The Courier Week 63 by TKO UK

Edition 63

www.thecourier.es

Friday, May 4, 2012

Latest edition always online at www.thecourier.es

THE SEX SLAVE ROUNDABOUT Exclusive by TONY MAYES

A MAJOR new initiative is to be launched in the Torrevieja area to help the "girls of the night" who are enslaved in prostitution. It comes after a new study revealed that up to 90 per cent of the women we see standing near roundabouts and beside orange groves on country roads are the victims of human trafficking. Many are tricked into coming to Spain with the offer of a job and a better life. But once they arrive, their papers are taken away; they are told they have to pay back the money they owe in getting to Spain, and most are threatened with violence to themselves and their families if they do not do what they are told. Prostitution in Spain has become a major industry, with sex tourism ranked as one of the highest in Europe. Another survey revealed that 39% of Spanish men admit to having used the services of a prostitute - and that the prostitution industry in Spain is now worth a staggering €50 million a day or €18 billion a year! A church in Torrevieja - the International Christian Assembly - is hosting a major seminar on June 17, entitled "Slavery of the 21st century" under the auspices of Madridbased Escuela de Diaconia along with the Ministry of Health and Social Politics of Spain. Social educator Carolina Sánchez Bermejo, who has eight years' experience of direct intervention with prostituted women and human trafficking in Spain, will be the principal speaker. The event will be conducted in English and Spanish and it is hoped that representatives of the local councils in Torrevieja and Orihuela will attend, together with social services and police. The aim is to first highlight all the problems and then, hopefully, organise a task force where organised and trained volunteers will go out into the streets, meet with the girls and try

Local church in campaign to clean up Torrevieja

tion - and I have no doubt they will stop at nothing to protect their ill-gotten earnings.’’ Maggie was horrified at what she learned through the classes. “It's been estimated there are around 400,000 girls and women working as prostitutes in Spain and the numbers are increasing all the time,’’ she added. "Shockingly it is now becoming increasingly socially acceptable for business meetings to end with an evening meal in a restaurant followed by a visit to a brothel." But what the 900,000 Spanish men who resort to prostitution daily fail to consider is that they are exploiting the girls and being accomplices in holding them in slavery. They also don’t consider whether the girls are free of sexually transmitted diseases. "We can imagine there are many occasions where men have become infected and have passed a disease on to their wives. After that they have to bear the shame of going to a to help them as much as they can. They will offer them clinic, or a lifetime of having to take drugs if they have conrefreshments and, hopefully, gain their trust sufficiently to tracted HIV.’’ establish a bond of trust. Most of the girls are brought in from from South and The initiative has come about after a member of the ICA Central America, Africa and Eastern European countries. church studied the problems of prostitution in Spain by taking Once in Spain they become the property of the pimps and classes on Prostitution and Trafficking of Women and attend- organised gangs that are making a fortune out of the ing a seminar in Madrid. As a result she has organised the ‘industry’. Some are raped by gang members in police uniform to convince the girls it is hopeless going to police to local meeting and is spearheading the local initiative. The woman (we’ll just call her Maggie because of the pos- complain. If they try to escape they are beaten and threats that the sible danger to herself and her family as a result of what she girls' families will be targeted more than often become real. is doing) says: "There is no question that there are a lot of “These girls are hopelessly trapped,’’ added Maggie. most unpleasant people involved in the prostitution industry' Turn to Page 4 holding these girls at their command by force and intimida-

Friday, May 4, 2012

Front offside’s punctured. Got any spare wood? TELEPHONE

96 692 1003 679 096 309 JUNGLE DRUMS 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 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 Patrick International Rep 5 Languages Tel 685 901 265 Writers Donna Gee Amanda Black Sally Bengtsson Rebecca Marks Jeanette Erath Alex Trelinski Dave Silver Steve Bott Tony Mayes Jake Monroe

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Alicante airport soars €10m ahead

ALICANTE’S El Altet airport was the most profitable airport on the Spanish mainland last year.

Figures just revealed show it closed the year with a profit of just over €10million after taxes. By AMANDA BLACK and This made El Altet the SALLY BENGTSSON fourth most profitable airport in Spain, beaten only by the airport would benefit from a Spanish island airports fast train connection. Palma, Tenerife South and The airport did have someGran Canaria. thing to celebrate, though, as Neighbouring Manises air- the first plane successfully port in Valencia made a profit took off and landed using the of just €5million. virgin runway. El Altet is likely to have a The test run with a small tougher time this year with aircraft was carried out to 200,000 passengers already check technical operations, lost due to the crisis. the runway and airspace. No Meanwhile, Murcia’s new problems were reported. airport at Corvera has been A MAN accused of lockstruck another blow with the ing his four-year-old news that the high-speed stepdaughter in the boot of AVE train line will not run his car has been imprisoned there. It had been hoped the without bail while he awaits

trial. The 27-year-old faces charges of illegal detention and attempted murder with malice. Police discovered the girl in the boot of the locked car after passers-by heard her cries just after midnight on Wednesday last week. Officers smashed a window and dismantled the back seat to reach the imprisoned girl, who was not seriously injured but had scratches and bruises to her face. As the child was rescued from the car, parked in Arroyo de la Miel, Benalmádena, the man – named only as F.A.C. – was

promptly arrested. He claims he put his stepdaughter in the boot to protect her from chicken pox, which a family member was said to have. IT IS feared that millions of jellyfish will invade the waters of the Mar Menor this summer. Experts estimate 80 million of the creatures could fill the calm sea, endangering bathers. Not since 2005 have levels been so high. Then, sweeping boats collected millions of transparent jellyfish from the salt lagoon and nets were placed around popular bathing areas to keep them

Police chase ends in eight-car smash Publication Published by Rainbow Media, S.L. Printed by Localprint S.L Depósito legal A - 132 - 2011 The Courier, its publishers, members of staff and its agents do not accept responsibility for claims by advertisers nor can it be held responsible for any errors in advertisements which are reproduced from poor artwork, low quality electronic data or inadequate instructions for text or other layout features. Further no responsibility is accepted for any loss or damage caused by an error, inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement, although all advertisements produced are checked prior to insertion. We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement. E&OE. NO PART OF THIS NEWSPAPER MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE PUBLISHERS.

A POLICE car chase through the streets of Torrevieja on Monday morning ended in an eight-car pileup. The pursuit began on the outskirts of the city when Guardia Civil officers flagged down an Audi A6, believing the driver was drunk and that the car may have been stolen. When the vehicle failed to stop,

the high-speed chase began – only ending when the Audi driver lost control and smashed into a row of parked cars in Avenida Cortes Valencianas. The driver is thought to have a history of offences against property and it is believed he was recently released from Fontcalent prison. Eye witnesses said the car was Friday Partly cloudy High 23° Low 13° Chance of rain 3%

Monday Sunny High 24° Low 13° Chance of rain 0%

Tuesday Partly sunny High 24° Low 13° Chance of rain 0%

weaving in and out of traffic and posed a serious risk to other road users before crashing at high speed into parked cars – two of which ended up overturned in the middle of the road. The man tried to flee the scene but was arrested at gunpoint by Guardia Civil officers. Saturday Cloudy High 23° Low 14° Chance of rain 41% Wednesday Partly cloudy High 26° Low 18° Chance of rain 0%

out. Numbers dropped, but have been on the rise again over the past couple of years. Last summer saw a number of jellyfish stings reported and it is feared this year there will be more. AN Alicante shipbuilder has joined the fight against piracy by creating a bullet-proof protector for boats. The new material is said to be able to withstand shots fired from as close as ten metres. Made from a combination of substances, including ceramic fibres and glass, it works by absorbing impact while remaining extremely tough. Designed by Santa Pola Astilleros, the material is also rust resistant and lighter than steel. Being lighter, a boat made from this material would also be greener as less energy would be required to move it and therefore less CO2 would be released into the atmosphere.

Sunday Partly cloudy High 23° Lo 13° Chance of rain 0% Thursday Partly cloudy High 13° Lo 13° Chance of rain 0%

Friday, May 4, 2012

Cordon of shame blunts new Orihuela chaos DESPITE continuing attacks for ‘siding with the enemy’, CLARO councillor Bob Houliston (pictured left) has again voted with the opposition PP party and helped it to defeat the ruling Orihuela coalition. This time the issue was the Red Cross and first absence of the firstaid group from Orihuela’s beaches in 25 years.

Houliston and the PP overturned a coalition decision to kick out the Red Cross in favour of private companies, taken because the Red Cross demanded to be paid money it was owed by the council. The vote took place at the first full council meeting since last month’s gathering collapsed into chaos, with organised protests and verbal

attacks against Houliston. This month’s meeting passed peacefully, with a police “cordon of shame” separating the public and council to avoid a repeat of the disruption. However, the verbal attacks on Houliston have continued over the past month in the press. His opposition to the creation of

five ‘super councillors’ and support for the post of Councillor of the Coast led to accusations from CLR in Spanish daily La Verdad that he was trying to create an independent coast and establish a “second Gibraltar”. The English councillor described the comments as “hysterical nonsense”. Orihuela council presented its draft budget on Monday, but now has to wait to see if Houliston, who holds the deciding vote, agrees with the distribution of funds. Finance councillor Juan Ignacio Lopez-Bas explained that the money available was 2% lower than in 2011, with a total of almost €68 million. However, €67m is already committed for staff costs, contracts, invoices and loan repayments. Lopez-Bas said that 70% of the €1,097,000 left would be spent on Orihuela Costa. Only 31 areas of investment were identified in total, and 20 of these were for the coast and international residents. Proposed coastal investment projects include €250,000 for a footbridge over the N-322, €40,000 for pavements in La Zenia and €58,000 for sewage works in Cabo Roig. As Orihuela is ruled by a minority coalition government, it needs coastal champion Houliston’s vote to pass the budget.

Slick Whittington finds London’s streets paved with marathon gold THE Courier’s puzzle master Jeff Whittington did the trick again at this year’s Virgin London Marathon – by recording his first-ever sub-three hour race. Jeff, taking part in his 10th marathon, crossed the finish line on The Mall in two hours, 59 minutes and 54 seconds to take third place in the Over 60s category. There were almost 600 finishers in his age group and Jeff, 64, said: “I could see the race clock clicking over the three-hour mark but I knew I had a few seconds in hand. “My legs felt extremely heavy running the final few hundred metres and when I crossed the line and stopped my (Garmin) timer, I was absolutely delighted to see that I had gone under three hours for the first time. “I had often dreamed of beating the three-hour barri-

See Letters P16-17 Marathon men: From left, Jeff Whittington with sons Harvey and Russell er, but never thought I would ever achieve it, at my age.” Jeff - the man who sets our popular Crosswords and other puzzles, now lives back in the UK, where he runs for his local club, Wigan Phoenix. In last year’s London

Marathon, he and eldest son Russell broke the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Parent and Child, with a combined time of five hours, 47 minutes and 58 seconds. This year they bettered that record by nearly six minutes.

‘You can’t fly’ passenger wins €479 from Ryanair

THE COURIER’S No.1 FOR ADS! DIANE and Mike of Oasis Cafe Bar find The Courier a breath of fresh air on Playa Flamenca Beach seafront. Says Diane: “We’ve had a great response to our adverts in your newspaper and have attracted a lot of extra business as a result. “We’d particularly like to thank all those customers who came along as a result of the advert.’’ See Page 24 for the latest Oasis offer - plus loads of other voucher goodies not to be missed.

All Stars jazz it up for Europe AS part of next week’s European Day celebrations, a specially formed European All Stars International Jazz Band will stage a ‘one-off’' concert in Torrevieja's Palacio de la Musica on Monday (May 7) at 8.30pm. This unique traditional jazz band has been assembled from local residents of distinct nationalities and (as far as we know) will only offer this single concert. It’s an opportunity not to be missed! The members of the band are: Ed van Herpen (Holland), drums; Geoff Hull

It was a triple celebration for the Whittington family, as Jeff’s youngest son, Harvey, knocked 10 minutes off his personal best time. The big question now is whether there’s a Guinness World Record for Fastest Parent and CHILDREN?

(England), bass; Paulo Olivo (Italy, piano; Nike Summers (Australia -well, it’s almost Europe!), trumpet; John Hutchins (England), trombone; Jesus Becerra Sanchez-Prieto (Spain), guitar; Roy Hubbard (England), clarinet. Tickets for this special event are priced at €5 and can be picked up from the ticket office of the Palacio de la Musica from 6.30pm on the day of the concert. Advance tickets are on sale at the municipal ticket office (outside the main theatre) from 11am to 1pm today (Friday).

RYANAIR has been ordered to compensate a passenger with €479 for not letting him fly without his national identity card. Antonio R presented the airline with a police document to say the DNI had been stolen, a photocopy of the card and his driving licence, as he tried to board a flight from Barcelona to Valladolid in April 2011. But Ryanair staff repeatedly refused him permission to embark. Finally he hired a car and drove to Palencia, his final destination, with the consequent loss of money and time. Spain’s Air Safety agency subsequently awarded him the cost of the ticket plus €250 compensation. When Ryanair did not respond, Antonio went to the courts in Granollers - but the airline offered him the full amount before proceedings began.

Friday, May 4, 2012

ARE EU FOR REAL, BRUSSELS?

JUST when I think the whole European Union enterprise cannot get any more stupid comes another amazing bit of nonsense which convinces me that Brussels and all who sail in her are stark staring bonkers. Surely every blithering bureaucrat and every EU politician brain cells knows that the whole of Europe is in one horrible mess. So why on earth are these fitfor-nothing crazy people coming forward with a budget for next year which has a near seven per cent increase - double the rate of inflation? It's no wonder that countries right around Europe are furious at the news of the European Commission budget proposal. It would mean Britain shelling out an additional £1billion. The Commission’s proposal would increase the EU’s budget by 6.8 per cent to nearly £114billion. Britain’s share, at around 12.5 per cent, would be £16.6billion. Just imagine what Britain could do with that amount of money - if it wasn't handing it over to the crackpots across the Channel. The Commission's budget smacks very much of good old fashioned Socialism. You know the argument - that we have to spend our way out of an economic crisis, regardless of whether it bankrupts us in the process. It brings short-term popularity, but it's just that crazy nonsense which got Britain into a far greater financial hole and wouldn't have happened had we not been inflicted with a decade of New Labour. The Commission argues that the money raised will be ploughed back into projects right around the European Union. Oh yes, after some of it is syphoned off to keep MEPs in the lifestyle they have voted themselves and handed to non-EU countries in 'political' aid. Isn't all this brainless spending just great? Where on earth does the EU think the money comes from in the first place? Yes, from you and me and we just haven't got any more to give, unless, of course, you are a greedy banker. The EU could have done so much to standardise things across Europe. How great it would be if there was one legal system, one banking system, one tax system, one set of motoring laws, one standard charge for telephone calls across Europe. I could go on and on. Just imagine how many jobs would be created by a Europe-wide directive requiring every employer to take on a young apprentice for every 20 staff on the payroll. Policies like these would have done so much to get Europe back working and earning. Sadly the EU hierarchy has demonstrated it does not live in the real world - and does Britain want to continue membership of this expensive club? Bring on UKIP. This takes me conveniently on to what I regard as the most disgraceful and distressing story of the week...that, because of the recession, teachers are warning of a "lost generation" of pupils. An incredible seven out of every ten teachers interviewed believe their students will end up on benefits. This conclusion has come from one of Britain's most

with two financial

respected charities, The Prince's Trust, whose findings highlight the devastating impact of the recession on young people. It's just as relevant, if not more so on the young people in Spain, where almost half are now out of work. The survey also found almost half of secondary school teachers regularly witness pupils suffering from malnutrition, with increasing numbers coming into school hungry, dirty and struggling to concentrate since the recession. Some teachers even admitted they often buy food for struggling pupils from their own wages. Here are the awful statistics: Of the teachers surveyed... l 70% worry their pupils will end up on benefits l 65% witness students who do not have clean clothes at least once a week l40% come across this every day l 57% encounter pupils who are hungry at least once a week l39% come across this every day l16% see pupils suffering malnutrition or showing signs of not eating enough every day The Prince’s Trust interviewed 515 secondary school teachers across the UK. One teacher told researchers they had seen "scavenger pupils finishing off scraps, as they haven't eaten enough", while another said some pupils came into school "to have food and get warm". A third said: "One student came into school wearing a soaking wet uniform. He washed it in the morning as his mother had failed to do so due to being drunk. He didn't know how to use the drier so came in wet." It's my belief that much of the problem is being caused

THE SEX-SLAVE ROUNDABOUT From Page One “Some are introduced to drugs and become dependent - they are completely under the control of these gangs, which are so powerful because of the money at their disposal. “The girls are often accommodated in appalling conditions. They are moved around from town to town, and passed on to different gangs, all

to disorientate them. Some even get passed from country to country. “They are taken out to roundabouts where they have to remain in all weathers for hours on end. “No girl would willingly want that kind of life - they are being treated as sex slaves and it's a terrible indictment of Spanish society. “We need to break the cycle and one way of doing this is for the police to treat the girls as victims

and the clients who are using them as the perpetrators. “In other cities in Spain, the police are fining the customers which hopefully will result in fewer girls being trafficked. But the girls also need help and they must know there is somewhere they can turn to who will keep them and their families safe. If we, the local community, can rally together to help them we will be doing tremendous good.’’

because there is a generation of parents who are simply not fit for the job of bringing up children. We have girls who think it acceptable to have a baby simply to get the benefits they can gain by breeding. We have young couples who believe a child is one of life's "must have accessories" and once they realise that having a child is not quite so easy, one or the other flies the nest and we have yet another divorce statistic. Of course, some of this is too simplistic an argument. There are many reasons why children's health and well-being are being neglected by some parents, but the truth is that there are too many parents today who don't take their responsibilities seriously. Some have disastrously low parenting skills, others have a total lack of ability to understand the priorities of life - and put themselves first and their children a very poor second. The result is we have a feral underbelly of society which is sadly growing and becoming an increasing burden. And teachers are seeing the dreadful result. We need to somehow prevent the 'Ds' and 'Es' of society from breeding the next generation of 'Ds' and 'Es' - perhaps you might be able to suggest some solutions! And now for a little more on this thorny subject, because a large number of 20 and 30 somethings were asked how they would sort out the problem of getting young people into their first job, rather than languishing on the dole. Their solution was to make every person over the age of 50 retire. That may seem ideal for those of that age - the problem is that you've only got to blink twice and you're over 50 - and then they would be singing a different song. You simply cannot build up a big enough pension pot between 20 and 50 to stop you falling into poverty in retirement, and, frankly, heaven help us if the world was ruled by the selfish 20 and 30 somethings.

Now on to something a little less serious. Back in Britain (and we are there less and less), when my wife wants to go shopping in the town centre, we have a battle. She wants to park as close to the shops as possible, and pay a fortune in the process in parking charges, while I want to park outside the meter zone and walk and save a fortune. It's the scenario played out between couples (earning spouse v. spending spouse) every weekend all over Britain. Well...they've now invented a "car" just for the wife and others like her. It's the Volpe, just one metre wide and 1.5 metres tall, capable of getting through shop doors and up the aisles of departmental stores. It can even fit in a lift! There's one slight snag, however, there's very little luggage space. Now isn't that brilliant, chaps? And for those office workers who have forgotten what their legs are for, the car can be charged up beside their office desks. It will cost £5,600 but you will have to wait until next year when it goes on sale.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Charity begins at phone GOT an old mobile phone that’s broken or you don’t want?. Don’t chuck it away - it could raise money for charity! If you are coming to the Homes, Gardens and Outdoor Living Show at San Miguel Castle on May 22 and 23, please bring any old mobile phones you have with you. They will be recycled and any money raised will go to the Paul Cunningham Nurses. The phones can be in any condition and if you have the charger then that’s great - but not essential. The Show is open from 11am to 8pm each day and there will be a huge collecting bin for discarded phones! If you prefer, you can leave your phones at one of the following collecting points: Montebello – Alex Bistro; Los Montesinos – Carpet Heaven or La Herradura Restaurant; San Miguel – The Castle;

PCN IN CALL FOR DUMPED MOBILES Quesada – Hotel El Corazon; Benijofar – The Post Room; Dona Pepa – The Post Box; El Galan – The Pint Depot. For further

info, email sueinthesun @hotmail.co.uk or call 639 318 526 for a nearer location - or visit www.paulcunninghamnurses.com

Stroke campaign launched THE Stroke Association UK relaunched itself on Tuesday with a month of stroke awareness across Britain - and Torrevieja’s Stroke Support Group is backing them with its own campaign. T-shirts with the new logo are to be offered to members, who have already raised €2,000 from a ‘Steps for Stroke’ sponsored walk on Easter Monday. Leaflets were distributed in English and Spanish with information about the necessity for speedy action if a stroke is suspected as well as the therapeutic activities offered by TSSG.

The Support Group thanks all who sponsored ‘Steps for Stroke’, which it is hoped will become an annual event. Other awareness events are also planned. Meanwhile, Torrevieja Stroke Support Group is to re-establish its website with improved information. In addition to more volunteers and the dedicated committee the group now has a Spanish occupational therapist, a speech and language therapist, physiotherapist and personal trainer, all demonstrating and encouraging ‘Life after Stroke’.

La Zenia’s choral feast TOP choirmaster Nigel Hopkins (pictured) is arranging a not-to-be missed concert, entitled A Musical Celebration, in La Zenia church (N332) on Sunday May 13 at 8pm. Firstly, Cantemos! Children's Choir, who have recently increased their numbers from 15 to 26, will perform songs old and new in their own inimitable fashion (bring a handkerchief!). Secondly, this concert will introduce the 24 members of the newly-formed Orihuela Costa Male Voice Choir.

This choir has been longawaited and audiences will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of its perform-

ance. As a grand finale, both choirs will sing together in a piece specially arranged by conductor Nigel. Can a choir of children aged between 6 and 17 take on a similar amount of mature men's voices? If you come along on May 13 ... you will surely find out. Doors are open at 7.30pm and entry is by programme (5€) with all proceeds going to the new church building fund. Programmes are available from choir members or on the door.

See Pages 28 and 29 for our full local round-up

Friday, May 4, 2012

LIFE BEFORE FAME: THE REALITY

ASK any youngster what they most want most when they grow up and there’s a good chance the words ‘’to be famous’’ will be near the top of the list.

And sadly, reality TV rubbish like ‘Big Brother’ has made that dream easier to achieve than ever before. The problem is that talent and fame no longer go together. These days it’s a case of the bigger and louder the idiot, the better the chance of hitting the headlines. Only in the world of 21st century television can moronic lunatics locked away in bizarre goldfish bowl become the idols of millions of brain-dead couch potatoes. And for what? Being able to say the F-word more times than anyone else? I despair. There used to be a time when fame was a natural development for those blessed with a special talent. Were you not remarkably gifted, your only chance of achieving celebrity status would be to take the notoriety route. And anonymity has always been a THE WAY WE WERE: From left, Tom Jones and wife Linda in Pontypridd in 1962, John Humphrys much better option than spendin BBC interview mode and (inset) as Donna remembers him as a fellow journalism student ing a lifetime in prison. It mystifies me why today’s amounts to the time they were not a Big Brother berk) will be the children of celebrities, they somebodies in a big way. Today ‘celebrities’ are worshipped like pulled from the sea by a life- aware that they are as human also begin life as nobodies. their names are instantly recoggods. Particularly those who guard at Clacton after swallow- as the rest of us. They eat, They go to school, they grow nisable but when I was 19, they have achieved that celebrity via ing a lump of seaweed in two sleep, breathe, laugh, cry, have up…and NOBODY ever asks were simply men trying to build families, age…and ultimately for their autograph. During my careers in their chosen profesthe reality TV route. Perhaps it feet of water. Anyone who actually they die. Just like the rest of us. youth, I knew at least two sions. Both were ambitious, so is the fact that the average person’s 15 minutes of fame KNOWS a celebrity (a real one, Unless they are themselves nobodies who later became was I. But while I went on to be

Maybe life’s not so bad here with my mates after all. I mean, I’m never on my own and they let me bark as loud as I like... I VISITED two Spanish-run animal rescue centres in Alicante over the weekend – and was left wondering how I would feel if I was an abandoned dog. OK, the one thing I would want most is love… which I suppose provides the strongest case for ‘get me out of here.’ Escaping with my eardrums intact would also be pretty high on the list after sampling the cacophony that emanated from the heavily populated cages every time life on two feet came within 20 metres. But would a well-fed existence in a safe, secure environment with a load of barking mad friends not be better than the alternative so many dogs face? And not only in Spain. I’m talking about the millions of mutts who are left alone for hours every day, often tethered, while their owners head off to the office or factory...

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relatively successful as a writer and editor, these two guys reached for the stars….and grabbed them with both hands. The guys I am talking about are Sir Tom Jones and the BBC’s John Humphrys. Tom – then plain Tommy Woodward – would wander into the Pontypridd Observer office almost daily to tell me about his latest attempt to break into the big time. His work ethic regarding anything but singing was, shall we say, questionable. But he clearly had talent … and was happy to provide me with some decent stories about his latest vocal exploits for my weekly pop column. He had lots of rough edges as a person – but with a voice like his, it was only a matter of time before his career took off and my personal name-dropping list got its first illustrious entry. Humph (who in those days spelt his name ‘Humphries’) was a classmate at the National Council for the Training of Journalists day release course in Cardiff each Friday. Then working as a reporter for the Western Mail, John was a quiet, even shy guy…the last person you would pick out as a future BBC foreign correspondent, news presenter and Mastermind chairman. But like TJ, he clearly had a special talent which the BBC soon recognised. The rise and rise of both sons of Wales taught me one huge lesson which today’s hero worshippers simply cannot identify with: For all the glitz and glamour, celebrities are just ordinary people.

Friday, May 4, 2012

A tense time for Ted

I ENTERED what I believed to be my local alehouse, only to stop dead in my tracks. I took in the scene before me. This wasn't the pub I depended upon for sanctuary and succour. Indeed, it had morphed into the quietest part of the quiet section in a quiet library. I surveyed my surroundings. True, all my fellow members of the pub discussion group were seated in their customary places at the bar. But all were deathly silent as they slumped on their stools. It reminded me of that bit in the 1939 version of Beau Geste when the bodies of the dead Foreign Legionnaires are propped up at their posts to make it look as if there are still plenty of soldiers left to defend the fort from the baddies. What a cracking movie that was. Gary Cooper played the part of . . . but I digress. The pub was eerily hushed. I checked my watch. No, it was too early for anyone to be comatose. Again, I wondered where I was. I must point out at this juncture that my feeling of befuddlement was not unusual but it did tend to descend whenever I left the hostelry and not when I entered the premises. Dave the barman beckoned me over. 'Evening, Dave,' I said. 'What gives with the funereal atmosphere?' 'Evening, Dave,' responded Dave. 'Er, I'm afraid one of our number has had a shock.' I spotted movement among the still and silent regulars clustered at the bar. One of the guys wiped a tear from each eye and blew his nose into a malleable damp beer mat. The snorting sound seemed to act as a signal for the fellow members of the pub discussion group to launch a chorus of sympathetic groans and to mete out words of comfort. 'Sorry about that, Ted' . . . 'An awful thing to happen, Ted' . . . 'Time's a great healer, Ted.' And someone actually said: 'I actually don't know what to say, Ted.' By that time I had figured out that the person who had the problem was Ted. I leaned over the bar and tugged at Dave the barman's sleeve. 'What on earth's happened?' Dave sighed and whispered: 'Somebody knocked over Ted's shandy.' 'WHAT!' I exclaimed so loudly that an elderly bloke who had just hobbled into the pub took fright and dashed out. 'For goodness sake, Ted,' I remonstrated. 'Stop being a

drama queen. It's only a drink. I'll buy you another shandy.' Ted looked at me with a wounded expression. 'Shandy is the name of my beautiful doggy. And he's been knocked over crossing the road.' A new hush descended. I felt awful and racked my brain to find some words with which to console poor Ted and alleviate his distress. I finally came up with: 'Shandy's a stupid name for a dog. But, of course, that's not important right now. Tell me, is he dead, Ted ?' Ted sighed, wiped away some more tears and blew his nose again... but this time on a clean beer mat. 'My Shandy is currently at the vet's. Concussion, the animal doc reckons. He's keeping him in for observation. But I'm so worried. He's only a little feller.' I put a consoling arm around Ted. 'Hey, my friend,' I said. 'It really doesn't matter how tall the vet is. As long as he's proficient.'

Dave the barman pulled me aside and muttered: 'Look, you're not doing much good here, what with your saying all the wrong things. 'As the only one of my loyal drunken bum clientele who's not had a drink, why don't you drive round to the vet's and cheer up the poor pooch.' 'Huh?' I said. 'How the hell am I supposed to cheer up a dog? Tell it a joke?' I turned back to Ted. 'Did anyone get the car registration of the driver who hit your mutt?' He shrugged. 'It wasn't a motor.' 'Hmm,' I said. 'Can anyone describe the cyclist, then?' Ted shook his head. 'No bike was involved.' 'Then what knocked your dog over? A hovercraft? A tank? A Roman chariot?' Dave the barman pulled me aside again. 'It was a pedestrian. Witnesses said he was apparently rushing across the road to get to the shoemakers before they shut and in his haste unwittingly trod on the dog.' The phone behind the bar rang. Dave the barman picked up, grinned broadly and announced: 'That was the vet. The dog's gonna be all right.' The pub erupted in cheers and everyone raised their glasses, apart from me, because I hadn't been served a drink yet. 'To Shandy!' was the toast. 'Actually,' said Ted, 'Shandy isn't my dog's proper name. It's really Sandy. But the bloke who sold him to me was drunk at the time. Anyway, that dog has been worth every penny of the shixtyshix pounds I paid for him. 'I can't wait to see him again,' Ted chuckled. 'I'll cheer him up by telling him a joke. Shandy loves a funny yarn, particularly a shaggy dog story.' Because of all the hubbub in the pub I still couldn't get served so I wished Ted well and went home. 'Blimey, you're early,' observed Mrs S. 'Yes, my darling. I wanted to spend more time with you.' 'Ah, how sweet,' she cooed. 'Oh, by the way, I hope you managed to pick up my shoes before the shop shut.'

Friday, May 4, 2012

SAY IT IN SPANISH Learn the lingo - with a little help from JEANETTE ERATH LESSON 18 AS usual, I will start with the answers from last week, this was meant to get you thinking and using the knowledge you are aquiring week by week. Remember the verbs in these examples are Tener and Venir. I have one son – Tengo un hijo. Do you have a book? – ¿Tienes un libro? You are coming to the town square – Vienes a la plaza. Do you have to study? – ¿Tienes que estudiar? Is he coming next week? – ¿Viene la semana que viene? Tomorrow morning are you coming to the beach? – ¿Mañana por la mañana vienes a la playa? Why do you have a red car? – ¿Por qué tienes un coche rojo? She has to read. – Ella tiene que leer. Do we have to walk? – ¿Tenemos que andar? I am very tired – Tengo mucho sueño. How old are you? – ¿Cuántos años tienes?

I hope you found the homework helpful and will be using it whenever you find the opportunity. Don´t forget, all this learning will be wasted if the words aren´t pronounced very well. They don´t have to be pronounced like a native speaker but they do need to be understood, so take every opportunity to talk to and listen to Spanish speakers and the words will become easier to speak and your ear will get tuned in to the correct sounds. If you don't know any Spanish speakers, then find a Spanish channel on the television or tune in to a Spanish radio station and just see how many words you can pick out. At first it won't be very many but week by week and month by month you will begin to understand more words until one day you can understand a sentence and you can build and build. It is a long process, especially if you are learning on your own but, as I've said before, the journey is well worth the time and effort when you see the results. This week we are moving on to another verb. I will shortly be having another revision week, because as we get into verbs it is easy to forget what we have done before. You should be getting to the stage by now where you can remember the days of the week, for example, in any order

without much thought and also topics like the seasons, numbers, colours, etc. If asked, you should be able to state them straight away without thinking, test yourself every day, look around the room you are in right now and state either aloud or in your head the colours of everything you can see. If you can´t remember a colour, look it up or make a note to do so. Also, remind yourself every day what day it is, occasionally look at the clock and state what the time is and what season it is now. These sorts of topics need to be revised and used until they are a part of your memory for good, because once you start talking Spanish more fluently you will need them. The verb we are going to look at today is another very useful one, it is an irregular verb and doesn´t seem to have any reasoning behind the conjugations so it is very important that it is learnt by memory. It is the verb To Go which is IR (pronounced EAR).

In the same way you use the ´I´ version of ´to come´ to say I am coming (VENGO), so you use the ´I´ version of ´to go´ to say I am going (VOY) the same for you are going, he is going, etc. So here are some examples of IR and how it is used: VOY a la playa – I am going to the beach. ¿Cuántas

veces vas al cine cada año? - How many times do you go to the cinema every year? Voy al cine cuatro veces cada año – I go four times a year. Van al colegio – They go to school. Talking about the future. One way to use IR is in order to talk about future actions, for example, tomorrow I am going to the beach, Are they going to school? Who is going to be there next week? How to use IR to express future actions: To express future actions using IR, follow these three easy steps: IR (CONJUGATED) + A + INFINITIVE. Remember the infinitive of a verb is the verb with its AR, ER or IR ending. Here are some examples to explain: VOY A CANTAR – I am going to sing; VAS A LEER – You are going to read, VOY A ESTUDIAR – I am going to study, VAMOS A COMPRAR UNA LÁMPARA – We are going to buy a lamp, ÉL VA A IR – He is going to go. You can, of course, use IR to say you are going somewhere and again you add ´a´ to say 'to'. Examples: VOY A LA PLAYA – I am going to the beach, ¿A DÓNDE VAS? Where are you going? VAMOS A LA TIENDA – We are going to the shop. You may be aware that VAMOS is used to say 'Let´s go'. So if you are leaving somewhere and you want someone to come with you, to say 'come on, let´s go' all you need is VAMOS. As ever, for a negative statement the word 'no' is placed before the verb. For example: I am not going – NO VOY. This week´s homework is translating sentences using IR. Take your time with this, it is not easy but once you get the hang of using the verb you will find that you can use it many times and for many occasions. I am going to learn Spanish; I go to my house every day; Who is going to the party? They go to the shop each Saturday; They are not going to be here; We´re going to sell the car; Are you going to study? He is going to speak Spanish; We are going to live in Spain.

Friday, May 4, 2012

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

BARKING MAD Mad Max and the trail of destruction

HELLO Peter, We saw your page of good advice in The Courier last week and hope you can shed some light on our plight. The problem - aggressive behaviour - barking when out in the car towards people and other dogs on passing pavements etc. We took on an abandoned German Shepherd pup, approximately eight months old. He was tied to a gate and left without water or food. We did not intend to keep him, but as with most situations out here, there was no one who wanted to take such a big dog. We already have two other female rescue dogs, a Great Dane/Labrador cross (7 years), plus a smaller Belgian Shepherd (nearly 3 years) - also found as an eightweek old pup. We have accepted 'Max', the male, into the fold, but three months down the line he is now comfortable in his surroundings, taking on an ever-increasingly dominant role with our other dogs (not to mention the measures we have had to take to keep him from opening doors by jumping up, plus climbing out of partially open sliding windows...our internal wood doors are very clawed!) We have always had dogs in the past, though collies and labradors, so completely different temperaments. Our Belgian Shepherd has been very noisy from day one, though, as a female, is easier to control and is usually obedient. About six weeks ago we had Max castrated as a means of quieting his temperament, but it has not made any noticeable difference to his behaviour. Max is a lovely animal and only spoils himself by his embarrassing and destructive behaviour on car journeys. Our other dogs are now refusing to get in the car with him, which requires separate dog walks every day. We have not been able to go out of the house together, leaving the dogs alone, so life is turned around totally to suit Max, which we know is wrong. If you have a moment, any suggestions or pointers towards dog training classes would be very much appreciated. PAULINE and STEVE LORAINE, Questa PETER replies: It sounds like Max may be a high-energy dog who needs more exercise than what he is getting. A lot of what he is doing seems like frustration along with a lack of rules and boundaries. Regarding travel, it is so important to make sure that when Max gets in the car, he is calm when you shut the door and not anxious or over-excited. Many problems are caused for dogs travelling in cars, because the human closed the door when the dog was anxious or nervous. Regarding having him castrated, that will not make much difference because when this was done he was still displaying the negative behaviour. There is a total misconception regarding castration. People think that this will produce a calmer dog. It will, but only if before the operation the dog is showing signs of reduced dominance etc... with the guidance of the human handler.

It is interesting to note that your other dogs are now refusing to get in the car with him. That is because they are aware he is a very unstable energy. He is also showing signs of separation anxiety, so you must make sure you are not making a fuss of him when you leave and return home - and that you are not leaving him when he is in an anxious state. With more exercise and rules you will see improvements. But as I advise all of my clients, it is vital you stay calm with Max and show him leadership rather than let frustration and anxiety creep into your state of mind. HI PETER, We can’t always get The Courier but when we do we always make a point of reading your excellent column We have an 11-year-old cross Alsation bitch who we got when she was three months old from the RSPCA in Leeds. We brought her with us to Spain where we now live. Our problem is that she is terrified of fireworks or any loud bangs that sound like fireworks such as rubbish-bin lids, car door slams or any other everyday noises. I am 68 she is about the same age in doggy years so we both need to exercise and we love to go walking for an hour or so on the waste ground at Villamartin where we live. Unfortunately someone set off a firework a couple of weeks ago in the distance. Now she is very reluctant to go on this waste land. I am able to coax her to do so but she is very edgy and if she hears a truck go over one of the humps on the nearby canal road, she heads straight back to our car. It is very frustrating for me and I am sure for her also. I would be very grateful for any advice you could give me. I have tried reassuring her, forcing her (in a caring way) but to no avail. As I have said, Peter, we can’t always get The Courier so I would be very grateful if you could possibly send me any advice you may have by email. Many thanks RONNIE, Villamartin PETER replies: You need to be careful that you are not giving affection at the times when your dog is showing fear towards the noises. The reason for this is because whenever you give a dog affection, you are nurturing the state of mind they are in at that time. You have mentioned that you are reassuring her and this is affection. , when you hear the noises yourself, you have to make sure that you are not thinking the worst and you have to make sure your energy stays calm, rather than fearing she will react badly. Dogs are experts at picking up on our energy and she will be picking up on yours all the time. Next time you hear a noise she may not like, stay calm and carry on as if there was no noise. You will then see change. By the way, even if you can’t get a copy of The Courier, you can always read my column in the online edition, which is updated every Thursday evening on www.thecourier.es

These puppies will need rules as well as love, says Peter Singh

My dog’s barking, too! q

HAVE had my rescue dog for four years now and in that time my husband passed away so now he only has me. He is fine until someone decides to visit me or talk to me over the garden wall, then he barks constantly at them for attention which makes for an impossible situation seeing that he has a very loud bark, too. I have tried ignoring him but it doesnt seem to work and he gets himself into a really excitable state. I need to take control of this situation before I lose all my friends. He is a small mixed breed dog. Thank you in anticipation MARILYN LEES PETER replies: Hi Marilyn, I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. You need to instil firm rules into the relationship as well as two good walks for your dog each day, which will drain his energy. The rules need to be consistent. Remember, a dog needs rules as well as love. You mentioned that you are ignoring him when he is barking. This approach will not work. When he barks you need to correct him by making a sound to get his attention and then walk towards him and wait until he submits and shows submissive, calm

behaviour. This will be shown by him sitting or lying down and switching off from an alert state etc… (Looking at their eyes is a good way of seeing whether they have gone into a calm state. A calm dog does not have dilated pupils. They have soft eyes along with regular blinking) Then you can walk away. If he walks away while you are correcting him, follow him until he submits and calms down. If you do not do this follow through technique (where you are waiting until he shows you calm), he will not have understood the correction. Remember, never show frustration. Show patience and you will be rewarded. There is no need to talk to your dog while giving a correction. Just use your energy and body language. Remember that if you show nervous anxious energy to your dog, he will view this as you being unstable. If you show frustrated, angry energy to your dog, he will view you as being weak. Stay calm, but mean the correction and you will be rewarded. In order for our dogs to go into a calm state, we have to be calm. Good Luck

Friday, May 4, 2012

DROUGHTS AND DOUBTS SPAIN has on average half the rainfall of UK. The actual quantity of water abstracted from available sources (rivers, underground aquifers and reservoirs) is proportionally more than the UK. Spain is able to do this because it has a larger land mass which increases the ability to capture rainfall and abstract it. Some comparisons between Spain and UK help to put the situation into context: Spain has a land area of about 499,000 sq.km. with a population of around 46 million, and an average annual rainfall in the region of 636mm. The quantity of water abstracted from available sources for agriculture, industry and domestic use equates to approximately 730m³ per person per year.

WHY are parts of rainy old England experiencing a drought while the sun-baked Costa Blanca – with 320 days sun a year – soldiers on with only low-key restrictions? Many cynical expats put it down to the failure of the UK water authorities to get to grips with water storage over many generations. The reality, according to retired English water industry Project Manager ANDREW NICHOLSON, is rather different. By comparison, the UK’s land area is just less than half the size of Spain at 242,000 sq.km., but with a population of 62 million 35% more than Spain - and an average annual rainfall of 1220mm, almost double that of Spain. And yet the quantity of water abstracted equates to only 212m³ per person per year, less than a third of Spain. This is partly due to the amount of water used for irrigation in Spain. So, Spain as a whole has sufficient water but it isn’t distributed evenly, much like

England. There is usually surplus rainfall in the north west and centre and as a result, every year some parts of southern Spain will experience drought and water shortages. The Costa Blanca’s water supply is generally derived from underground aquifers and rivers. Once treated it is pumped through a network of large diameter pipelines to reservoirs where it is stored for distribution to urban areas. The production of treated water has been increased by the greater use of desalination in eastern Spain, the process

where water is taken from the sea and converted to drinking water at specially constructed plants on the coast. This is an expensive process which limits its use to supplementing the water supply during times of water shortage. Loss of water supply through leakage is about the same in mainland Spain and England - about 20% - with water companies in both countries engaged in action plans, including infrastructure repairs and the replacement of corroding iron pipes to reduce this. There has also been a reduction in domestic water consumption in many regions of Spain; this has been due to the

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Friday, May 4, 2012

Someone like me AS regular readers and those who know me are aware, I have a young son. He is four years old and, like most children, a bit of a handful. He had to put up with a lot in his first few years, again it´s something readers and friends are aware of.

I don´t think anyone who tells me how hard it is to take on someone’s children has even stopped to think about how hard it is to have a relationship with someone with no children, or someone who has no the with affinity young.

Although that is not a reason to excuse bad behaviour, I certainly put some of his quirks down to it, especially the fact that he is clingy. After all, he´s lost one parent who has, it appears, deserted him. I think it is natural that he may want to stay as close to his remaining parent as possible and gets nervous or anxious when I am not around. I hope he will grow out of it and it is something I never stop reassuring him about. Hopefully as he grows he´ll be telling me to be quiet and leave him alone; until then I will be telling him every day that I am here for him, I love him and I’ll never leave him. This is not the point I wish to cover in this article, but it is relevant. What I´d like to cover this week is how a single parent moves on into a new relationship. I have had a few people say to me that it´s hard for anyone to take on someone else´s children. They actually say ´take on´ as if the child is some sort of accessory - however, this is a

small point. While understanding that it must be a bit strange to have some new little person in your life, what about the woman (or man) with the child? What if the person you have met has absolutely no experience with children? Granted, it is not that usual when you get to a certain age to meet someone who has never had children - assuming you are looking for someone around the same age. But it´s certainly not unheard of and of course your new partner may be younger, or the parent themselves may still be young.

I used to have all these ideas about how I was going to raise my children; they would have set bed times, eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, always be kind and polite and if they were naughty they would get time out on the naughty step. I thought I knew it all from a few outings with my nephew, and I realise that this is how a lot of childless people, both men and women, think. We all know best, that is until that little bundle is placed in your arms and begins to grow up with his or her own ideas and thoughts, and instinct takes over. Therefore, those without children cannot know how to

raise a child simply by reading a few websites. Raising a child is hard; raising a thoughtful, helpful, clever child is difficult; raising a child to respect people and respect order is sometimes almost impossible and parents can be left pulling their hair out wondering where all those helpful tips in those helpful books on raising children went. But back to my original point. My son will always be a big part of my life and I will be there whenever he needs me. That may mean that any boyfriends have to take a back seat sometimes. Some men may not be able to accept that and some men may feel they have been there, done that with their own children and don´t want to do it all again with someone else´s. That´s fine but I have a message for all those people who say they would never date someone with a young child, and for all those people who have no experience of children and think they know best. Walk one day in the shoes of someone like me and then try and judge. And remember, someone like me probably knows we can do better than someone like you, anyway.

Friday, May 4, 2012

What a pain as Spain goes down the drain! THINKING about the current recession in a rational way can end up making any sane person want to grab a bottle of Prozac. washed down by a spirit bottle! It really is that depressing wherever you choose to look around Europe, and Spain is having all the focus on it at the moment. It’s mind-blowing stuff with all the bad news in this country, which makes the UK’s problems a mere drop in the ocean. We have record unemployment figures; inflation on the rise; Spain back in recession; health and education spending being slashed; IVA rates to be increased next year; and businesses folding left, right and centre. Add to this gloomy picture, Spain’s debt is far larger than first believed (confirmed by neu-

Mariano Rajoy: Almighty task ahead for his government

tral European Union inspectors) because the previous Zapatero administration told porkies, and a leading ratings agency has put the country’s credit standing just two notches above junkbond status. Mariano Rajoy’s honeymoon period ended weeks ago, and his PP government have an almighty task in front of them, but at least they have not bottled it. They don’t have to worry about an election around the corner, and this is where I am concerned about the fickle nature of people, and the knee-jerk reaction as to how they vote. This was witnessed a few weeks ago in the regional elections in Andalucía where the PP didn’t get an expected victory, though to be fair it has not been a very fertile ground

for them in the past. It’s another example of where voters take a very short term view of the big picture, and can even be gullible and vulnerable. Democracy at times can be a very strange and even unwelcome animal! Take this Sunday’s Greek General Election, where it looks like at least half the votes will be cast for minor anti-austerity parties, one of which is a nasty neo-Nazi outfit called Golden Dawn. They’ve spent the last few weeks handing out food parcels to the poor to buy their votes and they want a purge against immigrants, whilst some of their supporters are openly walking around making Nazi salutes. Some of this has a nasty whiff of familiarity from Germany in the 20’s, and because the electorate is looking for a quick fix, then they’ll grab anything that promises them the earth. I presume their older family members have not been able to remind them about the dreadful way Hitler and his Italian puppet, Mussolini, mistreated their country and their citizens 70 years ago. My point in its own simple way is that courting electoral popularity in any country, and maintaining tough economic measures, is simply incompatible. The voters flunk it every time, thus weakening any measures that a government have introduced, and then within weeks of a new lot being

The Huntsman: Rupert Murdoch with his puppets voted in (and changing things unnecessarily), the public turn against them and are left confused. Perhaps it is time to take a newer and longer-term view of democratic elections, with countries having national votes less frequently, say every seven or eight years, which allows time for difficult decisions to be taken and to be maintained, and to be crucially seen through. Ironically, the helter-skelter politics and voting we are seeing in Europe at the moment is the perfect breeding ground for the extreme nutters of the right and left to start gaining a foothold. You also know that things are getting worrying when I hear some of my friends both here and in Greece whispering in corners that they

wouldn’t lose that much sleep if men in military uniforms flexed their muscles in Athens and Madrid, as they did in the past. Frightening, isn’t it? Now where are those pills and the booze? UK Prime Minister David Cameron is either a very brave man or foolish in his support for his beleaguered Culture Secretary, Jeremy Hunt. Cameron was steadfast in backing Hunt on Monday, after he was almost forced by the Commons Speaker, John Bercow, to answer an emergency question put by Labour over Hunt’s dealings with the Murdoch family and their planned takeover of BSKYB. Cameron better hope that he’s backed the right horse

here, because you just get the gut feeling that something is not right with Hunt’s behaviour. I smelt a rat within days of the Government taking office, with Hunt emasculating my former employers, the BBC, with a very quick and meagre licence fee settlement. As the ex-BBC chairman, Michael Lyons, said at the weekend, he long suspected that Hunt was far too close to the Murdochs and that knocking back the Beeb would suit BSKYB perfectly. It was so obvious at the time, so why didn’t at least the Liberal Democrat partners in the coalition ask some probing questions about Hunt’s gleeful enthusiasm in giving the BBC such a rotten deal?

Friday, May 4, 2012

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

A case of political adultery at its worst OVER a year ago CLR-CLARO became an electoral coalition and later a legal political group in the town hall. A short time after the election Mr. Houliston attempted to annul this “political marriage” to justify his adulterous relationship with the PP. The Central Electoral Board, however, flatly rejected his feeble attempt to desert his responsibilities. When Mr. Houliston’s extra marital antics with the PP became public knowledge, he was expelled from the CLR-CLARO political group. All loyal supporters of that political group may use the term, except of course the politically adulterous Mr. Houliston. Mr. Houliston claims that Pedro Mancebo “undermined” this political marriage by non-cooperation whereas the evidences of his flirtations are there for all to see. Mr. Houliston

It’s time to quit, Bob you are all talk and no action BOB HOULISTON, do you think we are all fools on Orihuela Costa? You did not do the job you were elected and paid well to do. It is a disgrace that you did not pay the Red Cross the money they were owed for the invaluable service they performed. You were councillor for the coast and beaches in the summer of 2011. Your PP pals were in charge for the two summers prior to that. Why did you not make sure that they were paid? Why did you not contract the Red Cross for Easter? Why did you leave the public open to danger on the beaches of Orihuela Costa? Bob Houliston, it is clear that you did practically nothing to help the people of Orihuela Costa; you are all talk and no action. You constantly complained about your competencies to distract us all from your incompetencies. You have the audacity to blame the very people doing the job that you from away skulked because you are incompetent. You have become the master of blaming, moaning, whinging, crying and finger-pointing. Resign and let someone who is able, and knows what to do, get on with the work. You are a disgrace to the British people you claim to represent. JOHN CARROLL Orihuela Costa

did not work on or in the marriage and betrayed all who voted for CLR-CLARO. Pedro, on the other hand, has always been and is loyal and true to the promises he made and to the people who voted for him as the CLR-CLARO candidate for mayor. He still remains the spokesman and leader of the coalition and the political group in the town hall, defending the rights and working for the people who made the change of government possible. Last May, 75% of the people of Orihuela Costa voted against the PP. Now Mr. Houliston has unilaterally decided to support and justify that same PP who neglected and plundered Orihuela Costa for 25 years against the democratically expressed wishes of the people he claims to represent. Mr. Houliston’s political adultery could not be worse.

I have defended Pedro Mancebo from the unwarranted and untrue allegations of Mr. Houliston in the media and at public meetings. Pedro refuses to get into a dogfight with Mr. Houliston, firmly believing that actions speak louder than words and the public will make up their own minds. Mr. Houliston refers to me as “Pedro’s personal apologist”, I have never made even one apology for Pedro - nor do I need to. The only action for which Pedro should apologise is for trusting Mr. Houliston and believing him to be an honest person who would keep his word, honour his commitments to the public and those who supported him. Mr. Houliston has let us all down but none more callously than the one who helped him the most – the man who got him elected councillor for the coast. RAYMOND KEARNEY, Orihuela Costa

PEDRO’S BLEEDING KNUCKLES

MR Alan McPhail’s list of charges against me (Issue 62) consisting of “excuses, moaning, blaming, lies and unjustified criticism’’, sounds like a heavyweight attack on my nine months as an elected councillor. On top of this, the allegation that I want to be King is so unreal that it reveals his charges as no more than subjective insults unsubstantiated by facts. The shallowness of his political judgement is summed up by his assertion that you do not need competences or a budget to do the job of Councillor for the Coast. That is pure nonsense. Mr. McPhail will tell us next that you can make bricks without straw! It was a result of the work of Pedro Mancebo and his CLR colleagues responsible for Personnel and Budget, denying me competences, transferring €500,000 of coastal budget for use elsewhere and finally removing the post of coastal resident engineer, that finally persuaded me I had no option but to resign. I put the blame unashamedly on CLR although it is true that the two other parties in the govern-

become Mayor and to use the Popular Party as the means to realise this end. The last colourful allusion to this was in the disrupted plenary of 29 March. The PP spokesman said words to the effect that “Pedro, your knuckles are bleeding with the persistence of your knocking at the door of the Popular Party, trying to do a deal with us so that you can become Mayor of Orihuela. You will never become Mayor of Orihuela.’’ This statement is recorded in the official minutes of the Mancebo which is well Pedro saw an opportunity to plenary meeting of 29 March. known in Orihuela and needs realise his ambition to Mr. McPhail and his CLR to be brought to the attention become Mayor of Orihuela counterpart, Raymond of people living on the coast. by bringing about the down- Kearney, taunt me and Mr. McPhail was a CLR fall of Monica Lorente and CLARO with allegations of nominated candidate at the doing a deal with the PP to infidelity because I have last election – the only non- ensure that they would come voted for Popular Party Spanish CLR candidate on back to power but with Pedro motions in the Town Council. the list. Although he did not at the helm as Mayor of a I have no apology to make play a prominent role in the PP-CLR government. for doing so since I consider campaign, having got into a It is almost universally it was in the interests of little local difficulty at the out- accepted in Orihuela that this Orihuela Costa. set with his neighbours in La was what CLR were trying to If they are really conRegia, he will remember do during the three weeks cerned about infidelity, they clearly the CLR instructions: before they joined the gov- should recognise that the DON’T CRITICISE the ernment of Montserrate way Pedro Mancebo and Popular Party, ONLY Guillen, which I did from day CLR treated CLARO after the one after he offered me the election amounted to more Monica Lorente. The explanation was that post of Councillor for the than infidelity. And if CLR had CLR, including Pedro and his Coast. been able to unseat Monica It was only when CLR Lorente, they would have father, who was a PP councillor, had their origins in the failed to persuade Sr. committed infidedlity on a Popular Party. As a right of Camps, regional head of the humungous scale. centre party, CLR could not Popular Party and at the time If Pedro had become afford to upset voters they President of the regional Mayor of Orihuela, CLARO hoped would defect from the government of Valencia, to would have been taken over PP and support them. We unseat Monica Lorente as or obliterated and Orihuela head of the Orihuela PP Costa would have become a dutifully swallowed this line. However, when Monica party that Pedro and his two pawn in his power-hungry Lorente’s Popular Party CLR colleagues came in hands. failed to get their usual from the cold and joined the Fortunately their tactics majority, Pedro’s election Guillen government. failed and the only damage Apparently Pedro done is to Pedro’s bleeding campaign instructions took on a different light. With the Mancebo has not given up knuckles. BOB HOULISTON, defeat of the Popular Party, hope and ambition to

Pedro Mancebo... ‘power hungry’

ment, the Socialists and the Greens, did nothing to restrain his irresponsible behaviour. But Mr. McPhail and his few other CLR counterparts in Orihuela Costa are guilty of concealment as well as distortion. They are concealing information about Pedro

Thank you for all your aid ANIMAL Aid would like to thank everybody who has so very generously donated items for us to sell at our tabletop sales. We are extremely grateful, because without you, we would not be able to carry on with our work. Please continue to donate anything you no longer need. Bric-a-brac, clothes, toys, pictures, kitchen stuff, blankets etc -everything is useful. Old sheets and towels that may be past their best can be used as bedding for our rescue animals. We will collect any items that you cannot bring yourself. We are at Rojales Market every Thursday, and on Sundays we alternate between Churchills Bar at La Siesta, and the Sunday Market at Algorfa. If you can help in any way, please contact Linda and Trevor Lloyd on 965 725 794. Once again, a very big thank you. KATE

Friday, May 4, 2012

Meeting for diabetics or a money-making stunt by Medcare? I SAW an article in your paper advertising a free diabetic meeting on April 30 - and as I am an insulin-dependent diabetic, I attended the 12.30pm gathering at the Medcare Centre in Benijofar . I previously attended the monthly meetings at Hoggies' Bar but have been unable to go every month because I am having chemotherapy every fortnight which clashes with the gatherings. Anyway, today I went to the Medcare place. There were 40 or so other people too. Firstly we had a lengthy introduction from the Manager of the Practice telling us why we should pay an annual subscription to their business and explaining all their check-ups available for a large annual fee - 90% of which were nothing to do with diabetes! Eventually a man in the audience complained that this was magnifying glasses to read irrelevant and the manager then introduced us to the lady with. I have been told my the who specialised in diabetes. She told us of the benefits we diabetic doctor in Orihuela would achieve by subscribing that EVERYONE who is to their practise which she insulin-dependent sees an claimed we would not optician bi-annually. receive under the Spanish At that point I said that this Health Service. She told meeting seemed to be merely three downright lies! a publicity stunt to get people Firstly, she claimed that by to sign up to Medcare. I got joining their practice, one up and walked out and severwould see a diabetic special- al other people followed me. ist every six months whereas The only other time I have under the Spanish system, it used Medcare is when I would only be annually. I told asked for a doctor there to her that this is untrue; I see check me for a severe pain in my diabetic specialist twice a my side, three years ago. She year. thought it was kidney stones I READ with interest the Secondly, she said it is nec- when in actual fact, it was a letter re the CLARO/CLR essary to take a translator tumour in my colon the size of dispute and felt the need to with you. This is a lie. I again a cricket ball! add my comments as a told her that my diabetic At the Hoggies' Bar meetresident in Orihuela Costa. specialists speak to me in ings for diabetes, we have completely free educational I, my family and many English. Thirdly she said that under meetings run by an excellent friends voted for Pedro Mancebo, having been Medcare's system one would pair of experts, one Spanish, completely taken in by his see an optician twice a year, both fluent in English. This promises to the residents. but under the national sys- event today at Medcare was tem, it would only be annually. just a stunt to get people to 1ST COMPLAINT: Mr This is also not true, as I see pay for an unnecessary Mancebo allegedly paid an optician every six months. scheme. one of his family €40.000 to When I mentioned this to Looking at the audience, have the beauty event in her, she said that I must have most people appeared to be Orihuela televised. There something badly wrong with pensioners and would qualify was no TV coverage of the my eyes and that I must have for the same treatment free of contest. Pay back the requested to see the optician charge anyway under the twice a year. €40.000, Mr Mancebo. Spanish Health System, as I I have nothing wrong with do. PETER REALEY, 2ND COMPLAINT: Mr Callosa de Segura Mancebo wants a tourist my eyes except that I use office. Does he not know there is one being very efficiently run in the Costa town hall, serving the From Page 13 dozen or so hotels in the relative cost of water as well as more responsible area. usage. A number of projects are in the pipeline to 3RD COMPLAINT: Who is improve security of supply to the area. Other initiathe Mr Ray Kearney that tives aimed at conserving water include the re-use of attended the last meeting? ground water and reclaimed water. 4TH COMPLAINT: Why And so to the drought affecting parts of England. has Mr Mancebo reduced Under normal conditions average rainfall provides a the number of life guards relatively stable water supply situation. The autumn by 20 and given the conand winter is when the water sources (rivers, resertract to an anonymous voirs and underground aquifers) are normally group (more family mem- recharged. However, two dry years have left these bers no doubt)? This sources unreplenished and the cumulative rainfall has reduction will leave the been less than half the average in parts of south-east beaches understaffed,and England. This has led to water restrictions and hosepipe bans in the South and East with drought conbathers at risk. ditions extending into the South-west and Midlands. Mr Mancebo, who do you No doubt the drought situation and water restrictions think will vote for you at will again prompt feasibility studies in projects to manthe next election? The age the bulk transfer of water from the north and to tourists do not vote. Many investigate the capability of increasing the rainfall of the residents are getting catchment areas and reservoirs in the South-east. It extremely upset with your seems that we have a lot to learn from each other. ‘must help the tourist’ attiIronically, since the hosepipe bans were introduced tude, breaking many of the at the beginning of April, South-east England has Valencia laws, set to pro- experienced above average rainfall, but this is very unlikely to alleviate the situation as the summer tect locals. months approach. P CRANE, La Florida

Mancebo tourist bias will rebound on him

Droughts and doubts

Friday, May 4, 2012

Cheap, tasty family meals Meals for four, for €2, or less, a head! Saving money doesn't have to mean going without your favourite foods, or missing out on fantastic flavour. With these meals you can keep family and friends excited by your cooking without spending a small fortune.

CARIBBEAN CHICKEN WITH RICE AND BLACK BEANS A moreish taste of the Caribbean.

Ingredients 1. 4 tbsp. olive oil 2. 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 3. Bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped 4. 50g breadcrumbs 5. 8 skinless, boneless chicken thighs, halved 6. 300g basmati rice 7. 2 garlic cloves, crushed 8. Zest and juice of 1 lemon 9. 400g can black beans (also known as turtle beans), drained and rinsed

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 190°C/fan170°C/gas 5. Whizz 2 tablespoons of the olive oil with the chilli and coriander to form a paste and mix with the breadcrumbs. Spread over the

chicken pieces. Place on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 20 minutes, until golden and crispy. 2. Meanwhile, cook the rice in boiling salted water for 1012 minutes, then drain. Set aside. 3. Heat the remaining oil in a pan and add the garlic and lemon zest and gently fry for 30 seconds, then add the rice and black beans and stir-fry together for 5 minutes. Season and stir in the lemon juice. Serve the rice with the chicken.

LAMB AND ANCHOVY MEATBALLS These Mediterranean-inspired kebabs are a sunny delight.

Ingredients 1. 500g lamb mince 2. 3 anchovy fillets, chopped 3. 40g fresh breadcrumbs 4. Finely grated zest of 1 lemon, plus a squeeze of lemon juice 5. 2 garlic cloves, crushed 6. 3 tbsp. chopped fresh flat leaf parsley 7. 3 tbsp. vegetable oil 8. 1 red onion, finely sliced 9. 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 10. 200ml Greek yogurt 11. 1 tbsp. chopped fresh mint 12. 4 pitta breads, toasted

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4. In a large bowl, put the lamb, anchovies, breadcrumbs, lemon zest,

half the garlic, and half the chopped parsley, and mix well together using your hands. 2. Season well, then shape into 20 balls. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the meatballs, in batches, and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning, until browned all over. Transfer to a roasting tin and roast for a further 10 minutes. 3. Soften the onion by soaking in a bowl of boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and refresh under cold water. In a bowl, mix with the olive oil, lemon juice and remaining parsley. 4. In a bowl, mix the yogurt with the remaining garlic and mint and season to taste. Serve the meatballs and red onions in toasted pittas and accompany with the minty dressing.

ASPARAGUS AND LEMON RISOTTO A delightfully summery risotto. Vegetarians can substitute the cheese for a veggie variety. This recipe can be frozen.

Ingredients 1. 2 tbsp. olive oil 2. Knob of butter

Friday, May 4, 2012 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

1 onion, finely chopped 350g risotto rice 250ml glass white wine 750ml vegetable stock, hot Bunch of asparagus, trimmed Pared zest and juice of 1 lemon 75g Parmesan or Grana Padano, finely grated

Method 1. Heat the oil and butter in a pan over a low heat. Add the onion and gently fry for 5 minutes. Increase the heat to medium, add the rice and cook for a few minutes. Add the wine and stir until absorbed. 2. Gradually add the stock, stirring and allowing each addition to absorb before adding the next. Blanch the asparagus in a pan of boiling water until just tender, refresh under cold water, and then slice into lengths. 3. When almost cooked, add the asparagus, lemon zest and juice and cheese. Season, remove from the heat. Cover for 5 minutes before serving.

VEGETABLE FRITTERS WITH POACHED EGGS These crispy vegetable fritters belong with soft poached eggs. A marriage made in heaven and a cheap vegetarian dinner!

Ingredients

1. 3 carrots, grated 2. 200g (about 2) maris piper potatoes, grated and squeezed really dry 3. Bunch of spring onions, finely sliced 4. 3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley 5. 200g vegetarian feta, crumbled 6. 3 tbsp plain flour 7. 6 large, very fresh free-range eggs 8. Vegetable oil, for shallow frying

Method

1. Mix the carrot, potato, onion, parsley and feta in a bowl. Add the flour and season well. Separate 2 of the eggs, then stir the egg yolks into the veg mixture. Put the 2 egg whites in a clean bowl and whisk to soft peaks, then fold into the mixture. 2. Heat 0.5cm oil in a sauté pan. Add heaped spoonfuls of the mixture to the oil, in batches, HERBY CHICKEN GOUJONS WITH CRISPY cooking for 3 minutes each side until golden brown – you should make about 12 in all. Remove with a slotted spoon, drain on kitchen paper and keep warm. NEW POTATOES 3. Meanwhile, bring a wide pan of water to the boil and soft-poach the remaining eggs for These chicken goujons are summery comfort food at its best, and this cheap recipe cost less than €2 a head. Try adding different herbs to the breadcrumbs or a pinch of 3-4 minutes each. 4. Place 3 fritters on each plate and top each with a poached egg to serve. chilli flakes.

Ingredients 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

100g plain flour, seasoned 1 large free-range egg, beaten 100g fresh white breadcrumbs 2 tbsp. fresh thyme leaves 800g new potatoes 5 tbsp. vegetable oil 4 chicken thighs, skinned, boned and cut into pieces

Method 1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/fan200°C/ gas 7. Place the flour in a bowl, the egg in a second bowl, and the breadcrumbs and thyme in a third. 2. Boil the potatoes in a pan of salted water for 12-15 minutes, then drain, lightly crush and place in a roasting tin with 2 tbsp. of the oil and season. Roast for 30 minutes until crispy. 3. Dust the chicken in the flour, and then dip in the egg, followed by the herby breadcrumbs. Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan and fry the goujons for 2-3 minutes, turning, until golden. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 5-6 minutes until cooked through. 4. Serve the goujons and potatoes with mayonnaise for dipping, if you like.

SPICY PRAWN AND CHICKPEA CURRY Adding chickpeas to recipes is a great way to save money as you can get away with using less of the expensive meat or fish. They are also really good for you.

Ingredients 1. 2 tbsp. olive oil 2. 1 large red onion, sliced 3. 1 garlic clove, sliced 4. 1 tbsp. harissa paste 5. 400g can chopped tomatoes 6. ½ tsp. caster sugar 7. 1 tsp. red wine vinegar 8. 400g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 9. 200g raw peeled king prawns 10. A handful of chopped fresh coriander 11. A good squeeze of lime juice 12. Rice and flatbreads, to serve

Method 1. Heat olive oil in a pan over a low heat and fry the onion for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and 1 tbsp. harissa paste and cook for a further 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, and season and bring to a simmer. 2. Add the chickpeas. Simmer for 10 minutes, then stir in the prawns and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are pink. 3. Stir in a handful chopped fresh coriander and a good squeeze of lime juice and serve with lime wedges, rice and flatbreads.

Friday, May 4, 2012

A survey carried out by an independent company proving that TKO are STILL the most listened to radio stations on the Costa Blanca. Many thanks to all our loyal listeners and advertisers. Love From Everyone at TKO x

Tune in all next week to hear our world famous TKO FM Power Play & TKO Gold Future Gold Track TKO FM - WEEKLY POWER PLAY Daniel Powter - Cupid He is the musician behind the 2006 worldwide hit single ‘Bad Day' has announced the summer release of his new album ‘Turn On The Lights'. This first cut, already getting early attention and has been reviewed as "a soulful, irresistibly catchy first single".

TKO GOLD - FUTURE GOLD TRACK Amy MacDonald Slow It Down 24-year-old Amy MacDonald, one of Europe's biggest selling singer-songwriters, returns this summer with a brand new album 'Life In A Beautiful Light', led by this single at the end of May.

Let’s see if you can win yourself a meal for two and a bottle of wine at Quesada Fish & Chips POP QUIZ May 5th Welcome to the famous TKO Gold pop quiz!

TKO’s Fun Facts from April 1972 The UK Top 5 Singles from April 1972

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Without You - Nilsson Steal Or Borrow - New Seekers Amazing Grace - Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Sweet Talking Guy - Chiffons Hold Your Head Up - Argent

Harry Edward Nilsson III - Was an American singer-songwriter who achieved the peak of his success in the early 1970s. He is known for the hit singles "Everybody's Talkin” & "Without You". Nilsson's career is also notable for the fact that he was one of the few major pop-rock recording artists of his era to achieve significant commercial success without ever performing major public concerts or undertaking regular tours. He was awarded Grammys for two of his recordings; in 1969 for "Everybody's Talkin'" and in 1972 for "Without You." On this day (Friday 4th May) in 1972 - Apollo 16 returns to Earth. It was the tenth manned mission in the American Apollo space program, the fifth and penultimate to land on the Moon and the first to land in the lunar highlands.

Find out next week what happend in 1973

All you have to do is take the first letter from each answer to find the name of a band or artist. Once you have found the key word, listen in to Chris Ashley´s show on TKO Gold, Saturday mornings 9am – 12pm. 1. Who had a top hit in 1985 with 1999. 2. Chas Chandler later to manage Jimi Hendrix & Slade played bass with which group. 3. Home American state for the Osmonds. 4. Rumble was 1958 cult hit for this guitarist. 5. This Jim wrote MacArthur Park. 6. Original version of the song “Tell Him” was by which girl group. 7. Where was the last train going for ELO in 1979. 8. Mary Fords marital & recording partner. 9. She was mad about this American Boy 2008. 10. Blue Oyster Cult had no fear of this deadly dude.

Friday, May 4, 2012

How to Apply Makeup Playing with makeup can be great fun. It can also be a terrible disaster, especially if you don't know what you are doing — you could end up looking like Frankenstein’s ugly sister. Get the basics right, first time.

The Basics The beauty industry has loads of beauty secrets and visiting a makeup artist for a makeover can be a great way to learn some of their tricks. But, if you can't afford a makeup artist, here are some quick tips you can start using today for flawless makeup application.

Step 1 Always ensure your face is clean before applying makeup. Cleanse tone and moisturise before you apply your makeup. Use a warm cloth when cleansing as this opens the pores and allows you to apply moisturiser that will soak up before your foundation goes on.

Step 2 Conceal it. If you have blemishes or problem spots on your skin, cover them up by dabbing a bit of concealer over them.

Step 3 Begin your application with foundation, applying it with a clean foundation brush. This will allow you to apply foundation more easily and without wasting any. Never use your hands as they can contribute to oil and the spread of bacteria. Foundation sponges are also a good option.

Step 4 Finish off your foundation with a matching powder, blend-

ing it in circles to give your skin a finished look.

THE FUN PART Step 5 Now you're ready to play and have some fun. Starting with the eyes, begin to apply eye shadow, starting from the inside corner of your eye and blending it outwards. If you want to add some highlighting effects, apply a shimmering shade just beneath your eyebrow arch and blend it in. You can use a trio of eye shadow that has three different shades. The lighter one would be used for highlighting and can also be applied to the inside corner of the eyelid. The second, darker shade would then be applied on the middle section of the eyelid, while the darker shade will be applied to the outer corner of the eyelid. The golden rule of applying eye makeup trios: Always blend in the shades to create a finished off look. The last thing you want is to have hard, defined colour points, especially on your eyes. Next, apply eyeliner and finish it off with mascara. Always ensure you apply mascara when you have finished making up your eyes.

Step 6 If you'd like, you can subtly apply a blusher. Don't go too dramatic. Remember, your blusher should only brighten up your cheeks, but should always look natural. Again blend, blend and blend.

EFFECTIVE BODY DETOX Many people are aware of the dangers of toxins in the environment and how they can lead to very serious illnesses, but lack the knowledge on how to effectively eliminate them from the body. Truth be told, the human body is constantly undergoing detoxification especially when we are resting or sleeping, but because of the extremely high levels of toxins in the environment, the body’s detoxification system can become overwhelmed, unable to cope in most cases. Consider this, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) took blood samples from the umbilical cords of ten new-borns from across the United States and tested them for toxins. They found 287 chemicals that negatively affect nearly every system of the body: hormonal, reproductive, immune, nervous system, etc. It’s worth repeating that these were new-born children that had never lived a day outside of the womb. These babies were exposed to chemicals from their mothers who most certainly became unknowingly exposed to chemicals from the environment. Our exposure to toxins is not only from the environment, but also from the chemical processes that occur in the body all the time mostly from food digestion, tissue healing and stress. However irrespective of where toxins come from, they are processed in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) system especially the liver. The health of the gastrointestinal system has a huge impact on the general state of health of a person. Everything we consume including food, beverages and drugs must pass through the gastrointestinal system to be processed. A wide range of chemicals can exist in or on what we consume, and the body must convert them to harmless by products for elimination. In some people this can lead to severe stress of the gastrointestinal system leading to complaints such as bloating, intestinal upset, tiredness, aching joints and a

Step 7 Complete your makeup application by applying lip-liner to your lips and finish the look off with a matching lipstick and lip-gloss. Check the mirror one last time and fix up any flaws before packing your makeup-tricks bag away.

Do-It-Yourself Manicure

Your hands are as obvious as any part of your body; you use them to emphasise points in a conversation and to do daily tasks, therefore they should look as well groomed as the rest of you. A good manicure is important to your appearance. Whether or not you use polish, your nails should be conservative, healthy, and always well-manicured. To keep your hands attractive give yourself a weekly manicure. Set aside about a half hour and have the following items before you start: emery board, cuticle scissors, nail buffer, a bowl of warm water, polish remover, nail brush, orangewood stick, cotton balls, base coat or nail hardener, nail polish and top coat. 1. Remove old polish with a cotton ball dampened with nail polish remover. Press the cotton ball firmly to the nail and hold for a few seconds. Pull the cotton ball down the centre so the polish doesn’t smear on the skin around the nail. Use a clean cotton ball to remove any stubborn polish. 2. Holding it on a slant, use an emery board to shape nails. Use long strokes in one direction toward the centre of the nail (don’t go back and forth). Don’t file the nails away at the corners because it weakens the nails. Make the curve blunt and don’t file your nails into sharp points. 3. In a rotating motion use your thumb to massage cuticle cream into the rough skin at the sides and base of the nails. 4. Soak your nails in warm water for a few minutes to soften the cuticle. Clean your nails thoroughly using a nailbrush. 5. Wrap the end of the orangewood stick in cotton and apply cuticle remover to the blunt end. Use it to loosen dead skin from around the nails. 6. Use scissors on hangnails only. Never cut cuticles. 7. Make sure your nails are free from polish and are clean and dry. If you don’t wear polish, simply buff your nails lightly lengthwise from the base to the tip and you’re finished. 8. Wipe nails again with polish remover to make sure you

get rid of any traces of oil moisture or soap. 9. For normal nails apply a clear base coat to the entire surface of each nail. If you have problem nails use nail hardener instead. 10. Apply nail polish using 3 strokes, one from the centre base to the tip and one on each side. Use only enough polish to do one nail at a time. Don’t redo while wet. 11. When the first coat is completely dry (about ten minutes) apply a second coat. 12. Finish with a coat of sealer for added protection and allow to dry for at least 30 minutes. Avoid contact with water until nails are completely dry.

general sense of feeling unwell. To function optimally the GIT needs important nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, many of which are essential – the body cannot make essential nutrients and relies on food sources to obtain them. As an example, glutamine is an amino acid that plays a key role in the metabolism, structure and function of the entire GIT and its extensive immune system. It carries waste products to the kidney for excretion, and is used up when the body experiences stressful conditions such as surgery, bowel disease and physical trauma. Antioxidants provide support for gastrointestinal health by effectively neutralising toxic free radicals that cause inflammation. Needless to say that effective body detoxification will not only eliminate toxins from the gastrointestinal system, but also provide it with vital nutrients. One such method is the use of Seacure, a hydrolysed fish protein concentrate that has validated clinical relevance for gastrointestinal health. Studies done on Seacure have shown that supplementation with it can strengthen intestinal wall integrity in inflammatory bowel disorder, as well as reduce the common symptoms of bloating gas and other stomach discomforts in irritable bowel disorders. Seacure is usually available in combination with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for use in a complete body detox process. For more information on Seacure, please send an email to contact@medb.es

Friday, May 4, 2012

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 four 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: Jane wanted to know whether there was any ADVICE: Alan wanted to know how to stop an Internet way to tell whether email she was receiving were legiti- Explorer message appearing relating to securely delivmate ered content.

Q A

Hi Richard, I keep receiving emails of poems which say they were written by someone about to die and I should pass it on to all my friends. How do I know that this is true? Hi Jane, last week I received an email from Barry about a similar subject, the fact is that there are a good number of hoax emails flying around all the time and its sensible to take a cautious approach, in fact experience has taught me that most of these type of emails are hoaxes.

Hi there, can you please help me, I keep having a message box come up when I open Internet Explorer saying the following “Do you want to view only the web page content that was delivered securely? Yes or No.” Could you please let me know how to stop this message please?

Hi Alan, I assume that you are using Internet Explorer version 8 as this is a common message with this browser. You can disable the message from appearing by making a change to the security settings of Internet Explorer.

So what can be done, well thankfully there is a good solution, www.hoax-slayer.com – this website tries to list and document all of the current hoax emails and Internet scams. All you have to do is type a few words from the subject line of the “suspect” email into your search box on the top right hand of the Hoax Slayer website and you will be given a list of emails that could match the one you have received. Click on the result that matches your email and read all about what Hoax Slayer think of the email, usually reading the brief analysis is sufficient to know whether the email you have received is genuine or not, however they also provide a detailed analysis if you are interested in reading more.

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

Office: 902 906 200

Don’t forget you can follow me on twitter @bluemoonspain Alternatively 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.

1. Launch Internet Explorer 2. Click on Tools, then click Internet Options 3. Go to Security tab 4. Select Internet zone (default selection) 5. Click on Custom level… button under “Security level for this zone” section 6. Under “Miscellaneous” branch, for Display mixed content parameter, select the radio button of Enabled. This should sort out the problem, if you would like to join our newsletter so receive other helpful tips and advice then just click on this link - http://eepurl.com/fX7Rj - and complete your details.

ADVICE: Bill wanted to know why his text in OpenOffice writer occasionally changed size.

Hi, Richard, can you explain to me what I am doing wrong when I use open office and word pad after a time the print size gets so small it is difficult to read and therefore not really good to copy or send on. Bill

Hi Bill I suspect that you are doing in OpenOffice Writer what many people do by accident in Internet Explorer and have the same effect. If you hold down the CTRL (control) key on the keyboard and simultaneously move the wheel in the centre of your mouse (the thing between the two mouse buttons) then you will “zoom” out or into the page in OpenOffice Writer (just as the page zooms out or in with Internet Explorer). I suspect that you are doing that accidentally – try it and see if it has the same affect.

Friday, May 4, 2012

THE SPANISH PRESS

LAST MOHICAN IS DEFIANT ON CUTS El País

Group sex please - we’re Spanish

Mariano Rajoy: Defiant

NEARLY one in four Spaniards is open to new sexual experiences, with 23 per cent AS tens of thousands of people across Spain keen to have sex with more than one person took to the streets on Sunday to protest against at the same time, according to a new study the government’s education and health care into global sex trends. spending cuts, Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy The Durex Sexual Wellbeing Report, issued a defiant statement saying he would con2012, analysed the habits and experiences tinue with his reform agenda. of more than 29,000 people in 36 countries. Speaking at the Popular Party’s Madrid regional congress, The study found sex is important to Rajoy told delegates: “There will be reforms announced this Spaniards, with 72 per cent believing a good Friday, and every Friday after that, and they will be major sex life improves mood. reforms.” Other benefits of a good sex life identified He continued: “I understand perfectly a lot of people canby Spaniards questioned were stress relief, not understand the decisions that I am taking at the moment. 61 per cent, increased energy, 42 per cent, But the problem is the crisis, unemployment, the recession, and being less likely to be unfaithful, 33 per and disordered public finances. We have to make structural cent. changes and to take root and branch measures.” On the whole, the study The Rajoy government has introduced stinging austerity found that Spaniards are measures in its first three months in office. Unemployment happy with sex with their has continued to rise, and is at a euro-zone high of 24.4 per partners, with 80 per cent cent. More than half of under 25 are jobless. saying their partners are On Friday Rajoy announced a new set of tax hikes to come good at providing sexual into effect next year, saying he had “no alternative.” pleasure. “I know that tax rises were not part of our electoral proThis puts Spain well above gramme, and we will try to avoid this in the future,” Rajoy average and not far behind said. “We have done our best to make sure that the biggest SPANISH parents’ association CEAPA is calling for the Indonesians, who at 89 burden falls to those who are best off.” school kids to go on a homework strike. per cent were the most satisProtestors in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Valencia and Inspired by a similar strike in France, CEAPA wants fied with their partners. many other regional capitals carried banners urging Rajoy the strike because it says Spanish children get too To maintain desire within a not to “mess around with health and education.” much homework. relationship, Spaniards like Speaking at a demonstration in Madrid, Cayo Lara, a The organisation says the amount of time children to talk about their sexual member of Congress for the United Left party, accused the have to spend on homework has increased in recent preferences. In fact, the government of using the financial crisis as an excuse to sell years and that schools do not “adequately address the report found the Spanish to off essential public services to the private sector. educational needs”. be one of the best nations Socialist Party leader Alfredo Pérez Rubalcaba described According to CEAPA homework overload represents when it comes to communithe Prime Minister as “the last of the Mohicans,” accusing “a failure of the education system”. cating about sex. him of blindly implementing austerity policies that are pushIt says children should be doing this work in school Eleven per cent of ing Spain’s economy further into depression. and that asking children to do too much homework Spaniards admitted to enjoyleads to “social inequality”. ing striptease and sexual “While some parents try to help their children, others fantasies, while 10 per cent paid between 2,000 resort to private lessons and academies, and many enjoyed massage. The fictional ‘children’ d ten rge cha To increase pleasure, 28 e hav s a parent of Spanish have neither the education nor money to pay for such cer find offi to NATIONAL police and 3,000 euros n ldre chi 132 ed support,” CEAPA says. per cent of Spaniards use pos sup ir the and s ent y. par alit ‘false’ nation to have 21 children, And, CEAPA maintains, homework can cause “ten- sex toys and 27 per cent go offences. One woman was found for alleged immigration ple, peo 30 r the ano each other. Another sion” between parents and children, and leave children online for information and ed of rs est yea five hin wit n bor They have also arr all lawyer and charity y given birth to five chil- with too little time for social and sporting activities. tips. including a practising ‘mother’ had supposedl r four in 1990. the ano and The organisation has also criticised the style of Overall, 74 per cent of 9 198 in n worker. dre lan were of Guine as parents and chi teaching in Spanish schools, claiming there is too Spaniards are happy with The defendants posed Most of those arrested ain obt to d use s tificate much reliance on textbooks and rote learning, and that their sex life, putting Spain in dren, with false birth cer nationality. residence permits. classes are not stimulating enough. tenth place.

Parents urge kids to go out on strike

ars e y e v fi in s id k 1 2 d a h m Mu

Friday, May 4, 2012

WHAT THE UK

Spy in the bag mystery ‘unlikely’ to be solved The exact circumstances surrounding the death of MI6 spy Gareth Williams may never be known, a coroner said on Wednesday as she refused to rule out the involvement of the British Secret Service.

Daily Mail

made by police and MI6, she said the case is 'unlikely' ever to be explained. In the end, it was a bitter-sweet conclusion for the spy's family, who insist the codebreaker was assassinated by shadowy secret agents specialising in Dr Fiona Wilcox said she was sure a third the 'dark arts'. party was involved in the agent's mystery Dr Wilcox told a packed Westminster death - but could not conclude he was mur- Coroner's Court: “The cause of his death dered because of a lack of compelling evi- was unnatural and likely to have been dence. Highlighting a litany of mistakes criminally mediated. I am therefore satisfied that on the balance of The Sun probabilities Gareth was killed unlawfully.' But she stopped short of recording the verdict so desired by the Williams family because she could not A HARLEY-DAVIDSON which was swept away in be “satisfied so that I'm sure last year's Japanese tsunami has washed up 4,000 that he was ... unlawfully killed’’. miles away on an Canadian island. Mr Williams' decomposing The motorbike was discovered on a beach in its container after its epic voyage across the Pacific. And remains were discovered it is set to be reunited with its owner Ikuo Yokoyama encased within a padlocked sports holdall in the bathtub after he was traced by its number plate. “This is unmistakably mine. It’s miraculous,” of his flat in Pimlico, west Yokoyama told Nippon London, in August 2010. But, underlining one of the TV when shown photos most puzzling aspects of the of the motorcycle. Ikuo lost three mem- case, she said that the bag bers of his family in the could only have been placed March 11 tsunami, and into the bath by another peris now living in tempo- son. She noted that there rary housing. The bike was no sign of forced entry was found by Canadian and no foot or fingerprints Peter Mark on Graham anywhere near the body.

Harley takes Japan to Canada tsunami ride

Island, off British Columbia on April 18. He said the bike was covered in "a lot of corrosion, a lot of rust." He added that he "couldn’t believe that something like that would make it across the Pacific." Reports say the motorcycle will be shipped back to Japan, and that the shop that sold it to Yokoyama would help with paperwork and storage. In March, an Alaskan man found a football and later a volleyball from Japan; their owners were located last week using names that had been inscribed on the balls.

The Sun

Baby’s body found at recycling plant THE body of a young baby was found at a waste recycling plant in North Lincolnshire on Wednesday morning. The boy's remains were discovered among items to be recycled at the Bell Waste Control site in Scunthorpe. A male worker made the grim discovery and was said to be in a "very distressed" state. The baby is believed to have been less than six months old. A spokesman for Humberside Police said: "At this time, very little is known in terms of the circumstances which led to the baby seemingly being discarded but we are concerned that the baby's parents, in particular his mother, may need help and support following the loss of her child and as such she may be very vulnerable at this time. "We are urging anyone who can help identify the parents of this baby or the parents themselves to come forward.’’

Maddie: McCanns feeling ‘positive’

Kate and Gerry McCann have spoken of their renewed hope that their daughter Madeleine will be found five years on from her disappearance in Portugal. Mrs McCann said an ongoing review of the case by Scotland Yard and the release of a new age-pro-

Football bad-boy ‘bashed club girl’

Daily Mirror gression picture of Madeleine had left them feel -ing "probably as positive" as they had been for a long time. "We are realistic. We don't know what has happened but we know there is a very

good chance that she could be alive - there is no evidence to the contrary," Mrs McCann old Lorraine Kelly on ITV's Lorraine. "We know year after year, missing children, children that have been abducted, are found alive."

SOCCER bad boy Jermaine Pennant has been arrested after allegedly punching a WOMAN in the face. The Stoke City winger was accused of lashing out at reveller Jenna Timmis in a 3.30am nightclub bust-up. Less than two hours later, Pennant, 29, crashed his silver Audi car. He was breath-tested by police — and charged with drink-driving and driving while disqualified. The player spent Saturday night partying with pals at Manchester’s exclusive Circle Club. He is said to have clashed with Jenna, 31, after she claimed to be a pal of his partner and confronted him about chatting up other girls. A witness said: “This girl started to have a real go at him, saying, ‘You’ve got a baby, you got my friend pregnant and now you are here with other girls.’ “Afterwards he was dragged outside by security staff and she stayed inside. She was pretty upset with him but seemed composed.”

Friday, May 4, 2012

TABLOIDS SAY

USE BATH WATER TO FLUSH LOOS Environment chief’s shock advice to soggy Brits

The Sun

FAMILIES should start using bath water to flush the loo, wash the car and water the garden, a UK governmentminister has declared — after the wettest April on record. In a controversial move, Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said Britain could not carry on wasting drinking water. She said the country will need to start using so-called 'grey water' - that used in showers or baths - to help cope with droughts. New-build homes could include special plumbing systems which recycle grey-water for use in toilet or in the garden. Ms Spelman’s comments came days after she warned that standpipes may have to return if Britain has another dry winter. She said that while it was “most unlikely” drought-affected areas would need to use standpipes this year, another dry winter could make it more likely they’d have to be brought in. And while the wettest April on record had been good for the drought situation, she said the

Deja vu: A communal water standpipe being installed during the UK drought of 1947 heavy rain had not solved the problem — and a wet winter was needed to get things back to normal. South-east, south-west and eastern England are in drought along with the Midlands and South and East Yorkshire after two extremely dry winters. Many areas rely on groundwater for much of their tap supply, and the dry winters mean aquifers have not had a chance to recharge when they normally would. Water companies which rely on groundwater for supplies are concerned about what will happen if there is a third dry winte

Killer executed after 40 years - and a KFC AN Oklahoma man convicted of murdering a convenience store manager was executed by lethal injection on Tuesday after nearly FORTY years on death row. Michael Bascum Selsor (pictured above) was found guilty of murdering Clayton Chandler during an armed robbery in Tulsa in 1975 and sentenced to death a year later. The fast-food-loving killer requested a last meal of Kentucky Fried Chicken. The execution of Selsor, 57, ends more than three decades of legal proceedings in which he was twice convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to die for shooting Mr Chandler. The 55-year-old was shot eight times during an armed robbery in which the thieves got away with a little more than $500.

Daily Mirror Selsor and Richard Dodson were arrested a week later in Santa Barbara, California, where their car with Oklahoma tags had been spotted. Just before the execution began, Selsor told his son and sister: “I’ll be waiting at the gates of heaven for you. I hope the rest of you make it there as well." He didn’t address the victim’s relatives, some of whom were watching him. One of Mr Chandler’s daughters, Debbie Huggins, said her family has waited for almost 37 years for justice. "Today we got that justice," she said. "We’re glad that it’s finally over. Be at peace. The race is finally over."

th a e d to , 7 , n o s t a e Evil mum b beat her A CRUEL mother to death n so seven-year-old dy to try bo his ing ch before tor ff court rdi Ca to hide her crime, a ay. esd was told on Tu ly killed Sara Ege, 31, alleged g him tin hit by her son Yaseen the ing ch tor n the ck, with a sti rmu his ise family home to disgu der. ved the Police initially belie death n's see Ya house fire and post a t bu t, en cid ac was an

Daily Mail

showed a mortem examination c physiati tem sys catalogue of ild. ch cal abuse' against the y said rph Mu Ian Prosecutor ed that erg em it ys da hin that wit fore the fire Yaseen was dead be . d’’ had starte multiple Pathologists found on his es uri inj l nta non-accide ribs, a ken body including bro ctured fra a d an fractured arm

added: “He finger. Mr Murphy d dragged an had been set on fire g.' din onto the lan er the post Ege was arrested aft lighter fuel e cu mortem and barbe ng. thi clo r he on nd was fou hen interMr Murphy said: “W e admitted viewed by police sh t to Yaseen she had been violen for a year. aten him “She said she had be on his back harshly with a stick casions.’’ oc ny like a dog on ma

Aussie court gets tough on Welsh penguin pinchers TWO British tourists who broke into an Australian theme park and stole a penguin following a drunken night out have each been fined the equivalent of £636. Welshmen Rhys Owen Jones, 21, and Keri Mules, 20, pleaded guilty in

Brisbane to trespassing, stealing and keeping a protected animal after. The two friends were arrested after breaking into Sea World on Queensland’s Gold Coast during an alcohol-fuelled escapade. They also swam with dol-

The Sun

phins and let off a fire extinguisher in a shark enclosure. Jones and Mules were in Australia on a working holiday visa when the incident took place. They sneaked into the animal park

along with Australian James Vasilj, 18, after drinking 1.5 litres of vodka between them at a beach party. The two Welshmen then snatched a Fairy Penguin called Dirk from an aquarium before waking up with the flightless bird in their

apartment the following day. The friends’ lawyer Bill Potts told the court they meant no harm to the animal and tried to care for it by feeding it and putting it in the shower when they woke up with hangovers. Jones and Mules took

photo and video footage of the animal before releasing it into a canal. The seven-year-old bird was spotted by a member of the public, rescued unharmed and returned to Sea World, where it was reunited with girlfriend Peaches.

Friday, May 4, 2012

It’s party time as HAH turns one HAH Costa Blanca celebrated its first anniversary last week at The Emerald Isle, La Florida. A fun packed afternoon was enjoyed by more than 200 people and €760 was raised for the charity with a raffle, sale of donated clothes and donations. The varied entertainment on the day included a fashion show of nearly-new clothes, rousing music from the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums, Chris Jonson singing reggae numbers, plus Lucy Stewart and the Raquel Pena Sevillana Dancers.

Year we go...HAH Costa Blanca supporters cut the birthday cake

Revellers didn’t go hungry, either, with a delicious barbeque prepared by chef, Mark. Help at Home Costa Blanca thanked all its volunteers and supporters, with special thanks going to the Moran family of the Emerald Isle for all their support over the past year. Anyone wishing to join Help Costa Blanca’s team of volunteers, or needing a little free help at home, please call Sheila on 603 245 020 or email info@ helpathomecb.org

Golf is set to go with swing THE Samaritans in Spain’s annual golf day at Las Colinas Country Club looks set to be a big success with a number of local businesses pledging sponsorship and prizes and the day already is almost sold out. John Williams from the Rental and Sales Centre in Los Dolces is donating the first prize of four flatscreen TVs. Violetta Kolodziejczyk from the Rental and Sales Centre in Villamartin has come up with second prize of four sets of travel luggage. Other sponsorship on the day is coming from Gavin and Paula from Albatross Golf Tours Los Dolces, Ann and Richard from Munchies, Ted and Ann from Chemies Bar, and Cameron and Simon from the Hub - all Villamartin Plaza, plus many others. There are only a few places left on the golf day so if you are interested in playing, contact Las Colinas or call John Stephenson on 679 871 156. The Evening Dinner Dance at Las Colinas on the June 16 costs 45 euros, and features a cava reception, a four course meal, and music from Paul Allan. For details call Denise 966 764 279 or 699 416 819 denise1sams@hotmail.com

SAUCY STAGE ROMP SHOWS SEX SELLS ADHOC Theatre company proved that sex sells when it performed Sex Please We’re Willing to three packed houses at The School of Music in Los Montesinos. The comic romp tells the tale of a group of menopausal women, one would-be Casanova, a love-sick scientist and a newly-invented female Viagra pill. Duped into taking the pill, the women vow to get revenge on Dud the Stud, the randy womaniser who takes advantage of their heightened sexual state. But switching his own Viagra pills with the female version has unexpected results, and both Dud and the scientist who invented the female pill start showing signs of menopause much to the women’s delight. John Lockwood was hilarious as Dud the Stud, whose sexual prowess

was a legend in his own mind, while Jax Lawson - barely recognisable from her previous role with Adhoc as a straight-laced police officer - turned in a racy performance as southern belle Charmaine Beauregard. Newcomers Karen Love and Clive Gray were both excellent despite never having trod the boards before, Dorothy Gates made a convincing B&B owner and Caomihe O’Shea was great as the romantic novelist whose own love life left something to be desired. After the final performance a cheque for €1500 was presented to a representative from ADMISON charity by Dave Knights from TKO. Adhoc will soon be casting for its next production of Allo, Allo. Visit www.adhoctheatre.com or email adhocspain@hotmail.com or call 677 600 809 or 697 501 992 if you want to know more.

The cast of Adhoc Theatre Company’s Sex Please We’re Willing

PAWS AND CLAWS: CAN YOU TYSON, right, is still a youngster at 16 months of age. He was found with his two sisters in a cardboard box when he was around eight weeks old. He is very playful and loves to run with the other dogs in Apah’s care. But he now really needs a home of his own. BAILEY, left, is also 16 months old. He enjoys playing with other dogs and loves to play ball. But even though he has loads of energy he walks well on the lead. He has been castrated, chipped and all his vaccinations are up to date. He just needs a home.

TKO’s Dave Knights hands over cheque for €1500 to ADISMON

www.apahrescue.org 616 210 850

Friday, May 4, 2012

Show first for Pitney and Orbison Tony Lee (right) with pop legend Bobby Vee

INTERNATIONAL tribute artist Tony Lee is appearing on the Costa Blanca for the first time in his acclaimed Pure Pitney & Orbison tour. Tony has been featuring the music of Gene Pitney in his shows since the 70s. Finding the material so popular, he devised a dedicated Gene Pitney show in 2003, and now he is recognised as one of

the best Gene Pitney tribute acts in the world. Tony has performed in Gene Pitney conventions in the US and his great vocals have even won him the endorsement of the Pitney family. As if Gene Pitney wasn’t enough, Tony is also adding favourites from another great singer, Roy Orbison to his shows

on the Costa Blanca. Tony has performed internationally alongside Bobby Vee, Bobby Rydell, The Chiffons, Gary Pucket and many more great artists of the rock ’n’ roll era Pure Pitney & Orbison runs May 20 to 28 at various local venues. For details call the ticket info line on 605 135 134 or visit www.jukeboxpromotions.co.uk

UNSTOPPABLE AT 80 Determined Daphne is a real inspiration

EIGHTY-YEAR-OLD Daphne Judd from Gran Alacant refused to let age - or two recent spine operations - stop her from taking part in MABS Walk for Life last Sunday.

Daphne Judd with husband Bill (right) and Bev Ballesteros

The sprightly octogenarian put many much younger people to shame with her determination to help the charity. Despite being in pain, Daphne walked unaided for more than half of the four kilometre walk. Her husband Bill and friend Beverley Ballesteros took turns wheeling her the rest of the way. Daphne recently underwent two serious spine operations, the second one only seven months ago. But thanks to the

Be nice for HELP BAY Radio is aiming to get as many people as possible out on sponsored walks up and down the coast this Sunday as part of its Be Nice Day. Many local charities are joining the event, including HELP Murcia Mar Menor. HELP MMM will be holding a 5km walk along the promenade from Pintor Pedro to L’Ascension and back. Entry is five euros and sponsorship money will be split between HELP MMM and the local Caritas charity. Walkers can make the day more fun by wearing fancy dress, if they wish, and dogs are also welcome. Anyone who can’t take part can still help by sponsoring one of the walkers.

For details, call HELP MMM’s office on 968 570 059, ring Bernard on 659 751 611 or pop into the office at Calle Penelope 11, Urbanisation Oasis, Los Narejos. HELP Murcia Mar Menor aims to provide a service to all, including mobility equipment loans, hospital visiting, information on living in Spain, support groups, interpreter details, assisting and liaising with other charities. Other local charities taking part in Be Nice Day include Little Pod Foundation, with a walk in Punta Prima, Paul Cunningham Nurses, in Rojales, and HELP Vega Baja in San Miguel de Salinas. More information on Be Nice Day can be found at www.bayradio.fm

skill of Elche Hospital surgeons and a lot of self-discipline from this very determined lady, she is already walking much better than she has done for a long time. And what better way to prove it than to take part in the MABS sponsored walk. Daphne decided to join the walk in memory of her good friend Wendy Williams, who died last year. Her efforts brought in 200 euros for MABS, bringing the total raised by walkers on the day to 1500 euros. The walk was organised by Jan and Angela who run the Gran Alacant branch of MABS support group. Around 40 people joined in, nearly all of them dressed in pink for the occasion. MABS helps cancer sufferers and their families and can provide volunteer drivers, translators, support workers and various medical aids.

THE owners of the Power Pub in San Fulgencio are using their passion for pounding the pavements to help a good cause by running a sponsored race for charity. Vicente Murcia Perez and wife Fina Rocamora Vera have been keen runners for ten years and on May 6 they will be racing for children’s care charity Emaus. Anyone wishing to sponsor Vicente and Fina can do so at the bar, which can be found 100 metres from the only set of traffic lights in San Fulgencio village. Or call Dave on 633 366 701. Sponsorship forms are also available for anyone who can collect sponsors on Vicente and Fina’s behalf. Vicente and Fina have been running the bar for more than 20 years. It is popular for its karaoke and music nights. Sports events are also screened, especially Real Madrid games as Vicente is a big fan.

GIVE ONE OF THESE PETS A HOME? ALL THEY NEED IS LOVE DAVE, right, is a young G e r m a n Shepherd who is in need of a loving new home. He was rescued once but escaped and was missing for 10 months. He was found living in a drain but apart from being underweight was in good health. JAKE is a beautiful Braco Aleman Call: 616 210 and is approx one year old. He was 850. found just over a week ago in the campo and is slightly underweight. But he is lovely, friendly and good with other dogs. Call: 645 469 253

www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.info

www.paradisekennels.es giveadogahome@hotmail.com

FIVE stunning Boxer Mastine puppies are urgently seeking homes. These loveable giants are nine weeks old, healthy and playful. There are two

males and three females to choose from. If you can give one of these adorable puppies a home, call Colleen on 619 938 955, or contact PADS at SIMBA is a handsome, part Paradise Kennels. Siamese, blue-eyed boy. He is about two years old and was sadly left on his own recently when his owner died. He needs a new owner to give him the affection he was used to. Simba gets along with other cats and has a lovely nature.

Joe the Catman 966 719 272

Friday, May 04,16, 2012 Friday, December 2011

Amazing super truck of the future This futuristic device is the Innotruck - no, it's not the next Thunderbird, but it is hi-tech: it's an all-electric artic with some clever energy-efficient devices that could mean it's the future of road haulage. The Innotruck is the creation of the Technical University of Munich's Diesel Reloaded project, which aims to 'demonstrate how paradigm shifts in automotive, energy and information technologies can help to address major societal trends and needs.' Basically, that means it's a testbed for technology drive-by-wire controls, carto-car and car-to-

infrastructure communication all feature, meaning traffic flow and safety can be dictated by info from the truck, if there were many of them on the road, that is. The Innotruck gets an allelectric powertrain, too. TUM aren't saying how much power or torque the Innotruck has, but an electric motor with huge twisting force available from zero rpm would certainly suit the application of hauling heavy loads. The articulated wagon's controls adapt to the driver's capabilities as well as other variables, such as traffic conditions and driver alertness. This means the

helmsman won't be overloaded with information, leaving them to concentrate on the task of piloting this huge truck. That's not to say you'll only get a speedo to look at, far from it. Data will only be provided as and when it is needed on the unobscured central electronic display there's no steering wheel, instead the Innotruck gets two joystick controls. The zero-emissions powertrain is governed by a 'micro smart grid' - a system that manages energy flow from the truck's batteries, as well as the on-board solar cells, wind turbines and regenerative braking sys-

tem. The Innotruck can also recharge other EVs when stopped, through dedicated electrical outlets - smaller electric cars can plug into the Innotruck to receive a charge boost. Having an internal power source, it could also be used to supply energy at events and festivals. Conventional trucks struggle to achieve double-figure mpg, and with nearly half a million wagons on the UK's roads, the Innotruck could be the answer to improving efficiency of road haulage. It's an outrageous-looking piece of design, but the sleek profile helps reduce

drag and improve efficiency further. The truck is pulled by the tractor unit, which in turn is controlled remotely from the driving seat housed in the trailer. The bubble canopy gives a great view of the surroundings out of the front, addressing the poor visibility of conventional wagons and improving safety for other road users as a result. With the cabin not connected to the tractor unit and the steering wheels, we reckon it'd be an odd experience trying to get the hang of steering the Innotruck and tipping it into a corner for the first time. Just as with most modern

long-distance lorries, there's a place to grab some zeds and whip up some food. This Innotruck's amenities are a little more sophisticated than your average wagon though. There's a full-size kitchen that'd embarrass most houses, complete with an LCD TV. We're not sure this would feature if the Innotruck made it to production though, given its impact on load space. It's purely a concept testbed to showcase future technologies for the road haulage industry - and how it can benefit other vehicles in the process - so no prices have been given, even if you wanted one.

A BIT OF FUN I went to a couple of car dealerships last week. The first one I stopped at was Kia. Well nothing caught my eye, but the price was right. Then I went to a Ford dealer. I didn't really find anything I liked, but every car had a pair of shoes in the trunk. At last I went to the Chevy dealer. Well I see one that I like. The dealer does the once over with me, then he pops the trunk. Disapointed, I looked at the dealer and said: "Well, theres something missing." The dealer puzzled asks: "What?" I said: "At the Ford dealership I checked out, they had a new pair of shoes in the trunk of every car!" Smiling the dealer says: "That's so they can walk home!"

Friday, May 04, 2012

Cholmondeley Pageant of Power The Cholmondeley Pageant of Power has been around for just four years, growing into a great display for petrolheads craving the sound of roaring engines. Here's our preview to the 2012 Pageant, proving why it's worth a visit. Cars are at the heart of the CPoP, but that's not all it has to offer - the Pageant showcases high-octane action on land, water and in the air. There'll be over £500 million worth of cars lapping the 1.2-mile track, with everything from pre-war classics to the sophisticated modern race machinery. Set in the grounds of Cholmondeley Castle, the course combines a mix of fast sections and technical bends to test the drivers' bravery and skill, as well as giving spectators a great spectacle. Drivers compete for honours in different classes, chasing the stopwatch to post a time. There will be a plethora of priceless machinery assembled at the CPoP - from the fire-breathing 1917 Brutus BMW Aero 47-litre, to the most up to date supercars, such as the Lamborghini Aventador and McLaren MP4-12C. The half a billion pound field will be on display for the crowds to ogle, spread over seven different classes: pre-war cars, two sports car classes (pre- and postwar) rally and touring cars, post-war Grand Prix cars, single seaters and even a special 50th anniversary class for the AC Cobra. The Pageant is home to Europe's largest helicopter festival and features power boating on the Estate's private lake. For those looking for a bit more rough stuff, there'll also be a military vehicle display and a chance to get involved, with helicopter and hovercraft rides, shops and adventure courses. You can expect a veritable feast of expensive

machinery, whether it's on two or four wheels, on the water or in the air. Classic vehicle racing will be at the heart of the Pageant - as it always is - and the mix of museum cars being driven hard will be a sight to behold. This year sees the addition of the Autocar supercar paddock - a collection of the most hi-tech, out-there roadlegal speed machines on sale today, including the £1.4 million Aston Martin One-77, Ariel Atom V8, Noble M600, BAC Mono, Nissan GT-R, Radical SR3 SL and Aston Martin V12 Zagato among others. There isn't a theme as such for this year's Pageant, but it's something the event organisers are looking towards. The AC Cobra 50th anniversary festivities will add a celebratory

tone to the event, with the Lotus Elan also marking half a century this year at Cholmondeley. The Pageant donates money to charity every year and has raised over £150,000 in its short history. This year's chosen charities are Remount and the Alder Hey Children's Hospital. The Pageant of Power circuit is made up around the roads of the estate. It's a drivers' track with its own idiosyncrasies, but has been designed to provide excellent spectating and a stimulating challenge for drivers, too. There's flat-out fast sections and slow twisty stuff that'll test the precision of the pilots. The Pageant runs from the 15-17 June

Friday the 15 is a 'Preview Day' for vehicle preparation and practice, but is still open to the public - a good chance to see those missed braking points and practice starts off the line. To round off the event, there'll also be a Fireworks Concert in a 'Last Night of the Proms' style classical music festival, celebrating the Queen's Jubilee. There'll

be some more military involvement here as the big guns gear up for a big finale. Tickets for the full three days including the Fireworks Concert - cost £85, with weekend tickets at £73. Preview Friday tickets cost £20, but if you just fancy a single day sojourn to the CPoP over the weekend, it'll cost £26. Camping is an additional £20.

Friday, May 04, 2012

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, 6 represents S and 2 represents Y, when these letters have been entered throughout the puzzle, you should have enough information to start guessing words and discovering other letters.

QUICKIE

Across 1 Go along with (6) 4 Cleave (5) 8 Untrue (5) 9 Be relevant to (7) 10 Greed (7) 11 Distribute cards (4) 12 Dunk (3) 14 Bill of fare (4) 15 Keen on (4) 18 Body of water (3) 21 Ambience (4) 23 Curving inward (7) 25 Nothingness (4,3) 26 Thicket (5) 27 Scope (5) 28 Respectable (6)

Down 1 Noisy quarrel (6) 2 Collection of diverse things (7) 3 Cherished (8) 4 Feudal slave (4) 5 Depart (5) 6 Clear ringing sound (6) 7 Velocity (5) 13 Peak (8) 16 Tread down (7) 17 Badinage (6) 19 Fruit of the oak (5) 20 Choose (6) 22 Rule (5) 24 Naked (4)

Last weeks Solution Across: 1 Sick, 3 Pinnacle, 9 Curtain, 10 Drama, 11 Above, 12 Tweaks, 14 Lesson, 16 Cinema, 19 Salmon, 21 Reach, 24 Prior, 25 Applaud, 26 Transfer, 27 Stop. Down: 1 Sociable, 2 Cargo, 4 Ignite, 5 Nudge, 6 Crackle, 7 Exam, 8 Laredo, 13 Washed up, 15 Stamina, 17 Irrupt, 18 Enrage, 20 Marks, 22 Apart, 23 Spot.

Scribble Pad

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

CRYTPIC CLUES Across 1/23 Established what hens did with soft feathers (4,4) 3 Neck chop? (8) 9 Central, but maybe unclear (7) 10 Look after one’s problems (5) 11 Grades Spencer’s associate (5) 12 If I were present, a military man, but as it is, just a joiner (6) 14 About end product in a light-sensitive area 16 Upset baby’s plaything (6) 19 Finding ginseng in England is loco (6) 21 Tale about a follower in the dining room, possibly (5) 24 Winning where the middle-aged may be thin (2,3) 25 Radical South African political party, our deep felt hatred (7) 26 Anonymous, care-

less salesmen (8) 27 Kelly has inherited unit (4) Down 1 A watershed for damn Karl Cook (8) 2 Subject in dog (5) 4 Harp is destroyed in the vicinity of the church (6) 5 Surpass former church leader, at first (5) 6 Now for a stream of electricity (7) 7 Tom’s initial request for a job (4) 8 Flavour this time of year (6) 13 Erase her comical practise (8) 15 He has a small part in a carol (4,3) 17 Take care of a race finish (6) 18 Bride’s creation is awful (6) 20 Force the Spanish after the little devil (5) 22 Sounds like dissatisfied cries for drink! (5) 23 See 1 Across

STANDARD CLUES

Down

Across

1 Turning point (8) 1/23 Established (4,4) 2 Sustain (5) 3 Upward short-arm blow (8) 4 Community (6) 9 Atomic (7) 5 Surpass (5) 10 Concerns (5) 6 Up-to-date (7) 11 Spots (5) 7 Chore (4) 12 Fusible alloy for uniting 8 Period (6) metals (6) 13 Practise (8) 14 Light-sensitive membrane (6) 15 Poor child from ‘A 16 Clatter (6) Christmas Carol’ (4,3) 19 Locomotive (6) 17 Take care (6) 21 Piece of furniture (5) 18 Rubble (6) 24 In addition (2,3) 20 Force (5) 25 Resentment (7) 22 Liquor (5) 26 Anonymous (8) 23 See 1 Across 27 Unit of heredity (4) Last weeks Solution Across: 1 Misers, 4 Yellow, 9 Snaffle, 10 Baton, 11 Ideas, 12 Surmise, 13 Tall stories, 18 Lumbago, 20 Cards, 22 Gangs, 23 Amiable, 24 Tartan, 25 Ingest. Down: 1 Mystic, 2 Stale, 3 Refusal, 5 Ember, 6 Lattice, 7 Wanted, 8 Sensational, 14 Almoner, 15 Ruction, 16 Alight, 17 Assert, 19 At sea, 21 Ruble.

FILL IT IN

Complete the crossword grid by using the given words:

3 letter words Ate Awe Cop Cow Den Did Ear Eke Ems Era Lee Oar Saw Sea Sup Vow 4 letter words Abet Alto Bene Blab Cape

Case Cosh Drat Dray Ease East Ells Ewer Exam Have Hire Host Ibis Idea Mass Naps News Obey Oboe Odds Plea Rave Root

Lease Salt Oaten Sled Otter Soak Plods Soap Sires Soil Sisal Sons Solve Take Tapir Tips Titan Togs Viola Visa 5 letter words 6 letter words Betake Abode Egress Adore Needle Caper Sunset Caret 8 letter words Cello Arsenals Coley Bonemeal Costs Hypnosis Depth Stressed Dregs Ester Exile Igloo

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

Across

Down

1 Something (4) 3 Beds (5) 8 Más pesado (7) 9 Ready (physically) (5) 10 Arm (anatomy) (5) 11 Absent (not present) (7) 12 Lonchas (6) 14 Palacio (6) 17 Our (7) 19 Toll (on road, bridge) (5) 21 Mancha (de aceite, pintura, etc) (5) 22 Traffic (vehicles) (7) 24 Vestir (poner la ropa a) (5) 25 Stick (as a weapon) (4)

1 Ceniza (polvo) (3) 2 Attractive (f) (5) 3 To close (shut) (6) 4 Machos (5) 5 Sixty (7) 6 Moustache (6) 7 ¡Ven aquí! (4,4) 10 Negocios (empresa) (8) 13 Islandia (7) 15 Aparecer (6) 16 Meses (6) 18 Tenso (persona, situación) (5) 20 Friend (f) (5) 23 Eye (anatomy) (3)

Friday, May 04, 2012 Across 1/13D The operas Peter Grimes (1945), Albert Herring (1947) and Billy Budd (1951), were all written by which British composer? (8,7) 7 What is the name of the international airport located in Chicago, Illinois? (5) 8 The red rose was the emblem of which royal house that ruled England from 1399 to 1461? (9) 9 Which slang word for sleep is also the basic unit of currency in Laos? (3) 10 What name is given to a large container designed to receive and transport and dump waste? (4) 11 What name was given to the Spanish fleet that was sent to attack England in 1588 but was defeated in the English Channel? (6) 13 By what other name is the hallux better known? (3,3) 14/17 Which 18th century English historian is best known for his History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire? (6,6) 18 Nancy who was the fictional heroine detective of a popular mystery series for girls, created in 1930 by Edward Stratemeyer? (4) 20 Which the only even prime number? (3) 22 Which word, derived from the Greek for 'overseer', is used in religious contexts to refer to a bishop? (9) 23 Each player has how many pawns at the start of a game of chess? (5) 24 In law, which crime involves entry onto another's property without right or permission? (8) Down 1 In plants, what name is given to modified buds consisting

SUDOKU

Quiz Word

of thickened globular underground stems serving as reproductive structures? (5) 2 Which city in eastern China on the Yangtze River is the capital of Jiangsu Province and was once the capital of all China? (7)

3 Which Dutch football club won the European Cup (UEFA Champions League) in 1971, 1972, 1973 and 1995? (4) 4 By what name is an advanced student or graduate in medicine gaining supervised practical experience, called a 'houseman' in the UK, known as in the USA? (6) 5 Franz who was the Czech-born novelist who wrote in German about a nightmarish world of isolated and troubled individuals? (5) 6 Which large feline of African and Asian forests usually has a tawny coat with black spots? (7) 7 Which city in central Florida is the site of Walt Disney World? (7) 12 What name was given to a close-fitting jacket, with or without sleeves, worn by European men from the 1400s to the 1600s? (7) 13 See 1 Across 15 What was the name of the Roman general who commanded the fleet that defeated the forces of Antony and Cleopatra at Actium? (7) 16 What was the surname of the third member of the songwriting production team, who along with Eddie and Brian Holland, wrote many early Tamla-Motown hits? (6) 17 What name is given to a deep, narrow valley, usually steep and rocky, especially one with a stream? (5) 19 Cymru is which country's name in its own language? (5) 21 By what short name is the fifth book of the New Testament of the Bible usually known? (4)

SALLY’S SIMPLE SPANISH

ORDENALES - ORDINAL NUMBERS Match these words with their Spanish translations then find them in the wordsearch. (Answers below)

history QUIZ

1. John F. Kennedy 2. John Of Gaunt (The Duke Of Lancaster) 3. Balloon 4. El Greco 5. Hawaii 6. The Pelican 7. Constantine The Great 8. Fur Trader 9. Window Tax 10. Proud of non virginity 11. Valley Of The Kings, Luxor 12. Otto Von Bismarck 13. Ming

ANSWERS

Last Week’s Solutions Code Cracker Last weeks Quiz Wordsolution Across:1 Falstaff, 7 Cooke, 9/21 Sun King, 10 Oboe, 11 Monroe, 13 Bunyan, 14 Hermes, 17 Carrie, 18 Alum, 20 War, 22 Capricorn, 23 Leave, 24 Red Giant. Down: 1 Falco, 2 Lincoln, 3 Tuba, 4 Farrow, 5 Horse, 6 Peanuts, 7/8 Charles Lindbergh, 12 Maurice, 13 Beowulf, 15 Moldova, 16 Dieppe, 17 Cream, 19 Monet.

noveno

decimo

octavo

decimoctavo

onceava

decimocuarto

primero

decimonoveno

quinto

decimoquinto

segundo

decimosexto

séptimo

decimoséptimo

sexto

decimotercero

tercero

doceava

vigésimo

Match the English and Spanish names of fruit and vegetables. You will find the answers at the bottom of the page. 1.cuarto, 2.decimo, e.5th, f.6th, g.7th, h.8th, 10.doceava, 11.noveno, 3.decimoctavo,

12.octavo, 13.onceava,

i.9th, j.10th, k.11th, l.12th,

4.decimocuarto,

14.primero, 15.quinto,

m.13th, n.14th, o.15th,

5.decimonoveno,

16.segundo, 17.septimo,

p.16th, q.17th, r.18th,

6.decimoquinto,

18.sexto, 19.tercero,

s.19th, t.20th.

7.decimosexto,

20.vigésimo

8.decimoséptimo, 9.decimotercero, Soduko

a.1st, b.2nd, c.3rd, d.4th, Span - Eng

Quizword

Answers1d, 2j, 3r, 4n, 5s, 6o, 7p, 8q, 9m, 10l, 11i, 12h, 13k, 14a, 15e, 16b, 17g, 18f, 19c, 20t.

1. Who said 'I'm never through with a girl till I've had her three ways'? 2. Who Was Henry Bolingbrook's Father? 3. In 1785, Blanchard and Jeffries became the first to cross the English channel using which method of transport? 4. Domenikos Theotocopoulos is better known by what name? 5. What Became America's 50th State On August 21st 1959? 6. Drakes ship the 'Golden Hind' was originally called what? 7. Who Was The First Christian Emperor Of Rome? 8. Clarence Birds Eye had what job? 9. What Tax Was Levied Between 1695 & 1851? 10. In the 60's a Yellow Golliwog' worn by a girl symbolised what? 11. Where In Egypt Is The Tomb Of Tutankhamen? 12. Who said 'politics is the art of the possible' on Aug 11th 1867? 13. Which Chinese Dynasty Lasted From 1368-1644?

cuarto

Fill It In

Friday, May 4, 2012

TRELI ON THE TELLY The award for Soap stupidity goes to… AWARD shows on TV bore me, which is why I always watch them on a recorded delay. I then make copious use of the fast forward button to whizz through all the fawning and backslapping, as well as the ad breaks. But if you are going show awards, then at least screen them live for heaven’s sake! The fun bits are those unplanned moments of madness as well as not knowing who’s going to win. That’s why ITV 1’s exercise of screening The British Soap Awards on Wednesday, four days after they happened, is utterly pointless and patronising to the viewers. Even more so, since these Awards are actually decided by the voting public, with the usual annual stupidity of

with ALEX TRELINSKI Eastenders being voted as the best soap over Corrie. Mind you, this month’s BAFTA awards, which are picked by a jury, are just as irrational. A combined total of just two nominations for Downton Abbey and Call the Midwife (for Maggie Smith and Miranda Hart) shows how utterly out of touch these know-all buffoons are when it comes to handing out the

Frozen Planet: One of the best wildlife documentary series ever Set in Toronto, this noir thriller gets under the skin due to layered performances from the entire cast. It's a slow build until the final act, but it remains gripping thanks to a snaky plot that gets nastier and scarier as it develops. After 25 years in prison, con-artist Foley (Jackson) decides to change his life. All his old friends are gone, and his best pal's son Ethan (Kirby) now works for vicious businessman Xavier (Wilkinson). But Ethan brings back the issues Foley is trying to put behind him. Worse, Ethan needs Foley's help for a "samaritan" grift, which involves coming to the aid of

gongs. Was the wonderful drama series, The Shadow Line, forgotten? There’s no consolation either in knowing that the BAFTAs have one viewer vote for the best programme, which has pitched, amongst others, Celebrity Juice against Frozen Planet! I have a somewhat uneasy feeling that one of the best wildlife documentary series ever made is not going win this particular gong! There was a delightful documentary last Friday celebrating John Le Mesurier, who is perhaps best known for his laid-back portrayal of Sgt. Wilson on Dad’s Army. The hour-long BBC2 profile flew by, with an enjoyable appreciation of an actor who conveyed the gentle nature of stoic Englishness throughout his career, and who was actually like that in real life. He was loved by everybody, and though there were some great stories, there wasn’t really anything new, except for the fact that he didn‘t believe Dad‘s Army would get a second series. I was surprised though that one fact wasn’t mentioned, which really typified his great humanity. When his second wife, Hattie Jacques, had a marriage-ending affair, John said it was his fault for mistreating her, so that she could divorce him for his behaviour. It was totally untrue but the measure of a man who loved Hattie and didn’t want her reputation to suffer. John Le

FURY 18 the mark to win his trust. Then Foley meets vulnerable young call-girl Iris (Negga), who manages to get under his skin. Visually, director Weaver keeps things simple, with shadowy, slick photography and straightforward editing. This belies the churning com-

plexity of the story, which gives the cast the chance to create memorable characters. The noir tone and sting plot make it clear that we can't trust anything, especially when we learn early on that Foley was forced to kill Ethan's father, which is what put him behind bars. And fur-

CAST: Samuel L Jackson, Luke Kirby, Ruth Negga, Tom Wilkinson, DIRECTOR: David Weaver RATING: 3/5 RUNNING TIME: 90 min. This dvd review was brought to you by MOVING MOVIES - OVER 7000 DVDS IN STOCK. Delivering all over Spain and the UK Visit www.movingmovies.biz Tel 650 944 934 or email movingmoviesdvds@gmail.com

Mesurier really was one of a kind, and it’s great that so much of his work is still around in the archives for us to appreciate his dapper style. There was something really weird on Tuesday night. ITV1 actually ran a two-hour documentary in prime-time, which is something they have probably not done in a generation. What’s more, it was a topclass examination of Al Qaeda called The Hunt for Bin Laden. This was a real left-field choice for the commercial network, but it was an enthralling watch. It had absolutely everything in it, short of giving you a guide on how to have a fatwa placed on Keith Lemon. With ITV’s new arts show, Perspectives, and Tom Bradby’s recent Monday night political programme, the penny may have dropped that the channel should have a much wider vision, rather then just running soaps and every idea that Simon Cowell comes up with. Talking of Cowell, I’m continuing to enjoy Britain’s Got Talent, which has a double edition this weekend on ITV1, with the judges shortlisting on Sunday, ahead of the live shows starting on Monday. Unless something really special has been held back for tomorrow, it has been the poorest selection of acts in the history of BGT, but at least the panel has been great fun. I think BGT has suffered by

John Le Mesurier: He was one of a kind having to follow the great singing talent on The Voice, which had its first live show on Saturday. There were some great voices, my favourite being Ruth Brown singing Get Here. Holly Willoughby, with her wealth of live TV experience, showed good control hosting the proceedings, but I felt a bit sorry for her co-presenter Reggie Yates. He was banished to what appeared to be something akin to a naughty room with the contenders, having to read out predictable glowing testimonials to them received through various social networking sites. It was the only misfire for what was otherwise a great show, and will.i.am has become an absolute star

ther revelations twist the plot in some very dark directions. With his quietly intense performance, Jackson makes the most of every scene, and his developing relationship with the terrific Negga has an electric zing to it, combining tenderness with a subtle sense of both possibility and danger. All of this develops gradually to the climactic con, as the script piles on red herrings, grim surprises and plot-turns that keep each character trapped in the situation. Everyone thinks they're in control, able to turn things in their favour, but of course there's something each person doesn't reckon on. The high quality of the acting more than makes up for the downbeat tone, and while the film's low-energy approach will keep it from being a hit, thoughtful audiences will find plenty to engage with.

amongst the coaches. I can’t believe it’s the last episode of Homeland on Channel Four this Sunday night. I was proud to recommend this gem to you back in the autumn, and it has delivered big time. What has also pleasantly surprised me is that the UK audience figures have almost doubled since Homeland started in a highly competitive timeslot three months ago. That makes it the most successful American show to hit British screens in many a long year (even more than Glee two years ago), and revives my belief that viewers know a class product when they see it, as opposed to those who get involved with the BAFTAs or the British Soap Awards.

The Courier Friday TV 00:35 Vote 2012 05:00 Holiday Weatherview 05:05 Newsday 05:30 HARDtalk 06:00 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Heir Hunters 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:58 BBC News; Weather 12:00 Robbed, Raided, Reunited 12:30 Cash in the Attic 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 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News; Weather; Regional News 16:05 Deadly 60 16:35 Diddy Dick & Dom 17:00 Copycats 17:30 Blue Peter 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Weather 20:00 The One Show 21:00 EastEnders 21:30 Would I Lie to You? 22:00 Have I Got News for You 22:30 Not Going Out 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 The Graham Norton Show

00:20 Snooker: The World Championship 01:10 Tsotsi 02:40 The Lives of the Saints 04:15 Close 04:55 Schools - Divine Women 05:55 Schools - How God Made the English 06:30 Schools - The Code 07:00 Wibbly Pig 07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington

07:45 Dipdap 07:50 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Roar 08:30 League of Super Evil 08:45 Eliot Kid 08:55 Newsround 09:00 Bear Behaving Badly 09:20 Shaun the Sheep 09:30 Nina and the Neurons Go Inventing 09:45 Numtums 09:50 Little Charley Bear 10:00 Buzz and Tell 10:05 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:20 Driver Dan's Story Train 10:30 Chuggington: Badge Quest 10:35 Small Potatoes 10:40 The Koala Brothers 10:50 Mr Bloom's Nursery 11:10 Baby Jake 11:20 Zingzillas Zingbop 11:30 64 Zoo Lane 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Vote 2012 14:00 Snooker: The World Championship 15:00 Vote 2012 16:00 Snooker: The World Championship 18:00 Vote 2012 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Great British Menu 20:00 Snooker: The World Championship 22:00 Maestro at the Opera 23:00 QI 23:30 Newsnight

00:35 The Cube 01:30 The Zone 04:00 Tonight 04:25 ITV Nightscreen 05:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 06:30 ITV Morning News 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 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Rosemary & Thyme 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Coronation Street 21:00 Poms in Paradise 21:30 Coronation Street 22:00 Piers Morgan's Life Stories 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 American Pie Presents Band Camp

AMERICAN PIE PRESENTS BAND CAMP

00:05 Random Acts 00:10 Bin Laden: Shoot to Kill 01:45 Embarrassing Bodies 02:40 Hidden Talent 03:35 Girls on the Pull 04:05 Unreported World 04:30 The Secret Life of Buildings 05:25 My Eden 05:35 Time Team 06:30 Countdown 07:15 The Hoobs 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Secret Millionaire Australia 11:00 Location, Location, Location 12:00 How to Haggle for a House 13:00 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:05 River Cottage 14:05 Singin' in the Rain 16:05 Channel 4 Presents 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 Foxes Live: Wild in the City 21:00 Come Dine with Me 22:00 8 Out of 10 Cats 22:30 Very Important People 23:00 Alan Carr: Chatty Man

Spin-off from the popular comedy series starring regular Eugene Levy. Stifler's equally obnoxious little brother (Tad Hilgenbrinck) is sentenced to band camp when an end-of-year school prank goes wrong.

Horoscopes Aries March 21 - April 19 You deserve praise for your excellent work. Normally today wouldn't cause you any difficulties, but today might just go against the norm. With all you've been through you should be glad that this week will actually come to a close. Dank inhospitable service station toilets may turn out to be your best friend today.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 The night may feel like a safe time to parade naked through the local city streets, however, you may find there are some that oppose your freedom. Armchair politicians will affect your life today as they rise from their dank pits and begin to conquer the known world. The food of love is music, only if it's Phil Collins and he's feeding you some kind of grapes.

Gemini May 21 - June 20 Duty calls, and your duty is to make people aware that you are not who they think you are. Nor are they who they think they themselves are. Sometimes the only way to succeed is by murdering the entire board of directors. You may develop a sudden interest in the backs of things today.

Cancer June 21 - July 22 The opportunities you once had are all but gone. Seize any new opportunity with all your might. Body odour may haunt your chances with a certain member of the opposite sex. Although you may feel justified in doing what you do, there are definitely times in which your conscience will be pricked.

May 4

01:25 SuperCasino 05:00 House Doctor 05:25 Michaela's Wild Challenge 05:45 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 06:35 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 The WotWots 07:20 City of Friends 07:35 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Peppa Pig 07:50 Castle Farm 08:00 Little Princess 08:10 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:20 The Mr Men Show 08:35 Thomas & Friends 08:45 Make Way for Noddy 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:10 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:30 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Dangerous Drivers' School 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 NCIS 16:15 Jane Doe: Now You See It, Now You Don't 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Robson's Extreme Fishing Challenge 21:00 Dirty Great Machines 22:00 The Mentalist 23:00 Castle 23:55 Law & Order: Criminal Intent

By Pandora Leo July 23 - August 22 Your words are, to some, like fingernails scratching a black-board. Chasing cats and dogs around the streets after midnight is probably not the best way to endear yourself to new neighbours. Tomorrow will bring fresh excitement and vigour to your otherwise dull self. Today might be tiring, but you will sleep easy this evening once everything has died down.

Virgo August 23 - September 22 All of that which you experience today will be catalogued under "things not to do in public again". When the morning is done, you will have your sweet reward. Banter between two important people may sway you in your current ideas about progressing with your life. However, until you hear this banter it is impossible to say which direction you'll take.

Libra September 23 - October 22 The way you dance around the office may cause some to question certain parts of your personal life. Hats have always looked good on you. Yes, today is definitely a hat day. Go hat! Left to your own devices, you are probably heading for a fall. Jumping up and down is great fun and encouraging others to do so is a fine way to make friends and see wobbling breasts.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21 Relax, break out the medicines and pills, and get funkin'! Be warned about your general demeanour today as others will not take kindly to happy-clappy fools. Life throws us all crazy things now and then. Like swords made of ham. And dogs on skateboards. Half of what I say is meaningless...the other half is pure gold.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21 If Jesus were here, he'd probably bless you in light of what's going to happen to you today. Angles may become a nuisance today, especially 90 degree angles. Boy - they're the worst! Your daily rituals are what keep you going. Avoid the temptation to change your ways, lest you become half the person you are today.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19 Magi cannot be expected to turn up at your convenience. However, they will usually leave a calling card asking you to re-arrange a visit. All your better ideas have already been stolen and used in the past. Which perhaps suggests you should prefix "crackpot" to the unofficial title you give yourself.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18 Distinguished guests will honour you today with their presence. You are overworked and underpaid. Man, I'm good at this horoscope lark, aren't I? You may think that starting afresh on Monday would be of some comfort, but it really won't be. Change is always for the good, ask any transsexual. The end is more like the beginning than you'd think.

Pisces February 19 - March 20 There's no harm in taking the day off. Today may seem like an extraordinary opportunity to get even with the world, but the world may have different ideas. Any joke you have to seriously think about today is not worth 'getting'. Flapping your arms like a bird is a good way to call attention to yourself.

The Courier Saturday TV

May 5

00:20 The National Lottery Friday Night Draws 00:30 The Matt Lucas Awards 01:05 EastEnders 03:00 Weatherview 03:05 Titanic with Len Goodman 03:35 Countryfile 04:30 Question Time 05:30 On the Road With 06:00 BBC News 06:30 Our World 07:00 Breakfast 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Live 12:30 Raymond Blanc's Kitchen Secrets 13:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 13:15 Football Focus 14:00 Snooker: The World Championship 18:30 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 18:50 Pointless Celebrities 19:40 My Family 20:10 The Voice UK 21:40 The National Lottery: In It to Win It 22:30 Casualty 23:20 BBC News; Weather 23:40 Have I Got a Bit More News for You

00:00 Weather 00:20 Later with Jools Holland 01:25 Snooker: The World Championship 02:15 Taken 03:40 The Record Review 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Click

04:45 Newswatch 05:00 BBC News 05:30 Close 07:00 Wibbly Pig 07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Extreme Animals 08:30 Dennis and Gnasher 08:40 The Scooby-Doo Show 09:05 Alesha's Street Dance Stars 09:35 Prank Patrol Down Under 10:00 The Slammer 10:30 The Ministry of Curious Stuff 11:00 Animals at Work 11:35 Splatalot 12:00 Copycats 12:25 OOglies 12:40 MOTD Kickabout 13:00 The Cardinal 15:50 Land of the Pharaohs 17:30 Final Score 18:10 Flog It! 18:55 The Good Life 19:25 Dad's Army 20:00 Snooker: The World Championship 22:30 I Love 1977 23:30 Papillon

01:15 The Store 03:15 The Sting 05:25 ITV Nightscreen 06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Mini CITV 08:25 CITV 09:25 Saturday Cookbook 10:25 ITV News 10:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 11:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 12:20 The Real Housewives of New York City 13:20 Murder, She Wrote 14:20 ITV News and Weather 14:29 Meridian Weather 14:30 Rosemary & Thyme 16:00 Meridian News and Weather 16:05 ITV News and Weather 16:15 Live FA Cup Football 20:45 The Cube 21:45 Britain's Got Talent 23:15 ITV News and Weather 23:24 Meridian Weather 23:25 FA Cup Highlights

THE VOICE UK With Tom Jones and Will.i.am having both said goodbye to one of their acts last week, it's now the turn of Team Jessie and Team Danny to step into the spotlight, with viewers voting to decide who stays in the competition. Becky Hill, Cassius Henry, Ruth-Ann St Luce, Toni Warne and Vince Kidd are singing for Jessie J, while Aleks Josh, Bo Bruce, David Julien, Hannah Berney and Max Milner represent Danny O'Donoghue

00:05 Stand Up for the Week 00:55 Hot Rod 02:35 Random Acts 02:40 My Name Is Earl 03:25 Dirty Sexy Money 04:50 Laid Off 05:00 St Elsewhere 05:50 Smallville 06:30 Countdown 07:15 The Hoobs 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 The Grid 08:30 British Formula Ford Championship 08:55 The Morning Line 09:55 The TV Book Club 10:25 Koko Pop 11:00 Made in Chelsea 12:05 The Pop Powerlist 13:10 The Big Bang Theory 13:45 The Simpsons 14:20 Road to London 2012: That Paralympic Show 14:55 Channel 4 Racing 16:55 Deal or No Deal 17:55 Come Dine with Me 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:15 Foxes Live: Wild in the City 20:20 Mission: Impossible 22:30 Die Hard

00:55 Inside Hollywood 01:00 SuperCasino 05:00 Motorsport Mundial 05:25 Michaela's Wild Challenge 05:50 Michaela's Wild Challenge 06:10 Wildlife SOS 06:35 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Peppa Pig 07:05 Fifi and the Flowertots 07:15 City of Friends 07:25 Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs 07:40 Castle Farm 07:45 Abby's Flying Fairy School 07:55 Roobarb and Custard Too 08:05 Bananas in Pyjamas 08:20 Family! 08:30 Noddy in Toyland 08:45 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 08:50 Little Princess 09:00 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:20 Angelina Ballerina 09:40 Rupert Bear 09:55 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 10:10 The Mr Men Show 10:25 Roary the Racing Car 10:35 The Milkshake! Show 11:00 Chinese Food in Minutes 11:05 Animal Rescue Squad 11:20 Meerkat Manor 11:55 Cowboy Traders 12:55 Robson's Extreme Fishing Challenge 13:55 The Naked Spur 15:40 Ten Wanted Men 17:15 The Mystery of Natalie Wood 20:30 5 News Weekend 20:35 NCIS 21:25 NCIS 22:25 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 23:20 CSI: NY

The Courier Sunday TV

May 6

00:25 Live at the Apollo 00:55 The Football League Show 01:55 Weatherview 02:00 BBC News 02:30 From The Killing To Borgen 03:00 BBC News 03:30 Dateline London 04:00 BBC News 04:30 Our World 05:00 BBC News 05:30 Click 06:00 BBC News 06:30 The Record Europe 07:00 Breakfast 10:00 The Andrew Marr Show 11:00 The Big Questions 12:00 Country Tracks 13:00 Sunday Politics 14:00 Cash in the Attic 14:45 Bargain Hunt 15:30 Homes Under the Hammer 16:30 Final Score 17:15 Escape to the Country 18:00 Points of View 18:15 Songs of Praise 18:50 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 19:15 Countryfile 20:15 The Voice UK 20:50 Planet Earth Live 22:00 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News; Regional News and Weather 23:25 Match of the Day

01:55 Badlands 03:25 Close 07:00 Wibbly Pig 07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Extreme Animals 08:30 Dennis and Gnasher 08:40 The Scooby-Doo Show 08:40 The Owl 09:05 Scoop 09:30 Wingin' It 09:50 Shaun the Sheep 10:00 Friday Download 11:00 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites 12:30 Great British Menu 13:00 Flog It! 13:30 MotoGP 15:00 Snooker: The World Championship 19:10 Barry Hearn: The People's Promoter 20:00 Snooker: The World Championship

00:25 Boogeyman 02:00 The Store 04:00 In Plain Sight 04:50 ITV Nightscreen 06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Mini CITV 08:25 CITV 09:25 Dinner Date 10:25 ITV News 10:30 Ade in Britain 11:30 May the Best House Win 12:30 Long Lost Family 13:30 ITV News and Weather 13:34 Meridian Weather 13:35 Britain's Got Talent 15:10 Columbo: Forgotten Lady 17:10 The Hungry Sailors 18:10 You've Been Framed! 18:45 Meridian News and Weather 19:00 ITV News and Weather 19:15 All Star Family Fortunes 20:15 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? 21:00 Britain's Got Talent 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:14 Meridian Weather 23:15 William and Kate: The First Year

WILLIAM AND KATE: THE FIRST YEAR The story of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's first 12 months of marriage, from their fairy-tale wedding on April 29, 2011, to their state visit to North America and everyday life on Anglesey. Royal photographer Hugo Burnand takes viewers behind the scenes at Buckingham Palace, while the Dean of Westminster recalls the atmosphere in the Abbey on the morning of the ceremony, and those who have encountered the couple during the past year give first-hand accounts and anecdotes of their experiences.

01:10 03:35 04:20 04:45 05:30 05:35 05:50 06:30 07:15 07:40 08:05 08:30 08:35 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 11:00 13:00 13:30 13:55 14:30 15:00 17:00 17:35 19:30 20:00 20:05 22:00 23:45

The Negotiator Stand Up for the Week Facejacker Hit the Road Jack Slow Joe Home Road Movies Smallville Countdown The Hoobs The Hoobs Freesports on 4 Channel 4 Presents Freesports on 4 Everybody Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Frasier Frasier Sunday Brunch The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Simpsons The Simpsons Channel 4 Racing The Simpsons Big Channel 4 News Foxes Live: Wild in the City Men in Black Homeland The X-Files

00:15 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit 01:10 SuperCasino 05:00 Great Artists 05:25 Great Artists 05:50 County Secrets 06:00 Hana's Helpline 06:10 The Milkshake! Show 06:35 Thomas & Friends 06:45 Roary the Racing Car 07:00 Peppa Pig 07:05 Roary the Racing Car 07:15 Fifi and the Flowertots 07:25 City of Friends 07:40 Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs 07:50 Castle Farm 07:55 Abby's Flying Fairy School 08:05 Roobarb and Custard Too 08:15 Bananas in Pyjamas 08:25 Family! 08:35 Noddy in Toyland 08:50 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 08:55 Little Princess 09:05 The Adventures of Bottle Top Bill and His Best Friend Corky 09:20 Angelina Ballerina 09:35 Rupert Bear 09:50 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 10:05 The Mr Men Show 10:25 Roary the Racing Car 10:35 The Milkshake! Show 11:00 Inside Hollywood 11:05 Grey's Anatomy 12:00 Scooby-Doo 13:40 My Favorite Martian 15:25 Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed 17:10 Mr Deeds 19:00 Once Upon a Time 20:00 Return of the Magnificent Seven 21:55 5 News Weekend 22:00 World's 23:00 Miss Congeniality

The Courier Monday TV

May 7

00:55 The Sky at Night 01:15 Weatherview 01:20 Empire 02:20 Holby City 03:20 Antiques Road Trip 04:05 Great British Railway Journeys 04:35 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:00 Newsday 05:30 HARDtalk 06:00 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:00 Heir Hunters 10:45 Homes Under the Hammer 11:45 Robbed, Raided, Reunited 12:10 Robbed, Raided, Reunited 12:40 Cash in the Attic 13:25 Bargain Hunt 14:10 BBC News; Weather 14:25 Regional News and Weather 14:35 Tiger - Spy in the Jungle 15:35 Bee Movie 16:55 Over the Hedge 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:15 Regional News Programmes 19:30 Who Do You Think You Are? 20:30 EastEnders 21:00 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 Silent Witness 23:00 BBC News 23:15 Regional News and Weather 23:25 A Question of Sport 23:55 Late Kick Off

00:00 Munich 02:35 From the Killing to Borgen: The Danish Secret of Success 03:00 Newsday 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Sport Today 04:00 Newsday 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:35 Close 07:00 Wibbly Pig

07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Dipdap 07:50 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Roar 08:30 League of Super Evil 08:40 Leon 08:45 Frankenstein's Cat 08:55 Newsround 09:00 Ed and Oucho's Excellent Inventions 09:30 Nina and the Neurons Go Inventing 09:45 Big City Park 10:00 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:10 Little Charley Bear 10:20 Driver Dan's Story Train 10:30 Bob the Builder: Ready, Steady, Build! 10:45 The Koala Brothers 10:55 Mr Bloom's Nursery 11:15 Baby Jake 11:25 64 Zoo Lane 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Rowing World Cup 13:30 Equestrian: Badminton Horse Trials 15:30 Snooker: The World Championship 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Antiques Road Trip 20:00 Great British Menu 20:30 Snooker: The World Championship

00:15 Premiership Rugby Union 01:10 The Store 01:10 ITV News Headlines 03:15 River Monsters 04:05 Motorsport UK 04:55 ITV Nightscreen 06:30 ITV Morning News 07:00 Daybreak 09:30 Lorraine 10:25 The Jeremy Kyle Show 11:30 The Jeremy Kyle Show USA 12:25 Murder, She Wrote 13:30 60 Minute Makeover 14:30 ITV News and Weather 14:55 Meridian News and Weather 15:00 Midsomer Murders 17:00 Rosemary & Thyme 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:15 ITV News and Weather 19:30 You've Been Framed! 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Britain's Got Talent 22:00 Coronation Street 22:30 Britain's Got Talent 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:15 Britain Beware

RAMSAYS KITCHEN NIGHTMARES USA Chef Gordon Ramsay heads to Mike & Nellie's Steakhouse in Oakhurst, New Jersey, where owner Mike Farber is mourning his father Nellie, who was also his business partner. Having been called in by the restaurateur's two daughters, Gordon faces the task of getting him to focus on his business, before tackling the bigger problem of rotting decor and a less-thanappealing menu. Last in the series

02:05 Band Baaja Baaraat 04:25 Hollyoaks 06:30 Countdown 07:15 The Hoobs 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Secret Millionaire Australia 11:00 Come Dine with Me 11:30 Come Dine with Me 12:00 Come Dine with Me 12:30 Come Dine with Me 13:05 The Bridge on the River Kwai 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:10 4thought.tv 20:15 Celebrity Deal or No Deal 21:00 Foxes Live: Wild in the City 22:00 Embarrassing Bodies 23:00 Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares USA

01:10 The Fog 03:05 SuperCasino 05:00 The FBI Files 05:50 County Secrets 06:00 Hana's Helpline 06:10 The Milkshake! Show 06:35 Thomas & Friends 06:45 Roary the Racing Car 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 The WotWots 07:20 City of Friends 07:35 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Mio Mao 07:50 Peppa Pig 07:55 Castle Farm 08:00 Little Princess 08:15 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:25 The Mr Men Show 08:40 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Make Way for Noddy 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 09:55 Milkshake! Show Songs 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Meerkat Manor 13:45 Home and Away 14:20 Neighbours 14:50 The Mentalist 15:45 Moby Dick 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 Inside Hollywood 19:35 Ultimate Police Interceptors 20:00 Cowboy Traders 21:00 The Gadget Show: World Tour 22:00 Robson's Extreme Fishing Challenge 23:00 10 Things I Hate About

The Courier Tuesday TV

May 8

00:25 01:10 02:40 02:45 03:45 04:45 05:30 06:00 06:30 06:45 07:00 10:15 11:00 11:58 12:00 12:30 13:13 13:15 14:00 14:30 14:45 15:15 16:00 16:05 16:35 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:15 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:25 23:25 23:35

00:00 00:30 02:05 02:30 02:45 03:00 03:30 03:45 04:00 04:15 05:00 05:30 06:00 06:30

The Graham Norton Show The Best Man Weatherview Our Food Toughest Place to Be Antiques Road Trip HARDtalk BBC News World Business Report BBC News Breakfast Heir Hunters Homes Under the Hammer BBC News; Weather Robbed, Raided, Reunited Cash in the Attic BBC News; Weather Bargain Hunt BBC News; Weather Regional News and Weather Doctors Escape to the Country BBC News; Weather Dick & Dom Go Wild Lockie Leonard Copycats Who Let the Dogs Out? Newsround Pointless BBC News Weather The One Show EastEnders Holby City Britain's Biggest Hoarders BBC News Regional News and Weather National Lottery Update The Matt Lucas Awards

Grandma's House The Flying Scotsman Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today Newsday The Super League Show Schools - Stargazing Schools - Little Stargazing Schools - Your Paintings Schools - Your Paintings

07:00 Wibbly Pig 07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Dipdap 07:50 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Roar 08:30 League of Super Evil 08:40 Leon 08:45 Frankenstein's Cat 08:55 Newsround 09:00 Ed and Oucho's Excellent Inventions 09:30 Nina and the Neurons Go Inventing 09:45 Big City Park 10:00 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:10 Little Charley Bear 10:20 Driver Dan's Story Train 10:30 Bob the Builder 10:45 The Koala Brothers 10:55 Mr Bloom's Nursery 11:15 Baby Jake 11:25 64 Zoo Lane 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Nature's Top 40 14:30 Instant Restaurant 15:15 Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Hairy Bikers' Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Antiques Road Trip 20:30 Great British Menu 21:00 The Town Taking on China 22:00 Great Ormond Street 23:00 Later Live - with Jools Holland 23:30 Newsnight

00:15 Babies Behind Bars 01:10 ITV News Headlines 01:10 The Zone 03:15 Champions League Weekly 03:40 ITV Nightscreen 05:35 The Jeremy Kyle Show 06:30 ITV Morning News 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 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Rosemary & Thyme 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Britain's Got Talent 22:00 Coronation Street 22:30 Britain's Got Talent 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 Grimefighters

BRITAINS BIGGEST HOARDERS Jasmine Harman presents a follow-up to last year's My Hoarder Mum and Me, in which she rallied her relatives to tackle her mother Vasoulla's compulsive habit. Despite her efforts, only a few rooms in the family home were tidied, leaving the presenter with little choice but to seek further advice.

00:00 Homeland 01:45 The Tallest Tower: Building the Shard 02:40 Random Acts 02:45 Virgin Goat 04:10 The Honeymooners 05:40 Smallville 06:20 Deal or No Deal 07:15 The Hoobs 07:40 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 Secret Millionaire Australia 11:00 Come Dine with Me 11:30 Come Dine with Me 12:00 Come Dine with Me 12:25 Come Dine with Me 12:55 Come Dine with Me 13:25 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:30 The Hunt for Red October 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Foxes Live: Wild in the City 22:00 Hidden Talent 23:00 More Sex Please, We're British

00:00 I Spy 01:50 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:20 Michaela's Wild Challenge 05:45 HouseBusters 06:10 Wildlife SOS 06:35 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 The WotWots 07:20 City of Friends 07:35 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Mio Mao 07:50 Peppa Pig 07:55 Castle Farm 08:00 Little Princess 08:15 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:25 The Mr Men Show 08:40 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Make Way for Noddy 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 09:55 Bert and Ernie's Great Adventures 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Dangerous Drivers' School 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Law & Order 16:15 By Appointment Only 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Dirty Great Machines 21:00 War Hero in My Family 22:00 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation 23:00 CSI: NY 23:55 CSI: NY

The Courier Wednesday TV May 9

00:10 Kevin Bridges: What's the Story? 00:40 The Estate 01:10 Weatherview 01:15 The Apprentice 02:15 Horizon 03:15 Antiques Road Trip 04:00 Great British Railway Journeys 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:00 Newsday 05:30 HARDtalk 06:00 BBC News 06:30 World Business Report 06:45 BBC News 07:00 Breakfast 10:15 Heir Hunters 11:00 Homes Under the Hammer 11:28 BBC News; Weather 11:30 State Opening of Parliament 13:15 Bargain Hunt 14:00 BBC News; Weather 14:30 Regional News and Weather 14:45 Doctors 15:15 Escape to the Country 16:00 BBC News; Weather; 16:05 Dick & Dom Go Wild 16:35 Deadly 60 Bites 17:00 Copycats 17:30 HH: Gory Games 18:00 Newsround 18:15 Pointless 19:00 BBC News 19:30 Regional News Programmes 20:00 The One Show 20:30 BBC News; Regional News 21:00 Traffic Cops 22:00 The Apprentice 23:00 BBC News 23:25 Regional News and Weather 23:35 The National Lottery 23:45 National Lottery Update

00:20 01:10 01:30 02:00 02:30 02:45 03:00 03:30 03:45 04:00 04:30 05:00 06:00 06:30

Sexism in Football? BBC News HARDtalk Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today Newsday Close Schools - History Hunt Schools - History Hunt Schools - Curious Cat

06:55 Primary Maths Promo 07:00 Wibbly Pig 07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Dipdap 07:50 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Roar 08:30 League of Super Evil 08:40 Leon 08:45 Frankenstein's Cat 08:55 Newsround 09:00 Ed and Oucho's Excellent Inventions 09:30 Nina and the Neurons Go Inventing 09:45 Big City Park 10:00 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:10 Little Charley Bear 10:20 Driver Dan's Story Train 10:30 Bob the Builder: Ready, Steady, Build! 10:45 The Koala Brothers 10:55 Mr Bloom's Nursery 11:15 Baby Jake 11:25 64 Zoo Lane 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 Doctor in the House 14:00 See Hear 14:30 Instant Restaurant 15:15 Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Hairy Bikers' Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Antiques Road Trip 20:30 Great British Menu 21:00 Antiques Uncovered 22:00 This World 23:00 The Apprentice: You're Fired 23:30 Newsnight

00:05 Nature's Fury: Tornado 01:05 The Zone 03:35 Loose Women 04:25 ITV Nightscreen 06:30 ITV Morning News 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 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Rosemary & Thyme 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Britain's Got Talent 22:00 Coronation Street 22:30 Britain's Got Talent 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

THE APPRENTICE Alan Sugar shows the candidates several walls of graffiti as inspiration for their next task - promoting the work of up-and-coming urban artists in a gallery sale. First Phoenix and Sterling must meet a number of young creatives and convince them they are the best team to represent their interests - leading to serious schmoozing from some of the hopefuls, and prompting one of the project managers to take a huge risk when both teams clash over a particular artist.

00:05 Alan Carr: Chatty Man 01:10 Random Acts 01:15 Poker 02:15 Channel 4 Presents Hannah Cockroft 2012 02:20 KOTV Boxing Weekly 02:45 Sailing 03:15 The Grid 03:40 Channel 4 Presents 03:45 Freesports on 4 04:10 World Superbikes 04:40 Channel 4 Presents 04:45 British Formula Ford Championship 05:10 Channel 4 Presents 05:15 Road to London 2012 06:10 Ultimate Frisbee 06:15 Deal or No Deal 07:10 Sali Mali 07:15 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 The Secret Millionaire 11:00 Come Dine with Me 13:25 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:30 River Cottage 14:30 Channel 4 Racing 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Foxes Live: Wild in the City 22:00 Edward VIII: The Plot to Topple a King 23:00 The Killing

00:55 CSI: Miami 01:50 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:20 HouseBusters 05:45 HouseBusters 06:10 Wildlife SOS 06:35 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 The WotWots 07:20 City of Friends 07:35 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Mio Mao 07:50 Peppa Pig 07:55 Castle Farm 08:00 Little Princess 08:15 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:25 The Mr Men Show 08:40 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Make Way for Noddy 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:20 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:30 Milkshake! Monkey 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 09:55 Milkshake! Show Songs 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Dangerous Drivers' School 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Law & Order 16:15 McBride: The Chameleon Murder 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Live UEFA Europa League Football 23:00 Road House

NEW CAR BOOT SALE VENUE!

On Saturday 05 May there is a New Car Boot Venue opening, which wll be based in the grounds of the General Store which is situated on the N332 heading towards Cartegena, between Pilar de la Horadada and San Pedro Del Pinatar. Pepe Terio, the owner of the General Store and Garden Centre, hopes this will be an attractive new outlet for Car Booters to sell their wares, and also allow people to visit his lovely Garden Centre. The cost per pitch for the Car Boot is just 5 Euros, and vendors will have access from 8.30am, with the gates then being open to the public from 9.30am. So why not drop in and grab yourself a bargain! Food and drink facilities are available on site. For further information tel: Esmeralda on 645 778 201.

The Courier Thursday TV

May 10

00:35 02:30 02:35 03:05 04:05 05:05 05:30 06:00 06:30 06:45 07:00 10:15 11:00 11:58 12:00 12:30 13:13 13:15 14:00 14:30 14:45 15:15 16:00 16:05 16:35 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:15 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:25 23:35

Breaking and Entering Weatherview See Hear Watchdog The 70s Newsday Panorama BBC News World Business Report BBC News Breakfast Heir Hunters Homes Under the Hammer BBC News; Weather Robbed, Raided, Reunited Cash in the Attic BBC News; Weather Bargain Hunt BBC News; Weather Regional News and Weather Doctors Escape to the Country BBC News; Weather; Dick & Dom Go Wild Deadly 60 Bites Copycats Young Dracula Newsround Pointless BBC News Weather The One Show BBC News; Regional News Planet Earth Live New Tricks BBC News Regional News and Weather Question Time

00:20 The 70s 01:20 BBC News 01:30 HARDtalk 02:00 Newsday 02:30 Asia Business Report 02:45 Sport Today 03:00 Newsday 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Sport Today 04:00 Newsday 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Sport Today 05:00 Schools - Bitesize English 05:30 Schools - Bitesize Maths 06:00 Schools - The Approximate History of Maths 07:00 Wibbly Pig

07:10 Lunar Jim 07:20 Timmy Time 07:35 Chuggington 07:45 Dipdap 07:50 Pinky Dinky Doo 08:00 Roar 08:30 League of Super Evil 08:40 Leon 08:45 Frankenstein's Cat 08:55 Newsround 09:00 Ed and Oucho's Excellent Inventions 09:30 Nina and the Neurons Go Inventing 09:45 Big City Park 10:00 Tinga Tinga Tales 10:10 Little Charley Bear 10:20 Driver Dan's Story Train 10:30 Bob the Builder 10:45 The Koala Brothers 10:55 Mr Bloom's Nursery 11:15 Baby Jake 11:25 64 Zoo Lane 11:40 Waybuloo 12:00 In the Night Garden 12:30 BBC World News 13:00 Daily Politics 14:00 Nature's Top 40 14:30 Instant Restaurant 15:15 Weakest Link 16:00 Wanted Down Under 16:45 Hairy Bikers' Best of British 17:30 Flog It! 18:15 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 19:00 Eggheads 19:30 Antiques Road Trip 20:30 Great British Menu 21:00 Two Greedy Italians 22:00 Shakespeare in Italy 23:00 Grandma's House 23:30 Newsnight 23:30 Weather

00:20 Total Emergency 01:15 ITV News Headlines 01:15 The Zone 03:20 Charade 05:10 ITV Nightscreen 06:30 ITV Morning News 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 60 Minute Makeover 16:00 Dickinson's Real Deal 16:59 Meridian Weather 17:00 Rosemary & Thyme 18:00 The Chase 19:00 Meridian Tonight 19:30 ITV News and Weather 20:00 Emmerdale 20:30 Britain's Got Talent 22:00 Coronation Street 22:30 Britain's Got Talent 23:00 ITV News at Ten and Weather 23:30 Meridian Tonight and Weather 23:35 Piers Morgan's Life Stories

PHIL SPENCER: SECRET AGENT New series. The Location, Location, Location presenter travels across the country - from Bromley to Birmingham, and Shropshire to south Manchester, as he embarks on a mission to help get Britain's property market moving again, seeking potential buyers for the hardest-to-sell homes.

00:00 2 Broke Girls 00:30 Desperate Housewives 01:30 Random Acts 01:35 Mercury Prize Sessions 01:50 360 Sessions 02:20 Spotlight 02:35 4Play 02:45 Launched at Red Bull Studios 02:55 Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow 04:40 King Pylon 04:45 Smallville 05:30 Deal or No Deal 06:25 Countdown 07:10 Sali Mali 07:15 The Hoobs 08:05 Freshly Squeezed 08:35 According to Jim 09:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 09:30 Frasier 10:00 The Secret Millionaire 11:00 Come Dine with Me 13:25 Channel 4 News Midday Summary 13:30 River Cottage 14:30 Channel 4 Racing 16:10 Countdown 17:00 Deal or No Deal 18:00 Come Dine with Me 19:00 The Simpsons 19:30 Hollyoaks 20:00 Channel 4 News 20:55 4thought.tv 21:00 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 22:00 The Hoarder Next Door 23:00 8 Out of 10 Cats Uncut 23:50 Rude Tube

01:20 Poker: The Big Game 02:15 SuperCasino 04:55 House Doctor 05:20 HouseBusters 05:45 HouseBusters 06:10 Wildlife SOS 06:35 Wildlife SOS 07:00 Thomas & Friends 07:10 The WotWots 07:20 City of Friends 07:35 Jelly Jamm 07:45 Mio Mao 07:50 Peppa Pig 07:55 Castle Farm 08:00 Little Princess 08:15 Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom 08:25 The Mr Men Show 08:40 Thomas & Friends 08:50 Make Way for Noddy 09:00 Fifi and the Flowertots 09:15 Peppa Pig 09:25 Peppa Pig 09:35 Roary the Racing Car 09:45 Bananas in Pyjamas 10:00 Olivia 10:15 The Wright Stuff 12:10 LIVE with 13:10 5 News Lunchtime 13:15 Dangerous Drivers' School 14:15 Home and Away 14:45 Neighbours 15:15 Law & Order 16:15 Web of Desire 18:00 5 News at 5 18:30 Neighbours 19:00 Home and Away 19:30 5 News at 6.30 20:00 Police Interceptors 21:00 World's 22:00 The Restaurant Inspector 23:00 Into the Blue

Friday, May 4, 2012

ACCOUNTANTS Are you running a business? Let us simplify things for you – accountancy, taxes, payroll services and more. We cater for companies and individuals. Established in 1984 on the Costa Blanca. Call us on 966 923 963 for your first consultation free of charge.

BOATS BOATING LICENSES ARE NOW A LEGAL REQUIREMENT IN SPAIN Serenity Sailing RYA Training Centre, Competent Crew to Yachtmaster, VHF & ICC. Own-boat tuition on sail and power. If you have a yacht or powerboat get qualified and certified. Contact Richard 0034 638 056 224 / enquiries@serenitysailing.c om / www.serenitysailing.com

CHURCH SERVICES 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

PERSONAL BEAUTIFUL, caring woman (35) gives fun, pleasurable massage and more, Private Flat Villamartin, Liddy 677 865 831

INSURANCE For all your insurance needs, ie.home, car, health, funeral, travel, etc Excellent cover from Spain´s 5th biggest insurance company, “CASER”. Policies available in English and German. Call Professional Business Support on 966 923 963 for a quick quote from a real person/our friendly staff.

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CARS FOR SALE Try Professional Business Support for your quick quote for car insurance. Excellent prices for expats, all policies available in English or German. We will call you back with a price. 966 923 963

Make the most of private health care and private hospitals, we have great cover and a two tier pricing system to suit your age and pocket. All policies in English, many English speaking doctors or free translators at your service. Call us now on 966 923

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Viva Villa and Vacation Services, For Short or Long Term Rentals visit: www.villaandvacation.com or Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 TipTop Villa Care, for all your property needs. Meet and Greets. Cleaning. Holiday and Long Term Rentals. Advertising. Baby Equipment Hire. www.tiptopvillacare.com e-mail linda@tiptopvillacare .com Tel 667848582 (60)

LONG TERM RENTALS ROLDAN UNFURNISHED DETACHED VILLA 3 Bedroom 2 bathroom

Community POOL 525€/mth plus Bills Tele. Linda 667848584 (61) ROLDAN FURNISHED DETACHED VILLA opposite Park 3 Bedroom 2 bathroom Community POOL 525€/mth plus Bills Tele. Linda 667848584 (61) LOMAS DEL RAME LARGE PLOT LARGER THAN AVERAGE VILLA 3 Bedroom or 2 Bedroom /OFFICE 2 bathroom 600€/mth plus Bills Tele. Linda 667848584 (61) EL CARMOLI 3 Bedroom 2 bathroom LARGE REAR and FRONT TERRACES Tele. Linda 667848584 (61)

PROPERTY FOR RENT Viva Villa and Vacation Services, For Short or Long Term Rentals visit: www.villaandvacation.com or Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 49, 2nd floor one bedroom apartment situated conveniently located in the town centre of Torrevieja, with a small sun balcony overlooking the lovely com-

munal 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: 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 or long term rental available. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 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 Ref: 78, Three Bedroom Quad house in Jarden Del Mar. Close to all amenities, bars, shops, restaurants. €425pcm Call 965 707 188 or 626 397 397

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Friday, May 4, 2012 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. Long term rental €800PCM, Short term available. 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: 708, A lovely two bedroom, one bathroom corner ground floor apartment in Algorfa, with a spacious patio & Residents off road parking. Communal pool near by. 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. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 61, A lovely two bedroomed ground floor apartment, located in the centre of the small Spanish town of Los Montesinos, With a pleasant communal swimming pool adjacent & all amenities in walking distance. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref: 516, Well situated studio apartment in San Luis. The property has a balcony which has been glazed to create another room. Close to all shops and amenities, on a local bus route & 10 minutes from the beach. 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 702: Beautiful 2 bedroom apartment, located near los Locos beach, beautifully furnished. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397

PROPERTY FOR SALE Excellent cover for your house and home, includes travel assistance for when you go away. Interesting prices for expats; policies available in English or German. Call 966 923 963 for a quote EL CARMOLI STUNNING VILLA with Private Pool Large Corner Plot REDUCED BY 100,000€ NOW 249,750 MUST BE SEEN (61) HOUSE FOR SALE 3-Bed, 2-Bath, Detached Villa near Algorfa and Golf Course. Pristine condition, fully furnished. Too many extras to mention, must be seen. €169,000 Tel: 966 844 490 (64) 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 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 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),

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Lounge-Diner, fully equipped Kitchen, Porch and Solarium with Alicante & Sea Views. ref.L81. €258,000 neg. 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 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 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 Fire Place complete with electric Fire. Outdoor work-

shop/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 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 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 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

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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 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

INTERIOR DESIGN

HEARING AIDS

Friday, May 4, 2012

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 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 maintenance 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 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 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 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

MASSAGE

LOCKSMITH

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 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 dou-

MOBILE CAR REPAIRS

ble 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 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 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,

PAVING

Private gated Parking & the use of 2 large communal pools Ref. K22 €123,000 Tel 680333242 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 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 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 appli-

ances 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, 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, 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

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Friday, May 4, 2012 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, 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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: 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: 510, €79,999. 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: KP3100, €198,000. 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: 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 Ref: 709, €60,000 A lovely 1 bedroom apartment in Aguas Nuevas, within a 5 minute walk of the beach.

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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. 526, €49,900. A lovely bright 1 bedroom apartment in the area of Torreblanca.There is a large communal pool and well maintained gardens, with tennis courts and childrens play area. Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref 532: 3 Bedroom Detached villa Located on the edge of a small spanish village with 3,800 sqm of landscaped gardents, Private Pool, Bargain €180,000 Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397 Ref 533: Lovley 2 bedroom Townhouse located in the popular area of Punta Prima, the property has a large lounge and fully equiped kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, one with balcony, bathroom with double shower. €126,000 Call: 965 707 188 or 626 397 397

divorce, property, accident claims, legalise land. Call us on 966 923 963, give us brief details and get in touch with your specialist solicitor.

WIG SPECIALIST SALON MARGARETHAS, 23 years in Torrevieja Hair/Wig specialist for Medical illness and Hair Loss problems. We offer different Hair Replacements, top fillers, Hair prostheses, Toupees and Wigs, Natural and Artificial hair and much more. Also fashion/festival accessories TV/TS are welcome to our service. Please call our salon reception for an appointment with Margaretha on Tel no 966 921 846 Torrevieja (64)

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

HOLY HELL IS ALL FOR THE BEST IVIE’S GOLF TIPS

I OFTEN hear complaints in the April-May and September-October period that the greens are a disgrace - and covered with holes and sand. One of the biggest moans a golfer has is seeing his precious greens “drilled” with hundreds of holes and ruining his round of golf. And why the hell does it have to be now? I learnt a lot about the vagaries of greenkeeping from the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) when I was greens chairman of my club in England. And here in Spain I supplemented that knowledge through my spell presenting a radio programme in which I interviewed some of the best course superintendents. So let’s try to put the record straight by explaining why this essential maintenance is completed. During the lengthy period of playing time, there’s a lot of heavy-foot traffic on the greens that requires some TLC. Usually it only puts the greens out of condition for about a week. So for a better understanding of what HOLLOW TINING (Pinchado in Spanish) is all about, read on. WHAT IS IT? All golf greens need air to enable their natural growth. Grass plants need air to their roots so aeration or hollow tining is the most effective and simplest method of reducing soil compaction and improving the greens ability to access air through to its root system and therefore grow strong and healthy. The machine used will remove hundreds of cores, leaving many holes all over the green. This process allows the soil surrounding the holes to swell slightly so improving the soil’s ability to pass moisture and nutrients to the plant's roots. WHY IS IT NEEDED? Over time, most greens will

become compacted, from normal golf traffic use and the elements. This squashes the particles together and reduces the grass's ability to grow. This compaction will itself cause problems, it will increase the likelihood of the greens becoming flooded or waterlogged. If compaction is a problem in a green, then the best way to reduce its impact on the turf growth is by hollow tine aeration. HOW OFTEN? As a rule it is suggested that it is carried out twice a year but as all soil types, greens and situations are different it is really something that needs to be scheduled by the course superintendent. These works are essential

in order to keep and maintain the greens in good condition for play all year round. Through this operation, it provides a method to improve the soil mixture around the highest part of the green's roots, and it relieves soil compaction, making it more porous. Most golf courses will provide advance information on the dates that this work will be carried out and offer lower green fees in an effort to soften the blow! The course has to be flexible with dates as the machinery to do the job has to be hired and because of the demand for the equipment, courses’ dates will vary. Please understand that the hollow tining of greens is merely a short-term disrup-

tion that has long term benefits for your golf course. One greenkeeper once told me “April is a month for greenkeepers to have deaf ears and thick skin”! Now you are familiar with the reason for hollow tining and keeping the greens in top-notch condition, it’s your turn to help by repairing those pitch marks and those of the selfish players that can’t be bothered.

GOLF TRUTHS THERE are two things you can learn by stopping your back swing at the top and checking the position of your hands: a) How many hands you have, and b) Which one is wearing the glove.

Born to be a champ: Caleb’s mini Masters jacket hangs next to Dad’s

YOU have to admit, this is cute as anything you will see in Mothercare. As US Masters Sunday wore on, we heard more and more about how Bubba Watson had adopted a baby son, Caleb, just weeks before the tournament in Augusta. When he won the Green Jacket,

HOW TO PREPARE ON THE RANGE DO you sometimes feel like you have two different swings? One on the range when you are practising and then another when you are out on the course trying to score? A lot of golfers experience this frustration. They find a groove on the range and start hitting the ball well, but when they head out to the course they lose all consistency. GOALS What is your goal when you are on the range? Is it to just warm up, get comfortable with your swing, or to work on swing mechanics? What is your goal when you are on the first tee? Most likely it’s to hit the ball as close as you can towards your intended target, or maybe to make solid contact so you do not embarrass yourself. With two different mindsets, it’s not hard to believe why you might put two different swings on the ball. CONSEQUENCES What happens when you hit a bad shot on the range? You simply scrape over another ball out of your pile, go through your routine and hit it. What happens when you hit a bad shot out on the course? It adds a stroke to your score, and you have to play the ball from wherever it ends up. There is a real consequence to hitting a bad swing. These consequences lead to tension due to the fear of making a mistake. If you want to swing better on the course, you have to eliminate tension.

he spoke about how excited he was to go back home and see Bubba Jnr. Watson Sr has since pulled out of a tournament this month in order to spend more time with his wife and Caleb... which apparently includes keeping Caleb dressed as befits a Master golfer.

RHYTHM You often hear athletes talk about trying to find their rhythm. On the practice range, it’s easy to do. You are hitting the same club from the same spot in fairly quick succession. It’s a lot easier to find a groove when you can quickly make a small compensation from your previous swing to correct any error you discover. Out on the course things are a little different. You hit a shot then have to walk or drive your cart to the ball. From there you take a different club and hit from a different lie. If you want to get ready for a round, why not walk through a few holes on the range? Picture the first tee shot you are going to hit that day. Take out the club required, pick out a target and aim. Then guess how far away you are going to be from the hole, take out the club required from that distance, pick out a target and swing. Walk through the first five or six holes on the course and hit the full swings you expect to have to make. Not only will you get yourself in a rhythm of playing, but you’ll also build confidence you can hit the shots required on the first few holes.

TITTER ON THE TEE q

A GOLFER has fancied a lady member at his golf club for months and at last he takes away her for a weekend at a hotel. As they lie in bed after a session of love, he turns to her and says, “Ever since I set eyes on you I wanted to make love with you so badly” She replies, “Well, you’ve succeeded!”

Friday, May 4, 2012

Dumped on their R’s MANCHESTER City are in the driving seat in the race for the Premier League title, Liverpool will shock a lot of people by beating Chelsea in the FA Cup final - and the Pensioners will also lose out to Bayern Munich in the Champions League final. Sadly, I won't be reading about any of it in my previously favourite newspaper, The Sun. I regularly take the mickey out of anything and everything and sometimes it appears in print. But for some reason, The Sun's outrageously unfunny headline and story taking the urine out of the fact that R o y Hodgson, the new England manager, drops his Rs really got my goat. I have read and, yes, maybe laughed at their ridiculing of other England managers in the past. Most notably when they

called Graham Taylor a turnip and printed a colour picture of one such vegetable with Taylor's face in the middle. I don't have a speech impediment, but I do have something that is not visible or audible that I was mercilessly persecuted about during my secondary school years. I dealt with it the same way I will deal with this attempt by The Sun to turn people against Hodgson. I put up with my antagonists for a year or two then I rounded on the main one and knocked and, yes, kicked the living daylights out of him. He survived, just, and his big brother didn't come anywhere near me. But I swear if anyone - and I mean anyone - takes the mickey or laughs too long and loud about this latest Sun stunt in my presence, the same

action will ensue. Now then, City are still a long way from passing that winning test, even though there are still two games to go. Manchester United have twice passed up the chance to make it 20 titles in a row and it will be hard for them now unless Newcastle can do what is very possible and beat City this weekend. United must win their remaining two games against Swansea and Sunderland, not just in case City slip up but to silence the army of jealous people who as usual can't wait to rip into them at every opportunity. Obviously I hope that United batter the Swans and the Black Cats, more fuel for the animal rights people trying to scrap the National there, LOL, but I will also congratulate City long and loud if they win their first major trophy in 44 years. The trick after that is to go on winning and put some much-needed silverware on those empty shelves in the trophy room at the Etihad. They won't catch up with United on that score in my lifetime but with all the

A SMACKED BOTT FOR THE SICK SUN

money at their disposal they have GOT to consistently win pots now or they will be a laughing stock....something City have been more than used to these last 44 years. On to the FA Cup tomorrow and I think Liverpool will win simply because everyone else apart from their own fans don't give them a cat in hell's chance against Chelsea. The Pensioners were bang in form up to Wednesday night's 2-0 defeat by Newcastle, who I fervently hope pip Tottenham for the fourth Champions League place. But if Chelsea do lose out to the Scousers, they will end the season with nothing despite their impressive late flurry. Fernando Torres may well go on to successfully

defend the European Championship with Spain but that's about all. So watch out Roberto di Matteo, those fickle fans may turn on you yet! Bayern are the red-hot favourites for that Champions League crown, not just

because they are on their own ground, but because of the way they totally dominated the new Spanish champions Real Madrid in both legs of the semi-final, particularly the second at the Bernabeu. Arjen Robben, my choice as the Complete Footballer, is once again being chased by the top clubs in England and I wish my lot would join that race and bring him to Old Trafford. We are going to need as many top quality players as possible to fend off City in the years to come, but if the player - or any player - wants to join City they have more than enough cash to get him. I'm just off to buy a bubbly gum with the last ten pence I have in my pocket so like West Ham, I will forever be blowing bubbles. Bye for now!

TORRY LOSE AT THE DEATH SO CLOSE and yet so far just about sums up FC Torrevieja’s season, as they will probably now miss out on the promotion play offs due to a last minute goal. This match was billed as the division's Match of the Day and it did not disappoint. Even the defeated Torry fans at the final whistle could not feel too down ]hearted. Their team had played with style and determination and for periods in the match had the league leaders under the cosh. But Catarroja are not top of the table for nothing. They are an inventive, strong and talented side that always believe they will win the contest. Having beaten Torry 1-0 on Sunday, they will try to win their final two games and lift the championship. They are already assured of play off football for promotion to 2B and are one of the favourites, with the carrot being eligibility to play in the prestigious Copa del Rey next season.

KEITH NICOL reports Torrevieja 0 Catarroja 1

Mathematically, if Torry win their last two games and other results go their way, they could still make the play-offs, but that is now highly unlikely. Whatever the outcome, the lads in blue and white can hold their heads up high and be proud of their achievements in 2012. At the end, fans rose to their feet and applauded loud and long to show what they thought of their efforts. The Catarroja manager, John Clarkson, knew he was in for a battle and was in little doubt that Torry could derail his championship aspirations. The interval saw both teams with blanks on the scoreboard and the promise of a tense tussle in the next forty five. After the break, once more the game swung from end to end with Torry dangerous when exploding forward. But Ortiz in the Catarroja goal was being well protected by his experienced defenders. With the match all but over Catarroja won a corner and took it short. Vidal closed in on his opponent but failed to stop him from delivering a deep cross to the far post. There, Madrigal rose highest and deftly nodded the ball back into the Torry net, with Manolo grasping at thin air. Less than a minute later the referee blew for the end of the game.

Bigastro 1 CD Montesinos 0

CD Montesinos almost certainly blew their promotion chances as fellow contenders Bigastro, needing just one point from this game, grabbed all three. The only goal was scored by the Bigastro substitute with just 10 minutes to go. CD Montesinos entertain Albaterense this week, kick off 5.30pm. Further info on www.cdmontesinos.com or e-mail thefullmonte@hotmail.com or telephone 637 869 602.

San Fulgencio 1 Dama De Elche 1

SAN FULGENCIO’S frail hopes of promotion disappeared after a this draw with Dama de Elche. Elche took the lead against the run of play after 40 minutes but substitute Carlos levelled it up near the end.

ROJALES GIRLS NET MADRID’S SCALP ROJALES Netball Club took on the might of Marbella, Madrid and the UK last Sunday – and came out smiling. Seven players joined the new club coach Margaret in the squad for the annual La Manga International tournament. And from the first whistle of the first game against a team made up of elite players from Team Rock UK, Marbella and Madrid, Rojales threw down the gauntlet with fast exciting netball, using some of the new set plays they have been practising during training. They suffered an opening defeat but the tide turned in a thrilling second game which was deadlocked at 10-10 going into the final 60 seconds. Some great attacking play by Lin and Claire gave Rojales a last chance to score – and an edge of the circle shot by Sam to clinched an 11-10 victory. Rojales took on the mighty Madrid in a great end to the tournament - and won 9-2 after leading 5-0 at half-time. The club train on a Tuesday (7pm to 8.30) on the courts behind the Norwegian School in Quesada. Contact Tracey on 679 539 995 or email traceyburton@hotmail.co.uk.

ROY ZONE 48

Friday, May 4, 2012

Nice-guy Hodgson sings the right song LET'S forget all the hype, chit-chat and the rest. Harry is not the dog's wotsits and Roy has got the England job so let's back him. The FA have gone for what many see as the soft option in Hodgson but he ticks all the boxes and he is a very nice man to boot. Also Harry Redknapp's missus put the block on her hubby taking the job if he had been offered it. She didn't fancy him driving 400 miles a day to the Midlands to work. You should have bought a helicopter, Harry, and left the wife at home in the pad on Sandbanks. The hierarchy reckon Hodgson was the only man they approached. If you look at his CV you can see why. Managed loads of clubs including Malmo, Inter, Liverpool, Fulham and West Brom. Internationally he was in charge of Switzerland and Finland. He won 13 trophies so what more do you need? OK, in this age of instant stardom (i.e X Factor, The

STEVE BOTT reports

Voice etc), Harry was the popular choice. But going back many years to Brian Clough - another people’s choice - I don't think he would have watched Big Brother and all that stuff for more than two seconds before delivering a withering opinion or three. I doubt whether he’d have had a high opinion of Harry, either. Unfortunately, as Terry Venables found, anyone who has a hint of a Cockney accent is immediately put in the wide-boy category and given a wide berth by most. "Would you buy a second hand car from this man?" sort of thing. Hodgson is a great appointment. Bobby Robson, Ron Greenwood and, yes, even Sir Alf Ramsey, the last man to win a trophy for England, were in the same mould. Even Harry has been big enough to say "No grudges. No regrets." Let's follow that wonderful example and give Roy all our support. All he has to do now is win over the fans - and the players. Some are already on his side. Steven Gerrard, who Hodgson had under him during that brief spell at Liverpool, has thrown his cap into the ring in Hodgson's corner. Quite right, too, for a player who could well be captain or at least vice-captain. Jack

Wilshire is also an admirer and if Scott Parker is a dissenting voice, Wilshire could get the nod in midfield. One interesting question is whether Hodgson will even select John Terry, never mind pick him. I fully expect Roy to be an establishment man in the Trevor Brooking and Bobby Charlton mould, so if the FA want to be politically correct Roy may well be advised not to select Terry. Bad move if he doesn’t pick him. Think what you might of the lad but Terry is England through and through, leads by example and does a great job to boot. This will be the Chelsea stopper’s last chance of international glory and it could cap a great season for his club and himself. They go into two cup finals on top of their form and playing with no pressure whatsoever. That always seems to bring out the best in most teams so I would stick with it if that happens and pick every available Chelsea player in the squad. If Roy can take us one step beyond to the final against Spain it would be no disgrace, but the way Fernando Torres is playing now I don't think the European Championship trophy will be moving home anytime soon. He could win it on his own for the defending champions.