Roquetas R380

issue 380

ROQUETAS & ALMERIMAR

27 MAR -2 APRIL

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JAKS Easter cards,

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www.soltimes.com ARTICLE & PHOTO BY MARTIN SHORTLAND

Tourist Numbers Expected To Increase This Year

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The local tourist board has signed an agreement with the tour operator SEHRS which could see as many as 60,000 more tourists visiting the town this year. The Spanish based tour operator has agencies throughout Europe and part of the agreement will see them distributing 500,000 publicity brochures to those agencies. The object is to specifically promote Roquetas de Mar as a tourist destination, something which SEHRS does very successfully for other resorts in Spain.

Commercial operations will run from April to October and the countries being targeted are Holland, Sweden, Slovakia, Poland, Iceland and the Czech Republic. The councillor for tourism, Angel Mollinedo is currently visiting a major tourism trade fair in Moscow, which is where he made the announcement of the deal with SEHRS. According to a recent survey conducted by Tour Espana, the Russian tourism market is now considered to be one of the fastest growing globally and he is confident his delegation has promoted Roquetas as a new and interesting tourist destination.

He said, “Our visit shows the commitment we have in developing the town, not only on the home market but abroad as well.” The number of foreign visitors has decreased over recent years and this hasn’t been helped by tour operators not wanting to commit to year round use of Almeria airport. The Association of Tourism Promoters for Roquetas has already been working on improving contacts with tour operators in the UK, Germany and Holland, with a view to them continuing their packages beyond the usual May – September period.

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Sport

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Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffiths take part in Málaga’s Palm Sunday parade

Hollywood greats Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith took part in an Easter parade in the former’s native Málaga on Palm Sunday accompanied by their two children.

Banderas joins the parade every year as part of his brotherhood in full costume, and this year was no exception.

He has been one of the carriers of the Virgen de la Esperanza (‘virgin of hope’)’s throne for the last 10 years, and his brother has done so for 25 years – but they both say they intend to retire after this Easter.

“You have to step aside for younger generations – I’m now in my 50s and I have to start thinking about other things,” the Spanish-born actor admits.

This year, he let Baroness Thyssen, who attended the parade, ring the first chime on the bells of the Sagrado Corazón church where Palm Sunday mass was held, before taking over himself.

He calls Palm Sunday ‘the start of a great week-long ritual’ and one that has been celebrated for over five centuries.

I’d never want to miss this tradition in my home neighbourhood – this is the church where my parents married, where my brother and I were christened, and I used to play around here since the age of four years old,” Banderas admits.

“I’ve come here to enjoy numerous memories, to get back to my roots, pay my respects to my brotherhood and take part in an act of identity, tradition and popular art in the street – all that which Easter really means.”

He also said he hoped the weather held out for this coming weekend, given that ‘rain is the worst enemy of Easter brotherhoods’.

Stella del Carmen, 16, Banderas’ and Griffith’s daughter, and Dakota Johnson, daughter of Melanie and former partner Don Johnson, were at the parade with the couple.

SEMANA SANTA IN ALBOX

Pulpí

The Concejal Delegado de Turismo of the Pulpí Ayuntamiento, Juan Bautista López, has announced that all information services, museums, monuments and beach monitoring services are open and ready for the tourist season commencing at Easter. The Tourist Information services will be operating from three different places in San Juan de los Terreros: next to the access roundabout to the town centre; the Centro Cultural ‘El Cuartel’; and also in the Castillo. They will be open to the public from Saturday March 23 to Sunday March 31, from 10:00 to 13:00 hours and from 16:00 to 20:00 hours.

The Castillo will also be open for visits from Saturday March 23 to Sunday March 31, between the hours of 10:00 to 13:00 and in the afternoon from 16:00 hours to 20:00 hours. The Museo del Hábitat Rural de Pulpí, ‘El Benzal’, will open to the public on 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31 March between 10:00 am and 13:00 pm.

Also the Agrupación de Voluntarios de Protección Civil de Pulpí will be on surveillance on different beaches of San Juan de los Terreros.

Albox

Juan Pedro Pérez, Portavoz for the PP in Albox has denounced the sorry state of the streets of Albox, the blame for which he laid at the door of the PSOE. He said that the revenue from the property tax in Albox had not been invested in street repair, resulting over the years in a high number of large potholes in the streets, posing a problem for mobility and security as well as a worrying deterioration in the aesthetics of the town.

The PP insists that Municipal service technicians analyse the state of the streets and allocate a budget to cover damages and repairs.

The Albox 2013 Easter programme will commence with the Paso Negro Infantil and the Procesión de Nuestra Señora de los Dolores on Good Friday.

Easter Saturday will see processions at 17.00 of the Paso Morao infantil and at 23.30 the Procesión de la pre-hermandad de Jesús de la Pasión.

Liturgies will said in the Parroquias de Santa María and the La Parroquia de la Concepción.

On Domingo de Ramos, (Palm Sunday) at 18.30, the traditional Bendición de los Ramos, followed by a procession.

On Miércoles Santo (Holy Wednesday) at 22.00 there will be a Viacrucis (Way of the Cross).

The Hermandades de Albox have prepared their itineraries of events: On Monday the Procesión del Paso Colorao infantil will start at 17.00 h.

Tuesday at 21.30 is the time for the Procesión del Nazareno del Paso Morao, while Paso Blanco infantil will hold their Procession on Wednesday at 17.00.

Jueves Santo (Maundy Thursday) at 20.00 h, from the Iglesia de Santa María the Procesión del Paso Negro with the Pasos: Cristo de la Columna, Nuestro Padre Jesús de la Humildad y el Silencio and Nuestra Señora de los Dolores.

Viernes Santo, (Good Friday) at 11.00 h, from the Iglesia de la Concepción the procesión del Paso Colorao with the following Pasos: San Juan Evangelista, Virgen del Primer Dolor and Cristo Crucificado.

In the afternoon, at 17.30 the Paso Blanco will leave the Iglesia de Santa with the Pasos: Oración en el Huerto, Nuestra Señora de la Esperanza and Nuestra Señora de las Angustias.

From the same Church at 20.30 the Paso Morao will display the Pasos: Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno, María Santísima de la Redención and Cristo Yacente.

Shortly after the 00.00 h, from the Parroquia de la Concepción the last procession will take place. It will be the Paso Colorao with the Paso Nuestra Señora de la Soledad.

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Sport Terra Mítica reopens for new season

O

Over 2,000 visitors went along for the opening of Terra Mítica theme park in Benidorm for the start of the spring-summer 2013 season this weekend, where Alicante-born actress Vanesa Romero was the guest of honour.

Numerous brand-new attractions have been added to the park, which already includes film theatres, sophisticated fairground rides, and areas themed on Classical Egypt, Greece and Rome.

A new 5-D cinema has been set up, as well as a jacuzzi and spa for kids and adults alike.

Other features include a children’s show area called Plaka Kids, a zone called the Secret of the Pyramid, and another area known as the Imperium.

Terra Mítica, one of the major attractions for visitors to Benidorm (Alicante) along with theme parks Aqualandia, Terra Natura and Mundomar, is recovering well after a few troubled years during which it encountered financial difficulties that saw it go into receivership, and continues to be as popular as ever with holidaymakers from Spain and abroad as well as day-trippers who live locally.

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Carlos Fabra quits job as CEO of AEROCAS amid corruption trial

Chief Executive Officer of the company which owns Castellón’s ‘phantom’ airport has resigned amid charges against him for money-laundering, corruption and powerdealing.

Carlos Fabra had always claimed he would stand down as CEO of AEROCAS, which owns the terminal that has never as yet seen a flight take off from or land in it, but which has a statue of Fabra in the middle of it and has now become the scene for numerous illegal car-races, if legal action

was started against him.

He has now found himself embroiled in the latest corruption trial, Caso Naranjax, and has been charged on four counts of defrauding the tax authorities.

On Friday, Fabra presented his ‘irrevocable resignation’ ahead of his trial at Court Number 1 in Nules (Castellón).

Since leaving his role as CEO, Fabra says he ‘feels more free’ and will now ‘see what path’ his future decisions take.

Taxi driver delivers robbers to police after identifying them as his passengers

A taxi driver who recognised his passengers as the two men who had attacked one of his colleagues a few moments earlier drove them straight to the police.

National Police had been called at around 00.15hrs on Saturday to report an armed robbery of a taxi driver at the crossroads between C/ Ayora and C/ Chiva in Valencia city centre just minutes earlier. One of the men had grabbed the driver round the neck and pressed a sharp object against his jugular while the other grabbed his wallet containing the night’s takings. As this was being broadcast on the taxi headquarters’ internal radio system, another driver recognised the men described as two passengers he had

just picked up a few streets away. Without warning, he drove them back to the site of the attack where his fellow driver and the police were still gathered by the roadside.

He managed to take the men back to the site of the crime without their suspecting anything, and they were immediately arrested.

They were found to have committed three robberies in taxis on the same night, on one occasion hitting a driver on the head with his head-rest, and on another, they did not manage to make off with any cash.

Two Spanish men aged 33 and 45, both with an existing criminal record, were taken in for questioning.

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5

Speed cameras in Cesped artificial helicopter will catch Tigerturf every speeding driver Almeria

Drivers will be spied upon from the air over the Easter holidays now that the traffic authorities plan to fly helicopters with speed cameras above Spain’s mostfrequented roads.

According to ThinkSpain, the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has launched the first of these, Pegasus, which takes three images in a matter of nanoseconds, capturing speeding drivers on film, which are then examined before being sent to the car-owner’s house.

DGT sources say the flying radar costs about as much as a traditional speed camera – between 60,000 and 170,000 euros – but covers a much wider area.

It can detect vehicles moving at up to 360 kilometres per hour from a height of 300 metres (about 900 feet), and due to the fact it is so far from the ground, cars with in-built speed camera detectors will

not be able to pick up its signal.

Traffic authorities say: “It will catch anyone who is breaking the speed limit, therefore anyone who is complying with the speed limit does not have to worry.”

Conventional speed cameras tend to be set up on major highways, says the DGT, but Pegasus will concentrate on roads without central reservations and where it is more difficult to install cameras, given that these are the roads where the majority of accidents occur.

A total of 13 million cars are expected to be on Spain’s roads between this weekend – tomorrow (Friday, March 22) and Sunday, March 24 – and next weekend, which is Easter.

Last year, 45 people were killed in car accidents just over the Easter weekend.

The DGT says 78 per cent of fatal crashes happen on secondary roads.

Electricity to go down by 6.7% in April Hard-pressed homeowners can heave a sigh of relief next month – electricity bills are set to go down by 6.7 The quarterly auction of electrical energy took place yesterday and brought prices of the commodity down by 15 per cent – but actual consumption is only about half of the average bill.

Those whose supply comes directly from the State-run electricity boards Iberdrola, Endesa, Gas Natural Fenosa, E.On and HC will see their bills falling – a total of about 20 million consumers – but the 6.5 million who use suppliers in the open market will not benefit from the discount.

Electricity has nearly quadrupled in the last five years and went up on several occasions in the last 18 months – including in January when it rose by three per cent after the most recent energy auction – but although consumers would not have realised, electricity tariffs actually fell twice between mid-2009 and the end of 2012.

The second fall in price was in September, by two per cent, but in practice everyone’s bills rocketed – firstly due to IVA increasing from 18 to 21 per cent, and secondly because the government’s decision to freeze rates was overturned several times by the Supreme Court, meaning that the extra costs were backdated by some months and applied to bills between August and October.

Provided the central government keeps its promise not to increase regulated costs, householders and business owners will see their electricity bills fall after April 1.

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Lightning strikes inside lounge of Costa del Sol home

A home-owner got the fright of his life last Tuesday when a bolt of lightning came into his house after entering via the television aerial.

José Luis García, 41, who lives in Vélez-Málaga, says part of the roof and the lounge wall of his penthouse flat was seriously damaged, but that nobody was hurt. At the time, he was listening to the storm outside while on his computer in another room, and said he heard what sounded like ‘a bomb going off’.

Sport

Next, José Luis smelt something burning and immediately fled the building for safety’s sake. A bolt of lightning had struck the television aerial on the roof, travelled down through it, and burnt a hole in the ceiling causing rubble to fall.

Council technicians and the fire brigade have carried out a temporary repair to the roof to protect it against the ongoing torrential rain in the area, but say the three-storey building remains structurally sound despite the impact.

Dole Money Entitlement For Over-55s Restricted

Two in 10 people over the age of 55 will no longer be entitled to dole money when they lose their jobs.

Employment minister Fátima Báñez is tightening up on how many over55s are able to claim, but not on anyone younger.

For those aged 55 and over, the total earnings of the whole household will be calculated and then divided between the number of members.

The unemployed person will only be able to claim dole money if the average figure per household member is less than 75 per cent of the minimum wage – the minimum

wage for a full-time, 40-hour week currently being 641 euros.

The 375,000 over-55s currently claiming dole money will not be affected.

Báñez’s response to heavy criticism from socialist MP Magdalena Valerio and united left MP Gaspar Llamazares was that the government was not cutting back on dole money for the over-55s, but was ‘streamlining access criteria’ to match those of other benefits, considering it ‘reasonable’ that they should ‘only claim what they really need’.

Valerio and Llamazares also slammed the pension reform, which

was approved unilaterally by the PP last week, taking advantage of their majority in Parliament which gave them enough votes from the party alone to take the change in law through.

They both said the government is forcing the ‘most vulnerable’ members of society – pensioners, and people of an age where they will never get a job again if they are made redundant – and that it was ‘absurd and outrageous’ that ‘parents and grandparents’ were forced to carry on working whilst their children and grandchildren were unemployed.

It had rained heavily all day in the Axarquía district of the province of Málaga, and thunder and lightning came directly overhead in the town of Vélez-Málaga.

Italian marines due for India trial Two Italian marines accused of killing two Indian fishermen are on their way back to Delhi for trial, Indian officials say, as diplomatic tensions ease.

Russian police raid rights groups Russian police raid the offices of Memorial and other campaign groups required to register as “foreign agents”.

West Ham secure Olympic Stadium West Ham will be the Olympic Stadium tenants after the government increases its funding by £25m to about £60m

Drug Which Improves Survival Rates In Ovarian Cancer Patients Discovered At Valencia Hospital

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A hospital in Valencia is part of an international investigation team which has discovered a drug that improves survival rates in ovarian cancer patients.

Dr Andrés Cervantes from Hospital Clínico represented Spain in a study involving clinical trials on 1,528 women with either advanced or early-stage ovarian cancer, from Spain, Italy, France, Germany, Canada, Australia, and the Scandinavian countries.

All of them had a strain of cancer which had a high risk of recurring following surgery.

They were all undergoing chemotherapy, but some of them were

given the drug Bevacizumab together with their standard treatment.

Those who were given Bevacizumab showed a ‘significant improvement’ in their condition and survival rates compared to those who only had chemotherapy.

The Institute of Health Investigation of the Hospital Clínico in Valencia (INCLIVA), which Dr Cervantes – head of medical oncology at the centre – represents said the trials had produced ‘positive clinical results’ in an illness where there have been ‘very few advances in treatment in the last 10 years’.

Meatballs back on sale in Ikea in Spain

Swedish furniture chain IKEA has started selling meatballs once again in restaurants in its Spanish stores after having withdrawn them due to the horsemeat scandal hitting Europe.

Store bosses confirm that those which are now on sale only contain pork and beef and that they have cut down the number of suppliers along the production chain to ensure closer monitoring.

Two DNA tests are included in the manufacturing of the meatballs to guarantee that no meat from horses finds its way into

the mix.

One of these is carried out on the raw ingredients and another on the finished product.

IKEA assures that visitors to the restaurants in its 15 stores in Spain – and those in other parts of the world – can now eat their meatballs with ‘total confidence’.

At the end of February, the store withdrew meatballs from its menu after finding traces of horsemeat, which has also been found in other meat products in supermarkets across Europe, causing a widespread scandal.

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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survey reveals 70% of parents have little A Full Selection Now Available or no time to play with their children

Seven in 10 parents in Spain say they do not have time to play with their children, claims research by the Child’s Play Observatory (OJI).

Kids only spend 10 per cent of their day in the company of their parents, although six in 10 regularly pester their mums and dads to join in with their games and prefer the company of their family to that of their friends.

But this 10 per cent actually translates to two hours a day of undivided attention – although the OJI still believes kids need more.

Their research shows that the average 21st-century child spends most of the day in the company of his or her teachers, 20 per cent of the day with mum and 10 per cent with dad – but grandparents feature strongly in kids’ lives, since they spend up to a quarter of their day with them.

A Facebook campaign, Date tiempo para ser papá (‘give yourself time to be a parent’) is reminding mums and dads on Father’s Day – which was March 19 for Spain – that parents are ‘among the best

playmates for their children’.

Playing with parents means the children learn correct behaviour, how to follow rules, where the boundaries are, and to have fun, laugh and strengthen the emotional ties with the most important people in their lives, the OJI states.

“Playing with your children is not a waste of time. Children need to play in order to grow and develop, and parents are an important figure in this development,” the research states.

Father, teenage daughter and uncle killed in light aircraft crash

A teenage girl was among three people who died in a light aircraft crash in Castalla, Alicante, last Tuesday with no survivors. She is said to have been nearly 14 and her father, 48 and uncle, a flying instructor aged 40 were also killed outright.

All residents of Castalla, they had gone up in the uncle’s plane to take bird’s-eye-view photographs.

At present the exact cause of the crash is not known, although emergency services said the craft did not hit anything while in flight. They believe a mechanical failure may have occurred, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing, which went wrong, but investigations are still under way to determine why the plane fell out of the sky. It had set off from the aerodrome in Mutxamel, near Alicante city and crashed near the high school in Castalla, which was closed on Tuesday due to the bank

holiday for the Fallas fiesta in the Comunidad Valenciana.

Numerous witnesses saw the plane come down, but there was nothing they or paramedics could do to save the three occupants.

This is the second light aircraft crash in Spain in 48 hours, after a 60-year-old man lost his life when his plane fell out of the sky in El Álamo, Madrid last Sunday. The Castalla family now bring the total number of deaths in small craft accidents in Spain in the last two years to 23.

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SOLTIMES FEBRUARY 2013

Valencia goes up in smoke

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

Fallas burnt down all over the Comunidad Valenciana late last night and particularly in Valencia city, the fiesta capital. This year’s fallera queens were unable to hold back tears as the massive, colourful papier-mâché monuments were doused in petrol before mascletaes – strings with gunpowder bangers attached – wrapped around them were set off, causing fireworks set up in the middle of them to explode.

A colourful firework display followed by a raging inferno the size of a house ensued, with the falla monuments which came last in the classification going up first and the winners right at the end.

In Gandia (Valencia), one of the largest outside the provincial capital, the winner was once again the Falla del Prado, named after the El Prado square where it stands.

Themes in the town this year included the local government’s controversial plans to build a golf course on the wetlands, the chavstyle reality TV show Gandia Shore (Spain’s answer to the UK version Geordie Shore), over-ambitious developments such as the Maremagnum colisseum on the beach, and the recession in general. Oliva (Valencia)’s winner for both the main and the children’s falla was the Institut, which featured a huge elephant, a giraffe and a cupid firing an arrow, plus a man turning out his pockets because he did not have any money.

In the province of Alicante, the winner in Dénia was the Falla Centro, on the main Marqués de Campo street and the winning children’s falla was the Baix la Mar on the port side of the old town.

Calpe had two and the small town of Pego had six – one more than Oliva, which is three times the size – and the hamlet of Pamís near Ondara had just one.

Each district saw about 50 firefighters, 50 police officers and 40 Civil Protection squad members on duty during the burning, known as the cremà.

VISIT OUR NEW SHOP ON THE HIGH STREET IN TURRE OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 1OAM TIL’ 3PM - TEL: 634 341 171

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

9

we sell

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sales rooms open daily for sales HOUSEHOLD ANTIQUES GARDEN FURNITURE sales rooms HOUSE CLEARANCES sales rooms

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IVA Hike Affects Spectator Numbers For Films, Shows & Concerts

Cinemas, theatres and concerts have seen a nose-dive in profits since IVA shot up from eight to 21 per cent in September. As a direct result of the tax hike, net profit has plummeted by 20.2 per cent, and attendance has dropped by 17.5 per cent as the spectators now have to shell out far more on tickets.

Accordin to press reports, these figures only reflect the last quarter of 2012, and those in the industry expect the results for the first quarter of 2013 to be even worse. The State Federation of Theatre and Dance Company Associations (FAETEDA) says there has been a ‘massive decline’ in profits after the performing arts were moved up an IVA bracket at the same time as the increase was applied.

Prior to September, tickets for the cinema, opera, plays or other stage performances attracted IVA at the middle of

M o n - Tu e s - We d s - T h u r s & S a t 9 a m - 2 p m Friday Evenings 5pm-9pm (sales & viewings)

three rates, at eight per cent, rather than the higher ‘general’ IVA rate of 18 per cent.

This bracket went up to 10 per cent and higher-rate IVA to 21 per cent – and the performing arts were shifted into the higher bracket.

And overall, with the recession in general, spectator numbers at performances have fallen by 55.6 per cent and profits by 61.4 per cent.

The economic crisis alone means cinemas and concert halls would be struggling, but aggravated by the IVA rise, many fear they may have to close down.

Even before IVA went up, the FAETEDA warned the government that to move the performing arts into a higher bracket as planned would have dire consequences for the industry.

Ibuprofen doses of 600mg ‘too large’ and ‘not effective

Taking pills of 600mg of Ibuprofen is less effective than those of 400mg, and the three in 10 patients who consume the former three times a day may actually be overdosing, according to a study by Asturias Central University Hospital.

Ibuprofen is frequently sold in doses of this size, is actually more than the recommended amount for the average human, says Dr Pascual.

According to a report by ThinkSpain, Dr Julio Pascual from the Neurology department says 400mg is the optimum dose for light to moderate pain where anti-inflammatories are recommended, being more effective than pills of 200mg.

“There is no scientific reason why patients should be given doses exceeding 400mg,” Dr Pascual stresses.

But pills of 600mg do not work as well as those of 400mg and, despite the fact

950 06 45 76 661 75 98 82

Taken every eight hours, 400mg works better, he maintains.

“In most western countries, doses of 600mg are not even sold, whereas in Spain they account for 80 per cent of those sold over the counter, compared to less than 15 per cent of the rest of Europe.”

Parking Meters To Be In Operation On Bank Holidays And Sundays In Madrid

Madrid may charge for on-street parking even on Sundays and bank holidays in a bid to raise more cash for public coffers – a move which it is feared may reach other towns and cities throughout Spain.

At present, meter parking is only payable within certain hours – usually mornings only and from around 17.00hrs to early evening from Mondays to Saturdays – and no charge is made for other times of day.

But city mayoress Ana Botella wants to extend the time limit on working days to midnight instead of 22.00hrs, and charge for meter parking seven days a week, even on public holidays.

She says according to the law, a council order is sufficient to change the hours charged for and it does not have be voted on in a city council meeting.

Established since 1969

Accountancy, Tax & Legal Advice Taxes for Businesses & Individuals Payroll and Social Security Services for residents & non-residents Vehicle Transfer & Matriculation New office opening in Mojacar Manager Required Gestoria Salvador, a consulting company established in Almeria since 1969 is opening a new office in Mojacar and requires a Manager with excellent communication skills and knowledge of the Mojacar area.

- The individual must have experience in tax consultancy, legal work, book keeping and other administrative services - Spanish and English speaking is essential An additional language is advantageous

Send your CV with photo to our email

ags@gruposalvador.es

www.gestoriasalvador.info Tel: 950 237 155

10

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Cafe

Maloan

Your local dedicated Off Licence

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

Tel: 662 153 834

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indoor market

1,000’s of items – All Under One Roof!!!

dining suites at amazing  Complete prices 100’s of household products  Monthly UK trips to bring back items  and many more................................ find what you are looking for?  Can’t Then we will source it!!!

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

Valley Wines is the only dedicated “Off Licence” in the Arboleas and surrounding areas. They stock an extensive range of leading brands, including spirits you might otherwise struggle to find, such as Drambuie, Captain Morgans, Jagermeister, Southern Comfort, Kahlua, Jack Daniels, Absinthe & French Brandy, plus an extensive list of Whiskies. If there’s something you want, pop in and have a chat with Jenni – she can order it for you and have it within 24-48 hours. Valley Wines is open Mon-Fri 10am ‘til 6pm and Sat 9.30am ‘til 2pm. Find them a couple of doors along from Sophia Wellness Centre. Tel. 662 153 834.

Mercamundo is a treasure trove of second hand and new items.

Karen and Eddy work hard to make sure that whenever you visit there is always something “new” for you to see in their enormous warehouse. Situated just behind the beauty place Sayura, on the opposite side of the road from Mora Oil, they do regular house clearances, and monthly trips to the UK, so if you want something from ASDA, Tesco or Argos for example, you can call them and they will bring it back for you. As well as hundreds of pieces of furniture, they stock many household products including cleaning items, kitchen gadgets and even tools. Mercamundo will also source things for you and is well worth a visit. They are also shortly opening some smaller shop areas within their main shop that can be rented by the day; it’s a great idea for people that would like to sell items or provide a service but cannot afford the expense of opening a shop on the high street...call them now on 637 184 625 or 634 368 430 for further information.

Cafe Maloan on Avda. Del Almanzora in Arboleas is a friendly local bar offering a selection snacks and tostados. With a nicely laid out interior and fly screen outside seating area, you can enjoy coffee and a treat after a leisurely walk along the high street. And remember, every Friday and Saturday evening they have Karaoke!

Autobuses Lorenzo based in Arboleas offer a 24 hour taxi service and have a range of vehicles suitable for up to 7 people. As well as handling a local service, they can also arrange to get you to and from the various airports, If it is a day trip that you are planning and want to organise something with a number of others then they have a fleet of buses seating from 22 to 55 people.Give them a call on 950 449 467 or email them on maloan560@hotmail.com.

Autobuses Lorenzo S.L. to advertise BUS & TAXI SERVICE

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Open Mon-Sat 10am-3pm Thurs-Fri 6pm-8:30pm

Phone Eddy 637 184 625 / 634 368 430 Arboleas poligono - opposite mora oil

24 hour taxi service

Taxis seat 4 and 7 people buses seat 22, 25, 31 and 55 people tel: 950 449 467 - Fax: 950 449 197 - Mobile: 607 953 332/88 Email: maloan560@hotmail.com Arboleas - Almeria

on the feature in a future issue email sales@ soltimes. com or call 950 121 936

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

www.soltimes.com

11

Bar Internacional Diner under management with Andrea and Fernando. Opening hours from Tuesday - Saturday from 9:30 am til late, Sundays 11:00 am – 5:00 pm, Closed on Mondays. Located on the Albox-Baza Road A334, adjacent to the Saturday Car Boot Sale. The Bar Internacional Diner is a family friendly restaurant with Free WIFI Zone serving a la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner, Specials of the Day and Children´s menu. Enjoy our barbecue grilled meats served every Saturday on the terrace. Try our traditional Sunday Roast Lunch for only €6.90 served from 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm. This Sunday, March 31st serving Easter Sunday Menu for 12.95€ per person. Take in the Sun with an ice cold beer on our large outside terrace. We have Live Entertainment including singers and musicians performing every Saturday night. Join the Line Dancing Group for lessons with Jenny every Tuesday from 3pm. Karaoke is now every Thursday too! A great venue to book for private functions celebrating birthdays, anniversary, charity auctions, luncheons, or any special event. We are happy and willing to reserve and close the restaurant for bookings of minimum 50 people. Don´t miss out on our April Events including Jazz & Soul singer, Rocio Starry from Mojacar Playa, the fabulous Kris Kelly in her Let´s Party Music, the Partyman DJ Ivan B from Belgium playing all the favourite dance tunes, and JC singing Rock n Roll mania, Motown, Reggae and Country Music.

For Bookings please call 950430925 or contact Andrea at 690828520.

Email at barinternacionaldiner@gmail.com and visit us on Facebook.

Linea Nueve is the newly opened furniture store opposite Mora Oil in Arboleas. The huge showroom has been beautifully designed and the smell of leather that hits you as you enter is fabulous. This family run business have a quality selection of suites in store in various styles, with a good range of colours available to suit individuals tastes. As well as sofas, they stock kitchens and bedroom furniture again all top quality.

It is nice to find a furniture shop that doesn’t skimp on style and quality, and although you aren’t likely to find a cheap bargain here, what you do get is real value for money with furniture that lasts! See their advert for more details. Tel: 950 120 630 or 620 237 529.

Amigos Bowling Centre, situated on the Los Llanos Poligono Industrial, Arboleas is more than just a bowling alley! Well into its fourth year of trading it remains a firm favourite with many people living in and around the area. Playing host to regular live music events, Amigos ensures party nights are fun filled. Amigos is also a great venue for private functions and is available for Private Hire. Boasting a huge bar area, excellent food and staff this is just what you need for your special occasions. You can call on 950 120 269 or visit www.amigosbowlingcentre.com for more details on this and other forthcoming events, discounted group bookings, bowling or party venue ideas.

Family Fun For All

Open

12 lanes 2 American Pool Tables E A S T E R 2 Standard Pool Tables Daily Menu Giant Plasma TV Screens Monday Amigos Bowling Centre Los Llanos Poligono, Arboleas

950 120 269

LINEA

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For the best quality furniture in Spain

If you are looking for something special and different then look no further!

• Sofas - Huge choice of colours in leather, suede and fabrics • Beds and bedroom furniture - Fabulous styles • Kitchen - Top Quality, beautiful designs Open Monday - Saturday: 10:00 - 14:00 and 17:00 - 20:30

Tel: 620 237 529 / 950 120 630 Ctra. Lorca-Baza. KM76 - Los Llanos, Arboleas

12

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

The Charity Shop’s

R r e af f l e t s a E Win

Tickets

Oil Painting by a local artist Camcorder or Cuddly Toy

1€

To be drawn on Easter Saturday 30th March 2013 at the Stumble Inn, Almerimar Come and join us starting 14.00 hours There also will be Tombola, Book Sale and Easter Goodies All proceeds to go to the Asociacion de Animales de Berja

RMC European Services SPAIN – UK

UK – SPAIN

National International Freighters & Removals UK Storage Tel 0034 652 885 268 0r 0044 7845782325 Email: richardcummings@mail.com

El Ejido...

The Diputación Provincial de Almería, through the Planes Provinciales de Obras y Servicios, is to renovate the water deposit tank in the Camino de Los Majales in El Ejido, which supplies water to the Almerimar and Ejido Beach areas.

This was announced by the Presidente de la Diputación, Gabriel Amat, who signed the 479,655€ contract, which he said would ‘solve water problems that affect a large percentage of municipalities in the province, ensuring supply to the population

ElBasedEjido Rugby Club 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

what’s on Wednesday

MacGowan’s

Sol Times Distributed

every thursday

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

open mic night & jam session

Friday Golf

Bar & Restaurant

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

ALMERIMAR & surrounding area

8.30pm start

Calle Varadero Almerimar 04711 (Almeria)

Tlf. 950 609 546

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

Thursday 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

My name is Lulu, and I’m looking for a forever home. I’m about a year old and I’ve been neutered. I live in a foster home with other dogs and cats, I’m quite timid but I love to play and go for walks

Can anyone help me?

Monday-Friday 10am-2pm

In Association with Animales de Berja & Ursamarina

Telephone:950 479 193 volunteers wanted

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

Tuesday

Tuesday Golf

------------------------------------------------------------

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

------------------------------------------------------------

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

throughout Almeria.’

Specifically, the aim of this project is to restore the structure of the current 13.000m3 tank.

At present, the whole tank structure is strongly affected by cracking, which has led to corrosion and oxidation.

The works have a projected duration of 3 months, and will include the repair of walls, pillars and the intermediate floor; the cleaning and placement of hatches, and waterproofing of external surfaces

El Ejido...

Officers of the Guardia Civil have arrested two men for the theft of a greenhouse frame.

F.S.G., aged 57, has been charged with theft, criminal damage and offences against the rights of workers.

S.C., aged 34, has been charged with theft and damage.

The Guardia Civil was alerted to the presence of two people who were disassembling a greenhouse frame near a warehouse in the Paraje La Cumbre.

Having checked with the owner of the greenhouse, the officers attended the scene where they found two people cutting and loading a greenhouse frame into a van.

As the result of their investigations the officers established that F.S.G.and S.C.had cut the unassembled structure with a view to selling it as scrap, and that F.S.G. would pay S.C. 20€ for his help in this work.

El Ejido Bowls Club

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

Friday Golf Society 22 march:

We had a late start with the first tee time being 13:14 on the Master course. We had 45 players taking part including 3 guests. The format was Reverse Waltz with 2 hidden holes.

The winners with a score of 90 points were Alan Sly (Mr President), Heinz Hajek, Barry Castle and Doris 2 (our imaginary player making up level groups of 4 and always scores 30 points. last place and chocolates went to the hand picked team of Sune Jönsson, Richard Öberg plus two new members, Anders Lundmark and Thomas Strömsten.

Nearest the pin was won by Rosemary Moody with a distance of 1.80m beating her husband Mel. The collecting of the cards and the prize giving ceremony was performed by Mr President this week.

You can see the full results at:

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

news update

13

Reports & PHOTOS by Martin Shortland

Refuse Workers Strike Postponed Until After Easter

The tourist industry of Roquetas breathed a collective sigh of relief at the weekend. The planned refuse workers strike, due to start last Sunday and to run indefinitely, has been called off – at least for the time being. Late last week, town mayor Gabriel Amat stepped in and held talks with representatives of Urbaser, the contract cleaning company and members of the CSIF trade union. He had initially refused to become involved in the long running dispute, saying it was a matter between the two sides, but changed his mind after pressure was brought to bear from tourist board officials and local businesses.

Fears of the effect on the busy Easter tourist trade had been mounting since the announcement of the strike action two weeks ago. The local Tourist Board became increasingly worried as members voiced their concerns to local secretary Julio Fernandez. He said, “The Easter holiday is always a busy time for tourism in the area and with the current economic situation in such a fragile state, it’s vital we present the best possible image of the town to the thousands of visitors we are expecting next week. A strike by the refuse collectors is the last thing we need.”

The strike was called after workers union CSIF failed to overturn a new management proposal, cutting staff working hours and shift patterns; the changes – if implemented - will mean a loss of about 3,500 euros per person per annum. The union expressed dismay

at the cuts, saying they could only mean a severe deterioration in the service Urbaser provides to the municipality. To add insult to injury, they point out the company is receiving an increase of almost 1.4 million euros in payment for its services this year. If that sum is added to the almost 500,000 euro saving in staff wages, it amounts to close on 2 million euros; the union is questioning where this money is going and why it isn’t being used to improve, not degrade the service to the community.

In a statement from CSIF, chief negotiator Raul Fuentes praised the attitude of the employees in choosing to vote in favour of temporarily calling off the strike. He said the employees are proud of the job they do for the community and did not want to be the cause of unnecessary hardship to businesses and tourists during this busy time.

So for the moment, what for many could have been a disaster has been averted. The plan is for the union, company management and council officials to sit down and try to sort the out problem, possibly early next month. But the employees are adamant the strike will still take place, unless the new working structure proposal is changed. The management of Urbaser remain tight lipped as to how they intend to proceed in this tense dispute, most of which it would appear is of their own making.

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

Improvement Work Finally Begins On The Roquetas Flood Channel

To the delight of local residents, businesses and farm workers, work began late last week on the Rambla de Canuela. The channel runs from near El Ejido through the plastic agricultural zone to the north of the town and finally spills out onto the Romanilla beach. It has been the reason for major disruption to the local community for some years now, causing two important commuter roads to be closed because of the level of water passing over them.

Two weeks ago, a garage owner whose business is close to the channel, held an impromptu protest on the road and was joined by up to fifty other residents and business owners. His filling station isn’t being used as much anymore because drivers are not always able to access his site and he estimates his takings have dropped by up to 30%. Other traders told similar stories and the one common theme they all expressed was what they considered to be a lack of support from the council in carrying out much needed repairs to the channel.

A plan to install a piping system throughout the length of the channel some two years ago would have solved the problem, but it was never implemented because none of the authorities could agree on who should pay for the work. The Roquetas town hall felt the regional council of Andalucia was responsible; they in turn would have none of it, saying the work fell within the jurisdiction of the local council. So for two years a stalemate existed.

That is, until the garage owner, Francisco Martin held his demonstration.

He and his fellow demonstrators alerted the media and I, along with other journalists from TV, radio and newspaper went along to see what all the fuss was about. The mayor and other local council officials turned out as well and Mr. Martin and many other aggrieved protesters took the opportunity to tell them in no uncertain terms what they thought of the blatant disregard the council appeared to have for their plight. And amazingly it worked; within two days the council announced it considered “urgent action” was needed to repair the channel and that if the regional council would agree to partly fund the project, the work could begin immediately.

By the middle of last week, the contractors had moved in and the work has indeed begun.

It will be carried out in two phases; phase one will address the re-routing of the channel where it causes most disruption at the road crossings, phase two will see the installation of piping through most of the channel, including a buried section going out to sea.

At the moment, when the water reaches the beach it turns into a muddy brown lake and environmentalists have expressed concern over it; so much so there are fears the coveted Blue Flag status of the Romanilla beach could be withdrawn. Mr. Martin told me he was very pleased at the outcome, but couldn’t take all the credit; he said the idea of staging the protest on the road was his wife’s!

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14

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

15

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

viewpoint

The Romanian Moated Shower Our shower sits in the corner of the family bathroom, and we planned to enlarge it by taking the old screens out, demolishing the tray, putting in a new shower floor of some sort, and putting back the screens with additions where needed.

The idea was that should Pete fancy holding a party in the shower, he would have plenty of room to do so.

Additionally a non-slip floor and a much reduced step into the shower tray would give his guests ease of access and total confidence should they fancy a bit of a boogie.

I explained this all to Juan, who drew a picture with measurements. He in turn explained it all to Pedro, three times.

So when Pedro turned up bearing several of the holey bricks used to construct internal walls, I was a little anxious.

However, he is a cheerful soul; he assured me three times that he knew exactly what we wanted, and in short order sounds of hammering were coming from within the bathroom.

On pretext of offering him a coffee I entered the demolition area. Pedro was happily drawing lines on the floor and standing the bricks up on the lines. Proudly he explained that the bricks josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk were to go

By Jos Biggs

round the edge, and the screens on top of the bricks.

Then he explained twice more, in case I hadn’t understood.

Weakly I enquired why he was using such big bricks. ‘To stop the water from getting out.’ He answered politely.

I left that point for the moment, and, feeling silly for asking, I queried whether it wasn’t easier to take the old tray out first. This confirmed Pedro’s suspicion that I hadn’t understood.

‘No,’ he said, ‘the tray stays here, and the walls are there.

The shower is bigger.’ He didn’t add ‘Simples’ but I think he thought it.

I pointed out to him that this would leave a sort of a moat of about 12 inches between the existing small tray and the walls. It would be a variant on the Medieval Moated Castle, a sort of 21st century Moated Shower, only lacking the drawbridge for full effect.

‘Si.’ He gave a small Romanian where’s-the-problem kind of a shrug.

‘How will the water get out?’ he was about to assure me that the bricks round the edge would keep the water in, when I added ‘the water can’t get down the plughole, it will be trapped in the moat.’

He gazed at me with a look of blue-eyed Balkan bewilderment as the penny slowly dropped. Then he rang Juan, who redeployed Pedro and replaced him with Francisco, who didn’t need the situation explaining three times!

Bubbly!. . .You have to Giggle!

When we arrived in Spain on a permanent basis seven years ago, hot tubs – outdoor spas or whatever it is you like to call them – seemed to be all the rage. But I have only just come to realise that these luxury items seem not to be so much in evidence these days, born out by the fact that most of the outlets in this area specialising in these goods have also disappeared.

It’s probably a sign of the economic times, but I also know that like many appliances of this

nature, whilst highly desirable at the outset, they soon become taken for granted and are used less and less. And I know this to be so from personal experience.

A long November weekend spent with friends in the Welsh seaside town of Barmouth back in the nineties, gave us our first encounter with a hot tub.

We had settled into our bed and breakfast accommodation – a converted barn with two foot thick stone walls and roaring log fires – and had been shown a

brand new hot tub outside one of our rooms which, we were informed by our hosts, was at our disposal free of charge.

This was something new to all of us. So later that night, after a candle lit dinner of what looked like road-kill at a nearby restaurant, we found ourselves cosily ensconced in the spa. The deliciously hot water whirred and lapped around our lily white bodies, whilst our noses turned blue in the frosty night air - a condition quickly remedied by submerging our heads in the water from time to time.

Ooh and what a surprise when the bubbles started and the girls found themselves inadvertently sitting on the nozzles . . . they didn’t ‘arf giggle!

It was the height of luxury to us and we spent all three nights in post prandial sessions in the tub and made up our minds that this was a must-have item for our own garden when we returned home.

It actually took us a couple of years to take the plunge, so to

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speak, but this was as much to do with researching the subject, as the not inconsiderable outlay involved – seven thousand pounds as it turned out and which was a fair amount of dosh back then.

And still is come to that.

But it was duly bought, delivered and installed on a preprepared concrete pad I had laid in readiness - backed up against the small barn that was ostensibly used as a garage (although there was so much stuff stored there, that the car hardly got a look in and was mostly left to stand sulking in the driveway) and a few yards from the ornamental pond that I had lovingly established a year or two earlier.

Perhaps one of the reasons that the spa has become less popular here, is because we found that it was definitely a colder weather pursuit not a summer one. A pool is what you need to cool down during the hot dry season, not a spa that is specifically designed for cold weather use in the Canadian and American winters.

There is something special about gently poaching in those soothingly hot waters, under a star filled sky on a frosty winter night – sometimes even with snow falling, during which we would wear woolly hats and smiles but very little else.

The worst part of course, was having to haul ourselves from the water’s warm embrace and make a dash for the house some twenty yards away, with yours truly left with the task of closing down the tub’s electrics and putting the weighty lid on before I could myself leg it back to the prospect of a warming shower. During the spells of extreme cold, when temperatures dropped to well below zero, it was touch and go that I developed frostbite in my own Antarctic regions before reaching habitation.

ALQUERIA - The border incident John MacDonald (El Sordo) - www.caratacus.eu

16

The forthcoming return visit by a delegation from the Uggabian Republic had begun to get very complicated. The Spanish authorities, having granted the necessary visas had a change of heart and revoked them. It appears that a whistle-blower from the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores y de Cooperación leaked the information. Anti-Uggabian pressure groups in the UK and their sister groups in Spain swung into action, arranging demonstrations and applying for a legal injunction to stop the visit.

There was wide spread rioting from Cádiz to Barcelona, the streets of Madrid resembled a battle field while in Córdoba a giant Alquerian tricolour was burnt. Unfortunately the fire spread to the Great Mosque which was completely gutted. The authorities had to act and they did. Swiftly closing the border with Alqueria and revoking the visas. During a news interview the leader of the antiAlquerian group, Ernesto Twitto worried that the Uggabians would not get around to leaving again said “ They can’t get rid of their surplus idiots on us”. In reality of course the UK has been quietly doing this for years.

Alqueria reacted by closing the already closed border with Spain.

The Republic’s militia was mobilised, all ten of them. Only ten passed the required intelligence test to join the Militia. Actually the test was based on the Spanish under-five Kindergarten assessment. Manuela offered to supply comfort to the troops.

She was however sent to the high sierra with Carmen the barmaid from the Bar La Casa Devante instead. Here they manned or rather womaned a crossing point. A solitary track led from Spain down the sierra and into the Village. It is known as the ‘Alquerian Trail’, a semi-official smuggling route. Remitroot Liquor out and Abyssinian Goat Shirling accoutrements in. On the high sierra it was still cold with the Winter snow still laying in the shadows, the only shelter an old hollow tree trunk.

During an emergency meeting of the Alquerian Cabinet the decision was taken to go ahead with the visit and not be pushed around by their powerful neighbour. The problem of getting the Uggabians into the Republic was next on the agenda. Gruntmore had the solution. Bring the delegation in from the sea and up the Río Verde to Alqueria. He had experience of this clandestine method of travelling. Whenever he or his relatives went anywhere abroad they usually had to swim the last three miles by night.

That night at Harwich Docks four cloak draped figures boarded the tramp steamer SS Founder. The mist rolled in from the North Sea as the ship’s propeller began to bite into water.

What will befall the inveterate travellers?

Will they make the Mediterranean?

Will they be invited to the Captain’s cocktail party?

Find out soon...

Then again in the spring, when the chill had left the air; the early flowers were showing their heads and the pond had suddenly burst into life. Many’s the night that we spent a pleasant evening with friends, a bottle or two of chardonnay lodged in the convenient receptacles provided, listening to the mating frogs and the cacophony of sound as they got their little flippered legs over.

And I remember thinking . . . lucky little beggars.

But as the months and the years passed, we used the tub less and less, until it stood virtually unused.

It was still a nice experience, but

the preparation beforehand and the hassle after, became a bind.

A bit like the ubiquitous Breville toaster, it had been utilised enthusiastically before gradually losing its novelty value and falling into almost total obscurity.

Story of my life!

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com

www.soltimes.com

17

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

...take care of your pets Huerca - Overa Veterinary Centre is run by Husband and wife team Angel and Elena who both speak an excellent level of English.

Since May 2011, they have offered an invaluable service to the pets in the area. The veterinary Centre can help and advise you on any concerns that you may have about your pets welfare. In particular now that the weather is getting warmer remember there will be more parasites about such as fleas, ticks and sand flies. As always it is necessary to use a system to prevent them and the illness that they cause by the use of Pipetes and Collars. Also we now provide the new vaccination against leishmania. With this vaccination we will do the leish test for free. Now is the best time to prepare your dogs for the spring and summer so why not make an appointment to come along and see us now. Dog and cat grooming services are now available. For more information or to book and appointment call 950 61 67

rooms for the cats. In the kennels, the emphasis is on safety as well as comfort – all the dogs sleep indoors to prevent sand fly bites and leishmaniasis but have private outside areas during the day. If you want the best for your pet, contact the Bo and Antoinette – 639 722 197 or info@animalhotel.es – and make a booking or arrange to drop by and see the accommodation for yourself. The Animal Hotel can be found on Facebook or at www.AnimalHotel.es

range of quality pet foods in store including products by Kiki, Royal Canin, Brekkies and Advance just to name a few. Why not take a trip to Olula and pay them a visit, you will not be disappointed. Give Ben a call now on 687 497 892

woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery arboleas

Comercial Carmona in Olula del Rio have the pet store that we all love to visit. Ben, the store manager is English and a true animal lover that also an extensive knowledge of fish keeping, reptiles and birds. Having kept fish for over 15 years in the UK and here in Spain, Ben prides himself on being able to offer helpful advice to anyone buying new fish stock or equipment. They also have a huge

Small friendly kennels 24hr vets service pet transporting arranged welcome to view ministry approved

Tracy 650 211 952

You may already know Tracey and her husband Bob from the television programme Living the Dream. They are now running WOODHOUSE BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY 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.

Cats and dogs receive 5-star treatment at the Animal Hotel, near Águilas. Bo and Antoinette have designed the unique accommodation which even includes the option of communal living

Ken & Jackie Dog & Cat Sitter service

Let us transport your loving friends to and from the UK & Europe in comfort with loving care in our air-conditioned van

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Tel 950 092 096 or 661 402 493 - Email jt.transport@yahoo.co.uk

Comercial Carmona

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For all your pet needs

SUMINISTROS INDUSTRIALES, S.L.

English Speaking Telephone ben

Urgently seeking a good home 2 Spanish cats

reasons. They could be split up but if anyone wants them as a pair, they get on well together. Outside, weatherproof catbox and some food provided.

Contact 950064468 or 610324666.

From Albox on A334 do not turn off for Olula Mercadona, take the turning after the Tanatorio

tanatorio

OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8.30am-2pm and 3.30pm -8.30pm Sat 8.30am - 2pm

ferreteria - Olula Tel: 950 441 973

54

Outdoor cats but the Tom will sit by the fire if you let him! Both good natured and friendly and live independently most of the time. We need to find them a home as we are moving back to the UK for family

687 497 892 warehouse & pet shop - Olula Tel: olula del rio 950 613 130 / 950 613 186

km

mother (aged 6) and 1 adult kitten (a ginger tom aged 5). Rabies vaccinated and chipped, female spayed and the Tom has been neutered.

Huge selection of fish & Equipment Top quality pet foods always in store Full range of all pet accessories All breeds of birds from only 3€

Olula Fines del rio

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a33

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18

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT

seven golden rules for a healthy life!

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seven golden rules

Seven simple steps can slash the risk of dying from cancer or heart disease by up to 50%, according to a landmark study. Adhering to at least six of the ‘Life’s Simple 7’ list of lifestyle choices from the American Heart Association reduced the risk of an early death, say researchers.

The seven golden rules are being physically active, keeping a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, keeping blood pressure down, regulating blood sugar levels and not smoking. When smoking status was not considered, people who met five or six of the remaining six factors had a 25% lower cancer risk than those who met none.

The list was originally compiled by the American Heart Association to ward off heart disease; however, new research shows they can also help prevent cancer.

Lead author Laura Rasmussen-Torvik, said: ‘We were gratified to know adherence to the Life’s Simple 7 goals was also associated with reduced incidence of cancer: “This can help health professionals provide a clear, consistent message about the most important things people can do to protect their health and lower their overall risk for chronic diseases.”

Adhering to six or seven of the factors reduced the risk of cancer by 51%, compared with people who met none of the factors. Meeting four factors led to a 33% risk reduction and one or two, a 21% reduction.

n

Spring SPECIAL

(1) BEING PHYSICALLY ACTIVE Exercising helps lower cholesterol and blood sugar.

Researchers found important risk factors for Type 2 diabetes, such as blood glucose and cholesterol levels, improved far more in people told to sit less, compared with those doing required amounts of exercise.

(2) QUITTING SMOKING Quitting smoking is very important; it’s never too late to change, and if you make changes like quitting smoking and improving your diet, you can reduce your risk for both cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Researchers found that people who quit smoking between the ages of 35 and 44 gained about nine years and those who quit between ages 45-54 and 55-64 gained six and four years of life, respectively.

(3) CONTROLLING BLOOD SUGAR High blood sugar increases the risk of diabetes -and, in turn, complications of the disease such as blindness, kidney disease and nerve damage. The risk of heart disease is five times higher in middle aged men with diabetes and eight times higher in women with diabetes.

(4) KEEPING A HEALTHY WEIGHT Having a BMI above the ‘ideal’ range of 22.5 to 25 increases the risk of an early death., according to a recent study. Above BMI of 25, each additional five units on the BMI scale increased overall mortality by around a third.

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Highlights

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GIFT VOUCHERS ALWAYS AVAILABLE

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1

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

(5) MAINTAINING HEALTHY BLOOD PRESSURE LEVELS High blood pressure – or hypertension – means that your blood pressure is constantly higher than the recommended level.

Over time, if it is not treated, the heart may become enlarged, making it pump less effectively, which could lead to heart failure.

A recent study in The Lancet found that smoking was the top reason for an early death in the UK, accounting for 12 per cent, followed by high blood pressure, obesity, lack of exercise, alcohol and poor diet.

The alarming report shows that despite huge advances in cancer screening, immunisations and a smoking ban, life expectancy is not increasing as rapidly in Briton compared to other nations.

(6) EATING A HEALTHY DIET Eating a Mediterranean-style diet can cut heart attacks, strokes and death rates in people at high risk of heart disease by as much as a third, research shows. Changing the balance of foods in a diet can lessen the risk even before heart-related illness strikes. A Mediterranean-style diet is a rich source of chemicals called anti-oxidants that fight cancer, heart disease and can slow the ageing process. Scientists who studied the eating habits of 1,200 over-70s found that those following a Mediterranean-style diet tended to live for two or three years longer.

The Mediterranean diet is widely recommended as a healthy eating plan by doctors and nutritionists as it is high in fruits, vegetables, fish and wholegrain cereals and low in meat and dairy, which contain large amounts of saturated fats. Traditionally olive oil rather than butter is used in cooking, as well as for dressing salads and moistening bread. This is high in monounsaturated fat, which is thought to protect against heart disease.

(7) MAINTAINING HEALTHY CHOLESTEROL LEVELS Too much cholesterol in the blood causes the arteries to harden and narrow. This slows down and may eventually block blood flow to the heart, causing a heart attack.

Rules include being a healthy weight, physically active and eating healthily Also important to keep blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar down Adhering to at least six ‘rules’ reduced the risk of cancer by 51 per cent Researchers say it’s never too late to adopt a healthy lifestyle...

1 hour, 21 minutes and 53 seconds.

He was aiming to break the record he set last year when he hopped up 91 floors and 2,040 stairs at the tallest hotel in the world, the Rose Rayhaan by Rotana in Dubai.

During his ascent in Shanghai, neither Herba’s hands nor feet

touched the ground and there was no seat on the bicycle for him to rest on. The 31-year-old athlete has taken on a host of tall buildings, including some of the highest skyscrapers in Poland, Austria and Germany, in his niche sport.

Girasol Gymnastics Club How many times have you heard “I’m bored” How many times do you see them glued in front of the TV or on a games console?

How many times have you said “I really need to

get them involved in some sport?”

Then waste no more time and bring them along to a fun packed Gymnastics club, where they can learn a disciplined sport, work towards their Badges (were known as BAGA badges) burn off some energy and gives you an hour restpite for only 4.00€ (discount for siblings) For some more information call Stacey

678 207 205

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

Tel. 629 289 385

for info and appointments

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Man cycles up 2,754 stairs

A Polish man has set a new world record - by jumping his bicycle up the stairs to the 100th floor of Shanghai’s tallest building.

Krystian Herba overcame 2,754 stairs to reach the 474-meter high observatory of the 492-meter-high Shanghai World Financial Center in

19

ABIGAILE TEL: 632 779 082

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY - 9:30AM-3PM

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sandra TEL: 661 858 949

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held Monthly on a Monday call for next date: 647 407 288

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HOLISTIC TOTAL BODY CARE 30€

DR HELENA BENSON

This deeply relaxing treatment focuses on rebalancing and harmonising the mind and body. The treatment begins with skin brushing, body exfoliation and a facial cleanse, followed by an indulgent body massage to release tension and restore energy and equilibrium.

This full body treatment then focuses on easing pressure around the neck and shoulders with a calming acupressure head massage.

DIRECT FROM UK: frown lines & fillers - next clinic in June - call to book your appointment 647 379 878

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!

A FULL TREATMENT LIST & PRICES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE Rretreat OR BY EMAILING: retreatcucador@gmail.com We are a self-contained private suite of rooms on the right hand side of La Vida Bar, El Cucador, with its own entrance, plus disabled access and good parking

kim clark benefits consultancy

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• 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

Hair & Beauty Studio Join us on @ Room 97 Hair & Beauty Studio

for current offers & giveaways

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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

20

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

21

REVIEW it...

The Snow Child - Eowyn Ivey

“A beauty that ripped you open and scoured you clean,” as you floundered through the Alaskan wilderness A compelling and beautifully written debut novel that is highly recommended, combining folklore, the supernatural and mystery.

It seems that life is full of oxymorons. You don’t have to be a literary genius to work that one out. Joy and sorrow. Life and death. Black and white. An endless list of contrasts.

“Life doesn’t go the way we plan or hope,” Ivey tells us. A truism?

The story is set in the 1920s. Life has been cruel to Mable and Jack the two main characters. Through the course of the novel Mabel realises that joy and sorrow go hand in hand. It seems you can’t have one without the other.

I found her an interesting character although sometimes too pessimistic, harbouring thoughts of suicide as the novel opens-toying with the idea of ending it all. She is uncomfortable with the harsh Alaskan environment, unhappy and carrying the heavy burden of guilt, sadly for her stillborn son many years back. Middle-aged and childless she sees herself as a failure as a woman.

Mysteriously, she admits to being driven to Alaska by fear of all things. Reserved, insecure and lacking in confidence she wants to bury herself in a remote and isolated place with Jack, presumably hoping to eventually find peace, happiness and harmony as well as self-sufficiency through farming. Her life was a paradox, a mixture of darkness and light and sadness. We are constantly aware of her discomfort and her recurrent nightmares of babies and snow in a harsh and dangerous environment that doesn’t suffer fools gladly.

“Alaska gave up nothing easily. It was lean and wild and indifferent to a man’s struggle.”

Jack is sensitive and perceptive to Mabel in some ways but he cannot always provide her with the emotional support she needs. He is very good at repressing his feelings by walking away from her when he cannot comfort or reassure her. They build their future around farming and for Jack, working single-handedly it proves hard, almost an impossible task when the land is a barren wasteland.

A tragic accident, a broken back foretells imminent ruin. Sporadic sobbing for a pathetically self-confessed “useless burden” and out of desperation he begs Mable to leave him and return to her family where she can be cared for properly.

The Bensons, wonderful neighbours, step in and offer a crucial lifeline. Esther Benson nurses Jack giving him laudanum and moonshine whilst her son Garrett and Mabel work together in the fields planting seeds. Mabel develops as a character; she shows perseverance and sheer determination to be useful. She is filled with a kind of pride she has never experienced before.

There are some lighter moments between Jack and Mable then later on with Faina, the snow-child where they become hypnotised by the snow falling and playfully throw snowballs at each other as if they are trying to recreate their lost youth. Then they create snow angels and enjoy skating as a family. Mabel is the one who suggests building a snow-girl and they decorate their creation with a scarf and mittens.

Like the Russian fairytale Snegurochka and Arthur Ransom’s The Little Daughter of the Snow Ivey’s snow-child comes to life and becomes the daughter that Mabel and Jack yearn for. She brings joy to their lives and inevitably, sorrow. Faina is an embodiment of contrasts-she is fierce yet fragile, violent yet beautiful. Tough yet delicate. In essence, a mysterious being. Even as a child, she knew the land by heart and she saves Garrett Benson’s life when he becomes lost, steering him towards Mable and Jack’s homestead.

She symbolises innocence and yet displays an uncanny wisdom and knowledge far beyond her youthful years.

She seemed both newly born and as old as the mountains.

She is wild like the animals and survives on hunting and feeding from the animals and birds that she snares. She visits Mable and Jack each winter and then mysteriously disappears in the spring.

There are moments of joy as the parent-child relationship grows, tinged with longerlasting moments of sadness. Like the fairy-tale, Mable constantly worries that Faina will melt and leave them for ever. Losing one child is a tragedy but two?

If an old couple created a snow-girl what would she be to them? A daughter? Or a ghost? Or perhaps an illusion created by cabin fever? Intriguing? I’ll leave you to work that one out for yourselves!

Publishers: Headline Review.

ISBN: 978-0-7553-8053-4 Carol Naylor - writing exclusively for the Sol Times Naylorcl@hotmail.es & www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com

HOLY WEEK

Holy Week, Semana Santa is an event that literally transforms towns and cities across the country. Processions of elaborately decorated floats with Jesus and Mary statues, groups of pointyhood wearing Nazarenos (penitents), and shrill brass bands, walk slowly through the streets, from their parish church to the cathedral and back. It is an amazing experience, and a great time to come to Spain if you want to imbibe some deeply-held traditions that have less to do with religion than with social groupings and rituals. Many people avoid this time of year to visit, but if you come prepared, both for the crowds and the inflated prices, then it is well worth the effort. You will never see anything like it again.

If you want major pageantry and rich, bejewelled Virgins, Malaga or Seville are the cities to head for. Seville has 60 brotherhoods, some with as many as 2000 members. The biggest stars of the show are the Virgins of Macarena and Triana, both of which make their grand appearance at ‘La Madrugada’ , the small hours of Good Friday.

From Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday traffic is closed off in city centres and the solemn processions take over in the afternoons (so be sure to do your shopping in the morning). The aroma of burning candles, the passionate strains of a late night saeta and the mournful trumpets that accompany images of Christ and the Virgin Mary create an other-wordly ambience that can transport even the most casual observer to another time and place.

But you don’t have to be in a big city to get the Semana Santa vibe - villages and towns of every size have their own celebrations, and each province offers its own variation on the Holy Week theme, with many festivities declared to be of National Interest for Tourists.

For more information on where and when the processions are go to:

www.guiasemanasanta.com

22

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

braben’s blog...

Why is it we accept some things we can’t possibly know to be true, yet other, more obvious truths, we don’t believe until we have checked ourselves?

Stars for example. Astronomers say there are 4 billion of them. Do we question it? No, of course not, but, when we see a wet paint sign we don’t think for a second, we have to test it and invariably get paint on our hands or clothes. Why? Why do we accept there are 4 billion stars yet disbelieve wet paint? Well sometimes there’s no rhyme or reason for what goes on inside our brains? Thank goodness we can’t get inside them and poke about a bit.

Funnily enough an exhibition earlier this year was doing just that! On show were bits of Albert Einstein’s brain. Now don’t be asking why because I don’t know. Apparently they borrowed the bits of brain from the Mutter museum in America. Doesn’t it make you think that the “M” should be replaced by an “N” or am I on my own in that one? Also displayed were the brains of murderers, a suffragette from America and the oldest known sample of a brain, that of an ancient Egyptian. Aren’t you sad that you missed that one?

I’m sure you’re not, but it got me wondering, who would go? Can you imagine waking the children bright and early on a sunny Saturday morning with the promise of an exciting day out? Once in the car the interrogation begins. “Is it an amusement park?” “Is it a fair?” “No kids, we’re to look at…dead people’s brains”. What was it The Tremeloes said? “Silence is Golden!”

Maybe soon we’ll be going to an alternate exhibition; brains of people who design road signs. In the UK they’re removing many of the signs which are, not to put too fine a point on it, absolute garbage! Really, do Graham is married you need to have a road sign telling people that cars to Helen and has carrying explosives are not allowed on that road? If you a daughter, Alice.

He lives part of the do, then don’t drive past my house! However, in Mexico year near Albox, smugglers did try to sneak a car load of drugs across the but works in Qatar, If you wish American border fence by using a makeshift ramp made teaching. to contact Graham out of ladders. The car got stuck on the top, but when regarding this article email: authorities got there the smugglers had fled. Is there a helenandg@yahoo. road sign for “Beware of Idiots”? There should be! co.uk

a huge ‘thank you’ to the blood donors in spain!

Blood donors in Spain save up to 80 lives a day and help a further 375 back to health – but of all those who are able to give blood, just five per cent do so.

And with Easter coming up, blood donations tend to plummet whilst with more traffic accidents due to a greater number of cars on the road, the need is even higher.

The Spanish Federation of Blood Donors is urging all those who can to give blood, since all types of patients need regular transfusions.

Cancer and leukaemia sufferers, women who undergo extremely traumatic childbirth, transplant patients, people with kidney failure, patients with anaemia of a severe and life-threatening level, traffic accident victims, people undergoing all types of surgery, and heart patients, among many others need transfusions, the Federation stresses.

And many people do not give blood because of common urban myths putting them off, they say.

People with high blood pressure – even where they are on medication, who are taking oral

contraceptives, who currently have their period, have taken aspirin or anti-inflammatories, have minor allergies, or who are allergic to antibiotics can still give blood.

Donations are made while the donor is lying down and fluids and sweet snacks are given afterwards.

Each donation is around a pint (660ml) and qualified nurses are always on duty to ensure donors’ wellbeing.

Women can give blood up to three times a year and men up to four times a year, provided they have not done so in the last two months.

Donors must be in good health with no hereditary or blood disorders, must be aged 18 or over and must weight at least 50 kilos (7st 12lb) irrespective of their height.

Unlike going for a blood test, donors should not give blood on an empty stomach – they should always have eaten something first.

Every minute in Spain, five transfusions are given – a total of over 6,000 every day, says the Federation.

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

IMPORTANT - A NEW OBLIGATION FOR RESIDENTS:

IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED IF YOU ARE A TAX RESIDENT: YOU NEED TO FILE FORM 720 DECLARING YOUR ASSETS WORLDWIDE RISKING HEAVY PENALTIES IF YOU DO NOT DO SO

Q.

I have heard that I need to present a declaration to the tax office declaring my assets in

other countries. Surely this cannot be true?

A. It is correct. Orden HAP/72/2013 of 30th of January has brought to life form 720, which needs to be filled

in by all residents of Spain who have assets abroad worth more than 50,000 euros. This form must be presented before the end of April with severe penalties for not doing so.

All resident of Spain shall provide the Spanish tax administration with the following information: 1. Information of bank accounts you may have abroad, already in your name, or have authorization or rights to at any time of the year which corresponds to the declaration. The information shall include:

• The full name and address of the bank.

• Full identification of the accounts.

• The opening or cancellation date, or if applicable, grant and revocation as authorized.

• The average balances of the last trimester and the corresponding average balances for the last trimester of the year 2. Information on securities, assets, values or rights representing the equities of all types of entities, or transfer own equities to a third party, of which they own and are abroad, as well as life insurance and life annuity policy holders or beneficiaries of temporary policies. In this case, the information must include, in addition to the identification of the entity, the balance on December 31st, the number and class of such assets.

3. Information on real estate located abroad. This last section will contain the following statement:

• Type of property.

• Property location: country, city, street and number.

• Date of purchase & Value of purchase.

The presentation in subsequent years will only be required when the value of the assets and rights have experienced an increase of over 20,000 euro on the determined value of the last statement made.

The information shall be declared in the new model 720 from February 1st to April 30th 2013 for the data of the fiscal year 2012. Starting from the next fiscal year the declaration should be presented between the dates January 1st & March 31st.

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

PRICE BROWN

Est 25yrs

PARTNERSHIP ESTATE AGENTS/INMOBILARIA - MOJACAR

SALES, RENTALS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VENTAS, ALQUILERES Y MANTENAMIENTO

149,500 € Mojácar Playa A1048 159,950 € Huerta Nueva DV1260 250,000 € Charming ground floor apartment of 134m2 + garden of 20m2 less than a 50mtrs on a sought after front line complex. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms.

Superb community gardens & pool.

Charming detached bungalow of 86m2 on 578m2 in immaculate order. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Private parking, carport & garden with space for pool. Gas central heating. Pretty views.

110,000 € Mojacar Playa A1153 125,500 € Quality ground floor apartment of 69m2 + terrace of 34m2 less than a 400mtrs from the beach. 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom.

Superb community gardens, tennis & pool.

49,995 €

Turre

Cabrera

DV1264 130,000 € Mojácar Playa A1077

Traditional style, very spacious, detached villa of 235m2 on 5,000m2 near to Cortijo Grande golf. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large terraced pool area. Only 5 mins drive from local beaches.

DV1250 395,000 €

Attractive detached bungalow of 87m2 on 130 m2 in a small community. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Stunning communal pool, terraces & outstanding views. Easy parking & furnished.

Turre

La Parata

Beautiful 1st floor apartment of 65m2 +18 m2 private terrace with sea views. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Furnished. Lovely community pool & gardens. Just a few minutes walk to the beach.

DV1253 125,000 € Mojácar Playa A1142

An extremely private detached villa of 249 m2 on 20,462 m2 with superb views to the sea. In superb order throughout.

3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Garage, terraces, gardens & plenty of room for a pool.

Superb apartment of 67m2 with fabulous sea views. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, huge terrace of 41m2. Furnished. Community pool. Good rental potential.

A1051 139,950€ Mojácar Playa LV602 160,000 € Mojácar Playa A1083 145,000 € Mojácar Playa A1116

Spacious ground floor apartment of 61 m2, well furnished & near the town centre.

1 bedroom, 1 bathroom. L-shaped living/ dining room. Central patio & communal roof terrace.

Very attractive townhouse of 81 m2 + 28 m2 of terrace in a well maintained gated complex. 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms.

Furnished. Near the beach. Lovely community pool & gardens.

Lovely ground floor apartment of 83m2 + 16 m2 terrace on a small, sought after, complex. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & furnished. Well maintained, & pretty, community pool & gardens.

Immaculate ground floor apartment 70 m2 + 24 m2 in a well kept gated complex just 2 mins from the beach. Community pool, tennis & gardens. 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, storeroom & parking.

www.pricebrown.com Tel: +34 950 478 915 Fax: +34 950 478 963 sales@pricebrown.com

rentals@pricebrown.com

Mondays 10.00 - 13.30 & 15.00 - 18.00 Tuesdays - Fridays 9.30 - 13.30 & 15.00 - 18.00 Members of the National Association of Estate Agents Overseas

All properties listed with Price Brown comply with the consumer protection act - decreto 218/2005 11 Octobre (Andalucia).

Members of the Agrupacion Tecnica Profesional

Prices are correct for 7 days from going to print for all properties on these pages

23

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SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Bar Cardies You will find us on the Sea Front Next to Popeyes Bar

Come along and try our Tasty Tapas and Traditional home Cooked Food

Easter Sunday Lunch served from 1pm – 6pm Choice of Lamb Beef Pork or Chicken Bottle of Wine per couple and Complimentary Flowers for the Ladies

3 courses - 10€ per Head Must byby Friday 29th April Book Mustbe bebooked booked Friday 29th march toto avoid Disappointment Bookearly early avoid Disappointment! q-e=(24x2)+2m4 Friday is ‘Fish Day’ 3+(q+e) h is cooked Our Fis in our Homemade Beer batter & is a taste to Savour

=

Wednesday is Quiz night Start at 9pm

All Sports & Soaps Shown

Telephone

633 695 258

25

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

head to huercal-overa I-CafeBar.com opposite the bus station and just down from Lidl in Huercal Overa is so much more than an internet cafe! It is a hub of daily life where you can go in for a paper, a cuppa and a cake with a friend, buy and send a card, Easypost worldwide postal service, Hits mobile agent, also top-up any mobile phone, check your email and have a Spanish class held on Wednesday, Friday & Saturday - call 950 135 039 for more information! They have the largest selection of Greetings cards and NEW books in the area and 3 new paperbacks are just €10 or €4 each. They also sell Original and Compatible printer inks, with compatible Epson inks from just €3 each. Bookings for taken day trips and mini breaks and pick up point and much, much more For more information pop in or call 950 135 039. If you are looking to buy, sell or rent a property in the general HuércalOvera area, Taberno, Alfoquia and San Juan de Los Terreros areas then contact VOSS HOMES who have clients waiting of all nationalities and an office in Huércal-Overa just 1km off exit 553 of the A7 motorway, 100m passed Lidl.

Voss Homes is a family company made of husband and wife team Andy & Anna Voss and their daughter Jessica.

http://javierlorenteortega.blogspot.com.es

Translation Services fluent in english & spanish based in Huercal Overa

Tel: 677 102 006 jose.carlos.ducati@gmail.com

Andy has been selling properties here for 8 years and because of their joint indepth knowlegde of the area they can offer a more comprehensive, professional and friendly service to both home owners and buyers. Voss Homes provides extensive newspaper and internet advertising AND also work with a number of other reputable estate agents thereby attracting more clients for your property especially British, Spanish, Belgian and Dutch etc etc etc . They are also now looking for long term rental properties in the area. Call 0034 950 616 827 or 678 002 006 or visit www. vosshomesspain.com Cam Concepts SL is a family business with more than 18 years assisting expats in Alicante and Almería with all aspects of living in Spain. They pride themselves on their reputation and for having many satisfied customers. They can, as native British speakers who speak fluent Spanish, offer you assurance that your questions and concerns will not be misinterpreted, and a that you can be assured that you will be offered the best advice, without having to ask! Cam Concepts is located on the opposite side of the road to the Post Office in Huercal-Overa, take the side road opposite the metal statue with the bakery on the corner. Mandy & Chris look forward to seeing you at their office, where they will be happy to help you, no matter how small your enquiry may be or call 950 471 357.

TRANSLATION SERVICES IN HUERCAL-OVERA: Your friendly and professional translator in the Huercal-Overa area, we have been helping British ex-pats for many years on delicate health matters either at your local doctors or support on hospital visits, we can also assist should you be required to appear in court or any of the law enforcement agencies. For more in formation on this or other services provided, please contact us direct - 677 102 006 or email jose.carlos.ducati@gmail.com. You can count on our discretion 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

cafebar.com i-cafebar.com

Agent

Now New and Improved Huercal Overa Formerly Choice Entertainment

Office Now Open In Huercal-Overa, 155a Carretera Estacion, 100m From Lidl • VH352

- €160,000 bargain

• VH239

- €139,500 reduced

• 2/3 bed, 3 bath villa • San Juan de Los Terreros • 326m2 garden & swimming pool • Walk to beach & amenities

• 3 bed, 2 bath quality villa • 600m2 walled garden • 8m x 4m swimming pool • Walk to shop, restaurants etc

• VH408

- €89,500 reduced

• 3/4 bed, 2 bath village house • Quality renovation • Splash pool • 5 mins drive to Zurgena

Voss Homes offers a friendly, professional service, extensive internet and newspaper coverage, low commissions, no upfront charges, full paperwork checks and realistic valuations to ensure maximum interest in your property.

Please call 950 616 827 or 678 002 006 or email: info@vosshomesspain.com

www.vosshomesspain.com

Internet Cafe Bar

icee rvic Iceeccrreeaam serv alse Ic stal More post osttpo ypos mss EEas asyp G Than Grreeeetitinnggsscca r a d rdssfrfroom as m9999cc Teas feee&&Te CCof Just offe S n S a nacckk, ,ppie ng Internet iess&&ccaakke anddfafaxixing pyininggan copy toco PPho hoto ess T Toopp-U -Uppssoonn all s s er er ap ap sp sp ew N ew a ll NNeetw lishh N twoorrkkss EEng nglis LaKrgo U e rrdaenrgin es in es in az az ag e M ag o d M d f an gS neewrvEic an ngelish Book sees asic Clrv SSppaannis nse s tio sa er is nv al h Co st h h C is po t an C o Sp nv om eurte Easypos , Friday & Saturday p s a ti r o C n la C ssla essses Wednesday Open Mon to Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-2pm

Tel: 950 135 039 Ctra Estacion 143, Huercal Overa 04600.

www.i-cafebar.com (Opposite the bus station, near Lidl)

Our Legal services include

offering a wide range of legal Please note our new email is now services in info@camconceptssl.com English to the expat community CAM. Concepts, S.L. C/. Montilla 1A, 04600 Huercal Overa (Almeria) since 1994 Conveyancing - Purchase Or Sale Spanish Wills & Inheritance NIE’s & Residents Certificates Forming Of Companies Setting Up Businesses Registering With Social Security Office Translation Work Car Registration & Importation

TEL/FAX: 950 471 357

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

27

amazing

Cortijo with garage in Mojácar for only €249,950!

Great opportunity to purchase a 3 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms detached Cortijo set on the sought after area of Huerta de Abajo in Mojacar.

The property has a total built area of 241.12mts² which is set on 3 levels.

The ground level is comprised

of an entrance porch, a very large open plan dining room and kitchen, a double bedroom with en suite shower room, a study & a massive lounge with a wood burner. Also there is a detached garage.

The 1st floor is comprised of two double bedrooms & a

family bathroom. The 2nd floor is comprised of a tower & a large terrace with 360º views.

The property sits on a freehold plot of 7,000 mts².

It’s country living yet less than 5 minutes drive to the beach and all amenities of Mojacar Playa. Mojácar Pueblo is just

up the road too.

This is a must see property & the low asking price makes it very attractive.

For more information or to book a viewing appointment please visit our office or contact us via phone or e-mail.

Ref: 1196

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

property group

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

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

property guide....

De Guindos Vows to Fulfill EU Ruling on Anti-eviction Law

The Spanish Minister of Economy and Competitiveness, Luis de Guindos, said last Friday that the Government will introduce changes in the Spanish legislation which regulates evictions, in order to comply fully with the recent judgement of the European Union Court of Justice.

On his arrival at the eurozone heads of Economy and Finance meeting, De Guindos said: “The Government will define, both from the point of view of abusive clauses, as well as the procedure, regulatory changes to ensure full and complete compliance of the Court of Luxembourg’s judgement”.

The European Union Court of Justice ruled last Thursday that measures in Spain which regulate the processes of eviction for non-payment of a mortgage are contrary to European legislation, since it does not protect consumers from abusive clauses.

Specifically, El Mundo reported that the ruling highlights the fact that judges do not have the capacity to stop a process of mortgage foreclosure if they believe that any of the clauses contained in the contract between the client and the bank in question is abusive.

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

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

cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com

Vera Playa Apartment

De Guindos said that the Government introduced the necessary changes in the Decree Law put forward on 30th January, and it is currently pending in Parliament, while amendments that limit the interest on arrears have already been introduced.

The Government includes in the text, changes in the definition of default, so that the bank can not start the eviction process

O Olive

Mojacar

after the impact of a single month, but that this margin should be increased to three months.

Currently there are two texts on evictions in Parliament: the draft law to strengthen protection for mortgage holders, from the Royal Decree approved by the Spanish Government last November, and the popular legislative initiative (ILP) on payment in kind, suspension of evictions and social rent.

ARTICLE: WWW.KYERO.COM - FO THE LATEST PROPERTY NEWS

Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466

Returning to UK?

Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm

MODERN PARKHOME (NW Leicestershire)

C/Llanos, Bedar (Next to the Miramar Restaurant)

www.olivehouse-es.com

69,950€

This fabulous 2 bed apartment has a spacious living room and lovely terrace. It has a large communal area with Bar B Q and use of communal pool.

£69,000 ono

Private sale of this lovely home on a secure, well established, residential park and at an extremely attractive price. > 2 Fitted Bedrooms > Large lounge/diner > Inclusive fitted kitchen > Luxury shower room/WC

OLV681

Email: ronlen@btinternet.com

UK: 01455 293603

Apartment For Sale on golf course

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

now only

€39,950

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

large country properties needed

in the Los Velez area

genuine clients waiting to view

info@icasaspain.com

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

Sol Insure A New Ray Of Light For Insurance

Looking Around for Insurance or Renewal Due?

Sol Insure

Let find the best policy for you!

Providing the best cover at competitive rates

info@bwispain.com

950 472 098

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

property of the week ref.583 MOJACAR

99.000€

First line apartment with 3 beds, 1 bath,terrace with fabulous sea views, newly equipped kitchen, living/dining room, beautiful swimming pool, semi furnished, A/C hot and cold, easy access.

B AR G A I N 99,000€ REF.573

Tabernas

110.000€

REF.366

mojacar

119.950€

REF.575 Cabo de Gata 149.000€

Superb opportunity - A wonderful cortijo in very good condition,full of character & charm with separate self-contained annexe and set on a beautiful plot of 6,600m2. 4 beds,3 baths,2 kitchens.Internet,phone,Air-con & heating

1ST floor apartment, 3 double beds with built in wardrobes, 1complete bathroom, lounge-Diner,kitchen, 30m terrace with sea views, 3 swimming pools, tennis court, private parking space, lifts, furnished

A charming cortijo in very good condition with seperate self-contained apartment (good rental income),set in a very peaceful location, yet only 15 mins to the beaches at Carboneras & Agua Amarga.4 beds, 2 baths, 1000m2 plot, large garage. Phone& sat tv.

REF.581

REF.572

Penthouse apartment with 2 beds, 1 bath,fabulous sea views, fully equipped kitchen, living/dining room, 80m private solarium, beautiful pool, furnished, secure parking, 200m to the beach.

WE CURRENTLY HAVE 3 SETS OF BUYERS,SPECIFICALLY LOOKING FOR DETACHED HOUSES IN THE BEDAR/LOS GALLARDOS. IF YOU HAVE A PROPERTY TO SELL FOR UP TO 350,000€, WHICH HAS ALL LEGAL PAPERWORK,PLEASE CONTACT US WITHOUT DELAY

REF.179

129.950€

REF.544 Agua Amarga 195.000€

REF.584

Beautiful apartment with 2 beds,2 baths,40m terrace with fabulous sea views, equipped kitchen, living/dining room, 2 beautiful pools, fully furnished, private locked garage, easy access.

Great price - superb duplex in very good condition with large roof terrace,only 50 metres to the beach.3 beds,2 baths,Air-con(hot and cold), sold fully furnished,excellent summer rental income, fantastic tranquil location in this wonderful village.

Brand new Penthouse apartment with 3 beds, 1 bath,fabulous mountain views, kitchen, living/dining room, 80m private solarium, in the central of Turre, walking distance to all amenities.

REF.576

REF.560

REF.574

bargain

GARRUCHA

MOJACAR

111.000€

Cariatiz

249.000€

A fantastic,beautifully designed cortijo in impeccable condition,full of character,set in a tranquil location withlovely country views,yet only 20 mins to the coast.4 beds,3 baths,pool,garage and separate storehouse,phone & internet.

turre

58.000€

reduced

Carboneras

110.000€

MOJACAR

98.000€

Las Negras

145.000€

bargain

Reduced to sell - a beautiful duplex in excellent condition(only 4 years old) with 2 bedrooms,2 bathrooms and 2 large roof terraces, giving fantastic sea views.Tranquil location - sold furnished - great rental potential.

Golf apartment with 3 beds,2 baths,sea views, large equipped kitchen& laundry room, living/dining room, 2 beautiful pools, fully furnished, easy access.

A beautiful ground floor,front-line apartment in immaculate condition,only 50 metres to the beach.2 beds,full bathroom, secure underground parking and storage room,security shutters and double-glazing,spacious accommodation.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

The new place to eat on the Playa, Neo Beach Club Restaurant offers a relaxing atmosphere with stunning views over the Mediterranean.

Situated by the Red Cross roundabout, the restaurant is run by Maria who has over 20 years of restaurant experience, including 7 years on the Playa.

Open every day, except Tuesday, from 9am to midnight, with a smart contemporary look, the bar offers a wide range of drinks, coffees and cocktails as well as mouth-watering homemade dishes, made with fresh produce, available throughout the day.

There’s a breakfast menu for the early risers, a Menu del Dia for only 12€ (3 courses) and a la carte menu day option too.

A separate a la carte menu for the evening is perfect for dining out, and offers delicious starters and a range of main course choices of pasta, meat and fish dishes, all homemade with fresh products.

Tapas and ‘portiones’ dishes are always available for a snack or to accompany your drink at the bar.

An open-air balcony overlooking the Mediterranean provides the perfect setting for eating and drinking, you can also relax on the reclining sun-loungers on the beach.

Enjoy the best that Mojacar has to offer.

To book a reservation please call 950 473 006

food news...

McDonald’s unveils chicken wrap

McDonald’s has unveiled a permanent new offering to its menu: chicken McWraps.

The world’s biggest hamburger chain says the new sandwich wrap will come in three varieties of Chicken & Bacon, Sweet Chili Chicken and Chicken & Ranch while aiming to appeal to healthier, ingredientconscious diners.

The Oak Brook, Ill.-based chain says the McWraps, already similarly found in other parts of the world, use the same type of flour tortillas and chicken as its snack wraps, which were introduced in 2006.

But two of the new McWraps will come with cucumbers, which the company says will mark the first time the vegetable will be part of its core menu.

The wraps range from 360 to 600 calories, depending on whether people pick grilled or deep-fried chicken.

McDonald’s Corp. has been stepping up the pace of its new menu offerings as it struggles to grow sales in the challenging economy.

Last year, the company ousted the head

of its U.S. division after a monthly sales figure fell for the first time in nearly a decade.

By refreshing its menu, McDonald’s is hoping to hold onto customers as it faces a shifting industry and intensifying competition from the likes of Burger King and Wendy’s.

Next week, for instance, The Wendy’s Co. plans to roll out its ‘Flatbread Grilled Chicken Sandwiches’ in two varieties; an Asiago Ranch flavor will have 530 calories and the Honey Mustard flavor will have 370 calories.

The latest offerings also reflect the changing tastes of diners, who are increasingly looking for more premium ingredients with a healthier image - even at fast-food chains.

McDonald’s, for example, is officially calling the new wraps ‘Premium McWraps.’ It also plans to offer a version of its Egg McMuffin made with egg whites starting April 22.

And this week, Burger King Worldwide Inc. rolled out its first turkey burger following the success of turkey burgers at Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

send your recipes to editor@soltimes.com

Hot Cross Buns

31

Grea tF T rie d nds o YELLOW Go s e m i

Sieve the flour, salt, ground mixed spice and 450g strong white bread flour cinnamon into a large mixing bowl, then rub in ½ teaspoon salt the butter using your fingertips. Make a well in 1½ teaspoons mixed spice the centre of the mixture, then add the sugar ½ teaspoon cinnamon and yeast. Beat the egg and add to the flour with the tepid milk. Mix together to a form a 50g butter soft, pliable dough. Turn out the dough onto 50g caster sugar a lightly floured work surface. Carefully work 1½ teaspoon easy-blend dried yeast the mixed dried fruit and mixed peel into the 210ml tepid milk dough until well combined. Knead lightly for 1 free-range egg 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

100g mixed dried fruit Shape the dough into a ball and place it into 25g cut mixed citrus peel a buttered/greased mixing bowl, then cover with a clean tea towel and set aside in a warm 50g plain flour (for the crosses) place for one hour to prove.

1 free-range egg (for the crosses) Turn out the proved dough onto a lightly 30ml milk (for the glaze) floured work surface and knock back the 25g caster sugar (for the glaze) dough. Shape it into a ball again and return it to the bowl, then cover again with the tea towel and set aside for a further 30 minutes to rise.

Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into a bun shape using the palms of your hands. Cover the buns again with the tea towel and set aside to rest for 5-10 minutes. Meanwhile, make the mixture for the crosses; mix the flour and egg to a stiff paste, but thin enough to pipe. Make the glaze too - heat the milk and sugar together until the sugar has dissolved and set aside.

Place the hot cross buns onto buttered/greased baking trays, then place the tray/s inside a large oiled polythene bag. Tie the end of the bag tightly so that no air can get in and set aside in a warm place for a further 40 minutes to rise.

Preheat the oven to 240°C/475F/Gas 8. When the buns have risen, remove them from inside the polythene bag, and then spoon the flour and egg mixture into a piping bag and pipe a cross on each bun.

Bake the buns in the pre-heated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until pale golden-brown, and when turned over and tapped on the underneath they sound hollow. As soon as you remove the buns from the oven, brush them with the sugar and milk syrup, then set aside to cool on a wire rack.Serve warm, split and spread with butter, or serve toasted, split and spread with butter.

The cooked buns can be frozen for up to 3 months; allow 6 hours for them to defrost and serve as above.

STONE BAR Easter sunday fully booked

Los Mellizos Restaurant

el ~poli, partaloa GREAT FOOD, GREAT ATMOSPHERE ~

La Alfoquia, Zurgena

We have a new chef and a new Menu !

Breakfast

served 9 ~ 12

Lunches

Take-away available

Daily Specials

Mobile top ups @ bar

12pm~ 2.30pm

2€ or 5€

Parties & Special Events

catered for Ask at bar

4€

see bar

~ opening hours ~

Mon ~ Sat 9~9ish ~ Sun 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

PAELLA MEAL DEAL

Open Mon - Fri 8am - late. Sat & Sun 9am - late

SUNDAY AFTERNOON SPECIAL BOOKINGs

MINIMUM TWO PEOPLE ORDER 1 DAY IN ADVANCE

1 LITRE JUG OF BEER OR BOTTLE OF WINE

14.95€ FOR 2 PEOPLE

FRIDAY FISH’N’CHIPS

Winter Opening Hours

FISH’N’CHIPS - 5.50€

Tlf: 667 919 025

Yellow Stone 1km Piedra Amarilla →

Bread & Ali-oli, Salad Half a Roast Chicken, served with Chips

EXTRA’S: MUSHY OR GARDEN PEAS - 50c

plus mixed grill & steak menu

Fines →

Bread & Ali-oli, Salad PAELLA (Fish Or Meat) 20€ FOR 2 PEOPLE

advisable

martin 9pm

← Albox

only

s AVAILABLE FROM 3PM BOOKING

Live Entertainment this Friday

ITV CENTRE

332 178

EASTER SUNDAY MENU

Please book early to avoid disappointment

free Wi-Fi

ALSO AVAILABLE...

SCAMPI - 6.45€ BATTERED SAUSAGE - 3.95€ CHICKEN KORMA - 5.50€ CHICKEN ROGAN JOSH - 5.50€ BEEF MADRAS - 5.50€ ALL SERVED WITH RICE OR CHIPS

Monday - Closed Tuesday - 10am til’ late 2.00 pm - Art Class Wednesday - 10am till 6pm 6.00 pm - Soft Ball Cricket Thursday - 10am til’ late 8.00 pm - Quiz Night Friday - 10am til’ late Saturday - 10am til’ late Sunday 10am til’ 6pm TAPAS & OD OTHER FO AVAILABLE

WI-FI & PRINTING AVAILABLE

CALL 637 061 489 (ENG) OR 678 834 747 (ESP)

32

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

view us online www.soltimes.com ALBOX

Bar Menu & Snacks Home-made puds

MENU DEL DIA

Burgers, Lasagne, pies, Omelettes, chilli plus

onl y €

2 Courses

5

served 12 - 3 except Fri & Sun

All Day Breakfast from 9am

Jaffa Cakes: most popular HOUSE OF COMMONS snack

Includes FREE Tea or Coffee

friday & SATURDAY

Cod ‘n’ ChipS

Beerfrom battered 5.95€ Atlantic Cod, Homemade Chips, Mushy or Garden PeaS SERVED 12-9pm

Friday & Saturday

Our Restaurant is Open 6pm-9pm

EVENING from MENU 5.95€

Traditional SUNDAY LUNCH

ly Delicious & Home-cooked n o served A Choice of Topside Of Beef & 12.30 - 5pm Yorkshire Pudding; Roast Pork With Crackling And Apple Sauce Tender or Roast Chicken With Stuffing - all served with Locallygrown Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables & a Glass Of House Wine, Tubo of Beer or a Coffee

6.95€ to include a

The most popular snack eaten by MPs in the House of Commons is the Jaffa Cake.

MPs and staff have spent £12,991 out of their own pockets on the chocolate and orange treats in the past five years at outlets and shops in the House.

The total spend on 56 types of biscuits over the same period came to £112,698 However, the House of Commons said it could not produce figures to show how much is spent on biscuits handed out for free to staff and MPs during meetings.

McVitie’s, which produces more than 1.1billion Jaffa Cakes a year at its factory in Stockport, won a VAT tribunal in 1991 for the treats to be listed as cakes rather than biscuits so VAT is not paid on them.

STOP ‘N’ SHOP IN YOUR...

FREE Drink

Super Corner

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

Starters, Puddings - 2€ each

SUNDAY SERVED 10AM-12PM

BREAKFAST

Wednesday

Tuesday

Thursday

Rock ‘n’ Roll - 7:30pm Line Dancing 7:30pm

Quirky Quiz - 7:30pm

Ceroc Dancing & Fun Social Night 7:30pm

all welcome ...Art Classes (held most days) ... plus Computer Club...Keep fit & slimming classes check the board for times ALBOX

@

BP Garage

•••

← ARBOLEAS BAZA → Av•••AL . L BO ep an X → to jacksalbox@gmail.com

OPEN 9AM-LATE MON-SAT 10-6 SUN

950 120 718 / 610 641 567

TURRE, NEXT TO MESON DEL POBRE OPEN MON-SAT 9:30-6PM & SUN 9:30-1:30PM

workers spent a total of £16,829 on the Crawford’s mini-packs, but because they contain six different biscuits a favourite one could not be established making Jaffa Cakes the most popular.

A spokesman for the House of Commons said that biscuits doled out free to MPs and staff during meetings were part of the ‘general refreshments costs’ which it said ‘could not be broken down’.

He said: ‘The House of Commons procures biscuits for two purposes.

‘Firstly biscuits are purchased for resale within catering and retail outlets in the House.

‘Secondly they can be purchased as part of a refreshments budget for meetings.

‘In respect of biscuits purchased for meetings the information you require is not held by the House of Commons.

‘Any expenditure for this purpose would be incorporated into general refreshments costs which cannot be broken down.’

ARTICLE: MAIL ONLINE

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover

Activities at

Monday

VAT is payable on chocolatecovered biscuits, which are classed as luxuries, but not on chocolate-covered cakes which are deemed a ‘staple food’.

A key fact at the tribunal was that Jaffa Cakes go hard when stale, whereas biscuits go soggy.

Despite the request specifying ‘expenditure on biscuits’, House of Commons chiefs decided to include Jaffa Cakes in the list.

Food and drink in the House of Commons is bought at a subsidised price.

In second place on the list are Crawford’s Mini Packs, which include bourbon creams, custard creams, digestives, shortbread, ginger nuts and fruit shortcake.

House of Commons

Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

Fantastic new menu of the day only 10€ per person MAD

MONDAYS

Chicken, Chips, Salad & a Bottle of Wine per 2 People

Eagles Tribute

Only 12€

Cowboy Kenny Live on Stage at the Irish Rover performing

his debut solo act

Friday 12th April

Thursday 28th March from 8.30pm

In aid of MACS

telephone: 950 473 135

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach Open 10am till late 7 days a week

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com

INGREDIENT OF THE WEEK…

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING

Wonderful Ways With Eggs

In Britain, the average person eats 172 eggs a year. Fortunately, they are very nutritious, and are also low in calories - a medium egg contains fewer than 80 cals.

STORAGE: Eggs will age more in one day at room temperature than in one week in the fridge. Take them out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before you need them to get them up to the right temperature. When storing, keep away from strong-smelling food - the shells are porous and so can absorb aromas.

COLOUR: White and brown eggs are no different when it comes to quality, nutritional value, flavour and cooking characteristics!

CINNAMON EGGY BREAD

33

Easter bunny cakes with carrot & coconut

BAKED EGG BASKETS

SERVES 4 - TAKES 15 MINS SERVES 4 ~ TAKES 15 MINS Beat 3 large eggs in a shallow bowl.

Preheat the oven to 200C/gas 6. Brush a Slice 4 thick slices of white bread, non-stick 4-hole muffin tray with olive oil. remove the crusts and cut in half.

Cut 6-8 slices prosciutto in half lengthways.

Dip the bread in the beaten egg.

Line each hole with prosciutto, making sure Heat 15g (½oz) butter and a drizzle the base is completely covered. Break an of oil in a large frying pan, until the egg into each hole, season and bake for butter foams. Add the eggy bread 12 minutes, or until just firm. Ease the and cook for 2 minutes on each side, basket out of the tin and serve with griddled making sure all the edges are golden sourdough bread and a drizzle of olive oil. brown. Mix together 2tbsp golden caster sugar and 1tbsp ground cinnamon. Sprinkle the sugar over the ES 40 MINS RVES 4 ~ TAK SE eggy bread. Serve with 200C/gas 6. eheat the oven to 12 discs, and use them to line 12 Pr blueberries. t out blind for 10 tcrust pastry, cu or sh ) oz (9 g ick the base. Bake 0 pr 25 d an g, eg Roll out en ush with a beat SEND US muffin moulds. Br minutes.

3.

E IT wn to 170C/gas YOUR FAVOUR er.

Turn the oven do nt to a ge le simm m ea ster cr e gl sin ) pt and 25g (1oz) ca eg tm EGG RECIPES nu Bring 300ml (½ nd ou lk, ¼tsp gr to the pastry eggs and 1 egg yo sk briefly. Pour in hi w d an gs EDITOR@ eg en Whisk together 2 over the beat ur the hot cream with nutmeg.

Po r. ga . su ES IM LT SO cases and scatter golden. filling is set and e th til un , es ut in COM Bake for 10 -15 m

EGG CUSTARD TARTS

CHORIZO AND FETA FRITTATA

SERVES 4 ~ TAKES 20 MI NS - Preheat the oven to 18 Peel and cube 250g (9oz) 0C/gas 4. potatoes. Boil for five minu tes, or until just under cooked 3tbsp oil in a 25cm (10in) . Drain the potatoes. Heat oven-proof frying pan. Add 1 sliced onion and cook un til sof t and slightly golden. Whisk 6 eggs and 1tbsp chopped parsley. Add the potatoes and 125g (4½oz) cubed chorizo to the onions. Pour in the to distribute evenly. Sprinkle egg mixture, and shake gen on 125g (4½oz) crumbled tly feta. Cook ver y gently for of the mixture has set. Place 5-7 minutes, or until the centre the frittata under a preheated grill and cook until lightly go lden brown.

EGGS FLORENTINE

Serves 2 ~ Takes 40 minutes: Preheat the grill to medium. For the hollandaise sauce, place 75g of butter into a small saucepan and melt slowly over a gentle heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and set aside. Place 2 egg yolks into a bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water (take care not to let the bowl touch the water) and beat until pale and thickened. Add ½tbsp cold water, ½ tbsp lemon juice, salt and freshly ground black pepper to the egg yolks and beat for another 30 seconds. Add approx. 12g of cubed butter to the egg mixture in the bowl and stir for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat and beat further 12g of cubed butter. Slowly pour in the melted butter, whisking constantly, until the sauce reaches the consistency of double cream. Place 2 English muffins, split in half horizontally & buttered onto a baking tray. Arrange 2 large handfuls baby spinach, steamed on top of the muffins, top with 2 poached eggs and pour the hollandaise sauce over the top Place the tray under the preheated grill for 1-2 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and just turning golden-brown. Transfer the eggs Florentine onto two serving plates and serve immediately.

Makes 24 - INGREDIENTS For the cupcakes 200g (7oz) self-raising flour 1tsp baking powder Pinch of salt 2tsp ground cinnamon 1tsp freshly ground nutmeg 175ml (6fl oz) sunflower oil 200g (7oz) light muscovado sugar 3 large eggs, lightly beaten Finely grated zest of 1 lime 200g (7oz) carrot, peeled and finely grated 60g (2¼oz) walnuts, chopped 50g (1¾oz) desiccated

coconut

For the frosting 200g (7oz) full-fat cream cheese 150g (5½oz) icing sugar Finely grated zest of 1 lime, juice of ½ lime For the decoration Food colour paste (green and orange) 100g (3½oz) desiccated coconut 300g (10½oz) white sugarpaste Small rabbit cutter

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/gas 4. Line 2 cupcake trays with paper cases. Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and spices. In another bowl beat the oil and sugar, add the eggs and beat well. Stir in the remaining ingredients and the flour mixture.

Divide between the cases, bake for 18-20 minutes, then cool.

Mix the cream cheese and zest, sift in the icing sugar, beat well, add the lime juice, then spread on the cupcakes.

Mix green colour paste with water, toss through the coconut and leave on a tray to dry, then sprinkle on the cakes. To decorate, make carrots and rabbits from the sugarpaste

Homemade chocolate Easter eggs

ingredients: Sunflower oil; About 500g (1lb 2oz) good quality chocolate (depending on the size of your eggs), chopped; Chocolate egg moulds; ribbons; sugar flowers or chicks; royal icing METHOD: Pour a small amount of oil onto a kitchen towel and wipe on the inside of the moulds. To melt the chocolate, place in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, ensuring the base doesn’t touch the water.

Coat each half of the moulds with a thin layer of chocolate using a pastry brush or the back of a metal spoon. Leave to set for 15 minutes and repeat to make 3-4 layers.

Run a knife across to sharpen the edges. Leave to set in a cool place, then remove gently from the moulds.

Stick the halves together with melted chocolate, and leave to set. Adorn as you like with ribbons and decorations, stuck on with royal icing.

Handle as little as possible - try standing them in a glass to decorate.

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

STANDARD CROSSWORD

1 Some of those party pestering sorts! (5) 4 Put on grand soiree, losing concerning disruption (9) 8 Did our credit damage one inside? (7,3) 10 One time round a fancy clerical part (5) 13 Fight quarters resulting in grazes (7) 15 Follow the course (5) 18 See 21 Down 20 Figure independent one inside (4) 22 I, with hesitation, follow returning parts for antimony (7) 23 Undecided on including gym (4) 25 The two make a mess of copyright withdrawal (4) 26 Face impudence (5) 30 Continually annoying bird? (7) 33 Great-grandparent’s first appearance in “Real Deal” (5) 36 Nose saint’s ill-feelings (10) 37 In a decade when northeast lost pointless things (9) 38 Fly to new high! (5)

19 Lead a timeless beginning (4) 21/ 18 Man’s in on time to get married, replaced by daughter - hush-hush!

(2,3,4) 23 Morally, part of a hole in the face (4) 24 More recent name taken for vessel (4) 27 Come out slowly, or half-ounce egg starter will follow! (4) 28 “Fashion centre in setback” is a dissertation (6) 29 Cruel but right within a lake (6) 31 Potter’s danger of being in one new figurehead? (2-3) 32 Nearly manage pen, lacking practice (5) 34 One shifting after a long time (4) 35 Good one in a foreign bird (4) 36 Ready for some games? (3)

Down

26 A Turkish dish made from ground chickpeas (6) 27 Lilac (8) 28 P leasure from causing pain (6) 29 M arks of omission (of words) (8)

Down 1 2 3 4 6

Least dangerous (6) Hexagonal cells (9) Corroded (5) Not accurate (7) Stretching over a

distance (9) 7 Type of heron (5) 8 Human rights (8) 11 Donate (4) 15 Concubines (9) 17 Rebels (9) 18 Seeks (8) 20 Stair (4) 21 Untangle (7) 22 Beautifies (6) 24 Played charades (5) 25 A resin used in incense (5)

Very Hard!

CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS

SUDOKU PUZZLE

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.

1 Orb-like (8) 5 Concerning this (6) 9O ne who completes the task (8) 10 Deprive of food (6) 12 Cleverly (5) 13 Disaffected (9) 14 Child (6) 16 Quip (7) 19 Goes on board (7) 21 R equiring immediate attention (6) 23 Recalls (9) 25 Advanced slowly (5)

HARD SUDOKU

Across

1 Hear DJ Folds (5) 2 Universal first raise put in for each cleaner (5) 3 Blue little devil within containing little excess (6) 4 Most senior Celts do without key change (6) 5 Insect fan finally put on a tank top (3) 6 Instant decapitation is uncertain (4) 7 Be up for wickedness! (4) 9 Part of member’s posh second-class sodium (4) 11 In part of Saatchi collection? (4) 12 Bridge player ran off with Garner! (4) 14 Clearly defined policeman takes important person back (5) 16 Take away in bird (5) 17 Join the French out of stroke (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

coffee break

Across

STANDARD SUDOKU

34

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

advertising feature

Bay ay b bistro istro B Next to Mediterraneo, Mojacar Playa

The Fresh Food Restaurant

35

el Cucador

VidaRestaurant&Venue

this EasterthSaturday 30

March

L NIGHT OUT! JC ENTERTAINS TO MAKE IT A SPECIA

Only

6

® C hicken, Chips Come and let € your hair down & Salad Garnish and dance the hilli Beef (medium) Long night away to the ® C Grain Rice & Garlic sounds of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s Bread plus all your disco ® C od & Prawn Creamy favourites!

Bake, Chips & Green Salad

Restaurant Open 6:30pm-9:30pm Normal Menu Available or try our Specials at 6€

Bay Bistro is situated on the Playa in Mojacar, above the Irish Rover and just along from Mediterraneo. They have only been opened for the past ten months but have already built up a tremendous reputation for not only quality menus and first class service, but fantastic value for money. Their set menus continue to be popular day and night as well as the A La carte and snacks menus.

Bay Bistro has become the restaurant of choice for many people celebrating birthdays, anniversaries etc, and have recently held their first wedding.

Sandra tells me, it took a load of planning and preperation but in the end we staged a fantastic day for the bride and groom and all of their guests, which they all thouroughly enjoyed.

Because of the elevated position the views from the restaurant are second to none along the Playa and with the better weather starting to return, the terrace is being used more and more.

On Easter Sunday, Bay Bistro will be offering their Sunday Lunch, which not only includes a roast option, but other fish, chicken and vegeterian options, at the usual low low price of 9.95. This represents the best value for money Sunday Lunch in Mojacar.

So if you are looking for great food and service at fantastic value for money prices, get yourself along to Bay Bistro, trust me you won’t regret it.

Bay ay b bistro istro B Next to Mediterraneo, Mojacar Playa

The Fresh Food Restaurant Menu del Dia Deli Sandwich Sunday ONLY 9.95€ Menu Lunch Menu de la Noche from 6.95€ ONLY 12.95€ Full a la open e Carte daytim gs n Menu & eveni Available

Special

3 Courses Including Roast of the Week

Only 9.95€

closed tuesday’s

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

To avoid disappointment please call and reserve your table

free admission

easter sunday lunch 12.30PM - 5PM to include coffee & traditional chocolate home-cooked menu bookings now fISH OF THE DAY OPTION too! being taken

fridays

Beer-battered cod

from

5.95€ in the Bar

homemade chips & peas

served 12.30pm - 9pm booking advisable

tapas 1€ in the bar 12pm-9pm

~ bar specials ~

Tuesday

cod, chips & peas only 6 - 9pm or chicken curry & rice 5€ 1/2 roast chicken, only wednesday chips & salad 5 6 - 9pm or gammon chips & peas €

thursday ...is pie night! only 6 - 9pm delicious homemade pie, 5€ chis & peas

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com

We are here

Albox Arboleas Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

book the Venue

For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

36

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

editor@soltimes.com

be a  part  of it 

Monday - saturday 12 noon - 4pm & 7pm - close Sunday : carvery 1pm - 5pm Thursdays - closed

served day and night

 



Tapas



Main Meals 6.95€ 3 course meal 10.95€



Every Friday fish chips & peas €3.95 served all day 12 noon - 10pm

Starting Wednesday 3rd April Midweek Carvery €4.95 served 5pm - 10pm

Sunday Carvery €6.95 served 1pm til 5pm also mini roast Tapas 1€

Tel: 659 683 447

www.newyorknewyork.es

OPPOSITE THE PLAYA LUNA BETWEEN BURTYS BAR & BAR OLE

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

triana needs a home

This is TRIANA, a female dog from the SOCIEDAD PROTECTORA DE ANIMALES DE ROQUETAS DE MAR, who is in need of a loving home. She was born in June 2012. As an adult dog she will weigh approximately 25 Kilos and her height will be about 50 cm.

She is a Mastino mix with short black and white soft fur which is lovely to touch and stroke, something she enjoys a lot.

Triana gets along great with other dogs and people. She is playful and very gentle.

She has Patas Palmeadas, webbed feet, like Terranova dogs. This means that she is probably a great swimmer.

If you can’t give Triana, a home, perhaps you would like to become a member of the shelter or sponsor a dog. If you want a form for either of these options, send an email to geoffalmeria@hotmail.com and a form will be sent to you.

Failing these options, please be aware that the shelter is always in need of blankets, towels etc. which can be taken to the Sanctuary. Monetary contributions can be

sent direct to the Sanctuary’s Bank account.

Details where you can visit or for adoptions forms can be provided from the same email address. If you want to visit the Sanctuary to adopt a dog, you can visit on Saturday mornings. During the week is best for material donations. A warm welcome at the Sanctuary is assured for would-be adopters.

Thank you for reading this appeal.

Palm Sunday service at Open Air Church in Roquetas De Mar

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

6oz Sirloin Steak, Real Chips, Fried Onion, Mushrooms & Mixed Salad Only 8.95€ Larger Steaks & Baby Fillet Available

every thursday quiz 2.15pm prompt

Tapas

Booking Essential By 6pm Wednesday

served from 1 pm

easter sunday 31st march

tuesday

Table Top Sale Call to book a table

Homemade Veg Soup Prawn Cocktail or House Salad Roast Lamb, Roast Turkey or Roast Beef Choice of Desserts 1 course special €5.95 2 course special €7.95 3 course special €9.95

bingo 2.30pm

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

next service 18th April

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

Notice

The ‘Friday Tapas Group’ meet up at 1pm each week (Friday) and the venues for the next three weeks are as follows: 29th March - Rendezvous Tapas & Bistro in the Urb (opposite Hotel Playa Luna) 5th April - Estampa (Lily’s) in the Urb. 12th April - Red Chairs (Bar Cuellar) in the Urb Anyone is welcome to join in and have a laugh, exchange views and ideas.

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

37

ROQUETAS DE MAR OSTRICH EGG SPOTTED IN NATURE RESERVE IN PLAYA SERENA?

what’s on 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 - 31st March, incorporating Almeria Angels Open Day Bar cARDIES...................................

NOW OPEN!! See our advert on page 25

Could the African Ostrich have found a way to Roquetas De Mar? Reports from a dog walker suggest that a new inhabitant may have found its way to the resort. A spokesman for the Nature Park, Snr Jose Manuel Bromista confirmed that the egg found last week resembles that of the African Ostrich native to parts of Morocco. The egg has been taken for analysis so watch this space for further information!!

A GREAT AFTERNOON WAS HAD BY ALL!

Thursday afternoon, 21st March 2013, saw a good crowd turn up for the first comedy afternoon held by the ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, Roquetas De Mar in aid of the: 2013 POPPY APPEAL Around thirty British Legion members and holidaymakers had an audience with Mrs Brown at Chaplin’s Pub and everyone had a really good laugh! A few handkerchiefs were in use mopping up tears of laughter!

The branch are hoping to hold another comedy afternoon in early May 2013. Keep your eye on the Sol Times for the next one.

Barry, the Poppy Appeal Organiser, reported that the afternoon raised the fantastic total of €105.56 in donations from the audience, exceeding all expectations and it is greatly appreciated by the Legion!

Many thanks to everyone that turned up and, thanks should also go to Jon and Debra for hosting the event.

They can be seen holding the collection bucket, with a few of the holidaymakers. Watch this space for future events!

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 NEW YORK, NEW YORK...........................

Wednesday - Carvery 5pm-10pm Friday - Fish’n’Chips Sunday - Carvery 1pm-5pm 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.........................................

SKY SPORTS Monday 8:30pm Bingo royal british legion events....

FUNDRAISING FOR 2013 POPPY APPEAL 28th March – Open Pool Competition – 7.00 pm registration for 7.30 pm draw – The Lodge – call Barry on 605 313 590 for further details.

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 Dental Clinic

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

950 32 64 52

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

www.almeria-dentista-zahnarzt.com

near Hotel Zoraida Garden

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

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

38

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

SOL CLASSIFIEDS SOLTIMES Air-con

www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

BY TELEPHONE

Between 10am & 5pm

Monday to Friday

950 121 936 or 902 121 936

BY E-MAIL Send your advert or Classified lineage to

sales@soltimes.com FOR SALE

advertise all your unwanted items

for sale in this section

any single item up to 300€ free of charge

email: sales@soltimes.com

Scuba Diving Equipment for sale.

Too much to list.

260€ Tel: 620 112 193 Samsung Mobile HITS Phone. Never Used, still in box.

Cost 29€ accept20€.

Tel: 630 493 474 Solar panels 240w bargain 240€ Tel: 619 744 516 Solar power batteries new 230amp 12volt can make 24v 200€ Tel: 619 744 516 A fully G a lv a n i s e d Garage Door 3.0 m wide x 2.25 m high (Up and Over type) Price only 250€ Tel: 950 478 457. English & Spanish Spoken. *Brand new* white hygena kitchen unit doors, Consisting of 4 drawers, 4 base unit doors, 10 wall unit doors + extractor fan door, Cost £750, new, Bargain @ £195€ Contact 950 473 268 JOY OF PAINTING BOB ROSS ARTISTS MATERIALS. Large range range of new/ nearly new Bob Ross materials.

15 X 150cc paints, large tubs liquid white/ black /c lear, gesso, thinner, 9 brushes, knives, 32

canvasses, palatte, easel, book. 300€.

Tel: 950 067 105 or 651 454 045 Solar Panels approx 3 yrs old, 50watt good working order, sale due to upgrade 60€ each Tel: 619 744 516 Heavy duty batteries 230amp suitable for solar power brand new surplus to requirements 200€ each Tel: 619 744 516 DOUBLE BED with base, mattress and mattress topper (135cms). As new Buyer collects. Playa Serena. Roquetas de Mar Bargain. 100€ Tel: 667 939 885 BABIES PLAYPEN (lindam, Can easily convert from playpen to room divider, safety gate, or hearth guard, folds flat for easy storage, padded base area is washable, Easy assembly, Brand new still boxed, Bargain. 60€, Tel: 667 939 885 Golf clubs.

Howson Caddy + trolley. 2 brolleys. 13 clubs. 150 assorted balls. Very little use.

Ex condition 150€ Tel: 663 737 567 2 x Single Beds Complete with slatted

Airport services www.AAparking.es Tel: 639 081 067

Cheap

Airport Parking

Alicante Almeria Murcia New Servicing / Repairs

A i rport tr a n s f er s pick up all areas, competitive rates.

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

base, mattress and headboard in Black wrought iron only used a couple of times good as new.

50€ each. Ring vera area 634 302 967 Wii Game Console complete with controllers,Balance Board, Wii Fit game and more can be seen working,all as new. 150€ Ring Vera area 634 302 967 Bedside cupboards in Mexican Style, soild wood can be waxed or stained Excellent condition.

50€ Each Ring Vera Area 634 302 967 W a s h i n g cover machine made by rayan excellent condition 15 euros new, you wont have to buy another.

7€ Ring Vera Area 634 302 967 3 washable mats in brown and beige colour, different sizes 5€ each. Ring vera area 634 392 967 Sink plug Click Clack 40mm chrome brand new. 7€ Ring vera area 634 302 967 Tall cupboard with 1 full draw 6 half draws and 3 shelve cupboard brought from Kola, cream with dark wood top.

Beautiful piece of furniture. 125€ Ring vera area 634 302 967 STURDY BED SETTEE, Green, VGC, 100€ ono, Urbanisation Roquetas De Mar, Tel 950 334 544

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L.

MD S.L

City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

not a jack of all trades

For all your installation or service MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L offers requirements including our latest info@md-aircon.com telephone

construction

electrical cont...

Constructions

A & B electrical for all your electrical needs, Tel: Aran 678 942 314 or Blas 662 470 647 Knowles & Abbott no.1 for electrics and plumbing. Re-wires, free to air UK satellite systems 950 137 208 or 638 010 691

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

email: info@md-aircon.com

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

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

alternative energy

drainage

950 432 110 / 607 364 917

607 364 917 or 950 432 110

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

business opportunity

equipment hire

Cleaning of Septic Tanks ▪ Emptying of septic Tanks & Cesspits, with high pressure cleaning ▪ Small unblockages of pipes & drainage

Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks

Contact: 675 838 808

BABY HIRE

furniture

Everything for

Linea

the visiting baby Car seats,high chairs, stair gates, cots etc Tel: 950 436 581

LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING

Chill Out Deli For Sale Local Shop Selling English Frozen Foods & Ambient Goods Serious Enquiries Only

• Installation of fibreglass

septic tanks

Drainage

lady

requires carer from Monday 13.30 to Friday 09.30 every other week. Phone Lola on 648 653 318 or 950 345 012

NO JOB TOO SMALL FREE QUOTATIONS tEL: 633 507 165

computers Steve Hayes Informatica

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc.

Sales & Repairs on-site callout / tuition.

Consumables Albox, Almeria

Tel: 950 120 900

Tel: 950 120 630

landscape gardening

carpenter Business Opportunity Bills Good size room to Carpentry & rent in busy salon call cutting edge on Shop fitting • Hanging 950 633 086 Doors

Elderly

sofas kitchens bedroom furniture Arboleas

gardening

950 091 109 or 648 768 587

• Flat Pack Furniture • Tiling • Kitchen Fitting

expectingababy@ hotmail.co.uk

• Blocked Toilets, Sinks, Baths & Drains • CCTV Surveys • Drain Tracing • Turbine Root Cutting • All types of domestic plumbing carried out

Tel: 697 243 181

carer wanted

or 666 375 688

Nueve

Solutions

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

Established 7 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966 electrical

ELECTRICIAN Neil Godwin

25 years experience

Full City & Guilds

Fully

insured & legal

Boletins supplied

Tel : 687 245 569

• 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

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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

39

www.soltimes.com health & beauty

NUMBER PLATES

avon cosmetics

“RE-PLATE” MATE

claire Tel: 691 987 454

avonfromclaire@yahoo.es 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

insurance

hobby/craft

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

quality UK wool &

OPTICIANS

& view my display Also at

available Camposol,

Mazarron Call 667 273 889 elaines wools@gmail.com

glenn & jayne

have great offers on Life Insurance same people same great service new name

Tel: 950 121 943

infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com

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

The Metal works

ref: NW907

GB

Elaine’s Wools accessories. Come

PROPERTY FOR SALE/rent

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

PAINTER / DECORATOR

painter & decorator

over 25 years experience

Lovely 2 bedroom townhouse of 70 sq metres with stunning sea views overlooking Mojacar Playa with communal pool, WIFI, furniture included. Excellent Rental Investment.

Call New Wave VIllas on 950 475 800 for info & viewings.

Price Reduced to 119,000€

PETS SECTION

pet taxi 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

I AM LOOKING FOR A GOOD HOME

My name is Izzy, & I was found lost in Cabrera. I am very pretty, blue eyed tactile & loving, approx 2 yrs old. I love to play & be stroked & like being with people & will keep you company. My foster carers go back to the UK in May, so sadly cannot keep me. PAWS CHARITY have very kindly spayed me. If you would like to offer me a good home please ring 634 346 146 or email caroleaquirke@gmail.com

give your property or business a fresh look this spring

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

638 900 949

legal

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic in our regular space on pg 21, please email info@daviessolicitors.com locksmith

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 Personal

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

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

Tel: 697 243 181

York s h i re Puppy Terrier male born 13/2/13 250€ ono Call John 685 220 264 woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery arboleas Small friendly kennels, 24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, welcome to view ministry approved

Tracy Mobile 650 211 952

American Staff Puppies free to a good home Have had the 1st vaccination, weeks old, for YOUNG PRETTY GIRLS 13 more information. with barbie bodies 90-60-90 Call James 651 325 french, brunettes & columbians 677

VERA PLAYA

friendly mare 9 years old 14.3hh 1.50m

Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours.

24 HOURS • STRIPTEASE tEL: 687 891 515

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 €150,000 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

PLASTERER

500€

tel: 678 838 547

Mojacar Playa

Private long term rental

2 bedroom, 1 bathroom top floor apartment large balcony sea views Centrally located, 300mts to beach small quiet community fully aircon & heating fully furnished Community swimming pool

300€ per month + bills

Tel: 950 615 033 Mobile: 610 691 128 (after 12)

PROPERTY TO RENT – URCAL 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 ARBOLEAS

self contained 1 bedroom B r i t i s h apartment with B & B facilities plasterer All offered starting from 25€ per work guaranteed Tel night, walking distance of Paul 634 327 201 Arboleas & Zurgena

plumbing

No need for Grills, railings, gates or kennels cattery, Pet sitting of all types, security/ in your own home, sliding/roller, rejas, For all your painting needs inside Arboleas & local concertina doors etc. & out contact Graham on 620 112 193 area. Call Vanessa on 637 061 482

Tel: Keith Wood on

for SALE detatched cortijo

CARLOS SALIENTE Plumbing and Heating offer machined boiler decals for gas water heaters for just €65 plumbing – aguafuerte is not gas fast Gas the answer! Call 950 boiler & plumbing 930 900 or 968 969 repairs. Tel: 618 062 962, email carlos.

080 or 637 829 787 saliente@gmail.com

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

TELEPHONE: 950137197 / 606807797

Gas Safe Registered

For all your plumbing needs Fully Qualified heating engineer

contact barry 667 853 062 or graham 620 112 193

Tel: 950 449 074 or 634 368 071

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

property for rent

villa in arboleas

4 beds, 2 baths & garage

250€ p/month plus bills

Telephone

630 471 422 PROPERTY management

Clean Sweep

Property Management

Everything For You Not Just Cleaning

Any Repairs Painting, Plastering, Window Cleaning, Replacement Windows, Gardening Translations ITV’s, Hospital, Endesa & Any Phone Calls

VERY GOOD RATES English: 622 034 479 or 633 831 877 Spanish: 622 769 332

40

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 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 recruitment

SOLTIMES are looking for A

Bright, enthusiastic person with an outgoing personality to join our sales team as a Sales Representitive for the Mojacar & the surrounding areas o hop int Experience not essential as a new full training will be given. future as long as you’re cheerful, with s e organised, self motivated & sol tim can work to deadlines!

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

Do you love to Cook...

Then we want to meet you Chef/Cook is required at our Bar / Restaurant in Albox

We are looking for an experienced person used to working in a fast paced kitchen You will be able to produce delicious home cooked food to a high standard Shift work is required & weekends salary will include a contract

Rob on 609 199 394 for more information

experienced cook

wanted

please call 678 989 979 satellite/television A1 Sky Television Systems Satellite TV installations, alignment of dishes etc.

Also Spanish

Sky Digibox Pace with sky card

BBC 1, 2, 3, 4 ITV1, 2, 3, ch4 & 5

60€

“freeview” systems

can

supplied & installed

deliver.

Tel Dave: 628 607 778

Tel: 667 235 205

Ge s tor i a S a lv a d or , a consulting c o m p a n y established in Almeria since 1969 is opening a new office in Mojacar and requires a Manager with excellent communication skills and knowledge of the Mojacar area. The individual must have experience in tax consultancy, legal work, book keeping and other administrative s e r v i c e s , Spanish and English speaking is essential.

An additional language is advantageous.

Send your CV with photo to our email ags@ gruposalvador.es Tel 950 237 155

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

SOLTIMES

Now offer our Classified advertisers

5 LOCAL EDITIONS online at www.soltimes.vom for more information Telephone 950 121 936 or 902 121 936 ext 332

motoring section for sale TOYOTA AURIS FOR SALE Accept 14,000€

solar power system

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

Swimming Pool Heating

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

Solar Power Systems

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

August 2010. Toyota Auris Advance 1.8 Hybrid Absolutely as new only 38,000kms Petrol / Electric no charging necessary 74mpg.

FSH. 1 Owner, Spanish Spec.

Cost new now 24,000€ accept 14,000€ Tel: 653 245 971 for appointment to view.

Caravan for sale immaculate REMOVALS condition, sleeps DAVE’S TRANSPORT 4, toilet, shower, full working oven, 7.5 Ton, Lorry Part loads, fridge/freezer Self load/Unload compartment Tel: 671 716 597

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

€5950

Tel: 676 665 168 Ford Focus 1.8CDTI GHIA 100BHP Silver Estate: 144,000km 2003/04, LHD, tow bar, Electric Mirrors & front windows, CD player, AC, economical & reliable family car, good condition, genuine reason for sale ITV till Aug 2014 Recently serviced (new brake pads)

3.300€ o.n.o wanted

URGENTLY REQUIRED

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

Opel Astra, 1999, 2.0 Dti White, Very economical & Reliable, Spanish Registered, LHD, Itv until next year, A/C, 5 speed, 110,000kms, e/windows,c/locking, P/Steering, Cd/Radio, Excellent Condition through out Any inspection welcome

Please Call 677 667 722

2200€ ono

car & van hire

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

Van hire

UK to Spain or Spain to UK

TEL: 636 411 540 OR 664 619 819

mobile mechanics

*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN

* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE

TEL: 667 235 205

Mikes

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

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

car parts

Mobile Mechanics

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

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

motorbike mechanic

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

Tel: 676 665 168 or 634 353 503



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

1800€

ONE WAY

634 337 185

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

Immaculate condition with trailer, & many extras

(open to offers)

Call 633 234 635 or 677 849 153 or emailnessgav@hotmail.com

SPAIN UK SPAIN Removals

Inflatable Rib Boat

For all your motorbike repairs tel:634 326 905

Car parts

Need quality new parts for any car

for sensible prices on all parts Clutches, Brakes, alternators, service kits Starter Motors, headlights

Free quote go online or phone www.carpartsinspain.com

or telephone 692 930 326

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

41

42

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

A&B

Electrical Installations -Electrical installations -Maintenance -Repairs

no job too small

English & Spanish

- Aran 678 94 23 14...............English & Spanish - Blas 662 47 06 47................Spanish

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

OPEN for business

The major UK banks saw a 45% rise in core profits in 2012, but that hike was wiped out by a mix of regulation and their own mistakes, a KPMG report says.

Its performance report looks at Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, RBS and Standard Chartered.

It says the banks’ combined core profits last year were £31.5bn.

But this was eliminated by the “cost of past mistakes and increased creditworthiness of their own debt”, the audit firm’s report says.

This development meant that the major banks actually saw their statutory profits slump 40% on the previous year, at £11.7bn, KPMG added.

The banks, it says, were hit by PPI costs of £7.4bn - up from £5.7bn in 2011.

In addition, there were other fines and penalties from regulators and “redress provisions” of £4.7bn, and a £12.8bn accounting hit for losses caused by the revaluation of “own debt’”, “reflecting the credit markets’ more positive view on bank issuers

Bugs

TNT

Mosquito Screens & Blinds

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

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

Tel: 600 049 515 Get The Best For Less

pucker plastering & tiling Damproofing and SIKA TANKING Specialist Guaranteed British quality internal plaster finish

covering all aspects of:

Rendering, Plastering, Floor Screeding, Morticem, Partition Walls, Tape & Joint, Dry-Lining, MF Ceilings, Re-Skims, Coving, Cornice & Mouldings 28 years Experience in the trade 9 years in Spain English & Spanish Fluent

697524238

puckerplastering@hotmail.com covering Baza to Mojacar

HIRE A HUSBAND

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

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

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

Big Five UK banks see profits for 2012 ‘wiped out’

and interest rate movements”.

“Banks had a better performance year in 2012 but their improved core profits were eaten up by fines and other exceptional items, leaving them down on 2011,” said Bill Michael of KPMG. He added: “In terms of their reputations, 2012 was a dire year. This is why it is so important for them to address cultural and ethical perceptions and issues. Restoring customer trust is critical.”

However the report does acknowledge the improvement in core performance from the banks, and says it is due to two main factors.

Better credit performance has meant that impairment (bad loan) charges have continued to fall with continued low interest rates enabling the majority of customers to pay their mortgages and even reduce their credit exposures.

And stronger investment banking results have meant that revenues were generally up, especially in rates businesses, helped in large part by more positive sentiment surrounding the future of the eurozone.

But the report also points out that current events in Cyprus show that such sentiment can be transitory, “Overall, banks have made progress,” said Mr Michael. “They have strengthened their balance sheets and made strides to bolster their capital.

“They are becoming better able to carry out their essential function of providing support to businesses and promoting economic growth. However, the necessary changes to address conduct and behavioural failings will have a significant cost.”

POOL SHOP

Mix & Match

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

764

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

Solar Panels

Tel: 619 744 516

• New and secondhand solar products bought and sold • Battery Reconditioning and installation service available • Full solar systems available from 350€ Solar • 3000 watt inverter charger 850€ Swimming SOLAR • 230 watt solar panels 230€ Pool POWER • Solar charge controllers from 35€ Pumps • MPPT from 100€ up to 30%more power • Batteries from 60€ inverters from 60€ for 700watt inverter • 2v Traction batteries from 275€ set of 6 � Double insulated 4mm solar cable 1 per mtr • 690watt grid tie system no paperwork needed just plug in a socket and save money easiest system on the market 999€

S.M.S. BUILDING MAINTENANCE

All Building Work Undertaken 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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Cyprus: Big depositors face cut of 40%

Cyprus’s finance minister has confirmed that Cypriot depositors with less than 100,000 euros in their accounts “will not be hit” according to a report by the BBC.

But people with more than this could see about 40% of their deposits converted into bank shares, Michalis Sarris told the BBC. “The exact percentage is not... yet decided but it is going to be significant,” he said.

The final figure will depend on how the government decides to protect pensions.

He confirmed that all Cypriot banks will remain closed until Thursday and that capital controls will be placed on the size and the amount of money people will be allowed to withdraw once they have reopened.

These restrictions would “probably be a bit stricter” on the country’s two largest banks, Bank of Cyprus and Laiki, and would remain in place until the banking system “stabilises”, he said.

The exact details of this “two tier system” would be hammered out with the banks later on Tuesday, he said.

Mr Sarris is expecting “some bleeding, some outflow” of funds once the banks reopen, but believes that once EU bailout funds begin flowing “in a matter of weeks”, confidence will return.

Although the economy would be badly hit by the economic crisis, Mr Sarris admitted, he maintained that it could benefit from “an energy boom”, referring to the exploratory Aphrodite gas fields off the southern coast of the island.

“Yes, there will be a problem but we will overcome it in a relatively short period of time”, he said. He also said his government had renegotiated more favourable loans terms with Russia.

as well as larger holdings, was rejected by parliament.

The new deal for Cyprus, unlike previous agreements, does not require parliamentary approval. It will also include austerity measures and tax increases.

Laiki will be shut down, and deposits under 100,000 euros, which are guaranteed by the state under EU law, will move into the Bank of Cyprus to create a “good bank”.

Deposits above that insured amount will be frozen and used to pay Laiki’s debts and recapitalise the Bank of Cyprus, with depositor losses eventually converted into shares.

Major depositors, many of whom are wealthy Russians, will not be able to access accounts exceeding the 100,000-euro limit until the restructuring of the banks is complete.

On Monday morning, hopes that the deal would solve the crisis lifted shares. But later, stock markets were rocked after the head of the Eurogroup of eurozone finance ministers suggested that the deal for Cyprus could form a template for resolving future eurozone banking problems.

Jeroen Dijsselbloem, the Dutch finance minister who as head of the Eurogroup played a key role in the Cyprus negotiations, told Reuters and the Financial Times: “If there is a risk in a bank our first question should be ‘OK, what are you in the bank going to do about that?’”

43

elite plant hire construction & drainage

• general builders • jcb 3cx hire • patios • roofing

• walls • paving • extensions • cladding

Digger Hire available references available

call lee on 636 092 632 eliteplanthire@hotmail.co.uk

LOGS FOR SALE

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

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

He later added a clarification, saying that Cyprus was “a specific case with exceptional challenges”.

Mr Dijsselbloem said the pattern for bank rescues should see shareholders take the first hit, then bondholders, who lend money through financial markets, and only then should depositors with large bank balances be tapped.

The Cyprus deal puts the burden for dealing with problem banks on their shareholders and creditors - in this particular case, customers with large bank balances - rather than the government and taxpayers, or bondholders.

The Cypriot authorities had said all but the biggest two banks would open on Tuesday.

Tel: 950 930 527 & 646 341 575

James & Son Removals / Storage

Banks have not been open since 15 March. Their reopening had been expected after Cyprus agreed a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the European Union (EU) that releases 10bn euros in support.

UK, France & Spain

It was conditional on Cyprus itself raising 5.8bn euros, most of which looks likely to come from depositors with more than 100,000 euros (£85,000) in Bank of Cyprus and Laiki or Popular Bank.

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

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

The banks remained closed after the country’s first moneyraising solution, which would have hit smaller deposit holders

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

• 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

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

Tel: 634 388 243

newallprints@hotmail.com

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

OFFICIAL HITS AGENTS IN ALBOX

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

44

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

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

ENROL NOW FOR FREE TRIAL!!

AT THE PINK HOUSE Starting soon.......

SPANISH CLASSES with native Spanish speaking professional!

All levels, all ages, welcome. Maximum group up to 7 people. All study materials provided Limited spaces available.

ONLY 30€ FOR 8 SESSIONS

Enquiries : Sam 636 411 540 / Raquel 678 888 477 / Betty 679 207 545

EXPLORE MORE OF SPAIN

Low cost cultural trips to many historical Spanish cities starting soon.

Professional tour guide – 18 people maximum.

Enquiries Tel: 622 288 750

WANTED URGENTLY

ANY CONDITION – ANY AREA ENGLISH OR SPANISH

CARAVANS, MOTORHOMES & 4x4’s

TEL: 681 095 096 or 679 207 545

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

TEST DRIVE: Suzuki sx4

Robust and versatile...

Two words that spring to mind when I am confronted by the Suzuki SX4 DDiS, the 4x4 hatchback. A switch allows the driver to select between two- and four-wheel drive, which is useful in this day and age of increasingly expensive fuel. Vehicles are always more efficient when in twowheel drive and this is great for typical day-to-day use.

Four-wheel drive is ideal for challenging winter conditions or the occasional bit of off-roading. Being able to switch between the two while you’re driving is really useful. Compare this to a Land Rover 90 where you have to be stationary to perform this move and I am already impressed.

Interestingly when my first daughter Harriett was born in February 2011, the petrol SX4 was the first vehicle she experienced when I drove her home from hospital. When my second daughter Heidi was born a day before Harriett in the same month, she too was driven home from

hospital in an SX4 but this time a diesel version.

is the flexible roof mounted radio aerial – and although this has not happened to me in any other vehicle – I plough on regardless – my second daughter needs to see her father and vice versa. Arriving at the hospital my opinion of the aerial seems to be correct.

I suggest this should be removed and the aerial fitted somewhere else on the vehicle.

I like Suzuki vehicles in the same way that I appreciate Land Rovers. They both have an excellent no messing about reputation and can be relied upon in most circumstances.

The test takes place in high winds and when I manoeuvre into the outside lane of the motorway there is an unsettling banging from the roof, which does make me question what it is for a moment. I am sure it

Inside, the black plastic interior is no doubt hardwearing and although

the seats are reasonably comfortable there is little inspiration as you can see from the video at testdrives. biz. No matter how hard I try, I cannot find my favourite radio station but the steering wheel mounted cruise control is easy to use.

There is a raised driving position when compared to a standard hatchback and this gives a more commanding view of the road. I actually prefer this two-litre diesel engine to the 1.6-litre petrol I tested previously for two reasons.

First, it is pretty gutsy and second it delivers much better fuel economy, although it is much more expensive to purchase than the petrol version. On the motorway it is noisy but consistently delivers over 50mpg.

Parkers, the car experts, say: “The Suzuki SX4 is a bit of an oddity. It’s a five-door hatchback, similar to the Suzuki Swift, but it comes with a chunky off-roader look and is available with four-wheel drive.

The result is a slightly quirky cross between the two but it’s also a success. It’s practical and roomy inside,

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

AutoFrio

Vehicle Air Conditioning Service

approved repairers

○Panel Beating ○Paint Spraying ○Bumper Repair ○Windscreens ○Plastic & Fibreglass Repairs

CARS ~ MOTORBIKES ~ MOTORHOMES Call Mark on: 607 324 623 or 607 324 624 ►►

old AA Auctions

►

timber yard

WE ARE HERE

CASA CONCHILLA

►

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ALBOX BAZA ROAD

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specification

very comfortable on the move and handles well too with positive steering and an agile nature. At this price level, the Suzuki comes into conflict with too many far more talented crossovers and SUVs, such as the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Yeti.”

Suzuki SX4 DDiS New price range: £12,595 - £17,699 Engine: 2-litre diesel Power: 133bhp 0-60mph: 11.2secs Economy: over 50mpg

The boot is a good size and there is room inside for five adults, all of which makes for good family transport.

Watch the video at: www.testdrives.biz

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45

Find us on the Partaloa to Oria road (A399) 1km outside of Oria on the right. Carretera Autonomica A-399 c / Paraje el Puente sin 04810. Oria, Almeria

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46

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

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

sport

Over the past 3 weeks, the articles have tried to show that, no matter good your computer is, it is a pale reflection of limitlessness of your mind! Some of the information was a little “Long Haired”, even Cerebral, requiring knowledge from the fields of Psychology, Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science. All this, to prove that You are so much more that any computer and there are people who actually understand what is happening inside the “little magic box”. Today’s piece relates to a phone call that I received.

To set the scene. It is Friday, the Computer club at JACK’s bar in Albox has just finished. The sun is now becoming a regular part of everyone’s day and the tang of vinegar on chips, is a sharp reminder of Blighty(ed). I hear the plaintive cry of a young Mexican girl – Oops, sorry that’s Pat Boone!

The phone rings and I hear a male voice. After introducing himself he starts his story by explaining that he is in the process of upgrading his computer and the symptoms that have provoked this course of action.

As the first part of his story unfolds, it appears to be a common tale of being used well and the normal problems that follow. The symptoms presented were, a gradual and general slowing down of the machine, over the past 6 months. This was easily sorted over the phone, with a little simple, free advice. Advice should always be free when the solution is straight forward and I have always worked that way :-) The advice? From the “Start” button go through “Programs”, “Accessories” and “System Tools” to find “Disk Cleanup”. Run this to remove all the accumulated rubbish (and there will be loads after 6 months) which may take 10-12 minutes.

Second task. Search in the same place for a program called “Disk Defragmenter”. Run this and wait (best set it going then go to bed as it can take a very long time if it hasn’t been used for a while).

In the words of Aleksandr Orlov, “Simples! (pronounced “Seem-pels” from “ComparetheMeerKat.com”).

The next issue was with a program called “OUTLOOK”. This was (and still is amongst the business world) the defacto standard Organiser / Email client with many features, most of which, You and I would never find a use for?!

The problem? It had become unstable, read “Stopped working”. This can happen with any program, at any time, for no apparent reason! Fortunately there is a simple, standard, 3 step method to deal with it.

1. Un-Install the program and everything that came with it.

2. Restart your computer (windows does love it’s “RESTARTS”!).

3. Re-Install it again.

This will cure it 99.9% of the time (not statistically proven!). Use this technique to deal with any programs that become “Unstable”. With the 0.1% of stubborn, awkward, intransigent little beggars that just won’t completely shift, might I suggest that you consider the assistance of someone with much more experience in most aspects of computers. This is the point were I advertise myself with a fervent enthusiasm.

No! Not today :-) For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk

Marina Phoenix Golf Society An individual stableford was the format for Monday 18th March at the Marina course.

The Ladies division was a success for Maxine Mayhew with 34 points from Val Cooke 32 and Margaret Budd 30.

The Gents division was another close finish with Jim Budd coming out on top with 37 points.

Frank Varey returned to form scoring 36 and Colin King was third on 34. There were four two’s, winning golf balls: Martin Cooke, Steve Entwhistle, George Waghorn and Jim Budd.

Thursday’s team competition was a reverse waltz with 3/2/1 to count through the course, played in teams of four.

1st Maxine Mayhew, Janet King, Elmar Trappen & Jim Budd 82

2nd Brian Mayhew, Rosalie Fardon, Mike Atkin and Natalie Atkin (on count back) 79 3rd Les Chandler, Frank Varey, Steve Entwhistle & Linda King 79 4th Colin King, Margaret Budd, Miriam Staunton & Ali Mahmud 75 Frank Varey won nearest the pin on the 14th green.

The Marina course continues to improve, with the warm weather. The greens are mostly in good condition and the storm damaged fairways are showing plenty of new growth. To join Marina Phoenix competitions on Mondays (individual) and Thursdays (team game) for a €25 greenfee. Ring Jim on 950 162 727 / 600 353 670 or Rosalie 950 397 117/ 697 512 882.

Badgers in the Desert Wednesday 20th March, Badgers Golf Society visited Desert Springs Golf Resort.

Although the course was in great condition as usual, the windy weather was yet again going to play havoc. High scores were never going to be attainable with such strong winds, with some members not even managing to get into double figures. Winner on the day was Mark Newall playing his home course with 30pts, 2nd place was Neil Bown 29pts, and 3rd place going to the returning John Conely with 28pts.

Saturday 23rd saw Badgers at Macenas Golf for their weekly

roll-up. Winner on the day was Mick Weston with a score of 44pts from Lynn Dundas in 2nd with 39pts Forthcoming fixtures are.

Wednesday 27th Valle de Este, Sat 30th Macenas, Wed 3rd April Macenas, Saturday 6th April Macenas, Wednesday 10th Desert Springs.

Badgers Golf Society also plays every Saturday at Macenas.

Guests are welcome to join the society on both Wed and Sat comps and can book in either at Badgers Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or by phone on 950478525 .Fixtures can be found on www.badgersmojacar. com

ANGLING NEWS WITH BEACHCOMBER JOHN

Boat Fishing: ‘Pugwash Pete’ managed to get out and caught some good blue mouths, a conger eel and a nice red scorpion fish. See photo.

Note: Pete is using a glove because these fish’s stings can be dangerous but maybe not quite so much as the dreaded weaver fish we all hate to catch! Pete caught his fish in 200 feet of water opposite the Repsol Garage on the Garrucha to Mojacar road. Interestingly that’s very shallow for catching blue mouths, minimum 300 feet usually, and maybe they have moved further inshore because of the spring equinox?

‘Orca Steve’ managed to get out on his own for a couple of hours and trolled two lines behind the boat. The first was an 8” blue and yellow rapala chasing blue feathers swimming 3m below the surface on a long line and the second was Steve’s favourite little Devon minnow swimming deep behind a trolling board and again chasing blue feathers. He tried various depths, speeds and areas without a take. He saw a large (very large) fish break the surface about 500m out from the Repsol garage and about 30m from the boat. Steve doesn’t know what it was but it was large and fast. He thought it was a Dolphin at first but it had no large dorsal fin and he didn’t see it again and come up for air. It also rotated as it broke the surface something dolphins don’t do! (Marlin or swordfish is my guess) ‘Captain Cuba’ is still working on his boat, it’s running now but with a few teething problems!

Come on Brian get it fixed we need you out there.

Shore Fishing: The spring equinox started early for ‘London Bill’ and he’s been catching a lot of dorada bream from Garrucha’s rocks and beach. A little night fishing under the bright lights of the roundabout between the big hotels and the Repsol Garage brought him some more good fish including squid.

He tells me fishing that spot is not for the quick tempered as one has to run the gauntlet a bit what with there being lots of anglers there who think nothing of casting over your lines and dragging your bait in without as much as a sorry. (I did warn him lol) 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.

For up to date information on any of the above see me at the Beachcomber Bar Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or tel 950 473 099.

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

Tight lines, Beachcomber John.

Almeria Bowling Club

2013 ALBC Drawn Triples Monday 11th and 18th March The ALBC Drawn Triples commenced with the Preliminary and Quarter Finals on 11th March. The Semi-Finals and Final taking place a week later on Monday 18th. It was good to see that we had thirty-nine members making up thirteen teams, instead in the past struggling to make the numbers. This competition is always a very competitive competition and 2013 was no exception. Some teams who were expected to progress to the Semi-finals didn’t make it and some did.

The winners were the team, Peter Steenstrup, John Mannall and John Phoenix beating in the semi-final John Fitzgerald who was supported by two fairly new bowlers in our club, Tony Reynolds and Rod Dougal. The other finalists were Roy Tonkin, Graham Patrick and Chris Ewer, possibly the favorites to take the championship that beat Frank Foster, Dianne Reynolds and Carol Roberts, in their semi-final.

The Final on paper was going to be a great game to play and watch and lived up to these thoughts. Roy’s team started in a confident manner taking a slight lead until the seventh end when Peter’s team took four shots and went ahead by three shots.

They then increased their lead to 18-8 by the twelfth end. Roy’s team then started to pressurize their opponents by taking three, four and two shots on the next three ends and reducing Peter’s team to only one shot in the lead. This looked very much that the favorites were poised to win, however Peter and the two John’s kept their nerve and chipped away with single shots to win the championship by two shots. It must be said it was a fantastic Final enjoyed by all.

Colin Wright thanked the players who had taken part in this competition together with all the spectators who had come to watch and then presented the winners with the ALBC Trophy.

This report and photographs will be found on our website, www. bowlingalmeria.com Vic Parsons ALBC Press Officer

2013 Drawn Triples Finalists Graham Patrick, Peter Steenstrup, John Mannall John Phoenix, Chris Ewer and Roy Tonkin

2013 Drawn triples winners John Mannall, Peter Steenstrup and John Phoenix

Valle Del Este Golf Society Yet Another Busy Week On The Course And With Easter Weekend Coming Up Its Sure To Be Even Busier.

Tuesday’s Winners Where The Best 3 Scores From 4 To Count Were Bill Gill, Alan Byran, And Bill Churchill & Martin De Bruin.

Friday And 26 Players Taking Part In A Very Slow Round, Due Mainly To Another Society Who Didn’t Seem To Worry That The

Were Holding Up The Whole Course. The Winner On The Day Was A First Time Winner With The Society Well Done Tish. Winner Tish Bigelow With 37pts 2nd Sue Hull 33pts 3rd Alan Byran 32pts. Nearest The Pins Bill Gill, Alan Byran, And Paul Colletti (Visitor). We Wish All Our Members And Friends A Happy Easter. Enjoy Your Golf At Valle Del Este.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES MARCH 2013

Boxers Golf Society Aguilon Golf 21st March The first day of spring brought a beautiful day for golf. Aguilon was in splendid condition and it was good to see the course busy with players from various nations enjoying it.

The front nine produced some spectacular scoring in

both divisions but perhaps worries about ferocious cuts in handicaps served to moderate the final results. However, congratulations to Division 1 and overall winner Tony Harwin on his 37 – followed home

by Dave France (32) & Tony

Redston (30).

Welcomed into the winners enclosure in Division 2 on count back was Steve Priestly (35), keenly pursued by Pam Partridge (35), continuing her run of hot form this year, and Pete Dawson (28).

NTP’s came at the 4th for Pete Dawson, the 10th Tony (watch my rocket) Harwin & Tony Redston (in 2) at the 7th. With 2’s falling for Pam Partridge and Tony Harwin.

The next meeting is April 3rd at PERELAJA in Murcia, a new course for the Boxers. There will, as is usual for our more distant meetings, be a bus laid on at €10 each - so if you fancy a new challenge or would like more information re Boxers adventurous golf calendar and many social events, please contact Captain Derek Leonard on 690 352 860.

LOCAL BOWLS - LADIES CHARITY MATCHES The series of Ladies bowls matches in aid charity have now been completed for the current season.

Three clubs in the area took part and were represented at an end of season luncheon held at the Bellavista restaurant on Mojacar Playa. They looked after us very well with good food and service.

A total of 900E was raised which was the best year yet!

It was decided by the ladies that donations should go to the following charities.

MACS Food bank in TURRE, PAWS and DAVID an 8 year old boy who was born blind - he has a British father and a Spanish mother- He is in need of Braille

books and equipment to help him with his schooling and at home. These items are very expensive here and the family get very little funding from Local and National Government.

My thanks go to all those that took part and others who contributed to help raise funds for this years charities.

Jackie Mayhew

Huercal Overa CF0 CD Plus Ultras 0 Huercal Overa fail to make Home advantage count!

With the Easter festivities starting on Sunday the match was rescheduled to the Saturday afternoon and in a sunny stadium the home fans wanted maximum points. It was a carnival atmosphere in El Hornillo with drums beating out throughout the game; sadly this didn’t match the football being played in front of a 300 strong crowd.

The game ebbed and flowed each way but with no real goal scoring opportunities for either side in the first half. Chanting was heard from the dressing rooms at half time and the crowd expected a feisty start to the 2nd period. This was not to be the case as both sides looked nervous, the home side sitting

just above the relegation zone and without a recognised striker they didn’t look like they would score if the game went on for 24 hours! The visitors didn’t have the freedom that they obviously thought they would be gifted couldn’t find a break through either in what can be described as 3 points

SOL TIMES COSTA ALMERIA

SALES HQ: 902 750 190/950 121 936 OPEN: Mon-Thurs 10am-5pm Fri 10am-4pm ALBOX, ARBOLEAS, ALFOQUIA ROQUETAS, ALMERIMAR coastal & mojacar areaS

sales@soltimes.com

EDITOR: editor@soltimes.com ~ DESIGN:production@soltimes.com

lost and not 1 gained by both sides. Next up for Huercal Overa CF is a trip to Real Murcia B after the break for Easter. For more information on the club go to www.huercaloveracf. com or find us on Facebook. huercaloveracf@fastmail.es.

Lee Rickard Graham

47

sport

Compiled by Tony Matthews

sport shorts

•S ebastian Vettel disobeyed instructions to win an incident-packed Malaysian Grand Prix. His bitterly disappointed team-mate Mark Webber was second but should have won! Red Bull chief Christian Horner told his drivers to ‘hold their stations’ after they had touched wheels at 170mph but the German ignored the ruling, overtook Webber and went on to take the chequered flag. Lewis Hamilton came third, despite driving into his ‘old’ McLaren pit lane instead of his ‘new’ Mercedes slot.

•O n Monday, Chelsea and Manchester United replay their 6th round FA Cuptie at Stamford Bridge. Manchester City await the winners in the semis.

Incidentally, United, with 223, have registered more FA Cup victories than any other team in the history of the competition.

•T he government has agreed to fund an extra £25m towards the costs of converting the Olympic Stadium into a football ground which will be used

by West Ham from August 2016. The seating capacity will be reduced from 80,000 to 60,000.

•F ull-back Leigh Halfpenny has been named ‘Six Nations Player of the 2013 Championship’ after scoring 74 points for Wales.

•E ngland’s 8-0 WC demolition of San Marino last Friday was their biggest win since October 1987 when they beat Turkey by the same score at Wembley.

Hopefully three more qualifying points were banked last night in Montenegro.

•S an Marino, the joint lowest-ranked team in the world (203rd) have now lost 51 internationals in succession.

•T wo players were sent-off, one from each side, as Wales beat Scotland 2-1.

•T he Northern Ireland-Russia WC qualifier was postponed TWICE. •W rexham beat Grimsby 4-1 on penalties in the FA Trophy final before 35,256 fans at Wembley.

•F ormer BBC Director General Greg Dyke will take over from David Berstein as FA Chairman in July.

•T his summer, Norwich will spend a record £8.5m on Dutchman Ricky van Wolfswinkel from Sporting Lisbon and Fernando Torres could leave Chelsea and return to Atletico Madrid in a swap deal involving £50m-rated Brazilian Radamel Falcoa.

•P aul Sturrock, sacked by Southend, is the 50th managerial casualty this season.

•T elford have gone a record 27 Conference Premier games without a win.

•N ew Zealand’s cricketers were bang on course to win the third and final Test and so register their first series win over England since 1999.

•L aura Robson is still Britain’s number two tennis lass after losing to France’s Alize Cornet in a gruelling seven-hour 10 minute marathon in the Miami Masters.

•W ith snow disrupting horse racing, the Lincolnshire handicap was postponed and will now take place at Doncaster on Saturday.

•S teven Lee, under investigation for match-fixing, will miss this year’s World Snooker Championship at the Crucible.

•O ne point covers the top five teams in Rugby’s Super League while Saracens, Leicester and Harlequins lie 1-2-3 in the Premiership (Union Code).

• I reland’s Dan Martin won cycling’s Tour of Catalonia while England’s Chris Froome triumphed in Corsica’s Criterion International.

•S cotland’s women beat Sweden to win the 2013 World Curling championship.

•A nd GB’s rowers bagged six medals at the World championships in Sydney.

DID YOU KNOW? Arsenal’s starting line-up for their Champions League game against Olympiakos in September 2011 contained players from 11 different countries. The Gunners won 2-1 with Alex OxladeChamberlain scoring the first goal to become the youngest-ever marksman in Champions League history, aged 18 years, 44 days.

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