draft text for a new transparency law was approved in Parliament in March last year, but has undergone numerous amendments after being consulted by experts and members of the public.

The part of the law which comes under the heading of the Good Governing Code will become effective as soon as it is approved, but the section on transparency has a deadline of a year.

This law was one of Rajoy’s electoral campaign promises, and also one of the previous socialist government’s intentions when the country was run by José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero.

It has always been aimed at public administrations, meaning the Royal household could be exempt, and even the central government was expected to be – although an about-turn by Rajoy’s cabinet means it will apply to them all, even heads of State.

The transparency law will force the government to reveal a full breakdown of public expenditure online, as well as the salaries and job contracts of all politicians in the public eye, audit reports, end-of-year tax declarations and final accounts, full details on contracts awarded to companies for public works and other services – even small ones – and budget information, and will allow any resident of any standing or capacity to request further details, which they must be granted.

A set table of politicians’ pay, from mayors of small villages right up to the presidents of the central and regional governments, will be published – mayors will get paid according to the number of inhabitants in the

town they run, and salaries will be capped so that no politician can be earning a higher salary than one at a superior level.

Failure on the part of any government member to comply with the new transparency law in full will be considered either a breach of financial and budgetary management; a conflict of interest, or a disciplinary matter – and a ‘serious breach’ can mean the politician in question is immediately removed from his or her post and banned from holding public office for between five and 10 years.

At worst, a public figurehead who does not adhere to the terms of the new law could face between one and four years in prison.

Less serious offences can still lead to the offender losing his or her public pension and severance pay or being forced to refund the misused public funds in question or tax which has been avoided, plus interest.

Breaches can involve concealment of invoices or contracts, failure to supply the requisite financial documentation requested by tax authorities and the courts, or straying outside the limits of the permitted public funding deficit.

Research shows that reports of corruption in Spain are damaging its international image, although Rajoy and other top-flight members of the PP party all deny receiving cash in envelopes as ‘off-the-books’ wage topups from former treasurer and senator, Luis Bárcenas, who is currently under arrest for this and alleged moneylaundering offences relating to multi-million-euro accounts held in Swiss banks.

Louvre Museum Returns Nazi-looted Artwork

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Seven paintings taken from their Jewish owners in the 1930s are being returned to their surviving relatives as part of an ongoing French effort to give back looted, stolen or appropriated art.

The works include four paintings that currently hang in the Louvre in Paris.

Six of the pieces were owned by Richard Neumann, an Austrian Jew who sold off his collection at a fraction of its value in order to leave France.

The seventh was stolen in Prague from Josef Wiener, a Jewish banker.

All seven were destined for display in an art gallery that Adolf Hitler wanted to build in Linz, the Austrian city in which he grew up.

The gallery was to have been filled with artworks looted across Europe by the Nazis from museums and private collections, many of them Jewish.

The claims of the families involved were validated by the French government in 2012 after years spent researching the works’ provenance.

The six works from the Neumann collection are to be restored to his grandson Tom Selldorff, now 82 and a resident of the US.

Pope Benedict Hints He Will Retire Into Seclusion

The outgoing head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI, has hinted he will withdraw into seclusion after stepping down at the end of this month.

“Even if I am withdrawing into prayer, I will always be close to all of you... even if I remain hidden to the world,” he told a meeting of Roman priests.

The pontiff, 85, shocked the world’s biggest Christian Church on Monday when he announced his resignation. He cited his advanced age as the reason for resigning.

According to the Vatican’s semi-official newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, the Pope took the decision to resign after his trip to Mexico and Cuba in 2012. The Vatican confirmed on Thursday that Pope Benedict had hit his head during the March trip to Mexico, but denied the accident had any role in his decision.

According to a report in Italy’s La Stampa

newspaper, the Pope was lightly injured after getting up in the middle of the night in an unfamiliar bedroom during the trip, with blood staining his hair and sheets.

Earlier this week, the Vatican said for the first time that Pope Benedict had a pacemaker, and that he had undergone surgery to replace the batteries three months ago.

The Pope appears to be planning a complete retreat from the public eye, the BBC’s Alan Johnston reports from the Vatican.

However, he is expected to spend his retirement in a monastery at the Vatican and his relationship with his successor as pope is bound to be an endless source of speculation, our correspondent adds.

A new pope is expected to be elected by cardinals before Easter, which falls on 31 March this year.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Spain Protests Over Healthcare Funding Cuts & Privatisation

THOUSANDS of people took to the streets of at least 15 Spanish cities last weekend to protest over cutbacks in the health service and plans to privatise the system in various parts of the country.

Dubbed the marea blanca (‘white wave’) as so many medical workers turned out in their white coats, Think Spain reported that the protests filled the streets of Cádiz, Valencia, Murcia, Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, Palma de Mallorca and Ourense, among many others.

A gathering at the Cibeles roundabout opposite the Bank of Spain in Madrid took place at noon, and different groups of people set off at the same time from each of the city’s 27 hospitals, ending up in the Puerta del Sol square.

They chanted, “Less Eurovegas and More Nurses!”; “People of Madrid, Get to your Feet” and “We don’t want to pay your debt with healthcare and education!”

Once at the end of the march, a spokesperson read a manifesto saying, ‘healthcare is a basic public right’ and stated that those present were ‘not going to allow anyone to turn healthcare, the people or medical workers into a business enterprise’.

An estimated 50,000 people – although the police said it was 8,000 – turned out in Barcelona, chanting, ‘health has no price’, ‘health should not be messed around with’ and ‘enough cutbacks’.

So far, as we go to press, no incidents or arrests have been reported.

7

Iberia five-day strike grounds 1,220 planes

Iberia airline staff commenced a fiveday strike from Monday morning, the longest in the history of the company, after negotiation efforts between workers and bosses failed. Ground staff and cabin crew will join the strike, which will continue until and including February 22 and which is the first of a series of five-day pickets announced by employees.

Unfortunately for travellers, at least another two continuous Monday-toFriday strikes are planned before the end of March.

Delays could also affect those using other airlines as luggage-handling staff who work for Iberia and also for up to 120 other companies will down tools; the worst-affected, aside from the main Iberia flights, will be those run by the company’s affiliates Iberia Express, Air Nostrum and Vueling. Over 1,220 flights run by Iberia, Air Nostrum, Iberia

Express and Vueling will be cancelled this week, of which 96 are Vueling routes, 415 Iberia and around 350 each of the other two.

Already, as we went to press, 226 flights due to depart on Monday had been cancelled.

Other airlines which run flights jointly with Iberia – long-haul trips which involve at least one connecting flight – have warned their customers of possible delays and cancellations, as have those whose routes may be altered due to the lack of Iberia planes taking off, such as journeys run by the German airline Lufthansa.

Iberia management has so far been able to find alternative flights for 85% of passengers, or 60,000 fliers, but this still leaves 10,000 customers grounded who have had to be given a refund instead.

A contingency plan had already been put in place by the airline amid strike threats, which included ‘emergency’ seats on other flights run by the alliance Oneworld, the company resulting from the Iberia-British Airways merger, and with eight other airlines.

Minister of public works Ana Pastor has been in talks with both the unions and the company, but as yet no consensus has been found.

Iberia intends to make nearly a fifth of its staff redundant – over 3,800 staff members – and has rejected the pilot union’s proposals for increasing productivity and cutting costs without sacrificing jobs, including the pilots themselves volunteering to take a 26per-cent pay cut.

The airline will lose around 10 million euros a day for each day the strike is on.

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Tel & Fax 950 459 116 - Mob 607 373 298

EMAIL: tallerdaydo@hotmail.com

style ce 2005, Life n si al e R lE e insect Based on th CLOSURE closures and n N e E e LE ac ST rr E te F LI leader in systems e the area Glass Curtain y it al u q h ig h Enclosures ar ly & install urcia region. ey also supp e Almeria/M th in t u o screening, th d ie ons carr ality, turning s of installati come a speci e b so al with hundred e av s of sh y sizes & style roof solution an d li M . so e ac le sp ab rd le Affo -round usab ESTYLE ALL IN TO LIF ea into a year C ar t. e fi id & ts ly u p o p y an for DIY or su 063 196 also available 459 060/638 0 guttering are 95 N O LL A C IVE THEM A TODAY, OR G HISPAVAN - Whether it’s the friendl y peo ple , the laid -ba ck life styl P & R DIRECT - Sale Now e, the fantastic weather or the fam On Further discounts on Sale ous Items with 10% off Home festivals that encouraged us to mo ve Accessories, 25% off rollstock to Spain. There is a vast exc iting prices and a extra 10% off country out there, just waiting the bargain Bin – sale ends to be explored. From the fam at the end of February. Come ous along to the fully carpeted Spanish Riding School in Jerez, the showroom - Rollstock Carpets, breathtaking scenery of the Picos de Vinyl Samples, Rugs All Sizes.

Europa, the World Heritage Site Hand Bags Half Price, Beautiful of Santiago de Compostela to the mu Chandeliers from Home ch Rejas; Home Accessories, visited Alhambra Palace in Granad a, Jewellery from Bonitas. They these are all places that should not have extended their range be missed. Travel the length of household accessories and breadth of Spain with your available and want to know what own other items you are looking for, home comforts in a Motorhom e or colours that you can not find Caravan. Not ready to buy your own! and those special items that Why not rent a Motorhome and you want. They would welcome plan your trip from as little as 87€ per your feedback. Don’t forget day. to ask about the new range of Either way, for details, call and see Virtual Fit Carpets while you us at Hispavan are there.

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

www.soltimes.com

11

TYRE KING Integral Auto Car Wash & Shop - a new business opened on the Industrial Estate.

Full Car Wash Valet Cleaned Inside And Out Only 18 euros.

Hand Washing, Internal Cleaning, U p h o l s t e r y 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 D ’ C arlos Mobiliario can assist you in furnishing and supplying a quality range of goods to create your new home. Carlos the owner who does speak english has been in the business for 14 years and has been in his own showroom for the last 8 years.

“We believe in customer satisfaction and building our business by recommendation”.

We are here to help with completely furnishing your home. Everything you need to furnish each room. -.From Sofas to Beds & Dining Tables to Garden Furniture.

Beds, Furniture, Mattresses, Sofas, Lounge & Bedroom Furniture.

Come along to our showroom and look at our prices.

We are on the Poligono Industrial Estate along by Costa Coches.

Tel 950 459 037 Mobile 667 658 059

Iron Art continue to move forward and keep up to date. Having recently expanded with their leather range this now includes the new sofa bed settee. This has now been followed by Grade A teak furniture including sun-loungers, chairs and tables with a very large extendable table.

Also just arrived in are fabric sofas. Do not forget all their garden furniture including the new cube sets if you are short on space along with all the accessories – flowers, cushions, candles, lamps, rugs and much more. On the last Wednesday of the month they are holding their Fayres and the January Fayre was a great success for all concerned with donati ons from the stall holders raising money for Vera Orphange. The next fayre is on Wednesday 27 February from 10am-2pm, donations from this fayre going to MACS. If you do not want to be disappointed get along early as the pasties ran out in just over an hour of arriving hot! Places still available so interested stall holders please phone – 637 259 033. There will be a free raffle ticket with any Iron Art product bought on the day the prize of a €50 in house voucher.

Almeria Angels, Avon, Bryan White Insurance, Buttons, Knitting Needles and Hand Knitted Items, Floral Art, Frillies Lingerie, Ibex Insura nce, JansFabFairies, Jo’s Jewellery, Marian’s HOT Pasties, Sausag e Rolls, Neater Heaters, Pauline’s Personalised Cards, Pete’s White Choco late Cheesecake, Pete’s Outside Catering, Physic Drawings with Rosa, Simply Art, Tarot Cards with Karen, and Wood’n’Stuff . r of thing shop is based on the 2nd floo Zenobie’s, the new Children’s clo into are We ng. s area with The Full Swi Ferreteria El Real, sharing the sale ses e had nothing but positive respon our 2nd month of trading and hav t duc pro ish Brit d to see a great quality from our customers. All are gla re mo n eve ing d our latest delivery giv for a great price. We have receive had a nts alike. If you haven’t already choice for parents and grandpare on a ed bas is k and have a look. Our stoc browse, please feel free to come e. tim e and is changing all the one off offer, once it’s gone, it’s gon

The Best Deal for Miles

car - motorcycle - van - 4x4 Motorhome quad - trailer - wheelbarrow ● All new tyres supplied have manufacturers warranty ● Computerisedtracking including 4x4s ● While you wait service ● Motorbike tyre specialists balancing - computerised laser tracking - punctures Poligono El Real, Calle El Garcel F19, Antas

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info@lifestyle-enclosures.com www.lifestyle-enclosures.com

Charity Fayre

Motorhomes for sale & wanted urgently

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

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info@hispavan.com

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D’Carlos Mobiliario

fas ma nu facturers of so Co me al on g to our sh owro om Lo ok at our pr ices!

Be ds, Fur niture, Mattresses, So fas, Lo un ge & Be droo m Fur niture

E14

Parque Industrial El Real, Antas eja 20 c/Fuente Berm

Find us on

Wednesday 27th February - 10-2pm

February Sale Buy any of these items & receive 2 promo sun-loungers FREE

Javea Patio Set 1099€

Puerta Banus Patio Set 1199€

Puerta Banus Dining Set 1399€

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Tel: 637 259 033

Poligono Ind. El Real c/Fuente Bermeja no.20 04628 ANTAS (Almeria) Next to Costa Coches Telf: 950 459 037 Telf: 667 658 059

www.ironartfactoryoutlet.com El Real Industrial estate

Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm

Sat 10am - 2pm

12

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

ALMERIMAR & surrounding area El Ejido

The Partido de Almería (PAL) of El Ejido announced their satisfaction with the new measures taken in the Balsa del Sapo.‘These will allow the lowering of the water level in the area to be undertaken very quickly, a necessity for farmers and residents in order to solve, at least in the short term, the major problem that had been affecting their properties.’ Said Joaquina García, representative of the Partido de Almería in the Ayuntamiento de El Ejido.

Together with Miguel Titos, spokesman in the Junta Local de Las Norias, she witnessed a demonstration of the functioning of the pumps.

‘We have seen the water level has dropped considerably, which will provide relief for farmers and residents who have spent years suffering the flooding of their farms and the basements of their homes.’ She said.

However, she pointed out that there must be cooperation

between the various authorities, ‘to facilitate evacuation of water from this new pumping system, otherwise a new problem will arise.

The Partido de Almería and the farmers are continuing to ask the Equipo de Gobierno of El Ejido to urge their fellow Partido Popular at National level to expedite the finalisation and implementation of the ultimate solution of this problem for the citizens of the area; that is the channeling and discharge through an underground pipe, since otherwise the problem will continue to exist.’

El Ejido

The first steps have been taken in a project to enhance the Balsa del Sapo with the possible creation of a bird sanctuary and a visitor centre. This project has been mooted as a means of creating a wetland which will become an important focus for tourism.

The Alcalde of El Ejido, Francisco Góngora, has held a meeting with businessmen interested in promoting the project, which will be based around the Centro de Interpretación de los humedales of Cañada de Las Norias.

It is intended that visitors feel attuned to nature, and achieve a closer knowledge of the rich bird fauna of the

what’s on Wednesday

Sol Times Distributed

MacGowan’s Guinness, Murphy’s Cider, Heineken, Large Selection of Spirits

Thursday

Bar & Restaurant

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

Six Nations Rugby shown

Friday Golf

Kitchen open 12 noon - 4pm & 6.30pm - 10.30pm

Calle Varadero Almerimar 04711 (Almeria)

Tlf. 950 609 546

The Charity Shop Calle Galera No6, Almerimar (Behind Bar Ankara)

now open Monday-Friday 10am-2pm

In Association with Animales de Berja & Ursamarina

volunteers wanted

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

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 SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH ‘RASTRO-MARKET’ IN CAR PARK OPPOSITE LEO’S

Monday

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

Tuesday

Tuesday Golf

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almerimar local information keep up to date with what’s happening in Almerimar: www.facebook.com/localinformation

area.

There will also be an interactive centre for the understanding and interpretation of the lagoon, its creation from the first extraction of clay, the appearance of the first water and the subsequent establishment of the birds and other animals. The initiative includes activities for schools such as a Nature Classroom, guided tours, workshops and lectures on environmental values and audiovisual presentations on the flora and fauna of the area.

El Ejido Rugby Club

Based in Almerimar, we are always looking for new players and have training sessions starting at 21.30h every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Players of all abilities welcome. The team is very sociable and after have players from beginner to experienced. We are currently in Andalucia Regional Division 2 and just about to start the second phase of the league.

Home matches are usually at 12.30 on Sundays at the grass rugby pitch in Almerimar.

For more information call Jonathan on 695 635 078

Friday Golf Society 15 FEBRUARY:

40 golfers took part in Friday golf this week - 39 members and one guest. We played an X x Y+ Z competition on a perfect sunny day with hardly any wind.

The winners with a fantastic score of 142 points (4 points more than the next team) were Paul Miles, Idris Browning, Dot Prior and Gerda Halbart. Last place and chocolates went to Jürgen Neuhäuser, Herbert Piest, Elaine MacMillan and Agneta Adolfsson with a score of 98 points.

Nearest the pin on hole 17 was won by Robbie MacMillan with a distance of 1.73m.

Six people played better than their handicaps this week. Well done to Robbie MacMillan - 38 pts and Mr. President (Alan Sly), Steve Bradbury, Marianne Liljedahl, Kevin Wood and Karen Parker who all scored 37 points.

Thanks to Herbert Piest for organising the prize giving.

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

El Ejido Bowls Club

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

13

news update

Reports & PHOTOS by Martin Shortland 2 Million Euros Grant To Fund Link Road Completion Delayed For Another Four Years More Employment Workshops

The latest news has come as a blow to the residents and businesses of the area, whose lives would have been a lot easier had the road been completed as planned two years ago. It’s worth reminding you of the route it should have taken.

By-passing Aguadulce and entering Roquetas near the Gran Plaza, it will then skirt around the town towards Vicar and Las Salinas, eventually joining the A - 7 motorway further to the south. It had been hoped the work would resume this year, but all possibilities of that happening were quashed when the Parliament of Andalucia made their budget announcements for

the region in December.

Quite simply, there was no money left in the pot.

It’s hard to think as far ahead as 2017, but when work finally does get underway again, the first section to be completed will be the almost finished segment from Aguadulce to the Gran Plaza. This stretch was agonisingly close to being opened when the work stopped two years ago. All that remains to be done is the laying of a final layer of asphalt, the connection of the flyover bridge and the erection of signage. What the state of the surface and surrounding areas will be like in four years time remains to be seen.

The next part of the route, from the Gran Plaza towards the Urbanisation and Las Salinas is not at all advanced and is mired in controversy regarding the purchase of land. The City Hall should have completed the purchases for the final phase some years ago before the work even began - but this has yet to be done and some landowners are unhappy with the way the council has treated them.

If and when the project resumes, the failure of the council to purchase the land could delay things even further. However, they do have time on their side

Following the opening last week of a training workshop for unemployed people in Roquetas, the City Hall have announced plans to open more in the town. The council has applied for a 2 million Euro grant from The Junta de Andalucia, to launch more such workshops, offering training in such skills as fish farming, agriculture and computer technology.

the students can generate their own jobs in the future.”

The announcement as to whether the application has been successful should be made in the next few weeks http://www.mycontinent.co/IMGEurope/spain-unemployment.jpg

The partially completed Roquetas bypass and motorway link road will remain in its current state for at least another four years. In a report released last week by the Chamber of Auditors, setting out budget allocations for the region, the continuation of the link road is not one of the projects earmarked for more funding. Any money available for the job has already been taken up in paying for the work done so far. This means it could be 2017 before the troubled project is started again; as to when it’s concluded is anyone’s guess.

The first workshop, called Threads of Colours was opened at a ceremony by the mayor Gabriel Amat.

Fifteen unemployed people signed up for the one year course in tailoring skills and it’s hoped they will go on to open small businesses in the town and teach other young people once they are qualified.

City councillor and head of employment Francisco Toresano outlined the plans at a press conference last week, saying, “Our administration is committed to a long term plan to generate employment programmes that foster the creation of jobs.” The emphasis is very strongly on entrepreneurship, so that once the students have learned their new skills, they can form companies and employ people to work in them.

The City Hall is confident their application will be approved by the regional council and it’s hoped each new workshop will receive about 300,000 Euros in funding.

Once the money has been approved, the whole scheme could be up and running by the middle of the year.

Senor Toresano added that other local authorities had shown interest in the Roquetas pilot scheme because, “The knowledge they acquire on these courses means and are confident this will happen by 2017.

The whole point of the scheme was to decongest the area, making access for residents and tourists alike much better. It was, and still is seen as a vital improvement to the regions infrastructure, linking the busy tourist and hotel areas to the south, with the

motorway routes to Almeria, Granada and Malaga. The fact the project has ground to such an ignominious halt, when some stages of the scheme were so close to completion, has led many observers to question the ability of the local and regional councils. They the councils - lay the blame firmly at the door of the government departments, who ultimately decide on budget allowances for the regions.

Clearly the Europe wide crisis has some bearing on all financial matters, not just in Spain but further afield.

The national government is struggling to juggle budgets that are no longer as large as they were ten years ago.

But this is not helping the people of the region, who should by now be benefiting from a new road scheme which was scheduled to have opened almost two years ago.

Martin Shortland is a freelance journalist, living in Spain since retiring from a career as a broadcaster, writer and radio journalist. He has worked for the BBC and in commercial radio, most recently as Programme Director and Head of News for large radio group in the South East of England

Muchas Gracias to

Club de Golf Playa Serena!

The Roquetas De Mar branch of the Royal British Legion would like to say thank you to the Committee and staff at Playa Serena Golf Club for helping to raise funds for the POPPY APPEAL, by allowing the Legion display POPPY APPEAL boxes at the Club.

The photos show a view of the main entrance and a one of the members waiting to play a round.

There is an ‘all-year-round’ box located in the Chiringito at the rear of the club house and one on the main bar in the restaurant.

The golf club is well supported by many British residents, British Legion members and holiday makers alike. Many thanks to all who have contributed by purchasing poppies in the past, and in the future.

14

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

COMPLETE HOLIDAY CARE MOJACAR PLAYA

The cost of dying has got more Expensive – Or has it??

IVA (vat) is now charged at 21% on all Funerals - making the Cost of an average Funeral in Spain in the region of €4850 etc. 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 3390€. 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 price • 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 3,390€ 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

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Free parking above Mercadona, opposite Lidl Monday to Friday 10.00 - 18.00, Saturday 10.00 - 14.00 Centro Comercial la Pirámide, Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia Call: 968 595 946 / 650 857 619 www.yorkshirelinen.com - ylcmazarron@hotmail.com

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Our bespoke kitchen cabinets are manufactured and pre-assembled in our workshop using 18mm colour matched board with a solid back panel.

As well as our huge range of kitchen door colours and styles we have a huge range of worktops, solid wooden block, granite and laminate are available.

As with all our products our kitchen units can be manufactured any size. All cabinets, as well as any storage options are purpose made to your requirements.We have no set size doors widths or heights.

We offer a design, manufacture & installation service with an exceptional level of quality & service at a competitive price. We are able to design, manufacture & install a huge range of kitchen furniture to suit your needs, with over 700 door styles & colour combinations we cater for every taste tradition to modern.

We have something for everyone & remember its manufactured to your requirements.

For a FREE home measure & quotation please contact Trevor on

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Based in Albox, but will cover all areas

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

15

16

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Toddler swallowed 42 fridge magnets

pause for thought

Lent, which this year started on February 13th, is the season when we Christians have opportunity to reflect on our lives, our priorities and temptations, as we recall the time that Jesus spent alone, being tempted by Satan.

And with that in mind I felt the following poem, written

by Lois Blanchard Eades and read at our Church on the Sunday before Lent, may prove helpful to any who find such reflection difficult.

If Jesus came to your house to spend a day or two But gave no prior warning, I wonder what you’d do.

I know you’d give your nicest room to such an honoured Guest, And all the food you’d serve to Him would be the very best, And you would keep assuring Him you’re glad to have him there That serving Him in your own home was joy beyond compare.

But when you saw Him coming, would you meet Him at the door With arms outstretched in welcome to your heavenly Visitor?

Or would you have to change your clothes before you let Him in?

Or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they’d been?

Would you turn off the radio and hope He hadn’t heard?

And wish you hadn’t uttered that last, loud, hasty word?

Would you hide your worldly music and put some hymn books out?

Could you let Jesus walk right in, or would you rush about?

And I wonder - if the Saviour spent a day or two with you, Would you go right on doing the things you always do?

Would you go right on saying the things you always say?

Would life for you continue as it does from day to day?

Would your family conversation keep up it’s usual pace?

And would you find it hard each meal to say a table grace?

Would you sing the songs you always sing, and read the books you read, And let Him know the things on which your mind and spirit feed?

Would you take Jesus with you everywhere you’d planned to go?

Or would you, maybe, change your plans for just a day or so?

Would you be glad to have Him meet your very closest friends?

Or would you hope they’d stay away until His visit ends?

Would you be glad to have Him stay forever on and on?

Or would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone?

It might be interesting to know the things that you would do If Jesus Christ in person came to spend some time with you.

Further information about the Anglican Church and details of forthcoming events may be seen on the web site www. mojacarchurch.org Duncan Burr is Licensed Lay Reader for the Anglican Chaplaincy of Costa Almeria and Costa Cálida and may be contacted at djburr@avired.com

I have just tried to read the previous article in your favourite paper and give up! It was an overview of how the processor works. Towards the end I said.

“I have written a simple exercise for anyone who might be interested in understanding how the computer follows instructions but having run out of space today …. How Prophetic was that? Knowing that space would be short!

I also do Tarot Card readings or a Tuesday under the pen name Zelda! (Just joking!).

So now, with a little luck, everything will be made clear and might have a little fun doing the exercise.” Lets continue with “The Knowledge” and get on asking a simple question! Who likes Tea? While at University, when I was doing my Teaching Degree, the tutor asked us all to write down the instructions on how to make a cup of tea. So, I am going to do the same to you. Get a pen and paper and write down every step in the process and then compare it to mine (mine might not be totally accurate, but the exercise is to get you thinking like a simple processor). Done? Good.

Here is my version of making tea. 1. Search for kettle. 2. Pick up kettle. 3. If not enough water, fill it with more. 4. Place it on the heat source. 5. Start heat source. 6. Find cup 7. find tea container. 8. Open tea container. 9. Take out measure portion of tea. 10. Move tea to cup. 11. Put tea into cup 12. Find Milk and Sugar. 13. Wait for kettle to boil. 14. When boiling remove from heat source and turn off if needed. 15.Pour in to cup. 16. Wait for infusion to take place. 17.

Put Milk and Sugar in cup it desired.

Now come on, that must have been easy! Or was it? I have not included the motor control and Hand / Eye coordination skills of selecting, holding and manipulating objects. These are the skills that we learned as a baby. When you include these other steps the counter goes from 17 steps to between 65 and 100 steps depending on just how accurate you wish top be!

This is how your processor works! Very simply but with only one advantage – It is VERY fast! It really doesn’t matter how fast the processor is it can only work as fast as the slowest components! To get around this problem EVERYTHING is timed and this is the task of the timing circuit and that is all it does, telling everything when it can move about. Easy isn’t it? From here on, most of the sub components are MUCH simpler and should be cover in the next couple of articles.

If there is anything that we have covered or you have a subject or question involving computer related technology, that you are having trouble with, drop me a line at the email address below. Good Luck and have a lovely weekend. See you next week.

For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk

Il Duce - part II

Mussolini and Hitler both believed that when Germany invaded Poland, Britain and other countries would remain neutral. Mussolini also thought that Britain and France were finished as players on the world stage and that any war would be short lived with Germany victorious.

Britain wanted Italy to side with the Allies, France also tried secretly to get Mussolini to join them but Mussolini refused to talk to them.

Italy was massively under prepared for war so when Hitler generously suggested that Mussolini invade Yugoslavia he declined the kind offer.

Italy stayed neutral when Hitler invaded Poland but then Germany invaded France and Mussolini joined the Germans. Italy controlled much of southern France including Nice for most of the ensuing war.

In the autumn of 1940 with a million soldiers in North Africa, Mussolini attacked the tiny 36,000 British soldiers in Egypt, Sudan and Kenya in East Africa with huge success. Luckily the Italians stopped short of taking the Suez Canal at a place called Mersa Matruh as they had run out of supplies. This was all about controlling the oil supplies coming from the Arabian oilfields and although massively outnumbered the British courageously fought back. The Italians were pushed back nearly 1000kms and in June 1941 lost the port of Tobruk in Libya which had been their many supply route from Italy. Hitler saved the Italians pancetta by sending Rommel and his Afrika Korps to fight the British for the next 3 years.

Mussolini’s grand plan for the New Roman Empire inspired him to declare war on Greece at the same time as battling the British in Africa. Greece fought back with great success and the Germans again sent reinforcements leaving Greece under Axis occupation. The book Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is loosely based on this. Slovenia was next and Mussolini deported Slovenians to concentration camps, his plan was to move Italians there instead. The Slovenia campaign was easily the most despicable act by Mussolini and

Surgeons in Russia had to operate after a 12-month-old toddler swallowed more than 40 fridge magnets.

The tot’s mum panicked when she noticed that all of the magnets from the family’s fridge had gone missing.

The woman, whose name has not been released, rushed her son to hospital near her home in Chelyabinsk.

“The child had been in the room alone with the magnets and now they were gone. She thought he must have swallowed them,” said a clinic spokesman.

Surgeons confirmed her fears when ultrasound scans found 42 magnets in the tot’s digestive system.

Chief paediatric surgeon Nikolay Rostovtsev - who performed the op - said: “Over the years, I had to take a variety of foreign bodies including magnets from young patients.

“Once I removed about 20 of them, but this incident of our little patient has broken all records.”

Toy makers defend bank robbery game

Makers of a bank robbery toy set - aimed at children aged from four to ten - say it helps teach youngsters ‘right from wrong’.

German manufacturs Playmobil have been slammed by the anti-gun lobby for their £35 ‘Bank and Safe’ toy pack.

It comes with everything needed to simulate a bank robbery, including armed robbers and a safe full of gold.

Danny Bryan of Communities Against Gun and Knife Crime, said: “We don’t want to be encouraging young people to look at these sorts of things.

“I think it is horrendous that young people are given all these images to shape them. It is sending out the wrong message.”

But Playmobil marketing manager Jamie Dickinson responded: “We have been producing police play sets for 35 years...

“One thing our customer feedback tells us is that it is important that children can be taught, through play, the importance of recognising good from evil and ‘baddies’ from ‘goodies’.

“Our ‘cops’ and ‘robbers’, in the guise of policemen, police cars, criminals and jails, enable these scenarios to be created. We fully support creating a safe environment for all children and would hope that in their own small way our sets deliver this in a secure, but believable, way.” thousands were murdered or interned. The remains of the Risiera de San Sabba concentration camp are in northern Italy where tens of thousands were tortured and up to 5000 people were gassed with their bodies burnt. The ovens were blown up by the Germans at the end of the war to try and cover up the war crimes.

Another camp at Rab saw thousands killed.

Mussolini then supported the Germans in their invasion of the Soviet Union but the Italian army suffered huge casualties and the campaign was massively unpopular with ordinary Italians. This was the beginning of the end and when the Allies invaded Italy in1943, The Italian Grand Fascist Council issued a vote of non-confidence against Mussolini and King Victor had Mussolini arrested and imprisoned. The Germans had other ideas though as they rightly feared the Italians would capitulate and throw their lot in with the Allies.

In September 1943 German paratroopers rescued Mussolini without a shot being fired at a place called Gran Sasso. Mussolini greeted his rescuers with the words ‘I knew my friend (Hitler) would not forsake me!’ The Germans set up Mussolini in northern Italy as the ruler of a puppet stated called the Italian Socialist Republic. As the Allies advanced north they took Monte Cassino where there were 75,000 casualties. The end was nigh, a disguised Mussolini attempted to flee Italy to Switzerland in April 1945 along with his mistress Clara in a German convoy but they were both recognised at a checkpoint at Lake Como and shot. Their bodies were taken to Milan and strung up from a lamppost as proof of the dictators’ demise.

In 2003 Mussolini’s admirer Silvio Berlusconi made his now infamous comments that Mussolini had only ever sent people on vacation!

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

17

women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business... women in business...

Fabulous clothing & accessories sizes 8 - 28 catered for

677 542 931

www.donnasboutique.es find us on

Donna’s boutique

DONNA’S BOUTIQUE in Turre, which opened to the public in June 2012, has gone from strength to strength and offers a fabulous collection of quality and affordable clothing, all from the UK, catering for sizes 8 – 28. The range is constantly being updated and Donna’s eye for fashion makes every lady feel good in their outfit; that’s why her customers come back time after time There are accessories too, including sparkly costume jewellery, hats, handbags & shoes - all at excellent prices!! And, if you can’t get to the shop, the shop will come to you as Donna operates a delivery service!

Why not host a private party to enjoy shopping in your own home? (minimum 10 persons) Donna also has a Facebook page entitled ‘Donna´s Boutique’ - hit the like button and you’ll be entered into monthly competitions and kept updated on ‘What’s New’. Donna is an official supplier of Lipsy clothing as from March and has recently secured a contract to supply a brand new affordable clothing range that specialises in fashion for the more curvaceous lady in sizes 16 – 28.

So watch this space!

Tel 677 542 931.

woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery

You may already know Tracey and her husband Bob from the television programme Living the Dream.

Small friendly kennels 24hr vets service pet transporting arranged

WOODHOUSE BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

arboleas

welcome to view now ministry approved

Tracy 650 211 952 Having worked for one of the most successful estate agents in the area, Jules set up iCasa in 2011 to cater specifically for the sale and purchase of equestrian and country properties.

large country properties needed

in the Los Velez area

genuine clients waiting to view

info@icasaspain.com

They are now running

in Los Uteras which is situated just 15 minutes away from Arboleas.

Tracey has been running the kennels here for 6 years and also is heavily involved with the dog charities in the area. Woodhouse kennels is fully legal and Ministry approved with a 24 hours veterinary service available.

Tracey and Bob also offer a pet transporting service.

As a horse owner she understands the very specific needs and requirements when looking to buy somewhere for you and your horse.

As one of the only specialist equestrian property agents in Andalucia, iCasa has been able to establish links reaching right across the region as far as Cadiz and stretching up to Alicante.

If you are a private seller or an agent wanting help selling your equestrian property or are looking to buy your dream finca in Andalucia please email

Jules on info@icasaspain.com

NULINE WITH THE TWINS

Have you considered dancing as an alternative keep fit routine that will also improve your memory skills?

Then why not try modern day Linedance.

We offer a wide range of high and low impact dances that include a variety of ballroom rhythms, Night Club Two, Waltz, Latin and Jazz, and an extensive library of singers to dance along with from Dolly Parton to the Killers.

Anyone answering this ad will get a free trial run.

Newcomers Workshops Tuesday & Friday La Para Turre 7.00 p.m

NULINE is a great way to learn dance whilst enjoying a low

impact physical and mental workout.

NULINE offers a method of teaching routines danced to all

genres of music: Latin, Waltz, Jazz, Pop, Celtic and

Country so that you can learn more advanced steps at

an early stage.

NULINE is suitable for all ages, no partner required.

Mob: 660 472 334 / 617 712 036

thetwins@nulinedance.com Instructors of NULINE

18

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

lo ok g o o d feel grea T

a spoonful of sugar

family sugar remedy tested for healing people’s wounds A nurse is researching whether an old family remedy using sugar to heal wounds does actually work.

Moses Murandu, from Zimbabwe, grew up watching his father use granulated sugar to treat wounds.

Sugar is thought to draw water away from wounds and prevent bacteria from multiplying.

Early results from a trial on 35 hospital patients in Birmingham are encouraging, but more research is needed.

One of the patients who received sugar treatment on a wound was 62-year-old Alan Bayliss from Birmingham. He had undergone an above-the knee amputation on his right leg at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham and, as part of the surgery, a vein was removed from his left leg leaving a wound which would not heal properly.

Murandu, who is studying for a doctorate at Birmingham University, was contacted and asked to treat the wound with sugar.

Mr Bayliss said: “It has been revolutionary. The actual wound was very deep - it was almost as big as my finger.

“When Moses first did the dressing he almost used the whole pot of sugar, but two weeks later he only needed to use four or five teaspoons.

“I am very pleased indeed. I feel that it has speeded up my recovery a lot, and it has been a positive step forward. I was a little sceptical at first but once I saw the sugar in operation and how much it was drawing the wound out, I was impressed.”

The randomised control trial at three West Midlands hospitals is only half way through. So far 35 patients have been treated with sugar treatment.

Murandu, a senior lecturer in adult nursing at the University of Wolverhampton, said he was very pleased by the results.

“I believe in the sugar and the nurses and doctors who see the effects are beginning to believe in it too.”

The treatment is thought to work because applying sugar to a wound draws the water away, thereby starving the bacteria of what it needs to grow. This prevents the bacteria from multiplying and they die.

Staff nurse Jonathan Janneman said the treatment had boosted the patient’s morale too.

“He could see the cavity in his leg as well as having been unwell and through operations. But the sugar has given him something to hold on to.

“It is amazing that something as simple as sugar has given him a morale boost.”

50% OFF all Lenses including varifocals • Free Hearing Test • Digital Hearing Aids • Various Models & Colours • Adjustments, Parts & Repairs • Moulds & Batteries • Pensioners - 30% OFF

Insomnia

Today: Can’t drop off or get back to sleep? Try to still your mind. ‘Slow down your internal dialogue,’ says clinical hypnotherapist Dominic Knight. ‘Focus on sleeping blissfully to the exclusion of any other thought. If you fixate on not being able to sleep, it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.’

Tomorrow: If you suffer from long-term insomnia, consult your GP. Research shows that the most effective treatment for sleep problems is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which aims to change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that may be contributing to insomnia. For more information go to: www.babcp.com

632

no need to return to the uk for your glasses we have it covered

IVA ON SUNGLASSES has increased to 21% but our prices are stayIng the same!

Huercal - Overa

lidl

hospital

salas opticos

Today: Feeling a bit sniffly? Make yourself some onion and garlic soup! Both have antibacterial and antiseptic properties, so a soup containing about six onions and a whole garlic can really zap those symptoms before they start to take hold.

Tomorrow: Take three doses of herbal remedy echinacea daily: it contains active substances that fight viruses and boost immunity. A recent study from Cardiff University Common Cold Centre found that three daily doses helped reduce the number of recurrent colds by 60%. And when people did succumb to a cold, the length of their illness was cut by an average 26% if they’d taken echinacea.

Starts 7th March

Avda. Guillermo Reyna

mercadona

Common cold

Abigaile

*

30% discount For the over 60’s

Today: Obviously, you could pop a painkiller.

Alternatively, you could tuck into a nice piece of watermelon; it’s rich in magnesium, which boosts circulation and acts as a muscle relaxant - plus it can quash dehydration, another major cause of headaches.

Tomorrow: Aim to drink around 1.5 litres of water per day. Regular headache sufferers found their symptoms were reduced considerably - and quality of life had improved after they’d sipped around seven glasses of water daily for three months, according to a recent study at the University of Maastricht.

elax evive

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ejuvenate retreat elax El Cucador

New Therapist

Abigaile is a fully-qualified beauty & holistic massage therapist and will be offering a full range 779 082 of treatments including Hopi-Ear Candling

Advanced back, face & scalp only treatment 20€

Powerful stress releasing treatment, works on deep seated tension & restores balance to vital energy points.

Initial deep cleansing back exfoliation followed by back massage, facial includes massage ,application of intensive face mask & Oriental head massage help clear the mind, calm the spirit & ease tension. Result is rehydrated, nourished & soothed skin combined with a sense of deep relaxation.

Holistic Massage

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 UK qualified therapist Melissa

1h session or discounts for a course of 6.

Melissa is only working on Saturdays 9.30 - 5pm throughout February, March & April

626 144 680

february offers

Eyebrow Wax &Tint Eyelash Tint

14€

Beauty Therapy

urUK fully-qualified therapists O are available Wednesday & Thursday 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

Mini Facial plus a full Manicure

25€

A Set of Gelish Nails 15€ Sandra works on Wed & Thurs 9.30 - 1pm

661 858 949

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!

www.soltimes.com

19

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

email editor@soltimes.com with your beauty & health tips

Aching legs

Today: Run yourself a nice warm bath - but add one or two packets of Epsom salts to the water; the active ingredient - magnesium sulphate - is a proven muscle relaxant that will soothe those aches and pains instantly.

Tomorrow: Strengthen - and lengthen - your leg muscles by building a quick stretch into your daily routine. The perfect time to do this is after your bath or shower when your muscles are at their warmest.

Stand with your hands on your hips. Cross your left foot in front of the right one, ensuring your left leg is slightly bent with heel raised. As you inhale, raise your right arm towards the ceiling. Exhale and lean slightly to your left. Hold for 10 seconds then repeat on the other side.

Constipation

Today: Try a natural laxative. Add 2 dessertspoons of ground flaxseeds to prune juice - a good way to get the bowels moving.

Flaxseeds are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for all-round good health too!

Tomorrow: ‘Insoluble fibre is important for the formation and easy passage of stools, as it bulks up the stool and speeds up digestion,’ says Jackie Lynch. ‘So make sure you eat plenty of wholegrains, vegetables, nuts and seeds throughout the day to boost your insoluble fibre. And drink plenty of water to ease the fibre through your system.’

Diarrhoea

Today: First and foremost, it’s important to avoid dehydration - so drink plenty of water. Eating soluble fibre can help here, too, as it stays in the gut for longer and can relieve symptoms - increase your intake of brown rice, oatcakes, porridge, beans and apples.

Tomorrow: To avoid further bouts of diarrhoea and keep your gut healthy, a daily dose of natural yoghurt will boost the ‘friendly’ bacteria in your stomach.

Prebiotic foods - such as garlic, onions and leeks can also help.

Hot flushes

Today: Opt for cool, layered cotton clothing or nightwear; drink plenty of water; breathe deeply and slowly; and if possible, jump under a cold shower. If you’re suffering at night, it may also be worth popping your pillowcase in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to cool you down when you rest your head on it.

Tomorrow: Clinical hypnosis has proved very successful in the treatment of menopausal hot flushes, according to a recent study from Baylor University in the US. Researchers found that hypnotic relaxation therapy reduced flushes by as much as 80% over a fiveweek period.

Anxiety

Today: Stop fretting and picture the perfect outcome in your mind. Around 95% of what we feel is based on the thoughts that run through our minds, so if your thoughts are negative and based on failing, you’ll set yourself up to fail - and be miserable in the meantime. Remember, anxiety is simply another word for “fear”: it’s an anticipation of things going wrong and not being able to cope.

Tomorrow: Conquer long-term anxiety by focusing on your goals.

We all seek happiness; what will make you happy is the pursuit and realisation of a worthy goal or ideal, whatever it may be.

Hangover

Today: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and - if you can face it - rustle up some scrambled eggs for breakfast. Cysteine - the amino acid found in eggs - counteracts the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, the chemical produced by the body as it metabolises alcohol. Egg protein can also help us stay more awake and alert during the working day, according to recent research from Cambridge University.

Tomorrow: We can’t tell you to stop drinking alcohol, but try avoiding dark-coloured alcoholic drinks as they contain natural chemicals - called congeners which irritate the blood vessels and brain tissue, so can make a hangover much worse. Also try alternating your alholic drinks with water or soft drinks, avoiding fizzy soft drinks as they speed up the absorption of alcohol!

hair & beauty

Addsome Hollywood Glamour

withsmooth locks and shaped eyebrows Donna would like to welcome Roz formerly of the barberia to the team        Mondayspecialoffers

Ladies Cut only 8.50€ - Gents Cut only 6.50€ N ot i n con j u nct i on w i th an y other offer

Mon:9.30am-3pmTue-Fri:9.30am-5pmSat:10am-2pm

950 930 167 or 628 669 456 located opposite Pricebusters

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

WE HAVE OVER 42,000 PEOPLE READING THE SOL TIMES EVERY WEEK... ...PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THEIR HANDS! CALL PAULETTE ON

950 121 936

GirasolGymnasticsClub DO YOU OFFER HEALTH & BEAUTY SERVICES?

Do you want your child to burn off some energy and keep fit?

Would you like your child to participate in a sport in a disciplined and fun environment?

OR would you just like an hours rest?

If so, then bring them along to Girasol Gymnastics Club, where they can also work to achieve Proficiency Awards (also known as BAGA badges) For further information call Claire on 639089170 or Stacey 678207205 Girasol Health Shop, Calle Malaga Albox, discount for (on the same road as Puppy Rescue) siblings

4.00€

kim clark benefits consultancy

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

Dra Monica Algañaraz –has over 40 years experience in physiotherapy and osteopathic treatment. General postural assessment and holistic health checks available English spoken

Tel: 695 355 381 Olula Del Rio

• mobility problems •h elp with washing/ • pain/breathlessness dressing • falls/stumbles • supervision 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

JAX

Hair&Beauty Formerly J.D. Hair Design

look good, feel good

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Albox Rambla

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20

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Fair Trade Fortnight Fairtrade is a tool for development that ensures disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries get a better deal through the use of the international FAIRTRADE Mark.

Every year they run a campaign to raise awareness of the number of fair trade products available - Fair Trade Fortnight!

25 February – 10 Mar

This Fairtrade Fortnight (25 February - 10 March) it’s time to go further to look after the food we love and the people who grow it. Without our support now, farmers and workers in developing countries face an uncertain future.

Fairtrade is about making sure some of the most disadvantaged people in the developing world are getting a better deal from trade, through fair prices, sustainable farming practices and community investment. The first Fairtrade products appeared on the shop shelves in the UK in 1994. These were Café Direct coffee, Clipper tea and Green & Black’s Maya Gold chocolate.

ch

Background on Fairtrade: Fairtrade is a strategy for poverty alleviation and sustainable development.

Its purpose is to create opportunities for producers and workers who have been economically disadvantaged or marginalized by the conventional trading system. If fair access to markets under better trade conditions would help them to overcome barriers to development, they can join Fairtrade.”

Fairtrade is a tool for development that ensures disadvantaged farmers and workers in developing countries get a better deal through the use of the international FAIRTRADE Mark.

Fairtrade Labelling was created in the Netherlands in the late 1980s. The Max Havelaar Foundation launched the first Fairtrade consumer guarantee label in 1988 on coffee sourced from Mexico. Here in the UK, the Fairtrade Foundation was established in 1992, with the first products to carry the FAIRTRADE Mark launched in 1994.

For a product to display the FAIRTRADE Mark it must meet international Fairtrade standards which are set by the international certification body Fairtrade Labelling Organisations International(FLO). These standards are agreed through a process of research and consultation with key participants in the Fairtrade scheme, including producers themselves, traders, NGOs, academic institutions and labelling organisations such as the Fairtrade Foundation.

DID YOU KNOW...2013 FACTS

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT BUYING FAIRTRADE? www.fairtrade.org.uk/products/retail_products/default.aspx

Wednesday 27th February - from 10am

beauty without surgery Benson with Dr. Helena Radies se Permanent

Anti Frown Treatment, Juvederm, make-up, Fillers, Permanent make-up for eyes and lips Helena Benson qualified as a medical doctor at the First Medical Academy in Moscow in 1986. In 1989 Helena came to England. During the 1990’s she worked at Harley Street and from her clinic in North London. She has been practicing natural herbs, iridology and nutrition. In the late 90’s she became involved in medical aesthetics, and now treats patients across the United Kingdom, Ireland and Spain.

Helena is the founder of the London School of Permanent Make-up, one of the leading schools in the UK.

Anti Frown treatment Juvederm, Radiesse Permanent make-up available on the day.

Improving your skin or fixing the line may not necessarily fix your life., but wouldn’t it be nice to get back what you thought you might have lost forever?

Dr Benson specializes in aesthetic medicine and facial rejuvenation, not requiring cosmetic surgery, or so called ‘lunchtime cosmetics’.Treatments for wrinkles and skin peels can become part of your grooming routine, like going to the hairdresser, doing your nails or even buying new clothes.The best modern cosmetics come in syringes, not jars!

And as Oscar Wilde said “It is only shallow people who don’t judge by first impressions”.

If you can look good and feel great about it, then why not do it?

A desire to improve your appearance is not about vanity. It’s about confidence and your self-esteem.

Helena Benson will be at rretreat, Cucador on

Wednesday 27th February Call 647 379 878 to book your appointment or email: retreatcucador@gmail.com for more information

Rretreat (next to La Vida) Cucador

to book your appointment call 647 379 878 or email: retreatcucador@gmail.com for more information

see la vida advert on page 35 for directions

The Fairtrade system currently works with 1.24 million people - farmers and workers - across more than 66 developing countries In the UK, sales of Fairtrade products in 2011 reached £1.32 billion – a 12 per cent increase on the previous year Fairtrade products are now sold in more than 120 countries 75 per cent of all Fairtrade producers are smallholder farmers 78 per cent of consumers recognise the FAIRTRADE Mark Last year, farmers and workers from some of the world’s poorest countries invested €65 million in Fairtrade Premium in business, social and environmental projects in their communities There are now 991 Fairtrade producer organisations worldwide More than 6.5 million litres of Fairtrade wine was enjoyed in 2011 One in every three bananas sold in the UK is Fairtrade Fairtrade accounts for 10 per cent of all tea sold in the UK Just over 8 per cent of all roast and ground retail coffee is Fairtrade certified 9,924 tonnes of Fairtrade hot chocolate was drunk in the UK in 2011 – that’s about 1.5 million of us sitting down to a cup of hot chocolate every day Chichester Cathedral became the world’s first public building to display Fairtrade and Fairmined certified gold in 2011. A 3ft cockerel was gilded in Fairtrade certified gold and positioned atop the 270ft Cathedral spire Fairtrade is a thriving and growing campaign movement with more than 550 Fairtrade Towns, almost 900 Fairtrade Schools and 170 Fairtrade Universities, and more than 7,000 Fairtrade Faith Groups.

Thousands of people across the UK alone will Go Further this Fairtrade Fortnight by helping to raise awareness through events, activities and buying Fairtrade products.

Go Online NOW and donate, buy Fair Trade and sign the petition!

http://step.fairtrade.org.uk

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Preservativas

viewpoint

walking capabilities of a toddler on Christmas morning – a sequence of precarious stumbles interspersed There was no queue as I stepped into with inevitable crashes. the little Farmacia, just the usual air of While I vacillated in search of a friendly competence and a sprucely more original answer than ‘A little’ dressed gentleman sitting patiently he launched into an explanation of waiting. the item that his friend needed, but We communicated by smile and an which he didn’t feel up to ordering inclination of the head – an indication that I should go ahead to be served in a foreign chemist’s shop staffed exclusively by women. ‘He doesn’t first – I didn’t want to queue-barge.

In no time the pretty young lady speak Spanish, you see.’

‘It’s not for me’ he assured me, ‘it’s assistant had sorted my request, and after a short chat about the weather I for my friend, but he doesn’t know the word for it in Spanish.’ turned to leave.

‘Excuse me, do you speak Spanish?’

I racked my brain, riffling through enquired the sprucely dressed the mental filing system until right at gentleman as I neared the door. the back I found the word for which I That question was searching. Quickly, before it could always fills me with sink once more without trace into the trepidation.

My primal ooze that is my brain, I told linguistic skill is about him. the same as the But that was only half a solution it still had to be asked for, and the same pretty young lady was still josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk hovering behind the counter, aware

By Jos Biggs

My Tackle is Gathering Dust!

With one exception, I cannot remember the last time I slipped on my wellies; packed up my corned beef sandwiches and maggots and went off for a day’s fishing - although it was somewhere around the tail end of the 60’s.

That one exception was fifteen years ago, when my eldest grandson expressed an interest in angling and using this as an excuse, I took him quickly off to the local tackle shop and purchased some basic gear. A good quality rod and fixed spool reel and all the other bits and pieces necessary to get him started.

It helped that a farmer friend had offered us access to his private lake that was set well off the beaten track and screened by a thick cover of trees. He had given permission for the angling society from the local

Highpoint prison – composed of officers, not cons – to use this little oasis free of charge, on condition that they kept the undergrowth in check, maintained the banks and generally ensured that this picturesque spot was always left clean and tidy. It was a good arrangement for him because although he had no interest in the sport himself, he was happy in the knowledge that in order to keep him sweet, the prison officers club would make absolutely sure that this part of his land would be well looked after and moreover act as water bailiffs and evict anyone not authorised to fish.

And because their society was a small one, there was never a danger of over fishing, with not even a solitary angler in evidence on most days – which was the case on the August day that my grandson and I arrived at the lake.

We enjoyed our time in that tranquil setting and having caught some small tench, spotted several carp and some outsize golden orfe, it gave him the bug and he became a keen angler thereafter.

For my part, I have not picked up a fishing rod since and my tackle resides in the garage gathering dust.

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com

that more trade was coming her way.

Still spruce, but ever so slightly ruffled, the gentleman hesitated midway to the counter. I appreciated his dilemma, and in the spirit of Christian fellowship I offered to ask for it on his behalf.

I may have a brass neck, but I like to think that I have a kind heart, and I hate to see a fellow human struggle. I stepped up to the counter and put in the request.

The young lady arched a quizzical eyebrow at me. ‘For you?’

‘No’ I replied. ‘For the gentleman over there.’

She glanced in his direction and the eyebrow continued its interrogation.

‘For his friend.’ I explained.

‘Ah, for his friend.’ She turned and homed in unerringly on the complete range, and with the practice borne of experience selected and handed me the object of desire, which I passed to its intended recipient.

Mission accomplished, we parted, and went our various ways.

I have been mildly tempted once or twice since coming to Spain, but having been informed about the bureaucratic hoops that have to be jumped through in order to obtain a licence, I decided against it.

That may or may not be true and if I was as keen as I once was of course, then I would not allow that to stand in my way. The fact is, my memories of the English river bank are the ones that I hold dear and I find everything else less inspiring.

As a young angler, my mentor and greatest influence, was Bernard Venables who regarded himself as a naturalist first and foremost, with angling an important adjunct to that and through his writings and art, taught me to observe and love the wonderful world of nature in our countryside.

I was fortunate to have the river Kennet on my doorstep and during the summer months, I would often be out of bed on a Sunday morning well before sun up and while the blackbirds were still snoring and having wormy dreams, I would make my way to the river with my own supply of the slimy little blighters – the small red variety being a particular favourite of the hungry early-morning tench.

As the mist cleared and the sun began to show its face, it revealed the most glorious setting and was my favourite part of the day. With one eye on my stationary float, waiting

for that tell tale rise and dip before sliding away as a fish made a run for it with my bait, my other attentive eye would be scanning the far bank for signs of water voles.

My cross eyes are not my best feature.

These comical little rodents are an endangered species today, but back then were a common sight as they busily patrolled their territory scavenging for food. And as the sun climbed higher in the sky, the surrounding trees and meadows would burst into life – birds found their voices and competed for the avian equivalent of a GRAMMY, as legions of insects droned and buzzed into activity. Then, as if a gigantic artists brush had swept across the landscape, the countryside exploded into vibrant colour.

I was lucky to have all of this in my back yard and when I wasn’t idling away those summer days there, I would be fishing from a boat on the achingly beautiful Blenheim Palace Lake or studying the waters of the Hampshire Avon or Dorset Stour, searching for signs of that elusive king barbel.

Yes, fishing was much more to me than just catching fish and when describing the river bank, that greatest of all anglers Izaac Walton once wrote -“The quietest and fittest place for contemplation.”

21

alqueria - The space programme John MacDon ald

(El Sordo) - ww

w.caratacus .eu

A large wooden crate measuring some three metres by three metres arrived at Alqueria’s border with Spain. Addressed to Antonio Poyato and with a custom’s declaration stating ‘one pair of dress cufflinks, value £13.50’. The ‘From’ label read ‘East Anglian Aviation Museum, Suffolk, UK’.

Since Poyato accidentally discovered the incredible burn rate of his Remitroot Liquor, losing his eyebrows in the process he had searched for an application. The idea of using it as rocket fuel occurred to him while at the Bar La Casa Devante and partially intoxicated. It’s amazing the inspiration one gets while in this state.

The contents of the crate were spread over the floor of Poyato’s patio.

A bewildering array of tubes, valves, piping and aerodynamic fins. The instructions however were in English. ‘Thank you for purchasing the Bristol Bloodhound anti-aircraft missile, correctly assembled it will bring hours of fun and pleasure’. Read Blythe Gruntmore as he thumbed through the manual. It was an old museum exhibit bought cheap by Poyato after the Museum closed. The British MOD had commandeered everything else that could fly to create the impression it was investing heavily in the country’s armed forces.

Blythe Gruntmore worked solidly for three days and nights assembling the missile. Eating countless sausage sandwiches and unfortunately consuming gallons of Newcastle Brown Ale he worked on. His first attempt looked rather like a garden shed with wings. Poyato turned the assembly drawings the right way up, confiscated his Brown Ale and set him to work again.

The completed missile pointed skyward at last, finished just as Gruntmore collapsed from exhaustion and Brown Ale withdrawal. It was a splendid contraption all tubes, guidance fins and nose cones. The whole village turned out to see it. Very few comprehended its use however, some thinking it was the new septic tank promised by the sanitary department.

Poyato spent the next week pumping Remitroot Liquor into the missile’s boosters. A car battery and a light switch formed the basis of the ignition system. Manuela, being Minister of Culture prepared a scroll with a message addressed to ‘Whom it may concern’. This was placed in the nose cone. The actual message was known only to Manuela however.

When launch day arrived and after the usual pompous speeches the count-down began. Rodriquez shouted the diminishing count aloud to all. Poyato who hated the obese Rodriquez launched the missile when the count was still at ‘5’.

With a tremendous roar the Bloodhound took off covering the whole village with a cloud of Remitroot vapour. Highly intoxicating and as the only true aphrodisiac the population spent the next three days engaged in activities worthy of Tiberius himself.

Where the Bloodhound went is a mystery as is Manuela’s message secured in the nose cone. The content of the message and of any alien response is perhaps something we shouldn’t ponder on for too long.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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THE SPAINIAC | Las Fallas | Candice Parsons

The sound of firecrackers ripping through the streets and the sight of various effigies burning brightly is only a mere insight to

how wild Spain’s parties are.

Listed as one of the nation’s best festivals of the year, Las Fallas lasts four days long between

March 15th to March 19th within the city of Valencia.

Filling up the streets of Valencia from early morning till late into the

night, both national and international voyeurs and party-goers gather for what is, in essence, a carnivalesque giant puppet show.

The festival name derives from the Valencian word “falla”, which translates to fire. Therefore, Las Fallas, ‘The Fires’ or ‘The Torches’, conveys the main highlight of this festival – building and destoying the ‘ninots’.

The giant and colourful puppets or sculptures that are created from either paper-mâché, styrofoam, wax, wood, or cardboard, can measure up to 30 metres high. Local Valencian’s of the different neighbourhoods in the city create these ninots, which often take the entire previous year to craft together and even cost up to US $75, 000.

As they attract and entertain the crowds of visitors whilst parading around the different neighbourhoods of

Valencia, the ninots are usually crafted as satirically humorous and mocking of celebrities, politicians and distinctive media figures, depicting a whimsical and entertaining parody of the world.

Alongside the ninots parading around the city, other street parties and activities, such as paellacooking competitions, bullfights, concerts and parades are available throughout the various barrios and plazas of Valencia.

Locals take over and disperse around the city, flaunting traditional Valencian costumes amongst the culturally festive atmosphere.

The grand finale of Las Fallas takes place exactly

at midnight on the last day of the festival (19th).

Fireworks are lit whilst each of the fallas are blown up to create a large fiery explosion and burn them down into ash. For this reason, the festival is often compared to Guy Fawkes day in United Kingdom, which also traditionally involves lighting fires.

Historically said to have originated in the late 15th century from pagan celebrations of the spring equinox, plus almost being banned by a number of governments during the 20th century due to the civil war; Las Fallas stands as a day in honour of Saint Joseph from Spain’s Catholic church roots.

Candice Parsons is a writer and avid Spain and Spanish culture lover from Melbourne, Australia. ‘Like’ my Facebook page: www.facebook. com/pandemicrhapsody and follow me on Twitter @MiLlamoCandi

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

Q: DO I NEED A SPANISH WILL

A:YES...and here’s why...

1. Your estate will be left to the people of your choice and not to those determined by law 2.You can mitigate inheritance tax by planning the distribution of your estate. A will can be the single most cost-effective document you will sign during your lifetime.

3. You will have the peace of mind of knowing that things are in order for your heirs and that your heirs will not end up dealing with a complicated and costly procedure in a foreign country.

I like the challenge of complicated inheritance work but we will never stop insisting that all our clients should make a Spanish will.

Since setting up office in 1993, I have been surprised by the amount of people who have come to ask whether it is convenient to make a will in Spain concerning their Spanish assets. The answer to this is most definitely yes. In England if you do not make a will, then the law has rules, which will determine the distribution of your assets. These rules could mean that your assets are distributed in a way very different from what you would have liked. In Spain the situation is the same, with an additional factor. Your heirs will have to deal with a foreign language and legal system. All the more reasons to leave everything as organised as possible. Some people include their Spanish assets in their English will. This is legally binding, but to obtain probate in Spain, it will be necessary for the will to be translated and legalised. This is a long and costly procedure. My advice on the subject is to have two separate wills, one in England for your English assets and one in Spain for your Spanish assets.

Drawing up a will in Spain does not take long and is not expensive, and will definitely save your heirs a lot of time, problems and money. Your Lawyer will draw up a rough draft, and then he will make an appointment at the notary to sign the final document. One copy is sent by the notary to the central register in Madrid. He will hold on to the original copy. You will be given a copy that I suggest you inform your heirs and lawyer in England about, and then put it in the bottom drawer, with the peace of mind of knowing that everything is taken care of.

At Davies Solicitors we will listen to your wishes and advise you on the most tax efficient way of dealing with your Spanish estate. We will explain in detail the tax implications of your decisions for your heirs and ways to deal with it.We will prepare a will in both English and Spanish for signature and in general we will provide you the peace of mind of knowing that everything has been left organized for your heirs. Please call or email us for an appointment 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.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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25

Two Local Authorities Make Major Policy Changes was treated. He had planned to put forward a set of revised proposals that would enable the site to remain open for most of the day, but these were turned down.

As I reported two weeks ago, most of the staff working at the castle were said to be unhappy with the cuts to opening hours and wished to continue with their present working conditions. The local tourist board expressed their dismay at the announcement, saying they were amazed at a decision which would have an enormous effect on tourism revenue, not just for Almeria but for the region

The Ordinance of Terraces Bill was introduced by the Roquetas City Hall in December, the details of which I reported in Sol Times last month; its intention was to standardise the look of all bar and restaurant terraces. They would have to conform to specific design, colour and construction requirements; any awnings, windows or doors not meeting the specifications would be replaced.

Similarly, tables, chairs and sun umbrellas would have to be of an approved colour and devoid of any branding logos or messages – like those provided free to bars by most of the beer companies. New closing times were set out and the use of televisions and background music systems would be subject to noise level monitoring by the council.

On first viewing, of what is a lengthy document, it appears to be a huge undertaking by the council; not just the implementation of the bill, but the financial outlay to both council and traders would be enormous. The reaction by business owners across the town has been one of shock and amazement; shock, that the council could possibly consider bringing in such sweeping measures in these times of hardship for anyone connected to the flagging tourism industry. Amazement, that there was no consultation process on such an array of major changes, which many fear could bring about yet more business closures. The overriding question has been, why?

In the last two years, because of the current crisis in Spain, the amount of traders forced out of business by the recession has been huge. In one stretch of beach side bars and restaurants along the Playa Romanilla, the number of trading premises has been halved. A similar picture can be seen elsewhere in the town and those owners still in business have done so by keeping their overheads to a bare minimum. Times are very difficult, at the moment only the strongest survive.

When reporting this story in January, one restaurant owner told me she would have to close her doors if the council pressed ahead with the proposed changes, the cost of implementing them would be too much trouble; and hers is a respected family business of over 25 years. Reactions like that were all too common from those people I spoke to. There was anger that in such troubled times,

as a whole. A predicted 30,000 visitors would be lost once the new hours were introduced.

But, the good news now is, the council - and those other powers that be - have changed their minds and the Alcazaba and Museum will continue to be open to the public as it has always been in the past.

There are a few variations to the times, but in essence they remain the same. So, another coup for common sense, or another shot in the foot for local government?

Either way, it’s a victory for the thousands of visitors who will still be able to visit this truly historic monument.

It would seem the ability to backtrack is an important requirement in local government.

This week has seen two authorities performing u-turns on policies they announced not too many weeks ago.

Report and photos Martin Shortland

the council should be giving help to the business community, not trying to hinder it. Another bar owner had only recently spent a considerable sum on a new awning and roof for his terrace. Under the new Bill, this will have to be replaced; the obvious question he would like answered is, will he receive compensation?

But now, in what can only be seen as a u-turn by the council, they appear to be changing their minds.

At a meeting held last week, in reaction to pressure from The Association of Traders president, Azucena Sabio, the council has agreed to, “Review the whole issue of the new Bill.” In a statement from City Hall, they have invited the Association to, “Formulate a set of counter proposals which we can sit down and discuss, looking at the best possible way forward for all parties.” They went on to admit that in the current economic climate, the new Bill was “hard” and they were confident that, “A dialog could be established to draw up a new agreement which would satisfy all those involved.” Reading between the lines, a compromise is clearly on the way, but we shall watch with interest how the council proceeds, as the final outcome will have a direct effect on the local business community for some time to come.

Also last month, the Alcazaba and Archaeological Museum in Almeria announced it would be closed to visitors in the afternoon this year; for the first time in its history. The ancient monument is undoubtedly the most important attraction not just in the city, but arguably in the whole of eastern Andalucia.

Construction of the castle began in the year 900 when the Caliph of Cordoba granted the title ‘city’ to Almeria and it became the seat of power for the region until the Christian conquest in 1400. It has remained relatively undamaged over the centuries and therefore provides a remarkable insight into how life was lived over 900 years ago.

The Ministry of Culture made the announcement about the change to opening hours following negotiations with representatives of the public services union, regarding improved working hours and conditions. At a conference held recently in Seville to discuss the future of museums and monuments in Andalucia, the regional director of culture and education for Almeria, Lorenzo Cara, was not happy with the way his delegation

The Tightening Tax Net

Spain’s asset reporting obligation is its latest initiative to increase tax revenue. Over the last decade or so the tax environment has changed dramatically. Here are some of the key tax events since 2000.

2000, June – EU starts negotiations on its Savings Tax Directive to ensure all EU residents pay the tax due on their savings income.

2002, July – Spanish tax authorities reach agreement with Jersey regarding information exchange.

2005, July – Savings Tax Directive comes into force.

2006, April – Barclays Bank is forced to disclose details of offshore customers to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).

2007, February - Four major UK banks are made to reveal details of offshore customers to HMRC. 2009, March – International pressure builds on offshore financial centres in wake of the financial crisis. Switzerland agrees to relax its banking secrecy rules.

By Bill Blevins, Financial Correspondent, Blevins Franks

2009, August – 308 UK and offshore banks are ordered to give HMRC details about offshore accounts.

2010, January – Spanish tax rate on savings income increases from 18% to 19% and 21%.

2010, June – Spanish government says it is investigating 3,000 Swiss bank accounts owned by Spanish taxpayers.

2010, October – Switzerland and the UK agree to negotiate an accord to tax Swiss bank accounts owned by UK taxpayers.

2011, January – Spain top rate of income tax increases to 45%.

2011, February – Electricity companies are obliged to provide information to the tax authorities regarding the electricity usage of every property.

2011, July – Savings Tax Directive withholding tax rate jumps from 20% to 35%. Isle of Man and Guernsey start to automatically report on interest earnings.

2011, September – Wealth tax is re-introduced.

2011, October – The Spanish tax office writes to 300,000 property owners, warning them it is aware they have not submitted tax returns.

2012, January – Income tax rates increase for everyone in Spain, taking the top rate up to 52%. Tax on savings income increases to 21%, 25% and 27%.

2012, April – Spain’s tax amnesty is approved.

2012, October/November – Spain’s anti-fraud plan, including the new asset reporting requirement, is passed into law.

2013, 30 April – First deadline to report your offshore assets.

To make sure your tax planning is up to date take professional advice from a specialist firm like Blevins Franks which has decades of experience advising British expatriates in Spain.

Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice. To keep in touch with the latest developments in the offshore world, check out the latest news on our website www.blevinsfranks.com

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

property guide....

Fall in House Prices to Accelerate in 2013

According to the latest report by real estate appraisers, Tinsa, the average house price decline accelerated to 13.8% in January, year-on-year, the month in which the tax benefits for home purchase were eliminated. With this latest reduction, the accumulated adjustment in house prices has now reached 35.3% since their maximum values reached in December 2007,

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before the crisis.

By area, El Mundo reported that the metropolitan areas experienced the sharpest cuts in January, with a 15.4% decrease in the price of their homes, year-on-year, followed by the municipalities on the Mediterranean coast, with a decline of 14.9%, and the capitals and major cities, with a reduction of 14.2%, completing the list of areas with cuts above the market

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Tinsa’s data noted that the cumulative drop in prices since December 2007 has now reached 43% on the Mediterranean coast, 38.1% in the capitals and major cities, 37.7% in metropolitan areas, 30.2% in the rest of the municipalities, and 28.9% in the Balearic and Canary Islands. (WWW.KYERO.COM)

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Vice President of the European Commission (EC) and head of Economic Affairs, Olli Rehn, said this week that Spain “must maintain the momentum” of the reforms undertaken in the economy in order to achieve stability and growth.

In a press conference at the end of the Eurogroup meeting in Brussels, when asked about his opinion on the cases of corruption that have tainted Spanish politics, Rehn stated: “We are following the economic and political developments in Spain.”

“I want to emphasise that there has been important progress made (in Spain) to calm the financial turmoil, thanks to decisions made with regard to fiscal consolidation and after the recent decisions of the European Central Bank (ECB) to purchase bonds in the secondary market,” said Rehn, in relation to the so-called direct monetary

transactions (OMT).

According to Diario Sur, the Spanish Economy Minister, Luis de Guindos, said on his arrival at the Eurogroup, that Spain “is a country where institutions function with a transparency which is unmatched.” The Spanish minister made this statement in response to questions about the alleged behaviour

De Guindos said, “at a time like this, the exemplary nature of all institutions is vital” and indicated that the Government “will remove all negative behaviours from a fiscal and employment point of view” and reiterated that “in Spain the law works and applies”.

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Spain Must Maintain Momentum of Reforms, Says Rehn

of the Vice President of the CEOE, Arturo Fernandez, who is accused of paying salaries in black money to employees of their companies.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Sol Insure A New Ray Of Light For Insurance

Looking Around for Insurance or Renewal Due?

LATEST SPANISH MORTGAGE REFORM WILL HAVE POSITIVE OUTCOME FOR HOME-OWNERS The last battery of mortgage law reforms in Spain will have a limited effect on guarantees for bond issues. This is according to the rating agency, Fitch, who says that the 30-year restriction on mortgages will only apply to new loans and, in the long run, will mean “better and more robust” cover.

The agency stated: “After our discussions with the Ministry of Economy, we believe that this rule will only apply to new mortgages granted, so existing mortgages with maturities longer than 30 years will not be excluded from the eligible loans and thus banks will not be forced to buy back bonds to comply with legal constraints”.

Fitch recognises, however, that the new measures introduced by the Government slightly weakens the creditor protection through the universal personal liability of the debtor, but believes that the number of mortgages that would be eligible to benefit from this relaxation of the rules “is small”, and therefore should have a limited effect on the banks.

El Mundo reported that the agency considers that the impact of the new measures on the desire to return mortgage loans will be limited because the economic incentives to non-payment of housing are lower than the charges the unpaid debt and the need to find alternative housing would represent.

“The disincentive to default on mortgages is strong in the first home, so it will be important to see whether the new laws and procedures will apply only to primary residences or to all mortgage loans,” the agency added. (www.kyero.com)

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

FOOD & ENTERTAINING...

Cooking classes ‘a boost to healthy diet’ Short cooking classes can have a long-term impact on healthy eating, a study suggests.

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Questioning of parents who took part in government-funded courses in Scotland showed they ate more fruit and vegetables and fewer ready meals a year later.

Participants were also more confident about following a simple recipe.

The University of Glasgow researchers said refresher

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remained months down the line.

had a measurable effect on people’s diets.

There are numerous l o c a l l y - f u n d e d programmes to improve cooking and nutrition skills around the UK but, until now, there has been little data on any longterm effects.

A year later, 44 of 100 cookery class attendees agreed to be interviewed again and researchers found there was still a significant increase in their confidence in following simple recipes and using basic ingredients.

“It is very encouraging that we have these positive results,” she said.

The study looked at courses lasting between four and eight weeks for parents of pre-school children.

Classes included information on budgeting, nutrition and cooking simple meals.

we days a 7 N E P O

LOCAL STEW & ROAST

courses would boost the effects further.

MENU DEL NOCHE

20oz T-BONE STEAK, 16oz BEEF ENTRECOTE 12oz PORK TENDERLOIN, ROASTED LAMB SHANK & SHOULDER, ROASTED PORK KNUCKLE AND MORE

DINNER 7PM-10PM

sunday roast menu del dia 4 courses with bottle of ESTE wine per couple & coffee included: Roast Lamb Shoulder & Pork Knuckle, 12oz Entrecote, 20oz T-Bone, 10oz Pork Tenderloin, Roast Potatoes & Fresh Vegetables Freshly Baked Bread SERVED 1pm - 4pm

Childrens menu available

Booking Recommended

FREE WI-FI

Spanish Speaking 950 430 145 ~ English Speaking 647 730 103 PolIGONO Industrial Albox, Near the ITV Garage

www.mesondeirene.com

Questionnaires filled in immediately after the courses showed an immediate boost in participants’ confidence in cooking, preparing and trying new foods, researchers reported in the journal Public Health Nutrition.

But the researchers were more interested in whether these effects

They also found that participants were eating fewer ready meals than before the courses, and were eating portions of fruit and vegetables daily compared with just a few times a week before.

Some of the “confidence scores” in cooking and trying new foods had slipped after a year and the researchers said refresher courses would be useful.

Study leader Dr Ada Garcia said that, although the study numbers were small due to difficulties in re-contacting people after a year, the results showed that such programmes

winter

“This suggests that the intervention has benefited participants’ eating habits and health not only in the short-term, but also in the long-term,” she added.

Prof Alan Maryon-Davis, former president of the Faculty of Public Health, said more research, including a controlled trial, should be the next step.

“Budgets are being cut and local authorities are not going to fund stuff unless its been shown to be effective. But this is pretty encouraging.”

He added: “It is particularly important to get these changes happening in young families.”

Read the full article at www.bbc.co.uk

667 919 025 Café Bar

warmer menu To include

Homemade Steak Pie, Chips & Gravy; Sausage & mash; Gammon Steak, Chips, Peas & Pineapple

Changes Daily & from only 4€

Every Friday

disco & music from 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & 00

Saturday 23rd February The SunSpots from 9pm

LA ALFOQUIA, ZURGENA

new Sunday WEDNESDAY NIGHT CURRY 2 Courses €6 lunch menu With Our Fabulous New Chef

only

5€

NEW WINTER WARMER MENU from €4 FISH, CHIPS & PEAS for €5

Available every day

Open Monday - Friday 8am til late Saturday & Sunday 9am til late

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

go online at www.soltimes.com

31

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING

the ultimate diet carb!

effects to konjac. It will make you feel fuller but doesn’t do much for you.

‘Konjac is an appetite suppressant and people will eat it thinking they will get Your local dedicated Off Licence

slim but might not be aware they could be starving themselves of nutrients.

‘You don’t want to starve your body of things that it needs.’

Valley W ines

We Stock Beer, Port, We stock an extensive range of Sherry, A Minimum leading brands. If you can’t of 50 Red Wines, see your favourites then tell us White Wine & Rose and we will order it for you! Brand-name Spirits & Liqueurs Open Mon-Fri 10-6:30pm & Sat 9:30-6pm Closed Sundays

Asian root konjac.

Some nutritionists claim that vegetable extract konjac – also known as Moyu – can stabilise blood-sugar levels and prevent hunger pangs and over-eating.

The unusual product smells strongly of starch and needs to be rinsed at least twice under warm water to remove its distinctive odour.

Advocates claim the rice, which is chewier than normal varieties, tricks your brain into thinking you have eaten a full meal.

One portion can create the sensation of being full for up to four hours.

The Slim range – which

includes Slim Pasta and Slim Noodles – is flavourless, allowing you to add a sauce of your choice.

Made by company Eat Water, it is available from

Find us just along from Sophias Arboleas (same building) - go inside entrance to appartments, we are in the left-hand corner

Holland & Barrett and independent food stores and costs £2.55 a packet.

Tel: 662 153 834

However, Tam Fry, from the National Obesity Forum, said: ‘There are nasty side

Mesón de

Irene

STOP ‘N’ SHOP IN YOUR...

Super Corner

Unmissable offer!

ENGLISH SUPERMARKET

Free Bottle

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

ALL YOUR FAVOURITE BRANDS AND MORE IN ONE SUPERSTORE!!

TURRE, NEXT TO MESON DEL POBRE

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

OPEN MON-SAT 9:30-6PM & SUN 9:30-1:30PM

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

Grea s e tF m Ti rie d nds YELLOW Goo

STONE BAR

Forthcoming events......

March 1st

Status Quo Tribute Basket Meals Available

17th March

THIS THURSDAY - 21st February - FUN QUIZ starts 8pm Breakfast

served 9 ~ 12

Back by Popular Demand

2€ or 5€

Eagles Tribute

Parties & Special Events

Morgan - Irish Folk Singer Mark Nugent and Tommy McCarthy

Friday 12th April

telephone: 950 473 135

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach Open 10am till late (Closed Mon & Tues)

#

For anyone trying to stick to a diet, carbohydrates are usually the enemy.

But one type of rice is flying off the shelves, because it has virtually no calories.

Slim Rice, a new British product, helps you feel full while barely registering on your waistline.

There are 7.7 calories in a 100g serving, compared to 350 calories in the same weight of white basmati rice.

Regular boiled rice contains 64 per cent water.

Slim Rice, which comes already cooked, is made up of 97 per cent water and the

Lunches

catered for Ask at bar

12pm~ 2.30pm

Take-away available M ob i l e top u ps @ bar

Daily Specials

free Wi-Fi

4€

see bar

~ opening hours ~ Mon ~ Sat 9~9ish ~ S un 12pm~7pm

for bookings call PAUL: 634 332 178 Find us in Piedra Amarilla (Formerly The Grapevine) For more information and phone orders call Paul: 634

332 178

ITV CENTRE

← Albox

Fines →

Yellow Stone 1km Piedra Amarilla →

32

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

OUT & ABOUT

Menu del Dia

Tues - Fri 8.50€ Sat - Sun 10.00€

RESERVATIONS 667 67 15 78 666 55 98 77

restclubtenisalbox@yahoo.es

RESTAURANTE Club de Tenis Albox C/Avda de Almeria 17, 04639, Turre, Almeria, Tel: 950 47 96 46

Restaurante pizzeria

Mari Cruz

Specialising in grilled meats, fish & regional dishes Pizzas & pastas to take-away A great variety of wine, beers & tapas Lounge for meetings, company dinners, small events & birthdays...

Now you can follow us on facebook.

Find us as “Pizza Mari Cruz”

free wifi

MARI CRUZ is situated in Turre high street. It has a lovely outside terrace and roomy indoor area. Specialising in grilled meats, fish all cooked on BBQ & regional dishes as well as a great variety of wine, beers, tapas and an excellent variety of freshly homemade pizzas & pastas is available to eat in or take away. There is Lounge for meetings, company dinners, small events & birthdays. Come & buy any pizza to take away and get a free margarita pizza absolutely free.

Here are a few dates for your diary for forthcoming events at The Beachcomber.

Monday 11th March Charity MACS Cancer Charity Quiz Night. Wednesday 13th March is a 60’s & 70’s Tribute Night with a load of Rock n Roll with Lenny. Those lucky enough to see Lennie early December 2012 at the Beachcomber will remember what a great night it was, for those unlucky not to have, don’t miss this one. He’s a great guitarist and singer. Call now to reserve your table on 950 473 099 or visit the website. http://beachcombermojacar.com LA CENA, in Albox is a fine dining experience without the expense. A beautifully decorated restaurant run by husband and wife team Simon and Carol. At the moment they are serving a superb Menu Del Noche, where you can choose from a choice of 3 starters, 5 mains and 3 deserts.

They also offer an alternative to the Sunday lunch, a Sunday Sizzler Mixed Grill at just €9.95 per person, with a carafe of wine per couple included! If any of this has whetted your appetite, call 950 430 930 after 5.30pm today!

The Crazy Cow Bar/Cafe on Mojacar Playa - have a New Menu available. They are still serving old favourites such as Fishcakes, Smoked fish in cream sauce and Cottage pie. Some newcomers are Mixed seafood spaghetti, Vegetarian rice and Chicken and mushroom bake, most of our menu is gluten free. If you would like G.F Spaghetti please call and give notice and they will be happy to cook it for you. Please go along and graze on a selection of their mini meals. You will not be disappointed ... Just ask your friends. FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CALL 697 465 620. Great venue for Private Functions.

After a break over Christmas and New Year, it’s a big welcome back to Julie and Cliff at The Welcome Stranger in Limaria. With mid-week roasts from 4.50€ and lunchtime specials from only 4€, your hosts will ensure a fine dining experience in a friendly environment. To tempt you even further they also offer Steak Night Specials every Thursday and Friday evening and at only 7.95€ per person, it’s got to be worth a try!. Give them a call to reserve your table on 950 432 719.

The Crazy Cow Downstairs on the sea front next to the Irish Rover Look out for our live entertainment evenings

sunday Roast

3 course - €10.50 main course - €7.50 Winter Opening Times 10 til close Food orders taken from 10:30 til 4pm

menu of the day 3 courses €10

regular TRIBUTE SHOWS see website for details

tel: 950 473 099 www.beachcombermojacar.com

La Cena

Restaurante

Albox

menu del noche 3 starters, 5 mains & 3 deserts Full A La Carte also available

Sunday Sizzler mixed grill €9.95 including a carafe of wine per couple

Tuesday - Saturday 7.30pm - late. Sunday 2pm - 6pm Closed Monday. Call 950 430 930 after 5.30pm Find us across the old bridge from Palza Mayor Albox, opp Bar Wassy

Food Cooked With Love

ALL FOOD COOKED TO ORDER

YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED

NEW MENU WITH ALL YOUR OLD FAVOURITES PRIVATE PARTIES CATERED

WINTER HOURS: MONDAY – SATURDAY FROM 11am

CLOSED SUNDAY

KITCHEN OPEN 12noon - 6pm

WE ARE OPPOSITE PLAYA BLANCA TEL: 697465620 SEE YOU THERE XX MOJACAR PLAYA

Email : crazycowcafe@yahoo.com Facebook : Thecrazy Cowcafe

come Stranger WelRestaurante, Limaria Mid week roast – (Wednesdays) 4.50€ Lunchtime Specials – from 4€ Thursday & Friday – Steak Night 7.95€ A La Carte always available Evening set menu – 3 courses plus a drink 9.95€ Sunday Lunch – 1 course, 4.50€ / 3 courses, 9.75€ Open: Wed - Sat 12-3pm and 7-9pm (Last Orders) Sun 12-3.30pm Established 7 years

950 432 719 / 677 378 952

kiwis make your skin glow

Is it possible to glow with health? If new research is to be believed, the answer is yes!

Eating at least three portions of fruit and vegetables daily – including carrots, cabbages and kiwi fruit – gives skin a ‘healthy’ radiance akin to a tan after just a few weeks, according to the study.

According to a report by Mail Online (www.dailymail.co.uk), psychologists from the University of St Andrews analysed the impact fruit and vegetable consumption had on perception of skin colour.

Pictures were taken of men and women to analyse their skin tone before and after the test period.

Researchers found that increased fruit and vegetable consumption led to a deepening of natural red and yellow skin colouration.

They calculated that 2.9 portions of fruit and veg a day over a six-week period are enough to make people look more healthy, while 3.3 portions will boost attractiveness.

In a second project, participants were asked to ‘judge’ the pictures to rate how attractive the faces were. Those with the ‘healthy glow’ were deemed most desirable.

Campaigners struggling to persuade people to eat the recommended five portions of fruit and veg a day could use the findings to promote the idea that such products are not only healthy, but make you more attractive.

‘Advertising the results of our work could be persuasive in motivating individuals to eschew the dangers of excess ultraviolet exposure in favour of improving diet, which we show to be a more effective way of improving appearance,’ says Dr Ross Whitehead, who led the study.

‘We found that skin colour associated with fruit and vegetable consumption influences apparent health to a greater extent a tan.’

Carotenoids – the nutrients responsible for the colours in foods, including carrots and sweet potatoes – are thought to be responsible for the effects. Carotenoids are also present in all layers of human skin.

There are several hundred carotenoids, but beta-carotene and lycopene are among the most studied and are associated with a number of health benefits. Carotenoids in retinas, for example, protect the eyes.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com

Spring Green Vegetables With Soft- Cooked Eggs

33

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING main

Seared Spiced Tuna with Courget te

tER r a st INGREDIENTS For the vegetables: 1 vanilla pod, scraped out 2 cups snap peas, or sugar peas 16 green asparagus 4 leeks, white part only 2 tbsp sherry vinegar 6 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint Salt Crushed red peppercorns For the eggs: 4 extra fresh eggs

METHOD Steam the vegetables for 5 minutes and rinse them under cold water; set aside.

In a bowl, whisk together the vinegar with the oil.

Add the vanilla seeds, mint, salt and red peppercorns.

Serve on top of the warm vegetables.

Boil water in a pot with the white wine vinegar and a pinch of salt. When the water is boiling, drop the eggs carefully in the water. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and tap them with a knife, holding each in one hand. Remove the shell carefully.

Serve on top of the vegetables and sprinkle with red peppercorns. Serve with crusty bread on the side.

1 tbsp white wine vinegar Salt

DESSER

T

INGREDIENTS For the fish and vegetables 4 small fresh tuna steaks 2 courgettes Salt and pepper 1 tsp fresh chopped coriander 2 tbsp olive oil 1 small fresh beetroot 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp hazelnut oil A few sprigs of fresh dill A dash of lemon juice (optional) For the coating of the fish 1 tsp fennel seeds 1 tsp pink peppercorn seeds 1 tsp coriander seeds 1/3 tsp black peppercorns

METHOD Take a mortar and crush all the spices seeds together.

Wash the courgettes. Cook one courgette cut in pieces in boiling water for 10 mIns or so. Mix it well with a hand processor (30sec is enough). Chop in small cubes the other courgette. Add salt and pepper, the mixed courgette, and the fresh chopped coriander. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and set aside.

Take your tuna steaks & press gently in the crushed seeds.

Take a large frying pan and heat one tbsp olive oil. Sear on each side for about 30 seconds or less. Make sure the tuna flesh stays rosĂŠ-coloured.

Grate your peeled beetroot. Add salt and pepper. Mix together the balsamic vinegar with the hazelnut oil. Mix with the beetroot and set aside. Take a plate and in the middle, place a small portion of the courgettes (the size of your tuna steaks) in the middle. Place the tuna steak on top and finish with some grated beetroot salad. Sprinkle with a few dill sprigs. Sprinkle over a few more drops of olive oil and serve without waiting, with a dash of lemon juice.

iNGREDIENTS 4 small pears, peeled, halved and cored, drizzled with lime juice 3 tablespoons white cane sugar 1/2 vanilla bean, split open and seeds scraped out 1 inch ginger root, peeled and finely grated 1 inch lemongrass stick, finely grated 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 2 to 3 tablespoons coconut milk

Baked Pears With Lemongr ass, Ginger & Vanilla

1 tablespoon lime juice Chopped unsalted green pistachios, to serve

send your recipes to editor@soltimes.com

Method Preheat the oven to 350F/180C/GAS4.

In a small bowl, combine the ginger, lemongrass, vanilla seeds and sugar; set aside.

In a pot, melt the butter and add the sugar mixture and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sugar is dissolved. Add the lime juice.

Place the pears, face up, inside a dish and pour the sauce over. Add the vanilla bean and bake for 40 minutes, or until the pears are tender.

Serve with the sauce, chopped pistachios and plain Greek yogurt on the side.

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

STANDARD CROSSWORD

22 Dribble (4) 23 Sandy or gritty (8) 27 Gimmicks or illusions (6) 28 A moderately quick tempo (musical term) (10) 29 Ringlet (4)

Down 1 Add up ICI accounts - initially new for one who 7ac, perhaps (8) 2 Good man, a help turning up for arenas (6) 3 Living thing’s body part is minute (8) 4 Sounds negative, is the opposite (not initially) (6) 6 Clear space which makes it easy to see? (8)

HARD SUDOKU

Very Hard!

SUDOKU PUZZLE CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS 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.

Down 1 State of revolt (10) 2 Contrary (8) 3 Make more humid (10) 4 Appendage (4)

5 Grain storage building (4) 6 A short coat (6) 7 Floating mass of ice (4) 14 Bore (5) 15 Salvation (10) 16 Ones who are overly critical (10) 19 Unearthly (8) 21 Avoided (6) 24 Friend (4) 25 Monster (4) 26 Stiff hair or bristle (4)

CRYPTIC

Across 8 Trim (4) 9 Came into existence (10) 10 Members of a jury (6) 11 Occlusion (8) 12 Tangelo (4) 13 Comprehend (10) 17 At one time (4) 18 A poem by Homer (5) 19 Prefix indicating outer (4) 20 Part of the brain (10)

7 Allow hesitation (minute) in hole in the earth (6) 8 Parents keep quiet when before The Word (4) 12 Declare cat-girl first (8) 14 Watches second entrances (8) 16 Time particle following - not a system of symbols (8) 17 Second-level small card game (6) 18 Taxis taking in huts (6) 19 One who suffers two boys (6) 20 Aim to leave everyone heartless (4)

CROSSWORD

coffee break

Across 5 Alter commercial fair (6) 7 Acts for inside hair-waves (8) 9 Cyril and Ned creating solid shape (8) 10 Take on animal before another one returns (6) 11 Surprisingly, militias rise where things are alike (12) 13 Scale one’s calls (6) 15 Excavation in... in... in... 1000 grams (6) 18 Preserving 100 renovations, perhaps (12) 21 Criminal, or returning books with hesitation (6) 22 Thrilling England with 90 not out, without one-time great opener (8) 23 Covers left a new king in stakes (8) 24 Pressed on into dire trouble (6)

STANDARD SUDOKU

34

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SOLTIMES JANUARY 2013

Albox Ayuntamiento Presents Cultural Events Programme For 2013

Cucador

VidaRestaurant&Venue

Enjoy Wonderful saturday 23rd february Views from our Candelit 6:30pm - 9:30pm Restaurant

Opens 6:30 - 9:30pm WED-SAT Evenings

Multi Choice Menu

4 course meal Despite its recent difficulties the Ayuntamiento of Albox, through the Concejalía de Cultura, has presented its cultural program for the coming months.

February is Carnival month, and on the 16th and 22nd there will be Fancy Dress parades, with prizes for the best costumes.

During March, on the 8th the Teatro Federico García Lorca will stage the musical ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at 17.00.

March 15th, at 10:00 am the same theatre will present Encuentro con Autor Infantil with María del Carmen Quiles Cabrera.

On March 16th there will be a concert of sacred music in the Church of Santa Maria, from 20.30.

From now until 29th March, amateur photographers have the opportunity to participate in the ‘V Concurso Fotografía Flor de Almendro’, ‘V Almond Blossom Photography Contest’.

On 11th April, the first ‘Encuentro de Coros’, ‘Meeting of Choirs’ will be held, with choirs participating from all over Andalucía and Murcia.

A traditional ‘Día del libro’, ‘Book Day’ will be held on the 22nd and 23rd of April, and in May ‘Ciencia divertida’, ‘Fun Science’ will take place during the 8th 9th and 10th , and the Theatre Group ‘Por amor al arte’ will perform. All these will take place in the término municipal.

As well as these, the ‘Festival Nacional de

Arte Primavera 2013’ will take place in the IES Martín García Ramos. It will commence on 8th March with the ‘XII Encuentro Entre Culturas’ and the ‘X Cross Entre Culturas’.

In the same venue from 9th to 17th March the XLIII Certamen Nacional de Teatro Aficionado (National Amateur Theatre) will be held, followed by the ‘VI Día del Abuelo’ Grandparents Day) on 22nd March.

On April 5th, the Festival Nacional de Arte Albox will include the ‘VII Certamen de Música de Cámara Jacobo Soto Carmona’, (Seventh Chamber Music Competition Jacobo Soto Carmona) and

either side of this, on the 3rd and 4th and the 8th to 12th April the XXV Certamen de Teatro Juvenil ‘Martín García Ramos’ will be held.

On the 19th April the XIV Certamen Nacional de Declamación ‘Diego Granados Jiménez’ (National Recitation Contest ‘Diego Jimenez Granados’) while on the 20th the XIII Certamen de Cuento y Poesía ‘Día del Libro, (Poetry and Short Story Contest ‘Book Day’) will be held.

In addition, from 4th to 22nd March and 2nd to 20 April ‘Espacios’ o la muestra escultórica will be on display in the Museo Pedro Gilabert, in Arboleas.

only

€10.95

from

7.45€

bookings now being taken Thursday night special delicious homemade pies , Homemade Chips & Peas

fridays

Beer-battered cod, homemade chips & peas served 12.30pm - 9pm

tapas 1€

from

5.95€ in the Bar

in the bar

Are You In The Know?

We want to hear from you!

FAME & FORTUNE AWAITS! (well, maybe only ‘fame’!)

We are looking to develop our Local News Content for the Costa Almeria & Costa Calida editions and we want to hear from YOU if you would like to submit news articles on a regular basis... ...you won’t earn a cent but you will get your name in print in every issue, complete with a byline to promote ‘you’ every week - you’ll become a overnight

sensation!

editor@soltimes.com

booking advisable

traditional

All Selections 1€ Each

sunday lunch

Tuesday Bar

Specials

12.30PM - 5PM

6pm - 9pm

from

8.95€

Chicken Curry & Long Grain Rice

or

Cod, Chips ‘n’ Peas

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com

5€ Arboleas

Mojacar

E15

booking advisable

We are here

Albox

Zurgena La Alfoquia

fISH OF THE DAY OPTION

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

book the Venue

For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

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36

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

send your news & events to editor@soltimes.com

Congratulations Mike on 80 Not Out! Wednesday 13th February 2013, saw a large gathering at Burty’s Bar in the Urbanisation of Roquetas De Mar to celebrate Mike Burt’s 80th birthday. Sarah laid on a lovely buffet for her Dad and had invited around 100 friend’s and customers to the party afternoon.

The place was packed to the rafters and, music and entertainment was provided by ‘Brian and Paco’ (exPB’s nightclub), which helped to create the ideal party atmosphere in the beautiful sunshine.

Mike is seen holding his birthday cake depicting a cricketer with bat and ball!

The party also included a large number of Royal British Legion members, so the opportunity was taken to present Sarah with her 2013 Poppy Appeal Box by Barry, the Legion’s new Poppy Appeal Organiser.

A great time was had by all!

Notice

The Friday Tapas Group meet up at 1pm each week and the venues for the next three weeks are as follows: 15th February - Marley’s, in the Urb. 22nd February - Burty’s Bar, in the Urb. 1st March - The Boulevard on the beach-front Anyone is welcome to join in and have a laugh, exchange views and ideas.

The more, the merrier! The bar owners enjoy it too!

Burty’s BAR Playa Serena, roquetas de mar

sun - fri from 11am - 6pm Closed saturday

rrace e t y n n u s e g u h ious bar acand and spCome Catch the Winter Sun Tuesday pie night 5.30pm - 8.30pm

Steak & Ale, chicken, Bacon & Mushroom or Mince, Onion & Potato with chips & mushy peas or potatoes & vegetables.

Booking essential by 6pm Monday €6.95

Every Thursday

Special Steak Night 5pm – 8.30pm

every thursday quiz 2.15pm prompt

6oz Sirloin Steak, Real Chips, Fried Onion, Mushrooms & Mixed Salad Only 8.95€ Larger Steaks & Baby Fillet Available with a Supplement. or Liver, Bacon & Onion Casserole creamed pots & veg or Chinese Chicken stir fry with noodles Also available - Salmon fillet with dill sauce - must be ordered by 6pm Tuesday

served from 1 pm

Table Top Sale 24th February Call to book a table

anglican church service 3rd thursday of the month 11:30am

Booking Essential By 6pm Wednesday

incorporating almeria angels emergency support systems open day

Tapas tuesday

bingo 2.30pm

next service 21st february

Opposite Playa Luna Hotel between Oasis & New York New York. Tel: 679 156 715

Ken gets his new Poppy Box!

Ken has received his new collection box from the Royal British Legion’s Roquetas De Mar branch, for the 2013 POPPY APPEAL. Many thanks to Maureen and Ken at Ark rite’s British Food Store for supporting the Legion’s POPPY APPEAL in 2012!

Let’s hope that 2013 is another good year?

Why not call in at Arkrite’s and pick up some of your favourite English foods, or have it delivered personally by Ken? New members and friends are always welcome to join in the fun at Royal British Legion branch meetings held at: ‘The Lodge’, Calle Americo Vespucio in Roquetas De Mar, the first Tuesday of each month at 3.00pm. Please contact the Chairman on 950 328 469 for further details.

organising a special party? want people to know about it but unsure what to do? send it to editor@soltimes. com and we’ll put your events

here free of charge!

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

37

ROQUETAS DE MAR Mick celebrated his 70th Birthday with a surprise party at Chaplins Pub on 15th February.

He was joined by family members who had flown out to visit him (another surprise) and friends from Roquetas

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 - 2:30pm Bingo Tuesday - Pie Night Thursdays - Quiz 2:15pm Thursday - Steak Night Table Top Sale - 24th February, incorporating Almeria Angels Open Day

Thomas

Happy Birthday little man love from Daddy, Mummy, Sofie, Daniel and Splodge xxx

B e c ky

Have a fab day Loads of love, Mum, Dad & Rus xxx

Cabo del Gato

The Cabo de Gata covers 61km and is protected

by Unesco as a Biosphere Reserve, due to its high ecological value. There are many hiking trails, as well as several villages of interest around the coastline.

There are also many beaches with cliffs, capes, and volcanic hills as a backdrop. Wildlife in the Park include eagles, pink flamingo, wall lizards, grass snakes, to name a few.

There are many beaches in the Park. Most are situated at the east and south end, and although popular during the summer, the Cabo de Gata beaches are have a rural feel to them, and do not get full to the brim with holiday makers.

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.

Bar Spinnaker...................................

Tuesday - Bingo 3pm Wednesday - Steak 8€, 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.........................................

CLOSED UNTIL 2nd MARCH FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY

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

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

To our little ‘smiler’

estampa apas T

Ta

Bar

y outdoor n n u s s u io c Spa ating 24 e s e c a r r te SKY TV

Tapas/Snacks English Breakfast Fish & Chips Coffees & Cakes sky sports now being shown Cocktails/Sangria

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

EVERY DAY

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

950 334 188 609 337 316

to reserve your table

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

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

Mobile: (0034) 663 426 921

info@enviapropertyservices.com

www.enviapropertyservices.com

38

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

SOLTIMES www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

BY TELEPHONE Between 10am & 5pm

Monday to Friday

950 121 936 902 121 936

SOL CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

business opportunity

drainage cont...

advertise all your unwanted items for sale in this section

SPICE UP YOUR LOVE LIFE

Drainage

any single item up to 300€ free of charge

email sales@soltimes.com Legend Mobility Scooter large size new batteries delivery can be arranged bargain €195 tel: 697 590 151 or 950 329 416 Full Sized Table Tennis Table (Blue) Nearly New, hardly Used 100€ Tel: 634 364 759 Denby China (Various). Imperial Blue Colour. All very good condition. 150€ Tel: 950 930 187 Garden Table + 4 Chairs. Grey Metal, Glass Top. Parasol & Heavy Stand. 2yrs old All good condition. 250€ Tel: 950 930 187.

Water tank, 1.2m diameter, 2m long, never used, nearly new, holds approx 3,000 litres. 250€. Tel. 622 600 356

Airport services www.AAparking.es tr a n s f er s Tel: 639 081 067 pick up all areas,

A i rport

BY E-MAIL

Send your advert or Classified lineage to

Cheap

Airport Parking

Alicante Almeria Murcia New Servicing / Repairs

sales@soltimes.com IN PERSON

los carasoles, 27 Zurgena, 04650, Almeria Mon to Fri 10am - 5pm

above New Horizon Villas

PAYMENT

VISA ,Paypal, bank transfer & Cheques made payable to MATHEWS mEDIA s.l

DEADLINES All adverts Friday at 5pm prior to publication

competitive rates.

For a quote please visit www. spanish estateagent.com or call 661 143 871

Air-con

---------

WITH A RANGE OF LINGERIE, TOYS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE ---------

IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO BOOST YOUR INCOME - WE ARE LOOKING FOR LADIES AND GENTS TO ACT AS CONSULTANTS TO ORGANISE AND SELL AT ADULT THEMED PARTIES

For more information

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: 627 851 679

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966

computers

Cleaning of Septic Tanks

Steve Hayes Informatica

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc.

Sales & Repairs on-site callout / tuition.

Consumables Albox, Almeria

Tel: 950 120 900

electrical Knowles & Abbott no.1 for electrics and plumbing. Re-wires, free to air UK satellite systems 950 137 208 or 638 010 691

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

Contact: 675 838 808 equipment hire

construction

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L.

MD S.L

& SURPRISE YOUR LOVED ONE

City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

construction

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

Mat Murray 647 841 750 matmurrayes@gmail.com

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

established in spain for 14 years

email: info@md-aircon.com

alternative energy Solar Wind Power Solutions.

Over 15 years installation experience. established 12 years in Spain. 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

c a rlo s s a l i e n te plumbing & heating for solar pool heating, solar hot water installations and repairs. call 950 930 900 or 968 969 962, email carlos.saliente@ gmail.com

baby hire

beauty

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

avon cosmetics claire

Tel: 691 987 454 avonfromclaire@ yahoo.es

fully legal

gardening

Constructions landscape gardening

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

tel: 609 421 734 (Spanish) tel: 696 052 044 (English) drainage

LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING • Installation of fibreglass

septic tanks

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

950 091 109 or 648 768 587

• Block work • Balustrades • Paving Driveways & Paths

Call Graham & Barry now for free estimate 620 112 193 or 667 853 062 potty finca services professional tree felling & pruning, including all types of palm trees

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

39

www.soltimes.com heating

locksmith

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

Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours.

Locked Out? Locks fitted/upgraded house safes. Arboleas logs & surrounding area. Special weekend rates. Tel: 697 243 181

house clearance

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 Elaine’s Wools quality UK wool & accessories. Come & view my display Also available at Camposol, Mazarron Call 667 273 889 elaines wools@gmail. 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

iron/metal works

metal works Gates, rejas, fabriction welding reliable service 950 168 916 638 449 944 adwelds@yahoo.com

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

Tel: Keith Wood on

638 900 949

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

legal

logs load of small or big Olive logs, no roots €160 load of mixed Olive some roots €140 load of eucalyptus, no roots €150 all loads 2 tonnes Arboleas & surrounding areas Call Lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

gravel & all building materials

Albox & Surrounding areas

tel: 634 328 779

NUMBER PLATES

over 25 years experience

give your property or business a fresh look this NEW YEAR

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com PETS SECTION

TRAVELLING IN AIR CONDITIONED VEHICLE DELIVERED TO DOOR PETS STAY IN PET FRIENDLY HOTELS. ACCOMPANIED TRAVEL AVAILABLE

(0034) 667 235 205 (sp) (0044) 7850 575862

“RE-PLATE” friendly mare MATE 9 years old 14.3hh 1.50m GB 500€ telephone 678 838 547

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:

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

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

now covering mainland spain

commercial & major retail painter’s

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

plumbing CONT...

Safe painter & decorator Gas Registered

Phil Delivers pet taxi Logs

PAINTER / DECORATOR

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

PAINTER / DECORATOR CONT...

p a lom i n o ke n n el s exclusive boarding kennels/cattery tel: 950 067 051

Amer i c a n Staff Puppies for sale. 8 weeks old, 200€ ono for more information.

Call James: 651 325 677

woodhouse No need for kennels boarding kennels or cattery, & cattery Pet sitting in your own arboleas home, Arboleas & Small friendly kennels, surrounding areas.

24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, Call Vanessa on welcome to view 637 061 482 ministry approved Not just cats & dogs, Tracy Mobile All other types of pets 650 211 952 considered PLASTERER British plasterer All work guaranteed Tel Paul 634 327 201

plumbing

Plumber

KNOWLES AND ABBOTT No 1 for Plumbing & Electrics All types of Plumbing

Central heating gas/oil Solar hot water Boiler servicing, repairs & replacements Water leaks Sewage blockages Water deposit tanks 500-8000L Pool pumps Septic tanks Osmosis systems

TEL. 950137197 / 606807797

For all your plumbing needs Fully Qualified heating engineer

contact barry 667 853 062 or graham 620 112 193

C A R L O S SA L I E N T E Plumbing and Heating offer machined boiler decals for gas water heaters for just €65 – aguafuerte is not the answer! Call 950 930 900 or 968 969 962, email carlos. saliente@gmail.com gas fast Gas boiler & plumbing repairs. Tel: 618 062 080 or 637 829 787

PROPERTY FOR SALE/rent TO ADVERTISE YOUR PROPERTY FOR SALE OR RENT IN THE CLASSIFIED SECTION FOR ONLY 10€ PER WEEK CALL PAULETTE ON 950 121 936 OR 902 750 190 EXT 332

PROPERTY TO RENT – URCAL

for SALE detatched cortijo

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT

20mins from mojacar This is a unique spanish cortijo with 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & dining room as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool.

Mountain views.

reduced €145,000 0no

649 186 107

email for more info at thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

Reduced €39,950

Apartment For Sale

cortij0 grande golf course

1 bed, 1 bath apartment fully fitted kitchen, white goods, parking, lovely views. Ideal golfing holiday apartment.

Close to Mojacar / Turre.

T: 664 291 793

jescott29@hotmail.co.uk

2 Bedroom Casita.Furnished or Unfurnished. Fully Fitted Kitchen, Log Burner, Internet Connection, Large Fly Free Patio within a large Fenced area. Available from the middle of March.

300€ pcm inc. water Tel: 666 281 323

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

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

ARBOLEAS

self contained 1 bedroom apartment with B & B facilities offered starting from 25€ per night, walking distance of Arboleas & Zurgena

Tel: 950 449 074 or 634 368 071

Long term rentals also considered 175€ + bills chalmersj8@hotmail.co.uk

recruitment Staff I am looking for a person to urgentely join my team in the Albox area. required (Possibilities for further afield.) as warehouse Interested in becoming a assistant Cambridge 800 Consultant?

Part time or Do you have the ability to motivate full time, others to lose weight? english/spanish Full training given, speaking preferred must good earning potential If you think you have what it takes be a hard worker Telephone please speak to Ann on 636 411 540 660 681 166 679 207 545 E:mail ann.cambridge800@hotmail.com

40

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

are you a trade Business? advertise in the classified section & reach over 30,000 potential customers 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 REMOVALS

situations vacant

DAVE’S TRANSPORT 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

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

M&D transport

Large Van Removals / Deliveries Spain - UK Full or Half Loads Collections e.g from IKEA Tel Mick: 950 122 447 Mob: 620 475 218

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 satellite/television

Sky Digibox Pace with sky card BBC 1, 2, 3, 4 ITV1, 2, 3, ch4 & 5

60€

can deliver.Tel: 667 235 205 A1 Sky Television Systems

Satellite TV installations, alignment of dishes etc.

Also Spanish “freeview” systems supplied & installed

Tel Dave: 628 607 778

experienced cook wanted, please call 678 989 979 solar power system

motoring section car parts

for sale

Car parts

FORD TRANSIT 90 T350.

Need quality new parts for any car 2004

SOLTIMES

Now offer our Classified advertisers

2.4 Diesel. for sensible prices on all parts Taxed & Clutches, Brakes, alternators, service kits MOT May 2013 Starter Motors, headlights FSH. RHD.

5 LOCAL EDITIONS

Free quote go online or phone

2200€

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

or telephone 692 930 326

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

car & van hire

...Let the Soltimes team help your FOR SALE : Vauxhall/ Opel Omega business grow...

www.ecocorp.eu Swimming Pool Heating

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 stables

Rancho Luz Del Sol, Retamar, Partaloa. One to one or group lessons, latest EN standard hats provided.

Escorted hacking and treks. Qualified BHS Instructor. Call Erika Drew on 678 838 547

swimming pool safety NEATER HEATER See our main advert on the news pages

translation

Translation Services in Huercal Overa Tel: 677 102 006

SPANISH LESSONS WITH VICTORIA

For info call on 950 472 590 or e-mail: victoriaspanishteacher @gmail.com or visit:www. victoriaspanishteacher. villadeturre.com tuition

LEARN SPANISH… …in a fun and enjoyable enviroment with Paco in his new classroom at Camping Los Gallardos,

www.carpartsinspain.com

Van, car & driver

for hire

house & garden clearances, collections & deliveries, weekly collections from IKEA, Airport transfers Almeria 60€ one way, 110€ return Alicante 80€ one way, 150€ return

Tel: 634 345 257

CALL PACO 661 142 606

UK plates • 2002 • long MOT • Low Mileage Automatic • 2.2 petrol •Air con • CD/Radio Power steering • Electric windows ABS etc GOOD CONDITION - SILVER Tel: 669269491 email:marylewis54@hotmail.com

125cc Lifan Heritage cruiser

Van hire

ONE WAY



for sale

UK to Spain or Spain to UK

*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN

* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE

TEL: 667 235 205

Pick up/drop off locations Throughout UK, France and Spain

mobile mechanics

Mikes

Mobile Mechanics

All types of service, repair & ITV testing Fully qualified & legal with over 35 years experience

Ring Mike or Chris: 628 350 178 or 636 824 974 motorbike mechanic

For all your motorbike repairs tel:634 326 905

wanted URGENTLY REQUIRED

ENGLISH & SPANISH CARAVANS, CARS, MOTORHOMES & VANS ANY CONDITION WE COLLECT! THROUGHOUT SPAIN

New, beginners class starts wednesday 20th nov 2013 4.30pm

Private lessons and different levels also available.

Tel: 689 500 346 / 850 993 007

TEL: 636 411 540 OR 664 619 819

Registered 2009, immaculate condition. Large Topbox &Transfer incl., 650€ Albox area.

Tel Shaun on 610324666

costa Almeria costa blanca costa calida Roquetas De mar online at

www.soltimes.com

for more information Telephone 950 121 936 902 121 936 EXT 332

recruitment

SOLTIMES are looking for

Bright, enthusiastic person with an outgoing personality to join our sales team and leap into spring with us.

Office & field positions available.

Experience not essential as full training will be given as long as you’re organised and can work to deadlines.

Send your CV to cmm@soltimes.com or telephone Chrissie on 647 379 878

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

K.F.S Kennedy Financial Services

Hard Times

41

Kennedy Financial Services (KFS) has over 25 years’ experience in the Financial Services Industry and are dedicated to providing professional guidance to all its clients.

For too many years now people have neglected their retirement planning, possibly in the main, because we as ex-pats cannot contribute to our retirement plans when we live abroad.

Times are changing there are now pension transfers (QROPS) that allow us to contribute to our funds and help to secure a better retirement.

Are your current pension benefits in one of the following areas?

• • • •

Frozen benefits in the UK that are under performing?

In a QROPS that is not giving you what you wanted?

Trapped in New Zealand for many years to come?

In a S.I.P.P. (are you aware that if you return to the UK your S.I.P.P. may be liable to a tax charge of up to 55%)?

If your answer is YES to the above it may be possible to transfer your benefits to a new receiving pension scheme and release some tax free cash. This may help your current financial position whilst still securing your retirement income.

Did you work in Public Services, NHS, Councils, Armed Forces, MOD, Civil Servants, Teachers, Aviation Authority, Nurses, Police, and Fire Brigade? The pension pots of loyal public servants are shrinking. You should submit your application to transfer your benefits now or you could lose out on thousands. The same applies to personal pensions, SIPPS etc.

There is a huge crisis in the UK as far as pensions are concerned. At the start of the Nineties, a £100,000 pension fund would have guaranteed an income of £15,640 a year for life, twenty three years on, a 65-year-old man will secure just £5,140 a year. This is mainly due to poor performance and market conditions over the same period of time. In May 2012 the pension deficit reached an all-time high of £312bn.

There were also an estimated 5,418 schemes in deficit, with only 1,014 in surplus. Which side of the fence is your pension sitting?

KFS is here to help all expats, regardless of Nationality, through this pension crisis which will affect all those with Pension benefits still in the UK, or possibly those with underperforming QROPS or S.I.P.P’s.

For too many years now people have neglected their retirement planning, possibly in the main, because we as ex-pats cannot contribute to our retirement plans when we live abroad. Times are changing, there are now pension transfers (QROPS) that allow us to contribute to our funds and help to secure a better retirement.

Should you wish to find out how this may affect your benefits please contact at admin@kennedyfinancialservices.com or fill in the assessment form at

www.kennedyfinancialservices.com

42

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

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

OPEN for business

tel: 950 930 900 968 969 962 Solar Hot Water & Pool Heating Full Heating Installations Water Treatment Systems Water Deposits & Pumps

Solar Oil Gas Solid Fuel pellet

fully legal company with public liability insurance carlos.saliente@gmail.com • www.carlossaliente.com Cortijo Pipa, Avda de Limaria 1, Limaria, arboleas

Danone to cut 900 jobs in Europe

French food and drink company Danone has said it will cut 900 jobs after weakness in southern European economies hit sales.

The owner of Activia yogurt and Evian bottled water reported sales of 20.1bn euros ($26.8bn; £17.3bn) in 2012, up 5.4% from a year earlier.

But sales in Europe fell 3% following a “severe deterioration” in consumer demand.

As a result, Danone has announced a cost-cutting plan.

The firm plans to cut about 900 management and administrative positions across 26 European countries.

POOL SHOP

Mix & Match

any 2 Tubs Of either Multi, Shock or Chlorine tablets for just 36€ tighten up on security with an alarmed paddlock at ony 15€

FIND US In Longo’s Courtyard

Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696

TNT

Upholstery

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

“2013 will be a year of transition, with vigorous development in business in our growth markets and a drive to strengthen operations in Europe,” said chairman and chief executive Franck Riboud in a statement.

The world’s biggest maker of yogurts predicted its profit margins would fall again this year, with a negative trend for demand in Europe and prices of raw materials staying high.

Its sales growth in 2012 was at the lower end of its own expectations and behind the 5.9% achieved by its Swiss rival Nestle.

The company is heavily exposed to European economies, with about 38% of its sales coming from western Europe.

Sales at its Spanish dairy division were particularly weak.

The company announced in December that it was preparing a two-year cost-cutting programme to save about 200m euros.

Read the full report at www.bbc.co.uk

MOBILE VEHICLE VALETING PART & FULL VALETS - T CUTS & POLISHING - INTERIORS UPHOLSTERY CLEANING - SOFAS AND RUGS

Tel: 692 17 60 69

AWNINGS - FLY SCREENS - INTERNAL BLINDS SHADING SPAIN, WITH...

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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

Tel: 627 907 207

www.solshaders.net

S.M.S. BUILDING MAINTENANCE

New Walls New Roofs Structual Alterations professional bricklayer Building for you Phone Gerard - 626 730

All Building Work Undertaken

764

Email: solshaders@live.co.uk

Euro Painters Spain

Established 7 years in Mojacar/ ALbox area

House in need of a paint?

Call for a free quotation with Price Guaranteed.

Special offer on 2/3 bed villa, inc up to 10 rejas and all repairs.

All work undertaken References available

Call Jim on 677 557 190 or email: europaintersspain@gmail.com

swift transport • Deliveries to / from UK • Monthly runs • Local deliveries also available

Wayne English

spain-uk-spain 07857 484886 Uk +34 618 511 234 Spain

full / part loads uk shopping swift.transport@rocketmail.com

Garages, Patios, Boundary Walls, Cladding Driveways, Tiling plus more...

Painting & Decorating ( from 50€ per room including paint) Also All Exterior Painting and Damp-Proofing GUARANTEED TO BEAT ANY QUOTE For free estimate or advice please call Steve on 950 930 536 or 634 306 690

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 FEBRUARY 2013

43

German economy to return to growth, says Bundesbank

Germany will avoid recession and return to growth in the first quarter of 2013, the country’s central bank has said.

The Bundesbank’s monthly report for February forecast that the rest of 2013 will see a gradual pick-up in activity in Europe’s biggest economy.

If the economy shrank again in the current quarter, Germany would technically be in recession, defined as two quarters of contraction. The economy shrank by 0.6% in the last three months of 2012.

Tel: 950 930 527 & 646 341 575

Log-on-Tommy

“As it currently looks, a plus in economic output can be expected in the first quarter of this year,” the Bundesbank said.

Stacking service available Free Kindling with every full load

The report continued: “For the rest of this year, the economy is expected to pick up gradually, even if the external economic environment will provide no trigger for a sharp surge in demand.”

now incorporating “Sammy Sweep”

Although Germany’s economy has held up better than most of those in the eurozone, its recent slowdown has fuelled worries about Europe’s recovery. The purchasing power of German consumers and industry is seen as key to the recovery of the region.

Germany’s gross domestic product slowed throughout 2012. GDP grew by 0.5% in the first quarter of 2012, and then by 0.3% in the second quarter and 0.2% in the third quarter.

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

The 17-nation eurozone fell deeper into recession at the end of 2012. The European Central Bank has forecast that the eurozone will shrink 0.3% in 2013, and only start to recover later in the year.

James & Son Removals / Storage

personal shopping from the UK (Argos, Screwfix, Wickes etc)

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

619 070 839

OFFICIAL HITS AGENTS IN ALBOX

With a contraction of 0.6% in the final three months of last year, the economy expanded by just 0.7% in 2012, compared with 3% in 2011.

UK, France & Spain

Small Cut Olive Logs No Roots For The Smaller Fire

LOGS FOR SALE 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

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

Tel: 687 314 775 Same Day Delivery & Stacking Service Available

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

Holiday ers Change Ov m fro

€ 35 .0 0

www.cleanteamspain.com

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

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

• 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 David

665 517 643

Steve

610 905 173 valleyconstruction2008@gmail.com

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

Phone or email for a no obligation quote

Tel: 634 388 243

newallprints@hotmail.com

ANOTHER GREAT INSTALL BY: mobile:

699 909 737 office:

950 528 334 E-mail:

solosat@gmail.com

44

SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

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

Are we there yet?

Off Grid Solar Systems:

There are 3 different systems available depending on size: - Standard Installed System(3Kw): 5,995€ - Super Installed System(5Kw): 7,995€ - Deluxe Installed System(7Kw): 9,995€ We provide tailor made systems to meet your individual needs; all systems include solar panels, the framework, charge controller, fuse boxes and trips, batteries, cables plus a battery inverter.

DIY Solar Panel Systems:

These systems are designed to offer minimum effort and maximum savings, all kits include: solar panels, the framework, grid tie inverter, up to 5m (4mm cable) plus connections.: - 200 Watt DIY Kit: 650€ plus I.V.A - 300 Watt DIY Kit: 850€ plus I.V.A - 400 Watt DIY Kit: 1050€ plus I.V.A - 500 Watt DIY Kit: 1250€ plus I.V.A - 600 Watt DIY Kit: 1450€ plus I.V.A

Solar Hot Air Systems:

The solar hot air systems where designed as an alternative to provide background heat for the home, harnessing the sun, they are freestanding systems that cost nothing to run af ter installation, no ongoing charges at all. Prices star t at 450€ depending on size.

Many More solar products available!

Tlf: +34 958 003 391 - Mob: +34 628 872 334 Email: almeriagreenenergy@hotmail.com

Office located next to Cajamar Bank in Arboleas Village 04660 In association with Spanish Hideaways Estate Agency & Insurance Providers Open 10am-3pm

An Argentian couple have spent more than a decade driving their children around the world in their vintage car.

Herman and Candelaria Zapp’s journey in their 1920s Graham Paige car has seen them visit 44 countries and find lodging with more than 2500 families.

They have been joined on their journey by their four children - Pampa, 10, Tehue, seven, Paloma, five, and three-year-old Wallaby.

They set off from Argentina in their 85year-old car in 2000. After their money ran out, they decided to rely on the kindness of other people, with many people providing

them with shelter, food and petrol.

The couple have written a book about their experiences, with ‘Spark your Dream’ thanking a total of 12,000 people in its acknowledgements.

The longest they have spent in any one country was a 13 month trip around the U.S. in 2008-9.

Their children - who are home-schooled - were all born in different countries with Pampa arriving in Greensboro, North Carolina; Tehue being born in Argentina; Paloma a native of Vancouver Island and Wallaby being born in Australia.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

TEST DRIVE

Chrysler Ypsilon America is renowned for its enormous Cadillacs and other notorious gas guzzlers.

It is not associated with small, efficient hatchbacks.

Not until now anyway. The compact Chrysler Ypsilon, the chic French sounding five-door hatchback looks like a three-door thanks to concealed door handles at the rear.

This cheeky little yank is actually based on a Fiat 500 and its appearance, mainly due to the bonnet and chrome grille, has hints of the larger Chrysler Voyager

about it.

I test the perky 1.2litre petrol, finished in an attractive two-tone brown.

There’s pleasingly a lot of chrome on this vehicle – the chrome door handles are something you don’t get very often these days unless you’re in the market for a Rolls.

Step inside and the first thing you notice is that there is no speedometer in front of the steering wheel, which is quite disconcerting as you can see in the video at testdrives.biz. Instead, Chrysler has positioned it in

the centre of the dashboard together with the rev counter.

It might look eye-catching and means that whether it’s a left or a right hand drive the speedo doesn’t need repositioning. But I don’t like it. It is awkward to constantly look to your left to monitor your speed and particularly irritating when approaching speed cameras.

Aside from this, the interior is pleasingly comfortable and the seats are upholstered in really cosy velour.

It can be noticeably lethargic with a slight delay,

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reminiscent of the Fiat 500 funnily enough, and so when overtaking in any of the Ypsilon models, plenty of revving is required. But that’s not a problem. You’ll also have to be prepared to change down a few cogs to complete the manoeuvre in a safe manner. Demanding drivers though, will enjoy getting the most from the engine and hearing the attractive note emitted when it’s under pressure.

It handles varying types of roads proficiently and all occupants arrive at their final destination relaxed. A little

45

motoring

qualm is that the driver has to be careful where they place their hands on the steering wheel because of the angle of the stereo and telephone controls on the wheel. On a number of occasions my right hand operates the telephone switches cutting into the radio programme I’m listening to.

This eye-catching little American seems an efficient car easily covering 500 miles on a tank of fuel. This is helped by the automatic engine start/stop function.

Parkers, the car experts, says: “The distinctive headlights sitting either side of the shield-shaped grille set it apart from the other, more generic hatchbacks and when you move around to the rear, the drama continues: the well-sculpted LED tail-lights at either side of the bootopening give the car a unique, yet satisfyingly rounded rear end. The Ypsilon has certainly got a European design (that’s a good thing) and it’s much

more curvy than Chrysler’s more sizeable hatchback, the Delta. The Ypsilon has the underpinnings of the Fiat 500 and the Ford Ka but it has a longer wheelbase (the same wheelbase as the 2012 Fiat Panda). So, it’s a looker (of sorts) and should appeal to those after ‘something different’.”

Although its boot is large enough for a pushchair, the Ypsilon is perfect for the young, free and single as room in the back is a little tight. But its size makes it ideal for parking in tight spaces.

specification New Price Range: £10,695 - £15,695 Power: 69bhp 0-60mph: 14secs Top speed: 101mph Watch the video at: www.testdrives.biz

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

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46

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

sport

Hoare with just under 11lbs fishing the feeder using maggot.

2nd Dave (The Sweetie Man) Hutchinson with 10.3/4lbs fishing the feeder and waggler using tares.

3rd Stan (The Man) Roberts with 10.1/2lbs fishing the feeder and waggler using hemp and tares.

angling news

with beachcomber john Boat Fishing I’m really on a downer at the moment, not only have I not been able to get out on my day off for a month due to poor weather, I always thought we were lucky to have the deep holes (Now full of river mud after the September storms) within a few hundred metres of Garrucha port where most of our boats are moored.

I’m now finding out its not only north of Villaricos that big fish, mostly Dentex bream are being caught, but Carboneras as can be seen in the photo showing two monster dentex with one of the town’s well known landmarks in the background.

These guys are like us, hobby fishermen and not commercial in any way, a friend of mine is going to see how we can get a day out on that boat.

See photo of two lads with dentex bream.

As for our local skippers, the weather has kept them in the dock so nothing to report.

Shore Fishing ‘London Bill’ says the wind has stopped him fishing this last week and on his only day on the Indalo Arm he caught striped bream, palometes and doradas.

Coarse Fishing ‘Baza Barry’ has been fishing rivers north of Negratin and catching trout

to 2lbs and barbel to 3lbs.

Last week’s Rods and Reels Murcia match was held on the Eden canal.

The temperatures had been down overnight to 3 degrees, so they knew it was going to be tough. Overall it fished better than anticipated, but still half the field failed to catch. Mick Hill´s top weight was made up of 3 fish with the best being just less than 8lbs. He lost one bigger than that.

Top Rods on the day 1st Mick (The Arsenal) Hill fishing the feeder using maggot with 16.1/2lbs.

2nd Andy (The Web man) Stevenson fishing the feeder using maggot with 9.1/4lbs.

3rd Terry (Swing E´m) Screen fishing the feeder using maggot with 7.1/4lbs.

The Abbey Angling match was fished at the Embalsa de Pedrera in Murcia.

It looks as if spring could be early this year as the house martins have returned back to Spain, the wind is still blowing strong and the waves are eroding the banks as they are made up of mud stone, it is also making the water’s edge very muddy.

The fishing is now improving a little with only one dry net this week, hemp and tares are still the order of the day with anglers beginning to take fish on the waggler.

1st Dave (Yours Truly)

All details are available on their website www. abbeyangling.com or from the match secretary Terry Screen on 965328368 The Albox fishing club meets every two weeks or so at Bar Wassy. For details of the next meeting tel Sid 634 313 650.

Latest license information.

There is now a loophole for those wanting coarse fishing licenses for Andalucia who don’t have NIE documents or/and don’t want to do the 24 hour course in Spanish, see me for more details. The only loophole left for fishing the beaches and boats in Andalucia without an NIE document is to make a trip to Murcia.

I’m pleased to report the Beachcomber’s three web cams are working again and the other good news is they work on both 32 and 64 bit systems and on any browser so checkout Mojacar’s weather and Mediterranean Sea conditions here. www. beachcombermojacar.com/ beachcomber-webcam/ For up to date information on any of the above see John at the Beachcomber Bar Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or tel 950 473 099. In case of difficulty reaching me (Probably out fishing) ask staff for my mobile number.

You can also contact me on Facebook @ ‘John Beachcomber Mojacar’.

Tight Lines, Beachcomber John.

Urcal golf Society Urcal golf Society played Desert Springs on saturday and although the weather was the best we have payed in this season and the course was in exellent condition only half of the field came in with scores over 20 points. So with a very challenging course there were a lot of glum faces mine included.But those who did manage to post decent scores were our ever improving winner Kieth Thompson with 31 points in second place was Barry Kilby with a score of 29

points and in third place we had Dennis Sutherland with 28 points.The singles draw for the Society was drawn after the game with some very interesting matches which can be seen on the society page.Kieth can be seen above receiving the Amasol Cup from Captain Tony Hinds. Our next game will be at Macenas on the 2nd of March and will be a team

game.Anyone interested in joining our friendly society fee free to call me Tony Hinds on 647639426 or e-mail torab55@yahoo.com

CD Cieza won a tight match against a strong Huercal Overa side with a solitary goal in the 43rd minute by Manolo.

The rest of the game was a hard fought battle with the majority of play focused on the centre of the pitch. Huércal Overa: Michel, Mauro, Vega, Lloris, Álex Miñarro, José Moreno, Forroga, Gerardo, Álex Martínez, Mansou (Nono) y Sele (José Carlos).

Elsewhere last week there was a blank score sheet on Valentines Night when Atletico

Pulpileno hosted Bullense in an evening kick off in the Tercera Division Group 13.

Moving into the Primera Andaluza Group 4 CD Vera ran out 3-1 winners against UD Pavia with David, Carmona and Oscar finding net. Cuevas CF grabbed a late goal to earn a draw at home against Español del Alquián who are 2nd in the table, with Mariano scoring in the 88th minute in front of 200 in Cuevas del Almanzora.

Moving down to the Regional

Preferente Almeria Group 2, CD Mojacar travelled to Los Gallardos and played out a 00 draw but Mojacar securing top spot in the league. Second placed PD Garrucha winning 4-2 in Albox with goals from Segi, Pedro Vincenti, Ramonet and Emigino for Garrucha and Estevez and Mario scoring for Albox.

For more details on your local Football Clubs contact leerickardgraham@outlook. com.

The Golf Scores This Week For Some Players. However On Tuesday The Winners Had Some Experience On How To Deal With It And Ian Cooper And Wife Jean Members Of Nefyn & District Golf Course A Hilltop Golf Course On The

Christine Banks Won The Day. Friday And Paul Jones With 36pts Was The Winner Closely Followed By Sue Hull With 35pts Lawson Langley Also Had 35pts ( Lawson Who Knows The Course Well As A Former Caddy Master Could

Have Done Better) His Own Words. Nearest The Pins 2nd Shot On The 8th Green Alan Townsend And On The 14th Jean Cooper. A Reminder To All That On Friday 22nd Feb Our Tee Time Is 12.21 Pm Enjoy Your Golf At Valle Del Este.

CD Cieza 1 Huercal Overa CF 0

Valle Del Este Golf Society The Wind Was A Factor On Coast Of Wales Along With

19th Hole Golf Society. Cucador.

Thursday 14th February, 24 place with 65 points and the Greenfield and Ray Wicken members of the 19th Hole Golf Society played a Texas scramble at Desert Springs.

The fact that it was Valentine’s Day failed to impact on the turn out, the weather and the course - perfect.

The 1st group out consisting of Mark Danson, Terry Caddick, Syd Walker and Ralph Hunter proved to be the winners with a nett score of 62. Geoff Smith, Nigel Greenwood, Big Al (the artist) Greenfield and Ray Wicken finished in 2nd

other four teams recorded “must do better”. Mark Danson and Syd Walker also won the two nearest the pin prizes. A very good result for the A Team.

Results,1st with a nett score of 62 points off a nett handicap of 6.

Mark Danson, Terry Caddick, Syd Walker and Ralph Hunter 2nd with a nett score of 65 points off a nett handicap of 9. Geoff Smith, Nigel Greenwood, Big Al (the artist)

Nearest The Pin Hole 14 Mark Danson Hole 17 Syd Walker Thanks to all the members who supported the 19th Hole Golf Society.

The 19th hole G/S are 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 610340653. or email gs19thhole@hotmail.co.uk

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

sport

Cortijo Grande Wednesday 13th Feb 2013 playing one division today. Our winner with 36 points grace Ward from in second with 34 Leif Myhre and third with 32 Julie Oliver. Ball sweep winners Chris Astheimer John Hill Sunday 17th Feb and we have two divisions which means we have a big group

our lovely Cortijo Grande golf course.

The winner of the first Div with 33 points John Hill and in second with another 33 Bob Winter in third with 32 Mike Picken.

The second Div winner with 35 points Pam Webster second with 35 David Hardy and third with yet another

35 Ursula Lade all on countback on back nine.

Our ball sweep winner Leif Myhre We have an away day at Alboran this week hope you have your name down as we have a very low price for this competition. It pays to play with Cortijo Grande visitors and guests welcome, MP

Marina Phoenix Golf Society Ali Mahmud starred again Jim Budd (30). The team Entwhistle and Sue Spetch in this week’s competitions.

He has only been playing golf for twelve months and has now reduced his handicap to 20.

Monday 11th was a stableford competition won

by Ali Mahmud 36 points from Frank Varey (34) and

competition on Thursday was alternate one to count, two to count.

1st Jim Budd, Steve Lyons and Ali Mahmud 70 pts 2nd Elmar Trappen, Margaret Budd and Bill Smith 59 pts 3rd

Frank

Varey,

Steve

56 pts Visitors can join the individual competition on Mondays or Team game on Thursdays for a greenfee of €25 – ring Jim on 950 162 727 / 600 353 670 or Rosalie 950 397 117/ 697 512 882.

Puertollano (Cuidad Real) Rugby Club 5-47 El Ejido Rugby Club El Ejido Rugby Club played their final away game of the league on Sunday with a six hour coach trip to Puertollano. They made the journey with a depleted squad from the one which put in a commendable performance against Seville the previous week but ultimately, could only manage to pick up a losing bonus point. Last week’s result meant the outcome of Sunday’s game was of vital importance if El Ejido were to achieve their goal of finishing top of the league come the end of the season.

Among those absent, were the regular scrum half and fly half combination along with a few experienced forwards, regardless El Ejido’s objectives were unchanged and nothing less than a winning bonus point would suffice.

El Ejido started the dominant side and were camped in the opposition 22m for the opening quarter of an hour with some strong ball carrying in open play from the pack, but the

Puertollano defence was strong and their tackling was relentless. This allowed the home side to get some long distance clearance kicks in to relieve the ever growing pressure of the hungry El Ejido pack.

With no sign of the line the forwards work rate was enough to force some errors from the opposition resulting in 3 penalties within in kicking range.

Three opportunities gained and three opportunities wasted as the El Ejido kicker E.Carey seemed to be having a bad day as he pulled and sliced balls either side of the Puertollano posts. The forwards thankfully were undeterred and following more bruising runs and smart handling they were rewarded with a try and some of the points they were looking for although the subsequent conversion was dragged wide. This seemed to open the flood gates as two more tries and successful conversions followed to leave the half time score 19-0 to El Elido.

Clearly buzzing, they

250

47

seemed to pick up where they left off as the second half kicked off with the forwards running in another two tries with Kevin and Jose getting their names on the score sheet, giving them the bonus point they were looking for. But they weren’t finished just yet, as the backs got involved when centre E. Carey latched onto a perfect last minute pass from prop G. Callejon to touch down in the corner.

In the final saw a second try for E. Carey and a seventh for El Ejido after he chased down a peach of a box kick from flanker J.Kehoe. The game ended with a last minure try from the home side which was less than they deserved after their great spirit and work rate throughout the 80 minutes.

The game finished El Ejido 47-5 Puertollano, which if nothing else sends out a message to the Seville side who will travel to Almerimar in the coming weeks to take part in what will surely be a league decider.

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• Six Nations rugby returns this weekend with unbeaten England playing France and Italy meeting Wales on Saturday, followed by Scotland against Ireland on Sunday.

• Also on Sunday, Swansea City contest their first-ever major Cup final when they play underdogs Bradford City in the League Cup at Wembley. Bradford’s last Cup final appearance was in the FA Cup way back in 1911.

• Elsewhere, there’s a full Premiership programme which includes Manchester City v. Chelsea, QPR v.

Manchester United, West Ham v. Spurs and the bottom of the table clash between Reading and Wigan.

• In the latest Premiership game, Liverpool crushed LC finalists SWANSEA 5-0 • Last week, it was two wins, two draws and two defeats for six British clubs in Europe.

• In the Champions League, Manchester United drew 1-1 at Real Madrid while Celtic crashed 3-0 at home to Juventus.

• The first legs of the knockout stage of the Europa League, Tottenham were ‘Baled out’ again by Gareth who scored both goals in a 2-1 win over Lyon… Oscar hit Chelsea’s winner against Sparta Prague to give them an away goal advantage… Newcastle drew with Metalist Kharkiv… and Liverpool lost 2-0 to Zenith St Petersburg. The return legs take place tomorrow

evening.

• The biggest shock in the FA Cup came at The Emirates were Arsenal who haven’t won a trophy since 2005, were knocked out 1-0 by Blackburn… Oldham scored a dramatic late equaliser to hold Everton 2-2…. nonLeague Luton lost 3-0 at home to Millwall… MK Dons sucumbed 3-1 to Barnsley…

Brentford and Leeds both suffered 4-0 defeats at Chelsea (for whom Frank Lampard netted his 199th goal) and Manchester City respectively… Wigan beat Huddersfield 4-1… and and on Monday Manchester United ousted Reading 2-1 • Arsenal, hopefully, put that Cup defeat behind them when they met Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday while tonight Barcelona (Lionel Messi & Co.) visit AC Milan.

• Coventry City FC has been told to ‘pay up’ or ‘shut up’ and leave the Ricoh Arena unless rent arrears of £1.3m are paid sooner rather than later.

• Paul Ince is Blackpool’s new manager and Mark Robins has left Coventry to take charge of Huddersfield; and Paulo Di Canio has quit as boss of Swindon.

• England’s women cricketers finished third in the World Cup in India, while their male counterparts thrashed New Zealand by 10 wickets in the third 20/20 game to win the series 2-1, openers Michael Lumb and Alex Hales scoring

Compiled by AFM

a record 143 off just 76 balls.

However, the Kiwis won the first ODI by three wickets.

James Anderson has now overtaken Ian Botham as England’s champion wickettaker (512).

• Fifteen year-old golfer Lydia Ko hit a 10 under par 63 in the first round of the Canberra Open in Australia.

• Serena Williams (aged 31) is the oldest woman ever to top the world tennis rankings, replacing Victoria Azarenka who beat her in last weekend’s Qatar Open in Doha. And Rafael Nadal defeated David Nalbandian in the final of the Brazil Open, his first singles triumph in ten months..

• GB cyclist Chris Froome stormed to victory in the Tour of Qatar.

• Double Olympic champion Mo Farah won his first track race of 2013 - taking the 3,000m title in Birmingham last Saturday.

• And we all know about the South African paralympian Oscar Pistorius - the Blade runner - who has been charged with murdering his girlfriend, Reena Steemchamp.

FA Cup 6th round draw Everton / Oldham v. Wigan Athletic Manchester City v. Barnsley Man. Utd / Reading v.

Middlesbrough/Chelsea Millwall v. Blackburn Rovers Ties to be played on 9/10 March

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

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

loads they were using were not made public and these can make a huge difference to lap times.

The test got off to a slow start, with McLaren’s Sergio Perez, for example, completing only two laps in the first two hours.

But as the temperatures warmed up, the drivers began to get down to work from about 10:00 GMT. Perez, Lewis Hamilton’s replacement at McLaren, was the first driver in a top team to set a fast time, but his lap was soon eclipsed first by Alonso and then by Paul Di Resta in the Force India.

Vettel then set a benchmark of one minute 24.039 seconds on the ‘medium’ tyres before Raikkonen used the ‘hards’ to

set his fastest lap.

Alonso almost matched the Finn before Vettel set the morning’s fastest lap of 1:23.046.

Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg was fastest after the first two hours but ended the morning eighth, 1.474secs off the pace.

The German is sharing the car this week with new team-mate Hamilton, alternating from day to day throughout the fourday test.

Much of the attention will be on Alonso, who is driving the first three days of this test after deciding to skip the first test two weeks ago to concentrate on his physical and mental preparation for the new season, which starts in Australia on 17 March.

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World champion Sebastian Vettel set the pace at Barcelona’s Circuit de Catalunya on the first morning of the second pre-season test.

The Red Bull driver was 0.525 seconds faster than Lotus’s Kimi Raikkonen.

Third fastest was Fernando Alonso, having his first experience of the 2013 Ferrari after skipping the first test two weeks ago.

Pastor Maldonado, giving the 2013 Williams its debut, was fourth ahead of Toro Rosso’s Daniel Ricciardo.

Lap times in testing are rarely accurate indications of form as teams do not reveal the specification in which they are running their cars.

While Vettel, Raikkonen and Alonso were all using Pirelli’s ‘hard’ compound tyre, the fuel

first day of Barcelona test

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Sebastian Vettel sets pace on SOLTIMES WWW.SOLTIMES.COM