The weekender issue 13 marina alta (north) by IMPACT GROUP

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ISSUE 013 IssueB #146

Friday 22nd September

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By Jack Troughton BRAVE volunteers who fought the devastating forest fire that swept across Javea a year ago were honoured by thousands of grateful

people. The second Big Heart of Javea celebrated the actions of local heroes who helped prevent a disaster at the resort last September. And once again the party was

dedicated to raise money for three voluntary organisations that played such an important role in the emergency: the firemen of Balcon al Mar, the Red Cross and Civil Protection. More than 820 hectares of Javea and neighbouring Benitachell were affected by the blaze. A small army of 500 firefighters battled the flames on the ground, supported by up to 20 aircraft – seaplanes and helicopters bombarded the fire with water and flame-retardant chemicals. Behind the scenes, volunteers gathered to feed some of the 1,400 people evacuated from their homes, as well as the specialist forest firemen and soldiers brought into the area to help the emergency response. Continued Page... 2

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Remembering A career in the great fire black and white

It took four days to bring the fire under control; and while property and protected parkland was destroyed, no one lost their life or was seriously injured. The first Big Heart of Javea took place last October and it is set to be an annual event in the town to mark the community response to the crisis and helping support the three associations of volunteers who played such an important role in it. This year’s ‘thank you’ again took place in a party atmosphere with six music acts on stage playing jazz, swing, reggae, blues, pop and rock, and an Elvis tribute. Food and drink were sold at stalls along Avenida Agusta at the side of the stage, providing sustenance for the thirsty and hungry – and making a donation from sales. Organiser John Le Seur said 150 motorbikes and 109 classic cars had also taken part in a parade around the town and proved to be a big draw when parked at the event, the gleaming models

providing a backdrop for hundreds of photographs and ‘selfies’. “It is a totally rocking event and has again been attended by thousands of people; I think there were easily 3,000 people here together at one stage,” he said. “There is a wonderful atmosphere; a real family occasion and it really is a lot of fun for everyone who comes along.” John thanked his team for organising the event and the vehicle owners for bringing the bikes and cars. “We already have sponsors lining up for next year, which is fantastic. It is expensive to stage but we hope to make lots of money for these associations; we are doing our best.”

Javea volunteer firefighters

JACK Troughton, editor of The Weekender, has (without giving his age away) been in the newspaper trade for 37 years. Starting out as a cub reporter in 1980 and qualifying as a journalist in 1983, he started out writing for local papers in the Lake District and South Wales. This was a solid grounding but soon the Big Smoke – and Fleet Street in particular – was calling. Jack started out on the now defunct Today, which created a lot of news in its own right by introducing innovations such as colour. Various papers and press agencies followed, including the Sunday Telegraph and the Evening Standard, usually on the crime desk. Like many people, Jack and his wife liked to spend their holiday time in Spain, and they first visited and fell in love with Javea in the early 90’s. In 2004 the pair made “the big move” and came out to make a permanent future in the beautiful Marina Alta town. Jack found that his CV from the UK made him more than qualified to find work on newspapers out here, and after editing and writing for several local papers over the years made the move to The Weekender three months ago. Asked how he saw the paper Jack said “It’s a family favourite that wears its heart on its

sleeve. People and the local community are our focal point and we like to showcase the amazing talents and histories that so many expats have brought with them from the UK.” Asked about future direction he said “Community, feedback and stories from readers, the interactive website and keeping our fingers on the local and national pulse. We have a dedicated team here who can carry this vision through and of course we always welcome any input from readers.” Talking about the future, The Weekender has a couple of special announcements to make. As a few people have become aware (difficult to keep a secret around here!) a new Javea Weekender office is opening very shortly to help increase our footprint in Valencia. Further news – including the arrival of a newcomer that most of you will know well – to follow shortly.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

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THE summer hordes have left the coast and the ‘swallows’ are starting to return as the temperatures become more bearable and The Weekender wishes them happy landings. Flying back to the Costa Blanca is not always as easy as it might be, what with airline cancellations, French air traffic control strikes looming again, and the ever-present threat of industrial action at Spanish airports...but in any case; welcome back and welcome to issue 13 of the paper. Autumn is always a good time to be here on the coast as the expat community gets busy – clubs and societies take off again, charities stage a series of events taking us towards the festive season, and the party season looms. The diary is already filling up and the camera poised for action. Trips across the drawbridge of Castle Weekender have already proved successful – it’s always good to get out there and enjoy a chat with ‘real’ people and even better when readers say they are enjoying all the team’s hard work in creating something worth picking up to enjoy. Having wandered up hill and down dale in these parts for a good few years now, it is incredible to discover just how many

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talented people live in the region – artists, writers, actors, musicians...it must be something to do with the air. And there are also those people with a talent for organising, who give their time to charities and helping others; many have fascinating tales to tell (and many stories will go unpublished after being sworn to secrecy on pain of death!). At least this part of Spain is peaceful. Further up north, things are getting hot – and not in a good way as the Catalonia crisis deepens. What had so far been a war of words has become a time of action as the outlawed referendum gets closer. Emotions are running high after a series of high-profile arrests; pro-independence supporters have taken to the streets to protest at the Spanish government’s handling of the saga. It has remained peaceful but could easily end in tears.

Jack Troughton

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

COCKPIT CRISIS

By Jack Troughton

BUDGET carrier Ryanair could face up to €20 million in compensation claims after cancelling thousands of flights because of a shortage of pilots. Between 40 and 50 flights a day are being cancelled over the next six weeks after the airline chief Michael O’Leary admitted it had “messed up” in scheduling the holidays of the essential cockpit crew. Ryanair announced its plan to scrap scheduled flights a

week ago – and triggered an instantaneous backlash from passengers angry at finding planned getaways were scrapped at short notice. Some customers immediately went on social media saying they were offered an alternative flight leaving the UK – but after their scheduled return...and when they were back at work. Others still hoping to travel were angry the airline was slow in updating concrete information over schedules for the coming weeks and were left worrying

about trips and constantly having to check the Ryanair website. On Tuesday Ryanair answered the criticism and did publish a schedule of cancellations over the period. It website advised: “Your flight is operational as usual unless you receive an email.” And offering a full refund or a change of flight, the emergency posting also said: “We understand that flight cancellations can cause distress and we will accommodate your option of choice wherever

possible while complying with EU Regulation 261/2004.” Ryanair has blamed a backlog of staff annual leave for the disruption – which is aid to risk of affecting 400,000 passengers – and promised refunds or alternative travel. The BBC has said an internal memo suggests Ryanair forecasts flight deck shortages could continue until December, predicting “tighter pilot numbers” and has appealed for pilots to work rather than take booked holidays to help protect

“the integrity” of the operation for the remainder of the flight year and plug gaps. And the broadcaster suggested the correspondence reveals pilots were only informed of the crisis on 13th September yet the company was aware of a holiday ‘backlog’ for some time. Ryanair made a profit of €1.32 billion in 2016 when it transported 120 million passengers and travel experts believe it is taking an “affordable risk” to solve its staffing problems.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Really the pits By Simon Russell

FANS of Formula One have the chance to bid in an unusual auction – the contents of the pits Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton amongst other drivers used in the Valencian Grand Prix races. The two large sheds that house the contents are being cleared out and the firm that is responsible for them is arranging an online auction. Items going on sale include

lighting, flooring, water tanks, furniture and even garage doors. The sheds, known simply as Shed 4 and Shed 5, were occupied by Formula One teams after a conversion cost of €14 million. It is hoped that the auction will go some way to reducing taxpayer liabilities for the controversial and now defunct Grand Prix of Valencia as petrol-heads take the chance to own a unique piece of motoring memorabilia.

www.escrapalia.com - add to story

Shootout near school By Simon Russell

FIVE people have been arrested in Paterna (Valencia) after a huge brawl involving guns and knives broke out near a school in the town. Police believe the clash was part of an on-going feud

between two family clans that escalated into violence this week. They have confiscated weapons including two handguns and several knives. Several people were injured in the fight and one man is hospitalised and in a critical condition.

All of those injured were part of the rival gangs and no bystanders were hurt despite several gunshots being fired. Over twenty police were involved in breaking up the fight and arresting suspects, many of whom had to be treated for wounds at the scene.

Alicante Donor numbers up By Simon Russell

THE University Hospital in Alicante has seen a significant increase in organ donors so far this year, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health. Their dedicated transplant unit performed 58 kidney transplants, 27 liver transplants and 52 cornea transplants, almost twice that of the same period last year. A lot of the reason for this is their Family Interview Model where health professional’s sits down with the next of kin and explain the benefits an organ donation can have to someone else, often a child. They have also been attempting to overcome traditional cultural barriers that mean some relatives are reluctant to give consent.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Really the pits By Simon Russell

furniture and even garage doors. The sheds, known simply as Shed 4 and Shed 5, were occupied by Formula One teams after a conversion cost of €14 million. It is hoped that the auction will go some way to reducing taxpayer liabilities for the controversial and now defunct Grand Prix of Valencia as petrol-heads take the chance to own a unique piece of motoring memorabilia. Visit www.escrapalia.com for more information.

Shootout near school By Simon Russell

FIVE people have been arrested in Paterna (Valencia) after a huge brawl involving guns and knives broke out near a school in the town. Police believe the clash was part of an on-going feud

Alicante Donor numbers up By Simon Russell

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

FLASH FLOOD RIPS THRU CITY By Simon Russell

A flash flood injured at least one person and resulted in several reports of damage when it hit Alicante on 15 September. The injured man was a security guard who was thrown to the ground by the force of the event,

resulting in a nasty but not life threatening head injury. The storm cut off roads and damaged a wall badly enough that the area had to be cordoned off while fire-crews shored up the structure. There were also reports of falling trees, billboards and power lines while many people

were without electricity. Numerous buildings lost roof tiles and the authorities received over a hundred incidents requiring their attention. However the flash flood passed through quickly and most parts of the city were back to normal after about two hours.

Olive plague discussed By Simon Russell

THE Director General of Agriculture for the Valencian Community was amongst those attending a special meeting about the Xylella plague in the Callosa d’en Sarria region. Two cases have been detected in the area which is heavily dependent on agriculture. Olives and almonds are both affected by

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the Xylella bug and the town has begun preventative measures such as laying “traps” based on surveys of crops that they feel may be in danger of infection. The xylella fastidiosa bacteria can spread rapidly and kill the host tree in a short time. It was first found in Europe in 2013 and once infected plants have little or no natural protection to help them fight the disease.

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Drug arrests at fairground By Simon Russell

NATIONAL Police this week arrested two men for cocaine trafficking after they had been caught in the act of offering the drug to youngsters at a fairground. The incident happened in Albacete where the two individuals were being

watched by plain clothes police officer who had been tracking them for a while. When they saw money and drugs exchanging hands they detained the men who were found with seven sachets of cocaine and a large amount of cash. One of the men has 21 previous arrests for drug dealing and similar charges, according to police sources.

A TON OF WEED By Simon Russell

THE Guardia Civil have arrested two men in Valencia province who had cultivated 600 marijuana plants, hidden away amongst an orange orchard. The officers had been watching the men since August and pounced earlier this month. As well as the plants, which would have amounted to over a ton of saleable marijuana when processed, they found a Taser

and knuckle dusters. The drugs were being grown in the small village of Manuel for distribution in the La Safor area in towns such as Gandia and Oliva. The two men, a Spaniard and Romanian, have been charged with crimes against public health and possession of prohibited weaponry. The operation remains live as police believe other people are involved due to the scale of the find.

Helpline lifeline By Simon Russell

OVER a hundred volunteers attended a training session on suicide prevention which was organised by the Alicante Rotary Club and Telefono de Esperanza (Phone of Hope). The volunteers came from Callosa, Elche and Orihuela as well as Alicante

city. The training is one of the key steps in the setting up of a dedicated suicide helpline manned and organised by the two groups. The President of Telefono de Esperanza, Francisco Sabuco, has been meeting with Enrique Chipont, President of the regional Rotary Club, to discuss the project.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Adios Cassini By Simon Russell

DOOMED space probe Cassini managed to get off one last set of pictures before finally going off line and plunging into Saturns atmosphere. The last shots were of what NASA called a “glitch” in the planet’s rings – an object nicknamed Peggy that could be a massive moon, possibly one of the largest in the galaxy; right to the end

Cassini lived up to its history of sending important data over the craft’s thirteen year mission. Shortly afterwards the probe collided with Saturn, an event marked with a brief but visible flash as it vaporised. Many of the NASA ground crew have worked on Cassini and its findings for the entire time it was in space, and it was clear that many were visibly upset, despite knowing that the final mission would always end this way.

Safe pair of hands for your

insurance needs ELAINE Kaufmann, the Managing Director of Plus Ultra Seguros in Altea, prides herself on the personal touch and security net her company are able to offer clients. “Every client, new and existing, is dealt with promptly and personally, regardless of whether you choose to phone, E-Mail or call into the office in person,” she pledged. Elaine has over thirty years’ experience in the insurance industry and ensures she is always on top of all the industry changes; both legislative and technological. Types of insurance covered by the company include motor, house, boat, life, third party liability,

commercial and much more. The company also deals in funeral plans - including repatriation home - and offers saving plans with competitive interest rates. Plus Ultra Seguros has over 1,300 offices across Spain, making it one of the largest Spanish insurance firms, something which gives clients peace of mind regarding financial security. However, clients also have the benefit of being able to walk into Elaine’s office and talk with the person who will actually be deal ‘hands on’ with any policy. Plus Ultra Seguros Altea office is located on Calle Conde de Altea 65 in the town centre but can be also be contacted on 965 840 753 or just email Elaine on elaine@ insurancealtea.es. Elaine is always happy to see clients in person to add the personal touch but said any insurance or queries can be dealt with by phone and email to the same professional standard.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Drunk in charge of a gun By Simon Russell

TWO men have been arrested after an altercation in an El Campello bar in which one of them brandished a pistol. The man had a licence to use the firearm for Olympic shooting but the law is clear about where the weapon can be taken, and also that he is not allowed to handle the weapon if he is under the influence of alcohol. The police had been called out after a customer in the

bar saw the gun and they breathalysed the 55-year-old who was well over the permitted limit. The men, both from Novelda, said they were in the bar as a friend of theirs had been receiving threats from her ex-husband who often drank there. Witnesses said that the two of them had been acting aggressively and then one

of lifted his shirt to show he was carrying the weapon, which was when the police were called in.

Security strike By Simon Russell

A group that represents the rights of private security personnel has called for a 24 hour strike on the weekend of 23 and 24 September. The strike request is in response to proposed cuts in wages by employers of security guards and other such workers. They also feel they have seen their rights eroded over recent years, and many staff have allegedly had trouble being paid for their work. La Platforma Social por la Seguridad Privada has also said that if these issues are not addressed they will be calling for strikes every Monday in October and for an hour at the beginning of each shift.

Terror threat training By Simon Russell

A hundred local police from Alicante have been receiving special training on helping them to identify terrorist and jihadi threats in their area. The sessions started earlier this week and

were inaugurated by Fernando Marcos, Alicanteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Security Councillor. The Colonel in Chief of Alicanteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guardia Civil and two terror experts from the Guardia then led the main presentation, which focused on the origins of the jihadi threat and the current situation in Spain

and locally. Mr Marcos said that there was no specific threat in Alicante at this time but that all officers should be alert to any possible dangers. He went on to say that local police are on the front line when it comes to contact with ordinary citizens and their role is a vital one.

FRIDAY 15TH SEPT 2017

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Rising tensions in Catalonia By Jack Troughton

PEOPLE backing Catalonia’s bid for independence are being urged to take to the streets to stage mass protests against the Spanish government’s handling of the growing crisis. The planned 1st October referendum has been declared illegal by Madrid and a clampdown on the separatist movement has resulted in a series of arrests. On Wednesday night police occupied the region’s economy ministry in Barcelona and Catalan economy minister Josep Maria Jove was one 14 people senior officials arrested. And Guardia Civil searches of property in Spain’s second city over Wednesday – seizing material linked to the voting process - triggered a mass protest with up to 40,000 taking to the streets. Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has urged pro-independence factions to abandon plans for a referendum and has declared the ballot illegal and unconstitutional. Calling for the region to respect country’s laws, he used a televised

address to ask the Catalonian government to give up its “escalation of radicalism and disobedience.” However, Catalan leader Carles Puigdemont has accused Madrid of “coordinated aggression”. He said central government had effectively “suspended” self-government and applied “a de facto state of emergency” – crossing a red line to become a “democratic shame”. Protests have been peaceful – although minor scuffles with police have been reported – but emotions are running high in Barcelona and other cities in the region.

Swift action saves toddler By Simon Russell MEMBERS of the Guardia Civil probably saved the life of a two year old child at Alicante-Elche airport earlier this week. The two officers spotted the child lying on the ground in the boarding area with his worried parents. Their

medical training alerted them to the fact that the child was having a seizure and they immediately picked him up and ran with him to the airports medical services area. This swift response meant that the child was able to be stabilized at the clinic and he was later taken to Alicante Hospital for further tests.

Back In

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

AMELIA LOSES BABY NAME TOP SPOT By Simon Russell

A lot of people in the UK who don’t exactly wait with bated breath for the latest figures from the Office of National Statistics do look forward to one of their releases – the annual list of most popular baby names. These years have now been made public and after five years at the top spot for girls, Amelia has been replaced by 2015’s second favourite, Olivia. For boys Oliver remains the top choice for the fourth successive year. The only new entry in the ten most popular names for girls is Lily (replacing Poppy); while for boys Muhammed makes its first appearance, knocking off William. While Muhammed may raise a few eyebrows in certain circles, the top names have changed very little in recent years. However further down the top 100 more exotic monikers such as Harper (for girls) and Jaxon, Albie and Ezra (all boys) are moving up the rankings.

Mountaineering is pants

By Jack Troughton TEENAGER Nathan French knows the meaning of ‘brass monkey weather’ after scaling Snowdon in his underwear. The 19-year-old took on the highest peak in England and Wales to raise cash for charity but developed hypothermia despite wearing his ‘Superman’ pants. Nathan, of Halewood, Merseyside, headed for Wales to take on the 1,085m ascent – 3,550ft in old money – wanted to help a dementia charity after his grandmother developed the condition. However, he began to feel unwell at the top on 9th September and took the easy route down via the Snowdon Mountain Railway; where a paramedic was waiting.

Afterwards Nathan said: “I keep fit and I am healthy but I was taken by surprise by how cold I got. I was shaking uncontrollably and they covered me in foil.” He added: “on the train down I started to feel really sick and I started going deaf and my eyesight started going funny. I stated getting really emotional so my dad, who was with me, decided to call an ambulance.” Nathan was treated at the scene and did not need further treatment but the North Wales Mountain Rescue Service said it was seeing more unprepared for the reality of weather changes on mountains. Phil Benbow, a spokesman for the service and a volunteer with Llanberis Mountain Rescue, which covers Snowdon, said Nathan’s charitable cause was “laudable” but it was “essential” people dressed appropriately for the conditions, planned their outing and checked weather conditions. “We have a significant number of calls every year about people on Snowdon who are not equipped properly – they make an assumption that because there is a cafe at t he top and a train, it is a walk in the park...it’s not. It is the highest mountain in England and Wales and people need to respect that.” He said his rescue team had been called out 173 times already this year, predicting it will be over 200 emergency alerts by the end of the year; adding people needed to think ahead. “It will be the third year in a row we have topped 200; that’s way too many for our volunteers who have to give up time with their family or at work.”

Britain

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

MANCHESTER: A CITY UNITED IN SONG

BACON BACK IN THE LIGHT

By Jack Troughton

UNSE EN in public for 45 years, a Franci s Bacon paintin g will make an appear ance in a saleroo m next month , valued at £60 million before it goes under the hamme r. The artist’s ‘Study of Red Pope 1962, 2nd Versio n 1971’ was the last of his series of papal portrai ts and was exhibit ed in Paris six month s after it was comple ted and in Dussel dorf in 1972 – a year later it was bought by a private collect or and disapp eared from view. Christi e’s is auction ing the paintin g in Octobe r. In 1971, Bacon returne d to his own work Study of Red Pope 1962 – a work inspire d Velazq uez’s Diego by 1650, from master piece Portrai t of Pope Innoce nt X – and added anothe r figure; a

reflect ion of his partne r George Dyer. The rework ing of the paintin g had a tragic twist; two days before it went

on show in Paris in 1972, Dyer commi tted suicide . Franci s Outred , head of post-war and contem porary art at Christi e’s, said the paintin g was “quite simply art history ” and added: “It is a tragic which premo nition two Bacon ’s unites greates t muses, the Pope and George Dyer, for the first and only time.” be paintin g The auction ed on 6th Octobe r and will be on view at Christi e’s in Londo n from 30th Septem ber. A Bacon triptyc h of his friend and fellow painter Lucian Freud made a record $142 million (£89 million ) when it sold at auction in 2013.

anthem STADIUM ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’ has become Manchester’s theme song as the city sent a message of defiance to terrorists. The Oasis track was belted out last by a 14,000 crowd at the recent reopening of the Manchester Arena, four months after a bomb killed 22 people following an Ariana Grande gig. Survivors and relatives of those who lost their lives attended the ‘We are Manchester’ show – the

proceeds will help to build a permanent memorial to victims. Don’t Look Back in Anger took on a special meaning after the bombing when crowds gathered at a floral memorial started a spontaneous chorus of the song. And at the concert, former Oasis star Noel Gallagher played a string of favourites including the song. He told fans: “It’s become a sort of anthem for defiance...every time you sing it, we win.”

Out & About

FRIDAY 22 SEP 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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Advertising Feature For Advertising enquiries please email sales@theweekender.es Caffe Milano's Frederica and Matt are the perfect couple to open an Italian Cafe in Javea. With many years of experience running just the same in the UK, they decided to up sticks and bring their great ideas here. When you visit Caffe Milano, situated at the end of the newly refurbished canal in Javea’s Arenal area, you will meet Frederica, the Italian half of the duo, a ‘signora’ who is very passionate about the food they provide to their customers, and not forgetting Matt, the British half, who’s attitude to customer service and enthusiasm for their venture is very refreshing. Being a family concern their service is very personal, you just know in the short while that they’ve been open they’ll already know all their customers names and what their regular orders are. Being a “Cafe” doesn’t begin to describe the wide variety of products they provide at all. The coffee, being authentic Italian,

is of course to die for, and so many variations.....way too many to list. Recommendations include the many different Italian breads and amazing fillings from a Bruschettta with cured beef, mushrooms and shavings of grana padana to homemade Tiramisu or the Ricotta and Pistachio cake... yum. If you prefer to take away your order, that’s no problem. If you’re planning a picnic by the boats on the nearby canal or taking a stroll down to the Arenal Beach, give them a call and they’ll sort it all out for you, why settle for cheese and ham sandwiches when you could be feasting on a Baguette Messina with Grilled and Marinated Vegetables & Sun dried Tomatoes. Don’t forget when you get thirsty in the hot Spanish sun that they provide that very popular Italian beer Peroni on tap and lots of other speciality drinks to go with your meals. We can’t recommend

this lovely little cafe enough for choice and quality in all areas. Check out their facebook page “Caffe Milano” and find them at the end of the Nou Fontanta Canal by the boat slipway on Avenida Del Pla. Enjoy.

FRIDAY 22 SEP 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

Out & About

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Boats & The Coast

Tribute to ‘Auntie Noelle’ By Jack Troughton

HARLEY Davidson owners paid an emotional tribute to ‘Biker Babe’ Noelle Wyman on Sunday, the rebel with a cause who helped raise more than €54,000 for a children’s charity. Blue balloons filled the sky in Javea as bikers and Noelle’s many Costa Blanca friends said a final ‘goodbye’ to the presenter known to thousands of Bay radio listeners as ‘Auntie Noelle’; who passed away in May after losing a battle with cancer. Her husband and fellow radio presenter Bob James led the tribute at the Big Heart of Javea event, who earlier joined other Harley bikers in a parade

around the Marina Alta town. Noelle was one of the original ‘Biker Babes’ raising money for children cared for by EMAUS in return for a ride on one of the powerful machines in 2013 – two calendars followed featuring the girls and the gleaming motorcycles. She supported subsequent fun days and Christmas ‘ride outs’, boosting cash collected for Christmas presents for the youngsters, spurring on the appeals across the airwaves. Bob said Noelle would have loved to be at the event. “Peter Emmett, a Harley owner, came up with the idea of the fund raising through the ‘Biker Babe’ idea and Noelle became involved from the start and got

a lot more people taking part and sponsoring the girls. “The bikers just wanted to say a ‘thank you’ for that – they came up with this idea and it was a great opportunity for them to get the bikes out and wear a special memorial t-shirt.” And Peter said it was an opportunity to say “a final farewell” to Noelle and thank her and Bob for all their efforts and airtime they gave to the ongoing EMAUS appeals. “It was thanks to Noelle and Bob I was able to get the Biker Babe project kick-started,” he said. “All Harley Davidson owners across the Costa Blanca have a lot to thank Noelle for, for the initial appeal and ultimately for raising €54,000

for disadvantaged children. “She sadly passed away in May and we never had the opportunity to say ‘goodbye’; so that’s what today is all about.”

Peter thanked Telitec for the balloons, helium gas, remembrance tags and ribbon, and Scallops Restaurant for providing breakfast for the bikers.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Out & About

Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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Boats & The Coast African charity queen By Jack Troughton

PEDAL power won charity worker Nikki Luxford a €250 donation from Costa Blanca Rotarians after she completed a gruelling 1,000 mile ride form Land’s End to John O’Groats. The 29-year-old, who grew up in Jalon and previously worked for local newspapers in Spain, took time out from visiting family and friends to accept a cheque from the Rotary International Fellowship Costa Blanca North.

She now works as a fulltime officer of Ripple Africa and spends six months a year in Malawi, helping organising projects close to her heart. The sponsorship money will go to support communities build a sustainable future; in line with Ripple Africa’s mantra ‘A hand up, not a hand out’. It is Nikki’s third year working with the charity, first as a volunteer and more recently as the charity’s project and volunteer coordinator.

Thanking the club members, Nikki said: “I go out to Africa about twice a year, on average for three months at a time; otherwise I work at the charity’s base in London. “I’m still going out to Africa to work for the charity; which is still where my heart is. I still manage to get back to Spain two or three times a year to catch up with family and friends.” She added: “I absolutely love working for Ripple Africa; working for the charity, you

can see results happening in a sustainable way which is fantastic.” Nikki is one of three paid officers in the UK; in Malawi

Medical mayhem By Jack Troughton

CARELINE Theatre is back hoping hit comedy ‘Nil by Mouth’ is just what the doctor ordered for the group’s autumn production. A hilarious farce penned by John Chapman, the action takes place in a mixed ward at St Christopher’s; an underfunded and under-staffed National Health Hospital. Directed by Dennis Arthurs, the cast believes laughter is the best medicine

and bring a series of mistaken identities, wrong diagnosis, visitors becoming patients; a whole range of medical mishaps. The show runs from Thursday 19th to Saturday 21st October at the Careline Theatre in Alcalali. Tickets are €12, with a 10% discount for pre-paid groups of 20 or more. Tickets can be reserved in advance by calling the Box Office – note the new number – on 605 181 726 or by email to carelineboxoffice@gmail.com.

there are 150 paid staff and around 3,000 volunteers. “It makes my job so enjoyable because you help them help themselves.”

Boat blaze By Simon Russell

A yacht that caught fire last weekend resulted in a spectacular blaze out at sea that was visible over a huge area. The 18 metre vessel, on its way from Ibiza to Alicante, caught fire in the early evening on 17 September, about five kilometres off the Alicante coast. The plume of smoke and flames could be visible from as far away as Santa Pola and right across the city itself. A fire-crew reached the boat and managed to out the flames out about four hours after the fire started. The boats occupants, a man and a woman, were both unharmed although shaken by the experience.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

Out & About

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017 Food | Drink | Leisure | Events

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From the market to your door

By Jack Troughton

DENIA’S indoor market is moving with the times and locals can now take advantage of a home delivery service. One major difference between the markets system and the big supermarkets

is their environmentally friendly delivery method which will be by bicycle or, on occasion, with an electric van where the streets are too steep for loaded pushbikes. 30 stallholders in the market have signed up to the scheme which has a cover charge of a modest two euros.

Local company Ecomensajeria will be operating the new service, a firm which already offers a bicycle messaging service, again highlighting its green credentials. Fresh produce will be packed in insulated refrigerator boxes and deliveries will continue until 7pm.

Colourful new season By Jack Troughton

A new season of flower arranging begins for the Marina Alta Floral Club next Thursday (28th September) with the visit of ‘new face’ Lynn Picken. Lynn is a member of the Cheshire Area of the National Association of Flower Arranging Societies; the title of her demonstration is ‘Strictly Flowers’. Memberships are scheduled for renewal and are the same as last year, €15; allowing entrance to demonstrations for €5. Visitors and guests are welcome at meeting and their entrance is €8.

Christmas is coming! The seasonal raffle tickets will be on sale and the proceeds will support the Proteccion Civil Teulada-Moraira to support the ambulance service and to the MABS Cancer Support Group. The club will continue to meet at the Salon de Actos, La Senieta, Moraira, doors open at 2pm and everyone should be seated by 2.45pm – the demonstration flowers are supplied by Moraira’s Paichi Garden Centre and the arrangements are raffled at the end of the afternoon. For further information contact Lynn on 96 640 5426 or visit the website www.marinaaltafloralclub.com, or the Facebook page.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Property

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Spain has 1.36 million empty properties for sale claims new study The Weekender recommends source - www.SpanishPropertyInsight.com

Home sales, mortgage approvals, and consumer confidence are all recovering, but there’s still the problem of the glut concentrated in areas with low demand, says the real estate consultancy Acuña y Asociados in a new report. Including bank repossessions, the Spanish property market still has 1.36 million empty properties looking for a buyer, down from the 1.7 million in 2010. Acuña y Asociados estimate that Spanish banks have 973,000 properties for sale. Plus land for 1.5 million new homes, although a large percentage of these plots will never be built on because of poor location or quality. Acuña y Asociados show how the supply of homes for sale piled up at the start of the Spanish property crisis, caused by over-building and falling demand. It reached its peak in 2010 with 1.7 million properties on the market, and since then, 348,000 properties – new-build and resale – have been sold. At the end of 2016, there were 1.36 million unsold homes thanks to the fall in the number of completed properties and the improvement in demand. Of this combined new-build and resale stock, banks own 128,000 new and 260,000

resale properties, which leaves 976,000 in the hands of developers, private owners and other market agents. Home inventories will run short first in Madrid, Barcelona, the Balearics, the Canaries and Malaga. In these areas, the newbuild stock of homes will run out first, in less than three years, as will be the case in most resorts on the Spanish coast. Two-speed property market Spanish property prices rose nationally by 2.4% last year, although the actual amount depended on the province and local markets. For example, prices fell in 25 out of Spain’s 52 provinces, where the recovery is yet to materialise due to weak demand and the large number of homes on the market. House prices have recovery fastest in large cities and in coastal areas such as the Balearics, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga and the Canaries. Prices here are rising on average between 3.8% and 5.6%. At the other end of the scale, the largest price drops took place in Soria, Palencia, Álava, Orense and Navarra with decreases between 1.9% and 3.5%. Residential market forecasts Low population growth will lead to a gradual

fall in demand from 2020 onwards, say Acuña y Asociados. Until then, pent up demand that simmered during the property crisis will cause sales to rise. Some 433,000 properties will be sold by the end of this year, up 15% on last year, but growth will be more moderate until 2019. Acuña y Asociados forecast a net demand for 99,000 new homes this year, up 22% on last year, and expect continued growth for the following two years. Demand for resale properties will grow this year to reach 334,000

homes. In the medium-term, sales will slacken off as demand decreases in line with market forces. The company expects annual sales of 150,000 properties over the next three years. The forecast the glut will shrink from 1.36 million in 2016, to 907,000 in 2019. In the three years, the

number of newly built homes for sale will fall by 16% from the current 391,000 units, and resale inventories could fall by 40% from the 973,000 available in 2016.

Property

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

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Rental hub By Simon Russell OF the thirty cities in Spain that have more than 1,500 official holiday rental properties, three of them are in the Marina Alta area. Denia, Javea and Calpe are all actually in the top ten for rentals, which is surprising for a region with a total population

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of just under 170,000. According to figures from Airdna, a firm which analyses rental data, these destinations have a similar amount of property available for holiday rent as Spain’s three main cities, Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. Denia has more availability than any other municipality with a population under 50,000, a figure that more than quadruples in the summer. The other Valencian towns that feature on the top 30 list are Alicante and Torrevieja.

Gas guzzlers A combination of factors saw a huge rise in Spanish imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) during the summer. The amount of LNG shipped into Spain rose by over 150% in August compared to the previous year, with around half of this coming from Qatar, the world’s largest producer of the fuel. One of the main reasons

for the increase was the extra demand created by the high amount of tourists visiting this summer. A more negative factor was a drop in power generated by renewable sources, primarily wind and hydroelectric power plants. LNG imports also came from Norway, Peru, Trinidad, Nigeria, Algeria and the US.

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Business & Finance

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Jack talks By Jack Troughton

COMPUTERS at the DVLA in Swansea are probably in meltdown as the registered keeper of the perfectly sound and sensible car, registration number UK 2019, keeps on changing. Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson was branded a ‘backseat driver’ by Conservative cabinet colleague Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary in highly-publicised comments. Prime Minister Theresa May insisted she is keeping a firm grip on the country’s steering wheel ahead of Britain leaving the European Union in 2019. Ms Rudd first introduced the driving analogy on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show on Sunday morning following Boris’ mammoth and controversial 4,000word essay in the Daily Telegraph – not least because of a repeat of the ‘Leave’ referendum campaign’s (discredited) claim that quitting the European Union would gift the NHS £350 million a week. It was certainly a claim plastered across the campaign’s battle bus in the run up to the 2016 referendum vote – but called to task, the Foreign Secretary insists he is a loyal member of the government; merely a chauffeur to the PM, if you will. Roll the cameras for a new movie, ‘Driving Mrs May’. Mr Johnson denied he was attempting to undermine the Premier ahead of her key speech in Florence when she is expected to spell out Britain’s vision of a future relationship with its long-standing mates across the Channel. With steering wheels and drivers firmly in mind, Boris has been forced to deny setting up his stall for a leadership challenge should it all end in tears for his leader; he has also surfed through the waves of calls to resign. Repeating the £350 million a week claim also earned a repeated rebuke in another letter from

UK statistics watchdog chief Sir Andrew Dilnot for being ‘potentially misleading’. How many people were misled in June 2016? Bouncing back as always, Boris – sorry Mr Johnson – said he believes the government will deliver a “fantastic” Brexit come 2019 and denied there was a car crash waiting to happen within the team. Asked was the cabinet split, he said: “No, we are a government working together. We are a nest of singing birds.” He said he was a mere “opening drum roll” for the boss and because people recognised him as a Brexit campaigner, he was just showing people “the way”. Mrs May, reported to be ready to offer a £20 billion pay off to Brussels to meet ongoing commitments – that’s rather than the £60 million the EU road hogs appear to demand – insisted her government was merely “getting on with the job” on the journey to Brexit. She maintains the UK would meet its obligations as a “lawabiding nation” and insisted life in the fast lane meant “this government is driven from the front”. And shifting gear on the latest scandal involving her foreign secretary, the PM merely said: “Boris is Boris”; her use of alliteration certainly swerving from the usual ‘Brexit means Brexit’. Lord Hague, a former foreign secretary and Tory leader, warns that squabbles over who is driving UK 2019 might actually hand ownership of the vehicle to Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour Party. He said putting it “a bit too politely”, the approach of senior ministers appeared to “lack coordination”. The Conservative peer said 15 months down the road from the referendum, it was “high time” they followed the same map... Sat Nav needed.

GOVERNMENT GETS FOXY

By Edward Graham

THE Murdoch empire’s proposed £11.7 billion takeover of British broadcaster Sky has been referred to the Competition and Markets Authority for further investigation. Culture Secretary Karen Bradley has announced the competition watchdog will spend six-months examining the bid by 21st Century Fox; scrutinising its effect on media plurality – whether the group would have too much control of perceived opinion - and the Murdochs’ “genuine” commitment to broadcasting standards. Once the investigation is completed, the politician will be advised by the

regulator and she will make a final decision on whether the merger should proceed; she could also impose conditions should American group 21st Century Fox wish to proceed with the deal. The Liberal Democrat leader Vince Cable praised Bradley for her “courage in the face of pressure from the Murdochs” – Fox is controlled by Rupert Murdoch and his sons - and said the referral was “completely justified”. He said: “In the current climate, media outlets in this country are particularly vulnerable to takeover because of the weakness of the pound. Media power should not be an auction to the highest bidder.”

DYSON WANTS CLEAN BREAK very important because that’s the fastBy Jack Troughton

ENTREPRENEUR, engineer and inventor Sir James Dyson says he is “enormously optimistic” about the UK’s ability to trade around the world postBrexit. He believes the country can be better off with a clean break with the European Union – even if negotiators fail to agree a trade deal. Sir James, who was a leading figure in the Leave campaign in the run up to the 2016 referendum, forecast talks with the EU would fail and come after Brexit Secretary David Davis and the bloc’s chief negotiator appear to be deadlocked. And his remarks come after his Wiltshire-based company Dyson – known for its vacuum cleaners, hand dryers and other high-end domestic tools – announced it was massively increasing its UK workforce. Sir James said Britain could stay close to Europe while expanding trade with the Commonwealth and the Far East. “I’m enormously optimistic because looking outwards to the rest of the world is very,

growing bit,” he said. Brexit would bring “liberation” for the British economy, said Sir James, and presented a “wonderful opportunity.” He brushed aside the ongoing complaints that Brexit without a deal with the remaining 27 EU countries would create uncertainty. “There’s always uncertainty in business, about exchange rates, conditions in markets, natural disasters,” said Sir James. “Uncertainty is an opportunity, and the opportunity here is actually that the rest of the world is growing at a far greater rate than Europe, so the opportunity is to export to the rest of the world and to capitalise on that.” He acknowledges British companies could face tariffs on exports under World Trade Organisation rules when trading with Europe. However, he said Dyson already paid WTO tariffs on some international deals as a result of EU trade agreements with different countries. “It hasn’t hurt us at all; we’re one of the fastest growing companies in Europe.” Sir James argues that the ongoing debate about the value of the single market was in any case built on a series of misunderstandings. “It’s a series of different markets with different languages; with different marketing required and different laws...it’s actually highly complex and broken up.”

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Business & Finance

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Is another Banking crisis just waiting to happen?

By Christina Brady

Black Tower Financial Management

10 years on from the Northern Rock collapse, have we all become complacent enough again to believe that the banks are now too big to fail? Well wake up and look at the facts. Britain’s finance sector is an “accident waiting to happen”, according to a report branding the Bank

of England’s stress tests as “worse than useless” on the 10th anniversary of the Northern Rock collapse. A study by the Adam Smith Institute (ASI) said the Bank’s tests - designed to measure whether a bank could withstand a severe financial shock - give false comfort by overstating the resilience of the finance sector. “It is disturbing that 10 years on from Northern Rock, the best measure of leverage - those based on market values - indicate that UK banks are even more leveraged than they were then. “The biggest risk facing the UK banking system now is the Bank of England’s own complacency.” The report said high

bank leverage had helped fan the flames of the financial crisis, while market valuations of UK lenders indicate that some have hidden losses. And for those of you thinking, I am OK as I don’t have my money in UK Banks, do you believe that the banks in Europe are any better? Just look at the current state of Italian banks and the recent collapse of Banco Popular the 6th largest bank is Spain, that only last year passed the stress tests with flying colours. The collapse of Northern Rock didn’t just highlight the fragile state of the banking sector across the world, but has meant that we are still feeling the aftershocks 10 years on, pensioners and savers are

still suffering due to low interest rates, which have meant that in real terms they are losing money year on year as they are unable to keep up with the growing level of inflation. A £40,000 savings pot would have earned a couple annual interest of £2,679 in September 2007, when the best rate on an easy access savings account was 6.5%, from West Bromwich Building Society. This compares to today’s best buy rate of just 1.25% from Ulster Bank, which would generate a paltry £503 over 12 months — or £2,176 less. The only real alternative that will offer the potential to outperform inflation is investing the money. If you would like more information on this or

any other financial advice please contact me by email christina.brady@ blacktowerfm.com or call me on 658 892 330. The above information was correct at the time of preparation and does not constitute investment advice and you should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Blacktower Financial Management Ltd is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV. Blacktower Financial Management (Int) Ltd is licensed in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission (FSC) and is registered with both the DGS and CNMV in Spain.

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Autumn Care for Cats Fall is a beautiful time of year here in Ontario. It’s always nice to enjoy the beautiful foliage, and savor a hot cup of tea or coffee on those first cool, crisp autumn days. Our feline friends may not be particularly impressed by foliage or pumpkin cappuccinos, but they will notice the change in weather, and may need a little extra TLC at this time of year. Here, a Springdale, ON vet discusses autumn care for kitties.

Keep Fluffy Indoors Fall can be a particularly dangerous time of year for cats that are allowed outside. As the weather cools, many people fill their cars with antifreeze, and apply lawn/garden products and pesticides to their yards. These things are all very toxic to kitties! Fluffy could get sick just walking through an area that was treated, and then licking her paws. Wild animals, weather, and poisonous plants also put our feline buddies at risk. Keep your kitty warm, safe, and purring indoors.

Comfy Beds Believe it or not, cats manage to sleep even more in cold, dreary weather than they usually do. One of the best ways to pamper Fluffy is to make sure she has lots of warm, comfy napping spots to choose from for her morning, mid-morning, noon, afternoon, and evening naps.

Heating Elements Candles, potpourri burners, and fireplaces can all make your home look cozy and inviting. However, these things definitely do not mix well with kitties. You don’t want Fluffy accidentally sticking her tail in a candle flame, or getting singed by sparks! Keep candles and potpourri burners in high, secure spots, and use protective grates on fireplaces. Litterbox Make sure your pet’s powder room is in a quiet place that is easy for her to reach, but free of drafts. No one likes a chilly bathroom!

Shedding Autumn is a peak shedding time for our furry friends. As Fluffy exchanges her summer coat for her winter wardrobe, you may find cat hair, well, pretty much everywhere. Brushing your pet regularly will reduce the amount of fur you find on your clothes and belongings, as you’ll be catching that dead

hair in a brush before it gets stuck to the sofa. You may also want to ask your vet about hairball remedies.

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My sciatica isn’t getting any better!

By Simon Ratcliff Osteopath Family Medical Albir

After weeks or months with painkillers and antiinflammatory treatment the pain is still there. It’s important to have a correct diagnosis to be able to assess the problem correctly. That is where most treatments fail before even starting. If you are suffering from pain that doesn’t go past the back of your knee (gluteus and hamstring pain) or pain on the front of the thigh, it’s more than likely that you haven’t got sciatica symptoms but are suffering from some other disorders that are mentioned further down. In most cases these symptoms have a very simple solution with osteopathic treatment and patients recover very well. Sciatica is a series of symptoms (lower back, gluteus and leg pain, numbness or tingling, weakness…) and not an actual diagnosis, that can be caused by a series of different things. What most people understand is that there is a

compression of the sciatic nerve caused by the inflammation generated by a prolapsed or herniated intervertebral disc that irritates the nerve and therefore causes pain. In this case medication is necessary to help reduce the inflammation and a correct osteopathic treatment is needed to improve the situation and prevent it from returning. But there are many other things that can cause sciaticatype pain: • There are muscles that can compress the sciatic nerve. • Many muscles themselves can give pain around the lower back all the way down to the ankle or even on the front of the thigh and knee. • Certain ligaments and joints can also refer pain around the lower back and down the back of the leg. • Osteoarthritis of the lower back can also have an effect that is similar to that of a herniated intervertebral disc. In cases like these antiinflammatory treatment and painkillers aren’t a solution because they don’t treat the problem, they cover up the symptoms which can then return later on. That’s why treating the source of the pain helps you recover from the disorder. There are various treatments that can help improve or cure

these problems such as: • Osteopathic manipulations to unblock certain vertebrae that may be rotated or lacking movement • Osteopathic manipulations to unblock and improve the mobility of the sacroiliac joints or the sacrum which have a big influence on the sciatic nerve • Treatment of muscle trigger points using manual treatment such as pressure, stretching , massage. • Treatment of muscle trigger points applying dry needling with acupuncture needles or electroacupuncture. • Neuromeningeal manipulation to restore mobility to the nerve therefore improving its functionality. • Cranial-sacral therapy to help restore the meninges (layers of membranes that envelope the central nervous system). All these treatments are very effective but only work if there is a correct diagnosis of the disorder. It is important to visit your doctor and your osteopath to evaluate and make a correct diagnosis. This article was provided by Simon Ratcliffe, Osteopath, Family Medical Centre, 966 865 072

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

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11 Beneﬁts of Cod Liver Oil: The Anti-Inﬂammatory Disease Fighter

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People living in parts of northern Europe have been using cod liver oil for centuries to enhance immunity and protect them from dark, long winters. They have also used cod liver oil as a natural solution for rheumatism, aching joints and stiff muscles. The primary source of cod liver oil was eating the fresh livers of Gadus morhua fish. While not very appetizing to most people, traditional populations felt it was worth it to benefit from cod liver oil’s numerous health-promoting effects. What Is Cod Liver Oil? Cod liver oil is a nutrient-dense source of essential vitamins including vitamin D and vitamin A as well as anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Considering most people don’t eat enough anti-inflammatory foods that provide both vitamin D and omega-3s — important nutrients that play a crucial role in cardiovascular, hormonal, immune, reproductive and neurological health — many adults and children can benefit from regularly supplementing with cod liver oil. Cod liver oil comes from, you guessed it, cod liver! You can consume the oil either from eating fresh cod liver or, more likely, from taking overthe-counter supplements. Each teaspoon of cod liver oil has about 41 calories and 4.5 grams of fat according to the USDA, split between monounsaturated, saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The most beneficial aspect of taking cod liver oil is that it contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, the same type found in oily fish or seafood

like salmon, mackerel and sardines. It’s also one of the few and best vitamin D–rich foods. Omega-3s and vitamin D are known for lowering inflammation, preventing blood clotting, preserving brain health and preventing depression. They’re even capable of causing noticeably reduced levels of pain and swelling due to inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Dozens of studies have linked cod liver oil with the following benefits: • lowering high cholesterol and high triglycerides • preventing and treating diabetes • lowering high blood pressure • preventing heart disease • reducing risk for osteoarthritis • treating depression • lowering risk for autoimmune diseases • fighting eye disorders like glaucoma and protecting eye sight • treating ear infections, allergies and asthma • preventing and treating kidney disease • helping to heal skin wounds • maintaining bone health and preventing fractures or osteoporosis.

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GARDENING ON THE COSTA BLANCA - Part 8 Many bulbs are well suited to the mediterranean climate. Basically, what happens is that they get the growing and flowering bits over and done with during the cooler months and then aestivate through the summer until the cooler conditions and rain bring them back to life again. Perhaps it should be made clear at this point that “bulbs”, for the moment anyway, includes any plants with underground storage organs such as corms, tubers, rhizomes etc. Unfortunately, the local garden centres seldom stock many bulbs and what they do tends to be expensive - often the best local supplier is Lidl! It’s cheap too! Unfortunately they tend to be a bit late as they don’t understand about gardening. The alternative is mail order which, with bulbs, is no bad thing as the bulbs are virtually inert when they travel and are comparatively light in weight. There are many big firms, mainly Dutch, which can easily be found on the Internet but you could

perhaps look at Bulb d’Argence, a specialist mediterranean supplier operated by an English speaking Dutchman (is there any other kind?) operating from the French Riviera quite near Olivier Filippi who was mentioned in an earlier article. He doesn’t stock the usual bulk tulips/daffodils you may be familiar but his prices are competitive for somewhat less common items.

at Daffodil)

Narcissus bulbocodium (Hoop Pettico

For the most part, the big daffodils and tulips are not very good here – unless you are prepared to treat them as annuals and replace them each year - as they tend to need colder winters than, happily, we can provide! There are, however, many smaller but no less beautiful species (often referred to as “botanical” or “species”) available which will

do much better. Try Narcissus bulbocodium (Hoop Petticoat Daffodil) or N. tazetta group which includes the well-known Paperwhite daffodils. Tulips,too, have species which are more suited to our climate, for example, Tulipa praestans, T.cluseana,T. saxatilis, T. sylvestris, T.tarda and T. turkestanica will all be found in the catalogue of well-known suppliers at prices round about £6/£7 for 25. All these bulbs can do well in pots too.Anemone, crocus and muscari (Grape Hyacinths) are well known bulbous flowers which do well here but you could also try less familiar species such as Sparaxis, Ipheon, Habranthus, Cyclamen (some), Iris (some) and Scilla. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list and there are many more which can be found on investigation. One favourite which has not yet been mentioned is Freesia – simply because, although the corms are readily available and

quite cheap, it can also be grown from seed to flower in the first year from sowing! Many bulbous plants are quite easy from seed but they generally need at least 2 years from sowing to flower. More next time. We are a friendly group who enjoy gardening and gardens. Our meetings are normally held on the 1st Wednesday in each month from October to June in Meeting Room (Aula) 1 on the 1st floor of La Senieta in Moraira next to the free car park used for the Market on Fridays. Meetings commence at 2:30 pm and finish at about 4:30pm. Visitors including holiday makers are always welcome – admission is by a donation of 3€ per person. Our attempts at a regular meeting date are sometimes interrupted by Fiestas etc and it is for this reason that our next meeting is on Wednesday, 11th October at 2.30 in La Senieta. Google “Costa Blanca Gardeners Circle” will provide you with our website.

Tulipa praestans

Habranthus

Freesia

Sparaxis

All editions of “Gardening on the Costa Blanca” can be found at www.weekender.news/CBGC or visit www.costablancagardeners.weebly.com for more information.

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles | TV

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What’s ON TV

Jesse Stone: Benefit of the Doubt (2012)

FILM - The troubled cop returns to his former position as chief of police in the town of Paradise, and faces a perplexing first case. Two people have been murdered in what seems to be a Mob-related killing, but a web of misleading clues stands between the detective and the perpetrators. Thriller, starring Tom Selleck and Kathy Baker. Edited for violence

Channel 5 4:15pm Fri 22 Sep

Celebrity MasterChef The three remaining celebrities take part in the Masterchef final. In the first round, they must take on one of the toughest challenges in the competition - The Chef’s Table, hosted by Michelin star chef Jason Atherton. Then, its back to the Masterchef kitchen to present a three-course meal to John and Gregg for the final time, before one of the celebrities will be crowned Masterchef champion. Last in the series

BBC1 9:30pm Fri 22 Sep

Richard Osman’s House of Games Anita Rani, Chris Ramsey, Janet Ellis and Jamie Theakston compete in Double Points Friday, and their scores are tallied from the week resulting in an overall champion being crowned. Last in the series

BBC2 7:00pm Fri 22 Sep

Strictly Come Dancing

The pro-celebrity dance contest makes its grand return to screens, two weeks after a special introductory programme announced the dancer partnerships, and paid tribute to the show’s late presenter Bruce Forsyth. Now though, the competition is ready to get under way, as incoming judge `Queen of Latin’ Shirley Ballas and her fellow panellists Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Darcey Bussell get their first taste of what the dancing duos are capable of achieving.

BBC1 7:25pm Sat 23 Sep

Britain’s Ancient Tracks with Tony Robinson

Dartmoor New series. The Time Team veteran returns to tell the stories of trackways that have been in use in Britain for more than 5,000 years. Having previously travelled the length of the Icknield Way, the Ridgeway and the North Downs Way, he now tackles an ancient route in Dartmoor, taking in what was reputed to be a bottomless lake, and encountering a four-legged beast

Channel 4 8:00pm Sat 23 Sep

Brighton Rock (2010) A young criminal in 1960s Brighton is caught on camera killing a man. The evidence falls into the hands of a naive waitress, so the icy murderer seduces her in a bid to ensure her silence. Crime drama based on Graham Greene’s novel, starring Sam Riley, Andrea Riseborough, Helen Mirren, Andy Serkis and John Hurt

BBC2 00:00am sun 24 Sep

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017 TV | Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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V This Week

All T i Show mes n Ar e Span ish

Escape to the Chateau New series. Dick and Angel return to continue their renovation adventures in France. Two-and-a-half years have passed since the couple swapped their flat in Southend for a 19thcentury chateau in France costing only £280,000, and in that time, the pair have worked to transform the derelict property into a fairytale castle. However, around half of the 45 are yet to receive adequate attention, the couple’s fledgling events business demands attention, and the outbuildings are still in need of conversion.

Channel 4 8:00pm Sun 24 Sep

Antiques Roadshow Castle Howard 1 New series. The programme embarks on its 40th anniversary tour by paying a visit to the stately home of Castle Howard, near York.

BBC1 9:00pm Sun 24 Sep

Olympus Has Fallen (2013)

A secret service operative is dismissed from duty after a tragic accident. As he prepares to leave his assignment, terrorists take control of the White House & hold the president hostage. The agent is trapped in the building, and uses his inside knowledge to rescue the head of state. Action thriller, starring Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart and Morgan Freeman

Channel 10:00pm Sun 24 Sep

Neighbourhood Blues

New series. The work of neighbourhood policing teams in Northumbria. Racial tensions are running high In Sunderland, where a brick has been thrown through the window of a house

BBC1 00:00am Tue 25 Sep

The Human Body: Secrets of Your Life Revealed

New series. Grow Chris and Xand van Tulleken explore the secrets of the body, beginning with the changes it goes through. They examine why human childhood is longer than any other creature on earth, reveal the communities of microbes - the microbiome - that people cultivate throughout their lives, and uncover the mysterious trigger from child to adult BBC2 10:00pm Mon 25 Sep

Layer Cake (2004)

A London cocaine dealer is all set to leave the criminal world behind and start a new life abroad. However, his plans are thwarted when he is asked to track down a gangster’s drug-addicted daughter and locate a stolen shipment of Ecstasy. Crime thriller, starring Daniel Craig.

5STAR 00:45pm tues 25 Sep

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Relax

Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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QUICK CROSSWORD

Across

1 Sailor (7) 5 Slender graceful female (5) 8 Scrub (5) 9 Large house (7) 10 Female warriors (7) 11 Crude (5) 12 Loathe (6) 14 Current (6) 18 Black and white beast (5) 20 Experienced person (3,4) 22 Syntheticmaterial (7) 23 Musical drama (5) 24 Bart’s father (5) 25 What is left (7)

Down

1 Pungent condiment (7) 2 Spanish wine (5) 3 Jittery (7) 4 Negligent (6) 5 Underwater detection system (5) 6 Spare time (7) 7 Intuitive feeling (5) 13 Childish fit of anger (7) 15 Tiresome (7) 16 Be a go-between (7) 17 Football (6) 18 Succulent fruit (5) 19 More proficient (5) 21 Infront (5)

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

Across

1 After reform I am unable to be a beggar (9) 8 Bankrupt following black bear (5) 9 Dressed for a foray, we hear (7) 10 Be ahead with heavy metal (4) 11 Musical state (8) 13 Little Benjamin holds large fish (6) 14 Grievance of one in factory (6) 17 Where lawyers drink? (2,3,3) 19 Sticks around looking complacent (4) 21 This old novel is stupid (7) 22 Golf course connections (5) 23 Starshine somehow loses its shine (9)

Down

2 Strive to equal bird that’s not on ime (7) 3 National leaders in Denmark are never elected (4) 4 Eccentrics beginning to cause rows (6) 5 As a rule, no marines join forces (8) 6 Beginner occupying empty room (4) 7 Playing at Vegas and getting benefits (10) 8 Fagin’s associate gets on in advertising (10) 12 Herb troubled a nice gal (8) 15 Huge people in rebuilt semi (7) 16 Soreness in a north German city (6) 18 Chat in hospital kitchen (4) 20 A girl’s incomplete expression of regret (4)

For crossword answers- See Page 41

Sudoku

Easy

Medium

Hard

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017 Chat | Travel | Celebrity | Puzzles

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BIG PRIZE FOR SUMO-BOT By Simon Russell

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) It seems that the world and his wife wants a piece of you this week, and I love it for you. The more that you have on your plate, the better. There’s less chance of boredom setting ARIES in - and I know how much you dread this. A lot of your fabulous energy is concentrated in your job area so that promotion could be yours, or you’ll feel like your talents are finally being recognised.

LIBRA (Sept 24th-Oct 23rd)

Your energy goes through the roof this week, lifted up by all your favourite things in life – romance, love and passion. Yes you can expect some ups and downs in relationships, so you won’t get LIBRA bored, but the cosmos also gives you the chance to restore things to the way that they used to be when the going was good and settled, or take a brand new path if needs be. The choice is yours, and you’re a lot more decisive than usual.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

SCORPIO (Oct 24th-Nov 22nd)

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23rd-Dec 21st)

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22nd-Jan 20th)

Your home life, your Seeing so many different angles responsibilities and those that that other people miss gives you depend on you, including your the upper hand for most of this friends - all of these concerns week. You might also decide to run in the background for you take a relationship that’s been TAURUS muddling along for ages to the SCORPIO this week, and something from your past comes back. next level where it belongs. Yes Taurus, I think you’re getting ready to commit Nostalgia can work if you’re prepared to learn big time. Equally a new and unusual scenario lessons from it. Not so much if you’re going or person could figure in your life if you’re in back to self-indulge. the market for new love. Saturn in your sign makes Right from the get-go there’s you focused and very real, spice, passion and commitment all but you’re not immune to the going on in your life and it’s mostly effects of the other lighter down to you. This also means it’s a weight planets, Sagittarius. time to think smart like the Gemini GEMINI you are. If someone’s pursuing you SAGITTARIUS Knowing your true worth and not going for second best or then the thrill of being chased is going to be made even more exciting. But it’s being rewarded less than your due is your not all about love in your chart because there are lookout this week. That’s not to say you won’t also rumblings of something pretty spectacular at also have to rely on others too. work that’s about to pick up a pace. Two heads are better than one, as you’re quickly reminded of early on in the week if you try to strike out alone. You’re also looking towards joint resources CANCER and coming together in a working connection, like a joint business venture for example. But can I also remind you, Cancer, that the love planet Venus is working overtime to try and draw your attention to what’s been under your nose for ages. LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

What’s new with you? According to the sky, absolutely loads, so you’re going to have to draw on your fiery reserves of energy for some extra oomph to make the absolute most of it all. But LEO this won’t alter your thinking if you’ve made up your mind. Neither can you make it alone this week because it’s all about working in unison with other people by roping them in. VIRGO (August 24th-Sept 23rd)

There’s so much going going on this week and this keeps you out of mischief if nothing else. Yes you’ll be on top of everything, in fact, and that’s all very upstanding and admirable. VIRGO But I also want to talk to you about love, because romance or your emotional needs will demand to be answered when they knock loudly at your door. And you can’t run away from them.

This week’s got a lot to do with money, and by that I mean budgeting, balancing and identifying what you deserve and going after it. You’re driven CAPRICORN by your emotions in all of this a lot more than you realise. Magic happens and sparks fly during the first few dats of the week, and this is also a committing time, and fate brings waves of change crashing over your life. Embrace them. AQUARIUS (Jan 21st-Feb 19th)

This week is absolutely brilliant for all sorts of reasons, the biggest being a return to form and your energy returning with it. It’s also a lucky time, and a romantic one, and I think that of this combined makes for very AQUARIUS all interesting twists and turns, as well as some long-term changes. Your heartstrings will be pulled too, there’s no doubt about it, and an amazing show of commitment and affection from you that could take the wind out of some lucky person’s sails. PISCES (Feb 20th-March 20th)

You may be the dreamer of the zodiac but you take a right good logical look at your life this week. This helps you sift the good things from the bad and PISCES stops you repeating the same mistakes over again. It’s also important that you ride out any uncertainty that you feel because you come into your own by the end of what will be an eventful seven days.

A young student engineer from Benissa has won a national competition to design a humanoid robot. Armengol Jordi Miralles is studying at the Alcoy campus of Valencia University which has a worldwide reputation for its robotics courses. THE CEABOT 2017 contest was held in Gijon this month and Armengol’s robot impressed the judges with its ability to avoid obstacles, climb stairs and sumo wrestle. The contest was part of the 38th Jornada de Automatica, or Automation Conference.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Motoring

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Honda Civic Type R (2017)

Hot hatches have never been as powerful or wild as they are now – and the Honda Civic Type R is probably the wildest of the lot. And that’s not just because it has a giant spoiler and angular styling – it also has a massive 320PS on tap and a huge 400Nm of torque, delivering exhilarating performance. That results in a 0-62mph time of just 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 169mph. And while those aggressive looks do turn heads, they’re not just for show. The spoilers, vortex generators and various other pointy addenda are designed to provide downforce and stabilisation at high speeds. The result of all the aerodynamic honing, performance and handling tuning is the front-wheel drive lap record for the Nurburgring - in case you care. So it has proven handling prowess and that shows on the road – with precise steering and huge grip levels through corners. But it’s fine day-to-day too. There’s a comfort driving mode that provides

decent ride quality and reasonably light steering, so town driving isn’t a chore – while the purposeful exhaust note doesn’t sound too loud if all you want to do is get home in peace. The only fly in the ointment is a heavy clutch that’s hard work in traffic. It’s practical too. Boot space is the same as the regular hatchback, so there’s room for all your family gear including pushchairs and shopping, while the back row is spacious enough for adults to sit in reasonable comfort. The front bucket seats do have hard side bolsters though, so some people might find them uncomfortable or hard to get out of. If you want your hot hatch to turn heads, then the Civic Type R beats rivals like the Ford Focus RS hands down. It has great performance and handling too – and yet it’s a car that isn’t too tricky to live with on a daily basis. And that’s exactly what a hot hatch should be – an everyday performance car.

FRIDAY 15TH JULY 2017

Motoring

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FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Motoring

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Tractor tragedy By Simon Russell

A 72-year-old man died after he became trapped between a trailer and a tree. The victim was the driver of the tractor which was towing the trailer and it

seems the vehicle was reversing when the accident happened. The police have said it is not clear why the man was out of his vehicle. The fatality happened in Sorchante de Villena in the north-

west of Alicante province. The emergency ambulance attended the scene and tried to treat the man, who first had to be freed from where he was trapped. However he was declared dead at the scene.

This Week In Automotive History This week back in 1955 Ford produces its 2 millionth V8 engine, 23 years after its introduction in 1932. The motor is valve-in-block type designed by the Ford Motor Company and built by Ford and various licensees. This was the first independently Ford designed and produced V8 and it made its debut in the 1932 Model 18, which is often

referred to as a Ford V-8. The original flathead engine displaced 221 cubic inches, made 75 horsepower. Production of the 221 lasted from 1932 to 1936 before being replaced by a 239, which created 95 horsepower before being refined. The original flathead design was discontinued in 1953. The 2 millionth Ford V8 was a second generation V8.

1932 Ford Convertible by GPS 56 - Flickr

Ford V8 by Don Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien - Flickr

And...

Puzzle Solutions

The 1st British International Drag Festival began this week in 1964 at Blackbushe Airport outside of London. The festival took place over three weekends on makeshift drag strips, providing British racing fans with an up close look at the primarily American field of drag cars.

QUICK CROSSWORD

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

SUDOKU MEDIUM

SUDOKU HARD

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Benidorm in lockdown By Simon Russell

BARS and clubs on and around Benidorm’s Calle Gerona were closed temporarily on 13 September as scores of police swept into the area in the early hours. The police were armed and wearing riot gear in what is thought to be part of the on-going effort to stamp out the sale of hard drugs in the city. Calle Gerona, commonly known as The Strip by tourists and many locals, has the highest concentration of nightlife in the area but has also gained a reputation for drug dealing. The focal point for the operation appeared to be the English Square where several establishments were entered by the police. Bemused tourists and clubbers were forced to wait on the streets, although almost all places were back up and

running after about an hour. Many of the clubbers had taken to social media, one user saying on Facebook “it’s all kicking off on the strip”. The increased police presence in the area this summer has led to a number of clashes between them and the bouncers that most late night clubs and pubs employ. There are reports that this raid is also as a response to these events as the Benidorm police attempt to stamp their authority on the area. While Benidorm remains a largely family orientated resort during July and August, September heralds the return of the stag and hen parties that many people feel are tainting the image of the resort. However many clubs and bars are dependent on the money these groups generate and point out that the vast majority are harmless and well behaved.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local lookout

Benidorm

Soap star caught out in Benidorm By Simon Russell

PREGNANT Eastenders actress Daniella Westbrook denies cheating on her Spanish fiancée in a Benidorm bar, although some pictures that have emerged online would seem to contradict her. 43-year-old Daniella was in the Tiki Beach Bar on the resorts seafront where a 25-year-old tourist called Reece said “she snogged the life out of him” after he approached her in the bar. He also paid her a somewhat backhanded com-

pliment thinking she was in her thirties not 43 “which is about the same age as my mum”. Ms Westbrook took to Twitter to vehemently deny the claims and said she was fed up with “lowlifes sneaking pictures of her.” The soap star has a troubled history with alcohol and drugs and faces further criticism as she appeared to be drinking pints and shots in Benidorm bars while pregnant, something she hasn’t commented on.

Cleaning up the world - one place at a time By Simon Russell

OVER 60 volunteers took part in Benidorm’s third annual “Clean up the world” campaign last Sunday. The event was hands on, with those involved clearing out the area around the old train platform between the Murtal Ravine and El Moralet pinewood.

Several Town Hall councillors attended including Deputy Mayor Ana Pellicer and Mobility Councillor Jose Gonzalez de Zarate. 1,000 kg of rubbish was collected in the area, most of which can be recycled. 20 million people across 120 countries were involved in the global initiative on the same day.

This sporting life BENIDORM has announced the details of its new municipal sporting programme for its citizens which commences on Monday 2 October. Athletics, football, gymnastics, padel, skating, pilota,

tennis and volleyball are all on offer. There will also be collaboration between schools and private clubs on chess, taekwondo, kung fu, kick boxing, golf and general self-defence. Some sports are aimed at school age children while others are mixed or adults only and there will also be special

programmes for people with disabilities. Enrolment started on 19 September; non-residents can apply but will need to supply a DNI, NIE or copy passport. The other activity that will be offered is swimming although the programme has yet to be finalised.



By Matthew Richards

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

Who’s that girl? By Jack Troughton

THE mystery girl with the ‘beautiful smile’ captured on canvas by a Costa Blanca painter has been tracked down by some detective work by a friend. Artist Tony Creasey took a series of photographs of the 2012 annual Moors and Christians celebration in Javea and randomly selected a colourfully dressed ‘Moor’ as a subject. And a “highlight” of his exhibition at the Denia Marriott Hotel earlier this month was finally meeting Lucia Andres Lacueva – the girl with the captivating smile. Tony, who lives in Orba with his wife Josie, also met Lucia’s mother – who bought the original work as a present for her daughter - and grandmother.

Josie said a friend had taken up the challenge of finding the mystery girl. “I had shown the painting to a friend of mine who said she would track her down, and it turned out to be one of her neighbours.” She said the girl had “such a beautiful smile that Tony had felt compelled to paint her” and “the highlight” of the exhibition was meeting her. Josie added: “The family was amazed by the painting and Lucia, the lady in the canvas, was absolutely delighted and particularly thrilled at seeing herself on canvas. “She said she had many photographs to remember the fabulous occasion when she was a Moor; however, it was nothing like a personal painting.” Josie said Lucia’s mother bought the picture for her daughter, who is

reading English at Oxford. “Lucia said it would be hung in pride of place when she moves into her own accommodation.

“It was intriguing to be able to meet the subject of a randomly taken photograph. I am sure the chances of this happening are pretty remote.”

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local lookout

Javea-Xabia

Weather wise Less tax for electric cars By Simon Russell

THE Marina Alta town of Javea has more weather stations, 17, than any other town or city in Spain and possibly the most in Europe. Part of the reason for this is that a private meteorological company, Xabimeateo, is based here and takes advantage of the municipality’s varied terrains such as mountains, beaches and valleys, to collate its data. The Montgo Mountain, for example, gets around twice as much rain as the Arenal

By Simon Russell

THE Hacienda in Javea has announced that electric vehicles will pay 75% less tax than those running on petrol and diesel next year, the highest deduction the city is allowed to apply. Mayor Jose Chulvi said “this measure is in line with our overall commit-

Beach. Apparently this is due to low clouds grazing the Montgo and

causing rainfall that doesn’t reach lower lying ground.

ment to sustainability and a kinder, cleaner traffic flow.” More charging points for the electric vehicles are being installed and special parking spaces being reserved for users. Mayor Chulvi used the town’s water company, Amjasa, as a good example of corporate environmental responsibility as all their new vehicles are now electric.

Water company Amjasa, now using electric vehicles

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local lookout

L’Alfas - L’Albir

Modern slave trade By Jack Troughton

RAISING awareness of the misery caused by human trafficking, Alfaz del Pi Town Hall has organised the screening of a hard-hitting documentary ‘New Girls 24 Hours”. The film is directed by actress, producer and activist against violence Mabel Lozano and is part of the Scenarios for Equality project organised by Councillor Genoveva Tent in conjunction with the Alicante provincial government. The film is being shown in the Casa de Cultura at 7pm on Wednesday 20th September, admission is free, and outlines how Spain has become an important

destination for criminals trafficking women from Africa and South America. The sexual exploitation of the women will also be underlined in a bid to “educate” people about the problem of trafficking, and it is planned to stage a round table discussion after the film credits roll. Councillor Tent said: “We intend to raise awareness society and seek its involvement, it is an issue that requires awareness of everyone to address the problem. “This is not Mabel Lozano’s first film denouncing the abuse of women, but it is the most ambitious.”

Film maker Mabel Lozano

Free jazz show By Simon Russell

THE closing concert of the “L’Alfas in Jazz” festival will be on 30 September at the Casa de la Cultura in Alfaz. This show is dedicated to legendary jazz pianist Theolonious Monk and features music by Back to Brass and David Shepherd. Back to Brass are a Spanish five piece that got together while at the Valencia Conservatory of Music. David Shepherd is a saxophonist, well known across the European jazz community, who plays, teaches and writes music for the trumpet. Over 250 people attended the penultimate

concert last weekend which featured the Bernad van Rossum Quartet. Entrance is free to the upcoming concert but places will be limited to the amount of seating in the venue.

Second Chance Charity Shop in Albir on Monday (25th September)

THE World‛s Biggest Coffee Morning returns to the Costa Blanca next week to raise money for cancer charities. Kettles are being switched on at the Second Chance Charity Shop in Albir on Monday (25th September) when it stages a Macmillan Coffee Morning from 10am until 1pm. There will be rafﬂe, tombola, and homemade cakes to go with a cuppa; there‛s still time to donate, just pop into the shop to let the team know or call 96 686 5342 or 642 154

426. Rafﬂe tickets are already on sale at €1 for ﬁve and the Oasis Bar is providing tea and coffee for €1 each. And Cancer Care Javea is staging a Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 29th September between1-am and 12.30pm outside the charity shops in Javea Park. Charity volunteers and friends of Cancer Care have been busy baking and donated cakes; coffee and refreshments are being donated by Bar Punch.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Local Sport

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EL Cid Bowls win in Javea Green Iberian Competition By Stewart Beattie

El Cid came out winners in the Javea Green Iberian Competition which finished yesterday. Over 5000 bowls were bowled across several disciplines in a full 8 days of very competitive bowling. For some it seemed like an endurance test after playing 3 full games in a day but quality always wins and El Cid had its share of the honours. Our Rinks Team of Paul Trunchion,

Floyd Williams, Paul Leeder and Alan Ferrand were runners up to the winning El Cid/Javea team of Paul Brown, Stewart Beattie, Brian Manser and Derek Eldon. In the Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Singles Final Paul Trunchion had a narrow win against Javeaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alan Philips and Paul also won the overall Player of the Tournament to complete a fantastic tournament for him and El Cid. Thanks to Kieth and Dee Hamilton for organising a excellent tournament.

Benitachell Bowls success for 3 ladies in the Iberian Open By Bernard King

BBC success for 3 ladies in the Iberian Open, held recently at Javea Green. Maggie Lawley beat Yvonne Browne in the ladies singles. Yvonne along with Lynda Warnes were also in the winning ladies rinks

team. Congratulations to all three. A social event was held recently at BBC with members and guests dancing to local band Contraband, with food prepared by the catering team. A total of 700 euros was raised for Cancer Care.

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Sport

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Raging Bull dies at 95 BOXING legend Jake LaMotta died this week at the age of 95 after contracting pneumonia. Known even by many non-boxing fans due to being the subject of the movie “Raging Bull” the announcement that he had passed away was made on his daughter Christi’s Facebook account. A born and bred New Yorker, La Motta was known as an old school brawler in the ring with a huge ability to take a punch. For boxing fans he was best known for his

series of six fights with fellow legend Sugar Ray Robinson, five of which Robinson won. The 1980 film “Raging Bull” starred Robert de Niro as La Motta which won the actor an Oscar award and is seen by many, not just boxing fans, as the best sports movie of all time. The announcement on his daughters Facebook page said simply “Jake LaMotta July 10 1922-September 19 2017 – Rest in Peace Pop”.

Memorial triathlon OVER 800 athletes are expected to take place in the Javea triathlon on 24 September. The Trixabia is being dedicated to the memory of Eduardo Mon-

fort, known as Edu to most people, was a local triathlete who was one of the cyclists killed on the N-332 outside Oliva by a drunk driver this

May. Javea’s Triathlete Club President was also involved in the crash but escaped uninjured. As well as the participants there will be around 150 volunteers at the event plus police and Red

Cross officials. Thousands more are expected to turn up to watch the endurance race which starts at 8am with the swimming leg from the Arenal beach. You can visit the Trixabia Facebook page for more details and updates.

Mention The Weekender to get preferential exchange rates!

SPORT Week Saturday 23rd September

13:00 Athletico Madrid v Sevilla - La Liga 13:30 West Ham v Tottenham - EPL 16:00 Everton Bournemouth - EPL 16:00 Southampton v Man Utd - EPL 16:00 Huddersfield v Leicester City - EPL 16:00 Stoke v Chelsea - EPL 16:00 Burnley FC v Huddersfield - EPL Fixtur es 16:00 Man City v Crystal Palace - EPL 16:00 Swansea v Watford - EPL 16:15 AlavÃ©s v Real Madrid - La Liga 18:30 Leicester v Liverpool - EPL 20:45 Girona v Barcelona - La Liga

Sunday 24th September 17:00 Brighton v Newcastle- EPL

20:45 Real Sociadad v Valencia

Monday 25th September 17:00 Arsenal v West Brom - EPL

20:45 Real Betis v Levante - La Liga

RUGBY LEAGUE FIXTURES Betfred Super League Friday 22nd September 21:00 - Castleford Tigers - Hull FC 21:00 - Huddersfield Giants v Leeds Rhinos

Saturday 23rd September 16:15 - Wakefield Trinity v WIgan Warrior s

RUGBY UNION - AVIVA Friday 22nd September

20:45 - GLoucester v Wor cester

Saturday 23rd Septembe r 16:00 - Bath v Newcastle 16:00 - Harlequins v Leic ester 16:00 - Saracens v Sale

Saturday 24th Septembe r 16:00 - Exeter v Wasps

16:00 - London Irish v No rthampton

ON E FORMyU1sLt A October Sunda

Malaysian GP

FRIDAY 22ND SEPT 2017

Weekender Sport

ENGLAND BOSS

SACKED

“DON’T BRING EBOL Chelsea forward Aluko claimed Sampson had told her to make sure her Nigerian relatives did not bring the Ebola virus to the friendly against Germany at Wembley in November 2014. Sampson denied that claim, along with another allegation that he asked a mixed-race

A”

player if she had been arrested before, and then jokingly suggested she had been arrested four times. Sampson was cleared by an internal Football Association review of Aluko’s claims, and by an independent investigation led by barrister Katharine Newton.

England Women’s manager Mark Sampson was sacked on Wednesday after evidence of “inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour” during his time at a previous club. Sampson had been the subject of accusations of racism, harassment and bullying made by former England player Eni Aluko. But the 34-year-old, cleared over those allegations, has instead been dismissed by the Football Association following a historic safeguarding investigation into his conduct while manager of Bristol Academy. “The Football Association can confirm that Mark Sampson’s contract as England Women’s head coach has been terminated with immediate effect,” an FA statement read. Sampson, who last year agreed a new contract to remain as national team coach until 2019, was axed less than 24 hours after taking charge for England’s 6-0 women’s World Cup qualifying win against Russia.