The Courier Edition 301 by TKO UK

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Edition 301

HOME TRUTHS

he number of homes on the Costa Blanca sold to British buyers has fallen since last June's Brexit vote and the fall in the value of the pound, according to figures supplied by notaries in the Valencia region. House sales to UK nationals between July and September in Alicante Province have seen a 17 percent drop compared to a year earlier, on the back of steady rises over the previous five years, and is the first annual fall in sales over a three-month quarter since 2011. British buyers are the largest foreign group of property purchasers on the Costa Blanca at 26 percent, with a similar figure for the Murcia region, but the notaries say that the slowdown was apparent before

Friday 9th December 2016

June’s Brexit referendum, with the rise in UK purchases in the second quarter of 2016 slipping to just under 10 percent. Experts put that drop down to pre-referendum jitters, as the first quarter of the year, saw a 30 percent annual rise in British buyers. A total of 1,041 properties were sold to UK purchasers in Alicante Province between July and September, with the notaries saying that options to buy properties were not taken up by buyers in the light of the referendum result. Mark Stucklin of the Second-Home and Resort Industry Observatory said: “We have carried out a survey of the sector and it appears that house purchases by Brits on the Costa del Sol and the Costa

BY ALEX TRELINSKI Blanca have fallen by around 50 percent since the referendum.” Stucklin said that the British-buying market had always closely mirrored the fluctuation in the pound-toeuro exchange rate, with the pound currently down

around 18 percent compared with the end of 2015. “While demand from other countries such as Germany, Belgium, Sweden and France is growing, in the short term it’s not enough to make up for the lost British buyers,” added Stucklin.

A RAINY SUNDAY

he biggest rains of the year came in the first weekend of December, with Sunday seeing up to 140 litres of rain per square metre dumping down in some northern areas of Alicante Province. Rainfall levels were comparatively minor in the Mar Menor, but further south, the Costa Del Sol saw severe flashflooding which cost two lives. The southern part of Alicante Province saw average levels of 70 litres of rain per square metre, with umbrellas the order of the day in areas like Torrevieja’s Paseo Juan Aparicio (picture from the Mastral Project). There were few

reports of flooding, apart from the usual roads that suffer during intense cloud bursts. Orihuela City’s new high speed AVE railway station was affected, including the lifts failing to work, but the main drama was on the Costa del Sol, which saw some of the biggest flash floods in a quarter of a century. Two people drowned in incidents on Sunday, with an electrician, who was in his work van with three colleagues, when a flash flood hit at La Linea close to the border with Gibraltar. Up the coast, a 26-yearold woman lost her life after becoming trapped by flood

waters in a Estepona as

brothel in emergency

services in helicopters failed to save her.

YOUR FREE TV MAG INSIDE

News

Friday 9th December 2016

Double Death

Killer Fumes

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The naked bodies of a man and woman were found on Tuesday evening inside a Torrevieja home, with the Guardia Civil saying that early indications showed that they both died of natural causes. The dead woman’s son called the authorities after he had been unable to contact her for a few weeks at her first floor flat on Calle Bella Antonia, with firefighters forcing their way through a win-

dow, and discovering two bodies in the living room. The naked body of the 63year-old woman, who was a Guinean national, was found on a sofa in an advanced stage of decomposition, whilst the unclothed corpse of a 67year-old man, of Spanish nationality, was found lying on the floor by the sofa, and he had died a few days earlier. No signs of violence were discovered.

Ready And Open

Nicola Cross & Mark Nolan

Head of Layout

A faulty gas boiler installation caused the death of an elderly British couple at their Northern Costa Blanca villa. Derrick and Vicki Holdback were found at their house in the La Lluca area of Javea last week after friends alerted

the Guardia Civil that they had not been seen for a number of days. Guardia officers entered the building last Thursday morning and spotted 78-year-old Derrick dead in an armchair, whilst his deceased wife, 68-year-old Vicki

was found on the floor. They were killed by carbon monoxide fumes that had come from the boiler. They had lived in the area for nearly 20 years and were well known figures in the expat British community of La Lluca.

Perilous Voyage

Nicola Cross

Advertising Sales 966 921 003 sales@tko.media

Myra Torrevieja & North Tel. 618 583 765

Jean Orihuela Costa Tel. 618 898 034

Julie English/Spanish Tel. 616 332 178

Patrick Tel. 671 337 669

Writers Alex Trelinski Mark Nolan Dave Silver Tony Mayes John McGregor Nicola Cross Julie Day

San Pedro del Pinatar's new commercial centre, Pinatar Park, officially opened its doors for business at the end of last week in time for the pre-Christmas and Three Kings rush. The 23,000 square-metre site located off the N-332 high-

way at Los Sáez, has had 16 million euro invested in it, with some 380 car parking spaces. All the units are open, which include a DIY centre; a burger outlet; a cafeteria; a pet store; toy and furniture shops; and a petrol station.

Carol Concert Torrevieja will be awash to the sound of Christmas music this evening (Friday December 9th) with the 13th annual Carol Concert in the Plaza de la Consitución, starting at 5.30pm. The event has proven to be a big success since starting in 2003 and has become a regular fixture in the area’s festive calendar.

The popular annual nativity Belen scene will be on display as well, and will be open until after the visit by the ‘Three Kings’ next month.

Authorities say that 92 migrants travelling in five makeshift boats were rescued off Spain’s coast on Saturday, with nine Algerians being picked up in a boat off the coast of Torrevieja (pictured). Officials said that amongst those rescued were were 63 people from sub-Saharan Africa and 29 Algerians.

The migrants also landed at Cabo de Palos on the Mar Menor, Cabo de Gata in Almeria province, and Tarifa in Cadiz, with many of them taken to Malaga, following a “complicated” rescue operation in rough seas around 49 nautical miles from the coast. Those off Torrevieja, who were spotted some 20 nauti-

cal miles off the coast, were brought in to be examined by the Cruz Roja, who said that all of the nine males, two of which were aged under 18, were in good health, despite their experience. Alicante Province's coast has seen over 100 migrants arrive by sea this year, of which a third are children.

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News

Friday 9th December 2016

Suspect Collared

A British man from Bradford in West Yorkshire, who is wanted on sex abuse charges in the UK, was arrested last week by the National Police in Benidorm. It's the fourth such strike by authorities in Alicante Province in recent weeks against UK nationals accused of sex crimes, who have been trying to hide under the radar in Spain. The arrest was actually last week on November 30th under a European Arrest Warrant for a series

of crimes including sexual assault, after he had been on the run for 11 weeks, after breaking bail conditions set by a Wiltshire court. Craig Shaw, aged 37, is accused of sexually abusing two brothers aged 14 and 16 on 22 occasions between 2007 and 2010 in Swindon and Blackpool. He had made friends with the parents of the victims, who then left him in the company of their sons, unaware of what he was doing to them, a statement from the National Police reported.

He also faces further charges of serious sexual assault against a man in Swindon in 2009 and over failing to notify the police of a change of address. He is further charged contacting a child under the age of 16 in 2010 contrary to the terms of a sexual offences prevention order. The National Police said they discovered child pornography at Shaw’s Benidorm address following his arrest, which then led to an appearance at a Madrid extradition court hearing.

Martin’s Quest

A Manchester man, who spent nine years walking 34,000 kilometres across 21 Latin American countries dropped in on Torrevieja last Friday as part of his latest adventure to promote the need to maintain the planet's environment and to fight against pollution. Fifty-five-year-old former firefighter Martin Hutchinson is now cycling to Australia via every European country, the Middle East and India. He says his travels have revealed destruction to nat-

ural habitats and he has seen lakes and rivers that have dried up. He said: "The point of it is to get people to slow down in life. I have a very small backpack and just take what I need. People are missing the point of being on this wonderful planet and are just destroying it." Martin was welcomed by Torrevieja's environment councillor Fanny Serrano, before he got on his bike again, heading south towards Malaga.

In A Hurry

Rooster Riddle An animal charity is claiming that a number of cocks and hens that were strutting around in the courtyard of Torrevieja's social security building in the Acequión area of the city have been poisoned. Most of the animals had come in from around the area's public parks, with Animalia Protección Animal saying that staff at the building had told them that the animals had fallen ill, with the charity telling Torrevieja's animal protec-

San Javier Mayor José Miguel Luengo has told realestate agents and developers at a conference in Santiago de la Ribera that the San Javier area is perfect for tourist expansion, with the new General Plan for the municipality set to be approved next year. The Mayor, speaking at the latest Tourism Residential Conference organised for 150 Murcia-based agents from Spanish and international companies, said that the opportunities for increased investment and job creation was huge, with the sale of properties to non-Spaniards up by 35 percent over the first six months of the year, compared to the same period in 2016.

Help Yourself tion councillor Carmen Morate, about the situation. The charity called on any deliberate poisonings to be stopped in the area, reminding the council that such attacks were illegal. In turn,

Carmen Morate said that the authority had already done a lot in getting around a hundred cocks and hens to be adopted, but sadly lacked manpower to help them out even more.

Better Supplies Work on upgrading the drinking water pipe network around Santa Pola is said to be progressing well, with the project by Hidraqua set to be completed early next month. Work on upgrading a system that was in urgent need of

Come On Down

improvement between Avenida de Portugal and Avenida de Argentina has already been finished. The focus has now switched to the Calle Brazil area, which will also see a number of fire hydrants installed.

A man described as a "foreigner" was arrested by Rojales local police last week, after he drove off from a checkpoint, and sped dangerously towards Torrevieja, throwing a pack of drugs out of his car window in the process. The driver came close to running over the two officers

at the checkpoint, as he then sped out of Rojales, with the police in hot pursuit. As vehicles converged on the fleeing car, the runaway flung out a plastic bag containing 210 grams of marijuana, which officers later retrieved from a ditch, after managing to stop to the driver and arrest him.

A hotel cleaner working in Alicante City brought a new meaning to the phrase "room service" as she literally swept up the rooms of guests by stealing their personal items whilst on shift. The National Police arrested a 34-year-old Spanish woman after complaints at the start of last month that items were going missing from bedrooms, with electronic devices and money being the main targets. The cleaner would use her electronic key card to nip into the rooms when she knew the guests were out, and would then help herself to their property.

Not Here, Please

The "Save Lo Ferris" group in Torrevieja says that the area is not suitable to be home to the municipality's first dog beach. Last week the council came up with a short list of six sites over which it wants to get the public's views, before a final place is chosen. The Lo Ferris campaigners have told the council that they do want a dog beach for Torrevieja, but that Cala Ferris is unsuitable because it cannot withstand the extra numbers of people and environmental pressures that a dog beach would bring to the site.

Possessed Man A British man was arrested on Saturday night on the Orihuela Costa and found to be in possession of a kilo of marijuana buds. No further details on the arrest location or the individual were released by the Orihuela local police.

Friday 9th December 2016

Mountain Break

A 22-year old British woman out climbing the Sierra de la Muela in the Orihuela municipality on Tuesday, had to be rescued by helicopter after she broke her leg whilst she was descending down the Pared Negra (Black Wall), one of the most dangerous parts of the area for climbers. The woman, who was reported to be from Wales,

was conscious after suffering a four metre fall, with the Orihuela local police and firefighters drafted in to rescue her after getting an emergency phone call. A helicopter was brought in to take her down to a nearby car park (picture from the Informacion newspaper), with an ambulance then transferring her to the Vega Baja Hospital.

Dead Issue Algorfa council will have to pay out over 134,000 euro in late fee penalty payments over a series of unpaid bills going back nine years, involving the local cemetery contract. The money is due to a construction company who built a new car park and added extra resting niches at Algorfa's municipal cemetery going back the best part of a decade. The full bill had not been paid by the previous Partido

Popular-run council, and the current administration under PSOE mayor, Manuel Ros, took legal advice once they uncovered the unpaid contracts, and were told it would be cheaper and quicker to get them paid. Ros said that it was another example of mismanagement by the previous administration in Algorfa, and that once again his current government team is having to fix what they had inherited

Downward Trend There have been mixed messages from Spain's latest unemployment figures with the returns for November showing the first rise for that month in three years, but the yearly trend is still showing more people finding work. An overall rise of around 800 extra people signing up last month meant that Spain's unemployment rate now stands at nearly three point eight million, with the main cause for the rise being those people in the hospitality industry being out of work after the summer and autumn seasons. November is traditionally a difficult month for the hospitality industry with the offpeak tourist season meaning that fewer workers are needed, with last month seeing 90 thousand people

in the sector stopping their social security contributions. By contrast, the education, construction and commerce sectors all employed more people. Locally, twelve hundred people joined the dole figures last month in Alicante Province, taking the total to

nearly 172 thousand, but that is 14 and a half thousand less than November 2015. The Murcia region figures rise by 152 to just under 120 thousand, with both the Murcia and Alicante returns showing more people in work compared to a year earlier.

Get Connected A leading regional business leader has called for better communication links to improve tourism in the southern part of Alicante Province, as a way of counteracting any negative effects of Brexit. Speaking in Orihuela City, Javier Fur of the CĂrculo de EconomĂa de la Provincia de Alicante, said that better links to Alicante-Elche air-

port, and extending train services to the coast must be looked at, in order to keep the crucial tourism industry buoyant in the area. Fur added that a coordinated plan involving local business groups and politicians at all levels was needed to help improve transport infrastructure in order to continue to attract visitors to the Vega Baja region.

News

Friday 9th December 2016

Tennis Racket

Spanish authorities have detained 34 people, including six tennis players, suspected of being involved in a tennis match-fixing network that made more than half-a-million euro from lower-tier tournaments in Spain and Portugal. Police said that Operation Futures probed several Challenger and Futures tournaments in the two countries for several months and found evidence that results were rigged. The tennis players were not identified, but authorities said they were ranked between 800 and 1,200 in the world. Their Spanish rankings ranged between 30 and 300. Police said they found evidence of match-fixing

Cloned Con

Two men, both aged 30, have been arrested by the Guardia Civil for using cloned credit and bank cards to buy goods and services on the internet, including holidays and luxury hotels in Spain and France. The men live in Torrevieja and Aigües de Busot, with the Guardia saying that the alleged fraudsters swindled at least three and a half thousand euro. Their biggest target was a Callosa de Segura resident who was cheated out of nearly three thousand euro, whilst a Gran Canaria man was taken for almost 600 euro.

Big And Meaty

Forget a Big Mac or a Whopper, Catral trumped them all on Sunday, when a gigantic meatball weighing at around 200 kilos was created by the El Rabanico gastronomic association. With ingredients set to get vegans and vegetarians wincing, the creation featured pork and chicken mixed with white sausage, and liberal seasonings of garlic, salt, bread, and parsley. It took a couple of hours to cook at Catral’s Plaza de España, and despite the rain, there were plenty of people waiting to sample the finished product at just one euro fifty cents per portion.

attempts in 17 men's tournaments in five cities, including Madrid, Sevilla and Porto. Authorities said the two alleged leaders of the network were among those detained across 12 Spanish cities. The leaders were based in Sevilla and La Coruna. All those detained were Spaniards and are expected to remain free pending trial. If convicted of corruption in sports, they could face prison sentences of up to four years. The network allegedly used instant-messaging groups and social media to attract online betters who would pay for the information about rigged results. The players who accepted participating in the scheme

would receive about 1,000 euro for each match. In some cases, they were asked to lose specific points or games. The Challenger tournaments are second-tier events organized by the ATP, while the Futures are single-week competitions organized by the International Tennis Federation offering either 10,000 or 25,000 euro in prize money.

Wet Rehearsal

Emergency workers in Orihuela staged a major exercise last Friday to see how they would handle a big flood disaster in the municipality. The timing of the event ironically came two days before some of the biggest rains seen in 2016, though the rainfall was well below any disaster level. Over 60 people came under the control of an Emergency Control Centre, which sent them out on 57 "calls" on Friday that

involved rescuing trapped people as well as dealing with flooded roads; carrying out river searches; putting up road diversions; as well as setting up an emergency shelter for residents who had to be evacuated from their homes. Orihuela finance councillor Rafael Almagro, said, after a debrief, that the authority's special flood plan was ready to be put into action if heavy rains led to an emergency in the area.

Brexit First

The Murcia regional government has a created a special committee to look at the economic effects on Brexit, in the first such move by any of Spain's regions. The UK market was the second biggest in the world for Murcia's products last year totalling around 956 million euro in sectors like fruit and vegetables, as well as tex-

tiles, and of course tourism. Looking to find solutions, Murcia's economic development, tourism, and employment minister, Juan Hernández, said that the committee would look to defend the interests of regional businesses and to mitigate any negative effects that might happen as a result of Brexit.

Friday 9th December 2016

Tony Mayes - About Life

Friday 9th December 2016

Size Really Does Matter Motorists are finding life more of a squeeze both here in Spain and the UK, as they face the ever increasing problem of trying to squeeze into parking places. In Britain, the AA is putting pressure on local councils and private parking companies to make car parking spaces wider and longer to accommodate the larger

vehicles of today. Motorists often find that after squeezing their car into a parking bay, they cannot open their car door widely enough to get out, or if they do, they risk damaging the adjoining car. Many cars in the UK and here in Spain now show the scars! Some councils and private companies are

responding, enlarging the spaces but cutting down on the number of spaces. It means fewer cars can get into the car park - at a time when demand is increasing, and revenue from fewer parking spaces is reduced. Here in Spain it's the same frustrating problem, thanks to an increasing number of larger vehicles on the road,

Changing Minds If there was any doubt that a fair percentage of the British public who voted for Brexit have changed their minds about quitting the EU, last Thursday's by-election in London says it all. I should imagine Teresa May is now regretting the day she agreed to offer herself as Prime Minister. What a poisoned chalice! Teresa was no Brexiteer, but she knows she leads a party which contains some hard-liners who want a hard Brexit come what may, and there's a growing danger that the Conservative party could tear itself apart and become as irrelevant as the Labour Party under Corbyn. The Lib Dem victory in Richmond Park pushes any prospect of Teresa May call-

ing a snap general election into the long grass. Many new Tory MPs who gained their seats at the expense of Lib Dems are fearful of a reversal of fortunes now. The Lib Dems very effectively turned the by-election into a vote on Brexit, and there is only one conclusion to draw from the result. The new Lib Dem MP, Sarah Olney, overturned a massive Tory majority of 23,000 to oust pro-Brexit Zac Goldsmith, who resigned in protest against the Heathrow expansion, and stood as an independent in the southwest London seat. Within hours of the victory, she and Lib Dem leader Tim Fallon said they would be pressing even harder for a “soft” Brexit, and also doing

their best to frustrate Brexit altogether. All this week, the Supreme Court has been considering a Government appeal against the High Court decision that Parliament must have a say on Brexit. A decision is expected early in the New Year. If the decision goes against the Government, Teresa should re-run the referendum (as if she would!), asking the public three questions – should the UK stay in the EU or get out, and if the UK wanted out then should it be a hard Brexit or soft? And if we had that second referendum, the public should be spared all the ridiculous misinformation which dogged the original vote and which many believe skewed the decision.

especially people carriers. And when you're faced with trying to get in and out of a parking space in an underground car park in a larger vehicle. It’s frightening. Last year in Valencia City, I tried to escape an underground car park with concrete pillars everywhere. My story is that one pillar jumped out and scraped my

car - but in reality, I just miscalculated the angle and scraped a rear car door and it dented the door and also my pride and it also took the edge off our holiday! The best car park I have ever come across is in Zenia Boulevard outside Leroy Merlin, where there are car spaces surrounded by an additional area for loading

the vehicle. Supermarkets allocate larger spaces for mums with kids - that's all very well but what about the rest of us? My attitude is that I prefer to park well away from anyone else and walk that bit further to the shops, rather than risk the possibility of having my car damaged still further.

The Same Old Story Britain really is going to the dogs. I saw the story that ambulance waiting times were getting progressively worse, due to hospitals being so busy they cannot take in patients who had to wait in ambulances – effectively grounding vehicles from going out and dealing with other emergencies. Then there was the news that gulf between household worth of the rich and poor areas of the UK, followed by the revelation that homelessness had reached epidemic levels. Net immigration is continuing to rise, and a Government report

says that divisions between different ethnic groups is rising, with some communities failing to integrate. Then we have good oldfashioned strikes, and with Christmas approaching, Post Office managers have decided to strike over pay, pensions and branch closures. Staff on Southern Rail have been striking for months over a dispute over driver-only trains and are now stepping up their action, and that’s coupled with the old problem of leaves on the tracks damaging train wheels. Oh, and just for good measure,

Britain has the official record for having the worst traffic jams in Europe and the worst roads. And to top it all, Britain is in debt up to its gills, 85 percent of the country’s GDP and it looks like stacking up year after year. And for sheer utter madness, the new plastic five pound note contains a minute bit of tallow which is animal fat with vegans and religious groups saying they will not touch them. Other countries use them without problems – but not the UK! It makes you feel proud to be British...don't panic, just carry on!

Shut For Good

The Valencian region, including the Costa Blanca, has 725 fewer registered bars and restaurants compared to the figures for 2013. Official figures say that there were nearly 32 thousand hospitality industry-based businesses at the end of 2015, with Juan Carlos Gelabert of the Valencian Bars and Cafes association saying that many people have gone into opening a bar or restaurant but have simply not thought things through.

Mark Made A new postmark commemorating Torrevieja's Parque Natural de la Lagunas de la Mata has been officially launched by Correos in the city, and will be available on request on mail sent out from the Correos office on Calle Palmera. At the official launch of the postmark, Torrevieja mayor, José Manuel Dolón, said it would be an excellent way of spreading awareness of the park around the world.

Friday 9th December 2016

Drug Brit Hit

A 48-year old British man was arrested by the National Police at a check point in the Rincón de Loix area of Benidorm, when he was found to have drugs on him. He was on a moped, and found to have eight and a half grams of cocaine and

20 grams of marijuana on him, as well two mobile phones and 120 euro. The man is said to have a criminal record, and his arrest was part of a new set of organised checks around the resort to clamp down on drug dealers.

Computer Gifts

Students at the San Pascal secondary school in Dolores are to be amongst the beneficiaries of a computer clear-out at the Vega Baja hospital in Orihuela. An upgrade in computers at the facility means that 15 refur-

bished units will be off to Dolores and to the Miguel Hernández college in Oriheula City. The San Pascal principal, Gloria Mazón Vegara, went to the hospital to put pen to paper on the donation agreement.

Palacio Makeover

Sour Deal

The wholesale price of lemons is tumbling at the moment in Alicante Province, with lemon growers saying that they are being paid 35 cents for a kilo, compared to 60 cents a year ago. The report in the Informacion newspaper says that cheap imports from Turkey and South Africa are contributing to wholesale price cuts. Eladio Aniorte of the Alicante Young Farmers told

Informacion that producers need to hold their nerve, as prices will go up in January when regular foreign buyers have run out of their own domestically produced supplies.

Barking Busy

Over three thousand dogs featuring 300 different breeds hit the Alicante-Elche IFA exhibition centre last weekend for the fifth Expo Cachorro, with some 30 exhibitors promoting and selling products from luxury shampoos to gourmet foods as well as all kinds of toys of differing shapes and sizes. The IFA centre featured a variety of traditional dog show competitive elements across the breeds, with a number of British owners entering their pets in various classes and agility tests.

A Better Ride

A half-a-million euro tender has been announced by Torrevieja council for renovation work at the city's Palacio de la Música on Calle de Antonio Machado. The high cost of improve-

ments to the 17-year-old building is down to the intricate nature of the external parts of the structure and the need to strictly adhere to health and safety rules during the works.

Two new environmentally friendly buses have been brought into service this week in Guardamar by the Costa Azul company. Mayor José Luis Sáez said that the vehicles, besides cutting down on pollution, would have more seats and better disabled access, replacing two buses that had been in service for 13 years.

Friday 9th December 2016

The Money Show Keith Littlewood, Regional Manager Costa Cálida

Many of us expats living in Spain may have recently watched the Martin Lewis Money Show talking about getting the best investment returns – I know I did. All very good information and an excellent source should you be fiscally resident in the UK, which most of my readers will no longer be.Martin Lewis has become so popular in giving what basically is common sense advice in running day-to-day finances and using the Internet to promote this information. I chose to be a highly qualified specialist in financial planning, helping people make the best choices with significant decisions regarding their financial

planningneeds/objectives – I too follow that common sense approach - all that I have missing, though, is being as popular on ‘social media’ as Martin clearly is. Maybe I have a face for radio – don’t know. I am opening a new office here in Cabo Roig as a Regional Manager for Blacktower Financial Management (International) Ltd. We are Independent Financial Advisers here to help you with your financial planning requirements and get the most out of your hard-earned money now that you are an expat. So, what is available here in Spain? We cannot open a series of bank accounts and switch on a regular basis, rate

chasing, as we do not fit the qualification rules for ISAs and UK Banks. Spanish bank accounts do offer some very good short-term deals and you can often pick up a free TV by signing up, but you end up paying for it through extortionate charges and the lack of interest offered, and then there are usually terms that are pointed out so clearly in the small print, which means you are tied into what turns out to be an uncompetitive product. My clients are usually looking for growth and/or income from their investments and there are some very good taxefficient products available. Spanish Compliant Bonds are available that allow for you to take upto 5% as a regular withdrawal for income seekers. If it is growth that is required, then these same Spanish Compliant Bonds allow gross roll up of your returns, which means no tax is deducted during the term or until withdrawals are made; this can make a significant difference to the profits achieved. There are several large institutions that offer Spanish Compliant Bonds and if you want more information, I can make this available to you. Whatever your Investment Risk Appetite, these Spanish Tax Compliant Bonds are available for the cautious investor as well as those who wish to speculate a little in order to enhance opportunity of a better return. In today’s financial climate it is essential you do everything you can to make sure your money is safe and secure and what you want to transpire in the future has the best chance of happening.If you need advice or if have any questions regarding the above you can contact me, Keith Littlewood DipPFS on 657 684 094or email keith.littlewood@blacktowerfm.com The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain

Friday 9th December 2016

FEATURE ON SAN LUIS Jona, Chris and Guida who have over 25 years experience in the catering and hospitality business, invite you to join them in the La Boheme in San Luis which they have successfully run for many years now. Open daily from 9.30am Spanish, English and Continental type breakfasts are available. A 3course lunch time menu including a drink is served daily for only 9.50€. An evening menu is also available until 9pm. Look out for their speciality dish of slow Roast Shoulder of Lamb it is highly recommended and is available by reservation only. Throughout the day all types of snacks and toasties are served in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. There is also a fabulous selection of home-made pies, cakes, pasties and freshly baked bread to choose from. La Boheme is well worth a visit and definitely has great selection of food to suit every palate!

A real estate purchase is a matter of trust and individual advice tailored to your needs. Our goal is for you to find the perfect property without having to wade through thousands of real estate offers. We at San Luis Property SL will assist you, before, during and after your purchase. If you have any questions about the property buying process, the team is on hand to help both professionally and competently. San Luis Property have been established in Spain for 17 years and the Costa Blanca is our home. We have knowledge of Spain's most beautiful coastal region, and we use this knowledge to help realize your dream of owning your own property. Established in 2015, Jo's Unisex Hair and Nail Salon in San Luis is proving to be a great success with customers returning time and time again. Hair Stylist Jo, who has been in the hairdressing trade for 36 years has built up a successful business with the Salon now also offering customers a Nail service provided by Belen, who has great offers on for Christmas. A full set of gel nails is only €35 or why not treat yourself to a Spa pedicure for just €18. Jo and Belen would like to thank all their customers for their continued support throughout the year and to wish them all a Merry Xmas and a properous New Year. To book a hair or nail appointment Tel. 965033641 or 688305889.

Plaza Tolosa Local 4, San Luis, Torrevieja TABLE TOP SALE TO HELP LOCAL CATS On Saturday 10th December, from 11am, there will be a table top sale in the main square at San Luis to raise funds for the ongoing trapping, neutering and releasing of the Plaza Tolosa cats. Money is also needed for the continued care, food, cat litter, worming and flea treatment as well as other vet bills.

Keep Them Sober

My New Dog Doesn’t Like Me

Dogs love unconditionally. So how hurtful would it be if your new dog didn’t like you? Don’t worry. Just be patient and do a few basic things.

like this, be especially careful about not reaching over their head – this causes the dog to shrink away. Instead, try to pet their chin and keep your hand below eye level.

Great Expectations Build A Relationship

With the festive season approaching, UK vets have advised pet owners to ensure their animals do not consume any alcohol. Vets have warned that cats and dogs are naturally inquisitive and are increasingly likely to approach wine glasses and beer bottles that are left unattended. Figures in a survey commissioned by an insurance company show that one in four dogs in the UK have consumed alcohol at one point and although the majority of cases are due to careless owners, some have deliberately been given alcoholic drinks

Pets

Friday 9th December 2016

so their antics can be filmed and shared on social media. According to RSA veterinary consultant, Andrew Moore, it is important to take care of where you put your drink down. “The social atmosphere and variety of rich and tasty alcoholic drinks available at Christmas means that it’s a key time to be careful about what you leave where,” Mr Moore said. “Even small amounts of these seasonal treats can be dangerous for our pets, so always be careful about where you set down your drink or Christmas pudding!”

You have a lot of emotion invested in getting a puppy. You probably thought about it long and hard, perhaps even waited for years until the time was right. You have a mental image of snuggles on the sofa, licks and kisses… and then the puppy has other ideas. Be patient. A puppy’s priorities are likely to be very different from your own. Terrier breeds in particular love to explore, and their idea of happiness is following a scent and running all day until they are exhausted. As far as some terriers are concerned, snuggles and cuddles are not half as interesting as digging a hole or chewing a smelly sock. Indeed, some dogs find physical contact a little overwhelming and so tend to shy away. This doesn’t mean they dislike the owner; just that petting can be outside their comfort zone. If your dog is

Try tackling the lack of rapport from the other direction and work out what the puppy likes. If she loves to fetch a ball, then be sure to play several times a day. End each game on a high with a tasty reward, and whilst she’s tired, happy, and munching on her treat, stroke her flank or chin. Start to build an association in her mind where you are the purveyor of great games and tasty treats. This helps her to see you as a person of interest who understands her needs. Work on your basic training. Read up on reward-based training and hold twice daily sessions. Terriers love a mental challenge and love the one-to-one attention of training. Not only will these sessions improve obedience but you’ll soon find the dog watching your every move as pack leader.

It is out of this newfound trust and respect the dog finds in the owner, that visible affection will grow. Not every dog likes to be held in an embrace, but with time you learn to recognise the dog’s deep affection for you – displaying in their closeness and willingness to obey. For Existing Owners Sometimes you find that your dog has a change in habit and doesn’t want to play or respond to your commands, and then you get worried that he or she doesn’t like you anymore. Try to take a step back rather than trying too hard to make friends since this will give your dog space to relax. Are there any times when he or she is relaxed with you? Think when this is and what you are doing. Try to focus on the activities where he or she copes best. Be careful of your body language when interacting with your dog — avoid loud voices, big gestures, and approaching her if she looks worried. Don’t lean over her or pick her up. If you have

been doing a lot of this, it could be enough to trigger a desire to avoid you. Some dogs love to snuggle and be held, while others only tolerate touch. If your dog doesn’t enjoy petting, but you keep trying to touch him, it’s very likely your dog will avoid you. However, if the dog enjoys petting, doggie massage can deepen your relationship. The more games and fun you can have with your dog, the deeper your bond can go; whether it’s a game of fetch or playing hide-and-go-seek in your home. Walks are also bond building. Take your dog on fun outings, such as to a dog park (or even a dog beach in some parts of our area) or to the pet shop to pick up a favourite chew.

Pets Corner: Can You Take In A Homeless Dog Or Cat?

DAISY AND DANNI

BRUJA

HEIDI

KODI

RALFF

Daisy and Danni are roughly three months old and were found living in a drain. Danni is a black and white tabby who is is a cheeky lassie who loves cuddles, whilst black and white Daisy is a little more laid back, but also loves cuddles. Both would make lovely companions. If you are able to give Daisy and/or Danni a home, then please call the K9 charity on 600 845 420

Bruja is part of a family who came into the SAT kennels on October 31st, so all of their names have a Halloween theme. Dad (Draco), Mum (Bruja) and their seven, threeweek-old puppies were found in the campo. Bruja is 18 months old and is a very affectionate and loving girl. For more on Bruja and her family, please phone 966 710 047 or email info@satanimalrescue.com . The rest of the family can be seen on the website, www.satanimalrescue.com

APAH want a long-term foster home for Heidi, who has been in APAH's care since 2010. She is a mature, very affectionate cat with a life-long medical condition, which isn't contagious and is kept under control by medication; which she takes without a problem. Her medical needs will be maintained by APAH, but she needs a loving home for her later years. For more on Heidi, please call 630 422 563 or 616 210 850.

Kodi is a young beautiful Podenco dog who was wandering for some time before he was caught by some kind dog lovers. Kodi is a gentle soul, who gets on very well with other dogs and cats, and is clean and very easy to look after. He walks very well on the lead and is very affectionate. For more details on this lovely boy, please call PEPA on 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmai l.com

Three-year-old Ralff was rescued from the Perrera and has been in a lovely foster home learning how to behave and live in domestic surroundings. He is great with other dogs and fine with cats and is now ready to go to a home of his own. He is a big lad and is believed to be a Portuguese Water dog who just loves people. Please call PEPA on 650 304 746 or email p.e.p.a.animalcharity@gmail.com

SUNNY Sunny is just seven months old and is happy and content to be near all people including children. Sunny has been used to living outside in a farmhouse courtyard with another dog, but will very soon adapt to sleeping at night in a house with a new owner. She is vaccinated, sterilised and has a microchip. If you can give Sunny a forever home, then please call Pets in Spain on 645 469 253. www.petsinspain.com

Local

Friday 9th December 2016

End Of An Era

Pixar Panto

ADAPT (Association of English Speakers of San Pedro del Pinatar) recently staged their annual bilingual pantomime, and they certainly went to “infinity and beyond”, with their version of the Disney/Pixar movie, Toy Story. The performances were

staged at San Pedro’s Casa de Cultura, and all three shows were sold out, plus ADAPT carried on their annual tradition of a free show, doubling as a dress rehearsal, for local schoolchildren. Proceeds from Toy Story will be used to raise much-needed funds in order

Art For Hay A charity art auction benefitting abused and neglected horses living at the Rojales-based Easy Horse Care Rescue Centre has raised 1670 euro, which is enough to buy 335 bales of winter hay. Organised by volunteers Isabel Sodric and Koren Helbig, the fundraiser included an online sale followed by a live auction at The October Press in Alicante City. Artworks donated by 28 artists from seven countries were sold, with some pieces going to buyers living as far afield as Australia. Easy Horse Care cofounder Sue Weeding said

A series of fundraising events to finance the association is taking place this month at Alfonso’s Restaurante close to the Town Hall in Playa Flamenca. These include Christmas markets on Wednesday December 14th and Wednesday December 21st between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm; a Bring and Buy sale on Friday December 16th between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm, with table space charged at five euro; and finally this Monday (December 12th|) a threecourse Xmas lunch at 1.00 pm, costing 12.95 euro. For tickets for the lunch and the Bring and Buy sale, please call Penny on 966 760 814.

Customers of the Iceland store in San Javier store gave a big boost to this year’s Poppy Appeal by raising 3,421 euro for the Orihuela Costa branch of the Royal British Legion, which was more than a thousand euro more compared to the 2015 total.

A team of volunteers led by Diana Wiltshire collected money and handed out poppies for three weeks, with the picture showing Nicola and Carlo Louden from the Orihuela Costa branch flanking Iceland manager Lisa Perry and some of her staff.

A Christmas Hit

Carry On Smiling

Studio 32’s production of “A Christmas Carol” played to packed houses at San Fulgencio’s Cardenal Belluga theatre last week, raising three and a half thousand euro for local charities into the bargain. The company moved away from the traditional pantomime for their winter show, with Studio 32’s

she was humbled by the response, which comes as the rescue centre enters the difficult Christmas period when charity shop sales plummet and hay prices almost double to five euro a bale. Pictured are auction hosts Irene Llopis Rocamora and Rafa Campos at the Alicante event.

Norah’s New Group A new self-help association for disabled and special- needs residents of the Orihuela Costa is being set up by the founder of Help at Home Costa Blanca South, Norah Bond. The new organisation will be called Orihuela Costa Community Care:- Believe You Matter, with the aim of meeting at the Library Point in Campoamor, which has been promised to the group as a venue by Orihuela council. Once there, a variety of activities will be staged from therapy to games and Spanish lessons. The group will also lobby for a better deal and facilities for the disabled in the area.

for the El Samaritano charity to buy food for the local needy. ADAPT will pick up their monthly meetings in the New Year at the Pensionista's, Lo Pagan, and more details can be found on their website, www.adaptsanpedro.com.

It was a night of mixed emotions for the annual Help At Home Murcia Christmas Dinner Dance, as after over six years of setting up, and then helping to run HAH, Lesley and Paul Eburne have stepped down. A total of 225 guests enjoyed a good night of food, company and entertainment at the 525 Hotel in Los Alcazares. Lesley Eburne said: - “We are not getting any younger, and so we thought the time was right to retire again! The charity has been extremely successful due to the hard work of our fantastic volunteers, and now will continue with others at the helm.”

Poppy Success

Following the death of one of the stalwart members of the Smile Charity Group, John Wallace, who has written all of Smile’s productions, it is very much the wish of his family that the next production does go ahead. That means a set of new dates has been announced for his last work, Mind Me Ghoulies, which was postponed from this month. It’s a Christmas ghost story with a slightly adult theme, and as with all of John’s previous scripts, it is full of the humour that will make him so sorely missed by the Smile Group. The four dates are as follows with tickets costing 10

euro each, which include a one course meal before the performance. The Benijofar show is minus a meal, and comes in six euros, with all of the evenings starting at 7.30 pm. Thursday, January 12th:Marjal Campsite, Guardamar. Friday, January 13th:Casa Ventura, San Luis, Torrevieja. Wednesday, January 18th:Casa Cultura, Benijofar. Friday, January 20th:- The Club, Quesada. Previously bought tickets can be exchanged for the revised date, or a full refund given, by contacting the point of purchase.

chairman Philip Wilson saying: - “This year brings to fruition the company’s aim to focus entirely on musical theatre. This is the first fullscale musical that we have staged in winter, and my sincerest thanks go to all of our company who have worked so hard to bring together this major production.”

Friday 9th December 2016

BY DAVE SILVER

The Day My Brain Was Otherwise Engaged I went to the pub one night 20 years ago and the first person I bumped into was a friend of mine. I didn't know his name because he wasn't that good a friend. But he came over anyway and said: 'Congratulations.' I responded: 'Thank you very much,' as one does in those situations. I wandered over to the bar to order a shandy and Dave the barman said: 'Congratulations.' 'Thank you very much,' I said again followed by several more 'thank you very muches' as my pub cronies - Indoor Lou, Fearful Phil, Daft Barry, Ol' Red Eyes and Fag Ash Bill -- approached in turn to congratulate me. (Remember, all this happened 20 years ago when Ol' Red Eyes was still able to

move and Fag Ash Bill was allowed into the pub because he was legally entitled to smoke indoors.) I had no idea what was going on but, rather than risk making a fool of myself with my pub mates, I approached a stranger sitting on a stool at the end of the bar. 'Excuse me,' I said. 'You don't know me from Adam but . . .' 'Adam who?' interjected Daft Barry who was then still only a youngster but just as daft as he is these days. ' . . . I would be grateful if you could tell me why I'm constantly being congratulated.' The stranger sighed. 'Sit down, Dad, and I'll explain everything.' 'Son?' I said, surprised. 'Is this really you? How come I failed to recognise you?'

The stranger . . . sorry, my son . . . shook his head in exasperation. 'You didn't know me because we don't see much of each other these days, Dad. I'm out when you're at home and vice versa.' I bought my son a pint, returned to the end of the bar and said: 'So tell me what's going on, Son?' 'Son? I'm not your son!' declared a baffled stranger. 'Sorry,' I said. 'Wrong end of the bar.' I retraced my steps and found my boy again. 'It's like this, Dad,' he said. 'People are congratulating you because Georgina and I are getting married. We announced our engagement today.' 'That's marvellous news, my boy!' I whooped with joy. 'I'm sure you'll be perfect

together. But who is Georgina?' 'She's soon to be my very own Mrs S. She's been to our house and so have her parents.' I stared unhappily at my son. 'So where was I when Philomena and her mum and dad came to tea?' 'Er, you weren't available, Dad. And by the way, it's Georgina.' 'So where was I?' I cried. 'I must have been at the pub or at the pictures because I don't go anywhere else.' My son took a deep gulp of his drink. 'Actually, you WERE at home. But Mum had locked you in the cupboard under the stairs.' I mentally clicked my fingers. 'That must have been the time I was trying to fix the lawn mower for the umpteenth time. That's the only time I spend hours in the

cupboard. But why was I locked in?' My son had the decency to look embarrassed. 'You were hidden away, Dad, because as far as Georgina and her folks are concerned you do not exist.' I couldn't help but utter a flippant response. 'Well, that's all the loose ends tied up.' My son sighed. 'Just look at the situation from Mum's point of view. You have to admit that you can act silly while you're on your latest medication. 'Mum thought that under the circumstances it was best to inform Georgina and her family that we are a oneparent family. 'But, Dad, you SHALL go to the wedding. Mum says she is going to pass you off as her new husband.'

'What!' I screeched. 'Do you think I'd marry THAT woman a second time?' By that point I'd had enough. I told my son I was going home and hoped I would meet him again one day soon. My son pointed out that we would meet again later that same evening because he still lived with us. I arrived home to be confronted by Mrs S. 'Run and hide!' she hissed. 'Georgina's parents have dropped by unexpectedly. I shall explain everything later.' 'No need,' I grumbled. 'I know my place.' And I scuttled into the cupboard under the stairs. I thought about my situation and felt deep pain. But that was probably because I'd sat down on the handle of the lawn mower.

Friday 9th December 2016

Ball and Boe: One Night Only

Friday 9th December 2016

TRELI ON THE TELLY WITH ALEX TRELINSKI

The title of Alan Carr’s Happy Hour didn’t augur well for Channel Four’s new Friday night entertainment show, as it just had the feeling of “cheap” about it, and believe you me, this was a Poundland special. A year ago, that slot was filled by a successful revival of TFI Friday with Chris Evans, and with his (failed) move to Top Gear, TFI was shelved, even with another presenter, which was a great shame. Clearly Happy Hour is an attempt to copy the TFI formula, with star pop acts being booked to sing, and celebrities joining Carr for some jolly banter in what appears to be a mock-up social club. Give me Granada’s Wheeltappers and Shunters from the seventies anyday, as all we got was a complete mess with the celebs talking over each other, and Carr talking over them. Unfunny stunts were mixed in with old ideas that we’ve seen before and it looked utterly out of control, and a private party that we seemed to be gatecrashing, rather than being invited to join in. Carr is a funny comedian

Carr’s Unhappy Hour

who did a reasonable job on his Chatty Man show, but controlling a format like this takes a lot of skill and discipline, which Evans could do on TFI Friday, but Carr hasn’t got that ability. Not many people have to be honest, but Channel Four presumably wanted something to tap into the TFI market, but this isn’t it. It’s a tacky show that isn’t innovative, and as a TFI fan, I want the “real deal” back, not some cheap amateurish imi-

tation that’s full of flaws. Fortunately, there are only three more outings of Happy Hour to come, before it is inevitably scrapped. There’s one episode left of Rillington Place next Tuesday on BBC 1, and to be honest, I’ve been underwhelmed by it all, despite high quality performers like Tim Roth and Samantha Morton, and not helped either by some poor quality sound which seems to be creeping more into TV

drama. I had to resort to switching on the subtitles for some help, but my entertainment value was not increased. I just found it boring and unengrossing (after two viewings), and too stretched out, and it might well have worked as a twohour feature. Perhaps my dislike of it just boiIed down to me just preferring the outstanding movie decades ago starring the legendary Richard Attenborough as the murder-

ous Christie. What a superb finale to the first series of Westworld on Sky Atlantic this week, with many questions answered and some great reveals, all nicely setting up series two, which we’ll get in the next 18 months. Whilst Westworld has built up a head of steam, I have to say that I’ve been a bit disappointed so far by season two of Channel Four’s own robot drama, Humans. After a promising start, it has

become a bit hard to follow and crucially, the show has lost that nice touch of empathy that season one had. I hope it can get it back in the remaining two episodes, because this was one of my favourite new dramas of last year, and I do want Humans to continue into a third run. Hip Hooray to the BBC, who have announced a new Saturday night scheduling strategy from the New Year. As I mentioned last week, the National Lottery draw has been dumped, and now the Beeb are going to be playing out challenging new premium dramas, starting off with a gritty series set in the 19th century called Taboo penned by Steven Knight, the creator of Peaky Blinders, as a starring vehicle for one of the best Peaky actors, the wonderful Tom Hardy, backed by a great supporting cast, and Ridley Scott acting as executive producer. Not that many years ago, BBC 1 would run a drama double on a Saturday, with Casualty followed by the likes of Jonathan Creek, and this is a very welcome return to that formula.

Friday 9th December 2016

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4 Hillsborough: Smears, Survivors & The Search For Truth

Ball and Boe: One Night Only

Robert Rauschenberg: Pop Art Pioneer

Monday - ITV

Friday - ITV

Nearly three decades after the Hillsborough disaster, reporter Peter Marshall - who was there on the day 96 people died examines new evidence behind some of the shocking headlines and stories that smeared the Liverpool fans in 1989. In a special edition, this documentary in the Exposure strand also investigates concerns about how survivors, witnesses and their testimony were treated.

Adele In New York City Friday - ITV Multiple Grammy Award-winning singer Adele performs in New York at Radio City Music Hall, showcasing songs from her album, 25. The show, recorded last year for NBC, also features Adele interacting with her fans from the iconic Radio City stage, and performing landmark songs from throughout her career. Cameras were rolling behind the scenes in the days leading up to the concert, offering exclusive access to the artist's preparations for this extraordinary event.

Two of the greatest voices in the world, Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, join forces for the first time in a TV special on ITV. Ball and Boe will be bringing together their unique blend of extraordinary and exceptional talent alongside their infectious humour to this one-off TV special. These two vocal powerhouses will take to the stage to perform some of their critically acclaimed hits, as well as brand new material from their upcoming new album ‘Together’ due for release on the 4th November and an exclusive medley from the global smash hit musical “Les Misérables”. Viewers will also see the duo perform unique collaborations with the four-time Olivier Award winner Maria Friedman and singer songwriter Rick Astley. Michael said, “We've got an album, we've got a tour and now we've got an ITV Special. You can't get better than that. We have some great material to share with the viewers, I can't wait to get started.” Alfie said, “We had such a laugh making the album, making our own TV show is going to be great. Make sure you tune in for some special performances.” The music stars have amassed a wealth of awards throughout their hugely successful careers. Celebrating 30 years in the industry, Michael’s outstanding performances have made box office history. He is a double Olivier Award winner, multi-platinum recording artist, top-selling live concert performer and a hugely popular radio and TV presenter. Alfie’s exceptional voice has made him Britain’s most popular and biggest-selling tenor. He has conquered the world’s greatest opera stages and arenas, led the cast of Les Misérables and performed at the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations at Windsor Castle – as well as achieving UK album sales of over a million, and four top ten albums.

Saturday - BBC Two Alistair Sooke (pictured) celebrates the genius of America's most prolific and original artist, Robert Rauschenberg. Fearless and influential, he blazed a trail for artists in the second half of the 20th century, and yet his work is rarely seen here in the UK. That is about to change with a major retrospective at Tate Modern this December. Rauschenberg was the first artist to win the Golden Lion at the Venice Biennale in 1963, creating a crucial bridge between the Abstract Expressionists of the 50s and the Pop artists who emerged in the 60s. Famous for his 'Combines' that elevated the rich junk of life to the status of high art, he continued to work right up to his death in 2008, collaborating with dancers, scientists and social activists on a startlingly broad array of projects. In this programme, presenter Alastair Sooke travels to the east coast of the USA to talk to those closest to Rauschenberg, to reveal the boundless curiosity and restless experimentation that kept him engaged till the very end of his six-decade career.

Friday 9th December 07:10 The World’s Most Photographed 07:40 Sister Rita to the Rescue 08:25 Flog It! 09:00 Richard Parks on Everest 10:00 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Cash in the Attic 14:30 Coast 15:00 Just Good Friends 15:30 Open All Hours 16:00 Talking Comedy 16:30 Natural World 17:30 A Place to Call Home 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 20:30 Still Open All Hours 19:00 Strictly Come Granville discovers a gap in Dancing: It Takes Two the shop’s security, and a cherry picker arrives in the 20:00 Celebrity Antiques street, which gives Madge Road Trip We’re in the terrible anxiety North East of England with top wheelchair para21:00 EastEnders Kush lympians Tanni Greyoffers some advice to Thompson and Jade Jones Shakil 21:00 Mastermind Quiz 21:30 Citizen Khan Mr Khan has to drop his 21:30 Coastal Path Paul beloved daughter Alia off for Rose explores the soft and her first day at university, in rolling South Devon coastline where he takes a Scotland snorkelling trip around 22:00 Have I Got News for Burgh Island and hitches a You Team captains Paul ride on the Dartmouth to Merton and Ian Hislop are Paignton steam train joined by guest host Mel Giedroyc and panellists Adil 22:00 Rick Stein’s Long Ray and Jacob Rees-Mogg Weekends Rick Stein visits the city of Thessaloniki MP revered as the gourmet capital of Greece and birthplace 22:30 Walliams & Friend to possibly the greatest warDavid Walliams is joined by rior general that ever lived, stage and TV actress Alexander the Great. Sheridan Smith 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight 23:00 News 23:35 The 00:05 Close to the Enemy Graham Norton Show 01:05 Artsnight 02:05 00:25 Adele in New York Question Time 03:05 Black City 01:30 The Apprentice and British: A Forgotten 02:30 Weather for the History 04:05 This Is BBC Week Ahead 02:35 News Two

07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Oxford Street Revealed 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 12:00 Sister Rita to the Rescue 12:45 Rip Off Britain: Food 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:15 Think Tank 17:00 Escape to the Country 17:45 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 News 20:00 The One Show

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Tenable 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 News 20:00 Emmerdale Laurel takes desperate action 20:30 Coronation Street Roy’s conscience is pricked 21:00 Countrywise Ben Fogle attends the annual Ennerdale Show in the Lake District, where he takes part in some sheepshowing and gets to grips with some Cumbrian wrestling, while Liz Bonnin heads to the River Nith in south-west Scotland for a training day with the river rescue team. Guest reporter Sheila Hancock returns to the quiet corner of the Dorset coast where she first fell in love with the countryside almost 80 years ago 21:30 Coronation Street Roy is hit with some unwelcome home truths 22:00 Ball and Boe: One Night Only Olivier awardwinning stage star Michael Ball and the nation’s favourite tenor Alfie Boe perform a selection of theatrical classics and collaborate with some special guest stars 23:00 News 23:40 Film Junior (PG) 01:40 Jackpot247 04:00 ITV Nightscreen

07:15 Countdown 08:00 The King of Queens 08:50 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:50 Frasier 10:50 Jamie’s Best Ever Christmas 11:50 A Place in the Sun: Summer Sun 12:35 Deal or No Deal 13:35 News 13:40 Racing: Cheltenham 16:00 Coast vs Country 17:00 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 News 21:00 Alan Carr’s Happy Hour Alan Carr throws open the doors to a brand new series where celebrity guests, stand-up comedy, variety acts and live music are all on the bill, filmed at a social club in front of a specially invited audience. This week Alan is joined by guests Sarah Millican, Olly Murs, Craig David and Jamie Oliver 22:00 Gogglebox The nation's favourite armchair critics share their opinions on what they have been watching during the week. The programme captures their instant reactions and lively - sometimes emotional - discussions from the comfort of their own homes. 23:00 The Last Leg 00:05 8 Out of 10 Cats 00:55 Friday Night Supper Club 02:00 Film - Serena (14) 03:50 The Windsors 04:15 Liberty of London 05:10 Kirstie’s Vintage Gems 05:25 Sarah Beeny’s Four Rooms 06:20 Deal or No Deal

07:00 Milkshake 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:40 News 12:45 Film - 12 Gifts of Christmas 14:25 Film - The Christmas Bunny (PG) 16:20 Film - Christmas With the Andersons 18:00 News 18:30 Police I n t e r c e p t o r s 19:30 News 20:00 The Gadget Show At a firefighting training facility, Ortis and Jon put the latest supposedly indestructible devices through their paces. Plus, the tech testers give Amazon’s voice-activated home hub, The Echo, a two-week trial, and Jason checks out London’s New Scientist Exhibition 21:00 Secrets of Great British Castles Dan Jones visits the heart of the English countryside to explore Arundel Castle and the dramatic history of the Earls of Arundel 22:00 Building the World’s Most Luxurious Ship After 18 months of construction, the Seven Seas Explorer's designers rush to choose the luxury fittings and fixtures, while almost 1,500 workers install everything from windows and flooring to the GPS navigation system. With just days until the first passengers are due on board, Captain Stanislas Mercier de Lacombe takes command and sets course for Monte Carlo. 23:00 Best of Bad TV 01:50 SuperCasino 04:10 Traffic Cops 05:00 Tour De Celeb

DON´T MISS BALL AND BOE: ONE NIGHT ONLY Double Olivier Award-winning star of the stage Michael Ball and top tenor Alfie Boe join forces for an evening of music, including theatrical classics from their new album Together and an exclusive medley from Les Miserables. The pair also welcome some special guest stars for some unique collaborations as well as share a few memories and some laughter along the way.

ITV 22:00

SOAPS

In Emmerdale Laurel remains determined to manage without day care for Ashley, but she faces yet another challenge when she returns home to find Ashley outside in his pyjamas. Ashley is almost knocked down when he steps in front of Diane’s

car. Later, Laurel hits rock bottom and lies to a confused Ashley by telling him that it’s time for bed, but he quickly becomes distressed. Meanwhile, Liv is unapologetic when a police officer and social worker arrive to speak to Aaron. She ends up receiving a police warning, but Bernice wants even further action by threatening to get Chas’s alcohol license revoked. In

Coronation

Street,

Cathy wakes to find Roy cancelling the church. Disappointed, she hints at a change of heart, but Roy doesn’t take the bait. Cathy is aghast to realise that Roy’s rash has vanished and assumes he’s relieved. Roy cancels the flowers and the reception, and calls on Ken and Anna to explain that the wedding is off. Sensing Cathy’s regret, Roy points out it was she who called off the wedding. Exasperated Cathy explains she was merely seeking comfort

07:00 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 07:20 Dinner Date 08:10 Ellen DeGeneres 09:00 Emmerdale 10:00 Coronation Street 10:30 Psych 11:20 Scorpion 12:15 Dinner Date 13:15 Emmerdale 14:15 Coronation Street 14:45 Ellen DeGeneres 15:35 Jeremy Kyle 16:40 Jeremy Kyle 18:50 Take Me Out 20:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Hairspray Live! 23:45 Family Guy 00:45 American Dad! 01:40 Two and a Half Men 02:35 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 03:00 The Planet’s Funniest Animals ITV3 07:00 Movies Now 07:10 Doctor in the House 07:35 Heartbeat 08:40 Where the Heart Is 09:40 Wild at Heart 10:45 Judge Judy 12:00 Murder, She Wrote 13:00 Wycliffe 14:05 Heartbeat 15:05 Wild at Heart 16:10 Where the Heart Is 17:15 Doctor in the House 17:50 You’re Only Young Twice 18:20 George and Mildred 18:55 Heartbeat 19:55 Murder, She Wrote 21:00 Foyle’s War 23:00 Mr Selfridge 00:05 The Ice Cream Girls 01:05 Film - Carry on Cleo (PG) ITV4 07:00 The Professionals 07:50 The Chase 08:45 Quincy, ME 09:50 Ironside 10:50 The Professionals 11:55 The Chase 12:55 Cash Cowboys 14:00 Pawn Stars 14:55 Counting Cars 15:25 Counting Cars 15:55 Quincy, ME 16:55 Ironside 18:00 Counting Cars 19:00 Cash Cowboys 20:00 Pawn Stars 21:00 Ray Mears’ Close Encounters 22:00 Film Jaws 3 00:05 Film Universal Soldier: Regeneration (18)

08:00 Peter Hurst, 11:00 Trev Massey, 14:00 Alex Trelinski, 16:00 Gordon Lack

from him. With the misunderstanding aired, will Roy decide the wedding must go ahead after all? In the second episode, Steph takes charge and leads Roy out of the Bistro, where she manages to calm him down. Tyrone is alarmed to see Roy in such distress and confides in Brian about Roy’s panic attack. Back in the café, Cathy practises her wedding vows using a dictaphone. When Nessa returns, Cathy agrees to let

bygones be bygones, not wanting any further trouble ahead of her big day.

so Shakil makes excuses for why he won’t be at a family dinner. When Kush pushes Shakil for answers on his secretive behaviour, the teen comes clean about what he and Bex have planned. Will Kush’s brotherly advice come in handy?

Brian and Tyrone corner Roy and demand to know if he had a panic attack because he’s feeling trapped by the wedding. In Eastenders, it’s the day that Shakil and Bex are planning to sleep together,

Saturday 10th December

6 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Home Comforts at Christmas 13:00 Football Focus 14:00 News 14:15 Bargain Hunt 15:00 Supermarket Secrets 16:00 Escape to the Continent 17:00 Final Score 18:10 Celebrity Mastermind 18:40 News 19:00 Pointless

07:25 Film - The Big Sky (U) 09:25 Film - Build My Gallows High (PG) 11:00 Secret Britain 12:00 Homes Under the Hammer 13:00 Hairy Bikers’ Best of British 14:00 Best Bakes Ever 14:30 Film - Lust for Life (PG) 16:30 Flog It! 17:10 Natural World 18:00 Film Nativity!

19:50 Strictly Come Dancing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman invite you to join them for the semi-final! The four remaining couples must perform two dances for a chance to win a place in the grand final.

19:40 Operation Snow Tiger Liz Bonnin travels to the far east of Russia to help a team of scientists whose goal is to uncover the hidden world of the Siberian tiger

20:40 Grand Tours of the Scottish Islands Paul 21:10 Michael McIntyre’s Murton visits two islands of Big Show Featuring music the Inner Hebrides performances from chart sensation Olly Murs, 80s 21:10 Army Dad’s comeback king Rick Astley Corporal Jones falls in love and stand-up comedy from and decides to marry Irish rising star Al Porter. Disney Walt 21:45 22:10 Casualty Duffy’s Exploring Disney’s early forced to choose between days Mickey creating her own happiness and that Mouse through to the triof her family while Dylan umph of Snow White and Seb struggle to work together following an awk- 22:45 Artsnight ward Christmas party. Documentary profiling the influential American artist 23:00 The National Lottery Robert Rauschenberg Live 23:10 News 23:30 Match of the Day 00:50 The 23:45 Parsons: Andy NFL Show 01:20 Film - Slacktivist 00:45 Film - In Hard Rain (15) 02:50 the Dark Half (15) 02:05 Weather for the Week Film - Jackpot (15) 03:25 Ahead 02:55 News This Is BBC Two

07:00 CITV 10:25 News 10:30 Film - Carry On Don’t Lose Your Head (PG) 12:15 Judge Rinder 13:15 News 13:25 Cash Trapped 14:30 Film - Death on the Nile (PG) 17:10 Thunderbirds Are Go 17:35 The Chase 18:35 News 19:00 Tipping Point: Lucky Stars

07:10 Gillette World Sport 07:40 Itera Expedition Race Ireland 08:05 Everybody Loves Raymond 08:55 Frasier 10:00 The Morning Line 11:00The Big Bang Theory 12:30 The Simpsons 13:30 Deal or No Deal 14:30 Racing: Cheltenham and Doncaster 17:00 Jamie’s Super Food 17:30 Location, Location, Location 18:35 A Place in the Sun: Winter Sun 19:30 News

20:00 Go For It Stephen Mulhern presents a special episode of the entertainment show which sees members of the public challenging some of the unusual and unique skills seen 20:00 Jutland: WWI’s Greatest Sea Battle The earlier in the year story behind the Battle of Jutland during World War I, 21:00 The X Factor which was the biggest and Weeks of lively auditions, the deadliest clash gruelling boot camps and between the British and nerve-jangling live shows German navies in the 20th come to a head, in the first century instalment of the annual talent show’s grand final. 21:00 Pearl Harbour: The Before the winner is New Evidence 75 years on announced, the three from the attack on Pearl remaining would-be pop- Harbour, questions remain stars face yet another about how the world’s most showdown, as judges powerful nation was caught Simon Cowell, Louis by surprise Walsh, Nicole Scherzinger and Sharon Osbourne 22:00 It Was Alright in the deliver their verdict on each 1970s Matt Lucas returns act’s performance one final to narrate another lighttime hearted retrospective poking fun at Britain’s viewing 23:05 The Jonathan Ross habits in the 1970s Show 00:10 News 00:25 Film - Senna (PG) 02:20 23:00 Film - Paul (14) Jackpot247 04:00 ITV 01:05 Film - Kingpin (12) Nightscreen 03:10 Hollyoaks Omnibus

07:00 Milkshake 10:45 The Fairly OddParents 11:20 Film - Hats Off to Christmas! 13:05 Film Deck the Halls (PG) 14:55 Film - The Nine Lives of Christmas 16:30 Film Mrs Miracle 2: Miracle in Manhattan 18:25 Film Finding Father Christmas 20:10 NCIS Just two days before Christmas, a home invasion robbery is linked to an old murder case. The suspect was identified as a dead petty officer, and NCIS tries to find out what happened in time for the holidays 21:00 NCIS It’s Christmas time and Tony DiNozzo can’t decide if he’ll be naughty or nice when his dad, Anthony DiNozzo Sr, comes to town for a visit 21:55 News 22:00 Football Highlights from the weekend’s games in the Championship, including Newcastle United v Birmingham City, Aston Villa v Wigan Athletic and Barnsley v Norwich City 23:30 That’s So 00:30 Impractical Jokers UK 01:00 SuperCasino 04:10 Film - Wrong Turn (18)

07:20 Emmerdale Omnibus 09:50 Coronation Street Omnibus 12:45 I’m a Celebrity Extra Camp 13:50 The Hot Desk 14:00 Catchphrase 15:00 Hairspray Live! 17:40 Film - Peter Pan (PG) 19:50 Film - The Incredible Hulk (PG) 22:00 Scorpion 23:05 The Xtra Factor ITV3 07:10 Doctor At Large 07:35 Film - The Nun’s Story 10:35 Columbo 12:35 A Touch of Frost 14:35 Inspector Morse 16:50 Midsomer Murders 21:00 Doc Martin 22:00 Film - The Booze Cruise II: The Treasure Hunt (12) ITV4 07:55 Bundesliga Football Highlights 08:45 Cash Cowboys 10:45 Storage Wars 12:40 Pawn Stars 14:40 Film - Tobruk(PG) 16:50 Film - Superman (PG) 19:50 The Chase 20:55 River Monsters

09:00 Breakfast with Tim Bridge 12:00 Paul Norman 15:00 Saturday Sports with Alex Trelinski 18:00 Entertainment Power

Sunday 11th December 07:30 The A to Z of TV Big 08:15 Gardening Dreams Small Spaces 09:15 Carol Klein’s Plant Odysseys 09:45 Countryfile 10:45 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12:15 Tom Kerridge’s Proper Pub Food 12:45 Best Bakes Ever 13:15 MOTD2 Extra 14:00 Film - Quantrill’s Raiders 15:10 Film - Dial M for Murder (PG) 16:50 European Cross Country Athletics Championship 20:20 Strictly Come 17:50 Heir Hunters 18:35 Dancing Tess and Claudia Flog It! welcome you to the result show which reveals the 19:35 The Toys That Made three couples that will reach Christmas Robert Webb takes a light-hearted look the grand final back at playthings of the 21:00 Planet Earth II past, offering fortysomeFootage of wild animals things the chance to remithat have made a home in nisce about the days before cities, including leopards on PlayStations, laptops and the streets of Mumbai and iPods peregrine falcons hunting among New York’s sky- 21:00 Film - The Lone Ranger - Fate brings scrapers together Native American 22:00 My Mother and spirit warrior Tonto and Other Strangers Rose is white lawman John Reid to preoccupied by Dreyfuss’ join forces in the neverabsence and rejects him ending battle against corwhen he returns after three ruption and greed (PG) weeks 23:20 QI XL 00:05 Black is 23:00 News 23:30 Match of the New Black 01:05 Film the Day 2 00:45 Sunny D Ash Wednesday (18) 02:40 01:10 Citizen Khan 01:40 Countryfile 03:35 Holby City 04:35 This Is BBC Two Weather 01:45 News 07:00 Breakfast 08:35 Match of the Day 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 Fern Britton Meets... 12:00 Sunday Politics 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:15 Homes Under the Hammer 15:00 Escape to the Country 15:45 Lifeline 15:55 Film - Kung Fu Panda (PG) 17:20 Planet Earth II 18:20 Songs of Praise 18:55 News 19:20 Countryfile

07:00 CITV 10:25 News 10:30 Wild Australia with Ray Mears 11:00 Let’s Do Christmas with Gino & Mel 12:00 Film - Dragonheart (PG) 13:55 News 14:00 Midsomer Murders 15:55 The X Factor 18:00 The C h a s e 19:00 News 19:30 Off Their Rockers 20:00 The Next Great Magician Stephen Mulhern and Rochelle Humes present the series finale, in which the winners from the past five weeks’ shows return to the stage to perform their most spectacular illusions in front of a studio audience, with the overall winner getting the chance to appear in their own television special 21:00 The X Factor Dermot O’Leary introduces the climax of this year’s talent contest. The results of last night’s performance at Wembley Arena are in and one of the three finalists has been eliminated from the contest

07:15 The King of Queens 08:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:25 Frasier 10:30 Sunday Brunch 13:25 Deal or No Deal 14:20 The Big Bang Theory 15:35 The Simpsons 17:00 Film - Jingle All the Way (PG) 18:45 News 19:15 Film - Paddington A young Peruvian bear travels to London in search of a home. Finding himself lost and alone at Paddington Station, he meets the kindly Brown family, who offer him a temporary haven 21:00 Escape to the Chateau As winter descends on the chateau and Christmas looms, Dick and Angel Strawbridge rush to complete their huge to-do list before the arrival of the family from England for a grand French Yuletide

22:00 Humans When Mattie reveals that the Synths are planning to break into the Silo, Laura is determined to find Niska 23:05 News 23:25 Ball and and ask for her help Boe: One Night Only 00:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 23:00 Gogglebox 00:00 USA 01:10 Jackpot247 Filth (18A) 01:50 The 04:00 Motorsport UK 04:50 Iceman (14A) 03:35 The Last Leg ITV Nightscreen

07:00 Milkshake 10:55 Fairly Odd Parents 11:30 The 13:00 Football Gadget Show 13:55 Cats Make You Laugh Out Loud 14:55 Film - Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever 16:35 Film - A Prince for Christmas 18:20 Film - A Cinderella Christmas

09:20 Coronation Street Omnibus 12:10 The X Factor 14:20 Take Me Out 15:30 You’ve Been Framed! 16:30 Film - The Polar Express 18:25 The Smurfs: A Christmas Carol 18:55 Catchphrase 19:55 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Film - The Mask (PG) 23:05 The Xtra Factor

The Film 20:10 Kingdom Forbidden While rummaging around for some bootleg kung-fu DVDs in a pawn shop in Chinatown, Boston’s an discovers Jason ancient golden staff. When he examines the staff closely, he finds himself transported magically back to ancient China where he is quested to free the fabled warrior with the help of a kung fu master and a misfit warrior If he doesn’t succeed, hey may be trapped deep in the past forever (PG)

ITV3

22:00 The Expendables 3 After a former associate makes it his mission to end the Expendables, Barney Ross assembles a team of younger recruits to help take down their enemy (PG) 00:25 Film - The Last 02:15 (18) Stand SuperCasino

10:55 Wycliffe 12:05 Inspector Morse 14:20 Columbo 16:30 Film - Les Miserables 18:55 Agatha Christie’s Marple 21:00 Rosemary and Thyme 23:00 Alexander Armstrong in the Land of the Midnight Sun ITV4 10:40 The Big Fish Off 11:40 Cash Cowboys 13:35 Pawn Stars 16:30 Film - Superman (PG) 19:25 Film - The Great Outdoors (PG) 21:10 Film Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (PG) 23:00 Film - Death Wish V: The Face of Death (15)

09:00 Breakfast with Tim Bridge 12:00 Trev Massey´s Bit in the Middle 15:00 The Retro Chart 17:00 Classic Country with Tim Rogers

Operation People Power With Dave Myers

Christmas Kitchen In the lead-up to the festive season Christmas Kitchen will broadcast every weekday morning on BBC One presented by Matt Tebbutt and Andi Oliver. Monday - Andi and Matt are joined by a celebrity guest, international chef Jose Pizarro cooks up a celebration dish; Great British baker Holly Bell serves up a delicious Yuletide gift, and the programme will also be delving into the festive cooking archives of Mary Berry and Fanny Cradock. Tuesday - Andi and Matt are joined Mexican chef Thomasina Miers, who cooks up a celebration dish; Great British baker Edd Kimber, who serves up a delicious Yuletide gift, and the show will be delving into the festive cooking archives of Rick Stein and Keith Floyd. Wednesday - Andi and Matt are joined by Aled Jones; Theo Randall cooks up a celebration dish, Great British baker Jane Beedle serves up a delicious Yuletide gift, and the show will be delving into the festive cooking archives of Nigel Slater and the Two Fat Ladies. Thursday - Andi and Matt are joined by Father Brown’s Mark Williams, Vivek Singh cooks up a celebration dish, Great British baker Chetna Makan servies up a delicious Yuletide gift, and the show will delve into the festive cooking archives of Nigella and the Two Fat Ladies. Friday - Andi and Matt are joined by Call The Midwife’s Helen George; Sabrina Ghayour cooks up a celebration dish, Great British baker Richard Burr serves up a delicious Yuletide gift, and the show will delve into the festive cooking archives of Lorraine Pascale and Fanny Cradock.

This week on BBC One, Dave Myers assembles a team of celebrities on a mission to find out just what can be achieved when volunteers come together to help others in need. One in three already people volunteer in the UK and Dave draws upon that spirit of getting involved to help community projects, meeting volunteers and those that benefit from the help of others. Dave calls on the help of Nicki Chapman (Wanted Down Under, Escape To The Country), Mark Millar (DIY SOS), Martyn Ashton (a biking legend turned motivator who suffered a crash which left him paralysed) and Juliet Sargent (Tanzanian-born Gold Winner at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2016), to muster an army of volunteers to help those who help others. Monday - Green Space Dave tasks his team with turning a run-down space in Bristol into a magnificent community garden. Using an army of local people, happy to give their skills and time, the garden is gradually cleared of brambles and weeds to become a space for the whole community. Dave discovers how green space and being outdoors plays a significant role in our well-being. Tuesday - Social Inclusion Britain meets Eunice. After losing her husband earlier this year, Eunice finds she has very few friends and feels lonely for most of her day. Dave meets up with charities which encourage elderly citizens to sing, dance and have fun. Dave’s presenting team muster a squad of volunteers to put a smile back on to Eunice’s face. Wednesday - Freedom Dave visits a volunteer-run adventure playground and discovers that as well as providing a fantastic place for kids to play, it also plays a significant role in the lives of parents. In particular he meets Asher, who reveals how the playground

Go For It Special

essentially changed her life, as she started to build her confidence when first moving to the area. Dave summons his team to renovate the area used by under-fives. Thursday - Leg Up Dave meets Darren and Daniel. Both are recovering from addictions and are supported by a charity-run café in Bristol. Dave is touched by their stories, so tasks his army of helpers to help the café clear and renovate a yard space to allow it to serve and help more people. Friday - Direction Dave visits a volunteer-run project that is devoted to giving young people the support and guidance they need to make the right choices in life. Inspired by the characters he meets, Dave and his team muster a team of volunteers to improve a community space. Pictured: Sara Venn, Martyn Ashton, Mark Millar, Juliet Sargeant, Nicki Chapman, Bruce Yates, Dave Myers celebrate the garden makeover success at Baggator.

Saturday - ITV

Go For It returns to ITV in a brand new one off special featuring members of the public who feel they can better the acts that featured in the Autumn series along with new challengers. The show, hosted by Stephen Mulhern, aims to discover the weirdest and most unique skills that our nation has to offer and put them to the test. Our challengers get the chance to show off to the nation and win £1000 in cash on the spot if they successfully complete their unusual skill on air. In this special we'll meet people with new unusual skills and challengers who feel they can better previous contestants and go one step further.

Monday 12th December

8 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Operation People Power with Dave Myers 11:00 Christmas Kitchen 12:15 Homes Under the Hammer 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Think Tank 16:55 Escape to the Country 17:40 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 Panorama Peter Taylor investigates the rising number of lone wolf terror attacks targeting civilians, travelling to the US to talk to the FBI's deputy director and going on patrol with the NYPD. He asks what the UK Government can do to prevent radicalisation of young people and talks to Britain's most senior anti-terror police officer about what authorities here are doing to protect the public in the face of this growing threat. 21:00 EastEnders Roxy is given a harsh reality check 21:30 BBC Music Awards The BBC Music Awards is a spectacular celebration of the best in popular music from the last 12 months. The live extravaganza features captivating performances from Robbie Williams, The 1975, Emeli Sandé, John Legend, Lukas Graham, and more 23:00 News 23:45 Walliams & Friend 00:15 Have I Got a Bit More News for You 01:00 The Graham Norton Show 01:45 Weather for the Week Ahead 01:50 News

07:15 The World’s Most Photographed 07:45 Sister Rita to the Rescue 08:30 Flog It! 09:00 Extreme Wales with Richard Parks 09:30 Great British Menu 10:00 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Cash in the Attic 14:30 Just Good Friends 15:00 Open All Hours 15:30 Natural World 16:30 Alaska: Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 17:30 A Place to Call Home 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip John Stapleton and Lynn Faulds Wood are joined on a jolly jaunt by Thomas Plant and Margie Cooper 21:00 University Challenge Quiz 21:30 Only Connect Two teams of first round winners return for a chance to make it into round three 22:00 Muslims Like Us Ten British Muslims move in together and begin to explore how their faith impacts their lives; from sleeping arrangements, cooking, and prayer, to dress and culture 23:00 Two Doors Down 23:30 Newsnight 00:15 Black is the New Black 01:15 Sold! Inside the World’s Biggest Auction House 02:15 The Choir: Gareth’s Best in Britain 03:15 This Is BBC Two

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 News 20:00 Emmerdale Laurel’s plan backfires 20:30 Coronation Street Will Cathy’s big day bring joy and happiness? 21:00 The Martin Lewis Money Show The financial journalist is joined by Saira Khan to present money-saving tips to help consumers cope with the current economic climate, offering expert advice on everything from premium bonds, student loans and tax credits to supermarket loyalty schemes 21:30 Coronation Street Roy and Cathy face the truth 22:00 When Phillip Met Prince Philip: 60 Years of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award As The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award enters a landmark year, Phillip explores the work of the Charity through exclusive access to many major celebratory events, as well as speaking to members of the Royal Family 23:00 News 23:40 Hillsborough: Smears, Survivors and the Search for Truth 00:40 Fierce 01:35 Jackpot247

07:00 3rd Rock From the Sun 07:45 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Jamie’s Christmas With Bells OnG 12:00 Kirstie’s Crafty Christmas 13:00 News 13:05 Jamie’s Comfort Food 13:25 Film - The Dog Who Saved Christmas (U) 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Coast vs Country 17:00 Deal or No Deal on Tour 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 News 20:55 The Political Slot

07:00 Milkshake 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:40 News 12:45 Film - A Snow Globe Christmas 14:30 Film - Mr Miracle 16:15 Film - An Unexpected Christmas 18:00 News 18:30 Police Interceptors 19:30 2016

22:00 David Blaine: Beyond Magic The magician astonishes celebrities with his signature brand of street magic; celebrities include David Beckham, Johnny Depp, Drake, Dave Steph Curry, Chappelle, John Travolta, Patrick Stewart, Emma Stone, Arnold Schwarzenegger and more

20:00 Tour De Celeb Just four weeks to go and it’s all getting very serious. The anxious coaches have laid on extra training in the Exmoor Hills but only Olympian Amy turns up. Lucy is sent to see top sports psychologist Tim Harkness who tries to help her get her over her fear of ITV3 descending, while Darren has a heart-to-heart with Dame Sarah Storey about 07:00 Movies Now 07:10 Doctor in the House 07:35 his collapse in Andorra Heartbeat 08:35 Where the 21:00 Traffic Cops Traffic Heart Is 09:35 Wild at Cops in Bradford pursue a Heart 10:35 Judge Judy team of suspected car 11:55 Murder, She Wrote Wycliffe 14:00 thieves at speeds of 12:55 80mph, and officers from Heartbeat 15:00 Wild at North Yorkshire's Road Heart 16:05 Where the Crime Team track down a Heart Is 17:15 Doctor in the stolen Land Rover House 17:50 You’re Only Young Twice 18:20 George Defender. and Mildred 18:55 22:00 The Secret Life of Heartbeat 20:00 Murder, Puppies: Terrible Twos She Wrote 21:00 Midsomer Troubled teen Rory tries to Murders 23:00 Mr Selfridge make things work with a 00:05 Mrs Biggs 01:35 new owner, Betsy the Million Dollar Princesses French Bulldog turns her 02:25 Perspectives 03:15 hand to modelling and ITV3 Nightscreen 03:30 Atum the Weimaraner is Teleshopping given some swimming lesITV4 sons

23:00 First Dates 00:05 The Lie Detective 00:50 Improve Your Life Now! 01:50 Bodyshockers: Nips, Tucks and Tattoos 02:45 60 Days in Jail

23:00 Most Shocking Christmas TV Moments 01:05 Benefits Britain: Life on the Dole 01:55 SuperCasino 04:10 The Yorkshire Vet

21:00 Supershoppers Andi Osho and Anna Richardson present a special edition in which they investigate everything festive, offering money-saving advice on everything from food to gifts. They compare luxury toiletries and bargain-basement alternatives to find out what the difference is, with some surprising results

DON´T MISS WHEN PHILLIP MET PRINCE PHILIP

ITV 22:00

SOAPS

In Emmerdale, despite feeling guilty over what she did last night, Laurel plans to lock Ashley in the bedroom again while she pops out on an errand. When Laurel returns, she panics as Ashley has locked himself in the bathroom and is running some water. Will Laurel’s actions have dangerous consequences?

Phillip Schofield learns about Prince Philip’s youth programme over the course of a year marking its 60th anniversary, meeting the Duke at celebrity galas, special receptions and intimate events. The This Morning host talks to David Walliams, Judi Dench and Joanna Lumley to help understand the Duke and how he embodies the award, and also chats to Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex, who give a unique glimpse of life inside the royal family and the time and work the Duke still invests in the scheme he founded.

Meanwhile, Emma isn’t pleased when Zak turns up to help on Butler’s Farm, resulting in an unexpected stand-off between the pair. Will Emma continue to manipulate Moira? In Coronation Street, Cathy takes a call from Roy telling her that Tyrone can no longer make the wedding. Cathy then hurries home to pick up her Dictaphone, worried that she’ll forget her vows. Once she’s retrieved it, she heads off for the wedding in an excited mood. At the same time, Brian and Tyrone set off to the church, determined to

clear the air with Roy. Outside the church, Tyrone and Brian tell Roy how sorry they are for their earlier harsh words. Roy accepts their apology and insists they stay for the wedding.

Soon afterwards, the guests and a nervous Roy gather in the church awaiting Cathy’s arrival. Nessa begs Cathy to let her give her away and Cathy reluctantly agrees.

07:00 The Wine Show 07:55 The Chase 08:45 Quincy, ME 09:50 Ironside 10:50 The Professionals 12:00 The Chase 13:00 Cash Cowboys 13:55 Pawn Stars 14:55 Counting Cars 15:50 Quincy, ME 16:55 Ironside 18:00 Counting Cars 19:00 Cash Cowboys 20:05 Pawn Stars 21:00 Storage Wars 22:00 Film - On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (PG) 00:55 Bundesliga Football Highlights 01:55 Motorsport UK 02:55 The Wine Show 03:55 ITV4 Nightscreen 04:00 Teleshopping

08:00 Peter Hurst, 11:00 Trev Massey, 14:00 Alex Trelinski, 16:00 Gordon Lack In the second episode, covering her shock, Cathy walks down the aisle and joins Roy. With the wedding under way, Mary delivers a reading. Audrey, Rita and Fiz are touched by it, but Roy and Cathy remain unmoved. As Tyrone makes his way to the front of the church to deliver his reading, Cathy turns to Roy and demands to know if he really wants to marry her, as she overheard his conversation with Tyrone and Brian on her Dictaphone. Will Roy be able to offer Cathy the heartfelt assurances she so badly needs and convince her to go

ahead with the wedding? Meanwhile, Anna breaks down in Kevin’s arms and admits that she’s ashamed of her body and doesn’t want him to see it. Kevin holds her tight, with his heart breaking for her. When Kevin suggests to Anna that she and Faye should move in with him, will Anna accept his offer? In Eastenders, Roxy is hungover following another drunken night, but Phil is tired of her wild behaviour and threatens to kick her out. Later, Donna tries to cheer Roxy up by inviting her to watch everyone rehears-

ing for the Walford Christmas Show, promising that they can have some fun laughing at the cast. As they spend time together, Roxy soon shows her vulnerability in front of Donna and breaks down over recent events. When Donna has a very surprising suggestion for Roxy, will she agree it’s a good idea?

Tuesday 13th December 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Operation People Power with Dave Myers 11:00 Christmas Kitchen 12:15 Homes Under the Hammer 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Think Tank 16:55 Escape to the Country 17:40 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders Sharon does her best to help Phil 21:00 Holby City Essie’s feelings towards Parker lead her to make a questionable decision in her work

22:00 Rillington Place After the strain of Timothy Evans’ trial, Christie finds it increasingly difficult to maintain the charade. As his marriage breaks down he embarks upon a course of action that finally reveals his true nature to the world. Fact-based drama, starring Tim Roth, Samantha Morton, Nico Mirallegro and Jodie Comer Last in the series 23:00 News 23:45 The Apprentice 00:45 Six Wives with Lucy Worsley 01:45 Weather for the Week Ahead 01:50 News

07:40 Bargain Hunt 08:25 Flog It! 09:00 Fern Britton Meets 10:00 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 The Super League Show 14:45 Coast 15:00 Just Good Friends 15:30 Natural World 16:30 Alaska: Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 17:30 A Place to Call Home 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip It’s a journey into antiquity with glamorous historians Suzannah Lipscomb and Kate Williams. Paired with experts David Harper and Catherine Southon they road trip from Bletchley in Buckinghamshire to an auction in London. 21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals The eight semi-finalists sizzle in a double cook-off. The chefs will have to go all out to stay in the competition and on course to be crowned champion 22:00 Muslims Like Us The ten Muslims are presented with the results of a survey exploring British opinion about the Muslim community. They are joined by four non-Muslim Brits to explore “British Values” 23:00 Live at the Apollo 23:30 Newsnight 00:15 NFL This Week 01:05 Artsnight 02:05 The Apprentice 03:05 Who Do You Think You Are? 04:00 This Is BBC Two

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 News 20:00 Emmerdale Emma seeks revenge 20:30 The Royal Variety Performance 2016 Comedian, actor and children’s author David Walliams is to host The Royal Variety Performance 2016 in the presence of Their Royal Highnesses The Prince Of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, from one of the most iconic and well loved live venues in the UK, the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith. David will introduce the legendary Barry Gibb and Sting, superstars Gary Barlow and Robbie Williams, the award winning Sheridan Smith and Emeli Sandé, plus this years magical Britain’s Got Talent winner Lance Corporal Richard Jones. The cast of The Beatles Cirque Du Soleil’s LOVE show will be flying in from Las Vegas for a special anniversary performance, there will also be sneak previews from the casts of Gershwin’s classic musical An American In Paris 23:05 News 23:50 Judge Rinder’s Crime Stories 00:50 Jeremy Kyle USA 01:35 Jackpot247 04:00Loose Women 04:50 ITV Nightscreen

9 07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Jamie’s Christmas With Bells On 12:00 Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas 13:00 News 13:05 Jamie’s Comfort Food 13:25 Film - 12 Wishes of Christmas 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Coast vs Country 17:00 Deal or No Deal on Tour 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 News 20:55 The Political Slot 21:00 George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces George and Will Hardie meet the daughter of a survivor of a World War II Japanese prisoner of war camp and uncovers an immaculately illustrated guide to building a 1930s caravan, painstakingly created by her dad while held in captivity 22:00 This Is Us Rebecca, tasked with negotiating the needs of three different children while Jack is away working, finally reaches a breaking point and presents her husband with an ultimatum. Meanwhile, Randall arranges for William to see a specialist about his cancer, and Kate continues to struggle with her goal of losing weight. 23:00 I Do at 92 00:00 Gogglebox 01:05 First Dates 02:00 European Tour Poker 02:55 Life on the Edge 03:50 KOTV Boxing Weekly

07:00 Milkshake 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:40 News 12:45 Film - Finding Father Christmas 14:30 Film - Mrs Miracle 2: Miracle in Manhattan 16:15 Film - A Perfect Christmas List 18:00 News 18:30 Police Interceptors 19:30 2016 20:00 Traffic Cops Traffic Cops in Bradford pursue a team of suspected car thieves at speeds of 80mph, and officers from North Yorkshire’s Road Crime Team track down a stolen Land Rover Defender 21:00 The Yorkshire Vet With Yorkshire in the grip of another bitter winter, the vets battle against the elements to visit their clients in remote farm locations 22:00 Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild Dina Zughyar and Mostafa Jabbour turned their back on the American Dream to start from scratch with a handful of rabbits and chickens on a small patch of barren land in the shadow of the Atlas Mountains. In their mud house in Morocco, the couple confess to Ben that it has been much harder than they thought 23:00 The Dog Rescuers 00:05 The Secret Life of Puppies: Terrible Twos 01:05 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 01:55 SuperCasino 04:10 GPs: Behind Closed Doors

DON´T MISS THE ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE David Walliams hosts the annual event, this time from London’s Hammersmith Apollo in the presence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall. The line-up includes Barry Gibb, Sting, Robbie Williams, Gary Barlow, Emeli Sande, DNCE, OneRepublic, ABC and Britain’s Got Talent winner Lance Corporal Richard Jones. There are performances by the cast of the Beatles Cirque du Soleil's LOVE show, and previews of Gershwin's musical An American in Paris, and The Girls, which both open in the West End next year.

ITV 20:30 has revenge on her mind. SOAPS When an oblivious Moira

closes the freezer doors at the end of a busy day, but Emma has other ideas.

In Emmerdale, as Adam prepares to move back to Keepers Cottage, an upset Moira looks through some old stuff and finds a Christmas bauble that Holly once made. Sadly, disaster strikes when Emma accidentally breaks the bauble. Moira finally turns against Emma by kicking her out for her mistake, but Emma

Meanwhile, Laurel is supported by Nicola as she makes preparations to get a carer in for Ashley. Emily, who went through the same thing with her own husband, also reassures her that she’s doing the right thing. Elsewhere, Aaron promises Chas that he plans to be firmer with Liv, but Liv is furious when he doesn’t believe her about how she’s been sticking up for bullied Gabby.

Also today, Leyla and Vanessa have sabotage on their minds as they change the stock list Frank has been ordering on the laptop. They soon regret it, but is it too late? Finally, Lisa considers a dating website again.

In Eastenders, Phil upsets Sharon by insisting that he wants to spend Christmas Day alone. When an early

07:00 You’ve Been Framed! 07:25 Dinner Date 08:15 Ellen DeGeneres 09:00 Emmerdale 09:30 Coronation Street 10:30 Psych 11:25 Scorpion 12:20 Dinner Date 13:20 Emmerdale 13:50 Coronation Street 14:50 Ellen DeGeneres 15:45 Jeremy Kyle 19:00 You’ve Been Framed 21:00 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Film - Love Actually (14) 00:45 Family Guy 01:45 The Vampire Diaries 02:40 American Dad! 03:10 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records 03:25 Teleshopping ITV3 07:00 Movies Now 07:10 Doctor in the House 07:35 Heartbeat 08:35 Where the Heart Is 09:35 Wild at Heart 10:35 Judge Judy 11:55 Murder, She Wrote 12:55 Wycliffe 14:00 Heartbeat 15:05 Wild at Heart 16:10 Where the Heart Is 17:15 Doctor in the House 17:50 You’re Only Young Twice 18:20 George and Mildred 18:55 Heartbeat 20:00 Murder, She Wrote 21:00 Midsomer Murders 23:00 Mr Selfridge 00:05 Mrs Biggs 01:05 Wycliffe 02:10 Million Dollar Princesses 03:00 ITV3 Nightscreen 03:30 Teleshopping ITV4 07:00 The Wine Show 07:55 The Chase 08:45 Quincy, ME 09:45 Ironside 10:50 The Professionals13 11:55 The Chase 12:55 Cash Cowboys 13:55 Pawn Stars 14:55 Counting Cars 15:50 Quincy, ME 16:55 Ironside 18:00 Counting Cars 19:00 Cash Cowboys 20:00 Pawn Stars 21:00 The Chase 22:00 Film - Diamonds Are Forever (PG) 00:25 Film The Last Boy Scout (18) 02:35 The Wine Show 03:35 Tommy Cooper 04:00 Teleshopping

08:00 Peter Hurst, 11:00 Trev Massey, 14:00 Alex Trelinski, 16:00 Gordon Lack present of a fancy armchair fails to get him in better spirits, Sharon finally agrees to respect his wishes over the festive season.

refuses to have their usual grotto at the Queen Vic, Mick has to come up with a hasty plan to get her into the Christmas spirit.

Ollie is devastated when Matteo reveals he plans to ask Zosia out. Unable to admit his true feelings, will Ollie lose Zosia forever?

Sharon decides to book a pub lunch for Christmas Day so that the Mitchells will all be out of Phil’s way, telling the others that they need to respect his wishes as this could be his last Christmas. But will Phil’s heartbreaking attitude take its toll on his family?

Also today, a harsh Ian refuses to give Martin time off to attend Lily’s nativity play.

Morven struggles to master her role as teacher, particularly with the unruly Cameron. After some advice from Jasmine and Bernie, Cameron and Morven realise that they actually get on much better than they’d previously thought.

Meanwhile, Ronnie is becoming increasingly frustrated over Roxy’s behaviour. Elsewhere, when Linda

In Holby City, When Kim gets positive news regarding her kidney treatment, Essie must deal with the imminent departure of Parker, who has been staying with her. Desperate not to lose him, Essie takes decisive action only for a sympathetic Sacha to try and talk her round.

CODE CRACKER Code Cracker is a crossword puzzle with no clues; instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number. In this week's puzzle, 3 represents Y and 26 represents H, when these letters have been entered throughout the puzzle, you should have enough information to start guessing words and discovering other letters.

QUICKIE

In this week’s Quickie crossword, all the answers are ANAGRAMS of the clue words: Down Across 1 Froth (5) 1 Fosters (7) 2 Acres (5) 5 Of LSD (5) 3 Presume (7) 8 Precise (7) 4 Resist (6) 9 Ulcer (5) 5 Cafes (5) 10 Heats (5) 6 Tousled (7) 11 Nearest (7) 7 License (7) 12 Cod pie (6) 12 Bear cat (7) 14 Astute (6) 13 Paperer (7) 17 Herb tea (7) 15 Lattice (7) 19 Scalp (5) 16 Petard (6) 22 Trace (5) 18 Trite (5) 23 A big din (7) 20 As I do (5) 24 Three (5) 21 Panga (5) 25 Senator (7) Last weeks Solution - Across: 1 Crass, 4 Topic, 7 Super, 8 Opera, 9 Directions, 11 Leadership, 15 Swing, 16 Aside, 17 Sonar, 18 Tends. Down: 1 Case, 2 Application, 3 Serve, 4 Trout, 5 Preposition, 6 Coarse, 10 Clasps, 12 Eager, 13 Start, 14 Legs.

Scribble Pad

DOUBLE CROSS-WORD Solve the Double Cross-Word puzzle using either the standard or cryptic clues, the answers are exactly the same.

CRYTPIC CLUES Across 1 In Scuba, sent to the bottom (4) 3 Rappers’ detractors (8) 9 They help make curls and waves (7) 10 Peruvian group are in with accountants (5) 11 No big new form of lotto (5) 12 A right leads to harsh enthusiasm (6) 14 Round, round, round the troop leader (6) 16 Secure a gun after start of fight (6) 19 Sea-food, we hear, will provide strength (6) 21 Lived in abnormally lewd time (5) 24 Solitary person seen in cyclone region (5) 25 Lonely man engineers disturbed clues (7) 26 Helped to show donkey is with Edward (8) 27 Back with a letter from foreign parts (4)

Down 1 You can get a nasty disease from mixing Brie with more Brie (8) 2 Arranged loans for the shop (5) 4 Some of Ana’s sauce recipes are for a popular resort (6) 5 Shed a few tears while cider brewed (5) 6 Bake in a small enclosure and deteriorate (7) 7 Neither good nor bad comes from expressos or lattes (2-2) 8 Grumble about Ben catching a flightless bird (6) 13 Accursed thing in Montana, the Mafia? (8) 15 They aren’t in form (7) 17 Junkie did act strangely (6) 18 The beloved compiler’s expression of dismay (4,2) 20 Cables seen in certain record shops (5) 22 Extract information from the journalist with a broken cue (5) 23 Insect heard to take off (4)

STANDARD CLUES

Down 1 Thiamine deficiency (8) 2 Beauty parlour (5) 4 Capital of the Bahamas (6) 5 Sobbed (5) 6 Cover with hard coating (7) 7 Average (2-2) 8 Lament (6) 13 Abhorrence (8) 15 Absentees (7) 17 Drug user (6) 18 Expression used to convey dismay (4,2) 20 Cotton trousers (5) 22 Bring forth (5) 23 Tiny insect (4)

Across 1 Pedestal (4) 3 Disparagers (8) 9 Breakers (7) 10 Ancient South Americans (5) 11 Housey-housey (5) 12 Passion (6) 14 Plump (6) 16 Tie up (6) 19 Brawn (6) 21 Resided (5) 24 Individualist (5) 25 Hermit (7) 26 Helped (8) 27 Greek letter (4)

Last weeks Solution Across: 1 Cockpit, 5 Probe, 8 Asinine, 9 Enter, 10 Mango, 11 Festoon, 12 Agassi, 14 Caress, 17 Chicane, 19 Angle, 22 Alamo, 23 Elegant, 24 Crepe, 25 Dresser. Down: 1 Claim, 2 Cairn, 3 Poisons, 4 Tee off, 5 Peers, 6 Outdone, 7 Errands, 12 Archaic, 13 Agitate, 15 Academe, 16 Behead, 18 Adore, 20 Gnats, 21 Ester.

FILL IT IN Fit the words into the boxes.

3 letter words Cap Get Nan Pud 4 letter words Able Acme Ahoy Boon Coin Ends Eyed Eyes

Lilt Moll Naff Sale Sold Than 5 letter words Adage Agape Apace Cagey Fines Frets Inane

Nadir Recur Scare 6 letter words Crease Cutter Enlist Entice Nieces Tsetse 7 letter words Scatter Success

SPANISH-ENGLISH CROSSWORD

Improve your Spanish - clues in Spanish, answers in English or vice versa.

Across 1 Abuela (7) 5 Canciones (5) 8 Corderos (5) 9 Peregrino (7) 10 Scorpion (9) 12 That (3) 13 Cherry (fruit) (6) 14 Consejos (6) 17 Dedo del pie (3) 18 Butterflies (9) 20 Roundabout (7) 21 Deaf (5) 23 Temprano (5) 24 Autores (7)

Down 1 Hit (blow) (5) 2 Brazo (de persona) (3) 3 Fancy dress (7) 4 Wide (street, river, trousers) (6) 5 Living-room (5) 6 Guarderías (9) 7 Alguien (7) 11 Carpintero (9) 13 Fourteen (7) 15 Depósito (7) 16 Navy (nacional) (6) 18 Dinero (5) 19 Tiendas (5) 22 River (3)

Quiz Word Across 7 According to Greek mythology, who was the messenger of the gods? (6) 8 Which team, in 1923, were the winners of the first FA Cup final to be played at Wembley? (6,9) 10 Abertawe is the Welsh name for which city? (7) 11 Which durable twilled woollen or worsted fabric is much-used for military uniforms? (5) 12 What name is often given to a wild animal’s resting place, especially one that is well hidden? (4) 13 Which state of the north-western US, borders on British Columbia to the north and contains part of the Rocky Mountains? (5) 17 Which 1980s TV sitcom starred Ronnie Corbett as mild-mannered librarian Timothy Lumsden? (5) 18 Which game, resembling field hockey, is played on horseback with a long-handled mallet? (4) 22/25 Which deep arid desert basin is the hottest and driest part of North America? (5,6) 23 Which landlocked county in central England, bounded on the west and north by Leicestershire, northeast by Lincolnshire and southeast by Peterborough and Northamptonshire, is the smallest historic English county? (7)

24 What title is given to the domain ruled by an emperor or empress? (6) 25 See 22 Down

1 Which plant is the national emblem of Scotland? (7) 2 Zagreb is the capital of which former republic of Yugoslavia? (7) 3 What nationality was the poet Dylan Thomas? (5) 4 What is the name of the Russian beetroot soup, usually served with sour cream? (7) 5 How is a change of plan, especially a reversal of political policy, usually referred to? (1-4) 6 Aconcagua is the highest peak in which South American mountain range? (5) 9 See 8 Across 14 Which semi-solid, sourish foodstuff is prepared from milk fermented by added bacteria? (7) 15 What is the name of the small round boat made of wickerwork covered with a watertight material, propelled with a paddle, which is mainly used in Wales? (7) 16 What name is often applied to the periods of exceptionally hot and humid weather that often occur in late summer? (7) 19 Which is Britain’s only poisonous snake? (5) 20 What was the surname of the founder and leader of the Mothers of Invention? (5) 21 Small mammal of the weasel family with chestnut fur with white under-parts and a black-tipped tail? (5)

SALLY’S SIMPLE SPANISH

SUDOKU

Each week we cover a different topic to help you enlarge your Spanish vocabulary.

1. Name The Event Involving The Anarchist, Peter The Painter? 2. Three Scottish kings and eight Popes share which name? 3. Name The Queen Of England Who Ruled For Nine Days? 4. The Gettysburg Address was written on what? 5. The state motto for Oklahoma is labor omnia vincit, which means what? 6. What was Louis the 14th born with, that amazed everyone? 1. The Siege Of Sydney Street 2. Alexander 3. Lady Jane Grey 4. Used envelopes 5. Labor conquers all things 6. 2 teeth

ANSWERS

Last Week’s Solutions Code Cracker Last weeks Quiz Wordsolution Across:7 Atrium, 8 Sonata, 10 Banshee, 11 Whelp, 12 Tees, 13 Smock, 18/17 Bill Oddie, 22 Poole, 23 Erasure, 24 Titian, 25 Selene. Down: 1 Macbeth, 2 Brynner, 3 Sushi, 4 Norwich, 5 James, 6 Harpy, 9 Des Moines, 14 Adrenal, 15 Bitumen, 16 Sleeper, 19 Spitz, 20 Sooty, 21 Ravel.

ACELERADOR

INTERMITENTE

ASIENTO

MALETERO

BACA

MATRICULA

BOCINA

NEUMATICO

CAPO

PARABRISAS

CINTURON

PARACHOQUES

EMBRAGUE

PUERTA

ESPEJO

RUEDA

FARO

VOLANTE

FRENO

Empareja estas palabras - Match the Spanish and English words You will find the answers at the bottom of the quiz. 1. el acelerador, 2. el asiento, 3. la baca, 4. la bocina, 5. el capo, 6. el cinturón, 7. el embrague, 8. el espejo, 9. el faro, 10. El freno, 11. el intermitente, 12. el maletero, 13. la matricula, 14. el neumático, 15. la parabri-

Soduko

sas, 16. el parachoques, 17. la puerta, 18. la rueda, 19. el volante.

k. mirror, l. seat, m. bonnet, n. windscreen, o. headlight, p. indicator, q. boot, r. number plate, s. belt.

a. Wheel, b. roofrack, c. steering wheel, d. door, e. brake, f. clutch, g. tyre, h. horn, i. accelerator, j. bumper,

Span - Eng

Quizword

Answers: 1i, 2l, 3b, 4h, 5m, 6s, 7f, 8k, 9o, 10e, 11p, 12q, 13r, 14g, 15n, 16j, 17d, 18a, 19c.

history QUIZ

Q F J Q J S H B WA Y A P I A F K QY E T NA L OV L V NT S A S I RB A RA P Y UI T R H R L D ML A E OT P C R E E B Z OL MS I C H A OI QR U V QP D I GI F R B K R E MP Z T N E A T U A R OZ T MI F Z ONCA RCRUE DA B T C N T C M I H E O WG N M R E A OL U S ON I L J H MOA N P GE B QJ NT RE E I X GT O NX UK F J L UV CP I UE E E E MA L E T E R OA S E H K S URA CA B T I OI GE Z C WO G N E U M A H Z N J D U X

Fill It In

12 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Operation People Power with Dave Myers 11:00 Christmas Kitchen 12:15 Homes Under the Hammer 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 16:10 Think Tank 16:55 Escape to the Country 17:40 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 News 20:00 The One Show 21:00 Watchdog Topical reports and investigations into consumer issues 22:00 Six Wives with Lucy Worsley Lucy observes the rise and fall of the infamous Anne Boleyn in Henry’s affections. Henry is still desperate to marry Anne and be rid of his wife Queen Katherine .The Pope is still refusing to annul the royal marriage, but there is a new revolutionary form of Christianity emerging in Europe (what would become Protestantism) and Henry begins to see how he could become head of his own church in England in order to marry Anne. Lucy is a witness at the wedding of Henry and Anne - where the bride is already pregnant. As Anne is crowned Queen in Westminster Abbey, she prepares to go into confinement for the birth of their baby and Lucy watches as Anne dares to ask Henry to remain faithful to her 23:00 News 23:45 Match of the Day 01:25 Film 2016 02:00 Who Do You Think You Are? 03:00 Weather 03:05 News

Wednesday 14th December 07:40 Bargain Hunt 08:25 Flog It! 09:00 Extreme Wales with Richard Parks 09:30 Great British Menu 10:00 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 News 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Lifeline 14:10 Coast 14:30 Just Good Friends 15:30 Natural World 16:30 Alaska: Earth’s Frozen Kingdom 17:30 A Place to Call Home 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two

20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip Two favourite “Blue Peter” presenters Sarah Greene and Peter Duncan are in the company of Natasha Raskin and Catherine Southon as they hunt for antiques around Surrey, Hertfordshire and North West London

21:00 This Time Next Year Davina McCall meets more members of the public who pledge to make a change in their lives one year from now - then catches up with them 12 months on to see how they have got on. They include childhood sweethearts Fiona and David, who are hoping for a child with the help of a surrogate, a policewoman looking for love, and a woman who intends to fly off on her dream holiday - if she can lose enough weight

21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals The first three semi-finalists battle it out for a place in Finals Week. They are sent to work alongside the incredible and inspirational chef Alyn Williams for two days 22:00 The Big Life Fix with Simon Reeve The team attempt to build a BMX bicycle for a young boy who was born with no hands or feet. Also they try come up with a way for a man with locked-in syndrome to have conversations with the medical team around him. 23:00 Mock the Week 23:30 Newsnight 00:15 Muslims Like Us 02:15 Planet Earth II 03:15 The Last Miners 04:15 This Is BBC Two

20:00 Emmerdale begs Aaron for help

Liv

20:30 Coronation Street Phelan delivers a crippling blow to Anna

22:00 In Plain Sight Nine months after the death of Anne Kneilands, the police are no further forward in finding her killer, although Detective William Muncie is sure he knows the culprit 23:00 News 23:40 When Phillip Met Prince Philip: 60 Years of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 00:45 The Chase 01:35 Jackpot247 04:00 ITV Nightscreen

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Jamie’s Festive Feast 12:00 Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas 13:00 News 13:05 Jamie’s Cracking Christmas 13:15 Jamie’s Comfort Food 13:25 Film - All About Christmas Eve (PG) 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Coast vs Country 17:00 Deal or No Deal on Tour 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 News 20:55 The Political Slot

07:00 Milkshake 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:40 News 12:45 Film - Noel (PG) 14:35 Film - Last Chance Holiday 16:20 Film - A Nanny for Christmas 18:00 News 18:30 Police Interceptors 19:30 2016

20:00 The Gadget Show Ortis and Jon showcase the year’s best Christmas buys, from student-friendly gifts to those beyond the reach of all but millionaires. Plus, Jason runs the latest toys past discerning schoolchildren, and Amy shows some Dudley office workers how to party, 21:00 Kirstie’s Handmade Gadget Show-style Christmas Kirstie Allsopp GPs: Behind is at Waddesdon Manor’s 21:00 Christmas Fair in Closed Doors Cases Buckinghamshire, where include recently released Christmas is raised to offender Dean, who has a another level of glamour, history of heart problems, with countless stalls selling depression and addiction, thousands of culinary and after three months delights inside, has no roof over his head. A man in his 20s is 22:00 24 Hours in A&E A shocked to discover he has 61-year-old woman is air- chicken pox, even though lifted to hospital after a car he also had it as a child mounted the pavement and ran her over and doctors 22:00 The Trafford quickly get her into the CT Centre: Countdown to scanner to ascertain the Christmas Spearheading full extent of her injuries. the complex’s Christmas Elsewhere, 91-year-old operations for the first time, Sam arrives after suffering events manager Nikki a suspected stroke, and Tansey heads to four-month-old boy Teddy Huddersfield to buy 50 is rushed in after falling miles of fairy lights, and face first out of his car seat, enough baubles to fill an hitting the pavement Olympic swimming pool 23:00 The World’s Most Expensive Christmas 00:05 House of Teen Mums 01:05 Music on 4 02:00 Film - You’re Next (18) 03:40 Tricks of the Restaurant Trade

23:00 Britain’s Favourite Christmas Songs 01:55 SuperCasino 04:10 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 05:00 Tattoo Disasters UK

DON´T MISS THE TRAFFORD CENTRE: COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Channel 5 22:00

SOAPS

In Emmerdale, Liv steals vodka from the shop and attempts to break into Mill, but Rebecca spots her and tells Aaron what she’s up to. When Aaron finds Liv drinking, he feels bad that he didn’t believe her over Gabby being bullied. As the pair make up, Liv begs Aaron to find a place of their own using their dad’s money. With a plan

Behind the scenes of the Manchester shopping centre as preparations for the festive season commence, with events manager Nikki Tansey spearheading operations for the first time. Ensuring the right atmosphere is everything, and Nikki heads to a Huddersfield supplier to pick up an incredible 50 miles of fairy lights, as well as enough baubles to fill a swimming pool, while also trying to book a celebrity for the switch-on ceremony.

in motion, Aaron is furious later on when Rebecca makes an ill-judged comment, questioning how he could afford to buy Mill. Meanwhile, a hungover Moira is startled when Adam accuses her of switching the freezer lorry off, ruining their stock. Later, a fed-up Moira throws her keys at Emma and Pete and tells them that the farm is theirs. But is her new life getting off to a bad start when she gets drunk yet again? Elsewhere, things are looking up at the Thomas house when Laurel sees how good Ashley’s carer Will is.

Also today, Lisa goes on a date, while Chas insists there’s nothing going on between her and Paddy.

In Coronation Street, Phelan reveals to Eileen that Anna is behind the vicious letters. Eileen is shocked and wants to call the police, but Phelan makes out that he feels sorry for Anna and persuades her to let him deal with it. At the same time, Anna

07:00 You’ve Been Framed! 07:25 Dinner Date 08:15 Ellen DeGeneres 09:00 Emmerdale 09:30 You’ve Been Framed! 10:30 Psych 11:25 Scorpion 12:20 Dinner Date 13:20 Emmerdale 13:50 You’ve Been Framed! 14:50 Ellen DeGeneres 15:45 Jeremy Kyle 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Film - Hot Fuzz (14) 00:25 Family Guy 01:25 Mom 02:25 American Dad! 03:25 Teleshopping ITV3 07:00 Movies Now 07:10 Doctor in the House 07:35 Heartbeat 08:30 Where the Heart Is 09:35 Wild at Heart 10:35 Judge Judy 11:55 Murder, She Wrote 12:55 Wycliffe 14:00 Heartbeat 15:05 Wild at Heart 16:05 Where the Heart Is 17:20 Doctor in the House 17:50 You’re Only Young Twice 18:20 George and Mildred 18:55 Heartbeat 19:55 Murder, She Wrote 20:55 Wycliffe 22:00 Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs 23:00 Mr Selfridge 00:05 Mrs Biggs 01:05 Million Dollar Princesses 02:10 Million Dollar Princesses 03:00 ITV3 Nightscreen ITV4 07:00 Nijinsky’s Triple Crown 07:05 The Wine Show 08:00 The Chase 08:50 Quincy, ME 09:55 Ironside 10:55 The Professionals 12:00 The Chase 13:00 Cash Cowboys 14:00 Pawn Stars 15:00 Counting Cars 15:55 Quincy, ME 16:55 Ironside 18:00 Counting Cars 19:00 Cash Cowboys 20:00 Pawn Stars 20:55 River Monsters 22:00 Film - Live and Let Die (PG) 00:30 Film - Firefox (PG) 03:15 Tommy Cooper 03:45 ITV4 Nightscreen 04:00 Teleshopping

08:00 Peter Hurst, 11:00 Trev Massey, 14:00 Alex Trelinski, 16:00 Gordon Lack finally shows Kevin her scarred body as he assures her that she’s still beautiful in his eyes. Later, finding Anna alone in the café, Phelan menacingly reveals that he knows she’s behind the poison pen letters and that if she gives him any more grief, he’ll call the police. Clearly shaken, what will Anna do?

Meanwhile, Brian insists

that Roy should take the day off, but the café is left in disarray with Brian struggling to cope. Elsewhere, with no taxis available, Robert is stressed as he wonders how they’re going to deliver a huge food order. When Michelle offers to drive the Bistro van, Robert kisses her fondly, which doesn’t go unnoticed by Zeedan. Is he onto something? Also today, having witnessed a kiss between Luke and Tracy, Amy tells her mum that she’s pleased that Luke is her new boyfriend. Calling at the garage, Tracy begs

Luke to join them for tea as Amy is convinced he’s her boyfriend, much to Kevin and Tyrone’s amusement. What will Luke’s reaction be?

Finally, Norris hands Mary an official looking letter, explaining that he’s been doing some research into the past she left behind. How will Mary respond to this?

Thursday 15th December 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Operation People Power with Dave Myers 11:00 Christmas Kitchen 12:15 Homes Under the Hammer 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 News 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Think Tank 16:45 Escape to the Country 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Pointless 19:00 News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders The Mitchell family get a shock 21:00 Who Do You Think You Are? Singer and former X Factor judge Cheryl (Tweedy/Cole/FernandezVersini) takes part in the popular genealogy documentary, in which famous faces trace their family trees. The one-time Girls Aloud member knows little about her heritage, beyond her sense as a true Geordie, so she sets out to trace her roots in the North East. On her father’s side she discovers a seafaring ancestor and a family tragedy 22:00 The Apprentice The remaining candidates have 24 hours to brush up on their business plans and face the formidable interview process. It’s time to get a grilling from four of Lord Sugar’s trusted advisors, Claude Littner, Claudine Collins, Mike Soutar and Linda Plant 23:00 News 23:45 Sports Personality of the Year 00:45 This Week 01:30 Weather for the Week Ahead 01:35 News

07:40 Bargain Hunt 08:25 Flog It! 09:00 Great Continental Railway Journeys 10:00 Victoria Derbyshire 12:00 News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Cash in the Attic 14:30 Just Good Friends 15:30 Natural World 17:30 A Place to Call Home 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two 20:00 Celebrity Antiques Road Trip John Simpson finds war-related items that remind him of his years on the front line, while fellow journalist Martha Kearney scours the New Forest for hidden gems 21:00 MasterChef: The Professionals The last semi-final sees the remaining hopefuls head to the Michelin-starred restaurant at Gravetye Manor restaurant in West Sussex, where they are responsible for one dish each during a packed lunchtime service under the watchful eye of head chef George Blogg. 22:00 Close to the Enemy Victor, still struggling to cope with the effects of the war, tries to expose the activities of Callum’s team. Those around him choose not to pay attention and force him to seek medical help 23:00 The Apprentice: You’re Fired 23:30 Newsnight 00:15 The Big Life Fix with Simon Reeve 01:15 Panorama 01:45 Black is the New Black 02:15 Imagine 03:15 This Is BBC Two

07:00 Good Morning Britain 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 Jeremy Kyle 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 News 15:00 Judge Rinder 16:00 Dickinson’s Real Deal 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 News 20:00 Emmerdale Aaron takes drastic action 20:30 Tonight With just over a week to go before millions of people come together for Christmas dinner, Fiona Foster investigates the true cost of the annual feast 21:00 Emmerdale Will Aaron and Rebecca sort their differences? 21:30 Coronation Street Phelan suffers poetic justice 22:00 Extraordinary Weddings Will and Amy from Cheltenham were one year into their relationship when Will suffered a bleed on the brain, which has affected his short-term memory. Nonetheless, she is spending hours finding ways to train him, determined he will remember their big day. Ian and Karen from Scunthorpe are getting married after she suffered a stroke that has left her without the full use of her voice. Now they are working tirelessly in the hope she will be able to say her vows 23:00 News 23:40 The Jonathan Ross Show 00:45 Jeremy Kyle USA 01:30 Jackpot247 04:00 Tonight 04:25 ITV Nightscreen

07:00 Countdown 07:45 The King of Queens 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Jamie’s Cracking Christmas 12:00 Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas 13:00 News 13:05 Jamie’s Comfort Food 13:10 Jamie’s Cracking Christmas 13:25 Film - The Dog Who Saved Christmas Vacation 15:10 Countdown 16:00 Coast vs Country 17:00 Deal or No Deal on Tour 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 News 20:55 The Political Slot 21:00 The Secret Life of the Zoo There’s an escape at Chester Zoo. The Sumatran orangutans have been getting used to new quarters, when keepers see from CCTV that Subis, Tuti, Siska and Indah have gone missing

07:00 Milkshake 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:40 News 12:45 Film - Guess Who’s Coming to Christmas (PG) 14:25 Film - Married by Christmas 16:15 Film - Christmas Hero 18:00 News 18:30 Police Interceptors 19:30 2016 20:00 Ultimate Strongman Team World Championships Highlights from Stoke-onTrent, as eight two-man teams competed for the title won by Hafthor Bjornsson and Matjaz Belsak last year. Eddie Hall and Mark Felix, and Terry Hollands and Laurence Shahlaei were among the duos taking part this time around 21:00 UK’s Most Spoilt Kids at Christmas Documentary meeting the mums and dads who believe Christmas is a time for giving - especially when it comes to their kids

22:00 Grand Designs Kevin McCloud reveals the winner of the Royal Institute of British Architects House of the Year 2016. First though, there are four extraordinary nominated houses to review, all of which offer a creative response to a tricky site

22:00 Benefits By the Sea: Jaywick Christmas has come to Jaywick, and troubled Lynne is looking forward to a quiet day surrounded by friendly faces. Boo’s community dinner for the town’s lost souls is going well, before a very merry Disco Dave turns up

23:00 60 Days in Jail 23:55 24 Hours in A&E 01:00 Random Acts 01:30 999: What’s Your Emergency? 02:25 Film - Mumbai Meri Jaan (15) 04:50 Kirstie’s Vintage Gems 05:10 Kirstie and Phil's Love It or List It

23:00 The Nightmare Neighbour Next Door 00:05 Crackers About Christmas 01:05 SuperCasino 04:10 Secrets of Great British Castles 05:00 Tattoo Disasters UK 05:25 Criminals: Caught on Camera

DON´T MISS GRAND DESIGN: HOUSE OF THE YEAR

Channel 4 22:00

SOAPS

In Emmerdale, when Aaron takes revenge by breaking into Home Farm, he’s disturbed as he hears Rebecca and rushes to the door – taking the contents of the safe with him. When Rebecca notices the safe has been emptied, who will she blame? Meanwhile, Paddy takes a client called Lydia out for a

Kevin McCloud visits four more properties competing for a place on the finalist shortlist, including an open-plan family home built in a former allotment, a house made from a group of red tin pods on a piece of urban wasteland. The others are a house stitched into a wall that sits between a Zen courtyard and an English walled garden, and a large, glamorous home that creatively pulls northern light through the house. At the end of the show he announces the overall winner of the Royal Institute of British Architects House of the Year 2016. Last in the series.

date after receiving his decree nisi. Chas and Eric don’t seem too impressed by Lydia, and it seems that Paddy might not be either when he hears what she has in mind for their date. Elsewhere, Arthur worries when he hears Doug and Diane talking about Ashley hurting Laurel recently. Also, a cash-strapped Zak decides to prioritise Belle’s Christmas present over his new flat with Joanie, while Tracy confronts Leyla when too many Christmas trees arrive for Frank. In the second episode, Aaron confirms to Liv that they’re buying Mill.

However, just when everything seems to be coming together, a drunken Moira makes things worse by commenting on Robert and Rebecca’s closeness. Meanwhile, Tracy’s plan to get Leyla to move out backfires. Elsewhere, things turn sour for Paddy when Lydia slaps him.

ITV3 07:00 Movies Now 07:10 Doctor in the House 07:35 Heartbeat 08:35 Where the Heart Is 09:35 Wild at Heart 10:40 Judge Judy 12:00 Murder, She Wrote 13:00 Wycliffe 14:05 Heartbeat 15:10 Wild at Heart 16:10 An Avonlea Christmas 17:15 Doctor in the House 17:50 You’re Only Young Twice 18:20 George and Mildred 18:55 By Royal Appointment 20:00 Murder, She Wrote 21:00 Agatha Christie’s Marple 23:00 Mr Selfridge 00:00 Mrs Biggs 01:00 Les Miserables 03:15 ITV3 Nightscreen 03:30 Teleshopping ITV4 07:00 The Wine Show 07:50 The Chase 08:40 Quincy, ME 09:45 Ironside 10:50 The Professionals 11:50 The Chase 12:55 Cash Cowboys 13:55 Pawn Stars 14:50 Counting Cars 15:50 Quincy, ME 16:50 Ironside 18:00 Counting Cars 19:00 Cash Cowboys 20:00 Pawn Stars 21:00 Steve McQueen: Motorcycle Star 22:00 Film - The Living Daylights (PG) 00:45 Film Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning (18) 03:00 The Wine Show 03:55 ITV4 Nightscreen 04:00 Teleshopping

08:00 Peter Hurst, 11:00 Trev Massey, 14:00 Alex Trelinski, 16:00 Gordon Lack everything. Later, there’s yet another surprise for the family when a police public protection officer turns up on their doorstep to investigate Jay’s living conditions. When the officer learns that he shares a house with underage Louise, Jay is ordered to make alternative living arrangements until the situation is properly investigated. As Phil stands up to the officer and refuses to be bossed around, is he asking for trouble?

In Eastenders, the Mitchells receive some news that could change

07:00 You’ve Been Framed! 07:25 Dinner Date 08:15 Ellen DeGeneres 09:00 Emmerdale 09:30 Coronation Street 10:00 You’ve Been Framed! 10:30 Psych 11:25 Scorpion 12:20 Dinner Date 13:20 Emmerdale 13:50 Coronation Street 14:20 You’ve Been Framed! 14:50 Ellen DeGeneres 15:45 Jeremy Kyle 19:00 You’ve Been Framed! 21:00 Two and a Half Men 22:00 Through the Keyhole 23:00 Celebrity Juice 00:00 Family Guy 01:00 Mom 02:00 American Dad! 03:25 Teleshopping

In Coronation Street, Phelan assures Eileen that he had a gentle word with

Anna. Soon afterwards, clearly seething, Kevin approaches Phelan in the builder’s yard and accuses him of deliberately setting out to destroy Anna. When Phelan mocks him, Kevin flies at him in a rage. Luke arrives and hauls Kevin away. Later, Luke tells Andy about Kevin’s fight with Phelan and how he reckoned Phelan had something to do with Michael’s death, confirming Andy’s suspicions.

As Phelan locks up the builder’s yard, Andy appears from the shadows and hits him over the head with a brick. Phelan slumps to the ground. As Steph discovers Phelan’s lifeless body, is it the end of Phelan? At the same time, Robert and Michelle deliver the food order to some lads having a house party. When the lads refuse to pay, Michelle feigns labour pains and Robert grabs the food and hurries back to the van with Michelle following close behind him. As Michelle and Robert head home in good spirits, Michelle has a proposition for him.

Venison shanks, juniper & redcurrants

Ingredients 1 large sweet potato 2 lemongrass stalks 2.5 cm-piece of ginger 2 cloves of garlic 1 teaspoon sesame oil 150 ml organic vegetable stock 150 ml reduced-fat coconut milk 6-8 lime leaves or 1 lime 1 long red chilli

Food & Drink

Friday 9th December 2016

4 x 150 g salmon fillets, from sustainable sources soy sauce, optional Method Preheat the oven to 190ยบC/gas 5. Scrub the sweet potato clean, then slice into thin rounds. Arrange the slices, overlapping, in a large roasting tin. Bruise the lemongrass, then finely chop the tender

parts. Peel and finely chop the ginger and garlic. Peel and finely slice the chilli. Mix the sesame oil, stock, coconut milk and two-thirds each of the lemongrass, ginger and garlic. Pour over the potatoes, tuck in the lime leaves (or squeeze the juice on top and scatter over the zest) and sprinkle with the chilli. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are done. About 8 to 10 minutes before the cooking time is up, sit the fish on the potatoes and top with the rest of the lemongrass, ginger and garlic. When the fish is just cooked, drizzle with soy sauce, if you like. Delicious served with green beans and mangetout.

Blue cheese & apple burger Ingredients 750 g quality minced chuck steak (see tip) 1 soft round lettuce 1 punnet of cress 2 Braeburn or Cox apples 120 g blue cheese olive oil 6 burger buns American mustard Method Make the burgers at least an hour before you want to cook them. Divide the mince into 4 portions and work each ball in your hands for a few minutes to melt the fat and mould them into a relatively smooth, round patty. Make them slightly bigger than your bun, as they will shrink when cooked. Pop them on a tray, cover with clingfilm and chill in the fridge. When you're ready to cook your burgers, get your toppings ready. Pick off, wash and spin dry the lettuce leaves, cut your cress, slice the apples, crumble the blue cheese into chunks, and leave everything to one side. Preheat your grill to high. Pop a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat and add a drizzle of oil to the pan. Fry the burgers for around 4 minutes on each side if you like them pink in the middle, or longer if you prefer them fully cooked, seasoning the

patties with black pepper as you cook them. Halve and toast the buns under the grill or on a hot griddle, then line them up on a board ready to go. When the burgers are cooked, top each with the blue cheese and pop under the grill for a couple of minutes until nice and oozy.

Now build your burgers. First layer the salad leaves and apple onto the buns, followed by a good drizzle of mustard. Pop the burgers on, and top with the cress (a cucumber and chilli relish is great here too). Squish the bun tops on and serve straight away.

top

Food & Drink

Dessert

Asian salmon & sweet Cranberry sea potato traybake breeze punch

Quick Cherry Crisp

Ingredients 1/3-1/2 cup sugar 1 tablespoon cornstarch 4 cups frozen unsweetened pitted tart red cherries 1 cup crumbled shortbread cookies 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds, toasted Ice cream (optional) Method In a small bowl, combine sugar and cornstarch. In a large saucepan, sprinkle cornstarch mixture over cherries; stir to combine. Cook and stir over medium heat about 10 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, thoroughly combine crumbled cookies, butter, and nuts. Divide cherry mixture among four dessert dishes. Sprinkle cookie mixture over cherry mixture.

Friday 9th December 2016

Get the party started with this refreshing punch. Making fruit ice cubes stops the cranberries from sinking to the bottom of the glass â&#x20AC;&#x201C; clever!

Method Preheat the oven to 190ÂşC/gas 5. Scrub the sweet potato clean, then slice into thin rounds. Arrange the slices, overlapping, in a large roasting tin. Bruise the lemongrass, then finely chop the tender parts. Peel and finely chop the ginger and garlic. Peel and finely slice the chilli. Mix the sesame oil, stock, coconut milk and two-thirds each of the lemongrass, ginger and garlic. Pour over the

potatoes, tuck in the lime leaves (or squeeze the juice on top and scatter over the zest) and sprinkle with the chilli. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are done. About 8 to 10 minutes before the cooking time is up, sit the fish on the potatoes and top with the rest of the lemongrass, ginger and garlic. When the fish is just cooked, drizzle with soy sauce, if you like. Delicious served with green beans and mangetout.

Ingredients 100g fresh or frozen cranberries 1l cranberry juice 500ml vodka 400ml grapefruit juice 2 limes, cut into round slices Ice Method Using two ice-cube trays, put one or two cranberries in

each square, fill with water and freeze until solid. Can be done a week ahead. Pour the cranberry juice, vodka and grapefruit juice into a punch bowl or large pouring jug and add the lime slices. Add some ice and half the cranberry ice cubes. Divide the remaining cranberry ice cubes between the glasses, then pour in the punch.

Food & Drink

Friday 9th December 2016

Chicken, kale & mushroom pot pie

Butterscotch Peanut Bars

A satisfying chicken and mushroom one-pot that makes a great family supper

Ingredients

Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 3 thyme sprigs, leaves picked 2 garlic cloves, crushed 350g chicken breasts, cut into small chunks 250g chestnut mushrooms, sliced 300ml chicken stock

100g crème fraîche 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 100g kale 2 tsp cornflour, mixed with 1 tbsp cold water 375g pack puff pastry, rolled into a circle slightly bigger than your dish 1 egg yolk, to glaze Method

Heat 1/2 tbsp oil over a gentle heat in a flameproof casserole dish. Add the onion and cook for 5 mins until softening. Scatter over the thyme and garlic, and stir for 1 min. Turn up the heat and add the chicken, frying until golden but not fully cooked. Add the mushrooms and the remaining oil. Heat oven to 200C/180 fan/gas 6.Add the stock,

Creamy sausage cannelloni

Ingredients Method 1 tbsp oil 1 onion, chopped pack of 6 pork sausages, squeezed out of their skins into chunks 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 300ml double cream 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard ½ tsp chilli flakes small pack basil, leaves shredded 8 sheets fresh lasagne 125g ball mozzarella, sliced

Heat the oil in a large frying pan and cook the onion for 3-4 mins over a medium-high heat. Add the sausage chunks and cook for another 5 mins to brown all over. Add the garlic and cook for 1 min before stirring in the cream, mustard, chilli flakes and seasoning. Cook for another 2 mins, then stir in the basil. Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/ gas 6.

Divide the sausage chunks and some sauce between the lasagne sheets and roll each one up. Arrange in a casserole dish, spoon over the remaining sauce, then top with the mozzarella. You can freeze the dish at this point. If freezing, defrost fully before cooking. Bake in the oven for 20 mins until the pasta is cooked and the mozzarella gooey and crisp at the edges.

crème fraîche, mustard and kale, and season well. Add the cornflour mixture and stir until thickened a little. Remove from the heat and cover with the puff pastry lid, pressing into the sides of the casserole dish. Slice a cross in the centre and glaze with the egg. Bake for 30 mins until the pastry is puffed up and golden.

Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 1 cup creamy peanut butter 6 tablespoons butter, melted 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6-1/2 ounces) 1 11 - ounce package (about 2 cups) butterscotch-flavored pieces 1/4 cup whipping cream 1/2 cup coarsely crushed pretzels 1/2 cup chopped peanuts Method Line a 13x9x2-inch pan with foil. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray; set aside. In a large mixing

bowl, stir together powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter. Stir in 2 cups crushed pretzels. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of prepared pan. In a heavy medium saucepan, combine butterscotch pieces and whipping cream. Stir over low heat until pieces are just melted. Carefully spoon and spread butterscotch mixture over crumb mixture in pan. Sprinkle 1/2 cup coarsely crushed pretzels and the peanuts evenly over butterscotch mixture; press gently. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours. Cut into bars to serve. Store in refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Food & Drink

Friday 9th December 2016

Record Of The Week! Artist – Fat Larrys Band Title – Zoom! Chosen by TKO listener Angela Fitzpatrick Angela says.... Hello TKO Christmas Elves. I've been waiting until December to ask for this because it reminds me of Christmas spent in our very first house, when some dear friends came to stay with us. After dinner we were sitting, bloated, when the window was pelted with snowballs. It was four of our neighbours. Naturally, we all climbed the fence at the bottom of our garden into the school playing fields and joined them. After that we had belly-ache from laughing and needed a drink and a mince pie, this song was on the wireless (yes I still call it that). It was the silliest and best Christmas Day, and every time I hear Zoom it reminds me of the very special people we spent the day with. I do hope you consider my "Zoom choon" Many thanks. Angela, Los Balcones. Tune in to TKO all week to listen to the song and give your opinion by emailing studio@tko.fm, or post your opinion on Facebook. If you would like to choose your own Record of the Week, perhaps you have a song that brings back happy memories or says thank you to someone special or is just a great tune that you love to hear, send us the details to studio@tko.fm and include the name of the track and artist, and what it means to you and next week it could be your special song played every day on TKO 91.9 & 90.8fm. The Costa Blanca’s biggest and best radio station. Love Life... Love Music... Love... TKO!

Friday 9th December 2016

CHRISTMAS MARKETS ARE ON ORDER FOR THIS WEEK

1. Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them (3D) 2. Moana (3D) 3. Sully 4. Allied 5. Pitbull. Tough Women 6. Arrival 7. Trolls (3D) 8. Bad Santa 2 9. Edge Of Seventeen, The 10. Bleed For This

Friday 9 December Orihuela Belén The official opening of the nativity scene in Orihuela city. Saturday 10 December Christmas Fayre Christmas event in the popular San Luis Square, Torrevieja. Benijófar Christmas Market Sunday 11 December Children’s Parade, Torrevieja, with the theme of ‘Superheroes’.

With just over two weeks before the big day (Christmas), some of you, the less organised, may be starting to feel the pressure of not having finished all your Christmas shopping – i.e. presents for all your loved ones. You’re tired of the same old shops (Primark) and the same old boring presents (perfume, chocolates and socks) and want to buy something different this year. Well, you’re on the right page, as The Courier has sought out the perfect places for you to visit in order to seek out something different and that perfect gift. The few weeks leading up to Christmas are a time for festive Christmas markets, and you can find them all over the Costa Blanca. Here are just a few that are currently taking place, which, even if you have been super-organised and have completed all your Christmas purchases, you should go and visit anyway just for the Christmassy spirit and festive feeling. Alicante Christmas Craft Market Location: Along the Avenida de Federico Soto, the main road from the marina to Plaza Luceros. When: Until 6 January, except 25 and 31 December Time: 10:00-15:00 and 17:00-23:00 Alicante Christmas Nativity Market Location: Plaza de Gabriel Miró When: From 15 to 19 December Time: 11:00-14:30 and 17:00-21:00

Biar II Christmas Fair Location: Plaza de la Constitución When: From 9 to 11 December Time: Friday 9 December 18:00-22:00 Saturday 10 December 11:00-14:30 and 17:00-22:00 Sunday 11 December 11:00-14:30 and 17:30-21:00 Calpe Christmas Fair Location: Historic Centre When: From 8 to 11 December Time:

Benijófar Christmas Market Location: Benijófar When: Saturday 10 December Time: From 10:00 Santa Pola Renaissance Market Location: In the fortress walls When: From 8 to 11 December Time: From 11:00 to 14:30 and 17:00 to 21:00

Jijona VIII Christmas Fair Location: Along Avenida de la Constitución in the centre of Jijona When: From Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 December Time: From 10:00 until 21:00

Where Do YOU Read The Courier? We are interested to know where you read The Courier newspaper each week. Snap a picture or a #selfie and send it to julie@tko.media and the best will appear here and on our Facebook page.

Derek, Mick, Scott and Kevin over for a boys' weekend

Sunday 11 December Santa Walk Zenia Boulevard (postponed due to bad weather) Thursday 15 to Sunday 19 December Nativity Market, Alicante. Saturday 17 December Zombies in Elche The undead takes to the streets of Elche. Friday 6 and Saturday 7 January 2017 Three Kings Concert by the Orquesta Sinfónica de Torrevieja, International Auditorium Torrevieja 15 January Race Against Cancer Road race through the streets of Alicante, raising cancer awareness. 29 January Half Marathon - Murcia Street running through Murcia city. 18 March 2017 Classical Concert International Auditorium Torrevieja Rossini, Mozart and Beethoven classical concert by the Orquesta Sinfónica de Torrevieja 22 April Classical Concert by the Orquesta Sinfónica de Torrevieja, International Auditorium Torrevieja

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TOP 10

Events

Michael Clowes at York Station

Dates Dec 21 Solstice

December

Dec 24 Christmas Eve Dec 25 Christmas Day

Paul from Be Sure Alarms reading The Courier at the Three Sisters Rock Formation, Katoomba, NSW Australia

Dec 26 St Stephen's Day Dec 31 New Year's Eve Jan 1 New Year´s Day Jan 2 New Year Extra Holiday Jan 6 Three Kings Apr 13 Maundy Thurday Apr 14 Good Friday

Friday 9th December 2016

35 How to Get a Property Deposit Back Let’s talk about collapsed Spanish property purchases, lost deposits and why all might not be lost after all... For many of us, purchasing property is probably the single most important financial decision we’ll make in our lifetime - often involving years of saving to build up a nest egg, followed by months of wrestling with the decision of exactly where to invest your hard-earned money. It’s no surprise then that every year, Spain attracts British buyers in their droves, seeking the sun, sea and sangria. In fact, the Colegio de Registradores (Spain’s Land Registry) reports almost 19 per cent of homes owned by foreigners in Spain, belong to Brits. Unfortunately, for a number of British buyers, dreams quickly turned into nightmares during the financial crash of 2008 as Spanish property deals crumbled and developers failed to complete building projects. What happened? As a result of the Spanish financial crash, thousands of Brits lost their entire deposits, with no hope of recourse. That is, until a recent ruling of the Spanish Supreme Court, which decided that banks should be held jointly responsible, along with developers, for the lost money.

What can be done? What does this actually mean for British victims of property deals gone bad? Well simply put, the new ruling has opened a window for thousands of legal cases to be filed and deposits to be reclaimed in their entirety from the banks with interest - for some people, this could lead to them being reunited with their whole deposits. How can you reclaim your lost deposit? Whilst fantastic news for those who lost their deposits, there are a number of complicating factors to these claims – firstly they need to be submitted through Spanish courts, will be judged on an individual case by case basis and there’s also a statute of limitation of 15 years from the date of the deposit, meaning the clock is ticking on the possibility of getting deposits returned. On average, clients see the return of their deposits completed within 12-18 months of starting the claim. How much will I get back? As each case is different, it’s very difficult to put an exact figure on how much a claim will be worth, however the law is now leaning in favour of victims of the financial crash who lost funds, allowing the return of the deposit plus interest.

What will this cost? Being experts in civil litigation, Attwood Solicitors understand that after such a long period of time, many Brits may be reluctant to engage in the reclaiming process, which is why in most cases they currently offer to deal with claims on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. If the firm are unable to reclaim your deposit, you won’t pay a penny. In reality, the fees for the service, which are only payable if the claim is successful, are normally less than the interest reclaimed, so for many clients their entire deposit will be returned. How will I get my deposit back? The process is relatively simple for clients as Attwood Solicitors have created a customer focused service which takes the hassle and inconvenience away for you. Following an initial call, we will make a careful assessment of your case and let you know the realistic chances of success, after which they’ll take control of every aspect of the claim, from guidance on gathering of the documentation needed, to filing the claim with the Spanish courts and ensuring that you have appropriate representation and expert advice throughout the entire process.

Health

Friday 9th December 2016

Parkinson's disease 'may start in gut' Scientists in California say they have transformed understanding of Parkinson's disease. Their animal experiments, published in the journal Cell, suggest the brain disorder may be caused by bacteria living in the gut. The findings could eventually lead to new ways of treating the disease, such as drugs to kill gut bugs or probiotics. Experts said the results opened an "exciting new avenue of study". In Parkinson's disease the brain is progressively damaged, leading to patients experiencing a tremor and difficulty moving. Researchers used mice genetically programmed to develop Parkinson's as they produced very high levels of the protein alpha-synuclein, which is associated with damage in the brains of Parkinson's patients. But only those animals with bacteria in their stomachs developed symptoms. Sterile mice remained healthy. Further tests showed transplanting bacteria from Parkinson's patients to mice led to more symptoms than

bacteria taken from healthy people. Dr Timothy Sampson, one of the researchers at the California Institute of Technology, said: "This was the 'eureka' moment, the mice were genetically identical, the only difference was the presence or absence of gut microbiota. "Now we were quite confident that gut bacteria regulate, and are even required for, the symptoms of Parkinson's disease." 'Paradigm shift' The scientists believe the bacteria are releasing chemicals that over-activate parts of the brain, leading to damage. The bacteria can break down fibre into short-chain fatty acids. It is thought an imbalance in these chemicals triggers the immune cells in the brain to cause damage. Dr Sarkis Mazmanian said: "We have discovered for the first time a biological link between the gut microbiome and Parkinson's disease. "More generally, this research reveals that a neurodegenerative disease may have its origins in the

gut and not only in the brain as had been previously thought. "The discovery that changes in the microbiome may be involved in Parkinson's disease is a paradigm shift and opens entirely new possibilities for treating patients." Parkinson's is currently incurable. While the findings need to be confirmed in people,

researchers hope that the drugs that work in the digestive system or even probiotics may become new therapies for the disease. The trillions of bacteria that live in the gut are hugely important to health, so wiping them out completely is not an option. Dr Arthur Roach, from the charity Parkinson's UK, said: "In recent years, evidence has been growing

that Parkinson's may begin in the gut, but the chain of events involved has so far remained a mystery. "This work opens an exciting new avenue of study on the gut-brain connection in Parkinson's. "There are still many questions to answer, but we hope this will trigger more research that will ultimately revolutionise treatment options for Parkinson's."

Dr Patrick Lewis, from the University of Reading, said: "This study really does reinforce the idea that examining what goes on in the stomach of people with Parkinson's could provide really important insights into what happens in disease.â&#x20AC;? And goes on to say â&#x20AC;&#x153; and potentially a new area of biology to target in trying to slow down or halt the changes in the brain."

MedB Health Dr M. Mannu

Friday 9th December 2016

Do You Need More Than Food To Stay Healthy Today? The food we eat today is not what it used to be. Nutrient levels of foods have been falling steadily for the past 50 years. Studies from the University of Texas, comparing nutrient levels of 43 different fruits and vegetables from 1950 to 1999 showed a significant decline of up to 50% in the concentration of protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamin B 12. A similar study of 20 British vegetables from 1930 to 1980 found declines of up to 22% for some nutrients. Another study concluded that fresh oranges in a supermarket had no vitamin C. A meal of potatoes in the 1970s provided the body with enough daily vitamin A, but todaypotatoes no longer contain

vitamin A. Nutrient levels of animal foods have also declined significantly over the last century. Experts cite the lack of soil nutrients as the main reason for the deficiency of nutrients in food today. Farmers will typically replenish three main minerals – nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium - that support growing larger crops. And although vegetables and fruits are getting bigger in size, they lack dozens of other minerals that support the life of humans and other animals that depend on plants for nutrition. Unsurprising animal foods including milk and eggs also lack nutrients. Processed foods, which are foods that are not in their

natural state, are usually lacking in nutrients and include foods containing flour such as bread and pasta as well as sausages. Even when processed foods have added vitamins and nutrients, they

still lack many essential nutrients. We eat food to receive calories for energy and nutrients for maintaining and repairing the body. Inadequate amounts of nutri-

ents will result in a body that is maintained and repaired with substitute minerals and materials, which increases the risk of developing a disease. One of the most depleted nutrients in foods today is MSM (methyl sulphonyl methane) a nutrient required to build the supporting structures of the body - the joints, bones, skin, hair and nails. The deficiency of MSM in the diet today is the reason for the rising incidence of connective tissue diseases seen today, including arthritis, bone diseases, hernia, Dupuytren´s contracture, , uterine prolapse and many others. Selenium is another equally important mineral that is

seriously deficient in most diets today. Selenium is a powerful protector of the body against cancer. Studies show a relationship between the areas of the world that are deficient in selenium and a high rate of cancer. Supplements are therefore essential for improving our diet. However, supplements should never replace a healthy diet. Nutrient depleted fruits and vegetables of today will still contain many nutrients that are still undiscovered.

For A Full Body Scan Call MedB Clinic 965071745, 966189074, visit – www.medb.es

Not enough over-50s' taking aspirin to prevent heart disease An aspirin a day could dramatically cut cancer and heart disease risk … study claims," the Mail Online reports. U.S. researchers ran a simulation of what might happen if all Americans over 50 years old took aspirin on a daily basis. Their results found that people would live about four months longer on average, adding 900,000

people to the US population by 2036. The study was designed to demonstrate the possible long-term effects of more people taking aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease. It should be pointed out that there is an important difference between UK and US guidelines. In the UK lowdose aspirin is usually recommended for people with a

history of heart disease or stroke. In the US, this advice is extended to people who are at risk of cardiovascular disease but don't have it yet. We already know that aspirin reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes caused by blood clots (ischaemic stroke). There's some evidence it may reduce some types of cancer. However, aspirin also

increases the risk of stroke caused by bleeding (haemorrhagic stroke) and increases the chances of bleeding in the stomach or gut. So should you be taking low-dose aspirin? Without knowing your individual circumstances, it is impossible to provide an accurate response, so as always, you need to ask your GP as they’re the expert.

Friday 9th December 2016

THREE MILLION MINIS - PLANT OXFORD HITS MAJOR MANUFACTURING MILESTONE

Plant Oxford has celebrated the three millionth MINI to roll off the assembly line since production began back in 2001. The three millionth Oxford-built MINI is a John Cooper Works Clubman the first model to combine the latest John Cooper Works performance enhancements and a new ALL4 all-wheel drive system. From around 300 cars a day in 2001 to around 1,000 built-to-order cars today, the 4,500-strong workforce at Oxford produces one new MINI almost every minute.

Around 80 per cent of MINIs built here are exported to more than 110 markets across the world. On Thursday, 1 December, the plant was visited by Oliver Zipse, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production, who joined the team in Oxford to celebrate this major UK manufacturing milestone. Oliver Zipse said: “It’s great to be back in Oxford to mark this fantastic MINI production milestone. Since we began building MINIs back in 2001 the car has proved

to be hugely popular with customers right around the world. The passion and commitment that everyone here at the plant has for building a high-quality product is central to that success. The three millionth Oxford-built MINI is a remarkable achievement. Congratulations to everyone who has played their part in making this celebration possible.” Frank Bachmann, Managing Director of Plant Oxford, said: “Hitting this milestone is a fantastic achievement for everyone on the team here at Oxford.

Building the volume of highquality cars that we have over the past 15 years is something everyone working here can be very proud of.” Sales of MINI, both in the UK and internationally, have gone from strength to strength over the last 15 years. In its first year, nearly 40,000 MINIs were sold worldwide. By 2015, this number had risen to nearly 340,000. Three UK plants have a part to play in its production Hams Hall near Birmingham makes engines, Swindon produces body

pressings and sub-assemblies for MINI, and this all comes together at Oxford with body-shell production, paint and final assembly. Together these plants have helped to generate and sustain employment for thousands of people directly and indirectly though the wider supply chain and retailers. Since 2000, £1.75 billion has been invested by BMW Group at the three plants and at Oxford this has included a state-of-the-art paintshop, a high-technology body building facility, a new final assembly area, a new logistics centre, Quality

and Engineering Centre and the MINIcademy, where the plant’s apprentices are trained. Oxford, the heart and home of MINI production, has a rich motor manufacturing history. It has been building cars since 1913 when the great designer, entrepreneur and philanthropist William Morris (later Lord Nuffield), produced his first car, a “Bullnose” Morris, near today’s present stateof-the-art MINI production facility. The classic Mini, was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis and launched in 1959.

Friday 9th December 2016

SWEDISH POLICE FIRST TO USE V90

The Swedish police will take delivery of its first V90 police cars early next year, after the car recently achieved the highest rating ever in the Swedish police’s highly demanding driving test. The demands on emergency vehicles are higher than on normal road cars. On top of that, unlike in many other countries, in Sweden the police car is judged as a workplace. This means any car has to meet strict demands in areas such as performance, comfort, quality and ergonomics in order to qualify as a police car. The Swedish police car test focuses on five areas: a brake test, an obstacle course, evasive action tests with and without braking, and high-speed emergency driving. The overall score for the V90 was 9.2 out of 10, the highest rating ever achieved by any car in this demanding test. The final test protocol on the V90 prepared by Swedish police test drivers concludes that “overall, it is difficult to find any faults at all. Chassis, steering, suspension, traction control and powertrain all show exemplary performance. Quick lane

changes at high speeds feel almost deceptively easy, the car does what it is told to do and shakes off lateral forces without any protest.” While the Swedish police will be the first to start using the V90, Volvo Cars sells its police cars in other countries as well. Other police forces that in recent years have used Volvos include Norway, Italy, the UK and the Netherlands. The V90, too, will be made available to any interested police forces around the globe. With the V90 police car, Volvo takes the highly refined driving experience of the award-winning standard V90 to the next level. To transform the premium estate into a suitable emergency vehicle, the Volvo Car Special Products department further develops the car to meet the specific demands of police forces.

For instance, the chassis is made stronger and more dynamic, the brakes and suspension are improved, and the car is fully equipped with all necessary tools and communication-equipment. It takes about a week to transform a standard V90 into a police car at Volvo Cars’ special manufacturing facility in Torslanda, Sweden. Volvo Cars has a long history in providing police cars: as far back as 1929, Swedish police fought crime from behind the wheel of a Volvo. In the decades that followed, classic Volvos such as the Amazon and the 144 also served in police uniform. But more recently, the XC70 and V70 estate cars have been used by police forces. The XC70, too, was the best police car ever tested by Swedish police at the time of its introduction.

Business Directory ACCOUNTING SERVICES

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QUIZ MASTER Experienced quiz-master /question setter with personality. If you would like a quiz master that is entertaining, and is available to host quiz nights in local bars. Tel: 664 838 581.

CHURCH SERVICES Torrevieja Christian Fellowship at Avenida de las Cortes Valencianas 68, Torrevieja 03183, all welcome to their friendly and lively 10.30 am. Service each Sunday morning. Tele: 966700391 or visit our website on www.tcfspain.org.

International Christian Assembly, Calle Pilar de Horadada 5, Torrevieja. Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday services 11am. Children's church 11am.. For more information lease Telephone today: 966 799 273 or 660 127 276.

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TUITION Guitar lessons for beginners, as well as improvers. From Only 10â&#x201A;Ź per hour. Tele 966789612 or Mobile number 629975378.

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SITUATIONS VACENT Solar Power - Sunlife Solar Solutions have vacancies for both a Solar Installation Engineer and a Solar Thermal Engineer (or plumber with pool heating experience). Call 965 271 717 or send your CV to info@sunlifesolarsolutions.com. Insurance Sales - The EasyCover Group have a full time vacancy available in their Torrevieja / La Zenia offices. You must have previous sales experience and have lived locally for at least 5 years. A full time contract is offered to the right candidate. Send your CV and enquiries by email to martin@easyoption.com Kleeneze has now arrived in Spain and we are seeking Independent Distributors in all areas. Contact Claire on 661 856 014 or claire.twigg@hotmail.com Hair Stylist - Flexible hours to suit, Villamartin area, please telephone 966765834. Radio Presenters - If you are a radio presenter looking for a change, or if you are just interested in having the opportunity, contact TKO Radio in confidence by email, admin@tko.media. Radio Sales - RADIO COSTA MEDIA needs self-employed salesperson for Torrevieja & surrounding areas. Call 685 901 265 or please email info@radiocosta.eu Got a vacancy? Advertise it here, on TKO Radio, Facebook and the internet for just 20â&#x201A;Ź, call 966 921 003.

Friday 9th December 2016

RICHARD CAVENDER

BlueMoon Solutions www.bluemoonsolutions.es

BlueMoon Solutions is the computer and IT services company on the Costa Blanca. BlueMoon Solutions comes to you at home or at work. Their personal service covers from Alicante to Pilar de la Horadada.

Richard moved to Spain ten years ago having left his management background behind in the UK and decided to use his IT skills to help home users and small businesses with their PC problems. Now a relaxed 'computer man' he is out and about in the Spanish sun every day, making house and shop calls and using his vast experience and qualifications to sort out the problem there and then. Computers are his hobby as well as his work so don’t be surprised to get an answer to your email in the early hours!

ADVICE: Max was having issues with copy and paste on ADVICE: Peter was having problems with his TV screen connected to his laptop his computer.

Hi Richard. Until recently, I could copy and paste, using both Windows 7 and Windows 10 programmes, from a translation programme in a browser window straight into an e-mail message in Yahoo mail. Now I cannot. Has there been a recent update in Windows 10 which I am unable to control that now prevents me from doing this? If not, how can I access the clipboard to attempt to change its settings? Regards Max

Hi Max, I am not aware of any updates that would stop this functionality and my computer is up to date and works fine with copy and paste. How are you doing it? I find that highlighting the text that you want, pressing CTRL and C to copy and then click where you want to paste the text and press CTRL and V works best for me, perhaps that is something that you haven’t tried, give it a go.

Q. Hi Richard, advice please. I attach a TV screen to my laptop for my eyes. Well, one takes all day to come on, no problem put the spare one on, that works ok for 5 minutes or so, the a sign comes on in the middle of the screen, a black oblong sign with the words "Cannot display this video mode optimum resolution 128x 1024 60 HZ. Have tried everything to shift except a hammer!!! Advice please. Peter

Hi Peter, sorry for the delay in replying. In terms of your monitors, I suspect that the problem you’re having with the second monitor is related to perhaps your screensaver kicking in – does that happen after 5 minutes perhaps? If it does could you try to disable the screensaver and see if the problem persists.

Website:www.bluemoonsolutions.es Email: office@bluemoonsolutions.es Mobile: 655 044 970 NEW: Tel: 965 987 032 Don’t forget, you can follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/bluemoonsolutionsspain/ Alternatively, why don’t you sign up for my newsletter. You can do this by going to:www.bluemoonsolutions.es/newsletter .

SO LD

Friday 9th December 2016

Golf

Friday 9th December 2016

Santa’s Golfing Gift It’s getting to that time of the year when you sit down and write to Santa for all those things you want in your stocking, like cheaper green fees or a promise that they will stop going up! Or a book that you can give to greenkeepers that says how to really treat grass. You may want Santa to wave a magic wand and eliminate slow play, but it could quite easily be, for all that new distance breaking balls clubs or whatever. It’s not just here that slow play has become a time wasting disease as it seems to be happening everywhere, so much so that even the

PGA have had meetings and conferences about it over the years. One of the greatest problems is that concerning sending out groups with too little time between them, thus causing tailbacks in pretty much the same way that happens on a busy road with heavy traffic. So the more vehicles that bunch up together, the slower the traffic moves. In golfing terms, by trying to get an excessive number of players around on a tight schedule, obviously for financial reasons, the course becomes logjammed with groups too close together.

The experience in recent years was that the R&A discovered the truth of this syndrome in the Open and when they extended the gap between starting times up to eleven minutes, the pace of play picked up. Just look at the number of resort courses which book in groups at seven minute intervals in order to increase volume. This system becomes counterproductive as hold ups occur and play gets slower and slower. Other slow play reasons are:• Deep

rough

being

allowed to form in areas where golf balls are likely to get lost. • The newer length of course, often with a considerable walk between green and the next tee. • New technology.

be the cause of hold-ups, and long Par 3’s are played by some like a Par 4 or 5 which slows play.

There are now golfers who can hit the ball further than ever before, because of trampoline effect clubs and hi-tec balls, the shorter Par 4’s, which means they are almost reachable off the tee, which means having to wait for the group in front to get on the green, before teeing off. And in other cases, Par 5’s are almost Par 4’s, which can

1.MANAGEMENT POLICIES: Overcrowding the golf course should be avoided with starting intervals increased. 2.PLAYER ABILITY: Play from the most appropriate tee, and play “ready” golf, that is if it is safe to play and you are ready to play, then do so. 3.M A I N T E N A N C E : Ensure that the length and location of the rough

So a Christmas present to golf is a five- point plan to avoid delays:

avoids numerous lost balls. 4.COURSE DESIGN: Adopt favourable sequences of holes to avoid bottlenecks (an opening Par 5 followed by a difficult Par 3 is a recipe for slow play). 5.PLAYER BEHAVIOUR: Communicate with the players; tell them what is expected of them, like their starting times. To exercise good etiquette at all times, and be ready to play when required. Finally, when players start off with good habits in terms of keeping the match moving along, they never lose their awareness of the pace of play.

Thomas In Charge Sweden’s Thomas Bjorn was named as Europe’s Ryder Cup captain this weekend in their bid rest the famous trophy from America in Paris in 2018. The 45-year-old will be only the fourth man from outside the British Isles to lead the team, after Spanish duo Seve Ballesteros and Jose Maria Olazabal, and Germany's Bernhard Langer. Bjorn, who has been vice-captain four times, was chosen ahead of 1999 Open champion Paul Lawrie. As a player, he was a Ryder Cup winner in 1997, 2002 and 2014, and has won 15 European tour titles. "I have lived and breathed the European Tour for so long, and now I will do the same with the Ryder Cup for the next two years," said Bjorn. "I studied a lot of captains as a player and as a vice-captain and always wondered what that feeling would be like to be the one leading out a team of 12 great players. "Now it's my turn to do just that and it is an exciting moment for me." Bjorn succeeds Northern Ireland's Darren Clarke as Europe's non-playing captain. USA won the Ryder Cup for the first time since 2008 with a 17-11 victory at Hazeltine in October. Masters champion Danny Willett, part of the beaten Europe team, told the BBC: - "Thomas is a well-respected man in our game and on the European Tour. From what I saw from him as vicecaptain, he will make a fantastic captain." The 2018 Ryder Cup will take place at the Paris National from 28-30 September.

The Courier Sport

Pointless Day

Rodriguez Sacked CD Almoradi sacked their manager Fran Rodríguez on Monday on the back of last weekend’s two-nil defeat at Castellon, which saw them now confirmed with just 10 points, and second from bottom in the regional third division, after CD Torrevieja won their appeal over having the three points taken away from them in their opening day encounter. The defeat at Castellon and Torry’s successful appeal led the Almoradi board and president Paco Albaladejo to take prompt action to dismiss Rodríguez, who earlier this year led the side back to the regional third division, after a gap of 19 years. Rodríguez said goodbye to the players on Monday, with the board thanking him for his efforts, but saying that

CD CASTELLON 2 CD ALMORADI 0

needed a change to turnround Almoradi’s results. They were also mindful of yesterday’s(Thursday) bank holiday home encounter against fellowstrugglers Buñol, which quickly assumed the status

of a must-win match, ahead of another crucial relegation clash at Muro on Sunday. No names have been mentioned to take over from Rodríguez, who said that the side had played well at times, but just didn’t

Wet And Miserable

get the results they deserved, and he understood the board’s decision. He said that it was unfortunate that a number of new signings that he had lined up didn’t join the club for a variety of reasons.

CD TORREVIEJA 0 RECAMBIOS COLON 0 Manager Pedreno completed his four match ban in the stand, but his frustration continued, as despite some intricate and slick passing, goal scoring opportunities were at a premium. On the plus side, Slovakian debutant Ivan Pecha formed a good central defensive partnership with Calzado and it was only Torry’s third clean sheet this season. That was no mean achievement, as Recambios were virtually encamped in the Torry half in the early stages of the match, with Buba as good as ever in goal Torry were a bit better in the second half against a side

who have conceded the most goals in the third division, and that was mainly down to Robles coming on as a substitute, and he belied belief when heading back across goal a ball he should have buried in the net when only seven yards from the target. Only once was Coronado in the Colon goal asked to exert himself, and that simply was not good enough from the Torry perspective against a team a few points above them in the table. Torrevieja entertain Paterna this Sunday with a 5.00 pm kick-off, on the back of yesterday’s (Thursday) holiday clash at Crevillente.

Quino’s Double Thader continued to stay fourth in the Preferente group four table with last Sunday’s victory against relegationthreatened Cox. It was another Thader match that was switched from their Rojales home because of the reseeding of the municipal pitch, and was played out at San Fulgencio. Both goals came from Quino (pictured), in the 22nd and 55th minutes, with Cox battling hard, but Thader always seemed to have the edge, and now have a big clash this Sunday away to second placed Hercules B, which could in turn see Thader go second themselves.

CD COX 0 CD THADER 2

Almoradi’s long trip to Castellon last weekend ended up in defeat against a side in good form, with the club announcing the following day that it had been the last match in charge for coach Fran Rodriquez, ahead of two crucial relegation clashes. Castellon were in control for most of the time on Sunday, and took the lead with a Lolo Ivars penalty in the 13th minute, after the ball

Inspiring Vaz A fabulous overhead kick from Vaz just before half-time helped to give Montesinos a fine win at a rain-sodden Orihuela ground on Sunday. It took Monte half an hour to really get going with a string of chances, before Vaz spectacularly struck in the 43rd minute. From a short corner, the ball was whipped in and with his back to goal, Vaz sent an

The pouring rain matched the quality of the football served up at the Nelson Mandela stadium last Sunday evening, but at least it was another point for Torry, who missed the cutting edge of Pastor, who was out due to injury, with the crocked Hugo also continuing to be sidelined. At least they entered the match with the big boost of having been re-awarded the three points (on appeal to the Administrative Court of Sport) that they had been stripped of from the opening fixture with Almoradi, having been accused of fielding an ineligible player.

Friday 9th December 2016

had struck the hand of Luis from a corner. Five minutes later, Obele had Almoradi’s best chance of the first half, but Castellon doubled their advantage through Chema in the 68th minute. To Almoradi’s credit, they fought hard in the closing quarter of the match, and Castellon keeper Sabater was kept busy saving from Saul and then from subsitute Gonzalo with three minutes left.

POPULAR ORIHUELA 1 CD MONTESINOS 2

overhead kick into the net. Popular started to get more into the match in the second half, though at the other end in the 65th minute, Popular keeper, Alvaro Franco made two good saves. It looked like Carlos Levante made the match safe when in the 80th minute, he ran through the home defence to stroke the ball home. Monte then missed an

open goal to make it three, but there were some last minute jitters as Popular, through Ángel Tovar, scrambled the ball over the line to make it two-one, Then, at the other end, subsitiute Carlos Vertura blasted the ball wide when he just had Alvaro Franco to beat. This Sunday Montesinos entertain Deportivo Orihuela with a 4.15 pm kick-off.

Marco On Target

Friday 9th December 2016

Easy At Nou Camp

The Courier Sport

Away Day Blues

REAL MADRID 2 BORUSSIA DORTMUND 2 Marco Reus's dramatic equaliser, two minutes from time, ensured Borussia Dortmund beat holders Real Madrid to top spot in Champions League Group F with a pulsating draw on Wednesday. With both sides already qualified, a double from Karim Benzema looked to have Real well set to leapfrog Dortmund and secure a home tie in the second leg of their last-16 tie. However, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang reduced the arrears before substitute Reus slid in to turn Aubameyang's dangerous low cross high into the net. A point does at least ensure Madrid match a club record 34 games unbeaten in all competitions. The last 16 draw will take place on Monday.

Ramos Late Show

BARCELONA 4 BORUSSIA MUNCH 0 Barcelona easily defeated Borussia Monchengladbach on Tuesday to match the 20-goal scoring record in the Champions League group stage, but Lionel Messi fell short of equalling Cristiano Ronaldo's 11-goal mark in the first phase of the tournament. Messi's 10th goal and Arda Turan's hat trick helped Barcelona reach 20 goals in this season's group stage, a feat achieved only three other times in the past, including by the Catalan club in 2011-12.

Ronaldo Backed

Ladies In Spain

BARCELONA 1 REAL MADRID 1 A late Sergio Ramos header stole a point for Real Madrid in Saturday's El Clasico as they drew with Barcelona at the Nou Camp. The visitors shaded the goalless opening period as Luis Enrique's men failed to find their groove, but they made the breakthrough in the 53rd minute as Luis Suarez headed home from a Neymar free-kick. Barca had a number of chances to add more to their tally throughout the second half, but were punished on the stroke of full time, as Ramos met a Luka Modric free-kick to see the points shared in the clash of the La Liga titans. The draw sees Barcelona remain six points behind Real at the top of the table, but they will rue failing to see out a muchneeded victory. Barcelona coach Luis Enrique was disappointed to have let the victory, and the chance to cut the deficit to three points, slip away from his side. "We deserved to win. We could have closed the game out, we had it in our hands, but we have not achieved it," he said. "In my opinion, the performance of the team was higher than that of the rival, but we have to improve, it is clear. I say this even when we win, and even when we draw. We can improve in all aspects of the game. We are ambitious." Real are chasing their first league title since 2012 but with just 14 matches played, Sergio Ramos is not looking too far ahead. He told Real's website: "The points difference is reward for the hard work we've been doing since the start of the season. We mustn't get carried away because there's still a long way to go in La Liga, but it's better to have it in our own hands than to depend on others." Ramos felt his goal was no more than his side deserved, adding: "The team did a great job and worked hard. The score was an unfair reflection and then a great cross from (Luka) Modric created this fantastic goal. "The hard work has reaped rewards and it's better to get one point than nothing at all. We have to keep picking up points and maintaining the gap from Barcelona." Both Real Madrid and Barcelona play tomorrow(Saturday), with Real Madrid at home to Deportivo in the evening after Barcelona’s lunchtime encounter at Osasuna.

MIRANDES 1 ELCHE 0 For the sixth time in this current Segunda division campaign, Elche have failed to record successive victories, as they went down at the bottom club last weekend in what is turning out to be an incredibly tight league table. The standings resemble that of a concertina where everybody is bunched together, and victory would have brought Elche right amongst the promotion chasing group. Such is the table, the Ilicitanos are still three points off the play-off group, but they are only three points clear of the relegation area. Mirandes had not won for nine matches and the usual trick of sacking the manager produced a much-need victory for them, as Maikel Mesa got the only goal of the match in the 25th minute, as he was set up with a good pass to easily beat Elche keeper Germán. Though Pelayo could have put the Ilicitanos ahead in the fifth minute with a shot that just went wide, the visitors had little to offer up front against Mirandes, who looked more likely to score, and certainly had more of the possession in the first half. Guillermo came on in the second half for Elche who showed some more purpose and created some half-chances, as the Mirandes defence then tightened up, and towards the end they asked some questions of Germán in the Elche goal. Elche play Getafe this Saturday afternoon with a 5.00 pm, with the Ilicitanos fans wondering kind of performance and result will be produced by their schizophrenic team!

Real Madrid launched a staunch defence of Cristiano Ronaldo on Tuesday following the recent allegations of tax evasion. The Portuguese three-time World Player of the Year has been accused of hiding millions of euros earned from image rights in tax havens. A statement read: "In light of the information published in recent days and the certificate released by the Spanish tax agency which shows our player Cristiano Ronaldo is up to date with all his tax obligations, Real Madrid demand the maximum respect for a player like Cristiano Ronaldo." The statement added that his "behaviour has been exemplary during his entire time at our club". The newspaper El Confidencial, quoting documentation from the Football Leaks website, alleged the former Manchester United forward had benefited from keeping assets in a tax haven. The website said the footballer of the year favourite had used Irish-based Multisports & Image Management Limited to ramp down his tax burden below what he would have been subject to in Spain. Gestifute, the company run by Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes, defended his action with a statement released on December 2nd saying he had respected "fully his obligations regarding Spanish authorities". Meanwhile the provincial prosecutor in Madrid on Wednesday confirmed that former Real Madrid players, Xabi Alonso, Ricardo Carvalho and Angel Di Maria were to be charged with offences of tax avoidance. The prosecutor also confirmed that investigations against former Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester United striker, Radamel Falcao and Real Madrid's Portuguese left back Fabio Coentrao have also been opened to see if they have committed fiscal offenses.

The England Women’s football team will play friendlies against Sweden and Norway in the Murcia region next month. Mark Sampson's side will warm-up for next summer's European Championships by taking on Norway at La Manga on Sunday January 22 and then two days later, they will take on Sweden at the Pinatar Arena in San Pedro. England defeated Norway 2-1 in the last 16 of the 2015 World Cup, with goals from Steph Houghton and Lucy Bronze, before going on to finish third at the tournament. Sampson said: "These matches will be a vital part of our preparation for the Euros on and off the pitch. Sweden and Norway are excellent sides who will both be considered contenders for European Championship. They will provide tough tests for us and we'll need to be playing at our best in these games.”

The Courier Sport With John McGregor

Saturday Stonkers

A Class Act

47 FIXTURES Friday 9th December 2016 SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP 20:45 Brighton & Hove Albion v Leeds United LADBROKES SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP 20:45 Partick Thistle v Celtic

As well as Leicester v Man City (see back page), there’s some real belters come Saturday: early doors it’s a heady Watford v Everton, both not doing badly; can improving-at-last Stoke upset Alexis Sanchez-fuelled Arsenal at the Emirates (what a hat-trick from the Chilean last week against West Ham!). Burnley v Bournemouth in mid-table looks interesting, while worried-andnow-in-the-bottom-three Hull nervously entertain won-at-last Crystal Palace. Deep down in the Dreaded Drop Department, is a savage six-pointer: Swansea hosting Sunderland is crucial for both strugglers.

SUPER SUNDAY

Four points clear at the top and going superbly, this Sunday lunchtime Chelsea entertain difficult-to-beat West Brom. The Baggies are surprising everyone by sitting in seventh heaven – well done the evergreen Tony Pulis. Later in the Red corner of Manchester is a titanic clash - Man United at home to Spurs, that’s fifth playing sixth with no quarter asked or given: neither can afford to lose this one. Southampton v Middlesborough looks a good game to win with both needing points - but finally to end this thrilling weekend on a huge high, its Liverpool v West Ham at Anfield. The Reds are still reeling from somehow losing that thriller four-three at Bournemouth after comprehensively leading threeone. Poor old Slaven Bilic has just been given the dreaded endorsement of his position from above at the questioning London Stadium - now all he needs is a positive result – and the best of luck, Hammers, you’ll need it!

Champions Draw

Manchester City, Arsenal and Leicester City are all through to the knock-out stages of the last 16 waving the Premier League flag, whilst for La Liga, we have Barcelona and Real Madrid (reports opposite on page 46) along with Atletico Madrid and Sevilla. Making up the rest for Monday morning’s draw, we have PSG, Benfica, Napoli, Bayern Munich, Monaco, Bayer Leverkusen, Borussia Dortmund, Porto, and Juventus. With Spurs coming third in Group E, they are into the last 32 of the Europa League with the draw on Monday lunchtime, with hopefully Manchester United and Southampton joining them, depending on last night’s crucial results. The knock-out stages for both competitions don’t start until February.

Like many of my fellow football writers I haven’t been kind to David Luiz. Two years ago Chelsea sold the Brazilian defender for a then record £50m to the French money-no-object club Paris St Germaine, and then amazingly bought him back for £30m last year. Why, we all thought – and wrote, crazy, he’s not that good…. You see, your Luiz doesn’t fit the usual stereotypical British central defender, especially in the John Terry mould, the man he has now replaced – a hugely difficult act to follow, club captain JT is a legend at Stamford Bridge. But Luiz is firstly a footballer, not just a defender, with excellent ball control as you would expect from a Brazilian. He is very fast, and comes out of defence with excellent distribution. The trademark wild dreadlocks flow out over a pale, acne complexion, and indeed it would be difficult to guess his nationality if you didn’t know. David was in the Brazilian side humiliated in his native country at the last World Cup, getting slaughtered firstly seven-one by Germany in the semi-final, and then rightly by their own press and distraught fans in a country where football is a religion. Such memories will be engrained deep by all concerned for a very long time. The terribly tragic news last week of the Brazilian football team destroyed in a plane crash, Manchester United Munich-style, was particularly evident in the faces of all the Brazilian footballers at the weekend, Every UK match held a minute’s respectful silence before the games started, all players wearing black arm bands. David Luiz’s head was deep down in sorrow, the pain he felt clearly went very deep. But on Saturday lunchtime following the starting whistle, it was immediately back to work for the big man as the new Premier League leaders took on mighty Man City at the awesome Etihad stadium. City, along with Liverpool, represent the Blues’ chief rivals for this year’s title – and wow, what a game, it had everything. City led, and could/should have wrapped it up several times, but back came Chelsea – with a vengeance. It’s said that City’s phenomenal (Argentine) striker Sergio Agüero and David Luiz don’t get on and have history between them, no real surprise there given their nationalities - but a huge home roar went up as at one-nil, Luiz professionally body-checked Agüero’s run on goal - but the ref was having none of it. On we stormingly went, as back came Chelsea with one, two and killingly three good goals to see off a disbelieving City team and their stunned fans. Finally the match erupted in ‘injury’ time, with two City players sent off as tempers blew. Significantly it was Agüero on Luiz with a disgusting career-threatening knee-high tackle, which dutifully kicked off a passionate melee with others from each side involved: City’s Fernandinho was sent off as well as Agüero, with others lucky not to accompany them. Cut to minutes after the final whistle and a totally calm David Luiz is being interviewed on TV, along with Chelsea’s previously bad boy Diego Costa. The Royal Blues’ amazingly-reformed striker manfully led the fight back against City, scoring the first and making the second. To Costa’s disrespect, he still can’t speak English confidently after two years, so surprisingly David Luiz brilliantly translated Costa’s Spanish to English. Not a word of condemnation was offered by Luiz against Aguero who could easily have ended his career, Roy Keane/Alf Inge Haarland style. The Brazilian seemed to reflect the matter as ‘all in a day’s work’ and instead preferred to pay tribute to the men who died in the plane crash, and their families back in his native country. Living and plying his trade in the UK, David Luiz is far from home, a much-travelled man who goes about his job with dignity in a profession sadly not known for it especially here at the moment where horrible stories of child abuse in football are coming out. No, make no mistake this Brazilian is a star, and David Luiz personally deserves a big share of the credit for the dramatic reversal of Chelsea’s misfortunes, on sensational Saturday taking the Blues four points clear of their nearest rivals at the pinnacle of English football.

PREMIER LEAGUE 13:30 Watford v Everton 16:00 Arsenal v Stoke City 16:00 Burnley v Bournemouth 16:00 Hull City v Crystal Palace 16:00 Swansea City v Sunderland 18:30 Leicester City v Manchester City SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP 16:00 Aston Villa v Wigan Athletic 16:00 Barnsley v Norwich City 16:00 Brentford v Burton Albion 16:00 Huddersfield Town v Bristol City 16:00 Ipswich Town v Cardiff City 16:00 Newcastle United v Birmingham City 16:00 Reading v Sheffield Wednesday 16:00 Rotherham United v Queens Park Rangers 16:00 Wolverhampton Wanderers v Fulham 18:30 Preston North End v Blackburn Rovers LADBROKES SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP 16:00 Aberdeen v St Johnstone 16:00 Dundee v Ross County 16:00 Inverness Caledonian Thistle v Hamilton Academical 16:00 Motherwell v Kilmarnock 16:00 Rangers v Heart of Midlothian SKY BET LEAGUE ONE 14:00 Milton Keynes Dons v AFC Wimbledon 16:00 Bradford City v Charlton Athletic 16:00 Bristol Rovers v Bury 16:00 Fleetwood Town v Walsall 16:00 Millwall v Shrewsbury Town 16:00 Oxford United v Oldham Athletic 16:00 Peterborough United v Chesterfield 16:00 Port Vale v Northampton Town 16:00 Rochdale v Scunthorpe United 16:00 Sheffield United v Swindon Town 16:00 Southend United v Coventry City SKY BET LEAGUE TWO 16:00 Cheltenham Town v Exeter City 16:00 Crewe Alexandra v Crawley Town 16:00 Grimsby Town v Portsmouth 16:00 Hartlepool United v Cambridge United 16:00 Leyton Orient v Accrington Stanley 16:00 Luton Town v Carlisle United 16:00 Mansfield Town v Colchester United 16:00 Newport County v Morecambe 16:00 Notts County v Wycombe Wanderers 16:00 Plymouth Argyle v Doncaster Rovers 16:00 Stevenage v Blackpool 16:00 Yeovil Town v Barnet LADBROKES SCOTTISH CHAMPIONSHIP 16:00 Ayr United v Dundee United 16:00 Dunfermline Athletic v Greenock Morton 16:00 Falkirk v Queen of the South 16:00 Hibernian v Dumbarton 16:00 St Mirren v Raith Rovers LADBROKES SCOTTISH LEAGUE ONE 16:00 Airdrieonians v Stenhousemuir 16:00 Peterhead v Alloa Athletic 16:00 Queen's Park v Albion Rovers 16:00 Stranraer v Livingston 18:15 Brechin City v East Fife LADBROKES SCOTTISH LEAGUE TWO 16:00 Annan Athletic v Cowdenbeath 16:00 Edinburgh City v Stirling Albion 16:00 Elgin City v Berwick Rangers 16:00 Forfar Athletic v Arbroath 16:00 Montrose v Clyde Sunday 11th December 2016 PREMIER LEAGUE 13:00 Chelsea v West Bromwich Albion 15:15 Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur 15:15 Southampton v Middlesbrough 17:30 Liverpool v West Ham United SKY BET CHAMPIONSHIP 13:00 Derby County v Nottingham Forest Monday 12th December 2016 SKY BET LEAGUE ONE 21:00 Bolton Wanderers v Gillingham

For the rest of the week´s listings, visit the website, thecourier.es

Information correct at time of publication but subject to change at short notice.

Saturday 10th December 2016

spaper/ /couriernew m o .c k o o b Face

DOWN UNDER BRITS

www.TheCourier.es

World number one Andy Murray and Johanna Konta will lead a contingent of six British singles players at the Australian Open next month. They will be joined by Kyle Edmund, Dan Evans, Heather Watson and Naomi Broady who all have direct entry for the tournament which starts in Melbourne on January 16th.

JADE’S TEMPTED

Double Olympic taekwondo champion Jade Jones make a big-money move to MMA - mixed martial arts after the Tokyo 2020 Games. Jones, 23, defended her Olympic crown at Rio 2016 and is aiming to become the first fighter in history to win three Olympic gold medals in the sport. She competes in the World Taekwondo Grand Prix finals in Baku tomorrow (Saturday). "I'm not going to lie, it's tempting to think 'what else is out there' and in MMA people earn millions," she said.

A TALE OF TWO CITIES It’s a big blue Premier league battle tomorrow evening (Saturday), writes JOHN MCGREGOR, as the reigning “chumpions” Leicester City sitting nervously in 16th place host a badly-wounded Manchester City. The Mancunian Blues are still licking their wounds after the mauling inflicted by Chelsea last weekend. The East Midland Blues are still sailing stalwartly along qualifying for the Champions League knock-out stages, but they just can’t get it right in the Prem, going down again two-one on Saturday to spirited Sunderland - the Black Cats were sooo grateful for the three points that spark hope, once again at the Stadium of Light. Sure, mightily-expensive Man City are still in Europe too – and still spending. Last week the oily-rich club splashed out another £27m for Brazilian teenage striker Gabriel Jesus, but now with the serious suspensions of key players Sergio Agüero (four matches) and Fernandinho (three matches), manager Pep Guardiola has particularly pressing problems as City have sunk lately to an unacceptable fourth position. The Mancunians are hopeful that Raheem Sterling will be fit for the match, with Foxes defender Danny Wilson saying that his players are ready to silence their critics (both pictured in their encounter last year). So get ready for another bitter all Blue battle at the King Stadium – don’t miss it! There’s more from the Prem on page 47.

THE COURIER No.1 for SPORT! All the action p 43-47