Roquetas 438

Introducing our

2014 summer events

see our centrefold advert every week

tel: 690 003 819

Puerto Deportivo, Darsena 1, Almerimar

ISSUE 438

roquetas & almerimar

28 may - 3 Jun

SolTimes CK ME UP’est. SINCE 2005 YOUR ESSENTIAL WEEKLY ‘PI

your free weekly newspaper

FRIDAY is

PARTY DAY See our main advert on page 11 Calle Faro, Almerimar

www.soltimes.com

At the entrance to the port

Tel: 950 563 560

food &28d&r29ink page

moors &christia ns page 7

ARE YOU MISSING ENGLISH TV PROGRAMMES

No need to pay for expensive satellite or cable subscriptions anymore!

195€ single payment installed

With our box you can also watch any movie new or old any box set ever made.

Watch Sports & hundreds of other TV channels

DANTEL ANDROID TV of Almerimar

FOR INFORMATION EMAIL DAN ON dan.androidtv@outlook.com or phone dan 606313478 or alan 636115620

Arkrites British Food Store

rack of Lamb available

Menu del dia 9.50€ served friday - wednesday

Enjoy Pierre’s French Cuisine Kitchen open: 12.30 - 3.00, 7.00 - 10.00.

Closed Thursdays Plaza Los Jazmines 10, 04740 Roquetas de Mar Opposite Playa Capricho in the car park

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

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

Large Selection of Greeting Cards

double knitting wool now in stock Mon - Fri: 10.30am - 2.30pm Sat 10am - 2pm

TEL: 950 334 081

out of hours please call 950 334 544

In the Urb of Roquetas de Mar, just off Avda de Mediterraneo in the square near La Gamba Toscana & Theos

JAKS Wide Range of UK,

Continental & Indian Foods & Spices

selection of electrical Goods OPENING HOURS: Mon - fri 10am - 6pm sat & sun 10am - 7pm

Tel: 950 609 419

calle JABEQUE, 42, ALMERIMAR

cafÉ-bar boulevard

Excellent Food including Sunday Roast

Open every day from 10am - late Free WiFi. Sky Sports

On Draught Guinness/john Smiths/strongbow/mahou

Situated directly on beach front 50 metres from Hotel Sabinal

Tel: 950 334 042

Meals & Snacks served 10am - 10pm Sangria, Cocktails & Ice Creams Live Music every Sunday 3pm – 5pm

with Tom and Nonie

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

local News

Mojacar Positiva se Mueve legal action overturns “electioneering” bonuses awarded by lady mayor

Successful legal action by independent political party Mojacar Positiva se Mueve has prevented the controversial award of bonuses to all Mojacar town hall staff that was proposed by the lady major of Mojacar Rosa Maria Cano and agreed at the town’s council meeting on 14 March 2014. The party, led by councillor Jessica Simpson, filed a legal claim against the proposal claiming that the granting of the bonuses of €1000 to full time workers and €500 to part time workers was clearly illegal. The claim was upheld at an extraordinary urgent council meeting held on Friday 16 May. A jubilant Simpson said: “We could not have wished for a better outcome. This wholly inappropriate gesture has rightly been slapped down because of its illegality.

Importantly, the decision should also be considered against the backdrop of an overriding obligation to be prudent with public funds.

Mojacar is not an exception to this obligation. The bonus proposal could easily have been seen as buying an opportunity to get a large number of voters on Find us at Los Carasoles, Zurgena (Almeria) the side of the lady mayor.

On the Baza Road You can all make your own judgment on that.”

MPSM’s legal claim had www.rusticoakfurnitureelpinar.com caused several tense situations between the party and council workers, Simpson said, and the lady View all mayor had not hesitated our items in using the action as a weapon, saying that MPSM on our Exceptionally was against the welfare w ebsite... improvement of local town Low Prices... hall workers. After receiving ...many unique pieces - once they’ve gone...they’ve gone! a letter from the delegated

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general secretary of the national government, the lady mayor accepted that the bonus proposal was now null and void.

Fellow opposition political group Union Mojaquera said at Friday’s meeting: “Without knowing in depth the full report on this case at the time it was approved initially, we understood that it could be illegal.” They added that the proposal was perhaps “done with electioneering purposes or thinking that it would cause the workers to be against the opposition groups.”

At the meeting, Rosa Maria Cano added: “This money would have been well received by the workers, one was going to extend his kitchen, and all had a good purpose for the money! If they had not put in this claim, now everyone would have that thousand euros at home!”

Simpson reflected: “This statement is totally outrageous.

Knowing that the proposed bonuses were illegal and confirmed as such in the report of their own auditor and the secretary of government, the mayor is still blaming us for having stopped this crime. We are not here to debate whether or not town hall workers deserve a bonus, or to devalue in any way their effort and dedication, however, for the mayor to continually insinuate that “it would have been better to have ignored this action, as the workers deserve this money” is astonishing to say the least! You cannot reward people in an illegal manner.”

In conclusion, Simpson said: “I want to make it clear that it is the mayor’s mistake and not ours and that the mayor has been making workers feel confronted with us because of our legal action. The mayor should not have told the workers that they were going to receive a thousand euros when it was not clear. She put honey in their mouths and has promised something that was neither approved, nor was legal. If that money was paid, the mayor could have even faced jail and should maybe be thankful to MPSM for sparing her this possibility.”

For further information contact Jessica Simpson 00 34 950 472 647 or 00 34 629 089 949

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

3

News Home Sweet Home Turre “LIVING FOSSIL” SHARK IN ROQUETAS Next to Supermercado Maxco-op 3.8 m Six-gill shark found washed up in Natural Park Luxury & Elegant Outdoor Garden Furniture

On the 19th May 2014 a 3.8m six gill shark (Hexanchus griseus) washed up in the natural park of Punta Entinas-Sabinar, and wildlife rescue non-profit Equinac went to the scene to take photographs and record data.

This species of shark has hardly evolved since the Jurassic period, over 150 million years, which makes it a “living fossil” from the time of the dinosaurs.

The shark’s habitat is the Ocean abyss, sometimes found at over 2000m depth.

It is a slow shark, that generally scavenges for carcasses of dead animals, such as large whales.

It is found in almost all the world’s seas, yet sightings are getting more and more frequent because of trawlers and other fisheries. This one had a rope tied to its tail stock, indicating that a fisherman probably had to drag it out from a net, something that Equinac has also observed

with cetaceans (whales and dolphins).

Despite its appearance and size, this animal doesn’t pose any threats to people, and no one should be intimidated to get back in the water this Summer!

Equinac is the exclusive entity that rescues marine wildlife in the Almería province, Southern Spain. The NGO is composed by a technical and veterinary team, and a network of trained volunteers.

They are called when an animal is found on the beach, even when the animal is dead, which allows vital data and sampling collection for scientific purposes.

Most frequent species are striped dolphins and loggerhead turtles.

Sharks are not frequently found washed up on the coast, but many species live in the Mediterranean Sea. Sharks are types of fish, and most aren’t dangerous to man.

Source: Alexander Sánchez - Equinac

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Open Mon -Thur 10am-6pm Fri 9:30am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm Tel: 950 479 487

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

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GAMMON JOINTS GAMMON €7.99KG JOINTS €7.99KG

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HONEY HONEY ROAST ROAST HAM HAM €15.99KG €15.99KG

TANDOORI TANDOORI CHICKEN CHICKEN SAUSAGES SAUSAGES €6.99KG €6.99KG

NZ chine LEG OF LAMB beef €9.99KG €14.99KG

2 FRESH 2 FRESH CHICKENS CHICKENS €5.00 €5.00

Shop Tele: 950 951 494 avenida america 21, albox butchers tele: 634 372 188 open 9am - 2pm

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

5

News SAVE TO THE MAx

Do you think, maybe you, have a drink problem??

My name is Roger and this is my story.

Well I never thought I did, booze to me was my best friend.

When I was sad, booze helped me.

When I was happy, booze helped me.

When I could not cope, booze helped me.

When I got married, booze helped me.

When things went wrong in my life, disasters or whenever I got into any trouble and all the bad times booze was always there.

Little did I know, booze was not helping me ….. booze was really my enemy!

When I came to Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) I was given one tremendous cast - iron promise!

If I didn’t pick up the first drink I wouldn’t get drunk. How simple is that?

How come no other fellowship, society, organisation, call it what you will, could give me or anyone such an unswerving promise?

All I had to do was grab it. That’s where the problem was hi-lighted. I thought I could stop when I wanted to, until I tried!

This is when my friend booze did not want to let go! This is when booze messed with my brain and kept saying this time it will be better or different.

I could no longer see the simplicity of it - Don’t pick up the first drink and you won’t get drunk. I always thought it was the sixth or seventh one that changed me, from Dr Jekyll to Mr Hyde!

I knew nothing about alcoholisum, that it is a “disease” which is three fold …. it affects my body, my brain and my inner most soul, (that blackness deep inside me).

I knew nothing about AA only that I thought maybe it was some sort of religious group.

A friend of a friend who knew someone who was going to A.A., and who had stopped drinking and began turning their life around, said to me, Roger!! what have you got to lose, you have almost lost everything anyway.

So my journey of recovery began!

I rang AA. Not knowing what to expect.

That was on the 26th January 1987 and from that day to this I have not needed to take the first drink “ one day at a time”. I only tell you this to let you know there is life after booze.

At that first meeting I was made so warmly welcome in a way I had not been used to in a long time. No one judged me or said I had to do this or do that. They did not want any money from me or want to know my full name or history. They just wanted to help me in a way that made me feel safe, like I had come home …. so I stayed and kept going back.

There was a mention of God. But for me, it was more like a sense of a loving g.o.d. …. “ Group Of Drunks …. and with that I was comfortable.

They were sober and all they wanted to do was stay sober. To do this, they needed to pass that gift on to me, if I wanted it.

Had I had enough of being sick and tired of being sick and tired, did I want to change this downward spiral I felt I was in.

So if you think, maybe, booze / alcohol is controlling you more then you would like, come and meet me and my friends and listen to our stories and hear about our recoveries. Maybe you might identify and find your own way out. SO JUST RING US, WE CARE. If you are the partner, family member or friend of such a person and you are finding it hard to cope, we have another wonderful fellowship, where you can go, just like I did and find a warm welcome.

It’s called Al-Anon Family Groups.

There are Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon meetings in Mojacar and Albox.

(Our meetings are worldwide just check the web) Alcoholics Anonymous Albox 634 334 525 Mojacar 661 078 864 Al-Anon Family Groups 637 480 265

Insurance Specialist

• Home • Car • Life (funeral related) • Commercial • Communities • Travel

up to 50€ cashback off car/home

• Golf Phone me: 669 074 996 Find me: Tuesdays at Next Stop Almeria, Los Gallardos

Fridays at Forget Me Not, Las Buganvillas Mail me: maxine.morgan@exclusivos.libertyseguros.es

STEVE ENNIS 687 846 016 Advanced Building Services

Building & Property repairs Interiors & Exteriors Insurance Work Undertaken Kitchens • Bathrooms • Tiling Patios • Pergolas • Driveways Doors • Windows • Rejas Building For Over 25 Years Client Testimonials Available Cuevas Del Almanzora

steveennis1@yahoo.co.uk

Belgian Beer Bar Opening 6th June

Serving Traditional Belgian Food & Drink

Entertainment Every Sat from 6pm Watch the World Cup with Us Where Bar International Used to be on the A334 Albox road Open 10am-Midnight (Closed Wednesdays)

622 188 294

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.ecocorpshop.com Special Offers Visit:

No tax on Solar! we have some great offers on systems for both grid connected and off grid. Contact us for a no obligation, free consultation and site survey. Official installers and long warranties.

Ecocorp Hybrid Home Power System These systems with a battery bank included, run in conjunction with your mains electricity. No more power cuts, clean energy and only use the mains when absolutely necessary.

Contact us for more information and or a free, no obligation site survey and quotation.

3Kw systems complete including installation from 8,995€ 5Kw systems complete including installation from 10,995€ 8Kw systems complete including installation from 12,995€ 10Kw systems complete including installation from 13,995€ Swimming Pool Heating Extend your swim season or use your pool all year round.

These “Super efficient” units are very economical to run and come fitted with automatic thermostats; set the tempreture you require and enjoy your pool whatever the weather.

Prices starting from 2495€ including installation.

Ecocorp are the “Official Installers” for Eurener Solar Panels- Made in Spain.

These are one of the best PV panels in the world!

All manufactured here in Spain with a 25 year warranty.

Ecocorp are the “Official Installers” for VIctron Energy in the Almeria and Murcia Regions.

Our team of installers are fully conversant and trained by Victron Energy to ensure that your installation is of the highest quality.

From configuring your individual system to it going live, our service is second to none.

ECOCORP are proud to support Vera & District Lions Club

Helping local charities & other good causes www.veralions.com Welfare Tel: 634 338 322 WE SERVE

“Off Grid” Solar Power Systems for homes with no mains electricity Enjoy the benefits of free, clean solar energy! Solar power technology has advanced dramatically over the last 10 years, modern appliances and large homes can be fully functional on solar power. Even 3 phase installations are available.

Contact us for a free site survey and consultation and see how you can benefit from the “Power of the sun”.

With systems from as little as 3995€ installed, what better time to look at an alternative energy source!

Special offer only 8 available 3kw”Off Grid” Ssytem - Only 4995€

Contact us via the web for a free, no obligation consultation and survey, alternatively call 950 930 187, 671 716 597 or for UK numbersd call 01332 896 510 - We are now accepting

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

KOALA

local News

MOORS & CHRISTIANS FIESTA Friday 6th, Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th June MEDIEVAL MARKET ARCOME On Friday 6th June 2014 at 12.00h.

The Medieval Market, located on the main square “Plaza Nueva” and Glorieta Street, will open with a parade. All kind of handmade products are offered by merchants dressed in period costumes. All these exhibitions and performances last until Sunday at noon on 8th June. Anyway, the Great Show consists of walking down our streets and enjoying the stunning views of the different lookout points of our village, unique across the Mediterranean. schedule of events FRIDAY 6th JUNE 21.30h. Congregation of fusiliers at the “Centro de Usos Múltiples” 22.00h. Regrouping of different troops at “La Fuente”.

The handing over of the City Key to the Christian monarch by the Moorish Monarch.

22.30h. FOUNTAIN.- The troops march to the sound of blunderbuss shots warning the village of the presence of hostile army near the city.

23.00h. VILLAGE.- Entry of troops in the village, each accompanied by their own ambassador. Then, the traditional Proclamation of the beginning of the festival with final fireworks.

24.00h. VILLAGE.- Opening ceremony

for barracks and headquarters each chaired by their own ambassador and accompanied by music bands. Fiesta untill dawn.

SATURDAY 7th JUNE 16.30h. Congregation of fusiliers at “Playa del Descargador” 18.00h. PLAYA DEL DESCARGADOR.(Opposite Provenzal Hotel).

Horse parade and taming exhibition with blunderbuss shots from sea and land.

In between there will be interrupted for Belly Dancing. Then, the Medieval Tournament where Moore and Christians knights try to get the most scarves made by ladies to win their favours.

Finally, the troops march towards the Parque Comercial.

22.00h. VILLAGE. Opening ceremony of barracks and headquarters. Fiesta untill dawn.

SUNDAY 8th JUNE 12.00h. BEACH. Concentration of Moors and Christians fusiliers along the beach with lots of blunderbuss shots.

19.00h. VILLAGE. Impressive Moors and Christians Parade dressed in gala costumes, carrying weapons and accompanied by music bands and fanfares.

7

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POl.ND.EL REAL C/VENTE VACIO E-14 04628 ANTAS - ALMERIA TEL: 950 392 307 MOVIL: 627 215 345

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monday to friday 10:00 to 19:00 saturday 10:00 - 14:00

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Bedspreads From 20€

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Huge Quilt Set Range

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Sheets, pillowcases and valances from 5.50€

Come and see the huge range of everyday essentials.

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Delivery available to The Sol Times office for just 5€ Closer than you think

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Monday to Friday 10.00 - 18.00, Saturday 10.00 - 14.00 Centro Comercial la Pirámide, Puerto de Mazarrón, Murcia

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

Our Business is Growing Specialists in:

Landscaping - Irrigation - Garden Maintenance Lawn work - Tree Trimming

Call: 666 847 583 or 950 699 984 gardenworks.bates@gmail.com

n e d r a G & e om sPOT Ha sHADY

tips

A CHIMNEY OR FLUE NEEDS CLEANING ONCE A YEAR! WHY? • T O REDUCE THE RISK OF A CHIMNEY FIRE BY REMOVING SOOT AND TAR

• TO REMOVE A BLOCKAGE SUCH AS A BIRD NEST! • TO INCREASE THE EFFICIENCY OF YOUR APPLIANCE (ESPECIALLY WOODBURNERS)

FOR PEACE OF MIND BOOK YOUR SWEEP TODAY FOR A FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL, CLEAN, SERVICE CALL PAUL ON 617150300 OR 850993057

A C L E AN C H I M N E Y IS A SAF E C H I M N E Y !

You’re planning to add a beautiful pergola or elegant gazebo to your home or even a garden arbor, it’s an exciting prospect...

swimming pools pool sureste sl made with “Gunite” FREE Dolphin & Seal Mosiac Design on base of pool. Ask for details.

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connexions

950 479 502

Don’t lose your TV channels solution: Android TV boxes available t he shop w be close ill from sat d 24 May unti th ll call in now for more info ORDERS MBEING on 2nTAKEN d June

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New wireless BROADBAND internet

service available 8&16mb from €25 p/m No landline required Call us for details if you are a part time resident to find out if your area is covered go to

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computers ~ laptops full repair service Distributor for

hits sim cards New opening times: Mon - Frid 9.30am - 2pm Saturday 10am - 2pm

Enhancing your home and your garden with gazebos and pergolas is an excellent way of improving both the saleability of your home and the quality of your home life.

Build either in your backgarden and you immediately have an outdoor living space - and as long as you have all the permissions required, and you use quality materials... there couldn’t be an easier or quicker way to add value and improve the aspect of your home.

Could you and your family use extra living areas? why not make more use of the quiet outdoors, take in some fresh air, read a book and enjoy the sunset by enhancing your garden and creating shady outdoor living spaces.

Decking itself changes the look and ambience of your home, but when you add a pergola covering your decking, it gives your outside space a much cosier and intimate feel.

A Gazebo at the end of patio decking makes a great breakfast nook for the family to enjoy.

The same goes if you have a fully concreted or paved patio, it will feel much warmer and inviting to sit out and enjoy the space with the addition of a gazebo or pergola.

Clare’s Hanging Baskets

Add Colour to your Garden/Terrace A little bit of British brought into your Garden /Terrace

Traditional Hanging Baskets made to order!

With water retaining crystals to help prevent dehydration in the hot summer months Contact Clare on 634 331 440 Email: stringer22@hushmail.com

Pergola’s offer a great outdoor entertaining space for family and friends, it is a great deal cooler to sit under the semi shade that this pergola provides, whilst still enjoying the outdoors.

How to Prune Lantana Plants

In late winter or early spring, you should prune lantana back to about six inches to a foot from the ground, especially if there’s a lot of old or dead growth.

Overgrown plants can be pruned back to about a third of their height (and spread if necessary).

You can also lightly trim lantana plants periodically throughout the season to stimulate new growth and encourage flowering.

This is usually done by trimming lantana tips back about one to three inches.

Following the pruning of lantana plants, you may also want to apply some light fertilizer.

This will not only encourage quicker blooms, but will also help to nourish and rejuvenate the plants after both the long winter nap as well as any stress associated with pruning.

Marina Perfumaria y Decoracion Come & See our Selection of Home Decor & Accessories

“Turn your House into a Home”

Avda Pio XII, S/N 04800, Albox

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

local News

Cantante Singers and Musicians Cantante Singers and Musicians begin their Summer Season of concerts on Friday 30 May at 20,00 in The New Life Church building, Huercal Overa, adjacent to Avenida Guillermo Reyna, 53.

They’ll be singing in Mojacar Playa for the first time at The Kimrick Restaurant on Thursday 12 June at 20.00 and two days later in the inspirational setting of the Convento de la Victoria, Vera also at 20.00.

Now in it’s forth year Cantante continues to develop and attract bigger audiences.

With its eclectic musical mix there’s usually something for every taste in every concert.

This summer is no exception with music by, J.S.Bach, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, Fats Waller, Sigmund Romberg, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Giuseppe Verdi.

The programme also includes some well known Spanish songs.

Cantante includes three professional musicians, Dave Sharp, Sue Morrison and Andy Cunningham, who in their different roles inspire the singers to achieve what they once might have thought would be

unachievable.

But Cantante’s success is mainly due to the loving enthusiasm of its leader and founder, Julie Hawkins. She says, “Music has always been a major part of my life, having sung professionally in opera and classical music, there’s nothing I like better than to inspire and enthuse people with the knowledge that they can sing, if not as a soloist, then certainly in a group.

After starting Cantante three and a half years ago, I have had the joy of proving that. Cantante numbers around 30 people who work very hard. Very few of them have any experience of singing, and I am so delighted with what they have achieved.

There are no auditions to join, just a real desire to make lovely music, and to enjoy being together. If you come to hear them you can judge if we have achieved our goal.”

Like other musical acts Cantante perform to share their love of music with their audiences. This summer as always there will be many songs for audiences to share and ‘sing along’.

Girona space saver patio set 250€

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Marbella Conversation Set 899€

Deluxe Sunlounger 339€

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Barcelona 3 seater leather sofa 599€

Large elegant fountains 299€

Trendy Chic 6 seater patio set 599€

Free Delivery in Albox & Surrounding areas (including Mojacar, Garrucha, Vera, San Juan)

A Fu ll Ra rn tt itu an Pr UVA re i ot s ec te d

Monday - Friday 10am till 6pm Saturday 10am - 3pm Address: Crra Lorca - Baza Km 72.5 04800 Albox (Almeria) Tel 950 091 153

9

10

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SOLTIMES may 2014

ALMERIMAR & roquetas 2nd Sunday of the month “RastroMarket” in the car park

For all your local advertising needs call Mark on 693 774 932

Good news and bad news at the shelter paloma

opposite Leo’s --------------------------------------------------------

Advertisers publish your special events here.

Charity/community groups events also published FREE of charge.

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

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

Advertise your business on this page or send your events to:

hada

martina Just as everyone at the shelter were rejoicing at the great news that the Galgo mother and her 7 pups were travelling to Germany, they have been badly hit by new cases of abandonment. The following lists just some of the many cases, as there is no room to mention all of them.

HADA is a beautiful GERMAN SHEPHERD mix, born in 2010. Like most newcomers to the shelter known as SOCIEDAD PROTECTORA DE ANIMALES DE ROQUETAS DE MAR, she is somewhat frightened by her new situation. However, she is sharing her kennel with two playmates who are helping her adjust to the harsh reality of life at the shelter. JULIO CESAR, a young NAPOLITAN MASTINO, was found tied to a corner of the fence surrounding the shelter/ He was in a very bad undernourished state, Apart from receiving good food and clean water he is also being treated for dermatitis and conjunctivitis. ISIDRO and PALOMA, two adorable and playful puppies, were

brought to the shelter by the local police. They were born around the middle of March and both appear to be a LABRADOR mix. They can be expected to weigh around 20 kilos when they reach adulthood.

MARTINA, another puppy, was thrown over the fence into a kennel where large dogs are housed.

Unfortunately her sister did not survive the ordeal.

MARTINA was born at the end of March 2014 and will also be rather big as an adult.

On a lighter note, little FATIMA, who was also thrown over the fence, has already found a new forever home and will travel to Germany next week.

The work at the shelter is endless and without kind hearted people to adopt the dogs and allow them into their homes and their hearts, the position would be even more impossible than it is now. If you want to help your local shelter, please contact Geoff at geoffalmeria@hotmail.com

EDITOR@SOLTIMES.COM and WE’LL PRINT THEM FREE OF CHARGE!

The Charity Shop Asociacion de Animales Reg No. 5272

Calle Galera No6, Almerimar (Behind Bar Ankara)

Please help me find my forever family!

penny

Beautiful perfect Podenca Penny Royal, this girl has been through so much in her short life, but look at her now...she is all healed, her leg is as good as new, she is now ready for that special sofa to lay her head upon and call her own. Please lets give this story the happy ending it deserves

If you can help me PLEASE Contact the Charity shop on 950 497 193 Monday - Saturday 10am - 2pm Facebook: Asociacion de Animales de Berja E-mail asociaciondeanimales@hotmail.com Web: www.asociaciondeanimalesdeberja.com

DONATIONS VIA PAYPAL

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

isidro

julio cesar

Indian Spicy Curry House El Ejido Rugby Club Specialities

Chicken & Beef Curries Tapas served all day Chef from Punjab (India) working in Almerimar for over 10 years is now the new owner. everybody welcome Open every day: 12 noon - late

Calle Varadero, Almerimar.

Tel 950 033 244 Mob. 632 574 591

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

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

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11

News

Syrian Drug Smugglers Walk Free From Jail

By Martin Shortland

The crew of a vessel arrested by customs agents last year were released from jail on Friday. The seven men, all Syrian nationals, left El Acebuche prison near Almeria, having spent eight months in custody. They, along with their boat Moon Light were captured in the sea of Alboran in September; almost twenty tons of hashish was found on board.

The local authorities had no option but to finally release the men, as they have no means by which to prosecute them. It seems quite remarkable, but that is the case. Because the ship was detained in international waters and because it can’t be proved the drugs were destined for use in Spain, the police are powerless to take further action.

This is not the first time this has happened.

Already this year, almost fifty crew members from a number of ships impounded by the police and customs have had to be released.

The recently created tri-nations drug agency – Spain, France and Italy – have had considerable success against the smugglers since its formation a year ago. The sharing of intelligence information regarding drug consignments has resulted in a fivefold increase in the amounts of drugs captured.

By working together to monitor, track and arrest ships used in the operations, they are making a big difference in the war against drugs. But it would seem there is a monumental flaw in the laws governing the prosecution of traffickers.

It seems that whilst the new agency is chalking up a large number of arrests and drug seizures, their hands are tied when it comes to prosecuting those involved.

The men released from jail last week are now back on board their vessel. The Panamanian registered ship has been moored in Almeria harbour since it was detained and the owners are threatening legal action against the drug

enforcement agency if it’s not allowed to leave port. This seems like another classic example of the tail wagging the dog.

A spokesman from the customs agency’s legal department told me on Monday that they appeared to be in a no win situation at the moment, he said, “The law governing these situations is very grey and would appear to favour the perpetrators. It’s clearly not something we are happy with and we will be doing all we can to bring about rapid changes to the law.”

Until that happens – and the European legal cogs are notoriously slow moving – the drug smugglers who use these waters must be laughing up their sleeves. At the moment there are four other vessels in Almeria harbour, all the subjects of customs impounding: a further forty men, all Syrian are in custody at El Acebuche prison.

Whilst the amounts of drugs seized by customs only represents a small fraction of the total smuggled into this and other southern European countries, it must be extremely frustrating for all those concerned that their efforts are thwarted by inadequate legal protection. It sends the wrong message to those involved in the smuggling; at the moment the law is very much on their side.

What a sad state of affairs.

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Smoking was glamorised for many years by Hollywood and the silver screen, through such stars as Bette Davis and Audrey Hepburn, portrayed cigarette smoking as alluring and enticing.

However, on January 11th 1964 the Unites States Surgeon General announced that smoking was a direct cause of lung cancer. Overnight, smoking was considered something quite sinister and responsible for not only lung cancer but also a whole host of other deadly and life-threatening diseases.

The American Centre for Disease Control estimates that cigarette smoking is responsible for an estimated one and a half million deaths per year, worldwide. The CDC reports that averagely, adults who smoke die 14 years earlier than non smokers. They also report that it is not only smokers that fall victim to the harmful effects of smoking. Every year, 49,400 deaths are attributed to the effects of second hand smoke.

However, millions of people continue to consume the 4,000 chemicals, 400 of which are considered poisonous or toxic, present in each cigarette.

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Smokers face not only physical addiction b u t psychological addiction as well. It is one thing to recognise the harmful and lifethreatening risks that cigarettes pose, it is an entirely a different matter to successfully kick the habit. According to drugs.com 46 per cent of smokers in America try to quit each year but only 10 per cent succeed.

So, are electronic cigarettes a safer alternative? In 2003 a Chinese pharmacist, Hon Like invented the electronic cigarette. Unlike conventional tobacco based cigarettes, e-Cigarettes deliver nicotine through an inhaled vaporised water solution, without the inclusion of tar, carbon monoxide and a whole host of other deadly chemicals found in the traditional cigarette.

Debate rages throughout the world just how much safer e-Cigarettes are, but research conducted by Michael Siegel at Boston University suggests that e-Cigarettes may indeed reflect a much safer alternative to conventional cigarettes.

Siegel concludes that by isolating nicotine, eCigarettes should carry far fewer chemical risks than traditional cigarettes.

Michael Siegel and his colleagues found evidence that vaping diminishes cravings among smokers, not only by nicotine consumption, but by fulfilling the desire to hold something in their hand or insert something in their mouths. Siegel says “The relevant question is not are these things safe, but are these things much safer than real cigarettes, and do they help people quit smoking? The answer to both of those questions we know is yes.” You have to make up your own mind but if you decide that e-cigarettes are worth a try, contact www. tgfsales.com who have a great range for you to choose from, catering not only a large range for the cigarette smoker but for the cigar and pipe smoker as well.

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

The Chaos

Hello and welcome to CanDu Computer Bytes. Last week we discussed the benefits and drawbacks of portable application as opposed to the ‘normal’ fully installed cousins. This week I would like to take that a little further and suggest several application that you might want to try. Now for the 64 thousand pound question – which applications should be included?

Nearly everyone asked, while I was preparing for this article, gave similar answers and these follow. The ones that I use most frequently are: an office productivity suite (libre / open office), Internet browser (firefox – don’t really like chrome but horses for courses), email client (Thunderbird), Thesaurus, and much more. First, let’s clear something up. These programs might be called ‘Apps’ (HATED phrase) or Applications (Much better!) but they are fully functional versions of there ‘Installed’ siblings just cleverly designed to go into one folder, and therefore, work just as well on a memory stick.

To write these articles, control how much I charge for my computer work (refuse to charge too much!), deliver presentations and store important information. I have an installed version of LibreOffice on my desktop and a portable version on my memory stick for the times between clients at my clinic when I can get some ideas down for my next articles. Both are identical in form and function, allowing me to write articles, spreadsheets and keep everything else organised. There are many others out there for you to try such as: the well known AbiWord; Dia (a Visio clone); an intriguing program called ‘FocusWriter’ and Gnumeric – a spreadsheet transported over from the Linux world.

I would suspect that we all have our web browser set up with our favourite websites, start pages and search engines. Isn’t it frustrating when you use

someone else’s browser and nothing is where it should be! That is why I have a portable version of firefox that I run off my ‘fixit’ chip where I have all my favourite websites and setting to hand. There are many others that each have merit such as: Maxthon; the ever popular Opera; SeaMonkey – from the firefox stable and of course Google Chrome.

I have the portable version of Thunderbird as my email client. It allows me to do everything the ‘Installed’ version does and I can backup everything to a chip and waltz off to England knowing that all my emails are safely with me. When I get back I just copy the contents of the entire folder to my hard drive and ‘Hey Prosto’ everything is upto date and ready to go.

Today I’m going to suggest that you visit the following websites and see for yourself just what is available to make your life easier and much more portable. The first is: http://portableapps.com/apps http://www.pendriveapps.com/ http://www.portablefreeware.com/ I have focussed on work because there isn’t a “Rock and Roll Dance Partner” application but there are many and varied applications for playtime. Sudoku is a popular puzzle but there are Role Playing Games, Board Games, Action, in fact if you think of a category there will probably be a game out there for you. Next time I will be looking at several of these portable applications that have caught my eye and updating you on the best. If you find one that might be of use to the SolTimes readership, drop me an email with it’s name and web address and I will check it out.

I’m now off to Jack’s Bar in Albox for my Friday afternoon computer clinic! If you would like a clinic nearer to you – make the suggestion using the email address under this article and we will see what can be done.

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

braben’s blog... Name Game !

Are you thinking what I’m thinking?

No, not that! I’m shocked! How on earth could you be thinking about dinner at a time like this? No, I was thinking about the Bonzo Dog Doodah Band. Weren’t you? Oh! You remember The Bonzo Dog Doodah Band don’t you? Of course you do. Who could forget rock classics like, “Mr. Slater’s Parrot”, “Noises for the Leg” or “Jollity Farm”? Yes, okay, perhaps calling them rock classics is stretching a point, but who cares with a name like The Bonzo Dog Doodah Band on the label?

You’d almost buy the record-sorry CDjust for that.

But this got me thinking; names really are important aren’t they? Not just names of rock bands, although there have been some corkers, such as, the deservedly unknown, “Puddle of Mudd”, or the moderately famous “Mott the Hoople”. Funnily enough, these names are so unusual that my spell checker has given up the ghost and now just agrees with everything I write.

There are some very unusual names about, when I say very unusual, what I really mean is they’re bordering on

the ridiculous. For example, in America the name Quince is beginning to make ripples on birth certificates and is both for a boy’s and a girl’s name. Others, still on the fruit theme, have gone for the very male, Huckleberry. Need I say more about some names?

But it’s names of another sort that have really caught my eye. I really want to know who comes up with those ridiculous names they give to models of cars. Is there someone sitting around in a padded room somewhere just trying to concoct the most unlikely name they can for a collection of metal?

I suppose the model name is meant to conjure up appropriate images for that particular car. If that is the case, then which bright spark came up with the Skoda Yeti? Yes, it really was a model. Now as far as I’m aware a Yeti is supposed to be an awkward, lumbering thing...ah, I see the connection! Then there’s the boring ones, like the Ford Ka. At least they could have spelt it right.

I’m waiting for a manufacturer to launch a model with a name which tells the buyer all they need to know about the car. I can’t wait for the launch of the Ford Expensive or, even better, the Honda Never Never.

Graham is married to Helen and has a daughter, Alice. He lives part of the year near Albox, but works in Qatar, teaching. If you wish to contact Graham regarding this article email: helenandg@yahoo.co.uk

Something a little different this week and next; I stumbled upon this poem written by Gerard Nolst Trenite in1920, he was a Dutch writer and teacher. It was his foreword to the 2nd edition of his book Drop your foreign accent engelsche uitspraakoefeningen. Born in 1870 Trenite taught foreign languages in California, and later was a school teacher in Holland. He wrote a weekly newspaper column about linguistics under the pseudonym Charivarius for many years until his demise in 1946.

At the end of WWII in 1945 a British soldier found a manuscript in a German school. It passed through various hands until it reached The Spelling Society also known as SSS. It has also been published across the world in many different versions and shows just how difficult, nay impossible our language is to master.

The 1920 edition had just 146 lines of verse and with each subsequent edition the author added more words until the 7th edition of his book published just before his death in 1944 had 274 lines.

800 examples of words are set to rhyme with the intention that readers speak them out loud. The first part of the poem is reproduced below and the second part will be next week.

For the impatient it is readily available via the interweb.

Thanks to the Spelling Society for this definitive version.

Dearest creature in creation Studying English pronunciation, I will teach you in my verse Sounds like corpse, corps, horse and worse.

I will keep you, Susy, busy, Make your head with heat grow dizzy; Tear in eye, your dress you’ll tear; Queer, fair seer, hear my prayer.

Pray, console your loving poet, Make my coat look new, dear, sew it!

Just compare heart, hear and heard, Dies and diet, lord and word.

Sword and sward, retain and Britain (Mind the latter how it’s written).

Made has not the sound of bade, Say-said, pay-paid, laid but plaid.

Now I surely will not plague you With such words as vague and ague, But be careful how you speak, Say: gush, bush, steak, streak, break, bleak, Previous, precious, fuchsia, via Recipe, pipe, studding-sail,

part 1

choir; Woven, oven, how and low, Script, receipt, shoe, poem, toe.

Say, expecting fraud and trickery: Daughter, laughter and Terpsichore, Branch, ranch, measles, topsails, aisles, Missiles, similes, reviles.

Wholly, holly, signal, signing, Same, examining, but mining, Scholar, vicar, and cigar, Solar, mica, war and far.

From “desire”: desirableadmirable from “admire”, Lumber, plumber, bier, but brier, Topsham, brougham, renown, but known, Knowledge, done, lone, gone, none, tone, One, anemone, Balmoral, Kitchen, lichen, laundry, laurel.

Gertrude, German, wind and wind, Beau, kind, kindred, queue, mankind Tortoise, turquoise, chamoisleather, Reading, Reading, heathen, heather.

This phonetic labyrinth Gives moss, gross, brook, brooch, ninth, plinth.

Have you ever yet endeavoured To pronounce revered and severed, Demon, lemon, ghoul, foul, soul, Peter, petrol and patrol?

Billet does not end like ballet; Bouquet, wallet, mallet, chalet.

Blood and flood are not like food, Nor is mould like should and would.

Banquet is not nearly parquet, Which exactly rhymes with khaki.

Discount, viscount, load and broad, Toward, to forward, to reward Ricocheted and crocheting, croquet?

Right! Your pronunciation’s OK. Rounded, wounded, grieve and sieve, Friend and fiend, alive and live.

Is your r correct in higher?

Keats asserts it rhymes Thalia.

Hugh, but hug, and hood, but hoot, Buoyant, minute, but minute.

Say abscission with precision, Now: position and transition; Would it tally with my rhyme If I mentioned paradigm?

Twopence, threepence, tease are easy, But cease, crease, grease and greasy?

Cornice, nice, valise, revise, Rabies, but lullabies.

Second part next week

Enjoy Stephens musings? Pop over to http:// findmeahomeinspain.wordpress.com as the articles are posted on there too...and they’re a bit longer too!

Findmeahome are always looking for quality homes for their sales and rental portfolios, please contact Stephen for a valuation: stephen@findmeahome.es Telephone: 636 266 641

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LEGAL CORNER

WITH MICHAEL DAVIES, ABOGADO/SOLICITOR If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic, please e-mail info@daviessolicitors.com THEIR IS NO ESCAPING NON RESIDENT HYPOTHETICAL INCOME TAX: IF YOU OWNA PROPERTY IN SPAN AND YOU ARE NON RESIDENT YOU NEED TO PAY THIS TAX. IF YOU ARE NOT PAYING THIS TAX YOU NEED TO ADDRESS THE MATTER WITH URGENCY. Q. I have received a letter from the tax office demanding I pay non resident income tax, and that I must pay up for the last four years. I have never made any income from my property.

non -residents not paying this tax.

Every year normally using s fiscal representative you should be filing a non-resident hypothetical income tax return (shortly wealth tax also). If you are not paying this tax it is necessary that you take control of the situation by contacting the tax authorities, your solicitor or your tax advisor.

If you have doubts regarding if you are already paying this tax it is probably because you are not, as it requires the presentation of a tax form etc

What is this all about?

The good news is that:

A. Our government needs to collect to correct it’s deficit. If you are a NON RESIDENT of Spain and own a property you MUST FILE a non-resident income tax return even if you do not rent out your property. Do not confuse with rates (IBI), which is generally paid by direct debit.

1. The tax is not generally a very high amount.

Towards the end of 2011 the Spanish tax authorities decided to clamp down on non-resident property owners who have not been paying this non-resident income tax. They have created a special task force dedicated to pursue

2. If you have not been paying, by law they cannot demand payment for more than four years back taxes.

Our advice: Start paying the tax because if you do not they will be contacting you with the risk of you not actually being hear to receive their letter etc.

Michael Davies. Abogado.

Member 1748 of Almería Law Society.

Member 67228 of Madrid Law society

Michael Davies is a Spanish Abogado and has been practicing law in Andalucia since 1993. He is member of the Law societies of Almería and Madrid. For a short period of time leading up to 2007 he was also Honorary British Consul.

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

2014 Will See Job Creation in Spain, Says Economy Minister During a conference in the Canary Spanish will notice, both on income

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Islands last week, Spain’s Minister of Economy and Competitiveness, Luis de Guindos, said that the recovery of the Spanish economy will strengthen in the coming quarters, and that 2014 will be the first year of job creation in Spain. “The first year of recovery and job creation will be 2014. This year, for the first time we will have a relatively significant rate of growth, of above 1%, and we will have a substantial reduction in the unemployment rate”, stated the Minister.

De Guindos added: “From the point of view of private debt, sustainability of public institutions, competitiveness and the solvency perspective of institutions, the Spanish economy is in a very different situation to what happened in the years 2010 and 2011.”

Regarding the Government’s strategy for the coming quarters, De Guindos indicated that the process of fiscal consolidation will continue, and said that they aim to achieve a public deficit of 4.2% and reduce it to below 3% from 2016, a decrease that must be compatible with the tax reform.

The Minister emphasised that the tax reform will be the “major reform” to be implemented in Spain over the coming months, and will enter into force in 2015 and 2016.

“The Spanish have to see that taxes are reducing, and the Government will be making decisions which the

tax and on corporation tax for small businesses and the self-employed,” he said.

Cinco Dias reported that the Minister stated that the Government plans to continue with the process of diversification of sources of funding for Spanish companies, saying that in a modern economy it is “very important” to have alternative sources of funding to the usual.

However, he also stressed the importance of continuing with the national plan of reforms, liberalisation of markets, for goods and services and diversification.

“Today the situation is completely different from two years ago. Spain is a great country and I was always optimistic and had in my head that Spain did not need a bailout and that what we needed was transparency,” the minister stated.

In this regard, De Guindos said that today the country is perceived as a more credible economy, which generates more confidence and allows financing, not just to the Treasury, but to the Spanish administration as a whole.

“The situation of near-collapse that we had at the beginning of 2012 has been avoided, and that in itself is a merit,” he said.

Source: http://news.kyero.com/

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3 bed / 2 bath Apartment with walking distance to the beach and golf course and of course all the amenities of Marina de la Torre Golf Resort.

The property has a total built area of 84.05mts² (70.05mts² for the apartment and 14 mts² for the covered front terrace with

very good sea view and mountain views). All in all the apartment is distributed between living / dining room, kitchen, utility area, master bedroom with en suite bathroom, 2 further double bedrooms and a family bathroom as well as a sea facing covered terrace.

The property has pre-installation for air conditioning and comes fully furnished.

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: 1559

Paseo del Mediterraneo 197 - Mojacar - Almeria

Tel: 950 472 430 / 610 053 563

property group

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

Est 25yrs

PRICE BROWN PARTNERSHIP

ESTATE AGENTS / INMOBILiARIA / MANTENIMIENTO - MOJACAR SALES, RENTALS & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT VENTAS, ALQUILERES Y MANTENIMIENTO

225,000 €

Mojácar Playa A1203

70,000 €

Mojácar Playa

A1197

75,000 €

Mojácar Playa

A1205

Top quality luxury apartment of 107m2 + 22m2 of terraces on a frontline golf/beach complex. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Underground parking & storeroom. Sea views from the terrace & community pool area.

Deceptively spacious 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, apartment of 60m2 on a secure complex with community pool & in walking distance of the beach & amenities. Sea views, underground parking & storeroom. Furnished.

Very attractive golf apartment of 60m2 with fantastic sea & golf views. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, furnished + pre-installation A/C. Excellent community pool. In walking distance of beaches, bars & restaurants.

164,000 €

165,000 €

145,000 €

Mojácar Playa

A1204

Mojácar Playa

A1139

Mojácar Playa

A1206

Beautiful penthouse apartment of 63m2 + huge terrace of 43m2 with fantastic sea views. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, furnished. Secure complex with community pool & gardens.

Quality 1st floor apartment of 89m2 + terrace of 9 m2 in walking distance of the Parque & the beach. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, A/C. Garaging & storeroom.

Beautiful community gardens & pool.

Attractive partment of 79m2 + huge terrace in a popular, secure, complex. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lock-up garage. Huge community pool & gardens. In walking distance of the beach.

125,000 €

130,000 €

139,000 €

Antas

LV681

Mojácar Playa

LV684

Mojácar Playa

LV685

3 properties for the price of 1! 3 separate, linked, houses offering a minimum of 8 bedrooms. 1 property is for renovation but all are are wll maintained & in habitable condition. Enquire for further details.

Lovely townhouse of 60m2 on 105m2 & solarium with sea views in a small, sought after, urbanisation.

2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, parking. Communal pool, gardens & terraces. Furnished.

Unique opportunity! Lovely townhouse of 66m2 + great sea views in a complex of 8 very near to the beach. 2 bedrooms, bathroom & cloakroom, furnished. Front & rear terraces. Highly recommended!

299,000 €

300,000 €

190,000 €

Mojácar Playa

DV1311

Very attractive detached villa of 173m2 on 433m2 in one of the best locations for sea views. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathroomsA/C modern kitchen & integral garage/ storeroom. Private pool with superb terraces.

Vera

DV1134

Beautiful detached villa + independent apartment of 129m2 on 1,000m2 between Vera town & beaches.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Private garage & pool.

Ample terraces with lovely views.

Zurgena

DV1300

Beautiful detached villa of 123m2 on 3,000m2 with great views on a walled plot. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, solarium & A/C. Pristine gardens, pool, terraces, garage & carport. 20 minutes drive from beaches.

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

Members of the National Association of Estate Agents Overseas

Monday - Friday 9.30am to 6pm

We are able to organise Energy Efficiency Certificates at very competitive prices. Contact us for more details 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

19

20

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

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

A GREAT COMMUNITY BAR PRESENTI

OUR SUMMER 2014 SCHEDULE IS UNDERWAY OUR NEW MENU IS HERE! Hand Crafted Burgers Home Made Chips Various Curries Home Made Pies Vegetarian Menu Great Kids Choices

SUPER TAPAS! Over 20 Tapas to choose from at any given time Our Tapa Menu boasts some old favourites as well as many new additions Our chefs get creative at every opportunity so look out for their Tapas of the Day!

The Stumble Team are here to help in any w be far from home in foreign surroundings. W most problems such as translation, insuran many services we offer ourselves such as; trips for the waterpark, go-karting, shoppin to cater for parties, special events and func CALL IN AND WE WI

Bar Open Daily.

BY MASSIVELY POPULAR DEMAND – WE WILL 150 drinks including Every Saturday will see a WINNER with our lovely ice cold slushies 10am-Late First Draw Star Prize €500 Tapas & Food Collect Tickets €100, Boat Trip for 4 til 10.30pm (full details €50 Bar Tab editio Meal & Wine for 4. Water Park Trip for 4

In collaboration with Asociacion de Animales de Berja y Almerimar

Collect your free tickets with every drink and mea which will take place between 3-5pm during our Tel: +34 690 00 38 19 – Puerto D

Theme Nights At Special Prices!

Monday

€8,50 €7,00 Chef Tony’s Curry Night

Tuesday

€5,60 €4,50 Gourmet

Burger

Wednesday

€12,95 €10,50 Special Stumble Steak

Thursday

€7,95 €6,50 Chef Tracey’s P Night

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

21

s p i r t und

aro

air-conditioned courtesy car & bus

ING ORIGINAL IDEAS IN ALMERIMAR

– LOOK HERE EVERY WEEK FOR OUR EVENTS! ENTERTAINMENT Friday 30th May. The fabulous Caiman are here again for your entertainment from 5pm, complimentary buffet, free entry

way they can. we understand that you may We can connect you to the right people for nce, property management, and of course ; printing boarding passes, organising day ng and much more! We have great facilities ctions, call in to discuss your requirements.

ILL TRY to HELP YOU

L SOON BE RESTARTING OUR GRAND DRAW !! r new format Draw and Social Get Together

7th June kets Now! details next on)

Chauffeured Cabriolet Day Trip Large Breakfast for 2 Mojacar Playa weekend Go-Karting Trip for 4

al purchased, winner must be present at the draw r Saturday Social Get Together – GOOD LUCK! Deportivo, Darsena 1, Almerimar

! (regular menu also available)

ursday

Pie

Friday

€7,95 €6,50 Fish, Peas & Home-made Chips

saturday €8,50 €7,00 BBQ Rib Platter

sunday €7,60 same great price, day & night!

Succulent Roast Lunch

CHARITY SUPPORT At the Stumble we endeavour to support our 2 adopted charities.

Call in & we’ll explain how to get your loyalty card. Show the card every Sunday & order from the main menu or a hearty Sunday Lunch we’’ll donate €1 per meal

Pop In & Join Our Beach Club We will be hosting regular, exclusive Beach Events for Members Only!

Colaborador de Rescate de Fauna Marina

22

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

.1 o The N & installer

supplier in your area

AWNINGS & Internal blinds DIRECT FROM MANUFACTURERS

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Madrid Gearing Up for SIMA 2014

This year’s biggest property fair, SIMA 2014, will open its doors at Madrid’s trade fair park, IFEMA, on 29th May and run until 1st June.

It will feature around 150 exhibitors, more than 400 housing promotions and a conference on the current situation in the real estate sector and the forecast for the coming years.

The conference program is divided into three sections and will feature a panel of expert speakers from various disciplines (economic analysis, planning, financing, taxation, etc.): the first will look at the weight of the real estate sector in the overall economy; the second section will

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Email: solshaders@live.co.uk Web: www.solshaders.com

Having enjoyed taking on new challenges since completing a building project in Kenya at the age of 19 he has worked in a variety of management roles in Construction, motor industry, computer / printer engineering, more recently managing the Network & Technical services team in a UK secondary school.

He prides himself on supplying customers what they actually need at a competitive price! He offers the same excellent service that hire a husband is known for but in addition can also offer repairs / advice on any computer or printing issues you may have? See main ad on page 24

Apartment Mojacar Playa

one of Mojacars longest established Estate Agents Paseo Del Mediterraneo 201 Edif Guardias Viejas, Local 2a

Build Size 85m2 Dist beach 100m Beds 2 Baths 2 Terraces 1

The SIMA 2014 program will also include the second edition of Inmonext, on 30th May. Inmonext is organised in collaboration with idealista and its program is primarily aimed at the group of real estate agents.

Introducing Hire a husbands’ new husband - Nick Vigar

All work is fully insured & carried out by highly skilled tradesmen

Ref 1393

analyse the costs involved in the formation of housing prices, with proposals to produce more affordable housing in line with the possibilities of demand, while the third section will include a projection of demand behaviour, the supply, prices and terms, and probable scenarios for a change in trend.

€135,000 Ground floor apartment in a very sought after complex close to the beach and all amenities.

The apartment is spacious and has a storage room and underground parking.

Apartment vera Playa

Ref 1405 Build Size 63m² Dist beach 50m Beds 2 Baths 2 Terraces 2

€99,000 Fantastic investment penthouse with its own 10.75 M2 pool on The roof as well as built in bbq and Pergola. South facing terrace off Lounge with external staircase to terrace

PALOMARES playa

Ref 1427 Build Size 60m² Dist beach 1000m Beds 2 Baths 2 Terraces 1

€76,000 Very nice ground floor apartment with 2 Beds/2 bath the master being en-suite. Large terrace/garden at the rear, all paved. White goods Still like new.

Good rental potential

URGENTLY SEEKING PROPERTIES FOR SALE AND FOR RENT. Apartment Mojacar Playa

Ref 1436

Tel: 950 478 555 Email: info@k7mojacar.com

www.k7mojacar.com

Build Size 67m² Dist beach 150m Beds 2 Baths 2 Terraces 2

€125,000 Beautiful apartment large terrace off from the lounge.Another terrace off from the master bed .Granite worktops, heaters in bathrooms. Amazing sea views, a must see apartment.

Apartment Mojacar Playa

Ref 1443

€99,950

Build Size 3 Bed/2 bath apartment overlooking 64m² the Golf course of Dist beach marina de la torre.

100m Fully furnished.

Beds 3 Close to all Baths 2 amenities and Terraces 1 Near to the best hotel.

Apartment Mojacar Playa

Ref 1446

€179,000

Build Size 3 bed ground floor apartment in a 79m² sought after front Dist beach line complex. Large 100m pool. Underground parking. Lift for Beds 3 parking & for beach, Baths 2 amazing sea views Terraces 3 from the pool.

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

23

Home Sweet Home property SERVICES CALL 902 750 190

BUY SELL RENT MAINTAIN

EMAIL: SALES@SOLTIMES.COM

Retirees See Value Of Homes Abroad As UK Prices Rise 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

The UK’s escalating house prices are making it harder for expats to return here, urging overseas retirees to think again about buying a UK home.

And retirees who had plans to downsize and remain in the UK, might now consider purchasing abroad, given how much further their money goes in countries where property markets remain depressed, including France, Spain and Portugal.

Richard Way, Editor at The Overseas Guides Company, publishers of The Portugal Buying Guide said: “This month I spoke to a British owner of a property in the eastern Algarve who would need to sell up in order to buy a house back in the UK. The couple currently rent their home in the UK – having

O Olive

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Contact: 607 705 085 or 687 938 466 C/Llanos, Bedar (Next to the Miramar Restaurant) Open: Monday-Friday 10.00am-3.30pm

Lubrin

Check out our portfolio, with properties starting from only 49,000€ Call Charlie on: 677 667 722 or 950 064 584 or Karen on 635 979 829 Web: www.solymarspain.com

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moved back from Portugal some years ago - but the combination of Portugal’s flat market and the UK’s booming prices means they’d struggle to afford what they wanted in the UK. For them, a luxury, four-bedroom villa in Portugal with pool, gym and garden would equate to a semi-detached house or flat in their preferred town on the Hampshire coast.

“Meanwhile, the couple’s mounting reservations about selling home in Portugal will be intensified by the OECD’s report last week that said UK houses were 30 per cent overvalued but Portugal’s were undervalued.”

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL

www.olivehouse-es.com

A very sweet cortijo for reforming which is situated in a very pretty hamlet 5 minutes drive to Lubrin village. It would make an ideal bijou rental lock-up and has a small garden that is being sold with it.

OLV730

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

Clean Team

www.cleanteamspain.com

Domestic & Commercial Cleaning Services Property Management All areas General Property

covered

Maintenance

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

Andalucian Glass

For all your door, window & conservatory problems

Urgently wanted properties for sale in the Huercal-Overa, Zurgena, Taberno & San Juan de Los Terreros areas.

Call 0034 950 616 827 / 0034 678 002 006 155a Carretera Estacion, Huercal Overa.100m from LIDL

www.vosshomesspain.com

•Troublesome Locks •Broken down units •Fly screen damage

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THE FLIES ARE HERE!!

Keep them outside with a new Fly Screen

Consult Sean

The Window Doctor

Tel: 630 231 644 / 950 091 128

24

...remember say you saw it in the SOL TIMES OPEN FORto BUSINESS

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

Before & After

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We upholster all type of chairs & sofas

Find us on

• Cushion foam replacement • Large fabric selection • Over 30 years experience • Free collection & delivery • Free in-home estimates

Tel. 692 176 069 e-mail: unicraftspain@gmail.com • www.unicraft.es

TJ Carpentry & Construction Trained F. Gas Engineer with over 20 years in installation & repair of A/C units, Boilers, Radiators & all forms of Plumbing.

No job too big or small.

€395

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TJOLIVER@HOTMAIL.CO.UK PIEDRA AMARILLA ALBOX, ALMERIA

619 584 405 635 979 829

On A/C install, subject to survey.

No call out charge in Mojcar.

Email: johnnyz45@msn.com - Tel: 634 342 520

Bugs

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

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this month’s offer

any 2 tubs x5 kilos - €35 FIND US In Longo’s Courtyard

Shop: 950 104 345 or Maintenance: 637 582 696

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Building Maintenance & Property Repair No job TOO Big nor TOO Small

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Painting & Decorating Special Offer

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Please Call: 950 930 536 or 634 306 690 or email: ArboleasBuilder@gmail.com

HIRE A HUSBAND Professional, reliable, handy man available...

...for all the jobs he doesn’t get round to, including Van Removals, Painting Exterior/Interior, Shelves, Small Plumbing Jobs, Persianas, Garden Clearance, All Outside Work - Walls, Stone Cladding, Rendering etc... Property Maintenance Good hourly/daily rate - 8 yrs in his area.

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All aspects of P&D Interior & Exterior Gates, Rejas & Boundary Walls Free Quotations john.colbert@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 662 597 596

British Plasterer

• 9 years trading in this part of Spain with 25 years experience • Quality work guaranteed • References available

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friendly - reliable - also general house & garden maintenance electrics - TILING - POOL GROUTING

ring for a free quote

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

The Road Home by Rose Tremain

I came across Rose Tremain quite by accident and just wish someone had recommended her books to me a lot earlier in life. The Road Home portrays the main character Lev, an Eastern European from somewhere such as Poland or Slovakia. We know for certain that his country was a communist one but the writer is vague about his country of origin.

Not to think about it, not to feel inside him the finality of what had happened, that was all he craved now.

Nothing else. Nothing beyond or after or yet to come. None of that. Only the feeling of not feeling.

Amongst other things the book relates to displacement and through Lev, Lydia, Vitas and the gay Chinese migrant workers we are made aware of their struggles. That doesn’t mean that the native British characters don’t feel a similar sense of isolation because some of them do. Ruby, at the old people’s home is lonely and feels abandoned by her family and Christy, Lev’s landlord suffers depression because his wife has left him and she refuses to let him see Frankie, their daughter. He turns to alcohol.

Lev is a widower with a young daughter he idolises. His wife, Marina died at 36 and his ageing mother Ina looks after Maya whilst Lev seeks his fortune in London. It’s a hard decision

for him to take and throughout the story we have plenty of contact with his mother, daughter as well as Rudi his feisty friend, a counterpart to Lev all still living in Auror with constant flashbacks or telephone conversations.

For Lev it is a difficult journey away from his family, still grieving over Marina, angry with the Communist regime for running down the economy and allowing the timber mills to close, forcing unemployment and creating financial hardships. That has been the situation for 2 years. I have worked with many Asians who are separated from their families and loved ones in order to find work to support their families in third world and developing countries so I respect and admire their decisions to leave their families in order to do exactly what Lev was trying to do-send money and necessities home and try to save for a better future. It’s a big sacrifice to make.

We read so much about immigrants coming to the UK in particular for work who end up claiming benefits for themselves and their families, especially from Eastern Europe. Lev is one of the decent guys, prepared to do anything to make ends meet initially. He is legal and not an asylum seeker although he is constantly facing prejudice and cruelty from British

Private Sale

houses and land can be separated with own escrituras or sold as one lot Two detached villa shells built up to and including roofs125m2 built on flat 3000m2 plot. Secluded position, unspoilt countryside views across orange and lemon groves front and rear.

people, physically and mentally.

book review

It was hard to leave his country of origin and he felt bitter. He wanted to become a man-of-the-world, a saviour to his family. When he didn’t have the money for accommodation he slept outside. His first job was delivering leaflets for a kebab take-away for £5 but he couldn’t live on this meagre amount. With a bit of help from Lydia, a friend, he found a reasonable job in a restaurant and acquired skills he had never had before. Life took on some kind of shape and he became infatuated with Sophie who worked in the same restaurant. Lev needed a replacement wife, someone who loved him and Sophie enjoyed the sex but wasn’t wife material. Jealousy turned to rage and inadequacy with the loneliness tearing him apart. A doomed relationship.

Priced to Sell Must be viewed to appreciate this golden opportunity

Tel: 609 199 394 647 379 878 950 064 801

and admiration, hopeful that he will be able to return to his family and support them. It was a joy to read.

Publisher: Vintage Books.

ISBN: 978-0-099-47846-1

Ina couldn’t understand why her son had left: My mother. She doesn’t understand that I’m trying so hard for her and Maya. All she says to me, “Lev, come home, come home.”

But home, why? Nothing there. No work. No life. Only family.

Difficult decisions tearing him apart, plenty of anger and heartache. He is well characterised and we follow his journey supporting him, wanting him to succeed. We learn so much about him and feel respect

REVIEW it by Carol Naylor. www.carolnaylor.blogspot.com / www.carolesleynaylor.wordpress. com naylorcl@hotmail.es

HARLEQUIN KITCHENS Options available to suit any budget

Fully Legal & with Full Title Deeds

• E ach villa spec: 3 beds / 2 baths. Size 125m2 • Space for pools (12mx6m) • Exceptional uninterrupted views of orange and lemon groves to front & rear • Situated between Almanzora & Arboleas overlooking Almanzora valley • 10 minutes to nearest town with all amenities • Inland country setting, but only 30 minutes to coast • Ideal for builder to complete internals

25

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

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

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

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

We have something for everyone & remember, it’s manufactured to your requirements.

For a FREE home measure & quotation please contact Trevor on

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Based in Albox, but will cover all areas

26

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

To advertise in this space

Contact our sales advisors on 950 121 936 or email: sales@soltimes.com Fun Brain Teasers with Answers to Challenge your Mind 1. Which planet is also known as ‘The Morning Star’?

2. What is traditionally served with ‘Haggis’?

3. In which city is ‘Broadway’?

4. Who had a hit with ‘My Ding-aLing?

5. Which Kevin starred in a Fish Called Wanda?

SolPUZZLES wordsearch Soccer

Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining 27 letters spell a secret message.

ASSIST BALL CAPTAIN CHEERING CLEATS CLUB COACH COIN TOSS CORNER KICK DEFENSE FANS

FIELD FIFA FORMATION FORWARD FOUL GAME GOALIE GOALS GRASS HALVES

HAT TRICK HEADING JERSEY JUGGLING KICK-OFF MATCH OFFENSE OFFSIDE PENALTY KICK POSITION

PRACTICE RED CARD REFEREE SCORE SHIN GUARD SHOOT-OUT SHORTS SHOT SLIDE TACKLE SOCKS

SPORT STOPPAGE TIME STRIKERS SUBSTITUTE SWEEPER THROW-IN TOUCHLINE WALL WORLD CUP YELLOW CARD

6. In the 1997 Gen Election, how many Conservative MP’s were left in Scotland – 0,1 or 3?

7. What is South West Africa now known as?

8. ‘LOVELY’ is an anagram of which tennis word?

9. What do the initials ‘ET’ stand for in the Steven Spielberg film?

20. What is three eighths of 96?

Brain Teasers Answers

squiggle SUDOKU

standard SUDOKU

easy SUDOKU

CRYPTIC crossword

10) 36 Terrestrial 9) Extra 8) Volley 7) Namibia 6) 0 CROSSWORD

1) Venus 2) Tatties and Neeps (Potato & Swede) 3) New York 4) Chuck Berry 5) Kline

SOLUTIONS

The hidden message is: IN MANY COUNTRIES SOCCER IS CALLED FOOTBALL

wordsearch answer

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

27

LIVE UK TV - AND MORE!

GET ALL YOUR CHANNELS BACK & SPORTS

STANDARD CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

CALL 0044 161 432 5427

ACROSS

Down

2 Drilled (5)

1 Anteater (8) 2 Dressing (7) 3 Dissuade (5) 4 A musical performance (9) 5 Student residence (9) 6 Inexpensive (5) 8 Physical appearance (5) 11 Creatures (7) 12 Collude (8) 14. Surpass (5)

4 Refurbished (9) 6 Mythical being (7) 7 Relating to country life (5) 9 Sample (8) 10 Male singing voice (8) 13 Cost (5) 15 Sinister (7) 16 Essential (9) 17 Dens (5)

ACROSS 1 Oz character cast in many a part (6) 4 Composer crossing street to see lexicographer (7) 9 Not so valuable when split - not valuable at all when joined (9) 10 Unexpected defeat for those in the ascendant? (5) 11 Certainly a constant animal (5) 12 Bag that will not detain judge (9) 13 Aroused former spouse gets mentioned (7) 15 Dish provided by witches entertaining a soldier (6) 17 Received hot stuff crossed swords (6) 19 One from Flanders Milan or Mantua (5) crossed himself (7) 22 Self-employed person 3 In a high place he is irreligious (9) at liberty to make cuts 4 Was scornful expression spiteful? (7) 5 Steep bank that's familiar to poker players (5) (9) 6 Conductor to study in Italy's capital (9) 24 Beat a biblical epic 7 Was a traitor turning over a seaman to Senator Kennedy? endlessly? (5) (6) 26 Lincoln on backstreet 8 See bad moves at the bottom of the ocean (6) assists in crime (5) 27 Elope then produce 14 150 on a mountain? Most ingenious! (9) 16 Animals such as gorillas eat fruit outside (5,4) ring (9) 18 Meant not to be in action (7) 28 Stopped work and 19 Cook swallows fish without coercion (6) went to bed (7) 29 Trees like swans (6) 20 He produces ale for Israelites (7) 21 A firm beginning to get moderately good business (6) Down 23 Surgical tool for first of surgeons in Los Angeles hospital 1 Line giving power to drama (5) shift (7) 25 European flower - a little tender honeysuckle (5) 2 Opera by Bellini set in

SUDOKU PUZZLE s

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.

squiggle

standard

easy

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

28 SOLTIMES MAY 2014

Tasty food for everyday,special occasions and for sharing with friends

Grilled lamb chops, wild garlic pesto Mesón de

spring crazy offer

#

#

Irene

Free Bottle of wine

per couple to take away after having our night menus Valid only with this voucher dinner 19.00-22.00 until 30th june

This recipe celebrates some of the UK’s tastiest spring produce: wild garlic, that wonderfully whiffy foraged ingredient that fills the forest floor as the days get brighter, with wonderful Jersey Royals and lamb cutlets.

Ever y night is a good night at...

FRANKIES bar

all live sporting events on Sky sports, BT sports, bbc & itv

Thursday fun quiz 9pm start

friday 30th may

live music with mandy

Ingredients For the wild garlic pesto 120g/4oz wild garlic leaves, blanched 1 garlic clove, peeled and grated 20g/¾oz pine nuts, toasted 200ml/7fl oz olive oil ½ lemon, zest only 30g/1oz parmesan cheese, grated salt and pepper For the grilled lamb chops and potatoes 6 lamb cutlets, French trimmed olive oil, to brush on the lamb 200g/7oz pre-cooked Jersey Royals 30g/1oz wild garlic leaves, washed

Preparation method 1. For the wild garlic pesto, pick and wash the wild garlic leaves and blanch the leaves in a pan of boiling water for 30 seconds. Re-fresh in a bowl of icecold water. Squeeze out the excess

water and roughly chop.

2. Add the leaves, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon zest and grated parmesan to the food processor and blend. Season with salt and pepper.

3. For the grilled lamb chops, heat a flat griddle pan and drizzle the chops with oil. Cook for two minutes on one side and turn over and cook for another 30 seconds. Allow the chops to rest.

4. While the lamb is resting, heat a medium frying pan and fry the potatoes with butter until goldenbrown. Stir through the raw garlic leaves, and a tablespoon of the pesto, or more if you prefer.

5. To serve, put the potato salad in a serving bowl and pile the lamb chops on top. Put a little extra pesto on top if liked.

best entertainment in the area food served daily from 12 noon ’til 10pm

friday only

the best fish and chips in the area served from 1pm booking recommended (takeaway available)

only 9€

ifi Free w

opening hours tuesday - sunday 11pm ’til late closed mondays

tel: 662 474 861

Restaurant from

homemade chips, peas or salad

only 15€

We are here

Villaricos

Desserts from 2€

12noon - 5pm

2 Courses from 3 Courses from

6.95€ 8.95€

from

6.95€

Book our function room with private patio garden for your parties, weddings, birthdays etc.

Frankies bar Petrol Station

Fridays & Saturdays From 12 - 9 PM

SUNDAY LUNCH HOME-MADE AND DELICIOUS WAITER SERVED BOOKING RECOMENDED

Hotel Vera Playa

OX

ALB

COD N’ CHIPS

5.95€

12oz rib eye steak

6oz fillet steak homemade chips, peas or salad

only 8€

Consum

Garrucha

9AM-LATE MON-SAT (Tues 8:30) 10-6 SUN

950 120 718

jacksalbox@gmail.com

SEE OUR MAP ON PAGE 30

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

La

29

VidaRestaurant&Venue el Cucador

BBQ in the Garden

SATURDAY 7th JUNE Dancing through the decades 60’s, 70’s, & 80’s Free Entry

Thursday 29th May

In the Garden Country Music

Music from Smooth FM DJ Rod Oxley from 8pm

Grilled aubergines Ingredients 4 long, thin-skinned purple aubergines 1-2 garlic cloves, chopped handful parsley leaves, finely chopped 5-6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil a little sea salt and black pepper 150g/5oz feta cheese lemons, for serving Preparation method 1. Preheat the grill to high.

2. Run a small, sharp knife round the top of the aubergine, 1cm/½in or so below the stalk and only just cutting through the skin; then make four evenly spaced, similarly shallow cuts, along the length of the aubergine right down to the end.

3. Grill the aubergines for about 20 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes or so, until evenly cooked with charred skin, and until the aubergine feels soft, but not too collapsed within. In the case

Grilled aubergines with olive oil, garlic, parsley & feta cheese.

Simplicity is the key to this aubergine recipe, allowing the full flavour of the ingredients to shine.

of the purple aubergines, the skin will also have turned a dull brown colour.

Transfer to a large, oval, white plate and allow to cool for two minutes.

4.Peel away the aubergine skin in four long, narrow sheets using a small knife. Without cutting right through the stalk end, cut the aubergines in half lengthways and gently prise apart until you have two horizontal halves remaining attached at the top end 5. Mix the garlic and parsley with the olive oil until well combined and spoon the mixture over the aubergine. Season lightly with salt (not too much - the cheese is salty anyway) and pepper, and crumble the feta cheese over the top. If liked, trickle over more olive oil to finish.

6. Serve warm, or at room temperature with lemon squeezed over.

D I S C O Pies available 5.50€ TRADITIONAL SUNDAY LUNCH from

8.95€ served 12.30PM-5PM

Lamb

Served 2nd Sunday of each month (2€ Supp)

gammon

Your No1 Entertainment Venue in Mojacar for All the Family

next TRIBUTE acts

all major Abba 6th June Micheal Buble & Gary Barlow 11th July sports karaoke every thurs/frid/sat events live music with shown Dominic Doolittle Sun’s 2.30 here watch the world cup on one of our 4 large screen tv’S & enjoy a pint with a inc gaa burger, hotdog, ribs, chicken, steak on the terrace bbq from just 5€ sports daily homemade specials just 5€

telephone: 950 473 135

mojacar playa between Lua & Moma Beach

Open 10am till late 7 days a week

oonnly ly

10 10.9 .955€€

6 Starters

Home cooked with all the trimmings includes a complimentary coffee & chocolate

booking recommended

6pm - 9pm Bar specials Tues: Cod & Chips / Chicken Curry €5.50 Wed: Home Cooked Ham & Chips/ Chicken & Chips €5.50 Thurs: Is Pie Night €5.50

Daily Specials available 12.30pm - 3.30pm

LITE BITE SNACKS

Burgers, Wraps, Lunch 12-4pm

Sunday British Breakfasts

served from 10am - 12pm

We are here

Albox Arboleas 1km

Zurgena La Alfoquia

Mojacar

Noche

De

A choice of

Served last Sunday of each month

showbar & restaurant

The Irish Rover

menu

Plus Lite Bites Menu

Mon: Chili Night €5

North South Country Boys

E15

La Vida

Cucador Junc 547

Huercal Overa

6 Main Dishes 6 Desserts

A LA CARTE ALSO AVAILABLE

All home-made.

Glass of Wine or Tubo

Thursday - Saturday 6pm - 9pm

Menu De Noche will not be available on Thursday 29th May or Thursday 5th June due to private function.

Pies + Lite Bites Menu Avaliable

Friday & Saturday service as normal

from fr om

5.95€

fish n chips prime Cod home-made chips & mushy peas

FRIDAYS 12.30pm - 9pm

Tel: 950 634 562 lavidacucador@gmail.com open every day 12pm - late

30

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

Y DA WAKES

Dave, Yvonne & Clive Welcome you to to Y Da Wake

BREAKFAST MENU Served 11am - 12:30pm

LUNCH-TIME MENU Served 12:30pm - 3:30pm

EVENING MENU Served 7pm - 10:30pm

SNACK MENU

Served lunchtime - 10pm (late night snacks also available)

New to Y Da Wakes Tapa Menu FREE changed daily

help for heroes

fun day & table top sale saturday 7th June 11am

Forthcoming

Attractions

SUNDAY LUNCH Served 12:30 -4pm

All meats carved to order with home made Yorkshire Pudding & 5 fresh vegetables.

Large 6.95€ - or with dessert 9.50€

Lamb to order - price on request

Authentic Curry night (Tuesday), Bingo, Dave’s Thursday Pool Night, Music & Karaoke

Why not try our Giant Yorkshire Pudding filled with your choice of chicken, beef or Why not come & join in pork, fresh vegetables, roast potatoes & the fun !!! gravy at a special price of 4€ Roquetas De Mar Urbanisation opposite Protur Hotel, next to Suzi’s Tel: 950 33 51 80 or 634 33 99 43 opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat from11am-Late Sun 12noon - 7pm, (Wed closed)

Thank You ‘Y-DA-WAKES’ for your Charity Work Yvonne and Dave at Y-Da-Wakes in Playa Serena, RDM have just been presented with a 2014 Poppy Appeal Box Barry, the local poppy appeal organiser for Roquetas De Mar. The Royal British Legion would like to say many thanks to Yvonne and Dave for their help in 2013 and look forward to another successful year! The ongoing support and valued help in raising funds for our British ex-service personnel, is much appreciated by The RBL. In addition to helping the RBL, they also raise a considerable amount of money for ‘Help The Heroes’ charity, as most locals will know. So, we stand ‘shoulder to shoulder’ as the RBL motto says, to help each other.

Why not call in to see them and enjoy their excellent choice of Meals (prepared by Clive), tapas, beers and wines at their new premises in Playa Serena, Roquetas de Mar, opposite Hotel Protur, next to Bar Suzi’s.

New members are always welcome to join in the fun at RBL branch meetings, held at The Lodge, Calle Americo Vespucio, Roquetas De Mar, first Tuesday of each month at 3pm. Contact Jenny or Mike on 950 328 469 for further details.

Rob and Denette

Nick and Ruth, Bar Aurora, would like to say a big thank you to you both for all of your hard work over the years - you will be greatly missed.

Best wishes for a long and happy retirement from all at Bar Aurora and all of your friends in Roquetas. Have a fabulous holiday!

A BIG THANK YOU to Linda & Tommy at Bar Cardies for their Charity Work!

Linda and Tommy at ‘Bar Cardies’ have once again agreed to support this year’s Royal British Legion POPPY APPEAL and have received their 2014 collection box from Barry Thomas, the local poppy appeal organiser for Roquetas De Mar branch.

They are selling recycled books, which are no longer required by their customers and, the proceeds are going into the POPPY FUND! Many thanks to Linda and Tommy for their continued support and valued help in raising funds for our British exservice men and women.

Why not call in at ‘BAR CARDIES’ and

enjoy their excellent choice of tapas, mini-meals, beers and wines at their beach-front location next to Popeye’s.

Don’t miss out on their ‘Manic Monday Menu’, for one Euro a go! The RBL are holding a luncheon here on 12th June, so watch the press for further details.

New members, friends and guests are very welcome to join in the fun at Royal British Legion branch meetings held at The Lodge, Calle Americo Vespucio, Roquetas De Mar, first Tuesday of each month at 3pm.

Contact Jenny or Mike on 950 328 469 for further details.

Burty’s BAR Playa Serena, roquetas de mar

Breakfast

served from 9am

booking advisable

Wednesday bingo 3pm anglican church service

3rd thursday of the month 11.30am

next service 19th june

Tapas served

from 12.30pm – 5.30pm

every thur

quiz 2.15pm prompt

Opposite Playa Luna Hotel between Oasis & Mar y Sol. Tel: 679 156 715

A La Carte Menu Main Meals from 6.95€

tapas served Lunch & Evening

part  of it









Every Friday fish chips & peas €3.95 Large Cod, Chips & Peas €5.50 Sunday Carvery €6.95



Served 12 noon til 5pm & from 7pm



Mini meals served on Sunday including mini roast from 1.50€. Sunday Lunch also available – 5.95€

 be a 

Monday - Saturday : 10am - 4pm and 7pm - close.

Sunday : 12noon - 5pm & from 7pm (Carvery) Thursdays : closed



e huge sunny terrac and spacious bar!

free



Open 9am – 6pm (closed Tuesday)

mini roast €1.50 Now serving breakfast & tostadas Fun Day and Table Top Sale supporting Help for Heroes (in conjunction with Y Da Wakes)

Saturday 7th June from 11am

Tel: 659 683 447

www.newyorknewyork.es

OPPOSITE THE Protur hotel, next to y da wakes

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

31

roquetas - COMMUNITY NEWS

Daniel K ane Happy 8th Birthday

Lots of love Mum, Dad, Sophie, Jessica & Patchy Dog xxxxx

Wish your Friends Loved Ones Happy birthday, anniversary or just send them a special message.

Send details to: production@soltimes.com or call Mark on 693 774 932

nOTICE bOARD Roquetas Bridge Club

meets on Monday’s at 3pm.

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION NOTICE

CAMPING LOS GALLARDOS

Thursday 29th May - Lunch at Bar California, Las Marinas.

Tuesday 3rd June - 3pm - Social meeting & Quiz.

Thursday 12th June - RBL Lunch at Bar Cardies for members and guests, Steak or Menu del Dia, and time to be confirmed Tuesday 1st July - 3pm - Social meeting at The Lodge Tuesday 8th July - 6pm - D-Day Commemorative Celebration BBQ at Kath & Terry’s garden.

Thursday 17th July - 1.30pm - ‘Summer Recess’ Luncheon at Maracay Restaurant All monies raised at these events will go to the 2014 Poppy Appeal.

SALIDA 525 DE AUTOVIA

ROQUETAS DE MAR BRANCH 3569

New members are welcome to join the branch, so come along to any the social meetings, contact Jenny/Mike on 950328469 for further info. Meetings are held at ‘The Lodge’ on Calle Americo Vespucio, Roquetas De Mar, on the first Tuesday of each month (3pm).

TAPAS - SANDWICHES - SNACKS Always a Friendly Welcome Open Mon/Sat 10am Till Late

For more info please contact

Closed Sundays

Alison Ferguson 950349749 or

Tel: 642265776

Sue Barlow 950 333 344

FTG Notice

The ‘Friday Tapas Group’ meet up at 1.00pm each week (Friday) and the venues over the next few weeks are as follows: 30th May - Bea’s La Paloma (Y Da Wakes old bar).

6th June - Los Olvera, Urb, (by Train terminus & the old El Rancho Restaurante).

13th June - Mar Y Sol, opposite Hotel Playa Luna.

20th June - To be advised.

Anyone is welcome to join the happy bunch and have a laugh, exchange views and ideas.

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

MIRAFLORES

FORTHCOMING ‘POPPY APPEAL’ FUND RAISING EVENTS

Find us next door to Old Theos

CAR BOOT SALE EVERY SUNDAY FROM 8.00 AM 3 EUROS PER CAR (CHARITY STALLS FREE) THE SALE IS HELD IN THE BAR CARPARK. OUR FAMOUS SUNDAY CARVERY IS SERVED EVERY WEEK FROM 1.00—4.00 PM SNACK ALSO AVAILABLE FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND BOOKINGS

PHONE 679 970 399

PUB C H APLINS Roquetas a, ad rra Nev 27 Calle Sie

SAT 3PM KO’S

LIVE SPORT FREE WIFI.....

95 RIBS WEDS 5.

FOOD DAILY...

9.30 IZ U Q HIPS 4.95 + FRI FISH & C 1 ET Y1G SAT NIGHT - BU FREE MEALS

1€ light bites m 1pm y - Sunday fro 8 Open Tuesda TEL 618 824 36

estampa Tapas Bar nny outdoor u s s u io c a p S ating 24 terrace se TV SKY

Tapas/Snacks English Breakfast Fish & Chips Coffees & Cakes Cocktails/Sangria

sky sports shown here

FREE WI-FI Open 9.30am - late (Closed Tuesday) Next door to Zurimar 678 202 160

32

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

SOLTIMES www.soltimes.com

see us online

SOL CLASSIFIEDS

shower screen 65€ Tel: 950 439 234 / 634 368 461 (Arboleas).

Do u ble glazed white aluminium frame Between 10am & 5pm window complete incl. shutter, mosquito blind. size: 1.20m x 1.35m 80€.

Tel: 950 439 234 / 634 368 461 (Arboleas) Taver gas fridge/freezer.

Fair condition. €100 ono. Buyer los carasoles, 27 to collect. Please Zurgena, 04650, call 666 315 984 (Taberno) Almeria Two man Mon to Fri 10am - 5pm glass above New Horizon fibre canoe blue and Villas white excellent condition €150 Baza Tel: 635 977 621 FISHING BOAT FOR SALE one person fishing boat blue and white in excellent condition €180 Baza Tel: 635 113 172 anytime Z u es Spott i n g S c o p e Magnification 15 to 50 x 70mm, with FOR SALE camera adaptor & case. Valued at 295€, will accept 120€. Excellent condition, little any single item up to 300€ free of charge use. Tel: 950 469 564

everyday

BY TELEPHONE Monday to Friday

950 121 936 902 750 190

IN PERSON

BY E-MAIL

Send your advert or Classified lineage to

sales@soltimes.com

advertise all your unwanted items for sale in this section

email: sales@soltimes.com 2 Framed black & white prints of Lerma Burgos Spain.

Offers around 25€, Tel: 950 617 764 ... after 6pm.(Los Gallardos) Acer 142sp, Windows 7 Home Premium To u c h s c r e e n Netbook, Office 2010 2GD RAM. 1.30 GHZ CPH, 320 GB Hard Disk for sale (not used) €250 Tel no :- 647202599 (Arboleas) Quecha T6 2 XL Air Cooled 6 Man Tent Can be viewed on Youtube being erected.

Only used once as we have 3 small dogs

And it didn’t suit us for holidays.

Perfect condition.

As New 250€ Tel 634335859 or 634335857 Reja and marble sill for above window 45€ Tel: 950 439 234 / 634 368 461 (Arboleas) h a m s ter cage with inter connecting tubes 15€ Tel: 649 186 107 Ivor Williams galvanised 2 wheel trailer. 2m x 1.5m, good tyres and includes spare wheel.

Mojacar playa.

250€ Tel: 950 475 953.

2 Dark Green wrought iron

garden chairs, offers around 25€ pair, Tel: 950 617 764 after 6pm.(Los Gallardos) 2 Free standing Fans offers around 30€ Tel: 950 617 764 ... after 6pm.(Los Gallardos), 2 x boxes for sale one unlocked over 100 games 65€ Tel: 649 186 107 2 Framed pictures...

Mediterano.

Offers around 20€ Tel: 950 617 764 ... after 6pm.(Los Gallardos) Shower base (Ceramic), mixer/ shower complete with sliding

Air-con

FOR SALE cont...

wanted

MD Air-Conditioning & Refrigeration S.L.

MD S.L

City & Guilds Fully Qualified F-Gas Certified

25 years sole experience in Air Conditioning & Refrigeration

not a jack of all trades

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

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

md_aircon@mobileemail.vodafone.es

Airport services A i rport www.AAparking.es tr a n s f er s pick up all areas, Tel: 639 081 067 competitive Cheap rates. For a Airport Parking quote please visit Alicante Almeria Murcia www. spanish estateagent.

New com or call 661 Servicing / Repairs 143 871

blinds & screens

b u g s r ep l ac e m ent w i n d o w s & doors Aluminuim & UPVC fitted & made to measure tel: 600 049 515

Venue @ La Vida El Cucador

business for sale

carpet & rug business based in Antas to include stock, fixtures & fittings serious enquiries only

15,000€

price negotiable Tel: 665 258 680 carpentry

for all your c a rpe n try n e e d s Call Barry on 646 101 712

chimney sweep

The Chimney sweep, for a friendly alternative energy professional Call Solar Wind Power Solutions. service Over 15 years installation experience. Paul on : 617 established12yearsinSpain. Call Phil 150 300 or 850 993 057. for competitive prices 636 261 240 email:info@sunergyalmeria.com www.sunergy almeria.com

available venues

Tel: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 Ext 332 sales@soltimes.com

Steve Hayes Informatica

Bill’s Carpentry & Shop Fitting

Hanging Doors Flat Pack Furniture Fitting Kitchens - Tiling No Job Too Small Free Quotations Tel: 633 507 165

computers

Don Robinson

pc consultant

Pc’s, Laptops, Printers etc. Sales Advice, Help, Training, Diagnosis & Repair in Albox & Repairs on-site 15€ per hour min charge 1 hour + parts +IVA Private parties Private parties callout / tuition.

I come to you Birthday etc, Birthday etc, Consumables established 2008 comp TIA A+ certified all events all events Albox, Almeria catered for catered for Tel: 950 120 900

call for more call Bar for more information: information

950 634 562 950 120 718

ballroom dancing car share n ee d e d Roquetas to Tea room ballroom dancing Murcia 14th June 7am ring: 657 150 sequence with jean & derek at 335 el Cucador co n s er La vatory wicker settee/ mondays 3-5pm chairs wanted all levels welcome must be comfy, single or couples can collect call: 647 379 878 enjoyable afternoon to meet lady wants new friends to buy large for more info call terracotta garden 950 449 617 pots, call 647 379 878, can collect wanted king baby equipment hire size bed must be in excellent condition, can collect 647 379 Everything for the visiting 878 baby Car seats, high chairs, WANTED large stair gates, cots etc wooden garden shed in good 950 436 581 or 666 375 688 cond. tel 634 341 expectingababy.2006@gmail.com 282

VidaRestaurant&Venue

BABY HIRE

Tel: 646 587 746

donald_gunn_robinson@msn.com

construction Arbole a s builder, Fully legal, Call Steve on 950 930 536 or 634 306 690

advertise in the

soltimes classified call paulette on 950 121 936

drainage

Drainage Solutions

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

Established 9 years in spain

Tel: 616 531 283 or 670 088 966

LICENSED POZO/septic tank emptying • I nstallation of new septic tanks with certificates

• Repairs to existing pozos •C CTV Camera Inspection Call Andy on 950 091 109 or 648 768 587

Email: blockeddrainsrus@albox-online.net

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

www.soltimes.com drainage cont...

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

Pool Cleaning & Water Tanks

Contact: 675 838 808 gardening

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

insurance

albox

iron/ metal works

insurance est 7 years Award winning agent For all your Insurance Needs

The Metal works Grills, railings, gates of all types, security/sliding/ roller, rejas, Please contact concertina doors etc. Tel: Keith Glenn & jayne 950 121 943 Wood on 638 infoalbox.libertyseguros@gmail.com 900 949 T & T Metals For all quality metal works, including gates, railings, rejas, staircases, gazebos & chainlink fencing Tel: 950 431 738

legal 4wayconnectionsLegal and Translation Services. Tel 646 844 708 www.4wayconnections. com

strimming of overgrown spanish registered. ring john or Ruth on 616 855 294 or 950 163 930

health & beauty NEW COMBINATION of Hits high intensity Interval training toning & conditioning of entire body Tel Viki on: 650 764 623 for more info avon cosmetics Tel Claire 691 987 454 avonfromclaire @yahoo.es pamper yourself at R Retreat El Cucador, beauty treatments, hair salon, holistic massage, waxing, pedicure etc. Therapists all established & UK qualified. Email retreatcucador.gmail.com or call 647 379 878 or look at our main advert on the ladies page inside & call the therapists direct

hobby/craft

ELAINE’S WOOLS

Quality UK Wool & Accessories.

Come & view my DISPLAY. Also Available at CAT Services & Total Entertainment

Call 667 273 889 elaineswools@gmail.com

If you wish us to print an article about a particular topic in our regular space on pg 17, 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

PAINTER / DECORATOR

painter & decorator

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

VERA BEACH

calle tortuga boba, 69,

4 sexy girls erotic and relaxing massages.

Discreet

Tel: 687 891 515

pets section

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

No need for kennels or cattery

Pet sitting in you own home, Arboleas & local area.

Call Vanessa 637 061 482

email thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

Mature Lady Home Help/caring, also available cleaning in Mojacar & Surrounding Areas. Experienced & Can Supply References. Reasonable Rates. Call 634 369 053

PAINTING INSIDE & OUT All quality products

General house & garden Make over your home this year maintenance, electrics, pool grouting, tiling, No job to small Tel Graham & Barry on tel: 634 349 156 or email 620 112 193 or thunderpaul2003@hotmail.com

667 853 062

Pilates

plumbing

pilates

For all your plumbing needs Fully Qualified heating engineer

with Sharon O’Lanlon every Wednesday 11am - 12 all welcome all levels at El Cucdor Call for more details 638 487 314 fully UK reg: 25 years experience

PLASTERER

British plasterer

All work guaranteed Tel Paul 634 327 201

contact barry 667 853 062 or graham 620 112 193

KNOWLES plumbing No 1 for Plumbing

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

PROPERTY section

Specialising in rural property with character Cortijo Whether you are buying or selling we will be delighted to hear from you

BE SEEN

24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, 365 DAYS A YEAR With an entry in the

SOLTIMES business directory

bargain

125,000€ ono 5 mins from

Call Stephen 636 266 641 email info@findmeahome.es Find us online at www.findmeahome.es facebook.com/findmeahome

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

property maintenance

property maintenance

• Professional pool care From just €15 a quarter • House & garden maintenance www.soltimes.com • Competitive prices Tel: Paulette on 950 121 936 Or email: sales@soltimes.com for details

for sale Los Gallardos

VERA APARTMENT FOR RENT woodhouse boarding kennels SHORT-TERM/HOLIDAY RENTAL & cattery - arboleas

Small friendly kennels, 24hr vets service, pet transporting arranged, welcome to view ministry approved ring for a free quote Tel: 649 186 107 or Tracy Mobile 650 211 952

friendly - professional -reliable also general house /garden maintenance electrics, tiling & pool grouting

HOME HELP/CARER

house maintenance

Tel: 950 121 936 or 902 750 190 ext 332

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

gardens & hedge cutting

33

Call Graham & Barry now for free estimate 620 1 2 193 or 667 853 062

Tel 649 186 107 for more info email: thunderpaul 2003@ hotmail. com

wanted

room

wanted

in Mojacar for 6 weeks, Nights only tel: Linda on

659 063 869

advertise

your property Do you have a property for sale or to rent.

Advertise in this space weekly to reach over

55,000

Sol Times readers!

For more information Contact Paulette on

950 121 936

34

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

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

situations vacant

removals

safe & secure transport SPAIN UK SPAIN Removals to & from uk lined & controlled Friendly Reliable Service between spain - uk thermal ventilation ideal for pets 200€ dog - 179€ cats Fully Legal friendly, reliable 100€ birds

removals

Special deals from UK - Spain

Office: 968 564 298 Mobile: 696 621 884 marmenorremovals@ hotmail.com UK - SPAIN - UK

From a parcel to a small house move Professional,Friendly & Caring Fully insured, scheduled monthly door to door service

uk@fmtransport.co.uk www.fmtransport.co.uk

+44 (0) 1582 499 836 +44 (0) 7977 754 389

all jobs considered all areas covered

heavy loads welcome

4700kg with speed limiter fixed price quotes fully legal operation shop & offices to visit px goods to offset costs

0044 161 317 6212 UK 0034 634 368 071 SPAIN

chalmersj8@hotmail.co.uk rachaelchalmers83@yahoo.co.uk call: 634 368 430

De Lima’s

removals Local, National & international REMOVALS & STORAGE

advertise your service

Your business will appear as shown above and be seen by

Quality Second hand furniture showroom

263 Paseo del Mediterraneo Mojacar Playa, Next to Sal Marina Hotel Mon-Sat: 10am-2pm Call Marc on 647 006 183 or Brian on 674 280 268 or e-mail enquiries@delimas.biz

www.delimas.biz

fortnightly SERVICE TO & FROM UK FULL OR PART LOADS

55,000 Sol Times readers!

motoring section

car remapping

veloc tuning ecu Remapping Services

number plates

“RE-PLATE” MATE

Save 20% on your vehicle fuel costs plus increased performance Guaranteed

GB

Van hire

Mobile motor

ONE WAY

mechanic



UK to Spain or Spain to UK

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TEL: 667 235 205

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

covering all areas, fully qualified & legal, over 30 years experience, Call Paul on 617 150 300

E Don’t take a chance!

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

Alan 662 249 159

www.replatematecostablanca.com

caravan for sale

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Telephone

667 235 205

We need an artworker to join our expanding design team.

If you have a creative eye & can work to deadlines we want to hear from you Please send your CV to editor@soltimes.com

La Vida, el cucador, zurgena

require a

creative cook/chef

We are looking for an experienced person who is passionate & innovative with food, used to working in a busy fast paced kitchen You will be able to produce delicious varied home cooked food to a high standard for our restaurant & also bar areas.

Shift work is required & weekends

salary will include a contract

or email CV to: cmm@soltimes.com

950 104 488 or 600 827 517 mobile mechanics

INDESIGN & PHOTOSHOp

chrissie on 647 379 878

www.veloc-ecu-remapping-spain.com

car & van hire

Can you use

106,000km 1 owner from new

950 475 345 or 654 598 455

jump into may with

SOLTIMES

newspaper group

are looking for Bright, enthusiastic sales people

We have a sales position for Albox & surrounding areas to work from our local office in Zurgena.

Do you enjoy a fast paced working environment?

If you have an outgoing personality with bags of enthusiasm & enjoy the pressure of weekly deadlines then we would love to hear from you.

Experience is not essential as full trainning will be given

Send your CV to cmm@soltimes.com or call Paulette on 950 121 936

sat/tv services

yoga

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SOLTIMES MAY 2014

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The Heroine of the Great Flood

A few nights ago I was awakened by the sound of toenails on the tiles, signalling that Lucy, The Dog That Is Not Ours, needed a ‘comfort break.’

Arising reluctantly from my slumber I noticed that it was only 12 o’clock, unusually early for her to need bladder relief, but it was her bladder, not mine, so I opened the door for her to exit.

She exited as far as the front patio, but instead of disappearing modestly to a discrete corner of the garden she stood to attention and stared fixedly, ‘pointing’ in the direction of our neighbour’s garden.

I assumed that she had seen a marauding cat, so I stepped outside to try to persuade her not to break the midnight calm

by giving noisy chase to any feline interloper.

It was then that I became aware of the sound of a pump, and running water. Automatically I looked towards our pool, which turns over at night, but it was glassy smooth and silent in the lambent moonlight.

Woman and dog sallied forth into the midnight still to investigate. Reaching our front gate I saw a vigorous flow of water heading down the road, so I turned tail to fetch slippers and dressing gown, both essential for flood investigation, while Lucy remained to monitor the situation.

To investigate the source of Limaria’s newest river I had to leave the safe harbour of our garden and step into the two inch depth of the torrent while my canine companion dithered on the brink – she is Spanish, so considers that water, unless safely confined in a bowl, is to be avoided at all costs.

The flood was overflowing from our neighbour’s garden; I josbiggs@hotmail.co.uk

By Jos Biggs

reckoned he needed to know, and know now, so I returned indoors and phoned him. ’----.’ I said, ‘There’s water flooding out of your front gate.’

‘Is there?’ he responded in the tone of voice of one whose tongue is awake but whose brain is still asleep.

‘Yes!’ I urged. ‘A lot of water.’

‘Oh, all right.’

The dog and I waited until we heard his front door open, indicating that the message had reached the cognitive parts of his anatomy, then we snuck back to bed.

I may be giving the dog too much credit, but if she hadn’t insisted on going out I wouldn’t have heard the water, ----‘s pool would have drained dry, and his pump would have burnt out.

So I am officially declaring The Dog That Is Not Ours, Lucero Rodriguez Biggs, the Heroine of the Great Flood of Limaria!

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

alqueria Of Church and State Rivalry between church and the state is a favourite preoccupation of the Spanish. In the village republic which is Alqueria no such conflict exists. The struggle for the souls of the Alquerian people is exclusively that of the church. The task of the day to day running of the Pueblo is undeniably that of the government. The term government is used in its widest possible sense.

As Spain has the Cortes so Alqueria has the ‘Airado’ as the title for their respective administrations. The seat of government of the village republic of Alqueria is located in the Town Hall off the Calle Horno. They did think of basing the government on the Westminster System however after a couple of aspirin and a good nights sleep they explored more sensible alternatives. An open form of government was decided upon and duly established. Any citizen of Alqueria has the right to simply burst into the chamber slam his fist on a convenient desk and demand action over whatever grievance he has. It was an anarchic form of government but it worked although very heavy on desks.

Any other form of administration would have led to the same outcome anyway.

It was felt it would be far easier to bow to the inevitable therefore keeping the inevitable within the constitution of the Pueblo. Law and order were left in the capable hands of José Cabrasilbido the local policeman. He unfortunately tends to get personally involved in the frequent rioting, throwing stones and cobbles with the best of them.

He actually instigated a couple himself

when things were a little slack in the Pueblo.

The church which is off the Calle Generalissimo is officiated over by Sacerdote del Semblante Lánguido.

Once an enthusiastic young priest eager to spread the word and put his parishioners on the righteous path. He then however came to Alqueria. He is now a broken man. He still goes through the motions and the more pious of his congregation have noticed no change.

He has now become an Existentialist and argues vehemently for that philosophy after partaking of a Remitroot Whisky or two. Of his parishioners Dolores Basco, the most devout church goer in Alqueria locks up her cockerel on a Sunday. She looks the other way the rest of the time when the cockerel is doing what a cockerel must do.

Where else but Alqueria could the religious needs of a community be administered over by an atheist priest and church attendances actually rise.

Where else but Alqueria do they avoid making laws which would be broken and effectively make breaking the law legal.

35

viewpoint

Time Ladies and Gentlemen Please! . . .

What Already?

Look, I’ll brook no argument here, but time does accelerate as you get older . . . No I mean it, it really does actually pick up speed.

Two years ago we travelled to Vancouver to be part of our ex-Bermuda biennial get together and this week almost twenty of the old crowd are converging on our little area of the Costa Blanca for another one of our bashes. I have kept a faithful record and know for a fact that it has only been sixteen months since our last knees up two years ago!

Naturally they are not all staying with us – just my California bestest friend and the Nova Scotia members of our exclusive family – with the majority of them booked in to the Zenia Beach Hotel just a mile from here. Nevertheless in preparation, we have been catching up on those little and not so little jobs around the house that have been patiently awaiting our attention, and as always at times like this, I seem to get lumbered with tasks that really make no difference whatever to the quality of stay that our visitors will enjoy or the star rating of us as hosts.

The clearing out of the garage was a prime example of this.

It took me two days to sort through, rejig and clean out the damn thing, in the full knowledge that nobody will want to see inside

By Colin Bird :

badbirdnow@gmail.com

or give a toss about its condition. After all, with most of them coming from across the States and Canada, I am fairly certain that they know what the inside of a garage looks like, except in their case, they could probably accommodate our entire house quite comfortably inside their own car storage areas.

Whenever clearing out rooms or garages, there are always those decisions to make regarding items that have not seen the light of day since the old king died and whether or not to chuck them in the bin. It’s always a difficult task, but you know full well that whatever does get trashed, the well known Colin Bird maxim will apply: Rubbish will remain rubbish until the day after you throw it in the bin, when it will become useful and essential, and the one item needed to complete an important task around the house.

I await developments on that front with trepidation, knowing that whatever item is soon required, there will follow a major rollicking from the Light of my Life because I had been stupid enough to get rid of it.

There remains the job of giving the whole house a final vacuuming, mopping, dusting, polishing and application of gold leaf to all the door handles and window catches before our friends arrive in Spain. But I know for a fact that most of it will have to be repeated in the hours prior to their arrival at the homestead, because my wife will have spotted a fingerprint on the fridge door or a hair in the shower.

My Precious is one of those people who, if we could afford a cleaner, would dust and mop the house

prior to her visit and have a cup of tea and a plate of custard creams ready as she walked through the door.

Hah good timing! As I write, my lady has just shouted up the stairs that we really should clean the car in readiness for our visitors. This is the Royal we of course, because through no fault of her own, the Princess is still incapacitated and receiving intense physiotherapy three times a week for her ruptured shoulder tendon, with many more sessions still to come.

I am developing ironing elbow, scrubbers knee and shoppers droop, and with my regular kitchen duties of preparing gourmet meals, and dish washing, I look and feel like a second hand galley slaves loin cloth. I have also shed pounds and if I turned sideways I could slice bread, so I shall probably sleep through the whole of our reunion and miss all the good bits involving drinking Bermudian rum and reminiscing about those far off days in one of planet Earth’s most beautiful locations.

But I’m not bothered, it’s all part of the process of wanting everything to be just so at such a time and it is fortuitous with My Dearest’s shoulder problem, that this year it is our turn to host the occasion, and for once not have to embark on a long haul flight to some far flung destination.

One unscheduled extra job that I have to undertake however and that is a return trip to the bodega where I found - much to my delight - a ten year old Cockspur rum.

I need to replenish my stock having knocked off two bottles to relieve stress.

36

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

La

VidaRestaurant&Venue

beauty, crafts, tarot

Hope to see you on the day !

See Map La Vida Advert on Page 28

el Cucador

Coffee & English bacon sandwi only 3 ch from .50€ 9am

may fayre this thursday

Grillstream gas bbqs from 225€

Outside garden furniture m&s ladies underwear Home made cards Crystals & Semi Precious Stones Gold & Silver Jewellery Free Blood Pressure Check with almeria angels Shrubs, Plants & Herbs at bargain prices

Connie’s homemade pies Tarot Readings from 10am with anna & karen Reiki and Healing Shiatsu taster Treatments Beauty Treatments from 10am Hair Salon Open 9am onwards Books, Tarot Cards, Candles Handmade Jewellery, handbag stall

Enjoy the Mountain Views and have lunch in our new Garden area

29th May 11am - 3pm Let us transport your loving friends to and from the UK & Europe in comfort with loving care in our air-conditioned van

Legal Matters

Help for Expats in Spain

You get a UK public document ‘legalised’ by asking the UK government to confirm that a UK public official’s signature, seal or stamp on the document is genuine. Such a certification is called an Apostille.

It is an international certification comparable to a notarization and is often added to documents that have been in some manner signed by a Notary, lawyer or other public official such as the clerk of a court of record in their official capacity.

You might need to do this if a local authority in Spain has asked you to provide a document and they’ve said it must be legalised.

How to get a document legalised without too much effort?

This is the 21st century… GO ONLINE (www.gov.uk) 1. Check your document can be legalised.

2. Pay online for the service - it costs £30 per document, plus postage.

3. Complete the legalisation application form.

4. Send your documents, application form, a blank A4-sized envelope

Dog & Cat Sitter service

• Your home or ours • Honest & trust worthy • 5 years experience of all types of animals • References available on request

676 389 592

woodhouse boarding kennels & cattery arboleas

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

Tracy 650 211 952

How do I validate a UK document?

and the payment confirmation page (which you’ll get after you pay online) to the relevant address below.

Once received, your documents are usually legalised and sent to you within 48 hours. You’ll get an email if there’s a delay.

You can’t deliver documents in person.

This is a postal and courier address only.

Legalisation Office Foreign & Commonwealth Office Hanslope Park Hanslope Milton Keynes MK19 7BH Other payment methods You can also pay by UK postal order, banker’s draft or business cheque (made payable to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office).

You’ll need to include a payment of £30 per document, and enough to cover the return of your documents by courier, which costs: £12.50 per 500g in Europe Contact the Legalisation Office legalisationenquiries@fco.gsi.gov. uk (+44) 3700 00 22 44 Monday to Friday, midday to 4pm (UK time)

Information provided by:

For all your legal needs Tlf. 646 844 708 E: 4wayconnections@gmail.com www.4wayconnections.webs.com

animal corner

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

Ken & Jackie

IS A UK DOCUMENT VALID IN SPAIN?

Border collie helps owner train horses

A horse trainer has an unusual assistant at an equestrian centre in Australia - a border collie dog.

for his owner.

Steve Jefferys says Hekan - short for ‘He can do anything’ - is an indispensible member of the team at Equestrian Excellence in Melbourne.

“He’s an incredibly talented dog,” Mr Jefferys said. “He’s basically my secretary. He does that many things for me.”

The talented one-yearold dog holds the horses as they’re being saddled, takes them for walks on a lead, and fetches things

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But Hekan’s most amazing ability is that he is able to ride the horses as well.

Mr Jefferys is best known as being the lone rider in the Sydney Olympics opening ceremony, who galloped into the stadium and cracked his whip to start the ceremony.

Nowadays Mr Jefferys and Hekan specialise in training stunt horses to act on stage or in movies.

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

Marina Phoenix Golf

This week’s team game at Marina Phoenix was a reverse waltz. The format took the pressure off and all eight teams scored better than par. The winners were Malcolm Taylor, John Lally, Maxine Mayhew and Gerry Byrne with 88 points, followed by Les Armfield, Bernie Tramore, Ann Kavanagh and Hylton Smith (86), with Isobel Jones, Glennys Oliver, José Ramon and Jim Budd (84) in third.

Nearest the pin prizes went to Brian Mayhew (17th) and Hylton Smith (5th).

The individual competition on Monday saw a return to form for Eddie Vaughan, who won with 38 points. In second was John Lally (37) followed by Jarlath Staunton (35), in third.

Marina Phoenix play Mondays (individual) and Thursdays (team game). To join us for a €25 greenfee. Ring Jim on 950 162 727 / 600 353 670 or Rosalie 950 397 117/ 697 512 882.

Almeria winger Aleix Vidal is a reported transfer target for English Premier club West Ham United, as the London outfit plan to implement a more attacking approach next season.

Vidal, who has been with the Andalusians since 2011, has made more than 100 appearances for the club, including 38 last term and he found the back of the net six times, as the side from Juegos Mediterraneos maintained their La Liga status on the final day of last season.

It is thought the 24-year-old is now considering leaving the club this summer and according to the Daily Mail, the Hammers are prepared to offer £4 million. They will face stiff competition from clubs who are keen to keep him in La Liga however, with Sevilla particularly interested, whilst Valencia and Villarreal are also said to be monitoring his situation, with a keen eye.

Manager Sam Allardyce has apparently been told by the West Ham hierarchy that he must adopt a more attacking style next season

Hell and back…

“It’s not a place where travellers first think of staying,” smiles Shige Takezoe, who with his wife Diana, owns Hell Barn Cottages in North Chideock in the UK. “There are various stories about how this part of Chideock got its name. Some say Greeks came here and built a temple called Hellas but this is disputed by local historians who say the Greeks only got as far as Devon. Others believe that Christians visited on a pilgrimage and made their home here. Then of course there was the Black Death where corpses were buried in the tumuli. Basically nobody knows why it is called Hell but it’s a beautiful place,” says Shige, who purchased the holiday business with its three cottages in 1996.

“It’s very much an international business with 20 per cent of holidaymakers coming from abroad as far away as India and many French and Germans regularly staying. It’s only a 12-hour drive from Munich.”

I have driven through Chideock on the way to Devon many times and never really

Vidal to be a Hammer?

given it a second glance. Until now. And it is a beautiful revelation. A typical village with narrow country lanes that at times are so narrow it is scary especially when driving a large Range Rover Evoque, which seems to create its own lay-bys.

What brings a Japanese man to this remote part of Dorset?

“Diana was an English teacher in Tokyo and we moved back to the UK. I haven’t visited Japan since but my sister sends her children over every now and then.”

Shige taught Japanese at the University of London and then relocated to Newcastle where he worked for a Japanese company.

“I turned their loss making office into a profitable one. It’s only at that point when you’re making money that you have the luxury to reflect on what you are doing.

Realising that I wanted a better quality of life we moved to Dorset and found Hell.

We’ve never looked back.”

It’s such an idyllic location where there

37

sport

and has identified Vidal as one of the players to bring more flair to Upton Park. Vidal has been a particular thorn in the sides of many La Liga opponents this season, particularly with his lightning bursts of speed, causing nightmares for many a defender trying to keep up with him. www.insidespanishfootball.com @expatgoals

motoring

is an almost continual happy bird song; it’s as if you’re living in an aviary. There’s no road noise and children are well catered for because not only is there a large garden to run around there is a slide and swings, which Harriett and Heidi thoroughly enjoy.

There’s also an enormous games room where we visit each morning. The children love playing in the Wendy house as you can see in the video at travelwriter.biz and we even manage to play poll and ping pong.

We stay in Rosemary Cottage, which has two bedrooms and a downstairs bathroom. Most importantly of all, the beds are extremely comfortable providing a good night’s sleep. But it is only on this holiday that my wife, Caroline realises that my snoring has been disturbing her sleep for the past three years. That’s a tough day for me but I resolve to visit a pharmacist and find some anti-snoring strips, which help.

Shige cooks Japanese cuisine and delivers it to the cottages. He’ll even take away the plates so there’s no washing up. This is great because it enables tired parents to enjoy the restaurant experience at home without worrying about the children disrupting fellow diners. “I also cater for diners in my home and sometimes they end up holidaying in one of my cottages,” says Shige. We try the salmon and chicken teriyaki, which comes with rice, miso soup and salad with Japanese dressing. Until now I hadn’t eaten seaweed but it was surprisingly tasty in the miso soup.

Another highlight of this holiday is our trip on the historic Seaton Tramway. We board at Colyton and enjoy a 30 minute trip to Seaton. Surprisingly we’re able to fit our tandem pushchair on board in the open part of the tram. Admittedly it’s a bit chilly at 10.30 in the morning but Harriett and Heidi are covered in blankets so they’re happy. It’s a delightful way to travel to Seaton with breathtaking views of the River Exe estuary as you can see in the

video at travelwriter.biz. We spot rabbits and pheasants. A thoroughly enjoyable day is spent at Seaton where we become aware that this seaside town suffers from a seagull problem. Interestingly bird control comes in the form of a 246mph peregrine falcon named Morgan, who is a television celebrity. There’s a video of him in action on travelwriter.biz. The moment he is released the seagulls quickly disappear. Our return journey to Colyton is much warmer. Travelling in this way is so much more relaxing than driving a car and having to look for a parking space.

There are so many attractions and places to visit along the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venture down the road to Golden Cap and you will be richly rewarded with magnificent coastal views.

From seaside destinations such as West Bay to Lyme Regis and Bridport and just over the borders to Sidmouth in Devon and Chard in Somerset there is never a dull moment.

At the Donkey Sanctuary at Sidmouth 15,500 donkeys and mules have been provided with a sanctuary for life since 1969 when Dr Elisabeth Svensden MBE established it. The 400-acre site is home to around 350 rescued donkeys. It is open 365 days of the year and is free to visit.

A la Ronde, the National Trust property at Exmouth is a spectacular 16-sided house.

It was built by two wealthy cousins who wanted to make the most of daylight. The property enabled them to move around it with the movement of the sun. The same family had lived there from the late 1700s until the 1990s. Furniture includes a chair presented to them by their friend Lady Nelson. This chair had actually belonged to one of Lord Nelson’s ships. There’s a shell gallery and decorative feathers adorning some walls.

We finish our holiday at West Bay on a bench in the shade where we watch life pass us by.

38

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

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

sport SHORTS

• On Saturday, the Super Middleweight rematch between Carl Froch and George Groves takes place before 80,000 fans at Wembley.

• Marc Marquez will be chasing his sixth successive MotoGP victory of the season in Mugelio.

• The fourth and fifth ODI cricket matches between England and Sri Lanka take place on Saturday, 31 May at Lords and next Tuesday, 3 June, at Edgbaston • Last Saturday in Lisbon, Real Madrid beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 after extra-time in the Champions League final - the first time two teams had competed for the top European prize from the same city.

Sergio Ramos headed a dramatic late equaliser for Real, before Gareth Bale only the fifth Welshman ever to play in a EC/CL final - headed Real’s with Marcelo and a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty - his 17 CL goal this season - sealing victory.

• This was Real’s first triumph in this competition for 12 years and their 10th overall.

• A record crowd for a play-off final saw QPR beat Derby County 1-0 to clinch a return to the Premiership. Bobby Zamora’s 90th minute goal earned the Londoners a minimum of £62m.

• Rotherham beat Leyton Orient 4-3 on penalties in the FL1 play-off final while on Monday Burton Albion met Fleetwood in the FL2 equivalent.

• Both Edinburgh clubs will be in the Scottish FL1 in 2014-15 while Hamilton will be in the SPL. The Accies sent Hibs down via the play-off with already relegated Hearts • Tom Ince, Paul’s son, could sign for his father’s old club, Inter Milan.

• Neil Lennon quit as Celtic’s manager last week after four years at Parkhead and Norwich City have given boss Neil Adams

by Tony Matthews

a three-year contract.

• England’s cricketers, after beating the reigning World ODI champions Sri Lanka by 81 runs at The Oval in the first of five games, were thrashed by 157 runs in the second game at Durham. The third of five clashes took place at Old Trafford today.

• Last Sunday’s Monaco Grand Prix ended in another Mercedes one-two with Nico Rosberg finishing ahead of Lewis Hamilton with Daniel Riccairdo third.

• Rory McIlroy stormed back to win the PGA Championship at Wentworth.

• In rugby, Northampton Saints beat Bath 30-16 in the Amlin Cup final while Jonny Wilkinson, in his last game on English spoil, helped Toulon (not Munster as I said last week) beat Saracens 13-6 to retain the Heineken Cup. • Kingsman, ridden by James Doyle, won the Irish 2,000 guineas at The Curragh.

• And the French Open tennis championship is underway at Roland Garros in Paris.

Tony Matthew’s Book

sport

valle del este

The Valle del este golf society held their Friday stableford competition at aguilon golf club this week.

Both the weather and course were perfect and everyone enjoyed their day.

In first place with 38 points Ian Jones, second Lloyd Dean 37 points and third Sue Hull with 35 points. Nearest the pins on the 8th Bob Connell and 15th in two Patrick Vickery.

Valle del este is now fully open again following the work on the greens.

19th Hole Golf Society. Cucador.

Thursday 22nd May an Individual Stableford at Aguilon, with the gale force winds of the day before subsiding to a gentle breeze the day looked perfect for some good scores as our 24 brave lads and lasses took to the well manicured fairways of this beautiful course.

Good to report that good scores (for some) was the theme of the day. The winner of the Men’s Division was an inspired Syd Walker returning a nett 37 to take 1st spot from Mark Danson on 33 and Paco Grayal on 32. Star of the day was Nekana Galindez, Nekana scored a nett 38 points to take the Ladies Division by a country mile from a very rusty Zeta Denyer (nett 29) playing her first game for nearly 5 weeks.

Terry( Thrush)Caddick had a better day than of late by securing a Nearest the Pin on the 17th and converting that into a Two. Terry also accurately anticipated ( annoyingly so) every short shot into the water or barrancos

by Dave Denyer and Brian Lowden whilst the ball had barely left the club, hence the nick name Thrush!!!

Good days golf with good and bad scores, but a good welcome back at La Vida for

nibbles and refreshments.

Results Mens Division 1st Syd Walker Nett 36 points (21) 2nd Mark Danson Nett 33 points (02) 3rd Paco Ocaña Grayal 32 points (23) Ladies Division 1st Nekana Galindez 38 points (31) 2nd Zeta Denyer 29 points (36) Twos Hole No 12 Harry Eels Hole No.17 Terry Caddick and Steve Newberry Nearest the Pin Hole No 8th Mark Danson Hole No 12 Nick Pogson Hole No17th Terry Caddick Thanks to all the members who support the 19th Hole Golf Society.

The 19th hole G/S are now arranging weekly games at various courses in the area, our home course, which we will 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

cortijo grande

What a joy to be playing Cortijo Grande with such a good bunch of golfers to make the days so enjoyable.

Wednesday 21st May 2014 and two divisions and close scores in both. Our winner of the first div with 30 points on countback Mike Picken and and second with another 30 Bob Winter. Our second div winner with 29 Tony Stubbs and second with 28 John Noel Smith. No ball sweep winners so more for Sunday.

Sunday and a lovely day for golf and we have again 2 divisions. The winner of the forst div with 39 Greg Ward second with 37 John Wardley The second div winner with 36 Pam Webster and second with 34 Graham Meeks. What a pleasure to see Graham back again. Ball sweep winners John Rice X 2 Mike Picken Barbara Wardley.

Come and join us at Cortijo Grande you will enjoy.

Telephone Patricia Holt on 950 475509

CARS & VANS WANTED FOR CASH

€50 - €4,000 paid instantly ENGLISH OR SPANISH REG WITH OR WITHOUT ITV NON RUNNERS CONSIDERED 1 hour service guaranteed All Areas Covered Tel: 661 143 871

SOLTIMES MAY 2014

www.soltimes.com

Badgers Golf Society visited Playa Macenas Golf on a very windy Wednesday, for their weekly competition. With severe winds it was a close call whether to abandon the day, but the decision was taken to carry on playing. Top scorer on the day was mark Williams with 37pts, 2nd place was Jim Laird with 36pts on countback from Andy Mucha in 3rd also with 36pts. Dave wright had a good day on the par 3’s, taking 3 out of the 4 on offer, the other one being won by Tony Randall. Dave Wright also had the only two of the day. Saturday’s stableford winner was Mike Knowles with 37 pts on count back from his son Richard Knowles also with 37pts.

Badgers Golf Society also plays every Wednesday at various courses in the area and every Saturday at Macenas for their weekly roll-up. Please book in at Badgers. Forth coming fixtures are :-) Thursday 29th May Aguillon, Wednesday 4th Macenas, Thursday 12th Away day to playa Serena, Wednesday 18th Macenas Guests are welcome to join the society on both Wed and Sat comps and can book in either at Badgers Restaurant on Mojacar Playa or by phone on 950478525 / 686038 8259. Fixtures can be found on www.badgersmojacar.com

urcal golf

We have a bit of a lull at the moment with the snowbirds having returned to their summer nest and the holidaymakers yet to arrive, so our fields are a little depleted.

RESULTS Friday May 16 – Individual Stableford The course is looking in magnificent condition with a lot of work still ongoing on new tees and bunkers,however the scoring is still good 1st Ian Jenner 38pts 2nd Terry Moore 36pts 3rd Dave Keymer 35pts Twos: none today for a change Wednesday May 21 – Individual Stableford The southerly winds (sometimes gale force!!) blowing down the valley made some holes nearly impossible, however our intrepid members were

Twenty five members and guests entered to play at Marina to contest for the Valantel Cup sponsored by long standing members Mr and Mrs Terry Hicks, Terry was also a former Pesident of the Society for a number of years,and who sadly have now returned to England for health reasons.

On a dull day as far as the weather was concerned results were good especially for the guests and recent new members who took five of the eight prizes on offer.

Marina, looking as good as it has for a number of months was playing quite long as it had been watered quite extensively especially on and around the greens but our guest Len Ward didn´t seem to have any trouble even though it was his first game at the course. Carding a score of 39 points he won by four points from the Captain Steve Dodd with 35 points. In third place was another guest Mark Williams coming in with a creditable 34 points.

Longest Drive on the 18th was won by a fairly new member Paul Mickleboro. There were two nearest the pin prizes, the first on hole number 2 was won by Barry Kilby and the other on the very difficult 9th was won by Bob Moore. Nearest the pin in two on the short par 4 twelfth hole also went to a guest, Kevin Cretella.

There were two 2´s on the R. & S. AT LOS LLANOS MARKET, ARBOLEAS day, firstly by Len Ward Is offering a wide range of golfing who rounded off a good day services including: after his win by also winning Supply and fit most types of grips the sweep-stake and Tony Morgan who had only a tap - Excellent selection of good quality balls - Extensive range of gloves in for his two on the 17th.

- Large range os second hand irons, drivers, Our next game is at Alboran putters and sets of clubs. on the 7th June, anyone wishing to play with a fast - We can sell your used clubs for you. growing and very friendly - Why not visit our website www.RandSgolf.com Society please contact our Captain, Steve Dodd on - Or email us at daveandzeta@gmail.com - Or telephone 610 340 653 608238827

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40 SOLTIMES MAY 2014

local News

Port Of Roquetas Refurbishment Work Begins

By Martin Shortland

Work began last week on the refurbishment of the older part of Roquetas around the fishing port.

Mayor Gabriel Amat, deputy Mayor Eloisa Cabrera and councillor Jose Rubi held a ‘walk about’ press conference in March to announce what they described as, “a sweeping new vision” for the jewel in the crown of the town.

On that day they talked of remodelling the whole area around the lighthouse, port, amphitheatre and neighbouring streets, to create “a spectacular environment” for both residents and visitors. The mayor described it as a major transformation, one that was long overdue and one which he was personally excited about.

He referred to the scheme as a ‘comprehensive renovation’ of the area which will include almost everything from new lighting, walkways, walls, gardens and new pedestrian areas.

The contract would go out for tender and he predicted the work could start by the middle of this month, which it

has.

Councillor Rubi said, “The renewal of the infrastructure and enhancement of the area in keeping with the tradition of the port is something fundamental we plan to undertake as soon as possible.”

He added that the council was fully committed to the project and that this was the first phase in a longer term plan for the whole port area.

The contractors moved in last Monday with plant and machinery and many roads in the area will be closed for at least six weeks. The local government has approved a budget of 700,000 euros and has set a deadline for the work to be completed before the Fiesta of Santa Ana in July. Many local businesses are being affected by the work, one bar owner told me he might as well close for a month as his customers can’t get to his bar.

Homeowners are suffering as well, with dust and noise a daily problem.

Residents living in the affected areas have expressed dismay about the

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lack of information coming from the council prior to the commencement of the work. One couple told me they are dependent on their car, which is normally parked outside their house.

Since the road closures, all traffic and parking has been banned to allow the work to be carried out; they would have liked more notice in order to make contingency plans, they are now dependent on a friend to help them out. This couple is not alone in feeling aggrieved about the situation.

What they and other neighbours have also discovered is that once the work is completed, four streets included in the scheme will be permanently closed to traffic. Car owners will be able to access their street using a swipe card to raise the barrier, but can only pick up and drop off; if they don’t have a garage, their vehicles will have to be parked elsewhere. Anyone breaking the new parking regulation will be fined.

Rumour is beginning to spread about the longer term plan referred to by

councillor Rubi in March. Part rumour and part fact, it would appear the whole of the port area is designated to become a traffic free zone, with access only granted to residents with garages and those making deliveries to bars and restaurants. The council is tight lipped, for the moment only saying they want to see the successful completion of the current work before talking about any future plans; which basically means the rumours are more than likely true.

Inevitably in such situations, there always tends to be a gut reaction, after which people calm down when they realise things aren’t as bad as they feared. Without a doubt, the present remodelling work will clearly be an improvement to the somewhat jaded and scruffy appearance the old part of the village has. I get the feeling people are annoyed about the lack of communication by the council, but also there is always the underlying feeling that most people are suspicious of change.

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