Weekender Alicante South Issue 096

Trusted News Read By Over 50,000 People Every Week EE R F

ISSUE 096

- Friday 31st May 2019

South Alicante & Murcia

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Your Weekend Starts Here!

HIGH PRICE turn to TO PAY pages 4-5

PILLS of PERIL Full Story Page 3

by Alex Trelinski

A BRITISH man, who lives in Torrevieja, was arrested last week at Alicante-Elche airport after he tried to smuggle out over nine thousand sleeping pills branded in English as Zoplicone.

MADRID, HERE WE COME!

by Simon Russell

SPAIN´s train operator, RENFE, is doubling the capacity of its services to Madrid tomorrow to accommodate an estimated two thousand English soccer fans on the Costa Blanca who want to go to the Champions League final between Liverpool and Tottenham(see back page for preview).

Estimates have gone as high as 70 thousand Brits that are expected to descend on the capital, even though the ticket allocation for the supporters of both clubs is half that figure.

With the costs of flying directly to Madrid and staying in local hotels rocketing after the two finalists were decided, fans are said to have taken advantage of cheaper

deals to have a longer break in tourist areas like the Costa Blanca.

R E N F E have said that the first four AVE services out of Alicante tomorrow to Puerta de Atocha station in Madrid will have double the seating at 750 seats per train for the two-and-a-quarter hour journey.

Airport managers AENA have said that extra flights have been scheduled between English airports and Madrid over the weekend, but they claim that additional services will also run in and out of Alicante-

Elche, Valencia, and Corvera-Murcia airports to cope with the demand.

Police patrols are also being stepped up in Benidorm, but an operation on Wednesday night during and after the Europa League final between Arsenal and Chelsea, saw football fans on their best behaviour in local bars.

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KEEPING THEM OUT THE ANNUAL installation of anti-jellyfish netting to protect Mar Menor bathers started this week.

Over a thousand nets will be laid down in 60 places along the shoreline to target popular local beaches, and will remain in place until October.

Fishermen based out of San Pedro del Pinatar, along with a team of divers, will be involved in positioning the netting.

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We regret that we cannot accept responsibility for more than ONE incorrect insertion and that no republication 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 written consent of the publishers.

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CAMPOVERDE DONATION THE CAMPOVERDE Theatre Group recently handed over 300 euros to the Help Vega Baja Association which was raised at their Valentine Supper Shows in Mil Palmeras.

At the request of the group,

Help will use the money to buy some orthopaedic equipment.

The performers are currently rehearsing for their next production which will be a West End Supper show incorporating great songs from seven musicals.

ALL FOR REVENGE

A BRITISH woman has admitted to running over her ex-boyfriends’ new partner in Mallorca in May last year.

Kemi Coaker from Manchester confessed to being behind the

wheel of a car that hit Meghan Tattersall, and got a two year suspended jail term in addition to a three year restraining order stopping her from being within 500 metres of Tattersall.

Hot Head Arsonist A BARCELONA area man tried to burn down his local cinema earlier this month, after the management refused to give him a job.

The following day, he set a fire in his own apartment block, as well as in a hospital corridor.

by Alex Trelinski

Authorities said the unnamed man was a serial arsonist for the last five years, setting fire to homes, businesses, and hotels.

Unsurprisingly, a judge refused to grant him bail.

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PILLS OF PERIL

by Alex Trelinski

The 47-year-old Brit was detained as he was passing through airport security, and his arrest was part of a five month Guardia Civil operation against the illegal shipping out of the drug from Torrevieja, which saw a woman arrested in the city in April.

Zoplicone is a prescription-only drug in the UK and Spain, and is used to treat severe cases of insomnia, and is unsuitable for a number of people, unless they have taken advice from their doctor.

Health authorities have described Zoplicone as dangerous if not administered appropriately.

The pill is also known to be used to sedate people prior to a sexual or violent assault, which the United Nations say is used in many crimes.

In January, the Guardia Civil found a parcel of over five and a half thousand Zoplicone pills at AlicanteElche airport that were destined to be flown over to

Ireland.

They were seized and Investigations led to Guardia officers arresting a 62-year-old Irish woman in Torrevieja in April, The Guardia said that the two arrested Torrevieja residents apparently had no links between them, and so further inquiries are continuing over how the Zoplicone pills were

obtained, and who might be the supplier, though it appears that they can be easily bought via the internet.

Both detainees have subsequently appeared in court on crimes against public health, and have been bailed.

Finance Feature provided by...

Reduced pension options for non-UK residents About a month ago, I sat down with a client who had a personal pension with Aegon. She has lived in Spain for many years and she contacted me as she was reaching retirement age and wanted to understand what her options were and how she went about accessing her pension.

At the meeting she completed a letter of authority which allowed me to contact her pension company on her behalf and Pension Freedoms extended to expats discuss her specific plan. living here in Spain and I have sat down When I received the information back with hundreds of clients over the years and discussed their individual pension plans from them I was shocked to understand that because she is a ‘non-UK resident’ and advised them on their options.

I have been advising in Spain now for over 7 years, and during this time have seen many changes to pension rules. The biggest change by far was the introduction of Pension freedoms in 2015, where people now have the option to access their pension from 55 and essentially have the flexibility to take what they want, when they want it.

her options were limited to either take the pension in full (her pension was over £100k so the tax implications would be catastrophic), to purchase an annuity (something which we wouldn’t advise with annuity rates so low), or to transfer to a different scheme. She had no option to leave her pension where it was and access it flexibly. I was convinced that they’d made a mistake so called them for clarification, and during the phone call, they confirmed that the member had limited options as she was a non-UK resident.

retirement based on her having flexible access to her pension, so it potentially changed her entire future plans. For this client, I was able to find a solution by moving her pension to a UK based pension called a SIPP, where she could not only benefit from having a local adviser here in Spain, but also it meant she could take advantage of full flexible access.

By Tracy Storer Senior Partner Chorus Financial scheme that will allow non-UK residents.

My advice to anyone with a pension that they are yet to access is to understand what options are available to non-UK residents. Whether you contact the scheme direct, or instruct a financial adviser to do so, do it sooner rather than later so you are not restricted when it comes to accessing your pension.

This is not an isolated incident, and For more information or if you would we’re seeing more and more schemes effectively refusing to give ongoing like me to review your pension call service to non-UK residents, meaning our me on 693 107 044 or email t.storer@ This member had planned her whole only option is often to transfer them to a chorusfinancial.es

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Drugs and weapons haul seized

by Simon Russell

THE National Police in Alicante have stopped a major drugs smuggling ring after they arrested three men in Alicante with a large quantity of cocaine, ecstasy and speed as well as firearms. They raided the villa on the outskirts of the city at the weekend and found that the property was being used to both store drugs and grow marijuana.

Agents had been alerted by the strong smell of the marijuana plants and the noise from the heating

machines required to grow the pot.

They seized about 1,300 wraps of cocaine as well as the “softer drugs” and a hundred marijuana plants. There were also three hand guns and a rifle buried underground and wrapped in plastic along with a large cache of ammunition and several

knives. The detainees, Spanish nationals, are in their 30s and 40s and have been charged with drug trafficking, illegal possession of weapons and stealing electricity.

Two have been remanded in custody while the third has been released with conditions pending a court summons.

Thieves stop trains

MORE than 60 trains were disrupted last week after thieves stole vital wiring at various sections of the track in Valencia City. 200 meters of cables which control the signals were stolen in the Cabanyal beach area and 50 metres in another

by Simon Russell

stretch, affecting about two kilometres of the route. The system then automatically faulted to safety mode,stopping all signals and reducing rail traffic by 50%. As well as city trains the high

speed connections with Madrid, the long distance connection to Barcelona and various freight trains were affected. The Adif rail operator has reported various acts of theft and vandalism and apologised for the severe delays caused.

A high price to pay

ACCOUNTS of people scrambling over dead bodies, climbers who don’t even know how to handle the most basic equipment and snaking queues to reach the summit have all started to take the tarnish off the Mount Everest experience for many. Adding to that, eleven people have died in the last ten days with another week or so to go in the Himalayan climbing season, the worst death toll since the avalanches of 2015 that killed 19.

However these are not single acts of nature but individual deaths, caused by a combination

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by Simon Russell

of factors. One of these is inexperience, with some people who have little or no mountaineering under their belt attempting one of the hardest feats known to man - and some not even knowing how to put on their climbing boots and crampons.

The sheer volume of people making the ascent is another issue, forcing people to wait in queues in the area known rather tellingly as “the death zone”, the last 850 metres after the final camp to the

summit. Nearly all the 200 or so people who have died on the mountain over the years have perished in this small stretch, and with the delays there are tales of people literally just dying on their feet, such as the unfortunate

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

British man, Robin Haynes Fisher, 44 , has been confirmed as the latest victim Climbers have been pictured climbing over the body of a fallen mountineer

he died on his descent after reaching the summit of the world’s highest mountain

on their way to the summit

soul whose body is on the main ascent route.

Briton Robin Hayes Fisher made these comments on social media on 19 May as he came close to the summit. “With a single route to the top, delays caused by overcrowding could prove fatal so I am hopeful my

decision to go for 25 May will mean fewer people”. Mr Fisher Haynes made the summit, but tragically died on the descent from altitude sickness, joining the sad list of two Irish, four Indians, two Americans, an Austrian and and Australian. Poor weather this year has also been a factor but

over commercialization seems to be the real problem. A combination of the Nepalese authorities, the companies who organise the climbs and the professional mountaineering community may have to get together and change things to avoid the deadly toll becoming the norm.

Trying to keep abreast of changes in Spain and the UK? With tax, pension and other regulations changing regularly, not to mention Brexit, it can be hard to keep up-to-date. Subscribe to our eNewsletter and we will send you our “Wealth News” newsletters and email bulletins on the important tax and financial changes that may affect you.

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Language rules slammed A secondary school in the Balearic Islands has been criticised after posting rules that Catalan, the local dialect, has to be spoken by teachers both inside and outside the classroom. The notice was posted at IES Pau Casenoves in the town of Inca saying “All teaching must be done in Catalan” and below that “Always address the students in Catalan, both inside and outside the

by Simon Russell

classroom”. However according to educational guidelines only about half of the curriculum needs to be taught in Catalan and there is no requirement at all to speak it when outside of the classroom and that is up to the individual teacher.

Spanish language association Hablamos Español has reported

the incident, calling it “a violation of linguistic rights and a clear overreach”. They go on to say you cannot effectively eliminate the national language of a country in an educational centre. At the same school in 2016 the headmaster was forced to resign after issuing questionnaires to pupils asking them if they had been born in “the Spanish state or the Catalan countries”.

Strike call for hospital FOLLOWING the report in the last edition of the “Weekender”, attendants at Denia Hospital are now planning a strike to address some of their concerns.

Attendants, or warders, have a number of roles with the main one being the transportation of patients around the hospital for surgery, tests and so on.

However Denia is badly understaffed compared to other local health centres, say the warders union. As well as the staffing issue they believe their roles are not getting proper recognition and are now effectively “third tier professionals” despite their wide range of responsibilities. The first strike is a short two hour walkout on 10 June, planned to bring the matter to people’s attention, while others may follow.

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DIVING TRAGEDY A SCOTTISH man died in a diving accident off the Murcia coast last week.

67-year-old Phillip Evans, from Balmedie in Aberdeenshire, failed to return from a dive by the Hormigas Islands marine reserve off Cabo de Palos near Cartagena.

A search involving police, coastguards,

by Alex Trelinski

and the Cruz Roja was carried out and a body was recovered on Friday.

In a social media post, his family said:-”To our family and friends, we are devastated to let you all know Phillip went diving and didn’t come home. He died doing something he loved.”

FAKE NOTE FRAUD A BRITISH and Irish family on holiday in Mallorca, have been arrested by the Guardia Civil for passing fake pound notes around the island.

The Guardia Civil arrested them on charges of producing fake money, after a supermarket worker got suspicious in the resort of Santa Ponsa when one of the suspects tried to pay for a bottle of water with a fake 50 pound note.

by Alex Trelinski

The Guardia found the family had 400 euros on them they had obtained by handing in fake pound notes at currency exchange offices, it is claimed.

O f f i c e r s confiscated £850 in “high-value” counterfeit £50 notes, but say they believe more may have been swapped for genuine euro notes that have not yet been discovered.

Benidorm bus drug mule sniffed out

A Swiss woman, was caught smuggling more than a hundred grams of hashish, when police sniffer dogs detected a suspicious package secreted inside her vagina at Benidorm bus station.

The detainee, aged in her thirties, was on a journey from Algeciras to Barcelona earlier this week, when the bus on which she was travelling made a scheduled stop at the resort’s main bus

by Andy Mansell

station.

Local Police officers from Benidorm’s Canine Unit, boarded the bus to carry out a routine inspection, when the dogs made their discovery.

The woman, who was found to be carrying 106 grams of the drug in a shrink-wrapped package, was arrested and detained by the officers.

Police sources confirmed that the intervention by the canine unit was part of an ongoing preventative operation undertaken by the canine unit to curb drug trafficking through Benidorm.

The resort’s bus station is considered as a hot spot for regular spot checks owing to the large numbers of passengers travelling through from other parts of the country on a daily basis.

ICE CREAM RAID FOUR children who wanted the ultimate thrill of plundering an Alicante ice cream factory, have been arrested by the National Police. The boys, aged 15 and 16, broke into the grounds of the Helados Alacant premises in San Vicente del Raspeig last Sunday, after scampering over a fence. They tried to take some ice cream

106 grams of hashish.

ROYAL RETIREE

by Alex Trelinski

from a freezer lorry, after they forced open its door, but they beat a hasty retreat after a passing motorist reported them, with the police arresting them in a nearby street.

One of the youngsters allegedly confessed that they just wanted to “steal some ice cream”.

The package contained

Helados Alacant.

KING Juan Carlos will retire from public duty this Sunday, exactly five years to the day since he abdicated in favour of his son, King Felipe VI. Juan Carlos turned 81 in January, and will retain his Royal title and status as an official member of the Royal family, which means he will still be referred to as ‘King’ and enjoy the same legal status that he has had since 2014.

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Royal Navy fires live BULL´S BUM DEAL rounds as Spanish ship watches closely

by Simon Russell

BRITISH Royal Naval vessel HMS Sabre, which was carrying out training exercises in waters off Spain, was approached by a Spanish warship this week, the SPS Audaz, which queried its right to be there. The Sabre was using live rounds in the exercise and there was some concern about the proximity of the Audaz.

However a Ministry of defence spokesman said “The MoD can confirm that British Forces Gibraltar personnel carried out a planned routine training exercise in international waters on Saturday May 25.

“As always, safety protocols were followed.”.

Last year the same British ship had chased a Spanish warship out of Gibraltarian waters.

Together with HMS Scimitar, HMS Sabre keeps watch over Gibraltar’s shores and protects British and coalition vessels in the strategically important

Navy continues training as

Strait of Gibraltar.

Spanish Warship watches on Earlier this month, HMS Sabre intercepted Infanta Cristina after it spotted in Gibraltar waters on May 6.

A Foreign Office spokesman told the Royal Navy challenged the Daily Mail: “We can confirm an incursion by vessel.

“When challenged, the the Spanish navy occurred Spanish navy vessel left British yesterday.

“As with all incursions, the Gibraltar territorial waters.”

A FRENCH matador suffered a ten-inch wound when he was gored up the backside by a raging bull.

Juan Leal was left with serious injuries to his buttocks during a show at a Madrid bullring on Sunday, which also saw the bull tossing him Juan Leal´s serious suprise around the ring.

Amazingly, the bullfighter then

by Alex Trelinski got up to have the last word as he killed the Doctors said he suffered bull, before walking by a 25 cms wound in his himself to hospital. rectum with a possible

UNWELCOME ARRIVALS

TWO ALGERIANS, who had no legal right to be in Spain, have been arrested by the National Police over at least a dozen robberies from passengers that had just arrived at Alicante-Elche airport.

Police officers launched a probe after a spate of incidents at the airport in just a few days, and started sifting through hundreds of hours of video footage to identify

two suspects.

One of the thieves had already been deported from Spain, whilst his accomplice had fake papers to allow him into the country.

Once the suspects were identified on the CCTV recordings, the police launched a surveillance operation to catch them in the act.

The duo looked to maximise their plunder by studying the airport

arrivals board and targetting flights from countries that would likely bring in people on higher incomes and suitcases that might be packed with expensive items.

The thieves mainly operated in the airport car park, but also in other areas of the facility to snatch suitcases and electronic items like high-end mobile phones.

Both men have been charged with theft and possessing fake identification documents.

fracture of the sacrum coccyx and an exit hole in the gluteal region, which was certainly better than the final fate of the bull.

Arrested Algerians.

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Trans worker sacked “for gender reasons” A 30 year old transsexual Spaniard has said that he was fired from his job at a petrol station in Castellon province after it was revealed that he had been born a female. Joan Lopez successfully completed a 15 day trial period but when he handed over documentation to convert to a full contract the owner of the garage was taken aback, according to Joan, to see that he had been born as Jessica. Despite the obvious discomfort Joan did start the job but was immediately given poor shifts and after a fortnight was called and asked not to come to work any more without further explanation.

“It was very evident that the owner was not comfortable with me being a transsexual” said Joan, who did not want to name the petrol company, saying the issue was down to the individual manager not the

Joan López

by Simon Russell

firm. He said he has not yet reported the incident as he lacks conclusive evidence that his gender status was the reason for the sacking.

However the Castellon LGTBI Association have spoken out about the case, saying this is sadly all

too common in much of Spain. “Trans Laws that have recently been passed in Valencia now need to be rigorously implemented” said spokesman Jordi Pilar.

He said that transsexuals have been fired without warning and even attacked in the workplace, in at least one instance by their boss.

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Brake failure caused bus fatality

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

MORE STAYERS

by Andy Mansell

Investigating officers trying to piece together the moments leading up to the fatal crash of a transfer bus in Benidorm last week, believe the vehicle may have suffered brake failure.

As reported on the front page of The Weekender, the accident resulted in the death of a 54 year Portuguese woman, who was killed instantly when the bus collided with her.

Benidorm councillor responsible for security, Lorenzo Martinez, released a statement May 21st, indicate the driver was explaining that early investigations not at fault. conducted by Guardia Civil officers Investigators, who continue into the crash, which occurred in to interview witnesses and study CalleRuzafa at 22.30h on Tuesday

CCTV footage from the vicinity of the crash, have also looked at the vehicles tachograph to ensure the driver had not exceeded his designated working hours.

Commenting on the lack of tyre marks left on the road and the fact the driver was continually heard to shout,”I could not stop, I could not stop”, repeatedly in the minutes immediately following the accident, Martinez confirmed that

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COSTA BLANCA hotel bookings are on the up, according to official figures which saw the first four months of 2019 produce seven point seven million overnight stays.

That according to the National Institute of Statistics is an increase of two point eight per cent over the same period of

brake failure is the main route of the investigation.

In addition, alcohol and drugs tests which were conducted by officers on the driver of the bus, both came back negative.

Widespread opinion amongst witnesses to the accident, suggest that despite the death of the victim, the death toll could have been infinitely more, had it occurred at a busier time of the day or at a weekend.

The building into which the bus collided remains cordoned off as tests are carried out to assess

last year, and comes as hoteliers reported a poor Easter caused by domestic visitors deciding not to bother because of the bad weather.

Looking at just foreign tourists, overnight stays in Costa Blanca hotels increased by nearly a per cent compared to the first four months of 2018.

the extent of damage, whilst the accident has reopened the debate amongst residents of Benidorm old town, as to whether large buses should be allowed to enter the narrow streets.

However, councillor Martinez defended the decision by the local government to allow the buses to drop and pick up visitors staying at central hotels, as essential to tourism in the resort and explained that buses are the form of transport with the lowest accident rate.

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LOUTS IN QUIZ FOURTEEN drunken British

passengers were given a special welcome by the Guardia Civil, after a Jet2 plane arrived at Palma airport in Mallorca on Monday.

The men were said to “have caused problems” on the flight from Edinburgh, and the Guardia mobilised ten cars to surround the plane, and to take the group in for questioning about their behaviour.

They were not arrested as such, but were ordered to make statements, with reports suggesting that they flouted rules like putting on their seatbelts when asked to do so.

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Titanic exhibition sails into town “TITANIC. The Reconstruction” opened its doors in Alicante Cities old fish market (lonja) last week, attended by Mayor Luis Barcelo and Culture councillor Maria Padilla as well as Jesus Ferreiro, President of the Titanic Foundation.

They were shown round the exhibition by its curator Begoña Merino Gran, which includes several original artefacts from the doomed vessel, including musical instruments, cloth-

LUCKY ESCAPE

A LORRY with a cargo of melons, careered across the A-7 highway in the Orihuela area on Sunday, causing the road to be blocked for most of the day.

The lorry driver, as well as two people in a car that was unable to avoid smashing into it, escaped uninjured

after the accident happened close to the exit for Orihuela and Benferri.

The truck was on the Alicante-bound carriageway before it lost control, and it crossed over onto the southbound lanes, and ended up encased in a road sign stanchion.

by Simon Russell

ing and marine tools.

There are also testimonies from survivors, nine of who had talked to Mr Ferreiro, a journalist and the first Spanish writer to interview survivors. These include Milvina Dean who was two months old when the ship sank in 1912, the youngest survivor. Her father died in the tragedy but her mother and brother lived and it is their hand-

ed down recollections that form an important part of the overall testimony. The centrepiece for many will be the 4.5 by 3.9 metre scale model of the ship, which opens up on one side to allow people to view exactly how the boat’s interior would have looked.

The exhibition is being staged until 10 November, Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30am to 9.30pm, 4.30pm to 10pm in July and August.

Another Clinic get “Worlds best” rating A HEALTH centre located in a small Costa Blanca street has been given a ranking of one of the “world´s best”, and becomes the third in the area to get such a grading.

The outwardly unassuming three floor facility in Torrevieja´s Calle Patricio Pérez has been given the high rating from the Joint Commission International, which is an American-based organisation that works to improve patient safety and

by Alex Trelinski the quality of health care around the world.

The 20-year-old health centre was audited on 800 different counts, and now joins a centre in the San Luis area of the city, as well as Torrevieja Hospital in receiving the honour.

Centre operator, Torrevieja Salud, said that this was “the most prestigious recognition of health standards and patient care that is recognised internationally”.

C/Patricio Pérez Clinic

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World News

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Schoolgirl among Pale face panda spotted stabbing victims INFRA-RED cameras in China have snapped images of a white panda in the wild, the first ever captured on film. Researchers now believe that the bear is an albino, something almost unknown among the elusive creatures as both parents need to carry the rare gene to pass on the condition. The panda was filmed in the huge Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan province and shows

Police in Kawasaki

by Simon Russell the bear walking through the forest. The sex cannot be determined but they have seen enough to put it as young, between one and two years old, and healthy, something judged by its size and gait.

The unmanned cameras have been installed in areas likely to capture images in the Wolong Park, much of which has been created to help the

cordon off the crime scene.

THE man who set upon a group of schoolchildren in Japan armed with two knives, killing two people and injuring several others has been identified as 51-year-old Ryuichi Iwasaki. The children were waiting for a bus to take them to school in the city of Kawasaki on Tuesday when the man attacked them, killing an 11-year-old girl and her father and injuring 17 others, 16 of them children. He then took his own life by stabbing himself in the neck and his motive may never be known.

The incident has particularly shocked the Japanese who live in a country where murder is very rare and mass killings are practically unheard of. Partly this is put down to their gun laws which make it almost impossible to own a weapon.

by Simon Russell

Annual firearms deaths are in single figures or even zero, re-markable in a country of 126 million people or so.

However, maniacs will often find a way, alt-hough if the attacker had been armed with an automatic weapon rather than two knives the death toll would undoubtedly be much higher.

Ironically Donald Trump, the leader of the developed country with the highest murder rate in the world, was in Japan on a state visit at the time. He did the right thing by offering his condolences in a sincere fashion, but may privately have wondered what all the fuss was about as he resides over a country where around 50 people a day on average are murdered.

Walk in the woods turns into 17-day ordeal

DESPITE search and rescue efforts continuing, everyone involved secretly feared the worse for a young female hiker who had been missing for two and a half weeks in dense Hawaiian forests. However, this story had a happy and somewhat miraculous ending after Amanda Eller was found alive at the end of last week, battered and hungry but nothing that she will not make a full recovery from.

Amanda set off on her solo stroll on 8 May but quickly lost her way in the Makawao Forest Reserve on the island of Maui. Her intended three-mile hike

soon turned into a lesson in survivalism that would have made Bear Grylls proud.

Rather than head back towards her car - which was discov-ered the day after prompting the start of the rescue efforts - she ended up going deeper into the for-est. Probably the low point was when she fell off a cliff, fracturing a leg.

She also suffered severe sunburn and cuts and bruises too numerous to mention.

However, her day job as a physical thera-pist and yoga teacher doubtless helped as she was in good physical condition before starting out.

She also survived by staying

close to a water source and eating wild fruit and insects, although she was beginning to weaken severely. Then last Friday, 17 days after setting off, Amanda spotted a rescue helicopter, which fortunately also spotted her, bringing her ordeal to a happy ending.

Survival experts say that, while there is always an element of luck, Amanda did the right things, effectively buying time until rescuers found her. However, as it has been pointed out, simply carry-ing a mobile phone would have reduced her unwanted adventure by about sixteen and a half days.

The albino panda cub, strolling through the woods.

animals begin to thrive again in the wild. Scientists do not believe that albinism has any detrimental health effects on the cub and is an extreme example of the “whitening� that is happening to the population caused by a rogue gene that has become more prevalent due to the small amount of pandas. There are only about 1,800 wild pandas left in the world and about a third that many in captivity.

FRIday 31ST May 2019

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16

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Business & Money Mega bank comes to Valencia

CAIXABANK is opening its biggest branch in Spain on Calle Barcas de Valencia in Valencia City.

The 2,200 square meter space is actually a combined office and branch and will be located in the basement

by Simon Russell

of the Hotel Reina Victoria.

80 staff will work there and the bank will serve 16,500 cus-tomers who will have a separate access

from staff on the public road. The complex will also have dedicated facilities for entrepreneurs and new business start-ups as well as the usual service for corporate and private clients and even a catering area.

Talks Sponsored By Tel: 671 935 072

SPAIN´S NO DEAL FEAR

Spain’s interim government has said that Theresa May’s announcement last Friday that she´s quitting as Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party is “bad news” because it will make a “hard Brexit,” where the country leaves the EU without a deal on future relations, more likely.

G o v e r n m e n t spokesperson and education minister, Isabel Celaá, said that May’s resignation, which would usher in a new prime minister, is not good for those hoping for Britain’s orderly departure from the European Union.

by Alex Trelinski

May is “throwing in the towel” and the departure agreement negotiated between her government and the EU has “no chance to go ahead,” added Celaá.

“A hard Brexit is a reality that under the current circumstances is almost impossible to avoid,” Celáa said.

“Britain’s politics are “a clear example of what can happen if we allow ourselves to be dragged by extremisms.”

Sunday´s European election results proved

to be a disaster for the Conservatives, as they could finish fifth amongst the UK contenders, with the Brexit Party coming top, and the pro-Europe Liberal Democrats a strong second, as Labour limped in third ahead of the Greens.

The results in Spain, saw the PSOE Socialists as the leading party, as they got nearly 33 per cent of the vote, with the Partido Popular coming second on 20 per cent.

The far-right party, Vox, got elected to Brussels for the first time, with three seats.

Mini Ikea comes to Alicante WHILE many will welcome the opening of the new “Ikea Deseña” at Alicante’s Gran Via shopping centre, it is also seen as acceptance that the area is now unlikely to see the full sized store that has been in the pipeline (off and on) for a decade. If this had come to fruition it would have created an estimated 4,000 jobs with an investment of €250 million. An area in

by Simon Russell

Rabasa had been set aside for the project which seemed to likely to go ahead for a while but various political machinations have put it, at best, on the back boiler.

Ikea Deseña, which already has outlets in the province at Benidorm and Ondara, is a design service and ordering point and is 100 metres square as

opposed to its original big brother Ikea which would have been about the size of a shopping centre in its own right. Nonetheless local fans of the flat pack giant at least now have a small version of the store locally, without travelling to Valencia or Murcia where the nearest superstores are based. The new Alicante outlet is due to open in July.

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

by Yvonne Hollywood, Worldwide Horizons Whilst only considered for some as a necessary stop-over when changing flights, this cosmopolitan city should not be overlooked as a holiday destination in its own right.

Dubai with a table, chairs, sand and beach!

Entertainment in these venues can be sword-fighting shows, belly dancers and henna-tattoos whilst you dine (participation not obligatory!)

One of the most modern cities worldwide, Dubai offers crystal clear waters lapping at white sandy beaches. Many hotels have their own private beaches and whilst alcohol is very much restricted for the residents, it is relatively easy to enjoy a drink on the beach of your hotel, or in your chosen restaurant.

And what choices of both! Famous names lend themselves to many of the restaurants in Dubai, where you will find all flavours and all levels - European, Michelin Stars, Asian Fusion, Mediterranean & Middle Eastern restaurant choices, in locations overlooking lit-up poolside walkways and gardens, whilst the most elaborate of hotels, the Burj Al-Arab offers dining on it s own private island, simply set ´

The hotels – well, who doesń t know that Dubai is home to some of the world´s most elaborate (and expensive) hotels? Including one of the most well-known, the Burj Al Arab. Whilst a night in this exclusive and chic hotel is perhaps beyond the budget of some of us, (around 1500€+ for one night!),

there are some more budget friendly hotels still offering a staggering amount of luxury for your stay. Hotels in the Jumeirah area average around 500€ per night (bear in mind the sheer wealth that is concentrated in this city!). The good news is, that although many of these hotels would be just a little too expensive for the majority of us, Dubai is an emerging destination for Spain, and so package deals to the city are plentiful.

A combination of flights, transfers and hotels (with many varied choices) can frequently be reserved from a price of around 1000€.

setting on the 54th Floor, this is a truly unique experience. Bring your appetite to enjoy the mouth watering selection of teas, coffees, sandwiches, cakes and scones.

When the sun goes down, a different Dubai comes to life. Roof-top bars for sundowners, some of the most hip clubs in the world, this is the elite of clubs and bars. As you would expect, the dress code reflects the location, so make sure you have a little black number tucked in your luggage! If not, Dubai will certainly provide the opportunity for you to pick one up.

With only two seasons, hot and really really hot,

For activities, you can take a Dhow River Boat Cruise, a complete evening out with dinner, dancing and entertainment on board, or perhaps a Camel ride in the Sahara Desert.

For the more modern (or more adventurous) you can also take an excursion in a 4x4 over the Sand Dunes.

The shopping malls are stocked with all the many designer names you would expect, with many of the Malls themselves being the excursion. The largest Mall in the world, the Dubai Mall is a must see when you are in this city, with its spectacular dancing waters show at the Dubai Fountains a perfect way to round off a daý s extravagent shopping!

And for the last word in Extravagent, consider reserving Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab. For a price of approximately 120€ pp, you will be treated to unequalled pampering, from the private entrance of the hotel (only those with a reservation are allowed inside the hotel), to the stunning

Dubai is best visited between the months of October and April. During the summer months, temperatures are regularly higher than 100 degrees Farenheit, making most activities outside just too hot to contemplate.

With direct flights both Madrid & Barcelona, and great connections from Alicante, this is a relatively short flight for a holiday destination, averaging 7 hours direct. This makes it a perfect location for a short break, shopping trip, or extending your stop-over en-route to break up a much longer journey. It can also be the starting point for the very popular Middle Eastern Cruises that embark from Dubai and operate over the winter period.

MORTGAGE UPTURN CONTINUES

The latest report published last week from Spain´s notaries says that the number of mortgages is continuing to rise.

The figures reflecting March saw a six point nine per cent increase in mortgages, compared to a year earlier, though sales figures year-on-year fell by two point nine per cent.

The report states that just over 25 thousand mortgages were granted in March at an average value of just over 136 thousand euros.

The number of sales and purchases in March reached over 50 thousand, with prices rising over 12 months by one point

by Alex Trelinski

seven per cent.

After large growth figures, some experts believe the large upturns recorded in the last few years in the Spanish property market may be starting to level out, though there are the usual regional variations, as Alicante Province and the Murcia region continue to prosper above the national average.

From planes to property

AIRPORT manager AENA, which is responsible for Valencia airport as well as those in Madrid, Barcelona, Palma and several others, is set to become Spain’s largest real estate developer. They have already announced plans to develop land by Madrid and Barcelona airports and have now launched similar projects at Valencia, Malaga, Seville and Palma de Mallorca. These are still in the consultancy phase but close to resolution with the results showing the best purpose for the land in question. At the two sites where the consultancy period has been completed office space, hotels and distribution centres are among the proposed new developments.

This is on land of 2.2 million square metres in Madrid and about half that in Barcelona.

by Simon Russell

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

SECOND HAND RISE The average price of secondhand housing in Spain was 1,715 euros per square metre in April.

This represents an increase of 0.86 per cent compared to March, and over a year, it is a hike of 9 per cent, where in April 2018 the average price was 1,572 euros p/m².

The place to go to for some of the cheapest property prices, on average, is the Murcia region, with a price recorded in April of 1,154 euros p/m².

“Second hand property prices continue to move at a reasonable

pace, without experiencing major hikes,” said Ferran Font, director of studies at pisos.com.

He also added that the market in large cities like Madrid and Barcelona remains the least accessible to people who cannot afford expensive properties.

Meanwhile, the price of rental housing registered a slight increase of 0.8 per cent in April.

This puts the average cost per square metre at 8.54 euros per month, returning to identical levels last seen in December 2009.

RENTING TO MAKE MONEY One way to make money in Spain is to rent out property, specifically as a holiday home or even as a longer-term let.

Property prices in Spain have picked up since 2018 and we are seeing a five per cent capital appreciation across the board.

In addition to this, rental yields have been growing year-on-year by two digits for three consecutive years.

As Spain now ranks as the world’s second tourist destination, only behind America, the prospect of investing in the country looks brighter than ever.

The combination of both capital appreciation and soaring rental yields translates into properties offering landlords a combined yield of over 10 per cent per annum.

Experts predict that Spanish property is poised for combined two-digit gains over the next years easily beating alternative investments and paltry fixed returns in a context of historic ultra-low interest rates.

There are also tax advantages open to non-resident landlords.

Tax deductions available for non-residents apply to both shortterm rentals (holiday homes) and long-term rentals Non-resident landlords can take advantage of huge tax breaks on their landlord tax bill.

The following requirements must be met:

1. The landlord is tax resident in the European Union or EEA (nationality is irrelevant).

2. The expenses you claim are in direct relation towards the upkeep of the property i.e. claiming travelling expenses would be excluded.

3. You have IVA invoices to back up your tax relief claim.

Non-residents in Spain (albeit EU-resident) may deduct the following expenses from their quarterly tax returns: 1. Interests arising from a mortgage loan to buy the property.

2. Local taxes and administrative charges and surcharges.

3. Expenses arising from formalising lease agreements.

4. Maintenance costs may be offset; refurbishment expenses and home improvements are excluded but may be claimed on selling the property.

5. Community of owners’ fees.

6. Property repairs, utility bills, cleaning, and general services like gardening. Property repairs: plumbing, roof retiling, painting,

pool pump etc.

7.Lawyer’s fees are 100 per cent tax-deductible when calculating and submitting your quarterly tax returns.

There are other deductibles as well, but as you can tell, there is going money to be made from letting out a property in Spain from an investment perspective!

Facebook: @TheWeekenderSpain

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Properties linked to money laundering

THE UK’s National Crime Agency has said that it is investigating the owner of three London properties worth a combined £80 million (approx. €90 million) under anticorruption laws. They are using the new Unexplained Wealth law for only the second time and in the

by Simon Russell

meantime freezing or-ders have been made against the properties, effectively stopping them being sold or transferred. Graeme Biggar from the NCA said “The purchase of prime property in London is a tactic used to

launder money and we will use all the powers available to us to target those who try to do it”. The person under investigation is believed to be an Uzbeki businessman connected to the oil industry who will now have to explain exactly where the cash came from to pay for the buildings.

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Taking the heat off your home AS the weather in this part of Spain starts to heat up, it may be worth thinking about some solutions to help keep your home cool when it REALLY gets warm in the next few weeks or so. Website ygrene.com has looked at more environmentally friendly ways of doing this, at least as a back up to those who have air conditioning units.

The sun’s rays are your biggest enemy in midsummer, with about 75% of what shines through an

by Simon Russell

ordinary window being converted to heat. Interior shades, blinds and curtains (especially ones lined with plastic or quilting) can dramatically reduce this - and don’t forget to use them in rooms that are unoccupied during the day, especially if you are going to use them in the evening. If you have a garden, trees also provide shade inside and out, and they also help a house to retain heat in the win-ter by sheltering it from the wind.

Insulation, usually associated with keeping the house warm in winter, also helps to cool your house by stopping exterior heat entering the property. Foam insulation is the cheapest and one of the most effective in an old house. Fans have a limited effect according to the site, creating a comforting wind-chill effect but in reality only moving the hot air around the house.

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Alex Trelinski’s

Back In

T A E R T L L O R E S E CHE

o were metre-plus course, whands of of bit a at be t us n´ by tho You ca d I´m cheered on British tradition an le. op pe r ula a reg that sure that if you are al bar, Would you believe rced loc ur fo s yo law in y er fet sa izz d qu question health an there´s the frequent England the official competition tot of 10, bu of which part be scrapped in 20 ntinues, se ee ch al nu an co ially hosts an Spring it unoffict year the event rolling race everyday? h las ug tho Bank Holiday Mon oper´s did not take place afters The answer is Co ire, police warned competitor stersh Hill in Glouce ational about using real cheese. ern int risks, ts ge ich wh People know the this r ee sh the th at wi on attention so let them get it all. madness and joy of er made annual May madness which of fun.

Recent dry weath and fast is just a bit rd ha nd ou gr the the 200 for competitors on

BOURNE FAREWELL FAn IR drawn up by

The Mid-Wales coastal g village of Fairbourne, lookin k bac gs brin , over Barmouth Bay some happy memories of goinga there in the early seventies on family holiday, as we stayed in a beachside rental property. y That flashback immediatel t hit me with the news tha the e om bec ld cou e urn Fairbo first place in the UK to have to relocate its entire community due to climate change

A pla Gwynedd council reportedly concludes that flood defences for Fairbourne can’t be bolstered after 2054, due to rising sea levels, and that the 850 inhabitants could be moved elsewhere within 25 years.

What a sad indictment of the e failure of politicians everywher on acti ary ess nec the to take over global warming.

FINED IN ERROR

Getting fined for a mo offence is never a toring Knight Place, Lincoln, with experience, but it has nice the court, even though he has worse if a UK court co to be never been to the UK. Mr Brika you of it, and you´ve nevnvicts also er set discovered to hisinis foot in Britain! horror that he was listed as the direct Latvian national, Ed or of Brikainis, 23, who hasmunds two construction companies liv ed whose registered offi in Reykavik, Iceland, ces were 2016, believes the blund since listed as the Knight Place er wa s address. linked to his identity car “I informed the state po driving licence being d and lice sto len of Latvia about this. I hav when he was in Latvia. als o written to Lincolnshir e He was found guilty e absence of failing to pro in Police to investigate the illegal vid e use of my personal data,” driving details at Lin he Magistrates’ Court in coln said.

20 18 , Bu t surely the Lincolnshire incurring a £660 fine an d six authorities points on his licence. should checked who he was have His address was listed in the as first place?

Britain NOT SO JOLLY ROGER

d their spiritual me impersonator sai ship was giving co t no ll wi u yo t tha l relation Trust me and e as the tale and sexua across anything as bizarrwoman who her serious health problems d to trie d lan she if Ire r to kill he of a Northern d ghost of threatened. married the 300-year-ol him mp du ed im then cla painful a Haitian pirate, who r when she Amanda suffered with and was he led sis kil sep d ost pe alm elo he dev that abscesses, . tomy tried to break up with him? Amanda told she would need a colos aled me he th ly’ wi ll dib sti cre u ‘in yo s e wa Ar rried her bag, but to get Teague legally ma egedly died after she eventually managed all o wh k, Jac ’ ate ulm k. ‘so executed for rid of Jacshelled out six thousand in the 1700s after being s, on a boat e Sh sea me legally thieving on the high euros to change her narformed the s. ter wa pe al n priest in internation Northern and a shama However, Amanda, from dergo an exorcism ceremony. un uld have Ireland, was forced to ‘possessed’ Perhaps that money coer form of rit spi oth his an er aft on d ism use r exorc been bette ised. her and left her hospitalJack Sparrow treatment for her?.

The former Captain

RAT FREE PUFFINS I always associate Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel with puffins, but they along with other sea birds are making a big comeback, after rats nearly cleared them out 15 years ago.

The RSPB said the number of seabirds on the island, off Devon, had tripled to 21,000.

The charity said the recovery had “far exceeded our expectations”.

The project was launched in 2003 to eradicate the rats because they

posed the biggest threat to the survival of the birds.

Since Lundy was declared rat free, the seabird populations have been steadily rising.

Before the project, there were just 13 puffins on Lundy, down from 3,500 pairs in 1939 – and there are now 375.

The Manx shearwater population has risen from 297 pairs to 5,504, which is all excellent news.

FRIday 31ST May 2019

THE LYNX EFFECT

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intensive care tless deodorant at the You see it on coun ere unit of the Freeman Hospital wh movie and tv dramas , and in Newcastle that the teen es. a patient is in a coma familiar opened his eyWioletta said: ‘It doctors suggest a m mu s Hi them d tried voice or smell could see was a miracle. ‘We ha up. A it. of t him ke come ou l life everything to wa We now bring you rea nt nurse had suggested I bring in ora od proof that a favourite de result some of his toiletries to wash can bring a spectacular ar-old him with.” the with the story of 13-yeKacper “As soon as I spayedeyes his ed en Cumbria schoolboy, op Lynx he have Krauze. immediately. He must s his up d de en wa t Kacper tha red d in remembe He has always completely submerge nutes favourite smell. Lynx and he mi 25 for ed freezing water lov in the absolutely while paddling friends still wears it to this day.” d if I River Eden.

What great news, an tried His family and nurses up work in the PR department for anything to wake himriod , Unilever that produce Lynx, I during a three week pe mum would quickly give Kacper a but it wasn’t until his Lynx lifelong supply! sprayed his trusted

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Motoring The Subaru Forester isn’t likely to appeal to many buyers. It lacks the plush, luxurious feel of rivals from European manufacturers like Audi or Volkswagen - but for rural drivers who need a sturdy, reliable car that works well on and off the road it’s a decent choice.

All-wheel drive is standard and it’s effective, providing great confidence both in adverse weather and on muddy tracks or fields. There are three engine choices – an auto-only 241PS 2.0-litre petrol, a 150PS 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre diesel.

Alongside the manual gearbox, there’s also an impressive automatic available. Called Lineartronic, it is quieter than most CVTs under hard acceleration, but is just as smooth and relaxing at low speeds around town. It’s probably the best fit for the Forester, since the manual variants aren’t quite as relaxing or as easy to drive smoothly, especially when pulling away from a standing start.

The Forester has a good braked trailer rating of between 18002000kg depending on the variant, which is enough to tow a medium sized caravan or a small horsebox – but it’s capability is down significantly on something like a SsangYong Rexton, which can tow a braked trailer of up to 3500kg.

Practicality is good. The back row of seats is spacious enough for adults,

Subaru Forester

while the raised driving position gives a good view above overgrown verges and hedgerows. The boot is big enough for typical family needs – its capacity of 505 litres is plenty for shopping trips, pushchairs and suitcases, which

will all fit without any trouble.

The cabin is sturdily built but it lacks the flair and plush, luxurious feeling of a Volkswagen Tiguan or Audi Q3 – but it comes with all the essentials as standard. Air

conditioning, cruise control, auto lights, auto wipers, a touchscreen, a reversing camera, heated seats and Bluetooth come with all versions. Upper trims gain luxuries like leather and a power tailgate.

The Forester lacks the flair and style of many of its rivals – but with genuine off-road capability and a reassuring

five-year, 100,000mile warranty it will make sense to rural buyers.

It’s not cheap with list prices starting at around £25k and so for many, something like a Volkswagen Tiguan will make more sense – it’s more refined, more comfortable and more luxurious.

Mega car firm touted

SPANISH car workers at Renault’s factories in Palencia and Valladolid will be watching with inter-est, and some concern, as their employer enters into talks about a possible merger with Italian Giant Fiat. The move, which will create the third biggest

car firm in the world, is being discussed as the car industry faces huge financial fallout from the compulsory move towards electric vehicles and the increasing prospect of selfdriving vehicles. The thinking is that one company could share the huge development costs,

which many fear will cripple smaller manufacturers. In fact, if this move does go ahead, it could be the first of many such mergers, the biggest change for the motor industry since the first Model T Ford rolled off the factory line over a century ago.

Facebook: @TheWeekenderSpain

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Local&WhatsOn REACH OUT BOOST

TORREVIEJA homeless charity, Reach Out, got a welcome donation of 300 euros from the Rojales Pantomime Group, as part of the money raised from this year´s production of Camelot.

by Alex Trelinski

Mike Smith, president of the panto group is pictured with members handing over the cheque to David Young of Reach Out.

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BACK IN CHARGE

The charity´s drop in centre in Torrevieja provides, food, showers and laundry facilities for the homeless, with the Rojales donation able to pay for over a hundred breakfasts.

ORIHUELA council will almost certainly continue to be led by the Partido Popular and mayor, Emilio Bascuñana, despite losing two seats in Sunday´s local elections.

The PP, amidst local divisions concerning the mayor, still topped the poll, but will have to renew their previous coalition with the centrist Ciudadanos party, who boosted their representation from three to five.

by Alex Trelinski

The PSOE remain the second largest party, but dropped two councillors to a total of six, whilst an alliance between Cambiebos Orihuela, Podemos, and the coastal CLARO party netted three seats.

A first time entry for the far-right Vox party saw two representatives elected.

BRITS ELECTED

MIXED PICTURE

SUNDAY´S municipal elections provided good news for both the Partido Popular(PP) and the PSOE Socialists across the Vega Baja and Mar Menor areas.

The PP seized control of Pilar de la Horadada from the PSOE, which means that José María Pérez will become the new mayor.

The PP recorded overall majorities in Redován, Bigastro, Albatera, Cox, Formentera del Segura and Benijófar.

The PP and PSOE both increased their representation on Santa Pola council, and it will remain to be seen whether the

by Alex Trelinski

PSOE coalition led by Yolanda Seva will remain in charge, whilst a similar situation beckons in Elche, with both the PSOE and PP getting more councillors.

The PSOE will continue to run Guardamar, after getting the majority of seats on the council, compared to their previous minority-led position, whilst they squeaked in by one seat to continue in charge in Rojales.

They also secured majorities in Algorfa, Jacarilla, San Isidro, Benferri, Dolores, Rafal and Los Montesinos, and have replaced

the PP as being the largest party in San Miguel de Salinas, whilst the PP are have the most councillors in Almoradi and Callosa.

The PP resisted strong challenges as they kept their overall majority of just one seat in both San Javier and San Pedro del Pinatar, whilst Benejúzar and Catral are set for complex negotiations as to who actually takes control.

Ciudadanos will run Daya Nueva and Granja de Rocamor whilst Compromis will take over in Daya Vieja.

TWO British people will take their place on San Fulgencio council, after the Partido Popular were routed in last Sunday´s local elections.

Ex-PIPN party members Samantha Hull and Darren Parmenter were part of the PSOE Socialist slate that came top of the poll, winning six seats with 41 per cent of the vote in an area that includes the La Marina urbanisation.

José Sampere Ballester will become the new mayor, though the PSOE was just a handful of votes short in getting an overall majority.

The PP lost five councillors, and were made to pay over the controversial ex-mayor Carlos Ramirez, who was barred from public office 18 months ago, as well as constant criticism over their neglect of La Marina.

26

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Local&WhatsOn

MAY FAIR AT LAST The TORREVIEJA´S popular Sevillanas May Fair started on Wednesday, some three weeks later than the originally dates, due to “administrative problems” involving the council.

Bureaucratic bungling two years ago led to the premium May event having to be staged in October The fair runs in the city´s port area until Sunday, and there´s plenty of entertainment and displays to enjoy, as well as a copious amount of food and drink on offer.

JANELLE´S GUEST SPOT

by Alex Trelinski The Melody Makers International and The Orihuela Costa Male Voice Choir returned to performing after a year-long gap last Sunday caused by musical director, Nigel Hopkins, needing medical treatment back in Britain.

One of Nigel´s former pupils, Janelle Gaskell, who is now a professional cruise ship performer, appeared as a guest, with the choirs getting a standing ovation from the audience at the Centro Ecuménico in La Zenia, after two performances staged on the day.

Postbag

It was a culture shock voting for the first time in a Spanish election on Sunday, as I´ve never seen so much clutter at a polling station.

Representatives from the various political parties were falling all over each other, and frankly almost, without saying anything, looking at everybody queuing up n a quasi-threatening manner.

No such hassle in the good old UK with often a friendly copper on duty outside, and just a few local council officials and a ballot box to deal with.

I found Sunday´s experience fascinating though, but I wonder on what grounds do the politicians think that somebody is suddenly going to change their vote just because somebody is staring at them?.

Simon Heaton, Alicante.

No shock then over the Brexit Party and the Liberal Democrats doing well in the European elections, in contrast to the Labour and Conservative parties.

As a lifelong socialist and pro-European, I am appalled at Jeremy Corbyn´s “fence-sitting” over Brexit, which threatens to see mass departures from the Labour Party.

Mr..Corbyn talks about party democracy and rightly so.

Therefore he should listen to the overwhelming views of the party membership and trade unions who want a second referendum, and which was passed as party policy last autumn.

Just because he does not like what they are saying, it does not mean the Labour membership should be ignored.

If not, I suggest that Mr..Corbyn will quickly go the way of Theresa May, especially as Labour´s chance of destroying the woeful Tories at a future general election is disappearing day by day.

Harry Robbins, Benidorm.

Living in the San Javier area, I now have to use the new airport at Corvera as opposed to popping around the corner.

MOVING HOME

by Alex Trelinski THE Torrevieja Christian Fellowship(TCF) is to move their church to Los Montesinos, due to increased rental costs for their current building on Avenda de las Cortes Valencianas.

The TCF have bought their own building at the town´s industrial estate on Calle Daya Neuva, which is currently being converted into a church.

The final service in Torrevieja will be this Sunday May 19th, and the following weekend, the TCF will continue to meet at the El Nacional restaurant in Punta Prima, until building work is completed at their new venue.

I am impressed by the facilities, but not the journey time, which is understandable and not surprising, as I could have almost walked to the airport up to last January..

What has annoyed me is recently having booked a Ryanair flight for this November and then getting an email stating that I´ve been transferred to a Ryanair flight at Alicante-Elche airport, as the winter flights have been reduced or scrapped on some services..

So much for all those wonderful all year flights that we were promised at Corvera, as a compensation for San Javier closing down!

Sandra Maynard, Santiago de la Ribera.

Send us your letters! newsdesk@Weekender.news

Letters and news are printed at the editors discretion.

All letters should contain, the writer’s name, NIE and contact information (Phone number/address) although only the name and town will be published. Please state clearly if you wish to remain anonymous.

The publishers reserve the right ammend submissions and publish, in part or full

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

27

Health&Lifestyle Advertising Feature

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Stomach Cancer - What to look out for

Most cases of stomach cancer occur in the over 55 age group and if caught early, can be successfully treated. It is important not to ignore any abnormal symptoms.

These symptoms may well be caused by something simple, not serious and easy to treat but you must get them checked out by a Doctor as early diagnosis equals better prognosis!

Symptoms include:

• Indigestion (most people who have indigestion do NOT have stomach cancer.)

• Feeling sick, off food, or an abnormal sense of fullness after eating.

• Weight loss.

• Blood in the stools .You may not notice bleeding if small amounts of blood pass out with your stools. A lot of bleeding from the stomach can turn your stools black.

• Pain or discomfort in the upper As the disease progresses, symptoms abdomen, especially after eating. may become worse and may include:

• The same symptoms as above, but more severe.

• Feeling generally unwell and more tired than usual.

• Becoming anaemic if the tumour is causing internal bleeding.

Some people have a higher risk of developing stomach cancer.

These risks include: • Having a type of anaemia called pernicious anaemia, which causes a lack of vitamin B12, can very slightly increase your risk of stomach cancer.

• Diet, such as a Japanese diet which includes a lot of salt, pickled and smoked foods.

• Smoking • Long-term infection of the stomach lining with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori seems to lead to a slightly higher risk of stomach cancer. (This infection is very common in the UK, and most people with H. pylori infection do not develop stomach cancer.)

• Gender. Stomach cancer is twice as common in men as in women.

• If you have had part of your stomach removed. For example, to treat a stomach ulcer or some other condition.

• Family history. In some cases, stomach cancer can run in the family.

However, most cases of stomach cancer are not inherited.

• Blood group A. People who have this blood group have a slightly higher risk.

Be sure to speak to your Family Doctor as soon as possible if you have any symptoms that are causing you concern.

For more information or to book an appointment call the Family Medical Centre on +34 966 865 072, emailing us at info@albirfamilymedicalcentre.com or on Facebook www.facebook.com/albirfamilymedicalcentre

Andy Mansell’s

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Stars In

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Standby for a Summer

All for Love

As I mentioned last week, one of the biggest shows of the Summer is due to hit the small screen on Monday, with the start of the new season of ITV 2’s Love Island.

The cast has now been revealed and as usual, most of the contestants look like they’ve spent the last few months in the gym 24 hours a day surviving on a diet of lettuce leaves and agua con gas.

Some of them appear to be minor celebrities because they are another minor celebrities brother or nephew, or best friend

or because they once brushed past them on an escalator.

Either way, their scantily clad bodies will be all over the tabloids as their daily antics are scrutinised and pored over and I have to admit I’ll probably tune in for a bit of eye candy.

If you plan to do the same, why not take my advice, turn the sound down and listen to a classical music concerto to make you feel ever so slightly superior, whilst watching the lowbrow rubbish.

I laughed out loud this week when I was reminded of a hashtag from 2012, referring to a new album launched by everyone’s favourite Britain’s Got Talent runner up Susan Boyle.

In one of those social media gaffes that go viral, the singer’s poor PR campaign suffered an epic fail when they promoted a celebration for the singer’s new album without checking what the hashtag could read… thus ending up with #susanalbumparty However, it’s even more reassuring to discover the 58 year old Scot has a cheeky sense of humour, revealed in a recently released video to promote her latest and eighth studio album.

‘Hi, Susan Boyle here. Some of you might know me from that hashtag – what a party that was’, before flashing a wink at the camera.

Love you Subo

Subo loves a

Oh what a party, Sue

n My Eyes FRIday 31ST May 2019

Pink and wet

e l l E r o f a y d In epidemic that scarred a I’ve been harping on for generation. ages about my favourite Written by Ryan Murphy, far, so r yea series of the writers and actors were the ed tch Pose, which I binge wa gel lar y members of the over a couple of days. transgender community, ng Now, in a groundbreaki giving the series an air of and magical moment, one authenticity that only those of the breakout stars of who’ve lived that life can the series, which centred provide. on transgender mixed Indya Moore, who ir the g kin ma race teens ys Angel in Pose, has pla way in a late eighties New now become the first York, facing prejudice and Transgender model to S fear in the face of the AID

grace the cover of a fashion magazine, by fronting the June edition of ELLE. If Moore, dressed head to toe by Louis Vuitton, and who entered the US Foster care system at age 14, isn’t a shining example of the need for acceptance and opportunity for kids who dare to be different, I don’t know who is.

The sky is the limit for you Indya …. Go girl!

Closing at Planta 20 A quick update on last weekend’s Benidorm Pink Weekend that took place in the resort’s old town from Friday to Sunday.

Unsurprisingly, considering the volatile and unseasonable spring weather we’ve had this year, rain stopped play for the first time ever.

Friday night’s Benidorm All Stars party was a washout, but the performers rallied together to put on an impromptu show at Kaffee Klee instead.

Some of them also turned up to perform at the extended Saturday night show which proved to be a roaring success, on a beautiful evening at the Mirador del Castello.

Highlight for me was the Sunday night sunset closing party, held at the stunning Planta 20 Lounge Bar high up at the Hotel Madeira Centro.

Amazing views, cool drinks and fabulous DJ’s rounded off the weekend in true pink style.

Indya dressed

by Louis Vuitton

Gav and Stacey Christmas

special.

James Corden may James confirmed the have become one of the news on Twitter, by biggest UK exports to America in recent years posting a picture of the script and writing, ‘Ruth with his regular stint Jones and I have been on The Late Late Show, keeping this secret for a but it seems he hasn’t while… We’re excited to forgotten where it all share it with you. See you began. on Christmas Day.’ The now, hugely In a joint statement successful US talk show host, was one half of the on the show’s return, writing team and co star Ruth, who also stars in in Gavin & Stacey, one of the show as Nessa and James, who plays Smithy, the BBC’s most popular shows of the noughties. said: ‘Over the last ten Fans of the much-loved years we’ve talked a lot about Gavin and Stacey UK sitcom have been – where they might be begging the team to today and what their make a comeback ever lives might look like. And since they were last so in secret we took the seen on our screens plunge and wrote this nine years ago and one hour special.’ earlier this week their Get the sprouts on dreams came true with Mum, Gav and Stacey news emerging that are coming round for the cast will reunite Christmas for a one off Christmas

Last seen on New Years Day 2010

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Difficult 30

Rose_0004_D1 Puzzles

ta RosetROSETTA

STAR PUZZLE FRIday 31ST May 2019 Easy Star 0006-Grid_E1

5

1 3

2

Puzzle Star STAR PUZZLE

4

A Rosetta is made up of a 7 6 centre coloured hexagon Example encircled by 6 white hexagons.

To complete the puzzle, fill in all 7 Rosettas with each number between 1 and 7 in no particular order while also ensuring that :

www.weekender.news

Daily Codeword

CODEWORDS 24 January 19

To complete the puzzle fill in each of the empty hexagon cells with numbers between 1 & 7 following the 3 rules below; 1. No numbers in a horizontal line can be repeated.

2. No numbers in a diagonal line can be repeated.

3. No numbers in the 7 gray hexagons can be repeated.

1. No number is repeated in a horizontal row 2. Each number from 1 to 7 are represented in the 7 grey coloured hexagon cells.

6 3

5 3

7 4

2

6 1

6

© 2011 Engaged Learning

© Engaged Learning

Sudoku

Easy

* Note that each white hexagon belongs to a line of 7 that must contain each of the numbers between 1 and 7.

ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ

Hard

Medium

Copyright © 2018 Best for Puzzles

http://bestforpuzzles.com/dc/print.html?puzz=daily-codeword-190124

Puzzle Solutions DROP QUOTE

For a complete explanation on how this puzzle was solved visit www.hexaliagames.com “A compliment is usually accompanied with a bow, as if to beg pardon for paying it.”

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

CODEWORD

Stardoku

Star 0006-Solution

QUICK CROSSWORD

Facebook: @TheWeekenderSpain

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Puzzles & Tarotscope

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD Across

1. Notice speech showing reverence (9) 8. Italian family held back by Thai family (5) 9. It’s many years since pine’s been given a try (4,3) 10. Very small can with yellow front (4) 11. Time runs out – it’s the end of the line (8) 13. Mollusc providing world of opportunities? (6) 14. Rough? That’s odd! (6) 17. Flag or sail hung awry (8) 19. Hood for cold bird (4) 21. Company blocking sudden increase? That causes great suffering (7) 22. Company beginning to extend town in Cheshire (5) 23. Wilde sees wild flower (9)

Aries

21st Mar – 20th Apr The Fool You need to think before you make your next move as things are not always what they seem.

The end of the week could see changes you are not going to be too pleased about so time to go with the flow and don’t be too stubborn. All will work out for you eventually Lucky Number 05

Down

2. Guards fed up with tips (7) 3. Harvest in Yorkshire, apparently (4) 4. Rang the bell as instructed, say (6) 5. Chaps covered with slippery tar on deck (8) 6. Suffering with father at home (4) 7. Police wrong to stop little nursery rhyme character (4,2,4) 8. Still lost, in some confusion (10) 12. Wanted: 25 sheets of paper in colour (8) 15. Floral anagram: solve it! (7) 16. Too fine after first of August (2,4) 18. Twelve going up or down (4) 20. Top expert receives millions (4)

Drop Quotes Drop Quotes are similar to cryptograms, in that the goal is for the solver to uncover a hidden quote. A blackand-white crossword-style grid is set up for each quote, with a number of letters “hovering” above each column.

Your task is to “drop” each of those letters into the appropriate square in each column, until the entire quote is revealed. All punctuation (commas, periods, dashes, etc.) has been removed.

Good luck!

QUICK CROSSWORD

Taurus

21st Apr – 21st May Two of Coins

Drop Quotes Source: Augustus William Hare

B O W

P

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C

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R O A

A

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C C

D O N

Puzzle #K960RK

A

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W S

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G A

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Money matters are beginning to even out and you will find things easier to manage. This is a good time to look for changes in your habits and see how things begin to improve for you and yours. An older Gentleman will help you towards the end of week and become a friend Lucky Number 16

Gemini

22nd May – 21th June Ten of Wands

Everything seems to be hard work as those around you are not listening and you may be wondering if anything will go right this week , Thursday will see changes for the better and a pet will bring you much pleasure. Watch out for an invitation coming you should’nt refuse Lucky Number 31

Across 1. Hazard (4) 3. Insensibility (8) 9. Not deep (7) 10. Debate (5) 11. Tender (5) 12. Missive (6) 14. Season of growth (6) 16. Wax light (6) 19. Husband or wife (6) 21. Worth (5) 24. Star sign, the Ram (5) 25. Lengthiest (7) 26. Break (8) 27. Outhouse (4)

Down 1. Answer (8) 2. Personnel (5) 4. Ailing (6) 5. Explosion (5) Copyright © Puzzle Baron May 30, 2019 - Go to www.Printable-Puzzles.com 6. Intellectual (7) for Hints and Solutions!

7. Observed (4) 8. Old two-shilling coin (6) 13. Beaten (8) 15. Facsimile (7) 17. Period before Christmas (6) 18. Underground room (6) 20. Distressed (5) 22. Blood-sucking worm (5) 23. Young cow (4)

Cancer

22nd June – 22nd July Six of Wands

You will find your voice this week and will be able to voice your opinion at last, others will stand back and listen if you speak calmly. Changes are on the horizon look on this time as another adventure in your rich tapestry of life. Saturday will be your luckiest day. go party Lucky Number 25

Leo

23rd July – 22nd Aug Nine of Swords Sleepless nights will seem like a thing of the past this week as you relax and take some time for yourself you will find yourself sleeping well and having more energy in your waking hours. Not everyone will keep up, be patient but don’t wait too long for others and enjoy Lucky Number 22

Virgo

23rd Aug– 22nd Sept Eight of Swords Only one thing holding you back this week and that is you. Decide what you want or need this week and go for it, time is on your side at the moment and you will get what you aim for so aim high. An interview will go well and will help you move forward quite quickly Lucky Number 34

Libra

23rd Sept – 22nd Oct Six of Coins You may find a close friend will ask for a favour do your best for them but not leave yourself short of resources. Not everything is quite as it seems and you may find yourself becoming confused as to who to believe, go with your gut instincts and all will work for you

Scorpio

23rd Oct – 21st Nov The World A very lucky week for you, everything you touch upon will work out well, you will need to keep your patient on Wednesday as there will be someone trying your patience.

This is a great time to look for opportunities to join a drama group or some other interesting activity Lucky Number 19

Sagittarius

22nd Nov – 20th Dec Eight of Wands It looks as though your plans are coming to fruition just now, and other avenues are opening up, as you walk through a green door you will feel a rush of energy and your mind will clear, everything is looking good. Any plans put into action now will see early results Lucky Number 14

Capricorn

21st Dec – 19th Jan Wheel of Fortune You will feel full of fun this week, not everyone around you will be in the mood but you will enjoy this time yourself. You seem to be half way through a project or idea and now is the time to see those plans through to the end. Saturday will be a great day and also lucky Lucky Number 16

Aquarius

20th Jan – 19th Feb The Chariot Travel is well starred this week so make plans for the trip you have been putting off for a while. News of a wedding may surprise you but it will be a good one. Hidden thought s will come out to the fore and you relax as you realise you are on the correct path at this time Lucky number 37

Pisces

20th Feb – 20th Mar Three of Wands This will be a week of new beginnings and endings, all will work out in your favour so no problems there. The future is looking good and a friend will help you see this and also be a good support.

Make different plans and others go along with you, changes are welcomed Lucky Number 29

32

www.weekender.news

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Pets&Wildlife ARC - PUPPIES & KITTIES NEEDING HOMES BLUE.is 2.5 yrs old. Very affectionate boy, needs garden or outside space. He has been spayed. He would love his own family.

PEGGY SUE is 14 mths old. She has been spayed. She has had one hind leg amputated following injury that didn’t receive attention by previous owner, however, this doesn’t stop her, she still climbs & runs around, loves the garden.

FREDDIE.is 2 years old, lovely boy who likes a fuss. He has been spayed and like to be indoors or outdoors.

Good with other cats.

NIGELis a very handsome boy with pale blue eyes, is very loving, good with other cats and is ok with dogs. He is 22 months old, has been neutered and would need an outdoor area, an apartment home is not suitable.

NO ADOPTIOIN FEE BUT A DONATION IS MUCH APPRECIATED. Also, many other dogs, puppies, cats & kittens needing homes. Food and donations also urgently needed and can be left at ARC’s charity shop on CarrerValencia 1, Jalon between 10 am & 1.00 pm Monday to Saturday.

Contact Tel No Sally (cats):- 625 985 689 or Jayne (dogs):- 649 310 285.Email jalonvalleyarc14@yahoo.co.uk.

Facebook – Jalon Valley A.R.C. Based in Jalon.

Charity Reg No CV-01-054107-A. CIF No G5482759

DENNIS & JOSE.- These 2

pups, with a Podenco Mum and Retriever Dad are 19 weeks old.

They are really sweet and learning fast. The owner of their mum died 12 months ago and

she has been living in a garden being fed by other family members, however she escaped and had a litter of 5 pups, 3 have been homed and we now need a home for these 2 and their Mum. If you can help please call Nikki on 616387129 or Sally at ARC on 625 985 689.

Thank you

Read This Before You Bring Home A Puppy

It can be an exciting feeling to bring home a cute, little puppy but there is a lot you need to do in order to ensure that the puppy easily settles in your home. Right from taking steps for puppy proofing the house to buying toys for them, it is easy to become stressed. In order to help you ensure that the puppy easily adjusts in your house, here is a checklist of the things you need to do.

Puppy Proofing Just like toddlers, puppies are extremely curious. They do not know what is safe or what is harmful and they cannot stay off limits. When a puppy gets something into his mouth, he is going to chew it which is why you need to puppy proof the home. You will be able to protect the house and avoid bad habits.

Look at the house from the perspective of a puppy in order to ensure that you do not miss anything on the ground. If there is anything dangerous, keep it aside into locked cupboard doors or store it out of reach of the puppy. You will have to tie all the electrical cords and keep them out of reach. Keep all your valuables away and do not keep the shoes in an open closet. If you want to ensure that the puppy does not chew something, you need to prevent the puppy from getting there. You need to immediately switch to garbage cans which have lids because food smell will attract the puppy. Do not miss out to check the backyard for any hazards.

Go shopping It is essential to buy all the necessities including chew toys and crate before bringing the puppy home.

The crate is a very invaluable tool to keep the puppy safe in case you cannot supervise him. It will also help simplify the house training routine.

It is important to pick the right size for the puppy. You also need to buy a leash and collar based on the breed

of the dog. Teething puppies will need chew toys and you will have to pick the ones which are not very small for the puppy. You also need to buy grooming tools and treats for the little puppy.

Pushing Paper It is indeed fun to play with the puppy but there are some tasks you need to take care of. First and foremost, you will have to name the puppy and there might be a name given to him by the breeder but you will have to use an informal name which you can choose. There are certain requirements related to the registration of the puppy. You might have to register the puppy under the American Kennel Club.

The breeder might have done it for you but if he has not, you can do it yourself.

Find a vet or a pet professional, maybe a groomer and make it a point to visit them first. Ask for references and get to

know about the location of the closest emergency vet clinic. If after a while you feel that you made a wrong decision or are not yet prepared to live with a puppy in your home, you can sell your puppy to a loving owner. There are many different ways you can find a customer. Andrew White from PuppySystem.com says that most people think that the best way to sell puppies is to price lower than your competition. My experience is that the opposite is true. The customers that you want are not looking for the cheapest, they are looking for the best.

Make introductions The puppy will require some time to get used to the new environment and you need to give this time. He will also miss his family until he gets used to your family. You need to remain patient and not overwhelm him. You need to start by showing the puppy around and let him know where his food is, where his water bowl is and allow him to explore with supervision. Do not give him the run of the house on the first day. You need to give the puppy enough space at the beginning.

Too many cuddles will become stressful but it is important that you introduce everyone one after another and not at the same time.

Pets in Spain

Dexter

is a 6 year old Bichon x Yorkie.

He has been seriously abused in the past and would suit a retired couple who can help him build his confidence.

Dexter is chipped, vaccinated, neutered and good with other dogs. Call: 645 469 253

Call: 645 469 253 www.petsinspain.com info@petsinspain.com

You need to consider the puppy as a part of your family and give him all the love and care you would give to any other member. Remain patient when dealing with them in the initial months.

Facebook: @TheWeekenderSpain

33

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Home&Garden

Sponserd By

Air Conditioning: too cool to be good for you?

Not so many years ago, air conditioning was a luxury vouchsafed only to the privileged few; now, though, it’s the norm in many offices and public transport systems, so it’s a part of our lives whether we want it or not.

Unfortunately, abusively low temperatures and

faulty maintenance have led to health problems, triggering common disorders in some people and occasional major outbreaks of illnesses such as Legionnaires’ disease.

Turn over and let’s take a look at the pros and cons of keeping your cool!

34

www.weekender.news

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Home&Garden

Sponserd By How Air Con Works Cooling mode:

A special liquid called a refrigerant, which is sealed within the system, absorbs excess room heat. As the refrigerant absorbs heat from the room it changes into a gas and passes through small, copper tubes to an outdoor unit where the heat is released, into the atmosphere.

Split Air Conditioning This is the most familiar form of installed air conditioning. They are called ‘split systems’ because they comprise of an indoor unit (mounted to a wall, ceiling or floor), which re-circulates the air in the room, either cooling or heating to your requirements.

The gas then changes back into a cold liquid, returning to the indoor unit where The indoor unit is linked to an outdoor the air is fanned over it and out into the unit (condenser), by a pair of small diameter room. This cycle is automatically repeated copper pipes contained in an insulating to maintain the required room temperature jacket. The heat removed from the room is dissipated to the atmosphere by the outdoor Heating mode: condenser.

Heat pump systems also allow the above cycles to be reversed. A heat pump extracts “free” heat from the outdoor air, even on the coldest days when the temperature may fall as low as -10 degrees Celsius and transfers the heat indoors. Heat pump units therefore avoid the need for a boiler and allow you to cool and heat with the same unit, with savings in costs and energy throughout the year.

System Types The range of systems available is vast. To ensure you have a system suitable for you we will come to your property or premises to complete a full site survey and provide you with a no obligation quote.

When heat is required, the system will run in reverse, taking heat from the outdoor condenser and transferring it to the indoor unit.

Multi Split Air Conditioning

The Benefits: Extreme heat has a clear negative impact on the intellect and on physical activity and the use of air conditioning can go some way to rectifying this.

- It improves comfort levels at work and at leisure.

It improves job performance.

- It can result in increased physical and intellectual activity.

- A lower temperature reduces the presence of insects and parasites.

This operates in much the same way as the ‘split’ system. The ‘Multi-split’ system enables a number of indoor units to be individually controlled from a single outdoor condenser.

- Lower temperatures mean less sweating, reducing the risk of dehydration.

Up to four units can be operated in cooling only or heat only form.’Multi-split’ systems offer an ideal way to treat a number of areas whilst minimising the space required for outdoor units.

- If the air conditioning installation is good, and if it is well maintained, it renews and improves air quality.

- A clean air conditioning system helps exclude external allergens such as pollens.

Don’t forget.

Air conditioned spaces should regularly ventilated.

Professional installation a maintenance is essential for both individu units and centralised systems.

FRIday 31ST May 2019

35

Home&Garden

Air conditioning - True or False?

Using an air conditioner can give you a cold This is a complete myth. Common colds are actually caused by a virus, not your temperature.

This means that the air con can’t chill you to the point of illness. However, make sure you constantly wash your hands and keep your premises clean to keep bacteria at bay.

Running air conditioning is expensive, full-stop.

Whilst old, outdated units may cost more money, the fact is that this is no longer the case with more modern units. Thanks to new inverter technologies, air conditioning systems can now be rated as high as A+++ for energy efficiency – this ensures that they won’t break the bank.

The Risks - Sudden changes in temperature and humidity affect the respiratory system.

- It has a drying effect on skin and mucous membranes.

- It adds to ambient noise, contributing to noise pollution.

- The air circulation can transmit infectious respiratory diseases.

... be

and ual

- Airborne dust and fungi can cause allergic reactions.

- Air conditioning is associated with chronic rhinitis and pharyngitis, throat irritation and hoarseness.

- Air conditioning can exaccerbate eye conditions such as conjunctivitis and blepharitis, as well as causing problems for contact lens wearers.

Does Your Air Con Unit need a Service or Maintenance?

Whether you’ve had your air conditioning unit for a number of years or whether it’s brand new, it’s important that it undergoes regular maintenance to ensure optimal and efficient performance.

As they’re often more intensively used, it’s recommended that commercial air conditioners are serviced at least twice a year, though it can be necessary to service the units up to 4 times a year, depending on the environment they’re used in. Domestic air conditioners, on the other hand, should be serviced at least once a year as their usage is often far less.

As with any mechanical equipment, it’s important to ensure that your air conditioning unit undergoes regular maintenance to make sure that it’s working at

its optimum efficiency at all times. It can also help to prolong the life of your unit, and reduce the need for emergency repairs, so you can be sure that it will continue to function at its best when you need it most.

During maintenance, an engineer will clean the coils with anti-bacterial cleaning agent, clean and unblock filters, check electrical components and compressors, clean drip trays and check the overall performance of the system. In general, regular maintenance ensures that the equipment works to its optimum efficiency (keeping electric costs down) and minimises emergency repairs. It is also essential to comply with the manufacturer’s warranty as without maintenance records, you may be forced to pay for costly replacement parts – even during the warranty period.

36

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Las Ramblas Golf Society A waltzer 1-2-3 kicked off the week and in 1st place, with 88 points, were Nigel Price, Hendrick Oldenziel, Olga Douglas and a very in form Albert. You may remember I once wrote an article about Hendrick and his days as a footballer with Ajax in Holland. I was intrigued therefore to learn that Trevor Pulleyblank enjoyed a number of years in his youth as a professional goalkeeper back in the UK.Although never quite making the 1st team he was ‘on the books’ with (amongst others) Southampton, Brighton, Barnet, Wycombe Wanderers, Elgin City and in his own words, ‘anyone who would have

me!’ After many hours of work from my research team we were finally able to find a picture of Trevor in action which we are pleased to publish here.

Wednesday saw the sixth and final round of our ‘Eclectic Joker’ Stableford. Today’s winner, with an outstanding 46 points, was Ron Phipps, followed by Annemarie Weisheit who managed to rake in 44. Third place, with 40 points went to Mike Chapman followed by Dave Pulling and Trevor (The Cat) Pulleyblank on countback with 38. Four ‘2’s today with Ron Phipps getting two of them. The others went to Dave Pulling and Olga

Douglas. My own claim to fame was chipping in for par two days on the trot!

I’m sure once all the sums have been done I’ll be able to report on the final leaderboard although Mike Chapman is looking favourite.

The best two scores from four and all on the par 3’s was Friday’s format. With a nice round 100 points our winners were Lindsay Forbes, Tom Hardie, Dave Pulling and that man again Ron Phipps.

Y por ultimo, in the words of Harry Vardon, ‘Don’t play too much golf. Two rounds a day are plenty’.

Pues, hasta la semana que viene, Peter Reffell

37

Local Sports

COSTA COBRAS RUGBY On Saturday 11th May, Costa Cobras Club de Rugby did it’s little bit for Brexit as they welcomed Yeovil RFC to the Campo de Fútbol as their first ever touring side.

Yeovil have had a fantastic season and finished third in the South West division so the Cobras knew they would be up against strong opposition, so a one o’clock start in front of a huge and noisy home crowd saw the Cobras kick off.

From the start, Yeovil started throwing the ball about to their young talented backs and their pace soon paid dividends as they ran in their first try. The Cobras kept their heads up and soon replied with a well worked try of their own.

With the sun beating down on what was probably the hottest day of the year so far, fitness started to tell and Yeovil started to up their game, and they ran in four unanswered tries.

The second half was more cagey with both sides having opportunities but the Cobras had the last word!

With a forward drive their number eight

peeling off and passing it to their full back who with a looping run scored in the corner.

Final score Yeovil 30 Costa Cobras 10.

This was a thrilling encounter with rugby and friendship by far the winner.

The third half was inevitable and was spent on the urbanization drinking,eating and playing stupid games. It was no doubt a memorable weekend creating stories that will become folklore and legendary for many years to come.

Can I use this opportunity to thank Yeovil RFC who have gone back to Somerset with life long friends from Costa Cobra players and families,we are looking forward next year to the return fixture.

Costa Cobras are a registered club with the Valencian federation and we are always on the look out for players of any age or ability. So dust off your old boots and join us on a Tuesday & Thursday evening at 7pm to 8.30pm at Campo de Futbol, La Marina village, for training or phone Stewart on 633260998 for more information. We are a family club with a traditional and family approach to rugby.

38

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

Sports & Local Sports News

HARD WIN FOR LEWIS Lewis Hamilton held off Max Verstappen, and survived a late collision with the Red Bull driver, to win a nail-biting Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday.

The world champion, who after his win held up his helmet in tribute to Niki Lauda, was left struggling with the tyres on his Mercedes after fitting softer rubber than the Dutchman at pit stops during an early safety-car period.

Afterwards Hamilton said “the race was the hardest I´ve ever had”.

Verstappen dropped from

by Alex Trelinski

second on the road to fourth in the results because of a five-second pit penalty, promoting Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel to second and Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas to third.

Hamilton now holds a 17-point lead over his teammate Bottas in the championship, but the sequence of the first two places for Mercedes since the opening race in Australia has come to an end.

The Canadian GP takes place a week on Sunday.

TRIPPIER SIDELINED England coach Gareth Southgate has dropped Tottenham defender Kieran Trippier from England’s 23-man squad for the Nations League matches in Portugal, but captain Harry Kane has been included after an ankle injury.

England face the Neth-

by Alex Trelinski

erlands in the second semi-final in Guimaraes on Thursday next week, whilst hosts Portugal play Switzerland in the first semi-final a day earlier in Porto.

The third-place playoff and final are on Sun-

by Alex Trelinski

World heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua says he will only feel he has “made it” in boxing if he captures Deontay Wilder’s WBC title.

Joshua holds three of the four world title belts, and faces Andy Ruiz Jr in New York´s Madison Square Garden venue tomorrow night.

Ruiz, born in California of Mexican heritage, will give away around four inches in height and substantial reach to Joshua.

Saturday´s fight will see Joshua end nine months of inactivity, during which talks with Deontay Wilder have yielded nothing in the shape of a historic contest where one man could win all four heavyweight world titles for the first time Wilder, who is expected to face Luis Ortiz in his next bout , will not be at ‘The Garden’ on Saturday but his manager Shelly Finkel will be watching what Joshua does.

day 9th June.

Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Manchester City’s Kyle Walker have been preferred to Trippier at rightback, who may be on the move from Spurs, whilst his teammate Harry Kane is back up front after injury.

Gareth Southgate said dropping Trippier was “as hard a decision as we have had to make”.

“He had such a brilliant World Cup, but Trent and Kyle have finished the season so strongly in a position where we have got real competition for places.”

JOSHUA´S BIG NIGHT DUCATI´S BEST HOPE This Sunday´s Italian MotoGP race at Mugello in Tuscany gives the home factory team of Ducati led by Andrea Dovizioso(pictured) the perfect chance to try to stop the Honda bandwagon led

by Spain´s world champion and current title leader, Marc Marquez.

Italian form is great at the track, and Ducati have won there for the last two years through Dovizioso and Spain´s Jorge Lorenzo, who

now is part of the Honda team.

The 32-year-old man from Mallorca is still getting to grips with his team change, and is full of praise for Marquez.

“He´s in his seventh year with Honda, and knows the bike perfectly. He´s surely one of the two or three greatest ever riders in motorcycling history, and though it will be hard to reach his level, I will try to do it”.

39

FRIday 31ST May 2019

Sport

REAL DISAGREEMENT Champions League FINAL

Tennis

1st June

Friday 31st May - French Open 2019

Tottenham v Liverpool - 21:00

ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Saturday 1st June - French Open 2019

Rugby

ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Saturday 1st June England vs Barbarians BT Sport 1 - 16.30 Sunday 2nd June England vs Barbarians Sky Sports Action - 16.30

Sunday 2nd June - French Open 2019 ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Monday 3rd June - French Open 2019 ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Tuesday 4th June - French Open 2019 ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Wednesday 5th June - French Open 2019 ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Boxing

Thursday 6th June - French Open 2019 ITV 4 11:00 - 21:00

Sunday 2nd June (Saturday Night)

Sky Sports Box Office

Katie Taylor vs Delfine Persoon - 02:00 Callum Smith vs Hassan N’Dam - 03:00 Anthony Joshua vs Andy Ruiz - 04:00

Golf

Friday 31st May Belgian Knockout 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 12:00 The Memorial Tournament 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 20:30 US Women’s Open 2019 - Sky Sports Mix 20:30

Saturday 1st June Belgian Knockout 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 12:00 The Memorial Tournament 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 20:30

Sunday 2nd June Belgian Knockout 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 12:00 The Memorial Tournament 2019 - Sky Sports Golf 20:30

Formula 1

Canada Montreal France Paul Ricard Austria Red Bull Ring Great Britain Silverstone Germany Hockenheim Hungary Hungaroring Belgium Spa Italy Monza Singapore Marina Bay Russia Sochi Japan Suzuka Mexico Mexico City USA Americas Brazil Interlagos Abu Dhabi Yas Marina

9 Jun 23 Jun 30 Jun 14 Jul 28 Jul 4 Aug 1 Sep 8 Sep 22 Sep 29 Sep 13 Oct 27 Oct 3 Nov 17 Nov 1 Dec

Real Madrid´s captain, Sergio Ramos, has had a free transfer request blocked by club president, Florentino Perez.

Ramos said that he had received a ‘very good offer’

by Alex Trelinski

from China, and the revelation follows the running verbal battle with Perez that started in the team dressing room in Amsterdam, after

Real were knocked out of the Champions League by Ajax.

Ramos, 33, is Madrid’s longest serving player having arrived from Sevilla in 2005, winning 20 major honours with the club.

STATESIDE FIRST

ALL TIMES GIVEN ARE SPANISH TIME

FERGIE ROASTS NEVILLE

England’s Bronte Law won her first title on the LPGA Tour with a two-shot Sunday victory at the Pure Silk Championship in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Law, 24, made five birdies and one bogey in a final-round 67 to finish 17 under, having held a share of

by Alex Trelinski

the lead throughout the tournament.

Sweden’s Madelene Sagstrom, Canada’s Brooke Henderson and Japan’s Nasa Hataoka tied for second on 15 under.

“I believe in hard work

and determination,” said Law. Law’s victory came three weeks after she lost in a playoff at the LPGA’s Mediheal Championship at Lake Merced near San Francisco, and is great form ahead of the US Open which started yesterday in Charleston.

MOST VALUED

by Alex Trelinski

Manchester United beat Bayern Munich five-nil in a Legends game last Sunday, some 20 years after the Reds scored their famous Champions League final win over the Germans in Barcelona.

United were coached by Sir Alex Ferguson in a fixture that raised 1.5 million pounds for the club´s charity foundation, as well as harking back to 1999 when United won the

by Alex Trelinski

treble.

Part of the fun was Ferguson ribbing Gary Neville over his abject attempts to try to get onto the score sheet, including the boss putting his head into his hands on the touchline when Neville missed a sitter.

The Scot took to social media to say:- ‘You couldn’t

shoot 20 years ago son! Why the hell you trying today?’, whilst a United fan on Twitter said:- “Same old, same old.”

Neville´s colleague on Sky Sports, and ex-Liverpool rival, Jamie Carragher, also had an amiable dig on the back of Neville´s miss suggesting that “Nobody wants to grow up and be Gary Neville except for Phil”.

Real Madrid has overtaken Manchester United and been named most valuable European football club, being worth about €3.22bn, says KPMG. The La Liga club tops KPMG’s study of top sides’ “enterprise value”.

The report, based on the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons, studied profitability, broadcasting rights, popularity, sporting potential and stadium value.

Real won the Champions League during the two seasons which the data covers. increasing its enterprise value by 10 per cent.

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FRIday 31ST May 2019

LET BATTLE COMMENCE! Atletico Madrid´s Estadio Wanda Metropolitano will see an English winner crowned in tomorrow night´s Champions League final between Liverpool and Tottenham(9.00 pm kickoff, live on BT Sport 2).

Liverpool will look to go one better after losing to Real Madrid in last year´s final, whilst for Spurs it will be their first ever appearance

by Alex Trelinski

in the final of Europe´s premier club competition.

Both teams produced breathtaking recoveries in the semi-finals, and neutral watchers will hope for some similar excitement tomorrow night.

The big news for Spurs is that striker Harry Kane is fit after recovering from a ligament injury suffered

in the first quarter-final tie against Manchester City in early April.

Asked whether Kane would play, Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said that he wasn´t certain whether he would start the match or be on the bench, but added that they were pleased with his progress.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp commented that he had never been in

charge of a better team ahead of a final and said that said he was “pretty sure” forward Roberto Firmino will be available after a thigh injury.

Both clubs have received over 16 thousand tickets each for the final at the 64 thousand capacity stadium, with many more Liverpool and Tottenham fans expected to be in Madrid tomorrow night.

VICTORIOUS VALENCIA

Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo scored as a valiant Valencia beat La Liga champions Barcelona to win the Copa del Rey in the Real Betis stadium in Sevilla last Saturday.

French forward Gameiro fired in a superb strike to give Valencia the lead before Rodrigo headed in the second.

Lionel Messi’s 73rdminute strike gave Barca

by Alex Trelinski

hope but they fell short.

After the match, Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu backed coach Ernesto Valverde to continue at the Nou Camp.

Valencia´s victory meant coach Marcelino Garcia Toral ended a personal 20-game winless run in all competitions against Barcelona.