Roquetas R384

issue 384

ROQUETAS & ALMERIMAR

24-30 APRIL

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THE POWER OF CARROTS - PAGE 32

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• Committee Created To Study Potential Purchase Of The Aquarium

martin shortland Reports ON PAGE 13

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Alcoi celebrates famous Moors and Christians festival

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Cyclists protest over compulsory use of helmets on pushbikes

A two-wheeled protest ‘march’ in Valencia yesterday (Sunday) involved hundreds of cyclists demonstrating against a planned new law which will make it compulsory to wear helmets when riding bikes.

They say helmets are not compulsory in hardly any other European country, and their enforced use will reduce the number of people who use bicycles as their habitual form of transport.

This in turn will diminish the use of Valencia city’s on-street bike-hire scheme, which mirrors those of many other European cities, including Barcelona, and in some smaller towns, such as Gandia – an hour south of Valencia.

Bike shops will in turn lose profit, say protesters.

They claim the government is attempting to make cyclists ‘liable for their own safety’ rather than putting the onus on drivers to be more careful around bikes.

Probably the largest and most spectacular Moors and Christians fiesta in Spain is taking place this week in Alcoi (Âlicante), a town as famous for its festival re-enacting the battle between the Arab occupants of Spain and the native Catholics during the Inquisition as Sevilla is for its Easter parades and Valencia for the Fallas.

On Sunday, the Christian troops – dressed in terrifying Mediaeval soldier outfits with helmets, swords, axes and spiked clubs – paraded through Alcoi in the morning, and the Moorish troops in exotic Arabic costume held their procession in the afternoon and evening.

Invasions by the Berber pirates, battles and storming of the castle and ejecting of the Moors all formed part of the fiesta.

Regional government president for Valencia, Alberto Fabra (PP) attended the pageant.

Most other towns and villages in the provinces of Valencia, Alicante and Castellón – which form the Comunidad Valenciana – hold Moors and Christians fiestas in high summer, although Alcoi displaying a great selection of and its neighbouring town new & used furniture Ontinyent organise theirs in early spring.

Thousands of visitors locally, nationally and from around we also stock Sportswear the world went to Alcoi to supplied direct from the UK enjoy the weekend’s parades, Find us in Turre near the Fundraiser. Open Mon - Sat from 10am which will continue into the early part of this week.

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Rubalcaba: “Take 500-euro notes out of circulation to stop fraud and forgery”

Banknotesof 500 euros may be scrapped to cut down on forgery rackets, tax evasion and poverty.

Leader of the opposition socialist party, Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba, says that by taking them out of circulation, the 500-euro notes found to be genuine could be spent on helping those living in poverty in Spain, a figure which could be as high as nearly half the population and already includes over 2.2 million children, according to official records.

Spain has more 500-euro notes than anywhere else in the European Union and about a quarter of those in circulation are within the country.

Rubalcaba says that by taking 500-euro

notes out of circulation in Spain, those who had them would be obliged to change them, which would mean explaining where they came from and automatically being subject to any tax on them which they had tried to avoid paying.

The PSOE Secretary-General admitted that ‘it is evident that the State is not exactly flush with cash’, and that this would be a way of clawing back more so that it could be used for social welfare and to support those who are struggling to survive financially.

He says that although there are lots of people who are in possession of 500-euro notes for genuine reasons, their use is more prolific in corruption and money-laundering cases, and they were the most susceptible to

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be forged, meaning those who had them in good faith may have been given fake notes without realising and find they were unable to spend them.

The British Organised Crime Squad has already found that 90 per cent of 500-euro notes were in the hands of those involved in illegal activities.

Rubalcaba has also called for Spain’s government to set up a ‘European social emergency’ fund with 3.5 billion euros.

He said if Spain were to approve a similar plan with one billion euros invested in it, they could create or prevent from disappearing 30,000 jobs

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K.F.S

Kennedy Financial Sport Services

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Hard Times

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

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

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

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

• • • •

Frozen benefits in the UK that are under performing?

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

Trapped in New Zealand for many years to come?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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MADRID’S T4 voted world’s third-best air terminal

Madrid’s Barajas T4 has been named third-best airport terminal in the world.

A total of 12.1 million passengers travelling to and from 395 international airports took part in a survey involving 39 areas of service right through from checkin desk to boarding gate, including flight connections and VIP lounges.

The top airports and terminals in the world won prizes in the World Travel Awards 2013, presented by Skytrax.

According to the results, the world’s best airport terminal is London Heathrow T5, followed by Singapore’s Changi airport T3 and Barajas T4 in third place.

Barajas T4 has pulled itself up from last year’s fifth place, having since put in place its new Ágora Project to improve efficiency, punctuality of flights and the general travelling experience.

Self-check-in machines, information screens explaining procedures, ‘express’

customer service points to deal with problems such as missed connecting flights or delayed luggage, staff who can attend to customers at any point in the airport thanks to the new IBHelp tool, group boarding, faster security and document checks due to more efficient systems and extra staff and police, and 90 per cent of flights on time mean service in general has improved at Barajas T4 since the beginning of 2012.

No Spanish airports made it into the top 10, however – for the fourth year running, Singapore’s Changi airport won, followed by Incheon International Airport (Seoul); Amsterdam Schipol; Hong Kong International Airport; Beijing Capital International Airport; Munich; Zurich; Vancouver International Airport; Tokyo’s Haneda airport and London Heathrow

Pantoja: two-year suspended sentence for role in Malaya money-laundering racket

Legendary flamenco singer Isabel Pantoja has been given a jail sentence of two years for her involvement in the infamous ‘Malaya’ case. Her former boyfriend and ex-mayor of Marbella (Málaga), Julián Muñoz, has been sent to prison for seven years in connection with the money-laundering and property corruption scandal which broke out in 2007 and was found to involve residential developments on the Costa del Sol and in Los Alcázares (Murcia).

Muñoz’s ex-wife, Maite Zaldívar will serve three years, three months and one day behind bars for money-laundering. But under Spanish law, a prison sentence of two years or less means that the guilty party does not have to go to jail unless they have committed previous offences, or do so in later life.

Where a custodial term reaches two years and one day, the offender will have to go to prison. This means Pantoja will not be put behind bars, even though the prosecution service maintained from day one that both she and Zaldívar were ‘perfectly aware of the illegal source’ of the funds and assets they received from Muñoz and ‘what the origins of his illicit investments were’.

Pantoja, who performed live at the October festivals in Gandia (Valencia) just two years ago and when investigations were still under way, arrived at the court for the final hearing accompanied by her solicitors and her brother, Agustín. Hecklers outside the building called her a ‘robber’ and a ‘tea-leaf’, but many long-standing fans from her days as a nationally-acclaimed artist called out messages of support.

Members of the public kicked her and tried to hit her as she entered and left the building, and at one point her chauffeur had to climb onto the roof of his car to help Pantoja in.

The singer is said to have gone dizzy and collapsed briefly before leaving the court.

She and Zaldívar have been fined three million euros and Muñoz 7.4 million.

All three have been forced to pay back the laundered money plus interest, which in the case of Muñoz is nearly four million euros; for Zaldívar, just under 2.5 million and for Pantoja, an exact total of 1,147,148.96 euros.

She would have to serve her two-year sentence if she did not pay off her fines and the compensation ordered by the court within the set time, but Pantoja had already settled all her financial duties prior to the final hearing.

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human-trafficking and forced prostitution: Spain second-worst in Europe

Spain has the second-highest number of human-trafficking and sex-slavery cases in Europe, according to recent research. EU statistics firm Eurostat says a total of 1,605 women were smuggled into the country and held hostage, being forced to work as prostitutes against their will, in 2010 – the most recent year for which official figures are known. And this does not include the ones who have not yet been found, or who escaped without the police finding out.

In fact, there are more cases of forced prostitution among immigrants in Spain than in Romania, despite the fact that a high number of human-trafficking victims come from the latter country, says Eurostat. Only Italy has a higher number of women forced into sex slavery – 2,381, more than double Romania’s 1,154.

Even in the Netherlands, where prostitution is legally regulated – or perhaps because of this – the victim count is lower, with 993 women trafficked in 2010. A total of 651 cases were detected in Germany in the same year.

Eurostat also reveals that the number of human-trafficking cases in Spain nearly quadrupled in a year – from 443 identified and released in 2009 to 1,605 in 2010.

Lithuania, Malta, Luxembourg and Portugal have the lowest numbers of forced prostitution victims.

These figures have been published recently by the European Commission.

According to the International Work

Organisation (OIT), as many as one in five human-trafficking victims are male. They detected a total of 880,000 people forced into slavery, sexual or otherwise, within the EU in 2010, of whom 68 per cent were women, 12 per cent were underage girls, 17 per cent men and three per cent underage boys.

A total of 75 per cent of traffickers are men, and 84 per cent of them trap their prey in order to exploit them sexually.

Brussels has slammed the fact that in ‘free and democratic’ countries such as the European Union member States, tens of thousands of humans are deprived of all liberty and are forced into selling their bodies, and yet only six EU nations have implemented the Directive aimed to combat human-trafficking, approved in 2011.

These six countries are the Czech Republic, Latvia, Finland, Hungary, Poland and Sweden, with Lithuania, Slovenia and Belgium having adopted part of the Directive.

Provisions of the Directive include the harshest possible penalties for offenders, total support – before, during and after trial – for victims, maintenance of statistics on such crimes, and special protection for those who fall prey to traffickers to ensure they do not come to any harm from their captors or become targets for similar criminal organisations.

Javier Bardem agrees redundancy terms with staff following restaurant closure

Bond villain Javier Bardem has finally decided to close his Madrid-based restaurant, La Bardemcilla, and has agreed redundancy terms with his staff.

The actor, husband of ‘Almodóvar Girl’ and Hollywood darling Penélope Cruz, had to resort to opening an Expediente Regulador de Empleo (ERE), an official mass redundancy procedure, because it was the only route available to him given that the business is closing and the fact that he has so many employees.

The Bardem family – Javier, Carlos, Mónica and their mother Pilar – have agreed to pay all workers 35 days’ wages per year of service, as opposed to the 20 days’ wages required by an ERE, and their salary for the month of March.

Javier, who announced the closure of his restaurant on March 26, has said all along that he had no intention of falling back on the highlyrestrictive ‘labour reform’

devised by the current central government, which makes redundancies much cheaper and easier for companies and removes their need to provide sound financial reasons or show irrevocable proof of

disciplinary issues to enable them to get rid of staff.

The actor, who recently won a Goya for his role as the ‘baddie’ in the latest 007 film, Skyfall, has joined numerous protest marches against the labour reform.

Women Carrying Deformed Or Handicapped Babies Will Not Be Allowed To Have An Abortion

A forthcoming reform to the existing Abortion Law in Spain will prevent women from terminating a pregnancy if they find out the foetus will be deformed or physically or mentally handicapped.

In cases where an abortion is necessary because the mother’s life or physical or mental health is in danger, this will have to be accredited by doctors in writing and approval given.

Justice minister Alberto Ruiz-Gallardón says this should not be a ‘pretext’ or an ‘automatic justification’, but must be proven to be irrevocably true by at least one medical expert.

He says terminating a pregnancy because the baby would be born handicapped ‘goes against the convictions of the United Nations’ and that ‘live is not a discretionary concession, but an

unalienable right’ which is ‘not reduced due to disability’, and that ‘life should not attract a lower level of protection’ due to physical or mental handicap or deformity.

The law will also prevent girls under the age of 18 from having abortions without permission from their parents or guardians.

Effectively, the only grounds for abortion are where the mother’s life is in real danger or she could suffer permanent and serious health problems if she goes ahead with the pregnancy.

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9

Lagarde warns UK growth ‘not good’

The head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Christine Lagarde, has expressed renewed concern over the health of the UK economy.

In a report by the BBC, the UK’s growth numbers are “not particularly good”, Ms Lagarde said. But speaking ahead of a high-level meeting of policymakers in Washington, she refused

Judge calls for Duke & Duchess of Palma’s last 10 tax returns

The court handling the fraud charges against the King’s son-in-law Iñaki Urdangarín has ordered him and his wife to produce their last 10 annual tax declarations.

Judge José Castro has asked for the Duke and Duchess of Palma’s tax returns dating back to 2003, which he believes will shed further light on the Nóos Institute case.

The request for these fiscal declarations came from the pressure group Manos Limpias (‘clean hands’), which has also expressed its support for Castro for his attempt to press charges against the Duchess, the Infanta Cristina.

But the prosecution service is against these charges, saying there is no new evidence that could incriminate her.

A decision is expected to be made in the next few days.

In the meantime, the judge says he sees no reason to confiscate Urdangarín’s passport.

Another judge in Barcelona, working for the Duke and Duchess, has ordered a ban on publishing of the couple’s personal emails after Urdangarín’s co-director Diego Torres and seven national newspapers printed text from private messages.

to be drawn on whether UK should reassess its austerity policy.

Her comments came as Mark Carney, the next governor of the Bank of England, hinted at his concerns over the UK. In an interview ahead of the meeting between the IMF and the World Bank, he said the US recovery was leaving behind “crisis economies” that included the UK, the eurozone, and Japan.

Mr Carney has been reluctant to comment directly on the UK ahead of taking the helm of its central bank in July. But he appeared to back Chancellor George Osborne’s view that austerity measures were important to promoting growth: “[Central banks] can provide the conditions for growth... but they can’t deliver the long-term growth...That needs to come from true fiscal adjustment and fundamental structural reforms.”

The IMF’s chief economist, Olivier Blanchard, urged the UK to rethink its austerity policy in the face of continuing weakness in the economy. But speaking to reporters on Thursday, Ms Lagarde refused to go as far: “We clearly support the [austerity] policy,” she said. “[But] we’ve also said that, should growth be particularly low, then there should be consideration to adjusting by way of slowing the pace [of austerity]. Looking at numbers... the growth numbers are certainly not particularly good.”

The IMF is due to arrive in the UK in May to conduct a thorough investigation of the UK’s economy as part of its “Article IV” consultations. The consultations are made annually, and allow the IMF to monitor member countries and issue recommendations about economic policy.

Ms Lagarde said she did not wish to pre-empt those consultations by giving a view on UK economic policy now.

So far, the IMF has supported Mr Osborne’s policy of cuts to spending in order to reduce the budget deficit. But in recent months there have been growing questions over whether austerity measures are doing more harm than good, not least due to weak economic numbers.

Since cuts were introduced in 2010, the UK’s economic growth has consistently been below official forecasts, and borrowing has not been significantly reduced.

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Earlier this week, the IMF cut its growth forecast for the UK. It now expects the economy to grow by just 0.7% this year, down from its January forecast of 1% growth.

However, Mr Osborne has insisted that the only way to ensure long term economic growth in the UK was to first bring down the deficit. (www.bbc.co.uk)

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www.soltimes.com days during the summer months as well as running tournaments throughout the year.

During the weekend of 13/14th April Amigos bowlers were joined by thirteen members from a bowling club in Torrevieja, to take part in the inaugural tournament in what will be known as The IBEX CUP, a series of Club championship tournaments generously sponsored by Ibex Insurance Albox.

BOWLERS FORM NEW CLUB AT

AMIGOS BOWLING CENTRE

In February of 2013 a number of bowlers set about forming a Tenpin bowling club at Amigos bowling centre in Arboleas. After discussions with Paul Bourke the owner and the election of an eleven strong committee The Amigos 10 Pin Club de

Bowling was up and running.

The committee quickly attracted the support of The Corner Shop, Dulseco Wines, Sol Supermercado, Albox on Line, Inversa printing & Ibex insurance all local companies who generously wanted to back the club in the form of

sponsorship. The aim of the club is to raise the profile of the bowling centre and promote the four leagues that run from Tuesday to Friday and try to bring the game of Tenpin bowling to the local inhabitants of the area; by running fun

A club spokesperson said ‘This is the first of many events we will be hosting throughout the year; we hope they are all as successful as this weekend has been. As a club we would like to thank all those people involved in helping us get started, especially to the local companies in Albox who were prepared to take the time to listen to us and then offer us various forms of sponsorship’.

The club currently have sixty members and are actively looking for new players to take up the sport with a view to joining a league and becoming a

member of the club. It does not matter if you have never bowled before or have limited experience, the club has members of all levels of ability and a handicap scoring system is applied to all league games, it is a fun social experience with an element of competition.

The knowledge and expertise of a qualified bowling coach is also available at Amigos between 12-3 every Saturday.

The club are also available to organise social bowling events for any local group or business.

For more details contact the staff at Amigos bowling centre or email the club at members@ amigosbowlingcentre.com or visit the website www. amigosbowlingcentre.com

PHOTO:

L-R

Rick

&

Sue Lamb, Paul Bourke - Owner of Amigos Bowling, Berni Campbell, Mike & Heather Brosnan, Antonio Jesus García Valverde, Mick Gardiner, Cheryl Watkins

11

Dear All Well as expected the ordinance for the regulation of noise contamination was approved only by the P.P party, all of the opposition parties voted against this by-law as it contemplates the prohibition of many situations that will affect trade for many business’s and also can turn a peaceful private party at home in to an illegal situation that can be fined from 300 to 3000 Euros.

The original proposed ordinance made it in to all the main national newspapers, radios and News programs along with The Times and the BBC for being extremely restrictive and even ridiculous as you will have all heard.

The initial proposal has been modified and improved but still bans handling or cooking food on terraces, also banning people from having a drink or food standing up on a terrace and any kind of music al fresco (just to name a few).

A copy of the ordinance will shortly be translated into English and sent out ASAP. This ordinance will now be available to the public and there is a 30 day time period for allegations before it is officially put in to practice, allegations will delay this procedure and possibly change it in some way.

Best wishes, Jessica Simpson Mojacar Councillor

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at Cactus Bar (Bouganvillas Roundabout) Fun & Games ~ 3pm onwards Traditional Games including Spikenpoepen, Maffe Fiets & Beschuitfluiten The Lions Club will be hosting Horse racing, Oi Bingo, Silly golf and lots, lots more AKA entainments will be compering and providing the Karaoke Great fun for the young & not so young!

Proceeds from the day will go towards the purchase of a special walking frame for 3 ½year old local girl Gemma Gonzales who suffers from Cerebral Palsy

The Vera & District Lions Club helping local charities & other good causes

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SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

ALMERIMAR & surrounding area El Ejido...

The Ayuntamiento of El Ejido have initiated a campaign to prevent further accidents in the 4,890 reservoirs that exist in the area.

The Government team have announced the start of a campaign to make owners aware of the applicable legislation, as stated in Article 8.3.3. and Article 8.3.12.4 of the Plan General de Ordenación Urbana de El Ejido in terms of maintenance and proper fencing that is required to prevent accidental access to reservoirs and ponds.

The Concejal de Agricultura ejidense, Manuel Gómez Galera, said that ‘although there are regular inspections on farms in the municipality during the year, now during the growing season is when from the Consistory is placing greater emphasis on compliance with the current

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legislation.’

El Ejido has more than 7,000 farms that are supplied through irrigation reservoirs, so ‘it is very necessary to work to eradicate accidents in reservoirs by conducting information campaigns, improved security measures and inspection of compliance with current law.

‘All members of the rural patrol inspectors will check that the reservoirs comply with all security measures, especially those that are most risk, as in the case of below ground level tanks with plastic liners

El Ejido...

The Guardia Civil have arrested a man identified as ACH, who is thought to be connected with setting fire to four vehicles, with the resultant fire necessitating the evacuation of about 30 residents of a building in Las Norias de Daza.

The 112 Emergency Service Andalucía was alerted to a fire in a garage at Número 15 Calle Cucharon.

The 112 services mobilised the members of the Bomberos de Poniente, Sanitarios, Guardia Civil and Policía Local to the site. They preemptively evacuated 30 residents from the property, though they were able to return to their homes once the fire was extinguished.

Four vehicles were damaged, one was completely burnt out, but which had set fire to the electricity box in the garage.

The garage itself was damaged, but there were no injuries.

Friday Golf Society 19 april:

The day started a little cloudy but by the end of the round we were playing in reasonable sunshine. We had 31 members taking part in an X x Y + Z competition.

The winners this week with an amazing 150 points were Robbie MacMillan, Harry Whelan, Rosemary Moody and Lennart Olsson. They scored 13 points more than the second place team.

Last place and chocolates went to Mel Moody, Leigh Burrows, Rita White and Mike Gray with a score of 111 points. This included 22 points on the 8th hole where the two ladies both scored par 3s playing off the more difficult FGS tees. So with Mel in last place it was winners and losers in the Moody household this week.

Nearest the pin was won by Hans Ooft with a distance of 2.13m. Doug Kemp, who was playing the first time with us in a while due to injury, took great pleasure telling everyone that Hans missed the putt.

Five players beat their handicap this week.

Well done to John Woodhead (39 points), Roisin Andrew (39), Sharon Sly (37), Robbie MacMillan (37) and Jacqui Mays (37).

Thank you to John Fielding for collecting the cards, getting the bottles out ready for the prize giving and doing the prize giving this week.

You can see the full results at:

www.fridaygolfsociety.es

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

what’s on Wednesday

Sol Times Distributed

Thursday

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

Friday

stumble inn - live entertainment 9pm Friday Golf

Saturday

send your events to editor@soltimes.com

Sunday

10am – 1pm: Almerimar Walking Club - Meet at Mercadona SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH ‘RASTRO-MARKET’ IN CAR PARK OPPOSITE LEO’S

Monday

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

Tuesday

Tuesday Golf

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

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

El Ejido Bowls Club

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

El Ejido Rugby Club

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

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

For more information call Jonathan on 695 635 078

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

news update Reports & PHOTOS by Martin Shortland

The future of the beleaguered Roquetas Aquarium was discussed at a council meeting last week.

Councillors voted to set up an all party committee to look into the possibility of the local authority buying a 75% share in the company. The attraction came within a day of closure in February, when the electricity company Endesa threatened to cut the power supply if outstanding bills weren’t paid. Without power the fish would die, so not wanting the responsibility for the deaths of thousands of species on their hands, the company paid up.

13

Committee Created To Study Potential Purchase Of The Aquarium

A short term rescue plan was subsequently cobbled together and sufficient funds made available to ensure the aquarium stays open until August. The aquarium has suffered liquidity problems almost since it opened in 2006 and towards the end of last year, things became so bad the staff went for months without pay.

At first, the town council refused to get involved in any rescue discussions, saying it was not their place to involve public money in a private company. However, in the final weeks before it was due to close, the mayor stepped in and encouraged both sides to do all they could to keep the centre open.

The aquarium is the largest in Andalucia and houses many rare species from around the world and yet when I first reported the story of its imminent closure back in January, many people I spoke to were not aware of its existence. It clearly suffers from a lack of any promotional budget and this detail needs to be addressed quickly if it is to stand any chance of seeing the year out. A spokesman from the mayor’s office said the council now felt it had an obligation to help secure the long term future of this important tourist centre.

The main focus for the committee will be to find ways of maximising use of the aquarium throughout the year.

At the moment, it is dependent on the short four month tourist season to raise enough income for the whole year; something which clearly doesn’t work. The group will look at environmental, training and educational possibilities as well as ways of expanding the tourist income for a longer period. Local environmental groups, including the Almeria based wildlife protection organisation Promar, have suggested ways the centre could be better appreciated by a wider audience and they will be consulted by the committee.

Aquarium director Enrique Fernandez said he was delighted by the news of a potential buy in by the council, saying, “Roquetas is blessed with this

wonderful facility, which for too long has been under funded by the parent company. It has all the potential to be one of the biggest attractions in the region and with help from the council, I’m confident we can make that happen.”

The local council is not generally known for its cross party cordiality, so it will be interesting to see if the joint committee can put party politics to one side and work together on this complicated study project. With less than four months before the next closure deadline, time is not on their side. There is a lot of ground to be covered, but for the moment at least, there’s a small glimmer of hope for the continuing future of the Roquetas Aquarium.

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

Viator

A 30-year-old identified as FJHC suffered in the accident while handling a pallet machine in an agricultural cooperative. The facts of the event are unclear because the man was alone in the warehouse when he was found unconscious on the floor with a wound that could perhaps have occurred if he had fainted while using the machine to move pallets of tomatoes.

The man was taken by ambulance to Torrecárdenas Hospital. An investigation has been opened to determine how the accident occurred.

El Ejido

The Junta de Gobierno Local del Ayuntamiento de El Ejido has given the green light to works on the paving

of the Camino del Alcor, in Matagorda.

The project, which is budgetted at 57,617 euros, includes paving, stormwater drainage and road marking the secondary rural road, which is one kilometre in length, and directly serves more than 60 hectares of greenhouses in an area of over 600 hectares of greenhouses.

The Concejal de Agricultura del Ayuntamiento de El Ejido, Manuel Gómez Galera, said that the road is currently in very poor condition, with serious surface water flooding and damage from dust causing great economic damage on the farms adjoining.

Galera Gómez remarked that ‘the residents and users of the area have become desperate about this situation, so the local administration has tried to provide an immediate response to these demands.

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SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

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15

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

viewpoint

E ver E scalating E x pendit u re Strictly speaking Lucy, the Dog That Is Not Ours, shouldn’t cost us anything, because she is not ours. However, it doesn’t work like that. Apart from her luxuriously padded indoors bed with its tasteful acanthus design on the cover she has an array of mats, which have to be placed in strategic places so that she can lie in the sun/out of the sun on the back/front terrace according to whim. All this needed buying, with money - but you can’t have the poor dog sleep on the hard floor, can you now?

Then there is her supper bowl, which needs daily replenishing with Mercadona’s finest bespoke dog food.

Of course, like all good children, when she has eaten up then she has to have a treat – more expense!

So far keeping someone else’s dog has seen a steady but acceptable trickle of cash disappearing from the Biggs back pocket, but she is quite happy about the situation.

Now an ugly black cloud has appeared on the horizon. I had a feeling that she wasn’t quite right, nothing specific, just not quite right. So we put the cage in the car, and the dog in the cage, took plenty

By Jos Biggs

josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk

of towels to mop up the inevitable sick, and visited the vet. He confirmed my worst fears – Leishmanns. She has come up against the down side of her free spirited existence, roaming the campo at all hours of the day and night, and now is a sick little dog....or will be if not treated. We looked at each other and swallowed bravely. This was going to cost, and the trickle of cash being spent on José’s dog was going to become a torrent.

Or leave her to die a particularly nasty death? Not an option, not even for a second. We left the vet’s surgery weighed down with pills and injections, but much lighter in the purse.

I know that it is a waste of time suggesting to José that he might like to contribute towards the cost of keeping his dog free from suffering. He is not a cruel man, but he is a farmer from generations of farmers, and to him animals are for eating or for working. If they are no good for either, then they go. The idea of keeping an animal simply because you like it is incomprehensible to him, just as he sees no point whatsoever in filling the garden with useless but pretty flowers when you could be growing vegetables to feed you through the year.

So it’s down to us. Lucy will be treated, expense or not – because she’s worth it!

There but for the Grace of Dog

We were enjoying morning coffee and a rare pastry at our preferred cafe the other morning – basking in the sunshine and wondering what the workers were doing – when my English rose of a wife, suddenly mused aloud, ‘Why is it we love our animals so much?’

‘Do what?’ I spluttered.

‘Our pets - why do we love them? I mean, dogs do their business on the pavement and we faithfully scoop it up in plastic bags to dispose of it. And

they pee up lamp posts don’t they.’

I nodded in agreement, not knowing where this was heading.

‘And our pussies’, she went on.

‘They scrabble around in the litter tray and bury their do do’s, and dogs and cats sniff each other’s backsides and still we love them don’t we’.

The chocolate éclair I was eating had suddenly lost its appeal and I pushed the plate away.

‘Well for a start’, I said. ‘As far as I am aware, dogs do not sniff cats Khyber’s, or vice versa, but yes I see

what you mean. That’s just what they do; it’s the way of the world. Humans shake hands and do the kissy kissy thing and animals, um, well . . . kiss arse so to speak’.

Then I did my own bit of musing.

‘I mean; Eskimos rub noses. That’s not exactly hygienic is it? What if your missus has got a bunged up nose?

You could walk around with somebody else’s bogey on the end of your hooter and not know it. Like going around all day not being aware that there’s a bit of spinach stuck in your

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teeth. It’s embarrassing.’

I paused for breath.

‘What made you suddenly think of all this anyway?’

‘I was just wondering who made the first decision to make wild animals into pets and I thought it might be something for you to write about’, my wife informed me.

I doubted that very much, but then after a bit more thought I reckoned that she might have a point and just to confirm it look . . . there’s over three hundred words already!

And she is right. At some point in time, man decided to domesticate the cat and dog, both of which are essentially wild animals. It’s a bit like the age old questions of who decided to eat the first egg, because back in the mists of time, some brave or perverted– I’m not sure which - cave man type; having observed a curious ovoid object appearing out of a chickens rear end had called to his wife to throw some bacon in the pan, because he had a great idea for that morning’s breakfast.

Likewise cow’s milk. Who in heavens name took the first plunge and started using the stuff on his cornflakes?

Cows udders are not the prettiest things in the world and as far as I can see, it can only have come about by accident or as a result of some elicit and kinky bovine/human liaison. But

ALQUERIA - The road to anarchy During Alqueria’s turbulent transition from small Spanish village to independent sovereign Republic one trapping of statehood was overlooked.

The legal system. When the laws of Spain applied, it wasn’t so much which laws to obey but which could be disobeyed with impunity. When people went too far the Guardia Civil would turn up. Driving around the village in a 4x4, elbows out of windows and mirrored sunshades, it was their attempt to intimidate. The occasional discarded piece of fruit or well aimed root vegetable bouncing off the car’s bodywork demonstrated that the people of Alqueria remained unmoved.

Now they had set up housekeeping on their own some semblance of law and order had to be maintained. Alqueria was however in an unusual and unique position. The Village had its Remitroot crop which meant self-sufficiency, dignity and autonomy. A reversion to the golden days of eighteenth century Andalucía. The dream of every atavistic Anarchist. Alqueria had emerged from an insignificant Spanish backwater to the closest thing to paradise in the northern hemisphere. Its a pity the population didn’t realise it. Relevant political ideologies usually imply that to get from Alqueria’s initial state to its present a total destruction of society is required. Alqueria managed the transformation without this intermediary step.

This is the crux of the problem the people of Alqueria felt cheated.

The occasional bout of wanton destruction always appeals to the good folk of the pueblo. Lawbreaking is almost second nature for the population. Do the law-makers create laws so they can be broken and therefore have to be enforced? Do they leave the Village Republic without statute and therefore retain a law abiding society?

There was to be a public meeting in the plaza in front of the Bar la Casa Devante. The question would be voted upon by the entire village.

This, the politicians will tell you is an exercise in pure democracy. The sceptics will say it is simply an attempt by those in power to abdicate responsibility and cover their hindquarters against failure.

The Bar la Casa Devante was a bad choice of venue.

Horacio Stranglardeganso, landlord of the Bar used the opportunity to introduce a ‘Happy Hour’, eight drinks for the price of seven.

Rodriquez, while putting the case for legislation received a direct hit from a flying Remitroot bottle and was rendered unconscious.

Manuela while putting her case for a lawless and therefore law abiding society was interrupted by five separate proposals, and they certainly weren’t marriage. Manuela’s passionate plea won the day by an overwhelming majority. The village-folk were duly put on their honour and asked to look to their consciences before they acted, spoke or even got out of bed.

That night the bank was robbed

John MacDonald (El Sordo) - www.caratacus.eu

16

let’s not go there.

I can understand how our canine companions evolved into the domesticated pooches we know today and traditionally, man’s best friend.

Dogs were used for hunting game and were therefore useful and even essential additions to the community.

The proximity to their human masters would naturally develop over time and eventually strengthen into the close bond that we see today.

Cats are another matter.

The oldest archaeological finds for domesticated cats, were found on the island of Cyprus believe it or not and date back some 9,000 years. There was even evidence that cats were buried in their own graves beside human ones. Perhaps Neolithic rats were a problem back then, or as Egyptian records indicate several thousand years later; cats were simply venerated as gods.

This last explanation is the more plausible one and I can relate to it entirely, because as an owner of a property that is lorded over by two sleek felines, I can confirm that they do indeed have the airs and graces of four legged deities.

But pigs are the biggest mystery to me. These guys are supposed to be the most intelligent of all the four legged creatures and moreover, they will eat just about anything put in front of them – including you if you happen to be taking a kip in the sty.

So potentially, they are great vermin exterminators and efficient trash collectors.

Why then, if they are so smart, did they not take the opportunity to make themselves indispensable to man all those millennia ago?

If they had, they could be fetching sticks and warming their trotters in front of a blazing fire on a winter’s night, instead of appearing alongside greens and apple sauce on the Sunday lunch plate.

By Colin Bird : badbirdnow@gmail.com

www.soltimes.com

Members of the F.A.C.E. (Fundraising in Arboleas, Caring for Everyone) Committee, were ex static on discovering at the end of a recent “Nearly New” clothes sale held at the Bar internaciónal Diner, in Arboleas, 277 Euros had been raised.

F.A.C.E. President Adele Wrigglesworth, said “In these present harsh economic conditions, it is very heart warming to receive the support of the local community and it enables F.A.C.E. to continue its work offering support to local projects that will be of benefit to local citizens as well as National causes such as supporting cancer and renal organisations”.

The next F.A.C.E. Fundraising event will be a quiz night, which is to be held at the Bar Kubatin (Underneath the Hostel Meson in Arboleas) which will be held on Tuesday 14th May. For further information on either F.A.C.E. or the forthcoming quiz please telephone Adele Wrigglesworth on telephone number 667 255 094.

Report by Richard B. Tolman.

Photo - the F.A.C.E. Committee Celebrates – L-R Jackie Simpson, Pauline Marshal, Gilly Elliott-Binns, President Adele Wrigglesworth, Richard Tolman, Sue Pearce and Vice President Carrie Green

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

17

Clothes Fly Off The Rails for F.A.C.E.

flamenco festival a great success

On 14th April 2013 in glorious sunshine and overlooking the beautiful playa and marina, more than 200 people attended the long awaited Flamenco Festival at the Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel in Aguilas.

The event, in aid of the charity Helping Hands, was arranged by their Patron, Doña Beatriz Garcia Romera. Many local dignitaries and well known flamenco artistes were in attendance and the day proved to be a colourful event.

In addition to the Flamenco was an auction which included a magnificent Rooster (which now has a new home with many lovely lady chickens!), and a performance

by Oscar Fernandez, lead singer with The Berry Chuckett Trio.

Commendation Awards were also presented to those who have assisted the local community and the charity itself. Included were Furniture Plus - Mazarron, Clinica Veterinario Cervantes - Lorca, The Animal Hotel - Aguilas, Amelia Manzanara and

Rita Lenssons.

Finally the ladies of Helping Hands and their friends treated the audience to a Fashion Show displaying some of the beautiful garments donated to their shop in Calle Fuensanta, (situated off Avenida Juan Carlos in Aguilas).

For further information on the charity please contact Linda on 968 48 29 48.

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18

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SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

LOOK GOOD, FEEL GREAT

Can you CATCH depression?

Depression and the emotions associated with it can be contagious, according to a new study.

In a report by Mail Online, researchers have found that the gloomy mindset of students vulnerable to depression can be catching, making their friends more likely to suffer the condition six months later.

The research follows studies showing that people who respond negatively to stressful life events - interpreting them as the result of factors they can’t change and as a reflection of their own shortcomings - are more vulnerable to depression.

This ‘cognitive vulnerability’ is such a strong risk factor for depression that it can be used to predict who is likely to experience depression in the future.

Doctors Gerald Haeffel and Jennifer Hames, of Indiana’s University of Notre Dame, said that this vulnerability seemed to establish itself in early adolescence but remain stable throughout adulthood.

They decided to investigate whether it might be ‘contagious’ during major life transitions such as starting at university.

They followed 206 room mates who had been paired up randomly, all of whom had just started their first year of university.

The results revealed that students who were assigned to a room mate with high

levels of cognitive vulnerability were likely to ‘catch’ their room mate’s style of thinking and develop a vulnerability to depression themselves.

The reverse was also true. Those assigned to room mates who were not prone to depression experienced decreases in their own levels negative thinking.

The result showed that students who developed an increase in depressive thinking in the first three months of college, had nearly twice the level of depressive symptoms at six months than those who didn’t show such an increase.

Dr Haeffel said it provided ‘striking evidence’ for the contagion theory.

He added that the findings suggest that altering a person’s environment could be used a part of a treatment for depression because a person’s vulnerability fluctuates over time.

He said: ‘Our study demonstrates that cognitive vulnerability has the potential to wax and wane over time depending on the social context.

‘This means that cognitive vulnerability should be thought of as plastic rather than immutable.’

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19

Kick START your Meditation with a healthy eating plan

Recently I have been working with Eden Retreats in Spain who offer more than a Healthy eating plan. They demonstrate a professional approach with years of experience. Offering detox programmes, weight loss, boot camp and much more. They have a deep knowledge in general healthy living. People come from all over to spend time in this environment and kick start their own healthy living plan in a safe and relaxing space.

After working with one of their clients after a week I noticed each day how this client improved, from her skin to her overall thoughts about herself. This got me thinking that food also plays a major role in our lives today and if we do not spend some time looking at eating raw foods our energy systems are becoming so toxic that it is hard for the body to keep going some days!

Bringing Meditation and healing into the client’s life seem to speed up the process of selfdiscovery and assist her in moving forward quickly on ALL levels, because we are not just our body!

Sometimes getting in touch with that pure essence inside us can be difficult in this fast paced world so I would like to offer you a couple of techniques before I leave to attend the Amarvarti Buddhist Monastery in the UK, where I hope to improve and deepen my knowledge of Meditation.

Meditation Sit quietly in a chair with a straight back and begin with taking 3 deep breaths, then to quieten the mind say the following to yourself internally “I am breathing in I am breathing out¨ for 2-3 minutes, you will feel your body listening and it will naturally start to relax.

As you relax take your attention to your feet and see your feet growing roots and being rooted into the earth, at this point send as much love to the earth, she will respond back to you. This may come as a warm feeling in your body somewhere. Next send as much love to the sky, into the night or through the sun, do this through your inner vision with your eyes closed.

Once love has been sent to both the earth and the sky turn into your own heart and send as much love as you can to your own heart and stay in this loving space within as long as you wish to. By completing this simple meditation every day you will find that your energy levels will improve along with your connection to self.

If you would like to know why this Meditation is so important please write to me. I would also like to know how you get on and if you find by doing this 5 minute meditation twice a day assists you.

I look forward to writing about my visit to Amarvarti Buddhist Monastery at the end of May...

Written by Tracy Hughes at Meditation In Life, For Meditation Groups and One to One sessions please contact me at info@meditationinlife.com or see my website www.meditationinlife.com

Feel happier about getting older Stop feeling miserable about getting older - and embrace life to the full, whatever your age!

Change your vocabulary

Be honest: how often do you find yourself shaking your head resignedly and using phrases such as ‘In my day’, ‘It’s my age’ or ‘I’m too old for that’? Stop it! Banish these words from your vocabulary immediately. Don’t even think them. They can have an insidious effect and make you feel older than you actually are. Remember, it’s still “your day”. You haven’t suddenly ceased to exist because you passed a certain age. Live life to the full!

Stop comparing yourself to your PARENTS Why measure your own life against previous generations? OK, your mum may have seemed middle-aged when she was 40 while your granny seemed positively ancient at 65 - but times are changing. We now enjoy more career and leisure opportunities, better healthcare and longer life expectancy than ever before. It’s entirely possible your granny never even owned a passport - but nowadays, nearly half the UK’s over-55s are planning to travel the world after they retire, according to Aviva’s recent Real Retirement Report.

Stop wishing you were younger Wishing you were 21 again is utterly pointless. You’re never going to turn back the years, no matter how much you worry - so why worry at all?

What’s more, all that anxiety can actually make you look and feel older. Your body tends to respond to your mindset. The best antiageing attitude you can adopt is to be kind to yourself and accept who you truly are.

Need more convincing? People with positive attitudes to ageing tend to live longer than those who are more pessimistic, according to a Dutch study of 999 people.

Don’t try to act younger

Yes, we’d all like to have more years ahead of us - but you can’t make yourself younger simply by behaving in the same way you did when you had fewer cares and youth on your side. You’re not 21 any more - and frankly, why would you want to be?

You’ve lived and loved. You’re mature and wise; instead of trying to recreate your youth, focus on all the positives of that wisdom and experience. Acknowledge all the things you can do, not all the things you can’t. Don’t try and go back in time: concentrate on moving forwards.

Don’t dress ‘young’ Now, we’re not saying you shouldn’t follow fashion or shop in Topshop. And if you can still squeeze into that favourite little black dress you’ve had for the past 10 years, good for you! But instead of focusing on looking young, focus on looking good. Learnwhat colours and styles suit you; and you probably have a little more money to spare so you can invest in good quality clothes that flatter your shape. Besides, knowing what suits you now is far more useful than making pointless comparisons with the way you used to look.

Stay clued-up and connected While some of us try too hard to reclaim our youth, others go to the other extreme. For instance, we reject certain kinds of music, fashion, films and TV shows because we assume they’re not meant for us or we’re too old to enjoy them. Nonsense! If something appeals to you - whatever you’re age - there’s no reason not to embrace it. If you genuinely enjoy listening to the latest club sounds or want to watch ‘The Only Way Is Essex’, why the hell shouldn’t you?

Dra Monica Algañaraz Over 40 years experience in physiotherapy and osteopathic treatment. General postural assessment and holistic health checks available English spoken For more information or appointments call 695 355 381 monica@centrophysis.net www.centrophysis.net Ctra. Baja no. 29A 1o c. Olula Del Rio

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SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

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REVIEW it...

The Gathering by Anne Enright

The Gathering is an extremely dark reflection of the protagonist’s insecurities, especially guilt after the suicide of Liam, her closest brother in age and affections. The experience unsettles Veronica who plunges into the depths of despair and misery. It is a difficult book to read because it shows the disintegration of the human psyche through bereavement and what we are left with is the guilt and remorse. It contains many emotional truths which your average reader will find uncomfortable and distressing.

Enright won the Booker Man prize for this novel and yet many reviewers have been extremely critical of the book. I suspect that it is the worrying veil of darkness that hovers from start to finish. What I find interesting is the diversity of reactions but isn’t that the whole point of reading and reviewing? Wouldn’t it be tedious if we always agreed?

As siblings Veronica and Liam were close during their childhood shared with ten other siblings living in close proximity to each other.

“I am the one who loved him most” she confesses although she grew to dislike him as an adult and because of her affluent lifestyle at the age of 39, she is the one who automatically pays for the funeral, identifies him and brings him home to rest in peace.

Liam’s life was empty, meaningless and full of squalor and what a contrast with Veronica’s grandeur.

He was a “messer” and unreliable although his sister tells us he could be astute but simultaneously “blunderingly stupid.” The demon that finally tempted fate was drink and he turned vicious when he’d been drinking. When sober, he would lose things or simply steal. And then it killed him.

He was constantly restless and unfit for the adult world metaphorically having been left behind as if he had been frozen in time, living permanently in the seventies. In all honesty, Veronica always knew that Liam wouldn’t make it, that fate, for what it was worth, wasn’t written in the stars, it was written in the body or the bones. It simply means that he was always going to die young.

Liam was prone to boredom and decline, vague which seemed to be a Hegarty characteristic. Veronica chronicles the fated family going back to her maternal grandmother, Ada who she romanticises as pure and the things that poets wrote about but then distorts the poetical image, vulgarising her as if she was a whore. She blames Ada and how “each and everyone of her grandchildren went vaguely wrong,” and questions why she brought so much death into the world then she retracts this blame.

She also blames her mother for this chaos and producing a dysfunctional family: 12 children, 7 miscarriages, condemning them as her helpless parents who “bred as naturally as they might shit!” and ultimately for Liam’s suicide. And yet the complexity and ambivalence of her feelings come across: “We pity our mothers, what they had to put up with in bed or in the kitchen, and we hate them or we worship them, but we always cry for them.”

His suicide has such a devastating effect on Veronica in that it brought home many painful truths about her own life, marriage and family, her own illusion of the middle class dream. Life was about choices. She could go home and pick up the pieces of her fractured, miserable life and pretend to be happy knowing that her daughters didn’t need her or want her or even Tom, her husband. They would survive without her.

She visits old haunts during the night, drinking and driving trying to understand her own life and Liam’s death.

Within the novel sexuality is warped and seen as un-natural. When Veronica comments on Ada she also refers to her beau, Nugent who carried a torch for her all of his sad life and she describes a sexual encounter that seems more pornographic than innocent that may or may not have taken place. It is this man who was responsible for damaging Liam thirty years ago, destroying his innocence and filling him with terror. Veronica as an 8 year old, witnessed a scene which she could not comprehend as a child but which horrified her as an adult when she could!

After the funeral, she wants the family to know the truth that Liam was interfered with and this was the catalyst that sent him on a downward spiral on a course of self-destruction. As for the protagonist, she is unable to return to middle class suburbia and hovers around Gatwick airport in a state of limbo: “I have been falling into my own life for months. And I am about to hit it now.”

Her future seems as bleak as Liam’s decision to end his life perhaps for similar reasons? But then, knowing how indecisive Veronica is, she could simply go back home. With Veronica you never quite know the outcome!

Publisher: Vintage Books. ISBN: 978-0-099-50163-3

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

21

International Dawn Chorus Day International Dawn Chorus Day (Sunday 5th May) boasts a position as one of the most enduring and popular annual environmental events on the calendar.

The simple concept is of early morning gatherings to hear the dawn chorus at nature reserves, parks or other open spaces, often followed by a healthy, hearty breakfast!

An annual celebration of the world’s oldest wake-up call – the dawn chorus – and the beauty of bird song, this day i s now truly an international event, celebrated as far away as France, Italy, Pakistan, South Africa and New Zealand.

International Dawn Chorus Day encourages people around the world to celebrate and enjoying local wildlife; thousands of individuals make the effort to rise early and appreciate nature’s daily miracle; millions more get to here about the event and learn more about the need to conserve wild birds.

THE BIRDS OF ANDALUCÍA The Sierra Morena region north of Sevilla is where you find the Black Vulture,

lowland woods and forests. one of the country’s rarest birds - there are thought to be just a few hundred pairs here. Yet this may well be the largest colony in Europe, with most to be found in the Paraje Natural Sierra Pelada y Rivera del Aserrador, south of Aroche in Huelva province.

Equally rare is the magnificent Spanish Imperial Eagle; again, most are located in one place, in this case within the Parque Naciónal de Doñana. Other large birds of prey which can be found in mountainous regions include the Golden Eagle (and several other eagles) and the Egyptian and Griffon Vultures. Smaller birds of prey, such as the Kestrel, Buzzard, various Harriers and Red Kite, can be spotted in

A far more common sight is the large White Stork, which can be seen in the western region of Andalucía where they nest from spring to summer on electricity pylons, trees and towers. Water birds are far more plentiful, with many species, particularly in the wetlands area along the Atlantic coast; these include wild ducks and flamingos.

Look out for the colourful Golden Oriole, which can be seen in orchards and woodlands, particularly during the summer months.

The Hoopoe is a similarly striking bird, common in open woodlands and golf courses.

Last but not least, various Woodpeckers and Owls which generally inhabit mountainous woodlands.

22

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

braben’s blog...

Have you ever arrived at your holiday destination and wondered how the travel brochure managed to make such a mangled tin hut look like the ultimate in glamour, comfort and luxury? It may have happened to you, but I’ve come across something that beats even those far-fetched descriptions.

Just listen to this.

You know the way you use maps and other things produced by reputable people to help find your way around or to inspire you to plan exciting exotic trips? Well, don’t, or at least be careful what you believe and maybe check things carefully. There is an island in the South Pacific called Sandy Island which you can plainly see on Google Earth, in fact you can even hover over it and see a couple of photographs, allegedly of the island , though on closer inspection they do leave a lot of questions unanswered-snow on a Pacific island? A group of Scientists from a University in Australia were so intrigued by what they were lead to believe were some interesting features the island possessed that they undertook a 25 day voyage to get there. Guess whatyes, we’re spot on and we’re not even Scientists. It doesn’t exist. Not only is Google Earth left red faced, or should that be sandy faced, but also The Times Atlas of the World joins it in the “Oops we lost an island” club. Both spectacularly and undeniably seriously, geographically challenged.

I’m sure Google and The Times Atlas will want to sweep the episode of the misplaced island under the table-if they can find the table-but how did it happen? How did two well respected organisations lose an island, or at least show one that doesn’t exist? I have a suggestion. A pigeon’s skeleton has been found in a chimney in Surrey, but attached to its leg bone was a canister with a secret code in it. Speculation is that it stems from the Second World Graham is married War when pigeons were used to carry coded messages to Helen and has however, the codes were so good that contemporary a daughter, Alice. spies can’t break them. Could it be that the war effort He lives part of the year near Albox, included creating fictitious islands in far flung places but works in Qatar, to confuse the other side? This gives me an idea. Why teaching. If you wish don’t they hold the next “I’m A Celebrity” on Sandy to contact Graham regarding this Island? Just think of the huge numbers of annoying and article email: quite useless celebrities, politicians, Ants and Decs we helenandg@yahoo. co.uk could misplace!

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

Memories on wheels II

I started a new job in 2003 with a bashed up Peugeot 205 thanks to a crook crashing into me; luckily it was live-in position so I had no need to commute.

The insurance company wrote it off as being uneconomical to repair and sent me a cheque for 450 quid. Lady Luck appeared via a work colleague who moonlighted as a car dealer. He sold me a red Rover 216 GTI for £600. It was a joy to drive, fast and very reliable. I loved the car so much I drove it here to Spain in 2006.

In 2007 a Trojan horse or rather a Lada Riva 4x4 was given to me. It seemed a more practical car for driving the hills in so I made the fateful decision to sell the Rover ploughing the proceeds into renovating the Lada.1000€ and six months later the Lada was ready. I was impatient to go up hill and down dale in it and went off exploring, an hour later the big end went in the evil money pit car. The Lada was dead!

To add insult to injury the chap who’d bought my lovely Rover, returned to the UK and had sold it on to the local teenage boy racer. I enviously saw my old car zoom past me on a regular basis and then one day whilst walking the dogs I discovered the beautiful red car crashed and deaded against a huge boulder in the rambla. The stupid boy had drunkenly tried to go off roading in it!

Before moving from the UK I had bought a 4 year old lhd Fiat Punto JTD to use as a posh client car for Spain. Perfect for driving round town, it was absolutely useless for driving along Spanish tracks. Now the Lada

project was dead in the water the only option was the Fiat. It was so low on the road that the smallest bump would tickle the oil sump, in three years 2000€ was spent keeping mechanics in overalls or whatever it is they spend their wages on. Then just 2 weeks after fitting yet another new sump and 2 new tyres, the steering failed in Arboleas leaving me dangling upside down from the upended car. Regular readers still mention this to me as we were quite the tourist attraction in Los Carrascos.

Needing a car quick I found a Kia Rio estate and boy did that owner see me coming, for the next 8 weeks everything that could go wrong did. I ended up hiring a car as the bloomin thing was constantly off the road. Over the next 2 years nearly 4000€ was spent repairing a car that had cost 1500€. I should have bought a yacht!

So in 2012 we bought a very boring but reliable Ford Focus estate and what a bargain that has been. The Kia grumpily sat in the drive gathering dust until a visit to Rome when the wife and I fell in love with the new Fiat 500! We daydreamed about buying one until late last year a billboard proclaimed no deposit, interest free credit and 1000€ for trading in any old banger. Bye-bye Kia! Now for the first time in my life I have a brand new car under warranty! We treat it like royalty, parking it only where we deem it safe from harm. Yet twice already it’s been bashed into, the last time by a teenager on his moped breaking the Fiats rear bumper much like I did 30 years ago. What goes around….

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

LEGAL CORNER WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR

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

Q. Please explain the situations in which a resident qualifies for non-payment of capital gains tax?

A. The first thing is to be able to prove to the notary the day of the sale

that you are in fact a Spanish tax resident. It is very important to realize that having what everyone calls the “residencia” issued by the police does not in fact prove you are a tax resident of Spain, and that if this is the only document you take to the notary to prove tax residency, the notary will consider you a non resident and you will be subject to a 3% retention.

To prove you are a tax resident your solicitor needs to request a certificate from the tax authorities, which can then be taken to the notary. If you suffer the nasty surprise of them saying that in fact you are a non resident, you will need to get this amended by proving to them that you are in fact a resident before they will issue you with the correct certificate for the notary. The best way to secure tax residency status is making a resident income tax declaration in Spain in June of every year. If you are going to sell shortly, request this certificate in advance to avoid last minute surprises.

1. The possible total or partial exemption from capital gains tax due to reinvestment (roll-over): If you are a resident and sell one property to purchase another of the same or higher price you can claim 100% exemption from capital gains tax. To benefit you have to have been a resident for at least 3 year before the sale takes place, and you must purchase the next property within 2 years of the sale. If you are moving to a smaller property, you can claim exemption of a percentage of the capital gains tax.

2. Claim of total exemption if you are over 65 years old: If you are over 65 and sell your main home (where you must have lived for at least 3 years as a resident), you can claim 100% exemption from capital gains tax even if you do not reinvest. If the property is owned by a couple and one member is over 65 and the other is not, you are allowed to claim the exemption in respect to half the price.

If you do not qualify for any of the above exemptions the rate of tax applied to your profit is 21% for profit up to 6000 euros, 24% for profit between 6001 euros and 24000 euros and 27% of profit above 24001 euros.

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

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SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

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110.000€

Fantastic price - excellent detached cortijo in very good condition, full of character with separate self-contained annexe. Beautiful plot of 6,600m2 with lovely views.4 beds,3 baths,2 kitchens, air-con, phone, internet & sat TV connected.

Charming new 1st floor apartment, with 50m terraces giving wonderful sea views, close to the beach and amenities. 2 double beds,2 baths. Fitted kitchen, underground parking & store room, Green garden & communal swimming pool.

Excellent attic duplex in very good condition with 2 large terraces giving wonderful sea views - only 50metres to the beach. 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, air-con - hot and cold - throughout. Excellent location.

REF.595

REF.538

REF.096 mojacar village 69.950€

arboleas

138.000€

villaricos

239.000€

bargain

Excellent reformed Typical Spanish Country house, in very good condition, full of character with 21m garage and 64m store room. Beautiful plot of 2,000m2 with lovely views. 4 beds, 1 baths, kitchens, lounge with fire place, all mains connected, A/C, Internet connected ..

HARBOUR LIGHT, Charming first line town house, in excellent condition with wonderful sea & port views. 2 double beds,2 baths, Fully fitted air-con, Underground parking and swimming pool, sold furnished, very centrally located.

Penthouse apartment with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, in the centre of the village, close to bars & restaurants, kitchen, large private roof terrace with fabulous sea views, excellent value for money, easy access to all amenities

23

24

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

Garden Parasols Need some shade in your garden?

Take at look at our top tips on choosing a garden parasol

Garden parasols not only provide vital shade on sunny days, they can also create an attractive feature on a patio or decking area.

Here’s some points to consider before you buy.

Freestanding parasols ...are a popular choice as they can sit in the middle of a garden table and can also be moved around the garden to different positions. You can choose from a wood or metal pole and base, and the parasols come in a variety of colours that will either make a statement or blend in with the surroundings. Choose a parasol that is fade, stain and rot resistant and one that can be detached for cleaning.

Wall-mounted parasols or patio awnings ...are fitted to an exterior wall to shade a decking or patio area.

Parasols on long arms can be bent to the right position, and awnings can be wound in and out, however as they are fixed to the wall they cannot be moved to other parts of the garden.

Keep parasols looking their best by cleaning with a specialist upholstery shampoo. Choose a sunny day, so they have a chance to dry out properly, without the risk of getting mildewed.

If the fabric is just be rasols that can dusty or you’re short Look out for pa u e washable as yo of time, use a vacuum detached and ar . to spruce it up in an oking their best t to keep them lo an w instant.

TOP TIP:

Table top, book & Colossal cake sale

Date Wednesday 24th April Time 11am Place Y Da Wakes Roquetas De Mar

If you love baking & would like to help we need....cakes, bicuits, scones, bread, meringues, chutneys & preserves....thank you!

Official hel p for heroes merchandis e on sale

For further information contact Yvonne 634 322 644 or call in Y Da Wakes, Avenida Playa Serena, Roquetas De Mar, Almeria

Consumer protection law offers more rights for online buyers

A new consumer protection law aimed at internet purchases is in draft form and will prevent companies from adding hidden costs and abusive clauses.

Vice-president Soraya Sáenz de Santamaría says the law will oblige online sellers to disclose full information about purchases and that all small print will have to be easy to understand.

Companies will no longer be able to rely on contract wording unless it is clearly visible and easy to follow prior to the consumer making a decision about whether to buy.

Contracts for online transactions will also become easier to rescind if the buyer is not in agreement or not satisfied with the service received.

Consumers will be requested to actively confirm that they are conscious of all elements they have to pay for, and must receive in writing the full terms. The company will no longer be able to add

default extra costs – the consumer will have to consciously select these.

Telephone lines to make complaints, cancel contracts or seek refunds may no longer cost the user any more than that of a basic local or national call, meaning premium-rate lines for customer service offices will be scrapped.

Cooling-off periods will extend from seven to 14 days, and if the consumer has not received all relevant information, this will increase to 12 months.

Finally, abusive clauses will be removed by a judge and the contract will still stand if possible, although if removing an unfair contract term means the agreement is frustrated, it will be rescinded.

This new law is in response to a European Union Directive which Spain has agreed to adopt.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

25

The Clothes Preservation Society

How annoying is it when your favourite item of clothing goes out of shape? Of course in time this will happen, but have you noticed that is always your favourite jumper or cardigan that goes first, and the one that you would really like to have an excuse to get rid of will last and last and last?

When storing forget mothballs...in addition to smelling horrible and releasing toxic chemicals, they’re just not necessary - the new anti-moth sprays are much nicer.

coat hangers Try to avoid using wire ngers as they ha – use padded or plastic s the & will help to are gentler on your clo keep the shape.

Knits often need hand-washing to keep their shape and colour. To

tricity, minimise creasing and static elec rinse. add a fabric softener to the final dry They will also hold up better if you . them flat instead of hanging them

g will remove An iron on a low settin marks er ng ha d wrinkles an Don’t jam your clothes together in your wardrobe. If you have a big wardrobe, rotate it seasonally, storing your out-of-season clothes in a separate wardrobe - if you’re lucky enough to have one - or in special clothing containers.

A child’s hairbrush works better than a lint roller to remove hairs, dandruf f, and bits of fluff from jumpers and woollens . Brush cashmere, lamb’s wool & acrylic after each wearing; be especially gentle with acrylic, which tends to have a short lifes pan any way.

advertising feature

Hang trousers by the end of the legs. Use those hangers that we use to hang skirts. Put foam in between the jaws of the hanger and the trousers to prevent marking.

Store out of season hanging clothes in bags made of cotton or natural fabrics - never use the plastic bags from the drycleaner; they trap odours and mildew & the plastic attracts dust.

Look at the labels – the manufacturers know what they are talking about when it comes to getting the best out of your clothes.

Take the time to wash and store your clothes correctly and they will reward you with making you look fabulous for years!

Just a quick update on events at

La Envia Golf & Country Club....

For Golf Societies/Groups of 8+ players an 18h Green fee + shared buggy is on offer at 39€ pp until 31st May. This coincides with the news that inscription is now open for this year’s annual “Top Banana” Society Tournament, taking place on Friday 21st June with a 10:30am shotgun start.

Now in its 6th year, the “Top Banana” includes the Envia Spa Water Circuit for non-golfing partners and an evening barbecue with live music on La Envia’s enormous Clubhouse terrace – helping to make the occasion as much a social event as it is a golf tournament.

If you are a Golf Society why not take advantage of our green fee + buggy offer to get a practice round in before the Top Banana? If you are a group of 8+ golfing buddies the 39€ deal is unmissable!

For more information on the 39€ green fee + buggy deal and the different “Top Banana” inscription packages available contact Robert at: reservas@ laenviagolf.com or call

950 559 646

Linen...

We love the look, at least when we first put it on, but linen is notorious for wrinkling, and in an odd way, that’s part of its charm. But whether you struggle to keep your linen looking pressed, or embrace the wrinkled look as your own, you still confront the age-old question wash or dry clean?

• Linen

jackets, suits, and dresses must be dry cleaned to keep their inner construction (facings, lining, shoulder pads, etc.) intact and as a bonus, dry cleaning restores linen’s crisp shape and finish.

• If you want your linen shirts and shorts to have that same crispness, have them dry cleaned; if you prefer a more relaxed look and feel to your linen, machine or hand wash them • Before you wash linen blends, be sure to check the label. Mixes with other fibres such as silk and rayon can dictate the garment has to be dry cleaned...or head to the rag bag!

• Avoid folding linen, and always iron it when it’s damp.

26

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

Est 25yrs

PRICE BROWN PARTNERSHIP ESTATE AGENTS/INMOBILARIA - MOJACAR

SALES, RENTALS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VENTAS, ALQUILERES Y MANTENAMIENTO

310,000€ Mojácar Playa DV1262 79,950€ Al Andalus, Vera A1159 A very attractive 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, detached villa of 138 m2 on 747 m2 with a 2 room/1 bathroom annexe. In superb order throughout. Garage, terraces, gardens & pool. Good sea views.

80,000€ Mojacar Playa LV657 Pretty modernised townhouse of 60m2 + 20 m2 private terrace with lovely views. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Off street parking.

Beautiful community gardens. Less than 5 mins walk to the beach.

Very attractive ground floor apartment of 63m2+ 42m2 private garden & terrace overlooking the superb community gardens. 2 beds , 2 baths. Outdoor & heated indoor pools. Perfect holiday home.

125,000€ Mojácar Playa LV654

Quality ground floor apartment of 85m2 + 37m2 on sought after front-line complex, overlooking the superb community gardens and pool. 2 beds, 2 baths, huge main terrace. Furnished. Allocated parking.

Quality furnished townhouse of 86m2 on 117m2 less than 400m from the beach.

3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, terraces, garden & off street parking. Community gardens & pool on a secure complex

85,000€ Mojacar Playa LV652 125,000 € Mojácar Playa SDV653 Lovely modernised townhouse of 60m2 + 20 m2 private terrace with sea views. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Furnished. Pretty communal gardens & off street parking.

Less than 5 mins walk to the beach.

130,000€ Mojácar Playa A1156 250,000 € Spacious apartment of 67m2 with fabulous sea views very close to the beach. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, huge main terrace of 41m2. Furnished. Mains gas.

Community pool. Good rental potential.

149,500€ Mojácar Playa A1158

Turre

DV1264

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.

Pretty end of terrace bungalow of 67m2 on 193m2 with roof terrace. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Community garden..

Furnished. Short distance to shops, beach & restaurants.

349,950 €

Turre

DV1263

Top quality detached villa of 134m2 on 9602m2 on the edge of the village. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, private pool, terraces, gardens & parking. Short drive to golf & beaches.

159,950€ Huerta Nueva DV1260 325,000€ Cortijo Grande DV1261 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.

Beautiful detached bungalow of 149m2 on 1,617m2, very privately situated, near to the golf course. Ample terraces, pool, garage & carport. Furnished. In 15 mins drive of local beaches.

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

rentals@pricebrown.com

Mondays 10.00 - 13.30 & 16.00 - 19.00 Tuesdays - Fridays 9.30 - 13.30 & 16.00 - 19.00 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

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

property guide....

RENTALS REMAIN STABLE

Following on were Madrid (-1.1%), La Rioja (0.7%), Valencia (-0.5%), Aragon (-0.3%), Andalucía (-0.2%), the Canary Islands (-0.1%), Castilla-La According to the latest data from the National Mancha (0.1%) and Extremadura (0.0%).

Statistics Institute, the average price of renting a home in Spain remained steady in March, Meanwhile, El Mundo reported that rental compared with the same month in the previous VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT year.

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL 2 BEDROOM, The Institute’s figures show that, month-on2 BATHROOM, month the cost of renting a property remained pENTHOUSE APARTMENT unchanged, although so far this year prices have IN VERA PLAYA ALL MOD CONS, fallen by 0.1% on average.

BALCONY & ROOF TERRACE OFFERING Year-on-year, 10 regions lowered their average FANTASTIC VIEWS rentals rates in March, with prices decreasing cALL 663 977 230 EMAIL: gedfab@yahoo.com most in Navarra (-2.1%) and Murcia (-1.8%).

Vera Playa Apartment  Returning to UK? £69,000 ono

Apartment For Sale on golf course

MODERN PARKHOME (NW Leicestershire)

Private sale of this lovely home on a secure, well established, residential park and at an extremely attractive price.







> 2 Fitted Bedrooms

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

> Large lounge/diner > Inclusive fitted kitchen

now only

> Luxury shower room/WC

UK: 01455 293603 

Email: ronlen@btinternet.com

€39,950

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

27

prices rose in Galicia (+1.3%), Catalonia (+0.9%), Cantabria (+0.8%), the Basque Country (+0.8%), Castilla y León (+0.8%), Asturias (+0.5%), and the Balearic Islands (0.4%).

FOR THE LATEST PROPERTY NEWS GO TO WWW.KYERO.COM

O Olive

Bedar

Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466

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

Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm

www.olivehouse-es.com

55,000€

This 2 bedroom apartment is in the village of Bedar, 20 minutes from the coast of Mojacar. It is a new build, third floor apartment with a lift access and great views.

OLV148

Property Sales • Property Management • Long & short term rentals • Insurance

We Urgently Need Quality Properties Both For Sale & Rent We Have Clients Waiting...

309 Paseo del Mediterraneo, Mojacar Playa (50m from Ferreteria Lopez)

Tel: 950 478 834

info@mojacarhomes.net

www.mojacarhomes.net

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

Apartment in Mojácar only €49,950!

Great opportunity to purchase a south facing fully furnished 1 bed / 1 bath Apartment situated on a small complex right on the frontline of Mojacar Playa.

The apartment has a built area of 47,56mts². It has been

Just reduced!

completely refurbished and has new floor tiles throughout, living room with an electric wood effect heater and also air conditioning, brand new fully fitted kitchen, brand new bathroom, and a double bedroom.

This is a must see property and 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: 1348

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

property group

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

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

soltimes

www.soltimes.com daily

28

Local News

What’s happening in your area?

What’s on?

Where to go? What to do?

Local Business Directory

All your local businesses at your fingertips

Sky News

Live local & international News feeds

Did You Know... www.soltimes. com has all five editions of the NewsPaper.

Almeria, Blanca, Calida, Roquetas and Mar Menor.

These Pages include an Editor’s Choice of news within that area and a direct link to view the Full Online Edition.

You can again enjoy Live TV FREE on www. soltimes.com

902 750 190 If you have any questions or ideas please email me at webmaster

@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

FOOD & ENTERTAINING

Meet Britain’s youngest head chef

Move aside Gordon Ramsay, there’s a new head chef in town. But Justin Bieber lookalike Luke Thomas isn’t any old head chef. At just 19 years old, he is the UK’s youngest and already has a cookery CV to rival that of Jamie Oliver.

The floppy-haired youngster from North Wales has trained alongside the likes of Heston Blumenthal and Gary Rhodes and worked at fine-dining celebrity hotspots such as The Fat Duck and the 7* Burj Al Arab in Dubai.

The Mail Online reports that Luke, who is likely to become quite a hit with the ladies, began cooking at the tender age of 12 and now cooks up a storm every single day in his own restaurant between 7am and midnight.

And there’s no stopping the ambitious chef, who is about to open the doors to a new pop-up restaurant.

Opening next month, Luke’s new haunt will be set above Embassy in plush Mayfair, where Prince Harry regularly parties.

The pop-up restaurant, which will open its doors for just six months, is in conjunction with famed hotelier Mark Fuller.

Dishes likely to feature on the menu include his delicious signature dish: a curry with scallops, crispy mussels and mango.

Fuller is so confident about Luke’s skills that he has dubbed him the new Marco Pierre White.

But Luke’s true hero is popular TV chef Jamie Oliver.

Speaking to Hello! magazine he said: ‘I’m a big fan of his.

‘He gives people what they want, he cooks food that people can go away and cook at home, his restaurants are accessible.

‘I need to follow this model because what he’s done is create this empire which is so successful.’

And for those hoping to get a glimpse into Luke’s culinary world, a new fly-on-the-wall documentary will follow his first year of his restaurant opening: Luke’s Fine Dining at Sanctum on the Green, near Marlow in Berkshire.

Speaking about his foodie brainchild, he said: ‘Although Luke’s Dining Room is a little bit more refined in the sense of the food, I call it the mix between a gastro pub and a restaurant.

‘It’s not as casual as a gastro pub and not as formal as a restaurant, it’s just got great food, great wine and great service.’

Watch out Jamie Oliver!

McDonald’s announces plan to source all pork on its UK menu from British farms that meet strict animal welfare standards

Fast food giant McDonald’s will source pork for its UK restaurants from British farms to meet strict animal welfare criteria from the end of the month, it has announced.

All sausage and bacon on its menu will be 100 per cent Freedom Food pork from farms meeting standards set out by the RSPCA on how pigs are reared.

The move will make it the UK’s second biggest buyer of pork from the Freedom Food scheme, which goes beyond industry standards and legislation to demand better treatment for animals.

From the end of April, all pig farmers that supply McDonald’s will be required to provide bright, airy environments, bedded pens and plenty of space for pigs to move around in, the company said.

Almost a third of British pig farmers meet the RSPCA Freedom Food standards.

McDonald’s said it hoped its support for the scheme would encourage more producers to

29

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

adopt the criteria on their farms.

A poll of 2,000 people carried out on behalf of McDonald’s found almost three-quarters prefer to buy food produced from farms with high welfare standards in place.

People rank price, animal welfare and traceability of products as the top factors influencing buying decisions, the survey revealed.

David Squair, chief executive of the RSPCA’s Freedom Food scheme, added: ‘The Freedom Food market has been growing for a number of years, but having one of the UK’s biggest restaurant chains serving only Freedom Food logo-ed pork on its menu marks a major milestone for animal welfare.

‘McDonald’s has shown it is possible to bring higher welfare food to consumers on the high street, and we hope that other restaurants will follow McDonald’s lead and more farmers will be inspired to adopt world-class animal welfare standards.’

Farming Minister David Heath welcomed McDonald’s announcement.

FRANKIE’S bar Hotel Street, Vera Playa

Sky Sports and ESPN HD Sports

Showing all Premiership Games

Thursday - Cash Quiz Fridays - all day from 1pm fish & chips 8€ booking essential book now for sunday lunch only 6€

full english breakfast 2 eggs, 2 bacon, 2 sausages, hash brown, mushrooms, tomotoes, beans & 2 slices of toast bar meals available

only 6€

Tel: 662 47 48 61 FREE La

VidaBar El

Cucador

TUESDAY bar specials

5€ wednesday supper 5€ Thursday Pie Night 5€ Spicy Chicken Curry & Rice or Cod Fillet & Chips

Half Roast Chicken Chips & Salad Homemade Pies, Chips & Peas SERVED 6-9PM ladies friendly darts wed 8pm

all welcome

all Premier league Luncheon football live 2 courses

tapas 6 €uro

Selection

1€ Each

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 • lavidacucador@gmail.com book the Venue: For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover

Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

Fantastic New menu of the Day only 10€ per person

Friday 26th April

7th Anniversary 3€ Entry.

Entertainment with Opium Buddha’s

Coming in June The Return of Rich Lucas with his Rat Pack Tribute

Chicken, Chips, Salad & a Only Bottle of Wine per 2 People 15€

ABBA

Madness

Friday 10th May

Friday 31st May

telephone: 950 473 135 mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach

Open 10am till late 7 days a week

s Fish & Chip with tter d Brea & Bu

5.95€

30

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

food news. . .

INCREDIBLE SHRINKING PIES!

High Street bakery Greggs has been slimming down its food - while still pushing up the prices. Several of the store’s bestselling savouries, including steak bakes, bacon rolls and pizzas have shrunk in size.

But the bakery giant has defended the shrinking size of its food, saying it is better on the waistline The worst hit is the breakfast bacon roll, which has shrunk by 18 per cent, from 152g to 124g since last May. According to a report by Mail Online,

pasties and pizzas have gone down by five per cent, while chicken subs sandwiches have become six per cent smaller and cheese and bacon wraps have shrunk by seven per cent.

Even Greggs’ famous steak bake, relaunched in March with ‘even more delicious prime steak’, has shrunk its protein content by 15 per cent.

In addition, Yum-Yum doughnuts and triple chocolate muffins have slimmed down by seven per cent and lemon drizzle doughnuts

The BUTCHERS Carnicera

Opposite Super-Turre supermarket

Quality English Cuts Especialistas en carnes Ingles

Specialising in English cuts of meat homemade sausages & burgers English Cheese, Bread,Pies, Pasties Freezer Section, and much more......

ARRIVING SOON

Oak Cask Wines & fruit & vegetables

Tel: 634 31 26 12

Mon - Fri 9.30am - 5.30pm & Saturday 9.30am - 4pm

are eight per cent smaller.

have to pass on.’

An investigation by trade magazine The Grocer found Greggs, which has 1,671 stores around the UK, has shrunk the treats at the same time as pushing up its prices.

The move comes after the bakery giant forced Chancellor George Osbourne to back down in the controversial ‘Pasty Tax’ storm last year.

The bakery giant had admitted to ‘reluctantly’ putting up the prices but said that where there have been changes, it is the result of improvements, such as the reduction in fat, salt and or sugar.

And it follows criticism from consumer watchdog Which? that the size reductions can be an underhand way of hiking prices.

Which? Magazine executive director Richard Lloyd told The Grocer that reducing the size of products was not fair on consumers.

A spokeswoman for Greggs refused to confirm exactly which products had gone up in price but on its website Greggs admitted that it had ‘reluctantly changed the price of some of our food with very minor increases.’

She said: ‘A small number of product recipes have changed driven by customer feedback and nutritional guidelines, which has reduced these product weights.

‘These changes have been made over a long period of time, and our prices always remain at the great value our customers expect from us.’

She added: ‘Greggs leads the bakery industry by being transparent about our food and providing detailed nutritional information about our products.

‘We are constantly reviewing our products and making changes and improvements to them, and we update the product information and nutritional content for our customers on our website and our in-shop information leaflet.

‘Where changes in weight do occur, this is normally the result of improvements to specification such as reducing fat, salt and/ or sugar.’

He said: ‘Shrinking products can be a way of raising prices, because pack sizes shrink but prices don’t.’

The hidden price hike strategy started with popular chocolate bars and sweets but quickly spread to a wide range of foods and everyday household products.

Only last month Which? reported that big name brands are shrinking products by up to a quarter, but the prices aren’t dropping.

And in some cases, they’ve even increased.

The consumer magazine says it had uncovered a selection of everyday products that now offer poorer value for money than before The magazine said: ‘We found a pack of Birds Eye beef burgers had four fewer burgers in it - now 12 instead of 16.

‘We also discovered Pledge furniture polish had shrunk by 17 per cent. But the prices had stayed the same or risen. In fact, anything from bags of crisps to packs of dishwasher tablets are getting smaller. We asked the makers of these products why they had shrunk them, and were generally told that, in the face of rising costs they chose to shrink products rather than increase prices.’

‘Food inflation will have an impact, along with other cost rises like energy’, he said.

A survey of Which? members found that 58 per cent say they would rather prices rose than packs got smaller. A further 37 per cent would rather the pack shrank, but only if you were told. Only three per cent said it was fine for the pack size to shrink and not be told about it.

‘We will try and protect our customers but sadly there will be rises in commodities we

‘We think that this can be an underhand way of raising prices,’ said Which?

Former Greggs chief executive Ken McMeikan warned in January that ‘significant’ price hikes on commodities including flour, pork, poultry and beef could mean price increases in 2013.

Bay bistro Next to Mediterraneo, Mojacar Playa

The Fresh Food Restaurant

Menu del Dia Deli Sandwich ONLY 9.95€ Menu Menu de la Noche from 6.95€ ONLY 12.95€ Full a la Carte all new e Menu sping tim Available menu open e daytim gs in n e & ev

Sunday Lunch Special

3 Courses

Including Roast of the Week

closed tuesday’s

Only 9.95€

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

To avoid disappointment please call and reserve your table

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

send your recipes to editor@soltimes.com

horse meat scandal: Food Standards Agency to be investigated over its response

d Goo

31

Grea tF rie nds YELLOW

s e m Ti

STONE BAR

Food Around The World Dining Group On the last Sunday of every month starting 28th April from 12 noon

On the last Sunday of each month The Yellow Stone Bar will be holding a “Food Around The World” dining experience. You will need to pre-book your table and pay a 5€ deposit. We will visit a new country each month and sample traditionally cooked food of that country. The menu will consist of a salad followed by a choice of starters, choice of main courses and a choice of desserts. A glass of Red, White or Rose wine will be served with the main course and the total cost will be 11.95€ per person.

On Sunday 28th April

we are going to visit

THAILAND

so book early to avoid disappointment!

An independent review is set to be carried out into the Food Standards Agency’s response to the horse meat scandal.

The review board, headed by Professor Pat Troop will have unrestricted access to all relevant documents held by the body.

A report by Mail Online states that the move follows criticism of the FSA’s handling of the horse meat scandal with Labour’s shadow environment secretary Mary Creagh branding the FSA ‘unfit for purpose’.

The findings of the review will be submitted to the Food Standards Agency in June for publication.

The project will feed into a larger Government review of the scandal which forced supermarkets including Tesco, Asda and Waitrose to clear their shelves.

The news comes just days after Dutch authorities announced they would recall 50,000 tons of meat sold as beef across Europe that may contain horse meat.

The FSA later confirmed that the meat did come to factories supplying supermarkets in the UK. It is believed that the much of the suspected horse meat originated in countries such as Romania before being packaged elsewhere in Europe and sold on as ready meals in the UK. Professor Troop said: ‘The Government’s fragmentation of the FSA in 2010 has left our food regulatory system unfit for purpose.

‘The FSA knew that the Irish were testing for horse meat last November,

yet did nothing until positive results came back. The FSA also needs to explain why 14 horses that tested positive for bute entered the human food chain before the FSA issued a recall notice.’

The fiasco caused shockwaves across the UK supermarket industry with giant Tesco announced their first fall in profits for 20 years following the scandal.

Meanwhile Co-op, Asda, Sainsburys and Waitrose also also suffered thanks to the fallout from the scandal which was first unearthed by Irish food safety chiefs.

It will then be down to the Diners to decide the next destination for the following month and this will be announced the following day on the notice board.

We can also keep you up-to-date by email or you can follow us on Facebook!

Bookings are mandatory and on a “first come first served” basis.... we look forward to seeing you!

ITV Find us in Piedra Amarilla CENTRE For more information and phone orders ← Albox Fines → call Paul: 634 332 178

yellowstonebar@gmail.com

Yellow Stone 1km Piedra Amarilla →

Los Mellizos Restaurant

La Alfoquia, Zurgena

Professor Troop previously served as chief executive of the Health Protection Agency for five years and deputy chief medical officer at the Department of Health between 1999 and 2003.

Europe’s horsemeat scandal erupted in January, when testing in Ireland revealed that some beef products also contained equine DNA, and the problems then spread across the continent.

The scandal ensnared numerous wellknown brands, prompting product withdrawals, consumer concerns and government investigations into the region’s complex food-processing chains.

In the Commons last month, Environment Secretary Owen Paterson described the adulteration of food products with horsemeat as a ‘criminal conspiracy which covers 23 countries’.

ecials Daily sp 4€ r details) frobm o oards f (see

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

Tlf: 667 919 025

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view us online www.soltimes.com ALBOX

Bar Menu & Snacks Home-made puds

Burgers, Lasagne, pies, Omelettes, chilli plus

All Day Breakfast from 9am

MENU DEL DIA

onl y €

2 Courses

5

served 12 - 3 except Fri & Sun

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 FREE Drink

Starters, Puddings - 2€ each

SUNDAY SERVED 10AM-12PM

BREAKFAST

Activities at Friday 3rd May

‘Rod Stewart Sings’ plus all your favorites

Come along and enjoy the voice of

Steve Fisher from 9pm

FREE Admission Booking a table is advisable

Monday Line Dancing with Gillie 2:30

ROCK’N’ ROLL 7:30PM

Tuesday Quirky Quiz - 7:30pm Wednesday Line Dancing with Carrie

2:30-4:30 & 7:30pm

Thursday Ceroc Dancing & Fun Social

Night 7:30pm

PLUS...

Art Classes (held most days)...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 @

f o power the carrots!

950 120 718 / 610 641 567

Carrots are the new weapon in the war against prostate cancer, scientists have claimed.

A study led by Professor Norman Maitland at the University of York says a diet rich in Vitamin A could be the key to beating the disease because it makes it more treatable.

The researchers have discovered that retenoic acid, a chemical made from Vitamin A, can reduce the ability of the cancer to invade surrounding tissue.

Vitamin A can be found in foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes and leafy green vegetables such as kale.

Prof Maitland said: ‘If the cancer is confined to the prostate it’s much more treatable with conventional medicine. This is about

prevention rather than cure but it can stop the spread of cancer.

‘We have found that specific twin genes are turned off in malignant prostate cancer stem cells. When we turn them back on using retenoic acid, the cancer becomes less aggressive.

‘It has been known for many years that low vitamin A in samples of men’s blood is associated with prostate cancer, but nobody knew the mechanisms involved.

‘This is an exciting new development which links an element from our diet to prostate cancer stem cells.’

Each year 41,000 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than 10,000 die of the disease.

British woman launches sugar-free champagne

A former BBC presenter is taking on the French at their own game by launching a sugar-free champagne.

Amanda Thomson was inspired to create a lowcalorie version of the luxury drink after her job as a showbiz reporter made her worry about gaining weight from attending VIP parties. So she left her job as a journalist at BBC London and moved her family to Paris, where she studied under one of the world’s pre-eminent wine experts.

Ms Thomson, 40, has just signed an agreement to get her products into a topclass restaurant in the New Forest, and is hoping to bring it to leading mine merchants across the UK. ‘I developed a love of champagne when I was

working as a showbiz reporter in London and basically lived off fizz and canapés as I was at parties and events all the time,’ she told the Evening Standard.

‘I started to think about the taste and what I liked rather than just glugging it, and decided I wanted to make wine my career - which is why my husband and I decided to move to Paris.’

Last year, Ms Thomson graduated from a wine course at the elite Cordon Bleu cookery school. She was then hired by the Penet family to create a ‘zero dosage’ champagne at their vineyard in the Champagne region of north-east France.

Zero dosage fizz does not have sugar added during manufacturing, unlike traditional champagne.

Ms Thomson’s wine has just 60 calories in each glass - significantly less than the 100 calories found in most sparkling wines.

‘The French don’t really care about calories, but it’s proving to be very popular in Britain and in the emerging Asian markets,’ the budding winemaker said. ‘It has an amazing taste but without the calories, which women in particular love.’

The Alexandre Penet Zero Dosage Extra Brut champagne retails for £49.95 online.

Ms Thomson recently agreed a deal to stock the wine at Hartnett Holder & Co, a new restaurant in the New Forest helmed by Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett.

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

email your favourite recipes to editor@soltimes.com

Spinach & Pecan STARTER Filo Mini-Tarts

...FOOD & ENTERTAINING Marinated Grilled Lemon Chicken

MAIN

INGREDIENTS METHOD

INGREDIENTS Filo pastry (about 5 to 6 sheets) 2 tbsp red currants 200 fresh spinach 80g blue cheese 2 eggs + 2 egg yolks 4 tbsp cream Olive oil 4 tbsp pecans

METHOD Preheat your oven at 350 F (180 C).

Grease a muffin pan (for 6). In each mould, place 2 to 3 layers of filo pastry cut to match the size of the mould and each time, brush the filo pastry with olive oil.

Wash the spinach and cut it coarsely.

Crumble the cheese.

Mix together the spinach, cheese, pecans and red currants. Divide between each mould.

Beat together the eggs, egg yolks and the cream.

Season with pepper and salt. Pour over the vegetables.

Place in the oven for about 25 mins.

Check regularly as the filo pastry cooks quickly and you do not want it to burn!

dessert

Balsamic Str awberry Shortcake

6 bone-in chicken breasts, skin on 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced 1tbsp lemon zest ½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning 1 tsp garlic, minced ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 3 tbsp olive oil salt and pepper

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Place in large zip-lock bag and set aside.

Whisk together the rosemary, lemon zest, lemon pepper, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil until well combined.

Pour over the chicken, seal the bag and massage the chicken until the marinade is evenly distributed.

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour.

Lightly brush the grill grates with vegetable oil.

Grill the chicken over a medium flame until the juices run clear when poked.

Remove from the flame and allow to rest for 10 minutes under a sheet of tin foil.

Serve with green salad

INGREDIENTS

Slice the fresh strawberries lengthwise and place in a small mixing bowl.

Toss with 1 tablespoon of sugar and balsamic vinegar with the strawberries until evenly coated.

Set aside and allow to rest for at least 2 minutes.

Add the heavy whipping cream to a chilled mixing bowl. Whip the cream on high for 1 minute with a mixer that is fitted with a whisk attachment.

Slowly add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and continue to whip until soft peaks form.

Slice the biscuits in half lengthwise and place the bottoms on a plate.

Evenly spoon the strawberry mixture on top of each biscuit.

Spoon a dollop of whipped cream onto of the strawberries and then place the biscuit top on the side.

Finish with a final dollop of whipped cream.

Serves 4 – 6 people depending on the size of the portion.

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 3 tbsp sugar 4–6 buttermilk biscuits 1 cup heavy whipping cream

our y d n e s o t t e don’t forg to: s e p i c e r e t i favour om .c s e m i t l o s editor@ HERE! m e h t t n i r p & we’ll

33

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STANDARD CROSSWORD

Start (8) Pharynx (6) Showman (10) Biblical garden (4)

Down 1 A fragrant oil used in perfumes and insect repellent (10) 2 Indecent (8) 3 Disembowel (10) 4 Add (4) 5 A Freudian stage (4) 6 An unwholesome

atmosphere (6) 7 Ship steering mechanism (4) 14 Proof of innocence (5) 15 Responsibility (10) 16 Counted (10) 19 Imposes (8) 21 Flora and fauna (6) 24 Fictional captain (4) 25 As well (4) 26 Acquire deservedly (4)

CRYPTIC crossword

CROSSWORD

1 Mess up or change leaders (8) 2 Cherishing garnitures, perhaps (10) 3 Ask for one new life (in France) without Tory leader (6) 4 In good party, within a kilometre’s realm (7) 5 Items adapted in fish over home (8)

Very Hard!

SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Down

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.

8 Company (4) 9 A day for lovers (10) 10 Creeks (6) 11 Being the exact same one (8) 12 At one time (4) 13 Expounds (10) 17 Scheme (4) 18 Lengthwise (5) 19 Prefix indicating “Equal” (4) 20 Strolling (10) 22 Small insect (4)

23 27 28 29

HARD SUDOKU

Across

8 Went faster than a new tour (new at first) (6) 9 Apart from one so dead, bad end will follow (8) 10 See 22 Down 11 Being English, books it years later (6) 12 I’m me - without a foreign resistant (6) 13 Unholiest hospital missing new boundaries (8) 15 Aims a spike south (7) 17 One church lad with energy is cooler (3,4) 20 Bugged immoral half-German journalist (8) 22 Hear animals without Republican country (6) 23 Less fearful rock is heard (6) 25 Coated “Dido’s an egghead” in a frenzy (8) 26 A creature takes Reagan back - that’s not typical! (8) 27 Draw without scoring new one left (twice) (3-3)

6 Final hold out? (4) 7 Reportedly pound the French insect (6) 14 Rib decline might be astounding!

(10) 16 A murder’s shattered tympana (8) 18 Microorganisms pretend to be in a Brie spread (8) 19 I’d have English friend, in a perfect world (7) 21 Almost flow (after a short time) with a protozoon (6) 22/10 Innovative drug - no clue perhaps (6-8) 24 Fall or rise in key power (4)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

coffee break

Across

STANDARD SUDOKU

34

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

ejuvenate retreat elax El Cucador

elax evive

ALL OUR BEAUTY & MASSAGE THERAPISTS ARE FULLY UK TRAINED

ABIGAILE TEL: 632 779 082

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY’S 9AM-3PM THURSDAY - 9:30AM-3PM FULL BODY FULL RANGE OF MASSAGE 20€ FACIALS, WAXING, TINTING, MANICURE, HOPI EAR ile PEDICURE. CANDLING 13€ igaGELISH b A & FROM 15€, saNAILS FULL RANGE OF sandra Melis PARAFFIN WAX a, 949 0TREATMENTS TREATMENTS dr858 - 2pm 15€ TEL:a661 n 1 S BEAUTY THERAPIST ists 1HR FACIAL ms 25th & GEL POLISH 35€

rap

oo

rs

R e Thu t a w LIZ ty Th Relaxation Class e o u r r r t a WITH HILL on Tuesday afternoons o e e r rB om BROW TINT/WAX & LASH TINT 14€

T more details: 667 a979 u - Call for y 445 ALL WELCOME eet O ed il

V

M da the Tranqu oked on th i Come t La ANGELS t a s bo tALMERIA n ook a e l m a at WELLNESS CLINIC have n tre o s And held Monthly on a Monday t un Disco call for next date: 647 407 288 SATURDAY’S 9:30AM-5PM HOLISTIC MASSAGE REFLEXOLOGY

DR HELENA BENSON

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

TEL: 632 779 082 MELISSA

HOLISTIC TOTAL BODY CARE 30€

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!

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

Tomorrow 25 april - 10 - 3 am

pm

la vida fayre Bacon or Sandwich & Tea 0 .5 €3 coffee ke & Toasted Teaca 0 .5 €1 Coffee from 9.30am

bargain price plants & Shrubs lADIES Summer Dresses & Tops etc crystals & semi precious stones JAMS & PICKLES - HOMEMADE DOLLS TAROT & NUMEROLOGY 10mins for 10€ dart equipment rosa psychic medium Uk Make-up & Home Accessories KEVIN FROM LIBERTY SEGUROS SILVER & gold antique JEWELLERY HAND-MADE CRAFTS silver bespoke items beauty therapists & massage available from 10am

Lots of stands in the car park and also in the venue

Tel: 950 634 562

lavidacucador@gmail.com

el Cucador

VidaRestaurant&Venue

We are here

Albox Arboleas Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

Enjoy Wonderful Views over the Olive Groves

THIS SAT 27TH APRIL

DANCE TO ALL YOUR FAVOURITES FROM 9PM

country &western night

main menu includes 16oz steaks ~ mixed grills ~ Fresh Fish always available menu changes weekly

I S K E L LY WITH KR

Dine in our Candelit Restaurant wed - sat evenings

FREE ENTRANCE

SATURDAY EARLY BIRD MENU 5-7PM FROM 6€ - TO INCLUDE SALAD, BREAD & ALI- OLI

FROM 9PM TIL LATE

FOOD PLATE 6€

Spanish Bass Pasta 7.45€ Linguine pasta in a gazpachostyle sauce topped with sea bass Pork Fillet Skewers 7.45€ Pork magra with onions & peppers served with crushed potatoes & a tomato salsa Chicken & Broccoli Pie 7.45€ Chicken & broccoli with a creamy alfredo sauce in pastry

from

8.95€

A FULL TREATMENT LIST & PRICES ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE Rretreat OR BY EMAILING: retreatcucador@gmail.com

th

Bargains & Unique gift ideas

La

35

THE ABOVE MAINS ARE SERVED WITH A CHOICE OF POTATOES & SEASONAL VEGETABLES

traditional

sunday lunch

Homemade Starters, 2.50€ each

includes a complimentary coffee & chocolate booking recommended

A selection of Cheeses served with biscuits & homemade chutney 3.50€

Scrumptious Homemade Puddings

served 12.30PM - 5PM

all 2.50€ each!

Cheese & Biscuits Selection

from

5.95€

12.30pm - 9pm Beer-battered cod

fridays

in the Bar

homemade chips & peas

tapas - choice of 10 all 1€ 12:30-9pm lite menu salads, burgers, wraps, plus...

12:30-3:30PM TWO COURSE LUNCH served 6€ - 5€ MONDAYS HOME-MADE MARGHARITA PIZZA Tuesdays cod, chips & peas only 6 - 9pm

or chicken curry & rice

wednesdays 1/2 roast chicken, or gammon chips & peas OR SALAD

6 - 9pm

thursdays ...is pie night!

6 - 9pm

Open Every Day 12pm - Late

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com

delicious homemade pie, chips & peas We are here

Albox Arboleas Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

E15

1km

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547 Huercal Overa

5€ only 5€

only 5€

book the Venue

For your Private Parties, Weddings and Birthdays etc.

36

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

Bar Southern

be a  part  of it 

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

Mini meals

every lunchtime 1.50€

 

1st Friday of the Month Ladies Do Lunch from 2pm

Wednesday

Midweek Carvery €4.95 served 5pm - 10pm

Still 2€ a pint, 1€ a half

Sunday Carvery €6.95 served 1pm til 5pm

Next Table Top Sale 28th April Home Baking - Cake and Pies available

www.newyorknewyork.es

OPPOSITE THE PLAYA LUNA hotel, roquetas urb

Burty’s BAR Playa Serena, roquetas de mar

sun - fri from 11am - 6pm Closed saturday

huge sunny terrace us bar and spacio Come and Catch the Winter Sun Tuesday pie night 5.30pm - 8.30pm

Steak & Ale, chicken, Bacon & Mushroom or Mince, Onion & Potato with chips & mushy peas or potatoes & vegetables. €6.95 Booking essential by 6pm Monday

Special Steak Night 5pm – 8.30pm

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

Booking Essential By 6pm Wednesday

Tapas served from 1 pm Next Table top Sale

28th april call to reserve a table

All welcome. Free Buffet.

“Some of the Birthday Girls”

served all day 12 noon - 10pm

Every Thursday

‘THE BIG BIRTHDAY BASH’



Every Friday fish chips & peas €3.95

Tel: 659 683 447

7.30 pm til close





Main Meals 6.95€ 3 course meal 10.95€

Saturday 27th April

every thursday quiz 2.15pm prompt

tuesday

bingo 2.30pm

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

next service 16th May

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

Tapas served All day plus main menu and specials Closed Tuesday

Tel: 622 293 511 / 634 975 261

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

37

ROQUETAS DE MAR THE SECOND COMEDY AFTERNOON WITH MRS BROWN AT CHAPLIN’S PUB Thursday May 9th 2013 at 3.00pm ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO THE

‘2013 ROYAL BRITISH LEGION POPPY APPEAL’

NOT FOR THE FAINT-HEARTED, BUT WILL BE VERY, VERY FUNNY, SO BOOK EARLY WITH JON OR DEBRA TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT First come, first reserved!

A SMALL DONATION WOULD BE APPRECIATED TO: THE RBL POPPY APPEAL Further details can be obtained from Barry, Poppy Appeal Organiser on mobile 605 313 590

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€) 27th April - BIG BIRTHDAY BASH 7:30pm Burtys Bar........................................

Tuesday - 2:30pm Bingo Tuesday - Pie Night Thursdays - Quiz 2:15pm Thursday - Steak Night Table Top Sale - 28th April Bar cARDIES...................................

NOW OPEN!! See our advert on the BACK PAGE! bar Chaplins.....................................

Opening Hours: Open 1pm til’ close Tuesday to Sunday, 5pm til’ close Monday Wednesday: Rib Night Friday: Chip Shop Day - Fish’n’Chips etc served from 1pm, Quiz Night Saturday Night - Buy One Get One Free on ALL MEALS plus 1€ Drinks!

TEL: 950 335 022

KIRI needs a forever home...

Another sad doggie story, but you could make it a happy one if you took poor tailless Kiri into your home. She was born on February 13th 2012 and is a medium size, female Mestizo. She weighs about 30 kilos and stands 55 cm high.

KIRI is a very affectionate dog and loves being caressed and cuddled. She is good tempered and rather quiet. The social workers of Vicar left her at the shelter because her owner had suffered a stroke and is now paralysed. KIRI must miss him a lot and desperately seeks someone to replace him and give her a loving home. She is used to individual attention and is somehow lost in the multitude at the shelter. She is looking through the bars now, waiting for you to take her home.

If you really can’t give Kiri a home or don’t know anyone who can, perhaps you would like to become a member of the shelter or even sponsor a dog. Also, of course, the shelter is always in need of blankets, towels and food etc. which can be taken to the Sanctuary. If you want to make a monetary contribution, you can pay it directly into the Sanctuary’s Bank account. Saturday mornings is set aside for adoptions at the Shelter and there are a lot of dogs to choose from, large and small. The best time for material donations, including food, is during the week. If you want details of any of these options or have a question about the shelter, please send an email to Geoff at geoffalmeria@ hotmail.com and he will reply to you straight away.

A warm welcome at the Sanctuary is assured for all those wanting to support the Sanctuary.

FTG Notice

The ‘Friday Tapas Group’ meet up at 1pm each week (Friday) and the venues for the next three weeks are as follows:

26th April - no meeting 3rd May - Lady Lay & La Bodeguina

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!

lady lay..............................................

Tuesday Night - Curry Night Wednesday - Quiz - twice monthly Saturday - Super Saturday Special Sunday - Sunday Lunch from only 3.50€ 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 Sunday 28th April - Family Constellation - All Day starts 10:30am Y Da wakes.........................................

SKY SPORTS Monday 8:30pm Bingo Roquetas Bridge Club........................ meets on Monday’s at 15.00. For more information please contact Alison Ferguson 950349749 or Sue Barlow 950 333 344 the Royal british legion................... forthcoming events Fundraising for 2013 poppy appeal 9th May – 3pm - Comedy afternoon with Mrs Brown at Bar Chaplins – book with Jon or Deb on 950 335 022 13th June – Open Pool Competition – 6pm registration for 6:30pm draw – The Lodge – call Barry on 605 313 590 for further details

La Grappa

Authentic Italian Restaurant

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

BBQ

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

950 334 188 609 337 316

EVERY DAY

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

Naturopathy Phytotherapy Organic Food Reflexology Osteopathy Diet and nutrition

Sunday 28th April

All Day Family Constellation Starts 10.30am

Pasaje Zoraida,11 Urb. Roquetas de Mar C.P 04740 (Almeria) Tel. 950 328 152 / 670 356 370 www.farma-natura.com email: ria:farma-natura.com

38

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SOL CLASSIFIEDS SOLTIMES www.soltimes.com see us online everyday

alternative energy

Solar Wind c a rlo s Power Solutions. s a l i e n te Over 15 years plumbing & installation heating for solar experience. heating, e s t a b l i s h e d pool FOR SALE 12 years in solar hot water advertise all your unwanted items Spain. Call Phil installations and for competitive repairs. call 950 prices 636 261 930 900 or 968 any single item up to 300€ free of charge 240 email:info@ 969 962, email s un e r g ya l m e r i a . com www.sunergy carlos.saliente@ gmail.com almeria.com mcc u llock superficial damage. Putter, New Golf blower and 30€ tel: 689 581 752 Bag 80€ . Tel: 667 baby equipment hire vacuum 320bw petrol (cantoria) 023 918 other items good condition must breville silver available. be seen bargain at jug kettle. 3 months 99.50€ no offers tel: old, as new. 15€ Scaffolding, Pan Professional Baby Tiles and Bloques.

950 450 013 tel: 689 581 752 50€ono tel: 950 438 Equipment Hire 2 single beds/ (cantoria) 236.

Free delivery & collection bunk beds pine 150€ moulinex bread All our equipment has been of tel: 637 984 270 maker, as new. c/w Chest 5 drawers, purchased from new (mojacar) 2 recipe books. 30€ drawers high, light Tel: 615 806 126 stainless steel tel: 689 581 752 wood, brand new, thebabyhirecentre@hotmail.com (13kw) patio heater (cantoria) IKEA. 55€ cream in full working order wireless video plain blind for a door, business opportunity complete with silver door phone, needs also brand new, 15€ gas bottle 125€ ono electric at the gate TEL 676827525 tel: 634 316 072 to operate was 160€ CALOR GAS teak outdoor new still in box. never HEATER Good patio dinning table used. now only 100€ condition 20€ Tel: and four chairs in ono. tel: 699 727 138 627 225 856 very good condition memory topper only used twice 180€ for your mattress, G A R D E NA ono tel: 634 316 072 never used cost 150€ E L E C T R I C STRIMMER Good solar charge accept 75€ single condition 30€ o.n.o controller pwm size tel: 950 475 455 Tel: 627 225 856 for further information telephione viewstar vs3024n, 30 mob: 661 016 366 FOLDING amp – 95€ call 628 standard lamp 2 817 608 white fitted with 2 SUNBEDS 10€ each solar panels bulbs, good condition Tel: 627 225 856 175 watts 24 volt, 5 35€ tel: 950 475 455 P R O M A C PORTABLE AIR amp, 72 cells, 299€ mob: 661 016 366 Good each call 628 817 LEATHER relaxing COOLER carpentry armchair with condition 25€ Tel: 608 PRO MULTI GYM matching footstool 627 225 856 from Decathlon, colour green, brand Samsung 21” TV. Domyos BM900, new 50€ tel: 950 475 Silver, CRT type. For all your carpentry requirements complete with 455 mob: 661 016 Perfect condition with Fast, efficient,competitive service.

Bench, Weights 366 remote control and and instructions GOLF CLUBS, Set instruction manual. Tel: 634 328 574 james@wildwood.es manuel.

Excellent of TITEILEST 990 Excellent picture. 40€ condition, hardly Irons plus Wood, Tel. 950 459 481. computers used BARGAIN 300€ Airport services Telelphone Neil on Steve Hayes 627 225 856 Informatica A i rport mx60 outback Pc’s, Laptops, parking.es tr a n s f er s charge controller 12- www.

Printers etc.

Tel: 639 081 067 24-36-48 secondpick up all areas, Sales & Repairs hand 29€ call 628 Cheap 817 608 competitive rates. on-site callout / a fully galvanised Airport Parking For a quote please tuition. garage door 3.0m Alicante Almeria Murcia visit www. spanish Consumables wide x 2.25m high Albox, Almeria New estateagent.c om (up and over type} price 250€ phone Servicing / Repairs or call 661 143 871 Tel: 950 120 900 950 478 457 english & spanish spoken Air-con construction mojacar area chest freezer MD Air-Conditioning compact size, excellent working & Refrigeration S.L. City & Guilds Fully Qualified order, slight

for sale in this section

email: sales@soltimes.com

FOR SALE

construction cont...

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

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

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

Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks

25% share of well Contact: 675 838 808 established wellness centre that is due for expansion.

genuine reason for sale

634 353 862

genuine enquiries only

WILDWOOD Bespoke Joinery

AA

construction

wanted

MD S.L

F-Gas Certified

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

LICENSED POZO/CESSPIT EMPTYING • Installation of fibreglass

septic tanks

fully legal

Everything for

Linea

the visiting baby Car seats,high chairs, stair gates, cots etc Tel: 950 436 581 or 666 375 688 expectingababy@

Nueve sofas kitchens bedroom furniture Arboleas

Tel: 950 120 630

landscape gardening

950 091 109 or 648 768 587

Drainage Solutions

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

Established 7 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966 electrical

ELECTRICIAN Neil Godwin

25 years experience

Fully

established in spain for 14 years

furniture

gardening

insured & legal Mat Murray 647 841 750 matmurrayes@gmail.com

BABY HIRE

hotmail.co.uk

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

Full City & Guilds

not a jack of all trades

w a n te d mosaic tiles For all your installation or service small swimming MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L offers including our latest pool tiles small odd requirementsinfo@md-aircon.com telephone bits & pieces, can 950 432 110 / 607 364 917 607 364 917 or 950 432 110 collect,for a mosaic email: info@md-aircon.com wall any colour, md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es 647 379 878

equipment hire

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 APRIL 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

GB

E

Don’t take a chance!

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

Alan 662 249 159

Elaine’s Wools

www.replatematecostablanca.com

quality UK wool &

OPTICIANS

accessories. Come & 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

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

Tel: Keith Wood on

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 Phil the Pick Locksmith 24 hours.

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

Tel: 697 243 181

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

PAINTER / DECORATOR

painter & decorator

over 25 years experience

give your property or business a fresh look this spring

Tel: 649 186 107 or

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com For all your painting needs inside & out contact Graham on 620 112 193

now covering mainland spain

commercial & major retail painter’s

PROPERTY FOR SALE/rent To advertise your property for sale Property for rent or rental in this section with a in Cucador photograph for only 10€ Self contained email Paulette at sales@soltimes.com 1 large bed casita,

Advertise in this space for just 10€ per week!

Now offer our Classified advertisers 5 LOCAL EDITIONS online at

www.soltimes.com

for more information Telephone 950 121 936 or 902 121 936 ext 332

60€ a week

SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

3 bed villa for sale phone now for details

plus utilities (suit lady, small dog welcome)

Call 647 379 878

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

PETS SECTION

Reduced €39,950

for SALE detatched cortijo

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

young budgies for sale lilacs,blues, greens & yellows - aviary bred males & females only 10€ Ready Now! 647 379 795

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

Call Vanessa on 637 061 482

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

SOLTIMES

bathroom, lounge & kitchen area, partly furnished, A/C, Private, Fabulous views, use of pool & jacuzzi

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT

& cattery arboleas Small friendly kennels, 24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, welcome to view ministry approved

Tracy Mobile 650 211 952

friendly mare 9 years old 14.3hh 1.50m 500€ telephone 678 838 547

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

20mins from mojacar, 4 beds, 2 baths, Open plan living areas, kitchen & diningroom as well as a workshop, courtyard front & back & room for a pool.

Mountain views.

Build 256 m², Terrace 100m², Plot 1200m²

€150,000

Tel: 649 186 107

thunderpaul2003@hotmail.ccom

B r i t i s h All plasterer work guaranteed Tel Paul 634 327 201

plumbing CARLOS SALIENTE Plumbing and Heating offer machined boiler great price! now reduced €99,000 decals for gas water Lovely 2 bedroom townhouse of 70 sq metres with heaters for just €65 stunning sea views overlooking Mojacar Playa with – aguafuerte is not communal pool, WIFI, furniture included. Excellent Rental Investment. the answer! Call 950 930 900 or 968 969 Call New Wave VIllas on 950 475 800 for info & viewings.

962, email carlos. 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

For all your plumbing needs Fully Qualified heating engineer contact barry 667 853 062 or graham 620 112 193

PROPERTY TO RENT – Los pedregales 2 Bedroom Casita.Furnished or Unfurnished. Fully Fitted Kitchen, Log Burner, Internet Connection, Large Fly Free Patio within a large Fenced area.

Peaceful location within minutes of the motorway & Huercal Overa.

300€ pcm inc. water Tel: 666 281 323 ARBOLEAS

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

Tel: 950 449 074 or 634 368 071

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

40

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

are you a trade Business? advertise in the classified section & reach over 30,000 potential customers Classified box from 9€. lineage only 45 cents per word - Deadline 5pm Friday Contact Paulette on 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332 REMOVALS

recruitment

SOLTIMES are looking for A

spring e into th e futur with es o s l tim

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

Send your CV to cmm@soltimes.com or telephone Chrissie on 647 379 878 Gestoria Salvador, a consulting Fully company established in Almeria since Qualified 1969 is opening a new office in Mojacar Stylist and requires a Manager with excellent Required for busy communication skills and knowledge of salon in Albox the Mojacar area. The individual must Please call have experience in tax consultancy, Cutting Edge for legal work, book keeping and other details administrative services, Spanish and English speaking is essential. An Tel: 950 633 086 Mob: 722 294 384 additional language is advantageous.

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

tuition

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

New beginners class starts thursday 25th april 2013 5.30pm

Private lessons and different levels also available.

CALL PACO 661 142 606 translation

Traducciones Levante Robert Ward - Harris Translator/Interpreter Personalised Quotes within 24hours All types of documents & face to face interpretation

606 953 775

traduccioneslevante@hotmail.com

A1 Sky Television Systems

Satellite TV installations, alignment of dishes etc.

Also Spanish “freeview” systems supplied & installed

Tel Dave: 628 607 778 Sky Digibox Pace with sky card BBC 1, 2, 3, 4 ITV1, 2, 3, ch4 & 5 60€ can deliver.

Telephone 667 235 205

swimming pool safety

DAVE’S TRANSPORT 7.5 Ton, Lorry Part loads, Self load/Unload Minimal rates, Owner Driver Spain/uk/Local

motoring section for sale

car & van hire

Sell your vehicle with this size advert for only 10€

Van, car & driver

for hire

house & garden clearances, collections & deliveries, weekly collections from IKEA,

Storage available, based “Los Gallardos” &”hertfordshire”

Call now 0034 620 049 524 (Es) 00 44 794 3135 214 (UK) woodnco@hotmail.com

call paulette on

950 121 936 or 902 750 190 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 Call 633 234 635 or 677 849 153 or emailnessgav@hotmail.com

Citreon Berlingo Multispace Forte (2002) RHD 1200€ ono Almeria Area Contact - 634 087 653

mobile mechanics

634 337 185

SPAIN UK SPAIN Removals

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

Mikes Mobile Mechanics

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

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

solar power system

www.ecocorp.eu at ecocorp we do not just sell you a system we deliver, install &

guarantee everything for up to 10 years

Solar Power System kits Telephone 671 716 597 or 950 030 187

for UK phones 01332 896510

stables

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

See our main Escorted hacking and treks. Qualified advert on the news BHS Instructor. Call Erika Drew on 678 pages 838 547

Van hire

ONE WAY



UK to Spain or Spain to UK

*LOCAL *NATIONAL *EUROPEAN

* COLLECTION & DELIVERY *STORAGE

TEL: 667 235 205

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

Car parts

URGENTLY REQUIRED

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

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

From a parcel to a small house move

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

Tel: 634 345 257

car parts

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

Airport transfers Almeria 60€ one way, 110€ return Alicante 80€ one way, 150€ return

www.carpartsinspain.com

TEL: 636 411 540 OR 664 619 819

WANTED JCB’s, Mini-Diggers (All Makes), Tractors, Trailers & all other types of plant machinery.

Any age, any condition.

Cash buyer All 4x4 vehicles buyer of all caravans, any condition, value from 200€ to 20,000€

Urgently Required

ALL Mitsubishi Shogun Monteo Pajero Landrover & all other makes

collect from anywhere

Tel: 645 094 339 or 950 064 763

or telephone 692 930 326

JT METAL RECYCLING NOW FULLY OPERATIONAL IN THE REGIONS OF Almeria & MURCIA Turn your old or unwanted CAR into CASH. We will dispose of in our Authorised Depollution End of Life Treatment facility.

We also take fridges , washing machines , microwaves , all electrical appliances

Certificates Issued

WANTED CARS, VANS, LORRIES, TRACTORS, TRAILERS, PLANT MACHINERY

House & garden clearances , sk ips supplied

Spanish or English

Also buyers of COPPER, BRASS, ALUMINIUM, LEAD, STAINLESS STEEL

TEL: 645 094 339 / 950 064 763

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

41

luxury tingdene park home

Situated on a well established residential park close to the historic town of Anteequera, approximately 30 miles north of Malaga.

The property overlooks olive groves and mountains to the rear.

Large outdoor swimming pool and 12m x 22m heated indoor pool for all-year round use, with adjoining gymnasium for residents use. The property is fenced on 3 sides and has a large shaded car port alongside the house (to protect the car from sun not rain).

Fully carpeted throughout. Economical gas central heating throughout, and double glazed.

Entrance hall leading to large lounge and adjoining dining room. Furnished to a high standard including….. 2 and 3 seater settees, coffee tables, fitted electric fire, dining table with 4 matching chairs, corner display unit, 5 drawer storage unit, stereo unit with drawers, wall mounted air con unit, flat screen TV and glass fronted TV unit.

Fully fitted kitchen, breakfast bar, 2 stools, NEFF electric cooker and gas hob. Indesit freezer. Leading to…..Utility room with

fridge, freezer, washing machine, large built in storage cupboard. Double glazed door leading to outside.

Master bedroom. Fully fitted with en suite shower and adjoining walk in wardrobe, luxury king sized bed. Air con unit and ceiling fan with light. This room gets the morning sun with views to the mountains.

Bedroom 2… fitted full width wardrobes and integral vanity unit. Double bed with storage drawers and ceiling fan and light.

Bedroom 3…single bed and wardrobe, currently used as an office.

Separate bathroom, with full size bath.

The home is being sold virtually fully furnished with a good selections of crockery, kitchen utensils, lamps, wall pictures etc.

To the rear there is a large raised shaded area running the full width of the property, perfect for in the evening watching the sun go down……gin and tonic in hand!

We have our own fitted satellite dish to receive UK TV channels. Garden shed and long storage box included.

Price reduced to sell - 49,950 GBP

For appointment to view and further details telephone:

625 410 735 or 699 803 827

Genuine reason for sale - Owners relocating with Job

42

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

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

Bugs

Mosquito Screens & Blinds

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

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

Tel: 600 049 515 Get The Best For Less

TNT

OPEN for business

The European Commission has recommended opening EU membership talks with Serbia, following last Friday’s landmark deal to normalise Serbia-Kosovo ties.

In a report by the BBC, Serbia’s government has approved the EU-brokered deal with its former province of Kosovo.

Both Serbia and Kosovo want to join the EU. There has been sporadic violence in Kosovo since the 1999 conflict.

Many countries recognise Kosovo as independent, but Serbia is among those, including Russia and China, who do not. Five of the 27 EU countries do not recognise Kosovo: Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus.

Serbia insists that Friday’s deal, granting a high degree of autonomy to Serb-majority areas in northern Kosovo, does not mean that it has recognised Kosovo’s independence.

The Commission, which steers EU membership negotiations, said it “recommends that negotiations for accession to the European Union should be opened with Serbia”. EU foreign ministers will consider the issue on Monday.

Kosovo’s parliament in the capital Pristina, whose MPs are ethnically Albanian, accepted the 15-point deal with Serbia in a vote on Sunday.

Kosovo declared independence in 2008, but many of the ethnic Serb minority in Kosovo have refused to recognise the authority of its mainly ethnic Albanian government.

In medieval times Kosovo was the centre of the Serbian

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The text, reported on the European Voice website, says the police in Serb-majority municipalities will be ethnic Serbs, but the force will remain part of the “one police force in Kosovo called the Kosovo Police”. Both sides also agreed not to block each other’s efforts to seek EU membership.

The European Commission, this Monday, proposed allowing Kosovo to participate in 22 EU programmes. The proposal requires approval from EU governments to go ahead.

Serbian Prime Minister Ivica Dacic had said that “if the government accepts the agreement, I expect Serbia to get a date to start membership talks with the European Union”.

The deal says there will be legal recognition of a Serbmajority Association/Community in the north. It will have autonomy in key policy areas: economic development, education, health, urban and rural planning.

The deal was signed in Brussels on Friday by Mr Dacic and Kosovo Prime Minister Hashim Thaci, after long negotiations chaired by EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton.

Mr Thaci told the Kosovan parliament on Sunday that “Serbia has recognised the full sovereignty and territorial integrity of Kosovo”.

Two ethnic Albanian opposition parties - the Democratic League of Kosovo, and Self-Determination - opposed the deal, calling it “treason” and “the foundation for a new Serbian republic” in the Balkans.

FIND US In Longo’s Courtyard

There was also a protest against the deal by Serbian nationalists in Belgrade on Sunday.

Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696

Damproofing and SIKA TANKING Specialist Guaranteed British quality internal plaster finish

Empire, and Serbs regard it as the birthplace of their nation. Under the new deal, Serbs in northern Kosovo will have their own Serb police commander and appeal court. That court will sit permanently in northern Mitrovica.

The town is ethnically divided, with a Serb majority in northern Mitrovica and ethnic Albanians in the south.

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

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EU Commission: ‘Start Serbia membership talks’

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

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

764

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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

Tel: 627 907 207

www.solshaders.net

Email: solshaders@live.co.uk

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 APRIL 2013

Business lobby group backs government push on EU deal

Hundreds of business leaders have formed a new lobby group Business for Britain to press the government to renegotiate the UK’s deal with the EU.

OFFICIAL HITS AGENTS IN ALBOX

WE HAVE THE FULL RANGE OF HITS PHONES & SIM CARDS IN STOCK

They suggested it could create uncertainty and lead to a period of “investment chill”.

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

But in its letter in Monday’s newspapers Business for Britain states: “As business leaders and entrepreneurs responsible for millions of British jobs, we believe that the government is right to seek a new deal for the EU and for the UK’s role in Europe.

John Mills, the founder of online retail business JML and the other co-chairman, said the group was politically neutral: “This campaign is not about taking political sides or backing the right horse - it’s about doing what’s best for British business.”

He said he had been a member of the Labour Party for 40 years.

The lobby group’s letter comes a week after a major survey by the British Chambers of Commerce suggested most UK companies wanted to stay in Europe, but with some powers

• walls • paving • extensions • cladding

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

As the prime minister unveiled his plan to renegotiate the UK’s relationship with the EU and then hold an in/out referendum on whether to stay in the EU on those new terms or leave, the British manufacturers’ association, the EEF, and the UK head of the accountancy firm Deloitte were among those to express doubts.

He said that the economy would do better with a more flexible, looser relationship with the EU.

construction & drainage

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

references available

Some 500 business chiefs - including Lord Wolfson of Next and Sir Stuart Rose of Ocado - have signed a letter in Monday’s newspapers backing the plan. But other business leaders have said it is not possible to pick and chose.

The group’s co-chairman is Alan Halsall, who heads the upmarket pram making company, Silver Cross. He said he thought the new group was needed because there was a misconception about the attitude of businesses to European Union membership: “Business for Britain has been formed because many would have you believe that business doesn’t want politicians to try and renegotiate a better deal from Europe.”

elite plant hire Digger Hire available

In a report by the BBC, the group backs David Cameron’s plan to remake the UK’s agreements with the EU if the Tories win the next election.

“Far from being a threat to our economic interests, a flexible, competitive Europe - with more powers devolved from Brussels - is essential for growth, jobs and access to markets.”

43

brought back home.

Its survey of 4,000 businesses found 64% of those who responded said they favoured making adjustments to the UK’s agreements with the EU. Employment law was the number one area they wanted opt outs from.

Upholstery

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An Aladdin cave for all your crafty needs

• Spectrum Noir Pens • Ali Masks • Gilding Flakes • Embossing Folders

Tel: 950 930 527 & 646 341 575

• Peel Offs • Latest Hunkydory • New Mens Kandan 3D • Dies for cutting machines

OPENING HOURS: MON, TUES, THURS,FRI & FIRST SAT of every month 10-2PM

CALL MARGARET ON 634 338 832 Avda. 28 de Febrero, Albox (Between Sol y Mar / The Post Shop & jacks)

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

Tel: 692 17 60 69

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

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

Tel: 634 327 201 / 661 129 028 Email: atpspain@gmail.com www.paulmorrison.es David

665 517 643

Steve

610 905 173 valleyconstruction2008@gmail.com

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

Phone or email for a no obligation quote

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

Tel: 634 388 243

newallprints@hotmail.com

44

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

From 1st May PAVING at the Pink House Bespoke paving with something for all budgets, made by a specialist with over 20 years experience.

Full laying service and landscaping available.

Choose from stock or your own design.

Stock includes; Sleepers, Stepping stones, edgings, coping tops, decorative features & various sized paving.

Full driveways and patios, with a choice of colours.

May Only 20% Discount Orders taken in advance, so make the most of this offer !!!

No job too or small

big

!!

TELEPHONE 622 288 750 - 679 207 545

All Day Trip to Granada

only 13.95â‚Ź includes a site seeing tour

Option 1: Entrance to the Alhambra Palace (additional cost to be confirmed)

Option 2: Includes 3 course meal, at an authentic Spanish restaurant, 9.95â‚Ź per head.

Many Local pick up points, Pinkhouse (La Conception), Mojacar, Arboleas etc.....

622 288 750 / 679 207 545 Limited spaces - First come first served Tel:

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

TEST DRIVE:TOYOTA VERSO

the little rascal who earned herself a good tickle.

The driver of such a vehicle is always keen to know what his passengers are doing and so a helpful folding panoramic mirror can be found above the rear view mirror; a very useful tool indeed – I could even see my daughters in the third row – Harriett drawing on the window, bless her – an artist in the making.

Cubbyholes abound for all the family clobber. When the third row of seats is in operation boot space is drastically reduced and so it is helpful to find a sizeable hidden space in the boot floor, large enough for a reasonable size bag, as you can see from the videos at testdrives.biz.

There are few vehicles that will transport three generations of the same family. But MPVs (multipurpose vehicle) solve this difficulty.

Traditionally, though there’s one drawback and that is that they’re environmentally unfriendly gas guzzlers, which is why Toyota scrapped its popular Previa.

But its revisited the MPV with the introduction of the compact yet versatile Verso.

With its three rows of seats the Toyota Verso Icon was the perfect solution for the Saunders family when my wife Caroline wanted to treat her parents to a day out but didn’t want them to drive.

We drove to her parents with Harriett (2) and Heidi (three weeks) both in their car seats in the rear. Nothing unusual there. When we collected Caroline’s parents, Harriett and Heidi were swiftly shoved in the boot. Not quite how it sounds because the third row of seats fitted snugly into the boot floor. They were simply pulled up for use. Initially it seemed that space was tight in the rear but then I discovered that the second row slid forward in the same way as the front. Access to the third row was simple because each

seat in the second row folded forward with the pull of an easy-to-use lever. There were only six of us and the Verso, could fit seven, which meant that the middle seat in the second row was redundant.

Great then that it could be folded down flush to give a little extra room. We were all pleasantly surprised with how user-friendly and versatile the seating arrangements were in the Verso. The designers have clearly thought long and hard over the best use of space and they have done a good job.

tables, which came in very handy when we all decided to eat our picnic in the car because it was far too cold to brave the bitter cold outside.

We parked up by the sea and enjoyed the view. Harriett sat on daddy’s lap and tried her hand at steering, operating the sat nav and the stereo. No matter what car she travels in she always swiftly finds the switch for the hazard lights, which inevitably start flashing. It wasn’t long before her little fingers found their way to the button for the retractable wing mirrors, too.

This proved to be huge fun for

Passengers in the second row benefited from folding

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

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Watch the video at: www.testdrives.biz

Tel: 950 124 828 pitstop-oria@live.co.uk

TYRES • SERVICING • REPAIRS Part Worn Tyres from 20€ 30€

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2001 Nissan Pathfinder, 4x4, Leather, A/C, Alloys, New ITV, 32 mpg, Auto........ .....................................................................................................................€3995 1997 BMW 325 TDS Estate, Black VGC ..............................................€3495 2004 Ford Focus 1.8 TDCI, Silver, VGC...............................................€3495 1999 Fiat Punto 1.9TD, VGC, Very Economical, New ITV........................ .€1495 Nissan Patrol 4x4, 2.8 Diesel, SWB, Tow Bar, New ITV............................€1295 1996 Peugeot 306, 1.9 Diesel, Alloys, 5 Door Hatchback ........................€1495 2002 Chrysler Neon, A/C, 5 Speed, Low Mileage.................................... €2200 1998 BMW 318, Alloy Wheels, VGC, New ITV............................................ €1495

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Despite its capabilities inside, the Verso felt a relatively small car to drive, proving fairly easy to park,

Vehicle Air Conditioning Service

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specification

helped by the addition of the rear parking camera that appeared in the media centre in the middle of the dash. The one thing I couldn’t come to terms with though, was the position of the speedometer and rev counter. They were not directly in front of the driver as usual but to the left.

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motoring

The 1.6-litre petrol engine can be a little lethargic and I had trouble selecting second gear – the six-speed box not as smooth as I would prefer.

However, the brakes were sharp and precise stopping us immediately when a bumbling Sunday afternoon motorist chose to go all the way round a roundabout without indicating. The cruise control could be trusted to keep the set speed no matter how steep the incline.

Advanced motorist Tim Saunders is the former Business and Motoring Editor of the Bournemouth Daily Echo. His regular test reports appear in numerous newspapers, magazines and websites throughout the UK, Ireland & Gibraltar - and now here in Spain! For more information contact Tim on: timasaunders@tiscali.co.uk

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FIAT 500 CABRIO, 875CC PETROL, AUTO, 2012, 1584KMS …...............................€14,950 HARLEY DAVIDSON SOFTAIL DEUCE, 2003, 30,000KMS.......................................€10,950 FORD TRANSIT 2.6 DIESEL, 2008, 28,000KMS...............................................................€10,950 HYUNDAI i30, 1.4 PETROL, 2009, 68,000KMS....................................................................€8,950 TOYOTA AVENSIS, 2L DIESEL, 2005, 177,000KMS............................................................€6,950 RENAULT KANGOO 1.6 PETROL, AUTO, 2007, 112,000KMS.............................................€6,950 NISSAN MICRA 1.2 PETROL, 2008, 72,000KMS..................................................................€6,450 FORD MONDEO EST. GHIA, 2.5 V6, PETROL, 2001, 110,000KMS......................................€2,950 CITROEN XSARA 1.8 PETROL, AUTO, 1998, 121,000KMS...............................................€1,450

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46

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

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

sport

VALLE DEL ESTE GOLF SOCIETY

ANOTHER GREAT WEEK FOR GOLF AND WITH NO EXCUSES FROM MEMBERS FOR NOT PLAYING WELL AS EVERYTHING WAS TO THEIR ADVANTAGE THE WEATHER, COURSE & GREENS. TUESDAY WE HAD TWO DIFFERENT COMPS A TEAM GAME PLAYED OFF THE YELLOW TEES AND THE WINNERS WERE ALAN TOWNSEND, TONY DUDLEY, MARGARET & GEORGE BENNETT A GROUP OF 8 PLAYERS PLAYED OFF THE WHITE TEES AND THE WINNER PATRICK VICKERY WITH 32 PTS. FRIDAY STABLEFORD COMP AND A FIRST WIN FOR GEOFF OWEN

WITH 38PTS (HCP22) 2ND TISH BIGELOW 37PTS (HCP22) 3RD SEAN HALLIGAN 36PTS (HCP7) NEAREST THE PINS WAS WON

BY RAY HARRISON 2ND SHOT TO THE 8TH AND ON THE PAR 3 12TH BOTH GREAT SHOTS WELL DONE EVERONE AND KEEP UP THE GOOD GOLF. QUOTE; THE GOLF SWING IS LIKE SEX.YOU CANT BE THINKING ABOUT THE MECHANICS OF THE ACT WHILE YOU ARE PERFORMING. PLAY GOLF AT VALLE DEL ESTE THE BEST COURSE IN THE AREA

Last week I tried to explain the work involved in re-building the Operating System and some of the hard work that the members of the Albox Computer Club put in for the PIRdA charity. The number of times that people have asked how long a re-installation will take and therefore how much it will cost, just to be stunned into silenced by the answer, not realising just how much work they are getting for their money! Such is life :-) Anyway you will just have time to read this (because I got up at 4am to ensure you got your copy) before bringing your problems to me at La Vida in Cucador, on Thursday!

There are many reasons why your valuable data (Pictures. Music, Documents, etc) might be deleted. The most common is “User Error”, where in a moment of absent mindedness we select delete rather than copy, cut or any other normal action. Fortunately the lost file(s) will end up in the recycle bin (What the Americans call “Trash” - the etymology of which will forever escape me!). So, why is this so fortunate? Well no matter which version of “Windows” you are using, there will be a “Recycle Bin” (Doesn’t that sound so much better than “trash can”!).

The “Recycle Bin” is a temporary storage location that holds, not only the deleted file(s) (in a renamed format), but also an index of the deleted files containing their real names and where they come from on the disk.

So, why on earth would you want to put a deleted file into a place where you can get it back? As was said earlier, to err is human, to forget or have a lapse of thought, happens! During this erring or lapse it is easy to hit the wrong button!

Not all is lost though! As all deleted or erased (the terms are used interchangeably and have been since way back when) files are stored safely in the “Recycle Bin” they can be returned to their proper place with a simple set of key strokes. 1) Double Click (Left mouse button) the “Recycle Bin” to open a window displaying its contents. 2) Select, by a single click (again left mouse button), on the file to be recovered. 3) Go to the menu bar at the top of the window and click (Yep you guessed it, Left mouse Button) on the menu option “File”. 4) The very first sub-menu option is “Restore”, this you should click on (left – you got it :-)). 5) Now know with absolute confidence that your file is back where it belongs!

Doesn’t that now fill you with the confidence that almost everything is reversible! Good! The next task is to ensure that whatever is in the “Recycle Bin” that need not be there, is deleted. This is just as simple but should be done deliberately and knowing that when it is gone, it will take someone like me, time and expense (yours and mine) to find and restore it. Just follow these steps 1) Right mouse click over the “Recycle Bin” and you will see a “floating menu”. Near the bottom will be the option “empty the recycle bin”. 2) Right click on the option. Your “Recycle Bin” will now be clean and empty!

Next time we will discuss the reasons why this just isn’t a secure method of getting rid of files and what you can do to make sure that when a file is gone – IT IS GONE! For those of you that I will meet tomorrow, I am looking forwards to it.

For everyone else, the next instalment is already being written. You know where I am and how to get hold of me should your computer be attacked by a virus or it slows to a snail’s pace. So wishing you all the very best, have a lovely and trouble free week until next week For further information or advice on computing, contact Trevor on 689 892 745 or canducomputing@hotmail.co.uk

FORUM GOLF SOCIETY Forum Golf Society´s latest event on April 19th was a Team Coloured ball competition held at the challenging Aguilon course.

The event wasn´t as close as most Forum´s competitions have been this year, with a very significant distance of 46 points separating the winning team from the last placed one.

The day´s winners with a total of 125 points were Fran Elam, Geoff Hebb, John

Smith & KimFrench with 125 points, with Phil Elam, Dave Keymer, Malcolm Sibbons & Roy Barker (113 points) second and Kevin Bircher, Andy Birch, Graham Spalding & Phil Harris (107 points) third.

Good news also for Forum´s Phil Elam & Geoff Hebb who finished third in the regional finals of the prestigious Ford Golf Leagues held at Las Colinas in Alicante and who have now qualified for the Grand Finals to be played at La Sella

in Valencia next month.

Forum´s upcoming fixtures are May 3rd Stableford at Lorca May 17th Stableford at Marina May 18th Bowling night at Los Amigos, Arboleas For further information, contact Phil Elam on 666 847840 / philjelam@yahoo. co.uk, or see www.forumgolfsociety. webs.com

ANGLING NEWS WITH BEACHCOMBER JOHN Shore fishing: Because I’ve only managed to get out boat fishing two Mondays since the New Year due to rubbish seas I’ve decided to go back doing a bit more shore fishing. I thought I’d take the dogs to a quiet part of Macenas beach and was a bit surprised when the dogs, after only ten minutes, went back to the car and obviously wanted to go home! I opened up the car doors and let them in or out and it’s where they stayed for the next hour until I’d finished chucking lures, I50g to 170g, at what appeared to be an empty sea. No problem I’ll catch some tomorrow!

‘London Bill’ did better than me and caught a decent sea bass spinning a silver spoon in the surf on Macenas Beach.

Boat Fishing: ‘Hissing Sid’ took out the ‘The three amigos from Los Gallardos’, (‘Los Gallardos Tony’, ‘Oil rig Ian’ and Allen was ‘Sea sick Allen’) then they named him ‘Rockfish Allen’ now he’s called ‘Foul hooked Allen’ as he managed to foul hook six fish.

Weather was great, flat sea, sunny blue sky and most of all, no wind, about time. Fish caught were the usual pandoras, pickerel, red snappers, dreaded weavers.

See photo of Ian with a pandora.

Sid was also out a few days before with builder Jason from Palomares, Jay had a decent red snapper.

‘Captain Brian Cuba’s’ boat is back working and he had a lovely calm morning together with Trevor and his two youngest, Scot and sister Elena. Brian had almost forgotten what it was like to go fishing as it was over five weeks since he last went out and it seemed much, much longer.

It was a beautiful morning like only this region of Spain can be, crystal clear and so peaceful. There was hardly a ripple on the sea and the only cloud on the horizon was the fish finder/depth finder, it had gone down. Brian must have disconnected the power somewhere along the line when he was working on the boat, it just wouldn’t fire up.

Fortunately he hadn’t forgotten all his usual marks so they headed out at a good thirty knots to the spots off the petrol station where in the past Brian had ‘done good’.

He had clean forgotten just how fast his boat ‘Wave Rider’ was. Even though the hull was dirty, she fairly flew along.

It brought a smile to everyone’s face and the day just got better and better.

Brian baited up the first rod with shrimp and dropped it down to 60 ft., just to check he had got the spot right as that particular rod had a line measure on it. It hit the bottom and bang they were in just as Brian said ‘’here you are’’ and handed it to one of the children. All they had to do was reel in a fair sized pandora and that was their ‘duck’ avoided for the day.

All morning the fish just kept coming and most were a really decent size, pandoras, red snappers and some really hefty pickerel. They got one very small weaver, the smallest fish of the day Brian was pleased to report and a very decent lizard fish, the biggest he have ever had on board, (Not that we catch a lot of them) hey look a lot like the weaver. An

unusual fish in some ways as they can be caught on the bottom in deep water and when trolling on the surface.

Course Fishing: ‘Kenolo’ spent four hours fly fishing on Lake Negratin last week and never had one take. He tried floating line, a slow sinker line, a fast sinking line and the only line he didn’t try was the washing line! and also about 20 different flies. The lake water was very high and where he was fishing last year under some trees they are about 30’ from the bank now.

Two Murcia club matches weighed in winning weights of 52lbs and 37lbs. Water levels in the rivers and lake are extremely high.

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. Tight lines, Beachcomber John.

send your sport reports to

editor@soltimes.com by monday 12pm

www.soltimes.com

SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

sport

Boxers Golf Society

So that’s it everyone, the clocks have sprung forward, the sun has broken out from its cocoon, and suddenly spring’s factor 10 has been upped to a a sensorious factor 25+ to keep the skin gently toasting into that gorgeous summer tan which makes us all look like photo models in a holiday brochure.

Boxers celebrated the new season with two more outings. The first was to Valle del Este where, despite heavy use from the annual pilgrimage of devoted Scandinavians escaping the last of Northern European darkness, found the course in immaculate condition – a credit to the staff. With a second competition this week and the richness of next weekend’s 3 day Murcia golf fest, the field was unusually small - which doesn’t take away from the excellent performances of overall division 1 winner Paul Holley & runner up Dave France, with Adrian Ball and Peter Tapsell scooping the 2nd division.

Desert Springs is playing host to the entire round robin Home Internationals competition, and Wednesday established a clear division between the 2 teams hungry for victory after this year’s 6 Nations Rugby needle match … and the cannon fodder. (That should hype them up for the next round!). Echoing the rugby points table, the sons

Compiled by Tony Matthews

sport shorts

of Blighty stand favourite to maintain their lead against the dubious parentage claimed by some of the childer of Llewlyyn ab Llewellyn and Gwenwynwyn ab Owain. 22nd May will settle the outcome.

Survivors of the 3 day Murcia break are due to join the rest of the society at Playa Serena on the 30th May, which is both a stand-alone competition and the final round of this year’s Captain’s Eclectic. Visitors and guests are very welcome to join the friendly crew who will be enjoying this gorgeous and challenging campo de golf. For more details of this or any of Boxers varied golf outings or social events please call Captain Derek Leonard on 950 936 162 or 690 352 860.

19th hole gs, cucador

Tuesday 16th April the 19th Hole Golf Society arrived at Aguilon to commence battle in the Monthly Medal round.

Numbers were down but the 17 players attending were treated to a really beautiful day for golf and a course condition that is in a league of its own.

Nigel Greenwoods 7º driver is certainly paying dividends now, with the big fella knocking the ball pretty straight and a very long way. Proof of the improvement in his short game was his Nearest the Pin on the 17th. This, combined with his consistent putting, got him back to the 19th hole with a Nett score of 66 to easily take the Monthly Medal Trophy( see photo). In second place with an equally impressive display of all round consistent play was Zeta (Her in Doors) Denyer. Zeta scored a Nett 69. Big Al(The Artist) Greenfield regained his touch coming in 3rd with a Nett 75.

It really was a day of Girl Power, with Nekana scoring a Nett 75 and Christine Dow a Nett 76, most of us male players felt we should have stayed at home and done the washing and ironing.

John Ball had his best result so far, not in the medal, but by

achieving a Nearest the Pin on the 17th and converting the really great tee shot into a Two. Alan Chippendale also achieved a Two on the 10th hole.

Results.

1st Nigel Greenwood 66 (20); 2nd Zeta Denyer 69 (36); 3rd Alan Greenfield 75 (20) Twos: 10th Hole - Alan Chippendale; 17th Hole - John Ball Nearest The Pin: 4th Hole Nigel Greenwood; 17th Hole - John Ball The 19th hole G/S is now arranging weekly games at various courses in the area, our home course, which we play fortnightly, is Aguilon. If you are interested in joining the 19th hole give the secretary a ring on 610340653. Or email gs19thhole@hotmail.co.uk

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• I ’ll start with ‘The Anfield Cannibal’ Luis Suarez - who scored an injurytime equaliser for Liverpool at home to Chelsea (2-2) after biting the arm of opposing defender Branislav Ivanovic. He should receive a lengthy ban, as it’s not the first time the striker has done this!!

• On Monday, Manchester United clinched their 20th League title by beating lowly Aston Villa - this after rivals City had lost 3-1 at Spurs 24 hours earlier.

• Celtic have won the SL championship for the 44th time; Partick lifted the First Division prize and Mansfield Town the Conference crown.

• All eyes will be focussed on the foot of the PL this weekend. Reading and QPR look doomed (unless Merlin waves his magic wand) but there are vital six-point relegation battles involving Villa v. Sunderland and Stoke v. Norwich while Wigan play Spurs and Newcastle meet Liverpool. The ‘Match of the Day’ however, is Arsenal against Manchester United.

• Hull need a point at Barnsley to reach the Premiership (with Cardiff City).

• Unless there’s a 12-0 scoreline, Bournemouth have won promotion from FL1 and will be joined by either Brentford or Doncaster, who meet at Griffin Park on Saturday, and Rotherham could join Port Vale and Gillingham in FL2.

• Tonight Borussia Dortmund play Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, Bayern Munich met Barcelona in the other semi last night. The second legs take place on 30 April/ 1 May. • Chelsea visit FC Basel in the first leg of their Europa League semifinal tomorrow night. Benfica visit Fenerbahce in the other semi. The return legs are next week.

• World champion Sebastian Vettel

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(Red Bull) won a superb F1 Grand Prix in Bahrain, ahead of Kimi Raikkonen and Roman Grosjean.

Gordon Sheddon and Andrew Jordan have won their first races of the 2103 BTCC and three-time World Champion Matt Neal rode in his 500th career race.

It was a Spain 1-2-3 in the firstever Motor GP at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas. Twenty yearold Marc Marquez (Repsol/Honda) roared to victory to become the youngest-ever winner of a major GP race, taking over from Freddie Spencer. Dani Pedrosa was second and Jorge Lorenzo third.

Some 700,000 spectators cheered on 35,000 athletes in the 33rd London Marathon.

Novak Djokovic beat Rafael Nadal in the Monte Carlo Tennis final.

Sir Bradley Wiggins came fifth in Italy’s Giro Del Trentino cycle race.

GB heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury is on course for a world title fight after his 7th round k.o. of American Steve Cunningham in New York.

Olympian Alastair Brownlee won his first triathlon of 2013 in San Diego.

Cricketer Mike Denness, the only Scot to captain England at Test level, has died of cancer, aged 72.

GB won five medals in the European Gymnastic Championships in Russia.

Tom Daley won the 10m platform gold at the World Diving Championships in Edinburgh.

Unbeaten Australian racehorse Black Caviar has retired after 25 consecutive wins.

The World Snooker Championship is underway at the Crucible, Sheffield, without Steven Lee, who is under investigation for matchfixing.

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48 SOLTIMES APRIL 2013

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

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Bar Cardies On the sea front next to Popeyes Bat

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CHAPLINS pub 27 CALLE SIERRA NEVADA, 200M FROM diver HOTEL ROQUETAS

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friday Fish & chip shop day WEDNESDAY RIBS 5.95€ Friday 9.30ish General Knowledge quiz FRIDAY FISH’N’CHIPS 3.95€ BEST IN TOWN saturday night saturday night 1€ drinks plus buy one buy one get one free meals get one free meals guinness & john smith on Booking advisable wednesday & friday draught Tel: 950 335 022

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