The Courier Week 100 by TKO UK

Edition 100

www.thecourier.es

Friday, January 18, 2013

TRIAL BY FURY TVchief hits back in El Raso ‘council estate’ row EXCLUSIVE by DONNA GEE

THE WILD SIDE

THE director of a controversial ITV1 documentary in which El Raso was jokingly described as ‘council estate in the sun’ has defended the negativity which left local residents and business chiefs fuming.

DEBORAH LOVETT, who directed ITV’s ‘Trouble Abroad’ series for Wild Pictures, gives her side of the argument

In an exclusive statement to The Courier, Deborah Lovett of Wild Pictures insisted the comment was made ‘‘in the context of how living on the complex was like living in Britain and that you would not know that you were in Spain’’. The documentary, ‘Trouble Abroad’, followed the fortunes – or the misfortunes – of expats in Spain, France and the USA. One of the people featured was Rayz Bar tenant Claire Tyson (pictured), who agreed to participate believing the programme would be looking at the positive side of living abroad. But the end product, shown on primetime TV last Thursday, painted a picture of gloom and doom – and reinforced the ‘council estate’ wisecrack with shots of empty streets and a torn canopy fluttering. Furious residents contacted ITV to complain, while directors of the two property companies at El Raso insisted the urbanisation remained one of the most desirable in the region among

home hunters. But Ms Lovett, who directed the twodocumentary series, sees it differently. “When I walked around I did see many empty commercial properties, including the bar next to Claire,’’ she wrote. “I do not dispute that it (El Raso) may still be one of the most desirable places to live and that local sales may be better than elsewhere, but it has, like all of Spain, felt the impact of the recession.’’ The section of ‘Trouble Abroad’ about Claire Tyson was recorded by Wild Pictures for ITV over a nine-day period, during which she was constantly followed by cameras. The Courier understands she was not paid for appearing. A couple of months later, Claire walked out of Rayz suddenly and flew home to her native Essex, where she told a local newspaper recently: “I left

Continued on Page 3

THE documentary was looking at how Claire had been affected by and was trying to survive the recession in Spain, which was severe: Unemployment rate of 25% (The Daily Mail and The Guardian). 2 million unsold properties.. house prices dropped 31% since financial crisis of 2008 (The Guardian). Claire herself talks about the impact of the recession on the urbanisation: “Go back 5-6 years and it was a buzzing urbanisation, and I’ve watched it in the five years turn completely the other way”. When I walked around I did see many empty commercial properties, including the bar next to Claire. I do not dispute that it may still be one of the most desirable places to live and that local sales may be better than elsewhere, but it has, like all of Spain felt the impact of the recession. ‘The End Of The Dream’ (The Guardian) backs up Claire’s observations and mentions El Raso as one of the places that the British ex-pats left in the recession. The estate agent you mentioned in your email say themselves on their website that “2012

Continued on Page 6

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Friday, January 18, 2013

Are you a snapper? Do you have a great photo? Send it to design@thecourier.es and if we think it is good enough we will publish it as our Picture of the Week TELEPHONE

It was a lovely evening as the sun set at Punta Prima and this photograph seems to capture it. Can you see a face in the cloud?. He also has a big nose. Looks like he's ready to blow the houses away. Photo by Maureen Thorley

96 692 1003 679 096 309 965 99 66 66 E-MAIL office@thecourier.es WEB www.thecourier.es HEAD OFFICE Calle Luis Canovas Martinez 1. Urb Aguas Nuevas, Torrevieja 03183, ALICANTE PHONE: 96 692 1003 Email: office@thecourier.es OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri 1030 to 1730 CONSULTANT EDITOR Donna Gee ADVERTISING SALES 966 921 003 office@thecourier.es TELESALES 966 921 003 679 096 309 Sally Los Alcazares, San Javier 618 391 491 Myra Quesada, Rojales, Torrevieja, San Miguel Tel. 618 583 765 Jean La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Cabo Roig Tel. 618 898 034 Janine 616 332 178 Patrick International Rep 5 Languages Tel 685 901 265 Writers Donna Gee Sally Bengtsson Jeanette Erath Alex Trelinski Dave Silver Tony Mayes Heidi Wardman John McGregor

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Picture of the Week

JUNGLE DRUMS

A matter of interest PAYBACK TIME FOR TORREVIEJA OVER INVESTMENT THAT DIDN’T GO TO PLAN By HEIDI WARDMAN THE Spanish Government has demanded a refund of €15,354 from Torrevieja City Council following payment of a grant through the Excellence in Tourism Plan which was not all invested as proposed. The plan was developed between 2001 and 2003 and designed to improve the quality of tourism services, improve the urban and natural environment, expand and enhance public areas, and diversify and increase public services. In Torrevieja, the plan incorporated, among other things, the construction of the ‘exclusive’ mud spa close to the salt lakes, installation of bird watching cameras in the Natural Park and the creation of the aromatic centre, each designed to improve and modernise the city’s tourism industry. The recent Ministry for Industry and Tourism report reveals that of the €1,562,631 awarded to the city, only €1,523,885 was accounted for,

leaving a deficit of £38,746. A recent report conducted by Turespaña, an agency of the Ministry for Industry and Tourism, examines spending during the third phase of the Excellence Plan. It reveals that of the total €1, 562,631 awarded to the city, only €1,523,885 was accounted for, leaving a deficit of €38,746. The plan was partly funded by

Central, Regional and Local Government in proportions of 33%, and now Turespaña intends to reclaim its investment of €12,915, plus interest on arrears from the original completion date, with the Regional Government also expected to demand a refund of its share. Torrevieja did not benefit greatly from the investment, which many residents believe was a scheme

Vehicles stolen

designed to attract international investors to the area. Much controversy has historically surrounded construction of the colossal mud spa (pictured), where work was paralysed and the project abandoned prior to completion in 2006. This was due to its being situated beside the protected salt lakes, without prior approval by the General Directorate of Coasts of the Ministry for the Environment. The oversight sparked immense criticism, as one of the main objectives of the Excellence Plan was "to safeguard strict compliance with urban and regional planning legislation" in municipalities which were in receipt of finance. In March 2012, fire caused severe damage to the external wooden structure of the deteriorating shell, which has now become an unsightly blot on the landscape. In contrast to the mud spa, the aromatic park, situated in Torreblanca, and designed by architect Carme Pinós, has become one of the valuable green

Silver Ford Torneo Reg 9680 DPT and a Black Ford Fiesta Reg 7952 FRC. Stolen the weekend of 6th January. Reward given. 626 397 397

Friday Cloudy High 14° Low 12° Chance of rain 50% Monday Sunny High 18° Low 6° Chance of rain 0%

Tuesday Showers High 16° Low 5° Chance of rain 60%

Saturday Showers High 16° Low 8° Chance of rain 60% Wednesday Sunny High 15° Low 3° Chance of rain 0%

Sunday Windy High 15° Low 8° Chance of rain 0% Thursday Showers High 14° Lo 4° Chance of rain 60%

Friday, January 18, 2013

EXPAT DRIVERS FACE 10-YEAR MEDICALS

NEW laws forcing expat drivers to undergo a medical examination come into force this weekend. All British motorists under the age of 65 will have to take a medical every 10 years from this weekend following a new EU directive. Drivers over 65, however, will be required to take the test every FIVE years. The medical examination will be a sight, hearing and co-ordination test in the form of a computer-

based driving simulation. Drivers can keep their UK licence, but must notify the DVLA of their Spanish residency and still be able to declare a UK address as their permanent residence. According to the new directive, a permanent residence is a place where a person usually lives for at least 185 days of the year. Conversion to a Spanish licence can be completed at the time of taking the medical examination, however, should expat drivers wish to do so.

58m visitors boost ailing economy

Apart from coming in greater numbers, tourists also left more money behind. Average spending per individual visitor rose by 2.7 percent to €968, while average spending per day was up 6.8 percent at €109 euros. Total spending amounted to €55.7 billion, an increase of 5.9 percent over 2011. Traditional markets such as Spain, German and France held up well, while there was a notable increase in visitors from emerging markets such as Russia, Brazil, China and India.

From Page One

here, they would have been lynched! “ We were led to believe that Claire was supposed to be a success story and due to her going back to the UK they have turned it in to a failure. “Tracy no longer works here but has sent me a message via Facebook to say how sorry she is and that her comments were said tongue in cheek and no harm was intended. “On a positive note, 12 people who have never been here before just come in to see the bar that was on TV and purchased food and drink. It´s true what they say - there's no such thing as bad publicity."¨

TRIAL BY FURY

without saying goodbye. I had so many customers. It would have broken my heart because they were like my family.’’ Nevertheless, her abrupt departure still rankles with former friends and colleagues. And that bitterness added to the feelings prompted by the negativity of ‘Trouble Abroad’. Carol Buchan, the new tenant at Rayz and a former member of Claire’s staff, revealed: ‘‘We watched the programme here with about 20 regulars and they were all disgusted with the editing. And if Tracy (the waitress who made the ‘council estate’ comment) or Claire had been

Prime Minister (€90,000) and the President of the Valencian Community (€77,000), according to official auditors. During 2010, his last year as President of the Council, Ripoll pocketed €141,248. This was shortly before his arrest for irregularities in the allocation of waste disposal contracts across the Vega Baja. Ripoll remains Head of Ports for Alicante, and in spite of the six cases pending against him, still takes home a tidy €78,000 per year. Between 2003 and 2011, his average annual salary remained consistently high at €100,000.

RESCUED BY THE A job to FOREIGN LEGION treasure

THE Spanish tourism industry continued to provide support for the ailing domestic economy in 2012 - a year in which GDP dropped 1.3 percent, leaving over a quarter of the working population out of a job. According to figures released on Wednesday by the Industry, Energy and Tourism Ministry, 57.6 million overseas visitors flocked to Spain last year, an increase of one million over 2010. That was the third biggest figure on record. “The year 2012 was a good one of tourism,” Industry Minister José Manuel Soria said.

LIFE IN SPAIN FORMER Alicante provincial governq ment President Joaquín Ripoll received a higher salary than the Spanish

FORMER Popular Party treasurer Luis Bárcenas had a bank account in Switzerland with an average balance of 15 MILLION EUROS, according to an ongoing investigation into the kickbacks-for-contracts Gürtel scandal in which a number of high-ranking PP officials have been implicated. The latest development in the corruption probe emerged from a request for information sent to the Swiss authorities by Pablo Ruz, the judge investigating the case, Pablo Ruz. After Bárcenas was officially implicated in the Gürtel probe in 2009, the former PP senator withdrew the funds from the account, transferring them to another one in the name of a company called Tedesul. The initial account was with a branch of Dresdner Bank in Geneva in the name of a Panamanian company called Sinequanon, controlled by Bárcenas. At the end of 2007, the amount deposited was 22 million euros, falling to 11.8 million in October 2009. Judge Ruz has asked for more information on the account. Bárcenas and his wife face charges of tax fraud and of receiving illegal payoffs in connection with the Gürtel ring controlled by businessman Francisco Correa. A number of top PP officials in Madrid and Valencia have also been officially targeted in the probe.

The National Police in Cantabria have busted an organised gang accused of robbing clothing stores across the country. Eight people from Bilbao were arrested during the operation, code-named Ali Baba tw, who all reside in the Basque city of Bilbao. The gang is believed to have conducted 12 robberies in Santander, the Basque Country, La Rioja and Miranda Ebro (Burgos), taking advantage of stores which did not secure their main security grills during the siesta closing period. Gang members allegedly packed stolen goods into suitcases, which were later transported out of the country to Algeria, where they were sold.

THE Valencian Government has announced more cuts in the Health sector, this time affecting people with disabilities. It has withdrawn funding for medication, technical aids and orthopaedic products for people with disabilities, who are over the age of 18 and with a degree of disability of 65% or more. The ruling will also affect children under 18 with disabilities of over 33%, who were previously exempt from charges for these treatments. Health Centre staff have also been instructed not to issue new SIP health cards to people with disabilities, unless they fit the new criteria. Nearly 44 ,000 Alicante residents will be affected by this cut.

LOCAL Police and fire-fighters called out by a Romanian woman in Torrevieja found she had dropped the title deeds to her house between the rocks that line the Paseo Juan Aparicio promenade. The firemen tried for over an hour to recover the papers, and eventually used a fisherman’s hook to complete the job. Asked for her name, the woman answered,“The Whore of Revelation” . The fire service made the revelation that its services available for such a rescue operation, although special Tariffs apply.

SOME 60.9% of children aged between 9 and 14 living in the Valencian Community own their own mobile phone. Of these, 39% use their mobile to connect to social networks or chat, while 27.5% browse the internet every day. The figures were revealed in a survey conducted by the Valencian Association of Consumers and Users.

Friday, January 18, 2013

CLARO open door to Lorente as Mayor MORE than 100 people attended last Friday’s inauguration of CLARO’s new Help and Information Office s on the first floor of the Asturias Restaurant in Punta Prima. Orihuela Costa residents of many nationalities, business owners, the press and television and PP Councillors Monica Lorente, Peppa Ferrando, David Costa and Jose Aniorte also attended. CLARO President Bob Houliston said the participation of ‘’future Mayoress of Orihuela” Lorente and her PP colleagues symbolised the joint determination of the PP and CLARO to replace the minority threeparty government with a PP-CLARO majority which would provide stable and coherent government to Orihuela and Orihuela Costa.

This was an urgent and important requirement which would benefit all. The new office will be open from 11am to 1pm, Monday to Friday, and will offer help and advice to residents on all administrative matters. The traditional open-to-all Friday meetings will continue from today (January 18) on the ground floor of the Asturias Restaurant, but will be held in the evening rather than the morning to enable those who work to participate. The English-speaking group will meet from 5pm to 6.30pm and the group for Spanish speakers from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. In these meetings, matters of current interest are discussed and Councillor Houliston provides news and analysis of political developments.

Bob Houliston cuts the ribbon at the inauguration of the new CLARO office

MERC KID, 13, IN 500-MILE EURO DRIVE IN DAD’S CAR

A 13-year-old boy, who lives in Italy with his adoptive parents, took his father's Mercedes and drove more than 500 miles across Europe in an apparent attempt to reach his birth family in Poland, Italian police said on Saturday. He set off last Thursday afternoon from the small town of Pederobba, in northern Italy, with €200 in his pocket, and drove the high-powered automatic car for almost 24 hours before being stopped by German police on a motorway near Leipzig. "The boy's sister and

natural parents are in Poland and it seems he was going there to meet his sister," said an Italian police spokeswoman. Media reports said the boy had an argument on Thursday afternoon with his adoptive mother. "The boy has told his parents he is sorry and has recognised he was in the wrong," the spokeswoman said, adding that he was on his way back to Italy. According to newspaper reports the boy loves cars and is an expert go-kart driver.

No matter where you are, or what you are doing, life will always have its little hiccups. So its good to know that help is only a phone call away…. Allianz Seguros is one of the leading companies in the country’s insurance market. With 142 branches and 10 collaborating agents nationwide, clients can rest assured that they will receive the best possible service standards, from a corporate network that defines professionalism. Geli Perez has been responsible for the branch in San Miguel de Salinas since 2004. An expert in the field of health care, Geli was a valued member of the Health Council, and is a prominent figure in the local community. She previously offered translation support at San Miguel Health Centre during two days per week, and was involved in the Real Estate industry in Torrevieja prior to that. Now, in her role with Allianz, taking care of her clients, and offering them the best possible insurance solutions to suit their needs is of paramount importance. The products and services provided at Allianz cater for both personal and business needs, offering flexible life, motor, home, accident, health and dental insur-

ance packages, as well as assistance with financial services and pensions. As part of their commitment to their clients, the company collaborates with some of the world’s most esteemed corporations in each field, delivering innovative support and advice with maximum efficiency. Allianz appreciates that disaster can strike anywhere in the world, and at any time of the day. Therefore, their Customer Service advisers work round the clock, providing emergency attention exactly when it is needed, even if travelling overseas. In view of recent changes in access to Healthcare across the Valencian Community, it is vitally important to ensure that you and your family are covered. And with minimal monthly premiums, and tailor- made packages to suit every budget, Allianz is certainly the smartest choice. All of this, alongside of continued piece of mind that you are in safe hands, is at your finger tips. So why not call in to see Geli today and discover how she can help to safeguard your future. For further information or to make an appointment, please telephone 965 720 973.

Protect Yourself the Allianz Way

Friday, January 18, 2013

editor@thecourier.es COURIER POSTBAG: YOUR VIEWS ON OUR NEWS

An evening to remember I AM very pleased that everyone enjoyed the Cabalgata which was held for the third time in Orihuela Costa last Saturday evening. A lot of hard work goes into organising such an event behind the scenes and you are always anxious to know if it will be well received by the neighbours. However, if the feedback we have received is anything to go by, then the young ones and the young at heart had a great evening! Such a successful evening would not have been possible without the support of some associations in Orihuela Costa and the AMPAS (the parents´ associations from our three schools), especially Ana Maria and Txomin from AMPA Los Dolses, Cati and Lilia from AMPA IES Playa Flamenca,

Sonia from AMPA Playa de Orihuela, Lisa from OC Avanza, Brendan, Jim and Chris from Cabo Roig Traders Association, Maria Wilson and The Pink Ladies, The Royal British Legion, Thomas Herteux from Fresco, Ruth Kingsbury and her dance group and the Orihuela Costa Playgroup – a very big thank you to all these groups. Our thanks also to various other associations and individuals who came out in force to support us. A special word of thanks also to the management and staff of our new shopping centre, La Zenia Boulevard, for their co-operation and assistance. Being able to finish the parade there put the icing on the cake as it was the perfect location in terms of safety and security to bring

so many residents together with their children where they could wait to meet and hand their letters to the Three Kings which made the evening even more magical for the youngsters. Once again a very big thank you to everyone and to the neighbours of Orihuela Costa for making this an unforgettable evening! PEDRO MANCEBO, Councillor for the Coast, Tourism and Infrastructure JUST wanted to say how much we enjoyed the carol concert in Orihuela. We really thought it was a super event and a privilege to be in such a beautiful cathedral with such a wonderful standard of music. Many thanks. GILL & COLIN AITKEN.

MONICA THE MANTIS WILL EAT YOU, BOB! I AM sickened by Bob Houliston’s latest comments at the inauguration of a new rented room reported in this week’s papers. I joined CLARO in the early days when it stood for something good, now it stands chest deep in filth alongside the Orihuela PP wasters. I used to be proud to be a member of this party but now I am ashamed to see what it has become. I am so disappointed that after we elected him, Bob did nothing to help the coast, he quickly deserted his post. Every week he bombards us in the newspapers with negativity and excuses for his failure to perform. Like others, I joined this party out of disgust for the way that the PP neglected the coast. Bob is so infatuated with Monica Lorente, famous for her photo opportunity visits. The photo here shows only four people; Bob always overstates the numbers in attendance but

Development in decline? El Raso is in great shape

over 100? In my 5¼ years as a member I never saw 100 members; in fact I don’t believe that CLARO has 100 members. As a former member, this photo says it all. Monica Lorente is laughing at how she tricked gullible Bob, even though she has been rejected as president of her own PP. She mesmerised Bob and his dwindling band of admirers into believing she supports them but she is using him and CLARO. She will suck them dry and then dump them.

Is Bob’s eyesight so dim that he cannot see that he is being used? Monica Lorente is the human version of a Preying Mantis. If a person has a town hall problem, they would be best served to speak to an official at the town hall. It does not make sense for anybody to go to an upstairs room in a restaurant to speak to a powerless councillor who deserted his post a year ago JUDITH WEBB, Playa Flamenca

After watching the ITV television programme Trouble Abroad running down Spain and in particular El Raso, having lived on El Raso for over seven years and running an estate agency there, I feel qualified to add my point of view. The whole world has experienced this recession but in my opinion Spain has done rather better than most countries. Look at our local area with the new hospital in Torrevieja, all the new and improved roads, the new terminal at Alicante airport and the expanding electrification of our rail network. As estate agents, we have seen a huge increase in the many different nationalities wanting to buy property here and in particular El Raso. When I get a Norwegian, Belgian or Russian family email me saying they have been told by friends how beautiful El Raso is and what have I

available to show them, I wonder where the phrase “council estate in the sun “ came from. Rayz bar is still open and the bar next door has been very tastefully renovated by the new owners and both appear to be doing well despite the quiet time of year. Dave at Ruby’s bar has plans in place for a full renovation this year and we now have a new a new restaurant, Sofia’s, open and offering live music twice a week. Does this sound like a development in decline? I am very optimistic for the future here in Spain and when you look at the terrible weather back in the UK, I know where I would rather be. PHILLIP SMIRK, El Raso

El Raso: The Wild side of the story From Page One

Claire Tyson

has seen some of the lowest property prices on the Costa Blanca since the millennium”. I think the ‘a council estate in the sun” comment was made in the context of how

living on the complex was like living in Britain and that you would not know that you were in Spain. As for Claire being a success story. I wanted to film Claire because she was

plucky and determined. The documentary followed her as she came up with inventive ways to survive. I did indeed (like she did) think that by the time the film went out she would still be

running the bar and that would be our ending. Her return to the UK took me and I believe Claire by surprise, but that was the truth. On the end placard I did attribute this also to

her homesickness, which she talks of throughout the film. I think all of the characters we chose to follow; including Claire, saved this from being a purely negative documentary.

They were all determined, engaging and enterprising people who had been brave enough to chase their dream and were trying to survive in countries hit hard by the worldwide recession.

Friday, January 18, 2013

A twist in the TV tale Up for the challenge: Claire in her early days at Rayz bar

I KNOW first- hand how unscrupulous newspa- lost the Spanish property market half its annual sales. to Brits. Millions of ITV1 viewers were told by Claire that the pers can distort reality to stir up controversy. Those of us who tuned in last Thursday to Trouble Abroad, ITV1’s look at the struggles of expatriot life, discovered that television cameras can twist facts even more glaringly. In fact, a canny director can do just about anything to distort reality. Even make a spacious tree-lined development of upmarket villas look like Beirut after a civil war. Well, perhaps not quite that grotty – but certainly scally-in-the-alley territory. According to series director Deborah Lovett, the intention was to focus on bubbly Essex girl Claire Tyson’s struggle to make a success of running Rayz Bar in a bleak economic climate. Unfortunately filming ended some weeks before the most dramatic event of last summer, Ms Tyson’s sudden return to the UK. Until then, she had been a popular figure in the El Raso community – but it rankled with some when she left without saying goodbye to her staff, who tell me she’s never been in touch to this day. Claire insists the emotion of saying farewell to her friends would have distressed her too much. Make your own judgement on that one – I prefer to remember the effervescent personality whose infectious laugh was always, you might say, a Rayz of Sunshine. Unfortunately, those Rayz clouded over when one of Claire’s waitresses announced on camera that El Raso was like ‘a council estate in the sun’. Cameras panned across empty streets, focused on a lone torn canopy – and in a few seconds of primetime TV probably

DUMPY OLD GRAN’S SPONSORED DIET

After 7 days: 90.8kilos (93.2), 200lb (205), 14st 4lb (14st 9.5lb)

Down we go! MINE’S A THIN AND TONIC I’M not quite ready for the catwalk, but I’m strutting around like a peacock (or should that be a peahen?) after the first week of my sponsored diet. Well, wouldn’t you be if you’d got rid of 2.4 kilos of greasy blubber? That’s 5.3lbs less than I weighed on January 10, the start of my battle to shed at least 35lbs. I stepped on the scales at the Beauty and Wellness Centre on Wednesday quietly confident that I’d shed at least a couple of kilos. OK, I admit I nipped onto my very unreliable bathroom scales at home to get an inkling of where I was up (or down) to. And they had told me much the same thing. Privately, I had been hoping to lose at least 3lb in those first seven days. In reality, I lost 5.4lbs. The joy of that achievement was countered by finding out later that I was still marginally over that horrendous

200lbs landmark...albeit by WEEK ONE LOSS just a couple of ounces. So, how did I change my eating habits during the first week? Well, basically I just ate less. I have never been a big fan of weight-loading carbs like chips, pasta, bread and fried rice but if I like something, I will happily have a second helping. And it’s rare for me not to clear the plate. I also love chocolate and biscuits...but the only sweet thing to pass between my lips now is me whistling the Welsh national anthem. Well, trying to anyway! Anyway, despite the joy of Week One, I’m not getting carried away. (‘That’s because no-one can lift her’, did I hear someone say?’) I still have a mountain to climb to get myself back into some sort of human shape (yes, I feel like a cross between Mrs Blobby and the Michelin Gran). But nothing will stop me now - not least because I have an extra motivation.

2.4 kilos

My 13-year-old granddaughter Daisy, who suffers from Crohn’s Disease, is currrently on morphine in Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool after being admitted over the weekend in severe pain. It’s the latest setback in a chronicle of suffering and lost childhood as she enters her third month off school. While Crohn’s is currently incurable, researchers are working to find an antidote and I want to help them to help kids like poor Daisy. Those 2.4 lost kilos have provided a new platform from which to continue my Up and Down Campaign, as I think of it. The Down is where I want my weight to go and the Up is to raise at least £500 for CICRA, the Crohn’s in Children Research Association. If anyone would like to donate, no matter how little, you can do it online at https://www. just giving.com/Donna-Gee Many thanks in advance -

https://www.justgiving.com/Donna-Gee

once-buzzing El Raso urbanisation had been abandoned en masse by the geriatric British community. We all know that wasn’t true - and itis even less so today. estate agents Property Choice, whose office is next door to Rayz Bar, say El Raso is so popular with buyers of all nationalities that there’s virtually nothing left for sale on the urbanisation. The social scene is also thriving, with two new bar/restaurants having opened since Claire left. OK, things were less salubrious when the cameras were making Trouble Abroad a year ago. But when researchers started touting for potential participants in the two-part documentary, there was no mention of the series title. Indeed, the emphasis was on this being a POSITIVE look at expat life. I know little about the company that made the series for ITV, apart from the fact they are either short of money or unbelievably mean. A year ago, I helped them to find a suitable local subject for the series and was happy to give them editorial space in The Courier. Yet they claimed they couldn’t afford even 15 euros for an advert (advertising being this newspaper’s only meaningful source of income).. I also understand Claire was not paid for the nine exhausting days the cameras followed her around, intruding into every aspect of her life. With so many people all too eager for those fabled 15 minutes of fame, I’m not surprised the programme makers kept their hands in their pockets. But you can bet ITV were left counting the Costa their bill – bigtime.

Friday, January 18, 2013

THROWAWAY DARTS

WE'RE not allowed to play darts in the pub any more. It is allegedly too dangerous. So says Dave the barman, who for reasons of public safety ruled that it would be best if he locked away the solitary set of steel-tipped arrows in his secret wall safe behind the savoury snacks display. Dave tried to do the same with the pub's dartboard but it was too big to fit in the safe. So he left the board hanging on the wall as a memorial to less restrictive times and also, we suspected, as a reminder of the firm but amiable authority he exercises over his ramshackle clientele. 'It's a shame about the darts ban,' commented Ol' Red Eyes during one of his rare conscious moments. 'I used to enjoy a good game of throwers.' 'That was the main reason I stopped it,' Dave the barman informed us. 'I couldn't risk Ol' Red Eyes wounding anybody else.' Daft Barry scratched his

head in puzzlement. 'But I don't recall Ol' Red Eyes ever sticking a dart in anyone. I might be wrong -- I usually am because I'm daft -- but I cannot remember any such bloodletting episode in this boozer.' It was my turn to scratch Daft Barry's head in bewilderment. 'Barry's quite right,' I said. 'Ol' Red Eyes has never drawn blood with a wildly offcourse arrow.' Ol' Red Eyes raised one eyelid and sort of glared at Dave the barman. 'I agree for once with those two crackpots. I certainly have no memory of such an i n c i d e n t although I admit that

these days I have no memory of much of anything.' Dave the barman sighed. 'I'm talking about the occasion Ol' Red Eyes stepped up to the oche, fell asleep as he took aim and slumped comatose onto the floor, still clutching his darts.' 'So where was the safety hazard?' I asked. 'Ol' Red Eyes never hurts himself when he hits the deck. That's because his body is in a permanently relaxed state.' 'But I wasn't talking about Ol' Red Eyes being injured,' pointed out Dave the barman. 'That wasn't the reason we summoned the paramedics.' The mention of the ambulance folk produced a light bulb moment in the dark recesses of my brain. 'Now I remember!' I exclaimed. 'That was the night of the great glasses mix-up.' Dave the barman assumed an aggrieved look. 'What mix-up? I've never made a

mistake serving you lot.' 'Not drinking glasses,' I said. 'I'm talking spectacles here. Ol' Red Eyes was parted from his specs when he flaked out on the floor -- as was the unfortunate customer who tripped over his prostrate form. In the ensuing chaos each man inadvertently put on the other guy's glasses.' I continued the story. 'Ol' Red Eyes found that his vision had suddenly altered dramatically and he sank back into a stupor. The other bloke likewise couldn't see properly and he staggered outside and straight into a lamp post. That was why we phoned 999 for the meat wagon. Why can't any of you lot remember?' And then another light bulb came on in my head. 'Hang on a minute! Just WHERE were you lot that night? I can only recall myself, Dave the barman, Ol' Red Eyes and the soon-to-be concussed customer being on the premises. Apart from those aforementioned four, there was

nobody else in the inn.' Dave the barman announced solemnly: 'I cannot tell a lie. The majority of the pub regulars were enjoying a knees-up in the community hall for Bountiful Brenda's wedding reception. Brenda didn't want Ol' Red Eyes there because he's the one relative she won't talk to. And I wasn't there because I couldn't afford to shut the pub. 'As for the concussed customer, that was the marriage registrar who'd nipped in here after the nuptials for a swift refresher. Let's face it, the unfortunate fellow probably needed a snifter after spending 20 minutes in Bountiful Brenda's presence. 'And then the poor feller ended up being rushed to hospital after his pavement accident. I believe he was still wearing Ol' Red Eyes' glasses on his shattered nose when he arrived at A&E.' I slammed my palm onto the bar. 'Forget the silly sod who walked into the lamp post!' I cried. 'What about

me? Why wasn't I invited to Bountiful Brenda's wedding?' 'Er,' said Dave the barman. 'I think the general consensus among your pub mates and Bountiful Brenda's family was that you tend to jabber all the time and finish up getting on everybody's nerves. Nothing personal, of course.' There was another uneasy silence. And then Ol' Red Eyes emerged from his latest doze. And he wasn't best pleased. 'Do you mean to tell me that for the past 18 months I've been wearing somebody else's glasses! It's no wonder my expertise at darts has suffered. Now will somebody please crack the secret safe behind the savoury snacks display and hand me the arrows. 'I challenge any of you to a game -- apart from Boring Dave Silver, that is. Just remove my ill-fitting specs and point me towards the dartboard. 'But first,' he yawned, sinking to the floor, 'I think a power nap is in order.'

Friday, January 18, 2013

SAY IT IN SPANISH Learn the lingo - with a little help from JEANETTE ERATH Spanish 54 This week we are going to be learning some more uses for verbs in idiomatic expressions, the verbs we are going to look at are: dar, haber, hacer and tener. There will be some revision involved in some of these uses which I hope you will notice as we go through them. We are going to continue to use the verbs in the present tense but they can in the right context be used in other tenses. Dar – to give Dar un abrazo – to hug, embrace : Le da un abrazo a su amigo – he hugs his friend Dar gritos – to shout : La multitud da gritos – the crowd shouts Dar la hora – to strike the hour : El reloj da las dos – the clock strikes two. Haber – to have hay que + infinitive which is from the verb haber and means to be necessary (to express obligation). Hay que estudiar para aprender – It is necessary to study in order to learn Haber sol – to be sunny : Hay sol por la mañana – it is sunny in the morning Haber niebla – to be foggy : Hay niebla esta mañana – it´s foggy this morning Hacer – to make / to do Hacer in relation to weather: hacer calor/fresco – to be hot/cool : hace fresco – it is cool, no hace calor – it´s not hot hacer viento – to be windy : hace viento – it´s windy Hacer in other expressions: hacer un viaje – to take a trip : Juan hace un viaje a España – John takes a trip to Spain

hacer una visita – to pay a visit : Mario visita a su hermano – Mario visits his sister hacer daño – to harm/damage : beber mucha agua no te hace daño – drinking a lot of water doesn´t harm you. Hacer caso a – to pay attention to / to notice : los niños no hacen caso al maestro – the children do not pay attention to the teacher. Hacer el papel de – to play the role of : El actor hace el papel de Hamlet – the actor plays the role of Hamlet. Tener – to have We have already covered tener + que when we are talking about an obligation, for example, tengo que ir a la tienda – I have to go to the shop. We have also covered tener in relation to how we are feeling, for example tengo hambre, tengo sed, tienes razón. Tener la culpa (de) – to be to blame : el hombre tiene la culpa de este accidente – the man is to blame for this accident tener lugar – to take place : La reunión tiene lugar los domingos – the meeting takes place on Sundays.

La mujer tiene hambre

We are going to do some homework now to check you have understood the above lesson: Join up the correct letter with the correct number, for example if (a) is ´I want to eat´ it should join with whichever number corresponds to ´I am hungry´: (a) bebo dos vasos de agua, (b) estoy en lo cierto, (c) quiero dormir, (d) tengo diez minutos y nada más, (e) voy a ver mi amiga, (f) soy inocente (1) tengo sueño, (2) Hago una visita, (3) tengo sed, (4) tengo razón, (5) no tengo la culpa, (6) tengo prisa

Now translate the following into Spanish: It is not foggy this morning, the clock strikes eleven thirty, The people shout, the players give a hug to the goalkeeper, it is windy in the countryside, I visit my country every year, we have to leave now, are you hungry?, I am not correct, my friend is in a hurry, you have to make the bed every day. I always visit my family in July. I will be leading you through another year of learning Spanish and we will be moving on to other tenses of verbs soon, however there will be plenty of revision to check your learning, there is no point trying to walk before you can run and there is a lot to learn with anything new, but especially with a new language. Please ensure your knowledge is up to standard before trying to move on with the lessons, remeber these lessons can be cut out and kept and also accessed online, along with any past lessons. It has taken me five years now of learning Spanish whenever I get the opportunity to reach the level I am now at, there are no short cuts and no easy ways, it is all down to hard work and the old addage you get out what you put in, but also learning Spanish is fun and when it comes together it is the best feeling in the world. Have a great week and I´ll see you next Friday with the answers.

Friday, January 18, 2013

WHY DO THEY DO THAT? Top dog psychologist PETER SINGH writes exclusively for The Courier. Check out www.thedogyouneed.com or email Peter at peter@thedogyouneed.com

THE STORM BEFORE THE CALM (Continued from last week)

THE day finally arrived when Peter would come into my house and join all the dots. He talked about the usual type of things - nutrition, exercise, and affection. I also knew that the girls weren’t getting enough exercise, but this was the vicious circle that I was caught up in. I hated, dreaded taking them for a walk, I would be tense and have that little movie of a cat jumping out of the bushes. Affection, well I love my girls dearly so they got plenty of that. What I was unaware of is I was actually rewarding them probably 90% of the time for bad, unwanted behaviour! It is difficult to come to terms with not talking to them, not touching them unless they are calm, but when you see the effects of a silent conversation, a finger click, the look they give you as if reading your mind and then carrying out the instruction, it is mind blowing. Peter also talked about the modern world and the distractions of TV, music, computers etc. It made me question the TV I watch and what it could be doing, i.e. feeding the tension, the stress. It was now time for a bit of practical work. I had been relaxed and calm until this point. My heart started to race and the tension had returned. Peter took the girls and showed me what calm in him looked like and then what the reflection in the girls looked like. I had been "demanding" calm whilst giving out tension. The girls knew if they sat down they would get their leads on and that meant outside, cats, excitement! When Peter did it, the girls just stood there, they didn’t need to sit, and they were just calm. Peter showed me how to leave the house through every exit (living room door, front door, and gateway) in a calm, leadership way. There was no darting ahead, they respectfully waited and then proceeded to walk calmly down the road. It was amazing to see, my two girls could actually do it.

They were doing it with Peter! Then came my turn to take Belle (my nervous reflection and the stronger of the two). I was shaking, straight away she started to pull ahead, the calmness had left her, she was on guard again!! Peter showed me how to gently correct her. She responded and I was amazed again. Peter then asked me to walk a few yards with both of them. Fear descended upon me. What if a cat appeared? They were on slip rope leads, no gentle leader, no control. Again Peter was there to reassure me all would be fine, so what if I made a mistake? We walked down the street and the girls were perfect, kept to my side, needing one, maybe two corrections. We turned back and walked to Peter. When Peter asked me how did that feel?’’ I just cried, I couldn’t believe I had done it, it was so simple and so wonderful, freedom to enjoy my two wonderful girls. The next morning I awoke, feeling more awake than usual. I was excited and terrified, could I actually relive the moment, could I walk my girls without Peter being behind or beside me? I decided to strike while the iron was hot and go for our walk. I was in a calm frame of mind. I got the leads and waited for the girls to calm down. It took no time at all. We walked through all the exits, me clearly and calmly in front. The girls were a little giddy, but after using a quick correction, all was fine. For the rest of the day, I couldn’t watch TV which was unusual as I was normally a couch potato, the words of Peter were still working their way through my brain. I had energy and didn’t want to waste it in front of the TV. I played with my son and his friend, I can’t even remember the last time I did that, possibly even never!! I laughed so much over the simple things; I was in a great mood. In the summer due to the high level of stress I was under at work, and the pressure of getting ready to go on holiday (doesn’t make sense does it!!) I got a bad case of TMJ - temporomandibular joint, where my bottom jaw took on a will of its own and swung to the left of its own accord whilst I was speaking. I had to go to the doctors whilst on holiday and was

prescribed a short course of anti-inflammatory and valium. The valium was for use at night to prevent any clenching. It seemed to work, but after the course of treatment had finished it returned to a lesser extent than before. I had at this point returned back to the UK and visited my GP. The only treatment available was a course of anti-depressants. I reluctantly got the tablets, but resisted taking them, I thought I would prefer to live with the now tightness in my jaw, than become reliant on these drugs which take a month to kick in anyway. Since speaking to Peter a week ago and working on calm, the tightness has practically gone. I mentioned this to my partner and he was amazed as he thought I’d started taking the tablets about a month ago and that they had finally "kicked" in. He had noticed a real difference in my mood, attitude and general being! So not only was the change noticeable to me internally, it was starting to show externally too. I have spent the evening listening to an old CD that I put together years ago. I have heard all the songs on it a million times, but I don’t think my mind was ever open to really listen. It is funny as practically every song (M People, Van Morrison, Sting, Tom Jones, Madonna, varied taste!!) have some powerful words about striving for goals, power of self, sky is the limit, self belief etc, these actually mean something now, the positive messages are being let through as the inner critic has been quietened!! Peter is a wonderful man, he has brought me freedom and peace, he has opened the door of opportunity, change and wonder, not only for me, but my whole family, my work colleagues and potentially anyone I pass on the street. I am so glad that I found him and that he has helped me get my life into a calm enjoyable state that now I can start living. In the words of Black Eyed Peas: "I'd change the world if I could change my mind. If I could live beyond my fears. Exchanging unity for all my insecurity. Exchanging laughter for my tears"

PETS’ CORNER: CAN YOU TAKE IN A HOMELESS DOG OR CAT? Mouse was found in a terrible state in November in the Spanish countryside. Her ear tips were torn and bleeding and her tail was protruding from the skin. She has now had treatment and has recovered very well. Transport & passport can be arranged for travel to the UK if needed. She is an amazing dog who is looking for her forever home. If you can help, please contact Marianne at rottiesrock61@hotmail.co.uk

Mouse

Paddy and Martha Paddy and Martha are 11 weeks old, they were found on a doorstep at just 6 days old, Paddy and Martha love to be cuddled. They have had both injections. We are also looking for foster homes for our other puppies, all costs are covered by APAH. 616210850

Leo is a year and a half old. He was found under a tree when he was 8 weeks old. Leo would love to go to a home that already has another dog as he doesn't like to be on his own. He has been chipped, castrated and vaccinated. 616210850

Apollo is a year and a half old. When found he was in very good condition but when he was examined by our vet they found that his previous owners had cut his vocal chords. He has been castrated, micro-chipped and vaccinated. 616210850

Macho was brought to us with his sisters when they were just a week old and had to be bottle fed, he is now 9 weeks old and ready for a home. Call: 645 469 253. www.petsinspain.com

Leo

Apollo

Macho

Jackson is a handsome 1 year old Podenco, he is vaccinated, chipped and has his pet passport. Jackson is very friendly and gentle, walks well on the lead and loves to be with you. Call: 659 274 573. www.petsinspain.com

Jackson

BONNIE 1 OF 7 PUPS Looking for homes. Please contact K9 or PHONE 600 84 54 20 for more info. The K9 Club Please call: 600 84 54 20

Bonnie

Friday, January 18, 2013

Línea Directa reports: HOW TO COMPLETE AN ACCIDENT REPORT FORM • This document is essential for determining who is responsible for a traffic accident, which has a direct effect on the price that customers pay when renewing their insurance.

What is an accident report form? An accident report form is a document which outlines the circumstances which have occurred in a car accident. In addition to the personal details of the drivers and their vehicles, the document includes a jointly agreed description of the manoeuvres carried out by the drivers when the accident took place, which plays a key role in determining who is responsible for a traffic accident.

How should it be completed? Línea Directa offers the following advice to complete the form: 1. Columns A and B (blue and yellow), are for the personal details of the drivers and their vehicles. 2. In section 12, (Circumstances) the numbered column on the left describes the manoeuvres of car A and the one on the right those of car B. If you are unsure which box to mark, leave it blank. Make a drawing of the accident in section 13 indicating the manoeuvre of each car. 3. If anybody has been injured or if you think they might have been injured, complete section 24. 4. If there is more than one car involved in the accident, also complete section 23, on the reverse side of the form, and include it in the sketch. 5. Sign the form and keep a copy.

Call now for more information on 902 123 104

Friday, January 18, 2013

CHANGING TIMES

I HAVE been taking the occasional English language class at a school in Elche and during one lesson with an advanced group I asked the students what they think will have been invented in 20 years’ time that seems impossible or improbable now. As they thought, I started to talk about the old days and how much things have changed, in particular in the past 20 years. The oldest students were only 22 so they had no idea what I was reminiscing about, As we chatted, many childhood memories came back to me, I don’t believe technology can possibly move on as quickly as it has in the past 20 years ever again, with the advent of the Internet and CD´s and DVDs, from huge mobile phones to tiny ones that now have screens you can watch anything on, there cannot surely be quite as significant a leap ever again. I remember a conversation I had many times in my late teens. My house had no landline telephone until I was 16 and at sixth-form college – and when we did get one I remember finishing a call and remarking to a friend that it would be cool if we could actually see the person we were talking to. Of course, 25 years ago

that seemed like a dream, an impossibility, yet look at technology now! We not only see and chat with friends and family all over the world but, apart from the Internet fees, we don´t even have to pay for the privilege. I also reminisced about how Disney films were re-released on video one at a time, and each new re-release was eagerly anticipated. So unlike today when all you have to do to find a film is go to one of many websites and download it or watch it there and then. There are now vacuum cleaners that work on their own, coffee machines that make one cup at a time, you can check-in for flights without having to queue and there is someone available (for a price) to arrange everything from your wedding to what colour curtains will look best in your lounge. The students tried to think about the future and the only thing they could imagine was something I remem-

ber thinking would be possible 20 years ago but still isn´t quite. And that´s a robot to do whatever you need. Part of the lesson was to get the students thinking about their future careers and always trying to be the first with a new idea, to always thinking outside the box and stretching their minds. This is something I think we can all do from time to time. Learning a language, playing chess or doing sudoku are all ways to keep our brains active; another is to use it to imagine, to dream and maybe even to act on those dreams. After all 2013 has the potential to be anyone’s year, but in order for it to be your year you have to be the one going out to get what you want. Nothing will fall in your lap and, in any case, something worked for somehow brings its own level of satisfaction. I hear so many times people berating their lives, how terrible everything is, how much they deserve to be doing better, yet they are doing nothing to make it happen. People these days somehow think things will fall into their lap. Maybe that is fallout from this technological age where everything really is so easy. People are maybe lulled into thinking that life will somehow download for them to live without them having to try to think about anything. But we know life isn´t like that. Everything I have achieved over the past couple of years has been because I went out there and made it happen. I applied for jobs I wanted, I went for online dating, I am going walking and eating healthier to make sure I fit into my swimsuit in the summer. No one is going to get me a job, a man or a swimsuit-ready body apart from me. And no one will do what you need for you, either. Use technology of course, don´t fight it, but also don´t expect technology to live your life for you. Life is far too precious to just hand it over to a machine.

Friday, January 18, 2013

THE petrol bandits continue to cock a snook at the Spanish government, despite having a good old snog-in with the mandarins from Madrid last year. You’ll remember The Courier reporting that a minister met the Spanish oil barons and asked them about such unsavoury topics as price-fixing and why every filling station in a particular area seems to have the same tariffs. And of course there’s the old favourite as to why, when crude oil prices go up, pump prices shoot up overnight, whilst it doesn’t seem to happen the other way round. The meeting, as we all thought at the time, was a waste of time, and nothing has changed, short of profits continuing to rise for the oil companies. I calculate that, based on the 10 per cent improvement on the Euro rate

ADDING FIRE TO THE FUEL against the Dollar in recent weeks, and a crude oil price of around $110 par barrel, we ought to be paying around 120 cents for a litre of diesel. We were paying 140 cents at the pumps a year ago (the same price as now), when the crude oil price was $125 a barrel and the Euro exchange rate with the US dollar was poor. Even factoring in

national and regional IVA fuel rises, it doesn’t take a genius to work out that we are being ripped off, and be it Spain, Swaziland, or Switzerland, these wealthy companies are just taking the proverbial out of everybody, with the spineless national governments doing nothing about it. But then, we do know about many a deal being sorted out behind closed doors, with an odd contract being given out in return for the old palms being greased by the proverbial. I just need to mention Blair, Brown, a large tent and a former Libyan dictator! Ed Miliband has said sorry a number of times over what happened when Labour were in power in the UK, most notably over the shambolic war in Iraq. Last weekend he made a major speech to the Fabian Society when he trashed New Labour for not doing enough for ordinary people, and not listening to their concerns over immigration. Miliband’s comments reminded me of the crass way Gordon Brown treated a Rochdale lady’s comments on immigration during the 2010 Election campaign, and how he humiliatingly had to grovel an apology to her, in her own sitting room. What Miliband proposes to do about the subject remains to be seen, but we’ve had countless promises from opposition parties to reduce the influx of immigrants into the UK, and

nothing has happened. Didn’t David Cameron have a heated exchange with Brown in the 2010 leader debates, promising large reductions in the figures if he should come to power, or did I just dream that particular pledge? Self-interest is the primary instinct for most politicians and they are

never turkeys that vote for Christmas. Take the European Parliament and all the MEPs that go to Brussels for the debates there. They had a great chance to show a bit of modesty in this current economic climate by voting in economy air and rail travel as opposed to first-class options.

Why then was I not surprised when the proposal was heavily voted down, with just four out of 41 Spanish MEPs supporting the measure? So much for setting an example, but credit to the UKIP members who stuck to their guns in voting for the cut. A guy from London, who has lived in Southern Spain for some six years has launched an online petition to get a better deal for the Brits living over here. Peter Johnson wants a Westminster MP to be given the governmental responsibility of representing expats living across Europe. He apparently isn’t happy about paying UK taxes on his private pension, but I politely suggest to him that he’s totally unrealistic in an idea that will get zero sympathy back in Britain. Everybody there has the view that we are all knocking back bottles of champagne on a nightly basis along with our lobster dinners, whilst admiring the views on our 40-acre fincas. Nice try Mr.Johnson, but I sense deaf ears – more than 60 million pairs of them!

Friday, January 18, 2013

HEALTHY ASIANINSPIRED RECIPES

Ni hao food lovers! Here are some comforting yet healthy recipes which are Asian-inspired, all low in calories but high in taste. Pork and prawn wonton soup

vinegar, to taste 5. 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, to taste 6. 2 spring onions, finely sliced For the wontons 1. 150g pork, minced 2. 150g medium prawns, shelled, deveined and finely chopped 3. 1 large spring onion, finely chopped 4. 1.5cm piece fresh ginger, grated 5. 1 tbsp light soy sauce 6. 1 tbsp rice wine 7. 1 tsp sesame oil 8. 2 tsp cornflour 9. 16 wonton wrappers

Method This soup makes a wonderful starter or light meal. You can buy wonton wrappers at any Chinese supermarket (they’re usually found in the chiller cabinet or freezer). The wontons are cooked and served in a light broth – which is both healthy and tasty.

Ingredients 1. 500ml vegetable stock 2. ½ small Chinese leaf lettuce (about 100g), cut into 1cm slices 3. 4 dried (and soaked for 10 minutes) or fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced 4. 1-2 tbsp each light soy sauce and rice

1. Mix all the wonton filling ingredients in a bowl. Put 1 teaspoon of filling in the centre of each wonton wrapper. Brush a little water along the edges of each wrapper, then gather the corners into the centre and twist to form small, sealed dumpling parcels. 2. Pour the stock and 500ml boiling water into a large pan and bring to the boil. Add the dumplings, 1 at a time, and cook for 5 minutes, until they expand and float to the surface. 3. Add the Chinese leaf and cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the shiitake mushrooms. Season the broth to taste using the light

soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil and a pinch of ground white pepper. 4. To serve, ladle 4 dumplings into each bowl with some soup and vegetables. Scatter with sliced spring onions and serve immediately.

Beef and bok choi noodles It's not only low in calories, this Chineseinspired dish is quick, simple, healthy and filling.

Ingredients 1. 225g dried medium egg noodles 2. 300g lean beef steak, such as sirloin or fillet, trimmed of all fat 3. 1 tbsp light soy sauce 4. 1 tbsp oyster sauce 5. 2 tbsp Chinese rice wine 6. 2 tsp rice wine vinegar 7. 1 tsp sunflower oil 8. 5cm piece fresh ginger, cut into 9. fine matchsticks 10. 4 small heads bok choi, cut into wide strips 11. Bunch spring onions, trimmed and cut on the diagonal into 1cm slices 12. 100g beansprouts 13. 1 tsp toasted sesame oil

Method 1. Bring a large pan of lightly salted water

to the boil. Add the noodles and cook for 4 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside. 2. Cut the steak into thin slices, about 2cm wide. Spread out on a plate and season. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine and vinegar. Set aside. 3. Heat the oil in a wok or large, non-stick deep frying pan over a high heat. Add the steak and stir-fry for 1 minute, until just cooked. Lift out with a slotted spoon and set aside. Add the ginger, bok choi, spring onions and beansprouts. Stir-fry for 1 minute. 4. Return the beef to the pan along with the noodles, soy and oyster sauce mixture and the toasted sesame oil. Briefly toss

Friday, January 18, 2013

together, until heated through. Serve in warmed shallow bowls.

Char siu pork on steamed pak choi Pak choi is the Cantonese name for Chinese chard or white cabbage – ‘white’ because of its stem

Ingredients 1. 600g pork fillet 2. 300g baby pak choi, whole (or larger pak choi halved lengthways) 3. 1 spring onion, sliced, to garnish 4. For the marinade 5. 2 garlic cloves, crushed and finely chopped 6. 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger 7. 50ml light soy sauce 8. 50ml rice wine 9. 3 tbsp light muscovado sugar 10. 1 tbsp hoi sin sauce 11. 2 tbsp yellow bean sauce 12. 1 tbsp vegetable oil 13. 60ml honey

Method 1. Cut slashes into the pork. Combine marinade ingredients and marinate the pork for as long as possible, ideally overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6. Remove pork from marinade and place on a rack over a roasting tin. Reserve marinade. Pour hot water into the tin to fill halfway. Roast for 20 minutes, turn the pork over and brush well with some marinade. Reduce the oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4 and roast for 20 minutes more. Turn

off the oven but leave the pork inside, covered with foil, to keep hot. 3. Bring a little water to the boil in a wok or saucepan – make sure a steamer will fit in the wok without the base being submerged in water. Put pak choi in the steamer, cover and steam for 11/2-2 minutes (3-4 minutes if using larger pak choi). 4. Bring remaining marinade to the boil, then remove from the heat. 5. Arrange the pak choi on plates. Slice the pork and place on the pak choi. Drizzle with the hot sauce and garnish with the spring onion.

Yellow pepper and black bean stir-fry Dramatic colours and a barely cooked crunchiness make this a perfect stir-fry. Spoon over a mound of rice or serve it next to a simply grilled piece of pork or chicken. The stirfry would also be great with a barbecue. You needn’t stick to yellow peppers – mix and match the colours, if you like.

Ingredients 1. 2 tbsp salted black beans (from Asian grocers) or black bean sauce 2. 2 tbsp sherry vinegar 3. 1 tbsp honey 4. 1 tbsp soy sauce 5. 2 tbsp vegetable oil 6. 2 large (or 3 medium) yellow peppers, deseeded and roughly sliced 7. 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped 8. 1cm piece fresh ginger, finely chopped 9. 2 red onions, cut into thin wedges 10. Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish

Method 1. If using the black beans, soak them in 250ml hot

water for about 10 minutes, then drain and rinse thoroughly. Transfer to a pestle and mortar or a sturdy bowl and crush them roughly. Mix them (or the black bean sauce, if using) with the vinegar, honey and soy sauce, and set aside. 2. Put the oil in a wok or large frying pan over a high heat. When hot, add the peppers and stirfry for a few minutes, until they just start to colour. Add the garlic, ginger and onions and stir-fry for a few more minutes, until the onions have softened a little. 3. Add the soy sauce and bean mixture to the wok and stir-fry for about 30 seconds. Check the seasoning, remove from the heat and serve, garnished with the coriander leaves.

Continued on Page 18

Friday, January 18, 2013

Chicken, pasta and butter bean ramen This deliciously healthy recipe makes an easy Asianstyle soup for two in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients 600ml chicken stock, hot 2 skinless chicken breasts, sliced 75g dried spaghetti, broken into short lengths 410g can butter beans, drained and rinsed Good handful of halved cherry tomatoes 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely sliced Handful of chopped fresh parsley 2 tbsp Chinese rice wine Sesame oil, for drizzling

Method 1. Pour the stock into a large saucepan. Bring to the boil over a medium heat, then add the chicken breasts and spaghetti. Simmer, partially covered, for 5 minutes. 2. Stir in the butter beans, tomatoes and chilli. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the chicken and spaghetti are cooked. 3. Season and stir in the parsley. Divide between deep bowls and serve with crusty bread.

Honey-ginger chicken Kids love this healthy recipe for slightly sweet, sticky ginger-chicken thighs. The secret is in the Chinese marinade, which only takes 20 minutes to work its magic.

Ingredients 1. Thumb-size piece of fresh ginger, grated 2. 3 garlic cloves, crushed 3. 6 tbsp reduced-salt soy sauce 4. 6 tbsp runny honey 5. Juice of 1 lemon 6. 8 chicken thighs 7. 1 tbsp vegetable oil 8. 2 packs Chinese stir-fry vegetables (about 350g each)

Method

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, honey and lemon juice. Take 4 tablespoons of the marinade and set aside. Trim the chicken thighs neatly. Add to the bowl with the remaining marinade and mix well. Set aside for 20 minutes, or overnight if you like. 2. Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan180°C/gas 6. Lift the chicken from the marinade – leave the marinade in the bowl – and lay on a large lined baking sheet in a single layer. Cook for 20 minutes, then turn over and brush with the marinade from the bowl. Cook for a

further 20 minutes, until cooked through and golden. 3. Just before the chicken is ready, heat the oil in a wok or frying pan over a high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 23 minutes, or according to packet instructions, then add the reserved 4 tablespoons marinade and cook for 1-2 minutes. Serve with the sticky chicken thighs.

Seared tuna with Asian noodle salad

This quick, post-work supper recipe with Asian flavours utilises the best time-saving products in the supermarket.

Ingredients

1. 2 x 200g tuna steaks, 2-3cm thick 2. 60g sachet Puréety Soy, Ginger & Garlic Liquid Marinade, or 50ml soy sauce mixed with a knob of fresh ginger, grated, and 2 garlic cloves, crushed 3. 2 red chillies, finely chopped 4. 2 tbsp soy sauce 5. Bunch of fresh coriander, stems finely chopped, leaves chopped 6. Juice of 2 limes 7. 80g rice noodles 8. Bunch of fresh mint, leaves chopped

Method

1. Place the tuna steaks in a bowl, coat with the marinade and leave for 20 minutes. 2. Meanwhile, make the salad dressing. Put the chilli, soy sauce and chopped coriander stems in a little jug, add the lime juice and whisk. Place the noodles in a bowl. Pour over boiling water, leave for 5 minutes, then drain, rinse in cold water and drain again. Return to a dry bowl, then mix with the chopped coriander and mint leaves. 3. Heat a griddle to high, then lift the tuna out of the marinade and cook for 2 minutes on each side (discard the marinade). Remove and slice, then

divide the noodles between 2 dishes and serve with the sliced tuna on top and the dressing drizzled over. Unlike deep-fried spring rolls, this Vietnamese spring roll recipe is light and healthy, packed with fresh herbs, prawns and veg. It makes a great lunch or starter.

Chicken pho

This Vietnamese soup is a herby, spicy mix of Asian flavours. A delightfully balanced meal.

Ingredients

1.5 litres good-quality chicken stock A knob of peeled fresh ginger 1 red chilli 4 tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce 200g dried rice noodles 400g diced chicken breast 6 halved baby pak choi A few fresh mint and basil leaves 1 sliced red chilli 3 sliced spring onions

Method

1. Place 1.5 litres good-quality chicken stock in a large pan with a knob of peeled fresh ginger, 1 red chilli, 4 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce and 200g dried rice noodles. Bring to a boil, add 400g diced chicken breast, then simmer for 4 minutes. For the final minute, remove the ginger and chilli and discard, then add 6 halved baby pak choi to the pan and cover with a lid. To serve, ladle into bowls and garnish with a few fresh mint and basil leaves, 1 sliced red chilli and 3 sliced spring onions.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Say goodbye to your bags Help! I have the most horrendous eye bags. I’ve tried every product I can find but nothing seems to help. Can you suggest anything I could try? This is one of the typical letters we get from people with this problem which for the most part is a familial problem. If your parents had eye bags the chances are that you may well develop them. Some people are quite young when they first appear. Eye bags can be upper, lower or both. Usually in upper bags there is a lot of redundant skin, which over time can actually start to obliterate vision and affect the ability to drive and read. Lower bags are normally fatty tissue and /or redundant skin. Often with lower bags the condition is worse first thing in the morning and improves as the day wears on as the fluid that collects can drain away. There are several temporary things that will help. Eye drainage using an electronic machine can help as can

gentle massage done in the correct way. Some people try simple things such as cold tea bags or cucumber slices which can help to remove some of the fluid. There are several products on the market which again will give a temporary result. The one that we recommend and stock is Skin Doctors Instant Eyelift the results can last for up to 8 hours so perfect for that important night out, The only permanent option is a surgical eye bag removal known as Blepheroplasty. Performed under local anaesthetic and sedation the procedure takes just over one hour to perform and recovery is amazingly quick with stitches removed after one week. We take you to the hospital in the morning and by lunchtime your operation is finished. There is no pain afterwards and the results are truly amazing and permanent. If you would like to find out more about treatments for eye bags please call Medaesthetics on 965 326 082 for a complementary consultation and advice.

Aspirin can lower your blood pressure In terms of cost, availability, and usefulness, aspirin is one of the greatest triumphs of medical science. First isolated from willow bark hundreds of years ago, aspirin is now available as a simple over-thecounter formulation. Aspirin is effective as a painkiller, an antiinflammatory, and has actions that provide protection against serious diseases like heart attack and stroke. Swallow a low-dose aspirin before bed and you'll wake with lower blood pres-

sure, according to Spanish scientists. They found that pre hypertensive patients who popped 100mg of aspirin prior to sacking out saw their systolic BP drop by five points and diastolic by three points — compared with no change when they took the analgesic in the morning. The night-and-day difference may be due to aspirin slowing the production of blood-clotting hormones that are pumped out while your body is at rest. Talk to your doctor before starting this regime.

ACNE CAUSES, TREATMENT, PREVENTION Acne (Acne Vulgaris) also known as pimples or blackheads is probably the most common form of chronic skin disease, and is most usual between the ages of sixteen and twenty-six but can affect people of all ages. Acne tends to appear on the face, neck, shoulders, back and chest. Although it affects both men and women, young men suffer from acne for much longer. Acne happens when sebaceous (oil) glands are stimulated about the time of puberty by increased levels of male hormones (testosterone). Sebum (oil) is a natural substance secreted through pores on the surface of the skin to lubricate and protect it. The oil carries dead skin cells through follicles (canals) to the surface of the skin,

DR MACHI MANNU’S ADVICE CLINIC Email your questions and comments to machimannu@gmail.com

and hair grows out through these canals. When excess oil builds up faster than it can exit the pores, it hardens into acne, blocking the canal and fostering the overgrowth of normally harmless bacteria. The bacteria secrete inflammatory substances causing irritation and promoting more blocking of the canals. Other chemicals secreted causes inflammation of the surrounding skin causing redness, swelling and pain. Sometimes a condition known as ‘hard acne’ occurs, and is caused by the thickening of the flesh beneath the skin, showing up as red, painful lumps, some-

times half an inch across. They last for weeks or months, and may leave a permanent scar. The main factors in the cure of acne are time, attention to general health and perseverance with local treatment. With regards to general health, it is important for a sufferer to maintain excellent hygienic practises. Because acne is caused by oils, and commonly occurs on the face, an effective remedy is to wash the face vigorously and very often daily. Washing with soap accompanied by rubbing, not only removes the grease and thickened layer, but stimulates the

blood supply and muscles of the face. Vitamin D is another highly effective cure for acne. It is commonly known that a little sun daily helps fade acne. However the real crunch is to know how to get the right amount of sun because too much sunlight can cause blistering of acne, leading to more serious health problems. Vitamin D supplements are also very effective, but should be taken after consultation with a doctor. Exercise is also known to prevent acne through two very important means. Firstly, exercise causes sweating which in turn acts as a cleansing system for the skin, bringing up dirt and debris from the pores to the surface. Secondly, several studies now confirm that exercising helps the body regulate hormone production. Local treatment involves treatment using OTC (over-the-counter) medications that are usually applied to the skin, and include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulphur and Retin-A. Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial, and slows down the production of sebum. Salicyclic acid and sulphur helps break down pimples, and by causing the skin to shed easily, prevents the blockage of pores.

Sulphur can be purchased as soap from pharmacies. Retin-A is a form of Vitamin A, and helps unplug blocked pores. It is important to

understand that chemical substances always carry a side effect of toxicity. Send your questions to Dr Machi Mannu, Email contact@medb.es

Friday, January 18, 2013

HRT: The alternative Q

I STOPPED taking natural hormones three years ago on the advice of my doctor because of the dangers associated with them. Now I am worried about osteoporosis since the reason I started taking the hormones in the first place was to protect my bones. Can you tell me if there are other alternatives to hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

Lyrica is used to treat seizures, but is also prescribed by some doctors to relieve pain caused by fibromyalgia. Joint pain is a known side effect of lyrica, and there has been a report of muscle weakness and pain.

Hormone therapy with estrogens and progesterone have been linked to life-threatening heart disease, stroke, blood clot and breast cancer and so you did the right thing to stop your medication. In women, the increase in the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis is due to the fall in estrogen levels after menopause. The best known alternative HRT that offers protection against osteoporosis is Ipriflavone, a plant based bioflavonoid. Numerous studies have shown that Ipriflavone has a positive effect on bone density. It is most effective for bone protection when combined with Calcium and Vitamin supplements. It is important to point out that Ipriflavone does not protect the body against other post-menopausal symptoms. Isoflavones, another kind of bioflavonoid is best suited for this. Ipriflavone is sold as supplements and can be purchased over the

I have suffered from pains all over my arms and legs on and off for eight months, and have been prescribed ibuprofen and nurofen, none of which have helped. Recently my doctor prescribed lyrica which helped for a few weeks, but now my pain is worse than before and I seem to have mood swings. Can Lyrica be making the pain worse, and what can I do to stop the pain?

I read your articles in The Courier which appear to concentrate on the body. My problem is with my left ear, loss Since your condition has not improved of hearing. I saw a hearing-aid specialist you should visit your doctor for a review of who found some loss of hearing but not your medication. There are many health enough for an aid. Instead, he referred me problems that may cause body pain, and to a hospital specialist who carried out my suggestion is to have an extensive similar tests and came to the same conmedical check-up to find out the cause. clusion. He then sent me for an MRI scan of my head - results negative. He suggestI take multivitamins every day, and ed leaving alone for six months. I wonwonder if it is possible to take too dered if you could offer any help. much. There are a number of health problems Vitamins are classed into two groups that can cause the kind of hearing loss -water soluble and fat soluble. Water you are experiencing. Ear infections can lead soluble vitamins, such as vitamin B and C, to a loss of hearing, especially when a single dissolve in water and are easily removed ear is affected. A disorder with the blood-clotfrom the body through the urine when too ting mechanisms of the body as well as circumuch is taken. lation problems are also known causes of This is not the case with fat soluble vita- some form of hearing loss. In my opinion, the mins like Vitamins A, D, E and K. These dis- tests you have done are not enough to make solve in fat tissue and liver and are not eas- a diagnosis. An MRI scan helps eliminate ily removed from the body when in excess other causes such as tumours or cysts. You amounts. should request a full health check from your The consequences of high levels of fat- doctor. soluble vitamins depend on the specific DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR DR vitamin and include headaches, dizziness, MANNU? Send your emails to muscle weakness, bone pain and liver dam- machimannu@gmail.com

Q A

counter or from www.medb.es.

age. It is important to compare the dose of vitamins you are taking with the recommended dosage allowed.

Friday, January 18, 2013

RICHARD CAVENDER

Bluemoon Solutions www.bluemoonsolutions.es

BlueMoon Solutions is the computer and IT services company on the Costa Blanca, they provide quality computer services at realistic prices and specialise in working with home users and small businesses.

Richard moved to Spain seven 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 (usually) 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: Mary wanted to know whether she should ADVICE: Barry wanted to know how best to print from update AVG or move to another security program. Gmail

Dear Richard, I am being reminded to update my AVG to the 2013 edition. Before I do so I would like your advice on whether or not to do this, as I believe it can slow down a PC? Also, is it preferable to cancel AVG and move over to Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials? Your advice would be appreciated. Regards – Mary

Q A

Hi Mary, all AntiVirus programs slow down your computer by their very nature as they “filter” all files coming into and out of your computer through their scanner, it’s an overhead that we simply have to live with in order to keep our online lives as safe as possible. With regards to which program you should use, the last study I saw was about a year ago and at that time it showed AVG as being slightly better than Avast and quite a bit better than Security Essentials, however I accept that study may be out of date now. I’ve done a bit of research and found a great website - www.av-test.org – they test a number of security products monthly and rate them on protection (which in my opinion is the most important rating), repair and usability. According to this more recent study the “best” free anti-virus program is Avast: Free Antivirus 7.0, protecting you from 96 % of the most dangerous (zero day) viruses out there compared to only 90% detected by AVG free and just 69% detected by Microsoft Security Essentials. Hope that helps.

Hi Richard, there is probably a simple solution to my printing problem, but I cannot find it. I want to print the text/message ONLY in e-mails I receive on Google but whenever I print, I get the whole page including toolbars, and the coloured strips at the side and top which I obviously do not want. The actual message is reduced in width so that the ends of the lines are missing and I can only get the first screen to print so that if it is a long e-mail I only get the start.

Hi Barry, what I think is happening here is that you are clicking on the File, Print m e n u options or you are clicking on your browsers print icon or you are pressing CTRL + P, rather than clicking on the Gmail print icon – and if you are now confused then don’t worry, you are in good company, its very confusing knowing which icon to press and when. With regards to Gmail you should click on the email you want to print first, then click on the Gmail print button that looks like this… …and appears to the right of the email subject line. When you use this icon, your email is opened in a new window by itself (i.e. without all the other stuff you mention that you don’t want to be part of the printout). I hope that helps

ADVICE: Tracy was having problems with Internet Explorer after she had a play around in the settings!

Don’t forget you can follow me on twitter @bluemoonspain Alternately why don’t you sign up for my newsletter. You can do this by going to:www.bluemoonsolutions.es and fill in the form that is on any page except the front page.

Hi Richard, happy New Year. On my computer some things started not to work, i.e. on Facebook could not view or "like" items. I looked an answer up on the Internet and they said to go to Internet options on control panel, then security, click trusted sites and custom level and under settings change some to enable/disable. I did this but, now have made my computer worse! It works but is very, very slow. Takes at least 4 mins for a page to come up. Hope you can help me, I should have left things alone! Thanks Tracy.

Q A

Hi Tracy, sorry for the delay in getting back to you, it’s been a bit manic here! It sounds like what you need to do is reset Internet Explorer (if that’s what you are using, unfortunately you don’t say?), in order to do this just follow these steps… 1. Click start, control panel 2. Double click on the Internet Options icon 3. Click advanced 4. Under Reset Internet Explorer settings, click Reset. Then click Reset again 5. When complete, click close 6. try Internet Explorer again …that should help sort it out.

office@bluemoonsolutions.es www.bluemoonsolutions.es Mobile: 655 044 970

Office: 902 906 200

Friday, January 18, 2013

The curse of the great unwashed THERE'S no hope for Britain! Generations of people have been campaigning for a better road network along the South Coast. There was hope when a past government drew up a motorway plan to eventually link Exeter with Dover and boost commerce along the entire South Coast. The link from Portsmouth to a point west of Southampton went ahead, as did a by-pass around Brighton. But a combination of a lack of cash and protests from potty environmentalists and massive opposition from landowners, many with political clout, put a halt to the rest. Try to get from Brighton to Dover by the shortest route along the coast is a total

nightmare. Instead, motorists and lorries have to take the much longer trail north to the M27 and M20. But now the government has given the go ahead for a much-needed £94m scheme for a relief road to the A259 between Bexhill and Hastings, diverting it away from miles of built-up area and bottlenecks. No prizes for guessing what’s happened next - the route has been a magnet for the great British unwashed, digging tunnels and building tree houses to thwart the efforts of workmen trying to clear the land. They're spouting the usual twaddle; the road would destroy ancient

woodland, and, wait for it, destroy the habitats of dormice and bittern. Oh, what a shame! The vast majority of the public support the scheme and business leaders think it will bring much needed employment to an area where it is difficult to find jobs - Hastings has one of the highest unemployment rates in the South East. It's thought the relief road would bring a £1billion boost to the economy of East Sussex and West Kent. I know what I would do with Britain's great unwashed, living on the backs of the rest of us, on benefits. They would be in the Army before they knew it and introduced to the Taliban, with whom I'm sure What is wrong when police they would have a lot in comseem more concerned about mon. what is being written on HERE'S another exam- social networking sites than ple of no hope Britain. catching criminals. The Daily When an Aberdeen woman Mail called them Keystroke had her top-of-the-range Kops. Heaven help Britain. Audi stolen, she reported the As one national newspatheft to police. per journalist put it: "Stories After a while, with the vehi- like this come across my cle untraced, she went on desk every day of the week, F a c e b o o k , sent in by law-abiding, taxinviting people paying readers who despair to keep an eye at the behaviour of certain out for the sections of the police. stolen car and "I also hear from plenty of to call police. serving and ex-officers who Soon, sightings are increasingly ashamed at were coming in what the job has become — every 15 min- an arrogant, insular, incomutes. petent, box-ticking bureauT h e cracy which regards every woman’s single member of the paying comments public as a potential criminal. b e c a m e "There are tens of thoui n c r e a s i n g l y sands of decent coppers out vociferous against there trying to do their best the police after every day. But they are hamshe learnt of a strung by the new breed of notorious group of fast-track, careerist chief offilocal car thieves cers, who spend their lives called ‘The playing politics and setting A b e r d e e n B o y z ‘priorities’ which bear no relaStig’ who have their tion to the real world. own Facebook We’ve ended up with page where they Keystroke Kops who’d rather boast about their investigate imaginary crimes. Facebook ‘crimes’ than catch She then had a visit car thieves. It can’t go on. from the plod critical of "the The police are in crisis, from way she was handling things the Met to Aberdeen." on Facebook" and offering I totally agree. A far-reach"words of advice". The final ing judicial inquiry into the insult was when she learned ‘culture, practices and ethics’ the Audi had been found of the police is long overdue. burned out and police then HERE'S the ultimate in told her she would have to the British disease of litmake arrangements for the igation culture. It concerns a car to be removed. couple who are suing a med-

ical trust for millions for failing to spot their child would be born disabled. They claim that had they known, they could have considered having an abortion. The baby girl is said to have "extremely severe disabilities" and the couple's lawyers claim these abnormalities should have been picked up during anti-natal scans. The couple point to the huge costs in bringing the child up and are also claiming damages 'for their own personal injury, loss and expense that they have each suffered,' by way of psychological injury. My initial instinct is to ask why it is that in every aspect of modern life, when something goes wrong, someone else is to blame. Hospitals cannot be expected to get it right every time; after all, doctors are not God. If any abnormality was discovered on the scans, I’m sure the parents would have been the first to know. Sadly, if a judge finds in the couple's favour, the hospital trust's budget will by badly hit, when the money is needed to run the hospital and save future lives. What's needed is a fund to cover the cost faced by parents who have to cope with and raise a seriously disabled child. Some couples faced with discovering they have not got the "perfect" baby, rise to the challenge and cope, despite all the odds. For others it can

destroy a marriage or end with parents walking away. Every help should be given to parents and money worries should be the least of their problems in these circumstances. And having to sue through the courts is not the right action.

Saddest story of the past week was news that almost half of the food produced around the world is wasted in one way or another. This waste is criminal when there are thousands of people dying of starvation. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers say much of the waste in the developing world is in the early part of the food supply chain, between the field and the market place. In sub-Saharan Africa and India, something like between 35% and 50% of fruit and vegetable crop is lost. In the mature developed economies, the waste is down to poor marketing practices, like whole consignments of fresh food turned away by supermarket chains because it "doesn't look right". There's also the practice of BOGOFS – ‘buy one get one free’ offers on food which has a short life, drawing people into buying more than they need. Supermarkets disposing of food because it's reached its sell-by date results in mountains of waste. Here's a universal problem which needs solving.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Thank you 171,376.88 times! SUPPORT for the Royal British Legion in Spain’s Poppy Appeal soared by a staggering 28 per cent in 2012. And delighted district chairman Chris Wyatt told the group’s Annual Conference in Alicante at the weekend: “I am amazed and truly overwhelmed at the response. I would like to thank, from the bottom of my heart, all those who have contributed to the fantastic total of €171,376.88 (an increase of 28% over the money rose in 2011). Not just in terms of cash, but all those unsung volunteers who have given so freely of their time to go out to airports, shopping malls, bars etc throughout the year in order that The Royal British Legion in Spain can help our beneficiaries.”

Robin Hargrave, the District Poppy Appeal co-ordinator, said: “We must remember too, that every centimo we receive is used towards the welfare of serving and ex-service men and women and their families who find themselves in great need.’’ As veterans can now be as young as 18, the Legion is there to support them for the rest of their life. Spending as it did last year, £250,000 every day, shows the organisation’s total commitment to those who have served their country but may need help in the future. To find out more about The Royal British Legion, please go to our: www.britishlegion.org.uk/counties/spain-north or email secretary.rbl.dns@gmail.com

From left: Eddie Hefferman MBE, Overseas Trustee, Robin Hargrave, District Poppy Appeal co-ordinator, Jean Chattey, District Treasurer and Chris Wyatt, District Chairman

RAF veteran Ted WE’RE NOT SELLING! soars to new high THE sale of clothes by HELP Murcia Mar Menor volunteers at The Arches on Saturday mornings has been postponed until February. Forthcoming events include the following: Thursday February 21: Bargain Hunt/Auction at Paddy Singh’s, Los Urrutias. Items for the auction to be brought between 10-12 p.m., hammer down at 2 p.m. €10 fee for 3 items and €4 for one item. Thursday April 25: Dinner/dance at the Costa Narejos Hotel, Los Alcazares.

TED MARSH was recently appointed President of the Torrevieja Branch of the Royal British Legion, the oldest Branch in Spain. He was presented with his President’s Jewel (chain of office) by Lady Chairman Gill Burdon. Mr Marsh joined the Air Training Corps in 1950 at the age of 15 and went on to serve in the RAF for 36 years in many countries from Norway to the Falklands. He rose to Warrant Office rank and in a long and interesting career, met many Royals and other VIPs. Before leaving the RAF in 1988, he joined both the RAFA and Royal British Legion. Ted and his wife Margaret successfully ran a small hotel in Scarborough for nine years before moving to Los Montesinos in 2000. There Ted joined the local Royal British Legion Branch, going on to become Membership Secretary, Chairman, Vice Chairman and President. He also became the Founder Chairman of the local branch of RAFA nine years ago..

Winners of Xmas Raffle held by Reeves Butchers, San Luis

Overnight stay and breakfast available. HELP MMM general meetings take place every third Tuesday in the month at Las Claras, Los Narejos (11.30 for 12 noon). Tickets for events are available from Joan Mitchell 868 185685 or 678135467, Janice Clark on 968 134355, or the office 968570059 On January 25 the Friendship Group holds a beetle drive with a fish and chip lunch at the Caravan Club, San Javier at 12.30pm for €7.

Edition 1

PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH Page 2

FM Spanish Promotions Page 3

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Friday, January 18, 2013

And Are proud to launch two new insurance products that remove all the grey areas regarding cover and makes the whole process of insuring your home straightforward and effortless …. Insurance ... what is it? In simple terms insurance allows someone who suffers a loss or accident to be compensated for the effect of their misfortune. Do you need it legally yes for some items like car insurance, but for others products like home insurance we would like to think that the answer is yes, but finding the right product, with the right price and right level of service is where right move insurance and Hercules can help. At right move insurance our approach is all about flexibility; and we are passionate about making our products suit our clients needs and not the other way around. Our dedicated, personal service is combined with an easily accessible website, support via the phone, email or in person at our office in Playa Flamenca. The difference is in the detail. We focus on the delivery of excellent service to clients, and by working with a premier provider of insurance products we would like to believe that we can make the whole process of insuring your home as straightforward as possible. We believe it's about going the extra mile and to back this up we are also happy to put you in touch with existing clients for testimonials. Why are we, right move insurance working with Hercules? Why - because they specialise in one thing, and one thing only, home insurance. Hercules offers only 2 products, the Classic and the Gold Policy and is underwritten by Lloyds of London. The premiums for this comprehensive cover are surprisingly reasonable, and resemble what we expect of an English insurance policy. Features include cover for subsidence and landslip, worldwide all risks, accidental damage to property and contents

and cover for burst pipes and excessive water bills, plus so much more. In addition all documentation is provided in English with help and claims department manned by experienced English speaking personnel. Whatever any other insurance company tells you, claims are also an important part of any business. The efficient and prompt payment of claims is of paramount importance to Hercules. We pride ourselves in giving a top quality service in this area. In addition the team who work at right move insurance and Hercules have an average experience of more than 25 years in the insurance industry, with many of the staff being expats themselves. What’s so special about these products and Hercules? Are you worried about water damage and excessive water bills as a result of a water leak? Does your current insurance company exclude such damages or apply unfair restrictions or limitations? Hercules policies cover the costs of tracing and accessing the source of oil or water leaks within the home and also underground service pipes outside of the home but at the address shown in the schedule. In addition, your garden is covered for damage caused by fire, lightning, explosion, aircraft, earthquake, theft or malicious damage. Hercules will also automatically offer reinstatement of cover following a claim as long as any recommendation made by us to prevent a similar loss has been carried out. No more grey areas regarding cover for your most expensive possession, your home …. Whether you just want to ask a question, require some help or a quote just give us a call, email or pop into the office situated at Playa Flamenca Commercial Centre. We are also looking for business affiliates, so if you’re interested in working with us and generating an additional income stream we would love to talk to you …

FM Spanish Promotions: Providing The Key To Your Dream Home

FM Spanish Promotions offers a selection of high quality new and resale properties, located right along the coast. With a wealth of experience in the Real Estate and Finance industry, the experts at FM Spanish Promotions are well equipped to assist you in securing your dream home, and carry you through the entire purchase process, from searching for property to signing contracts at the notary. Working out of its busy offices in Playa Flamenca, the company is also pleased to have its own professional After Sales service, which means that even when you are all settled into your new home, you will still have someone to call upon when in need of assistance. Their philosophy is to secure a lifelong contract with their clients, by catering for their individual property requirements and offering the best possible rates available in order to see their dreams become a reality! FM Spanish Promotions are pleased to take the hassle out of searching for property, by inviting clients to join one of their personalised inspection tours. During this process, the professional Sales Team will take the time to research the client’s requirements,

including location, housing type and budget, before escorting them to view a selection of potential properties. They offer honest, impartial advice throughout the trip, with no obligation to the client to make a commitment until they are entirely satisfied. FM Spanish Promotions cannot only pair you with a perfect home, but will also support you in selling an existing property, marketing it to a wide audience through continual media announcements and a comprehensive web portal. Furthermore, FM Spanish Promotions operates a professional property maintenance and rentals service, allowing you to select an attractive property and location without the need to make a long term financial commitment. The company maintains that “Whether you are buying, selling or renting a property, we will give you an honest, reliable and dependable service which is second to none”. For further information or to make an appointment, please telephone 965 325 476. Alternatively, you may email them at info@fmspanishpromotions.com. You can find FM Spanish Promotions Office at: Calle Santa Alodia, 27, Playa Flamenca Commercial Centre, 03189.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Hello and welcome to Property Plus, the free, innovative property and information guide for the Costa Blanca. Property Plus is a brand new, exclusive supplement, promoting the POSITIVE aspects of living in, owning, renting or relocating here in Spain. This is the first edition, which will now be published every 4 weeks within the Courier Newspaper, and distributed throughout our existing outlets and participating Estate Agents. It is also available to view online at www.thecourier.es. Property Plus has compiled everything that you need to know about property sales and rentals in Spain, into one handy supplement. We will be taking a look at every aspect of the buying process, from making the initial decision to move to the Costa Blanca, to insuring your dream home. Sound, practical

Friday, January 18, 2013

Wise Property Investors Choose The Costa Blanca advice will be provided by an elite consortium of some of the coast’s most esteemed Real Estate Agents, who will also provide us with a selection of their most attractive packages every month. This puts our readers and subscribers to our website in a favourable position when it comes to securing the property of their choice. In future editions, we will also be taking a look at what is happening in the property market, rental accommodation, new build and resale property, relocation specialists, removals, furnishing, currency exchange, mortgage and legal advice, medical advice, in fact every aspect of living or owning a property here in Spain. Essentially, we have done all of the leg work, bringing you all of the information required to make the right decision.

Although the Spanish Property Industry has suffered some difficult periods in recent years, all indicators show that things are now on the up Whilst the world’s media is still intent on publishing doom and gloom articles relating to the global economic crisis, official statistics have proven that there IS movement, particularly in the property market. Slight improvements were recorded during 2011, with the upward trend continuing throughout 2012. According to figures compiled by the National Statistics Institute (INE), the sale of property across the country rose by 0.9% in September 2012, compared to the figure for the same month of 2011, equating to a total of 25 985 transactions. Of these 50.9% were resale properties and 49.1% new developments. This was regarded as very positive news by optimists, who considered it a clear indication that the economy was recovering; particularly as it showed the second consecutive increase, with figures for August also registering improvements of 3% after a stagnant run of 17 months. What is even more reassuring for those of us living on the Costa Blanca, is that the highest number of house sales per 100 000 population were executed in La Rioja (128) and right here in the Valencian Community (103). Valencia continued to attract large numbers of buyers through to the close of 2012, with 3 912

properties being sold during the month of November. Costa Blanca Real Estate Agents have confirmed that this is indeed the case, and are pleased to report an increase in sales at both ends of the property scale, from small apartments to luxurious detached villas. And with the increased demand, particularly among the resale’s sector, Agents have even began to advertise for new property listings to satisfy demand. The major property investment markets now mainly lie with the Scandinavians and Russians, although British investors hoping to take advantage of the soaring value of the pound do still favour the Costa Blanca. As a whole, property prices are far lower than they were five years ago, although they have only dropped marginally since 2011, suggesting that they are currently beginning to stabilize. This makes NOW the perfect time to buy, as prices are more attractive than ever, with local realestate agents promoting two-bedroom properties for as little as €40,000. In light of recent trends, it is also makes sense that from here prices are more likely to go up then down. At Property Plus, we are making it easy for you to take advantage of these positive movements, by bringing you all of the best deals in one handy supplement. So why not make 2013 the year to put the ball in motion and make your Spanish dream a reality!

Friday, January 18, 2013

TOP TIPS FOR PURCHASING PROPERTY IN SPAIN By Heidi Wardman

All indications show that the sunny Costa Blanca remains one of the top locations for overseas property investors. And with reduced house prices and the levy on taxes relating to property, there has never been a better time to secure your dream home! Moving house is never an easy task, becoming even more stressful if you are making a new life in a foreign country. Naturally the system in Spain is quite different to that in other parts of Europe, and any new homeowner is bound to come across a few hurdles before they are in a position to hit the beach. But with a little patience, and sound advice from the experts in the business, YOU too could find yourself doing just that. Here are a few points to consider when buying property in Spain. 1) You are clear that with its glorious climate, Spain is the place for you. However, you should also bear in mind that

the winter months can feel chilly after the hot summer, exacerbated by marble floors and stark furnishings which are specially designed for to keep things cool. This is where it is wise to choose a newer property, where comforts such as UPVC Windows, hot and cold air conditioning, under floor heating and wooden floors can make all the differ-

ence. Alternatively, if you prefer a more traditional structure, you might go the other way and opt for an ancient Cortijo or Finca with exceptionally thick walls and stone floors that retain the heat. 2) Those who are new to Spain may find it favourable to live in an urbanization, with shared amenities such as swimming pools, gardens and tennis courts. This limits some of the personal responsibility to the home owner, and it is much easier to make friends in this way, as well as obtaining advice from others with similar experiences. Those who are already settled in Spain, but wish to move to another property often choose to remain within a community for the same reasons, although some prefer to branch out with something more private by this stage. 3) If you are not sure of your ideal destination then it is advisable to rent somewhere first, and give yourself a little time to explore the area fully before taking the plunge. With extremely affordable

rates now is a great time for renting property, and it may save you money in the long term as you will have the time to compare house prices and shop around for the best deal on your mortgage and conveyance fees. 4) Allow someone who has professional knowledge of the market place, local area and legal process to guide you through your purchase. They will have helped to pair hundreds of individuals and families with the right property to suit their needs, which vary broadly. For example, the retired or semi-retired couple will usually be looking for a more relaxed lifestyle and location whilst the seasoned expat, who has lived much of their life overseas is

less expensive in Spain than in other countries, there are certain appliances such as swimming pool pumps, washing machines, tumble dryers and heating and cooling appliances that will considerably bump up the bills. Therefore, it is wise to keep a track on your payments, especially if you are paying by direct debit â&#x20AC;&#x153;pago en domicilioâ&#x20AC;? to prevent things from spiraling out of control. It may be worth looking into the various tariffs offered by electricity suppliers in order to find the most cost effective solution. 6) The Costa Blanca is more likely to opt for a tradi- home to a wealth of high tional Spanish property quality education centres, where they can dive straight and for those with young chilinto the culture and tradi- dren who want them to make tions. Finally, we find the a satisfactory transition to family set-up, where one or Spanish life, enrolling in a more adults will need to work state school is a must. so good links of communica- However, spaces are limited tion is essential, whilst close so you need to register their proximity to a school or col- names early, repeating the lege is important for the registration process EVERY youngsters. Closeness to year thereafter. The great news is that all other services such as shops, medical and leisure of these needs and desires facilities as well as like-mind- can be simply fulfilled right ed neighbours is a high prior- here with a little help from our advertisers. Why not take a ity for families. 5) There are also several look at some of the properthings that you should be ties that they currently have aware of once you have to offer, and if something moved in, which will help to takes your fancy, you are on avoid any nasty surprises at the right path towards purthe end of the month. For chasing your perfect properexample, whilst electricity is ty.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Get The Best Out Of Your Investment With OP Group

OP Group Spain has dedicated more than seven years to the Property Management, Sales and Rentals sector. The company has an unrivalled reputation for pairing the right property with the right client, and at a price which cannot be beaten elsewhere! The bilingual team deliver a polite and efficient service, and are on-hand to support clients with all aspects of the buying process from conducting structured viewing tours to arranging mortgages, translations and appointments at the Notary. Furthermore, with all of these expertise and contacts at their fingertips, the company is equally proficient at selling property; adopting reliable sales techniques and a competitive rate of commission on successful completion. OP Group specialise in professional Property Management services, allowing investors to obtain the maximum income from their property without being directly involved in the renting process. The company are experts at getting a vacant property

occupied, taking advantage of local media advertising and their comprehensive website to make your property more visible to a wider audience. This explains why OP Group boasts a portfolio of hundreds of properties which are rented on long or short-term contracts according to the owners requirements. The all-encompassing general maintenance contract will take care of all manner of laborious tasks, including interior and exterior paint jobs, tiling, fixing and replacing lighting, gardening, plumbing, domestic appliance repairs and treatment of damp. Aside from this, OP Group can ensure that your swimming pool is kept clean and well maintained, and put you in touch with Translators, Locksmiths, Air-conditioning Engineers and a plethora of other service providers which may be of use. Essentially, whatever your property needs, you are in good hands with OP Group. For further information contact the team on 966 729 653. Alternatively, you may email enquiries to info@opgroupspain.com

NGS: The Resale Specialists NGS Services was established on the Costa Blanca in 1999, offering a professional and all-encompassing property sales service. Since then, the company has welcomed overwhelming success, now with a portfolio of over 500 resale properties and commercial units situated from Alicante to Murcia. NGS made an impact on the property sales industry by specialising in re-sale properties, under the motto of “what you see is what you get”. This means that buyers do not have to worry about builder’s completion dates, what will eventually be constructed in the area surrounding their property or what their home will actually look like on completion, as they might if they purchased off- plan. NGS has two offices. The main office is in Avda de Las Naciones, Cuidad Quesada and a smaller office in Guardamar. The company is proud to house its very own in-

house financial arm, where a team of experienced legal advisors offer reliable, non-partial advice on all aspects of the purchasing process. They work in collaboration with a network of Spanish banks, which enables them to offer the best possible mortgage rates, which are arranged with minimal inconvenience to the client. Once the mortgage is secured, the legal team can take care of all of the other procedures involved in the purchase from preparing all documentation required at the Notary, to translating on the client’s behalf. They can also help with the connection of utilities such as water, electric and telephone lines, and will even go as far as assisting to get the children enrolled in a local school! So if you wish to purchase a re-sale property with no hidden surprises, go directly to NGS Services. For further information please telephone 966 717 567.

Friday, January 18, 2013

BLING IT ON! q

BOB Houliston (in English) and the President of CRISOL (in Spanish) paid tribute to the late Louise Clark at a concert for CARITAS and in memory of Louise, who died recently at the age of 38. The concert was held at the Ecumenical Centre, Orihuela Costa and Councillor Houliston described Louise as a wonderful person whose vitality and exuberance had suddenly and sadly been removed from the community to which she dedicated her professional life tirelessly. He said that by helping others, exposing injustices and fighting for good causes, Louise was an example which should inspire all to emulate.

MABS Cancer Support Group volunteers were back at Iceland Overseas in San Javier this week to collect a cheque for €1,635 raised at the store through various events in 2012. And Iceland have confirmed that MABS Murcia is their nominated charity for 2013. ‘’We’re really looking forward to working with everyone at MABS again,’’ said store supervisor Sorelle Fox. ‘Their volunteers are game for anything and are a great help when they’re packing customers’ shopping’’.

THE ROYAL NAVAL ASSOCIATION, Torrevieja Branch, meet at 1700 on the first Wednesday of each month at the Restaurante El Paraiso, Urb. Jardin del Mar 3, (behind Carrefour), Torrevieja. Contact Mike Wright, Chairman on 966 722 895 or Margaret Forshaw, Secretary on 966 921 996.

CANTABILE Female Voice Choir commenced rehearsals at La Siesta Church last Friday in preparation for three spring concerts. If you like to sing and want to join a friendly choir, contact MD Jennifer on 966 796 866, e-mail jen-morton@hotmail.co.uk or chair Phyl on 965 977 457 or view the website www.cantabilesingers.es.

Back to the 60s in black and white

FOLLOWING the success of the Cinderella Bling Ball at Quesada Country Club, the year ended with the running total of €1,400 worth of donations, destined for Elche Children’s Home. Next fundraiser for the ladies behind the campaign is The Black and White Sixties Night, which will also take place at Quesada Country Club on Friday February 8. The theme of the evening is Black and White, with the option of wearing 60s style dress, and features PDQ and magician Graeme Mykal. The show is being sponsored by Jose Antonio Gonzalez of Grupo Barcelo in Quesada. It is also aimed at raising funds for the Children’s Home. Please email rod.day01@gmail.com to reserve your tickets. A second venture, The Garden Project, has been launched to encourage the children to “grow your own” by creating an allotment within the grounds of the home. The first volunteers meeting will take place on January 22; contact Anne Day for details at rod.day01 @gmail.com.

A show for the paint-hearted THE Quesada Art Group are holding a colourful exhibition at the town’s Municipal Building next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. (January 21, 22 and 23). The mixed group, which was started by Malcolm Hitchcock in March 2009, meets every Wednesday at Quesada Cultural Centre. Members (there are currently 25) must be resident in the Rojales area - and this rule is strictly enforced by the Council. There are no teachers per se but the most experienced painters help the least experienced - in watercolour, acrylic and pastels. Ages range from 40 to 70. There should be 40 to 50 paintings on display at the exhibition, which will be open from 10am to 3pm each day.

Fancy a little light opera?

THE Gilbert and Sullivan Society are considering the possibility of widening their repertoire to include modern musicals, light comic operettas and other musical shows. They would love to hear

from Courier readers who would like to be involved in this broader spectrum of musical theatre, whether performing or in another capacity. Rehearsals are held at Lo Marabu bar/restaurant in

Dona Pepa on Fridays (5.30 to 8pm). To be a part of this very friendly, social, musical society please contact chairman Sue Woodward-Prior on 966 784 108 or email suzywoodward@gmail.com

President Janette Bennett welcomes new members Ann Hunt and Jeff Carter to the Torrevieja Costa Lions Club. Ann and Jeff, from Villamartin, were inducted at the January business meeting after showing an interest in the work the Lions do locally to help the needy and less fortunate. For more information about the Lions Club, go to www.torreviejacostalions.org or come along to Hotel Cabo Cervera, La Mata at 5pm on the second Thursday of every month.

Friday,December January 18, Friday, 16,2013 2011

Friday, January 18, 2013

UK HEADLINES

HELICOPTER HORROR TWO people died on Wednesday and at least 11 more were injured one critically - after a helicopter struck a newly-built tower and plunged into rush hour traffic in central London. Witnesses said the helicopter - which left Gatwick Airport, Sussex, at 7:36am and was heading to Elstree, Hertfordshire, to collect an executive - was using the route of the River Thames and hit a crane at the top of the tower near Vauxhall Bridge in Vauxhall, central London, at 8am. The helicopter, which hit the under-construction St George Wharf Tower, was reported to have been carrying a pilot but no passengers. The pilot was later reported to be dead. The aircraft struck the ground just 20 yards from Vauxhall station, which is a major commuting hub in the capital. Witnesses reported very low cloud at the time of the accident, suggesting the pilot may not have seen the crane which was barely visible from street level. At least two cars were hit by debris from the crash. The area was evacuated because of the precarious position of the crane at the top of the tower. Sharon Moore, 36, lives on an estate just yards from crash scene. She telephoned the emergency services having witnessed the crash with her

The Sun

eight year old daughter Tia at 7.55am. She said: 'We looked up and we heard firstly the helicopter and one minute it was flying normally and the next it was being erratic. 'It was rocking and shaking from side to side and then it went straight into the arm of the crane. 'The helicopter just came spiralling down and then it hit at least one car that was driving towards Vauxhall. 'There were three loud bangs which just went "boom boom boom" and it looked as if another car was also on fire.' The RNLI searched the Thames as part of the emergency services' response to the accident. It launched an

inshore lifeboat in the aftermath of the crash. Terry Alkins, 28, and Joe O'Dwyer, 44 were working on an adjacent building site when the helicopter crashed into the crane. Mr Alkins said: 'It was around 8am and we just heard this massive bang. We ran off the site and down the road and seconds later we saw the helicopter or what was left of it in flames lying on the road. ‘From what I saw I will be amazed if the pilot survived. There were at least three cars on fire, including a silver Range Rover and there were some motorbikes strewn over the road.' Mr O’Dywer added: ‘It was so foggy this morning that

you couldn't see the crane which is attached to the residential tower that's being built.’ The London Fire Brigade said it had received numerous calls about the incident. Eight fire engines and four fire rescue units and around 60 firefighters plus officers were attending the scene. The London Ambulance Service sent a motorcycle responder, six ambulance crews, its hazardous area response team and two officers to the scene. The first crew was at the area in less than four minutes. The air ambulance medical team in a car were also dispatched. Eyewitness Robert Oxley told Sky News: ‘There’s a very low hanging cloud which means you can hardly see the top of the building and that would explain why the helicopter hit it. St George Wharf Tower is a luxury development which is set to be the tallest residential building in the UK when it is completed later this year. It will reach a height of close to 594ft (181m) over 50 storeys, with a total of 223 luxury homes. Police said there was nothing to suggest a terrorism link to the crash. ‘There's nothing in our world at this stage,’ a spokesman for London's Counter Terrorism Command said. ‘There's nothing to suggest any terrorism link.’

Shergar n’ fries TWO of Britain’s biggest supermarkets were reeling Tuesday after horsemeat was found in top-selling beefburgers. Tesco withdrew all its own-label burgers, including the Finest range, from UK stores. It came after food inspectors in Ireland discovered one batch of frozen Tesco Everyday Value burgers in which 29 PER CENT of the meat content was horse. And Tuesday frozen food chain Iceland withdrew two quarter-pounder burger lines from its British and Irish stores “pending further investigation”. The Irish Food Standards Agency analysed 27 beefburger products and found horse DNA in ten, including some that also went to Aldi and Lidl in Ireland. In a statement, Lidl said it has taken the decision to remove all implicated products from sale pending a full investigation. A spokesman said: “A refund will be provided to customers who wish to return affected products.” Three suppliers have been blamed — Dalepak in Yorkshire and Ireland’s Silvercrest Foods and Liffey Meats. Tesco’s burgers were from Silvercrest, which supplied Asda with an “award-winning” frozen burger in 2010. LastTuesday night Tesco was investigating the scandal but insisted the products posed “no risk to public health”. Jan Creamer, of the Animal Defenders International charity, said: “People will be disgusted. It makes a mockery of food labelling.” One wag joked on Twitter: “Now we know what happened to Shergar” — the top Irish racehorse stolen in 1983.

Friday, January 18, 2013

UK HEADLINES

EUPHORIC ELTON IS A DAD AGAIN

British tourist shot dead in Honduras

Daily Mail

SIR Elton John has revealed that his second child is a boy. He and partner David Furnish said they were ''overwhelmed with happiness'' at the birth of Elijah Joseph Daniel FurnishJohn, who was born in Los Angeles on Friday, weighing in at 8lb 4oz. The couple, who wed in 2005 after 12 years together, have another son, Zachary, aged 2. They told Hello! magazine: ''Both of us have longed to have children, but the reality that we now have two sons is almost unbelievable. ''The birth of our second son completes our family in a most precious and perfect way. It is difficult to fully express how we are feeling at this time; we are just overwhelmed with happiness and excitement.'' The baby shares his middle name, Daniel, with one AN eBay seller blundered when she posted a picture of a dress — not realising she could be seen KNICKERLESS in a mirror. Horrified Aimi Jones, 21, quickly spotted her embarrassing gaffe after trying to flog the yellow frock on the auction site. The waitress removed the picture in which she wears just a bra but it had already been posted on Twitter and Facebook. She then got a bit more feedback than she expected when it went viral

Sir Elton John and David Furnish are pictured with their son Zachary in February 2012 sf Sir Elton's 1970s hit singles. The couple are said to have used the same unnamed California-based surrogate mother who gave birth to Zachary two years ago. Sir Elton has previously

said he regretted waiting so long to have a child. He said: "I think it changes everybody. It’s the most wonderful thing that you could possibly go through." The singer also expressed fears that his son will struggle with bullies. "At

school other children will say, 'You don’t have a mummy'. "We’ve come a long way, but there’s still homophobia and will be until a new generation of parents don’t instil it in their children," he said. Last week the couple's

“I reported it to eBay and they took it down, but by then it had gone viral. I’ve had messages from Australia and the US saying nice things but there are some nutters.” Aimi, from Oxford, posted the size 10 dress on eBay again on Monday — this time with herself pictured fully clothed. She wrote on the listing: “As seen by thousands.

Never worn naked.” Hoaxers flooded her eBay page — with one even making a £153,510 bogus bid for the £15.99 dress. Thousands tweeted about her clanger. @scotchpretzels wrote: “At least she had a sense of humour & £153k+. The price of nudity these days.” Aimi, who is also a qualified beauty therapist, added: “My boyfriend Andy thinks the whole thing is hilarious.”

Auction sight!

around the world. Gutted Aimi said: “It’s so embarrassing. It is such a dizzy, stupid thing to do and now the whole world’s seen me in the nude. “I put it on eBay last Saturday morning and realised straight away so ended the sale. But what I didn’t realise was that people could still see it on the site.

UK spokesman issued a statement to say reports that they were parents again were ''false''. It was issued just hours before the birth after news began circulating in the US that a child had been born over the Christmas period.

A British man has been shot dead in Central America by a gang of muggers who stole his camera. Omer Kaya was killed as he took photographs in San Pedro Sula, the second city of Honduras. Witnesses said the 33year-old businessman was shot in the neck as he tried to flee the gunmen in colonial Trejo, in the west of the city. Mr Kaya’s business partner Fatma Oksuzer said she was “very shocked” by the news. She said she was unaware he was in Honduras and added: “Omer was a very friendly guy, soft and well-mannered. This is awful.” Mr Kaya was a director of a property management company based in Leigh-onSea near Southend. Shocking pictures of his body and photographs of his wallet and ID cards were published on Twitter. Police and a forensic medical team were called to the scene yesterday and Mr Kaya’s body was taken to a judicial morgue for a postmortem examination. Deputy police chief Leonel Sauceda said: “It looks like he put up a fight when they stole his camera, so they shot him.” A Foreign Office spokesman said: “We are aware of the death of a British national in Honduras and stand ready to provide consular assistance.”

Friday, January 18, 2013

SPANISH NEWS

OUR PETROL IS THE The Russians are coming! DEAREST IN SPAIN THEY’RE ALSO SPENDING MORE THAN US IN SPAIN

SPAIN'S most expensive petrol and diesel is sold in the provinces of Alicante and Valencia, a new report claims. Whilst the average price of 95 unleaded across the country is 1.3941 euros a litre, in the Valencia province this rises to 1.4059 euros and in Alicante, 1.4104 euros. But those who live in the north of Valencia are advised to hop across the border into Castellón, the province that sells the cheapest petrol in Spain at just 1.3695 euros a litre. For diesel A, prices shoot up even higher in these areas, with motorists paying nearly 2.6 cents a litre more in Alicante than the average for Spain, which is 1.3797 euros, compared to 1.4055 euros in the former. Valencia is not the most

SALLY BENGTSSON reports

expensive province for diesel, but it still costs more than the national average to fill up in the area – 1.3936 euros, nearly 1.4 cents more. Again, Castellón, in the same autonomous region, sells some of Spain's cheapest diesel at 1.3634 euros a litre. The Alicante Province Economic Studies Institute

(INECA), which produced these figures, has decided to name and shame the towns where drivers pay the most for fuel. A difference of as much as 9.7 cents per litre for unleaded 95 petrol can be found between towns in the province of Alicante, INECA says, with Hondón de los Frailes in the south-west

being among the cheapest at 1.35 euros a litre and Callosa d'en Sarrià near the coast being the most expensive at 1.447 euros a litre. For diesel, Hondón de los Frailes wins again with prices of just 1.339 euros a litre, whereas Pedreguer, in the north of the province, sells the most expensive diesel at 1.4426 euros a litre.

€1 PRESCRIPTION CHARGE SPLITS PP PARTY CHIEFS

tTHE controversial surcharge for prescription medicines has divided leaders of Spain's ruling PP Party. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, who has been in office for a year now, has been fighting to keep public finances afloat as high borrowing costs threaten to push recession-plagued Spain into the fifth debt bailout in the eurozone debt crisis. Under huge pressure from the central government and investors to cut their deficits, but with limited authority to

Mariano Rajoy raise taxes, the populous regions of Madrid and Catalonia have adopted measures to charge one

euro for every prescription medication purchase. Despite its preoccupation with deficit-trimming, Rajoy's government is challenging the prescription fee in the courts, saying it is unfair because it does not affect all Spaniards and amounts to an illegal tax. "The measure affects the equality of citizens and is a tax on a service," Deputy Prime Minister Soraya Saenz de Santamaria told a news conference, announcing that the central government would file suit against the

measure in Madrid, following its earlier court challenge to the Catalonia fee. Deep economic and fiscal problems have caused some regions, especially separatist-minded and oppositionruled Catalonia, to chafe at the centralised Spanish tax model, which many Catalans say has worsened their woes. But the euro-perprescription flap has also caused an uncharacteristic split between PP leaders, who usually show a united public face.

DESPITE all the doom and gloom, tourism is one of the few sectors to have become a source of optimism for the Spanish economy. The number of foreign visitors to Spain increased throughout the whole of 2012, with the fourth quarter figures the highest. And the average spending by these visitors has also risen. Interestingly, one group of foreign visitors to Spain has broken all the tourism records - Russians. Between January and November last year, the number of Russian visitors increased by 42% in comparison to that same period in 2011. For the first time, more than one million Russians came to Spain in 2012 – and their spending also surpassed that of any other foreign group. In 2010, some 605,276 people from the former Soviet Union visited this country. Nevertheless, for every Russian tourist, no fewer than 13 Brits come to Spain. Among the reasons Spain has become a popular destination for Russians is a rise in the number of Russian tourist operators and relaxation of restrictions on visas. Tourism campaigns in Moscow have also increased while some regions, such as Catalonia, have opened their own offices in the Russian capital. Air routes have also improved with Lufthansa, Swissair and Vueling offering services between Moscow and Barcelona and Madrid. But while these figures are seen as positive, they are still not enough to support the entire tourism sector. For example, the 45,247 Russian tourists who came here in November constituted only 1.5% of the total number of foreign nationals to visit that month. And the 1.17 million Russians who came last year made up just 2.1% of all foreign visitors to Spain. Britain continues to lead the Spanish tourism sector, with 13 million visitors last year, followed by Germany with nine million, France with 8.5 million and 3.4 million coming from Italy. Yet the average the Russian spent €988 compared to the average Briton’s €807. Tourism, which accounts for around 11% of Spain's GDP and a similar percentage of jobs, is also a valuable source of overseas income. Spain is aiming to post a current account surplus next year after running the second-biggest deficit in the world before the current crisis began in 2008. And Russians are not just visiting - they are also snatching up properties on Spain's Mediterranean coast and in complexes such as Europe Dom on the Costa Dorada, 75% of the properties are Russianowned.

Friday, January 18, 2013

SPANISH NEWS

NO SEX, YOU BANKERS!

SPAIN'S high-class escorts are refusing to have sex with the nation's bankers - until they open up credit lines to cash-strapped families and firms.

OOH, SEXY! A SCIENTIST in Sevilla has discovered a chimpanzee who is addicted to watching porn. The female primate named Gina, a resident of Sevilla Zoo, has developed a liking for adult entertainment channels after staff installed a Freeview television visible from her enclosure. Zoo keepers hoped giving Gina the remote control would help mentally stimulate her and stop her from getting bored at night. Upon checking the chimpanzee had not destroyed the remote control, red faced staff made a shocking discovery. “The surprise came when they found that within a few days, Gina was not only using the remote control perfectly well, but that she also chose the porn channel for entertainment, as many of us would have done,” said Professor Pablo Herreros. “Although a small study estimated that porn films are only watched for about 12 minutes on average, the truth is that human and non-human primates possess an intense sexual life,” he added.

Vase suspect held A PRICELESS vase dating from the second century BC has been seized by police after it was discovered during a routine search. Officers arrested the owner of an antique shop after the artefact was discovered in a cardboard box at the property in El Campello. The vase, described as being of ‘exceptional value’, had been stolen from an Iberian era archeological site in Alicante, according to an Interior Ministry spokesman. The piece is decorated with a painting telling the story of a hunter who killed a wild boar, a rite of passage for youths at the time entering manhood. “We are not yet aware of the full importance of this discovery, but in 20 years’ time we will still be talking about this vase,” said Jose Luis Simon, an expert from the Culture Ministry’s cultural heritage service.

Madrid's top-end prostitutes say their indefinite strike will continue until bank employees 'fulfil their responsibility to society' and start offering bigger loans for struggling Spaniards, it has been claimed. Sneaky bankers were trying to circumvent the protest by claiming to be architects or engineers, the sex-workers said. But this was 'not fooling anyone' because, as one escort revealed: 'It has been many years since these professionals could afford rates that start from €300 per hour.' The capital's largest luxury prostitute trade association, which is reportedly initiating the strike, said: 'We are the only ones with a real ability to pressure the sector. 'We have been on strike for three days now and we don't think they can withstand much more,' added the woman, known as Ana MG. It said the move came after one of its members, Lucia,

pressured a bank employee client to grant a loan by halting her 'sexual services'. Mexican website SDPnoticias.com, which was joined by Russia Today in breaking the news which some have claimed is a 'hoax', reported that the bankers became so desperate they called in the government for mediation. The strikes also come as

Spain's Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy promised this week to stick to a tough budget. This was despite a surprise setback in a regional election he had hoped would reinforce his mandate for spending cuts to improve public finances. His PP party won the Socialist stronghold of Andalucia in Sunday's vote

but did not secure the outright majority that was expected and that would have reinforced his mandate to make savings. But Rajoy said he would still present a tough 2012 budget for this year today (Friday). He must set out how Spain will cut the public deficit to 5.3% of its output this year, from 8.51% last year.

Nun back in court over stolen babies MARÍA Gómez Valbuena, known as Sister María, has been called to appear before a judge in Madrid after a police complaint was lodged against her over her alleged involvement in the disappearance of

twins born in the capital’s Santa Cristina clinic in 1981. This is the second stolen babies court case against the nun following a summons last April to testify in a case lodged by María Luisa

Torres, who claimed Sister María had taken her baby from her at the same clinic in 1982. On that occasion, Gómez Valbuena refused to answer questions in court although she did issue a statement in

which she claimed to be innocent. Torres has also been called to expand on her testimony in a separate courtroom on January 18. She will be accompanied by her mother.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Horoscopes Aries March 21 - April 19 Clowns with pickaxes will haunt your dreams tonight and will affect you at around mid-morning the following day. The effect of such dreams will cause you to a) be tired, b) look startled when people slam the door, or c) be nice to any clowns you meet. Any rumours you may have heard about a certain special someone may come true this week.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 Try to avoid challenging yourself today. You may find that you are ready for a fall. Deja vu is not a thai dish that you had two weeks ago. Your funny bone may have disappeared momentarily. However, it may turn up where you least expect it. Next time you walk past a 'Hogs Head' pub, go inside and order a drink. Great things will happen there.

Gemini May 21 - June 20 You are weak at heart and must endeavour to become stronger by subjecting yourself to ritualistic torture. Your sporting life will keep you in good stead for the summer. Monkeys may go nuts for bananas, but Nutters don't give a monkeys about going bananas. This may be important for you to remember.

Cancer June 21 - July 22 There is a lot of anger in your brain. Douse it with cool, flavoursome beer. Try to absorb plants into your skin in order to make yourself into some kind of Marvel Super Hero. "Saucy!" should not be used as a synonym for sweaty. When ending a letter today, remember to append 'xxx' to the end, especially if your letter is formal.

By Pandora Leo July 23 - August 22 Skeletons in your closet are a sign that you have an eventful life and are nothing to be embarrassed about. Eggs, flour, milk, potatoes, sage and onion stuffing these are all the ingredients you need for a happy marriage and a pleasant evening. Your prejudices may lead you astray today and leave you requiring four or five stitches.

Virgo August 23 - September 22 The shop you like to buy your food from may suddenly disappear with a whooshing sound as you approach it. The rate of absorption into your skin will increase three fold today as Mars combined with Jupiter to create... well, whatever is created to allow for that. I suppose. Old cartoons may hold a fascination for you today as you try to recreate a classic 'acme' gag.

Libra September 23 - October 22 A masterplan is forming inside your head and you'll be ready to put it into action any day now. Don't try to tell people how to live their lives! Your life is your own, and you should feel perfectly free to bugger it up royally. The words you use to describe yourself may have to be revised today, after suffering what can only be described as "hell".

Scorpio October 23 - November 21 Starving yourself does not help you lose weight. In fact, it can be very detrimental to your health. You ask any dead person and they'll say: "Yep, that's right, I'm very thin!" Please remember: today is only the first day of the rest of your obnoxious, disgusting, malodorous grim life. Animals can be your friend this week as you learn what it's like to live in an alley.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21 Your greatest fears are about to be supplanted today by a new incredible horror. The faster you travel today, the more likely you are to pick up a speeding ticket. The feeling in the pit of your stomach is going to explode at noon. Or sometime afterwards. Oil in your lamp may keep you burning till the break of day. Or it could spill over and set fire to your new shoes.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19 Your desire for more money will never come true unless you get off your bum and do something. Reality TV shows are not crying out for someone like yourself. You are not photogenic and could probably do with setting your sights much lower. Your ability to speak may be impaired today as you attempt to swallow half of a live hedgehog.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18 When leaving your house this morning, don't forget to lock up and give the children a pat on the head. What happened yesterday was beyond your control. You must be cautious to ensure that you can make a quick getaway should unexpected events occur. Dancing around like a fairy is a great way to lose weight and strengthen those legs.

Pisces February 19 - March 20 The hospital may become a familiar place over the coming two weeks, although for what reason the mystics are surprisingly opaque. Homelessness is a very poor way to begin the year, so ensure money is not an issue for you. You have a personality that makes people smile, and that is worth exploiting today in any way you see fit.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Most economical Mercedes ever... Mercedes-Benz has revealed the most fuelefficient car it has ever made, the A 180 CDI BlueEfficiency Edition. The new car boasts an official average fuel consumption of a staggering 78.4mpg. The new green A-Class also emits just 92g/km CO2. The new A-Class also eases rivals from BMW and Audi into second place. The BMW 116d EfficientDynamics, for

example, can ‘only’ average 74.3mpg. How’s this been achieved? Well, lowering the A-Class’ alreadyimpressive aero drag factor Cd from 0.27 to 0.26 certainly helps. The former figure was already a record in this class: now, Mercedes has simply reinforced its hold on the slippy car title. The extensive aerodynamic tweaks include aero panels for the underside of the car, a partially closed

radiator grille and suspension that’s been given a 15mm drop in overall height. This perhaps isn’t quite enough to differentiate the new A 180 CDI BlueEfficiency Edition on the road, so Mercedes has fitted round LED daytime running lights into the bumper too. Other mechanical changes include tweaks to the alternator plus longer gear ratios in higher gears, so revs are lower on the motorway. For those who really don’t like diesel, Mercedes has also launched a super-efficient petrol engine A-Class. The A 180 BlueEfficiency Edition averages 54.3mpg and emits 120g/km CO2, again making it one of the most efficient cars in its class. Both models are around 5% more fuel-efficient

than the regular cars they are based on. Just as ultra-eco

EfficientDynamics models are now an established part of the BMW range, Mercedes also points out it’s been offering BlueEfficiency Edition models since last year, too. The 68.9mpg C 220 CDO BlueEfficiency Edition and 62.7mpg E 220 CDI BlueEfficiency Edition are now thus joined by a car that doesn’t just match the competition but beats them, comprehensively. All eyes on Audi and BMW to see how they resound to the new challenge from Mercedes…

Friday, January 18, 2013

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, 12 represents B and 5 represents V, when these letters have been entered throughout the puzzle, you should have enough information to start guessing words and discovering other letters.

QUICKIE

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 Girl carrying the French disease (7) 5 I entered warren carrying cereal (5) 8 Why a ranch may become a thing of chaos (7) 9 The sound in a piano is exhilarating (5) 10 Echo sounder found as a result of arson (5) 11 Imparts damaged axillae (7) 12 City model does South Africa (6) 14 Smear involving Liberal leader during WWII (6) 17 Beat a runner (7) 19 Sailing vessel appears when the waters return (5) 22 Damaged china is part of a series (5) 23 Gossip about the cart (7) 24 Psyche revealed by Macbeth, ostensibly (5) 25 Choose an artist to portray the daughter of Agamemnon (7)

Down 1 Foodstuffs made from steam (5) 2 Pick up king, then knight (5) 3 Old sources of music that are hard to beat (7) 4 Abroad, taking in New York, at all events (6) 5 The multivitamin I’m taking contains the smallest amount 6 First Italy, then Northern Ireland reversed it, American law (7) 7 American writer makes me snore (7) 12 A little bone is close after surgery (7) 13 Tombstone inscription in English mine, by A P Herbert, originally (7) 15 Examine what you’ve consumed, Will (7) 16 Two hundred here about the day nursery (6) 18 Some Japanese buildings contain sheets of glass (5) 20 A group of eight musicians etc to reform (5) 21 An anorak spotted in Park Avenue (5)

STANDARD CLUES

Down

FILL IT IN

Complete the crossword grid by using the given words:

3 letter words Ant Dye Ebb Gee Met Net Ore Sat Sea Yes 4 letter words Ales Arid Baby Chat Echo

Eire Erst Etna Gaol Glad Glee Harp Here Hers Lira Mesh Need None Note Oboe Odes Onto Polo Reed

Snag Tell This Toot Trod Twee User Wane 5 letter words Abets Baths Beast Bosom Chair Close Costs Honey Hulls

Pacer Pryer Retro Shred Stand Untie 6 letter words Action Decree Donate Lahore Larger Settee Shorty Sultan 7 letter words Baptism

Berthas Crosses Epithet Mooring 8 letter words Assorted Bonniest 9 letter words Insincere Negotiate 10 letter words Mattresses Rottenness

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

Across

Down

7 Old Spanish monetary unit (6) 8 Approximately (6) 9 Osculate (4) 10 Outline (8) 11 Aromatic herb (7) 13 Aspect (5) 15 Keen (5) 17 Rummage through (7) 20 Watchful (8) 21 Put in the ground (4) 22 Pressing (6) 23 Reply (6)

1 Eye part (6) 2 Untidiness (4) 3 Stressed (7) 4 Small mallet (5) 5 At the present time (8) 6 Whole (6) 12 Example (8) 14 Biased (7) 16 Bird sanctuary (6) 18 Rug (6) 19 Belief (5) 21 Full of activity (4)

Last weeks Solution Across: 1 Selfless, 7 Adore, 8 Innocuous, 9 Bus, 10 Tier, 11 Harass, 13 Banner, 14 Rescue, 17 Spread, 18 Talc, 20 Cat, 22 Situation, 23 Traps, 24 Free rein. Down: 1 Shift, 2 Lantern, 3 Lace, 4 Slogan, 5 Bombs, 6 Censure, 7 Ashamed, 12 Depress, 13 Boycott, 15 Chalice, 16 Faster, 17 Steal, 19 Canon, 21 Care.

Scribble Pad

1 Butcher’s wares (5) 1 Tropical disease (7) 2 Discover (5) 5 Cereal plant (5) 3 Discs (7) 8 Lawlessness (7) 4 Regardless (6) 9 Sound (5) 5 Half note (5) 10 Echo sounder (5) 6 Beginning (7) 11 Axillae (7) 7 American philosopher 12 Ukraine port (6) and poet (7) 14 Soviet leader (6) 12 Small bone (7) 17 Comfortable indoor 13 Inscription on tombfootwear (7) stone (7) 19 Sailing craft (5) 15 Having made a will (7) 22 Linked metal rings (5) 16 Day nursery (6) 23 Talk idly (7) 18 Window parts (5) 24 Guiding principles (5) 20 Eightsome (5) 25 Daughter of 21 Weatherproof jacket Agamemnon (7) (5) Last weeks Solution Across: 1 Capstan, 5 Lists, 8 Brigand, 9 Plume, 10 Asses, 11 Concoct, 12 Sheath, 14 Paltry, 17 Notable, 19 Tabby, 22 Bears, 23 Operate, 24 Gents, 25 Disused. Down: 1 Cobra, 2 Pains, 3 Transit, 4 No dice, 5 Lupin, 6 Shutout, 7 Sweetly, 12 Sandbag, 13 Entrain, 15 Artless, 16 Beyond, 18 Busts, 20 Beats, 21 Yield.

Across

Down

7 To dance (6)

1 Garage (of private house) (6) 2 Azul (4) 3 Sorpresa navideña (7) 4 Tres (5) 5 Skating (8) 6 Estatua (6) 12 Irish (8) 14 Richer (3,4) 16 Sometimes (1,5) 18 Escamas (botánica) (6) 19 Medalla (5) 21 Parrot (4)

8 Corazones (6) 9 Merluza (4) 10 Farmacias (8) 11 Recetas (cocina) (7) 13 Pasteles (dulce) (5) 15 Street (5) 17 Lemonade (7) 20 Reno (8) 21 Mentiroso (4) 22 Cherry (6) 23 Alfombra (grande) (6)

Friday, January 18, 2013 Across 1 Which word means both ‘an unbroken series of events’ and ‘to run naked in a public place’? (6) 4 Used to specify wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, which metric unit of length is equal to 100-millionth of a centimetre? (8) 9 In which country was the 2008 Danny Boyle film Slumdog Millionaire set and filmed? (5) 10 Which fruit was formerly called the Chinese gooseberry? (4,5) 11 What was the surname of the comedy scriptwriter who was the presenter of BBC One’s Points of View from 1979 to 1986? (4) 12 By what name is the British singer Florian Cloud de Bounevialle O’Malley Armstrong better known? (4) 13 The name of which tall tower-like structure used for carrying electricity cables high above the ground is derived from the Greek for ‘gate’? (5) 15 What name is usually given to a platform extending into an auditorium, along which models parade to dis-

play clothes in fashion shows? (7) 16 Which word can precede: about, back, over and shop? (4) 19 Which 1968 American musical film, starring Julie Andrews, is based upon the life and career of British performer Gertrude Lawrence? (4) 20 What name is given to a close-fitting rubber garment typically covering the entire body, worn for warmth in water sports or diving? (3,4) 23 Which large city in Nebraska gave its name to one of the Battle of Normandy landing sites of the Second World War? (5) 24 By what nickname is Sheffield Wednesday F C usually known? (4) 25 Which tusked Eurasian wild pig from which domestic pigs are descended, was exterminated in Britain in the 17th century? (4) 27 Which English conspirator was hanged in January 1606 along with three others (Thomas Wintour, Ambrose Rookwood, and Robert Keyes) for their part in the Gunpowder Plot of November

SUDOKU

Quiz Word

metals and stains, and often the furs) used in coats of arms? (8) 30 What name is often applied to a sharp spasm of pain in the side resulting from running? (6)

Down

1605? (3,6) 28 Which word meaning ‘a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excite-

ment’ comes from the Latin for ‘it is hateful to me’? (5) 29 In heraldry, what name is given to any of the conventional colours (including the

1 Which pain affecting the back, hip and outer side of the leg, is caused by compression of a spinal nerve root in the lower back, often owing to degeneration of an intervertebral disc? (8) 2 What nickname given to British soldiers, especially during the American Revolution, is also the name given to organisers and entertainers at a Butlin’s holiday camp? (8) 3/26 Which American actor is best known for his lead role in the Batman television series that originally ran from 1966 to 1968? (4,4) 5 Sydney is the capital of which Australia state? (3,5,5) 6 What name is often applied to the muscular flap that closes off the nasopharynx during swallowing or speaking? (4,6) 7 Equal to 100 kopeks, what is the basic monetary unit of

Russia and some other former republics of the USSR? (6) 8 What name is given to an open rebellion against the proper authorities, especially by soldiers or sailors against their officers? (6) 10 A very elaborate ice cream sundae served in a large tall glass is known as a ‘[what] glory’? (13) 14 A oriental self-defence (or attack) sport such as judo, karate or kendo is often referred to as a what? (7,3) 17 First sold in 1846, which sweet, wine-based aperitif is a blend of fortified wine, herbs and spices? (8) 18 Which marine echinoderm (invertebrate) has five or more radiating arms? (8) 21 Which confectionery is made with sugar and/or honey, roasted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachio or hazelnuts), whipped egg whites, and sometimes chopped candied fruit? (6) 22 What name is given to a deep gorge, typically one with a river flowing through it, as found in North America? (6) 26 See 3

SALLY’S SIMPLE SPANISH EL DESCANSO - RESTING Match these words with their Spanish translations then find them in the wordsearch. (Answers below)

andar en el campo

la lectura

descansar

la manta

dormir

la tele

el aire fresco

relajarse

el cine

tomar el sol

el sofa

una sopa

ir a la playa

un chocolate

la cama

un te

la chimenea

ver una peli

movies/tv QUIZ

ANSWERS: 1. Muhammad Ali 2. Robin Cousins 3. St Mirren 4. Great Britain , France and Switzerland 5. 16 6. 15 Million 7. 5.5 5.75 Ounces 8. Tourist Trophy 9. New York Yankees 10. The Goalkeeper 11. Foot & Mouth Disease

Last Week’s Solutions Code Cracker Last weeks Quiz Word Solution Across: 1 Saracens, 5 Period, 10 Oscar, 11 Carpe diem, 12 Clerihews, 13 Eider, 14 Stoats, 15 Spenser, 18 Arrival, 20 Bosnia, 22 Durer, 24 Contralto, 25 Magnusson, 26 Onion, 27 Medusa, 28 Cape Fear. Down: 1 Scorch, 2 Rochester, 3 Cardinal virtues, 4 Nucleus, 6 Ebenezer Scrooge, 7 Iliad, 8 Demerara, 9 Crisps, 16 Still life, 17 Cardamom, 19 Locust, 20 Bonanza, 21 Corner, 23 Rigid.

Empareja estas palabras - Match the Spanish and English words You will find the answers at the bottom of the quiz. 1.andar en el campo,

17.un te, 18.ver una peli.

2.descansar, 3.dormir, 4.el aire

o.the sofa, p.the cinema,

fresco, 5.el cine, 6.el sofá,

a.watch a film, b.relax, c.fresh

7.ir a la playa, 8.la cama,

air, d.soup, e.the fireplace,

9.la chimenea, 10.la lectura,

f.a tea, g.go to the beach,

11.la manta, 12.la tele,

h.reading, i.to sleep,

13.relajarse, 14.tomar el sol,

j.walk in the countryside,

15.una sopa, 16.un chocolate,

k.the telly, l.a chocolate,

Soduko

m.sunbathe, n.the blanket,

Span - Eng

Quizword

q.the bed, r.to rest.

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

1. In 1996 Who Lit The Olympic Flame In Atlanta Georgia? 2. Who won the men's gold medal for ice-figure skating at the 1980 Winter Olympics? 3. Which Scottish Football Club Is Named After An Irish Monk? 4. Who are the only 3 countries to have taken part in all of the summer & winter Olympic Games (PFE)? 5. In A Game Of Snooker If You Achieved A Perfect 147 Break, How Many Times Would You Pot The Black Ball In Total? 6. How Much Did NewCastle Pay For Alan Shearer? 7. What Is The Weight Of A Cricket Ball In Ounces? 8. What Does TT Stand For In Connection With The Isle Of Man Motorcycle Race? 9. Which Baseball Team Won A Record 37 World Series In The 20th Century? 10. In Water Polo, Which Player Wears A Red Cap? 11. What Caused The Cancellation Of The Cheltenham Festival In 2001?

Fill It In

Friday, January 18, 2013

TRELI ON THE TELLY A jolly good Stella --that’s Ruth

with ALEX TRELINSKI I LOVED ITV’s cleverly doctored publicity over their new Friday comedy drama, Great Night Out. It says that the writers, Mark Bussell and Justin Sbresni were behind the hit BBC comedy, The Worst Week of My Life - but conveniently forgot to mention that they penned the comedy turkey of 2012, The Royal Bodyguard. Let’s be fair and say that everybody can have an off day, and so I came into their new offering with an open mind. Set in Manchester, it’s about four guys in their thirties who’ve known each other since their schooldays, and last week’s opener saw them involved in some jolly japes involving a drunken bridegroom on a train in a stage-managed farce that made the work of Brian Rix

seem like classic Greek literature. The main characters have some promise, though for me, this 30-something comedy misfired. The good news is that it’s in a different league from The Royal Bodyguard, and I’ve read that tonight’s story is miles better. With that in mind, I’ll give it another try - but if you want a really good comedy drama, then check out series

two of Stella, written by and starring Ruth Jones on Sky One. That’s the way to do it, as Mr.Punch would say! In case you think that Saturday night has become a cesspool of dross, there is mercifully plenty of good stuff around. Casualty on BBC1 has hit the ground running after its holiday break, with the four new student nurses (or is it three now?) and the welcome

return of Michael French as Nick Jordan. The bad news is that French leaves the series for good in three weeks time. Over on BBC4, I’m totally riveted by the best political yarn since The West Wing, and that’s series two of the Danish drama, Borgen. It’s a smart show that can squeeze entertainment out of the driest of subjects, but also brings us a lot of sex, scandal and betrayal.

And Channel Four have just kicked off a glossy medieval drama penned by Ken Follett, World without End, with a top cast romping around the Hungarian countryside, which is a lot cheaper than shooting in the UK. Now that’s a pretty good choice of dramas for you to enjoy rather than the brainaddling rubbish that’s being chucked at you elsewhere. Talking of which, I couldn’t believe that the dreadful ITV diving show, Splash, held its audience and got the biggest UK viewing figures on Saturday night! Of even greater concern was the second episode of Mr.Selfridge on Sunday evening. As an insomniac, I nodded off a number of times and couldn’t be bothered to wind it back to where I had hit the land of slumber. It had lost all the fun and zip of the enjoyable first episode, and all it made me do was to start counting down towards the autumn return of The Paradise on BBC1.

I love American dramas, and Sky One have put together a rich feast on a Sunday night. Series four of Glee has the show right back to top form, with new members of the Glee choir at school, and a parallel storyline of Rachel and Kurt adapting to life in New York. It works great and has revitalised something that was showing signs of going stale last year. That’s followed by Five-O Hawaii and NCIS: Los Angeles, which both bounce along with crazy plots that make no sense, but you just crack open a can of beer and enjoy the ride. The Yanks do such stuff so well, and UK TV just can’t produce or doesn’t want to produce such entertaining and escapist nonsense. Hooray for the return of the best of the singing talent shows, American Idol, as season 12 kicked off last night on its new UK home of 5*. There’s a new judging panel with a well-publicised mutual dislike between Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj. Ryan Seacrest hosts it effortlessly, and it all seems pleasantly normal compared to the stage-managed hysteria of The X Factor.

The Courier Friday TV

January 18

BBC2 00:35 This Week 01:20 Skiing Weatherview 01:25 BBC News 01:30 HARDtalk 02:00 Newsday 02:30 ABC World News with Diane Sawyer 03:00 BBC News 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Sport Today 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:30 HARDtalk 05:50 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News; Weather 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Cowboy Trap 13:13 BBC News; Weather 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:10 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Perfection 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 20:00 The One Show 20:30 A Question of Sport 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Room 101 22:00 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 The Graham Norton Show

00:20 Snooker: The Masters 01:10 Snooker Extra 03:10 Panorama 03:40 Queen Victoria's Children 04:40 Close 05:00 Made of Money 05:30 Schools: Music, Mud and Making Money 06:00 Schools - True Stories 07:00 Homes Under the Hammer 08:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 08:45 Cowboy Trap 09:15 Don't Get Done, Get Dom 10:00 Antiques Roadshow 11:00 Question Time 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Snooker: The Masters 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Live Snooker: The Masters 21:00 Mastermind 21:30 Life in a Cottage Garden with Carol Klein 22:00 Italy Unpacked 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight

00:45 The Last Word 01:10 Jackpot247 04:00 Tonight 04:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 05:20 ITV Nightscreen 07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 15:00 Storage Hoarders 16:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Wild Britain with Ray Mears 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Great Night Out 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 Raw Deal

PADDY'S TV GUIDE New series. Paddy McGuinness takes a comic look at the world of television, searching the archives to highlight the good and bad as well as airing clips of rarely seen shows that he has recorded on his `Paddy Player'. He begins with an exploration of health and fitness, from extreme personal training techniques to methods of keeping fit well into old age.

00:05 The Undateables 01:05 Random Acts 01:10 Don't Blame Facebook 02:05 Irish Dancing Triplets 02:35 Dispatches 03:05 Time Team 04:05 The Churchills 05:00 Deal or No Deal 05:55 Countdown 06:40 Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard 07:05 Sali Mali 07:10 The Hoobs 08:00 Will & Grace 08:25 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:55 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 A Place in the Sun 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 Jamie's 15 Minute Meals 13:35 River Cottage 14:05 The Gunfighter 15:40 Countdown 16:30 Face the Clock 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 First Time Farmers 22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats 23:00 Paddy's TV Guide 23:50 Alan Carr: Tooth Fairy Live

00:00 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side 01:00 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:20 Divine Designs 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 Igam Ogam 07:20 Fireman Sam 07:30 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Olive the Ostrich 07:55 Little Princess 08:05 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 09:55 Milkshake! Monkey 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 All-New Trisha 13:00 Looney Tunes 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:10 The Boy She Met Online 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Revealed 21:00 Ice Road Truckers 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 American Idol 23:55 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

The Courier Saturday TV

January 19

00:20 Tropic Thunder 02:00 Weatherview 02:05 BBC News 02:30 Click 03:00 BBC News 03:30 Hillsborough - The Fight for Justice 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Click 05:00 BBC News 05:30 Five Minutes With 06:00 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 The Good Cook 13:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Live Snooker: The Masters 17:30 Final Score 18:15 BBC News; Regional News

BBC2 00:00 The Review Show 00:45 Weather 00:50 Snooker: The Masters 01:40 Snooker Extra 03:40 Question Time 04:40 Close 07:30 Flight for Freedom 09:10 Sister Kenny 11:00 A History of Britain by Simon Schama 12:00 Meet the Ancestors 12:30 Map Man 13:00 Indian Food Made Easy 13:30 Talking Pictures 14:20 The Moon Is Blue 16:00 Coast 16:30 Flog It! 17:30 Live Snooker: The Masters 18:30 Winterwatch: The Big Freeze, 1963 19:30 Dad's Army 20:00 Live Snooker: The Masters 23:30 Doubt

and Weather 19:00 Richard Hammond's Secret 19:45 Britain's Brightest 21:00 The National Lottery: In It to Win It 21:50 Casualty 22:40 Mrs Brown's Boys 23:10 BBC News; Weather 23:30 Match of the Day

00:55 The New Normal 01:20 The Big Bang Theory 01:40 Random Acts 01:45 Happy Endings 02:10 Bob's Burgers 02:55 Glory Daze 03:40 Smallville 04:20 St Elsewhere 05:10 Deal or No Deal 06:05 Countdown 06:50 Quick Bakes with Eric Lanlard 07:10 The Hoobs 08:00 Beach Volleyball 09:00 The Morning Line 10:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:00 Frasier 12:00 Undercover Boss Australia 13:00 The Big Bang Theory 13:55 The Simpsons 14:30 Channel 4 Racing 17:10 Celebrity Come Dine with Me: Ireland 19:40 Channel 4 News 20:10 4thought.tv 20:15 The Simpsons Movie 22:00 World Without End 23:00 Saving Private Ryan

MRS BROWN'S BOYS

18:30 Animal Antics Service

01:35 Jackpot247 03:55 The Fugitive 06:10 ITV Nightscreen 07:00 Handy Manny 07:25 The Hive 07:40 Dino Dan 08:05 Almost Naked Animals 08:40 Matt Hatter Chronicles 09:05 Ultimate Spider-Man 09:30 Victorious 10:00 Jessie 10:25 ITV News 10:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 12:20 Saturday Cookbook 13:20 ITV News and Weather 13:34 Meridian Weather 13:35 Murder, She Wrote 14:35 My Tasty Travels with Lynda Bellingham 15:35 Dinner Date 16:35 River Monsters 17:05 Garfield 18:30 Meridian News and Weather 18:45 ITV News and Weather 19:00 You've Been Framed! 20:00 Splash! 21:30 Take Me Out 22:45 The Jonathan Ross Show 23:45 ITV News and Weather 23:59 Meridian Weather

Agnes needs someone to look after Grandad so she can treat herself to a much-needed holiday but with private nursing homes being so expensive, it seems her only option is to convince the health visitor he has lost his marbles. Rory and Dino move in for a couple of weeks, and the matriarch is soon spitting feathers when the latter begins taking over the house, and her late husband gets in touch from beyond the grave with some very ominous news.

00:55 Inside Hollywood 01:00 SuperCasino 04:55 Motorsport Mundial 05:20 House Doctor 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Peppa Pig 07:05 Roary the Racing Car 07:15 Fifi and the Flowertots 07:25 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 07:30 The Mr Men Show 07:45 Olive the Ostrich 07:50 Abby's Flying Fairy School 08:00 Milkshake! Show Songs 08:05 Bananas in Pyjamas 08:20 Animal Antics 08:25 Make Way for Noddy 08:40 City of Friends 08:55 Little Princess 09:05 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:25 Angelina Ballerina 09:40 Rupert Bear 10:00 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 10:10 Toby's Travelling Circus 10:25 Roary the Racing Car 10:40 Jelly Jamm 11:00 Power Rangers: Super Samurai 11:35 Batman: The Brave and the Bold 12:05 Celebrity Big Brother 13:00 The Gadget Show 14:05 Mister Roberts 16:25 Operation Crossbow 18:45 Operation Daybreak 20:50 5 News Weekend 20:55 NCIS 22:45 Celebrity Big Brother 23:45 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

The Courier Sunday TV

January 20

and Weather 23:25 Match of the Day 2 00:50 The Football League Show 02:05 Weatherview

BBC2

02:10 BBC News 02:30 BBC Scotland Investigates

01:10 Snooker Extra

03:00 BBC News

03:10 Close

03:30 Dateline London

07:00 Close

04:00 BBC News

07:55 None but the Lonely Heart

04:30 Our World

09:45 Life in a Cottage Garden with

05:00 BBC News

Carol Klein

05:30 Click

10:15 A to Z of TV Gardening

06:00 BBC News

11:00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites

06:30 BBC Scotland Investigates

12:30 The Little Paris Kitchen:

07:00 Breakfast

Cooking with Rachel Khoo

08:40 Match of the Day

13:00 EastEnders

10:00 The Andrew Marr Show

14:55 Live Snooker: The Masters

11:00 The Big Questions

17:45 Ski Sunday

12:00 Sunday Politics

18:30 Flog It!

13:20 Countryfile

19:30 Orbit: Earth's Extraordinary

14:20 Bargain Hunt

Journey

15:20 Escape to the Country

20:30 Fawlty Towers

16:20 Chatsworth

21:00 Live Snooker: The Masters

17:20 Lifeline 17:30 Songs of Praise 18:05 Africa 19:05 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 19:30 Blandings 20:00 Countryfile 21:00 Call the Midwife 22:00 Ripper Street 23:00 BBC News; Regional News

00:00 02:20 03:50 04:30 05:15 07:00 07:25 07:40 08:05 08:40 09:05 09:30 10:00 10:25 10:30 11:30 12:30 13:30 13:39 13:40 13:55 14:55 15:55 16:55 18:45 19:00 19:15 20:45 21:30 22:00 23:00 23:14 23:15

The Game The Store In Plain Sight Pushing Daisies ITV Nightscreen Handy Manny The Hive Dino Dan Almost Naked Animals Matt Hatter Chronicles Rated A for Awesome Big Time Rush The Aquabats Super Show ITV News There's No Taste Like Home 60 Minute Makeover May the Best House Win ITV News and Weather Meridian Weather Countrywise Dickinson's Real Deal Rosemary & Thyme Murder, She Wrote Nanny McPhee Meridian News and Weather ITV News and Weather Dancing on Ice All Star Family Fortunes Dancing on Ice: The Skate Off Mr Selfridge ITV News at Ten and Weather Meridian Weather The Bourne Ultimatum

DANCING ON ICE Following another week of training with Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, the 10 remaining celebrities go head to head in duels, performing their routines on the ice at the same time. The judges - Robin Cousins, Jason Gardiner, Karen Barber and Ashley Roberts - decide which of the couples is safe and should be given immunity, and who will require public votes to help them avoid the dreaded skate-off.

02:15 03:40 05:50 06:35 07:00 07:10 07:35 08:00 08:30 08:55 09:25 09:55 10:30 13:10 13:35 14:05 14:35 15:05 17:25 18:25 19:25 19:55 20:00 21:00 22:00

Exit through the Gift Shop Hollyoaks Countdown Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard The Treacle People The Hoobs The Hoobs Will & Grace Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Sunday Brunch The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Simpsons The Simpsons Speed 2: Cruise Control Deal or No Deal Time Team Channel 4 News 4thought.tv Come Dine with Me The Hotel It's Complicated

00:45 Comedy Kings: Best of Just for Laughs 01:15 SuperCasino 05:00 Michaela's Wild Challenge 05:25 Great Artists 05:50 County Secrets 06:00 Hana's Helpline 06:15 The Milkshake! Show 06:35 Thomas & Friends 06:50 Roary the Racing Car 07:00 Peppa Pig 07:05 Roary the Racing Car 07:15 Fifi and the Flowertots 07:25 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 07:30 The Mr Men Show 07:45 Olive the Ostrich 07:50 Abby's Flying Fairy School 08:00 Roobarb and Custard Too 08:10 Bananas in Pyjamas 08:20 Animal Antics 08:25 Make Way for Noddy 08:40 City of Friends 08:55 Little Princess 09:05 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:25 Angelina Ballerina 09:45 Rupert Bear 10:00 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 10:15 Toby's Travelling Circus 10:30 Roary the Racing Car 10:45 Jelly Jamm 11:00 Power Rangers Samurai 11:35 Batman: The Brave and the Bold 12:10 Celebrity Big Brother 13:15 Loch Ness 15:10 Muppets from Space 17:00 Teen Wolf 18:50 Pearl Harbor 21:55 5 News Weekend 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

The Courier Monday TV

January 21

23:35 Have I Got Old News for You 00:25 01:05 02:30 02:35 03:00 03:30 03:45 04:00 04:30 04:45 05:00 05:30 06:00 06:30 06:45 07:00 10:15 11:00 11:58 12:00 12:45 13:13 13:15 14:00 14:30 14:45 15:15 16:00 16:45 17:30 18:15 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 21:30 22:00 22:30 23:00 23:25

Room 101 - Extra Storage The Celebrity Apprentice USA Weatherview Our World BBC News Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC News Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC News HARDtalk BBC News World Business Report BBC News Breakfast Wanted Down Under Homes Under the Hammer BBC News; Weather The Sheriffs Are Coming Cowboy Trap BBC News; Weather Bargain Hunt BBC News; Weather Regional News and Weather Doctors Father Brown Escape to the Country Perfection Antiques Road Trip Pointless BBC News BBC London News The One Show Inside Out EastEnders Panorama Miranda Mrs Brown's Boys BBC News Regional News and Weather

BBC2

01:15 The Store 03:20 Monk 00:00 There Will Be Blood 04:00 ITV Nightscreen 02:30 Holby City 07:00 Daybreak 03:30 Who Do You Think You Are? 09:30 Lorraine 04:30 Close 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 11:30 This Morning 08:05 The Sheriffs Are Coming 13:30 Loose Women 08:50 Cowboy Trap 14:30 ITV News and Weather 09:20 Don't Get Done, Get Dom 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 10:05 MasterChef: The 15:00 Dickinson's Real Deal Professionals 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 10:35 Return to Forgotten Britain 16:59 Meridian Weather 11:35 Click 17:00 Tipping Point 12:00 BBC News 18:00 The Chase 12:30 BBC World News 19:00 Meridian Tonight 13:00 Daily Politics 19:30 ITV News and Weather 14:00 Live Bowls 20:00 Emmerdale 18:15 Antiques Roadshow 20:30 Coronation Street 19:00 Eggheads 21:00 Cornwall with Caroline 19:30 Great British Railway Quentin Journeys 21:30 Coronation Street 20:00 Heir Hunters 22:00 Lewis 21:00 University Challenge 23:00 ITV News at Ten and 21:30 The Great Comic Relief Bake Weather Off 23:30 Meridian Tonight and 22:30 Natural World Weather 23:30 Newsnight 23:35 Les Miserables Movie Special

00:20 Rude Tube 02:10 Buffy the Vampire Slayer 03:40 Smallville 04:20 St Elsewhere 05:10 Deal or No Deal 06:05 Countdown 06:50 Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard 06:55 Sali Mali 07:00 The Treacle People 07:10 The Hoobs 08:00 Will & Grace 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 A Place in the Sun 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 Jamie's 15 Minute Meals 13:30 Food Unwrapped 14:00 Gun Fury 15:40 Countdown 16:30 Face the Clock 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Dispatches 21:30 Wild Things 22:00 Embarrassing Fat Bodies 23:00 What Happens in Kavos

THE GADGET SHOW First of two compilation shows featuring highlights of Jason Bradbury and Pollyanna Woodward's most recent exploits, beginning with products they sampled in Europe. In the Italian Alps, Jason gives a 31-wheel rollerblade suit a spin, while in Switzerland, Polly takes a death-defying leap from the Contra Dam to test smart TVs.

00:00 The House Bunny 02:00 SuperCasino 05:00 Michaela's Wild Challenge 05:25 Great Artists 05:50 County Secrets 06:05 Hana's Helpline 06:15 The Milkshake! Show 06:40 Thomas & Friends 06:50 Roary the Racing Car 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 Igam Ogam 07:20 Fireman Sam 07:30 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Olive the Ostrich 07:55 Little Princess 08:10 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Peppa Pig 09:30 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 All-New Trisha 13:00 Looney Tunes 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 Finding a Family 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Cowboy Builders 21:00 The Gadget Show 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Botched Up Bodies

The Courier Tuesday TV

January 22

bbc2 00:05 Blandings 00:35 The Graham Norton Show 01:25 The Celebrity Apprentice USA 02:50 Weatherview 02:55 ABC World News with Diane Sawyer 03:00 BBC News 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Sport Today 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:00 BBC News 05:30 HARDtalk 06:00 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News; Weather 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Cowboy Trap 13:13 BBC News; Weather 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Perfection 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 19:30 Weather 20:00 The One Show 20:30 EastEnders 20:30 BBC News; Regional News 21:00 Holby City 22:00 Death in Paradise 23:00 BBC News 23:25 National Lottery Update 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 Allotment Wars

00:20 Locomotion: Dan Snow's History of Railways 01:20 American Football 02:20 Bowls 03:20 Film 03:50 Countryfile 04:45 Close 05:00 Spark 06:00 Schools - True Stories 07:00 Close 07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 The Sheriffs Are Coming 08:50 Cowboy Trap 09:20 Don't Get Done, Get Dom 10:05 MasterChef: The Professionals 11:05 You've Been Scammed 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Bowls 18:15 Antiques Roadshow 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Heir Hunters 21:00 The Great Comic Relief Bake Off 22:00 Locomotion: Dan Snow's History of Railways 23:00 The Sarah Millican Television Programme 23:30 Newsnight

00:35 Monk 01:25 Jackpot247 04:00 The Jeremy Kyle Show 04:55 The Jeremy Kyle Show 05:45 ITV Nightscreen 07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 21:00 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? 22:00 Great Houses with Julian Fellowes 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 River Monsters

MONKEY LIFE Behind the scenes at Monkey World rescue centre in Dorset. Alison Cronin retrieves a squirrel monkey that has become aggressive and started chewing its tail after living alone for 20 years in a cage in Essex. Back at base, a delivery of mangoes proves popular among the chimps, and the team learns of a forthcoming arrival.

00:05 One Born Every Minute 01:10 Random Acts 01:15 The Shooting Gallery 01:45 Supersize vs Superskinny 02:40 Scandal 03:25 The Promise 04:50 How to Look Good Naked 05:45 Deal or No Deal 06:40 Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard 07:05 Sali Mali 07:10 The Hoobs 08:05 Will & Grace 08:30 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 A Place in the Sun 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 Jamie's 15 Minute Meals 13:30 Food Unwrapped 14:00 Carry On Sergeant 15:40 Countdown 16:30 Face the Clock 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Supersize vs Superskinny 22:00 The Undateables 23:00 Utopia

00:00 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side 01:00 Benidorm ER 02:00 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 Igam Ogam 07:20 Fireman Sam 07:30 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Olive the Ostrich 07:55 Little Princess 08:10 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Peppa Pig 09:30 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 All-New Trisha 13:00 Looney Tunes 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Mary Higgins Clark's Moonlight Becomes You 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Monkey Life 20:30 Highland Emergency 21:00 Benidorm ER 22:00 Body of Proof 23:00 Celebrity Big Brother

The Courier Wednesday TV

January 23

00:30 Greenfingers 01:55 Weatherview 02:00 Newsday 02:30 ABC World News with Diane Sawyer 03:00 BBC News 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Sport Today 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:00 BBC News 05:30 HARDtalk 06:00 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Wanted Down Under 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News; Weather 12:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 12:45 Cowboy Trap 13:13 BBC News; Weather 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Father Brown 16:00 Escape to the Country 16:45 Perfection 17:30 Antiques Road Trip 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 BBC London News 19:55 Party Political Broadcast 20:00 The One Show 21:00 The Food Inspectors 22:00 Africa 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 A Question of Sport bbc2 00:20 Why the Industrial Revolution

Happened Here 01:20 Bowls 02:20 The Battle for Malta 03:20 Nature's Weirdest Events 04:20 Close 05:00 Schools - Acting Around Words 05:30 Schools - Making Media 06:00 Schools: 3, 2, 1 Go! 07:00 Homes Under the Hammer 08:00 The Sheriffs Are Coming 08:45 Cowboy Trap 09:15 Don't Get Done, Get Dom 10:00 MasterChef: The Professionals 11:00 You've Been Scammed 11:30 See Hear 12:00 BBC News 12:30 Daily Politics 14:00 Lifeline 14:10 Live Bowls 18:10 Antiques Roadshow 18:55 Party Political Broadcast 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Heir Hunters 21:00 The Great Comic Relief Bake Off 22:00 Funny Business 23:00 The Culture Show 23:30 Newsnight

00:35 The Cube 01:30 Jackpot247 04:00 Loose Women 04:50 ITV Nightscreen 07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:25 Party Political Broadcast 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Coronation Street 20:30 The National Television Awards 2013 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 Inside Death Row with Trevor McDonald

00:10 8 Out of 10 Cats 01:10 Random Acts 01:15 European Poker Tour 02:15 Sailing 02:40 KOTV Boxing Weekly 03:10 Beach Volleyball 04:05 Mad Hot Ballroom 05:55 Deal or No Deal 06:50 Quick Bakes with Eric Lanlard 07:05 Sali Mali 07:10 The Hoobs 08:05 Will & Grace 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:00 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 A Place in the Sun 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 Jamie's 15 Minute Meals 13:30 Food Unwrapped 14:00 Murder at the Gallop 15:40 Countdown 16:30 Face the Clock 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Gok's Style Secrets 22:00 One Born Every Minute 23:00 16 Kids and Counting

ICE ROAD TRUCKERS Lisa Kelly takes an oversized trailer to Prudhoe, a task she failed the previous season, while Alex Debogorski picks up a load of fish from Red Sucker Lake and heads for Winnipeg. Rick Yemm is forced to reverse down a treacherously icy road after missing a turning, while in Fairbanks, rookie Maya Seiber is tested on a 3D simulator, which all drivers have to conquer before they can be let loose on testing terrain.

00:00 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side 01:00 Botched Up Bodies 02:00 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 Igam Ogam 07:20 Fireman Sam 07:30 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Olive the Ostrich 07:55 Little Princess 08:10 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Peppa Pig 09:30 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 All-New Trisha 13:00 Looney Tunes 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 CSI: Miami 16:15 Heart of a Stranger 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Ice Road Truckers 21:00 Charley Boorman's Extreme Frontiers 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:30 Celebrity Big Brother's Bit on the Side

The Courier Thursday TV

January 24

00:05 00:50 01:25 03:25 03:30 03:45 04:00 04:30 04:45 05:00 05:30 06:00 06:30 06:45 07:00 10:15 11:00 11:58 12:00 12:45 13:13 13:15 14:00 14:30 14:45 15:15 16:00 16:45 17:30 18:15 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:25 23:35

The League Cup Show Film Cabaret Weatherview Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC News Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC News HARDtalk BBC News World Business Report BBC News Breakfast Wanted Down Under Homes Under the Hammer BBC News; Weather The Sheriffs Are Coming Cowboy Trap BBC News; Weather Bargain Hunt BBC News; Weather Regional News and Weather Doctors Father Brown Escape to the Country Perfection Antiques Road Trip Pointless BBC News BBC London News The One Show EastEnders Waterloo Road Silent Witness BBC News Regional News and Weather Question Time

bbc2 00:20 01:20 02:20 03:20

Tankies: Tank Heroes of WWII Bowls Dara O Briain's Science Club Nature's Weirdest Events

04:20 See Hear 04:50 Close 05:00 Schools: Eco Maths - Key Stage 3 05:30 Schools - The Code 05:55 Schools: 3, 2, 1 Go! - Key Stage 2 06:55 Primary English Promo Learning Zone Broadband 07:00 Close 07:05 Homes Under the Hammer 08:05 The Sheriffs Are Coming 08:50 Cowboy Trap 09:20 Don't Get Done, Get Dom 10:05 MasterChef: The Professionals 11:05 Robbed, Raided, Reunited 11:35 HARDtalk 12:00 BBC News 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Live Bowls 18:15 Antiques Roadshow 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Railway Journeys 20:00 Heir Hunters 21:00 The Great Comic Relief Bake Off 22:00 The Genius of Invention 23:00 Mock the Week - Again 23:30 Weather 23:30 Newsnight

00:35 Safari Vet School 01:05 Jackpot247 04:00 Battle of Midway 06:10 ITV Nightscreen 07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 This Morning 13:30 Loose Women 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 15:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:00 The Alan Titchmarsh Show 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Tipping Point 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Tonight 21:00 Emmerdale 21:30 Nursing the Nation 22:00 Inside Death Row with Trevor McDonald 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 The Jonathan Ross Show

BUILDING THE ICE HOTEL Documentary following the progress of artistic director Ake Larson and architect Arne Bergh as they embark on a six-week project to build Icehotel, a sophisticated structure constructed in the Swedish village of Jukkasjarvi - more than 120 miles inside the Arctic Circle. The venue has been built from snow and ice every year since 1990, when an edifice housing an exhibition of ice sculptures became a temporary hostel for visiting art enthusiasts

00:05 Random Acts 00:10 Embarrassing Fat Bodies 01:15 Launched at Red Bull Studios 01:45 Mercury Prize: 2012 Albums of the Year Live 02:10 Revenge 02:55 Panic in the Streets 04:35 Smallville 05:15 Deal or No Deal 06:10 Countdown 06:55 Baking Mad with Eric Lanlard 07:05 Sali Mali 07:10 The Hoobs 08:05 Will & Grace 08:30 According to Jim 08:55 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:55 Frasier 11:00 Undercover Boss USA 12:00 A Place in the Sun 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 Jamie's 15 Minute Meals 13:30 Food Unwrapped 14:00 Guns of Fort Petticoat 15:40 Countdown 16:30 Face the Clock 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Four in a Bed 18:30 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Location, Location, Location 22:00 The Restoration Man

00:30 Alien Hunter 02:15 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 Igam Ogam 07:20 Fireman Sam 07:30 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Olive the Ostrich 07:55 Little Princess 08:10 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Noddy in Toyland 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Tickety Toc 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 All-New Trisha 13:00 Looney Tunes 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Celebrity Big Brother 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 The Mentalist 16:15 Her Fatal Flaw 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Great Northern Cookbook 21:00 Building the Ice Hotel 22:00 Celebrity Big Brother 23:00 Fighters' Wives: The World of MMA

Friday, January 18, 2013

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International Christian Assembly, Calle Pilar de Horadada 5, Torrevieja. Evangelical non-denominational church. Sunday services 11am. Children's church 11am. House groups in Torrevieja, Los Balcones, San Javier. Ladies meeting Thursdays 11am. Craft club, Tuesdays, 2pm. Pastor, Rafael Restrepo. All nationalities welcome. Call 966 799 273 or 660 127 276. Pilar Christian Community Church Calle Canalejas 3. Pilar de la Horadada. Sunday Service at 11am, and Thursday at 5pm for Bible study and Prayer. Home groups meet during the week. All welcome from any church background or none. For further information contact Pilar ChristianCommunity Church@gmail.com or contact Reverend Eddie on 966 7693 00 or 650 509 606. Reg No:2009-SG/A The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons) meet at 10.00 each Sunday at their Torrevieja meetinghouse in the Torreaguas building on the corner of Rambla Juan Mateo Garcia 104, close to the windmill in Torrevieja, 667 533 597.

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amenities in walking distance. Long and short term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref. KBJ3 – Luxury duplex penthouse apartment located near the marina in Guardamar. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, amazing panoramic views, inc.parking and storage. 600 € pcm. 966 923 963 Ref. CBR21 – A rare chance to rent a frontline beach apartment in Torrevieja! Ground floor with large terrace, 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, direct and full-on sea views. 500 € pcm. 966 923 963 Ref. CBR20 – Spanish style 4th floor apartment right on the beach! 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, lovely balcony to soak up the amazing sea views. 500 € pcm. 966 923 963 Ref. CBR19 – 2 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment in sought after area beachside Punta Prima, with communal pool and fully furnished, only 400 € pcm. 966 923 963 CBR22 : Modern 2 bed apartment only 500m from Los Locos Beach. Fully fur-

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nished, inc.storage room, 350€ pcm. 966 923 963 Ref. CBR3 – 2 bedroom 2 bathroom townhouse located in Algorfa, communal pool, fully furnished, 300 € pcm. 966 923 963 Ref. RS20 – 2 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment within private enclosed residential in San Luis, large terrace, 350 € pcm. 966 923 963 Ref: 49, 2nd floor one bedroom apartment situated conveniently located in the town centre of Torrevieja, with a small sun balcony overlooking the lovely communal pool. Short or long term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref 33, Ground floor spacious 2 bedroom apartment, located in Torre la Mata. Close to all amenities and beach. 3 month rental €300pcm Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 104, 2 Bedroom apartment in Torrevieja, (near gypsy lane), small balcony, near all amenities and Friday market. €350pcm Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 112, Spacious 3 bedroom detached villa with its private pool is located on the El Raso urbanisation near Guardamar. Convenient for all amenities, shops, supermarket, restaurants and bars. Short term rental avail-

able. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 155, Luxurious Three Bedroom Villa With Private Pool, in Quesada Close to shops and restaurants within a five minute drive, and Guadamar Beach is within a ten minute drive. Short term rental €800PCM. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref 702: Beautiful 2 bedroom apartment, located near los Locos beach, beautifully furnished. Short term rentals from 175€ per week. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 El Chaparel/La Siesta Two bedroom apartment in a quiet gated urbanisation for rent €350 per month plus bills. Reference No 17 Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 709, A lovely 1 bedroom apartment in Aguas Nuevas, within a 5 minute walk of the beach. There is a terrace outside with views to the sea. Short or long term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 117, A Lovely 3 Bedroomed 1st floor apartment on the outskirts of Torrevieja (Mar Azul). The Apartment is in walking distance of the excellent beaches and a good selection of restaurants, shops and bars. Long and short term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397

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Friday, January 18, 2013 Ref: 63, Two bedroom 1st floor apartment situated in Monino Blanco. The property overlooks a superb communal pool area, in within walking distance of bars, restaurants and shops. Short or long term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 CBR23 : Stylish new house in Los Montesinos, 3 bed 2 bath with large 65m2 garage, front and back terraces. 500 € pcm. 966 923 963

PROPERTY FOR SALE Comprehensive cover for house and contents with CASER Seguros - excellent prices for expats; policies available in English or German. Call 966 923 963 for a quote. Ref. BRJ1 – 1 bedroom top floor renovated apartment in San Luis. Great sea and lake views. 55.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS96 – Charming 1 bedroom top floor bungalow, 300m from the sea in La Mata. 55.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref: 510, €70,000. Bungalow located in San Luis. It is close to the supermarkets, bars and restaurants and is on the local bus route. An Opel Corsa car is included in this sale. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref. RS63 – 2 bedroom 2 bathroom townhouse in Torrevieja, with communal pool and lots of extras. 95.000 €. Tl. 966 923 963

Ref. RS59 – Detached 3 bedroom 2 bathroom villa in San Luis, plot of 350m2, private pool, and additional “granny annex”. 169.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS1 – Detached 3 bedroom 2 bathroom villa with 900m2 plot located in Toretta Florida. Has private pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and much more! 345.000 € .Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS67 – 2 bedroom apartment with lovely sun terrace located in Playa Flamenca urb with communal pool. All amenities nearby. 61.500 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS98 - Spacious 2 bed, ground floor apartment 250m from La Mata beach, inc private parking and storeroom. 115.000€ Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS58 – 2 bedroom 1 bathroom second floor apartment located in La Mata, communal pool, fully furnished, 79.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS84 – Large 3 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment of 100m2 situated in Los Montesinos. Communal solarium upstairs with pool. 79.900 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS20 – 2 bedroom 1 bathroom apartment within private enclosed residential in San Luis, large terrace, 90.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS65 – 2 bedroom 1 bathroom penthouse apartment, communal pool and parking area, located near the beach in Guardamar. 79.950 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. RS90 – 2 bedroom

detached villa all on one level, fully furnished, as new! Located in El Raso (Guardamar) 145.000 €. Tel. 966 923 963 Ref. KEIGUA – Luxury duplex atico apartment in Guardamar. 3 bedroom 2 bathroom, 118 m2, private parking, storage room, communal pool, magnificent views of forest, beach and sea. 169.000 € Tel. 966 923 963 Lovely Corner property in Novamar V, Gran Alacant. 2 bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Being sold fully furnished including appliances, Has secure underground parking and faces large oasis communal pool. Walking distance to beach. 139.000 Euros, Call 627 711 155 and quote Ref No. K10 Ground floor duplex, with splendid views. Quiet location in Gran Alacant. Immaculate condition. Price has just been reduced to 105.000 and includes everything. For viewing call 627 711 155 Ref. No K27 Rare opportunity to purchase on Mediterrania III, Gran Alacant. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, Private Parking, F/Furnished, Large communal pools & Tennis courts S/W facing, Dramatically reduced for quick sale to 126.000 euros. Ref No. K58 Call 627 711 155 for immediate viewing Ref: 521, €105,000. This comfortable bungalow is located in San Luis with a new roof and solarium tiles. It is close to supermarkets, bars, restaurants and is on

the local bus route. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Don Pueblo, Gran Alacant. 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Large Kitchen with Galleria, Secure underground parking, Gas Central Heating, Glazed in Porch, Solarium with stunning views. Viewings absolutely essential. Very large property at reduced price of 190.000 euros. Ref No. K38 Call 627 711 155 Opportunity to purchase at the off plan price of 195.000 euros. Large 4 Bed, 3 Bath Brand new property. Secure underground parking for 2 cars and communal pool. Situated opposite Gran Alacant and over looks projected golf course. Ref No. K52. 627 711 155 Viva Villa and Vacation Services are pleased to offer property sales for the Torrevieja and Oriheula areas of the Costa Blanca, Spain. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 or Visit : www.villaandvacation.com 2 Bed, 1 Bath Ground floor duplex. Central heating, Grills, Fully furnished, Glazed in Galleria, 2 communal pools, private parking and walking distance to the Gran Alacant commercial centre. Situated in the popular urbanisation of Puerto Marino. Now only 96,500 euros for quick sale Ref No. K46. 627 711 155 Immaculate ground floor Duplex, 2 beds, 2 bath, Private Parking, Situated in Novamar, Gran Alacant. Price includes very tasteful furniture and white goods.

Walking distance to all local amenities and beach. Now only 129,750 euros. Ref No K24. 627 711 155 Gran Alacant Detached villa, located in a very sought after location.Situated on a 560m2 S/W facing plot and constructed in 2005. Comprising of 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (2 full baths), Lounge-Diner, fully equipped Kitchen, Porch and Solarium with Alicante & Sea Views. ref.L81. €258,000 neg. Tel. 680333242 Ref 533: Lovely 2 bedroom Townhouse located in the popular area of Punta Prima, the property has a large lounge and fully equipped kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, one with balcony, bathroom with double shower. €126,000 Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 520, €85,000. Two bedroom apartment in Dream Hills, with a fully equipped kitchen, large lounge, glazed-in terrace and a large solarium. This property comes with a large communal swimming pool. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 78, €120,000. Three bedroom Quad in Jardin Del Mar VII. There is off-road parking and small storage shed in the enclosed garden area, communal pool nearby. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Gran Alacant Town House with a difference. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Glazed in Porch, Quiet Location, Extra storage areas, and South Facing Private Pool as well as 2

communal pools. Fully Furnished, All mod cons. Greenland Views and all local amenities close by. Ref. No L79. 179.000 euros 680 333 242 Top floor Duplex. Very good price of 108.000 euros for a quick sale. Furnished to a very high standard, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, Lounge Diner, Glazed in Porch, Large Roof Top Solarium. Choice of Communal Pools, Private Parking. Walking distance to all amenities and on the First urbanisation as you enter Gran Alacant. Viewing essential. Ref No. K44. Tel. 627 711 155 Gran Alacant immaculate villa, 3 bedroomed, 3 bathroomed property maintained to a very high standard inside and out and the interior furnishings are top quality, offering a feeling of luxury and good taste. The plot size is 400m2 and has been beautifully tiles, and graveled and has established palms and plants. Oil fired central heating throughout, log effect fire place, ceiling fans in all rooms, towel heater rails, glazed in shower units, instant hot water, water purifier, free English TV, phone & internet lines, fitted double hanging wardrobes, safe, glazed in front porch, vanity units and much more. The pool is an 8 X 4 m2 salt water pool, meaning maintenance is much easier plus outside toilet and shower. Sea views to front with Greenland views to the rear. ref K51. €245,000 Tel 680333242

Friday, January 18, 2013

Balsares is opposite Gran Alacant where the proposed golf course is now being started so this property will virtually be on the golf course, it is an investment not to be missed. The property is on a small gated urbanisation of 18 houses with private underground parking for 2 cars and direct access to the house, communal pool and toilets/changing rooms etc. The house is brand new and consists of 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, lounge with working fire place, large kitchen 12 m2, large galleria/ utility room, bedroom balcony and front tiled terrace. This property also has a converted under build for an extra lounge or bedroom. ref K52 €198,000 Tel 680333242 Ref: 516, €39,999. Studio apartment in San Luis, close to amenities. Open plan fully equipped kitchen. Good sized lounge, bedroom and out onto balcony which has been glazed to create another room. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: KP3100, €183,000. Three bedroom, two bathroom detached villa, located in San Luis, on a 450sqm plot, with communal pool. Garage to side of house. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 709, €60,000 A lovely 1 bedroom apartment in Aguas Nuevas, within a 5 minute walk of the beach. There is a terrace outside with views to the sea. Short or long term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Gran Alacant Opportunity to purchase a beautiful 3 bedroomed, 3 bathroomed,large kitchen, detached property

with roof- top solarium. Well established gardens and drive way for 2 cars, whilst also overlooking the projected 18 hole golf course. Comprising of fitted wardrobes, utility room, air con H/C, alarm system, electric wall heaters, intercom system, fireplace, ceilings fans, 8x7 gazebo, use of 2 large communal pools, immaculate condition with many extras. ref K12. €180,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant bargain, detached villa with pool on 400m2 plot. Briefly comprising of 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, Lounge Diner, independent kitchen, solarium with views, well maintained gardens. Quiet location yet within walking distance of all amenities. Top quality furniture and appliances included in the price. Extras include, mosquito nets, grills, toldos blinds, built in wardrobes, gas fire, electric heating, ceiling fans, English & Spanish TV, tastefully tiled & graveled garden with irrigation system. ref K43. €229,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant South facing attractive corner house Situated in the sought after urbanization of Monte Faro, this secure gated urbanization offers a stunning oasis pool, with mountain views, tennis courts and football courts. Consisting of 3 double beds with balconies, 2 bathrooms, kitchen leading onto court yard which can easily be converted into an extra room, lounge diner with working fireplace, front garden with private parking for 2 cars. Being sold fully furnishes with white goods, built in 2006 so immaculate condition hardly lived in. Ref K48 €168,000 priced for quick sale Tel 680333242

Gran Alacant, Large detached villa with beautiful gardens set on 550m2 plot, built in BBQ area and large 10x6 pool.Comprising of 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Lounge Diner with fire place, Independent Kitchen, air con H/C, Solarium, front porch, converted under build with 3 extra rooms, private covered parking, irrigated gardens, close distance to beach and amenities. Ref. K18 €250,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant Gem! Fabulous detached Villa, with Alicante sea views to the front and wood land views to the rear, means this immaculate villa is very private and un-overlooked. Comprising of 2 large bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, 2 bath, large fully equipped kitchen,glazed porch sitting area, solarium, Attractive Pool with cover, well maintained Gardens. Central Heating, Air Con, Ceiling fans, Private Parking, Alarm system, Decorative working

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Fire Place complete with electric Fire. Outdoor workshop/storage area, Quality Pergola & BBQ. Constructed in 2006, on plot size of 380m2 and being sold fully furnished including white goods. ref L80. €234,995 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, Ground floor south west facing apartment in Puerto Marino close to G.A commercial centre, comprising of 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, Lounge-Diner, Independent Kitchen with Galleria, Porch area and large tiled front garden, The property is being sold fully furnished and includes all kitchen appliances, H & C Air con is fitted as well as sky TV. The apartment enjoys the use of 2 large communal pools and has private parking in an enclosed electronically gated car park. Competitively priced for a quick sale. Ref. K40 €91,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, this mid terraced Puerto marino townhouse has been priced low purely for a quick sale. Briefly comprising of: 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Lounge-Diner, Independent Kitchen with Galleria, Porch area, Front tiled garden, Private gated Parking & the use of 2 large communal pools Ref. K22 €123,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, corner property in Don Pueblo with no

expense spared, comprising of 3 double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, 2 decoratively tiled bathrooms, very large independent kitchen with galleria. Included in the price are all kitchen appliances such as large fridge freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, microwave to name just a few. There is a huge lounge complete with chimney, plus large fully transformed under build,and small workshop. Front and rear private garden area, secure underground garage, tennis courts, football pitch and communal pools. Ref. K14 €209,00 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, Situated in the "Alto" part of Gran Alacant, this 3 bedroomed, 4th floor apartment, offers luxury accommodation, with absolutely stunning sea views, as well as views of Alicante bay and the famous Santa Barbara Castle.The apartment is 89 square meters with open plan kitchen / living room and includes all electrical appliances & furniture also there is a utility room, open terrace, and private parking. The urbanisation also offers many communal pools, tennis courts, restaurants and bars. Ref. K20 €109,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant large detached villa with 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge-diner, fully equipped kitchen, large porch, roof top solarium, 400 m2 Plot, with established low mainte-

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nance very private gardens with irrigation system, electronic gates, private parking, outside wc, sink & shower, terraces, air con ( h & c ), mosquito nets, grills, alarmed, large spa pool with separate Jacuzzi section. Within easy walking distance to Gran Alacant commercial centre and close to local bus and tram route. Ref K33. €260,000 neg Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, Rare investment!! corner south facing opportunity on Novamar urbanisation.This immaculate ground floor duplex has been kept and maintained to a very high standard inside and out the position is fantastic, enjoys views over the lovely oasis communal pool, surrounded by lawned gardens. Comprising of plot size 100m2 Build Size 90m2, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished, AntiGlare Windows, Security Door, Security Grills, Built-in Wardrobes, Extra Storage, Galleria, Electric Panel Heaters, Heated Towel Rails, Air Con (h&c), Ceiling. Fans. Thermo Shower, Vanity Units and decoratively tiled throughout, exquisite garden, Underground private parking. Ref.K10 €139,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, detached villa in desirable road close to all amenities, comprising of 3 double bedrooms, 3 baths, lounge diner with working fire place, brand new kitchen with all appliances and black granite work tops, private pool, plot of 550m2, established irrigated gardens and fruit trees, private parking, solarium, also there is a converted under build giving more bedrooms ,bathroom & kitchen, this house has many extras and is being sold fully furnished. Ref.k47. €280,000 neg Tel 680333242

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Friday, January 18, 2013 Gran Alacant south-facing, very private villa, with woodland and Alicante views. Situated at the end of a small cul-de-sac which means this villa enjoys a very peaceful location.3 Bedrooms with fitted wardrobes, 3 Bathrooms, lounge-diner with working fireplace, fully fitted kitchen with including white goods, large front porch, solarium,workshop and storage in under build, central heating, air con H/C, ceiling fans, grills, UK T.V, off road parking and plenty of outside parking also. Due to its orientation of this property enjoys full sun, all day, something very important in the winter months. Ref.K24. €237,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant detached villa with converted under build and pool. Comprising of 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, Lounge- Diner, Front Porch, Large Solarium, decoratively tiled, Irrigated Garden. BBQ and Log Storage Cupboard. Raised walls for Privacy. Also many extras, toldos blinds, freshly decorated interior, Grills, Mosquito Nets, Air Con H/C, Ceiling Fans, Log Burner Fire, Electric Radiators, Heated Towel Rails, Alarmed, Phone Line, Satellite UK TV, private parking. Plot size 310m2 under build 100m2. price includes all furniture.The under build consists of 2 beds, lounge, kit/utility room. ref L79. €250,000 Tel. 680333242 Gran Alacant immaculate outstanding south facing villa in sought after road. Set on a 350m2 plot with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths,large porch, solarium and terraces. The large under build includes a lounge, kitchen, bedrooms, bathroom and patio doors leading to pool area. Internal & external access for under build. Extras include electric radiators, air con H/C, ceiling fans, gas fire, heated

towel rails, extended walk-in shower, fitted wardrobes. Decorative tiling inside and out. Panoramic views towards Alicante Bay, Sky TV, phone line and Internet & Private parking, established gardens, water features and fruit trees. Being sold with exquisite furniture and all white goods. Immaculate finishes and decor. ref L84. €278,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant South facing attractive corner house Situated in the sought after urbanization of Monte Faro, this secure gated urbanization offers a stunning oasis pool, with mountain views, tennis courts and football courts. Consisting of 3 double beds with balconies, 2 bathrooms, kitchen leading onto court yard which can easily be converted into an extra room, lounge diner with working fireplace, front garden with private parking for 2 cars. Being sold fully furnishes with white goods, built in 2006 so immaculate condition hardly lived in. Ref K48 €168,000 priced for quick sale Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant limited edition villa, not very often available on the market. Only a few of this type were ever constructed- Very large 5 bedrooms, 4 bathroom(2 ensuit) property, situated on a large corner plot with a 10 x 5 private pool and private parking. Lounge-diner with working fireplace, fully equipped kitchen with utility room. Large landing area, leading onto solarium, with extra storage external room. Front porch area leading into large well established gardens with irrigation system and fruit trees. Being sold fully furnished. Within walking distance to Gran Alacant commercial centre and 5 minute drive to Carabassi beaches. ref. K11. €270,000 Tel 680333242

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Gran Alacant, Situated on the very first urbanisation as you enter Gran Alacant, this 2nd floor duplex offers taste and quality. Comprising of 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, lounge-diner, independent kitchen, full roof-top solarium with superb views and recently glazed in porch offering extra living area as well as extra privacy as the glass is mirrored. Ref.K44 €108,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant beautiful detached villa with very large pool and within walking distance to the Gran Alacant Commercial Centre. This villa comprised of 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, lounge-diner, Independent kitchen, roof top storage, solarium, porch & terrace. Large private pool, BBQ area, established gardens and private terraces, Private Parking, Solarium with Views to Alicante. 450m2 plot, fully furnished including white goods. Located in very quiet desirable road. ref.L96. €255,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant Limited edition bungalow. Only six of this type available in Gran Alacant. Constructed in 2003 and immaculately maintained on a large plot size of 500m2 with a 10 x 5 pool.Comprising of 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge-diner leading out onto front porch, independent kitchen including white

goods, outside galleria, court yard, large garage with electric door, roof top solarium and private parking. Also built in wardrobes, Toldos blinds, air con H/C, security grills, alarm, security doors, bathrooms heaters, outside toilet, outdoor lighting, irrigation system, attractive and well kept gardens, beautifully tiled inside and out, fire place, English TV, phone line. Being sold with top quality furniture. ref L95. €275,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant villa located in a very quiet area , situated at the end of a cul-de-sac means there is no through traffic.3 bed, 3 bath, 330m2 plot, established large gardens, working fireplace, solar panel for hot water,private parking, south facing great views, fully furnished, fantastic opportunity. ref. L85. €215,000 Tel 680333242 Gran Alacant, Situated in the central area of Gran Alacant and within walking distance to all local amenities such as a selection of different cuisine restaurants, bars, pharmacies, banks, popular GA market and Carabassi Beach. Comprises of 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with a private garage and roof-top solarium. This property is part of a small urbanization which has the use of a large decorative communal pool. Ref. K36 €149,000 Tel 680333242

WARDROBES

Ref: 513, €115,000. Two bedroom ground floor apartment, in Aguas Nuevas, close to all amenities including the beach. It has a good size lounge, kitchen and has off road parking facilities. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Beach front Line property, over looks Carabassi Beach, Gran Alacant. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Secure Underground Parking, Fully furnished, Roof Top Solarium. 3 Large Communal Pools, Fantastic communal Gardens, Tennis Courts and much more. 125.000 Euros Ref No. K23. Tel. 627 711 155 Gran Alacant, Situated front line to the famous blue flag beaches of Carabassi, the real beauty of this property is its proximity to the beach, but also on offer is a fantastic communal pool situated in beautifully kept gardens with little Spanish walk ways.Comprising of 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge diner, American style kitchen including all appliances, roof top solarium with stunning views, front porch area with front garden and a secure underground garage. fully furnished Ref. K23 €125,000 rare opportunity Tel 680333242 Ref: 520, €85,000. Two bedroom apartment in Dream Hills, with a fully equipped kitchen, large lounge, glazed-in terrace and a large solarium. This property comes with a large communal swimming pool. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397

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QUIZZES Experienced quizmaster/question setter with personality available to host quiz nights in local bars. Tel:- 664 838 581

REMOVALS Small removals, deliveries & storage. Spain-UK-Spain. Budget prices. www.spanishmoves.net. UK 01209 843971 or Spain 687 756 644 (101)

SITUATIONS VACANT Inviters wanted for all areas including Cabo Roig, La Zenia, Playa Flamenca, Punta Prima and all areas of Costa Blanca South. Hours to suit and great rates of pay. Phone Sue (691 063 203) to find out more about working for the best New Company on the Costa Blanca.(101)

SOLICITORS Need English speaking solicitors in Torrevieja? Let us help to solve your problems with debt recovery, divorce, property, fraud, criminal defence. Call us on 966 923 963, give us brief details and get in touch with your specialist solicitor today.

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Friday, January 18, 2013

Greenside Gossip IVIE DAVIES takes a weekly look at the golf scene - golfdavies@gmail.com

A FRIEND IN SPEED AT the end of November I wrote about etiquette on the golf course and the first item was “slow play”. Well, shortly afterwards I was sent details about an organisation that’s been set up in the USA to launch a new programme to address the age-old problem (The Courier goes worldwide!). Steve Aronson, an avid golfer, came up with the idea for Play 240 GOLF after being paired with a notoriously slow player on consecutive days in a club tournament. He shared his experience. “It was extremely frustrating watching the prolonged pre-shot routine time and time again over 36 holes. I wanted to tell the guy he was slow but realised after a couple of subtle comments he was not going to pick-up the pace no matter what I said.” Aronson went on: “There had to be a way to let this guy - and others like him - know how to play golf at an acceptable pace. I realised telling someone they are slow was not the answer. They don’t believe it to begin with and even if they did accept the fact, it does not help them play any faster.” He sent me the information as he liked my article and in particular item 1 – Slow Play. The heart of the programme is a list of 10 golf etiquette fundamentals that can be shared among

Steve finds the key to beating the curse of golf’s snail brigade golfers. The first fundamental is the most important and simply states, “Be Ready to Play When It Is Your Turn.” Golfers that are not ready to play when it is their turn is the single biggest reason for slow play. Most of the remaining rules address all of the bad habits many golfers have that cause them to not be ready.

So what is Play 240 Golf?

Pace-of-play etiquette rules help golfers finish a round in 240 minutes (four hours) on most golf courses. 240 GOLF is an effective approach to improve paceof-play at your course. Never before has such a simple idea been available to courses to educate golfers how to play at an acceptable pace and finish their round in a timely manner. 240 GOLF is incredibly easy to implement and can be utilised at golf clubs. All those golfers who complain about slow play will be thankful if 240 GOLF is at a course near you.

Check it out on www.play240golf.com It could be something that should be introduced at golf clubs here in Spain. The subject of etiquette brings to mind the repairing of pitch marks. Vistabella Golf near Los Montesinos has some of the best greens in the Province, yet there are players who totally ignore the damage they and

others cause. You would think that when they are presented with “billiard” table greens they would like to keep them that way. But NO! In order to do my little bit I thought I’d put into this article the correct way in which to repair those ugly indentations. Correct Method • Discard the loose piece of turf taken out by the ball

£31,000 A DAY RORY

THE worst kept secret in golf was made official in Abu Dhabi last Monday with Rory McIlroy joining Nike. The Ulsterman was unveiled as Nike's new brand ambassador in Abu Dhabi, making him one of the highest paid sports stars in the world. "Rory is an extraordinary athlete

TITTER ON THE TEE A LADY golfer is in the professional’s shop at an exclusive golf club when she sees a pair of hand-made calfskin golf shoes. The pro goes over and says: “They are very expensive, but if you go to bed with me I‘ll let you have them for nothing.” “Well, okay,” says the woman, “but don’t expect me to enjoy it”. The pro gives her the shoes and takes her to his flat and they get down to the business. As they are carrying on he senses her legs shaking each side of him and the woman screaming “Oh God, that’s fantastic! Yes, yes, fantastic!” “Oh really!” says the pro. “And I thought you wouldn’t enjoy it”. “I didn’t. I was trying on the new golf shoes!’’

who creates enormous excitement with his on-course performance while, at the same time, connecting with fans everywhere," said Cindy Davis, President of Nike Golf. The exact detail of the sponsorship may never be revealed, but it has been reported to be worth around $100m (£62m) to $125m (£77m) over five years. Or £31,000 a day if you prefer. Tiger Woods has been Nike's standard-bearer for 16 years, but the world number one will be paid even more. Earlier this week Jumeirah paved the way for the Nike deal by confirming they were severing ties with McIlroy, one of the hottest properties in sport

KNOW YOUR RULES In a match, the two players agree to concede all putts in a specific length. Is this legal? A: NO B: YES because they agreed jointly. C: YES because it’s a local rule and speeds up the play. ANSWER: NO. The players agree to exclude Rule 1-1 and should be disqualified under Rule 1–3. Under Rule 2-4, the only stroke that maybe conceded is the “next stroke” and it cannot be conceded in advance.

• Insert the pitch mark repairer tool just outside of the back of the pitch mark • Lever the turf towards the centre of the pitch mark • Repeat this motion from all sides of the pitch mark Gently tap the repaired area with your putter. This action stretches undamaged turf over the pitch mark, providing instant recovery Incorrect Method • DO NOT replace the loose piece of turf taken out by the ball. It will die and delay the healing process. • DO NOT prise up the centre of the depression with the pitch mark repairer as it exposes the soil and will delay the healing process • DO NOT insert the pitch mark repairer and twist it. This only breaks more turf loose. Repairing those little depressions is very important. Equally important is doing it the right way. Because while many golfers fail to repair ball marks - and

shame on you if you are one of them - there are also many well-meaning golfers who do "repair" the pitch marks, only they do so incorrectly. A ball mark can cause the grass in the depression to die, leaving not just a scar but also a pit in the putting surface that can knock wellstruck putts offline. Repairing a ball mark restores a smooth surface and helps keep the grass healthy. But "repairing" a ball mark incorrectly can actually cause more damage than not attempting to repair it at all. It was found that incorrectly "repaired" ball marks take up to twice as long to heal as those that are properly repaired. So golfers, let’s all start fixing our ball marks, and doing it the right way. And if you have a moment - if there isn't another group of golfers behind you waiting for you to clear the green - fix one or two other ball marks, too, if you find more of them on the green. Repairing ball marks isn't just important for the health of the greens, and for smooth-rolling putts. It isn't just a matter of golf etiquette. It is our obligation to help take care of the golf courses we play. And repairing ball marks is a big part of that obligation to the game.

Friday, January 18, 2013

HARRY HOUDINI – OR HARI KARI?

Yes, Harry Redknapp’s having a go – and yes, he’s had some success. Mind you, he needed to, but then after miserable Mark Hughes, the only way for Quite Possibly Reviving was up. So taking four points from Chelsea and Tottenham, plus wasting worried West Brom in the Cup, Harry’s got the QPR faithful a bit more optimistic for survival of late. But what heights Houdini’s heroes have still to ascend. What always slays me, though, is that in the prestigious Premier League, three teams have got to go down every season, whatever happens – which means if you’re bottom, you’ve got to get past three more losers on the way up and stay

away from ‘em. Down in the deadly drop-zone, resurgent Reading at last won at the weekend, wayward Wigan are escapologyexperts, Villa

and Newcastle fans are worried sick, a n d

Southampton and Sunderland are sweating. So get the oxygen out for the climb, QPR lads, you’re going to need it for the next 16 games... Hmm, methinks Harry’s been speaking with financially-forked tongue. At a time when he has publicly revealed and rubbished the club’s parlous position re some vastly overpaid players, he himself is still steadily adding to the backroom staff. He’s not only providing new jobs for the old boys (Kevin Bond, Joe Jordan and Ian Broomfield to name some); he’s even taken on new ‘training’ staff this week in the form of Steve Cotterill, unemployed since his sacking at Forest last July.

TORRY BACK IN THE MIRE

TORREVIEJA FC were brought back to earth with a shuddering thump as they were comprehensively beaten 2-0 by Acero on Sunday. Two exquisite strikes by Bielsa extinguished the belief that the Salineros were back on the road towards the play-offs. A post-match boardroom meeting with the manager accelerated the rate of departures with two more players facing the chop and quickened the pace to find improved replacements. These are testing times as the club recently dismissed the manger and his assistant and moved on several under-performing players. With19 more match-

es to play, Torry now enter a crucial period where they must start winning games and showing professional consistency. This has to start at relegation-placed Crevillente on Sunday (4.30pm). Torry will be without Vicente Boix, who is suspended, having picked up his fifth caution at the weekend. It is hoped that Abel will return from injury to help what will likely be a "new" back four. Manager Joserra is hot on the trail of three new signings and for fans these cannot arrive too soon. A win on Sunday and the announcement of these new recruits could well be the critical turning point of the season.

Orihuela’s triple crown

ORIHUELA’S rugby heroes travelled home from Lorca on a high after chalking up up their third victory in a row. The home team were expected to provide a tough test – and so it proved as Orihuela battled to a 19-12 success. Orihuela started on the front foot and had two tries disallowed, but it was

third time lucky as the backs used the overlap perfectly to send Alvaro over for a try which he converted himself. Lorca levelled it at 7-7 with a converted try of their own and took a 12-7 lead after the break with another touchdown. But the Orihuela backs and forwards again worked well together to

set up Raffa in the corner. And in the last 10 minutes, Alvaro outran the Lorca defence to score the winning try under the posts, again converting. The rugby bar in Rojales, The Steakhouse, will be televising live Amlin and Heineken Cup matches this weekend. Further info from Garry on 692 767 242

SAME OLD STORY FOR MONTE CD MONTESINOS 1 – 1 CD THADER “B”

CD Montesinos once again dropped points against opponents who, on paper, they should have beaten. Monte have now gone four matches without a win and almost certainly have lost their chances of gaining promotion this season, even with almost half the league programme left to play. Despite dominating the game and creating most of the chances, it was the visitors who took the lead with almost their first attack on goal, midway through the first half. From that moment on, it was the home side who controlled the game but created very few clear cut chances. Manager Juanpe made three changes at half time

and Monte took control of the midfield and eventually, the pressure on the visitors goal ended with club captain, M & A, equalising. But despite having further chances, the game ended in a disappointing draw for the home side, a draw which now leaves Monte well off the pace at the top of the division. Next week, CD Montesinos travel to Deportivo Orihuela in a game that is likely to be played on Sunday morning, although at the time of going to print, this has yet to be confirmed. As such, we would ask that you check on the official website/forum at www.cdmontesinos.com.

What’s the management payroll cost then, Harry? Bigger than Tottenham? You had an impressive enough set-up there, but hey, that was Spurs. Aren’t you the one who pointed out Loftus Road holds only 18,000, and held up Spurs and Newcastle players’ wages in comparison? (see below). ‘We need as many people helping us out as possible’ is Harry’s unconvincing explanation. Well, Harry, Pep Guardiola said he wanted to work in England - he could have ‘helped out’ to turn the Hoops into Barcelona clones – damn, too late, just heard he’s gone to Bayern Munich! Redknapp’s first major move in the transfer market this week has been ‘sur le continent’ – well, a quick boozerun over to France, where he appears to be ecstatic with signing striker Loic Remy from Marseille for a club record £8m fee. Newcastle had been trailing Remy, but QPR upped their bid and offered the player a financial package that outstripped anything the Magpies pay even their highest earners. Hang on, that doesn’t sound right, Harry? Remy, 26, has

agreed a four-and-a-halfyear deal: he’s won 17 caps for France and scored four goals, and for his club, Marseilles has scored three times in 19 appearances this season. Well, yes, OK …but he’s hardly Djemba Ba, who had scored 13 already this season for Newcastle, and is banging ‘em in for Chelsea as we speak. And Djibril Cisse has hardly been an outstanding example of French striking quality at £4m, has he? Apparently l’amour avec La France doesn’t fini there. QPR have also made a £6.2m bid to sign Yann M'Vila (qui?) from Rennes, but Fulham are also sniffing. Shh, but a bit of a lad is our Yann off the field, has had a few ‘incidents’ in the past. But hey, the West End’s right on his doorstep at Loftus Road. That’d be handy, Harry... So who’s next on the QPR fixture-list? Fresh from Man United’s FA Cup mauling midweek, West Ham entertain at Upton Park Saturday, then Milton Keynes in the Cup courtesy of beating the Baggies –oh, and then a doddle of a fixture with Vincent-Kompany-free Man City. Bon chance, ‘Arry!

Every Day’s a Football Day January 20th 1994 Sir Matt Busby dies at the age of 84. 21st 1997 Millwall seek an administration order after shares in Millwall holding, their parent company, are suspended at 4p. The shares were floated eight years previously at 20p. 22nd 1907 William ‘Dixie’ Dean is born. 23rd 1982 John Hewitt scored the fastest goal in Scottish Cup history when he nets after 9.6 seconds for Aberdeen at Motherwell in the third round. 24th 1995 Eric Cantona attacks Matthew Simmons with his infamous kung fu kick at Selhurst Park. Cantona is subsequently suspended by Manchester United until the end of the season. 25th 1942 The great Eusebio (Da Silva Ferreira) is born in Mozambique. 26th 1963 The Pools Panel is formed. Those chosen to decide the results of postponed games were former players Ted Drake, Tommy Lawton and George Young together with ex referee Arthur Ellis Compiled by STUART EVANS

Friday, January 18, 2013

OVER THE ROON

But United’s FA Cup dream is still spot-on as Hammers go west

John McGregor reports

WAYNE Rooney returned to sort-of first-team duty for Manchester United in Wednesday’s FA Cup replay at Old Trafford, and wasted West Ham with the only goal after only nine minutes. Fortunately the penalty he blazed miles over (again!) in the second half didn’t ‘Roon’ United’s night. It’s Fulham next for United after a superb through ball put Javier Hernandez clear - and his perfect square ball made it so simple for

Rooney. At the Emirates it took until four minutes from time for Jack Wilshere to smash the Gunners into the fourth round against Brighton, finally stopping Michael Laudrup’s super Swansea side to give the Gooners some hope. Not the Premier League, or Champions League, or even the Capital One Cup (see Bradford), but the FA Cup’s something, for now at least. In the Premier League, Southampton came back from the dead against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, losing at half-time to goals from Djemba Ba and Eden Hazard, but storming back to draw 2 – 2. Ricky Lambert came off the bench to score, with Jason Puncheon get-

ting the equaliser. Cheerless Chelsea are still dropping points at home - and Arsenal are coming Saturday! Mirror, mirror on the wall, Who’s the unluckiest team of all? If it’s Reading you come from, You got your own back, on West Brom! Reading have had some right Royal reversals this season, leading with minutes to go, then either drawing or worse, losing in injury time, their poor supporters tearing their hair out in frustration. But every Corgi has its Saturday, and it was wistful West Brom wondering what happened as they were mugged at the Madejski, three times in the last nine minutes after leading comfortably 2 – 0. Both Baggies’ goals were grabbed by Romelu Lukako, who also had a goal disallowed, hit the bar and the post. Dog Days? Poor Jon Walters of Stoke should have known when the BBC featured him on their Saturday lunchtime Football Preview programme, to coincide with his 100th Premier League appearance. The prolific in-form striker certainly scored two more – both unfortunately in his own net, adding to Chelsea’s two to make four. To make it even worse, woeful Walters wasted a late penalty conceded by John Terry, banging it over the bar. Sorry, Jon, but Frank Lampard’s spot kick put him into Chelsea’s

record books... The CMU (Couldn’t Makit Up) club met at the Emirates, where Arsenal angst aired after only 10 minutes, Laurent Koscielny sent off by ref Mike Dean for over-embracing big Edin Dzecko. But the big Bosnian obviously hadn’t emotionally recovered and his weak penalty bounced off Wojciech Szczesny’s foot against the far post, trickling back along the line for the grateful goalie to gather. City took advantage of the ten men though to lead through James Milner, and then dozy Dzecko woke up and scored for City to lead 2 – 0. Deadly Deano hadn’t finished red-flashing though and City’s captain Victor Kompany was sent off for a Hansen-later-blessed tackle - which has now sensibly been rescinded. It evened up the numbers, but the Gunners were still too toothless and too late to take any advantage. Liverpool can now win with their own SAS, but didn’t dare to against Manchester United until too late. Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez look to be a future deadly dynamic duo, but by the time they joined up Robin van Persie and Patrice Evra had hit the Merseysiders before and after the break, with Sturridge scoring two minutes after coming on as sub to put Liverpool back in it. A rather subdued-for-once Luis Suarez couldn’t do his usual, and United held out under ‘Pool pressure to stay seven points clear of nasty-neighbours City.